Theater Review – Mean Girls: The Broadway Musical” – Kansas City

 

  • MEAN GIRLS
  • The Music Hall
  • Kansas City, Missouri

 

“Mean Girls” captures the pitfalls of trying to fit in
Since its release as a feature film in 2004, “Mean Girls” – starring Rachel McAdams, Lacey Chabert, Amanda Seyfried and Lindsay Lohan – has achieved and maintained a cult following during the years since its moderately successful theatrical run. Nowhere was this more evident than on Tuesday night at the Music Hall in downtown Kansas City, Missouri where an abundance of teen to twentysomething women were dressed like characters from the Tina Fey-written comedy.
Based partly on the 2002 book “Queen Bees and Wannabes” by Rosalind Wiseman, “Mean Girls – The Broadway Musical,” also written by Fey with music by Jeff Richmond and lyrics by Nell Benjamin, begins with North Shore High School students Janis Sarkisian (Mary Kate Morrissey) and Damian Hubbard (Eric Huffman) breaking the fourth wall with powerful voices to invite us on a “cautionary tale.”
As in the original film version, young Cady Heron (Danielle Wade) moves from Kenya to Chicago with her parents when her mother gets a new job. Being the new girl in a large high school, Cady has a hard time fitting in, something anyone who was a teenager can identify with. She is helped, though, by Janis and Damian, a pair of loners who take her under their wing. The song “Where Do You Belong?” punctuates the process of finding out which clique she belongs to and is a poignant reminder about what those days were like.
As belted in “APEX Predator” by Morrissey, the one group they don’t want Cady to join is a trio of girls known as “the Plastics.” Consisting of the most feared girl in school Regina George (Nadina Hassan), her keeper of secrets Gretchen Weiners (Megan Masako Haley), and the stereotypical dumb blonde Karen Smith (Jonalyn Saxer). They are intrigued by Cady and she is invited to join them for lunch, something that never happens to anyone else in school.
Janis sees this set of circumstances as a means to get revenge on Regina for a past transgression. So, she convinces a reluctant Cady to spy on Regina for her. Mix in competing affections for a dreamy boy named Aaron Samuels (Adante Carter) and the stage is set for a chaotic series of events that cause nothing but heartache and ruined friendships. However, can simple, heartfelt apologies overcome the emotional damage and allow them to accept each other’s differences?
Overall, the production value was what you would expect from a Broadway touring show – nothing but solid. Good performances were sprinkled throughout the well-written show, highlighted by Morrissey who dominated the stage with her power vocals. Additionally, the entertaining Hubbard played off her with ease as the duo shared the best onstage chemistry of the entire cast. The other cast member who often stole the show was Saxer who absolutely nailed the role of Karen and generated some of the night’s biggest laughs.
Whether it’s in Kansas City or some other city on its current tour, “Mean Girls” makes for a fun night of entertainment.
“Mean Girls – The Broadway Musical” will run through March 20th at the Music Hall.

 

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Filed Under: Theatre Reviews Tagged With: broadway, city, girls, kansas, musical, review, ...

Film Review: “The Girls of Summer”

THE GIRLS OF SUMMER
Starring:  Tori Titmas, Jeff Puckett and Nathan Hosner
Directed by: John D. Hancock
Rated:  Not Rated
Running time:  1 hr 33 mins
Indie Rights

It’s a beautiful day in Indiana.  Working on their family sod field, the Taylor sisters are looking forward to the coming evening with both joy and sadness.  Soon two of them will be leaving home to pursue other endeavors but first, for the last time, tonight The Girls of Summer will take the stage.

Beautifully photographed and smoothly paced, “The Girls of Summer” follows oldest sister Maren (Tori Titmas, who also wrote the screenplay) as she embarks on the journey of life.   A chance meeting at their last gig with former country star Luke Thomas (Hosner) offers her the opportunity to join his touring band – he’s on the comeback trail, an opportunity she originally turns down to stay home and care for her father (Puckett), still grieving for his late wife and now heavily dependent on drugs and alcohol to get through the day.  Dad convinces her to follow her dreams.  But, as with many dreams, they don’t always come true.

I think what made this film so enjoyable to me is that it is the finished product of a “Community Project.”  As with his previous films, “The Looking Glass” and “A Piece of Eden,” director Hancock and crew prove that not all the talent in the world resides in Hollywood.  From his headquarters in Indiana he has put together some amazing local talent and their freshness and enthusiasm fill the screen.  The performances are strong, the songs are catchy and the countryside is beautiful.  Hancock has always been at his best when tackling “real life.”  His camera seems to give you a look into the hearts of the characters, giving the viewer an emotional attachment to what they are seeing. 

