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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Metro Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * NYC moviegoers flock to see ‘The Interview’ By Aaron Short and Chris Perez * View author archive * Get author RSS feed * View author archive * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » December 25, 2014 | 4:51pm Modal Trigger NYC moviegoers flock to see ‘The Interview’ James Franco and Seth Rogen star in "The Interview." Photo: AP FOLLOW THE STORY * Defector launches balloons with copies of 'The Interview' to North Korea * Sony blames hack attack for earnings delay * Tina Fey and Amy Poehler had no cojones as Golden Globes hosts * FBI boss reveals Sony hackers got 'sloppy' * Netflix wants 'The Interview' for its 53M subscribers * NYC moviegoers flock to see ‘The Interview’ SEE ALL 63 STORIES New York moviegoers said screw you to North Korea, as they turned out to see the formerly nixed Sony film “The Interview” at three independent theaters in Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens. The James Franco/Seth Rogen film, which angered North Korea for its depiction of a hit job on the nation’s leader, piqued city movegoers’ interest after weeks of controversy. “I really want to see this,” Brooklyn resident Arthur Boujenah told the Post outside Williamsburg Cinemas, where operators said all three showings of the film were mostly sold out before lunch. “I just love that because of this, Seth Rogen is more talked about than the president and more important than any other world leader,” the 28-year-old added. Jamila Hammami, 27, — also a Brooklynite — said she really isn’t a big fan of movies, but she bought a ticket anyway just “to see what all the fuss is about.” Even out-of-towner Pam Silverthorn, 49, decided to toss her plans aside for friends who “needed a good laugh” this Christmas. “I saw the review — it looked hilarious,” she said before walking in to the Brooklyn movie house. “I heard it’s only playing in a few theaters, but it’s everywhere now!” The crowds also showed at Cinema Village in Manhattan, where massive lines formed outside leading up to showtime. “The fundamental thing is that we’re here to celebrate human expression,” moviegoer Willie Jasso told ABC Channel 7 outside the Greenwich Village theater. IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/wal0gd-WHq4?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide= 2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent “The absurdity of it all, I find it as funny as i hope to find the movie,” Nick Ratner added as he stood in line. When the credits rolled at Williamsburg Cinemas after their first showing at 12:10 pm, Ratner’s expectations of the film were surprisingly proven true — despite loads of scathing reviews from people who streamed the movie on Wednesday. “It was better than I thought it would be,” said Michael Birnkrantz, 22. “I thought it was very funny. No movie should ever get pulled because it pissed off a dictator.” Queens resident Melvin Shieh also enjoyed the Sony Entertainment production and felt there was more than meets the eye to its storyline. “A movie like that usually skims surface of political issues,” the 22-year-old told the Post. “But this went a little bit deeper and that made it funnier.” Manhattan moviegoer Skye Akiyama said the movie lived up to the hype and kept her laughing, but she thought it could have been more serious in the end. “I love how it made fun of Americans at the same time as North Korea,” said the 30-year-old. “But I wish the movie didn’t have to be so stupid to make people care about these issues.” Folks have flocked to social media this week to express why they were going to be watching “The Interview” — alleging that they were doing it for “America.” Brooklyn resident Brett Caeser, 25, let the patriotic punches fly as he left Williamsburg Cinemas. “It’s a big F U to the North Koreans,” he said proudly. “It’s really empowering for the public to have the opportunity to see this movie.” But Caeser wasn’t going to take the North Korea satire as serious as the communist state did when they allegedly hacked into Sony emails and aired their dirty laundry for all to see. “They did a really good job of portraying James Franco as a stupid American,” he said. Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under sony pictures , the interview Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next Son of slain cop asked Cardinal Dolan to 'pray with us' Read Next Son of slain cop asked Cardinal Dolan to 'pray with us' Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Columnists Fredric U. Dicker Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Cuomo's failure to choose a state chairman is destroying the party Kyle Smith Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Lazy de Blasio is completely tone-deaf to the city's needs Michael Goodwin Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo De Blasio is to blame for the Bratton-Kelly feud SEE ALL COLUMNISTS Trending Now in Metro 18,387 NYC moviegoers flock to see ‘The Interview’ My year of terror and abuse teaching at a NYC high school 14,282 City pays exiled teachers to snooze as 'rubber rooms' return 10,751 'Poor door' tenants reveal luxury tower's 'financial apartheid' 5,061 Hospitals killed our baby -- and then tried to blame us 3,616 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Now On Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin’s anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti SEE ALL More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? 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Back to Reading * Photos * Video * Cindy Adams * Richard Johnson * Sub Menu 1 + Sightings + We Hear + Just Asking * Sub Menu 2 + NY Post + Decider + IAF * Sign in nypost.com On Page Six: lamar odom celebrity divorces kardashians celebrity arrests bill cosby Sections Search ____________________ (search) Tips Sign in / Register See something newsworthy? Tell us about it! Email(required) ____________________ Tip(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » Or email tips@nypost.com (all tips will be submitted anonymously) Page Six Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * George Clooney: Kim Jong-un can’t tell me what to watch By Laura Italiano * View author archive * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » December 19, 2014 | 10:16am Modal Trigger George Clooney: Kim Jong-un can’t tell me what to watch George Clooney Photo: Getty FOLLOW THE STORY * This might be why J.Law earned less than her male co-stars * Why J.Law 'gave up' trying to make more money * Tracing Ben Affleck's family tree to his slave-owning ancestor * Irving Azoff’s wife threatened Sony after movie snub * Ben Affleck reveals the name of his slave-owning ancestor * George Clooney: Kim Jong-un can’t tell me what to watch SEE ALL 62 STORIES North Korea’s tubby tyrant can’t tell me what to watch, says an outraged George Clooney. “We cannot be told we can’t see something by Kim Jong-un, of all f–king people,” the actor railed in a new interview. “Here, we’re talking about an actual country deciding what content we’re going to have,” Clooney raged to Deadline Hollywood. “This affects not just movies,” he said, weighing in on the North Korean cyber-terror campaign that this week successfully shut down Sony’s planned Christmas release of the screwball satire “The Interview.” “This affects every part of business that we have. That’s the truth. What happens if a newsroom decides to go with a story, and a country or an individual or corporation decides they don’t like it,” he said. “Forget the hacking part of it. You have someone threaten to blow up buildings,” he said, “And all of a sudden everybody has to bow down.” Sony can’t be accused of cowardice for pulling the plug on the Seth Rogen and James Franco flick, Clooney insisted. “Sony didn’t pull the movie because they were scared; they pulled the movie because all the theaters said the were not going to run it. And they were not going to run it because they talked to their lawyers and those lawyers said if somebody dies in one of these, then you’re going to be responsible.” Clooney said of the movie, “This is a silly comedy. But the truth is, what it now says about us is a whole lot. We have a responsibility to stand up against this. “That’s not just Sony, but all of us, including my good friends in the press who have the responsibility to be asking themselves: What was important? What was the important story to be covering here,” he said, blasting the media for lasciviously enjoying the leaks while ignoring Sony’s status as a victim. “They were just enjoying all the salacious s–t instead of saying, ‘Wait a minute, is this really North Korea? And if it is, are we really going to bow to that?’ ” he said. “The hacking is terrible because of the damage they did to all those people,” he said of Sony employees. “Their medical records . . . Social Security numbers.” He added, “Somehow we have allowed North Korea to dictate content, and that is just insane.” Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under george clooney , sony hack , sony pictures , the interview Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next 'Shahs of Sunset' star calls off engagement Read Next 'Shahs of Sunset' star calls off engagement Most Popular This Week 1 NBC addresses Jimmy Fallon's drinking NBC addresses Jimmy Fallon's drinking 2 Police: We’re why ‘The Hateful Eight’ is bombing at box office Police: We’re why ‘The Hateful Eight’ is bombing at box office 3 Sean Penn couldn't keep his mouth shut about El Chapo Sean Penn couldn't keep his mouth shut about El Chapo 4 Giada's divorce was her best career move yet Giada's divorce was her best career move yet 5 Here's what Ricky Gervais said to Mel Gibson Here's what Ricky Gervais said to Mel Gibson 6 Rocker Wayne Static's widow commits suicide Rocker Wayne Static's widow commits suicide Share Selection Awards season 2016 [jenner-gervais.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] Caitlyn Jenner fires back at Ricky Gervais Sightings Comedian Dave Chappelle appears on stage during MTV's Total Request Live at the MTV Times Square Studios September 8, 2003. 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Steven Avery's Ex Says Yes Now On IAF 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate New York Post * Twitter * Facebook * Google Plus * Customer Service * Privacy * Recommended for You * RSS * Search * Terms of Use © Copyright 2016 NYP Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved Terms of Use | Privacy * Sections & Features + News + Real Estate + Page Six + Tech + Sports + Media + Metro + Photos + Entertainment + Video + Business + Alexa + Opinion + Covers + Fashion + Horoscope + Living + Classifieds * Apps, Alerts & More + Email Newsletters + Apps for iOS and Android + RSS Feeds + NYPost Store + Home Delivery o Subscribe Now o Manage Subscription o Customer Service * Help/Support + Customer Service + Search + Contact Us o Letters to the Editor o Newsroom Contacts o Reprints o Careers * Advertise + Media Kit + Contacts Post Digital Network * * * * © 2016 NYP Holdings, Inc. 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Robert Rorke Robert Rorke Entertainment Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * New British cop drama ‘Babylon’ not so meh-morable By Robert Rorke * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » December 16, 2014 | 9:20pm Modal Trigger New British cop drama ‘Babylon’ not so meh-morable Jonny Sweet (from left), James Nesbitt and Paterson Joseph in “Babylon.” Photo: Dean Rogers Touted as Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle’s “First American TV project” — although it has already aired in Britain — the police drama “Babylon” may leave some viewers wondering what exactly they’re watching when it premieres Jan. 8 on Sundance Channel. Above-the-title names excite cable network execs, but the enterprise really depends on the story. So what have we got here? Well, the title tells you nothing. Like recent misfires “Halt and Catch Fire,” “Turn” — and the truly misbegotten Halle Berry disaster, “Extant” — “Babylon” does not tell you what the show is about. Part satire, part gritty cop drama, “Babylon” drops a stranger — in this case, American PR wizard Liz Garvey (Brit Marling) — into the strange land of Scotland Yard. Brit Marling plays PR maven Liz Garvey.Photo: Dean Rogers The police commissioner, Richard Miller (James Nesbitt), is a foul-mouthed, short-tempered egomaniac greatly in need of a spin doctor. Miller is surrounded by other foul-mouthed, short-tempered lackeys and belligerent patrolmen. Garvey’s job is to defuse controversy and promote the department, but they don’t seem much to want it. American viewers who remember the inner workings of the police departments on “Prime Suspect” may remember how hostile these environments were to women, even one as flinty as Jane Tennison (Helen Mirren). Because Boyle and screenwriter Jesse Armstrong seek to mine some comedy out of their set-up, the antagonism here is softened. Segments where Garvey tries to train Miller on how to perform on camera, where he talks about his job but says absolutely nothing — “He’s a brand!” she says excitedly — are subtly amusing, but don’t have the same punch as really successful sendups like HBO’s “Veep.” It’s the grittier parts of “Babylon” that play better and immediately connect the viewer with this foreign world. When a young cop named Warwick (Nick Blood) kills a suspect with a Taser, the department is necessarily on edge — but scenes of the cop at home, decking a delivery boy who knocks on his door, show that the stress of doing his job is really taking its toll. Likewise, when another officer, Robbie (Adam Deacon), flunks a training exercise because he won’t shoot an armed female suspect, it’s no laughing matter: the kid’s future is on the line. This is another way of saying the show’s “comedy” is not as well-developed as its drama. “Babylon” has the obligatory scene of the girls on the force getting blotto at a pub — and one amusing scene where Garvey makes a late-night booty call that takes an illegal turn — but, in general, the two worlds of this series do not happily co-exist. American series give their characters anywhere from 12 to 24 episodes to go through a narrative arc to see what they’re really made of. Season 1 of “Babylon” has only six episodes, so I don’t anticipate great things. Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under comedy , sundancetv , television , veep Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next 'Talk' maven Julie Chen going to China for TLC family-tree... Read Next 'Talk' maven Julie Chen going to China for TLC family-tree... 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Abrams pulled off a super-secret movie More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? Steven Avery's Ex Says Yes Now On IAF 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate New York Post * Twitter * Facebook * Google Plus * 2015 Blessing of the Animals * Apps Help & FAQ * Columnists * Community Guidelines * Contacts * Customer Service * Fantasy Football Draft Calculator * Home Delivery * Home Delivery FAQ * Jobs * NYCFC Giveaway Terms * NYCFC Giveaway Thank You * Page Six Fashion Sweeps Terms * pagesixfashionsweeps-thank-you * Privacy * Privacy * Recommended for You * Reset * RSS Feeds * Search * Terms of Use * Terms of Use * Test Page * The Pascalizer * Verify © Copyright 2016 NYP Holdings, Inc. 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Back to Reading * Photos * Video * Cindy Adams * Richard Johnson * Sub Menu 1 + Sightings + We Hear + Just Asking * Sub Menu 2 + NY Post + Decider + IAF * Sign in nypost.com On Page Six: lamar odom celebrity divorces kardashians celebrity arrests bill cosby Sections Search ____________________ (search) Tips Sign in / Register See something newsworthy? Tell us about it! Email(required) ____________________ Tip(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » Or email tips@nypost.com (all tips will be submitted anonymously) Page Six Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Tiger Woods slams Golf Digest writer for parody interview By Mara Siegler * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » November 18, 2014 | 10:31pm Modal Trigger Tiger Woods slams Golf Digest writer for parody interview Tiger Woods Photo: Sam Greenwood/Getty Images MORE ON: tiger woods Lindsey Vonn says she'll be single for a while Judge dismisses harassment case against Rachel Uchitel's ex Ex-husband tells Rachel Uchitel: 'I hope you die' Lindsey Vonn moves on from Tiger with Britney Spears’ ex Tiger Woods has lashed out at top golf writer Dan Jenkins blasting a parody interview he wrote in Golf Digest magazine as “a grudge-fueled piece of character assassination.” Jenkins penned “My (Fake) Interview With Tiger — or how it plays out in my mind” in the mag’s December issue. In the piece he fantasizes about asking Tiger why he hasn’t fired his longtime agent Mark Steinberg, and imagines the golfer responding, “I’ll probably get around to it. I like to fire people.” Jenkins dreams about asking Woods about being a bad tipper, asking the golfer, “In many cases, tips are a part of their salary.” Tiger’s fake response, “So let ’em go find a better job.” And of reports Tiger is not as close with “best friend” Mark O’Meara, Tiger’s pretend answer, “I’m sorry. I can’t place him. Did he play the tour?” While insisting he does have a sense of humor, infuriated Woods hit back at Jenkins in the Players’ Tribune, saying in a scathing tirade, “Jenkins faked an interview, which fails as parody . . . Journalistically and ethically, can you sink any lower? . . . This concocted article was below the belt. Good-natured satire is one thing, but no fair-minded writer would put someone in the position of having to publicly deny that he mistreats his friends, takes pleasure in firing people and stiffs on tips.” Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under tiger woods Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next Condé Nast Traveler pulls off cocktail party on moving da... Read Next Condé Nast Traveler pulls off cocktail party on moving da... Most Popular This Week 1 NBC addresses Jimmy Fallon's drinking NBC addresses Jimmy Fallon's drinking 2 Police: We’re why ‘The Hateful Eight’ is bombing at box office Police: We’re why ‘The Hateful Eight’ is bombing at box office 3 Sean Penn couldn't keep his mouth shut about El Chapo Sean Penn couldn't keep his mouth shut about El Chapo 4 Giada's divorce was her best career move yet Giada's divorce was her best career move yet 5 Here's what Ricky Gervais said to Mel Gibson Here's what Ricky Gervais said to Mel Gibson 6 Rocker Wayne Static's widow commits suicide Rocker Wayne Static's widow commits suicide Share Selection Awards season 2016 [jenner-gervais.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] Caitlyn Jenner fires back at Ricky Gervais Sightings Comedian Dave Chappelle appears on stage during MTV's Total Request Live at the MTV Times Square Studios September 8, 2003. Dave Chappelle behind the bar at the Nice Guy in LA pouring fans shots . . . Jennifer Hudson lunching at Nello . . . Richard Gere and Steve Buscemi seeing Lady Gaga’s bandleader Brian Newman and Dirty Pearls singer Tommy London play Rose Bar . . . SEE ALL Now On Donald Trump's brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin's anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti Angelina Jolie makes slender appearance at premiere Spain's Princess Cristina de Borbón embroiled in fraud trial ‘Condé is passé’ compared to Hearst Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Cutter Dykstra are married Ryan Lochte is looking for love online Feud over Hamptons 'Legs' sculpture is being made into a movie Chris Noth chats about his upcoming environmental project Jackie Mason: 'Ted Cruz made a total fool out of himself' 'Blue Bloods' star Will Estes still uses a flip phone Kendall & Kylie to debut new fashion line Céline Dion's brother dies of cancer two days after her husband Soros’ son 'stashed' $21M in bank as wife battled cancer Derek Zoolander covers Vogue Damian Lewis describes aggressive 'Homeland' fanatics Is Taraji P. Henson the reason Halle Berry left her manager? Dustin Diamond begins four-month jail sentence Nick Loeb says he's been cast in six movies SEE ALL Latest News Latest News Kourtney and Khloe Kardashian Show Off Their Insane Abs Kourtney and Khloe Kardashian Show Off Their Insane Abs Adam Driver Hosts Saturday Night Live, Jokes About America’s Funniest Cats and Golden Globes Adam Driver Hosts Saturday Night Live, Jokes About America’s Funniest Cats and Golden Globes David Schwimmer Weighs In on What to Expect From the 'Friends' Reunion David Schwimmer Weighs In on What to Expect From the 'Friends' Reunion More from Us Weekly Now On The Art House 3D Porno That You Can't Unsee SEE ALL Now On 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate SEE ALL More Stories Now On NY Post School still in turmoil months after principal’s suicide, parents say Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Metro Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Congressman never divorced to ‘sleep around’ By Isabel Vincent and Melissa Klein * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » November 2, 2014 | 3:04am Modal Trigger Congressman never divorced to ‘sleep around’ Steve Israel and Marlene Budd Photo: David L. Pokress This December, Rep. Steve Israel, a Democratic congressman from Long Island, will publish his first novel, “The Global War on Morris” — about a guy from Long Island who is “seduced by a lonely, lovesick receptionist.” Is it art imitating life? Israel won’t say, but his odd marriage is the talk of his district. While he made a point of announcing to the media in 2011 that he was divorcing his wife, no legal action was ever filed. Three years later, Israel and Marlene Budd, an acting state Supreme Court judge in Suffolk County Family Court, are still married. And friends of the judge say the reason is a cynical one. It’s not exactly clear how much of Steve Israel’s novel “The Global War on Morris” is art imitating life. “He made a statement so that he could be free to cavort without raising eyebrows,” said a source close to the couple. Budd made several attempts to reconcile but was stymied because Israel said he was interested only if he could “sleep with other women,” the source told The Post. Israel, 56, chairman of the powerful Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, refused to say why he hasn’t filed for divorce and dismissed other questions. “These allegations are untrue, laughable at best and clearly a political stunt two days before an election,” his spokeswoman said. Israel faces Republican Grant Lally at the polls Tuesday. Budd, 49, refused to comment. The couple lives separately. The divorce announcement may have helped Israel in other ways. He blamed the split for forcing a short sale of his Long Island home, which wiped away nearly $100,000 in mortgage debt. The couple, who met serving together on the Huntington Town Board, had bought a three-bedroom home with a swimming pool in Dix Hills for $580,000 in 2004, the year after they married. Records show they first put the home up for sale for $649,966 in 2010, before the May 2011 divorce announcement. It was taken off the market and put up for sale again in August 2011. The home finally sold in 2012 for $460,000, which was less than the $553,000 owed on the mortgage. Israel hugs President Obama during the president’s fundraising trip to California in October.Photo: Reuters JPMorgan Chase approved a short sale allowing the couple to walk away from $93,000 in debt. “Steve and his wife are going through a divorce and were forced to sell their home in a market that everyone understands,” Israel’s spokeswoman told The Post at the time. Critics charged that Israel got special treatment, but he contended that he asked House ethics officials about it and that his lawyer handled discussions with the bank. Israel is among the poorest members of Congress, with the Roll Call blog ranking him No. 491 in wealth out of 535, according to the Roll Call blog. He had a net worth of negative $300,000 in 2013. Israel owed between $250,001 to $500,000 on a condo in Washington, DC and took out a personal loan of between $15,001 to $50,000 last year, his financial-disclosure report says. Perhaps Israel’s new career as a novelist will turn that around. Billed as political satire, “The Global War on Morris” follows a pharmaceutical salesman as his life is is billed as political satire, as his pharmaceutical-salesman hero’s life is upended by that amorous receptionist and a government surveillance program. Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under divorces , marriage Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next Man to race in his 29th NYC Marathon in wacky costume Read Next Man to race in his 29th NYC Marathon in wacky costume Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Columnists Fredric U. Dicker Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Cuomo's failure to choose a state chairman is destroying the party Kyle Smith Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Lazy de Blasio is completely tone-deaf to the city's needs Michael Goodwin Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo De Blasio is to blame for the Bratton-Kelly feud SEE ALL COLUMNISTS Trending Now in Metro 18,387 Congressman never divorced to ‘sleep around’ My year of terror and abuse teaching at a NYC high school 14,282 City pays exiled teachers to snooze as 'rubber rooms' return 10,751 'Poor door' tenants reveal luxury tower's 'financial apartheid' 5,061 Hospitals killed our baby -- and then tried to blame us 3,616 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Now On Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin’s anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti SEE ALL More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Entertainment Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * ‘Mad Men’ secretary lands a new job with ‘Dear White People’ By Gregory E. Miller * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » October 11, 2014 | 4:25pm Modal Trigger ‘Mad Men’ secretary lands a new job with ‘Dear White People’ From Don Draper's office to a movie called "Dear White People," actress Teyonah Parris doesn't shy away from touchy topics onscreen or off. Photo: (Left) AMC, (right) Getty Images When you star in a movie called “Dear White People,” haters are going to hate. Just ask Teyonah Parris, who’s seen her share of people flipping out about it. “The title is very provocative,” Parris tells The Post, “but [the criticism has been] from people who haven’t seen the movie. So I don’t give it much energy.” But Parris, who is also on TV’s “Mad Men,” gives plenty of energy playing the fiery Coco Conners in her new movie. I think the movie [‘Dear White People’], more than being about race, is about identity. - Teyonah Parris The satire, in theaters Friday, explores what it’s like to be African-American at a mostly white university. Coco distances herself from the radical progressives on campus, wanting her race to be a non-factor — but not always going about it in the best way. In one scene, white students throw an (absurdly offensive) African-American-themed party. Parris’ character participates, going the reverse route with a blond wig and makeup four shades too light. Filming it proved difficult for the actress. “Seeing myself in that wig and in that makeup, it was emotional for me, because I know that there are women who, in order to feel beautiful, think that they have to do this,” she says. “I had to take a second. Because Coco wasn’t necessarily dealing with those same emotions at that moment we were shooting.” IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/Qm6HeK1dyAY?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide= 2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent The South Carolina-raised Parris, who now calls Los Angeles home, has faced racism in her life, though she’s coy about recent examples. She will, however, take a stance against one perpetual problem she’s encountered — even at the Sundance Film Festival, where the movie was an undeniable hit. “I’ve never done this to anyone, so it really boggles my mind when it’s done to me, but they come up to pet or rub your hair,” she says. “It’s so offensive and belittling and demeaning because it feels like you’re petting me. I’m not a zoo animal.” Teyonah Parris as Dawn Chambers and Elisabeth Moss as Peggy Olson in “Man Men.”Photo: AMC That faux pas is lampooned in “Dear White People,” as is just about every other predictable racial offense. But to Parris, the film isn’t about that. “I think the movie, more than being about race, is about identity,” she explains. “These students are trying to figure out . . . how deal with identity. Do you assimilate? Do you just go against everything?” Parris also stars in the new TV show “Survivor’s Remorse.” But she’s best known for her “Mad Men” role playing Dawn, Don Draper’s secretary turned office manager. Filming for the show’s final season, which will air next year, has wrapped, but Parris made sure to take a few mementos from the set, including Dawn’s nameplate and desk photos of Parris’ actual grandparents that the production department reprinted in black-and-white. “I cannot wait until this final season airs so I can stop having to remember what’s aired already and what hasn’t [when talking with people],” she says, chuckling. “It will be great.” Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under mad men , movie reviews , teyonah parris Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next Who is the 'The Best of Me' newcomer Luke Bracey? Read Next Who is the 'The Best of Me' newcomer Luke Bracey? Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Trending Now on NYPost.com 70,731 ‘Mad Men’ secretary lands a new job with ‘Dear White People’ Bill Clinton's pardon of fugitive Marc Rich continues to pay big 43,850 ‘Mad Men’ secretary lands a new job with ‘Dear White People’ Peeved Aaron Rodgers: Coin-flip bungle was a 'debacle' 28,155 ‘Mad Men’ secretary lands a new job with ‘Dear White People’ Awkward, pandering spectacle of Hillary Clinton trying to ‘be real’ Now On Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin’s anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti SEE ALL Now On How To Live Stream The NFL Playoffs 2016 For Free SEE ALL Now On 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate SEE ALL Video [wp_cloverfield.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] :43 J.J. Abrams pulled off a super-secret movie More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? Steven Avery's Ex Says Yes Now On IAF 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate New York Post * Twitter * Facebook * Google Plus * 2015 Blessing of the Animals * Apps Help & FAQ * Columnists * Community Guidelines * Contacts * Customer Service * Fantasy Football Draft Calculator * Home Delivery * Home Delivery FAQ * Jobs * NYCFC Giveaway Terms * NYCFC Giveaway Thank You * Page Six Fashion Sweeps Terms * pagesixfashionsweeps-thank-you * Privacy * Privacy * Recommended for You * Reset * RSS Feeds * Search * Terms of Use * Terms of Use * Test Page * The Pascalizer * Verify © Copyright 2016 NYP Holdings, Inc. 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Back to Reading * Photos * Video * Cindy Adams * Richard Johnson * Sub Menu 1 + Sightings + We Hear + Just Asking * Sub Menu 2 + NY Post + Decider + IAF * Sign in nypost.com On Page Six: lamar odom celebrity divorces kardashians celebrity arrests bill cosby Sections Search ____________________ (search) Tips Sign in / Register See something newsworthy? Tell us about it! Email(required) ____________________ Tip(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » Or email tips@nypost.com (all tips will be submitted anonymously) Page Six Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Ben Affleck says ‘Gone Girl’ darkly satirizes cable news By Mara Siegler * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » September 27, 2014 | 12:54am Modal Trigger Ben Affleck says ‘Gone Girl’ darkly satirizes cable news Ben Affleck attends the 52nd New York Film Festival opening night gala presentation of the movie "Gone Girl" on Sept. 26. Photo: Reuters MORE ON: ben affleck The biggest stories of 2015 PBS host is 'over' Ben Affleck's slave ancestry A battered and bloody Ben Affleck surfaces Ben Affleck zings 'True Detective' Season 2 Ben Affleck says “Gone Girl,” about a man accused of killing his wife after she goes missing, could be a dark satire on cable news. “This particular satire, I guess, is about the cable media, the way it wants to find sensationalism and use that for sanctimony and it kind of creates a story if it’s not there and how every American could kind of reel off the names of the last 10 killers that were famous,” he told reporters Friday at the New York Film Festival premiere of the 20th Century Fox release directed by David Fincher. But trying to list some famous accused murderers, Affleck seemed to blank, saying, “Like Amanda, uh, Stacey? Amanda Knox . . . What’s his name who killed his wife? Scott Peterson?” before continuing, “A part of our culture has kind of become addicted to that.” Meanwhile, Emily Ratajkowski, the “Blurred Lines” model who debuts in the film, was in an accident on the way there when her driver backed into another vehicle. “We had a little blip, we were a few minutes later than we hoped, but we survived,” she said. “No whiplash as far as I know.” Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under ben affleck , blurred lines , david fincher , emily ratajkowski , gone girl , new york film festival Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next We hear... Read Next We hear... 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Elisabeth Vincentelli Elisabeth Vincentelli Entertainment Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * LaBute blasts Hollywood idiots in new comedy ‘The Money Shot’ By Elisabeth Vincentelli * View author archive * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » September 22, 2014 | 10:00pm Modal Trigger LaBute blasts Hollywood idiots in new comedy ‘The Money Shot’ Neil LaBute attends a photo call for his new comedy "The Money Shot," alongside the director Terry Kinney. Photo: Getty Images THEATER REVIEW The Money Shot Lucille Lortel Theatre, 121 Christopher St.; 212-352-3101. 105 minutes, no intermission. Through Oct. 19. Neil LaBute’s characters are awful to each other. In “Fat Pig,” “reasons to be pretty,” “Your Friends and Neighbors” and other plays and films, LaBute lifted up the stone of civilized behavior to reveal the maggots writhing underneath. Pettiness, violence and misogyny have long been his bread and butter. So it’s natural to expect the new “The Money Shot” to be another cruel blast. Yet the dark penny never drops: This time, comedy comes first. People behave badly, sure, but this MCC production is consistently hilarious, and the designated idiot eventually gets his comeuppance. Zippily directed by Terry Kinney, the LA-set action takes place during a dinner party hosted by Karen (Elizabeth Reaser), a flamboyant Hollywood star, and her girlfriend, a dry-witted indie-film editor named Bev (Callie Thorne). The women are entertaining an aging action star, Steve (Fred Weller), and his wife, Missy (Gia Crovatin), who’s 24, blond and behaves accordingly. Karen and Steve are making a movie together, and want to run a potentially graphic sex scene by their respective partners. Not surprisingly, “The Money Shot” takes aim at the shallowness of Tinseltown. When Karen isn’t acting, she’s running a lifestyle website à la Goop, and is about to open a restaurant in Malibu called the Malibu. “I like the play on words,” she says of the name. But the show isn’t actually a Hollywood satire. Rather, it’s about the way our culture has made it OK to be proud of being a moron. When Bev challenges Steve — who declares that David Crosby is Bing’s son, and that Belgium isn’t in Europe — his response is merely, “Agree to disagree.” For him, everything’s a matter of opinion, and personal history excuses everything. His wife isn’t much better. Explaining why she doesn’t want to adopt orphans from Africa, Missy says, “Black babies are cute and all that, but I just don’t trust ’em. I mean, like when they grow up.” Steve is quick to clarify. “That’s not racist! That’s from experience and that just makes it a fact.” Though their stupidity often stretches credibility, the actors are persuasive. But it’s Reaser and Thorne — late of “The Twilight Saga” and “Necessary Roughness,” respectively — who waltz off with the show. “No more drama!” Reaser cries with Norma Desmond-like flair, while Thorne gives a master class in slow burn: You can almost see the steam coming out of Bev’s ears. Yes, the show is broad, its targets obvious. Don’t worry: You’ll be too busy laughing to notice. IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/o_iq7jvGQP0?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide= 2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under theater reviews Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next 'Scenes from a Marriage' captures your head, not your hear... Read Next 'Scenes from a Marriage' captures your head, not your hear... 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Abrams pulled off a super-secret movie More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? Steven Avery's Ex Says Yes Now On IAF 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate New York Post * Twitter * Facebook * Google Plus * 2015 Blessing of the Animals * Apps Help & FAQ * Columnists * Community Guidelines * Contacts * Customer Service * Fantasy Football Draft Calculator * Home Delivery * Home Delivery FAQ * Jobs * NYCFC Giveaway Terms * NYCFC Giveaway Thank You * Page Six Fashion Sweeps Terms * pagesixfashionsweeps-thank-you * Privacy * Privacy * Recommended for You * Reset * RSS Feeds * Search * Terms of Use * Terms of Use * Test Page * The Pascalizer * Verify © Copyright 2016 NYP Holdings, Inc. 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Lou Lumenick Lou Lumenick Entertainment Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Robin Wright plays a washed-up version of herself in trippy ‘The Congress’ By Lou Lumenick * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » September 3, 2014 | 4:00pm Modal Trigger Robin Wright plays a washed-up version of herself in trippy ‘The Congress’ Robin Wright stars in the sci-fi film "The Congress." Photo: AP/Drafthouse Films MOVIE REVIEW The Congress Running time: 122 minutes. Not rated (sexuality, profanity, drugs). At the Munroe Film Center, West 65th Street and Broadway. “The Congress” doesn’t fully live up to its lofty ambitions, but it does attempt something most filmmakers wouldn’t even dream of — a dystopian blend of live-action and animation that acidly comments on some of Hollywood’s touchiest issues before drifting off into an existential fog. The issues: Tinseltown’s limited use for talented actresses of a certain age and the trend of deploying digital likenesses (for now only dead actors). This bold film by Israeli director Ari Folman (“Waltz With Bashir”) imagines a near future when a famous actress named “Robin Wright” (played by the real Robin Wright) is no longer employable in movies because she’s “temperamental,” “unreliable” and, mostly, on the wrong side of 40. (This film was ironically made before 48-year-old Wright’s career renaissance in “House of Cards”). The CEO of the amusingly named Miramount studios (a wonderfully oily Danny Huston) wants to license the digital likeness of the star of “The Princess Bride” — providing he can star “her” in the kind of movies that the “real” Robin spurns. Wright has a seriously ill young son (Kodi Smit-McPhee) with big medical expenses, so she agrees to be scanned as part of a 20-year deal with Miramount. Two decades later, the film company wants the 60-something Wright to re-up and sign off on the latest technology — mind-altering drugs that allow users to actually become any cinematic icon. As if this wasn’t trippy enough, the film now switches from live-action to animation. At the titular congress hosted at a massive resort, the reluctant Robin meets the animator who heads Miramount’s “Robin Wright Department” (voiced by Jon Hamm). The two of them get caught up in a rebellion at the congress, and after another two-decade jump taking Robin in and out of live-action and animation, she attempts to locate her now-grown son. Things bog down in this section, taken at least partly from a 1971 novel by Stanislaw Lem, as the film drifts away from the biting showbiz satire at the beginning. But the brightly colored, old-school animation style — somewhere between surrealistic 1930s Betty Boop cartoons and the psychedelic stylings of the Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine” feature — dazzles the eye even when the script’s meanderings threaten to numb the mind. A joint or two probably wouldn’t hurt. IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/1rNSTizOsws?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide= 2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under movie reviews , robin wright , science fiction Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next ‘Last Days in Vietnam’ is a testament to American cour... Read Next ‘Last Days in Vietnam’ is a testament to American cour... Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Trending Now on NYPost.com 70,731 Robin Wright plays a washed-up version of herself in trippy ‘The Congress’ Bill Clinton's pardon of fugitive Marc Rich continues to pay big 43,850 Robin Wright plays a washed-up version of herself in trippy ‘The Congress’ Peeved Aaron Rodgers: Coin-flip bungle was a 'debacle' 28,155 Robin Wright plays a washed-up version of herself in trippy ‘The Congress’ Awkward, pandering spectacle of Hillary Clinton trying to ‘be real’ Now On Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin’s anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti SEE ALL Now On How To Live Stream The NFL Playoffs 2016 For Free SEE ALL Now On 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate SEE ALL Video [wp_cloverfield.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] :43 J.J. Abrams pulled off a super-secret movie More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? Steven Avery's Ex Says Yes Now On IAF 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate New York Post * Twitter * Facebook * Google Plus * 2015 Blessing of the Animals * Apps Help & FAQ * Columnists * Community Guidelines * Contacts * Customer Service * Fantasy Football Draft Calculator * Home Delivery * Home Delivery FAQ * Jobs * NYCFC Giveaway Terms * NYCFC Giveaway Thank You * Page Six Fashion Sweeps Terms * pagesixfashionsweeps-thank-you * Privacy * Privacy * Recommended for You * Reset * RSS Feeds * Search * Terms of Use * Terms of Use * Test Page * The Pascalizer * Verify © Copyright 2016 NYP Holdings, Inc. 