It's time to Geek Out, but where do I start?

I am a bit of a foursquare addict. Those who know me, know that wherever I go, I spend the first minute fiddling with my phone trying to check in. Be it a coffee shop, restaurant, pub, park or my favorite shop. The check ins you make show you what type of person you are and your mayorships define your character. More mayor ships at pubs? You are a person who likes to go out drinking most evenings and weekends. Mayorship at of your local comic book store, yes you are a geek.

My partner is a self confessed geek (you can read his blog here) and through being with him, I have learned to appreciate my love of TV, Sci-fi and love my little quirks. So, if we are in London, wondering around Oxford Street, Soho or even Covent Garden, we usually end up in Forbidden Plant. While looking at all of the action figures one Saturday I take my phone out and check in in. I click the button and stop and stare at my phone. "You are 1 Day away from becoming Mayor".

I turn to my partner...."Have I become a geek?" I ask. He just stares at me with his cheeky grin.

So yeah it's time to admit it, I am a geek and I love it.

If you follow me on Twitter, you know that I am a Doctor Who fan and I have recently just started watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer (I didn't watch it when I was a teen. All my mates were watching it and I was trying to stand out by not watching it....you know the routine) and have been loving it. But something else has hit me too.

I suddenly have a new found love for Superman.

I have always been drawn to the man of steel and remember spending Saturday mornings (before Live & Kicking) watching The New Adventures of Superman with Dean Caine and Teri Hatcher. My partner brought me a little Superman figure and I have been bugging him to to bring over the original Superman films staring Christopher Reeve. I now have a lovely mug which I love. It has got me thinking that it's time to find out more, maybe start at the beginning and read some comics.

But really....where do I start?

I have turned to a couple of friends with this question and got a few blank expressions.

This is a story that has been going on for many decades now and has had many origin stories.  Do I start trying to collect the first edition of the DC Reboot happening next month? Or do I find an original book?

So I turn to you, people of the Internet.

What should I do?

Please send help.

Tips for finding a new job and PS I'm back

Before you look away and tut, I really am sorry for being away for so long.

Really, I am.

I have to say the last 3 months have been pretty tough for me.

Firstly, I decided that my job wasn't right for me. Not to say it wasn't a great company. I just really wasn't enjoying the work I was doing or the direction this role was pushing me. So with a deep breath, I handed in my notice and decided to look for a new job. I was able to give 3 months notice. After many chats with recruitment consultants, interviews and presentations, I found a new job, which I am really happy about.

Trying to find a new job in a recessions is hard work. You need to update your Linkedin profile and take advantage of any opportunity that presents itself along the way.

If you are thinking about a new job, here are a couple of helpful bits of information.

A good friend introduced me to a good list of recruitment agents on Twitter...follow them here

Also, another close friend has written a blog post about why he chose to change his career and what you should do.

But all you need to know is that I am back, so this blog and deartuesday.com should be back up and running in no time!

My new little friend from @peacockpete

All about the pink fizz!

Do you like the look?

Been craving this all week!

Just a sunny day in the office...nomnomnl

A Friday treat from @sohojoeuk

Burrito baby from the new Mas Burrito down the road #lunchtimewin

Saturday cupcakes...nom!

Came back to my desk to find two packages...something free andsomething AWESOME...can you guess which?

#deartuesday - This week...15th May 2011

So, if you have been following me on twitter, might have seen that I have been running a little project called #deartuesday. People give us a little insight into their lives or even tell us the story of someone completely different!
If you haven’t check it out already, this week wee have two great #deartuesday posts from Adam Rivers and Sabrina Bangladesh.
Check them out here:
Adam - here
Sabrina -  here
Or, if you fancy reading something different. Check out the great norse tail by Dave Kelly in our #TuesdayTwist
Dave - here
If you have been inspired and fancy a #deartuesday post or even a #TuesdayTwist email me!

deartuesdayproject@gmail.com 

Strawberries and cream dinner! NOM

We all love.....Animal Videos!

We all love a cute animal video, it's what YouTube was invented for right? Mix cute animals with a comedy voice over and you have a winning formula! Consider my delight when I was shown these over the weekend... This is my favorite one of them all! :) Check out the channel here: http://www.youtube.com/user/klaatu42 ENJOY!

Sunday....coffee and cake! NOMs

DVDs - What should I keep?

When you realise that you have to move house, if you are me, you take a step back and gaze in ore to see how much stuff you have. Even over 12 months, my collection of books has doubled, I have a huge pile of magazines that I want to keeps, a mass of clothes and big stack* of DVDs.