This time of year usually signals the beginning to the upcoming summer movie season, filling theatres with loud, multi-million dollar extravaganzas.  “The Girls of Summer” is a welcome respite from those films.

“The Girls of Summer” is currently available on Amazon Prime.

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Filed Under: Film Reviews Tagged With: film, girls, review, summer

Theatre Review “Mean Girls” @ Dr. Phillips Center – Orlando, FL

“Mean Girls” is a musical based on the 2004 movie that was written by Tina Fey. The musical premiered in Washington, D.C. in October 2017 and opened on Broadway in April 2018. If you are thinking “Seriously they made a musical for Mean Girls?”, this show has no shortage of talent from the award-winning creative team, including Tina Fey (30 Rock), composer Jeff Richmond (Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), lyricist Nell Benjamin (Legally Blonde) and director Casey Nicholaw (The Book of Mormon). This show is packed with energy and devilish humor that will leave you howling.

From upbeat anthems like “Apex Predator” and “I See Stars” to the songs that show the difficult side of being a female like “What’s Wrong With Me,” the music never stopped. The female leads in the show, especially Mary Kate Morrissey (Janis), Danielle Wade (Cady), and Mariah Rose Faith (Regina George), all had unique singing voices that were nothing short of impressive. In addition, the show decided to use digital screens for quick set changes which led to seamless transitions when changing from classroom to classroom and location to location in the middle of a song. The comedic timing in the show, especially by Karen – played by Jonalyn Saxer, kept you laughing throughout the entire show. There was even a scene with the Lion mascot that had the audience laughing so hard some were in tears. Overall, the show captured the life of a teenage girl in a way that had you sympathizing, laughing, and swaying along to the amazing music.

Official Premise: Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. Soon, this naïve newbie falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting stung.

The show is playing at the Walt Disney theater from February 25–March 1, 2020. If you are able to get tickets, this is a show that is not to be missed. Overall this musical is just plain fun. You find yourself smiling and laughing till it hurts. Due to the success of the musical production it was recently announced that a film adaptation of the musical was being produced. So expect more of “Mean Girls” in the coming years!

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Filed Under: Theatre Reviews Tagged With: center, dr, fl, girls, orlando, phillips, ...

Blockbusters Disney’s Aladdin And Mean Girls Anchor 19/20 Fairwinds Broadway in Orlando Season At Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Current subscribers may renew their seats for the upcoming season beginning at 10 a.m. Friday, February 15, 2019

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 14, 2019) — Blockbuster Disney’s Aladdin and record-breaking new musical comedy Mean Girls will make their Orlando premieres as part of the 2019-2020 FAIRWINDS Broadway in Orlando series at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. The season also includes audience favorites Escape to Margaritaville: The Jimmy Buffett Musical, A Bronx Tale and The Play That Goes Wrong, along with Tony Award®-nominated revivals Miss Saigon and Lerner and Loewe’s My Fair Lady. The season will also feature the return of the musical phenomenon Les Misérables, for one week only.

Dr. Phillips Center joined Florida Theatrical Association and Broadway Across America today to announce the full line-up.

19/20 FAIRWINDS Broadway in Orlando series:

Escape to Margaritaville: The Jimmy Buffett Musical— November 12–17, 2019

The Play That Goes Wrong — December 3–8, 2019

Disney’s ALADDIN — January 22–February 9, 2020

Mean Girls — February 25–March 1, 2020

Miss Saigon — March 31–April 5, 2020

A Bronx Tale — April 28–May 3, 2020

My Fair Lady — May 26–31, 2020

Les Misérables will be presented as a Season Option playing for one week only October 22-27, 2019. Subscribers will have first access to purchase tickets for Les Misérables once they have renewed their seats for the 19/20 season.

“The 2019-2020 season builds on the excitement and success of last year, our biggest season yet,” said Dr. Phillips Center President and CEO Kathy Ramsberger. “The opportunity to bring the best of Broadway to our community in both the performances on our stage and the ‘backstage’ educational experiences like Master Classes and Cast Chatbacks, is a way to invite everyone to experience our vision of Arts For Every Life.”

“We could not be more proud to partner with the Dr. Phillips Center and FTA to bring the best of Broadway right here to downtown Orlando. The upcoming season is a real treat for Central Florida audiences with a balance of some of the biggest hits in recent years alongside gorgeous revivals of legendary musicals,” said Susie Krajsa, President of Broadway Across America.

