The 84th Academy Awards have now come and gone and I am sure the powers that be have already loaded the cash truck and parked in Billy Crystal’s driveway to lure him for Hosting duties for the 85th. Billy not only didn’t disappoint, he showed no rust, what an effortless job he did while at the same time proving how exceptional he really is.
The winners were pretty predictable, however Meryl Streep’s win for best Actress was somewhat surprising but you could never question when a talent like she wins. George Clooney not being crowned as best Actor was a pleasant surprise. Why he is put on such a pedestal in Hollywood is a question, it certainly is not for his acting ability or box office returns’ so for the Academy to not bestow the coveted prize on him was a pleasant relief.
Two events do stand out from the relentless coverage. Jennifer Lopez’s almost clothes malfunction was ridiculous. With all the handlers she has, and you know she has many, how could none of them have noticed that her nipple was peeking out? You know the tape on her dress was strategically placed to just show a hint, why? Most likely because someone with an ego like hers needed to get her name mentioned as much as possible to let everyone know that despite she is just a judge on a TV Game Show, she once acted in movies. Sacha Baron Cohen also known as “The Dictator”, what a brilliant marketing ploy. To show up on the Red Carpet in character to promote his movie was clever enough, but to dump the so-called ashes of the late Kim Jong 11 on Ryan Seacrest was a thing of beauty. Sacha knew that every outlet in the world would pick up on it and have it talked about for days…..smart man.
The Internet was a buzz as well. Twitter was working overtime with all the “real-time” posts including the very funny and cynical @TheGriper. Everyone was jumping in with their comments encompassing every conceivable aspect from clothes to exposed legs, from inside the Theater to the comfy chair in your den.
With Billy Crystal at the helm, the 84th Academy Awards broadcast was a huge success and an immeasurable improvement from last year. With Billy Crystal hopefully secured for next year, the 85th is one to look forward to.
Monday, February 27, 2012
There are many performers in all aspects of the Entertainment business that either reside in or were born in Toronto. Their profiles and career highlights can be obtained through various sources however, profiling their accomplishments in local and national media outlets are far and few between. With that said, I would like to bring to light one such pioneer’s achievements in the Entertainment/Broadcast Industry who’s career contributions spanned over 40 years and can still be seen and felt 22 years after his passing. This pioneer’s name is Bernard Cowan
His career started on stage as a teenager, and continued to radio, and then on to television. On radio he was an actor, host, and interviewer on such programs as, “The 1010 Swing Club,” ”Lux Radio Theatre,” and for 17 years “The Toronto Symphony Pops Concerts” where he amongst other things Interviewed the likes of Benny Goodman and Louis Armstrong. After a meeting in 1959 with writer/producer Arthur Rankin Jr., VideoCraft decided to add a Canadian division to their international production company with Bernard Cowan as their representative. This collaboration with Bernard Cowan as the Supervisor/Director of Dialogue, produced and contributed his voice to such classics as “Rudolf the Rednosed Reindeer,” “Return to Oz,” and “Pinocchio,” just to name a few. He also continued in Canada to produce many more cartoons including the Marvel Super Hero series, “King Kong,” “Thom from T.H.U.M.B.” “The Incredible Hulk,’ “Thor,” and “Spiderman.”
His talent was not only used behind the scenes. His golden voice narrated numerous Television shows, Documentaries, and hundreds of Commercials. One would be hard pressed to name a television show that was on the air for 10 years. It would be even harder to name one that was on the air for 20 years. Two programs that were on the air for over 30 years each were “Front Page Challenge,” and the “Wayne and Shuster Comedy Specials.” Both programs had one thing in common besides being produced here in Canada, a signature voice, the voice of Bernard Cowan. He also was the Announcer for other programs including “The Pierre Berton Show”, and “The Great Debate”.
Bernard Cowan was also a crusader. He was a founding member, past President, and Vice President of ACTRA. Through the tireless efforts of Bernard Cowan and others, Canadian performers as well as performers around the world receive protections and benefits they would not otherwise have. One such benefit is residuals. Bernard Cowan drafted the first commercial residual agreement in North America, he said, “our
time once given is gone, our talent once recorded remains of value.” Interesting considering the time we live in, this “Digital Age”, how relevant that statement continues to be.
