Another day at the ball park!

I must say, it is really sad and disappointing that the Toronto Blue Jays are just spiraling and just can't win now. The team is now made up of mostly Triple-A players. They might as well go ahead and temporary rename the Toronto Blue Jays to the Toronto Las Vegas 51s.

The game wasn't fun for the Jays fan. But when you have a team that lost 3 starting picture, your All-Star Home Run champ and a energy spark plug, it is really hard to still compete.

But that's not the point of this blog.

The Blue Jays had a bobblehead doll promotions. I had 2 and of course must complete set. I had a spare ticket and offered it to a twitter friend from Australia. It was actually her second game but who doesn't love getting swag? I asked if she wanted to go to the bobblehead game and she said "what the heck is a bobblehead game?" I should have said "do you want to go to a game where they give out bobblehead."

Yes, I love swags... I am a sucker for freebies...

What's not to love?

You may remember this post from last year...

If not... you just need to see this picture

So, this year's bobblehead promotions were:
Brandon Morrow, Yunel Escobar and Ricky Romero.

First nicely inside their boxes...

Now out of the box

And of course, the back view.

They really made fun of Ricky and his flat brim hat and even Little Ricky Ro had the flat cap and his squinty eyes!

Now I wait for next year's promotion!

UPDATE: I was also reminded of the foul ball we got during the game. It is the first time that I got a foul ball after going to so many games!

Sad Truth of Canadian Olympians

Globe and Mail has an interesting article titled "With eyes of 2016, Canadian Olympic officials weigh price of gold"

The sad truth of Canadian Olympians is they can't get enough fundings. Now amount of government help will help them. There are just too many disciplines that needs the money and there is only so much to spread around.

Canada finished 1 Gold 5 Silver 12 Bronze
a total of 18 medals.

I am not knocking at our athletes. How can you not be proud of our Canadian Women's Soccer team winning the Bronze after a heartbreaking and TERRIBLE refereeing? They deserved an opportunity at Gold. It didn't happen. They said what they wanted and moved on and concentrate on a change a medal.

Or the heartbreak of the Canadian 4x100 men's relay team? DQ only because the tippy-toe of his foot stepped on the line. And have a read of this story. It really gives the meaning to be Canadian.

Why can't we get more corporate support? Is it always get something in return if I do something for you?

The only truly Canadian corporate sponsors for Olympic athletes are; Bell, RBC, Petro-Canada and Rona. Their advertisement were very prominent during the Olympics (I especially love the Rona one - across Canada relay of a screwdriver).

Other sponsors include P&G, Wal-mart but they're not Canadian companies. It's true there aren't that many Canadian own company but what has been a common theme is we, as viewers, aren't exposed to certain events in non-olympic year; gymnastics, triathlets, decathletes etc.. What we do see is the "popular" sports; tennis, soccer, golf, baseball, hockey, etc..

Although sponsorship is one of those interesting things, it's about business. I think there are lots of resource in Canada that can help but because of the politics of business, vast possibility of funds kind of just slip away.

Canadian companies that could sponsor athletes? Telus, Rogers, Home Hardware (but they already sponsor Special Olympics), Huskies, McCain Foods, Maple Leaf Food, Molson (even though it's now owned by Coors Brewery and it's probably not the best sponsor for athletes...), and all 5 major Canadian Banks (TD, CIBC, Scotia, BMO). These companies listed could be tapped for multi-billion dollars resource. But here's the issue; RBC is an official sponsor and in the world of business (as my limited business classes would have me understand is) when one major company has pour money in, it is almost always true other companies will not do anything due to the exclusive rights that they enjoy. The best example will be Scotiabank and the NHL. Scotiabank owns exclusive rights as sponsors of NHL and it is also a reason why you can get custom NHL logo on cheques that other banks cannot provide.

With that being said though, the past few Olympics broadcasts were actually a joint venture between Bell Media and Rogers. This is why you were able to view A LOT of Olympic events on CTV, TSN that are owned by Bell and on Rogers Sportsnet. Were it not for the Olympics, they would be completing for certain rights.