“We are once again excited to offer special, one-of-a-kind experiences and exclusive pre-sale opportunities to our members through our continued support of the FAIRWINDS Broadway in Orlando series at Dr. Phillips Center and to provide quality entertainment to our entire region,” said FAIRWINDS Credit Union President and CEO Larry Tobin.

One of the benefits of being a subscriber is having the option to renew your seats each year. Current subscribers can renew their seats now through March 15, 2019. Subscribers who renew early before March 1, 2019 can guarantee the lowest price for their subscription by taking advantage of loyalty pricing. FAIRWINDS Broadway in Orlando will first send renewal information via email and encourages renewing online for ease and convenience. This electronic communication will be followed up with a brochure sent via posted mail.

New subscriptions for the 19/20 season are not yet available for purchase at this time. Those interested in subscribing for the 19/20 season may join Broadway in Orlando’s subscription notification list at orlandobroadway.com. In April, those on the notification list will be among the first to be alerted when subscription seats become available.

Groups of 10 or more may begin placing ticket requests for most shows in the new season beginning February 15, 2019. Group minimums and discounts vary by show. Seating locations for group orders may not be confirmed until later this year.  For more information, email groups@drphillipscenter.org or call 407.455.5550. Tickets for individual shows in the 2019–2020 season will be made available at a later date.

For more information and to renew a subscription for the 2019–2020 season, visit OrlandoBroadway.com.

ABOUT THE SHOWS

Images and B-roll: https://dr-phillips-center.box.com/s/9aj4fixa5b9avk26w9vdocar7dstpobj

Les Misérables

October 22–27,2019

Walt Disney Theater

Season Option

Cameron Mackintosh presents the new production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Tony Award®-winning musical phenomenon, Les Misérables, direct from an acclaimed two-and-a-half-year return to Broadway. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables tells an unforgettable story of heartbreak, passion, and the resilience of the human spirit. Featuring the beloved songs “I Dreamed A Dream,” “On My Own,” “Stars,” “Bring Him Home,” “One Day More,” and many more, this epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. With its glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo, this breathtaking new production has left both audiences and critics awestruck. “Les Miz is born again!” (NY1). 

Escape to Margaritaville: The Jimmy Buffett Musical

November 12–17, 2019

Walt Disney Theater

Welcome to Margaritaville, where people come to get away from it all—and stay to find something they never expected. Get ready for a hilarious and heartwarming musical with the most unforgettable songs from one of music’s greatest storytellers. USA Today calls it “A little slice of paradise!” and Entertainment Weekly raves, “It will knock your flip-flops off!” So don’t let the party start without you.

The Play That Goes Wrong

December 3 –8, 2019

Walt Disney Theater

What would happen if Sherlock Holmes and Monty Python had an illegitimate Broadway baby? You’d get The Play That Goes Wrong, Broadway & London’s award-winning smash comedy! Called “A GUT-BUSTING HIT” (The New York Times) and “THE FUNNIEST PLAY BROADWAY HAS EVER SEEN” (HuffPost), this classic murder mystery is chock-full of mishaps and madcap mania delivering “A RIOTOUS EXPLOSION OF COMEDY” (Daily Beast) that is “TONS OF FUN FOR ALL AGES” (HuffPost)!

Disney’s Aladdin

January 22–February 9, 2020

Walt Disney Theater

Discover a whole new world at Aladdin, the hit Broadway musical.  From the producer of The Lion King comes the timeless story of Aladdin, a thrilling new production filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle.  It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite. 

Hailed by USA Today as “Pure Genie-Us,” Aladdin features all your favorite songs from the film as well as new music written by Tony® and Academy Award® winner Alan Menken (Newsies) with lyrics penned by the legendary Howard Ashman (Beauty and the Beast), Tony Award winner Tim Rice(The Lion King, Aida), and book writer Chad Beguelin (The Wedding Singer). Directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner CaseyNicholaw (The Book of Mormon, Something Rotten!), this “Fabulous” and “Extravagant” (The New York Times) new musical boasts anincomparable design team, with sets, costumes and lighting from Tony Award winners Bob Crowley (Mary Poppins), Gregg Barnes (Kinky Boots),and Natasha Katz (An American in Paris).  See why audiences and critics agree, Aladdin is “Exactly What You Wish For!” (NBC-TV).

Mean Girls

February 25–March 1, 2020

Walt Disney Theater

“BY FAR THE FUNNIEST MUSICAL OF THE YEAR!” – Chicago Tribune

Direct from Broadway, MEAN GIRLS is the hilarious hit musical from an award-winning creative team, including book writer TINA FEY (“30 Rock”), composer JEFF RICHMOND (“Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”), lyricist NELL BENJAMIN (Legally Blonde) and director CASEY NICHOLAW (The Book of Mormon).

Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. Soon, this naïve newbie falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign, she learns the hard way that you can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting stung.

New York Magazine cheers, “MEAN GIRLS delivers with immense energy, a wicked sense of humor and joyful inside-jokery.” USA Today says, “We’ll let you in on a little secret, because we’re such good friends: GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!”

“IT’S NOT A REGULAR MUSICAL, IT’S A COOL MUSICAL.” – Entertainment Weekly

Miss Saigon

March 31–April 5, 2020

Walt Disney Theater

“A DYNAMITE BROADWAY REVIVAL.” – The New Yorker

Experience the acclaimed new production of the legendary musical Miss Saigon, from the creators of Les Misérables.This is the epic story of a young Vietnamese woman named Kim. In a bar run by a notorious character called The Engineer, Kim meets an American G.I.just before the fall of Saigon. That encounter will change their lives forever. Featuring stunning spectacle, a sensational cast of 42, and a soaring score including Broadway hits like “Last Night of the World,” “The Movie in My Mind,” and “American Dream,” this is a theatrical event you will never forget.

A Bronx Tale

April 28–May 3, 2020

Walt Disney Theater

“Jersey Boys meets West Side Story.” – amNewYork

Broadway’s hit crowd-pleaser takes you to the stoops of the Bronx in the 1960s—where a young man is caught between the father he loves and the mob boss he’d love to be. Bursting with high-energy dance numbers and original doo-wop tunes from Alan Menken, the songwriter of Beauty and the Beast, A Bronx Tale is an unforgettable story of loyalty and family.

Three years ago, Academy Award nominee Chazz Palminteri teamed up with Academy Award® winner Robert De Niro, Tony® Award winner Jerry Zaks and  Tony® Award nominee Sergio Trujillo to create this streetwise musical – based on Palminteri’s true life story.

The New York Times hails A Bronx Tale as “A Critics’ Pick! The kind of tale that makes you laugh and cry.”

Lerner and Loewe’s My Fair Lady

May 26–31, 2020

Walt Disney Theater

From Lincoln Center Theater comes “a sumptuous new production of the most perfect musical of all time” (Entertainment Weekly), Lerner & Loewe’s My Fair Lady, directed by Bartlett Sher.  Boasting such classic songs as “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “The Rain in Spain,” and “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.”  But who is really being transformed?

“Thrilling! Glorious and better than it ever was! A marvelous and transformative revival.” – The New York Times

For more information and to renew a subscription for the 2019–2020 season and Broadway in Orlando, visit OrlandoBroadway.com.

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FAIRWINDS Broadway in Orlando is presented in partnership with Broadway Across America and Florida Theatrical Association. FTA is a non-profit civic organization with a volunteer board of trustees established to ensure the continued presentation of quality touring Broadway productions and the promotion of arts education throughout the state of Florida. For more information, visit FloridaTheatrical.org.

About Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization operating the state-of-the-art performing arts center in downtown Orlando, Fla. With its opening in November 2014, the arts center has become a gathering place for creativity and discovery, and a vibrant urban destination where artists, audiences and students come to experience, explore and learn. The two-block community destination features the 2,700-seat Walt Disney Theater, 300-seat Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, Seneff Arts Plaza, Advent Health School of the Arts, the DeVos Family Room and other event rental spaces. Under construction is Steinmetz Hall, a 1,700-seat acoustical theater, along with rehearsal, classroom, office space and commercial development spaces. Dr. Phillips Center collaborates with the City of Orlando, Orange County, the City of Winter Park, the State of Florida and generous donors.

BROADWAY ACROSS AMERICA (BAA) is part of The John Gore Organization family of companies, which includes Broadway.com, The Broadway Channel, BroadwayBox.com and Group Sales Box Office.  Led by 13-time Tony-winning theater producer John Gore (Owner & CEO), BAA is the foremost presenter of first-class touring productions in North America, operating in 44 markets with over 400,000 subscribers. Presentations include Disney’s The Lion King, Wicked, The Book of Mormon, The Phantom of the Opera and Hamilton. Current and past productions include The Band’s Visit, Beautiful, Cats, Chicago, Dear Evan Hansen, Hairspray, Mean Girls, The Producers and Waitress.

About FAIRWINDS

FAIRWINDS Credit Union, headed by President/CEO Larry Tobin, is one of the largest financial institutions headquartered in Central Florida, with assets of more than $2.2 billion, 190,000+ members and over 500 employees. The financial cooperative established in 1949 is open to anyone living or working in Central Florida.

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Filed Under: Art/Theatre Tagged With: 1920, aladdin, anchor, arts, blockbusters, broadway, ...

