Top 25: Part Deux.

September 30, 2010 by 2 Comments

18.) Star Trek
(IMDb Top 250 ranking: #173)

Originally, I had zero desire to see this reboot/prequel of an iconic science fiction nerdfest.  Only after convinced by my fantastic girlfriend Kelly (brownie points!) that it would be much better in IMAX (it totally was) did I see this J.J. Abrams creation.  I’m very glad I did.

Simply put, this is not your father’s Star Trek.  With an entirely new cast of characters, this reboot doesn’t make you feel lost if you haven’t seen anything before it or don’t know any of the back story.  This version very simply tells the story of Capt. James Kirk and the USS Enterprise.  And it’s totally awesome.

Chris Pine was thrust into stardom after this, and that’s a good thing.  Pine is a great actor and I’m looking forward to seeing him in the spotlight for years to come.  Former Heroes villain Zachary Quinto also garnered rave reviews for his role as Kirk’s iconic Vulcan sidekick, Spock.  I’m glad he was cast because man, he was seriously the only thing about Heroes that didn’t completely suck.  Well, other than Hayden’s barely legal vagina, that is.

The movie was funny, well written, intense, and had some great fighting and action scenes.  Overall, I would venture to guess even people who don’t fancy themselves SciFi fans would enjoy this flick.

Best Scene

Basically, any scene with Chris Pine should work here, but I think the best one was where he was attempting to take the Kobayashi Maru test.  He cheats and re-programs the test, so he’s acting unusually calm.  He then begins to eat an apple very nonchalantly.  I’m not sure what it is about a guy eating an apple when he’s supposed to be taking things seriously that makes the scene so humorous, but it just screams “I’m one cocky mofo” and I love that.

Another contender for best scene was the scene in which Kirk was making out with a half-naked green chick.  Because honestly, how many times can you say, “Wow, for a green chick, she was pretty hot”?  Not many.  I mean, as far as green chicks go, this one’s on the top of my list to sleep with.

Best Quote(s)

Leonard ‘Bones’ McCoy: Are you out of your Vulcan mind?

James T. Kirk: Who was that pointy-eared bastard?
Leonard ‘Bones’ McCoy: I don’t know, but I like him.

Scotty: I’ve never beamed three people from two targets onto one pad before! I thought that was pretty good!

Scotty: I’m giving her all she’s got, Captain!

Leonard ‘Bones’ McCoy: Dammit, man! I’m a doctor, not a physicist!

Scotty: So, the Enterprise has had its maiden voyage, has it? She is one well-endowed lady. I’d like to get my hands on her “ample nacelles,” if you pardon the engineering parlance…

James T. Kirk: So her first name’s Nyota?
Spock: I have no comment on the matter.

Burly Cadet #1: Hey, you better mind your manners.
James T. Kirk: Oh relax, cupcake, it was a joke.
Burly Cadet #1: Hey farmboy. Maybe you can’t count. But there are four of us and one of you.
James T. Kirk: So get two more guys and then it’ll be an even fight.

James T. Kirk: Either we’re going down… or they are.

Spock: Once you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.

Gaila: Jim, I think I love you.
James T. Kirk: That is so weird.
Gaila: Lights. Lights on. Did you just say, “That is so weird”?
James T. Kirk: Yeah, I did, but…

Christopher Pike: You know your father was Captain of a Starship for 12 minutes. He saved 800 lives. Including your mother’s and yours. I dare you to do better.

Spock Prime: Space: the final frontier. These are the voyages of the starship Enterprise. Her ongoing mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life-forms and new civilizations; to boldly go where no one has gone before.

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Night @ the Movies.

September 27, 2010 by 5 Comments

Gordon Gekko might be the best villain of all time.  Oliver Stone‘s first movie was made during the stock market crash of the 80s, and Michael Douglas deservedly won an Oscar for his role as the slimy merchant of monetary death.  23 years later, Stone is back with his first sequel ever.

Set at the beginning of the giant stock market crash in 2008, Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps plays out like a cautionary tale told 2 years too late.  Great performances by Douglas, Shia LaBeouf, Josh Brolin, and semi-newcomer Carey Mulligan make the movie what it was.  While I’m not sure Stone’s latest work deserves an Oscar nomination, I still thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish.

LaBeouf expertly plays a young up-and-coming stock broker, while Douglas reprises his role as the man who made greed seem good.  Brolin is excellent — per usual — as the oily bank executive who does his damnedest to out-sleaze the 1987 version of Gekko.  LaBeouf desperately wants the acceptance of Gordon, who is attempting a comeback of sorts after 8 years in prison.  His daughter has disowned him, and Jake (LaBeouf) figures that if he can rekindle their relationship, Gordon’s connections on Wall Street will help his career thrive.

Douglas slips back into the role of Gordon Gekko seamlessly.  The entire movie, you want to root for Gekko’s rehabilitation, but ultimately, you’re unsure of his true motives.  This is Gordon Gekko, after all.