I had quite a big decision to make as I realised that I would have to pack all of my stuff into the back of a Renault Espace. What should I keep, what should I sell and what should I give to a friend.

For me, the way I worked out what was going to stay and what was going to go, I took the following approaches:
1 - Is this a film that I want to pass on to friends, family and friends children in the future as a 'Must Watch'?
2 - Have I seen it? If not, is it one that I definitely want to see?

As I boxed away my DVD's to get rid of, I had a thought. Even though some of these films are classics or ones that I have never seen. I can always get them again. I could add them to my LoveFilm list or even take a gander through iTunes to see what I can rent.

Anyway, these are the films I decided to keep...What do you think?

My MUST Watches:
Breakfast at Tiffany's - Classic film and one that everyone should see!
Cruel Intentions - Loved this film as a teenager, brilliant soundtrack!
Little Miss Sunshine - A great Sunday afternoon film
American Pie - The original and the best!
Ferris Bueller's Day Off - 80's classic.
Love Actually - One of my favorite rom coms and one to get out a Christmas.
Romeo and Juliet - Just because it is brilliant!
Sex and the City - A fun film and a great chick flick
Batman Begins - Well it was the best 'Re-boot'.
The Dark Knight - Epic performances and better than the first one...
Die Hard: Quadrilogy - you can't got wrong with a bit of Bruce action! Well, maybe just the first 3...
My Best Friends Wedding - I can watch this over and over again! A great hangover film.
Juno - I love this film and has a brilliant soundtrack.
The Holiday - I love Jude Law in this....and it is a good, fun film.
A Single Man - A stunning film in every way and a brilliant adaptation of the book.
Shaun of the Dead - Who wouldn't want to keep this?
Pretty Women - a secret favorite...
Top Gun - 80's classic action film
(500) Days of Summer - An easy watch, lots of fun too and different from most rom-coms
MILK - Everyone has to see this at some point, so brilliant and thought provoking!
The Breakfast Club - 80's teenage film at it's best.
Moon - A masterpiece, one that everyone should see.
UP - I can watch this over and over again...and cry more each time.

Ones that I haven't seen and I should probably hang my head in shame over not seeing...<
Crash
Amelie
Brokeback Mountain

I know they are not up to everyone's standard, but I love them!

Did I make the right decision with these?

Goodbye Greenwich - Top things to do in Greenwich!

 Royal Naval College - Greenwich

Sadly, after exactly a year in this great part of London, it is time for me to wave goodbye as I head to pastures new and start the next adventure. It is amazing to think that Greenwich is in London; people forget that it is only a 10 minute train ride from London Bridge. It features in a big part in London's history and is the place where time begins. The buildings are magnificent and the place has almost had a village feel. For me, it has been a great place to live and (if I could ever afford it) I would love to come back and live here again. Anyway, as I wave goodbye and shed a little tear, I thought I would share what I think are the best bits of Greenwich.


Greenwich Market. Map
Quite a small when compared to some of the markets around London, but it holds some amazing delights. Especially the food section of the Market - it seems like every nationality is represented! For around £5, you can get a brilliant lunch to take away and eat in the park. My favourite has always been the Nigerian chicken stew with bean bread. IT IS AMAZING.

Greenwich Park - Greenwich

Greenwich Park. Map
One if London's most beautiful parks at any time of day. Head up to the top of the hill to find some amazing views of Canary Wharf and the city. Stroll through the windy paths, find yourself at the hidden Rose gardens and find the first bath in London! I used to run here on Spring mornings, chill and stroll through at the weekends or even go back on a summers evening to see the laser showing you where time begins. Also, have a look at the Queens House! It's stunning!


The Royal Observatory. Map
Situated in Greenwich park is this little free attraction. Wonder around and find out more about time! Also, book tickets and go to the plantetarium, it is the only one in London!

Royal Naval College - Greenwich

Royal Naval College. Map
The buildings are magnificent. I often used to buy food in the market and bring it here to enjoy in the sun. Have a look at the painted hall and head over to the chapel. Or even just sit there and watch the Thames go by on a summers day.

Painted Hall - Greenwich

The Greenwich Union. Map
One of my favourite pubs! A very chilled and relaxed atmosphere, it serves it's own brews and does an amazing Sunday roast. It is tucked away from the main part of Greenwich, but worth a visit!

So if you ever find yourself with a free weekend, just jump on a train and go a visit Greenwich!

Give it a little wave from me. :)

Needed one of these today!

A typical Easter Cake...with a Cheetah!

Bank holiday burger @sohojoe!

