Tuesday, February 27, 2007

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.

Monday, February 26, 2007

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.

Friday, February 23, 2007

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.

Thursday, February 22, 2007

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.

Wednesday, February 21, 2007

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!

Friday, February 16, 2007

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!

Tuesday, February 13, 2007

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.

Monday, February 12, 2007

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?

Friday, February 09, 2007

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.

Thursday, February 08, 2007

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?

Tuesday, February 06, 2007

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?

Monday, February 05, 2007

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?

Saturday, February 03, 2007

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.

Friday, February 02, 2007

"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.