Daily Archives: March 1, 2012

‘Revenge’ Season 1, Episode 16, ‘Scandal’: TV Recap

March 1, 2012
By
ABC

Everyone is being questioned. Emily. Nolan. Daniel. Declan. Charlotte. Everyone is at the Hamptons Police Station. Daniel’s got 15 stitches in the back of his head and he’s sticking to what Victoria told him, he’s not saying anything.

Once out of questioning, Emily wants to take Daniel home but he wants to speak with his mother first. Emily takes that time to speak with Nolan, airing her worries that Tyler could have told Daniel everything. Fortunately, Emily buried her infinity box in the sand, so that’s out of the way.

On the drive home, Daniel sticks to the same story. He doesn’t remember anything he tells Emily. At home, he tells her to take Sammy for a walk and digs up the spot where the infinity box used to live. Odds and ends are inside, and Emily returns to find Daniel wanting to know why. She brushes it off as past owners and tells Daniel she loves him.

Jack heads back to his house, only to find Declan sitting in the dark wondering where he’s been. Declan sounds suspicious and spots Jack’s black hoodie. Jack asks what Declan saw on the beach and he says that Charlotte got a better look.

We finally found out what tied the Grayson’s to the downed flight they pegged on David Clarke. Turns out, Conrad was laundering money for the group that claimed responsibility. In a flashback Conrad tells Victoria this.

Flask forward to Conrad and Victoria together again.

Jack is on Emily’s front porch when she returns home, saying he had engine trouble, which is why he did not leave for Haiti. Jack asks about the police and Emily responds that they are not keeping “us in the loop.”

Emily tells Nolan that Jack had engine trouble and wants to know why he lied. After all Shamu was on deck and documented Amanda coming by.

Declan spies Charlotte taking pills and finds out she was high on the beach. She marches out because she doesn’t want to answer anymore questions.

The police come to arrest Daniel, who is at Emily’s house. Victoria and Conrad come running in, reminiscent of the David and Amanda Clarke flashback in one of the first episodes. Seems like they always make it just in time.

At the police station once again, Mr. Brooks, the Grayson’s lawyer says “you’re rich, who hates you?” Daniel spills what he knows to the lawyer, which isn’t much.

Jack climbs into his car and finds Amanda’s jacket with a receipt for a rather large money transfer. He takes the receipt to Nolan for answers, as Nolan is the all-knowing sultan of technology. He can trace anything to anyone. Nolan advises Jack to let Amanda go but Jack refuses.

Victoria pays Emily a visit, to deliver her engagement gift and make sure she is going to stay beside Daniel. Then Charlotte makes a visit to Emily, wondering about Amanda and her real father, David Clarke.

A flashback comes with Victoria and David sitting on the beach. David wants Victoria to go to his aunt Charlotte’s in Kansas to escape the world but Victoria – much as Emily did to Daniel last episode – refuses.

Mr. Brooks is the next to visit Emily, wanting to know about the skeletons in Daniel’s closet. She tells him about a past DUI, which Mr. Brooks takes to the Grayson’s saying that he wants to know everything.

On the night of the murder, the security cameras were tampered with, Emily knows it’s Takeda but the police are spinning. She wants to know how Takeda got to Nolan. Turns out there’s another man in Emily’s life that wants her to have Nolan’s protection.

Ashley has become the Grayson family spokesperson, a role that Mr. Brooks thinks could land her as a movie star.

Declan finds the black hoodie of Jack’s and assures him that he will protect his big brother.

Mr. Brooks then comes into the bar wanting to know about Amanda. Jack plays it cool but Brooks knows they were dating. Like the Grayson’s he wants to find Amanda. So does Jack, which is why he chooses to stay and not run away, as Nolan advised him.

Conrad and Victoria are living under the same 24,000 square foot home, something they together giggle about.

But there’s no laughing the next day in the courtroom, when Daniel is held without bail at a maximum-security prison. He’s shouting to his mother to “do something.”

Photos have sprung up on the Internet of Jack. Being the sultan of technology, Nolan traces them back to Ashley and wants to know why. She doesn’t have an answer.

