Glorious 'Glee'

(Published April 26, PDI-Entertainment)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Contributor

IN the first 13 episodes of fan-favorite comedy-musical series "Glee," the ups and downs of teen life translate into melodic mash-ups and energetic covers of recent and classic pop-rock favorites, as sung by the unpopular but gifted glee club New Directions.

The weekly series created by Ryan Murphy ("Nip/Tuck") continues to click with music-loving youngsters and grownups alike, recently winning a Golden Globe for Best Television Series (Musical or Comedy), and a Screen Actors Guild award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series.

New Directions' beloved underdogs aren't an ordinary bunch. While some of its members may not belong to the with-it cliques--and some of the once-popular have become outcasts by osmosis--the group is undeniably talented, and is continuously motivated by the indefatigable teacher Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison).

Menaced regularly by cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester (Jane Lynch), the young singers have survived her sneaky acts of sabotage, and even won the sectionals.

But the victory is short-lived. In the eagerly anticipated new episode, new love interests and rivalries are introduced, while the members of New Directions face the recharged villainy of Sue. Diva-in-training Rachel (Lea Michele) meets a similarly ambitious singer, Jesse (Jonathan Groff), from a rival group. Meanwhile, the other kids are still disrespected by the mean girls and bullies, but continue to prove themselves in show-stopping song-and-dance numbers.

While the Will-Sue feud has escalated and gotten quite tedious, the young misfits' all-too-familiar drama--from self-worth issues to romantic entanglements--continues to inspire pop, rock and R&B renditions that audibly flavor every episode. From timeless tunes by The Doors, Cyndi Lauper, John Lennon and Madonna, to hits by Beyoncé, Avril Lavigne and Rihanna, the song selection provides a rich, evolving soundtrack that transcends generations. An episode devoted to all-original music is reportedly in the works.

In this era of instant gratification and changing perceptions on stardom, "Glee" reiterates the importance of hard work, creativity and teamwork. The show is already a unique platform for arts awareness; hopefully, upcoming storylines will be approached more inventively. The production numbers continue to improve, and it's only a matter of time before the show truly pushes the envelope.

"Glee" airs Wednesdays, 4 p.m. (Jack TV and ETC), 8 p.m. (Jack TV), and 10 p.m. (ETC).

Byrne Bright

This John Byrne drawing from 1983 was for a special Bullpen Bulletin, a hype-and-plug page that used to appear monthly in all Marvel comics. I first saw this when I was a kid, and I first "met" Alpha Flight in this illustration. Got this old image from Fred Hembeck's site, by the way.

Now that I'm a grownup, I'm mostly updated on the goings-on in the Marvel Universe. This here's an exercise; I'll list down what I know of those characters that he drew, about 27 years (our time) later:

Spider-Man: Made a deal with Mephisto to save Aunt May, single again.
Silver Surfer: A herald of Galactus again.
Monica Rambeau: Ex-Next Waver, current Marvel Diva, sassier than ever.
Daredevil: Leader of The Hand.
Man-Thing: "Killed" by Ares, will be a Thunderbolt soon.
Dr. Strange: No longer Sorcerer Supreme.
Ghost Rider: Johnny Blaze again (I think).
Sasquatch: Helped form a short-lived Omega Flight team.
Guardian: Was killed off-panel.
Shaman: Was also killed off-panel.
Wasp: Dead, her body sent to another dimension.
Black Widow: Impersonated the villainous Black Widow.
Hawkeye: Ninja'd up, will be Hawkeye again soon.
Angel: Transforms to the more efficient Archangel from time to time.
Iceman: Still an X-Man, has matured somewhat.
Thing: Almost got married to a teacher but called off the wedding.
Mr. Fantastic: Now has uber-genius daughter Valeria to nerd-speak with.
Invisible Woman: Sometimes hangs out with the Lady Liberators.
Human Torch: Joined a band and starred in a reality show.
Hercules: Dead for now, was bisexual.
Wonder Man: Joined the Lethal Legion during Dark Reign.
Hulk: Banner can't change to Hulk, fights using smarts and tech.
Beast: Quit the X-Men, will be a Secret Avenger.
Storm: Wife of T'Challa, Queen of Wakanda.
Kitty Pryde: Saved the Earth single-handedly, later saved by Magneto.
Cyclops: Leader of remaining mutants, decisive, loves Emma Frost.
Nightcrawler: Still an active X-Man.
Wolverine: Member of Avengers, X-Men, X-Force.
Banshee: Temporarily resurrected during the Necrosha event.
Thor: Former lord of Asgard, will be an Avenger again.
Scarlet Witch: Hiding in Europe after magicking away mutants.
Vision: Previous "personality" inactive, body taken over by successor.
Captain America: Alive again, will be adopting a new identity.
Iron Man: Deposed SHIELD director, will be rejoining Avengers.
She-Hulk: Was a lawyer, then a bounty hunter, met two new She-Hulks.
Cage: Husband, father, New Avenger, new mentor to Thunderbolts.
Iron Fist: Occasional Avenger, sometimes wears better footwear.
Northstar: Taught at Xavier's, active X-Man, slept with Hercules.
Snowbird: Joined the God Squad, slept with Hercules.
Marrina: Monster form unleashed by Norman Osborn.
Puck: Killed off-panel.
Aurora: Has several personalities, refused to join Osborn's X-Men.
John Byrne: Should do a Marvel book again, maybe revive Alpha Flight, write She-Hulk, or work on an FF mini.