Getting back to my point is that exclusive rights sometimes messes up the untapped funding for athletes. BMO sponsors both the Toronto FC AND Montreal Impact soccer teams of MLS, and Canadian Soccer Association but because they're primary sponsor.

We really need more corporate sponsors on the amateur athletes of sports we don't hear about. How can we expect them to achieve in winning medal when the athletes themselves have to work for their own trainer, nutritionist and etc? Should we be satisfied with just 18 medals and a disappointing ONE gold medal finish? No. And this shouldn't be just about the athletes, the paralympic athletes are OFTEN overlooked.

I hope the Canadian Women's soccer team will be the inspiration that can help capture more corporate fundings for other Olympic sports because A LOT of us will never have an opportunity to experience the Olympic dream. It is through these athletes that we live our imaginations. They're the ones that inspires and brings a nation together.

Beauty and the Beast, the Broadway Musical

Tale as old as time. Timely classic and romance (I know, cheesy, I can't think of anything else). So I actually finally went around and saw the Broadway musical. It was a second run in Toronto at the Four Seasons Centre.

I was just reading the The Toronto Star online and this article came up. It's always interesting to read a review before going to see a play or movie. While I did agree to some of the points but to give it a 1.5 out of 4? And called the 2.5hr show a life sentence? Give me a break! How do people hire these "critics" and give these terrible reviews?

Here's my honest opinion on the show itself:

As I said, I have not seen the original Broadway/Toronto production so I don't know of the "extravagant" settings. For what it's worth, the stage is only so big and I think they did a wonderful job of using what they had to change scenes by rolling different sets, turning it around and placing them in a different area on stage. It's hardly worth complaining the "fact that it’s a touring production is reflected in sets and costumes." For people who are did not grow up in the Broadway stage settings or understand how it should be lay out on stage. This is a terrible reason to put down a show.

Costumes were fine. You can only do so much with Beast's mane. Lumiere, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, Babette, and Madame de la Grande Bouche, their costume did reflect their animation counter parts. I can't imagine really putting Madame de la Grande Bouche in a real closet costume and what they did I thought was ingenious. Oh and the way Chip was presented - brilliant.

The story itself is near identical of the Disney animation, extra songs were added and humour is a large part of the show. Gaston, in particular, is the funniest character on the play. He really emphasized the ego, playboy and as thestar article stated narcissistic personality. You actually enjoyed the Broadway Gaston more the animation Gaston.

Music is my expertise and I can tell you, I really enjoyed the music, from the overture to the songs themselves were memorable. I was surprise about the fact that the cast of Beauty and the Beast had a near identical voice to the Disney movie. I certainly think that is a plus. Because when you are reproducing something, people have certain expectations and wants to hear familiarity.

Emily Behny played Belle and her voice was absolutely beautiful. She carried the Belle tune exactly the way you would remember it in the movie. And when she hit the high note, it was a thing of beauty.

Matt Farcher played Gaston and I believe he really stole the show. He had the powerful tenor voice and his personality brought Gaston to life that made Gaston an enjoyable character and not the jerk that's in the movie.

Michael Haller as Lumiere was also likeable but I wonder if that's because it's Lumiere. Afterall, he is the French candle romantic guy.

Jessica Lorion played Babette and I loved the character. It's pretty funny that everytime she's on stage, she has to "shake it." I mean, she is the brush...

James May as Cogsworth was also likeable. He was very close to the movie character as well but wasn't my favourite.

Julia Louise Hosack as Mrs. Potts. Who doesn't love Mrs. Potts? Of course Julia is no Angela Lansbury and while she didn't sound like her, Julia brought a different character voice to Mrs. Potts that was pleasantly good. I sort of feel bad for her to have to keep her left arm up as the stout of the tea pot.

Leaving the last important character to review but unfortunately not the good is Beast played by Dane Agostinis. This is where I agreed the the thestar article. The original Beast in the movie is voiced by Robby Benson. While his voice was altered for the movie, it was kind of disappointed to hear Beast's voice and missing that depth. I don't think it helped that he was a tenor. One voice that is very distinct is that of David Keith of Disney's Gargoyle fame. He has the perfect tone and deepness in his voice that was needed for Beast. Unfortunately, Dane Agostinis didn't have it. It really took away the sad, tortured soul persona.

