True History of LOLCats

Ever wonder where LOLCats came from? Boingboingtv takes a look at the origins of this historic internet phenomenon.

Linkin Park Live on SNL

I’ll admit to liking Linkin Park but there is something rather off-puting about their new single. Maybe it’s the fact that Linkin was one of the pioneers of the pop rock generation and I expect more from them, but “What I’ve Done” sounds like every other song that Linkin Park has ever done. Actually, it sounds like every song they have done, remixed, and re-released as a new album. I mean, you have to respect a band that is so bad-ass that people are willing to buy their same album twice. But, at a certain point, you’d think that Linkin --who haven't released new material in four years-- might want to step it up a notch.

Demetri Martin Music Videos It Up

Over the past two weeks, Demetri Martin has starred in not one, but two, newly released rock music videos. The first is an Anderson-esque video for Fountains of Wayne that was released earlier today. Though the Wayne video is not my favorite, the thought of Martin being all sad and alone makes me want to fly to New York to console him. But personally, I prefer the video (shown below) for Travis "Selfish Jean". It is simple, resourceful, and seems more in line with DM’s beloved “sketch” comedy.

Marvel vs DC

More brilliant than the concept behind this "Get a Mac" ad parody, is the way that the superheroes are able to embody the confidence and charm of the original Mac vs. PC characters. There is something sad and slightly lonely about our Superman (DC). Even though he is a popular and historically loved superhero, DC is vulnerable to younger, sleeker, hipper upgrades. And that’s when this hotshot, oldie but never-fully-appreciated goldie (Marvel) comes to town, saving the geeks from impending browser-crashing doom. Over time, the cyberworld grows to rely on Spidey more and more by the day. Poor PC... Umm, I mean DC. He may never be the reigning super power again.

Drunken Bruce Willis Drops the F-Bomb

I apologize for the language (i.e. incomprehensible babble) in this Bruce Willis video. But it seems that every time a celebrity seems drunk or curses on live television, the web nation goes wild over it. During this interview at a break in yesterday's Nets-Raptors game, Willis appears almost as tipsy as Danny Devito on The View and drops a Minnillo-worthy f-bomb. So on a scale of one to exciting, this video should rack up some serious traction on the celebrity gossip circuit. "Yippee-kai-yay, motherfucker!"

Commuter Nightmare: Tanker Explodes in SF Bay Area

Yesterday morning a tanker exploded just south of the Bay Bridge, igniting 8,600 gallons of gasoline into a massive fiery blaze. According to this detailed footage, it appears that the fireball started on the lower deck melted parts of the deck above. With parts of the highway missing and steel melted onto the concrete ramp below, the fire caused severe damage to the I-80, I-880, and the MacAuthur Maze. Though the fire undoubtedly caused immense damage -- forcing hundreds of thousands of commuters to seek alternative travel routes and public transportation -- it’s incredible that no one was fatally injured as a result.

SNL's First Laugh at Viral Video

As someone who has spent many-an-hour studying the representation of new media by mainstream media, I was mildly irritated by SNL’s portrayal of online video creators. With online video lacking the financial risk that drives mainstream media, the web has allowed the everyday-American to distribute their silly or cute videos online for free. The majority of these people never had a strategic marketing plan or innovative rationality motivating their video sucess. So what is there to say? Yeah, I have a flea market and now millions of people know all about it. Read More...

Gwen Stefani - 4 in the Morning

The only thing more shocking than Gwen Stefani's pre-fashioned punk rock and over-the-top antics is Gwen Stefani without them. In her new video "4 in the Morning," our lady Gwen appears to have been taken prisoner and forced to recreate a Jessica Simpson video.

Rolling around under the sheets and soaking in the tub, Gwen lets her platinum blonde hair down to shows fans the sensitive core that hides under her badass porcelain exterior. Has Stefani gone soft? Maybe. But it's also possible that she realized building an entire career on gyrating and outrageous fashion is utterly exhausting. We still love you Gwen.

Dance Off

Take that stop-motion community, you just got served. This entry to Gwen Stefani’s Sweet Escape video contest is a fun, urban response to viral sensation Tony vs Paul.

The Landlord

Appearing on Ask a Ninja about a month ago, Farrell is one of the first A-list comedians to show the community that he is not above web comedy. His new sketch, The Landlord, also exhibits the web potential to allow popular personalities to express themselves, uncontrolled and uncensored.

1000 Subscribers

Today my podcast hit 1000 subscribers. I just want to thank every one for your support and suggestions on how to improve the show. I've been really lucky and I know this wouldn't have been possible without the continuing support of iTunes and their editorial staff.