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Entertainment Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * 5 Fringe Festival shows actually worth catching By Elisabeth Vincentelli and Barbara Hoffman * View author archive * Get author RSS feed * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » August 12, 2014 | 3:49am Modal Trigger 5 Fringe Festival shows actually worth catching "Bedroom Secrets" is one of the shows worth checking out at the Fringe Festival. Photo: Dixie Sheridan Hard on the heels of an Ebola outbreak comes the New York International Fringe Festival. Now in its 18th year, this year’s fest seems as sophomoric and scrappy as ever. Ridiculous titles? Consider “The Apple Tree, or Penis No. 7.” Odd conceits? You’re welcome to follow tour guide Xavier the Australian Penguin around the Lower East Side. All told, running through Aug. 24 are more than 200 shows of questionable quality — let alone the promise of one day reaching Broadway, as “Urinetown” did many moons ago. Nevertheless, we’ve rummaged around and found at least five shows worth catching, especially since you’re out only $18 a ticket. For dates, times and venues, visit fringenyc.org. “Gary Busey’s One-Man Hamlet” Photo: Dixie SheridanAs performed by David Carl So demented a concept, it actually works — or, at least, it had a preview audience in hysterics. Carl, whose toothy, unhinged grin recalls Busey’s own, manipulates stick puppets as he relates the Bard’s tragedy, with frequent detours into Buseyland (“Mah Peggy Sue, oo, oo!”) “Murder, Margaret and Me” Photo: Steve UllathorneMargaret Rutherford played Agatha Christie’s famous granny sleuth, Miss Marple, in four 1960s movies. Janet Prince plays both Christie and Rutherford in this solo show about the relationship between the two — who started off hating each other. The excellent mystery writer Stella Duffy directs. “Bedroom Secrets” Photo: Dixie SheridanAshlie Atkinson — the brave star of Neil LaBute’s “Fat Pig” — plays a therapist with a wide-ranging roster of clients: men, women, young and old, gay and straight. Intriguingly, they’re all played Stephen Wallem, best known as nurse Thor Lundgren on “Nurse Jackie.” “Rock God” Photo: Dixie SheridanJoel Creasey of Perth — which he proudly calls “the shark attack capital of the world” — riffs about one gay Aussie’s quest for fame and his (inexplicable) crush on Belgium tennis star Kim Clijsters. “Seven Seductions of Taylor Swift” Photo: Dixie SheridanJust the title alone had us hooked. Seven female playwrights speculate on the busy songbird’s love life through the mouths of her exes — in this case, all embodied by the same actor. It’s billed as “a hilarious satire of fame, innocence, love and douchebags.” Who could resist? Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under new york Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next Blanchett and Huppert are deliciously devious 'Maids' Read Next Blanchett and Huppert are deliciously devious 'Maids' Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Trending Now on NYPost.com 70,731 5 Fringe Festival shows actually worth catching Bill Clinton's pardon of fugitive Marc Rich continues to pay big 43,850 5 Fringe Festival shows actually worth catching Peeved Aaron Rodgers: Coin-flip bungle was a 'debacle' 28,155 5 Fringe Festival shows actually worth catching Awkward, pandering spectacle of Hillary Clinton trying to ‘be real’ Now On Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin’s anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti SEE ALL Now On How To Live Stream The NFL Playoffs 2016 For Free SEE ALL Now On 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate SEE ALL Video [wp_cloverfield.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] :43 J.J. 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Why Weird Al is still the king of spoof Weird Al Yankovic Photo: Robert Trachtenberg Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Entertainment Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Why Weird Al is still the king of spoof By Tim Donnelly * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » July 12, 2014 | 3:02pm Modal Trigger Why Weird Al is still the king of spoof Weird Al Yankovic Photo: Robert Trachtenberg Weird Al was a college student in 1979 when he recorded his first hit, “My Bologna” — a parody of “My Sharona” by the Knack. Then an architecture student at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, he remembers thinking: Well, this is as good as it’s going to get. “I never thought that I’d make a living being Weird Al,” the 54-year-old Al Yankovic tells The Post. (He got the architecture degree, but has only used it for his own home.) “I thought I’d have to grow up and be an adult. That hasn’t happened yet.” Weird Al Yankovic’s 14th album “Mandatory Fun,” drops July 15th. His career may seem unlikely, but his 14th album, “Mandatory Fun,” drops Tuesday. Even more unlikely is that the master parodist, having seemingly stitched himself into the cultural fabric of the 1980s as much as Max Headroom or Alf, is in the prime of his career. After all, if someone had told you in 1984 that in 30 years Michael Jackson would be dead and Weird Al would still be on the Billboard charts, would you have believed them? It’s true: Yankovic’s “White & Nerdy,” the pocket-protector parody of the Chamillionaire song “Ridin’,” was his first song to break the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100, in 2006. His next album, 2011’s “Alpocalypse,” debuted at No. 9 on the album list, his highest-charting record to date. “I’m not a nostalgia act,” says Yankovic, who lives in his native Los Angeles with his wife and 11-year-old daughter. “At live shows, people are more interested in hearing the new stuff.” Meanwhile, he’s outlasted many musicians he’s parodied: MC Hammer, Billy Ray Cyrus and Oingo Boingo, to name just a few. “It’s ironic. When I first started out, nobody wanted to sign me to a record deal,” Yankovic says. “They said, ‘That’s not going to be around for very long.’ ” Photo: Robert TrachtenbergMany musicians consider it an honor to get the Weird Al treatment. But he’s keeping the parodies on the new album under wraps, as part of his strategy in the Internet age. As he explains it, “If you know what to expect, it’s not going to be as funny.” But that isn’t stopping music blogs from speculation based on the released track list: the song “Handy” is probably a riff on Pharrell’s hit “Happy”; “Foil” might be a parody of Lorde’s “Royals”; “Tacky” could be a satire of Iggy Azalea’s “Fancy” — and “Word Crimes” is most likely lampooning the biggest target: Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines.” It’s a different world than when Yankovic started: The rise of YouTube created a thousand imitators who throw up parodies of pop songs as soon as they’re released. So while in the 1980s and ’90s he got laughs with schoolyard humor — replacing “Bad” with “Fat” for a Michael Jackson spoof, or “Lasagna” for “La Bamba” — his comedy brain has to reach further now. “I don’t have the luxury of going for the most obvious idea,” he says. “Someone’s already thought of that and it’s already up on YouTube. With the new album, there’s some songs that have been parodied to death already. I think I’ve taken a new tack with them. That just helps me step up my game.” Photo: Robert TrachtenbergInstead of feeling threatened by the Internet imitators, he’s actually happy that so many people can get their stuff heard easily: When he first started, he submitted tapes to the Dr. Demento syndicated radio show and counted on exposure from video-hungry MTV, which had just debuted. “It’s great that there is a level playing field,” Yankovic says. “[Anyone] can now get exposure. They don’t have to be beholden to some executive in a glass tower.” He’s putting a lot of faith in viral success: Instead of pushing a breakout single from “Mandatory Fun,” he’s releasing eight videos over eight straight days on YouTube, starting Monday. The Internet is his biggest sales tool these days. “I wanted to make it an event,” he says. “Because what I do is comedy, it burns more quickly than a traditional album … I like the idea of every single one of my videos going viral for a day.” The new record is the last under Yankovic’s contract with RCA, and he says he’ll then most likely pursue digital self-distribution, a format that’s worked for artists like Louis C.K. and Radiohead. “The album format doesn’t seem to be the best for my stuff,” he says. Weird Al with the Grammy he won for best comedy album “Poodle Hat” in 2004.Photo: AP July 21 marks the 25th anniversary of “UHF,” the oddball movie about a low-budget TV station that Yankovic stars in and co-wrote. It was a commercial flop, but found a cult following. He’s got something in the works for the anniversary, but is staying mum. “Look for something special” is all he would say. Meanwhile, it doesn’t look like the “Weird” fan base is going anywhere. “With every album I put out it feels like it reaches a new generation,” Yankovic says. “Kids will say, ‘Hey Dad, have you heard of this Weird Al guy? He’s really funny.’ ” Weird Al’s best sellers The musician has written hundreds of parodies over his 30-year career. These five are the highest-charting on the Billboard Hot 100 … so far. 2006: “White & Nerdy” went to No. 9 IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/N9qYF9DZPdw?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide= 2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent 1984: “Eat It” went to No. 12 IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZcJjMnHoIBI?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide= 2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent 1992: “Smells Like Nirvana” went to No. 35 IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/FklUAoZ6KxY?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide= 2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent 1985: “Like a Surgeon” went to No. 47 IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/notKtAgfwDA?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide= 2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent 1996: “Amish Paradise” went to No. 53 IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/lOfZLb33uCg?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide= 2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under comedy , weird al yankovic Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next Will any of these singers be 'the next Adele'? Read Next Will any of these singers be 'the next Adele'? Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Trending Now on NYPost.com 70,731 Why Weird Al is still the king of spoof Bill Clinton's pardon of fugitive Marc Rich continues to pay big 43,850 Why Weird Al is still the king of spoof Peeved Aaron Rodgers: Coin-flip bungle was a 'debacle' 28,155 Why Weird Al is still the king of spoof Awkward, pandering spectacle of Hillary Clinton trying to ‘be real’ Now On Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin’s anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti SEE ALL Now On How To Live Stream The NFL Playoffs 2016 For Free SEE ALL Now On 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate SEE ALL Video [wp_cloverfield.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] :43 J.J. Abrams pulled off a super-secret movie More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? Steven Avery's Ex Says Yes Now On IAF 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate New York Post * Twitter * Facebook * Google Plus * 2015 Blessing of the Animals * Apps Help & FAQ * Columnists * Community Guidelines * Contacts * Customer Service * Fantasy Football Draft Calculator * Home Delivery * Home Delivery FAQ * Jobs * NYCFC Giveaway Terms * NYCFC Giveaway Thank You * Page Six Fashion Sweeps Terms * pagesixfashionsweeps-thank-you * Privacy * Privacy * Recommended for You * Reset * RSS Feeds * Search * Terms of Use * Terms of Use * Test Page * The Pascalizer * Verify © Copyright 2016 NYP Holdings, Inc. 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Opinion Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Religious bigotry in the New York Times By Seth Lipsky * View author archive * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » July 9, 2014 | 8:36pm Modal Trigger Religious bigotry in the New York Times Photo: AP What is the most emphatic prohibition in the entire Constitution? Is it “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion”? Or “The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed”? Or “No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law”? “No Title of Nobility shall be granted by the United States”? “Excessive bail shall not be required”? Those are all famous limits on our government, for sure. But they are weak beer compared to the clause that says: “No religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.” “No . . . ever . . . any.” It’s not only the most emphatic statement in the entire Constitution but probably in all of American law. One just cannot make religion, or the lack of it, a condition of holding public office in our country. Many who fled to America knew all about religious tests. So this is not in the Bill of Rights or any other amendment to the main document. It’s in the main body of the Constitution. It is American bedrock. All of which is to say that The New York Times ought to be ashamed of itself for running an advertisement attacking the religion of the five Catholic justices of the Supreme Court. It did this last week in the wake of the Hobby Lobby decision. The ad actually contained the phrase “Roman Catholic majority.” It named Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Antonin Scalia, Anthony Kennedy, Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito. It went on to accuse the Catholic justices in the majority in the Hobby Lobby case of siding with “zealous fundamentalists who equate contraception with abortion,” a statement that combines bigotry with factual inaccuracy. Hobby Lobby actually already happily covers most contraceptives. It objects only to drugs that, rather than preventing an egg from being fertilized, stop a fertilized egg from developing into a baby. The ad calls for the repeal of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which curbs the federal government from overly burdening religion with laws and regulations. The Times ad suggests the government should to be able to burden religion. No kidding. The ad was placed by an outfit called the Freedom From Religion Foundation. The group’s very name flouts a warning issued by President George Washington in his farewell address. In that speech, the Founding Father called religion one of the “indispensible supports” to “political prosperity.” He warned that “reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.” Washington didn’t mean to suggest that everyone had to be religious. Only that it would ruin the country to exclude religious principle from our national life. The ban on religious tests was a contrast with England, where one had to be a Protestant Christian to be in Parliament. The reason we don’t need to worry about the religion of our governmental officers is because of the constitutional oath. The oath — to support the Constitution — is required of every officer, legislator and judge of our national, state and local governments. That’s not enough for the Democratic Party intelligentsia. It has been railing about Hobby Lobby for months. Joy Reid on MSNBC complained about the “six Catholic justices,” adding: “The question is do you trust this court to make those decisions?” The American people are not dumb. They are increasingly seeing this kind of thing for what it is, a bigotry all its own. One legal blog, the Volokh Conspiracy, this week ran a satire imagining turning around these kinds of remarks. “It’s no coincidence that three of the four dissenters in Hobby Lobby were Jews with limited attachment to their religious heritage,” wrote law professor David Bernstein to mock the anti-Christian comments he was reading. Bernstein, who teaches at George Mason, didn’t say all criticism of someone’s religious views disclosed prejudice. But, he wrote, “attacking a fully secular Supreme Court opinion on the grounds that its authors happen to be Catholic should be well-out-of-bounds.” “So stop it,” he added. Not likely. Democrats in Congress are already scrambling to find a way to overturn the Hobby Lobby decision via legislation. If they fail, what will they do next — campaign against allowing Catholics on the Supreme Court in the first place? It wouldn’t be surprising were they cheered on by The New York Times. Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under hobby lobby , new york times , religious freedom Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next No way to run a railroad Read Next No way to run a railroad Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Columnists John Podhoretz Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Rubio's last-minute theatrics make it a three-man GOP race Bob McManus Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo The Cuomo budget: pandering, mischief --- and five golden rings Benny Avni Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo The only real solution to the endless North Korea crisis SEE ALL COLUMNISTS Editorials [king_abdullah_ii.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174& #038;crop=1] Inviting foreigners to intervene in US elections The rape of the US Marine Corps: a lunatic drive for 'fairness' Chris Christie's revenge on 'Jersey Shore' Trending Now on NYPost.com 70,731 Religious bigotry in the New York Times Bill Clinton's pardon of fugitive Marc Rich continues to pay big 43,850 Religious bigotry in the New York Times Peeved Aaron Rodgers: Coin-flip bungle was a 'debacle' 28,155 Religious bigotry in the New York Times Awkward, pandering spectacle of Hillary Clinton trying to ‘be real’ Today's Cover Covers for January 17, 2016 Covers for January 17, 2016 Covers for January 16, 2016 Covers for January 16, 2016 Covers for January 15, 2016 Covers for January 15, 2016 Covers for January 14, 2016 Covers for January 14, 2016 Browse covers archive More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? 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By Richard Johnson * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » June 25, 2014 | 6:11pm Modal Trigger Anna Wintour as US ambassador? Anna Wintour Photo: FilmMagic Recovering gossip columnist George Rush imagines a future where Anna Wintour is denied the glittering post of US Ambassador to France and instead ends up in the Asian desert as our envoy to the fictitious Falafelstan. In a satire in The Huffington Post, Rush — channeling the plummy British voice of the Vogue editor-in-chief — tells of a disastrous meeting with badly dressed local leaders: “The minister from Schwarmastan said, ‘Why are you wearing sunglasses in doors? There is no sun in here!’ I said, ‘I can take them off now. Clearly, I’m looking at someone who’s not too bright.’ The minister from Tabouli laughed, but other ministers started throwing shoes at me. Hideous brown shoes I wouldn’t give to [a] homeless man!” My take on what might happen if #Obama finally gave #AnnaWintour that ambassadorship: http://t.co/1Mzf917vcZ pic.twitter.com/ywvkaCz8GH — Rush & Molloy (@RushMolloy) June 24, 2014 Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under anna wintour , satire Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next Gay travel writer recounts exploring Iraq Read Next Gay travel writer recounts exploring Iraq Most Popular This Week 1 NBC addresses Jimmy Fallon's drinking NBC addresses Jimmy Fallon's drinking 2 Police: We’re why ‘The Hateful Eight’ is bombing at box office Police: We’re why ‘The Hateful Eight’ is bombing at box office 3 Sean Penn couldn't keep his mouth shut about El Chapo Sean Penn couldn't keep his mouth shut about El Chapo 4 Giada's divorce was her best career move yet Giada's divorce was her best career move yet 5 Here's what Ricky Gervais said to Mel Gibson Here's what Ricky Gervais said to Mel Gibson 6 Rocker Wayne Static's widow commits suicide Rocker Wayne Static's widow commits suicide Share Selection Awards season 2016 [jenner-gervais.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] Caitlyn Jenner fires back at Ricky Gervais Sightings Comedian Dave Chappelle appears on stage during MTV's Total Request Live at the MTV Times Square Studios September 8, 2003. Dave Chappelle behind the bar at the Nice Guy in LA pouring fans shots . . . Jennifer Hudson lunching at Nello . . . Richard Gere and Steve Buscemi seeing Lady Gaga’s bandleader Brian Newman and Dirty Pearls singer Tommy London play Rose Bar . . . SEE ALL Now On Donald Trump's brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin's anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti Angelina Jolie makes slender appearance at premiere Spain's Princess Cristina de Borbón embroiled in fraud trial ‘Condé is passé’ compared to Hearst Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Cutter Dykstra are married Ryan Lochte is looking for love online Feud over Hamptons 'Legs' sculpture is being made into a movie Chris Noth chats about his upcoming environmental project Jackie Mason: 'Ted Cruz made a total fool out of himself' 'Blue Bloods' star Will Estes still uses a flip phone Kendall & Kylie to debut new fashion line Céline Dion's brother dies of cancer two days after her husband Soros’ son 'stashed' $21M in bank as wife battled cancer Derek Zoolander covers Vogue Damian Lewis describes aggressive 'Homeland' fanatics Is Taraji P. Henson the reason Halle Berry left her manager? Dustin Diamond begins four-month jail sentence Nick Loeb says he's been cast in six movies SEE ALL Latest News Latest News Kourtney and Khloe Kardashian Show Off Their Insane Abs Kourtney and Khloe Kardashian Show Off Their Insane Abs Adam Driver Hosts Saturday Night Live, Jokes About America’s Funniest Cats and Golden Globes Adam Driver Hosts Saturday Night Live, Jokes About America’s Funniest Cats and Golden Globes David Schwimmer Weighs In on What to Expect From the 'Friends' Reunion David Schwimmer Weighs In on What to Expect From the 'Friends' Reunion More from Us Weekly Now On The Art House 3D Porno That You Can't Unsee SEE ALL Now On 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate SEE ALL More Stories Now On NY Post School still in turmoil months after principal’s suicide, parents say Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? 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Photo: Paul J. Bereswill Phil Mushnick’s column returns on June 13. MORE FROM: Phil Mushnick Phil Mushnick How NBC turned a significant camera shot into more nonsense Hypocrite Boomer Esiason only has scruples on weekend It's a shame when our sports stars get caught up in stain of change Why announcers blindly cheering vicious hits buy football's lies In the TV world, everything is going well until, suddenly, it isn't Reader Patrick J. Sweeney asks if we were aware ESPN planned to use seven on-site analysts to cover its Pirates-Dodgers telecast last night. Roger that, Patrick. It’s about time ESPN scaled back. But it’s not another case of ESPN’s commitment to satire-proof excess, it’s also a case of the needless, heedless eagerness to explain baseball to us until we scream, “Enough! You win! We’ll change the channel!” Saturday’s Twins-Yankees radiocast (as if I didn’t know better) was in the first inning when John Sterling and Suzyn Waldman took us to school — nursery school. The bases were loaded, one out, a 3-0 count on Brian McCann when McCann hit a hard foul ball. Sterling noted that Joe Girardi had given McCann the green light, with a condescending, “Good for Joe!” Waldman further explained: “That shows that Joe believes he’s going to do something good with the bat.” Is that right? Ya mean, like hit the ball? Never knew that. I’m gonna remember that! Second inning, Sterling said that “Sori” — Alfonso Soriano — has been in a batting slump. Again, Waldman picked it up from there, noting something as peculiar to Soriano as she had to McCann: “The Yankees are hoping he goes on one of those tears.” “They certainly are!” Sterling piped up. That’s enough, Alice! Almost made it through the first two innings. Time to check the inbound traffic at the Manhattan tunnels and bridges — even if I wasn’t headed in. Perhaps I was still cranky from what I’d heard at the close of the Yankees telecast the day before. As Twins closer Glen Perkins prepared to pitch the ninth with a 6-1 lead, Michael Kay, who seems to recite stats — any and all — as a habit-formed time-filler, read what was listed on the screen under Perkins’ name. Then he told us that Perkins “is very into advanced stats.” Finally, Kay noted that Perkins has “only allowed one home run,” then quoted Perkins’ peculiar take on pitching: “ ‘The more I minimize home runs,’ ” he says, “ ‘the lower my ERA is going to get.’ ” Fascinating. Surely no other pitcher in the last 100 years had thought of that. But as Kay had told us, “Perkins is very into advanced stats.” Then, with two out, Brett Gardner batting, Ken Singleton eschewed silence to shed even more light: “There is no batter who likes to make the last out of the game.” Goodbye, cruel world! I pointed the remote to the side of my head, then slowly squeezed the “off” button. On Saturday, bottom of the eighth, bases loaded, one out, Yangervis Solarte hit a pop that was caught by third baseman Trevor Plouffe. Kay and Singleton, live and during a replay, observed it wasn’t easy for Plouffe. He had to scale the mound while looking straight up. But neither noted that the batter was out, regardless, on the infield-fly rule! Well before Plouffe caught it, second base ump David Rackley’s fist was in the air! Oh, well, ESPN last night planned to have seven analysts — but only one play-by-player — work the game. The odds of all eight missing an infield-fly rule were long. The chances of being awake to see the final out were another matter. After all, unless the manager can pull a volunteer from the bench, “there is no batter who likes to make the last out of the game.” Live and learn. Popping Pop with dose of own medicine It’s obvious by now Spurs coach Gregg Popovich intentionally perpetuates his reputation for giving curt and wise-guyish answers. And that’s what he gave TNT rover David Aldridge after the first quarter of Game 6 of the Western Conference finals between the Spurs and Thunder on Saturday. He seemed to enjoy trying to make an awkward fool of Aldridge. The cure: The next time TNT or ABC/ESPN throws it to a report in one of those NBA-mandated in-game chats, the reporter should say: “I’m here with Coach Popovich. Back over to you guys,” then walk away. By the way, if the NBA Finals go seven, they’ll end late on the night of June 20! (Knicks-Lakers, in 1970, ended May 8.) Games 3, 4 and 6 are scheduled to tip after 9 p.m. ET. Thus, more than half the U.S. population will have a far better chance to watch the starts of the games than the finishes. Saturday’s series-ender included 62 (!) 3-point shots, 19 made. Championship basketball? That’s what they call it. And to think that each team has, like, four coaches — and all with clipboards! SNY has an ‘extra’ fine day During a three-game weekend that ran 39 innings, SNY’s Mets telecast from Philadelphia on Saturday was 14 innings strong. For starters, neither Gary Cohen nor Ron Darling gave the Mets’ Daniel Murphy a pass for his fundamental failures — the worst occurring in the 12th when, rather than run on a swinging strike three that bounced free, he just stood in disgust — with no one out! When Murphy batted in the 14th, Cohen re-listed his failures, no excuses spoken. In the bottom of the eighth, SNY’s truck and Darling meshed to provide a great show-and-tell: With two out, Mets up, 4-3, Chase Utley on first and Ben Revere on third for the Phillies, Utley repeatedly gestured to Revere to take a longer lead. Darling wisely reasoned that Utley wanted Revere to get a better shot to score on a ball that eluded the catcher. Yet, as he continued to wave Revere forward, the third-base coach seemed oblivious. Yesterday, YES also made good TV, quickly showing tape of former Yankee and Twins starter Phil Hughes watching, then emoting from the dugout as Minnesota took the lead in the ninth. Wishing we could find a real hero We continue to ordain heroes based on nothing better than a wish. Despite MLB’s and the media’s pandering insistence that David Ortiz, following his vulgar Boston Marathon slaughter speech, be embraced as warm and virtuous, at 38 he remains classless, a foul-mouthed slug given to misogynistic put-downs — last week’s aimed at Rays pitcher David Price. But some, even if overheard in private, are forced to walk the plank. Others, operating in public, just walk away. It all depends. John Daly, who has had past drinking and multiple marriage problems, now estimates — claiming no regrets — to have lost over $50 million gambling. Yet TV’s golf guys for years claimed that Daly’s popularity was due to his identity as “the common man.” Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under espn , sports broadcasting Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next New Jersey well-represented on US World Cup squad Read Next New Jersey well-represented on US World Cup squad Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Trending Now in Sports 44,011 Sports TV/radio just drones on and on, teaching the obvious Peeved Aaron Rodgers: Coin-flip bungle was a 'debacle' 21,944 Cubs co-owner unloads on Matt Harvey, 'obnoxious' Mets fans 16,748 Matt Barnes literally gets the last laugh on Fisher, Knicks 11,354 Jets cornerback pays more in child support than you make in a year Hometown Teams Football:JetsGiants Basketball:KnicksNets Baseball:YankeesMets Hockey:RangersIslandersDevils Soccer:Red BullsNYCFC The Post Line NBA NCAAB NHL NFL Sunday Favorite Line Underdog MINNESOTA 3 (207) Phoenix SAN ANTONIO 11½ (195) Dallas OKLAHOMA CITY OFF (OFF) Miami DENVER OFF (OFF) Indiana LA LAKERS OFF (OFF) Houston Sunday Favorite Line Underdog Creighton 4½ DEPAUL IOWA 6½ Michigan UCONN 1 HOUSTON SAINT LOUIS 2 George Mason SMU 13 TULANE S. Illinois 3 DRAKE WICHITA ST 13 Indiana St Michigan St 4½ WISCONSIN Virginia 5 FLORIDA ST COLORADO PK Oregon UTAH 6½ Oregon St Sunday Favorite Money Line Underdog PITTSBURGH 150-160 Carolina NY ISLANDERS 158-170 Vancouver TAMPA BAY 130-140 Florida WASHINGTON OFF-OFF NY Rangers CHICAGO OFF-OFF Montreal DETROIT 145-155 Philadelphia ANAHEIM OFF-OFF Los Angeles Sunday Favorite Opening Current (O/U) Underdog CAROLINA 2 2½ (44) Seattle DENVER 3½ 7½ (40) Pittsburgh See All Scoreboard NFL NBA NHL NCAAF Chiefs Patriots (12-6-0) (13-4-0) F 20 27 Packers Cardinals (11-7-0) (14-3-0) F 20 26 Seahawks Panthers (11-6-0) (15-1-0) 1:05 PM Steelers Broncos (11-6-0) (12-4-0) 4:40 PM Knicks Grizzlies (20-22) (23-19) F 95 103 Nets Hawks (11-30) (24-17) F 86 114 Bucks Hornets (18-25) (18-22) F 105 92 Celtics Wizards (22-19) (19-20) F 119 117 Warriors Pistons (37-4) (22-18) F 95 113 Trail Blazers 76ers (18-25) (5-37) F 89 114 Lakers Jazz (9-33) (18-22) F 82 109 Kings Clippers (17-23) (26-14) F 110 103 Devils Coyotes (22-19-5) (22-17-5) F 2 0 Rangers Flyers (24-15-5) (19-15-8) F 3 2 Senators Kings (21-18-6) (27-13-3) F 5 3 Canadiens Blues (23-18-4) (26-15-7) F 3 4 Capitals Sabres (33-8-3) (18-23-4) F 1 4 Maple Leafs Bruins (16-20-7) (23-16-5) F 2 3 Avalanche Blue Jackets (22-21-3) (17-25-4) F 1 2 Wild Predators (22-15-8) (20-17-8) F 0 3 Flames Oilers (20-20-3) (18-23-5) F 1 2 Stars Sharks (29-12-5) (23-18-2) F 3 4 No games today See More Now On 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate SEE ALL More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Entertainment Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * HBO smash ‘Silicon Valley’ tackles startup culture By Andrea Morabito * View author archive * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » May 7, 2014 | 4:27pm Modal Trigger HBO smash ‘Silicon Valley’ tackles startup culture (From left) Kumail Nanjiani, Zach Woods andThomas Middleditch star in "Silicon Valley." Photo: Jaimie Trueblood Ever since HBO’s “Silicon Valley” premiered last month, it’s become a parlor game among the tech media to debate the accuracy of the Mike Judge comedy’s satire of startup culture, from the uniform of its characters to the Valley’s “change the world” ethos. And as with every satire, not everyone appreciates the way they’re portrayed — but the “Silicon Valley” stars insist it’s an homage, not a critique. Thomas Middleditch and Josh Brener star in “Silicon Valley.”Photo: Jaimie Trueblood “The purpose of the show isn’t to take Silicon Valley down a peg,” says star Thomas Middleditch. “Why you want to watch the show is you want to watch these guys struggle, essentially going from rags to riches.” Middleditch plays Richard, who invents a file-compression algorithm called Pied Piper that sparks a bidding war in Silicon Valley. The first season follows him, his blowhard business partner Erlich (T.J. Miller) and the rest of their motley crew of programmers as they endeavor to turn Pied Piper into a viable business to present at the TechCrunch Disrupt startup conference. In a bit of life imitating art, Miller and Middleditch spoke at TechCrunch Disrupt in New York this week — and saw the fictionalized world of their show validated by reality. “We had been exposed to the HBO ‘Silicon Valley’ fake version of this, where they had sort of set it up to satirize that, and now [we’re] at the real version in New York City and it’s f–king weird,” Miller says over drinks at the Refinery Hotel. “It’s very similar to what we were satirizing.” IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/69V__a49xtw?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide= 2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent The show, in fact, is partially inspired by Judge’s experience as a Silicon Valley engineer in the late 1980s, and Middleditch — who met Miller 10 years ago on the Chicago comedy scene — considered pursuing computers as a career when acting wasn’t panning out. That’s all history now that “Silicon Valley” is averaging 5.4 million viewers per episode and HBO has already renewed it for Season 2 — a success its stars credit to the show zeroing in on a culturally relevant topic that is ripe for satire. “There is this strange moment where people do understand what an algorithm is, what apps are,” Miller says. “They’re reading about Snapchat turning down the offer for billions of dollars from Facebook.” “What kind of world begs to be taken seriously when they turn down $3 billion?” adds Middleditch. “If you’re like, ‘We don’t deserve any satire or parody,’ I think maybe you do. You just turned down a country’s wealth.” T.J. Miller and Thomas Middleditch star in “Silicon Valley.”Photo: Jaimie Trueblood With three episodes left to air this season, writers have yet to start tackling a narrative arc for Season 2, but the stars say it will likely deal with the next stage of their fledgling start-up and how success impacts their group dynamic. “Even if they get more money, that’s mo’ money, mo’ problems,” Middleditch says. “There’s that conflict and that struggle and that mounting pressure that’s never going to end, that’s the crux of the show.” Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under hbo , silicon valley , t.j. miller Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next Efron, Fallon and Rogen tween it in drag Read Next Efron, Fallon and Rogen tween it in drag Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Trending Now on NYPost.com 70,731 HBO smash ‘Silicon Valley’ tackles startup culture Bill Clinton's pardon of fugitive Marc Rich continues to pay big 43,850 HBO smash ‘Silicon Valley’ tackles startup culture Peeved Aaron Rodgers: Coin-flip bungle was a 'debacle' 28,155 HBO smash ‘Silicon Valley’ tackles startup culture Awkward, pandering spectacle of Hillary Clinton trying to ‘be real’ Now On Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin’s anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti SEE ALL Now On How To Live Stream The NFL Playoffs 2016 For Free SEE ALL Now On 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate SEE ALL Video [wp_cloverfield.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] :43 J.J. Abrams pulled off a super-secret movie More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? Steven Avery's Ex Says Yes Now On IAF 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate New York Post * Twitter * Facebook * Google Plus * 2015 Blessing of the Animals * Apps Help & FAQ * Columnists * Community Guidelines * Contacts * Customer Service * Fantasy Football Draft Calculator * Home Delivery * Home Delivery FAQ * Jobs * NYCFC Giveaway Terms * NYCFC Giveaway Thank You * Page Six Fashion Sweeps Terms * pagesixfashionsweeps-thank-you * Privacy * Privacy * Recommended for You * Reset * RSS Feeds * Search * Terms of Use * Terms of Use * Test Page * The Pascalizer * Verify © Copyright 2016 NYP Holdings, Inc. 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Entertainment Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Hulu’s ‘Deadbeat’ mixes stoner humor with restless spirits By Eric Hegedus * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » April 9, 2014 | 5:15am Modal Trigger Hulu’s ‘Deadbeat’ mixes stoner humor with restless spirits Tyler Labine (left) and Cat Deeley star in the Hulu comedy "Deadbeat." Photo: Nicole Revelli When is a stoner comedy not a stoner comedy? When the pot-smoking, ’shroom-popping protagonist’s hallucinations are actually hauntings. That’s the premise of the new Hulu series “Deadbeat,” which follows the exploits of a bumbling Brooklyn stoner whose hidden talent is the ability to chat with the dearly departed. The 10-episode show, which debuts Wednesday, is difficult to classify. Co-creators Cody Heller and Brett Konner — who worked together as writers on the offbeat FX series “Wilfred” — see it as a unique mash-up of goofy pothead movies and popular spirit-hunting TV dramas. “I guess if you categorize it as something, a supernatural comedy would be the closest,” Konner tells The Post. “We kind of tell people it’s like a stoner ‘Ghost Whisperer.’ ” Filmed in New York, the series stars Tyler Labine as Kevin, a Washington Square Park newsstand operator who moonlights as a medium. The spirits he encounters all have unfinished business that slacker Kevin is seemingly unprepared to deal with, but he gives it a go anyway — with both hilarious and heartwarming results. The spirits’ issues aren’t grandiose — nothing like a murdered ghost needing help to track down his assailant. Instead, they include a deceased hot dog-eating contest entrant who still yearns to topple the champ, and a young man who died a virgin and still hopes to somehow hook up with his girlfriend. “We tried to find the most ‘Seinfeld’-ian ghost stories that we could,” Heller says. Along the way, Kevin faces off with a beautiful, world-renowned medium named Camomile White — gamely played by “So You Think You Can Dance” host Cat Deeley in her first sitcom role — who he discovers is a villainous, fame-grabbing fraud. Their dynamic and Kevin’s gift as a medium are more important than the stoner aspect, says Konner. “The fact that he talks to ghosts is way more interesting than the fact that he is a deadbeat sort of druggie, so I think we kind of put more emphasis on his ability as a medium,” he says. But the show is careful to avoid being a mere satire of spiritualists, adds Heller. “I think it could easily become just a spoof of those ‘Ghost Whisperer’-type shows, but we try to go a little bit further with it,” she says of the program’s more serious scenes that ponder issues about life, death and the afterlife. “We enjoy exploring deeper themes and contrasting the comedy with more dramatic moments.” Labine, a Canadian actor known for roles on shows including the demon-hunting 2007-09 CW comedy “Reaper,” says the show is evidence of the stoner comedy formula evolving alongside society’s views regarding marijuana. Depictions, he says, are “not so niche and cartoonish anymore. It’s ultimately more relatable to everybody,” he says, adding with a laugh, “Not just a pot-shirt-wearing, patchouli-stinking, pot-smoking hippy. There are lawyers that come home after work and smoke a doobie after dinner, you know?” The show’s relatability also connects with the public’s fascination with the paranormal — something already evidenced by the popularity of shows like “Long Island Medium” and “Ghost Hunters.” Labine counts himself as a believer, admitting he encountered an otherworldly force while staying with friends who rented an old caretaker’s house at a Vancouver cemetery several years ago. One night, while crashing on the couch, Labine repeatedly woke up, freezing cold — despite the fact that it was summer — with his blankets pulled down. The last time he reached to pull them back up, terror struck. “They tugged back!” he exclaims. “I got into this tussle with the blankets. It’s not like they’re just stuck — they were being pulled back.” Spooked, he stayed in another room that night, and the next day his friends told him they rented the space specifically because it was rumored to be haunted. “We were literally partying on top of dead people in their back yard, so we may have asked for that one,” he says. “I still can’t believe it’s true — but it really happened.” For her part, Heller says she has never encountered a spirit, but she keeps an open mind to the possibility. “I invite any of them to contact me,” she says. “If we get a second season, we’ll be casting.” Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under deadbeats , hulu , stoners Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next 'Dancing With the Stars' switches things up to win viewers Read Next 'Dancing With the Stars' switches things up to win viewers Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Trending Now on NYPost.com 70,731 Hulu’s ‘Deadbeat’ mixes stoner humor with restless spirits Bill Clinton's pardon of fugitive Marc Rich continues to pay big 43,850 Hulu’s ‘Deadbeat’ mixes stoner humor with restless spirits Peeved Aaron Rodgers: Coin-flip bungle was a 'debacle' 28,155 Hulu’s ‘Deadbeat’ mixes stoner humor with restless spirits Awkward, pandering spectacle of Hillary Clinton trying to ‘be real’ Now On Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin’s anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti SEE ALL Now On How To Live Stream The NFL Playoffs 2016 For Free SEE ALL Now On 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate SEE ALL Video [wp_cloverfield.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] :43 J.J. Abrams pulled off a super-secret movie More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? Steven Avery's Ex Says Yes Now On IAF 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate New York Post * Twitter * Facebook * Google Plus * 2015 Blessing of the Animals * Apps Help & FAQ * Columnists * Community Guidelines * Contacts * Customer Service * Fantasy Football Draft Calculator * Home Delivery * Home Delivery FAQ * Jobs * NYCFC Giveaway Terms * NYCFC Giveaway Thank You * Page Six Fashion Sweeps Terms * pagesixfashionsweeps-thank-you * Privacy * Privacy * Recommended for You * Reset * RSS Feeds * Search * Terms of Use * Terms of Use * Test Page * The Pascalizer * Verify © Copyright 2016 NYP Holdings, Inc. 