DVD Review “DC Super Hero Girls: Intergalactic Games”

Actors: Mae Whitman, Anais Fairweather, Grey Griffin, Teala Dunn, Tara Strong
Directors: Jennifer Coyle
Rated: NR
Studio: Warner Brothers
DVD Release Date: May 23, 2017
Run Time: 72 minutes

Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

“DC Super Hero Girls: Intergalactic Games” is the second feature length movie from the incredibly popular “DC Super Hero Girls” series. I have a five year old daughter and this series is one of her favorite. I heard this week in fact that there is an actual full series coming out (finally) in 2018. We have had only online shorts previously outside of these two features. This series is a perfect way to get young girls into the superhero world, which is proven to not for boys only anymore. If you have a young girl, this is a must own for sure.

Official Premise: Wonder Woman, Supergirl, Batgirl, Poison Ivy, Harley Quinn, Bumblebee and Katana square off against Korugar Academy in the Intergalactic Games, but trouble is in the air as Lena Luthor takes advantage of the gathering of the Supers to enact her villainous plan. It’s up to the DC Super Hero Girls to fight the forces of evil and protect their school. With Wonder Woman’s strength, Supergirl’s speed, Batgirl’s strategic knowledge, Poison Ivy’s ability to make things grow, Harley Quinn’s energy, Bumblebee’s ability to shrink, and Katana’s fearless personality… anything is possible.

In addition to the very fun and cute animated film, there are a few solid special features as well. There is a fun music video for “That’s My Girl” by Fifth Harmony. There are also seven animated shorts from the online series that aired on Youtube. With the upcoming full length animated series and a non-stop flow of amazing merchandise, “DC Super Hero Girls” is only getting more and more popular every day. I hope that Warner Bros continues to make these full-length features as well!

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: dc, dvd, games, girls, hero, intergalactic, ...

Blu-ray Revie “My Little Pony Equestria Girls: Rainbow Rocks”

Starring: Tara Strong, Ashleigh Ball, Andrea Libman, Tabitha St. Germain
Directors: Jayson Thiessen, Ishi Rudell
Studio: Shout! Factory
Release Date: October 28, 2014
Run Time: 72 minutes

Film: 5 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“My Little Pony Equestria Girls: Rainbow Rocks” is a sequel to 2013’s “My Little Pony Equestria Girls”. This is the second brand new full-length film from the very popular “My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic” series. I have to admit, I wasn’t expecting to like this but I have a two year old daughter and she is going absolutely crazy for it. She absolutely loves the music in this film and she dances and sings along. Since receiving this, we have probably watched this film at least one per day and it definitely grows on you. The music is easily the best part of this film, no question. If you love the “My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic” series, then I highly recommend this!

Official Premise: In My Little Pony Equestria Girls: Rainbow Rocks, Canterlot High (CHS) is hosting a musical showcase, and Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy are going to be performing with their new band, The Rainbooms. But when The Dazzlings, a new girl group, arrive at CHS and convince everyone to turn the friendly showcase into a Battle of the Bands, tensions mount between the competing musical acts. A now-reformed Sunset Shimmer realizes that The Dazzlings may not be ordinary girls and are after something far more sinister than just being named Best Band at Canterlot High. The Rainbooms call on Princess Twilight to restore harmony to their world to help them perform a musical counter-spell so that they can win a battle that now determines the fate of the entire school.

Shout Factory is releasing this film as a Blu-ray/DVD/Digital Copy combo. I personally think that the digital copy is useless Shout has yet to get on board with Ultraviolet Digital HD service. They still use the download this to your device and that is very outdated. The 1080p transfer is gorgeous. The film is extremely colorful, as you can imagine if you follow the series. The DTS-HD Master Audio track works perfect with the fun characters and the fantastic tunes. The special features are pretty great as well with an audio commentary track, 8 Prequel Shorts and 3 Sing-Alongs included. The sing-alongs are a great way to re-enjoy each song.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, equestria, girls, pony, rainbow, revie, ...

E.G. Daily talks about NBC’s “The Voice” and the return of “The Powerpuff Girls”

You might not known E.G. Daily’s face but you definitely know her voice since she has voiced numerous animated characters including Tommy Pickles in “Rugrats”. She is also known for her role of Dottie in “Pee Wee’s Big Adventure”. Besides acting, she is also a singer and was a contestant on season five of NBC’s “The Voice” with Team Blake. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with E.G. about her experience on the show and the return of “The Powerpuff Girls”.

