The Kid in the Hall

Music from the Great White North: My Top 20 Canadian Songs

2011-08-17T17:13:00.005-05:00

As most of you know, I did a post a few weeks ago about my favorite songs from Australia and New Zealand. Well, this time I thought I would pick out some of my favorite tunes from one of my other favorite countries, Canada. So many great artists have come out of Canada like The Guess Who, Neil Young, Rush, Gordon Lightfoot, Loverboy, April Wine, Thor, D.O.A., The Band, Corey Hart, Triumph, Bachman-Turner Overdrive, and Bryan Adams to name a few. Even some of my favorite one-hit wonders that were also hits in the U.S. came from Canada too like Sheriff's "When I'm with You", Men Without Hats' "Safety Dance", Glass Tiger's "Don't Forget Me When I'm Gone", and Alannah Myles' "Black Velvet". Of course, I chose some my favorite lesser known Canadian songs much like I did the last time. 'Cause like I said before, hopefully more people will want to learn more about these artists who are big there, but never really had the chance to do the same here.

The Headstones - "Cubically Contained"

If you've ever seen the film Hard Core Logo, then you probably know who The Headstones are. You see, Hugh Dillon who is the lead singer for The Headstones starred in Hard Core Logo. If you have not seen the film, I highly suggest that you do. Anyways, The Headstones were pretty well known during the '90s when alternative rock was big. When I think of my favorite songs from the '90s, I think of "Cubically Contained".

Martha and the Muffins - "Echo Beach"

This song just takes me to a different place. I love it! It was the only Martha and the Muffins' song that became an international hit back in 1980.

Chilliwack - "My Girl (Gone Gone Gone)"

First of all, any band named Chilliwack is cool in my book. They were pretty well known during the '80s and scored a few hits such as "I Believe", "Whatcha Gonna Do", "Fly at Night", and my personal favorite "My Girl (Gone Gone Gone)". What makes me love this song even more is that it was spoofed on SCTV!

The Northern Pikes - "Teenland"

All the way from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, The Northern Pikes scored their first hit with "Teenland" in 1987. It's a catchy little tune. Every time I hear it, I'm surprised that it was never used in a teen films back in the late '80s/early '90s.

Ian Thomas - "Painted Ladies"

Brother of actor/comedian Dave Thomas, Ian Thomas was a successful musician during the 1970's. His biggest hit was "Painted Ladies", which reached both the Canadian and U.S. charts in 1973. The song has such a great psychedelic feel to it.

Anvil - "Metal on Metal"

Probably one of the most successful heavy metal bands from Canada, Anvil have been together for over thirty years and have released a total of fourteen albums. Although they were popular during the '80s, the band gained more recognition when the documentary film Anvil! The Story of Anvil was released in 2008. If you have never listened to them, I suggest that you listen to "Metal on Metal" and go on from there.

Doughboys - "Shine"

If you want to hear some '90s alternative rock, I suggest you listen to the Doughboys.

Idle Eyes - "Tokyo Rose"

In 1985, Idle Eyes scored their only No. 1 hit with "Tokyo Rose". Once you hear that opening guitar riff, you're hooked.

Christopher Ward - "Once in a Long Time"

The first time I heard this song was on an episode of Degrassi: The Next Generation and right away I was in love with this song. If you're into '70s love songs, then you will dig this.

Fun Fact: Christopher Ward co-wrote the song "Black Velvet" that was recorded by his then-girlfriend Alannah Myles.

The Kings - "This Beat Goes On/Switchin' to Glide"

The fact that "This Beat Goes On/Switchin' to Glide" is two songs in one is awesome, and the fact that it always puts me in a good mood when I hear it is even better. Check it out!

Sloan - "Underwhelmed"

Do you want to feel cool? Listen to Sloan. That's all I'm gonna say.

Rough Trade - "High School Confidential"

I love "High School Confidential"! It's such a dirty little song and Carol Pope can sure sing it too.

The Demics - "New York City"

If this song doesn't make you want to go to New York City, then I don't know what will.