I wasn’t going to do a post about this movie.  Not because I didn’t enjoy it (I did), but rather, I just started school today and my life is going to become academically consumed.  I was perusing the internet while Kelly was being a crazy cat lady and browsing PetFinder.com, and stumbled onto reviews for Wall Street 2.  Almost every review I read was negative, and the “good” reviews were backhanded compliments at best.  This didn’t sit very well with me, so I said screw homework on the first night, I’m going to blog.  Take that, society.

At no point do I feel this movie was overdone or just a “popcorn flick”.  Brolin was a fantastic villain, and perhaps he doesn’t get the credit he deserves as one of Hollywood’s best actors.  As much crap as I’m about to get for saying this, I honestly think Shia LaBeouf is going to be the next Leonardo DiCaprio.  Much like the original, WS2 centers around the protegé more so than the mentor.  This movie may feature a great director and cast, but it’s a vehicle driven by LaBeouf’s performance.  I’m at the point where I’ll start seeing whatever he’s in simply because he’s in it.

To conclude a very thrown together, half-assed review, I remind all of you to ignore the critics.  Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps was a well made, character driven piece about relevant dangers in society.  It gets its point across without becoming preachy, yet has more substance than you’d think.  A wholly gratifying experience, Oliver Stone scores again with his first ever sequel.  I urge you to see it as well.

8.5 out of 10.

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We Live in the Golden Age for Television.

September 24, 2010 by 7 Comments

This is a post I’ve been thinking about writing for some time now.  After watching the premiere of HBO’s Boardwalk Empire earlier this week, I felt that hey, now’s a good a time as any.

20 years ago, shows like 24 or Lost wouldn’t — couldn’t — have been green-lit.  Now, actors who’ve spent their careers on the silver screen making movies are dedicating themselves to series.  It didn’t necessarily start with Keifer Sutherland, but he was one of the first well-known actors to transition from big screen to small.  What followed was an avalanche of really good actors realizing that without the time constraints of a movie, you can develop your character so much more.

I originally wanted to compile a list of the 10 Best TV Shows Ever, but then I realized that “ever” would actually mean “in my lifetime, that I’ve seen, and didn’t hate”, so I shied away from that.  I still want to do a list because stimulating conversation is fun.  So instead, we’ll just look at some of the best TV shows of the past 10 years.

Read more of this post

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Take the Points.

September 23, 2010 by Leave a comment

Last week was the worst week I’ve ever had betting wise, but the Cougs covered the spread in my Upset Special o’ the Week, so that kinda makes up for it.  I wanted to do this earlier so I could pick tonight’s Miami (FL) vs. Pitt game, but alas, I was too late.  Better than being too early though, right?  Right?  RIGHT?!

Nevermind.

Onto the picks!

Bowling Green @ Michigan
The Line: Michigan by 25.5

Look, I dig Michigan. More specifically, I dig Sophomore QB Denard Robinson. Their offense is electric, and with Robinson as the man behind center, they can beat almost any team in the nation. However, their defense is not on par with their offense. Last week, they gave up 37 points and 439 yards to UMass. UMASS! They’re gonna roll over BGSU and put up a bunch of ridiculous offensive stats, but they’ll allow the Falcons to hang around. Kind of.  Michigan 56, BGSU 34

The Pick: Bowling Green and the points.

Air Force @ Wyoming
The Line: Air Force by 13.5

No real interest in this game. I just love Wyoming because they covered earlier against Texas. And their uniforms are super ugly yet awesome. Go Cowboys.  Air Force 21, Wyoming 10.

The Pick: Wyoming and the points.

New Mexico @ Kansas
The Line: Kansas by 22.5

Kansas is the most bi-polar team I’ve had the privilege of watching in some time. They lose at home to a FCS team, they beat a Top 15 team, they lose to a middle of the road C-USA team. They’re like an entire team made up of females who can’t make up their minds. JUST DECIDE ALREADY. Do you suck? Or are you moderately good? STOP PLAYING WITH MY EMOTIONS!  Kansas 24, New Mexico 17.

The Pick: New Mexico and the points.

Oregon State @ Boise State
The Line: Boise State by 18.5

Seriously? Boise State by 3 TDs? Look, I’m happy for the Broncos. I’m happy they’re getting attention. They beat an overrated VA Tech team in a neutral location, and now all they have to do is beat the Beavers en route to an undefeated season. You BSU fans can scream “No respect!” all you want, but until you play more than 2 good/decent teams per year, shut the hell up. You ain’t no Rodney Dangerfield. People don’t respect you because you play in the fucking WAC. I hate Boise State, and more specifically, I hate their fans.   Boise State 28, Oregon State 31.

The Pick: Oregon State and the points.
(Don’t take them to outright, just take the points. It’s a lock for the points, but it’s not a lock for the W.)

UPSET SPECIAL
Southern California @ Washington State
The Line: USC by 22

Look, I’m not some delusional Wazzu fan who thinks we have a shot at winning. We don’t. However, ‘SC is not as good as they’ve been in the past. Their defense (the secondary in particular) is really young and inexperienced. They’ve had trouble in all 3 games they’ve won this year, and I fully expect the Cougs to hang around in this one.  USC 38, Wazzu 24

The Pick: Wazzu and the points.