Movie Reviews - Submarine, Battle LA, SuckerPunch, Legally Blonde

I know that I have been a bit rubbish with reviews lately and I can only apologise. There has been lots of films out and little time to get them written up!

But, here is a little highlight of films that I have seen recently...

Submarine

This film was brilliant. A great British comedy from a first time director. Beautifully shot with some amazing acting! A mixture of brilliant comedy actors and new actors to industry give it a a great feel. Definitely one to watch if you can. I think it will become a cult classic.

5 stars!

Battle LA

Well, if I'm honest, this film was a big disappointment. The trailer made it look quite an epic action flick. In reality, it's a very macho action film with no direction in the story.

The film makers start off introducing you to all your heroes, trying to make you feel a connection with them....which fails miserably! When one died, I felt nothing.

If you want an action film with no story, then this is totally up your street. For me, it needed more of a plot, better connection with the actors and less American machismo.

1 star!

SuckerPunch

Another film that was hugely hyped. This is an action film with lots of guns....oh, and girls wearing very little.

The story is totally random and plays about with the inception idea of dream levels with a mixture of reality thrown in.

The action sequences were great, fun and very silly. I have to say, I thought it was all quite beautiful and well shot. But, again not as good as I was hoping, especially as I decided to see this instead of Source Code. Go and see it if you want an easy watch on a Sunday afternoon.

2 Stars!

Legally Blonde.

One of those classic films that I had never seen. I have to say that I loved it!

It was a film that I wasn’t expecting to like at all, but after about 20 minutes I had already written a Facebook status saying that I wanted to see the second one and the musical.

A really fun story, with some brilliant comedy acting!

5 Stars!

First 6am run of the year!

A quick bit of lunch near the canal! :)

BIG NOMS

Friday afternoon delight! :)

A little present from Digital Outlook! :)

Beautiful day in the park!

This is my position for the next couple of hours...

Spring is here!

So, we can finally say that Spring has sprung!

The clocks have moved forward, the weather is getting warmer, flowers have started to bloom and the trees are in beautiful spring blossom. You can finally put the big winter coat away, but keep the mac on hand. And don’t put away the umbrella yet! There's still a few odd showers.

It’s funny what this time of year does to you. After a Winter of hibernating inside, eating lots and lots of food, it’s time to dust away the cobwebs and start that good old clean out. The first time the warm spring sun hits your skin, you suddenly feel like it’s time to face the world again. You feel like whatever has been troubling you can been fixed.

For the first time in many years, I have been noticing the change in season and welcomed that first spring sun with open arms. I even got the sunglasses out, but decided to leave the shorts in the cupboard as it really isn’t that warm yet. :)

Also, this Spring means a lot to me. Firstly it marks my first year of living in London! I know what you are thinking, it feels like I’ve been here for ages, but really it’s only been a year. Even though I have to move out of my little house, I’m sure my housemates and I will be able to find somewhere to live before summer. Also the end of Spring marks a big moment in my life, I mark my 1 year anniversary with my boyfriend. I know that might seem tosh to some of you, but for me it’s a big occasion. My previous relationships have only lasted 1 - 2 months so for me this is a big deal! We are marking it the best way possible, with a little holiday to a seaside town in Cornwall. Really I can’t wait.

So, I would like to make a toast to Spring! Welcome back and we look forward to what surprises you spring on us!

Review - The Adjustment Bureau

I thought the film could have gone two ways. Firstly it could have been a really REALLY boring action film with lots of fight scenes but very little dialogue, or it could have been a romantic film about a couple who have to change the world to be together.

Actually, it was a mixture of both!

The film is based on Philip K. Dicks, The Adjustment Team. Philip is known for his sci-fi writings that have inspired great films such as Blade Runner, Minority Report, Total Recall and A Scanner Darkly, so you could sort of guess the theme of this film and the story that was being told.

It’s just a good film. I mean, it’s not as epic as Inception, but it’s a film you can just sit back at enjoy quite happily. The story flows, the acting is good enough to show the talents of Matt Damon and Emily Blunt. You don’t get annoyed by either of them (which was a bit of a surprise for me) and you believe the relationship and love between them.There is a slight Mad Men style of the Bureau, it might just be because they are wearing suits and hats, oh and also because John Slattery (Mad Men’s Rodger Sterling) is in it! There are also a few comedy moments thrown in too.

You could watch this film in the cinema, or just sit back and enjoy it on a rainy sunday afternoon. But I would say it’s one that you should put on your Love Film list.

Three stars.