The final flashback is to Emily running into her house after Tyler’s murder only to find Takeda. They fight and Takeda gives Emily the photo that was going to expose her, of her names with “X’s” on the infamous Grayson Global Retreat photo. Except the photo earlier in the show had X’s on people’s faces, not listed with their names at the top. Takeda tells Emily that she cannot save both Jack and Amanda.

Busy Philipps on Bathroom Breaks, Oscars Dates, and Her Eclectic Style

March 1, 2012
By
Getty Images
Actresses Busy Philipps, right, and Michelle Williams arrive at the 84th Annual Academy Awards held at the Hollywood & Highland Center on February 26, 2012 in Hollywood, California.

If Michelle Williams ever decides she doesn’t need Busy Philipps as her BFF, we call dibs.

Funny girl Philipps, current star of “Cougar Town” and an alum of “Dawson’s Creek,” is as good of a friend as any girl could ever hope for. We’re talking the kind of friend who, when asked by Oscar-nominee Williams to accompany her to the Academy Awards, chose a steel gray Dolce & Gabbana gown for the red carpet because she knew it would be the perfect complement to Williams’ watermelon-hued Louis Vuitton dress.

While we can’t all be besties with Philipps, we can, in a way, shop with her, thanks to her collaboration with flash-sale site, Rue La La.

Philipps recently picked goodies for her own online boutique, including Tibi clothes and Alex Toys (the latter of which she picked with her adorable mini-me daughter, Birdie, in mind). In return, Rue La La is making a donation to the charity of Philipps’ choice, Step Up Women’s Network. The two-day boutique launches Thursday.

Speakeasy caught up with Philipps on her way back from an Isabel Marant sample sale and chatted about her love of discounts and her bad luck with bathroom breaks. Edited excerpts:

How did the partnership with Rue La La come about?

Busy Philipps: I’m a sucker for a sale. I don’t understand why anyone wants to pay full price for anything because everything goes on sale. I love sale websites. In fact—this is almost kind of embarrassing—I’m coming from an Isabel Marant sample sale. I literally went to downtown LA today to a sample sale.

When my publicist called and said Rue La La is doing this partnership, I’m like, ‘Oh, Rue La La? I’m on it every day. Of course. This is right up my alley.’ As a mom and a woman and an actress, any time you’re able to combine something that you like doing for fun with charity and doing good for others, I feel like it’s kind of a no brainer.

How do you describe your style?

It’s fairly eclectic. Especially with Birdie I’m a fan of almost old-fashioned-y-looking dresses for little girls but with bright colors. I love little Peter Pan collars and little puff sleeves. The rugs that I picked out and the pillows with the little owls, sort of like whimsical throw pillows—I feel like you can never enough whimsical throw pillows in your house, in your life. My husband probably disagrees.

You recently attended the Academy Awards with your BFF, Michelle Williams. How did you two become friends?

We were set up to be friends by a mutual friend, who thought that we would really love each other. And we did. We fell instantly in love.

It was right before I got [Dawson’s Creek]. We shot that television show in a small town in North Carolina, so it’s a very heightened experience when you’re away from all of your actual friends and family. We became each other’s everything in that time.

Did coordinate dresses for this year’s Oscars?

Oh, for sure. You don’t want to clash. You know that you’re going together that probably there will be a couple pictures together so you don’t want to clash.

At the same time, I feel like I’ve always tried to keep in mind that it’s really her day. Even though I’m an actress as well and I want to look pretty and I know I’m going to be photographed, I don’t want to show up wearing a real tight, hot pink corseted number or something that’s going to draw attention from my best friend and her special day and celebrating her.

I hadn’t seen the picture of the dress that she was wearing to the Oscars but she told me what color it was going to be. I didn’t want to wear black–I didn’t think black would look good with that sort of coral-y watermelon–I just thought steel gray was perfect.

Did you have a favorite part of the Oscars broadcast?