Mike Gencarelli: Tell us about how you decided to audition for NBC’s “The Voice”?
E.G. Daily: I’ve been hosting an online music show called “Balcony TV”, which I got to sing on. After I did a few of them, the same person that contacted me for that told me that she got me an audition for “The Voice”. I didn’t think that they would have me on that show due to my career to date. I went in just for fun and prepared three cover songs. The next thing I know I got a call back. There is a 50,000 people process for this show. So over months and months I kept being called back for the next audition and the next audition and finally I got asked to do the blind audition, which was down to the final 150 people. It was a very incredible process. I don’t know how it happened. I was just doing what I loved and the next thing I know I was singing “Breath” in front of America.

MG: Tell us about the highlight for you on the show?
EGD: I have to say it was singing “Breathe” on my blind audition since that was such a magical moment for me. I went months and months of not knowing anything and putting myself on the line and to actually get a chance to be on a team with these talent artists was amazing. You can see it on my face as well if you watch that performance (see below for video), I was like “Wow, this is crazy”.

MG: How do you feel about the finale results for season 5?
EGD: Tessanne (Chin) was actually my roommate, so I have so much love for her. All of them, I was close with Jacquie and her mother as well. I think Tessanne is such a solid human being, has such a beautiful soul and is such a great singer. I am very happy and proud for her.

MG: Tell us about what we can expect for return of “The Powerpuff Girls” in 2014?
EGD: I can’t say much about it because that it is a special episode and premieres on January 20th. I have done a couple of special things for “The Powerpuff Girls”, but I can’t say what they are besides that it is going to be really cool. The fans are going nutty about it and I think it is going to be really great. This could be the launch of a lot of things for “The Powerpuff Girls” since fans are very hungry for more of that show.

MG: What else do you have planned for 2014?
EGD: I have been in the studio a lot recently. If you look up E.G. Daily on iTunes, there is tons of great music available right now. There is a record I put out there a while back called “Tearing Down the Walls” that is so beautiful. There is a recent video out there called “Somebody’s Loving You”, which is great. I am recording some new songs right now that I will be putting up soon as well. I have a trip planned to the East Coast in the beginning of next year for a personal appearance. I also have a ton of animation like “Julius Jr.” which is coming to Nick Jr. next year. I am have super busy and it has been awesome. So a lot of great things coming up and be sure to check egdaily.com for all upcoming news.

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Filed Under: Interviews, TV Interviews Tagged With: daily, girls, nbcs, powerpuff, return, talks, ...

Blu-ray Review “My Little Pony: Equestria Girls”

Starring: Tara Strong, Ashleigh Ball, Andrea Libman, Tabitha St. Germain, Cathy Weseluck, Rebecca Shoichet
Directors: Jayson Thiessen
Rated TV-Y
Studio: Shout! Factory
DVD Release Date: August 6, 2013
Run Time: 72 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

I have to admit, love it or hate it “My Little Pony” is very popular since the TV series “Friendship is Magic” really took off with fans of all ages. The brand has never been popular and now Hasbro got even more and decided to expand in this universe. “My Little Pony: Equestria Girls” shows our favorite ponies being transformed in teenage girls. This gives Hasbro another opportunity to continue producing more toys, apparel, publishing and accessories for this franchise. I think this was a very smart idea. And to be honest the movie is quite fun, especially for young girls. My daughter enjoyed it quite a bit between the music and the bright colors. A must watch for any fan of the show, whether you are a young girl or even an adult you will enjoy this.

Official Premise: When Twilight Sparkle’s crown is stolen from the Crystal Empire, she pursues the thief, Sunset Shimmer, into an alternate world where she finds herself turned into…a teenage girl! To regain her crown and return to Equestria, Twilight must learn how to fit into this strange, new world and defeat Sunset Shimmer in a competition to become crowned Princess of the Fall Formal at Canterlot High. Luckily, she will have the assistance of Spike and five teenage girls who remind her of a certain group of ponies back home.

If you are a fan of the series, then you will be happy to know that this full-length movie follows the events of “Magical Mystery Cure”, which was the final episode of the third season of “Friendship is Magic”. So it continues the story line and holds us off until season four comes this November. I also like that it has a certain “Alice Through the Looking Glass” feel to it as well.  I noticed that from the moment I saw the box and it peaked my interest. Comparing this to the TV series, it is a little more mature since the ponies are turned into high school girls but it is nothing that a young girls will not be able to watch. Also the end monster is a little scary for younger kids.