Gift buying for newborn babies: 8 simple rules

One of my best friends from school brought a bundle of joy into the world last week. Little Thomas weighed in at just over 8lbs and is so cute (I promise you I’m not getting broody).

This was a big deal. Firstly my lovely friend Katie is the first of my best friends to have a little baby. Secondly I am many years away from being a uncle (my brother and sister are younger than me, both in stable relationship, but no way a baby is on the horizon yet). I'm really looking forward to seeing this little one grow up!

So, after this little one was born, plans were made to head down, with Pete, to visit the new family. But then it struck me...what do I get a new born baby?

Being a man, in my mid twenties and gay, I had no idea where to start!
Do you get wine and chocolate for the mum?
A bottle of champagne for the new parents?
Baby clothes for the little one?
A teddy bear to commemorate the occasion?

Luckily, I work in an office with a lovely bunch of women. Some have had babies, others are getting broody while others always know what to get for this type of occasion. A quick email to the "Sisters" of the office and a chat long chat to one of my work mates, I knew exactly what to get....

So, if you are in the same situation as I was, here are a couple of ideas...
DO get chocolate and wine, It's something post pregnant women crave (apparently)
DON'T get any baby bibs, apparently they aren't that useful as the baby won't be eating solids for a while and when they do, parents will probably get a plastic bib as they are easier to clean.
DO get some nice baby clothes, most department stores have some good items, but I was told to go to H&M, because they are quite reasonable.
DON'T get expensive items for a new born, they will grow out of the in a flash.
DO get a baby sleeping bag, they will last for about 6 months and it's something different.
DON'T get baby boots, as most people get them.
MAYBE get some products, like Burt and Bees. (if you want). The products are environmentally friendly and contain natural ingredients, which is good for the mother and the little one.
DO get a teddy bear, you can never get enough of them...

With these tips in mind, you can never go wrong!

Got any more advice for a buying baby products? Please leave a comment below!

Nom nom nom...PANCAKES

First time making pancakes by myself! Very please with the result....even tried adding chocolate drops! :)

Review - Never Let Me Go

A beautiful, chilling story, which makes you sit back and look at your life. The story affected me down to my core and made me feel a little numb for hours after.

I had heard that the original book was amazing, but as I hadn’t read it I knew nothing about the story. I think this helped me as it left me genuinely shocked with every twist and turn.

Not much of the back story was told, so you were left with a lot of unanswered questions. The naivety of the characters also helped. Were they special kids? Were they clones? You will never know.

The performances from Andrew Garfield and Carey Mulligan were amazing! Two great British stars who will definitely be with us for years to come.

If you get a chance to see this at the cinema, I would go, but it is one film that can wait until the DVD is released.

I have to say, this is a great film! it's beautifully shot, with a great story and some superb acting.

Four Stars.

Oscar Predictions - How did I do...

So how did I do? Did I guess any correct?

Out of the 24 nominations...I got...9 RIGHT and 15 WRONG - (booo)

Oh well, better luck next time!

Anyway, if you haven't seen the winners list yet, check out my predictions below showing all the winners!
Best Film - The Kings Speech - WINNER - I was right...
Actor in a leading role - Colin Firth (or Jeff Bridges) - WINNER - I was right...
Actor in a supporting role - Geoffrey Rush - WRONG -Christian Bale in “The Fighter”
Actress in a leading role - Natalie Portman - WINNER - Natalie Portman in “Black Swan”
Actress in a supporting role - Hailee Steinfeld (or Helena Bonham Carter) - WRONG - Melissa Leo in “The Fighter”
Animated - Toy Story 3 - WINNER - I was right!
Art Direction - Guy Hendrix Dyas (Production Design); Larry Dias and Doug Mowat (Set Decoration Inception) - WRONG - “Alice in Wonderland” – Production Design: Robert Stromberg; Set Decoration: Karen O’Hara<
Cinematography - Danny Cohen - The Kings Speech - WRONG - “Inception” Wally Pfister
Costume Design - Jenny Beavan - The Kings Speech - WRONG - “Alice in Wonderland” Colleen Atwood
Directing - Tom Hooper The Kings Speech - WINNER - I was right...
Documentary Feature - Exit Through the Gift Shop - WRONG - “Inside Job” Charles Ferguson and Audrey Marrs
Documentary Short Subject - No Idea so going to say - Sun Come Up - WRONG - “Strangers No More” Karen Goodman and Kirk Simon
Film Editing - Tariq Anwar, The Kings Speech - WRONG - “The Social Network” - Angus Wall and Kirk Baxter
Foreign Language Film - Biutiful - WRONG - “In a Better World” Denmark
Make Up - Adrien Morot, Barny’s Version - WRONG - “The Wolfman” Rick Baker and Dave Elsey
Music (Original Score) - Hans Zimmer, Inception - WRONG - “The Social Network” Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross
Music (Original Song) - We Belong Together" Music and Lyric by Randy Newman Toy Story 3 - WINNER - I was right...
Short Film (Animated) - Day & Night - WRONG - “The Lost Thing” Shaun Tan and Andrew Ruhemann
Short Film (Live Action) -Another guess - Wish 143 as I heard an interview about it the other day. - WRONG - “God of Love” Luke Matheny
Sound Editing - Gwendolyn Yates Whittle and Addison Teague Tron Legacy - WRONG - “Inception” Richard King
Sound Mixing - Lora Hirschberg, Gary A. Rizzo and Ed Novick Inception - WINNER - I was right!
Visual Effects - Ken Ralston, David Schaub, Carey Villegas and Sean Phillips, Alice in Wonderland - WRONG - “Inception” Paul Franklin, Chris Corbould, Andrew Lockley and Peter Bebb
Writing (Adapted Screenplay) - The Social Network - Screenplay by Aaron Sorkin - WINNER - I was right...
Writing (Original) - The King’s Speech - Screenplay by David Seidler - WINNER - I was right...