There were legendary battles within the ACTRA offices to secure what he felt was in the best interest of Canada and its Performers which led to what is now called “The Bernard Cowan Boardroom”. Bernard Cowan was recognized for his efforts when ACTRA established the Bernard Cowan Medallion. The recipient of this medallion is recognized for their significant contributions to ACTRA. He was also honored by being presented with the John Draine Award for outstanding contributions to Broadcasting which is the equivalent, one would say, to that of the Cecil B. DeMille Award in the United States.
His career started on stage as a teenager, and continued to radio, and then on to television. On radio he was an actor, host, and interviewer on such programs as, “The 1010 Swing Club,” ”Lux Radio Theatre,” and for 17 years “The Toronto Symphony Pops Concerts” where he amongst other things Interviewed the likes of Benny Goodman and Louis Armstrong. After a meeting in 1959 with writer/producer Arthur Rankin Jr., VideoCraft decided to add a Canadian division to their international production company with Bernard Cowan as their representative. This collaboration with Bernard Cowan as the Supervisor/Director of Dialogue, produced and contributed his voice to such classics as “Rudolf the Rednosed Reindeer,” “Return to Oz,” and “Pinocchio,” just to name a few. He also continued in Canada to produce many more cartoons including the Marvel Super Hero series, “King Kong,” “Thom from T.H.U.M.B.” “The Incredible Hulk,’ “Thor,” and “Spiderman.”
His talent was not only used behind the scenes. His golden voice narrated numerous Television shows, Documentaries, and hundreds of Commercials. One would be hard pressed to name a television show that was on the air for 10 years. It would be even harder to name one that was on the air for 20 years. Two programs that were on the air for over 30 years each were “Front Page Challenge,” and the “Wayne and Shuster Comedy Specials.” Both programs had one thing in common besides being produced here in Canada, a signature voice, the voice of Bernard Cowan. He also was the Announcer for other programs including “The Pierre Berton Show”, and “The Great Debate”.
Bernard Cowan was also a crusader. He was a founding member, past President, and Vice President of ACTRA. Through the tireless efforts of Bernard Cowan and others, Canadian performers as well as performers around the world receive protections and benefits they would not otherwise have. One such benefit is residuals. Bernard Cowan drafted the first commercial residual agreement in North America, he said, “our
time once given is gone, our talent once recorded remains of value.” Interesting considering the time we live in, this “Digital Age”, how relevant that statement continues to be.
There were legendary battles within the ACTRA offices to secure what he felt was in the best interest of Canada and its Performers which led to what is now called “The Bernard Cowan Boardroom”. Bernard Cowan was recognized for his efforts when ACTRA established the Bernard Cowan Medallion. The recipient of this medallion is recognized for their significant contributions to ACTRA. He was also honored by being presented with the John Draine Award for outstanding contributions to Broadcasting which is the equivalent, one would say, to that of the Cecil B. DeMille Award in the United States.
Is it just me or is the whole thing out of whack? There once was a time in the Broadcasting Industry where you performed a task you were paid your rate or the Union rate for the job. Yes things have changed….I get it, however, what is going on now is just bizarre. It’s bad enough that instead of being asked your rate you’re being told what (little) they are willing to pay, but the multi function aspect–what’s going on here?. People today are advertising to fill the SINGLE position of director, writer, camera operator (with knowledge of sound), lighting, and editor. Single position, really, what professional does all this? Did I mention this candidate must also have all his or her specific gear as well? For this, the rate is about 2/3 of what was once paid for a single function with NO included equipment. Maybe this opinion is a bit “old school” but what kind of “professional” is being sought? I realize new technology and multitasking is the new norm, but sometimes the old way should still be considered the right way.
Wednesday, November 02, 2011
Mayor Rob Ford, according to US political commentator Keith Olbermann is “the worst person in the world.” Worst person in the world? According to Olbermann, no one is worse than Rob Ford, not one person in the US or even the world is worse than the Mayor that could, Rob Ford. I am by no means a fan of Rob Ford or his brother Doug, however, there are many worse people in the world than him. One not so nice person was just killed by rebels recently that comes to mind, but that’s another article.
Olbermann is referring to the Mayor’s reaction to a “Comedy Show” ambushing him in the driveway of his home for a segment of their show. The reaction to this intrusion is what Olbermann is referring too. The Mayor called 911 and apparently went into a curse word filled rant on the poor woman who just so happened to answer the call. The Mayor apparently and admittedly used the F-Word several times during his “several” calls to 911 and allegedly also called the woman a Bitch. This however is being contested by the Mayor. He admits to using the F-word but denies ever calling the woman or using the word, Bitch. Interestingly though, all 911 calls are recorded. It would be very easy for the Mayor to clear this matter up by releasing the tapes. The question is why won’t he? One reason is because this Mayor does whatever he wants and could care less what others say. On a side not, how did he ever get elected in the first place - I digress. The Police Chief could also mandate the release of the tapes but he has said no and decreed the case closed. I wonder who appoints the Police Chief? Mayor Ford couldn’t take a little joke from a comedy show, one can only imagine what would happen if 60 Minutes showed up at his door. A question to all Torontonians, how’s Mel Lastman lookin just about now?
Olbermann is referring to the Mayor’s reaction to a “Comedy Show” ambushing him in the driveway of his home for a segment of their show. The reaction to this intrusion is what Olbermann is referring too. The Mayor called 911 and apparently went into a curse word filled rant on the poor woman who just so happened to answer the call. The Mayor apparently and admittedly used the F-Word several times during his “several” calls to 911 and allegedly also called the woman a Bitch. This however is being contested by the Mayor. He admits to using the F-word but denies ever calling the woman or using the word, Bitch. Interestingly though, all 911 calls are recorded. It would be very easy for the Mayor to clear this matter up by releasing the tapes. The question is why won’t he? One reason is because this Mayor does whatever he wants and could care less what others say. On a side not, how did he ever get elected in the first place - I digress. The Police Chief could also mandate the release of the tapes but he has said no and decreed the case closed. I wonder who appoints the Police Chief? Mayor Ford couldn’t take a little joke from a comedy show, one can only imagine what would happen if 60 Minutes showed up at his door. A question to all Torontonians, how’s Mel Lastman lookin just about now?
Monday, June 20, 2011
Anyone who has enjoyed the music of the Beach Boys and Brian Wilson’s solo endeavors know his genius, that is a given. The music filled with incredible harmony and a feeling of fun mixed with some sadness is a testament to the brilliance of Brian Wilson. What also strikes as true genius was the experience on June 18th at Massey Hall in Toronto. Those of us who had the opportunity to enjoy the 42 song concert which included the sing-a-long to “Row, row, row your boat”, were able to experience another form of Musical genius, that incredible ability to put together a team which enables you to shine. The Band that Brian Wilson had around him not only are incredible musicians able to play any instrument which happened to be in front of them, but were also selected for their angelic voices which they all possess. The Band members not only helped create the sound that at most times equaled the recordings, they were there to lovingly take care of the man himself. Vocally, they were able to cover for Brian when needed but also able to allow Brian to shine when able.
Yes, Brian Wilson at times looked robotic behind his Keyboard and Teleprompter, but who cares? As said, anyone who knows Brian Wilson’s history knows that his mere presence surrounded by his incredible band was only witnessed because of the man himself and his desire to perform. For that Brian, we all in attendance say thanks, it was a great night and we all hope you had a good time too.
Yes, Brian Wilson at times looked robotic behind his Keyboard and Teleprompter, but who cares? As said, anyone who knows Brian Wilson’s history knows that his mere presence surrounded by his incredible band was only witnessed because of the man himself and his desire to perform. For that Brian, we all in attendance say thanks, it was a great night and we all hope you had a good time too.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Tuesday, May 03, 2011
The Canadian Federal election was held and Stephen Harper’s Conservative Party won a Majority Government. A Majority - Are you kidding me??!! Now that it is spring and we have entered Golf season, perhaps a Mulligan is in order. Let’s have a do’ over , everyone go back to the polling station and let’s try this again.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Toronto Comic Con was certainly an event in Toronto, not the Big Bang perhaps, but an event just the same. You had the usual fans dressed up in their costumes, interesting displays including the copy of Marty and The Doc's ride from Back To The Future, but if you were not a Comic book fan, the event lacked some pizzazz. Only attending Sunday and not for the entire 3 days prohibits my commenting on the event as a whole other than to say I thought it would be a little more Grand. I am sure Friday and Saturday had more glitz for those who did attend. The array of artists displaying their work was quite impressive, the talent on hand for conversation on Sunday lacked the Billy D "star" power but if you were a Star Wars fan, you left the event quite happy. Other notables such as Scott Thomson and Dustin Diamond made a few heads turn but I am not convinced they were as happy to be there as the ones who's heads turned. All in all the promoters I am sure are happy and they should be, the organizers and volunteers on hand were helpful, courteous and answered everyone's questions. Hopefully next time however, they will do a little more digging and realize there are some iconic Voice Actors in Toronto who would have enhanced the event had they been there. The Voices of Spiderman, Hermey, Hulk, Thor, Dorothy, Smurf, etc. were just blocks and a phone call away.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Hypocrisy of the Biz
Of course Charlie Sheen is acting irrational, of course he is playing the game. Now that has been said, come-on, its hilarious! What has been going on in the media is typical hypocrisy. The pun dints who praised his talents, envied his position are now as usual, acting as experts in Psychology and diagnosing his condition. Charlie Sheen is acting no differently now than he did in his past. Does no one remember Ms Madam Heidi? What has changed in Charlie today other than he crossed the line. The line being, he spoke ill of his Boss. Two And A Half Men is (was) a G-Rated version of Charlie Sheen's life from the get go. His personal antics had no effect prior to his public anti Boss meltdown. He could get busted, threaten his wife, dust up a Hotel, but as long as the show was making money they seemed to love the attention it brought. Now however, it all has changed. Hollywood Exec's have been playing this game for years and years. John Belushi, for example, just had to ask for money and the Studio would send the briefcase fully knowing what was being bought. His death was the only reason the deliveries stopped. the list of more examples is too long to even bother mentioning.
Charlie Sheen has made himself and CBS millions and millions of dollars and when the dust settles, chances are Charlie Harper will rise again. One only has to recall a scene from the program where Allan asks Charlie for money while Charlie is lying in bed with one of his random women to know this is all hypocrisy. Charlie's response to Allan was that he had no money, once Allan left, the woman asks, "you have no money" to which Charlie responds, "I always have Hooker Cash".
Stay tuned....
Of course Charlie Sheen is acting irrational, of course he is playing the game. Now that has been said, come-on, its hilarious! What has been going on in the media is typical hypocrisy. The pun dints who praised his talents, envied his position are now as usual, acting as experts in Psychology and diagnosing his condition. Charlie Sheen is acting no differently now than he did in his past. Does no one remember Ms Madam Heidi? What has changed in Charlie today other than he crossed the line. The line being, he spoke ill of his Boss. Two And A Half Men is (was) a G-Rated version of Charlie Sheen's life from the get go. His personal antics had no effect prior to his public anti Boss meltdown. He could get busted, threaten his wife, dust up a Hotel, but as long as the show was making money they seemed to love the attention it brought. Now however, it all has changed. Hollywood Exec's have been playing this game for years and years. John Belushi, for example, just had to ask for money and the Studio would send the briefcase fully knowing what was being bought. His death was the only reason the deliveries stopped. the list of more examples is too long to even bother mentioning.
Charlie Sheen has made himself and CBS millions and millions of dollars and when the dust settles, chances are Charlie Harper will rise again. One only has to recall a scene from the program where Allan asks Charlie for money while Charlie is lying in bed with one of his random women to know this is all hypocrisy. Charlie's response to Allan was that he had no money, once Allan left, the woman asks, "you have no money" to which Charlie responds, "I always have Hooker Cash".
Stay tuned....
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