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post ‘Veep’ star makeover: ‘DC ten years behind fashion curve’ Suit, $449, and pocketsquare, $49, both at Tommy Hilfiger, 681 Fifth Ave. Canali shirt, $245 at mrporter.com Photo: Jim Wright/Atelier Management Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * ‘Veep’ star makeover: ‘DC ten years behind fashion curve’ Fashion Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * By Dan Crane * View author archive * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » March 25, 2014 | 5:54pm Recently, at a Wizards basketball game in Washington, DC, actor Reid Scott was approached by a young woman shouting, “I’m the Dan! I’m the Dan in my office!” “That’s not a good thing!” says Scott, who plays unscrupulous aide Dan Egan on the cutting political satire “Veep.” Scott is now sipping an oolong tea at Lamill, a posh cafe in the Silver Lake neighborhood of LA, not far from his home. The 36-year-old, wearing a Rag & Bone button-down and Levi’s, was unwinding after an intense shooting schedule for the third season of “Veep”; the first episode airs on HBO on April 6. Suit, $3,345, and shirt, $415, both at dolcegabbana.it Shoes, $735 at Gucci, 725 Fifth Ave. Ermenegildo Zegna tie, $205 at zegna.comPhoto: Jim Wright/Atelier Management He’s so convincing as the take-no-prisoners, career-climbing weasel Dan Egan, one might suspect he’s just playing a thinly veiled version of himself. As it turns out, Reid Scott isn’t morally bankrupt and aggressively ambitious. “He’s the polar opposite,” the show’s vice-presidential Emmy-winning star Julia Louis-Dreyfus tells Alexa. “[Reid is] certainly a very confident guy, but he’s sensitive, a team player and generous. Those are not words you would ever use to describe Dan Egan.” Scott’s just highly adept at playing a Machiavellian jerk. While the “Veep” cast are careful not to leak any spoilers, it’s clear that Dan Egan is going to undergo a bit of a metamorphosis. But don’t worry, he will emerge from his chrysalis as a “Silence of the Lambs” moth and not a beautiful butterfly. “We get to see a kind of vulnerability,” Louis-Dreyfus says, “and there are a few massive surprises that come out of Dan’s mouth as the season unfolds. He’s given more responsibility and, needless to say, he can’t handle it. We have a bunch of scenes together which are . . . somewhat alarming. ‘Cringey’ comes to mind.” Louis-Dreyfus thinks that her character Selina Meyer plays off of the weasel Dan Egan so well because of their similarities. “Selina and Dan are both narcissists in a very vivid kind of way,” she says. “It’s fascinating to see together. It’s like those figure skating couples that seem to be very fluid, and they’re moving at lightning speed across the ice, but one false move and they crash into each other and they’re both going to have cracked heads.” Suit, $3,345, and shirt, $415, both at dolcegabbana.it Shoes, $735 at Gucci, 725 Fifth Ave. Ermenegildo Zegna tie, $205 at zegna.comPhoto: Jim Wright/Atelier Management Scott got his introduction to politics while growing up in Albany. His father is an attorney who’s been involved with Saratoga County politics for many years. His uncle successfully ran for office several times upstate, and since he was a child he was convinced that his uncle and his aunt hated each other because of their loud verbal debates. “It wasn’t until I was older that I realized they were agreeing with each other, but really fervently, against the rest of the family,” Scott says. “You can’t get them together more than five minutes before a whole political discussion just starts tumbling out.” Scott maintains that an acting career was never his goal. “This was all an accident,” he says. He studied film at Syracuse and took acting classes solely to hone his directing skills, and to, as he said, “See what it is those weirdos did all day.” A professor suggested he audition for a play, and later helped him get an agent. He spent some years in New York City, landing gigs on shows like “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” “My Boys” and “The Big C,” and studied improvisation at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, which was co-founded by future “Veep” cast mate Matt Walsh, who plays a press secretary. Coat, $399 at Tommy Hilfiger, 500 Broadway. Suit, $1,995 at burberry.com. Shirt, $380 at Gucci, 725 Fifth Ave. Shoes, $595 at Giorgio Armani, 760 Madison Ave. Tie, $55 at perryellis.comPhoto: Jim Wright/Atelier Management “I walked into the ‘Veep’ audition and Matt was there,” Scott says. “I had met him before, but he didn’t remember me.” Though the cast works from a dense script, a lot of “Veep” is improvised, allowing Scott to put his training to good use. “Can I take credit for him being funny?” asks Walsh. “No, but he’s very smart and a comedy nerd. Reid’s really good at playing that character, and he can create material once we’re in the scene that is very believable, and from that point of view.” To get into Egan’s duplicitous mindset, Scott read up on DC politics, studied pundits and met with genuine Beltway insiders. “Actually, the first bit of research I did was right here,” he recalls, turning to point at a nearby table. “One of my good buddies worked on the Hill for years — he worked on Howard Dean’s campaign, for the Clintons, he’s been a consultant for Bloomberg. So, I called him up and said, ‘Can you read this script, tell me what you think and give me some pointers?’ We sat down over there and the first words out of his mouth were, ‘Okay, so um, so you’re playing me.’ ” Via his politically connected friend, Scott met with other DC staffers.“These kids were 24,” Scott says. “Their senator or congressman is rubber-stamping it, but they’re drafting major legislation! They’re all sleeping with each other and drinking like fish!” Scott was surprised at how willing they were to reveal information. “Nothing illegal,” he says, “but they were thrilled that someone wanted to tell their story and base characters and idiosyncrasies on them.” The show’s wardrobe is also based on the sartorial style of politicos: disheveled, overworked and underpaid. “The DC crowd is about 10-years behind the fashion curve,” Scott says. “But Dan is a cutting edge schmooze, so he’s only 5 years behind.” Jacket, $2,515, and pants, $740, both at louisvuitton.com. Shirt, $325 at Emporio Armani, 601 Madison Ave. Suspenders, similar styles for $80 at brooksbrothers.com. Ermenegildo Zegna tie, $205 at zegna.comPhoto: Jim Wright/Atelier Management Scott was happy to get spruced up for the Alexa shoot. “My personal style falls between casual cool and meticulous slob,” he says. “I’m most comfortable in jeans, but I love fashion. Lately I’ve been a fan of Rag & Bone, Civilianaire and Ted Baker.” Now that Season 3 has wrapped, Scott’s trying to put his producing (and directing) skills to work, including adapting a novel with his fiancée, the actress Elspeth Keller. “I intend to act forever if I can,” he says. “But I’m slowly now being afforded some opportunity to go back and do what I meant to do all along.” The first projects he’ll be working on are not comedic at all, and he looks at them as “sort of a palate cleanser” after the cynically political world of “Veep.” “I’ll always come back to comedy,” he admits. “Doing drama can feel satisfying, but day to day, it’s just not as fun as laughing. I am very lucky that I get to go to work and laugh all day for my day job, and then go home and torture my artistic self.” Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under alexa , hbo , veep Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next Justin Timberlake stepping back into fashion game Read Next Justin Timberlake stepping back into fashion game Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Trending Now on NYPost.com 70,731 ‘Veep’ star makeover: ‘DC ten years behind fashion curve’ Bill Clinton's pardon of fugitive Marc Rich continues to pay big 43,850 ‘Veep’ star makeover: ‘DC ten years behind fashion curve’ Peeved Aaron Rodgers: Coin-flip bungle was a 'debacle' 28,155 ‘Veep’ star makeover: ‘DC ten years behind fashion curve’ Awkward, pandering spectacle of Hillary Clinton trying to ‘be real’ Now On Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin’s anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti SEE ALL Video [wp_cloverfield.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] :43 J.J. Abrams pulled off a super-secret movie [titanosaur_wp.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174 8;crop=1] This huge dinosaur makes all the others look like chumps [trumpgirlsong_wp.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174& #038;crop=1] 1:03 This catchy-as-hell Trump song will infect your brain More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * William McGurn William McGurn Opinion Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Democrat suing after failed bid wins by uniting diverse groups in court fight By William McGurn * View author archive * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » March 7, 2014 | 12:50am Modal Trigger Democrat suing after failed bid wins by uniting diverse groups in court fight Part of America's tradition: Stephen Colbert, the coiner of "truthiness," in performance. Photo: Getty Images MORE FROM: William McGurn William McGurn A friend in Jesus: New York's new Catholic PAC The Reagan alternative to Obama's Iran deal Snow(den) blind: Libertarians' telling 'hero' The Bush trap: A Republican foreign policy Brian and Barack: Lies, damned lies, and journalism Think of it as Steve Driehaus’s finest public service. You remember Steve: He’s the Democrat who represented Ohio’s 1st Congressional District — until he voted for ObamaCare, that is. During his 2010 bid for re-election, the Susan B. Anthony List accused Driehaus of voting for taxpayer-funded abortion because of his ObamaCare vote. Driehaus responded by filing a criminal complaint under an Ohio law that criminalizes “false statements” against a candidate. Then, after Ohio’s voters gave him the old heave-ho, Driehaus sued the Susan B. Anthony List on the grounds it had deprived him of his “livelihood” as a congressman. The whole mess is headed for the Supreme Court, which will hear arguments April 22. Now, a politician who sues on the grounds his election defeat caused him “injury in connection with his trade or occupation” is likely to be written off as a crank. And there’s no doubting the sorehead factor here. Still, if the Good Book is right that ye shall know them by their fruits, perhaps we ought to be thanking this man. However inadvertently, Steve Driehaus has inspired some incredible achievements. The first is to bring together people who are seldom in the same room, much less on the same side of a Supreme Court argument. When was the last time you saw the American Civil Liberties Union siding with Citizens United (yes, that Citizens United)? And these are just two of the 21 highly diverse organizations that have filed amicus briefs supporting the Susan B. Anthony List’s bid to get Ohio’s law struck down as an outrageous restriction on free speech. But wait: It gets better. Because among these amicus briefs is one written for the libertarian Cato Institute by P.J. O’Rourke, author and one-time editor of National Lampoon. It’s almost worth having this bad law just to get this brief, a masterpiece that underscores the serious contribution satire brings to politics. Cato starts out strong. In the introduction, it includes “Read my lips: no new taxes!” and “I did not have sexual relations with that woman” as evidence that political claims and the mockery they invite (“whether true, mostly true, mostly not true, or entirely fantastic”) are “cornerstones of American democracy.” At issue, says Cato, is “truthiness” — “truths” asserted “from the gut,” often “without regard to evidence or logic.” These include claims that “President Obama was born in Kenya” or that “Democrats are pinko-communist flag-burners who want to tax churches and use the money to fund abortions so they can use the fetal stem cells to create pot-smoking lesbian ATF agents who will steal all the guns and invite the UN to take over America.” Laws like Ohio’s, it points out, “do not replace truthiness, satire, and snark with high-minded ideas and ‘just the facts.’ ” Instead, they chill debate and “turn commonplace jibber-jabber into a protracted legal dispute.” It goes on to question whether anyone, let alone the Ohio Elections Commission, can determine truth: “Many campaign statements cannot easily be categorized as simply ‘true’ or ‘false.’ According to Politifact.com, President Obama’s claim that ‘if you like your health-care plan you can keep it’ was true five years before it was named the ‘Lie of the Year.’ ” In like manner, it dispatches the contention at the heart of the Driehaus argument in a footnote referencing the Supreme Court’s own decision upholding the individual mandate: “Driehaus voted for ObamaCare, which the Susan B. Anthony List said was the equivalent of voting for taxpayer-funded abortion. Amici are unsure how true the allegation is given that the health-care law seems to change daily, but it certainly isn’t as truthy as calling a mandate a tax.” Cato’s argues we don’t need unelected government commissions to call out falsehoods. There are plenty of players willing to do that on their own. “And if this court isn’t yet convinced of this point,” reads the brief, “amici have but two words more on the subject: Anthony Weiner.” All in all, it’s a call for a robust give and take in our political debate. Read the full argument yourself, at the Cato Institute or Susan B. Anthony List sites. And don’t be so hard on Steve Driehaus. In the end, it is precisely because he was such a sore loser that we now see so many welcome developments: libertarians, liberal civil libertarians and conservatives united in common cause, the prospect of a big victory for the First Amendment in our highest court — and a highly entertaining reminder that, as P.J. O’Rourke and the Cato Institute conclude, “criminalizing political speech is no laughing matter.” Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under politics , steve driehaus Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next Say goodbye to welfare reform, New York Read Next Say goodbye to welfare reform, New York Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Columnists John Podhoretz Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Rubio's last-minute theatrics make it a three-man GOP race Bob McManus Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo The Cuomo budget: pandering, mischief --- and five golden rings Benny Avni Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo The only real solution to the endless North Korea crisis SEE ALL COLUMNISTS Editorials [king_abdullah_ii.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174& #038;crop=1] Inviting foreigners to intervene in US elections The rape of the US Marine Corps: a lunatic drive for 'fairness' Chris Christie's revenge on 'Jersey Shore' Trending Now on NYPost.com 70,731 Democrat suing after failed bid wins by uniting diverse groups in court fight Bill Clinton's pardon of fugitive Marc Rich continues to pay big 43,850 Democrat suing after failed bid wins by uniting diverse groups in court fight Peeved Aaron Rodgers: Coin-flip bungle was a 'debacle' 28,155 Democrat suing after failed bid wins by uniting diverse groups in court fight Awkward, pandering spectacle of Hillary Clinton trying to ‘be real’ Today's Cover Covers for January 17, 2016 Covers for January 17, 2016 Covers for January 16, 2016 Covers for January 16, 2016 Covers for January 15, 2016 Covers for January 15, 2016 Covers for January 14, 2016 Covers for January 14, 2016 Browse covers archive More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * News Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Sid Caesar, comic genius of 1950s television, dies By Associated Press * View author archive * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » February 12, 2014 | 3:55pm Modal Trigger Sid Caesar, comic genius of 1950s television, dies Comedian Sid Caesar, 91, died Wednesday. Photo: AP LOS ANGELES — Sid Caesar, the prodigiously talented pioneer of TV comedy who paired with Imogene Coca in sketches that became classics and who inspired a generation of famous writers, died early Wednesday. He was 91. Caesar died at his home in the Los Angeles area after a brief illness, family spokesman Eddy Friedfeld said. In his two most important shows, “Your Show of Shows,” 1950-54, and “Caesar’s Hour,” 1954-57, Caesar displayed remarkable skill in pantomime, satire, mimicry, dialect and sketch comedy. And he gathered a stable of young writers who went on to worldwide fame in their own right — including Neil Simon and Woody Allen. “The one great star that television created and who created television was Sid Caesar,” said critic Joel Siegel on the TV documentary “Hail Sid Caesar! The Golden Age Of Comedy,” which first aired in 2001. While best known for his TV shows, which have been revived on DVD in recent years, he also had success on Broadway and occasional film appearances, notably in “It’s a Mad Mad Mad Mad World.” If the typical funnyman was tubby or short and scrawny, Caesar was tall and powerful, with a clown’s loose limbs and rubbery face, and a trademark mole on his left cheek. Comedians Sid Caesar, left, wearing his famous tattered professor’s costume, and Imogene Coca, with her equally famous pixyish expression, are shown in this NBC-TV photo taken Sept. 12, 1953.Photo: AP/NBC But Caesar never went in for clowning or jokes. He wasn’t interested. He insisted that the laughs come from the everyday. “Real life is the true comedy,” he said in a 2001 interview with The Associated Press. “Then everybody knows what you’re talking about.” Caesar brought observational comedy to TV before the term, or such latter-day practitioners as Jerry Seinfeld, were even born. In one celebrated routine, Caesar impersonated a gumball machine; in another, a baby; in another, a ludicrously overemotional guest on a parody of “This Is Your Life.” He played an unsuspecting moviegoer getting caught between feuding lovers in a theater. He dined at a health food restaurant, where the first course was the bouquet in the vase on the table. He was interviewed as an avant-garde jazz musician who seemed happily high on something. The son of Jewish immigrants, Caesar was a wizard at spouting melting-pot gibberish that parodied German, Russian, French and other languages. His Professor was the epitome of goofy Germanic scholarship. Some compared him to Charlie Chaplin for his success at combining humor with touches of pathos. “As wild an idea as you get, it won’t go over unless it has a believable basis to start off with,” he told The Associated Press in 1955. “The viewers have to see you basically as a person first, and after that you can go on into left field.” Caesar performed with such talents as Howard Morris and Nanette Fabray, but his most celebrated collaborator was the brilliant Coca, his “Your Show of Shows” co-star. Coca and Caesar performed skits that satirized the everyday — marital spats, inane advertising, strangers meeting and speaking in clichés, a parody of the Western “Shane” in which the hero was “Strange.” They staged a water-logged spoof of the love scene in “From Here to Eternity.” ”The Hickenloopers” husband-and-wife skits became a staple. “The chemistry was perfect, that’s all,” Coca, who died in 2001, once said. “We never went out together; we never see each other socially. But for years we worked together from 10 in the morning to 6 or 7 at night every day of the week. What made it work is that we found the same things funny.” Caesar worked closely with his writing staff as they found inspiration in silent movies, foreign films and the absurdities of ’50s postwar prosperity. Among those who wrote for Caesar: Mel Brooks, Larry Gelbart, Simon and his brother Danny Simon, and Allen, who was providing gags to Caesar and other entertainers while still in his teens. Carl Reiner, who wrote in addition to performing on the show, based his “Dick Van Dyke Show” — with its fictional TV writers and their temperamental star — on his experiences there. Simon’s 1993 “Laughter on the 23rd Floor” and the 1982 movie “My Favorite Year” also were based on the Caesar show. A 1996 roundtable discussion among Caesar and his writers was turned into a public television special. Said Simon, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright: “None of us who’ve gone on to do other things could have done them without going through this show.” “This was playing for the Yankees; this was playing in Duke Ellington’s band,” said Gelbart, the creator of TV’s “M-A-S-H” and screenwriter of “Tootsie,” who died in 2009. Increasing ratings competition from Lawrence Welk’s variety show put “Caesar’s Hour” off the air in 1957. In 1962, Caesar starred on Broadway in the musical “Little Me,” written by Simon, and was nominated for a Tony. He played seven different roles, from a comically perfect young man to a tyrannical movie director to a prince of an impoverished European kingdom. “The fact that, night after night, they are also excruciatingly funny is a tribute to the astonishing talents of their portrayer,” Newsweek magazine wrote. “In comedy, Caesar is still the best there is.” His and Coca’s classic TV work captured a new audience with the 1973 theatrical compilation film “Ten From Your Show of Shows.” He was one of the galaxy of stars who raced to find buried treasure in the 1963 comic epic “It’s a Mad Mad Mad Mad World,” and in 1976 he put his pantomime skills to work in Brooks’ “Silent Movie.” But he later looked back on those years as painful ones. He said he beat a severe, decades-long barbiturate and alcohol habit in 1978, when he was so low he considered suicide. “I had to come to terms with myself. ‘Yes or no? Do you want to live or die?'” Deciding that he wanted to live, he recalled, was “the first step on a long journey.” Caesar was born in 1922 in Yonkers, N.Y., the third son of an Austrian-born restaurant owner and his Russian-born wife. His first dream was to become a musician, and he played saxophone in bands in his teens. But as a youngster waiting tables at his father’s luncheonette, he liked to observe as well as serve the diverse clientele, and recognize the humor happening before his eyes. His talent for comedy was discovered when he was serving in the Coast Guard during World War II and got a part in a Coast Guard musical, “Tars and Spars.” He also appeared in the movie version. Wrote famed columnist Hedda Hopper: “I hear the picture’s good, with Sid Caesar a four-way threat. He writes, sings, dances and makes with the comedy.” That led to a few other film roles, nightclub engagements, and then his breakthrough hit, a 1948 Broadway revue called “Make Mine Manhattan.” His first TV comedy-variety show, “The Admiral Broadway Revue,” premiered in February 1949. But it was off the air by June. Its fatal shortcoming: unimagined popularity. It was selling more Admiral television sets than the company could make, and Admiral, its exclusive sponsor, pulled out. But everyone was ready for Caesar’s subsequent efforts. “Your Show of Shows,” which debuted in February 1950, and “Caesar’s Hour” three years later reached as many as 60 million viewers weekly and earned its star $1 million annually at a time when $5, he later noted, bought a steak dinner for two. When “Caesar’s Hour” left the air in 1957, Caesar was only 34. But the unforgiving cycle of weekly television had taken a toll: His reliance on booze and pills for sleep every night so he could wake up and create more comedy. It took decades for him to hit bottom. In 1977, he was onstage in Regina, Canada, doing Simon’s “The Last of the Red Hot Lovers” when, suddenly, his mind went blank. He walked off stage, checked into a hospital and went cold turkey. Recovery had begun, with the help of wife Florence Caesar, who would be by his side for more than 60 years and helped him weather his demons. Those demons included remorse about the flared-out superstardom of his youth — and how the pressures nearly killed him. But over time he learned to view his life philosophically. “You think just because something good happens, THEN something bad has got to happen? Not necessarily,” he said with a smile in 2003, pleased to share his hard-won wisdom: “Two good things have happened in a row.” Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under celebrity deaths , obituaries , sid caesar Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next MIT 'crushes' some applicants with erroneous admission ema... Read Next MIT 'crushes' some applicants with erroneous admission ema... Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Trending Now in News 71,511 Sid Caesar, comic genius of 1950s television, dies Bill Clinton's pardon of fugitive Marc Rich continues to pay big 28,353 Sid Caesar, comic genius of 1950s television, dies Awkward, pandering spectacle of Hillary Clinton trying to ‘be real’ 24,546 Sid Caesar, comic genius of 1950s television, dies Don't be fooled by Bernie Sanders -- he's a diehard communist Now On Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges SEE ALL Now On How To Live Stream The NFL Playoffs 2016 For Free SEE ALL Now On 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate SEE ALL Video [wp_cloverfield.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] :43 J.J. Abrams pulled off a super-secret movie [titanosaur_wp.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174 8;crop=1] This huge dinosaur makes all the others look like chumps [trumpgirlsong_wp.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174& #038;crop=1] 1:03 This catchy-as-hell Trump song will infect your brain Most Popular This Week Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged... The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Your penis pics are bush league Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? 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Back to Reading * News * Metro * Page Six * Sports * Business * Opinion * Entertainment * Fashion * Living * Media * Tech * Real Estate * Sub Menu 1 + Photos + Video + Covers + Columnists + Horoscopes * Sub Menu 2 + Classifieds + Subscribe * Sign in In The News: hillary clinton iran lamar odom 2016 presidential election new york mets Sections Search ____________________ (search) Sign in / Register New York Post Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Kyle Smith Kyle Smith Entertainment Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * ‘The Lego Movie’ is a blockheaded adventure By Kyle Smith * View author archive * email the author * follow on twitter * Get author RSS feed Name(required) ____________________ Email(required) ____________________ Comment(required) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Submit » February 5, 2014 | 5:46pm Modal Trigger ‘The Lego Movie’ is a blockheaded adventure Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures MOVIE REVIEW The Lego Movie Running time: 100 minutes. Rated PG (mild rude humor, mild action). At the E-Walk, the Kips Bay, the Orpheum, others “EVERYTHING IS AWESOME!!!” is the name of the bouncy central song in “The Lego Movie.” At last: A movie with something to say. Yet a slight ironic adjustment connects the movie’s main song to its themes, one of which is that everything sucks. As cute and energetic as it is, “The Lego Movie” is more exhausting than fun, too unsure of itself to stick with any story thread for too long. The action scenes are enthusiastic, colorful but uninvolving, like an 8-year-old emptying a bucket of plastic blocks. A wise old prophet (Morgan Freeman) is overcome by the villainous, corporatist Lord Business (Will Ferrell), who seizes the evil weapon the “Kragle,” which turns out to be Krazy Glue, that threatens to cement everybody in place. Lego world, the wizard says, can be saved from the Kragle only by an unsuspecting random guy dubbed “the Special” who turns out to be Emmet (Chris Pratt), an oafish construction worker. Emmet’s a likable chap who doesn’t deserve the insults thrown his way by everyone else — not just a ruthless cop (Liam Neeson) on his trail, but a butt-kicking avenger Wyldstyle (Elizabeth Banks) who rescues him and her boyfriend, Lego Batman (Will Arnett, doing an amusing growl). Even Batman gets in on the action in “The Lego Movie.”Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures The humor ranges from slapstick to rapid-fire pop allusions that are “Simpsons”-style, but not “Simpsons”-caliber. Much of the latter consists of meta-jokes (a Green Lantern voiced by Jonah Hill sucks up to a jockish Superman voiced by Channing Tatum; a line of dialogue goes “blah blah blah proper name place name back-story stuff”) or feeble little stabs of satire. Asked for his favorite eatery, everyman Emmet says, “Any chain restaurant.” Because . . . no little kid would be caught dead in one of those? Here is a movie in which a $15 billion toy merchant and a $57 billion entertainment conglomerate join forces to lecture us on the evils of buying. Despite lots of gags about how dull and conformist Emmet’s world is, the anti-consumerist drum isn’t beaten to shreds the way it was in “The Lorax.” But none of the other ideas work very well, either. Digitally animated to look like the stop-motion process behind those Gen-X beloved 1960s cartoons, the film is lovingly detailed, but spoofs are better suited to sketch comedy. They tend to grow monotonous at length. The old stop-motion productions loved their characters and developed stories in scenes backed by what now looks like Shakespearean patience, whereas “The Lego Movie” is all toddler-meets-Red-Bull chaos. The experience is like being trapped inside a popcorn popper. Not until the very end, with an awkward pullback from the toys to the boy playing with them, is there even an attempt to deliver some “Toy Story” heart, but the theme of this final act (that Legos aren’t for grown-ups) is about as profound as a Trix commercial. I picture Buzz Lightyear watching “The Lego Movie” and announcing, “Star command, request evacuation pod immediately. Sugar-rush explosion among tiny life forms has created hazardous comedy debris field.” IFRAME: http://www.youtube.com/embed/fZ_JOBCLF-I?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&autohide= 2&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&wmode=transparent Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Filed under chris pratt , elizabeth banks , liam neeson , morgan freeman , movie reviews , the lego movie , will ferrell Share this article: Share this: * Facebook * Twitter * Google * WhatsApp * Email * Copy * Read Next 'Cavemen' should go back to the Stone Age Read Next 'Cavemen' should go back to the Stone Age Most Popular This Week 1 Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape Suspects claim teen was having sex with father before alleged gang rape 2 The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' The brutal secrets behind 'The Biggest Loser' 3 Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker Nursing home boss bought winning Powerball ticket for worker 4 Your penis pics are bush league Your penis pics are bush league 5 Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape Dad was so drunk, he couldn't report daughter's gang rape 6 Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Here's what Sean Penn agreed to do to party with El Chapo Share Selection Trending Now on NYPost.com 70,731 ‘The Lego Movie’ is a blockheaded adventure Bill Clinton's pardon of fugitive Marc Rich continues to pay big 43,850 ‘The Lego Movie’ is a blockheaded adventure Peeved Aaron Rodgers: Coin-flip bungle was a 'debacle' 28,155 ‘The Lego Movie’ is a blockheaded adventure Awkward, pandering spectacle of Hillary Clinton trying to ‘be real’ Now On Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Meet the sexy model who inherited her uncle Alec Baldwin’s anger issues Adriana Lima is working to help Haiti SEE ALL Now On How To Live Stream The NFL Playoffs 2016 For Free SEE ALL Now On 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate SEE ALL Video [wp_cloverfield.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&w=260&h=174� 38;crop=1] :43 J.J. Abrams pulled off a super-secret movie More Stories Now On Page Six Donald Trump’s brother Robert emerges Now On Decider Is 'Making A Murderer' A Bunch Of Lies? Steven Avery's Ex Says Yes Now On IAF 2:49 Martin O’Malley Is The Coolest 2016 Presidential Candidate New York Post * Twitter * Facebook * Google Plus * 2015 Blessing of the Animals * Apps Help & FAQ * Columnists * Community Guidelines * Contacts * Customer Service * Fantasy Football Draft Calculator * Home Delivery * Home Delivery FAQ * Jobs * NYCFC Giveaway Terms * NYCFC Giveaway Thank You * Page Six Fashion Sweeps Terms * pagesixfashionsweeps-thank-you * Privacy * Privacy * Recommended for You * Reset * RSS Feeds * Search * Terms of Use * Terms of Use * Test Page * The Pascalizer * Verify © Copyright 2016 NYP Holdings, Inc. 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Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ Dark satire 'Beautiful You' takes on modern erotica ________ ____________________________________________________________ Chuck Palahniuk takes on the culture of modern erotica and ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1tDmBE {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Dark satire 'Beautiful You' takes on modern erotica Brian Truitt , USA TODAY 2 p.m. EDT October 19, 2014 Beautiful You Beautiful You by Chuck Palahniuk (Doubleday) in General fiction Penny Harrigan discovers she is a test subject for a unique device and must prevent its maker from using it to take over the world Buy Now * Buy Now * Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Google Play * iBooks * Indiebound * Kobo * Zola USA TODAY BEST-SELLING BOOKS # 114 this week # - last week 1 weeks listed # 114 best week Debuted: October 30 2014 USA TODAY Rating Sex is on the mind of author Chuck Palahniuk, and it is taken to extremes and tweaked to outrageous lengths in his latest novel, Beautiful You. 50 Shades of Grey this isn't. In fact, the book is almost a middle finger to "mommy porn" and the popularity of modern erotica — while also being a smart, satirical take on misogyny, fame, the fashion industry, self-help and science. With works such as Fight Club, Damned and Choke, Palahniuk is infamous for taking a sharp scalpel to whatever he's thinking about at the moment. In this case, sex is on the docket with the tale of Penny Harrigan, a girl right off the bus from Nebraska trying to make it in a stuffy boys' club of New York law firms. There's nothing really special at all about her until she meets C. Linus Maxwell, a billionaire tech magnate with a history of sexual conquests — thus his nickname "Climax-Well." Maxwell's little black book contains British royalty, an Oscar-winning actress and even the president (who is female and apparently a saucy minx outside of the Oval Office). Yet there's something about Penny that — ahem — excites the enigmatic playboy so much as to embark on a whole Pretty Woman-esque fling with her. Penny becomes the toast of the town and earns her own "the Nerd's Cinderella" moniker in the tabloids, though she has folks warning her it's too good to be true. Behind closed bedroom doors, things get very weird for Penny, as she becomes a lab rat in Maxwell's erotic experimentation. He's obsessed with increasing sexual pleasure for women, even pushing it to a near-fatal level, and Penny gets embroiled in a larger conspiracy when the release of Maxwell's "Beautiful You" sex-toy line is just the start of his nefarious plan. The novel is full of explicit sex used for narrative and lampooning purposes, and not in an erotic way at all. He wants sex to be uncomfortable and weird — here, an orgasm is not a good thing but instead a metaphor for pleasure as an enslaving, controlling device. Palahniuk's graphic storytelling is bound to ruffle puritanical feathers — which is probably part of his point — but it's essential to the societal takedown. Nothing is sacred and everything gets torched, from pop culture (at one point vampire novels are used as thrown weapons, an obvious Twilight reference) to celebrity. In Palahniuk's world, potatoes are engineered for sexual purposes and you have to go to Nepal to find an ancient master of "erotic training," a sex Yoda of sorts, who helps Penny when too much pleasure sickens women across the globe. If that's a turn-on, then you'll enjoy Beautiful You from beginning to satisfying climax. Beautiful You By Chuck Palahniuk Doubleday, 240 pp. Three stars Goodreads reviews for Beautiful You IFRAME: http://www.goodreads.com/api/reviews_widget_iframe?did=5005&format=html &header_text=Goodreads+reviews+for+Beautiful%20You&isbn=9780385538039&l inks=0AF&review_back=fff&stars=149CEE&stylesheet=http://www.gannett-cdn .com/static/usat-web-static-1804.0/css/bundles/books.min.css?v=1804.0&t ext=000 USA Today's Best-Selling Books List * 1 The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up Marie Kondo * 2 The Choice Nicholas Sparks * 3 Spark Joy Marie Kondo * 4 The Girl on the Train Paula Hawkins USA TODAY Review * 5 January: Calendar Girl Book 1 Audrey Carlan USA TODAY's Best-Selling Books List -- USA TODAY ____________________ Search SUBSCRIBE NOWto get home delivery * USA TODAY * News * Sports * Life * Money * Tech * Travel * Opinion * Weather Icon + Humidity + Precip. + Winds Open settings Settings Enter City, State or Zip ____________________ Cancel Set Close settings Full Forecast * Crosswords * Elections 2016 * Investigations * Video * Stocks * Apps * Best-Selling Books * Classifieds * College * Corrections * Interactives * Newsletters * Photo Galleries * Portfolio Tracker * Scores * Newsstand * Audio * More + News + Sports + Life + Money + Tech + Travel + Opinion + Weather + Crosswords + Elections 2016 + Investigations + Video + Stocks + Apps + Best-Selling Books + Classifieds + College + Corrections + Interactives + Newsletters + Photo Galleries + Portfolio Tracker + Scores + Newsstand + Audio * * Search * Firefly Hi Already a subscriber? Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 20 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest Jon Stewart shelves satire, face time for 'Rosewater' Jon Stewart never had any intention of casting himself in 'Rosewater,' unlike Ben Affleck in 'Argo,' that other movie about Iran. "What's the one element that I know consistently makes movies do poorly? Me." Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ Jon Stewart shelves satire, face time for 'Rosewater' ______ ____________________________________________________________ Jon Stewart never had any intention of casting himself in ' ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1uqXLG {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Jon Stewart shelves satire, face time for 'Rosewater' [writer_entertainment-Freydkin_Donna.png] Donna Freydkin, USA TODAY 5:56 p.m. EST November 13, 2014 XXX DC_JONSTEWART_0198.JPG A ENT USA NY Jon Stewart has directed his first film, "Rosewater."(Photo: Dustin Cohen for USA TODAY) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDINCOMMENTEMAILMORE NEW YORK — He's won 18 Emmys for his work on The Daily Show. He famously coerced Bill O'Reilly into acknowledging that this thing called "white privilege" actually was real. He railed against NFL player Michael Vick and his notorious dog-fighting ring. And his Indecision 2000 segment declaring George W. Bush the winner of the presidency was one for the ages. And yet when Jon Stewart does get recognized, it's for nothing related to his unquestionable influence on political coverage. "I don't think I've ever had that kind of profile that people are super excited to see," he says. "I get more like, 'Hey, you're the guy from Big Daddy?' I had that in the coffee shop the other day. I still get that sometimes. I'm not a recluse. I can wander the streets." [635514848851850009-AP-FILM-REVIEW-ROSEWATER-68655472.JPG] USA TODAY Jon Stewart's humor leavens tough-minded 'Rosewater' Seriously? Since taking over the deliciously satirical Daily Show from Craig Kilborn in 1999, and having on everyone from Jake Gyllenhaal to President Obama, he's remembered for Adam Sandler's comedy? That's one reason that Stewart never had any intention of casting himself in his directorial debut Rosewater (opening Friday in select cities), unlike, say, Ben Affleck, who both directed and starred in Argo, that other movie about Iran. "Ben Affleck has an actual track record of being in movies and making them successful. I'm known as a poison pill. I wanted it to be made and succeed," Stewart says. "What's the one element that I know consistently makes movies do poorly? Me." 'Rosewater' is based on the memoir of Maziar Bahari, a journalist who was imprisoned in Iran, accused of spying. The film is written and directed by Jon Stewart. VPC Instead, he poured his smarts, soul and sweat into Rosewater, the cinematic adaptation of journalist Maziar Bahari's book Then They Came For Me. The book is about his being imprisoned for 118 days in Iran for allegedly being a spy after reporting on elections for numerous western outlets and appearing on The Daily Show. "Maziar's memoir was so compelling. There's a tendency to view those stories as so stark, a travelogue through hell. His had so many elements of family, humor," Stewart says. "He's such a textured individual. He was able to infuse the story with all those elements. You felt it had the depth of literature while still being non-fiction." [635514700924880009-AP-FILM-ROSEWATER-68655480.JPG] USA TODAY 'This definitely ain't forever' for Jon Stewart On set, says Gael García Bernal (who plays Bahari), Stewart is what you'd expect. "Off-camera, he doesn't stop. He's incredibly funny and it's just amazing when he includes you in his humor. This film was difficult and you had to be highly concentrated. His sense of humor kept us alive, in a way," he says. "He is very intelligent and easygoing, very capable of listening and putting his point of view across." Kim Bodnia, left, and Gael Garcia Bernal in "Rosewater." Kim Bodnia, left, and Gael Garcia Bernal in "Rosewater." (Photo: Laith Al-Majali, AP) In person, Stewart is relaxed and thoughtful, but also impeccably attentive. Despite his stature among news junkies, he has no intention of running for office, a question he gets asked often. "People are incredibly dissatisfied. We are parodic. We are in that world, when you're making satire, that can appeal to people and they can confuse that with actual ability in the public arena," he says. "I understand that we're armchair quarterbacks. When are you going to be the head coach? I'm not as good at that. I'm really better at talking (trash)." He's equally circumspect about what's next for him, and whether he'll direct again or spend another decade behind The Daily Show desk after his contract is up next year. "That's generally how I approach things — I try and finish my plate before going back up. It's hard enough for me to focus on the task at hand. My whole world is regimented by these deadlines. You're always making those calculations," he says. What he does know is that after leaving the show for several months last year to shoot Rosewater, and leaving John Oliver at the helm, the trains still ran on time. "It was good for them to know they could do the show without me and good for me to know that I'm OK without the show, if that makes sense," he says. He has relocated from Manhattan to New Jersey with his wife, two kids, and three-legged rescue pitbull — a bit of a disconnect, given how Rosewater also skewers the allegedly lurid sex trade in Fort Lee, located right outside New York City. Stewart is at peace with any possible fallout. "I don't know that it will be able to air there," he says. "This is the price you pay when you turn your town into a sexual playground." 