Oscar Predictions...

Image borrowed from Screenrant.

This is my first time blogging about the Oscars. In previous years I’ve sat back and waited for the results to turn up on the morning news, but this year I thought it was time to take a stab and guess who might win some of the awards.

There is no doubt that The Kings Speech will sweep the board, but there is some hope for Inception and True Grit.

I’ve made my predictions with a mix of guesses and people who I think should win.

Anyway, please find my predictions below:
Best Film - The Kings Speech
Actor in a leading role - Colin Firth (or Jeff Bridges)
Actor in a supporting role - Geoffrey Rush
Actress in a leading role - Natalie Portman
Actress in a supporting Role - Hailee Steinfeld (or Helena Bonham Carter)
Animated - Toy Story 3
Art Direction - Guy Hendrix Dyas (Production Design); Larry Dias and Doug Mowat (Set Decoration), Inception
Cinematography - Danny Cohen, The Kings Speech
Costume Design - Jenny Beavan, The Kings Speech
Directing - Tom Hooper, The Kings Speech
Documentary Feature - Exit Through the Gift Shop
Documentary Short Subject - No Idea so going to say Sun Come Up
Film Editing - Tariq Anwar, The Kings Speech
Foreign Language Film - Biutiful
Make Up - Adrien Morot, Barny’s Version
Music (Original Score) - Hans Zimmer, Inception
Music (Original Song)- We Belong Together" Music and Lyric by Randy Newman Toy Story 3
Short Film (Animated) - Day & Night
Short Film (Live Action) - Another guess - Wish 143 as I heard an interview about it the other day.
Sound Editing - Gwendolyn Yates Whittle and Addison Teague, Tron Legacy
Sound Mixing - Lora Hirschberg, Gary A. Rizzo and Ed Novick, Inception
Visual Effects - Ken Ralston, David Schaub, Carey Villegas and Sean Phillips, Alice in Wonderland
Writing (Adapted Screenplay) - The Social Network, screenplay by Aaron Sorkin
Writing (Original) - The King’s Speech, screenplay by David Seidler

What do you think? Do you agree or disagree?

If you want to see some predictions from some great bloggers, check out these guys:
HeyUGuys:http://www.heyuguys.co.uk/2011/02/27/2011-oscar-predictions/
Kelly Aylse @ The Film Obsession:http://the-film-obsession.blogspot.com/2011/02/kellys-oscar-award-predictions.html
Diegetic Sound:http://www.diegeticsound.com/2011/02/oscar-picks-2011.html
Eternity of Dream:http://eternityofdream.blogspot.com/2011/02/ultimate-oscar-predictions.html

What happened to fun?

The other evening while I sat there waiting for Never Let Me Go to start (review coming soon) the trailer for Sucker Punch came on. The girl next to me told her friends that it looked rubbish...but I sat back and thought, wow this looks good!


A film about a group of girls trying to escape from their reality buy living in this dream world, battling dragons and soldiers with massive guns and skimpy outfits, what is there not to love about it?

Which got me to thinking. How depressing the last couple of months have been in movie land?

Ok, ok before you start. The Kings Speech was amazing, I cried and laughed, but still it was a serious film. True Grit had a great story and acting, but it was still hard going. Chatting to friends and reading reviews revealed that Black Swan is another scary and depressing piece. Never Let Me Go made me feel quite emtpy inside!