The part that we missed when we were in the bathroom, literally, was the Cirque du Soleil. This is the third Oscars that I’ve attended with Michelle and the third time that we’ve missed something good.

The first year [in 2006] we totally missed that crazy rap group that performed. What was that rap group called? “It’s Hard Out There for a Pimp,” the Terrence Howard movie? They went bonkers on stage and then they won best song and it was all anyone could talk about for weeks and Michelle and I were in the bathroom.

The second time we went, we missed something else because we were in the bathroom. Clearly we need to plan our bathroom breaks better because we always miss the good stuff.

Do you have any responsibilities as her official date to awards shows?

I have to carry the protein bar in my purse. It’s like being a maid of honor or something, I always try to keep an emergency kit of Tylenol and double-sided tape and a lip balm and a little powder compact. Plus, I’m responsible for the tickets.

I don’t know why more people haven’t wised up to bringing your friends. It would be such a drag to have to sit there with, no offense, one of your parents. My husband even said to me, ‘Baby if you get nominated for an Emmy, you can totally take Michelle.’ It’s not really fun for men.

How are things going on “Cougar Town?”

You know, we’re excited to be back. We’re hoping that people start realizing that we’re back on the air because it doesn’t seem like we have. The next few weeks we have some really amazing episodes coming up. I know “American Idol” won’t be on against us anymore and “Glee” will be in repeats and there’s no new “NCIS on,” so feel free to check out “Cougar Town.” We’re here and we’re ready to make you laugh on Tuesday nights.

‘American Idol,’ Season 11, Episode 14, Female Semifinalists Perform: TV Recap

March 1, 2012
By
FOX

Tonight, the 12 remaining girls, including one Hallie, one Haley and one Hollie, took the stage on “American Idol,” but by the end of tomorrow night’s show only half will remain. The guys gave it their best shot last night. The judges, Steven Tyler, Randy Jackson and Jennifer Lopez, were much, much harder on the girls and more open with their criticism. Asked to compare by Ryan Seacrest, JLo and Randy (in between “yo’s”) suggested the excitement of the first night might have caused them to let a few guys slide.

First up: Chelsea Sorrell with a little “Cowboy Casanova” by Carrie Underwood. She got more criticism tonight from the judges than the entire group of guys collectively got last night. Randy thought it wasn’t Chelsea’s best choice of songs. JLo thought the song made her sound nasally, but acknowledged it “sucks to go first.” Steven suggested she watch her phrasing and her timing, though in general they all admit to liking her.

Rhode Island DJ, Erika Van Pelt, gave it her all with “What About Love” and it seemed to impress the judges. “You are one of our power voices,” said JLo, who also thought she could have gone even further. Randy and Steven both loved the confidence she showed on stage and thought she had some Adele in her voice.

“One and Only” by Adele was the song of choice of Jen Hirsh and she did it justice. JLo thought she was the first person to really let loose and Steven thought her voice was soaring and she’s “got what it takes.” Randy said, “I think you’re one of the greatest singers in this competition this year.”

Brielle Von Hugel, from Staten Island, known best during auditions for her stage mom, sang “Dock of the Bay.” And while she got off to a bumpy start, she opened up the gates as the song progressed and gave a good performance. Steven told her she’s got a “great sense of the blues.”  JLo loves the true performer in Brielle and her ability to “eat it up” out there. Randy liked it when she hit the middle of the song and really hit her sweet spot.

Hallie Day might just be one to watch in the coming weeks. She’s got the look and the range to keep her going for a while in the contest. JLo told her she “looks like a star.” Steven’s always had a thing for this girl and liked her retro voice. Randy said, “You got the voice.”

Then the country girls took over the stage. First, Skylar Laine sang a very energetic “Stay With Me.” Randy was impressed by her rocking country girl sayings she’s Reba mixed with Kelly Clarkson. JLo said she loves her energy, “like Tina Turner went country.” Steven said she was “on fire.”

With a tough act to follow, Lonestars “Amazed” was the song of choice for Baylie Brown. And maybe from nerves she sounded weak when she got started, but by the end of the song showed more promise. Steven told her she was pretty and that he’d heard her sing better. JLo didn’t think she had “total control.” Randy wasn’t loving it either.