Switchfoot "Awakening"

Oh, Buster! I can't help but find joy in the outrageous antics of Tony Hale (A.K.A. Buster from "Arrested Development") in this newly released video from the pop-rockers, Switchfoot. With cardboard animation and 80’s styling, this music video for "Awakening" proves that there is really nothing better than watching the epitome of uncool rock-out like an eyeliner-wearing, guitar playing bad a$$.

With a strong hook and a catchy core beat, the Grammy-nominated Switchfoot has a strong chance to make themselves inescapable on the airwaves. If I was grading this song on how much it reminds me of any other chart-topping pop-rock single, "Awakening" would get an A for effort.

Breakfast at Sulimay's

Talk about a generation gap! Breakfast at Sulimay’s takes modern music, and plays it to bunch of elderly gents. Starring three sort-of grumpy old men, Joe, Moon, and Phil, I can’t tell if I like the show because it samples some of my favorite music or because the food-minded threesome reminds me of my own grandfather.

"Tribute" to a B-Movie Maven

Yesterday, Bob Clark, the famed director of Porky's and A Christmas Story, died tragically in a car crash on the PCH. In honor of the man who somehow made leg lamps sexy, I gathered some clips of Clark's more memorable works.

1. A Christmas Story

Probably one of the best and worst Christmas movies ever made, there are so many great clips from this movie. It is nearly impossible to pick from all the coming-of-age, holiday-with-family goodness. "Oh Fudge"Read More...

Pete Doherty and Kate Moss's Home Videos

Before watching this high-profile home music video, all the drug-ridden publicity and bad press that surrounds the couple started gleefully dancing about in my head. I wanted so badly to hate this video. But, I don’t. I had an entire arsenal of reasons why this video could have been anti-climactic and pointless. But in reality, it’s actually sort of charming.

Regardless of the sobriety of the rocker-meets-supermodel couple, there is some thing very sweet about the way Moss and Doherty interact with each other in this online video. This lazy-day-at-home footage shows the little moments of the couple's life that you would never read in the tabloids or see in an episode of Extra. So ignore the headlines, and cherish the moments that Moss and Doherty want to remember for themselves.

Alanis Morissette's "Lady Lumps"

After watching the first four seconds of this Black Eyed Peas cover, I knew that is was going to be an instant viral success. Why… you ask? Because this great web nation loves any video that mocks celebrity and only takes itself semi-seriously.

Operation Kitten Calender

This short aired as part of VH1's acceptable.tv series last Friday. I think it is brilliantly executed and the idea is so true-to-real-life it’s amazing. The December kitty calendar fold is always the most outrageous. And lets not forget... incredibly CUTE!

Maroon 5 - Makes Me Wonder

Timberlake-esque with a hint of Jamiroquai, “Makes Me Wonder” seems like yet another Maroon 5 song you’ll sing along to on your commute to work. In the first video off Maroon’s soon-to-be released album “It Won’t Be Soon Before Long,” Adam Levine doubles as either a super-sexy spy or debonair traveler on a mission. Distracted by the front man in the killer tux, I didn’t quite “get” the overall concept of this video. But the sheer novelty of shooting in an airport – not just any airport but LAX – still has me rather impressed.

Sad Kermit - Hurt

We all knew that “It’s Not Easy Being Green” for Kermit the Frog, but after decades of success, this “Hurt” little Muppet just needs some love and maybe rehab.

Douche

The only thing funnier than lame niche products ads is watching other people make fun of them. This hilarious spec ad by Superdeluxe creators, The Post Show, is a brutally realistic take on the Douches that wear too much men’s cologne.

Rabbit Roulette

A dark deceitful noir, this short by Seth Welton spares no gore or life lesson on its personified paper animals.

Amy Winehouse - Back to Black

Slowly invading the music scene over the last couple of months, many music junkies may have known who Winhouse was or heard a song or two -- but, they didn’t know the who, what, where and why about her. Now, mere hours after today’s write up in Pitchfork, the word about Winehouse is out.

Being compared to the fellow Brit pop artist, Lily Allen, Winehouse is said to be live up to Allen's brash and unpredictable nature. Already a huge commercial success in the UK, Winehouse’s second album Back to Black sounds like it could have been pulled from the soundtrack of Ray or Dreamgirls. Yet, there is also something inherently bold and different about it: the content is brash and uncompromising. Each word has meaning, but the context of her powerful pipes makes each song deeper than the words themselves.