I know there has been a few films that have tired to lighten the mood, but with little success. I mean, I really didn't want to (and thank god I didn't have to) sit through The Dilemma and I didn't get around to seeing Morning Glory, which might have lifted the mood.

I mean, This is one of the darkest points of the year. Most of us who haven't been able to escape the grey and cold UK are suffering from S.A.D. And I know we are in awards season, with the Golden Globes, BAFTA's and the Oscars praising some truly great masterpieces, can we not have some fun please?

After seeing the trailer for Bad Teacher today, I saw that there was light at the end of this tunnel. This film is going to amazing, with Cameron Diaz back to her best since The Sweetest Thing, I think.
Also, more than The Hangover 2, I'm really looking forward to Bridesmaids, which could be amazing.

With this in mind, I'm thinking, "roll on Spring and Summer!" Bring us some films to make us laugh! It's time for the fun times (and films) to begin!

Review - True Grit

True grit is a great film, a good story, some supurb acting and amazing cinematography. I'm not usually a big fan of westerns in general, but this one was great. Either am I a big fan of the Cohen brothers after their last couple of films which I found really hard to get into. But, they got it right with True Grit!

After seeing Jeff bridges in tron, it's nice yonder him do some propper acting and play an amazing character. Matt Damon was great too, he usualy seems a little dead behind the eyes, but you can really see his talent in these films. Hailee Steinfield should be proud for such doing a great job for her first major Hollywood picture!

Even though I did enjoy the film, I'm not sure of it is really as good as the King's Speech, which had me laughing and crying throughout, so not convinced that it lives up to it's Oscar hype.

Anyway, a great film that makes me want to go and watch some westerns!

4 stars

Review - Remember Me.

To be honest, I’m still trying to decide why I wanted to see this film. The trailers made it look ok and I mean, I do love the the Twilight films...mmm

Anyway, I’m going to state it now that I wasn’t a great fan of this film:
1. It took me about 25mins to get into, I know that isn’t as long as Last Kiss, but still, that is a while.
2. Robert Pattinson acting was a little off. He seemed like he was trying sooo hard not to be Edward Cullen. His character cracked in parts of the film and the soppy, strong, frown-y vampire teenager just came out.
3. Pierce Brosnan seemed to have a very wierd accent.
4. What was with the story? It seemed to be a love story, showing connections that ended up with the lead character getting killed in the Twin Towers disaster, which I was not expecting. The basis seemed to be that it was all about being remembered as a person. But a person who touches others, but doesn't do anything significant. There was lots of little story lines, that were never that, deeply explored and just sat there.
5. What is it with films trying to make out that all students are quirky, closeted, sulky individuals who have no sense of life.

In conclusion, I really wasn’t a fan of this film. It was trying to hard to be something and ended up being nothing at all.

I give it 0.5 stars.

Oscars - Ones to watch...

It's been quite interesting getting into the Oscars buzz this year, it's something I've never done before. I was actually quite surprised to find out I've watched most of the films in the top nominations. Some of them I had missed, but have planned to catch up on in the next couple of months.

So these are the films that I'm going to be keeping an eye on:

The Kings Speech - as you would have read, I have seen this film and bloody loved it! If you haven't seen it, it would be something that I would recommend. I think it will walk away most of the awards this year, but who knows.

Black Swan - Quite looking forward to seeing this at some point in the next couple of weeks. Heard mixed reviews, but quite excited.

The Kids are All Right - A film I missed when it was out. Quite looking forward to the DVD/Download, so defiantly one to catch up on. It's won Golden Globes and been nominated for a few Bafta's..must be good right?

Inception - Loved this film, hope it wins something, even though it hasn't got many nominations.

The Social Network - One that I did catch in the cinema, thought it was good, not sure if it is Oscar worthy though.

Toy Story 3 - One of my favourite films of 2010! Big winner!

True Grit - Wasn't sure when I first saw the trailer, but I think it will be awesome. Its on my list to see when released.


These are the ones I won't be watching:

The Fighter - I'm not a fan of boxing films, I couldn't watch Rocky.
127 Hours - Watching a film about a man who cuts his own arm off...no thank you.
Winters Bone - Wasn't sure from the trailer...could be convinced.


I will be making some predictions nearer the time...watch this space!

Review - The Kings Speech.