Red Rider - "Lunatic Fringe"

I always think of Matthew Modine jump roping when I hear this song. (Hint: Vision Quest) "Lunatic Fringe" is probably the most well known song on this list, but how could I not put it on here? It's a classic! When I was a kid, I used to think it was called "Lunatic Friends".

Fun Fact: Red Rider frontman Tom Cochrane scored a hit in the '90s called "Life is a Highway".

The Payolas - "Eyes of a Stranger"

Of course, "Eyes of a Stranger" is best remembered for being featured in the 1983 film Valley Girl. It's one of those songs that just never gets old. Definitely one of my all-time favorites! Doesn't Payolas vocalist Paul Hyde look a lot like Tackleberry from Police Academy and Billy Bibbit from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest?

Platinum Blonde - "Standing in the Dark"

"Standing in the Dark" is such an underrated '80s song. I know it's a serious song and all, but I have have to dance every time I hear it.

Saga - "On the Loose"

Words cannot describe how much I love "On the Loose". I like to say that it's my "Warrior" song.

Teenage Head - "Ain't Got No Sense"

Teenage Head is such an underrated band. They were so unique with their different styles of rock 'n' roll. I mean, there's not one song that I don't love by them. If you've seen the film Class of 1984, I'm sure you've heard this song before. It's a good one!

Trans-X - "Living on Video"

I didn't know they made music like this in Canada. Then again, Trans-X is from Montreal. "Living on Video" is one of my all-time favorite synthpop songs. It actually makes me want to pick up a synthesizer and just jam out to some rad tunes. I also love that the song was once featured in a Diet Pepsi commercial.

Rheostatics - "Claire"

"Claire" became the Rheostatics' biggest hit when they recorded all the music for the soundtrack to the film Whale Music back in 1994. I still say that it's one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard. It makes me wish that my name was Claire.

Strong & Beautiful: The Kid in the Hall's 15 Greatest Women of Wrestling

2011-08-14T02:12:00.006-05:00

I know I mostly write about movies and music here at my blog, but it's funny that I don't really write about my third love that is professional wrestling. Well, that's all about to change right now. Professional wrestling has been a part of my life ever since I can remember. I grew up watching shows like Monday Night Raw and Monday Nitro with my brother. We always pretended to be our favorite wrestlers and have our own little matches like most kids who loved wrestling did. Ah, those were good times. I'm sure most can agree that it's not as exciting to watch these days, but in recent months it has become pretty exciting again much thanks to CM Punk.

Anyways, I figured since I wanted to write more about wrestling on here that I would start it off with a list. What can I say? I love making lists. Being a female who loves wrestling, it's pretty obvious that I looked up to a lot of the women wrestlers/Divas as a child. That's why I thought that creating a list of who I believe are the greatest women in wrestling would be an excellent idea for my first "wrestling" post. Luckily, it wasn't too hard for me to pick who I wanted on the list, but I know I left a few out. Feel free to tell me or make a post about who would be on your list!

Of course, I should mention that The Fabulous Moolah, Mildred Burke, and Mae Young are really the greatest women of professional wrestling, because without them there probably wouldn't be a women's division today.

15. Natalya

Known for being a third-generation wrestler and being a member of the Hart wrestling family, Natalya has proven that she's worked very hard to get where she's at. Joining the WWE in 2008, she managed her cousin David Hart Smith and real-life boyfriend Tyson Kidd in one of the last great tag teams to come around in a while, The Hart Dynasty. After Hart Dynasty disbanded in late 2010, Natalya went on to become a first-time WWE Diva's Champion in November of that same year. Even though she sports the pink and black attire, you can also tell that she is a Hart by her in-ring abilities with her multiple suplex variations and of course, the Sharpshooter. I think Natalya will be sticking around for much longer to continue her family's legacy.

14. Awesome Kong/Kharma

Currently known as Kharma in the WWE, Awesome Kong is one tough woman. Name any female or male wrestler, Kong can take them all. Winning over ten Championships in different companies worldwide, I could see her possibly winning even bigger gold very soon now that she's with the WWE. I know she's on a leave of absence right now, but she will definitely dominate the women's and maybe the men's division when she comes back.