All in all though, it is still a good show. I definitely rate the show a lot better then what thestar gave. It is not a perfect show but it is definitely worth going to watch with friends.

The Help (A Movie Review)

I have finally gotten around to watching The Help.

What made me wanted to watch this movie was the story itself taking places during America's segregation in the 60s. I am glad that I am not born in that era and to have to go through the discrimination. However, being of ethnic minority, these same prejudice and discrimination are still happening in the 21st Century.

Over the last 50 years, human civilization itself has changed SO much (computers, cellphones, cars, medicine, etc) and yet, we, as people, are still trying kill one another or deny people's basic rights.

I know the movie was based on the book. Since I have not read it, I will solely based it on the movie.

I wanted to watch this movie and have an understanding of that particular era. The movie really emphasized the segregation of the 60s. And watching it now in 2012, some of these discrimination just blew my mind.

One thing that jumped out is really how discrimination is taught. We don't go out and make a decision to say "so today, I'm going to hate *insert group* because they're *insert stereotype*."

This quote shows exactly what I'm talking about:
Skeeter: These colored women raise white children, and in twenty years those children become the boss.

Somehow, somewhere, in the 20 years raised by these colour women, the white children learned to discriminate against someone who was essentially their mother, just not biologically.
Another scene that made me ponder about the discrimination was the use of toilets. I remember reading and watching some videos of how coloured and whites were not allowed to used the same water fountain or same bus. In the movie, toilets should not be shared because white people will get "the disease." When I saw the scene where they proposed a law to build a separate toilet for coloured people, I went "say what? You can't get disease from sharing a toilet." It is one of those things that we do not understand today.

Going back to the roles of these coloured women, they were to cook, clean, and take care of babies. Did you know that this actually STILL exist today? In Hong Kong, I would estimate that about 60-70% of family has a live-in maid of Filipino background. I can't be certain of the pay rate (certain would be decent enough) but to have a live-in maid to do EVERYTHING. And I have seen children being spoiled by it. And then it's things like these that you realized, we have not really evolved into better people. We still treat some people of other race a lower class because of where they're from. End of Rant.

I really liked how some of the character's were developed. Celia was awkward but funny and was more modern then her housewife counterparts. While Hilly was the type of bitch you dislike because of her backward points of views.

After all my rant and complain, I really did enjoy the movie. Although, their Southern accent sometimes meant "what did they just say?" it was still worth watching. I actually plan on watching it again eventually.

Best line of the movie: "Eat My Shit!"

Disney Pixar's Brave (a Movie Review)

This past week I went to see Brave. How does Pixar keep producing these timeless stories? Toy Story, A Bug's Life, Monster's Inc, Wall-E, Up and so on. You can now add Brave to the list. I think it might be my favourite Pixar movie.

Here's the recap and info from IMDB.com

I really enjoyed the movie. And who doesn't love the Scottish accent??

It is visually stunning. I have not been to Scotland but the animation of the landscape is simply beautiful. I found myself drawn into the beauty of the land... even though it was computerized. I thought they did a great job in Up! with South America but the Scottish Highland... WOW! Also stunning was capturing the human emotions onto a bear.

One thing you learn in a music class is how music drives the story. And it was amazing (and I might use this word one too many times). Patrick Doyle created the story with just the music. It was beautiful and amazing (yes, see? I said it again). When you think Scottish music, you will automatically think bagpipes. Yes, bagpipe music was in the movie because you can't have Scottish music without bagpipe but it was done in moderation. Like any other animation, music is very important in driving the story and it definitely did its job. If I come out of the theatre with "I need to go buy the original soundtrack!" It means I really LOVED the music! And the last time that I actually bought an original soundtrack was back in 2000, Gladiator and that was EPIC soundtrack!