She’s got the look, the voice and the range, which Hollie Cavanagh showed off when she sang “Reflection.” Steven loved her performance. His only criticism: “Let your hair down next time.” JLo thinks she’s got a shot at the Idol title and Randy was really digging her. This is one to watch.

Oregon girl Haley Johnsen sang a very unique and unexpected rendition of “Sweet Dreams.”  Will voters take to it? JLo hoped America could hear the “special things you could do with your voice.” Steven felt she “pulled it through.” Randy struggled for words, but called it “a bit of a nightmare, instead of a dream,” marking the first really harsh words we’ve heard this week. Ryan followed up with Randy prompting him to go to call the song “trainwrecky.”

Ryan called on Shannon Magrane’s Major League Baseball dad, rekindling the harsh feelings Mr. Magrane briefly had toward Steven after hearing racy comments directed at Shannon. Everybody laughed it off and the 6 foot tall, 16-year-old hit the stage and sang “Go Light Your World.” The judges were digging it and impressed by the power of her voice for someone her age.

With swollen vocal chords, Jessica Sanchez was worried about her performance. But she seem to overcome as she sang alum Jennifer Hudson’s “Love You I Do.” The standing ovation by everyone including the judges, and Randy’s inability to get a word in over the screaming crowds, pretty much said it all. In fact, Randy said “one of the best of the two nights.” Steven said, “Your voice is perfect, your pitch is perfect.” Imagine what this girl could have done in perfect health.

And more Adele, performed by the seemingly sweet Elise Testone who sang a gorgeous rendition of “One and Only” while accompanying herself on the piano. JLo brought Elise near tears by telling her she might very well be the best there. Randy agreed and called her “a force to be reckoned with.” Steven loved her showing. Amusingly, Elise told Ryan the flowers in her hair were saved from room service.

And the voting begins. It’s going to be some tough picking for the girls. Tomorrow night is the first results show of the season.

Who did you think was better: the girls or the guys?

Follow Stephanie Krikorian on Twitter @tvnewschick.

‘The Colbert Report’ Goes Back Online

March 1, 2012
By

After crashing because of technical difficulties, it looks as if Viacom’s websites are back online,  including the homepages for “The Daily Show” and “The Colbert Report.” To celebrate, watch Stephen Colbert mark his 1,000th show.

Want to Live Like Mike? Michael Jordan’s Home is For Sale

March 1, 2012
By

Former NBA star Michael Jordan has put his longtime Chicago-area home on the market. The property includes an indoor basketball complex and a gate engraved with his iconic jersey number. The asking price is $29 million. Watch the video. For more go to our fellow blog Developments.

Davy Jones and The Monkees: A Look Back

March 1, 2012
By
Everett
Davy Jones, 1966.

Davy Jones, pop idol and lead singer of The Monkees, died Wednesday at the age of 66. Jones, who started out his career in acting, became a teen sensation in the 1960s when he was cast in the television show about a rock quartet, inspired by The Beatles film “A Hard Day’s Night.”

The show ran from 1966 to 1968 and generated hits such as “I’m a Believer” and “Last Train to Clarksville.” After the group broke up, Jones continued to perform in both music and television.

Here’s a look back at his career.

Follow Barbara Chai on Twitter: @barbarachai

Did Davy Jones and The Monkees Get the Respect They Deserved?

March 1, 2012
By
Mirrorpix/Courtesy Everett Collection
Davy Jones after arriving in Manchester from Los Angeles, January 7, 1970.

Monkees lead singer Davy Jones, whose death at the age of 66 was confirmed today, didn’t always get the respect he may have deserved. Because the Monkees were a made-for-TV group, many critics and fans routinely and reflexively dismissed their music as ephemeral.

But over the years, some top musical performers–rockers, pop stars, and jazz singers–have found worth and inspiration in the music of the Monkees. Covers of the songs performed by the group have brought out complexities that may not have been apparent in the original versions. Jazz vocalist Cassandra Wilson’s interpretation of “Last Train to Clarksville,” is a particular standout.