Shout! Factory really has given a lot of love to the “My Little Pony” over the last few years. I also should point out that this is the first time that the ponies have been given a high-def Blu-ray release. So the 1080p transfer really shines (or should I say sparkles, maybe?). The colors are really sharp and the animation style looks fantastic. Like I mentioned there is some fun movie in the film with six new songs from Dan Ingram, but it is more pop music and quite different from the original series but that is a good thing also. The special features are also fun including a featurette called “Through The Mirror Of Equestria Girls”. There is karaoke versions of the songs in the film. There is an option to “Pony-fy Yourself” and lastly there is a Printable Movie Poster included.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, equestria, girls, pony, review

Vinyl Review “The Rolling Stones: Some Girls – Live In Texas”

The Rolling Stones
“Some Girls – Live In Texas”
Release Date: September 11, 2012
Number of Discs: 3
Label: Eagle Rock Entertainment

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

If you are a fan of The Rolling Stones, then you already know   and love “Some Girls – Live in Texas” from ’78.  It is one of the best live shows from the band. This release is getting the rare vinyl treatment thanks to Eagle Rock Entertainment. The vinyl set contains 180g vinyls in a three-panel gatefold sleeve. The audio sounds truly amazing and really allows fans to go back in time and experience these songs the way that they were meant to be heard.  ’78 was also the highlight of The Stones and delivers some of their best tracks.

“Some Girls: Live In Texas” originally took place at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas on July 18, 1978. Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ron Wood, Charlie Watts, and Bill Wyman perform the tracks live just as good as they do on the album.  Even though this is a new vinyl release, it sounds like it pressed back in the day.  The sound is superb and really sharp.  It is polished but still holds the charm that makes vinyls still relevant. Some of the Stones classics tracks are showcased on these vinyls including, “Beast Of Burden”, “Brown Sugar” and “Jumpin Jack Flash”. If you are looking for the live recording of this concert, it was also recently released by Eagle Rock on DVD and Blu-ray. If you are a classic days Stones fans or someone just discovering them, this vinyl will make you an instant fan.

TRACK LISTING:
Side A: 1) Let It Rock 2) All Down The Line 3) Honky Tonk Women 4) Star Star 5) When The Whip Comes Down
Side B: 1) Beast Of Burden 2) Miss You 3) Imagination 4) Shattered
Side C: 1) Respectable 2) Far Away Eyes 3) Love In Vain 4) Tumbling Dice
Side D: 1) Happy 2) Sweet Little Sixteen 3) Brown Sugar 4) Jumpin Jack Flash

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: girls, live, review, rolling, stones, texas, ...

“Shit My Dad Says” author Justin Halpern talks new book “I Suck at Girls”

Justin Halpern is the man behind the Twitter feed @ShitMyDadSays.  This Twitter feed was not only turned into a very successful book but also a television series starring William Shatner.  “I Suck at Girls” is the second book from Justin Halpern.  Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Justin about this new book and of course what are his father’s thoughts about it.

Mike Gencarelli: What was the biggest pressure with the follow up to “Shit My Dad Says”?
Justin Halpern: I just wanted to write a book that was as entertaining as the first and that people liked just as much. There is a lot of pressure in that since you want the people who liked the first book to like the latest one as well. I wanted to write something that was self organic and that people would like.

MG: What did you enjoy most about the writing process of “I Suck at Girls”?
JH: I think being able to stretch out a little bit more. The first book I wanted to be very brief similar to the Twitter feed. I didn’t want people to have to read 500 pages. I felt I could spend a little more time developing the stories with the second book.

MG: Tell us about your inspiration behind this book?
JH: Before I proposed to my wife I had told my dad about what I was going to do and he told me to take a day and think about what I was doing and, to also think about my past relationships. When I was doing that I realized I had some funny stories that I think everyone probably goes through. I thought it would make a good book.

MG: What are your father’s thoughts on the new book?
JH: He really likes it. He originally told me he hated it. (Laughs) He said that this second book needed to be better than the first or else people were going to shit all over it. I told him people will have a tough time shitting on this book.

MG: What are your thoughts on the television rights to “I Suck at Girls” being sold already?
JH: I just need to be more careful this time. Things with this are still quite a long ways off. I am excited even though the first one didn’t work out so well. Hopefully with this one we can do things right.

MG: What do you think caused the “$#*! My Dad Says” to not last on television?
JH: CBS has some of the highest rated shows and I don’t think the show was doing all that well. You have to be a big hit to stay on the air there.

MG: Have you thought about writing a direct follow up to “Shit My Dad Says”?
JH: The current book has a lot of my dad in it so I consider it the follow up to the first book. This new book just has a lot more in it.

MG:So on a side note, I’ve always wondered why do you only follow LeVare Burton on Twitter?
JH: When I first signed up for Twitter they gave you 20 default people to follow. I was un-following all of them until I got to LeVare. I thought it would be funny if I only followed him.