13. Bull Nakano

There are two things that I love most about Bull Nakano. First, I love her unique style. (Come on, she looks like a total badass!) Second, I love how vicious she was in the ring. Her feud with Alundra Blayze was one of the greatest in wrestling history. She even won the WWE Women's Champion by defeating Blayze in Tokyo on November 20, 1994. While her time with companies like the WWE and WCW were short-lived, Nakano will be remembered for bringing a new style to the women's division.

12. Mickie James

Alright, I have to admit it. When Mickie James first entered the WWE, it was around the time when I really wasn't watching wrestling at all. I was too busy being a teenager. I knew who James was and all. I remember her as Alexis Laree back in her early days with TNA and I knew that when she first started out as Mickie James she was playing Trish Stratus' obsessed fan and that was about it. I didn't really get to see everything she did after that. When I finally got back into it again though, I realized how far she had come. Being a five-time WWE Women's Champion, WWE Diva's Champion, and a TNA Women's Knockout Champion, I'd say that is pretty damn impressive. With her bubbly personality and the Long Kiss Goodnight as one of her finishers, who doesn't love Mickie James?

11. Luna Vachon

I loved Luna Vachon. She always looked like she just stepped out a heavy metal horror film. What was great about her was that she wasn't like most of the women in the wrestling business. She wasn't trying to be this big bombshell, she actually wanted to be a wrestler. Although she never won the Women's Championship, Luna Vachon will always be remembered for creating one of the most wackiest characters in wrestling history. From her feuds with Alundra Blayze aka Madusa and Sensational Sherri to her days of being a valet for superstars like Goldust and the Oddities, Luna Vachon was sure fun to watch. It's very sad that we lost her last year. We still miss you, Luna!

10. Molly Holly

Molly Holly was probably the greatest female technical wrestler to ever enter the WWE. I should also mention that she was one of the most underrated as well. Known for being the "cousin" to Hardcore and Crash, Molly Holly could always put on a match. Although it was fun to see her team up with guys like Spike Dudley and The Hurricane, Molly showed us that she could be just as great on her own by winning the Women's Championship twice and even winning the Hardcore Champion. What was most important to Molly Holly was that she wanted people to appreciate her for her in-ring abilities more than anything. That's why she developed this somewhat prudish character to avoid being looked at as just another pretty face, and who could really blame her for that? Her most memorable moment came at WrestleMania XX, when she lost the Women's Championship to Victoria and was forced to have her head shaved after the match. I'm hoping Molly Holly returns to wrestling very soon, because I think she still has a few more Molly-Go-Rounds left in her.

9. Beth Phoenix

Although she is the best and strongest female wrestler in the WWE right now, "The Glamazon" Beth Phoenix has already proven that she is one of the greatest of all-time. With winning the Women's Championship three times and being the second woman to ever enter the Royal Rumble match, Beth could possibly be working her way to winning the Intercontinental or the U.S. Championship someday. That's only if the WWE would change their PG programming. I'm so glad that she turned heel a few weeks ago, because I believe this move will help bring some meaning back to the Divas division. Beth Phoenix will continue to dominate the WWE for many years to come.

8. Victoria/Tara

I miss Victoria. I know she's currently known as Tara on TNA, but I don't really watch TNA anymore. Now, I should say that I really miss the psychotic Victoria back when she debuted in the WWE. In my opinion, that was one of the greatest wrestling characters ever created. I also can't forget to mention the great feud she had with Trish Stratus that involved some of my favorite matches like the Hardcore match at Survivor Series (2002). Winning the WWE Women's Championship twice and the TNA Women's Knockout Championship four times, you can definitely say that Victoria/Tara is one of the most successful women wrestlers of the past ten years. I think she'll get the credit she deserves very soon, because she is one of the most talented female wrestlers around. If you ask me, the Widow's Peak is like one of the coolest finishing moves in wrestling history.