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Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 151 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest Islamic State group becomes target of Arab satire Television networks across the Middle East have begun airing cartoons and comedy programs using satire to criticize the Islamic State group and its claims of representing Islam. And while not directly confronting the group's battlefield gains, the shows challenge the legitimacy of its claims and chip away at the fear some have that the Islamic militants are unstoppable. 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A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 11 Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Islamic State group becomes target of Arab satire AP 11:05 a.m. EDT September 1, 2014 AP_MIDEAST_ISLAMIC_STATE_SATIRE_66881936 In this image made from an undated cartoon broadcast on state-run al-Iraqiya TV in Iraq, a cartoon character portrayed as a member or a supporter of the Islamic State group sings a song. Television networks across the Middle East have begun airing cartoons and comedy programs using satire to criticize the group and its claim of representing Islam. And while not directly confronting their battlefield gains, the shows challenge the legitimacy of the Islamic group and chips away at the fear some have that they are unstoppable. The Arabic writing on the flag reads, "One Arab nation," top, and "Having an eternal message." "ISIS" on the cartoon character's head cover is the outdated acronym of the group.(Photo: AP) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 11 COMMENTEMAILMORE BAGHDAD (AP) — The bumbling young militant first drops the rocket launcher on the toes of his boss before taking aim and firing toward a military checkpoint outside of an Iraqi town — not realizing he's fired it backward at his leader. The "Looney Tunes"-style cartoon targeting the Islamic State group comes after its militants have swept across large swaths of Syria and Iraq, declaring their own self-styled caliphate while conducting mass shootings of their prisoners. The group cheers its advances and beheadings in slickly produced Internet videos. In response, television networks across the Middle East have begun airing cartoons and comedy programs using satire to criticize the group and its claims of representing Islam. And while not directly confronting the group's battlefield gains, the shows challenge the legitimacy of its claims and chip away at the fear some have that the Islamic militants are unstoppable. "These people are not a true representation of Islam and so by mocking them, it is a way to show that we are against them," said Nabil Assaf, one of the producers and writers of Lebanon's "Ktir Salbe Show," which has challenged the group. "Of course it's a sensitive issue, but this is one way to reject extremism and make it so the people are not afraid." Satire has long been a force in Arab culture, beginning first with its ancient poetry. Indirect criticism once cloaked in self-censorship exploded out into the open during Arab Spring revolts. Even in the midst of Syria's bloody civil war, the country's renowned black, satirical humor has continued. The Islamic State group, born out the Syrian war, now finds itself challenged in a cultural war after its gains. The top Islamic authority in Egypt recently began an online campaign asking journalists not to call the group an "Islamic State." Comedians have followed suit. In one skit produced by the "Ktir Salbe Show," a taxi driver picks up a jihadi who rejects listening to radio because it didn't exist in the earliest days of Islam, a knock on the Islamic State group's literal take on the Quran. The driver offers to turn on the air conditioning, but that too is rejected. The jihadi finally criticizes him for answering a mobile phone. Fed up, the driver asks: "Were there taxi cabs in the earliest days?" "No, 1,000 times no!" the passenger answers. The driver responds by kicking out the jihadi and telling him to wait for a camel instead. In Syria, comedic news programs also target the Islamic State group, with its presenters disguising themselves out of fears of retaliation. In Iraq, an animated program on state television depicted a slew of characters on the run from the Iraqi military, including young Islamic State militants and old Saddam Hussein-era officials. "We are all against these terrorist organizations," said Alaa al-Majedi of the state-run al-Iraqiya channel. "Comedy is one way to raise awareness." But among those depicted in the cartoon is Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah, an accusation that the Sunni kingdom supports the Sunni Islamic State militants, something Saudi officials have denied. Saudi Arabia backs the rebels fighting to topple Syrian President Bashar Assad's government. Even the dark videos of mass shootings conducted by the Islamic State group have become comedic fodder. Palestinian television channel al-Falastiniya aired a skit showing two militants shoot Muslim civilians for their lack of knowledge on the number of times to kneel during prayers, all the while reminiscing over the beautiful women and best party neighborhoods they'd visited in Beirut. When a Jordanian Christian approaches, the two militants begin fighting each other over who gets to shoot him — each wanting the "blessing" for himself. Terrified, the man suffers a fatal heart attack, leaving the militants devastated. CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 11 COMMENTEMAILMORE Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. 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What does this group want? Armed stand-off in Oregon continues. What does this group want? 01:40 MORE STORIES -- USA TODAY ____________________ Search SUBSCRIBE NOWto get home delivery * USA TODAY * News * Sports * Life * Money * Tech * Travel * Opinion * Weather Icon + Humidity + Precip. + Winds Open settings Settings Enter City, State or Zip ____________________ Cancel Set Close settings Full Forecast * Crosswords * Elections 2016 * Investigations * Video * Stocks * Apps * Best-Selling Books * Classifieds * College * Corrections * Interactives * Newsletters * Photo Galleries * Portfolio Tracker * Scores * Newsstand * Audio * More + News + Sports + Life + Money + Tech + Travel + Opinion + Weather + Crosswords + Elections 2016 + Investigations + Video + Stocks + Apps + Best-Selling Books + Classifieds + College + Corrections + Interactives + Newsletters + Photo Galleries + Portfolio Tracker + Scores + Newsstand + Audio * * Search * Firefly Hi Already a subscriber? Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 5 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest 'Last Magazine' was star reporter's last journalism satire Author Michael Hastings died at 33 in 2013. 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Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs 'Last Magazine' was star reporter's last journalism satire Bob Minzesheimer , USA TODAY 2 p.m. EDT June 29, 2014 The Last Magazine: A Novel by Michael Hastings (Blue Rider Press) in Fiction Buy Now * Buy Now * Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Google Play * iBooks * Indiebound * Kobo * Zola USA TODAY Rating The life and death of reporter Michael Hastings has all the makings of a novel. At 26, Hastings was covering the war in Iraq for Newsweek when he met and fell in love with Andrea Parhmamovich, an American teaching the Iraqis about democracy. After she was killed in an ambush, Hasting wrote his first book, I Lost My Love in Baghdad: A Modern War Story (2008). In 2010, Hastings profiled Gen. Stanley McChrystal, the top U.S. commander in Afghanistan, revealing his contempt for President Obama and other civilian officials. Hastings' Rolling Stone article, "The Runaway General," was both widely praised and attacked. It ended McChrystal's military career. Hastings expanded the article into his second book, The Operators, which was optioned as a movie. Brad Pitt plans to play McChrystal. Hastings has not yet been cast. In 2013, 11 days after his article "Why the Democrats Love to Spy on Americans" was published by BuzzFeed, Hastings died in a lone-car crash in Los Angeles. He was 33. His friends and colleagues later reported that Hastings believed he was being investigated by the FBI and in e-mails, and shortly before his death, wrote he was "onto a big story" and that he needed to "go off the radar." Now comes Hastings' first and only novel, The Last Magazine. It was found in his computer after his death. It's a semi-autobiographical satire narrated by a smart, ironic young writer and fact-checker named Michael Hastings. He works at the New York offices of The Magazine, a fictional version of Newsweek. It's set mostly between 2002 and 2005, during the rush to war in Iraq. As in real life, the war is cheered, rather than questioned by much of the media. The novel is raggedly uneven. It's insightful about the decline of print journalism and the rise of snarky websites. It features an entertaining gonzo war correspondent in a career and personal crisis and clueless editors interested only in their own careers and getting on TV. Hastings nails the emotional nature of TV when he writes, "Once you start trying to explain yourself on television, it's hard to win — you can't explain; you just have to state yourself, without hesitation." But the novel also is also padded. There's a lot of crude sex and pornography, as if whenever the plot lagged, Hastings resorted to X-rated seasoning. The young narrator comes to see the magazine's editors, along with most media executives, as "egotistical, vainglorious, pompous, insecure, corrupt." He goes on, "Not that they're bad people – they're not out there running death camps – but it's just who they are. If it weren't them, it's be someone else, right?'' As a satire, it's not in the same league as my favorite novels about the limits of journalism: Evelyn Waugh's Scoop (1938), Calvin Trillin's Floater (1980), and Tom Rachman's The Imperfectionists (2010). But it has its moments. If journalism is best read as the first draft of history, then The Last Magazine can be read as a not-fully-polished draft of what Hastings might have done as a novelist. Sadly, it's also his last draft. The Last Magazine By Michael Hastings Blue Rider, 336 pp. 3 stars out of four Goodreads reviews for The Last Magazine: A Novel IFRAME: http://www.goodreads.com/api/reviews_widget_iframe?did=5005&format=html &header_text=Goodreads+reviews+for+&isbn=9780399169946&links=0AF&review _back=fff&stars=149CEE&stylesheet=http://www.gannett-cdn.com/static/usa t-web-static-1804.0/css/bundles/books.min.css?v=1804.0&text=000 USA Today's Best-Selling Books List * 1 The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up Marie Kondo * 2 The Choice Nicholas Sparks * 3 Spark Joy Marie Kondo * 4 The Girl on the Train Paula Hawkins USA TODAY Review * 5 January: Calendar Girl Book 1 Audrey Carlan USA TODAY's Best-Selling Books List -- USA TODAY ____________________ Search SUBSCRIBE NOWto get home delivery * USA TODAY * News * Sports * Life * Money * Tech * Travel * Opinion * Weather Icon + Humidity + Precip. + Winds Open settings Settings Enter City, State or Zip ____________________ Cancel Set Close settings Full Forecast * Crosswords * Elections 2016 * Investigations * Video * Stocks * Apps * Best-Selling Books * Classifieds * College * Corrections * Interactives * Newsletters * Photo Galleries * Portfolio Tracker * Scores * Newsstand * Audio * More + News + Sports + Life + Money + Tech + Travel + Opinion + Weather + Crosswords + Elections 2016 + Investigations + Video + Stocks + Apps + Best-Selling Books + Classifieds + College + Corrections + Interactives + Newsletters + Photo Galleries + Portfolio Tracker + Scores + Newsstand + Audio * * Search * Firefly Hi Already a subscriber? Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 1253 16 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest Chipotle's farm satire upsets agriculture industry WASHINGTON -- Chipotle Mexican Grill has angered farm groups by producing a satirical television series that criticizes industrial farming practices. 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A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 43 Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Chipotle's farm satire upsets agriculture industry Christopher Doering, Gannett Washington Bureau 12:06 a.m. EST March 3, 2014 Chipotle Mexican Grill has angered some farm groups by producing a satirical television series that criticizes industrial farming practices. Farmers say its portrayal of farming is misleading. TVOTW_FARMED+DANGEROUS02 A scene from Hulu's "Farmed and Dangerous" comedy series produced by Chipotle.(Photo: Courtesy farmedanddangerous.com) Story Highlights * Fast-food chain creates TV show that criticizes industrial farming * Farmers and farm groups say the show misleads the public about farming practices * One ad executive says the program is a good way for the company to promote its brand 276 CONNECTTWEET 16 LINKEDIN 43 COMMENTEMAILMORE WASHINGTON — Chipotle Mexican Grill, the rapidly growing taco and burrito chain, has tried to stand out from its competitors in the crowded restaurant industry by selling fast food with a socially responsible twist. But a recent four-episode comedy show on the streaming-TV service Hulu, promoted as an "original Chipotle series," has drawn the ire of farmers and agricultural groups. They say the show's use of exploding cows and its criticism of industrial farming are misleading — making the program the latest public relations ordeal for the agriculture industry. It comes on top of ongoing concerns over how animals are raised, the safety of genetically modified crops and the public outcry over "pink slime" — the name given to lean finely textured beef. Since its founding more than two decades ago, the Denver-based Chipotle has not masked its opposition to huge industrial farms while at the same time going to great lengths to promote its support of sustainable agriculture. To spread its beliefs, Chipotle has employed a unique marketing campaign, highlighted by a pair of animated YouTube videos talking about factory farms and the virtues of fresh foods. At the same time, the company is stuffing its popular torpedo-shaped burritos with sour cream and cheese from cows not given synthetic growth hormones, meats from animals raised in humane conditions without antibiotics and tomatoes and lettuce raised organically. Now comes the comedy series "Farmed and Dangerous," the latest unconventional marketing tool Chipotle hopes will force people to think about where their food comes from and how it's raised — all while drawing more hungry eaters to its 1,600 restaurants. "It's a very effective tool for us to engage people who aren't paying attention to these issues or who don't know much about them," said Chris Arnold, Chipotle's director of communications. "The more people that understand food and where it comes from the more likely they are to make choices that are similar to the choices (Chipotle) makes. Down the road we think it will pay dividends." The episodes, which run about 30 minutes including commercials (some of them featuring Chipotle offering consumers the chance to win free food), satirize the lengths that agribusiness and its image-makers go to create a positive image for industrial agriculture. The first show features a cow given petroleum-based animal feed that promises to reduce agriculture's dependence on oil to fertilize, irrigate, grow and transport crops. But after the cows begin to explode, and video of the incident is caught on tape by a supporter of sustainable agriculture, the evil Buck Marshall (played by "Mad Men" star Ray Wise representing the fictional Industrial Food Image Bureau) must scramble to protect the industry's image. Other episodes poke fun at the inner workings of big agriculture including the creation of an eight-winged chicken and use of bribes to get their way. Iowa farmers and agricultural groups said the comedy series portrays an unrealistic picture of what farmers do. Larry Sailer, a 61-year old Iowa Falls grain farmer who also manages another operation with 4,000 pigs about 20 miles away, said farmers have significantly reduced the use of antibiotics and many raise animals indoors rather than outside because it is safer for the animals. While Sailer supports niche markets in farming such as organic, he objects to Chipotle's bullying tactics "that pick on someone and knock them down" to stoke demand for their products. "What I do works best for me," said Sailer, a member of the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, who has eaten at Chipotle once but has soured on the restaurant following the recent satire. "Over the years from my experience I've evolved into what I think is best for the animals. They put down big ag but they're big food. I just don't appreciate the way they are going at it." Chipotle opened its first location in 1993 and has since expanded its operations throughout the United States and into Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany. Today, the company, which sports a market value of more than $17 billion, has rolled out a Southeast Asian restaurant chain called ShopHouse with the same ideals as Chipotle. Nicole Patterson, a corn and hog farmer in Decatur County, Iowa, said Chipotle is using fear to market their products and is creating distrust in the country's food supply. "For them it's a smart marketing ploy, but for us farmers it's unfortunate because they are using fear and twisting the truth," said Patterson, 20. "I would challenge Chipotle ... to get out to the farms they are putting down, to the family farms like mine that they are calling factory farms." Chipotle officials say the company understands that running a farm is difficult and growers have tough choices to make as they decide what's best for their families and operations. "Our intention is always to present choices and tell stories in a way that demonstrates that not everything is the same and you have choices," said Arnold. "The industrial ag folks tend to read it as attacks on them or criticism of them. It's never our intention to produce things where that is the aim." While the shows go to great lengths to promote Chipotle's mission statement "Food with Integrity," the dining chain itself is noticeably missing from the four episodes, except for a short video clip flashing the company's logo and a mention of the company itself by characters at a cocktail party. Katie Stocking, the owner of Happy Medium, a Des Moines advertising agency, called the satirical series a "great move" for Chipotle. The restaurant chain and its founder, co-CEO Steve Ells, are able to use the platform to promote the company's agenda in a way that gets people talking about its message, while at the same time promoting the Chipotle brand. Increasingly, Stocking said businesses are looking for ways to break through to a public that views corporations as not caring about their employees or lacking moral convictions. "This is the beginning of the connection advertising wave and getting you to think about the way you live your life and feel emotion," she said. "I think (Chipotle) is truly trying to change" the fast food industry. Arnold, Chipotle's communication chief, said the company isn't disclosing how many people have watched the series but so far it is "very pleased" with the response. The program was designed to go beyond the first four shows, but Chipotle hasn't decided whether to release more episodes, he said. 276 CONNECTTWEET 16 LINKEDIN 43 COMMENTEMAILMORE Read or Share this story: http://usat.ly/1bZCxIn TOP VIDEOS * Raw: 12 Missing Aboard U.S. Marine Helicopters Raw: 12 Missing Aboard U.S. Marine Helicopters 00:33 * Best moments from the Fox Business undercard GOP debate Best moments from the Fox Business undercard GOP debate 02:00 * US customs agents seize 2,800 marijuana 'carrots' US customs agents seize 2,800 marijuana 'carrots' 01:14 * Police say woman hit fiance over Regifted ring Police say woman hit fiance over Regifted ring 00:41 * Alex becomes first January hurricane to form since 1938 Alex becomes first January hurricane to form since 1938 00:47 * Mosquitoes are spreading a rare virus Mosquitoes are spreading a rare virus 00:44 * Suspect captured for American woman's murder in Italy Suspect captured for American woman's murder in Italy 00:47 * New aid convoy heads to besieged Syrian town New aid convoy heads to besieged Syrian town 00:28 * House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union 07:20 * House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union 07:20 * Fact check: Obama's final State of the Union speech Fact check: Obama's final State of the Union speech 02:33 * Rep. 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Charlie Rangel talks Nixon, Obama 07:42 * President Obama renews vow to close Gitmo President Obama renews vow to close Gitmo 01:14 * Judge cuts bond for 'affluenza' teen's mom Judge cuts bond for 'affluenza' teen's mom 02:12 * Seattle police chief 'shocked' by SOTU invite Seattle police chief 'shocked' by SOTU invite 01:21 * Six things to watch in the State of the Union Six things to watch in the State of the Union 02:19 * What you need to know about the record Powerball What you need to know about the record Powerball 00:36 * What to do with your piles of cash after winning The Powerball What to do with your piles of cash after winning The Powerball 01:59 * Powerball jackpot balloons to $1.3 billion Powerball jackpot balloons to $1.3 billion 00:32 * Preview of what's to come at the 2016 Detroit auto show Preview of what's to come at the 2016 Detroit auto show 00:34 * What you can and can't buy with the Powerball jackpot What you can and can't buy with the Powerball jackpot 01:47 * Fugitive Mexican drug lord 'El Chapo' captured again Fugitive Mexican drug lord 'El Chapo' captured again 00:38 * Manatees emerge from the danger zone Manatees emerge from the danger zone 00:42 * White House to talk terrorism with Apple, Facebook White House to talk terrorism with Apple, Facebook 00:50 * Traces of fugitive Paris attack suspect found in Brussels apartment Traces of fugitive Paris attack suspect found in Brussels apartment 00:43 * Luxury en vogue for RVs Luxury en vogue for RVs 01:06 * Armed stand-off in Oregon continues. What does this group want? Armed stand-off in Oregon continues. What does this group want? 01:40 MORE STORIES -- USA TODAY ____________________ Search SUBSCRIBE NOWto get home delivery * USA TODAY * News * Sports * Life * Money * Tech * Travel * Opinion * Weather Icon + Humidity + Precip. + Winds Open settings Settings Enter City, State or Zip ____________________ Cancel Set Close settings Full Forecast * Crosswords * Elections 2016 * Investigations * Video * Stocks * Apps * Best-Selling Books * Classifieds * College * Corrections * Interactives * Newsletters * Photo Galleries * Portfolio Tracker * Scores * Newsstand * Audio * More + News + Sports + Life + Money + Tech + Travel + Opinion + Weather + Crosswords + Elections 2016 + Investigations + Video + Stocks + Apps + Best-Selling Books + Classifieds + College + Corrections + Interactives + Newsletters + Photo Galleries + Portfolio Tracker + Scores + Newsstand + Audio * * Search * Firefly Hi Already a subscriber? Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 121 2 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest Sochi satire Twitter account goes viral Twitter account launched Feb. 4 makes fun of much-maligned conditions for media in Sochi. Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ Sochi satire Twitter account goes viral ____________________ ____________________________________________________________ Twitter account launched Feb. 4 makes fun of much-maligned ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1neZ5V {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 2 Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Sochi satire Twitter account goes viral [Eversley_Melanie.png] Melanie Eversley, USA TODAY 5:49 a.m. EST February 7, 2014 Tweets make fun of much-maligned conditions at Olympics site in Russia. Sochi problems Workers put the finishing touches on accommodation for the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics, Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014, in Krasnaya Polyana, Russia.(Photo: By Gero Breloer, AP) Story Highlights * New @SochiProblems Twitter account has more followers than official Games handle * Twitter account was launched Feb. 4 in wake of media complaints about conditions * Identity of who is behind @SochiProblems is a mystery CONNECTTWEET 2 LINKEDIN 2 COMMENTEMAILMORE In the wake of horror stories about brownish water, unfinished construction and other hotel and other problems in Sochi, Russia, as the media arrived for the 2014 Winter Olympics, a Twitter account launched Tuesday called @SochiProblems has gone viral. On Thursday night after the opening ceremony, followers seemed to multiply more quickly than a figure skater could lay down a triple lutz. By 11:20 p.m. ET Thursday night, followers of @SochiProblems totaled 174,000. One Twitter follower noted that the number of @SochiProblems followers on Twitter had surpassed that of the official Games account, @Sochi2014, which counted 133,000 followers by 11:30 p.m. Thursday night. If you want jokes, @SochiProblems has them. Over a photo of announcer Bob Costas in which his left eye appears red and irritated, @SochiProblems tweeted, "Bob Costas did you not listen to us and drink water." The account also tweeted, "Bob Costas must've put water on his face. I'm sorry Bob, the result is looking like pink eye." A later tweet included the hashtag or search term #SaveBobCostasEye. The tweet could be a response to Feb. 3 tweets from Chicago Tribune journalist Stacy St. Clair, @StacyStClair, in which she tweets that her hotel has no water, but that the front desk told her that if the water is restored, "do not use on your face because it contains something very dangerous." In a later tweet, St. Clair says the water has been restored and she posts a photo of two glasses of water the color of — well — apple juice. Bob Costas, meantime, has said that the appearance of his eye is due to a "minor infection." The account also includes retweets from reporters encountering everything from packs of stray dogs to bathrooms that feature tandem toilets. One retweet comes from Dave Mercer, the host of TV's Facts of Fishing, @FactsofFishing, showing two fully clothed Olympic athletes sitting on a couple of side-by-side toilets. Another retweet originates from Viennese journalist Simon Rosner, @SimonRosner, who tweeted, "On the way to the media center. The street is not quite ready yet," over a photo of a crumbling sidewalk. No word on who is behind @SochiProblems. The account did not respond to a tweet requesting an interview. But its Twitter description reads, "I'm a mess, and not prepared for you!" Journalists in Sochi offer hilarious insight into how well prepared the city is to host the Olympic Games. Spoiler alert: it's not. 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Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 296 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest 'The Lego Movie' builds family fun from clever satire It's a warm, witty and spirited adventure employing the colorful Danish-made toy bricks. Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ 'The Lego Movie' builds family fun from clever satire ______ ____________________________________________________________ It's a warm, witty and spirited adventure employing the col ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1buJHi {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 7 Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs 'The Lego Movie' builds family fun from clever satire USA Today Movie Critics Scott Bowles and Claudia Puig discuss 'The Lego Movie' and tell you whether to "Catch It," "Rent It," or "Skip It" in this week's edition of The Screening Room. [Puig_Claudia.png] Claudia Puig, USA TODAY 9:22 a.m. EST February 7, 2014 The all-Lego adventure is warm and witty, showing flashes of satire. LEGO-MOV-jy-9068 Lego minfigures Wyldstyle (voiced by Elizabeth Banks) and Emmet (Chris Pratt) in the animated motion picture "The Lego Movie.?"(Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures) Story Highlights * USA TODAY review: * * * out of four * Voices: Chris Pratt, Elizabeth Banks, Morgan Freeman, Will Ferrell, Will Arnett * Rated: PG; runtime: 1 hour, 41 minutes; opens Friday nationwide CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 7 COMMENTEMAILMORE The Lego Movie (* * * out of four; rated PG; opens Friday nationwide) is a spirited romp through a world that looks distinctively familiar, and yet freshly inventive. As classic toy fixtures for more than 70 years, the colorful plastic interlocking Lego bricks are instantly recognizable. And the computer-generated world created by writer-directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs) is one that makes use of these readily identifiable parts in appealing, buoyant and often surprising ways. Using a detailed, tactile style of computer animation that also resembles stop-motion, the film's look suits the aesthetics of Lego constructions. The joy in a bucket of toy bricks lies in the panoply of possible shapes and structures, and the filmmakers palpably convey that sense of imaginative creation. STORY: 'The Lego Movie': Building a toy story from bricks INTERVIEW: Chris Pratt's movie stardom snaps together with 'Lego' MORE: 'Lego' filmmakers: No guns, some peril, some assurances REVIEWS: The latest movie reviews from USA TODAY TRAILERS: Coming soon to theaters It's an eye-catching environment, though at times the whole thing becomes a bit too noisy and frenetic. But overall, the experience is giddy fun for the kids, and the irreverent dialogue and gently pointed satire is amusing for the adults who accompany them. This action-packed story is the first feature-length movie composed entirely of real and computer-generated Legos. This all-Legos-all-the-time universe is especially striking in the way it depicts smoke and storm-tossed seas. Who knew those little building blocks could simulate undulating waves? At the center of the family-friendly fun is Lego mini-figure Emmet Brickowoski, voiced by Chris Pratt. As unremarkable as they come, he unquestioningly follows orders at his humdrum construction job, enjoys the inane TV show he's fed daily and sings along to the obnoxious but catchy song on the radio. Though Emmet appears to be a blank slate, underneath his bland exterior is a sweet yearning. He consults a manual for pointers on how to win friends, to little avail. Everything changes when Emmet inadvertently stumbles on a strange object and meets the rebellious Wyldstyle (Elizabeth Banks). He learns he might be "the Special," in accordance with an ancient prophecy that says he will save the world from impending doom. Emmet is trying to foil a plan for world domination set in motion by President Business and enforced by his swivel-headed, schizoid enforcer, Bad Cop/Good Cop (Liam Neeson) and legions of robot clones. Household items, such as Q-tips, Krazy Glue and nail polish remover, are regarded as relics from another civilization and play key parts in the zany but unevenly paced tale, which has whiffs of Toy Story, Wreck-it Ralph and even The Matrix. Those who have played with the small Danish brick-like toys — or the more recent video games — will no doubt get a particular kick out of this ingenious movie. Even for those who aren't Lego fans, the spry adventure saga offers plenty of laughs and clever allusions, as well as a sometimes-subversive skewering of modern conformity. A warmhearted, goofy celebration of creativity, The Lego Movie builds on a sweet tale of finding one's inner imaginative child. 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Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 61 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest Ghoulish 'Nightcrawler' will leave viewers on edge In tense thriller 'Nightcrawler,' Jake Gyllenhaal plays a disturbingly driven guy whose morality is sorely lacking as he goes after the most sordid images to sell to TV news stations. Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ Ghoulish 'Nightcrawler' will leave viewers on edge _________ ____________________________________________________________ In tense thriller 'Nightcrawler,' Jake Gyllenhaal plays a d ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1wFg0q {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 2 Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Ghoulish 'Nightcrawler' will leave viewers on edge USA Today Movie Critic Claudia Puig discusses "Nightcrawler" and tells you whether to "Catch It," "Rent It," or "Skip It" in this week's edition of The Screening Room. [Puig_Claudia.png] Claudia Puig, USA TODAY 8:24 p.m. EDT October 30, 2014 'Nightcrawler' Jake Gyllenhaal stars as a crime-scene photographer in 'Nightcrawler.'(Photo: Chuck Zlotnick, AP) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 2 COMMENTEMAILMORE Speeding around the sprawling streets and freeways of Los Angeles, Jake Gyllenhaal masterfully plays a creep who profits from other people's misfortunes in Nightcrawler. Thirty pounds lighter, all cheekbones and bulging eyes, Gyllenhaal plays one of the year's most memorable characters in this dark, provocative drama (*** ½ out four; rated R; opens Friday nationwide). Gyllenhaal is Lou Bloom, a self-taught guy who brags that he's "a really fast learner." He looks like a dweeb. But underneath his dorky white shirt sleeves and unfashionable cheap jacket, he's an ambitious and slick predator, part vampire, part vulture. When we first see him, he's a lying, petty criminal. Then, while driving on the night streets, he happens upon a fiery car crash. He's instantly, disturbingly drawn to the human wreckage. Watching with unblinking eyes, he absorbs the scene as a news photographer (Bill Paxton) shows up and documents the carnage. We can see the wheels in Lou's opportunistic mind turning. Soon, he pawns a bike he stole on the Venice boardwalk, trading it for a video camera. A sordid career is born. A weirdly amoral guy, Lou turns on the faux joviality in off-putting ways. When interviewing for an unpaid intern to assist on his nightly stalking, he spouts banalities like "It's a fine opportunity for some lucky someone" in a way that is both humorous and menacing. He's a bit like Being There's Chauncey Gardiner crossed with The Usual Suspects' Keyser Soze. But just as dismaying is Nightcrawler's indictment of TV news and its ghoulish sensationalism. Without flinching, Lou videotapes a grisly accident, then heads for a local news station. There he grabs the attention of a hardened local news director (Rene Russo). Nina greedily seizes upon the graphic footage. Her ratings-driven credo is simple and alarming: "I want something people can't turn away from." An effective sycophant, Lou ingratiates himself and talks Nina into having a drink. Later, he turns scarily manipulative. He is capable of being blandly genial yet deeply menacing. It's a breathtaking performance. Jake Gyllenhaal plays a driven man desperate for work in 'Nightcrawler.' He finds himself working in the world of L.A. crime journalism, where the line between right and wrong is often blurred. VPC A tense car chase with Lou and his sad sack assistant Rick (Riz Ahmed) is riveting. The slimy ways in which Lou manipulates Rick are shockingly reprehensible, The film explores a compelling common thread which links Lou, Nina and the TV news cycle: gross exploitation. Lou quickly learns what Nina and her station prize most. Urban crime is uninteresting to news purveyors. Crimes in good neighborhoods are headline worthy. Race and class are crucial elements in the formula. Lou muscles in on veteran "nightcrawlers," the journalistic equivalent of ambulance chasers. In trolling for mayhem, he pushes the boundaries of morality in search of the most lurid footage. It's blood sport and Lou — whose violent streak we got early glimpses of — takes to this cut-throat subculture easily. Written and directed by Dan Gilroy, the story is transfixing with its powerful performances, sleek visuals and clever skewering of tawdry TV news. (Shockingly, actual Los Angeles TV journalists have featured roles, which makes the viewer wonder if they read the script.) With Lou, in particular, Gilroy has created a fascinating, complex and repellant character. Also to Gilroy's screenwriting credit, even the smallest supporting role is indelibly etched. Gyllenhaal — whose recent roles in End of Watch, Prisoners and Enemy have been terrific — continues his impressive streak. This may well be his best-ever performance, in a compelling film that works equally well as a dynamic thriller, a psychological study, a grim satire and a searing indictment of contemporary journalism. CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 2 COMMENTEMAILMORE Read or Share this story: http://usat.ly/1wFg0qZ TOP VIDEOS * Rapper Mos Def arrested in South Africa Rapper Mos Def arrested in South Africa 00:49 * Janet Jackson reschedules postponed tour dates Janet Jackson reschedules postponed tour dates 00:38 * Singer Celine Dion's husband, Rene Angelil dies of cancer Singer Celine Dion's husband, Rene Angelil dies of cancer 00:44 * L.A. freeways turn into actual walls in 'Colony' L.A. freeways turn into actual walls in 'Colony' 01:05 * Critic's Corner: 'Angie Tribeca' an open question Critic's Corner: 'Angie Tribeca' an open question 00:50 * Experts weigh in on Oscars' lack of diversity Experts weigh in on Oscars' lack of diversity 02:15 * And the 2016 Oscar nominees are... 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And the 2016 Oscar nominees are... 03:00 * The most memorable Oscar Fashion over the years The most memorable Oscar Fashion over the years 01:09 * Leo DiCaprio: 'The Revenant' challenge was the cold Leo DiCaprio: 'The Revenant' challenge was the cold 00:56 * Brie Larson opens up about her character in the film "Room" Brie Larson opens up about her character in the film "Room" 02:24 * Matt Damon talks Martian potatoes Matt Damon talks Martian potatoes 02:02 * Bryan Cranston had to rein it in for 'Trumbo ' Bryan Cranston had to rein it in for 'Trumbo ' 01:01 * Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars 01:09 * 2016 Razzie Award nominations are in 2016 Razzie Award nominations are in 01:25 * Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars 01:09 * Weirdest places Oscar winners keep their awards Weirdest places Oscar winners keep their awards 01:04 * Making screen-accurate 'Star Wars' costumes isn't easy Making screen-accurate 'Star Wars' costumes isn't easy 02:50 * Critic's Corner: 'Colony' reunites 'Lost' star, producer Critic's Corner: 'Colony' reunites 'Lost' star, producer 00:51 * Critic's Corner: 'American Crime' is off to great start Critic's Corner: 'American Crime' is off to great start 01:03 * Snapchat could be poised to steal Facebook's ad revenue Snapchat could be poised to steal Facebook's ad revenue 00:49 * Trailer: 'Ride Along 2' Trailer: 'Ride Along 2' 02:26 * Critic's Corner: CW honors 20th anniversary of 'MADtv' Critic's Corner: CW honors 20th anniversary of 'MADtv' 00:55 * David Bowie's top five movie roles David Bowie's top five movie roles 01:38 * Canadian astronaut covers Bowie's 'Space Oddity' Canadian astronaut covers Bowie's 'Space Oddity' 05:30 MORE STORIES -- USA TODAY ____________________ Search SUBSCRIBE NOWto get home delivery * USA TODAY * News * Sports * Life * Money * Tech * Travel * Opinion * Weather Icon + Humidity + Precip. + Winds Open settings Settings Enter City, State or Zip ____________________ Cancel Set Close settings Full Forecast * Crosswords * Elections 2016 * Investigations * Video * Stocks * Apps * Best-Selling Books * Classifieds * College * Corrections * Interactives * Newsletters * Photo Galleries * Portfolio Tracker * Scores * Newsstand * Audio * More + News + Sports + Life + Money + Tech + Travel + Opinion + Weather + Crosswords + Elections 2016 + Investigations + Video + Stocks + Apps + Best-Selling Books + Classifieds + College + Corrections + Interactives + Newsletters + Photo Galleries + Portfolio Tracker + Scores + Newsstand + Audio * * Search * Firefly Hi Already a subscriber? Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 212 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest Weird new form of protest might just work Protestic tactics now include humor, satire absurdism -- and maybe even someone dressed as polar bear. Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ Weird new form of protest might just work __________________ ____________________________________________________________ Protestic tactics now include humor, satire absurdism -- an ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1x6IV6 {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 5 Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Weird new form of protest might just work Mary Papenfuss, OZY 11:34 a.m. EDT October 3, 2014 protest_ozy_1 Jenna deBloisblanc (center), 25, dressed as Captain Planet, demonstrates on Broadway during the Flood Wall Street protest on September 22, 2014 in New York City.