Friends And Love

Paying homage to life between radio stations, this short by Austin Hartman is a vivid depiction of the bond that grows between friends and then tears them apart.

Women of Warcraft

I am not a Woman of Warcraft, so I have little to no idea what this show is actually about. But, what I can tell you is that the host, Molly, is spunky and knowledgeable. Her voice is very crisp and clean and she owns every segment and geektastic monologue in the show.

As a podcaster myself, I think that WoW -- an abbreviation adopted by shows creators -- is a great example of what a niche show should be. It's a little urban and fun, while being admittedly dorky at the same time.

Holy Handcuffs Batman!

Yesterday, cameras from Late Night with Jimmy Kimmel turned away from their regularly scheduled program to catch a street performer dressed as Batman getting arrested by local police. The Dark Knight was apprehended after flipping out on union workers on strike.

What set off the man behind the mask? Porta-potties. Apparently, the rampage started when union workers refused to let the characters use their bathrooms and ended with the superhero in cuffs.

Mute Math - Typical

This music video by up-and-coming New Orleans band Mute Math is a visual fusion of pop-rock lyrics, strong rock beats, and electrifying synth. With a solid sound and a playpen feel, this video combines all of the things that the grown-up kid in me likes: rolling around in paint, keyboard guitars, and post-its.

Puppet Rapist

Like Sesame Street gone horrible wrong, Waverly Films creates an f’ed up world where puppet and people live in murderous dismay. Airing on Channel102 last year, this googley-eyed puppet drama is dark variation on the classic crime serial.

Bikini News

I recently came across LiveVideo’s Bikini News via Blip.tv and I think the show's fantastic. You might think that any show starring two pretty and skinny Cali-girls in bikinis is a cock-tease. I, however, think that it is a fantastic marketing ploy.

I will admit, the first time I watched BN, I had one of those naked on-stage nightmares. But it was me, in a bikini, and on this show. No one wants to see that. But I highly recommend that y'all give Bikini News a chance. The hosts aren’t bad to look at and seem fairly knowledgeable of the topics that they are discussing. The titles and graphics are very well done. And the content is entertaining and informative.

In this episode, the Bikini babes interview Ask A Ninja’s Kent Nichols. Interesting stuff!

Idols Top Twelve Covers Modest Mouse "Float On"

Please, just shoot me now or pull my Internet connection. Either way, it’s killer. This cover by American Idol's Top Twelve contestants is a slow antagonizing trip to Modest Mouse’s ultimate doom. It’s like smoking. The first drag won’t kill you, but the after-effects will.

Still recovering from the paralyzing shock, I can only list the reasons as to why this video breaks my Modest Mouse-loving heart. One: The contestants are trying way too hard to be cool. But despite portraying hipsters from every urban category, not a single contestant embodies one ounce of cool. Two: Of all Modest Mouse songs to cover, the one they picked is the most over-played. Before last night, I already ran away -- far, far away -- every time “Float On” came up in my iTunes. So this cover makes me want to curl up in the corner and cry.

Goodbye to the Normals

Gaining 4 out of 5 points on the cuteness scale, I recently feel in love with this short about a little British boy running away from home. In Goodbye to the Normals, the cutest kid ever sits down with his parents to tell them that he's hoping a boat to America and never coming back.

Recently, I’ve seen this short mentioned on many a blog and websites. But, this morning I read on Adfreak that this popular vid is actually promoting Robbie Williams new album, Rudebox. I’m not sure it was produced independently or by the label, but either way…it's still pretty darn cute.

Arcade Fire "My Body is a Cage"

Since the Arcade Fire decided not to release official videos for their new album, Arcade fans are going to have to make their own with mash-ups. Using footage from the Once Upon a Time in the West, this brilliantly edited spec video by J Tyler Helms captures the eerie tone of Arcade's new track.

Peaceful Warrior

Alfie meets Finding Forrester, this trailer for the film Peaceful Warrior combines the classic fall-from-glory plotline with an overcoming-all-odds dramatic twist. The one thing I don’t understand is why the main character is a gymnast. I mean, don’t get me wrong, I was a gymnast for years. It is arguably one of the most confident and physically demanding sports... But, it was never very cool.

Hammer & Coop

Part "Knight Rider", part "Starsky & Hutch", MINI recently launched a series of webisodes that bring slick 70’s style to the vlogger generation. Starring a “man with no past” who rocks retro-dig and a mean mustache, Hammer and Coop is the classic man and his car cheesy action-thriller.