I would talk about the story but I might ruin it for you. What I will talk about is the theme of the movie or my interpretations at least. The obvious thing is that the protagonist is Merida, a girl, a young princess. I read someone's comment or opinion somewhere and I have to agree; Merida will obvious be part of the "Disney Princess Collection" along with Belle, Jasmine, Snow White and Sleeping Beauty. The difference here is though, Merida is a strong, independent little girl and which my friend pointed out, "she didn't need to be paired up with a guy," which is great for girls watching the movie. Having said that, there were also things about the movies boys will love. The most obvious part is Merdia's triplet brothers. They were just adorable trouble makers. You can't help but love them. However, if they were your kids, they will definitely drive you mad.

I didn't watch the movie in 3D so I'm not sure what I missed but this is definitely a must see movie.

If my rating for movie counts, it's a definite 4 out of 5.

Oh and to make it ALL worth it... there is a teaser preview for next Pixar movie... Monsters University. Oh yes, a pre-quel to the 2001 movie Monsters Inc and Finding Nemo is returning to theatre for 3D - that might actually intriguing.

If Bo is a descendant of Xena, then Jane Rizzoli must be her reincarnation...

I've started watching Rizzoli & Isles and I am loving every moments of this show. I previously came to a conclusion that Bo is a descendant of Xena, because they both have similar themes and people around them. But then after watching Rizzoli & Isles, I'm starting to think, "wait, if Bo is the descendant of Xena... that makes Jane... her reincarnation?" The similarity between Xena, the Warrior Princess and Detective Jane Rizzoli is kinda so similar that I can only conclude that Jane Rizzoli is either her reincarnation or Jane has Xena's spirit trapped in her body (think Xena, Season 2, Episode 10, The Xena Scrolls)

Let's start with the basic...

Both Xena and Jane Rizzoli are tall... as in 5'10" tall and capable of handling weapons.

Both have long dark hair.
vs

Both have a loyal companion (the smarter one)

Gabrielle, Bard of Poteidaia
vs

Dr. Maura Isles, the Medical Examiner
Hey, did you notice that they're blonds?

Both have men in their lives that well, they are just there...
Xena has Joxer and Autolycus...
Ok, if you want to bring up the subject of love interest instead then you get
Marcus
Julius Caesar

And who can forget the God of War himself, Ares?

and Gabrielle had
Perdicus who is... dead...

Now Jane has
Agent Dean, who has been called back to Washington.
Or the army guy, Casey... still stuck on the other side of the world.

and Maura had

Ian who is actually wanted by Interpol

Oh and please don't forget this guy... the creepy, psycho Dennis who, thankfully, is dead.

So, that's pretty convincing evidence that the men aren't meant to be. Girls, you've got each other. It's better that way.

Both of them have 2 brothers...
Xena's got
Toris
and Lyceus

Jane's got
Frankie
and Tommy

Now, let's not forget that they're protective of each other...


Oh yes, when you threaten their friend, you will feel the wrath!

Am I missing anything else?

Dragon Age: Ultimate Edition review

I know I may be late (way late) to review games like Dragon Age but it's a personal decision.

1) Why am I paying $60 for a game when the price eventually will come down?
2) The game they put out nowadays are almost always INCOMPLETE (I'm looking at you DLC!)!!!!!!!!!!
3) If I wait long enough, they'll package everything in a nice cheap price. So, call me el cheapo but you know I'm right

Now that that's out of the way, onto review!

I did read some reviews and people's comment of how Dragon Age was one of those great games. But it was one of those I'm not sure I would enjoy playing. So after finishing God of War 3 and Deus Ex, I needed something new. I had bought Sly Cooper collection but that game is a very easy pick and play whenever game. So, at an EB Games, I saw the Dragon Age: Ultimate Edition for $20. Considering that it is $20 for two games, I thought it was a good price as they actually had Dragon Age and Dragon Age: Awakening for $20 each.

Finally got around to it and finished ALL the contents, including the DLC. I will try my best to do a full review.

Let me start with the big pictures.
1) Graphics - It is beautiful. It is not perfect but it still have beautiful scenery, facial expression and the finer details that are over looked.