Remember, if you use these picks, the house (aka KyleRancourt.com) gets 10% of all your winnings, but takes no responsibility for any of your losses. Happy betting.

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TWIDG

September 21, 2010 by Leave a comment

This Weekend in Degenerate Gambling.  Sort of like TWIB, but with infinitely more lost wages.  So, about those picks I made on Wednesday… Oops. I got a text from my cousin Josh who used my picks this weekend.

Hey nice picks this weekend.  Dick.

Let’s examine them, strictly because I want to relive the pain.

Kansas @ Southern Miss
The Line: Southern Miss by 5.5

Kansas lost — at home — to an FCS school (1-AA) during week 1. Last week, they beat #15 Georgia Tech. Obviously, Kansas has some things to work out. Covering a 5.5 point spread against a middle-of-the-road Conference USA team shouldn’t be difficult for the Jayhawks.  Kansas 31, Southern Miss 24

The Pick: Kansas outright.

FINAL SCORE: Kansas 16, Southern Miss 31.

RESULT: GIANT LOSS

Thanks for shitting the bed, Kansas.  I’ll never pick you again.


Hawai’i @ Colorado
The Line: Colorado by 11.5

Hawai’i helped me out last week, and I’m goin’ back to the well a second time. They flew almost 5,000 miles to play Army last weekend, and now fly 3,000 to play a Buffalo team who just got dismantled at the hands of soon-to-be Pac 10 brethren Cal. Colorado will win the game, but Hawai’i will keep it close. Colorado 38, Hawai’i 31

The Pick: Hawai’i and the points.

FINAL SCORE: Hawaii 13, Colorado 31.

RESULT: LOSS

Hawaii was winning at last check, and then I turned off my computer and focused on the Coug game.  Colorado wound up storming back en route to a dominating victory.  Dammit.  Dammit all to hell.


East Carolina @ Virginia Tech
The Line: VA Tech by 19.5

VA Tech is 0-2 after a heartbreaking loss to Boise State and an absolute shocker last week to James Madison. They’re pissed off. They probably want to score 100 on ECU. ECU’s defense will let them get close to 100, to be honest, but ECU is the new Texas Tech on offense. VA Tech is going to win by probably 2 TDs. But 14 points falls within the 19.5 point spread. VA Tech 52, ECU 35

The Pick: ECU and the points.

FINAL SCORE: ECU 27, VA Tech 49

RESULT: LOSS

ECU was actually winning at halftime, making me feel super duper awesome about this pick.  They kept it close and still almost covered.  You guys couldn’t kick one lousy FG?  That’s what I get for picking a college my super slutty ex girlfriend went to.


Baylor @ Texas Christian
The Line: TCU by 21.5

I hate Baylor. I’ve bet on them exactly 4 times in my life, and each time, they’ve completely shit the bed. So I have no idea why I’m doing this to myself again, but that 21.5 point spread is just screaming for me to bet on the Bears again. TCU played well enough to knock off Oregon State and I’m fairly sure they won’t have any trouble with Baylor. I do think the Bears will keep it semi-close, however. TCU 28, Baylor 17

The Pick: Baylor and the points.

FINAL SCORE: Baylor 10, TCU 45

RESULT:

That’s what I get for going against my better judgment and picking Baylor to cover.  Baylor.  I officially hate you more than any team not named “University of Washington”.  I hope that you have sons… Handsome, beautiful, articulate sons, who are talented and star athletes and they have their legs taken away. I mean I pray you know that pain and that hurt.

UPSET SPECIAL
Washington State @ Southern Methodist
The Line: SMU by 23

Good ol’ Wazzu. We lost by 48 to Oklahoma State during week 1, and pulled a Houdinian escape last week, winning by 1 over FCS Montana State (at home, no less). So why would I be taking Wazzu to cover against a clearly superior team? I’m a Coug. I can’t pick against the Cougs. I don’t care how much money it costs me. Last year, our sole win came at the hands of… SMU. I think the Mustangs will be pissed and ready to score 100, but I think the Cougs will be ready, too. SMU still wins the game, but the Fighting Paul Wulffs keep it relatively close. SMU 48, WSU 31.

The Pick: Wazzu and the points.

FINAL SCORE: Washington State 21, SMU 35

RESULT: HUGE WIN (AND MORAL VICTORY!)

Yes we still lost.  But, we played well (tied going into the half) and were it not for terrible play-calling from Offensive Coordinator Todd Sturdy, we might have been able to win the game.  I’m not here to play the what if game, because we’re clearly terrible, but hey, progress.

Also, UW got absolutely destroyed by Nebraska, losing 56-21.  “Heisman hopeful” Jake Locker had not only the worst performance of his career, but one of the worst displays in modern college football, completing a paltry 20% of his passes (4/20) for 76 yards and 2 INTs.  So when I was baffled as to why the point spread was so low, turns out hey, KyleRancourt.com is right again.  Maybe they didn’t mean 4 points, they meant 4 TDs instead?