Of course, where there are fast moves, skidding tires, and talking cars there is bound to be at least one babe in a bikini. Maybe some ninjas? I’m not quite sure where they come from, but if you can cover a period script and bad acting with some ninjas and a tricked-out Coop, I’m down.

March 9, 2007

I've been working really hard writing, scripting, and producing this podcast for The Daily Reel. I'm not an actress and I have minimal training in the broadcast world. Six years ago, I was a news anchor for my local access TV station - Yes, "I'm Felicia and this is Channel 34 News." I would love to get thoughts on what you think of the show and how I could make it better.

My Chemical Romance- I Don't Love You

My Chemical Romance, the platinum princes of pop-punk, have released their latest showcase of musical fame and glory to the UK. MCR’s new video is a black and white Grimm-style fairytale about two freakish lovers who meet under a barren tree.

Though I’m generally not a fan of mainstream, Coldplay-esque rock, there's something charming about the message of this song. “I Don’t Love You” isn’t an angry tribute to how tragic love is, or a weepy ballad about losing a lover; it encourages people to just admit it if feelings aren’t there. Well played!

Scissors

Contrasting bright colors with dingy greyscale sketches, this hand-drawn animation reminds me of the many days that we sit at work waiting to escape to the bright sun and fresh air.

Michel Gondry Solves Rubiks With His Feet

Ok, we know this isn’t the newest clip, but a lot of people are talking about – especially here in Hollywood. Why? Michel Gondry has some serious talent and very dexterous toes! The first few times that we watched this video - uploaded by Gondry at the end of last year - we couldn’t believe that someone could not only solve the puzzle in under two minutes, but do it with his feet!

Gondry recently released a teaser of him trying to solve a cube with his nose. But, I still can’t get over the things that this filmatic genius can do with his feet!

Panic! at the Disco -Build God, Then We'll Talk

So after 30s speakeasies and fish tank helmets, Panic at the Disco continues to package its pop rock with absurd and visually dark music videos. In thier new video, “Build God, Then We’ll Talk,” a forlorn carnie mimes out the dirty bits and Panic never takes the stage. Reportedly, while making their last video, the band decided that their looks were distracting from the music. So Panic consciously decided not to appear together in them -- which makes me wonder if they think that humping mimes and sexy blondes aren’t distracting!

Snickers - Don't Stop

This ad for Snickers is like West Side Story with walk signs. Seeing these little men pop out of their pixelated metal posts is as exciting as watching gang wars re-enacted with ballet. Rocking my J-walking world, this animated spot also lives up to street-fighting standards. With red and green crossing signals bringing all of their boys for the ultimate stop vs. go beat-down, I put my money on green!

Unleashed - Natural Enemies

It’s a dog-eat-dog world for Hollywood pet actors! What would "Lassie" have been without that clever collie. Can you imagine "Friends" without the ducks and the monkey? People just love to see animals perform on screen - especially when they're doing things that your common house pet could only dream of doing.

Created by Ben Zelevansky, Unleashed is a weekly, animated comedy series that spotlights Hollywood’s best and brightest pets. Complete with behinds-the-scenes Hollywood commentary, this series is as mundane as it is scathing- a perfect of caricature of life in the biz.

The Tell-Tale Heart

This haunting depiction of Edgar Allan Poe's classic, "The Tell-Tale Heart" is a masterful interpretation of the dark world that fermented inside of the late-poets head. The sole creation of Michael Swertfager, this animated short is a melancholy reflection of the madness that builds in Poe’s poetic verses.

Stabbing at Leia's 22nd Birthday

Don't be fooled by what appears to be your everyday party footage. This short by Joshua Trunk combines common house party drama with shockumentary, sci-fi filmmaking.

Peter Bjorn & John - Objects Of My Affection

Like falling though a deep-space void or down a magic rabbit hole, this new video for the Swedish indie-rockers Peter, Bjorn in John is an emotional trip. The third vid from Writer's Block, Peter falls like a rag doll down a pit of monotone colors and 3D images.

Personally, I find the song “Objects of My Affection” to be rather drowning. With a nasally chords combine with the steady marching drum, it almost makes you feel like if you close your eyes, you will melt into your pillow and fall gentle into the magical void that was created in this video.

iPhone - Hello

As if I didn't want the iPhone already, Apple released this fantastic slice of movie history during last night's Oscars. This clever little mash-up was the only commercial that I didn't fast-forward through. In fact, I scrolled backward to re-watch.