When having a conversation with your companion (I enjoy talking to Morrigan and Alistair), you can really see the anger, sadless and love in their facial expression.

2) Music - as a classically trained music student. I really love the music. It had a very Romantic era style with the drive and the sound. I hope that the music will be part of the Video Games Live list, if it's not already.

Sometimes people over look the music in video games but a lot of the times, it is what drives the game play. In Dragon Age, soundtracks for fights make it more exciting. Just loading the disc into my PS3 and just let the track run got me excited. The vocal track is very haunting and yet soothing. It reminds me of Lisa Gerrard's voice in Gladiator soundtrack.

3) Story - and not just the storyline. It's ashamed that we cannot use all 8 of the companion at the same time. I would love to read the script for those small conversation. The interactions between the characters are hilarious. For example? The bickering between Morrigan and Alistair, or Oghren and Leliana. You can tell the writers wanted to give them life and they achieved it. Sometimes I would stop and just listen to the conversation between them.

Now that the big picture is out of the way. What did I think of gameplay?

Call me a loser and not a real gamer but I personally found the controls a bit frustrating. Sometimes I would press the button and it wouldn't react. I think I'm quite used to playing games like God of War where there is a BLOCK button. I started the game on normal difficulty. It may have been my poor decision to visit Denerim first before other places on the map, I ended up turning the difficulty to casual. I am normally in it for the story. Having said that, with just one actual attack button and 6 magic/special moves, I thought it may have been better executed. I did have several frustrating moments.

Speaking of frustrating moment... autosaves. It's nice but sometimes you forget. There were a few instances that I forgot to save frequently and lo and behold, that last 20min of gameplay? Poof. Now, that ain't necessarily a bad thing but just forgetful.

Now back to the storyline, as I mentioned, they are very intertwined. To have your character to love several people and see jealousy is kind of funny. To have Leliana and Alistair make you choose... I did find Alistair a bit annoying at times. Maybe I just like Leliana's accent.

Voice casting was great. Morrigan had such great dark humour and Claudia Black was awesome. I remember seeing her in a few roles on Hercules and Xena. And Kate Mulgrew, Captain Kathryn Janeway on Voyager, I don't know who else you would find to voice Flemeth. Kate is hilarious in person and her voice and humour played it perfectly. Even Alistair's voice had a lovable personality.

I think what made Dragon Age one of the best game on PS3 is the re-playability. I have only finished 1 version of the story. The fact that the game has 6 different origins and different endings depending on your action makes the game great value. Do you keep this companion? Or kill them? What shocked me was playtime. My total game play for JUST Dragon Age: Origin was around 66 hours. SIXTY-SIX HOURS. That's a lot of hours spent looking for things. I tried to do most of the side quests. The side quests are the ones that make the game complete but there were so many (as I was stupid to accept all of them and about 10% was probably incomplete). To top it off, they decided to add 4 extra, standalone story DLC and 4 in-game DLC.

Each of these DLC added an extra hour or so of game play. However, the standalone story DLC gave more of an alternative. Leliana's Song provided more of her background of how she came to be. Witch Hunt actually is more of the aftermath. While Dark Spawn Chronicles offer you a totally different point of view and allows you to be the bad guy. Who doesn't want to be the bad guy?

Dragon Age: Awakening is a story continuation of the end of Dragon Age: Origin and you are able to continue with your created character, even if you decided to sacrifice yourself (I did... hey, it was the greater good!). While the content is not as in depth as Origin, Awakening provides the extra content to satisfy the "I want more." I'm not sure how I feel about Awakening. You rebuilt the entire Vigil's Keep and get new recruit. I decided to put all the recruit I find through the Joining. You need all the help you can get. But the story just didn't have the same oomph as Origin. I just didn't find the ending of Awakening as satisfying as Origin but then again, I did sacrifice myself at the end of Origin. I shouldn't have been able to transfer my character into Awakening. It's just a minor detail.

The main question is, did I enjoy playing it? Yes. Will I be playing it again? Yes but not in the near future. Is it worth the $20 I paid? Yes. Would I have paid more? Probably not (blame those DLC).