(Photo: Bryan Thomas Getty Images) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 5 COMMENTEMAILMORE Wild Jamaican dancers, a pounding drum, and the moving, sweaty bodies of entranced strangers don't have a whole lot to do with fossil fuel concerns, but they came together at what's been billed as the biggest march against climate change the world has ever seen. When organizers explained to protesters thronging Central Park West last week — two miles from the start of the Manhattan march — that they were stuck because the city had run out of room on the route, no one cared. There was a Broadway-like production of singers urging demonstrators to "resist extinction," a giant melting Earth, and preaching "Reverend Billy" of the Church of Stop Shopping to keep them on their high. "It was a celebration," said Russell Mendel, 29, of Earth Guardians, one of the groups that led the march. "There's enough heaviness in the world that when we come together we need to feel power and hope. The creativity, the fun, is key, especially for my generation." More from OZY: MLK in Germany: King's almost forgotten visit to East Berlin The history of campus divestments In November, voters get their say on sick days Welcome to the evolution of protest, far from the grimly earnest, trash-cans-through-storefront-windows of the early Vietnam War demonstration era. The clashes between environmentalists and cops would come the following day when protesters occupied Wall Street to underscore corporate America's role in global warming. But the march would be infused with the growing culture of protests: determination, certainly, but also high spirits fueled by spectacle and theatrics. "The march took it to a whole new level with an architecture profoundly influenced by artists and shaped by the sensibilities of the millennials," noted artist activist Andrew Boyd of Manhattan, who's part of the Beautiful Trouble network, which trains protesters. But the march is only one sign — granted, a particularly dramatic one — of a renaissance in protest tactics that notably also now includes a new age of humor, satire and absurdism. Send in the clowns. Pranksters clowned for the environment, particularly the protester dressed in a polar bear costume who offered himself up for arrest on Wall Street. But where humor and absurdism is being increasingly used most often now is on the vitriolic battlegrounds at abortion clinics and Westboro Baptist Church protests. Husband-and-wife team Grayson and Tina Haver Currin have been rattling a weekly North Carolina abortion clinic protest in a Raleigh suburb with the absurdist signs of their band of counterprotesters called Saturday Chores. Yelling is futile, so they counter "hatred with humor," explains Tina. They pop up next to signs like "Babies are murdered here" with their own bizarre messages, including "Jesus Slays" and "Honk if You're Horny." The tactic has been weirdly effective at annoying protesters, who now drop their signs when Saturday Chores shows up, which Grayson considers an "important victory." The tactics have been adopted at other clinics, including a recent demonstration at Planned Parenthood in San Francisco's Mission District. "It's a sly engagement," noted Boyd. "It's most effective when your opponent is grimly, totally moralizing. It's an oblique attack that doesn't engage in the same universe, in effect doesn't recognize the power or even the existence of other side, and it's totally infuriating to be mocked." Similar strategies are increasingly being used against viciously anti-gay Westboro demonstrations. When members of the Kansas church launched its "God Hates the Media" protest last month outside Huffington Post offices in Manhattan, workers responded in full-absurdist regalia. "Weird news" editors dressed like SpongeBob, a penguin and a yeti hoisting signs "I Need a Sponge Bath," "Penguins Go to Heaven" and "God Loves Bigfoot." Though some Dadaist rebel clowns trace their lineage to court jesters, more recent role models include the "culture jamming" Yes Men, Billionaires for Bush, Yippie Abbie Hoffman, Act Up and the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence: gays and drag queens who began dressing as glammed-up nuns in the late 1970s to confront the Catholic Church, hell-raise for attention to battle AIDS, and advocate for gay rights and other issues. "By then we had all seen the marches and the signs. You need to switch things up," explained Sister Zsa Zsa Glamour, née Mark Klein, 58, of San Francisco. While some Sisters don the garb simply to be provocative, for Klein to "put on the habit, it'd better be a … good reason; I'm not fooling around." Now he believes rather than simply raising a chuckle, "we have to put fear into the people we're opposing." He advocates tailing Westboro members and organizing boycotts of the airlines, hotels and restaurants they use. For now, activist Matthew Hill, 29, is sticking with absurdist humor. He was hoisting an unusual sign at the climate march: "I See Cognitive Dissonance Everywhere," which was supposed to be some kind of play off of "I see dead people" from The Sixth Sense. "I try to be offbeat. That's what sticks in your mind," explained Hill, who rarely encounters a protest he doesn't like. "Climate change is serious, but you don't have to be serious when you confront it. None of us gets out of here alive, do we? We might as well have some fun while we can." OZY is a USA TODAY content partner providing general news, commentary and coverage from around the Web. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY. CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 5 COMMENTEMAILMORE Read or Share this story: http://usat.ly/1x6IV6T TOP VIDEOS * Raw: 12 Missing Aboard U.S. Marine Helicopters Raw: 12 Missing Aboard U.S. Marine Helicopters 00:33 * Best moments from the Fox Business undercard GOP debate Best moments from the Fox Business undercard GOP debate 02:00 * US customs agents seize 2,800 marijuana 'carrots' US customs agents seize 2,800 marijuana 'carrots' 01:14 * Police say woman hit fiance over Regifted ring Police say woman hit fiance over Regifted ring 00:41 * Alex becomes first January hurricane to form since 1938 Alex becomes first January hurricane to form since 1938 00:47 * Mosquitoes are spreading a rare virus Mosquitoes are spreading a rare virus 00:44 * Suspect captured for American woman's murder in Italy Suspect captured for American woman's murder in Italy 00:47 * New aid convoy heads to besieged Syrian town New aid convoy heads to besieged Syrian town 00:28 * House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union 07:20 * House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union 07:20 * Fact check: Obama's final State of the Union speech Fact check: Obama's final State of the Union speech 02:33 * Rep. 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What does this group want? Armed stand-off in Oregon continues. What does this group want? 01:40 MORE STORIES -- USA TODAY ____________________ Search SUBSCRIBE NOWto get home delivery * USA TODAY * News * Sports * Life * Money * Tech * Travel * Opinion * Weather Icon + Humidity + Precip. + Winds Open settings Settings Enter City, State or Zip ____________________ Cancel Set Close settings Full Forecast * Crosswords * Elections 2016 * Investigations * Video * Stocks * Apps * Best-Selling Books * Classifieds * College * Corrections * Interactives * Newsletters * Photo Galleries * Portfolio Tracker * Scores * Newsstand * Audio * More + News + Sports + Life + Money + Tech + Travel + Opinion + Weather + Crosswords + Elections 2016 + Investigations + Video + Stocks + Apps + Best-Selling Books + Classifieds + College + Corrections + Interactives + Newsletters + Photo Galleries + Portfolio Tracker + Scores + Newsstand + Audio * * Search * Firefly Hi Already a subscriber? 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Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest Weekend picks for book lovers One Plus One by Jojo Moyes; Pamela Dorman Books/Viking, 368 pp.; fiction The best-selling author of Me Before You and The Girl You Left Behind combines a compelling family drama featuring flinty lovers and a Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ Weekend picks for book lovers ______________________________ ____________________________________________________________ One Plus One by Jojo Moyes; Pamela Dorman Books/Viking, 368 ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1m26Yk {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Weekend picks for book lovers Compiled by Jocelyn McClurg, USA TODAY 5:51 a.m. EDT July 5, 2014 One Plus One "One Plus One" by Jojo Moyes.(Photo: Viking) CONNECTTWEET 1 LINKEDINCOMMENTEMAILMORE What should you read this weekend? USA TODAY's picks for book lovers include the new novel by best-selling author Jojo Moyes and The Last Magazine, a journalism satire by Michael Hastings, who was just 33 when he died in a car wreck. One Plus One by Jojo Moyes (Pamela Dorman Books/Viking, 368 pp.; fiction) Jess is a single mum living with her daughter and stepson along England's southern coast. Since her deadbeat husband, Marty, decamped two years earlier to his mother's house, Jess has supported their daughter, Tanzie, and her Goth stepson, Nicky, by working as a house cleaner and a barmaid at a local pub. Tanzie, 10, is a maths (that's Brit-speak) whiz and is offered a scholarship to a top private school, but even with the scholarship, the school fees are beyond Jess' reach. When Tanzie's teacher tells her of a Maths Olympiad with prize money, Jess packs up the children and their large and malodorous dog, Norman, into an aging Rolls-Royce that Jess' ex bought on eBay, and they head for the contest in Scotland. Jess' trip is quickly aborted by her lack of driving skills and uninsured vehicle. Her unlikely rescuer is Ed Nicholls, a software developer banished from the company he co-founded after he tried to get rid of a clingy girlfriend by offering her an illegal stock tip. Ed also happens to be one of Jess' housecleaning clients, whom she rescued when he drank himself into a self-pitying stupor at the bar where she works. USA TODAY says: * * * * out of four. "One Plus One adds up to a delightful summer read, where the whole is greater than the sum of its charming parts." The Last Magazine by Michael Hastings (Blue Rider, 336 pp.; fiction) Posthumous, semi-autobiographical satire narrated by a smart, ironic young writer and fact-checker named Michael Hastings. It's set at a magazine like Newsweek during the rush to war in Iraq. USA TODAY says: * * *. "If journalism is best read as the first draft of history, then The Last Magazine can be read as a not-fully-polished draft of what Hastings might have done as a novelist. Sadly, it's also his last draft." The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street by Susan Jane Gilman (Grand Central, 512 pp.; fiction) Story of Lillian Dunkle, who flees a Russian shtetl as a child for the slums of the Lower East Side circa 1913, only to climb to the top of an ice-cream empire. USA TODAY says: * * *. "Ice Cream Queen is polished yet pointed, deceptively cheery but shaded in the sinister — an upside-down, funhouse treat." My Salinger Year by Joanna Rakoff (Knopf ; 272 pp., non-fiction) Memoir about the time Rakoff, then an aspiring young writer, took an entry-level job at a renowned literary agency whose star client was J.D. Salinger. USA TODAY says: * * *. "The memoir is touching, and it's easy to empathize with …Rakoff." Brutal Youth by Anthony Breznican (Thomas Dunne Books/St. Martin's Press, 410 pp.; fiction) Debut novel set in a morally and physically decaying Catholic high school in the Pittsburgh area in the early 1990s; story follows three freshmen and involves nasty hazing ritual. USA TODAY says: * * *. "Crackling-good entertainment." Contributing reviewers: Patty Rhule, Bob Minzesheimer, Olivia Barker, Roberta Bernstein, Kevin Nance CONNECTTWEET 1 LINKEDINCOMMENTEMAILMORE Read or Share this story: http://usat.ly/1m26Ykh TOP VIDEOS * Rapper Mos Def arrested in South Africa Rapper Mos Def arrested in South Africa 00:49 * Janet Jackson reschedules postponed tour dates Janet Jackson reschedules postponed tour dates 00:38 * Singer Celine Dion's husband, Rene Angelil dies of cancer Singer Celine Dion's husband, Rene Angelil dies of cancer 00:44 * L.A. freeways turn into actual walls in 'Colony' L.A. freeways turn into actual walls in 'Colony' 01:05 * Critic's Corner: 'Angie Tribeca' an open question Critic's Corner: 'Angie Tribeca' an open question 00:50 * Experts weigh in on Oscars' lack of diversity Experts weigh in on Oscars' lack of diversity 02:15 * And the 2016 Oscar nominees are... 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Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 13 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest Poehler, Rudd 'Came Together' to skewer rom-coms It's hate at first sight, or at least extreme dislike for Paul Rudd and Amy Poehler's New York-based characters in 'They Came Together,' a send-up of romantic comedies. conventions Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ Poehler, Rudd 'Came Together' to skewer rom-coms ___________ ____________________________________________________________ It's hate at first sight, or at least extreme dislike for P ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1mxW9G {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 1 Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Poehler, Rudd 'Came Together' to skewer rom-coms [Puig_Claudia.png] Claudia Puig, USA TODAY 1:04 p.m. EDT June 26, 2014 Review: 'They Came Together' Paul Rudd and Amy Poehler star in the rom-com spoof "They Came Together."(Photo: Sundance Institute) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 1 COMMENTEMAILMORE Romantic comedies are easy targets for spoofing. In fact, some of them feel like tired parodies of themselves in their slavish adherence to formula. They Came Together (*** out of four; rated R; opens Friday in select cities) amiably skewers the conventions in ways that are irreverent, amusingly fast-paced and broadly hilarious. Joel (Paul Rudd) and Molly (Amy Poehler) are an extreme version of the kinds of couples that are a staple of conventional rom-coms. REVIEWS: The latest movie reviews from USA TODAY MORE: USA TODAY's guide to summer movies Molly's a clumsy, good-natured goofball who owns a candy store that's about to be swallowed up by a conglomerate. All the proceeds from her adorably tiny shop go to charity — when she isn't simply giving away her tasty treats. Joel is an exec at the faceless Candy Systems Research. He's still hung up on his ex-girlfriend Tiffany (Cobie Smulders) even though she barely professes neutrality toward him. Even when she's clearly in bed with another man, Joel is moronically clueless. When Joel and Molly are set up by friends at a Halloween party, their initial reaction is aversion, intensified by professional antipathy. But clearly they're meant for each other — they each go as Benjamin Franklin to the party. IFRAME: //www.youtube.com/embed/TPzHRXUcUWU?rel=0 The film is framed with the couple telling the saga of how they met to an inordinately patient pair of friends (Bill Hader and Ellie Kemper). At a certain point these pals clearly want to hear no more, but Molly and Joel persist in telling every sordid detail. Some of the dinner comments are wonderfully sardonic and punctuate a series of vivid flashbacks. Joel and Molly have big dreams, medium-sized commitment issues and a mutual affection for Q-tips. And the glue that seals the deal? The shocking confession that both love "fiction books." (Neither has ever met another person who has such a love of fiction!) Not really the corporate takeover type, Joel yearns to open a little coffee shop with the name "Cup of Joel." Molly, of course, encourages him to follow his dreams. The film has the feel of a Saturday Night Live segment gone into overtime. While the concept grows repetitive and the connective tissue between scenes is inconsistent, some very funny gags materialize. The substantial chemistry between Poehler and Rudd, among the most likable comic actors around, transforms sometimes thin material into something worth watching. The film's most engaging character is not actually human: It's Manhattan, of course, a point made repeatedly over that protracted dinner by the voluble lovebirds. Though the film meanders, director/co-writer David Wain and writing partner Michael Showalter clearly have a grudging affection for Nora Ephron screenplays such as You've Got Mail and When Harry Met Sally. They Came Together will likely appeal to rom-com fans as much as to those who find such films annoyingly clichéd. . 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Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest 'Dear White People' takes on collegiate racial identity After growing through a spoof Twitter account, a viral concept trailer and a successful crowdfunding campaign, the feature film Dear White People will debut on Saturday at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival, Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ 'Dear White People' takes on collegiate racial identity ____ ____________________________________________________________ After growing through a spoof Twitter account, a viral conc ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1jd2VQ {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 58 Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs 'Dear White People' takes on collegiate racial identity Haley Goldberg, USA TODAY College 9:03 a.m. EST January 18, 2014 The satire - based on white people's misconceptions about black culture - will debut at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival on Saturday and explore "racial identity in 'post-racial' America." Dear White People Cloaked in satire, 'Dear White People' tackles racial identity at a fictional, predominantly white Ivy League institution.(Photo: DEAR WHITE PEOPLE PRODUCTIONS) Story Highlights * The film marks the feature debut for director and screenwriter Justin Simien. * The movie tackles racial identity at a fictional, predominantly white Ivy League institution. CONNECTTWEET 1 LINKEDIN 58 COMMENTEMAILMORE After growing through a spoof Twitter account, a viral concept trailer and a successful crowdfunding campaign, the feature film Dear White People will debut on Saturday at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival, joining 16 other films in the U.S. Dramatic Competition category. Cloaked in satire, the film tackles racial identity at a fictional, predominantly white Ivy League institution. The title of the film comes from a character's campus radio show that addresses white people's misconceptions about black culture. For example: "Dear White People, Listening to Flo Rida does not make you 'practically black.' " The film marks the feature debut for director and screenwriter Justin Simien, 30. He began the script in 2007 after graduating from Chapman University, a private school in Orange, Calif. Simien says he drew largely from his own experience at the predominantly white institution in crafting the film. Leaving his native Houston, Simien felt "exoticized for being black" when he got to Chapman. According to Chapman's fall 2012 enrollment data, only 94 of 5,681 undergraduates identified as black or African American. "People had a lot of assumptions about me as a black person," Simien says. "That gray area toggling between how black should I or should I not act depending on who I'm around, not even fitting in with the black kids at first, not knowing where to fit in — that was the experience that I found myself having as I became an adult and entered the workforce. You sort of realize that all of us were having that experience." A shared experience, yet Simien says no movie has yet to approach the issue directly. This fueled his desire to start a conversation about a traditionally sensitive subject. "When you talk about being black, people who aren't black tend to sort of (think), 'Well is that racist?' People feel they may be attacked by it," Simien says. "But getting past that initial knee jerk reaction, there's actually wonderful dialogue that can happen." Simien set his film at an Ivy League to develop a "microcosm" of America and to create what he considers a "more heightened experience of college." Like Simien, Nandi George, a junior business major at Chapman and president of the Black Student Union, struggled to find her identity when starting college. "When you come to a predominantly white campus, you're saying to yourself, 'Should I join a sorority and try and fit in that way or join BSU and be seen as militant or too black?'" George, 20, says. Harvard University junior Tope Agabalogun, 21, a human evolutionary biology major and a member of the Black Students Association, says he watched the concept trailer for the film in 2012, when Simien and his team started crowdfunding on Indiegogo to make the feature film. Agabalogun says as a black student in the minority, he often feels caught between maintaining his African American history and assimilating into the "manifold of campus." Recently, black college students have started a national conversation as they address black identity in innovative ways. At University of California – Los Angeles, black students created a YouTube video titled The Black Bruins [The Spoken Word] to highlight the school's lack of diversity, garnering over 1 million views. And at the University of Michigan, black students aggregated their concerns on Twitter using the hashtag #BBUM, an event called "Being Black at University of Michigan." Tyrell Collier, 21, president of the UM Black Student Union and a sociology and Afroamerican and African studies senior, says the concept trailer for Dear White People reminded him of various incidents on campus that sparked the #BBUM event, including a party planned by a fraternity in October entitled "Hood Ratchet Thursday." "When we were dealing with the party incident, you could tell it was a very touchy subject," Collins says. "I think the main thing is ignorance, especially when coming to a predominantly white institution. People come from all over the place, and people have never really seen anyone outside of their race or culture." Simien hopes the satirical tone of his film will serve as a gateway to dialogue, eliciting laughter from the audience while leaving them thinking about the issues of race. While working on the screenplay, Simien created the Twitter account @DearWhitePeople in 2010 as a tool to test Samantha's voice and gauge how audiences responded to the satirical riffs. To his surprise, fans have emerged from all types of people. "Even though it's told from a black point of view because I happen to be a black man, I do think that it's about all of us," Simien says. "I mean, who hasn't felt like an "other" at some point, whether you're a woman, or gay or any other racial minority or even a white man in certain circumstances." Already tapped by Variety as one of "10 Directors to Watch," Simien hopes to find a distributor for the film to show it in theaters nationwide. Haley Goldberg is a senior at University of Michigan. CONNECTTWEET 1 LINKEDIN 58 COMMENTEMAILMORE Read or Share this story: http://usat.ly/1jd2VQU TOP VIDEOS * Raw: 12 Missing Aboard U.S. Marine Helicopters Raw: 12 Missing Aboard U.S. Marine Helicopters 00:33 * Best moments from the Fox Business undercard GOP debate Best moments from the Fox Business undercard GOP debate 02:00 * US customs agents seize 2,800 marijuana 'carrots' US customs agents seize 2,800 marijuana 'carrots' 01:14 * Police say woman hit fiance over Regifted ring Police say woman hit fiance over Regifted ring 00:41 * Alex becomes first January hurricane to form since 1938 Alex becomes first January hurricane to form since 1938 00:47 * Mosquitoes are spreading a rare virus Mosquitoes are spreading a rare virus 00:44 * Suspect captured for American woman's murder in Italy Suspect captured for American woman's murder in Italy 00:47 * New aid convoy heads to besieged Syrian town New aid convoy heads to besieged Syrian town 00:28 * House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union 07:20 * House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union 07:20 * Fact check: Obama's final State of the Union speech Fact check: Obama's final State of the Union speech 02:33 * Rep. 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What does this group want? Armed stand-off in Oregon continues. What does this group want? 01:40 MORE STORIES -- #For The Win » Feed For The Win » Comments Feed alternate alternate For The Win WordPress.com For The Win NCAAF ____________________ USA Today Sports * NFL * NBA * NCAAF * NCAAB * Soccer * MLB * NHL * Culture * MMA * Golf * NASCAR * Tennis * Boxing * Olympics * Video * GIFs * Graphics * Lists * Longform * Podcasts * * Fear is the only thing driving a proposed NCAA football rule change Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports Fear is the only thing driving a proposed NCAA football rule change Morning Win Fear is the only thing driving a proposed NCAA football rule change By Nate Scott February 14, 2014 7:39 am Follow @aNateScott 8.9k shares share tweet sms send email By: Nate Scott | February 14, 2014 7:39 am Follow @aNateScott Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports Today’s Big Winner: People who fear change in college football It almost reads like a satire headline when you actually write it out, but this is true: The NCAA Football Rules Committee discussed a possible rule change that would make it so that offenses had to wait 10 seconds each play before they snapped the ball. If they didn’t wait 10 seconds, they would be penalized five yards. High-tempo offenses? Gone. No more. Not when a penalty awaits anyone who dares speed up the gentlemanly pace of a football game. The logic behind the rule change is that it’s for player safety. From George Schroeder’s USA TODAY Sports article: The reasoning behind the proposed change, according to Louisiana-Monroe coach Todd Berry, a member of the committee, is safety. The more plays in a game, the greater the risk of injury. Or so goes the theory, which Berry calls “common sense”. Eh, I mean, yeah? If there are less plays in a football game, there are less opportunities for people to get injured. Of course, by that logic, the best way to prevent any injuries is for no plays to happen. Auburn had one of the fastest offenses this year and they and their opponents averaged roughly 143 plays per game total. Alabama, with their more methodical offense, averaged about 124 total plays in their games. Is there any data that suggests 19 extra total plays a game significantly increases injury risk? It’s a bizarre logic, especially when there’s no data showing that injuries increase in those extra plays but a heck of a lot of data that shows that fast-pace football is a significant advantage to some teams. It also exposes a hypocrisy in some of these defense-first, “old school” college football coaches, who are shouting about player safety when it comes to the amount of time offenses have to hike the ball and then in the next interview will decry that the game is changing and defenders aren’t allowed to hit like they used to. Again, there’s just no data out there, at least not that any of these coaches have seen, that suggests that extra plays in a game significantly increases injury risk. But there is a lot of data that suggest defenders hitting people in the head does pose a significant injury risk. Here’s the thing, though. This proposed rule change has little to do with player safety. It has a lot more to do with the fact that defense-first teams are tired of the Auburns and the Oregons of the world speeding up the play and tiring out their defenses. With a new rule demanding a 10-second delay for offenses to snap the ball, a coach like Nick Saban can get four new pass rushers onto the field for every down, thus negating a major advantage for the offense. Again, from Schroeder: “If somebody presents proof that it’s a huge safety concern, that’s something different,” [Ole Miss coach Hugh] Freeze said. “But if it’s just so we can rotate four fresh defensive linemen in against your offensive line that’s not being rotated, I’m not a fan of that.” And there it is. Show us the data that suggests 20 or so extra plays a game significantly increases injury risk, and maybe we’ll listen. For now, though, this sounds like a rule-change proposed in the name of safety that cares little about safety and more about protecting coaches who liked football the way it used to be played. And besides, if more plays is a greater risk of injury, wouldn’t it make more sense just to shorten the game? ******** Today’s other big winners…. Chrissy Teigan, Nina Agdal and Lily Aldridge — The three models will appear on the cover of the SI Swimsuit Issue. Henrik Harlaut — The dreadlocked Swedish skier took his moment on TV to explain to the world that “Wu Tang is for the children.” (USA TODAY Sports Images) (USA TODAY Sports Images) Evgeni Plushenko — The Russian figure skating legend had to pull out of his event in one of the most emotional moments of the Olympics. Mike Trout — The Angels phenom could become baseball’s first $300 million man. Alabama, Auburn, College Football, NCAAF, Rules, Morning Win 8.9k shares share tweet sms send email IMG_2097 Nate Scott Follow @aNateScott Nate Scott is a writer and editor at FTW, leading the site's culture coverage. He likes writing about soccer, basketball, music, TV, and the evils of the ocean. 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Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 11 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest 'Birdman' takes best film at Gotham Awards Julianne Moore took best actress for 'Still Alice.' Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ 'Birdman' takes best film at Gotham Awards _________________ ____________________________________________________________ Julianne Moore took best actress for 'Still Alice.' ______ ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1ybl58 {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs 'Birdman' takes best film at Gotham Awards AP 9:56 a.m. EST December 2, 2014 Michael Keaton wins Gotham Award Actor Michael Keaton accepts the best-actor award at the Gotham Independent Film Awards for his role in "Birdman."(Photo: Evan Agostini, Invision via AP) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDINCOMMENTEMAILMORE NEW YORK (AP) — The showbiz satire Birdman won best film at the Gotham Independent Film Awards, along with best actor for its star, Michael Keaton. The annual Gotham gala, held Monday night in downtown New York, was the first glitzy gathering in Hollywood's three-month-long awards season. Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's Birdman (Or the Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) emerged as the night's top winner. Uma Thurman hosted the non-televised event to honor independent film with awards picked by panels of critics and film writers. Julianne Moore took best actress for her performance as a middle-aged woman with early onset Alzheimer's in Still Alice. The wrestling drama Foxcatcher was honored for its ensemble cast, as well as a career tribute for its director, Bennett Miller. Richard Linklater's coming-of-age tale Boyhood won the Gotham's audience award. Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. 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And the 2016 Oscar nominees are... 03:00 * The most memorable Oscar Fashion over the years The most memorable Oscar Fashion over the years 01:09 * Leo DiCaprio: 'The Revenant' challenge was the cold Leo DiCaprio: 'The Revenant' challenge was the cold 00:56 * Brie Larson opens up about her character in the film "Room" Brie Larson opens up about her character in the film "Room" 02:24 * Matt Damon talks Martian potatoes Matt Damon talks Martian potatoes 02:02 * Bryan Cranston had to rein it in for 'Trumbo ' Bryan Cranston had to rein it in for 'Trumbo ' 01:01 * Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars 01:09 * 2016 Razzie Award nominations are in 2016 Razzie Award nominations are in 01:25 * Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars 01:09 * Weirdest places Oscar winners keep their awards Weirdest places Oscar winners keep their awards 01:04 * Making screen-accurate 'Star Wars' costumes isn't easy Making screen-accurate 'Star Wars' costumes isn't easy 02:50 * Critic's Corner: 'Colony' reunites 'Lost' star, producer Critic's Corner: 'Colony' reunites 'Lost' star, producer 00:51 * Critic's Corner: 'American Crime' is off to great start Critic's Corner: 'American Crime' is off to great start 01:03 * Snapchat could be poised to steal Facebook's ad revenue Snapchat could be poised to steal Facebook's ad revenue 00:49 * Trailer: 'Ride Along 2' Trailer: 'Ride Along 2' 02:26 * Critic's Corner: CW honors 20th anniversary of 'MADtv' Critic's Corner: CW honors 20th anniversary of 'MADtv' 00:55 * David Bowie's top five movie roles David Bowie's top five movie roles 01:38 * Canadian astronaut covers Bowie's 'Space Oddity' Canadian astronaut covers Bowie's 'Space Oddity' 05:30 MORE STORIES -- USA TODAY ____________________ Search SUBSCRIBE NOWto get home delivery * USA TODAY * News * Sports * Life * Money * Tech * Travel * Opinion * Weather Icon + Humidity + Precip. + Winds Open settings Settings Enter City, State or Zip ____________________ Cancel Set Close settings Full Forecast * Crosswords * Elections 2016 * Investigations * Video * Stocks * Apps * Best-Selling Books * Classifieds * College * Corrections * Interactives * Newsletters * Photo Galleries * Portfolio Tracker * Scores * Newsstand * Audio * More + News + Sports + Life + Money + Tech + Travel + Opinion + Weather + Crosswords + Elections 2016 + Investigations + Video + Stocks + Apps + Best-Selling Books + Classifieds + College + Corrections + Interactives + Newsletters + Photo Galleries + Portfolio Tracker + Scores + Newsstand + Audio * * Search * Firefly Hi Already a subscriber? Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 810 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest 'The Interview' is just latest parody of Kim Jong Un The new Franco, Rogen film has N. Korea upset, but it's one of many satires of Kim. Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ 'The Interview' is just latest parody of Kim Jong Un _______ ____________________________________________________________ The new Franco, Rogen film has N. Korea upset, but it's one ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1v9TXW {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 8 Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs 'The Interview' is just latest parody of Kim Jong Un In 'The Interview,' Seth Rogen and James Franco parody Kim Jong Un. Though it's hardly the first satire of the dictator, the North Korean government said there will be 'merciless' retaliation if the film is released. (USA NOW, USA TODAY) USAToday 12:23 p.m. EDT June 26, 2014 the interview Screen grab of YouTube trailer for 'The Interview.'(Photo: youtube.com/sonypictures) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 8 COMMENTEMAILMORE In The Interview, James Franco and Seth Rogen's characters are recruited by the CIA to kill Kim Jong Un after landing an interview with him. A North Korean spokesman told AFP that the act of screening a movie that portrays an attack on top leadership is an "act of terror." The spokesman said if Sony Pictures does release the film in October, as planned, there will be "merciless" retaliation against the U.S. But it's hardly the first satire of Kim Jong Un. Watch USA NOW for other parodies of North Korea's leader. Read or Share this story: http://usat.ly/1v9TXWo TOP VIDEOS * Raw: 12 Missing Aboard U.S. Marine Helicopters Raw: 12 Missing Aboard U.S. Marine Helicopters 00:33 * Best moments from the Fox Business undercard GOP debate Best moments from the Fox Business undercard GOP debate 02:00 * US customs agents seize 2,800 marijuana 'carrots' US customs agents seize 2,800 marijuana 'carrots' 01:14 * Police say woman hit fiance over Regifted ring Police say woman hit fiance over Regifted ring 00:41 * Alex becomes first January hurricane to form since 1938 Alex becomes first January hurricane to form since 1938 00:47 * Mosquitoes are spreading a rare virus Mosquitoes are spreading a rare virus 00:44 * Suspect captured for American woman's murder in Italy Suspect captured for American woman's murder in Italy 00:47 * New aid convoy heads to besieged Syrian town New aid convoy heads to besieged Syrian town 00:28 * House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union 07:20 * House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union 07:20 * Fact check: Obama's final State of the Union speech Fact check: Obama's final State of the Union speech 02:33 * Rep. Charlie Rangel talks Nixon, Obama Rep. Charlie Rangel talks Nixon, Obama 07:42 * President Obama renews vow to close Gitmo President Obama renews vow to close Gitmo 01:14 * Judge cuts bond for 'affluenza' teen's mom Judge cuts bond for 'affluenza' teen's mom 02:12 * Seattle police chief 'shocked' by SOTU invite Seattle police chief 'shocked' by SOTU invite 01:21 * Six things to watch in the State of the Union Six things to watch in the State of the Union 02:19 * What you need to know about the record Powerball What you need to know about the record Powerball 00:36 * What to do with your piles of cash after winning The Powerball What to do with your piles of cash after winning The Powerball 01:59 * Powerball jackpot balloons to $1.3 billion Powerball jackpot balloons to $1.3 billion 00:32 * Preview of what's to come at the 2016 Detroit auto show Preview of what's to come at the 2016 Detroit auto show 00:34 * What you can and can't buy with the Powerball jackpot What you can and can't buy with the Powerball jackpot 01:47 * Fugitive Mexican drug lord 'El Chapo' captured again Fugitive Mexican drug lord 'El Chapo' captured again 00:38 * Manatees emerge from the danger zone Manatees emerge from the danger zone 00:42 * White House to talk terrorism with Apple, Facebook White House to talk terrorism with Apple, Facebook 00:50 * Traces of fugitive Paris attack suspect found in Brussels apartment Traces of fugitive Paris attack suspect found in Brussels apartment 00:43 * Luxury en vogue for RVs Luxury en vogue for RVs 01:06 * Armed stand-off in Oregon continues. What does this group want? Armed stand-off in Oregon continues. What does this group want? 01:40 MORE STORIES -- USA TODAY ____________________ Search SUBSCRIBE NOWto get home delivery * USA TODAY * News * Sports * Life * Money * Tech * Travel * Opinion * Weather Icon + Humidity + Precip. + Winds Open settings Settings Enter City, State or Zip ____________________ Cancel Set Close settings Full Forecast * Crosswords * Elections 2016 * Investigations * Video * Stocks * Apps * Best-Selling Books * Classifieds * College * Corrections * Interactives * Newsletters * Photo Galleries * Portfolio Tracker * Scores * Newsstand * Audio * More + News + Sports + Life + Money + Tech + Travel + Opinion + Weather + Crosswords + Elections 2016 + Investigations + Video + Stocks + Apps + Best-Selling Books + Classifieds + College + Corrections + Interactives + Newsletters + Photo Galleries + Portfolio Tracker + Scores + Newsstand + Audio * * Search * Firefly Hi Already a subscriber? Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 268 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest 2 shot in movie theater in Atlanta ATLANTA — Two people were shot inside a movie theater in Atlanta's Midtown neighborhood Tuesday night, police said. The victims, a man and a woman, are hospitalized in stable condition. Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ 2 shot in movie theater in Atlanta _________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ATLANTA — Two people were shot inside a movie theater in ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/1B4nsg {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 49 Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs 2 shot in movie theater in Atlanta WXIA-TV, Atlanta 8:22 a.m. EST December 24, 2014 Atlanta police said a man and woman were shot inside the lobby of a movie theater Tuesday night. The shooting happened after a screening of the movie 'Finesse' at the Midtown Art Cinema. VPC Atlanta-movie-shooting-122314 Two people were shot at the Midtown Art Cinema in the Midtown neighborhood of Atlanta on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014. The man and woman are hospitalized in stable condition.(Photo: Screen grab from WXIA-TV, Atlanta) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 49 COMMENTEMAILMORE ATLANTA — Two people were shot inside a movie theater in Atlanta's Midtown neighborhood Tuesday night, police said. The victims, a man and a woman, are hospitalized in stable condition. According to Atlanta police, the shooting occurred at the Midtown Art Cinema after a screening of the movie Finesse. Atlanta police spokesman John Chafee said in an e-mail that a group of people were attending a movie release party at the theater and an argument led to gunfire. Chafee said an off-duty officer working at the theater heard the gunshots. A woman was shot in her leg and a man was shot in his buttocks. Chafee said no arrests have been made. The shooting reportedly occurred during a question-and-answer session after the screening. Christian Saslo, one of the star's of the movie, said everything was practically over when the shots were fired. "We were out of the theater, we were all in the lobby, here," said Saslo. "We were signing autographs and answering questions. We were all on our way out when all of a sudden those gunshots rang out." Saslo said one of the victims was a musician. He said no one got a good look at the gunman, who was able to get away. Finesse is billed as a comedy about a record executive/neighborhood pastor who is running a shady business with a shady crew. The investigation is ongoing. The shooting at about 10:30 p.m. came hours after an announcement that another Atlanta theater would show The Interview, a political satire film on North Korea that prompted backlash and a cyberattack on Sony Pictures Entertainment. Midtown is not screening that film. Contributing: The Associated Press IFRAME: http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/maps/540/2014-12-24-Atlanta-movie-theate r-shooting.html#7/33.779/-84.367 CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 49 COMMENTEMAILMORE Read or Share this story: http://usat.ly/1B4nsgi TOP VIDEOS * Raw: 12 Missing Aboard U.S. Marine Helicopters Raw: 12 Missing Aboard U.S. Marine Helicopters 00:33 * Best moments from the Fox Business undercard GOP debate Best moments from the Fox Business undercard GOP debate 02:00 * US customs agents seize 2,800 marijuana 'carrots' US customs agents seize 2,800 marijuana 'carrots' 01:14 * Police say woman hit fiance over Regifted ring Police say woman hit fiance over Regifted ring 00:41 * Alex becomes first January hurricane to form since 1938 Alex becomes first January hurricane to form since 1938 00:47 * Mosquitoes are spreading a rare virus Mosquitoes are spreading a rare virus 00:44 * Suspect captured for American woman's murder in Italy Suspect captured for American woman's murder in Italy 00:47 * New aid convoy heads to besieged Syrian town New aid convoy heads to besieged Syrian town 00:28 * House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union 07:20 * House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union House Speaker Paul Ryan responds to Obama State of the Union 07:20 * Fact check: Obama's final State of the Union speech Fact check: Obama's final State of the Union speech 02:33 * Rep. Charlie Rangel talks Nixon, Obama Rep. Charlie Rangel talks Nixon, Obama 07:42 * President Obama renews vow to close Gitmo President Obama renews vow to close Gitmo 01:14 * Judge cuts bond for 'affluenza' teen's mom Judge cuts bond for 'affluenza' teen's mom 02:12 * Seattle police chief 'shocked' by SOTU invite Seattle police chief 'shocked' by SOTU invite 01:21 * Six things to watch in the State of the Union Six things to watch in the State of the Union 02:19 * What you need to know about the record Powerball What you need to know about the record Powerball 00:36 * What to do with your piles of cash after winning The Powerball What to do with your piles of cash after winning The Powerball 01:59 * Powerball jackpot balloons to $1.3 billion Powerball jackpot balloons to $1.3 billion 00:32 * Preview of what's to come at the 2016 Detroit auto show Preview of what's to come at the 2016 Detroit auto show 00:34 * What you can and can't buy with the Powerball jackpot What you can and can't buy with the Powerball jackpot 01:47 * Fugitive Mexican drug lord 'El Chapo' captured again Fugitive Mexican drug lord 'El Chapo' captured again 00:38 * Manatees emerge from the danger zone Manatees emerge from the danger zone 00:42 * White House to talk terrorism with Apple, Facebook White House to talk terrorism with Apple, Facebook 00:50 * Traces of fugitive Paris attack suspect found in Brussels apartment Traces of fugitive Paris attack suspect found in Brussels apartment 00:43 * Luxury en vogue for RVs Luxury en vogue for RVs 01:06 * Armed stand-off in Oregon continues. What does this group want? Armed stand-off in Oregon continues. What does this group want? 01:40 MORE STORIES -- USA TODAY ____________________ Search SUBSCRIBE NOWto get home delivery * USA TODAY * News * Sports * Life * Money * Tech * Travel * Opinion * Weather Icon + Humidity + Precip. + Winds Open settings Settings Enter City, State or Zip ____________________ Cancel Set Close settings Full Forecast * Crosswords * Elections 2016 * Investigations * Video * Stocks * Apps * Best-Selling Books * Classifieds * College * Corrections * Interactives * Newsletters * Photo Galleries * Portfolio Tracker * Scores * Newsstand * Audio * More + News + Sports + Life + Money + Tech + Travel + Opinion + Weather + Crosswords + Elections 2016 + Investigations + Video + Stocks + Apps + Best-Selling Books + Classifieds + College + Corrections + Interactives + Newsletters + Photo Galleries + Portfolio Tracker + Scores + Newsstand + Audio * * Search * Firefly Hi Already a subscriber? Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 11 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest Why Shia LaBeouf's coat may appear on Broadway Names will drop in Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick's new Broadway outing. Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ Why Shia LaBeouf's coat may appear on Broadway _____________ ____________________________________________________________ Names will drop in Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick's new ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/VG6i9H {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Why Shia LaBeouf's coat may appear on Broadway [Gardner_Elysa.png] Elysa Gardner, USA TODAY 4:15 p.m. EDT August 20, 2014 GTY 453828072 Matthew Broderick, Rupert Grint and Nathan Lane at a press event for 'It's Only A Play' on Aug. 19, 2014 in New York City.(Photo: Bruce Glikas, FilmMagic) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDINCOMMENTEMAILMORE The new version of Terrence McNally's It's Only A Play begins previews on Broadway Aug. 28, with an ensemble cast that includes Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick. After a recent rehearsal, we learned the text is still evolving. "It continues to be updated, to the moment," Lane says. As of now, the showbiz satire includes references to a number of celebs who weren't yet famous — or even around, in a few cases — when the original play was produced back in 1982. "Lady Gaga's (mentioned) in it," Broderick says. Lane confirms this, adding, "And Shia LaBeouf." "Shia LaBeouf's coat makes an appearance," Broderick reveals. "Hey, no spoilers," Lane warns him. The play doesn't officially open until Oct. 9, so stay tuned. Read or Share this story: http://usat.ly/VG6i9H TOP VIDEOS * Rapper Mos Def arrested in South Africa Rapper Mos Def arrested in South Africa 00:49 * Janet Jackson reschedules postponed tour dates Janet Jackson reschedules postponed tour dates 00:38 * Singer Celine Dion's husband, Rene Angelil dies of cancer Singer Celine Dion's husband, Rene Angelil dies of cancer 00:44 * L.A. freeways turn into actual walls in 'Colony' L.A. freeways turn into actual walls in 'Colony' 01:05 * Critic's Corner: 'Angie Tribeca' an open question Critic's Corner: 'Angie Tribeca' an open question 00:50 * Experts weigh in on Oscars' lack of diversity Experts weigh in on Oscars' lack of diversity 02:15 * And the 2016 Oscar nominees are... And the 2016 Oscar nominees are... 03:00 * Alan Rickman's top 5 epic roles Alan Rickman's top 5 epic roles 00:57 * Nick Carter has been arrested for misdemeanour battery Nick Carter has been arrested for misdemeanour battery 00:49 * The films that got snubbed by Oscar nominations The films that got snubbed by Oscar nominations 02:08 * Film Critic Leonard Maltin weighs in on Oscars nominations Film Critic Leonard Maltin weighs in on Oscars nominations 02:26 * Cate Blanchett & Rooney Mara on the forbidden love in 'Carol' Cate Blanchett & Rooney Mara on the forbidden love in 'Carol' 02:00 * 'Revenant' Leads Oscar Nominations With 12 'Revenant' Leads Oscar Nominations With 12 00:42 * And the 2016 Oscar nominees are... And the 2016 Oscar nominees are... 03:00 * The most memorable Oscar Fashion over the years The most memorable Oscar Fashion over the years 01:09 * Leo DiCaprio: 'The Revenant' challenge was the cold Leo DiCaprio: 'The Revenant' challenge was the cold 00:56 * Brie Larson opens up about her character in the film "Room" Brie Larson opens up about her character in the film "Room" 02:24 * Matt Damon talks Martian potatoes Matt Damon talks Martian potatoes 02:02 * Bryan Cranston had to rein it in for 'Trumbo ' Bryan Cranston had to rein it in for 'Trumbo ' 01:01 * Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars 01:09 * 2016 Razzie Award nominations are in 2016 Razzie Award nominations are in 01:25 * Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars Academy Award winners who lost their Oscars 01:09 * Weirdest places Oscar winners keep their awards Weirdest places Oscar winners keep their awards 01:04 * Making screen-accurate 'Star Wars' costumes isn't easy Making screen-accurate 'Star Wars' costumes isn't easy 02:50 * Critic's Corner: 'Colony' reunites 'Lost' star, producer Critic's Corner: 'Colony' reunites 'Lost' star, producer 00:51 * Critic's Corner: 'American Crime' is off to great start Critic's Corner: 'American Crime' is off to great start 01:03 * Snapchat could be poised to steal Facebook's ad revenue Snapchat could be poised to steal Facebook's ad revenue 00:49 * Trailer: 'Ride Along 2' Trailer: 'Ride Along 2' 02:26 * Critic's Corner: CW honors 20th anniversary of 'MADtv' Critic's Corner: CW honors 20th anniversary of 'MADtv' 00:55 * David Bowie's top five movie roles David Bowie's top five movie roles 01:38 * Canadian astronaut covers Bowie's 'Space Oddity' Canadian astronaut covers Bowie's 'Space Oddity' 05:30 MORE STORIES -- USA TODAY ____________________ Search SUBSCRIBE NOWto get home delivery * USA TODAY * News * Sports * Life * Money * Tech * Travel * Opinion * Weather Icon + Humidity + Precip. + Winds Open settings Settings Enter City, State or Zip ____________________ Cancel Set Close settings Full Forecast * Crosswords * Elections 2016 * Investigations * Video * Stocks * Apps * Best-Selling Books * Classifieds * College * Corrections * Interactives * Newsletters * Photo Galleries * Portfolio Tracker * Scores * Newsstand * Audio * More + News + Sports + Life + Money + Tech + Travel + Opinion + Weather + Crosswords + Elections 2016 + Investigations + Video + Stocks + Apps + Best-Selling Books + Classifieds + College + Corrections + Interactives + Newsletters + Photo Galleries + Portfolio Tracker + Scores + Newsstand + Audio * * Search * Firefly Hi Already a subscriber? Sign In Subscribe today to additional USAToday products. Subscribe Now Already a print edition subscriber, but don't have a login? Activate your digital access. Manage your account settings. My Account Log Out Get the news Log In or Subscribe to skip Sign in with FacebookSign in with GoogleSign in FAQ 282 Share This Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about FacebookEmailTwitterGoogle+LinkedInPinterest Timeline: Stephen Colbert files last 'Report' Ten seasons of "truthiness" and Bill O'Reilly jabs are coming to an end Thursday. Loading… Post to Facebook ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ Timeline: Stephen Colbert files last 'Report' ______________ ____________________________________________________________ Ten seasons of "truthiness" and Bill O'Reilly jabs are comi ____________________________________________________________ Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/16u2E8 {# IFRAME: http://api.recaptcha.net/noscript?k=6Lf7fuESAAAAAJ3_KMIDbkQySsEE0vMkLXU kq4eY #} CancelSend Sent! A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Posted! A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. 2 Join the Nation's Conversation To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs Timeline: Stephen Colbert files last 'Report' Patrick Ryan, USA TODAY 5:44 p.m. EST December 17, 2014 AP TV STEPHEN COLBERT A ENT USA NY Stephen Colbert of "The Colbert Report."(Photo: Scott Gries, AP) CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 2 COMMENTEMAILMORE After 10 seasons of political satire and "truthiness," The Colbert Report is signing off Thursday as host Stephen Colbert makes his way to the Late Show next year. We round up some of the Comedy Central late-night host's biggest moments: 1997: Colbert joins The Daily Show as a correspondent Before he brings his blowhard persona to the Report, Colbert is a correspondent on The Daily Show with Craig Kilborn, and later Jon Stewart, starring in recurring segments such as "This Week in God" and "Even Stevphen" alongside Steve Carell. He leaves the show in 2005 to helm his own news satire show, also on Comedy Central. Oct. 17, 2005: The Colbert Report premieres On the first episode of The Daily Show spinoff, Colbert shows off his C-shaped desk and welcomes his audience of "heroes," the people who are "not the elites. You're not the country club crowd." He also coins the term "truthiness." He says, "anyone can read the news to you, I promise to feel the news at you." IFRAME: //cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.mtvnservice s.com%2Ffb%2Fmgid%3Aarc%3Avideo%3Acomedycentral.com%3Afc37c9be-ed00-11e 0-aca6-0026b9414f30.swf&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cc.com%2Fvideo-clips%2Fw9d r6d%2Fthe-colbert-report-first-show&image=http%3A%2F%2F1.images.comedyc entral.com%2Fimages%2Fshows%2Fcolbert_report%2Fvideo_archive%2Fseason_1 %2F_cr_01001_02_col_v6_rev.jpg%3Fwidth%3D640%26height%3D360%26crop%3Dtr ue&key=205dfc3e29a54717b61d110ab0ac5a3d&type=application%2Fx-shockwave- flash&schema=cc April 29, 2006: Colbert hosts the White House Correspondents' Dinner Colbert earns rave reviews roasting President George W. Bush and the media in a tour de force performance. "I believe in this president," he said. "Now, I know there are some polls out there saying that this man has a 32 percent approval rating. But guys like us, we don't pay attention to the polls. We know that polls are just a collection of statistics that reflect what people are thinking in 'reality.' And reality has a well-known liberal bias." [bush.jpg] USATODAY Bush, celebrities attend press corps dinner - USATODAY.com Jan. 18, 2007: Colbert guests on The O'Reilly Factor He sits down with Fox News political commentator Bill O'Reilly, whom he mimics on Report and reveres as "Papa Bear." Since then, the two have playfully sparred on their respective shows. Oct. 16, 2007: Colbert announces he is running for president Colbert says he is running in the 2008 presidential election by entering the race in his native South Carolina. "I have heard the call," he says. June 8-11, 2009: The Colbert Report goes to Iraq Colbert airs four episodes from Iraq, wearing a camouflage suit and undergoing a military makeover. "Without my hair, what would I blow-dry?" he laments. IFRAME: //cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.mtvnservice s.com%2Ffb%2Fmgid%3Aarc%3Avideo%3Acomedycentral.com%3A1c33bf20-ed01-11e 0-aca6-0026b9414f30.swf&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cc.com%2Fvideo-clips%2Fc4z 5y3%2Fthe-colbert-report-obama-orders-stephen-s-haircut---ray-odierno&i mage=http%3A%2F%2F1.images.comedycentral.com%2Fimages%2Fshows%2Fcolbert _report%2Fvideos%2Fseason5%2F05076%2Fcr_05076_05_v6.jpg%3Fwidth%3D640%2 6height%3D360%26crop%3Dtrue&key=205dfc3e29a54717b61d110ab0ac5a3d&type=a pplication%2Fx-shockwave-flash&schema=cc Dec. 6, 2012: Campaign launches for Colbert to take Senate seat The South Carolina native asks Governor Nikki Haley to appoint him to replace GOP Sen. Jim DeMint of the Palmetto State after he resigns. "Take to the Twitters," urges Colbert, and use the hashtag #senatorcolbert. "That feels right." [stephen-colbert-1_1.jpg] USA TODAY Wink, wink: Mr. Colbert won't be going to Washington Aug. 6, 2013: Colbert scores viral hit with star-studded Get Lucky When Daft Punk cancels their performance on his show at the last minute to play the MTV Video Music Awards, Colbert recruits celebrities such as Bryan Cranston, Matt Damon, JImmy Fallon and others to dance along with him to the popular hit. [1375881725000-AP-Music-Songs-of-the-Summer.jpg] USA TODAY Daft Punk cancels 'Colbert Report' because of MTV VMAs March 31, 2014: Colbert responds to a campaign to #CancelColbert After tweeting a joke about Washington Redskins owner Dan Snyder's new foundation, The Colbert Report comes under fire for racism, with Twitter users starting the hashtag #CancelColbert. Colbert responds to the outrage on his personal account, tweeting, "#CancelColbert – I agree! Just saw @ColbertReport tweet. I share your rage." [gty_454193136_66740144-e1414763987600.jpg?fit=440%2C330] ENTERTAIN THIS! The absolute top moments from Stephen Colbert's 'No fact zone' Dec. 18, 2014: The Colbert Report airs final episode The last guest: The Grim Reaper. September 2015: Colbert takes over for David Letterman on TheLate Show Longtime host Letterman exits the show May 20 and Colbert begins his stint in September. His Report replacement, The Nightly Show with Larry Willmore, kicks off Jan. 19. [635544090033290143-GTY-459265510-68867794.JPG] USA TODAY Colbert prepares to bid Comedy Central adieu CONNECTTWEETLINKEDIN 2 COMMENTEMAILMORE Read or Share this story: http://usat.ly/16u2E8G TOP VIDEOS * Rapper Mos Def arrested in South Africa Rapper Mos Def arrested in South Africa 00:49 * Janet Jackson reschedules postponed tour dates Janet Jackson reschedules postponed tour dates 00:38 * Singer Celine Dion's husband, Rene Angelil dies of cancer Singer Celine Dion's husband, Rene Angelil dies of cancer 00:44 * L.A. freeways turn into actual walls in 'Colony' L.A. freeways turn into actual walls in 'Colony' 01:05 * Critic's Corner: 'Angie Tribeca' an open question Critic's Corner: 'Angie Tribeca' an open question 00:50 * Experts weigh in on Oscars' lack of diversity Experts weigh in on Oscars' lack of diversity 02:15 * And the 2016 Oscar nominees are... And the 2016 Oscar nominees are... 03:00 * Alan Rickman's top 5 epic roles Alan Rickman's top 5 epic roles 00:57 * Nick Carter has been arrested for misdemeanour battery Nick Carter has been arrested for misdemeanour battery 00:49 * The films that got snubbed by Oscar nominations The films that got snubbed by Oscar nominations 02:08 * Film Critic Leonard Maltin weighs in on Oscars nominations Film Critic Leonard Maltin weighs in on Oscars nominations 02:26 * Cate Blanchett & Rooney Mara on the forbidden love in 'Carol' Cate Blanchett & Rooney Mara on the forbidden love in 'Carol' 02:00 * 'Revenant' Leads Oscar Nominations With 12 'Revenant' Leads Oscar Nominations With 12 00:42 * And the 2016 Oscar nominees are... 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All rights reserved. Living MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition The Decade That Made David Bowie a Superstar All Content Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz TIME Living Opinion Rapper Redfoo Defends Super-Sexist Song * Charlotte Alter @charlottealter Nov. 11, 2014 SHARE Redfoo poses at Marquee Nightclub on Aug. 12, 2014 in Sydney. Don Arnold—WireImage Redfoo poses at Marquee Nightclub on Aug. 12, 2014 in Sydney. Calls it "satire" More When Past Presidents Are Judged by Today’s StandardsConfronting the Future of New Orleans’ Confederate PastThe History That Links Trump and Putin Rapper Redfoo, better known as one half of LMFAO, is making waves this week for his involvement in Play-N-Skillz’s new video for “Literally I Can’t.” The Twitter backlash was swift, probably because the music video is one of the most unabashedly sexist videos in recent memory — it’s about mocking a group of (unbelievably stereotyped) sorority girls who show up at a frat house and refuse to do what the frat brothers tell them to do. Redfoo tweeted his response to the entirely predictable anger Monday night, calling the song “satire.” So why are people so annoyed? Let’s start with the song, which features these lines of timeless beauty: “While I’m at my motherf*cking table and I’m trying to dance, don’t f*cking talk to me” “You got a big o’l butt, I can tell from the way you’re walking / but you annoy me, because you’re talking” “Shhh.. don’t talk about it be about it / work it, and twerk it, and maybe I’ll tweet about it.” These all occur amid the charming, melodious refrain of “Shut the f*ck up.” But it gets worse. The whole “plot” of the music video is mocking preppy girls who refuse to drink or do “girl on girl” stuff at a frat party. Every time they’re asked to do something degrading they say “I Literally Can’t,” and that refusal is the central “joke” of the video. Nice one, considering the ongoing conversation about sexual assaults at campus fraternities. You can watch the full video here. The song is by Play-N-Skillz, but features Redfoo, Lil Jon and Enertia McFly — none of the other associated artists have made public statements about the controversy on Twitter, but Play-N-Skill and Enertia McFly retweeted Redfoo’s attempted justification. But the backlash is building steadily — there’s already a Change.org petition demanding that Australian Channel 7 (home of Australia’s talent show, X Factor, which Redfoo helps to judge) sever ties with Redfoo, and it’s gotten almost 5,000 signatures. And listeners are taking to Twitter to voice their outrage: Real nice to see @RedFoo promoting some healthy attitudes toward women. "But you an annoying slut, cause ya talkin" Your Mum will be stoked. — Matty Whiting (@thisismerelaxin) November 11, 2014 Look, gross sexism aside, it's just a terrible song #LiterallyICant — Courtney Robinson (@courtney_ro) November 11, 2014 Redfoo at first appeared a little defensive on Twitter: Another example of critics victimizing an artist by purposely misinterpreting his/her work to support a pre-existing agenda. #LiterallyICant — Redfoo (@Redfoo) November 11, 2014 But then attempted to justify the song: Fact #1: The word "slut" never appears in the lyrics of #LiterallyICant. @amynelmes @TheFIXninemsn #GetYourFactsStraight #NoGreyArea — Redfoo (@Redfoo) November 11, 2014 Fact #2: I love & respect women and feel they are the most powerful people on this planet! #LiterallyICant — Redfoo (@Redfoo) November 11, 2014 Fact #3: @PlaynSkillz @LilJon @EnertiaMcFly & I made a comical party song to satirize the cliche #LiterallyICant. Some get it, some don’t. — Redfoo (@Redfoo) November 11, 2014 Not buying it, because literally, I can’t. Read next: Nicki Minaj Apologizes for Video With Nazi Imagery Sign up for THE BRIEF and more view example ____________________ Submit Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » How The Comeback Nails the Double Bind for Actresses Comments Feed Gillian Jacobs Learned Community Was Moving to Yahoo Like the Rest of Us: On Twitter Watch Lorde’s Music Video for ‘Yellow Flicker Beat,’ a New Hunger Games Song alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment Television How The Comeback Nails the Double Bind for Actresses * James Poniewozik @poniewozik Nov. 6, 2014 SHARE JOHN P JOHNSON / HBO Coming along in the season of Renée Zellweger and J-Law, Lisa Kudrow's Hollywood satire is more relevant than ever. More Watch Star Wars Villain Kylo Ren Go ‘Undercover Boss’ on SNLWatch Saturday Night Live’s Touching Tribute to David BowieThe Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago My review of the comeback of HBO’s The Comeback is in the new print issue of TIME. I wish I could share it with you here, because I like the review and I like the show, but I also like having a paid job, and the column is for subscribers only. (Thirty bucks gets you a year’s worth of TIME! Cheaper than HBO!) What I particularly like about the new season is that it de-emphasizes what I thought was worst about the original–the shooting-fish-in-an-aquarium reality-TV satire–and builds on what was best: Lisa Kudrow’s microcalibrated performance, and its cringe-making yet sympathetic depiction of an actress, now around 50, trying to make it in an industry that stamps a sell-by date on women: I watched the five episodes HBO sent around the time that Renée Zellweger, 45, tripped the Internet chatter alarm over her “unrecognizable” face, which was not long after the summer’s doxing of stolen nude photos of young actresses, including Jennifer Lawrence, 24. Valerie may be grasping and desperate, but she’s no dummy: she knows how actresses enter this cattle chute as hotties and exit as jokes. One thing that’s compelling about Valerie is that she’s aware of this dynamic but has no illusions about her ability to change it. Early in the season, when she scores a career coup–she’s cast in an HBO series about the series made in the first season of The Comeback–she’s flabbergasted to discover that it starts shooting almost immediately. She won’t have time to “prepare,” she protests–where “prepare” means to set up and recover from plastic surgery. The way our culture deals with its Valerie Cherishes is to make fun of them for being “phony”–for putting on false faces figuratively or, in the case of plastic surgery, literally. But that’s the easiest kind of sanctimony, to define actresses’ worth by their hotness and then blame and mock them for it when they accept the terms. Stay young forever! But never be fake! The beauty of The Comeback is that it can be painfully funny dealing with Valerie, and yet it’s never unsympathetic–it’s conscious of why she is the way she is, and that’s the much tougher and ultimately more rewarding laugh. If I like the new season even better than the original so far, one reason may simply be that Valerie is nine years older, and by the simple harsh math of Hollywood, the stakes are that much more real. And coming so soon after the mass Zellweger freakout, it feels all the more relevant. It’s easy to feel superior to celebrities willing to do anything to maintain their image, whether it’s landing a reality TV show or going under the knife. What Kudrow and The Comeback never forget is: there are a whole lot of us with our fingerprints on that scalpel. Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Matt Damon to Shrink Himself for Alexander Payne’s Downsizing Comments Feed See Neil Young’s Unique New Watercolor Paintings Harvard Secretly Photographed 2,000 Students alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment movies Matt Damon to Shrink Himself for Alexander Payne’s Downsizing * Sarah Begley @SCBegley Nov. 6, 2014 SHARE Clinton Global Initiative's 10th Annual Meeting - Day 3 Jemal Countess—Getty Images Actor Matt Damon speaks at the Clinton Global Initiative Meeting on the third day of the Clinton Global Initiative's 10th Annual Meeting at the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers on September 23, 2014 in New York City. The social satire takes austerity measures to a whole new level We’ve heard of actors dropping massive amounts of weight in the quest for an Oscar, but for his role in Alexander Payne’s Downsizing, Matt Damon’s weight loss will be more sci-fi, less South Beach. The Bourne Identity actor has agreed to play a man who undergoes a shrinking procedure as a way to cut costs. His wife agrees to this austerity measure, too, but backs out after he’s already been downsized. Payne wrote the script for Downsizing with his writing partner Jim Taylor between 2004’s Sideways and 2011’s The Descendants, when it was slated to star Paul Giamatti and Reese Witherspoon. It was tabled so Payne could work on The Descendants (which won a Oscar for its screenplay), and again when he started work directing Nebraska. But it’s back on track now, and with no financing announced, the team may have to think big to get small. [The Hollywood Reporter] Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Review: Horns: Harry Potter Goes Just a Little Voldemort Comments Feed 2014 Election: Four Things to Watch Philadelphia Cops Offer Safe Space for Craigslist Exchanges alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment movies Review: Horns: Harry Potter Goes Just a Little Voldemort * Richard Corliss Oct. 30, 2014 SHARE Horns RADiUS-TWC Max Minghella and Daniel Radcliffe in Horns Daniel Radcliffe looks like the Devil in this odd combination of horror film, social satire and YA love story More Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star SaysTina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches MovieREVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs Ignatius Parrish (Daniel Radcliffe) has the power to make people reveal their deepest compulsions: eating all the doughnuts in a box, having sex right now with a coworker, wreaking harm on a balky child. Ig doesn’t really want this gift; it’s a byproduct of the satanic horns that started sprouting from his temples after his one true love Merrin (Juno Temple) was raped and murdered. The police have no evidence to pin the crime on him, but the angry townspeople are convinced he did it. They carry placards that warn, “You Will Burn in Hell,” and the local tabloid paper runs a photo of Ig with the headline “Is This the Devil?” The horns are the objective correlative of prevailing public opinion: Ig is in danger of turning into the awful entity that ignorant people think he is. Last week Jim Carrey showed up on Saturday Night Live as a red-caped, hornéd Presley — “Helvis.” Now here’s Harry Potter with a Voldemort vibe. Directed by Alexandre Aja and scripted by Keith Bunin from Joe Hill’s 2010 novel, Horns is a horror film with higher ambitions than the usual Halloween movie fare. Actually, it has more on its mind and too much on its plate. The movie takes the concerns of many David Cronenberg chillers about grotesque bodily transformation (Rabid, The Fly, Naked Lunch) and grafts them improbably onto YA romance tales about doomed young people (The Fault in Our Stars, If I Stay). Call it The Fly in Our Stars. Plus some of the work of Hill’s father, Stephen King. A long flashback of Ig, his brother Terry and their best friend Lou recalls the pubescent taunting and near-tragedies of Stand by Me, the movie made of King’s story “The Body.” A decade or so later, Terry (Joe Anderson) has sunk into alcoholism, perhaps to blur some guilty memory; and Lou (Max Minghella) has become Ig’s public defender. Lou’s fidelity to his defamed pal helps Ig notice a wrinkle in his Horns rulebook: people who believe he’s innocent can’t see them. Even the movie’s viewers, who can see the horns, know Ig isn’t turning into the Devil. Oh, sure, he’s able to make two burly cops change in a second from mildly bi-curious to lewdly bi-furious. He can summon snakes to do his bidding, and he’s handy with a pitchfork — Lucifer’s favorite farming tool. But Ig is also the most honest, decent fellow in town. He will use these odd abilities only to discover who killed his dear Merrin and to avenge her death. Indeed, if you read the movie’s prominently displayed car license plates (GEN138, 2036LUK, 2017 EXS) as Biblical references (Genesis 13:8, Luke 20:36, Exodus 10:17), you may believe that what compels Ig is not the cunning of Satan but the power of Christ. Aja, the French director who burst on the international horror scene with the effectively creepy two-girls-in-an-isolated-house thriller High Tension, came to America to helm remakes (The Hills Have Eyes, Mirrors) and sequels (Piranha 3D). Horns aims higher, handing Aja the upmarket London-born actors Radcliffe, Minghella and Temple — all nicely attuned to the cramped gestures and speech patterns of the Pacific Northwest — and the illustrious cinematographer Frederick Elmes, who shot Eraserhead, Blue Velvet and Wild at Heart for David Lynch and, recently, the four-hour drama Olive Kitteridge, to be shown on HBO Nov. 2nd and 3rd. At nearly two hours, Horns dawdles through the flashback and the politics of rural paranoia. It stumbles in turning Hill’s parable into a vivid movie experience. Anyone could imagine the better, cleaner, more coherent 90-min. film at the core of Horns: the one about the physics of apparent demonic possession. In a scene that references James Franco’s literal disarming in 127 Hours, Ig tries to saw off his head-growths; he bursts into flame as if seared by the fires of Hell; and his army of reptiles slithers magnificently to embrace its prey. (Kudos to Brad McDonald, who in the credits is listed as “Head Animal Wrangler, Snakes.”) The power of Satan may not have engulfed Ig, but it keeps him alive. As he observes, in the movie year’s least necessary line of dialogue: “One thing I’ll say in my favor: I am f—in’ hard to kill.” The central horror elements are so much snazzier than the others in Horns — those dealing with endless love, coming of age and the small minds of small-town folk — that you wonder why Aja retained them. Maybe the Devil made him do it. Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Harold Ramis and the Death of the Baby Boomers’ Dreams Comments Feed Ali vs. Liston in Miami Beach: The Night ‘the Greatest’ Was Born Budweiser Wants Baseball’s Opening Day to Be a National Holiday alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Opinion MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Opinion People Harold Ramis and the Death of the Baby Boomers’ Dreams * Nick Gillespie @nickgillespie Feb. 25, 2014 SHARE Harold Ramis at the premiere of "Year One" at the Music Box Theatre in Chicago, on June 16, 2009. E. Jason Wambsgans—Chicago Tribune/MCT/Sipa USA/AP Harold Ramis at the premiere of "Year One" at the Music Box Theatre in Chicago, on June 16, 2009. The raging bulls and easy riders of the boomer generation, who had turned Hollywood and America on its ear, slowly became as dulled and self-satisfied as their parents had seemed. More Meet the First Hispanic American in SpaceA Star Before Starman: Early Photos of David BowieBlair-Clinton Transcripts Give an Inside Look at Close Friendship For teenagers — boys, mostly — of a certain age who are now Baby Boomers of a certain age, writer-actor-director Harold Ramis, who died Monday at age 69 from an autoimmune disease, wasn’t just centrally involved with comic masterworks ranging from Animal House (1978) to Stripes (1981) to Ghostbusters (1984) to the chronically under-appreciated series SCTV. Ramis was nothing less than one of the subversive auteurs behind a whole new way of laughing at the world that mixed brains (he was a National Merit Scholar after all), cheap gross-out gags (see Caddyshack’s scene in which a Baby Ruth candy bar is mistaken for a turd in a swimming pool), and unapologetically anti-authoritarian antics (Ghostbusters enjoys a strong reputation as the most libertarian movie ever due to its hostile depictions of regulators as figuratively “dickless”). From the mid-1970s through the early 1990s, he made it seem as if the Boomers were not simply going to inherit the Earth but transform it into an edgy paradise that our parents, stuck in a past where Bob Hope and Johnny Carson and other dinosaurs still roamed the world, could never really grok. Sometimes as a writer, sometimes as an actor, sometimes as a director — and unbelievably, sometimes as all three — Ramis made it not just OK but required to be smart, funny, and scathing. With the occasional exception of Bill Murray, his other contemporaries and collaborators — such as John Belushi, John Candy, Dan Aykroyd, and Chevy Chase — never managed to hit that trifecta even once, much less on a regular basis. However divinely hilarious at various points in their careers, they tended to degenerate quickly into one-note versions of themselves. At the top of his game, Ramis seemed to be stretching himself — and comedy. Animal House, which he co-wrote, hasn’t aged well — Delta House’s members come across not as high-spirited pranksters and more as relentlessly misogynistic, self-entitled jerks more disturbing and smug than their ROTC foils. But it’s hard to overstate how liberating it was to see college, just then becoming a universal experience for Americans, thoroughly lampooned and authority figures from Dean Wormer on down thoroughly humiliated. Ghostbusters, which he co-wrote and starred in, wasn’t just funny; it was a great satire of urban politics, of horror films, and of message movies; it also stands as an early indicator of how nerds would go on to dominate American culture. 1993’s Groundhog Day, which Ramis directed and co-wrote, was a fully mature movie that managed to be funny and touching at the same time. As with many talented creators, virtually all elements of Ramis’s repertoire were on display in his earliest work, especially the series SCTV, which not only lampooned particular celebrities via characters such as Sammy Maudlin (a low-rent, lachrymose stand-in for Carson) and Lola Heatherton (a dead-on parody on inexplicable “star” Joey Heatherton) but the whole medium of television itself. It was set at a fictional third-rate network and worked on a much higher level of meta-analysis than Saturday Night Live has ever managed. What made the show — and the characters he played, especially the addled and corrupt station manager Moe Green — great was that it lovingly satirized the television that Baby Boomers had grown up with. It managed to mock and honor icons of an earlier time while exploring how modern media created a patently false world that we all loved to live in anyway. Without SCTV — and without Ramis, who contributed to the series first few years — there would be no South Park or other shows in that vein. Yet Ramis’s oeuvre flattened out after Groundhog Day. In the wake of critical and commercial success, his output became increasingly programmatic and uninteresting. Rather than taking chances and blow up comic forms, he directed movies such as Analyze This and Analyze That, schmaltzy, safe-as-milk comedies featuring Billy Crystal as the shrink for Robert DeNiro’s by-the-number mob boss. He appeared in vanilla roles in forgettable movies such as Baby Boom, a late ’80s fantasy in which Diane Keaton’s businesswoman protagonist not only turns her back on New York’s demanding capitalist but gets rich by pushing gourmet baby food. The raging bulls and easy riders of the boomer generation — who had turned Hollywood and America on its ear in a sustained blast of antinomian anger and humor — slowly became as dulled and self-satisfied as their parents had seemed. Any survey of Harold Ramis’s career leaves you not just laughing but gasping for breath, really. But his passing — like the long-ago, self-inflicted deaths of collaborators such as John Belushi, John Candy, and National Lampoon’s Doug Kinney, not to mention the living-career-deaths of people such as Chevy Chase and Dan Aykroyd — also leaves those of us of a certain age sad for the ultimately unfulfilled promise of those early years. Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. 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Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Lindsay Lohan Doesn’t Make or Break the London Production of Speed-The-Plow Comments Feed Harry Styles Helped a Fan Propose at a One Direction Concert This Case Is the Real-World Version of Gone Girl alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment Theater Lindsay Lohan Doesn’t Make or Break the London Production of Speed-The-Plow * Megan Gibson @MeganJGibson Oct. 3, 2014 SHARE Simon Annand Lindsay Lohan and Richard Schiff in the London Playhouse production of "Speed-The-Plow" The movie-turned-tabloid star takes a crack at the stage in a revival of David Mamet's showbiz satire More How to Explore Shakespeare’s First Folio OnlineRock Musicals Heat Up Broadway’s WinterThe Surprising Government Agency That Helped Launch Alvin Ailey “I know what it is to be bad.” The line, from David Mamet’s play Speed-The-Plow, belongs to the earnest secretary Karen, who is desperate to convince her Hollywood boss that she understands him. It’s not ordinarily a punchline. But when uttered by Lindsay Lohan, who has taken on the role in London’s West End in her stage debut, the line draws big laughs from the audience. While Karen initially seems as wholesome as can be, LiLo has long made headlines for being “bad.” The 28-year-old star — rumored to be uninsurable on most film sets these days due to her extracurricular exploits that have included not only rehab, but jail time — has taken numerous cracks at a comeback over the last few years. From a racy role in Paul Schrader’s The Canyons to her portrayal of Elizabeth Taylor in Lifetime’s Liz & Dick to her OWN reality series, it’s clear that Lohan wants to keep working despite her troubled personal life. Yet none of her recent efforts have managed to pull her career out of the tabloid circus its become. So it’s not surprising that the theater was packed on Thursday night with people eager to see whether Lohan would pull off a comeback — or instead make a train wreck of the production. Speed-The-Plow, which was first staged on Broadway in 1988 with Madonna in the role of Karen, satirizes the greediness and emptiness of Hollywood, a theme that seems even more timely today thanks to the mounting ubiquity of sequels and brainless blockbusters. The action revolves around Bobby Gould (played by Richard Schiff, of The West Wing fame), a newly promoted head of production at a big studio, and his longtime associate, Charlie Fox (played by British actor Nigel Lindsay), who brings Gould a potentially career-making deal: an iffy-sounding script with a major actor willing to star. Yet Karen, Gould’s temp assistant and the object of a sleazy bet between the two men, becomes invested in a highfalutin novel about radiation that she’s been asked to give a “courtesy read.” She passionately tries to convince Gould to pitch the radiation movie to the studio head, rather than the iffy-sounding blockbuster, playing on his sense of morality and his attraction to her in the process. Lohan was no train wreck, though there was one point where she flubbed her lines and needed an off-stage line prompt. Yet the snafu didn’t lead her to break character, which — in spite of her seasoned, raspy voice and unavoidable real-life reputation — she stepped into rather well. Though it might be hard to imagine Lohan playing innocent in 2014, her wide-eyed interactions with the bitter Hollywood execs brought to mind shades of Cady Heron, her naive Mean Girls character. It wasn’t a polished performance, by any means, and she rushed a good number of her lines. Still, she didn’t hold the production back. Though Schiff is also a star in his own right, his performance was too tired and down-trodden. Of the three, Lindsay — Nigel Lindsay, that is — brought the most to the play, managing to maintain the intensity and speed that the snappy dialogue needs to land right. His rage over the news that Gould is passing on his big-break deal and the two men’s subsequent fight provides the most powerful energy in the play. On the whole, the production was underwhelming, with just a few stand-out moments. Everyone involved — cast, crew and audience — seemed to know the real attraction was Lohan herself, but no one will be calling it a comeback. In the end, Lohan’s fans and detractors are likely both relieved and disappointed: she didn’t make the production, but she didn’t break it, either. Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. 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Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Maya Peterson: Why Lawrenceville Prep Needs a Jolt of Diversity Comments Feed Dear White Gays: Stop Stealing Black Female Culture Five Best Ideas of the Day alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Opinion MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Opinion Education Maya Peterson: Why Lawrenceville Prep Needs a Jolt of Diversity * Maya Peterson July 9, 2014 SHARE Maya Peterson © instagram—© instagram Maya Peterson The elite private school's former student body president explains why she used satire to fight privilege. More ‘America’s Oldest Teacher’ Is Still Working At 102Why Schools Don’t Always Benefit From Powerball MoneyConflict Has Forced 24 Million Children Out of School, Unicef Says Earlier this year, I posted a photo of myself dressed in a Yale sweatshirt, embroidered pants, L.L. Bean boots and a hockey stick to my personal Instagram account. I captioned it “Lawrenceville Boi” (boi being a word used in the queer community to describe butch lesbians) and added hashtags like #confederate, #romney2016, #peakedinhighschool, #nwa and #ilikerap. The photo stirred up controversy at the elite private boarding school in New Jersey I attended at the time, where I was also student body president. I was told by my school’s administration and some students that I had offended a large portion of the school’s population, and I would have to either step down as student body president of The Lawrenceville School or face disciplinary action for the photo. I resigned in March. Since then, I’ve been accused of trying to bring Lawrenceville down. While I understand how people might get that impression, it couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, I love Lawrenceville so much that I refuse to stand by while the pressures of systematic oppression that plague our entire country go to work at the school I once called home. I consider Lawrenceville a microcosm of the United States, where discrimination and racism must be addressed. Let me say first that the photo was strictly satirical. Earlier in the year, my friends and I had taken a Black Power photo for the yearbook, with our fists raised, that caused some backlash on campus. Because of that backlash, we decided to take another photo for our other yearbook page in which we all wore “typical Lawrenceville” apparel. That’s where the offending photo originated from. As student body president, and Lawrenceville’s first black woman to hold the position, my actions were undoubtedly immature. But I hold firm that the use of satire to bring light to issues is not only effective, but also sometimes necessary when coping with oppression and injustice. I was never called a nigger at Lawrenceville. Once a faggot. A few times a dyke. A trans friend was once called a “tranny” and a cross-dresser. The majority of the discrimination at Lawrenceville is subtle, almost unnoticeable unless you really pay attention to the anti-minority sentiments that linger in the minds and show themselves in the words of a few vocal Lawrentians. It’s unclear to me where the insensitive, anti-PC attitude that I see so often in Lawrenceville men (women as well, but men in particular) comes from, though it’s certainly not exclusive to my alma mater. But I’m invested in changing such attitudes on campus and among the student body because Lawrenceville is the place where I gained the majority of my knowledge. Without the help of the school and the faculty, I probably wouldn’t have been able to write this piece. Though the educational value of Lawrenceville is priceless (the price tag, on the other hand, is $70,000 a year), there’s a crucial lack of appreciation for peoples and cultures that don’t fit the traditional American norm. Lawrenceville preaches its own diversity, but the student body is predominantly white. From my observations, African Americans and Latinos make up a small portion of the student body. Lawrenceville was created for the children of wealthy, white, Protestants. In its 200-some years, Lawrenceville’s student body has included students of color for only around half a century, and women for only a quarter. Lawrenceville is also focused on honoring tradition. In the late 19^th Century, the Southern Club was advertised in the yearbook with a caricature of an African American man. Last year, a Confederate flag was used at the club fair. It’s important to remember Lawrenceville’s history with pride, but modern Lawrentians and school administrators must understand that that history was not kind to all people. Progress at Lawrenceville can be as simple as a more diversified curriculum or a non-gendered dress code. It will require overriding some traditions and ensuring minority students the same safety and comfort (physical and emotional) as the traditional Lawrenceville boy. I say this with full confidence that Lawrenceville will progress. I say this with gratitude for every person I have met and everything I have learned on the school’s stunning campus. To the young women, students of color, disabled students, queer students, students who aren’t wealthy and straight white men who understand the plight of minorities who may be considering Lawrenceville: Don’t allow the recent articles and my story to dissuade you from attending. Although I don’t believe Lawrenceville knew how to effectively deal with me as a queer woman of color and as another brash teen, I owe all that I am to the school, the teachers who influenced and supported me and the amazing friends that I made. Lawrenceville needs your voices and your strength. There is a lot of work to be done, and we have to do it together. (Note: Lawrenceville’s response to the controversy is here.) Maya Peterson is a poet, rapper and activist. She will be a freshman at Wesleyan University pursuing a degree in Creative Writing and Sociology. Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. 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Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Lessons From My Husband Michael Hastings Comments Feed U.S. Confirms Russia Sent Tanks to Ukraine Do Fathers Love Their Children Less Than Mothers Do? alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Opinion MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Opinion Michael Hastings Lessons From My Husband Michael Hastings * Elise Jordan @Elise_Jordan June 13, 2014 SHARE Michael Hastings Elise Jordan Courtesy Elise Jordan His first novel, a satire of the media, will be published next week. Here’s what the late former war correspondent would make of the coverage of Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl—the most important story of his career. More Not One but Two Bowe Bergdahl Movies Are Already Being PlannedGen. Stanley McChrystal Pens Blog On How He Survived Being Fired Audiences are constantly frustrated and baffled by what becomes “news,” what gets ignored and which stories go on and on — the hours spent salivating over another book by Hillary Clinton wholly devoid of news, for instance. Who decides all this stuff? My late husband Michael Hastings channeled his frustration with the media’s choices into a work of fiction, The Last Magazine, which comes out next week. Michael is best known for his acclaimed Rolling Stone profile that unintentionally brought down General Stanley McChrystal. But the story closest to his heart was all but invisible until last week: the plight of prisoner of war Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl. Before Bergdahl has made it out of a hospital in Germany, he’s been called a deserter and traitor. The media’s self-centered bastardization of “news” inspired Michael, from his first days as an intern and cub reporter at Newsweek throughout his career. Sergeant Bergdahl’s story did not gain traction until his release became politicized. Everyone in the media understands why. Most of the men and women in the industry hate it too. But they live with it, some quite complacently. But what happens when they don’t? After years of reporting on Iraq and Afghanistan — watching what he called “jaw-dropping news” rarely break into the news cycle — Michael decided to go after the human stories behind the wars: what people really say, how people really act, the things they really believe. “If nobody died, war would be NFL football. But people die, and that’s the cost. You lose people and their futures,” Michael said. He cared about lost futures and discounted the accounting: “We fixate on the numbers, and we get numb.” Baghdad Adhamiyah Sweep Baghdad Adhamiyah Sweep Lucian ReadMichael Hastings in Baghdad. While reporting Bergdahl’s story, Michael had his own problems sleeping, pacing our apartment through the night and chain-smoking cigarettes as he worked on the story. He agonized over the possibility that a casual detail might incite Bergdahl’s captors to behead the young soldier. Michael thought it was the most important story of his career, and he was sure the story would break through the news cycle. He readied for attacks, like the vitriol from colleagues that he confronted following his McChrystal profile. No one seemed to care. Bergdahl wasn’t powerful. So Bergdahl languished — wasting away, physically shrinking, escaping only to be recaptured and locked in a metal box, tortured — in captivity, until the Obama Administration decided to accept the same exact terms proposed by the Afghan Taliban, two years later, as originally reported in Michael’s story. I listened to Michael and his reporting partner Matt Farwell’s interviews with the Bergdahl family this weekend and was struck by all the material that is still vital to understanding such a complex tragedy — the material Michael couldn’t fit into a single profile. Like when Bergdahl’s father Bob laments the U.S. government’s decision to make freeing Raymond Davis from Pakistan a priority: ”So if you’re a CIA Blackwater mercenary, you get the red carpet extraction, but if you’re just a grunt who happens to be the victim of war …” His father’s voice trails off. “I think worst-case scenario, he’s a psychological casualty. Thank God [he] didn’t commit suicide.” With McChrystal, Michael was fascinated by how someone can kill so many, however honorable the intentions, yet never seem to lose an hour of sleep. (Or in McChrystal’s case, even need sleep in the first place.) In young Bergdahl, Michael saw the complete opposite of the four-star. McChrystal exuded power; Bergdahl lacked it, so he lacked a voice. When a sensitive 22-year-old from Idaho went missing from a remote outpost in Afghanistan, Michael asked the question few others bothered with: Why? We’ve seen the personal destruction of a decade-plus of war: drugs, suicides, broken marriages and posttraumatic stress. Through it all, Bergdahl lay awake on a cot, likely in a sleeping bag under a mosquito net, alone in the world, in what many describe as the edge of civilization. What drove a teetotaler, a voracious reader and ballet dancer, to such an extreme decision? What was he thinking? Michael knew, of course, that without Bergdahl’s side of the story, he’d never have a definitive answer. And we still have that answer ahead of us — a reality that insensitive politicians and media commentators ignore as they pass judgment on a young man still in psychological hell after being tortured and enduring the unimaginable. But Michael got more to the truth of Bergdahl’s actions and his motivations than any other journalist reporting the story today. We need to wait until Bergdahl’s ready to talk to find out why, instead of wildly overplaying certain unknowns and ignoring others. Michael would have been disgusted by the exploitation of personal tragedy for craven ends. What would serve us even better right now is a wider canvas, someone stepping back to analyze and satirize the whole process. Someone on the inside, but a rebellious voice, refusing to answer to anyone but his readers. To state the obvious: it’s one of the many reasons I miss Michael Hastings. Jordan is a writer and political commentator. She is a former speechwriter for Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and director for communications at the National Security Council. Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Amy Adams: Hollywood’s Renaissance Woman Comments Feed Kerry Washington: Before She Was Pope Backstage at Bangerz With Miley Cyrus alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment TIME 100 Amy Adams: Hollywood’s Renaissance Woman April 24, 2014 SHARE The TIME 100 honoree has conquered everything from comedy to drama to satire, with some singing on the side. 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. 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Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » ‘RoboCop’: Beware the Big Bad Drones Comments Feed Review: House of Cards Returns for Season Two Shirley Temple’s First On-Screen Kiss alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment movies ‘RoboCop’: Beware the Big Bad Drones * Eliana Dockterman @edockterman Feb. 12, 2014 SHARE Joel Kinnaman in RoboCop Kerry Hayes—Columbia Pictures Joel Kinnaman in RoboCop The new film is more political satire than action movie — and that's not a bad thing More Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star SaysTina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches MovieREVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs Kids fantasize about being Batman, Spider-Man, or Iron Man — heroes who have tricks like a cool car, cool powers and cool smarts. But they can also take off their suits — and RoboCop can’t. In two grim shots in RoboCop, what’s left of Joel Kinnaman’s Alex Murphy is exposed when his machinery is removed: part of his head, his heart, his lungs and his hand. That’s all. He can’t take off his suit; he can’t even always control his own thoughts or actions. Nobody wants to be RoboCop — not even Alex Murphy. But if nobody wants to be RoboCop, why would they want to watch the movie of that same name? Robert Downey Jr. has snarky one-liners and Christian Bale has brooding reflections on morality, but Kinnaman has a robotic voice and not much else. Often, you can’t even hear that voice over the clanking and zipping noises his suit makes as he walks or turns his head. (Surely if they could design a suit that can sustain a man who has only 10 percent of his body left, they could make the equipment quieter than that.) The wish fulfillment factor taken out of the equation, RoboCop becomes less a work of aspirational coolness and more a piece of political satire — and not necessarily a bad one. In the opening sequence, a conservative news pundit (Samuel L. Jackson’s Pat Novak) makes a case that the Dreyfus Act, a law which prohibits robots in American police forces, should be repealed by sending a reporter abroad to watch robot cops in action. After an obligatory shot of an ominous drone flying above robot policemen, things go disastrously wrong. Suicide bombers attack, and a child who grabs a knife to defend his suicide bomber father is killed by one of the robots. The station feed clicks off. Bad guy OmniCorp CEO Raymond Sellars (Michael Keaton) hopes to create a robot with a conscience to win over American voters ahead of the vote to repeal the Dreyfus Act. His prayers are answered in the form of Murphy, recently injured by dirty cops in his Detroit precinct — and thus, RoboCop is born. In trials, they nickname RoboCop “Tinman” and jokingly play “If I Only Had a Brain” during simulations where he must compete against brainless robots. But as OmniCorp’s resident genius Dr. Dennett Norton (Gary Oldman) tinkers with the chips inserted into Murhpy’s brain, and RoboCop becomes less a man-turned-robot and more a robot who thinks he’s a man, the Wizard of Oz metaphors grow more portentous. Should we be afraid of anything with a weapon but without conscience? Director José Padilha isn’t subtle in his critique of dissociated violence. In one sequence, RoboCop takes on about 50 bad guys in the dark by detecting them with heat vision. From the machine’s perspective, the scene plays out like a first person shooter: dozens of bad guys highlighted and easily taken down with quick shots and no real way for him to die. But when the camera takes the criminals’ point-of-view, we see real bullets, real wounds, real death, and the attendant pathos. Even RoboCop’s partner, Jack Lewis (Michael K. Williams), suffers the consequences of being in close proximity to the immortal machine. He is shot twice in the film. (Williams was a lot better off with a sawed off shotgun in The Wire than here.) It’s a sobering concept for a film, but occasionally it takes a humorous turn, usually thanks to Samuel L. Jackson, who delights in playing a radical conservative who can make holograms of liberals like Dreyfus disappear from his show just as they begin making their argument. Anyone unfamiliar with the original franchise can jump right in, and Jackson makes it worth sitting through yet another movie with endless sequences of robots fighting more robots. Just barely, though. Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. 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Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » We Want To #CancelColbert Comments Feed The Tin Ear of the #CancelColbert Brigades Putin Phones Obama To Discuss Ukraine, White House Says alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Opinion MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Opinion Race We Want To #CancelColbert * Suey Park @suey_park * Eunsong Kim @clepsydras March 28, 2014 SHARE "The Colbert Report" Salutes The Troops Scott Gries—Picturegroup/Comedy Central The problem isn’t that we can’t take a joke. The problem is that white comedians and their fans believe they are above reproach. More Black Lives Matter Co-Founder: Obama Overlooked Black WomenPolice Detain Rapper After He Withdraws $200,000 From BankEmails Reveal Scramble by Chicago Officials Over Laquan McDonald Video There are some common phrases that come out when people want to derail a legitimate debate on the Internet (particularly on Twitter): “You’re overly sensitive” or “If you weren’t so hostile, people would listen to you” or “You’re taking things too personally” or “I don’t find this offensive” or “You probably just misunderstood.” After observing the progress of the hash tag we started yesterday, #CancelColbert — which we set up in response to a blatantly racist Tweet about Asians from the Colbert show’s account — we’ve seen some new variations: “Get Over It,” “Deport Suey,” “You’re Anti American,” and even a petition to have Suey Park’s First Amendment rights revoked. This last one is particularly ironic, as Suey and other tweeters to #CancelColbert had simply dared to challenge the First Amendment rights of a white male comedian. It seems “freedom of speech” has the assumed caveat “freedom of speech — for white men.” If comedians want to protest the racist name of the Redskins football team and to ban racist mascots, as the comedian’s defenders claim is his goal, there are a variety of ways to organize and to highlight this issue. But this isn’t about white liberals wanting to change the name, or their devotion to destroying settler-colonialism: It’s about their feeling entitled to make jokes about “The Other” in the name of “progress.” This does nothing to alleviate the burden of people of color; it simply perpetuates a part of the entertainment industry in which our marginalization remains profitable. These white liberals are not mad that we pointed out racism, they are mad that they now have to consider the ways in which they may be racist.The logic of those who argue “Get Over It” is set up to privilege reckless behavior by placing the blame on the audience. But if the joke isn’t actually racist, then why have so many racist slurs been hurled at those of us promoting #CancelColbert? The outrage surrounding our criticism is about white liberals feeling entitled to engage in hate speech under the guise of “satire.” These white liberals are not mad that we pointed out racism, they are mad that they now have to consider the ways in which they may be racist. Andy Smith on Twitter argued: “Folks seem to think that you can effectively address anti-Native American racism by satirically engaging in anti-Asian or anti-Black racism.” Such an approach presumes anti-Native American racism isn’t distinct and that it doesn’t need to be addressed on its own terms. We are proud to be what Sara Ahmed defines as Feminist Killjoys — meaning we “Will not laugh at jokes designed to cause offense.” We refuse to believe we have created racism by pointing to it and naming it. As Dave Zirin tweeted in our defense: “if Suey Park pointed at a burning building, then she must be an arsonist.” We don’t accept such silly logic. #CancelColbert was started by tweeters who wanted to speak back to Colbert’s racism. These protesters were disingenuously labelled the “TwitterPolice” by journalists, even as their hashtag and trend was immediately trolled and the “ColbertNationers” took it upon themselves to educate “the others” on the Art of Satire. We have some tips of our own that we’d like to share: * Satire Lesson 1: If you need to explain whatever it is that you were trying to do, it’s not working. Your audience is telling you that it’s broken, it’s old. It needs to be reworked. * Satire Lesson 2: Tone is not a shield. “Tone” is one element in a larger construction. * Satire Lesson 3: If the only people who “get” your satire are racists — might we suggest some soul searching on your end? Satire is not making props and metaphors of the history (is it history?) of oppression. The problem isn’t that we can’t take a joke. The problem is that white comedians and their fans believe they are above reproach. The standard at ColbertNation for comedy is apparently the throwaway caricature for cheap laughs. We see no reason why this standard must be honored or protected. The guises of “satire,” “irony,” and “humor” are not shields of armor against criticism. We did not misunderstand satire, “The Colbert Report,” or white liberals. They misunderstood us, and we fought back. Suey Park (@suey_park) is a writer and activist currently living in Chicago. Eunsong Kim (@clepsydras) is a writer, researcher & educator mostly residing in San Diego. 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Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » #Cancel Your Outrage: Stephen Colbert Is Not a Racist Comments Feed You Can’t Drink This Beer if You’re Using Your Phone In India, Cities Resort to Gadgets in Fight Against Car Honking alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment Television #Cancel Your Outrage: Stephen Colbert Is Not a Racist * James Poniewozik @poniewozik March 28, 2014 SHARE The #CancelColbert campaign shows that social-media life has become a race to be the most offended first. More The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years AgoTracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele StarSteve Harvey Asks Miss Colombia to Forgive Him for Historic Flub Yesterday, the Comedy Central Twitter account for The Colbert Report posted a very dumb tweet from a very smart satire. On Wednesday’s Report, Stephen Colbert’s idiot-pundit character gave a “defense” of Dan Snyder, the Washington Redskins owner who has bitterly clung to the team’s racist nickname. Citing Snyder’s hamhanded attempts at p.r. spin–trying to buy goodwill for the name with a “foundation” and some token donations to Native Americans–Colbert referenced his own show’s racist “mascot,” a Chinese caricature named Ching-Chong Ding-Dong, who the show introduced in 2005 in a meta-skit about the fictional Colbert trying to excuse his own racism. Mimicking Snyder, Colbert offered to make amends “by introducing the Ching-Chong Ding-Dong Foundation for Sensitivity to Orientals or Whatever.” (You can watch the whole thing online.) Thursday, the Comedy Central account–run by the channel, not Colbert or the show’s staff–sent a tweet consisting essentially of just that line. As a punchline to an extended, constructed bit, it was a searing sendup of Snyder’s creating “the Washington Redskins Original Americans Foundation” (because, Colbert said, “Redskins is not offensive if you only use it once in your name”). As an individual tweet, it just looked like a non sequitur racist slur from a famous person to about a million followers. There are a couple ways to react to this kind of situation: (1) Man, that tweet was really… bad. Stephen Colbert always seemed decent. Is he really an insensitive, raging racist? Is there some kind of explanation for this? Could someone have made a well-intentioned mistake here? (2) WHAT? THIS IS B.S.! SOMEONE NEEDS TO LOSE THEIR JOB! These days, social media, Twitter, Facebook–the whole React-o-Sphere–are permanently set to #2. So once again we went from zero to I Demand Someone’s Head in no time flat. In short order, the hashtag #CancelColbert was trending on Twitter. That’s right. Nine years of brilliant satire demolishing hypocrisy and injustice? Eh, fine. Five seconds of reading a tweet? CANCEL! Because what else did you need to know? What context did you need? The tweet was right there! Somebody retweeted it! People whose reactions I trust about this sort of thing are angry! It’s not my job to do further research! Stephen Colbert, I declare you #Guilty! Maybe there are people out there who would argue that the full skit itself was racist–that, in fact, one can never create satirical racism to lampoon actual racism, because the wrong people might take the wrong pleasure from it for the wrong reasons. I would probably disagree with you, but I’d gladly read the argument–it’s a version of the arguments that people have made against Archie Bunker and George Jefferson and Eric Cartman and Borat. Satire is not its own defense; it can be badly executed, or it can be an excuse for actual hate. And if you want to make that argument about Colbert, go ahead, though I’d say you’ve got nine years of his show arguing against you. But really this goes beyond Stephen Colbert or even racism. It’s about the instantaneous urge now to react fastest and most righteously, to Pick a Damn Side Already and demand the greatest punishment, to always, no matter what, immediately assume the worst of somebody who crosses you the wrong way. Sometimes it’s about a comedian, sometimes it’s about a politician or TV news host blurting something, sometimes it’s the gasoline-fueled flame war over a hot-button nontroversy like the Elan-Diane airplane war that turned out to be fake. There is simply no prize for taking the most time to consider, posting the most even-handed and nuanced reaction, demanding the most proportionate punishment. If I’m being honest, this post itself is proof of that. No news site is going to get a billion clicks rushing out the headline: Internet User Considers Facts, Decides Tweet Was Maybe In Poor Judgment But With Extenuating Circumstances. That’s just the media world we live in. Maybe someone like Stephen Colbert could do a late-night satire on it. And if he does, let me be the first to demand, in advance, that he be #Fired. Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Bassem Youssef Abruptly Cancels Egyptian Satire Show Before Sisi Declared President Comments Feed Bowe Bergdahl’s Dad on Why He Grew That Beard Obama Kicks Off European Trip alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. World MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Sanders Backs Ending Gun Manufacturer Immunity Jeb Bush Finds His Groove in Donald Trump’s Shadow Clinton and Sanders Set for High-Stakes Democratic Debate Republicans Criticize Deal to Free Iranian Prisoners Iran Sanctions Lifted as U.N. Agency Says Nuclear Deal Is Met Jeb Bush Sides With Trump in Debate Over ‘New York Values’ Masked ‘Scream Robber’ From FBI Most Wanted List Arrested in Colorado Son Tricked California Nurse Into Thinking She Won the Powerball What to Know About the U.S. Prisoners Released by Iran Here’s Why People in Panda Suits Are Following Chris Christie Around TIME World Egypt Bassem Youssef Abruptly Cancels Egyptian Satire Show Before Sisi Declared President * Jared Malsin @jmalsin June 3, 2014 SHARE More ISIS Claims Attack at Egypt HotelEgypt Arrests 3 Facebook Admins Ahead of Uprising AnniversaryInside Egypt’s Blacked-Out War With ISIS-Affiliated Militants Bassem Youssef, the Arab world’s most important political humorist following Egypt’s 2011 uprising, abruptly announced Monday the end of his television show as the country prepared to declare former field marshal Abdul Fattah al-Sisi as president. The cancellation of Youssef’s wildly popular show El Bernameg (“The Program”) underscored Egypt’s constriction of freedom of expression since the military removed elected President Mohamed Morsi last year. Since Morsi’s ouster, authorities put an end to the freewheeling media atmosphere that arose in the wake of the 2011 uprising. The interim government shuttered Islamist media, jailed Egyptian and foreign journalists and banned unauthorized protests. The crackdown on political opponents initially targeted thousands of Morsi’s primarily Islamist supporters, but it’s now affected many who, like Youssef, were staunch critics of Morsi. In a news conference Monday at the downtown Cairo theater where his show used to be recorded, Youssef did not explain exactly why the show would not return to the airwaves, but suggested government pressure was to blame. “The Program doesn’t have a space,” he said. “It’s not allowed.” He also insinuated that he refused to continue to air the show while watering down its caustic style of political satire. Youssef modeled his show on Jon Stewart’s The Daily Show, savaging politicians and media figures of all stripes. He said the network, Saudi-owned MBC Masr, had tried to keep the show on air. “I thank MBC Masr for hosting us and I can’t blame it for the pressures it had been put under. It was more than it could handle.” The backstory to The Program’s cancellation remains murky, but experts say a system of de facto media constraints has remerged in Egypt since 2013, in which self-censorship and back-room pressure on media outlets are the norm. Mainstream writers, editors, anchors and network executives are believed to constantly self-police a set of constantly-shifting “red lines” that delineate what can and cannot be said. “The pressure is never official,” said Rasha Abdulla, a professor of journalism and mass communication at The American University in Cairo. “All you need is a phone call or a word in passing.” “We don’t know the exact mechanism, but it’s happening, and the results are very clear,” Abdulla said. “You have a very monotone media, a single-voiced media, with absolutely no opposition voices in the media. If they are, they are extremely mild.” Since The Program first aired in 2011, Youssef has sparred with a series of governments and mocked a range of opponents. Youssef finally crossed one too many lines in April 2013, when prosecutors under the government of Muslim Brotherhood leader Morsi issued an arrest warrant for him. A satirist to the core, Youssef appeared at Egypt’s High Court wearing an enormous version of a cylindrical black graduation hat Morsi had worn in Pakistan. He was released the same day on bail. Youssef cheered the protests that prompted the military to remove Morsi, but when he returned to the airwaves months later, he appeared chastened by the shrunken space for government criticism. He did not directly mock Abdul Fattah al-Sisi, the military leader who pushed the Muslim Brotherhood from power and who last week was elected Egypt’s president in a pro forma election. Instead, in one episode, Youssef took aim at the cult of personality around Sisi, joking, for example, about the phenomenon of cakes and sweets stamped with Sisi’s face. However, according to a former member of Youssef’s staff, the show’s approach to Sisi was set to change as Sisi assumed the presidency. Staffers were informed of the cancellation last Monay, just as the staff were preparing an episode, never recorded, that confronted Sisi explicitly. The episode was never recorded. “The red lines conversely inspire creativity,” said Jonathan Guyer, a senior editor of the Cairo Review of Global Affairs and a writer who studies Egyptian political satire. “This happened under Mubarak. Because nobody was publishing drawings of Mubarak, everyone found a workaround to draw Mubarak. I wouldn’t be surprised if the people on his team find a way to work around or make their own series.” Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » REVIEW: Bad Words: Jason Bateman F%#*s Up a Shot at Saturnine Satire Comments Feed These Are The First Photos From Orange Is The New Black Season Two REVIEW: In Enemy, Jake Gyllenhaal Sees Double alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment movies REVIEW: Bad Words: Jason Bateman F%#*s Up a Shot at Saturnine Satire * Richard Corliss March 13, 2014 SHARE Sam Urdank—2013 Focus Features The likable star goes against type, and against all character logic, to play a malcontent 40-year-old who crashes a spelling bee More Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star SaysTina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches MovieREVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs The winning word in the first National Spelling Bee, held in Louisville in 1925, was gladiolus. The champion among the 2 million contestants was 11-year-old Frank Neuhauser, whose stonemason father helped him study obscure words on weekends when it was raining. Young Frank, as his New York Times obit noted, prayed for sunny weather. He wanted to play baseball. In the 90 years since that first Bee, the number of contestants in the Scripps National Spelling Bee has grown to 11 million, and the words have become considerably more abstruse. The rules, though, remain constant: participants must be no older than 15 and must not have graduated from eighth grade. (READ: Our coverage of the 1925 National Spelling Bee by subscribing to TIME) Yet in Bad Words, 40-year-old Guy Trilby (Jason Bateman) is interning in that milieu. To snag the top guerdon at a fake National Spelling Bee, Guy relies on his photographic memory and a certain prospicience about the vulnerabilities of spelling prodigies. Like a kamikaze on a luge, he has a pococurante knack for creating a promiscuous fracas among his young rivals. In one vignette after another, this insouciant spoliator applies a serrefine or incisor to his opponents’ self-confidence. He springs the guetapens of reverse psychiatry on his opponents, until children whose only ailment may be logorrhea suddenly break out in emotional eczema and psoriasis, are struck mute by odontalgia, suffer antediluvian xanthosis and finally require therapy in a sanitarium. In other words, Guy’s mean to the kids. In 1981, when he was the age of most of Guy’s innocent victims, Bateman was playing Michael Landon’s adopted son on Little House on the Prairie. He appeared as a regular in a dozen TV series, which may be a record. And though he has said he struggled with drug and alcohol addiction in his twenties, he emerged from kid stardom as an intact adult — a slightly spikier Michael J, Fox. He’s been the go-to actor for beset normal people on TV (Arrested Development) and in movies (Identity Thief). Perhaps tiring of Mr. Nice Guy, Bateman signed on as the star and director of the verry-R-rated Bad Words. (READ: Mary Pols on Jason Bateman in Identity Thief) In the acrid script by first-time screenwriter Andrew Dodge, Bateman’s Guy finds loopholes in the rules of Bowman’s fictional spelling bee run by the esteemed educator Dr. Bowman (Philip Baker Hall) and his officious aide Dr. Deagan (Allison Janney in the Jane Lynch role). His only supporter is the journalist Jenny (Kathryn Hahn), whose online blog sponsored Guy’s appearance in the Bee, and who isn’t enough of a Si Hersh to find out why he’s doing it. He also hooks up with a genius 10-year-old named Chaitanya Chopra (Rohan Chand). This charming young actor has already played the son of terrorist Abu Nidal in Homeland and Adam Sandler’s adopted boy in Jack and Jill. So he probably survived Guy’s treating him to the spectacle of a prostitute’s large breasts. That’s supposed to be a generous gesture on Guy’s part — what any good dad would do for his naïve child. (READ: Our review of Jack and Jill) Bad Words nestles in the modern movie tradition of surrogate-parenting as exemplified by Bad Santa, Bad Teacher and Bad Grandpa. We readily grant that kids, especially kids from Hell, need to learn that adults can communicate in other ways than begging the young to behave. But the children here are decent, bright and focused. Guy is the disturbed one. He does have a motive for revenge, revealed late in the proceedings, but it hardly justifies his serial humiliation of the kids. Put baldly, Guy’s strategies to win the Bee amount to emotional child abuse. Fondling Jenny’s panties, which she’d left from an erotic encounter the night before, he hands them to one child, saying he’d had sex with the boy’s mother; the kid freaks out and is sent home. Guy then slips a smidge of ketchup under a girl’s seat and whispers that her first menstrual blood is showing through her skirt; she bolts in shame. Bad Words seems to be heading into the creepy realm of a sociopath’s case study, yet it’s presented as a breezy satire about a rebel against the system. It must be the Dictionary-Industrious Complex. (READ: Our review of Bad Teacher) The movie never makes Guy’s deification intelligible, leaving viewers in a state of deteriorating narcolepsy. For all its meticulosity, the film is about as nourishing as a knaidel (last year’s winning word in the real National Spelling Bee) on Purim. (Note: All boldfaced and hyperlinked terms are the “winning words” of National Spelling Bee champions.) Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » The 25 Best Simpsons Episodes Ever Comments Feed Expectant Dads Experience Prenatal Hormone Changes Too Bacardi, Exiled From Cuba in 1960, Is Hopeful for Change alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment Television The 25 Best Simpsons Episodes Ever * Entertainment Weekly Dec. 17, 2014 SHARE The Simpsons family in "White Christmas Blues" episode on Dec. 15, 2013. FOX—2014 FOX The Simpsons family in "White Christmas Blues" episode on Dec. 15, 2013. Happy 25th birthday to the Simpsons! More The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years AgoTracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele StarSteve Harvey Asks Miss Colombia to Forgive Him for Historic Flub In honor of the show’s 25th anniversary, a revised and updated version of our 2003 Springfield Hall of Fame. Woohoo! 25. “The Regina Monologues” Airdate: Nov. 23, 2003 Episodes of The Simpsons that qualify as all-time classics are rare in the new millennium, but ”The Regina Monologues” has a connection to the show’s golden age: writer John Swartzwelder, the man behind a slew of classic episodes (including five others on this list). His final writing credit, ”Monologues,” takes the family to England in a joke-dense episode filled with allusions to Trainspotting, My Fair Lady, and James Bond, and features a cameo by a sitting head of state (Tony Blair), as well as big-name Brits Ian McKellen and J.K. Rowling. ”The Simpsons are going to ________!” has become a trope on the show, but seldom has it worked so well. 24. “You Only Move Twice'” Airdate: Nov. 3, 1996 One of the Golden Age’s wackiest episodes also happens to be one of its funniest. In this season 8 standout, the Simpson clan leaves Springfield behind when Homer gets a new job at the Globex Corporation — a mysterious mega-company run by friendly-seeming ginger Hank Scorpio (Albert Brooks, giving his best Simpsons guest performance). Gradually, it becomes clear (to everyone but Homer) that Scorpio’s actually a ruthless supervillain hell-bent on defeating secret agent James Bont. It’s an absurd setup bolstered by one of the show’s best laughs-per-minute ratios. Now, if you’ll excuse us, we have to take a trip to Hammocks-R-Us; it’s in the Hammock District. 23. “Lisa’s First Word” Airdate: Dec. 3, 1992 The best Simpsons episodes aren’t only hilarious—they’re also poignant, showcasing the big, beating heart beneath the series’ occasionally caustic satire. Nowhere is that more apparent than in the show’s early flashback episodes, including ”The Way We Was,” ”I Married Marge,” and ”And Maggie Makes Three”—the latter of which ends with what may be the most heartwarming image ever seen on TV. Of that stellar quartet, though, ”Lisa” reigns supreme, thanks both to its emotional high points (the titular event, which shines a spotlight on Lisa and Bart’s relationship; its closing moment, in which Maggie (played by guest star Elizabeth Taylor, of all people) says her own first word, ”Daddy”) and its barrage of ace jokes (Bart’s ”spout medley,” ”It’s not easy to juggle a pregnant wife and a troubled child, but somehow I managed to fit in eight hours of TV a day,” ”can’t sleep, clown’ll eat me”). 22. “Hurricane Neddy” Airdate: Dec. 19, 1996 Homer’s mild-mannered nemesis had a few spotlight episodes before this one—but none were as juicy as ”Hurricane Neddy,” which digs into just what makes Springfield’s model citizen tick. It all starts when Hurricane Barbara sweeps through town, sparing most residents—except the devout, endlessly generous Flanders clan, who lose everything they own. (Ned doesn’t have insurance because he considers it a form of gambling.) What follows is half an hour of darkly-tinted soul searching in which Ned questions his faith (”I’ve done everything the Bible says, even the stuff that contradicts the other stuff! I’ve even kept kosher, just to stay on the safe side”), finally gives the rest of Springfield a piece of his mind (Moe: ”Hey, I may be ugly and hate-filled, but I… um, what was the third thing you said?”), then checks himself into a mental hospital. One of the series’ darker installments, to be sure—but it’s also relentlessly hilarious and quotable (”I’m Dick Tracy! Take that, Pruneface! Now I’m Pruneface! Take that, Dick Tracy! Now I’m Prune Tracy!’ Take that, Dick…”). 21. “Who Shot Mr. Burns? Parts 1 and 2” Airdate: May 21, 1995; Sept. 17, 1995 A two-part comedic homage to Dallas‘s ”Who shot J.R.?” stunt, ”WSMB?” is perhapsThe Simpsons‘s most grandiose pop moment ever. An atypical outing, too: Satiric potshots (O.J. Simpson, Madonna, and Twin Peaks) and gut-busting randomness (Moe’s marathon lie-detector session is a classic) are subordinate to a methodically plotted murder mystery that, alas, climaxes with a cop-out, albeit a deliberate one. (Maggie did the deed—accidentally, of course.) There’s no way it could have approached the ratings for the Dallas cliffhanger, but it’s still a pivotal marker in the show’s evolution. By deftly deploying The Simpsons‘s array of supporting characters (even Doctor Colossus!), this onetime anti-Cosby lightning rod demonstrated what a rich, self-sustaining universe it had become. 20. “Radio Bart” Airdate: Jan. 9, 1992 Homer tries to top his past gifts to Bart (a shoe tree and shelf paper) with a Mr. Microphone-style radio. The boy immediately drops it down a well and begins broadcasting plaintive cries for help as Timmy O’Toole. A ridiculous media circus ensues: Hucksters sell authentic Timmy baby teeth, and guest voice Sting leads an overblown, ”We Are the World”-style ballad called ”We’re Sending Our Love Down the Well.” In the end, Timmy’s story is bumped off the front page by a squirrel who resembles Abraham Lincoln, and Sting’s ditty gets booted from No. 1 by Funky C Funky Do’s ”I Do Believe We’re Naked.” It’s a media parody so sharp, we’re still stinging a bit. 19. “Simpsons Spin-off Showcase” Airdate: May 11, 1997 ”Could The Simpsons ever maintain its popularity without Moe the bartender?” asks Troy McClure. ”Let’s hope so — because Moe is leaving to do his own sitcom.” This send-up of spin-offs has it all, from odd pairings (Grampa Simpson’s spirit inhabits a love-tester machine in Moe’s bar) to awkward cameos (says Lisa to Chief Wiggum, newly relocated to New Orleans: ”I can’t wait to hear about all the exciting, sexy adventures you’re sure to have against this colorful backdrop”). But ”The Simpson Family Smile-Time Variety Hour” is the strongest of the three spawn — a searing homage to one of the most dreadful spin-offs ever, The Brady Bunch Hour. The Waylon Smithers Dancers and Hee Haw interstitials are a hoot, but memo to Fox: Don’t be getting any ideas. 18. “Flaming Moe’s” Airdate: Jan. 21, 1991 Moe laments his poor business: ”Increased job satisfaction and family togetherness are poison for a purveyor of mind-numbing intoxicants like myself.” Then Homer invents a new drink, for which Moe takes credit. The ”Flaming Moe” turns his bar into a raging success (a velvet-rope policy begins, Aerosmith perform ”Walk This Way,” and Moe hires a comely new bartender). ”Flaming Moe’s” is a crucial addition to The Simpsons‘s liquor canon, with a Cheers parody that includes a sobering theme song (”Liquor in a mug/Can warm you like a hug”). Extra attraction: Bart actually apologizes for making a prank call to Moe’s. Remorse and fiery mixed drinks—does it get much better? 17. “Itchy & Scratchy Land” Airdate: Oct. 2, 1994 Based on those cartoonishly violent killer critters, Itchy & Scratchy Land is the theme-park realization of Bart’s most extreme daydreams — no wonder he and Lisa beg to go there for a family trip. What’s waiting for the Simpsons when they arrive—besides two gargantuan parking lots, of course—is actually a smart riff on the Disney empire: There are shots at Walt’s lame character spin-offs (Klu Klux Clam, anyone?), a dig at his speculated sordid past (Itchy & Scratchy’s creator turns out to be a Nazi sympathizer), and a nod to the park’s mollifying grown-up attractions (the booze-filled ”Parents’ Island”). When the animatronics attack, the showdown between man and machine—okay, Homer and a giant robot mouse—is an uproarious rebuttal to capitalism run amok. 16. “Homer at the Bat” Airdate: Feb. 20, 1992 When Mr. Burns recruits nine all-star major-leaguers for his company softball team, what ensues is less an indictment of America’s pastime than a loopy celebration of the sport’s long-lost innocence, a paean to pro sluggers as both heroes (Jose Canseco misses the big game because he’s rushing into a burning house to rescue a baby—and a cat, and a player piano…) and softies (Darryl Strawberry sheds a tear at Bart and Lisa’s bleacher heckling). It was also early proof that The Simpsons could juggle a squad of guest stars without giving the family short shrift: Who drives in the winning run when a ball bounces off his head? Homer, of course. 