From Filmfetish.com

I know that this film has had a lot of hype recently. Colin Firth winning a Golden Globe, the film being nominated for a grand total of 14 Bafta’s, four nominations for the Screen Actors Guild Awards, another win at the Producers Guild Awards and with the Oscars on the way I think this film could be a the film of 2011.

I mean, my mum has also seen it and loved it! She liked it soo much that she is even heading back to the cinema to see it again!

I have to say, this is a great film. I don’t know much about this period in British history, but after spending Christmas watching Upstairs Downstairs on the BBC, I had a brief idea of what was going on. It made me want to find out more about this iconic period.

At moments, the film was making the whole cinema laugh out loud. At others, I found myself with tears rolling down my face. You felt really engaged with the story with the amazing British cast bringing the whole thing to life in such a great way. Colin Firth plays King George VI exceptionally well and Helena Bonham Carter brings new life to the Queen Mother. Even Ramona Marquez (from Out Numbered fame)was brilliant, you were waiting for her to be Karen at points though.

So if you get the chance, go an see this great British masterpiece, it will make you proud to be from this great nation.

I give it 5 stars

Quick Little Dinner...Chicken, cheese and mushroom pasta.

I know the picture isn't very representative of the food that I made, but it was bloody delicious!

Anyway, at this time of year, I am trying to save the pennies! So, I’ve been doing as much cooking as I can at home and making food to take to the office for lunch (It's amazing how much you can save by not spending £5+ a day on Lunch.) Also, being a busy bumble bee, I haven't got time to create a feast every night. I want to spend my evenings letting my head relax and not spent in the kitchen.

Over the weekend, I put some of the culinary skills to the test and tried to use what was left in my fridge. It's amazing what you can do when you only have a couple of ingredients to work with.

So, if you fancy trying it. Here is the recipe for chicken, cheese and mushroom pasta..<

Pasta
1 clove of garlic
2 chicken breasts - one per person you are cooking for
Half a tub of mushrooms - add more, less or none at all
Tub of soft cheese
Olive oil

1. Slice up the garlic, mushrooms and chicken.
2. Put a teaspoon of olive oil in a frying pan, once hot, start to fry the garlic
3. After about 1 min add the chopped chicken to the pan
4. While this going on, put your pasta on to boil and leave to cook for the recommended time
5. Once the chicken has been cooking for about 6-7 mins, add the mushrooms to the pan
6. Let the chicken, mushrooms and garlic fry until you are happy that the chicken and mushrooms are cooked through
7. About 3-4mins before the pasta is finished, add the the soft cheese to the pan with the chicken, mushrooms and garlic
8. Stir this until the cheese melts
9. Drain the pasta
10. Once the cheese is melted, add some salt and pepper and serve with the pasta

Very simple and filling dinner. Doesn't take long to make and you can enjoy it watching your fav TV program!

Review - The Last Kiss

To be honest, when I saw this film on LoveFilm, I got quite excited. It was a film that I wanted to watch when it came out in 2006, never got around to buying/borrowing the DVD. I also liked Zach Braff in Scrubs and as a big fan of “The OC”, I was quite looking forward to see Rachel Bilson do something different. As I had a night free, didn’t want to watch what was on telly, I thought I would I give it a go...

Actually, I wish I could have that 1hour39mins back...please!

After the first 45min, I realised that the plot had not really moved on, there was no direction or goal. The characters were very one dimensional, you knew nothing of there past and had to judge everything on face value. As the film is about relationships, you needed a bit of depth, but to be honest, it was like trying to swim in the shallow end of the pool.

Every relationship seem to be falling apart in front of your eyes and nothing was really resolved. As you felt no warmth to the characters, you didn’t really care what happened to them at all. They tired to tell too many stories, but none very well.

I was looking forward to seeing another side of Rachel and Zach, but I didn’t. The little bit of comedy there was seemed be quashed buy Zach trying his hardest not to be JD. Rachel on the other hand just seemed to still be Summer Roberts, the same giggle, smile, selfishness, random personality and weird sense of humor.

The best part about this film was the soundtrack....

I will give this...2 stars

Yes, I’m one of those people.

You know when you are out with friends, whether it’s in a pub or a coffee shop, and someone starts talking about films. Most of the time, it’s a classic film that that person expects every one in the group to have seen and some one in the groups pipes up to say “I haven’t seen that”. Suddenly, everyone else in the group turns around and looks at that person with their mouths wide open...

Well, I’m that person... who sits there feeling rather embarrassed, shy and wishes that the earth would open up and swallow them.

I mean, I’ve always liked film. I love going to the cinema or staying in on a Saturday night to watch a DVD or a boxset on a rainy Sunday afternoon.