OVERALL WEEKEND: 1 – 4
OVERALL SEASON: 5 – 6

I’ll get you out of that deep debt you’re in, don’t you worry.  Check back later in the week for more picks for this weekend’s games.  Until then, happy betting my friends.  And if you’re looking for me, I won’t be at home so please don’t try to come over.  I don’t have your money.  I can write you a post-dated check, though.

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Night @ the Movies.

September 20, 2010 by 5 Comments

A few years ago, I was working at Blockbuster.  We received shipments of movies 1-2 weeks prior to their official street date.  I remember going through a box of movies in 2008, and finding one called Gone Baby Gone.  We had a ton of copies (over 300, which was an entire bay — floor to ceiling) but I’d never heard of it.  It had Morgan Freeman, and I’m not sure he’s ever been in a bad movie.  It had Casey Affleck, and I thought he was a good, solid actor.  So what the hell, I’d rent it.  Afterall, as employees, we were allowed to take home 5 free movies per week.  So if it sucked, hey, it was free.

After I got home, I looked at the box more and realized Ben Affleck was the director and co-writer.  I groaned.  I figured this would be another movie about Boston and how much he loves the Red Sox and blah blah blah it would suck.

I watched the movie twice in a row.  It blew my mind with how good it was.

Affleck made me a believer with GBG, so when I heard he was directing, co-writing, and also starring in a new movie called The Town, I was eager but cautiously optimistic.  I mean, anyone can have one great film and then fade into oblivion (ehem, Diablo Cody).  I felt like this was going to get absolutely destroyed by critics, and I’d just wait for the DVD.  I’d secretly enjoy it and tell everyone “Meh, not bad, but not great”.  Turns out, critics loved this movie, and more than one person updated their Facebook status with “THE TOWN WAS SO AWESOME!”  Yes, it’s come to the point where I get influenced by people’s Facebook status updates.

The Town is basically a heist movie like you’ve seen before.  Only we haven’t seen such a taut crime thriller like this in a while.  Affleck takes the best parts of both Heat and The Departed and pseudo merges them into a carefully plotted caper that includes dropping your r’s and swearing a lot.  Simply put, The Town is a fantastically made story about bank robbers from Boston, and one member’s internal conflict with one of life’s toughest questions:  should I stay or should I go?

At the heart of the story, romance battles loyalty.  Doug MacRay (Affleck) must decide whether to leave everything he’s ever known for a chance at love, or stay and risk losing everything.  Affleck is obviously the main character, but for my money, Jeremy Renner stole the show here.  Most of you will recognize Renner as the main character from last year’s Academy Award Winner for Best Film, The Hurt Locker.  He was absolutely fantastic in that as well, also getting a Best Actor nomination in the process.  In this, he plays James “Gem” Coughlin, MacRay’s best friend and a complete hot head who can absolutely go crazy at any moment.  He’s the guy you’re glad to have on your side when things get rough, but if you ever cross him, he’ll make no bones about ripping your throat out.  At one point, MacRay wants to go beat up some guys for harassing his love interest, but doesn’t want Gem knowing why they’re beating these guys up, because he doesn’t want him knowing about the love interest in the first place.  So he walks into Gem’s house and says,

I need your help.  We’re gonna beat the shit outta some guys.  You can’t ask me why and you can never ask me about it later.

Gem responds calmly with, “Who’s car we takin’?”

Loyal to a fault, Gem was my favorite character by a mile.  Every moment he was on-screen, I couldn’t take my eyes off of him.  He mesmerized me with his snarl, his viciousness, and his ability to snap at any moment.  There’s a scene at an outdoor restaurant when he first meets MacRay’s love interest, Claire.  He shoots MacRay a look that burns deep in your soul.  Calling it the evil eye would be doing it a disservice.  Short story long, Renner’s performance is Oscar-worthy in every sense of the word, and if you like nothing else in the movie, you’ll still leave satisfied because of his role in the film.

Mad Men’s Jon Hamm gets his first real shot at a large role on the silver screen and turns in a masterful performance.  I’m not sure it’s award-winning or anything, but he still did a great job as FBI Special Agent Adam Frawley.  His back-and-forth with Affleck showed great chemistry.

Even in her limited role, Blake Lively shone.  Playing Gem’s sister Krista, Lively shied away from her normal bubble gum roles to play a slutty junkie from Charlestown.  From her giant gold hoop earrings, to her ratty hair, to her smeared over-the-top makeup, Lively played a very memorable and pivotal role with limited screen time.

In conclusion of an extremely poorly written, long-winded attempt at a movie review, you should go see The Town.  Ben Affleck doesn’t reach previous levels of sheer directorial awesomeness, but that’s only because Gone Baby Gone was one of the best movies I’ve ever seen.  Had this been Affleck’s first attempt at directing, we’d be having the same reaction that we had 3 years ago.  Perhaps it’s time for Affleck to make the move from in front of the camera to behind it.

9 out of 10.

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Top 25: Part Deux.