With Apple's previous ad campaigns ranging from the friendly Mac computer guy to the iPod's urban hipster jive, it was unclear who this new campaign would target. After the debut of this first commercial teaser, it's obvious that the new iPhone is not only one of the most coveted devices in the film industry, but it is also being marketed as such.

Comedians at the Oscars

In retrospect, last night’s Oscars seemed to be a rather dull spectacle of showmanship and inside-the-theatre humor. As a host, Ellen was better then expected, though she failed to really maintain energy and interest in the show. So when Will Farrell and Jack Black bust out a tag team tribute to comedians at the Oscars, many sat wondering why the multi-talented jokesters weren’t hosting this year’s ceremony.

Watching this clip again, I still can’t decide which was better, Will Farrell’s hair or John C. Reilly’s high notes. I’d give you the Oscar, Will. Hell, I'd give you your own category. Just promise to never make Anchorman II -- and don't ever take yourself too seriously.

Girlfriend

We have seen very little of Avril ever since this “Girlfriend” became a wifey, so we were mildly shocked and completely amused to see her latest video. With an ABC Family-esque story and a choreographed dance number, it makes you wonder if it was the end of puberty or the hubby that made her give up her punk-a%% antics.

Rocking a dangerously short skirt and hot pants, Avril is a hottie in fishnets in heels. Which, if you think about it, is a little funny because she once fought fiercely against the “Oops I Did It Again” aesthetic. Moral of the story: Avril’s new vid is not so punk and not so innocent! Where did our little “skater girl” go?

Episode 4

This is the newest version of my podcast that I am writing, hosting, producing. The improvements in the last few tries have been immense. Thanks for all the great advice! The new episode will release next wednessday.

Joy Bubbles

A daily web series that follows the lives of two (ex)lovers struggling to find purpose and artistic meaning, Chasing Windmills is the Woody Allen film of online video. Scripted and dialogue-heavy, each episode reflects life as a series of mundane moments and subtle absurdities.

Almost There

Ever wonder what it would be like pack up your bags and pursue your dreams of Hollywood stardom? Well, Almost There is a fun, inspiring web series about life in Los Angeles. Featuring two “somebody” waiting to be discovered in the vast sea of talent, the Nontourage series "Almost There" follows two friends, one a screenwriter and the other an actress, hoping for their big break.

Snow Angels

Ever since the introduction of a new potential love interest, the serial drama Lonelygirl15 has transformed from a cutesy video series into viral crack. Stepping it up a notch with unexpected plot twists, a more cinematic feel, and a triangle of sexual tension, the Lonelygirl series has made addicts out of hundreds of thousands of viewers.

As One

I drove up to San Fran this weekend to go to a YouTube community gathering and I had so much fun meeting every one! Thanks Corey, Boh3m3, The Hill, Nickynick...and the list goes on. (this could very well be an oscars speech) It really was a pleasure meeting you all and watching all of your videos from the event!

Majorettes

Sometimes, when life separates you from the one person who made you complete, you just get over it or f%#k off. This shorts by the Neistat brothers is an ode to fallen friendships.

OK Go- Do What You Want

Ok, I’ll give it to them… This new video sure is kitsch. It’s like watching a Magic Eye poster dance around. Which, by the way, makes my brain hurt. This new video by OK Go just proves my belief that the band lacks musical talent, hiding behind jovial, foot-tapping chords and music videos with lots of dancing. Not only does “Do What You Want” hurt my eyes, but it reminds me of a kids' TV show with rock music.

I’m sure people are going to like it. It’s different. It’s OK Go. But does any one else realize that all the buzz of their last video came from them jumping around on tredmills in hipster garb? To keep up with their highly publicized online fame, they just found people to make a spectacle for them. As far as I can tell, this new video doesn't even feature them!

Justin Timberlake- What Goes Around

I don't know if Justin is romantically tangled with Scarlet, Jesse Biel, Terry Hatcher or all three at the same time, but one thing is for sure the man is damn sexy. Lately, I've been fing it to keep up with this desirable bachelors tabloid love affairs, but rumor or not, Justin and Scarlet look ridiculously hot together. In this nine-and-a-half minute music video, Scarlet is the prefect combination of deviant and radiant and Justin is well...drool.

Note: I never said they could act.

Willowz- Jubilee

Like the electrifying resonance of a slide guitar, this video uses animated light to transform ordinary footage into an explosive composite of textured radiance.

The Dixie Chicks Make Nice

Winning Album of the Year, Record or the Year, and Song of the Year, the Dixie Chicks took home the Globe in every category that they were nominated for. After making anti-George Bush remarks and alienating a large chunk of their Country audience in 2002, it was unclear as to whether their powerful pop presence would gain points with Grammy voters.