Avenging in Secret

Here's the Secret Avengers lineup, unveiled at last: Beast, Valkyrie, Nova, Moon Knight, Black Widow, Steve Rogers and Irredeemable Ant-Man. Sharon Carter is also working with the team, according to writer Ed Brubaker.

I'm glad that this group has three new members, or members that have not been included in previous incarnations of the A-team. Also, I'm excited about Christos Gage's Avengers Academy, which will star six student characters and five teachers (among them Speedball!). Oh, and there's the new bi-monthly Young Avengers book, too. Finally!

Surviving the 'Greek' pantheon

(Published April 19, PDI-Entertainment)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Contributor

Brotherhood, brashness and beer are crucial components to the survival of some college students in the fresh comedy-drama “Greek,” created by writer-producer Patrick Sean Smith.

Brainy freshman Rusty (Jacob Zachar) tries to fit in by joining a fraternity, hoping for admission into the “cool” crowd. His older sister Casey (Spencer Grammer) is a popular sorority member, a sweet girl torn between her directionless but passionate ex, Cappie (Scott Michael Foster), and her ambitious but two-timing current beau, Evan (Jake McDorman). Being related to Casey easily gets Rusty into Cappie’s fraternity, so the new kid has to prove himself a worthy addition to the ranks while juggling academic responsibilities.

“Greek” presents several romantic rivalries, aside from the staple frat competitions. Characters are written as imperfect but fleshed-out young people, making it hard to classify anyone as a classic villain. Strategically timed flashbacks add dimension to Evan, while the initially despicable Rebecca (Dilshad Vadsaria) eventually redeems herself.

Season one partly chronicles Rusty’s growth, as he’s initiated into the intricacies of college life. He gains a few reliable friends (a newly outed gay guy from the rival frat, and a conservative Christian roommate), and briefly dates a smart, attractive girl. He’s protective of his sister Casey and she’s not embarrassed by her nerdy and “uncool” brother. In an environment where students are surrounded by uncaring and competitive peers almost 24/7, this unconditional rapport is welcome and refreshing.

The focus on personal discoveries and fellowship in this volatile period is consistently creative. Peer pressure, parties and perplexing predicaments recreate familiar situations, and manage to cram in several characters that are easy to identify with. The motivated, the misguided and the misunderstood make a fun, combustible mix.

Season 2 of “Greek” airs Sundays (7 p.m.) and Mondays (12 p.m. and 4 p.m.) on Hallmark.

Soar, 'Losers'

"The Losers," based on the DC-Vertigo comic book by Andy Diggle. Culling and modifying key parts from the series, the film is snappy despite its basic actioner structure. The brazen Special Forces group monikered The Losers aptly translates as a funny, efficient, and explosive unit; its members include cocky Jensen (Chris Evans), decisive Clay (Jeffrey Dean Morgan), and enigmatic Aisha (Zoe Saldana), among others. The over-the-top villainy of Max (Jason Patric) likewise elicits chuckles, but it's hard to take him, and his threats, seriously. The fierce fisticuffs, dramatically shot gunfights, and clashing personalities win you over, making the simple revenge caper watchable.