September 16, 2010 by 1 Comment

19.) The Kingdom
(IMDb Top 250 ranking: n/a)

For all intents and purposes, this movie is 2 hours of Jamie Foxx kicking Middle Eastern ass.  And I’m ok with that.  I re-watched it last night, as is customary of all my Top 25, to make sure it was as awesome as I remember.  It totally was.

One thing, however, that I didn’t remember, was how sad it was.  Still a very good movie with a lot of cool action sequences, but more than a few tug at your heart-strings.  It was weird, I was watching the movie by myself in my living room, and it got all dusty.  My eyes were watering, and I couldn’t figure out why.  I should probably look into that.

Jamie Foxx plays Special Agent Ronald Fleury of the FBI.  His team consists of Explosives Expert/Bomb Technician Grant Sykes (Chris Cooper), Forensic Expert Janet Mayes (Jennifer Garner), and Intelligence Analyst Adam Leavitt (Jason Bateman).

An American housing compound in Riyadh falls victim to a suicide bomber.  After medical help is rushed in, a 2nd, larger attack takes place, killing infinitely more people.  In order to have the best chance at solving this crime, the special unit will need to be in Saudi Arabia within 36 hours.  The only problem is the US Government won’t allow it.

Fleury works his magic and his team of 4 gets sent on a 5 day trip.  There’s a ton of red tape, and they are not only working against the clock, but a bureaucratic pissing contest as well.  There’s a lot of “I’m in charge, no, I’m in charge” that goes on before they finally get down to business.  Fleury’s team is great at what they do, and the last 30 minutes or so of the movie gets super intense.  I realize that I was holding my breath, and I knew what was going to happen.

Jason Bateman is the comic relief, Chris Cooper is the wise veteran, Jennifer Garner is the beauty and brains, and Jamie Foxx is the leader.  Richard Jenkins gets a small role as FBI Deputy Director Robert Grace, and plays it brilliantly.  Also, newcomer Ashraf Barhom plays Colonel Faris Al Ghazi, and he winds up being probably my favorite character in the entire movie.

Best Scene

The best scene, the most powerful scene, the scene with the most eye-opening juxtaposition, just so happens to be the final scene of the movie.  No, I will not spoil it for you if you have not seen it.  Contrast, people.  There is no right or wrong; just a shit load of grey area.

Best Quotes

Attorney General Gideon Young: I’m gonna bury you.
FBI Deputy Director James Grace: You know, Westmoreland made all of us officers write our own obituaries during Tet, when we thought The Cong were gonna end it all right there. And, once we clued into the fact that life is finite, the thought of losing it didn’t scare us anymore. The end comes no matter what, the only thing that matters is how do you wanna go out, on your feet or on your knees? I bring that lesson to this job. I act, knowing that someday this job will end, no matter what. You should do the same.

Ronald Fleury: Does he know where Bin Laden is? ‘Cause that would be a huge promotion for me.

Adam Leavitt: Sir, I already know the answer to this, but is there any chance in hell we get to go over there and use our hands?
Ronald Fleury: If you already know the answer, why ask the question?

Adam Leavitt: Sir, not to beat a dead horse, but if there was ever a time for us to put boots on Saudi sand, I mean, don’t you think this is it?
Janet Mayes: There’s no way, Adam. They will never allow it.
Adam Leavitt: Then let’s just ask.
Janet Mayes: The Saudi Royal Family cannot appear as if they’re losing control. If they lose control of their country, lose control of the people, they risk losing control of the oil. And that’s not going to happen.

FBI Deputy Director James Grace: Well, we would like to be on the record as saying the FBI would like an Evidence Response Team on the ground in Riyadh now.
Ellis Leach: Doesn’t your team in that country represent exactly the kind of… of target that these masters would die for? They’d trade ten of their own for one of you.
FBI Deputy Director James Grace: Not to go after criminals because they might try to harm you is really not a policy of the FBI. See, we try not to say uncle. We try.

Ronald Fleury: I want in immediately.
Prince Thamer: Define immediately.
Ronald Fleury: Right the fuck now immediately.

Adam Leavitt: We’re going to Riyadh? Is that right?
Ronald Fleury: Yep.
Grant Sykes:  State Department said yes?
Ronald Fleury: Nope.
Adam Leavitt: White House?
Ronald Fleury: Nope.
Adam Leavitt: We bringing security?
Ronald Fleury: No.
Adam Leavitt: This is really going to suck, I think.

Adam Leavitt: What are four people supposed to do over there in five days, anyways?
Grant Sykes: Weren’t you the one that practically demanded we go this morning?
Adam Leavitt: Yeah, I didn’t say I. I said FBI.

Grant Sykes: This whole trip is gonna be like deep-sea fishing in Florida. You pay seven-hundred bucks for a boat, sit on your can out in the ocean. Crew jumps around, screams, points, throws out fish bait, you catch nothing.

Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: This is not a game show, Mr. Fleury. And definitely there are no deals made here. There is me telling you what you may or may not do. And there is you doing it. That’s it.

Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: Tonight, we have the dinner in the palace. Uh, Miss Mayes, she can’t be there. It’s only men.
Ronald Fleury: Only men?
Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: Yeah, you know, tradition.
Ronald Fleury: That’s gonna be boring.

Adam Leavitt: How many princes are there?
Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: Over five thousand.
Ronald Fleury: Does every prince get a palace this big?
Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: Some get bigger.
Adam Leavitt: And who pays for all this?
Grant Sykes: Exxon. Chevron. Shell.

Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: I want to take you somewhere.
Ronald Fleury: Where?
Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: Someone who can lead us to catch the big dog.
Ronald Fleury: More like big fish.
Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: Big fish?
Ronald Fleury: Yeah, big fish.
Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: A dog, uh… a dog’s more bigger than a fish.

Ronald Fleury: So why’d you get into this, Al Ghazi?
Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: Into what?
Ronald Fleury: Being a cop. Why’d you get into being a cop? I mean, with all this violence and chaos, it seems so crazy.
Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: It’s because of, uh, The Green Beast.
Ronald Fleury: The what?
Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: The Green Beast.
Ronald Fleury: What the hell is The Green Beast?
Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: It’s a TV show when I was kid. You know, a man who turns green when he’s very angry, he turns green and…
Ronald Fleury: Oh, oh, yeah, The Hulk.
Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: Yeah, you know. He was killing just bad people because they did wrong.

Colonel Faris Al Ghazi: I’m forty-two years old. I have two daughters and a son. Beautiful son. And I find myself in a place where I no longer care about why we are attacked. I only care that one hundred people woke up a few mornings ago, and had no idea it was their last. When we catch the man who murdered these people, I don’t care to ask even one question. I want to kill him. Do you understand?
Ronald Fleury: Yes, I do.

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Take the Points.

September 15, 2010 by 4 Comments

Last week, I wrote about the games I bet on, but after the fact.  It sort of made me look like a chump, whereas I could have totally phoned that in and picked said winners after the games were over.  So I said, what the hell, and figured to turn this into a regular (for college football season, at least) blog post.

It won’t be 1000 words explaining why the backup QB is poised for a breakout game, or how the opposing team’s RB is questionable.  While I do take these things into consideration, I’m not trying to give you long-winded responses to the question, “Who do I bet on this weekend?”  Simply, I’m giving you the answer.  Quick and dirty.

All lines are as of 09/15 and are courtesy of PinnacleSports.com

Kansas @ Southern Miss
The Line: Southern Miss by 5.5

Kansas lost — at home — to an FCS school (1-AA) during week 1. Last week, they beat #15 Georgia Tech. Obviously, Kansas has some things to work out. Covering a 5.5 point spread against a middle-of-the-road Conference USA team shouldn’t be difficult for the Jayhawks.  Kansas 31, Southern Miss 24

The Pick: Kansas outright.

Hawai’i @ Colorado
The Line: Colorado by 11.5

Hawai’i helped me out last week, and I’m goin’ back to the well a second time. They flew almost 5,000 miles to play Army last weekend, and now fly 3,000 to play a Buffalo team who just got dismantled at the hands of soon-to-be Pac 10 brethren Cal. Colorado will win the game, but Hawai’i will keep it close. Colorado 38, Hawai’i 31

The Pick: Hawai’i and the points.

East Carolina @ Virginia Tech
The Line: VA Tech by 19.5

VA Tech is 0-2 after a heartbreaking loss to Boise State and an absolute shocker last week to James Madison. They’re pissed off. They probably want to score 100 on ECU. ECU’s defense will let them get close to 100, to be honest, but ECU is the new Texas Tech on offense. VA Tech is going to win by probably 2 TDs. But 14 points falls within the 19.5 point spread. VA Tech 52, ECU 35

The Pick: ECU and the points.

Baylor @ Texas Christian
The Line: TCU by 21.5

I hate Baylor. I’ve bet on them exactly 4 times in my life, and each time, they’ve completely shit the bed. So I have no idea why I’m doing this to myself again, but that 21.5 point spread is just screaming for me to bet on the Bears again. TCU played well enough to knock off Oregon State and I’m fairly sure they won’t have any trouble with Baylor. I do think the Bears will keep it semi-close, however. TCU 28, Baylor 17

The Pick: Baylor and the points.

STAY AWAY FROM THIS GAME
Florida @ Tennessee
The Line: Florida by 14

People saw how Florida barely handled business at home against Miami (OH). The line for this game on Monday was Florida (-17.5). It’s coming down because the bookies realize they made a mistake. I wouldn’t touch this game with a 10 foot pole, and neither should you. Conventional wisdom says Tennessee covers at home, but betting on the Vols? Yuck. I’ve already mentioned my disdain for all things Tennessee related. I honestly think Urban Meyer will rally the troops against a big rival and win by 14 or so. Basically, I’m pretty sure Florida will make sure Tennessee doesn’t cover, but I’m not confident enough to pick this game either way. Florida 77, Tennessee 3

The Pick: RUN FOR YOUR LIVES

UPSET SPECIAL
Washington State @ Southern Methodist
The Line: SMU by 23

Good ol’ Wazzu. We lost by 48 to Oklahoma State during week 1, and pulled a Houdinian escape last week, winning by 1 over FCS Montana State (at home, no less). So why would I be taking Wazzu to cover against a clearly superior team? I’m a Coug. I can’t pick against the Cougs. I don’t care how much money it costs me. Last year, our sole win came at the hands of… SMU. I think the Mustangs will be pissed and ready to score 100, but I think the Cougs will be ready, too. SMU still wins the game, but the Fighting Paul Wulffs keep it relatively close. SMU 48, WSU 31.