But, last night's awards proved that by being “Not Ready to Make Nice” the Dixie Chick may have won back their artistic integrity and the respect of and peers.

Satacracy

What better way to get people involved in a series than to let them build it for themselves? Designed as a “choice your own adventure” series, this sci-fi drama takes user experience to a whole new level.

Currently in its sixth episode, Satocracy adds a supernatural edge to a video space that lacks some serious deep-space techie drama. With a new episode premiering every month or so, my only wish is that the web show was published more often. Don’t you folks over at itsallinyourhands.com know that choosing your own adventure can be addicting?

Anna Nicole Smith, 39, Found Dead

A woman of many ups and downs, Anna Nicole Smith was the Marilyn Monroe of our generation--even in her death. Earlier this afternoon, the former Playmate was found unresponsive in her hotel room at in Hollywood, Florida. Pronounced dead upon her arrival to Memorial Regional Hospital, her cause of death is still unknown.

To pay tribute to the sex symbol turned reality star, I would like to share this video clip, starring Anna Nicole herself. I think this video of the former Playmate is a perfect example of the excessive and sultry persona that was, and still is, Anna Nicole Smith.

Lily Allen - Alfie

Alfie is the second single from her album and was written about her real-life little brother, Alfie. Instead of recruiting her little bro to play the part, Alfie features a foul-mouthed “twit” of a puppet that you can’t help but love. The music is fun and the story is entertaining, but I personally think the video is deranged and lacks commercialism. But, Allen does look damn cute in her signature empire-waist dress. How can you not love this girl!?

Ask A Gay Man: Politics Edition

Recently, YouTube fashionista William Sledd was on MTVU discussing the 2008 presidential candidates and their weblogs. I’m not going to lie -- I was totally excited to see my favorite “gay man” cross media platforms -- but I also think his perspective was spot on. There is something really awkward about seeing Hillary Clinton sitting in a plush floral chair “chatting” with the nation. And Tom Vilsack looks like he is in a college library, being swallowed by a mountain of books. What are your campaign managers trying to prove here?

A Viral Slap in the Face

An online sketch comedy troupe is claiming that Budweiser stole their “slap in the face” concept and used it in their Superbowl commercial, Bud Light: Slapping.

The similarities are rather striking. Much like The Whitest Kids U'Know's online short (above), the Bud Light ad uses the concept that in the world of friendly gestures, the “slap” is the new “pound.” Read more

Here's the Bud Light Ad. What do you Think?

Prince is a Superbowl Half-time God

I have never sen a live show give a song such meaning! Prince’s performance of Purple Rain at the Superbowl was mind-blowing. During his twelve-minute set on a mondo stage shaped like his iconic symbol, the man won back some street cred with killer chord combinations and a legendary performance.

The rain, the power, the emotion: it was all a tease of the greatness to come. Prince ended his set with his own legendary hit "Purple Rain," and there couldn’t have been anything more beautiful. A purple glow emanated from his being as the harsh rain poured down upon him. The sweet melody echoed through the stadium. A silk curtain elevated to silhouette Prince as he performed his larger-than-life guitar solo. I can’t breath just thinking about it.

Best Superbowl Commercial: GM Robot

Amidst a sea of lame Super Bowl commercials, the GM robot stands out. I was watching the Super Bowl in a room full of beer-guzzling guys who fell silent at the sight of this lonely metal fella -- he just struck a chord with everyone.

Like the Bud and Geiko commercials of Super Bowls past, GM created a character that people could relate to, a shiny yellow robot who embodies fear and vulnerability. Though I'm a sucker for suicidal robots, my favorite part of this commercial is when the GM bot finds work as one of those street-side sign wavers. Can you imagine seeing a robot hanging out in front of your local condo development?

M. Ward: Requiem

A somber old man breathes life into the downtrodden cityscape. Created out of admiration for the artist M Ward, this video builds upon the story-like tone of Ward’s music while gaining an artistry of its own.

This video was created by Santi Aguado, a fan of M Ward, with the labels concent.

"Fake Bombs" in Boston

Peter Berdovsky, 27, and Sean Stevens, 28, were arrested on Wednesday for installing 38 circuit boards featuring "Mooninites" - little LED-lit guys (with their middle fingers pointing up) in public areas. The blinking electronic signs were created as a promotion for Cartoon Network TV show "Aqua Teen Hunger Force" and placed in high profile spots around the city, leading to mass confusion and major bridge and subway closings.