Here are some of the top covers of songs the Monkees helped make famous:

Cassandra Wilson, “Last Train to Clarksville.”

RUN-D.M.C., “Mary, Mary.”

The Four Tops, “Daydream Believer.”

Smash Mouth, “I’m a Believer.”

Taj Mahal, “Take a Giant Step.”

Sex Pistols, “(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone.”

Paul Westerberg, “Daydream Believer.”

What are your favorite covers of songs associated with the Monkees? Leave your thoughts in the comments.

Christopher John Farley is the editorial director of the Wall Street Journal blogs. Follow him on Twitter at @cjfarley

New Trailer for ‘The Avengers’ Hits the Web

March 1, 2012
By

A new trailer for Joss Whedon’s superhero film, “The Avengers,” was released today. Compared with the first trailer, the new one fleshes out the story more. Amid aerial views of a ravaged city, Nick Fury (Samuel Jackson) assembles a team of superheros for The Avengers Initiative, in an attempt to thwart the menace that threatens their world.

We see much more of Bruce Banner/The Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) this time, and Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) actually speaks. In fact, sparks seem to fly between these two.

As in the first trailer, Tony Stark/Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.) still has the baddest scenes and the coolest quips. Thor (Chris Hemsworth) wields his hammer, Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) aims his bow and arrow at various things, and in one scene, Captain America (Chris Evans) appears to have seriously pissed off Thor. Do the superheroes have to battle each other first, before they save the world? “We’re not a team, we’re a time bomb,” Bruce Banner says.

That’s before the Avengers gather in a circle and face the supervillains on the streets of New York. Loki brings everybody closer together! Watch the trailer below.

Follow Barbara Chai on Twitter: @barbarachai

Monkees Singer Davy Jones Dies at 66

March 1, 2012
By
Getty
Davy Jones in July 2011.

Monkees lead singer Davy Jones has died of a heart attack, Reuters reported, citing his longtime publicist. He was 66.

His death was confirmed by a representative for the medical examiner’s office in Fort Pierce, Florida, near the Martin Memorial Hospital South where the performer had been taken.

Jones was a teen idol and lead singer of the 1960s made-for-TV rock quartet, The Monkees. Jones, along with Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith and Peter Tork, performed on the hit show from 1966 to 1968, and afterward released a greatest hits album that included songs such as “I’m a Believer,” “Pleasant Valley Sunday” and “Daydream Believer.”

The show was syndicated in the early 1970s, and in 1986, MTV aired a Monkees marathon, sparking a resurgence in the band’s popularity. That led to the 20th anniversary tour by Jones, Dolenz and Tork in 1986.

Jones was born Dec. 30, 1945 in Manchester, U.K., and initially started out in acting. He starred in “Oliver!” as the Artful Dodger in London’s West End and on Broadway. He appeared with the cast of “Oliver!” on “The Ed Sullivan Show” on the same date as the Beatles.

After The Monkees broke up, Jones continued to perform and act. In 1971, he recorded a solo hit “Rainy Jane.” He made guest appearances on television shows such as “The Brady Bunch,” where he sang “Girl,” and the sitcom “My Two Dads,” where he sang “Oh Nicole.”

In 1987, Jones, Tork and Micky Dolenz recorded a new album called “Pool It.” Two years later, the group received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In the late 1990s, the group filmed a special called “Hey, Hey, It’s the Monkees.”

On his blog, “Keep Up with the Joneses,” Jones posted photos — of his granddaughter, of himself with a foal, and of his younger self contemplating a dive into the sea — as recently as December.

He is survived by his wife Jessica, and four daughters from previous marriages.

You can leave your thoughts about Jones and his music in the comments.

Is the Tiny Fiat 500 Big Enough for Texas?

March 1, 2012
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Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the automobiles. But more drivers are beginning to opt for smaller cars. To see whether less-hefty models can muscle in on the Lone Star state’s highways, WSJ’s Angel Gonzales takes a Fiat 500 for a test drive.

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