The Pick: Wazzu and the points.

I wanted to talk about how Nebraska, the 8th ranked team in the nation, is only a 3 point favorite at UW. But then I realized that, hey, that’s how it works. The Huskies are perennially overrated, and with media darling Jake Locker behind center, they’re going to get the benefit of the doubt when they absolutely do not deserve it. Nebraska 31, Washington 14.

Remember, if you use these picks, the house (aka KyleRancourt.com) gets 10% of all your winnings, but takes no responsibility for any of your losses.  Happy betting.

Filed under Sports. Tagged with , , , , , , ,

Night @ the Movies.

September 14, 2010 by Leave a comment

The Joneses is a film that you probably haven’t heard of.  Strangely, a film with David Duchovney and Demi Moore struggled to make even a little money at the box office.  While I’m certainly not suggesting either is a big star anymore, you’d think it would have at least made more than The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.  I digress.

The Jones family is actually not a family at all; instead, they’re a “cell” of sales people who not only sell merchandise, but sell a lifestyle.  They have all the newest, hottest toys, and make sure to let every one of their “friends” know it.  Once people see them with something cool, shiny, and new, they in turn, buy it for themselves.  The concept is fantastic and has never been done before.

It’s a giant satire on the sad state of consumerism in this country.  We are obsessed with material possessions, as well as how they affect our social standing.  As Steve Jones (Duchovney) states while pitching a new watch and cell phone on the golf course, “He who has the most toys wins.”

The movie centers around Steve, who is the newcomer in the cell.  He’s a rookie in the business, having been hired after very successfully selling cars.  Kate (Moore) is the head of household, a trophy wife, and a total MILF.  She runs things (like in real life).  She hired Steve because she saw his potential (and he’s easy on the eyes).  Jenn (Amber Heard) is their slutty “daughter” who is only interested in older men.  I think Amber Heard is extremely overrated on the hot scale, but that doesn’t mean I mind seeing her naked.  Which you totally see early on in the movie.  Mick (Ben Hollingsworth) is their “son”, the cool-chique-hipster that every guy wants to hang out with, and every girl wants to piss off their Dad with.  All four combine for the perfect slice of upscale Americana.

Now, even if you think the ending is a little lame and Hollywood cliché (it is), this movie is still utterly fantastic.  It has been getting destroyed by critics who love the premise, but don’t think director Derrick Borte went far enough.  At times, it’s dark.  At times, it’s depressing.  At times, it’s macabre.  Apparently, it doesn’t do any of these things for long enough, though.  Unsurprisingly, I disagree with the critics on this.  It was filled with quips courtesy of Steve, who basically plays the same character in this as he does in Californication.  It was also filled with moments of sheer loneliness.

If you’re looking for a well written, pseudo dark comedy, about the implications of consumerism in America, then check out The Joneses.  You’ll be glad you did.

(Also, watch it for Demi Moore.  She’s absolutely still got it.  Holy crap she’s smokin’ in this.)

9 out of 10.

Filed under Talking Pictures. Tagged with , , , ,

Don’t Overreact to the Seahawks Victory.

September 13, 2010 by Leave a comment

First of all, I love that we beat the 49ers.  I hate the 49ers.  More specifically, I hate Frank Gore.  Not as much as I hate Steven Jackson, but oh man, I really dislike Frank Gore.

So while I’m thrilled with the 31-6 drubbing of a very overrated San Francisco team, I caution all of you to temper your expectations for the rest of the year.  I realize the NFC West is very winnable, but that’s not because the Seahawks are good.  Rather, the NFC West is very winnable because, holy cow, everyone sucks.

I wouldn’t be surprised if the winner of the division was 8-8, to be honest.  Having said that, let’s take a closer look at the game.  I DVR’d it, and couldn’t be happier with my choice to do so.  Bullet points FTW!