15. “Twenty-Two Short Films About Springfield” Airdate: April 14, 1996 Working with animation grants the writers of The Simpsons the liberty to do things that live-action shows can only dream of. They can create a supporting cast that’s several dozen characters deep and produce episodes that rely on elaborate concepts rather than on straightforward plots. ”Twenty-Two…” plays to these strengths. Taking its title (if nothing else) from the movie ”Thirty-two Short Films About Glenn Gould,” the outing is a Whitman’s Sampler of Springfieldians, giving such fan favorites as Snake, Chief Wiggum, and Dr. Nick Riviera their brief moments at center stage. (It even finds time to supply the hillbilly Cletus with a toe-tapping theme song.) If that’s not enough, it wedges in a priceless ”Pulp Fiction” parody, replete with a nuanced discussion of the difference between Krusty Burger and McDonald’s. Let’s see a Chuck Lorre joint try that. 14. “The City of New York vs. Homer Simpson” Airdate: Sept. 21, 1997 The show that dares ask the question ”Why did I drink all that crab juice?” A bingeing Barney ditches Homer’s car in the Big Apple, prompting a family trip to retrieve it. Change-of-venue episodes are typically uninspired, but this ”City” is frantically busy — skewering foreign-food vendors (five words: Khlau Kalash on a Stick), crazy subway dudes, and gawking tourists. A Broadway parody about the Betty Ford clinic called Kickin’ It is uncomfortably catchy; even bits about the Twin Towers are so clever, you’ll smile instead of wincing. Plus, Marge offers an admonition for anti-Gothamites: ”Of course you’ll have a bad impression of New York if you only focus on the pimps and the C.H.U.D.’s.” Put that on a T-shirt, and we’ve got something. 13. “I Love Lisa” Airdate: Feb. 11, 1993 Lisa gives sad little Ralph Wiggum a Valentine’s Day pity card, featuring a smiling train and a special greeting. ”You Choo-Choo-Choose Me?” marvels a desperately happy Ralph. Anyone who’s suffered an unrequited crush will find these 30 minutes wonderfully squirmy. Lisa ignores Homer’s advice for warding off Wiggum (”Six simple words: I’m not gay, but I’ll learn”) and ends up dumping him live on Krusty’s 29th Anniversary Show (”You can actually pinpoint the second when his heart rips in half,” enthuses Bart, watching in slo-mo). But ”I Love Lisa” ultimately reveals the show’s unexpected sweet side, as when Ralph cheerfully reads a make-up card from a repentant Lisa: ”’Let’s Bee Friends.’ It says ‘bee’ and has a picture of a bee on it!” 12. “Duffless” Airdate: Feb. 18, 1993 For years, we chuckled at Homer’s sloppy, overheated love for beer. But all that hilarious brain-cell killing was never really addressed…until this episode, in which Homer—riding high on a Duff brewery tour buzz—gets busted for DWI and reluctantly heeds Marge’s request to quit drinking for a month. Not only does ”Duffless” tweak an unrelenting alcohol culture (a billboard flips between ”Friends Don’t Let Friends Drive Drunk” and ”It’s Always Time for Duff”), it deftly depicts poignant, if grudging, emotional growth for Homer: After bemoaning his newfound sobriety at a baseball stadium (”I never realized how boring this game is”), he forgoes a reward beer to bike into the sunset with Marge. 11. “The Last Temptation of Homer” Airdate: Dec. 9, 1993 When Mr. Burns is forced to hire a female employee at the plant, Homer is suddenly very attentive at work. There’s plenty Homer admires about Mindy Simmons (voiced to slinky perfection by Michelle Pfeiffer): gluttony, sloth, and, he suspects, outrage that ”’Ziggy”s gotten too preachy!” Of course, we know that Homer will stay faithful, his marriage having already survived Jacques the bowling instructor and a giant catfish named General Sherman. But it’s Homer’s anguished journey (”Oh no, I’m sweating like Roger Ebert!”)—and a memorable cameo by Colonel Klink of Hogan’s Heroes—that makes getting there so great. It’s no Scenes From a Marriage, but it’s a hell of a lot more amusing. 10. “Treehouse of Horror V” Airdate: Oct. 30, 1994 Simpsons Truism No. 666: ”Treehouse” episodes are as inconsistent as Grampa’s bladder. Welcome to the exception. ”The Shinning” is a parody brimming with such detail, comic timing (”No TV and no beer make Homer…something something”), and Kubrick send-ups that it ranks with the greatest of pop-culture spoofs. ”Time and Punishment” features Homer’s time-traveling toaster and one of the most beautifully random moments in Simpsons history (Homer: ”Don’t panic. Remember the advice your father gave you on your wedding day.” Grampa in thought bubble: ”If you ever travel back in time, doooooonnnn’t step on anything…”). Maybe ”Nightmare Cafeteria” doesn’t shine as brilliantly, but we think it’s perfectly, well, ”cromulent.” 9. “Mr. Plow” Airdate: Nov. 19, 1992 ”Call Mr. Plow, that’s my name/That name again is Mr. Plow!” Those 12 words of insipid brilliance stand testament to one of the few times Homer has actually succeeded at something. As Springfield’s No. 1 snow mover, Homer—rather incredibly—earns some extra money, the gratitude of Mayor Quimby, and the amorous adoration of Marge (She: ”Would you mind…?” He: ”Cutting my nails? Brushing my teeth?”). But Homer finds competition—and even betrayal—from…Barney? A curiously dark episode (we learn that Homer is responsible for Barney’s alcoholism) in which escalating tensions come to a head on icy Widow’s Peak. Not exactly laugh-a-minute, but oh, that jingle… 8. “The Itchy & Scratchy and Poochie Show” Airdate: Feb. 9, 1997 Hey, kids! Who likes scathing commentary on aging TV series? In this provocative, self-referential spectacle that polarized a nation (okay, some particularly rabid fans),Itchy & Scratchy‘s falling ratings prompt the network suits to introduce a painfully overhip canine. (”You’ve heard the expression, ‘Let’s get busy’? Well, this is a dog who gets biz-zay.”) The Homer-voiced Poochie provides perfect fodder for aggressive meta-lampoonery: As Lisa criticizes the desperate character-adding act, a hipster teen named Roy is seen inexplicably chillin’ with the Simpson clan. No cow is sacred here, not even The Simpsons‘s increasingly nitpicky fans, who are milked for laughs in the Comic Book Guy’s ”Worst Episode Ever” didacticism. Worst ever? Hardly. 7. “Homer’s Phobia” Airdate: Feb. 16, 1997 The Simpsons gets away with more hot-button hotdoggery than any other show, and the most cunning example may be this flamboyant installment, in which the family befriends John (John Waters), the droll owner of a kitschy collectibles shop… until Homer finds out that he’s gay. For a man who once called a spoon ”the metal dealie…you use…to dig…food,” Homer attains a new level of keg-headedness in his foolish paranoia (”He didn’t give you gay, did he?”) and absurd anger toward John for not mincing around and declaring his orientation (”You know me, Marge—I like my beer cold, my TV loud, and my homosexuals fa-laaaming!”). But the same-sex silliness never turns offensive, perhaps because of the sincere subtext: By worrying that John is going to convert Bart, Homer actually fears that he hasn’t been a good father—thus explaining the accidental visit to the gay steel mill. Hot (and funny) stuff, coming through! 6. “Lisa the Vegetarian” Airdate: Oct. 15, 1995 In the early days, Bart and Homer were the Simpson family’s — and the show’s—undisputed breakout stars. Talk to Simpsons writers, though, and you’ll discover something interesting: A critical mass name Lisa—nerdy, earnest, principled, perpetually misunderstood Lisa—as their favorite Simpson of all. Which means this list needs a Lisa episode—and not a Lisa episode that’s really a Bart episode (”Lisa’s First Word”) or a Lisa episode that’s really a Ralph episode (”I Love Lisa”). (Don’t agree? Go back to Russia!) And which Lisa episode is better than ”Lisa the Vegetarian,” in which the smartest kid in Springfield first realizes the unsettling connection between the lamb she just met at a petting zoo and the chops Marge is serving that very night? But there’s more to this half-hour than Lisa’s awakening; her meat-eschewing highlights her relationship with Homer, one of the show’s most interesting dynamics, and also leads to a few of the series’ catchiest gags. Sing it with me now: You don’t win friends with sal-ad! 5. “A Fish Called Selma” Airdate: March 24, 1996 You may remember Troy McClure from such TV shows as ”The Simpsons 138th Episode Spectacular,” but in his splashiest turn, the underemployed actor is plagued by a ”romantic abnormality.” ”Gay? I wish!” says the closeted fish fetishist, who becomes a family man by marrying Marge’s sister Selma (the one with a repetitive stress injury from scratching her butt). Hollywood lampoons are well-tread ground for the show, but this take on the scandal-contrition cycle, featuring the wonderful McClure vehicle Stop the Planet of the Apes, I Want to Get Off!, is particularly smart. And Selma’s farewell to McClure is also a touching tribute to the man who supplied his voice, the late Phil Hartman: ”Goodbye, Troy. I’ll always remember you, but not from your films.” 4. “Rosebud” Airdate: Oct. 21, 1993 It begins with Citizen Kane, ends somewhere near the ”Planet of the Apes,” and in between, manages to find time to include Hitler, the Ramones, and 64 slices of American cheese. But despite being one of The Simpsons‘s most spectacularly overstuffed episodes, ”Rosebud” has plenty of heart, though it is the Mephistophelian ticker belonging to Mr. Burns, who, on the eve of his birthday—somewhere north of 100—finds himself pining for Bobo, his long-lost teddy bear. Burns and Smithers’ efforts to retrieve the tattered toy from Maggie show why they’ll always be TV’s most functional dysfunctional couple: Smithers (who fantasizes about his boss jumping out of a birthday cake) isn’t happy unless his boss is happy—which happens only after an empathetic Maggie gives Bobo up. It’s a moment that proves even Springfield’s twisted billionaire can learn to love—though he conveniently forgets how a few seconds later. 3. “Last Exit to Springfield” Airdate: March 11, 1993 This episode is virtually flawless, the product of a series at the height of its creative powers—when the satire was savage and relevant, when names like John Swartzwelder, George Meyer, and Conan O’Brien were relatively unknown, when Maude Flanders lived. So it is that we find America’s favorite family at Painless (formerly ”Painful”) Dentistry, because Lisa is in need of braces. Meanwhile, at the nuclear plant, Mr. Burns is trying to ax the union dental plan. The rest is the stuff of syndication legend: Burns facing down ”brilliant” labor kingpin Homer Simpson; Homer Simpson facing down his own brain (”Lisa needs braces/DENTAL PLAN!”); Grampa rattling on about wearing onions on his belt. ”Last Exit” is a glorious symphony of the high and the low, of satirical shots at unions and sweet ruminations on the humiliations of adolescence (as evidenced by Lisa, who copes with a medieval mouth contraption), and, of course, all those ”D’oh!”s. The things, in other words, that make us love The Simpsons in the first place. 2. “Cape Feare” Airdate: Oct. 7, 1993 The Simpsons is, at its heart, one big parody, but even Homer Thompson could recognize ”Cape Feare” as the show’s most meticulous and manic pop-culture takeoff. Not only is it a pitch-perfect send-up of the Martin Scorsese remake (with Kelsey Grammer’s Sideshow Bob traveling to Terror Lake to hunt down and murder his pint-size nemesis, Bart), but it also features one of the most bizarre scenes in television history. We’re referring, of course, to the rakes. Think about it. How many other series would waste valuable prime-time real estate by showing a man whacking himself in the face with a garden rake not once, not twice, but NINE TIMES?!? If ever there was a gag genius in its repetitive stupidity (progressing from funny to not so funny to the funniest thing ever), this is it—merely the sharpest cut in an entire episode that just plain kills. 1. “Marge vs. the Monorail” Airdate: Jan. 14, 1993 Fast-talking huckster Lyle Lanley (Phil Hartman, natch) sells the town a faulty monorail; only through Marge’s intervention is the town saved. That’s the plot of ”Marge vs. the Monorail,” but it’s not the point. The point is that the episode has arguably the highest throwaway-gag-per-minute ratio of any Simpsons, and all of them are laugh-out-loud funny. You want parodies? In its first five minutes, ”Monorail” skewers The Flintstones, Beverly Hills Cop, The Silence of the Lambs, andBatman. Celebrity cameos? Leonard Nimoy bores the town with tales from the Star Trek set. Simpsons in-jokes? Country star Lurleen Lumpkin, from ”Colonel Homer,” has a bit part. A musical number? The Music Man‘-inspired ”The Monorail Song” is, well, inspired. Elaborate visuals that were clearly devised by a roomful of overgrown boys? This episode features giant remote-controlled mechanical ants, a radioactive squirrel, an escalator to nowhere, and—in case we haven’t mentioned it already—Leonard Nimoy. Thus we proclaim: Best. Episode. Ever. This article originally appeared on EW.com Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. 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Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Review: The Interview, The Movie You Almost Never Got to See Comments Feed I Get the Excitement, But This Deal Is Unfair to the Cuban People This Is Now the Average Life Expectancy Worldwide alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment movies Review: The Interview, The Movie You Almost Never Got to See * Richard Corliss Dec. 17, 2014 SHARE James Franco and Seth Rogen Columbia James Franco and Seth Rogen in The Interview Here's what you missed More Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star SaysTina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches MovieREVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs Correction appended A decade ago, when Trey Parker and Matt Stone’s Team America: World Police made mock of Kim Jong Il, the North Korean regime didn’t threaten retaliation — maybe because Kim, like all the other people in the movie, was portrayed as a marionette. The Democratic People’s Republic, under King Jong Il’s son Kim Jong Un, apparently had a more severe reaction to The Interview, in which two American TV journalists (James Franco and Seth Rogen) are charged by the CIA with killing the dictator while they’re in North Korea to interview him. Someone who took issue with this scenario hacked the computers of Sony Pictures, spilling internal gossip and downloading five Sony movies, including four yet to be released. As Stephen Colbert proclaimed on Monday night, the perpetrator “has to be North Korea. The only other person with that capability is a 12-year-old with BitTorrent.” Hollywood’s escalating tension about cyberterrorism, which is no joke, led to the five largest North American movie chains refusing to show The Interview, and then to Sony’s announcement that it was withdrawing the movie, originally scheduled to open Christmas Day. That’s never happened to a major-studio mainstream film just a week before it was due to appear on thousands of screens. So reviews like this one may be the public’s only way, for now, to find out what’s actually in the movie. One mixed verdict on The Interview: Beyond the ballsy premise — which got green-lighted by Sony Pictures’ U.S. moguls and its Japanese overlords, before (as the emails reveal) some late editing edicts from above — this is your basic Rogen farce about sloppy-happy-harried stoners trying to bluff their way out of trouble. Read more U.S. Sees North Korea as Culprit in Sony Hack We mean Knocked Up, Superbad, Pineapple Express, Neighbors, This Is the End and nearly all other movies Rogen has starred in or written, possibly excepting his voice work for Horton Hears a Who! and the Kung Fu Pandas. Directing The Interview with his longtime writing pal Evan Goldberg, Rogen serves up the usual farrago of sexual outrage and guy-bonding, only this time in the guise of nervy satire using real names. (When Sacha Baron Cohen played The Dictator, he made fun of a whole swath of Middle East tyrants, not just one.) In a nifty opening scene, a lovely Korean girl sings a wistful, stirring anthem to Western values that U-turns into an international death wish; one line translates as “May they drown in their blood and feces.” (It’s an extension of the “Tomorrow Belongs to Me” song from Bob Fosse’s Cabaret film, in which the camera slowly pulls back to reveal that the handsome blond teen singing it is a Hitler Youth.) Cut to the syndicated show Skylark Tonight, kind of Barbara Walters goes TMZ, with host Dave Skylark (Franco) interviewing Enimem. Suddenly the rap artist declares he’s a homosexual, saying that in rap lyrics “I’ve pretty much been leaving a breadcrumb trail of gayness.” These two excellent bits in the first few minutes make a skeptic wonder: Have Rogen and Goldberg honed their talents to create, or smoked enough pot to stumble into, a movie that works from start to finish? But as always, they’re just teasing our expectations only to deflate them. The joke barrage becomes hit-or-miss, as if the creators — including screenwriter Dan Sterling, working from a story by Rogen and Greenberg — don’t know or care which is which. Aaron, the Skyline Tonight producer played by Rogen, does know that his show isn’t 60 Minutes — because a 60 Minutes producer tells him so — and sees a chance to do News That Matters when he learns that North Korea’s Shining Star is Skylark’s No. 1 fan. Yes, he would sit for an interview, instantly stoking dim Dave’s dream of the greatest confrontation of journalist and potentate since David Frost corralled Richard Nixon. “In 10 years, Ron Howard’s going to make a movie out of this,” he exults, mis-recalling the Howard film title as Frosty Nixon. All is swell until the CIA, in the lissome form of Agent Lacey (Lizzy Caplan from Masters of Sex), adds a wrinkle to Dave and Aaron’s assignment: kill Kim. Acting with Franco on and off for half his 32 years, since Freaks and Geeks, Rogen plays Aaron as a smart, underachieving 12-year-old, with Franco as his dumb, cute friend. And say this for Franco: few stars can radiate the joy he does in playing an idiot who happens to be popular. Uttering such pearls of sagacity as “This is 2014, women are smart now,” Dave is handsome, empty TV charisma rampant. And the sick thing is that, even to a skeptic, Franco makes grinning inanity attractive. Pushing bromance even further than in other Rogen movies, the schlub and the stud exchange hugs, kisses and homoerotic endearments. “I am Gollum and you’re my Precious,” Dave tells Aaron. “I will cherish every moment; I will rub your tummy when you get back” — this when Aaron has to retrieve a CIA poison canister that he’s obliged to hide in a body part where, according to the Senate Torture Report, the agency’s interrogators sometimes inserted hummus in their terror suspects. Monitoring the pickup from Langley, Agent Lacey must be pleased that Aaron more or less voluntarily gives himself a colonic. See, that proves it’s not torture! Read more 3 Reasons People Think North Korea Hacked Sony Amid all the cartoon characterizations, the most complex and sympathetic — or at least pathetic — figure is Kim, played with alternating charm and menace by Randall Park (Danny Chung on the most recent season of Veep). Like Dave and Aaron, Kim is stuck in horny preadolescence. He loves basketball — with the hoops lowered so he can dunk — and Katy Perry, but with the poignancy of a poor little rich boy who must play the adult in his public appearances. Meeting Dave gives him a chance to reveal the real Kim, not a god but just one of the guys: he pees and poos. Dave’s possibly genuine hookup with this man-child might pose a threat to his American BFF, except that Aaron’s having a fling with Sook, Kim’s most trusted security guard, a role to which Diana Bang (Jiao on Bates Motel) also brings more craft and heft to the project than required of the Occidental performers. Indeed, if the real Kim were to see The Interview, he might be flattered by the portraits of the two main North Koreans — at least until the last reel of political score-settling, war games and Tarantinian stuff blowing up. In its parade of ribald gags and infantile preoccupation with body parts, not to mention a climactic decapitation, water-balloon style, The Interview displays all the mindless excesses that repressive regimes condemn in Hollywood movies. Which may be Rogen and Goldberg’s point — “See, here’s what they hate about us. And you’re gonna love it.” Maybe you will love The Interview — if you can ever see the movie — as much as some people hate or fear it. But if you’re hoping for any cogent political satire here, then the joke’s on you. Correction: This article originally misidentified The Interview’s screenwriter. He is Dan Sterling. Sign up for THE BRIEF and more view example ____________________ Submit Read next: Everything We Know About Sony, ‘The Interview’ and North Korea Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Stephen Colbert: A Great Talk-Show Host? No, the Greatest! Comments Feed Capitulating to Terrorists Will Only Make Things Worse Boko Haram Suspected in Mass Kidnap in Northeast Nigeria alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment Television Stephen Colbert: A Great Talk-Show Host? No, the Greatest! * Richard Corliss Dec. 18, 2014 SHARE Farewell to a magnificent comic actor who skewered the news, the media and his own blowhard character — and made it all incorrigibly, indelibly appealing + READ ARTICLE More 8 Things We’d Like to See from The Colbert Report Finale The Dream Continues for Stephen Colbert’s Ice Cream 5 Times Stephen Colbert Changed the World I’m blue. After nine years and two months, The Colbert Report is off the air. I’ve seen each of the 1446 episodes leading to tonight’s sign-off, and cherished almost all of them. The show’s conclusion will leave a void in my life and in my writing, since I’ve shoehorned Colbert references into reviews of Superbad, Prince of Persia, Pompeii, Jackass 3D, Nightcrawler and Julie Taymor’s The Tempest, and into essays about Richard Nixon, Ingmar Bergman, Derek Jeter, makeup artist Dick Smith and the 2012 Super Bowl. For my wife Mary Corliss and me, Colbert has been destination viewing. Even in the early years, we never took the show’s excellence for granted, agreeing that some day we’d look back on the double whammy of The Daily Show and The Colbert Report as the golden age of TV’s singeing singing satire. That age ends now. Colbert is gone from TV until September, when he takes over David Letterman’s CBS 11:35 slot and, at 51, becomes the oldest man to debut as the host of a late-night network talk show. (Joan Rivers was 53 when she began The Late Show in 1986 on the upstart Fox network.) He’ll be off the air for nine months — a long time for admirers like me to go cold, or Colbert, turkey. And when he finally starts on CBS, he’ll just be Stephen Colbert. Not “Stephen Colbert,” the greatest fake newsman in TV history, and one of the richest fictional characters in any popular art form of the past decade. I was around (as a toddler) for the late-night pioneers Steve Allen and Jack Paar, and for the 29-year reign of Johnny Carson. They established comedy as the tone de unit for post-prime time TV. And fealty forever to Jon Stewart, who took command of The Daily Show in 1999 and turned it into the prime exemplar of cogent, corrosive political comedy in any medium. The edge Colbert has on all these giants is that he is a magnificent comic actor, commenting cuttingly on his egotistical right-wing “Colbert” character even as he seems to live inside it. He made that Colbert both politically outrageous and personally appealing. Without Stewart, of course, The Colbert Report would not have existed. Both shows skewer politicians, pop culture and that inexhaustible source of satire, the Fox News Channel. (It’s amazing that, with the same butts for their humor, the two shows rarely cracked the same jokes.) But the on-air Stewart was himself, not “Jon Stewart.” Colbert, who had been a Daily Show correspondent for two years before Stewart replaced Craig Kilborn as host, was already honing his pompous-ignoramus persona, which he described in 2006 as “a fool who has spent a lot of his life playing not the fool – one who is able to cover it at least well enough to deal with the subjects that he deals with.” In other words, the authoritative bluffer, the officious fraud, the idiot know-it-all. He played another incarnation of this all-hat-no-cattle character on the Comedy Central sitcom Strangers With Candy (1999-2000), which he also wrote with costars Amy Sedaris and Paul Dinello. High-school history teacher Chuck Noblet was every bit as seemingly self-assured and wildly misinformed as the Colbert Colbert. He instructed his students that Gandhi “was devoured by his followers,” that the 1840s Opium War was between China and Mexico and that the tragedy of Martin Luther King’s life was that “all this footage is in black and white. Imagine how powerful it would have been in color.” Frequently mentioning his lovely wife, Chuck actually carried a man-crush for Dinello’s slightly-less-closeted art teacher. (Dinello, a Colbert Report executive producer, has made appearances as Tad the building manager. And Sedaris crashed the Dec. 3rd episodes as a “canceled” guest.) When The Colbert Report premiered on Oct. 17, 2005, a lot of people predicted that the character would quickly grow stale. This blowhard pundit, modeled on Fox News’ Bill O’Reilly, was too meta; to play along, you had to get the joke that he was dispensing a right-wing take on the news from a left-wing perspective. (I sometimes wonder: Do all his viewers appreciate that?) One wondered how long he could sustain the role: take the audience’s cheers as he trotted over to the guest’s table, or denounce bears as “godless killing machines,” or deflect charges of race prejudices because he’s color-blind (“People tell me I’m white, and I believe them…”) or preen through repeated segments of “Who’s Honoring Me Now?” The answer turned out to be: forever. For Colbert and his splendid writing team had created a ferociously funny Col-BEAR — or Col-BARE, if you think this character exposes aspects of the man whom impersonates him —as an alternative to the bright, quiet, modest fellow whose family pronounces its surname COLbert. Both Colberts are ardent Catholics, born and raised in South Carolina and married with three children. But the TV Colbert went to Dartmouth, humiliates his underpaid staff and has harbored an almost stalker-y obsession with his teen love Charlene. The real Colbert graduated from Northwestern; is by all accounts a kind, caring boss; is married to Evelyn McGee (who played his mother on one episode of Strangers With Candy); and for years taught Sunday school near his Montclair, N.J. home. Need we also say, the real Colbert is a liberal. The last weeks of shows have put poignant ends to some enduring Colbert shtick. His continuing segment, “Formidable Opponent,” in which the more moderate Stephen (blue tie) would debate an issue with the more conservative Stephen (red tie), got a final segment this week in which the cross-cutting ended with a split screen of the two men; and as red-tie Stephen faded out, blue-tie Stephen said, “And you, Sir, have been a most formidable opponent.” (Verklempt!) And in a visit last week to George Washington University, he turned his familiar conundrum to political guests — “George W. Bush: great President, or the greatest President?” — by asking the current President of the United States, “Barack Obama: great President, or the greatest President?” We’ll bet that the “real” Stephen was touched by that moment. We know that he did get pumped by his audience’s cheers at the top of the show and, in the early years, express pleasured surprise at his renown — for example that “my Wikipedia page is longer than the line for the Lutherans.” (Wikipedia’s Colbert pages now run more than 300,000 words, to about 15,300 for Lutheranism.) Colbert has intimated he thought that, after nine years, his character had run its course. But isn’t it possible that COL-bert will miss Col-BEAR as much as we do? If so, Mr. Colbert, please come back, at least occasionally. Your replacement show, Larry Wilmore’s The Minority Report, will be on hiatus eight weeks between its debut in January and your September stint on CBS. You may have felt worn out by “Stephen Colbert,” but we need more of the Greatest TV Talk-Show Host. Sign up for THE BRIEF and more view example ____________________ Submit Read next: Review: The Colbert Report Is Dead. Long Live Stephen Colbert! 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » 5 Election Comedies to Get You Ready for the Polls Comments Feed Tinder CEO Sean Rad Is Stepping Down Django Unchained Actress Says Racial Profiling Made Her ‘Explode’ alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment movies 5 Election Comedies to Get You Ready for the Polls * Eliza Berman @lizabeaner Nov. 4, 2014 SHARE Because it's our civic duty to laugh More Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star SaysTina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches MovieREVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs If Election Day were a comedy, this is how it would play out: One candidate would be unequivocally good, the other ruthlessly evil. Political operatives would control the play-by-play from a corner office far from the action. An unexpected candidate would emerge from nowhere in the eleventh hour, throwing the race into a tizzy. The deserving candidate would lose by a tight margin, but when the evil candidate’s fraud is revealed, the rightful victor would take the throne. Bad guys out, good guys in. But Election Day is not a comedy, and good and evil aren’t two poles separated by an impossible distance. Good isn’t always as good as it purports to be. Good, alas, often loses. It’s refreshing, though, to visit a world as simple as the one these movies imagine. Perhaps you’re a jaded would-be voter in need of convincing that some good might come from pulling that ancient lever, or maybe you long to escape the disappointment of your candidate’s certain defeat, and find yourself instead enveloped in the warmth of Chris Farley’s glow. Either way, here are five election comedies to motivate you, console you, and get you ready for the polls on Election Day. Black Sheep (1996) Black Sheep belongs to a class of movies that strikes you as pure comedic genius when you’re 12 and senseless drivel once your tastes have matured. But if you can tap into whatever lingering appreciation you have for scatological humor, it’s worth watching if only to spend 87 minutes with Chris Farley. Largely a vehicle for Farley’s brutishly brilliant physical comedy, Black Sheep has many of the elements of a typical election flick. Revolving around Farley’s Mike Donnelly, hapless kid brother to Washington gubernatorial candidate Al Donnelly, the movie pits familial love against political ambitions. Mike’s efforts to help the campaign unfailingly result in public embarrassment, threatening Al’s chances of success. Like many in the genre, the movie focuses more on the campaign than the election itself. Donnelly is pure goodness, his dedication to his brother matched only by his concern for his would-be constituents. Incumbent Governor Evelyn Tracy is pure evil, sporting a win-at-all-costs mentality that counts fraud and slander among its tactics. It’s an absurd comedy of errors in which the younger Donnelly can’t seem to catch a break, but nestled between the pratfalls and the gags is one ingredient that often runs in short supply at the polls: just a little bit of heart. IFRAME: https://www.youtube.com/embed/KKN6JJYIWWY?feature=oembed Wag the Dog (1997) The media is as crucial to the outcome of an election as its candidates’ campaigns, and Wag the Dog shows just how powerful the news can be — even when it’s fake. Like many good election movies, and a fair share of actual elections, this one revolves around a sex scandal. The sitting president is accused, less than two weeks before the election, of sexually assaulting a young girl. To distract from the scandal and inspire patriotism among voters, the White House hires spin-doctor Conrad Brean (Robert de Niro), who enlists Hollywood producer Stanley Motss (Dustin Hoffman) to stage a fake war with Albania. Wag the Dog is intelligent satire in contrast to Black Sheep’s inane Looney Toon-esque shenanigans. Released one month before the Monica Lewinsky scandal, the movie had Roger Ebert perceptively noting, “It is getting harder and harder for satire to stay ahead of reality.” Rather than dishing up an inspiring good-guys-win narrative, it reminds the audience — American voters — how gullible we can be in the face of an effective media campaign. “Why does a dog wag its tail?” the opening credits ask. “Because a dog is smarter than its tail. If the tail were smarter, the tail would wag the dog.” In Wag the Dog, we are the brainless tail, ever at the whim of the scheming dog. IFRAME: https://www.youtube.com/embed/E-Il_1qAs_o?feature=oembed Election (1999) “Winning isn’t everything,” says Tracy Flick. “Win or lose, ethical conduct is the most important thing.” Reese Witherspoon’s Flick is desperate for political glory in this portrayal of a viciously contested race for student council president. For a story about student government, it has all the trappings of a full-grown adult election: sex scandals and personal vendettas, witch hunts and sabotage. Blaming Tracy for her part in an affair that got his best friend fired, popular teacher Jim McAllister (Matthew Broderick) will do anything to take her down. His meddling leads to a contest that stands in stark contrast to the ideals he espouses in his social studies class. Rotating between narrators, director Alexander Payne explores Tracy’s statement: Is ethical conduct more important than victory? And does it guarantee victory, or all but rule it out? Witherspoon delivers one of her most memorable roles as the type-A Flick, who sees victory as her destiny, and destiny as inescapable. IFRAME: https://www.youtube.com/embed/0eJpmeoLXLg?feature=oembed Napoleon Dynamite (2004) Napoleon Dynamite may be a geek movie before it is an election movie, but the election between Pedro Sánchez (Efren Ramirez) and Summer Wheatley (Haylie Duff) plays a central role in the nerdy protagonists’ victory over their high school’s popular posse. Pedro is a transfer student whom Napoleon befriends and supports in his campaign for school president. He has the charisma of a sloth in a coma, always donning a blank stare above his bolo tie. His opponent, Summer, is equally uninspiring, banking on her social status to deliver her to victory. Pedro’s election speech leaves much to be desired. When he promises the students, “If you vote for me, all of your wildest dreams will come true,” his tone is like that of a doctor delivering bad news. But a vote for Pedro is less a vote for change than it is a symbol of the underdog getting his due, a nerd with no ideas defeating a cheerleader with no ideas. Many a voter will sigh, waiting in line to cast her ballot, that she’s choosing the lesser of two evils, the better option between two mediocre choices. Napoleon Dynamite asks us to make this choice — and to compensate for its candidates’ lack of imagination, it gave us the dance scene of the decade. IFRAME: https://www.youtube.com/embed/SXHxxj1oBeI?feature=oembed The Campaign (2012) The Campaign opens with a quote from Ross Perot, a presidential candidate perhaps best remembered for the size of his ears. “War has rules. Mud wrestling has rules. Politics has no rules.” And so the tone is set for opponents Cam Brady (Will Ferrell) and Marty Huggins (Zach Galifianakis), an incumbent and an underdog vying for one seat in Congress. The Campaign offers a parody of modern elections that rings true for all its hyperbole. Gains in the polls are driven by strong hair and the frequency with which a candidate invokes America, Jesus and Freedom. Pandering is the rule, as Brady tells every group he meets — troops, farmers, audio installation specialists, and Filipino tilt-a-whirl operators — that they are the backbone of America. In its best moments — when it’s not resorting to fat jokes and bathroom humor — The Campaign is funny because it’s so familiar. Big money decides who runs and what they stand for. Campaign managers shape candidates’ images, from their wives’ hairstyles to the eagle-inspired artwork adorning their living rooms. And a significant focus on attack ads, amplifying a particle of dirt into a full-blown dust storm, distracts from the time candidates spend discussing what they actually stand for. It would be farfetched to call The Campaign a cinematic feat. But it does make us consider the just-discernable line between reality and farce. IFRAME: https://www.youtube.com/embed/l_yBhqoOFqU?feature=oembed Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Hear the Roots’ “When the People Cheer”: The First Single Off Their New Album Comments Feed Paul Rudd Ran Around New York City Asking If People Would Sleep With Him For a Dollar Game of Thrones Renewed For Two More Seasons alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Entertainment MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death Chirlane McCray: New York Values Are Foreign to Ted Cruz REVIEW: Ride Along 2 Offers More of the Same Silly Laughs TIME Entertainment Music Hear the Roots’ “When the People Cheer”: The First Single Off Their New Album * Melissa Locker @woolyknickers April 8, 2014 SHARE Def Jam Recordings The Roots Their new album is due out May 13 on Def Jam In between singing the Frozen soundtrack with Idina Menzel, performing “We Can’t Stop” with Miley Cyrus and completing the rest of their Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon duties, The Roots have somehow managed to make a brand-new album. The ominously titled And Then You Shoot Your Cousin is due out May 13 on Def Jam Records, as confirmed via Instagram by Questlove. Band member Black Thought described the band’s forthcoming 11th album in an interview with XXL: “It’s conceptual; it’s another concept album in the spirit of undun, but it’s not just about just one kind of character, we create quite a few different characters in this record. It’s satire, but in that satire it’s an analysis of some of the stereotypes perpetuated in–not only the hip-hop community, but in the community.” The first single, “When the People Cheer,” helps explain how the band is incorporating that heady concept into the albums’ tracks. The song starts out with a nursery rhyme and then quickly veers into darker territory with heavy lyrics. Listen here: IFRAME: http://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2F tracks%2F143600540&visual=true&auto_play=false&hide_related=false MORE: 10 Questions for Questlove MORE: The Roots of The Roots: Everything You Need to Know About Jimmy Fallon’s Band Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] -- #TIME » Thought Catalog Accidentally Publishes Fake Feminist Essay Jokingly Penned by Gym Bro Comments Feed Let Paul McCartney Introduce You To Bert Berns, The Best Songwriter You’ve Never Heard Of Snoopy Gets a 3D Makeover in New Peanuts Trailer alternate alternate TIME WordPress.com TIME Time.com MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE Home U.S. Politics World Business Tech Health Science Entertainment Newsfeed Living Sports History The TIME Vault Magazine Ideas Parents TIME Labs Money LIFE The Daily Cut Photography Videos TIME Shop The 100 Most Influential People The 25 Best Inventions of 2015 Future of Giving Know Right Now Next Generation Leaders Person of the Year 2015 Top 10 Everything of 2015 Top of the World A Year In Space Subscribe Newsletters Feedback Privacy Policy Your California Privacy Rights Terms of Use Ad Choices Ad Choices RSS TIME Apps TIME for Kids Advertising Reprints and Permissions Site Map Help Customer Service © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Newsfeed MY ACCOUNT SIGN IN SIGN OUT SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE MORE (BUTTON) U.S. Edition * U.S. Edition * Europe, Middle East and Africa Edition * Asia Edition * South Pacific Edition Watch Saturday Night Live’s Touching Tribute to David Bowie The Decade That Made David Bowie a Superstar All Content Celine Dion’s Brother Dies Just Days After Her Husband David Bowie Honored With His Own Lightning Bolt-Shaped Constellation Wonder Woman Movie Will Be Set During World War I, Co-Star Says David Bowie Dressed for the Future All Content The Simpsons Inadvertently Paid Tribute to Alan Rickman and David Bowie Three Years Ago Tina Fey and Ronda Rousey to Co-Star in Do Nothing Bitches Movie Tracy Morgan Making New FX Comedy With Key & Peele Star News Anchor Apologizes for Joke About Alan Rickman’s Death TIME Newsfeed Internet Thought Catalog Accidentally Publishes Fake Feminist Essay Jokingly Penned by Gym Bro * Eliana Dockterman @edockterman March 18, 2014 SHARE 477683891 Getty Images Women in their 20s need to mess around with all men, or else the suffragists died for nothing More Netflix is Cracking Down on Viewers Spoofing Locations to Access Foreign ShowsMore People Than Ever Are Googling ‘Lucky Numbers’ Amid Powerball FeverSee All the Biggest Instagram Cliches in One Hypnotic Video What’s wrong with this picture? On Saturday, Thought Catalog published a “feminist” essay called 5 Things Women Need to Do in Their 20’s (Or Else the Suffragists Died For Nothing) that wasn’t written by a feminist at all. In fact, it was reportedly written by a poster on the Bodybuilding.com forum as a total joke. Using the pen name Anne Gus, the user described himself (herself?) thusly: “I’m a feminist. I’m a woman. I’m strong. I’m in my twenties. I’m beautiful. I deserve love. Give me it.” If that didn’t tip Thought Catalog editors off to the fact that the post was satire, maybe some of the included suggestions should have. The highlights: From suggestion #2, Party: Make sure never to pay for drinks though, you’re better than that. You’re young and free and women haven’t come this far just to throw away their salary on alcohol when chic shoes are so expensive. (Yes we live in a world where women’s shoes are more expensive than mens, thanks patriarchy.)” From suggestion #3, Major in women’s studies: This one is a no-brainer. If you don’t agree you’re probably an ignorant, sexist, transphobic, slut-shaming mysogynist cis white male and possibly a rapist… I was feeling peckish so I ordered three happy meals, the order was placed on two trays, and even though I was on the phone, that loser thought it was OK to talk to me. Rape apologist. He asked me if I wanted help carrying the trays to my kids. I quickly put the call on hold and gave him a lesson in not practicing fat-shaming and sexism anywhere in my presence, and nowhere else for that matter. Susan B. Anthony would be proud. AryanofValhalla, the gym bro responsible, came clean on the Bodybuilding forum: I can’t believe my eyes misc, I was bored one evening a week ago and so I wrote a satire article from the perspective of a twenty something feminist woman and sent it in to Thought Catalog, A few minutes ago I got an email saying they published the article My penname is Anne Gus , as an homage to the misc It’s happening Anne Gus has gone on to write “Sorry Dudes: Here’s 5 Reasons That Girl You LIke Doesn’t Want Anything To Do With You.” If you’ve ever wondered whether Thought Catalog will publish literally anything, now you have your answer. (We’ve reached out to Thought Catalog and will update if we hear back.) Tap to read full story 0 0 Read Next Your browser is out of date. Please update your browser at http://update.microsoft.com * Home * U.S. * Politics * World * Business * Tech * Health * Science * Entertainment * Newsfeed * Living * Ideas * Parents * Sports * History * The TIME Vault * Magazine * Subscribe * Give a Gift * TIME Shop * Newsletters * Customer Service * Site Map * Privacy Policy * Your California Privacy Rights * Terms of Use * Advertising * Ad Choices Ad Choices © 2016 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by WordPress.com VIP [p?c1=2&c2=6035728&c3=&c4=&c5=&c6=&c15=&cv=2.0&cj=1] --