So, on New Years Day 2011, I made a deal with myself. I said that I wanted to spend 2011 learning more about film, catch up with classics, watch some films that I’ve missed in 2010 and try to see some great films in 2011.

I’m not looking to become the worlds biggest film journalist, become the next James King or Mark Kermode. I just thought it would be nice to share my experience as I start to explore this daunting genre.

So come along, I hope you enjoy the ride!

Great little place: Brick Lane.

I have been to Brick Lane a couple of times before, but to be honest, it was quite a blur. About 3 years ago I went to the Truman Brewery for an awards ceremony, ended up getting a little tiddly and the last thing I can remember was being in one of the Indian restaurants at 2am drinking with some people.

The second visit was 2 years ago. A friend of mine worked near there and I met him for dinner. We haggled our way into one of the Indian restaurants along the lane and had a great meal.

But, it was time to take another look. With a sober head on and some great company, Saturday was the time to go and explore this area in the daylight.

A couple of people had said to be that it was a great place to visit, especially as it has a buzzing market according to different web reports, but these markets are only open on Sunday. Even though this was the case, my partner in crime and I, thought we would take a look.

Stepping off the train at Shoreditch High street, you realise you are entering a cultural hub of the cool and trendy. After a bit of wandering around in the wrong direction (nearly heading to Hackney) we found ourselves at the north end of Brick Lane.This place is urban cool at it’s best!

Vintage and branded fashion boutiques line this end of the street, as you wonder down, you are greeted by the old Truman Brewery, a vast brick building, housing some great shops, bars and gallery's.

With our tummies rumbling, we headed to the Big Chill Bar for a diet busting burger and chips. I have to say this bar was great,with friendly staff and good priced food.

As you carry on down the lane, you find yourself in the curry district. Each restaurant trying to persuade you to eat there. It was quite cool.

We came away feeling like we had been on a great adventure.

I will defiantly be heading back there sometime soon and if you get a chance to go, go. Even if the market is not on, go and have a wander.

Time for the Man Diet....

So, yes, it’s that time of year...

If you are like me, you sit down just after Christmas and think about the resolutions you should be making. Whether it's to read more books, watch more movies, try and finish those little creative projects that have been untouched since January 2009. There is always something.

For me, instead of making resolutions that I know I will break, I'm trying do something a bit different.

After spending most of the Christmas period eating, drinking and generally being merry, we get to January, look in the mirror and notice the toll that the season has taken on us. Or you see Britain's Fattest Man on Channel 4 and vow never to turn out that way.
http://www.channel4.com/programmes/britains-fattest-man/4od

Some people head to the wardrobe, dust off those trainers and head to their nearest gym, others might head a good book store and grab a book on the latest fad diet.

I did think about joining the gym, I mean, I have been looking into it for nearly a year now, but I knew that I would end up not going. My housemate is trying to get me to go out running again, but I haven’t done that since the 10k in the summer and it’s far to cold at the moment (but I am very supportive of those people who are training for a marathon). I thought about trying a diet, but I like food too much and to be honest I can’t afford to be spending all my heard earned cash in Wholefoods. I also thought about not drinking for January, I seem to know a lot of people who are trying this and I applaud the people who are...but for me, it all seemed a little drastic.

I heard that it's not always about taking drastic measures to make changes. Making little changes to your life style can make all the difference...so welcome to the “Man Diet”...

I have to say, it's not an original title, I was inspired by one of my work mates who talked about his experience last year...

So here are the little things that I am going to do, to make a difference...

1. Stop snacking in between meals...unless it's fruit.
I work in an office where there is always cake or sweets on the table...sometimes they are heard to resit.

2. Only drink Vodka, Lime and Soda and keep red wine drinking to a minimum.
I'm not a massive beer drinker at heart, but I've been finding recently that drinking larger on a night out often makes me feel bloated and gives me the 2nd worst hangover ever... (1st worst hangover is from Prosecco). I did move onto vodka and coke when out and the hangovers disappeared but then my tongue tasted as though I have just eaten a bag of sugar. I'm not a fan of diet drinks, so this was the next best option.

3. Cut down on the fizzy drinks.
I do love a can of coke with lunch and as I said above, I'm not a fan of diet drinks, so the only alternative is water or fruit drinks with meals and stop buying bottles of coke from the local shop!

4. Walk up stairs and stop taking the lift.
My office is on the second floor and I’ve got into the bad habit of taking the lift out of laziness.

Hopefully this might shift some of the Christmas podge or I might go back to looking like I did in the picture above, when I was 21 - without the fringe of course.