  • Former ‘Hawks LB Chad Brown raised the 12th Man flag.  I love Chad Brown.  There’s no reason #94 shouldn’t be in the Seahawks Ring of Honor.
  • Matt Hasselbeck‘s first throw of the game was picked off by CB Nate Clements.  Clements was sitting in Cover 3, and Hasselbeck attempted to hit TE John Carlson on a post route.  Hasselbeck slightly over threw it, but Clements jumped the route.  Not a fantastic throw, but not a terrible one, either.  Clements gambled and won.  He then celebrated like he just won eleventy billion dollars.  Seriously?  You have 31 career INTs.  Act like you’ve done it before, douche.  More on Clements later.
  • I absolutely love Leon Washington.  I haven’t fallen in love with a player who hasn’t really done anything before, but he has won me over.   I’m not sure why, but I’m not sure I even care.
  • Pete Carroll > Jim Mora, Jr. (times 400 million)
  • Speaking of Pete, I’m not sure I’ve ever been so pumped up watching a coach on the sidelines.  He’s jumping up and down, getting other guys fired up, and acting like a kid at Christmas.  I was getting pumped up watching a replay of the game.  That says something.
  • 49ers QB Alex Smith sucks.  A lot.
  • When the Seahawks cut T.J. Houshmandzadeh last week, I was pretty pissed about it.  We’re basically paying him 6 million and change to play for another team.  One of the reasons cited for his release was more playing time for WR Mike Williams.  I’m completely on board with this move now.  Williams is an absolute beast, and wants to rip your dick off if you get in his way.
  • Last year, the 49ers drafted WR Michael Crabtree 10th overall.  Crabtree held out of training camp and the first few games of the season because he felt he should be paid higher than the 10th pick.  Many mock drafts had him in the Top 5, but he slid to #10.  So, he was drafted #10, but felt like he should have been drafted higher based on hypothetical drafts, and because of that, the 49ers should pay him like a Top 5 pick anyways.  Sound logic, Crabtree.  Alex Smith threw 2 picks yesterday, and both we Crabtree’s fault.  The first was a tipped ball that hit Crabtree right in the numbers, bounced up, and was caught by Seahawks S Jordan Babineaux.  The second, he ran the wrong route, and Smith’s pass went right to CB Marcus Trufant.  Way to earn that contract, Crabtree.
  • One of the announcers yesterday said, “I still think that [Matt] Hasselbeck is probably the best QB in the NFC West.”  Gee, you think he’s better than Derek Anderson in Arizona, Sam Bradford in St. Louis, and Alex Smith in San Francisco?  Oh man, what a compliment.
  • LB Aaron Curry has improved a lot since his rookie season, but he’s still a little raw fundamentally.  He missed some tackles because he was out of position, and got killed in coverage.  He’s best when they’re letting him fly around and just tackle anything that moves.  He may develop into a more complete linebacker under Ken Norton, Jr., but for the time being, he still seems a little in over his head.
  • Our front 4 looked fantastic.  Everyone was getting pressure and disrupting the timing of their offense.  We bottled up Gore, and when you stop Gore, you stop the 49ers.  I’m not sure if it was our D-Line doing great things, or their O-Line being really young and not-very-good.  A little from Column A, a little from Column B, perhaps.
  • Everyone remembers Bobby Engram.  He was a great slot WR, and was Hasselbeck’s favorite target on 3rd down.  When a play broke down, he looked for Engram.  To me at least, he wants Mike Williams to fill this void.  It just seemed like every time his first few reads were unavailable, he’d look to Williams to make a play.  This is a very good thing, because Williams is huge.  6’5 and 235 lbs is a TE, but Williams has the quickness and speed of a WR.  He’s going to win a ton of jump ball situations.
  • After seeing Clements jump the route on the first play, Hasselbeck made him his bitch for the rest of the game.  Mike Williams ran a sluggo, and made Clements look like a walk-on scrub.  Deon Butler ran a post-and-go and did the same thing.  I’m fairly sure Nate Clements will need the number to a Battered Woman’s Shelter after the absurd amount of abuse he took yesterday.  I haven’t seen a beat down like that since Chris Brown and Rihanna.
  • A few years ago, the Miami Dolphins had the #9 overall pick.  They were coming off a season in which they needed just about everything, including a franchise QB.  Instead of taking Notre Dame’s Brady Quinn (who I still irrationally believe in for no particular reason at all), they chose Ohio State WR/KR Ted Ginn, Jr.  New Head Coach Cam Cameron said that they weren’t just drafting Ted Ginn, they were drafting the entire Ginn family.  Perhaps this is the reason he was fired after just one season.  Ginn was eventually traded to San Francisco for a pair of new cleats and a bag of footballs, and he’s fallen down the depth chart behind All-World wideouts like Josh Morgan and Dominique Zeigler.  Basically, his only reason for being in the NFL currently is his return abilities.  He’s a punt/kick returner, but he’s not even an elite one.  Justin Forsett is at least as good, if not better than Ginn.  Ginn was the 9th overall pick in his draft.  Forsett was the 233rd pick in his.
  • Speaking of draft picks, the 49ers had the 1st overall pick in the 2005 draft.  They were looking for a franchise QB, and chose Utah’s Alex Smith.  23 selections later, the Green Bay Packers selected Cal’s Aaron Rodgers.  Oops.

Overall, it was a good win for the Seahawks against a division rival.  I caution all of you, however, to temper expectations.  Don’t think that because we dismantled a very overrated 49er team that we’re playoff bound.  This division is wide open, but the season is long and grueling.  If we can stay healthy (and we haven’t been able to since 2006) we might make some noise in the NFC.  However, I’ll be cautiously optimistic the rest of the way, instead of an over-the-top unrealistic homer like most Seattle fans.

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