MG: Are you a big “Star Trek” fan?
JH: No not necessarily. I did use to like “Reading Rainbow” though. (Laughs)

MG: What other things do you have coming up?
JH: I am out promoting the book right now and that is about it. Things are going really well.

 

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Filed Under: Author Interviews, Interviews Tagged With: author, book, dad, girls, halpern, justin, ...

Blu-ray Review “Mutant Girls Squad”

Directed by: Noboru Iguchi, Yoshihiro Nishimura, Tak Sakaguchi
Starring: Yoshihiro Nishimura, Asami, Naoto Takenaka
Distributed by: Well Go USA
Release Date: May 22, 2012
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 89 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars

When some combine the directors of three of the coolest Japanese action-horror-comedy films you are destine for greatness. Noboru Iguchi is known best for the amazing “The Machine Girl”, Yoshihiro Nishimura is known for “Tokyo Gore Police” and Tak Sakaguchi has done “Yoroi: Samurai Zombie”. If you have never seen these three films and you are a horror fan…what is wrong with you? This film is funny, sooo over-the-top and just a riot to watch. I mean come-on a girl whose mutant power is to spawn a chainsaw out of her ass?! Or ninjas with guns for noses?! Does it get any better that that?

The film focuses on the character Rin (Yumi Sugimoto) and her realization that she is an Hiruko, a race of mutant creatures whose can transform their bodies transform and form strange weapons at will. Rin meet up with five other genetically-advanced girls who team up and use their mutant powers in order to defeat an evil prime minister.

The Blu-ray presentation on this film but look and sounds great. There is a lot of action and gore in the film and it is showcased very well. This release also comes with a DVD disc of the film along with the Blu-ray. I was impressed that there was also only a Japanese audio track, no dub. The special features are decent and include two behind-the-scenes featurettes. The first is called “Opening Day”, which focuses on a screening for the film. The second is called “The Making of Mutant Girls Squad”, short but sweet. There is also interviews with filmmakers, obviously which are subtitled, worth checking out for sure. Lastly there is a short film “Yoshi Zero”, which is a prequel to this film. Super cool!

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, girls, mutant, review, squad

Blu-ray Review “The Rolling Stones: Some Girls – Live in Texas ’78”

Starring: The Rolling Stones
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Eagle Rock Entertainment
Running time 105 minutes

Overall Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I remember listening to the cassette of “Some Girls” with my uncle back in the late 80’s. It is definitely considered by fans to be one of The Rolling Stones’ very best. This concert was the bands 1978 tour to support the album and it was the time when the album had hit the #1 spot on the US charts. The concert was filmed at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas, on July 18th, 1978. The concert was really featured the band focusing on their music with little or no focus on its staging, though The Rolling Stones still deliver a very energetic performance.

The Blu-ray release for this concert is really clear and crisp. The footage was originally shot on 16mm film and has been restored, remixed and remastered by Bob Clearmountain from the original tapes. The sound is very clear and definitely sounds great on the Blu-ray. The movie features many classics including “Honky Tonk Woman”, “Tumbling Dice”, “Brown Sugar”, “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”, “Miss You” and “Beast of Burden”. If you are fan of the Stones, this is definitely a no-brainer and a great opportunity to see the band its prime peak.

There are tons of great bonus features included on this release as well. There is a newly filmed interview with Mick Jagger, which is very fun. There is a great sketch from Saturday Night Live, October 1978, featuring Dan Aykroyd as Tom Snyder interviewing Mick Jagger. It is very funny and a fantastic feature. Also included from Saturday Night Live and introduced by Laraine Newman is “Shattered”, “Respectable” and “Beast Of Burden”. There are excerpts from a ABC 20/20 Special, introduced by Hugh Downs with interviews by Geraldo Rivera from June 1978/ This includes interviews with Mick, Keith, Ronnie and Bill. Lastly there is another interview with Mick from Aug 2011 conducted in France. The interview runs about 15 minutes and honestly, I could listen to Mick talk for hours. Great features overall for a great release. Congrats Eagle Rock Entertainment for delivering again.

Track Listing:
1) Let It Rock
2) All Down The Line
3) Honky Tonk Women
4) Star Star
5) When The Whip Comes Down
6) Beast Of Burden
7) Miss You
8) Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me)
9) Shattered
10) Respectable
11) Far Away Eyes
12) Love In Vain
13) Tumbling Dice
14) Happy
15) Sweet Little Sixteen
16) Brown Sugar
17) Jumpin Jack Flash

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: 78, bluray, girls, live, review, rolling, ...
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