'Taking Chance' based on true events

(Published April 21, PDI-Entertainment)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Contributor

Somber and moving, the HBO original movie “Taking Chance” is based on actual events and stars Kevin Bacon as Lt. Col. Michael Strobl. Bacon recently won a Golden Globe (Best Actor in a Miniseries) for the portrayal of the marine who documents events in his journal while transporting the body of a young recruit to his hometown.

Tasked with accompanying the casket containing Chance Phelps, a 19-year-old killed in Iraq, Strobl witnesses overwhelming displays of respect from Americans back home.

“Taking Chance” illustrates the universality of appreciation; the solidarity of diverse people in quiet recognition is almost surreal. The people Strobl meets along the way may not belong to the same political affiliation, or share the same religious beliefs, but in their own ways, they mourn and contemplate such an unnecessary loss.

“Taking Chance” doesn’t rant about the senselessness of war, but rumination on the tragedy is felt throughout the story.

Young Chance’s time abroad is briefly recounted and summed up by a friend (Enver Gjokaj), giving Strobl—and viewers—a clear idea of who he was.

Strobl’s firsthand experience translates quite clearly; Bacon is subtle as the unflagging officer, warmly welcomed and given much respect for his sacred responsibility. The clean, carefully composed imagery adds a dash of optimism to an otherwise gloomy subject.

“Taking Chance” airs April 23, 10 p.m.; April 24, 6:30 p.m.; and April 25, 4:15 p.m., on HBO Signature.

Gleefully Singing

I attended a special viewing of the first new episode of the returning musical series Glee at Red Box Greenbelt last Wednesday. Still funny and cute. A new character, Jesse, is introduced, played by openly gay actor Jonathan Groff. He’s Rachel’s new love interest from a rival glee club. The ambitious character admits to being a “drama queen.” But nah, I don’t expect him to go bi. Jane Lynch (a.k.a. Sue Sylvester) is gay, but the character she plays is straight. Still, Glee is awesome for a number of reasons, including the fact that it’s a gay-friendly show.

Speaking of gay people, just a few weeks after the Ricky Martin and Anna Paquin announcements, there’s another celebrity outing. According to a CNN article, Christian rock artist Jennifer Knapp recently came out as gay! Oh my God, indeedy! That’s great news. I was introduced to Miss Knapp’s music about ten years ago, when she was among the artists featured in a CNN Christian music special. I liked her voice immediately. I remember seeing her CD in one of those stalls that sell Christian stuff some years back, but I didn’t buy it, and I know her music more because of dozens of YouTube videos. Anyway, she sounds like the middle “sister” of KT Tunstall and Melissa Etheridge. “I would rather be judged before God as an honest human being,” she said. Attagirl, Jennifer! Her new album, “Letting Go,” is about “inner conflicts, spirituality, and life lessons.” Very interesting.

And lastly, speaking of new albums, I’ve listened to a few Natalie Merchant interviews about her new two-CD offering, “Leave Your Sleep.” The eclectic-sounding songs have lyrics that are actually old poems, according to the ex-Maniac. I wondered how her music would change since becoming a parent some years ago, and the answer is this inspired album. I’ve yet to own it, but I’ve heard a number of tracks via YouTube, and some of my faves are “Janitor’s Boy,” “Dancing Bear,” and “If No One Ever Marries Me.I also like her song from David Byrne’s “Here Lies Love” album, “Order 1081,” sung from the perspective of Imelda Marcos’ old yaya. Anyway, here’s a cap from the Maniacs’ “These are Days” video. Cool seeing that again.

Killer ‘Kick-Ass’

In a world devoid of super-heroes, teen geek David Lizewski (Aaron Johnson) dons a scuba suit and decides to fight crime in the take-no-prisoners action flick “Kick-Ass,” based on Mark Millar and John Romita, Jr.’s ultra-violent comic book. It’s a good translation; the modifications are welcome ones, including a romance between David and his long-admired schoolmate, and a different history for Nicolas Cage’s masked vigilante Big Daddy. Scene-stealing Chloe Moretz plays merciless Hit Girl, diminutive killer of scum, while Christopher Mintz-Plasse enjoyably brings conniving Red Mist to life. Involving and funny at the right parts, the Matthew Vaughn-directed film’s insane juvenile fantasies interlock cohesively with serious and silly scenes of butt-kicking.

Our Lady of Gaga

Just a quick drawing of Miss Germanotta. I like her, yeah.

Hard to out-‘Rank’

The Deadpool Corps Rank and Foul handbook is neither rank nor foul; fans of the old Joe Kelly Deadpool book and the Great Lakes Avengers (or Initiative, etc.) will appreciate the detailed character profiles. Blind Al, Zoe Culloden, Weasel, Dinah Soar, Big Bertha, Madcap--they’re all here! But don’t look for Deadpool arch-foe T-Ray; he was included in a previous handbook. You won’t miss him, though, because this issue is crammed with about five dozen old and new characters that have appeared in Deadpool’s various titles. Rank and Foul is a fun, often funny read (DP’s had some inane adventures, after all), and has some nice new illustrations by Gus Vasquez.

Rip Tide

I just discovered two TMZ-inspired local shows: TV5’s Dokumentado has Luchi Cruz Valdez as the Harvey Levin-esque host; it has exclusive footage of politicians and, of course, commentary on campaign issues and minutiae by a small group of journalists… I found myself switching channels after a few minutes because politicians make my head hurt, and the joke graphics and jingles feel forced. Meanwhile, there’s the more unabashed TMZ ripoff, Q’s lively Tweetbiz, which has an odd but watchable mix of personalities (Mr. Foo, Sam YG, Tim Yap, etc.). Pinoy stars and starlets’ tweets are read, and there’s even a whiteboard for listing down local artista sightings and comments. I can’t look away.

Darling ‘Date Night’

In the comedy “Date Night,” sitcom stars Steve Carell and Tina Fey play a dorky married couple who try out new things together to rejuvenate the romance. They soon realize that taking someone else’s table at a pricey restaurant is a bad move, and they spend the rest of that night fleeing for their lives.

“Date Night” makes good use of the finely matched Carell and Fey, who continue to portray well-meaning but awkward protagonists successfully in their respective TV shows. While their characters here are a mite toned down, they--and the mishaps they figure in--are no less funny; together, they “dub” dating couples at neighboring tables, panic after their near-death experiences, melt at the sight of perpetually shirtless Mark Wahlberg, and infiltrate a kinky strip joint. The situations could have been more circuitous and audacious a la “The Hangover,” or even the better episodes of “30 Rock” and “The Office,” but despite opting for a simpler, more obvious structure and style, “Date Night” still has riotous moments of adorable awkwardness.

Cartooniverse

More toon heroes. Here are my versions of Perry the Paltypus a.k.a. Agent P, from Phineas and Ferb, and Fry and Leela from Futurama.

Fry and Leela

Perry the Platypus

Closer to ‘Fine’

Robert De Niro plays Frank, a widower who decides to visit his kids (Sam Rockwell, Kate Beckinsale, Drew Barrymore) in the drama “Everybody’s Fine,” a simple but tidily told tale about less than ideal familial bonds. Frank discovers the truths behind the realities fabricated by his children--or by him, in some cases--his visits insightful and relatable especially when examining the oft-unstable rapport between fathers and children. Adequately paced and visually composed, the film ponders dreams and disappointments, the revealing voice-over conversations between the siblings complementing scenic and symbolic shots of telephone poles and cables. A few scenes can be especially moving, even heart-breaking, and it’s quite easy to identify with specific situations and issues. De Niro and the rest of the cast perform spiritedly but subtly, despite some iffy lines.

“Everybody’s Fine” is an Ayala Cinemas exclusive opening on April 7.

Pick Your Jesus

I’m rereading some comic books that starred or co-starred different versions of Jesus Christ. Again, no, I don’t believe, and I’ve blogged about it a couple of times. Still, I’m familiar with the messiah figure’s history and deeds, after years of theology classes and rituals. Anyway, these three comic book iterations are irreverent, entertaining, and not for the humorless.

Loaded Bible: Jesus Vs. Vampires. In this post-apocalyptic future, Jesus has returned to protect mankind from vampires. He’s a kickass, sword-wielding warrior, and his “holy spit” can destroy vicious vamps.

Battle Pope. Now this gun-toting Jesus is funny, a bumbling sidekick to the formidable but flawed Battle Pope. Jesus H. Christ often finds himself in embarrassing situations, but has helped out during missions and has displayed incredible powers.

Jesus Christ: In the Name of the Gun. A surly, cigar-smoking Jesus confronts his indifferent heavenly father--who looks like Marlon Brando--about the Holocaust. Jesus time-travels to the past and attacks the Nazis. He can run on water, has killer martial arts moves, and is an excellent marksman.

Distract and Deviate

1. On the afternoon of April 1^st, DeviantArt avatars changed into gif images of Team Edward, Team Jacob, Team Seeker, and Lady Gaga, which scared and confused many users. Mine changed into Edward. Weird April Foolery. After 24 hours, everything was back to normal.

2. Some comic book spoilers:

2.1. Kitty Pryde has finally returned, rescued by Magneto in the latest Uncanny X-Men issue. But she’s stuck in her intangible form again. The first time was back in 1987. The problem was solved in the X-Men Vs. Fantastic Four mini.

2.2. Man, the Mighty Avengers broke up because Pym did something awful. I hope (but doubt) it’s part of a bigger plan, and we’ll see if the team reassembles before the title gets cancelled.

2.3. Hercules is dead again. At the wake (Hercules: Fall of an Avenger), four women he slept with--Black Widow, Namora, Snowbird, Queen Alflyse--proudly admitted fighting and getting busy with him at different times. Snowbird invited other attendees to admit the same: “Now come, I know there are others in the crowd who should join us… don’t be shy.” Northstar suddenly leaves. Yup, Herc is… or was, bisexual. And Northstar slept with an Avenger.

Regurgitate the ‘Titans’

Campy fantasy classic “Clash of the Titans” is re-imagined in the visually grand but less entrancing film directed by Louis Leterrier, starring Sam Worthington as the avenging demigod Perseus. Like the original movie, this new “Clash” weaves together elements from Greek mythology, centering on conflicts involving defiant mortals and manipulative gods. This time, escalating enmity between man and the father deity Zeus (an armored Liam Neeson) is worsened by the obviously duplicitous Hades (Ralph Fiennes), whose machinations also affect exiled half-god Perseus.

The monster-hunting scenes look spectacular in 3D, but Perseus and company’s journey, while stunning, doesn’t do much for viewers already familiar, even saturated with sweeping, earth-shaking fantasy epics. Calibos looks less beastly and threatening than the previous version, and the vaunted Kraken’s simpler facial features make it look like a toothier cousin to other gigantic screen behemoths Cloverfield and the Rancor Monster. The addition of long-lived demigod Io (Gemma Anterton) presents a new dynamic; she’s the token girl companion who must explain everything to Perseus.

Worthington’s dour demigod moves predictably and lacks dimension, but the actor brings a renewed verve to the character. This new “Clash of the Titans” is still fun despite unavoidable narrative and conceptual imperfections, and it compensates with its colossal effects-knitted clashes. Also, those who adored the original movie will appreciate the brief, joke-y appearance of robotic owl Bubo.

Toon Tandems

Something different this time. My interpretation of some fave cartoon characters.

PHINEAS AND FERB is a wholesome, fun, show. The characters are genius stepbrothers.

SPY GROOVE, a short-lived MTV animated series, aired about ten years ago. Naughty, funny stuff. These are Agents Number 2 and 1.

Meaningful Musings

Here are some of my favorite pop/rock lyrics that talk about spirituality (or its absence), question organized belief, or decry religion-caused injustices.

“TEEN FOR GOD,” DAR WILLIAMS. The sun burns down, leaving God's bright stamp on Peach Branch Horse and Bible Camp, where we're splashing in the water, joined in song, swimming with the Spirit the whole day long. I'm a teen for God. God is watching, teen for God. The girls have looks and the girls have rules. They came here from their Bible schools. They can make you pay attention to the way you dress and eat, make you trip over your own two feet. And they kneel down on their towels at night, their nightgowns glow with a holy light. And we pray for the sinners and their drunken cars wrecks, and vow that I'll never get high and have sex. I'm a teen for God. God is watching, teen for God. And God made every leaf on every tree, each grain of sand, God has a plan for what we're meant to be. I gotta wait for God. Dear Lord, I plan each day, the things I will not do or say. But I'm driven by a passion. Is it only there to tame? It fills my heart and it calls my name, and this world that you made for us, I know, I know, is dangerous. So I ride a lot of horses, and I never even swear. Sorta like praying, I'm just not there. Oh God. God is watching. But God made love, God made the rivers run. And cowboy boots and bathing suits, and the foreskin dries in the sun. You gotta help me, God. Help me know, four years from now, I won't believe in you anyhow. And I'll mope around the campus, and I'll feel betrayed, all those guilty summers I stayed. But then I'll laugh that I fell for the lure of the pain, of desire to feel so pure. And I'll bear all the burdens of my little daily crimes. Wish I had a God for such cynical times. Far from today, but for now, I'm a sacred vessel. Rip me open. I spread your word like a milkweed pod. I'm a radio station, your holy transmission. Even more, like a lightning rod, I'm a lightning rod, a teen for God.

“THE MAGDALENE LAUNDRIES,” JONI MITCHELL. I was an unmarried girl. I'd just turned twenty-seven, when they sent me to the sisters for the way men looked at me. Branded as a Jezebel, I knew I was not bound for heaven. I'd be cast in shame into the Magdalene laundries. Most girls come here pregnant, some by their own fathers. Bridget got that belly by her parish priest. We're trying to get things white as snow, all of us woe-begotten daughters in the steaming stains, of the Magdalene laundries. Prostitutes and destitutes, and temptresses like me. Fallen women sentenced into dreamless drudgery. Why do they call this heartless place Our Lady of Charity? Oh charity! These bloodless brides of Jesus, if they had just once glimpsed their groom, then they'd know, and they'd drop the stones concealed behind their rosaries. They wilt the grass they walk upon. They leech the light out of a room. They'd like to drive us down the drain at the Magdalene laundries. Peg O'Connell died today. She was a cheeky girl, a flirt. They just stuffed her in a hole! Surely to God you'd think at least some bells should ring! One day I'm going to die here too and they'll plant me in the dirt like some lame bulb that never blooms come any spring. Not any spring. No, not any spring. Not any spring.

“SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN,” POISON. Well, I see him on the TV, preaching 'bout the promised lands. He tells me “Believe in Jesus,” steals the money from my hands. Some say he was a good man. Lord, I think he sinned. “Twenty-two years of mental tears,” cries a suicidal Vietnam vet who fought a losing war on a foreign shore to find his country didn't want him back. Their bullets took his best friend in Saigon, our lawyers took his wife and kids, no regrets. In a time I don't remember, in a war he can't forget. He cried, "Forgive me for what I've done there, ‘cause I never meant the things I did.” And give me something to believe in, if there's a Lord above. And give me something to believe in. Oh, Lord, arise. My best friend died a lonely man in some Palm Springs hotel room. I got the call last Christmas Eve and they told me the news. I tried all night not to break down and cry as the tears rolled down my face. I felt so cold and empty, like a lost soul out of place. And the mirror, mirror on the wall sees my smile, it fades again. Sometimes I wish to God I didn't know now, things I didn't know then. Road, you gotta take me home. I drive by the homeless sleeping on a cold dark street like bodies in an open grave, underneath the broken old neon sign that used to read “Jesus Saves.” A mile away live the rich folks and I see how they're living it up. But while the poor, they eat from hand to mouth, the rich are drinking from the golden cup. And it just makes me wonder, why so many lose, so few win.

“PENDULUM SWINGER,” INDIGO GIRLS. I meet you for coffee. We get together periodically. I got a bad case I can't shake off of me, the fevered wandering round, wondering how it ought to be. If you work in the system, you see possibilities and your glistening eyes show the hell you're gonna give 'em when they back off the mic for once and give it to a woman. I dream like a mad one, brutal fantasies I catch as catch can. I'm a psychic and a laywoman. I see love and I like to make it happen. What we get from your war walk, the ticker of the nation breaking down like a bad clock. I want the pendulum to swing again, so that all your mighty mandate was just spitting in the wind. It doesn't come by the bullwhip. It's not persuaded with your hands on your hips, and it’s not the company of gunslingers. The epicenter love is the pendulum swinger. She is. She is. She is. It's fine about the old scroll Sanskrit, Gnostic gospels, the Da Vinci code a smash hit. Aren't we dying just to read it and relate? Too hard just to go by a blind faith? But they left out the sisters. I’ve been praying to a father god so long I really missed her. The goddess of benevolence, and you should listen to your mama if you have a lick of sense left. Pushed under by the main press, buried under a code of dress, relegated by the Vatican, but you can't keep a spirit down that wants to get up again. If we're a drop in the bucket, with just enough science to keep from saying fuck it, until the last drop of sun burns its sweet light, plenty revolutions left until we get this thing right.

“BREAD AND CIRCUSES,” BILLY BRAGG, NATALIE MERCHANT. Crowds gather round, kneeling at the feet of common thieves. Hungry for the word but God would never speak through such as these, who offer healing hands and balms and redemption if you would cross their palms. They'll tell your troubles to the Lord for how ever much you can afford. Hands holding hands, in the circle of the sinners and the saved, memories that linger from the cradle, placing puzzles in the grave. No mortal skin and bone can live on bread and circuses alone. The spirit needs must drive the mystery of why we are alive. They look in their Book and they read but their cold hearts say, "Follow me." Dance in the dust in the frenzy of the desperately in need, led by the voices of the men who invoke ritual to hide their greed. Come every tongue, every eye across the crumbling earth and cracking sky. The gates of hell stand open wide but the path of glory you walk single file. These men make a cage for the very souls that came here to be free then they turn off their lights, fold their tents they're fixing to leave. They'll close their Book and leave but you'll remain still in pain.

“HEAVEN,” BRETT DENNEN. Beyond the rules of religion, the cloth of conviction, above all the competition, where fact and fiction meet. There`s no color lines, castes or classes. There’s no fooling the masses. Whatever faith you practice, whatever you believe. Heaven. What the hell is heaven? Is there a home for the homeless? Is there hope for the hopeless? Throw away your misconceptions. There’s no walls around heaven. There’s no codes you gotta know to get in, no minutemen or border patrol. You must lose all earthly possessions, leave behind your weapon. You cannot buy your salvation and there is no pot of gold. Heaven ain`t got no prisons, no government no business, no banks or politicians, no armies and no police. Castles and cathedrals crumble, pyramids and pipelines tumble. The failure keeps you humble and leads us closer to peace.

HBO relives World War II

(Published March 29, PDI-Entertainment)

By Oliver M. Pulumbarit

Contributor

Members of the press and entertainment bloggers recently toured historic Corregidor Island as part of HBO Asia’s “The Pacific” miniseries launch. The new HBO series, co-executive produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, chronicles the other pivotal battles fought during World War II, as seen from the perspective of three American soldiers.

Attendees of the launch viewed a light and sound show about the fall of the Philippines to Japanese forces in the dimly lit Malinta Tunnel. After the half-hour presentation, clips from “The Pacific” and its behind-the-scenes footage were unveiled in one of the tunnel’s dark corridors. Short interviews with Hanks, Spielberg, and the actors revealed intriguing facts about the show, which is being touted as “the most expensive HBO miniseries ever made.”

“The Pacific” was created by the same team behind the critically acclaimed miniseries “Band of Brothers,” responding to requests by American veterans who fought in the region during the war.

Based on memoirs and original interviews, “The Pacific” stars James Badge Dale (“24,” “The Departed”), Joe Mazzello (former child actor from “Jurassic Park,” “The Cure”), and Jon Seda (“Ghost Whisperer,” “Oz”). The three play Marines Robert Leckie, Eugene Sledge, and John Basilone, respectively. Basilone, who served in the Philippines for three years and was a boxer, would later be known as “Manila John.”

New episodes of the ten-part series will be shown weeks after the US airing. Two episodes of “The Pacific” premiere April 3 at 9:00 p.m. on HBO and HBO HD; subsequent episodes air Saturdays at 9 p.m.