After the campaign was completed, Berdovsky posted a video of the “Moonites” being sparked up and hung in various places around the city. From watching the techno-themed short, the whole prank seems completely harmless when given the context of their promotional value. The video itself is entertaining and is probably as valuable to marketers as the guerilla event itself.

Kanye West- Wouldn't Get Far

Wanna know the secret behind free cars, fast money, and girls, girls, girls, girls? Can't tell. But one thing's for sure, to keep up with all the Biggie's and Jay-Z's of this life, a playa’s got to keep up his rep on-set. Without a scantily clad entourage, a few of your boys, and a bottle of Crystal, it’s hard to get shit done.

This hot new vid for The Game featuring Kanye West gives insight into "the life" of a rapstar.

Inside Broadcast

By combining paper animation with cut and captured video stills, this short by Daily Reel favorite Leo Bridle crafts a visually complex world.

Be Good Be Gone

Emotionally evocative, there is something hauntingly simple about this downtrodden love song. It seems as though the artist, Fionn Regan, is speaking directly to each listener from his soul. His tone is firm yet flexible and his eyes seem drenched with pain.

Using a variety of urban and scenic landscapes, the video was shot with live acoustics and pieced together by editors. Beautifully filmed, the audio often competes with wind, running water, and lofted ceilings. Each scene has its own background and ambient noise, yet the song never drowns in the fluidly chaotic motion.

KFed is a Fry Cook

Kevin Federline, you may have outdone yourself. Just when the public view of Brit Brit’s trailer-trash ex-hubby began to steer away from images of the "rapper" selling off his designer hat collection one at a time, Fed makes another move to take advantage of his soon-to-be-fleeting fame. As a baby daddy with not one, but two, ex-wives with bank, it's no surprise that KFed’s all-about-the-money attitude has lead to this life-sux-then-you-find-a-new-cash-cow advert.Check it!

Swag

The second daily episode of Internets Celebrities, "SWAG," follows Dallas and Rafi as they enter the secret world of Sundance’s platinum-price-tag giveaways. Gaining entry into the exclusive Fred Segal store and the Marquee gifting shop, the Internets Celebrities ask retailers what this year’s hot items are and who takes it home free of charge.

Have You Seen a Ford Lately?

In a nation where most people think a Ford model is a kind of truck, it is rather awe-inspiring to see not one, but two top-ranked YouTube videos coming from the Ford runway model channel.

At first, I found it interesting to see fashion and high culture on Youtube's top watched. Then I realized that this primetime placement might be a result of the hot model factor. The pretty faces, thin physiques, and fashionably tight clothing make me wonder if the thousands of viewer care at all about the skill needed to design the art draping off their slender frames.Read More

Thinking About You - Norah Jones

Much like Nora Jones’s previous hits "Come Away with Me" and "Don't know Why," this slow, lackadaisical song makes my want to stare out the window of a train and watch the countryside slowly pass me by. The first single from Jones’s third album, "Thinking About You" is a familiar continuation of the Grammy winner's soulful style .

Exploring the windows of the singer/song writer’s mind, the newly released music video explores the clouds of thought that distract and dilute the brain -- especially on a long subway ride. Animated with fuzzy clouds and pulsing hearts, the dreamy video reveals the web of Alice in Wonderland-esque fantasies

Rabbit Bites

It is sort of amazing to see a web series hosted by the family pet.

Having met Chou Chou (pronounced “shoe shoe”) and Buns myself at the Vloggies, I can attest that these floppy co-hosts are far from your garden variety wabbit. With unique personalities and distinct, often annoying voices, these bunnies offer a unique perspective on the podcasting world. Two-pawed typing doesn’t seem very efficient but Rabbit Bites makes do, featuring reviews and commentaries about videos found on the internet.

In this episode, Steve Garfield joins the Rabbits for a chat about internet video and it's inevitable future. A video pioneer, Steve Garfield was among the very first to exploit online video as a tool to network and voice opinions.

Apple iPhone

It may only be two and a half inches wide and a half and inch thick, but the new Mac phone has the entire tech world creaming their pants. With no buttons or click wheels, the sleek black design does the one thing that consumers have been waiting for: combine their entire music library music, cell phone, internet, personal organizer, and camera to create one end-all-be-all device.

Some of the coveted device's patented features include multi-touch support, a sensor that turns off the screen when it's close to your face, 2 megapixel cam, Bluetooth, WiFi, and 4GB or 8 GB of storage. Apple quotes 5 hours of battery life for talk or video and a full 16 hours in music mode.