7. Alundra Blayze/Madusa

Probably better known as Madusa, no one can ever forget that night when she dropped the WWE Women's Championship in the garbage can on WCW's Monday Night Nitro. Sure it hurt her career some, but it was an important moment in wrestling history. With being a three-time WWE Women's Champion and being the first woman to ever win the WCW Cruiserweight Championship, Alundra Blayze/Madusa made it clear that she was a wrestler and she made the right decision of leaving the wrestling business around the time it wasn't focusing much on the women's division. Blayze will always be remembered for helping shape women's wrestling during the '90s and I hope to see her be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame very soon.

6. Sable

"This is for all the women who want to be me and for the men who come to see me!". This quote alone is why Sable earned a spot on my list. Oh, and the fact that she once powerbombed her ex-husband Marc Mero. Sable was the queen of the "Attitude Era". She pretty much had it all when she became the first woman in the WWE to pose for Playboy. Though she had the good looks, Sable proved that she could mix it in the ring as well when she became a WWE Women's Champion. While she's probably known as Mrs. Brock Lesnar today, Sable will be always be remembered for being one of the WWE's original Divas.

5. Wendi Richter

If one woman ruled wrestling during the '80s it was Wendi Richter. She was "150 pounds of twisted steel and sex appeal". Her most memorable moment was when she defeated The Fabulous Moolah (ending her 2,113 day reign) to win the WWE's Women's Championship at MTV's The Brawl to End it All on July 23, 1984. At the end of the match, Richter celebrated her win with pop singer Cyndi Lauper. This soon lead to the Rock 'n' Wrestling Connection . Another unforgettable moment for Richter happened on November 25, 1985 at Madison Square Garden when she was involved in the "Original Screwjob". She was set to defend her title against a mysterious masked opponent by the name of The Spider Lady. The referee of the match made a swift three count as The Spider Lady pinned Richter, even though Richter kicked out after the count of one. She continued to attack The Spider Lady and soon unmasked her to reveal that it was The Fabulous Moolah in disguise. It was reported that this was all set up by Vince McMahon to rid Richter of the title after she refused to sign a new contract with the WWE. That was her last appearance with the company. In 2010, she was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. Although her time with the WWE was short-lived, Wendi Richter paved the way for many female wrestlers today.

4. Sherri Martel

In my opinion, Sherri Martel was the greatest female manager in wrestling history. She managed some of the greats like "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels, "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase, "Macho Man" Randy Savage, and "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair just to name a few. Martel could wrestle too and she even held the WWE's Women's Championship for a total of 441 days. Sensational Sherri has in some way influenced everyone in professional wrestling. She was the one who could do it all. Sadly, Sherri Martel passed away in 2007, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations.

3. Chyna

Chyna has had more accomplishments more than any other Diva in the WWE. She's the first and only woman to ever win the Intercontinental Championship. (She actually won it on two occasions.) She's also the first woman to ever enter the Royal Rumble match, qualify for the King of the Ring tournament, and be the number one contender for the WWE Championship. Oh yeah, and she was still the WWE Women's Champion until she left the company in 2001. They didn't call her "The Ninth Wonder of the World" for nothing. Chyna was also a member of D-Generation X, one of the most popular stables in WWE history. Also, who could forget the time when she was Eddie Guerrero's "Mamacita"? What makes Chyna one of the greatest is that she was the first to prove that she could dominate both the women and men's division.

2. Trish Stratus

First of all, I know what you're thinking, "Why is Trish Stratus at the No. 2 spot and not No. 1?". Well, let's just say that as much as I love Trish I had to give the No. 1 spot to someone else. A seven-time WWE Women's Champion, WWE Hardcore Champion, Babe of the Year from 2001-2004, and named Diva of the Decade, Trish Stratus is the most successful WWE Diva of all-time. Although she first started in the WWE as a valet for wrestlers such as Val Venis and T & A (Test & Albert), Stratus worked her way to the top of the women's division. She showed everyone that she was more than just eye candy. While she may have retired in 2006 and made a few appearances after that, all I know that Trish always delivers 100% Stratusfaction guaranteed.

1. Lita

Lita, Lita, Lita! The Queen of Extreme! Growing up, I wanted to be just like her. She was the one who inspired me to dye my hair red several times back in junior high. Heck, I even had a cat named after her. (Does that make me sound creepy?) Anyways, Lita was definitely a trendsetter for women's wrestling with her high-flying moves. First starting her WWE career as the valet for luchador Essa Rios, Lita gained her popularity when she formed Team Xtreme along with the Hardy Boyz. From then on, she dominated the women's division. A four-time WWE Women's Champion, Lita was even the first woman to be in the main event twice on Raw. The first time was when she defeated Stephanie McMahon to win her first WWE's Women's Championship in 2000, and the second was when she won the Championship a second time by defeating Trish Stratus in 2004. In my opinion, Lita was the first to make people interested in women's wrestling again since Alundra Blayze. I also have to say that without her, most of the WWE Divas that came after her probably wouldn't be where they are today. It was very sad when she retired from the WWE, because the Divas division fell apart right after that. I would still love to see her come back for at least one more match. Only this time, the match has a happy ending.

Music from Down Under: My Top 20 Australian/New Zealand Songs

2011-07-16T20:09:00.003-05:00

Being the huge music lover that I am, it's no surprise that I listen to music from all over the world. While most of the artists that I usually listen to are from the U.S. and U.K., I'd say that Australia and New Zealand are tied at the number three spot. When people think of music from Australia and New Zealand they probably think of artists that were also successful here in the U.S. like AC/DC, INXS, Kylie Minogue, Air Supply, Little River Band, Bee Gees, Silverchair, and Flight of the Conchords, but not many know about the other great artists that also come from the land down under. That's why I've decided to create a list of my favorite songs from Australia and New Zealand. Hopefully more people will want to learn more about these artists who are big there, but never really had the chance to do the same here.

I tried my best to narrow it down to just ten, but it was too darn hard.

Split Enz - "I Got You"

While Split Enz were huge in both Australia and New Zealand during both the '70s and '80s, "I Got You" was their only single to reach the charts in the U.S., U.K., and Canada. However, they have since gained a cult following based on their theatrical look and musical changes over the years. If you've never listened to these guys before, I highly recommend that you do!

Men at Work - "Down Under"

Men at Work are probably the best known artists on this list, but how could I not leave this song off it? Without "Down Under", I probably wouldn't know much about Australia and New Zealand at all. I would also like to try a Vegemite sandwich someday.

Australian Crawl - "Reckless"

Known for being associated with surf music, Australian Crawl took a more serious turn when they released their single "Reckless" back in 1983. I really wish more people knew about this song. I can't even explain how good it is. Just give it a listen!

Beasts of Bourbon - "Psycho"

In my opinion, the best cover of Leon Payne's "Psycho" ever.

Jo Jo Zep and the Falcons - "Shape I'm In"

I'm surprised that Jo Jo Zep and the Falcons weren't as big in other countries during the late '70s and early '80s with their bluesy reggae sound. The band had some great tunes like "Hit and Run", "So Young", a cover of Burt Bacharach and Hal David's "Walk On By", and my personal favorite "Shape I'm In".

QED - "Everywhere I Go"

QED was a short-lived New Wave band fronted by Jenny Morris who later had success as a solo artist. Their song "Everywhere I Go" is so underrated here in the States.

Dragon - "April Sun in Cuba"

It's bands like Dragon that make me wish I lived in Australia or New Zealand. They had some great tunes. I had a hard time choosing between this one and their other big hit "Rain", but I went with "April Sun in Cuba" since I believe it to be more of their signature song.

Spectrum - "I'll Be Gone"

Definitely one of the greatest songs to ever come from Australia. Period.

Hoodoo Gurus - "What's My Scene?"

Hoodoo Gurus are probably my second favorite band on this list. They're a band that everyone loves. Although "What's My Scene?" is their signature tune, they have a lot of other great ones that should be heard too like "Bittersweet", "I Want You Back", and "My Girl". Check them out!

The Boys Next Door - "Shivers"

If you listen to Nick Cave then you probably know The Boys Next Door, since that was the band he was in before he started Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. The Boys Next Door was their original name until they later changed it to The Birthday Party, and their song "Shivers" is a post-punk classic!

The Angels - "Am I Ever Going to See Your Face Again?"

I could listen to Doc Neeson's voice all day long, and what's funny is that he is originally from Ireland. Australian and Irish? Now, that's something I can totally dig! I was going to pick "No Secrets" by them, but "Am I Ever Going to See Your Face Again?" is more catchy to me.

Richard Clapton - "Girls on the Avenue"

With a name inspired by Keith Richards and Eric Clapton, Richard Clapton released his biggest song "Girls on the Avenue" in 1975. If you haven't guessed already, the song is basically about prostitutes. I think what's great about this song is that you don't really know what the chorus is.

The Swingers - "Counting the Beat"

After leaving Split Enz, singer Phil Judd went on to form The Swingers in 1979. It was their catchy tune "Counting the Beat" that put them on the map and they even appeared in one of my favorite films Starstruck back in 1982. This song is very easy to fall in love with.

Mi-Sex - "Falling In and Out"

New Wave fans probably remember Mi-Sex for their tune "Computer Games" back in 1979, but I have to say that "Falling In and Out" is my favorite from them. It makes me wish that I could hear the word "trousers" more in songs today.

The Loved Ones - "The Loved One"

"The Loved One" is another Australian classic that came out around the time of the British Invasion. It has since been covered by bands like INXS and I want to say that both the band and the song's name were the inspiration for this Australian horror film.

The Saints - "(I'm) Stranded"

When people think of punk rock, they usually think of bands like the Ramones who come from New York or the Sex Pistols who hail from London, England. Not many know that punk also made its way down under when The Saints released their track "(I'm) Stranded" back in 1976, becoming one of the most influential punk rock songs of all-time.

Icehouse - "Great Southern Land"

Icehouse is probably best known here in the U.S. for their song "Electric Blue", but they are best known for "Great Southern Land" in Australia since it's pretty much a spiritual song about the country. The song was also featured in this Australian comedy.

The Easybeats - "Friday On My Mind"

I'm pretty sure a lot of people know this song, but how could they not? It's a classic!

The Hard-Ons - "Girl in the Sweater"

Some punk fans might know them as the band that collaborated with Henry Rollins on a cover of AC/DC's "Let There Be Rock", but the Hard-Ons are considered as Australia's most commercially successful independent band. With songs like "Girl in the Sweater" and "All Set to Go", they were known for writing pop-like songs and mixing it in with a punk rock sound. They were kind of like an Australian version of the Ramones.

Skyhooks - "Horror Movie"

The Skyhooks were one of the few glam rock bands to come out of Australia and they are probably best remembered for their tune "Horror Movie", which is about how watching the news is like watching a horror movie with all the chaos in society. It has since gone on to become a popular tune to play around Halloween time.

What Are You Looking At, Nerd?: The Kid in the Hall's Top 10 '80s Movie Jerks

2011-06-24T23:55:00.005-05:00

10. Cinder Carlson (Little Darlings)

Losing your virginity can be one of the most terrifying moments in a person's life, and to have someone like Cinder Carlson (Krista Errickson) pressuring you to do it can make it even more difficult. All Ferris (Tatum O'Neal) and Angel (Kristy McNichol) wanted to do was go to summer camp and try to have a good time. Instead they were spending their time trying to lose their virginity, because prissy Cinder made them feel so ashamed that they haven't already. I know the girls learned a very valuable lesson at the end, but still they experienced something so meaningful at a very young age. If this movie was made today, I believe it would be Cinder being the one bullied by all the other girls for being such a major skank.

9. Melvin Moody (My Bodyguard)

Although it seems like Matt Dillon plays a douchebag in just about every movie he stars in, one of his biggest douchebag roles was as Lake View High School's big bully Melvin Moody in the 1980 comedy-drama My Bodyguard. Being the new kid at school is already a drag for Clifford Peache (Chris Makepeace) and when he meets Moody and his gang, he knows that the rest of his school year is going to be even more miserable. Moody is like your typical bully, he usually bugs kids for their lunch money and trips them in the cafeteria so everyone else can see. The thing that makes him an ass even more is that when he takes the kids' lunch money, he tells them that his reason for doing it is to protect them from the large, school outcast Ricky Linderman (Adam Baldwin). Just when you think Clifford gets a break from Moody when he hires Linderman as his bodyguard, Moody comes back with his own bodyguard. Moody teaches us that kids can't avoid their bully unless they fight back and break their nose.

8. Roy Stalin (Better Off Dead)

Being dumped by the person you love most is a sad situation, and to be dumped for the most popular guy in school with a badass name like Roy Stalin (Aaron Dozier) is even more heartbreaking. Just ask Lane Myer (John Cusack), who practically tried to kill himself several times over this. While Lane's life was in misery, it didn't help that cocky Roy kept rubbing it in his face that he now had his girl and is the king of the K-12. Eventually, Lane proved to Roy that he was the better man by beating his score on the K-12 on one foot and getting himself a much cooler French girlfriend in the end. I'm still waiting for the day they make a sequel featuring the paperboy hunting Roy's ass down for pushing him off the K-12. Oh, and wanting his two dollars.

7. Judy (Sleepaway Camp)

Words cannot express how I feel about Judy (Karen Fields) from Sleepaway Camp, except for the fact that she is one mean bitch. Plain and simple. She even looks like one with that side ponytail. It's like you can't even blame Angela Baker (Felissa Rose) for killing her and most of the other kids at Camp Arawak. They were all stuck up little snots. Maybe it was all due to their shorts being too tight. I don't know. Angela seemed to be minding her own business until everyone started messing with her. Girl had to do what she had to do, right?

6. Stan Gable (Revenge of the Nerds)

If you're going to college and you're a nerd, Stan Gable (Ted McGinley) is a guy you probably don't wanna bump into. Stan hates nerds. He'd most likely say they ruined everything for him now these days, but really he did all of the damage to himself. He and the other Alpha Betas made Gilbert's (Anthony Edwards), Lewis' (Robert Carradine), and the rest of the gangs' lives a living hell by constantly harassing them and making them feel ashamed of who they were until they all decided that they were not going to take it anymore. So they got back at Stan and the Alpha Betas by taking their woman and winning control over the Greek Counsil, because after all they're NERRRRRDS and they are proud of it!

5. Hardy Jenns (Some Kind of Wonderful)

Ah, Hardy Jenns. Handsome, smart, and a total asshole. Sure he has the good looks and awesome car, but if you are looking for something more serious with Hardy (Craig Sheffer) it's definitely not gonna happen. Take Amanda Jones (Lea Thompson) for example. She was the most popular girl in school all due to the fact that she was Hardy's girl, but that soon ended when she dumped him for cheating on her with one of them Wilson Phillips' girls. What made him such an asshole even more was that he tried to make Amanda look like a fool for dumping him and had all of her friends turn against her. Not to mention the party he was having just so he and his gang could beat up her new date Keith (Eric Stoltz). At least Amanda got back at Hardy with a few bitch slaps and Keith realized that the popular/rich crowd was just not his thing and that the girl of his dreams was really his best friend Watts (Mary Stuart Masterson).

4. Biff Tannen (Back to the Future)

Going back in time in a DeLorean seems like the coolest thing ever, but going back and being picked on by the same guy who picked on your father... not so much. Biff Tannen (Thomas F. Wilson) is pretty much the model for all bullies. He is the kind that gives his victims noogies, takes their lunch money, and maybe once in a while call them a butthead or something like that. Biff's favorite victim of all was of course, the nerdy George McFly (Crispin Glover). Biff knew he could bully George into doing his homework for him and he even continued to use him as a stepping stone once they entered adult life. It should also be mentioned that Biff was a total pig whenever he was around Lorraine (Lea Thompson). Luckily, when Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) went back in time he was able to change all that. Biff was no longer the big sheriff in town.

3. Heather Chandler, