when people explain things to me i see red. if i wanted to understand iw ould have understood. leave me alone .

lost    ↳ iconic lines

Kingdom by Thomas ‘Noio’ van der Berg and Marco ‘Licorice’ Bancale

I’m not sure when was the last time I featured a game that was not in development or on Kickstarter … With Kingdom you can—and should—go play it right now (while it’s 30% off on Steam at $7).

Retronator Magazine article: The Fall and Rise of Kingdom

More on: Webpage // Twitter // Facebook // DevLog

I pray one day I’ll be more than my father’s son…

Last year The Lumineers came to my college. Only like 30 people came to the show so it was intimate enough that I got to talk to them and get them to sign the demo I bought (yes demo! Their cd wasn’t even finished yet). They were super nice and awesome and I’m so happy for their increasing fame and success. 

Watch this.

I tried writing a description that would entice you to watch, but I'm literally speechless. This is a video that must be experienced.

Some background info: This is from the tv show The Glee Project. The challenge was to sing the song Perfect and then act in this trailer. I would tell you the plot of the trailer, but it's more fun if you try to figure it out yourself.

-- E

Podcast Pickins

This week’s podcast is The Champs!

The Champs podcast consists of  Neal Brennan (co-creator of Chappelle’s Show and stand-up comedian), Moshe Kasher (author of “Kasher in the Rye” and stand-up comedian), and DJ Douggpound. The episodes, which primarily feature African American guests, consist of Doug dropping sound effects and beats while Neal and Moshe host the show/interview. Guests of the show have ranged from actor/comedians Wayne Brady to David Alan Grier.

What makes this podcast special is that The Champs is completely honest and ready to talk about things that would make most people feel incredibly awkward or uncomfortable. The chemistry between Moshe, Neal, and Doug is undeniably funny and makes for some good podcast listenin.

My top 5 The Champs Pickins

5. Hannibal Buress

Hannibal Buress is most commonly known as the modern, black Mitch Hedburg. So its no surprise that this episode is full of hilarious and interesting anecdotes such as Hannibal’s small writing stint on 30 Rock and SNL, starting stand-up, and living forever. Perhaps the best moment is Hannibal and Moshe’s story of becoming, as they call it, “eskimo brothers.” Great interview with an awesome, up-and-coming comic.

4. Roy Wood Jr.

I’ve never been in a boy’s locker room but I imagine it’s a lot like this episode but without the actual body odor and the naked part. Perhaps the biggest and most notable topic in this episode is, well whatdoyouknow, women. Whether you think their views are disgusting or agree with what their saying, it is undeniable that some of their female related stories are ridiculously funny (i.e. Neal was once accused of drugging a woman in Las Vegas).

3. Retta

The 1st non-adult film actress on the podcast, the Champs and Retta discuss interesting and polarizing comedic issues such as the Adam Carolla controversy and getting started in stand-up as a woman. Although I disagree with Neal Brennan’s views, I love hearing a constructive debate, where people can share their opinions without being dicks.

2. Ron Funches

Ron Funches is perhaps the most adorable, soft spoken comedian I have ever heard.  Ron’s fascinating background allows for some hilarious and kind of scary stories such as poisoning his mother’s boyfriend when he was a kid. Although the stories are as funny as alarming, the guys also talk about the Tosh controversy and kindness in comedy. Once again, the Champs strike a fine line between  being dirty and uncensored, to talking about real and serious issues.

1. Questlove

I love when I hear a guest be an actual fan. It makes me feel not alone, or dreams are possible! Okay, maybe not the last part, but still, it’s pretty cool. Questlove proves to be an awesome guest by not holding back, and sharing some “inside the music” stories such as his beef with Biggie, the Michelle Bachmann scandal, and his friendship with Jay-Z. Also Doug’s drops make this episode worth listening to twice.

If you want to listen to more, please visit their website!

-- L

Podcast Pickins

Okay, so you want to know what a podcast is, right?  Well, Webster’s Dictionary defines podcasts as “a program (as of music or talk) made available in digital format for automatic download over the Internet.” Luckily for you, podcasts are not as boring as that definition, no offense Webster. Comedy podcasts are kind of like these magnificent, hilarious little jewels that are guarded by the  imperial Comedian court (i.e. Jimmy Pardo, Marc Maron, Todd Glass, etc.). Yeah, I know that sounds cheesy but comedy podcasts are so much more than Webster’s simple definition. They give a personal insight into the world of comedy, everything from comedic relationships to the art of making comedy. And even if your not interested in that, some of these ridiculously funny podcasts cover everything from pop culture to snacking. Whether you love stand-up, improv, or sketch, there is something here for everyone.

So every week I’ve decided to spotlight a different podcast and list a few episodes that I think really showcase that podcast (or really just made me laugh so hard, the woman next to me on the train thinks I’m a crazy person).

The first podcast that I decided to showcase is one that is very near and dear to my heart. Hold for drum solo…It’s the Nerdist! Now I bet your wondering “Nerdist, Why Nerdist?!” First of all, why are you being so hostile, and second because without the Nerdist I would not be sitting in this chair, in the Philly Improv Theatre Office (where I am interning), writing on this awesome blog. I started listening to the Nerdist about 2 years ago, and I haven’t put it down since. Chris Hardwick, the proud father of the Nerdist, hosts bi-weekly episodes that include guests such as Tina Fey, Neil DeGrasse Tyson and Conan O’Brien. Usually accompanied by Jonah Ray and Matt Mira, these episodes are at times thought provoking, fascinating, and as I like to say, “make you pee” funny.  Even their guestless episodes (which they like to call hostful) are truly amazing. I’ve learned a lot from the Nerdist such as playing D&D is cool, 8-bit music rocks, and always ENJOY YOUR BURRITO (just listen to the Rainn Wilson episode).

My top 5 Nerdist Pickins

5.  Ana Gasteyer

Although Matt and Jonah are not in this episode, Ana Gasteyer is truly delightful! Not only does she have awesome stories about working and leaving SNL and the comedic genius that is Will Ferrell but she also dives into some really interesting topics such as improv vs. stand-up and women in comedy. This episode is really fun and super insightful.

4. Patton Oswalt 

Patton is a comedic genius. Great stories about his early days doing stand-up, the Hollywood screenplay writing process, and playing D&D with fellow comedians. This episode is full of Patton rants that are sure to make you laugh your ass off.

3. Neil deGrasse Tyson

Neil is not only the Director of the Hayden Planetarium and the host of his own one-hour radio talk show StarTalk, but he is one cool dude. This episode is not only educational but the conversation is fun and makes you wonder why you didn’t become an astrophysicist (okay maybe not the last part). Also, what could be nerdier than science?

2. Kevin Smith 

I have listened to this episode  10+ times now and it still holds up. Amazing riffs that never get old, just the sound of Kevin Smith’s voice makes me laugh. All I have to say is, Vader Pussy. Enough Said.

1. HOSTFUL

A guestless episode as number 1?! YES hostile reader! The first of many hostfuls, this episode covers ridiculous and inane topics such as the career of Mark Wahlberg, Danny Elfman eating a breakfast burrito, and Matt working at a funeral home.  These episodes truly show the awesomeness of the Nerdist; just three nerdy guys riffing about whatever. However beware: these episodes will make you laugh to tears.

For more Nerdist lovin’ visit their website or youtube channel and subscribe!

-- L

For the first time I am playing Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. I know, I know as a Zelda fan it must be blasphemous for me to have never played this game. I've actually never played any of the 2D Zelda games. Not because I choose not to or think the 3D games are better, but because I just never had the chance when I was younger. My first system was the Nintendo 64 and one of my first games was actually Ocarina of Time. So you see I never had a super nintendo to play the classic games on. Right now I am playing on a emulator on my computer.

So far I am loving this game very much. Even though it's 2D it just feels like a classic Zelda game. The puzzles, the tone, the scenery, everything feels so right. I was actually expecting it to be different, to feel like a general 2D game with a Zelda plot line, but it's not. It's just great. I still get that thrill from hearing that famous tone that signifies I've discovered a secret.

One thing that I can say about this game that is different than the 3D games is that it's hard. And I mean HARD. Twilight Princess seems like a game for preschoolers in comparison. This I believe is just an example of how much easier games have become (although OoT was easier, it still had difficult parts *cough* water temple *cough). 

I think this was a great experience. This game has really held up after all these years.  I can't wait to try other games out. I think Metroid is next.

-- E

I should be working at my job, but instead I decided to doodle the three main ass holes of ocarina of time. 

(from left to right)

1) The Kokiri Forest resident Mido that always pissed me off in the beginning. I get it, you don't like me, now move out of the way a let me through!

2) The Octorok... I HATE THIS GUY. They are so annoying and always get in the way. Whenever I'm near water and one of these pop out and I have to stop and take out my shield to kill it because it'll be annoying continuously shooting at me, I get sooo pissed off.

3) This is a rolling Goron. Not so much an asshole as something annoying. I mostly drew it to have something from that area since I had a water monster and something from the forest. 

-- E

Young Adult

Warning, don't read the last paragraph if you don't want a detail about the very end spoiled.

I know this is late, since it came out in 2011, but I just saw the movie Young Adult and let’s just say it wasn't great. Don't get me wrong, I actually liked the beginning and middle. Charlize Theron played the part of the lonely, miserable, in denial bitch Mavis stupendously and Patton Oswalt played her sidekick, cynic, cripple Matt just as perfectly. The plot was good; though a little thin for an entire movie. Mavis (Theron) heads back to her small Minnesota home town from her glamorous life in Minneapolis as an young adult (see what they did there) author to try and convince her ex-boyfriend Buddy, who is currently married and a new father, that they are meant to be. Most of the movie is her refusing to believe her former flame could possibly be happy with his current life and trying to seduce him at every moment possible, while her new friend Matt drinks with her and tries to talk sense into her. 

Though the main story was ok, it was the scenes in between that I really enjoyed. You really got a sense of why she was so desperate to get Buddy back. Each time the camera cut to her waking up passed out in her hotel room to the TV playing re-runs of the Kardashians or to her writing out her novel with a character so perfect (and obviously based on her delusions) that it even made Twilight look grounded that I really began to see how miserable her life was and how in denial she was about it.

The problem with the movie is the end. I guess you could say it was a realistic ending, but after two big moments where you think she finally made a breakthrough and might slowly move to some development, there's a scene where someone tells her "No you are right. You're better than everyone", then she agrees and drives back to her old life, supposedly happy. The end. This unsatisfying ending left a bad taste in my mouth that makes me wonder. Was that what Diablo Cody wanted? Cause then she succeeded.

E gives it 3/5 stars (watch it if you have some free time, don't make a big movie night out of it)

-- E

Ultimate Comics Spider-man comes to life!

Ever since I saw Ultimate Comics: Spider-man for the first time, I fell in love with the character Miles Morales. I actually can't wait until they remake the Spider-man movie franchise again in like 5 years because then they could do it with this guy. He's adorable and has so much potential. That is why I loved watching him come alive in this video by the group RobotUnderDog. They capture the first issue perfectly. I'm even impressed on how they did the effects such as Miles' invisibility and the fighting scene. Needless to say, I'm excited to see what they have next as they continue (and how they will pull off the spidey suit)

-- E

Once Upon a Time is actually GOOD!

I have something to admit, I really like Once Upon a Time. I mean REALLY like Once Upon a Time. I know, I can't believe I'm saying this but Once Upon a Time is actually a good show. I was hesitant at first to watch it because I seriously made fun of my older sister for watching it. Even though I knew it was created by two Lost writers (yes brotha), it just seemed "gleeish" to me. And no I don't mean that they were going to ruin perfectly good songs by remixing them with Kids Bop voices, I mean the cheesyness. But I have to tell you, I seriously enjoyed the first episode. And before I knew it, I watched the entire season. Once Upon a Time was just what I need in a summer tv show, it was just easy and fun. Don't get me wrong I love watching shows like The Walking Dead and Mad Men but sometimes you just need something light. And yes, Once Upon a Time IS cheesy, but the story is better than I expected. I would really recommend anyone looking for a summer tv show to try out Once Upon a Time. This show was meant to be watched on Netflix. I don't think I could handle it week to week, I would get a little annoyed. But it gets good, and without knowing it you will watch the entire season within a week and get fairytale withdrawal, which does exist, TRUST ME.

-L

Ron Perlman Reprises Hellboy Role For The Very Best Reason Possible 

The Make-A-Wish Foundation contacted FX house Spectral Motion with a unique request from a little boy: he wanted to meet Hellboy. And maybe become him as well. And so young Zachary came to the Spectral Motion offices where he found Hellboy himself - Ron Perlman had returned to wear the make-up and outfit, and he had a big burgers, fries and shakes lunch with Zachary.

I love when celebrities do things like this. When they realize how much putting on some makeup, an outfit, and an old character will mean to a kid. To meet your hero in person (especially when the're fictional and you'll probably never get the chance) is probably an amazing experience. Kudos to Perlman.

-- E

Happy 4th everyone

Even after 236 years, still look'n fine 'merica

-E and L

Calvin and Hobbs

"Let's go exploring"

This was the last line in the beloved Calvin and Hobbs comic and it fit the comic perfectly. 

I just wanted to dedicate this blog post to my favorite comic of all time. When I was younger I started every Sunday morning reading the comics. Out of all these classic and hilarious comics the one that made me laugh the hardest, think the most, and just generally make me smile is Calvin and Hobbs.

The best part of Calvin and Hobbs is that it is beyond a children's comic. It brings up deep and emotional concepts that people of all ages think and go through.

But it also doesn't dwell on the sad and unfair philosophy of life. Every comic has the perfect tone of childhood. Calvin thinks and contemplates life, but then shakes it off and decides to go build a snowman with Hobbs.

Calvin and Hobbs was and is an amazing comic that can always lift my mood. To this day I love to sit down and go through my Calvin and Hobbs book. I recommend it to anyone who just needs a good laugh.

--E

Cheesecake Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Today was one of those terribly gloomy, rainy days in which the only good thing to do is play vido games and bake. So I did both! After playing Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (for the GameCube) I decided to bake some chocolate chip cookies.

I'm always on the prowl for new recipes so I hit my favorite place to find recipes: foodgawker. It was there I found a great rendition of the classic chocolate chip cookie. It's Cheesecake Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars!

With a perfect sweet cookie crust and a smooth cream cheese middle, these bars are the perfect treat and was a big hit with my family!

For the recipe, please head here.

--E

4 Games From E3 That I'm Excited About

Sorry if this is a little late (Just got back from a trip), but like many others I have been keeping an eye out for all of the games being announced at E3 and I have to say they all look fantastic. Here is a list of the top 4 games I'm excited about (they are in no order). 

1) Beyond: Two Souls

This game looks amazing for two reasons: Breath-taking graphics and intriguing story line. With Ellen Page as the star, you know the character and acting will be great. Only having seen the E3 trailer, I honestly don't know much about this game, but I do know one thing: This game will be a huge hit. As long as the game play will match the story and graphics, Beyond: Two Souls will do fantastic. Here is the trailer.

2) The Last Of Us 

Sometimes it's hard to admit this in the gaming community, but I don't like shooting games. It's just something about having to run around and shoot and fight people I don't like (I'm more of a puzzle/rpg person though some games are so good I make an exception). I try, but they're just not my thing. And in today's gaming world, I feel like most popular games are shooting games. But this action adventure game looks amazing! I love the idea of this huge macho killer traveling with this tween girl (reminds me of True Grit) in a post apocalyptic world. The graphics are beyond beautiful and from what I heard from some of the people behind it during E3, the action will be very fluid and changing with the decisions and places you go affecting the game play. I'm super excited for this game and will definitely keep my eyes open for more info as it comes out. A sneak peek can be seen here.

3) Tomb Raider

When I was younger, my siblings and I owned and played the tomb raider games on our pc. I loved the game, though I do have terrifying memories of drowning and being attacked by bears in the game. With this new addition to the franchise, Lara Croft looks better than ever and the game play looks difficult but a lot of fun! The game takes place on an island and is action packed as Lara avoids (and kills) the bad guys while trying to survive. If you haven't seen the game play sneak peek, do it now! In the course of five minutes, she goes from shooting badies with a bow and arrow to carried down a raging river to parachuting into the woods. If that's not epic, I don't know what is.

4) Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon

Oh Luigi. The poor brother that can't seem to get a break is back with this new sequel to the GameCube's Luigi's Mansion. Now I have heard a lot of people trash the first game as a boring Ghost Busters ripoff, but I say those people are dead wrong! I loved that game and am super excited to see this new game and how the creators (hopefully) improved the game. I'm a huge Nintendo fan and love the games and characters they come up with. A sneak peek can be seen here.

--E