As some one who relies religiously on Mac technology, has owned an iPod since its initial release, and whose job it is to watch hundreds of videos a day, I think my future husband may have some competition in the upper-right ventricle of my little techie heart.

David Bowie Turns 60

With a few years left before Bowie reaches senior status, today we celebrate the rockers 60th birthday. To celebrate his coming of age, BBC News has put together “60 facts about the iconic singer, actor and artist.”

Born as David Robert Jones, Bowie has lived both a rebellious and influential life.

My favorite factoid is number eleven on the list, “At the age of 17, he was interviewed on a BBC programme as the founder of The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Long-haired Men. He complained: ‘It's not nice when people call you darling and that’.”

15th Century Email

Absurdly funny, the 15th Century Email is written with steadfast romanticism that loses its charm when composed on a 20th Century laptop.
Here is one of my Top Ten finds, check out The Daily Reel for more of my recent "need to watch" picks.

Ford Ranger- Secret TV Ad

This buy-your-way-out-of-national catastrophe spot is a little too reminiscent of the recent string of deadly hurricanes for my taste. Rumored to be filling the million-plus dollar time slots on Super Bowl Sunday, this “built Ford tough” ad appears to have cost as much hurricane relief itself.

Reasons why I argue against this Super Bowl claim: Americans like their Ford products to be All-American. No one wants to see a Ford commercial where the driver’s side is a$$-backwards. I mean how un-American is it to shift with your left-hand. We are a wave the flag with our dominant right-hand culture. So I think that this potential Super Bowl add just won’t fly.

Bree's Dad Is Dead

Danielbeast, the possible love interest and best friend of Lonelygirl15, has been hitting his mark with his most recent videos. After the “religious” ceremonies and Bree running away, the Lonelygirl series become more of a cult web drama than the series creators may have ever anticipated.

Having missed much of the series since its dramatic turn, I find this episode to be both emotional and well composed. The music by the Kyiv Chamber Choir is chilling and the waves crashing against the rocks seem almost violent. It’s universally emotional tone and beautiful imagery may be the reason for this video hitting YouTube’s most watched.

Subway Superman - Wesley Autrey

I just want to hug this man. Not only did he jump down on the track to save a stranger's life, but he clearly doesn’t realize how rare it is for anyone to put themselves in front of a moving train. The tracks are dangerous enough without a moving train -- think pesticides and the lethal third rail -- but this man jumped off of the platform and rolled a convulsing man into the subway gutter.

What possessed an everyday passenger to do this? As a construction worker whose dangerous job often confines him to small spaces, he says it just had to be done. Not to mention, Wesley didn’t want his little girls to have to see the horror a helpless man get stuck down by an oncoming train. Talk about a Super Dad!

Picks from 2006

I know it’s a little late to be rapping up last year. But I have been so focused on making this one even better, that I am just getting to my retrospects now.

For the best in short film and online content, check out my Editor’s Picks on The Daily Reel.

I also did a write up on a highly-visual podcast series (Best of Squigglebooth) which you can find on Ticklebooth, a collaborative online video blogsite that I contribute to.

Impossible is the Opposite of Possible

Personally, I never found the Vayner video very funny because it was about a guy who REALLY wanted to be successful. Vayner actually thought that by putting his entire heart and career into a video portfolio, he would gain the respect of his colleagues and others would believe in his superiority. Since Cera’s self-aggrandizing antics are only for the sake of parody, I think it is not only funny, but genius. Knowing that Cera doesn’t actually believe his outrageous claims means that I can laugh as loud as I want and sleep soundly at night.

Moral of this story: Hurry up and get this web series out there, CBS! Mockumentaries are what Cera does best and if this new web series is even 1/nth as brilliant as this video or Cera in Arrested Development, I will be a very loyal fan.

Happy Morning

To kick off 2007, I want to flashback to my favorite example of commercial insanity from the oh-so-far-away year that was 2006. This Folgers ad features freakishly happy townies cheerfully singing praises of morning. Emanating a brilliant yellow light, these happy singers remind me of something I once saw on the Teletubbies.

The spot features happy oompa-esque creatures creeping into bedrooms and bringing the joys of coffee. And the website that accompanies this ad campaign is equally as absurd. With helpful services, such as a Boss Tracker, an automated morning email response, and a personal wake up call, Folgers seems to have noticed that not only do we need coffee to wake up -- we need the blinds drawn and the sheets pulled off of our beds.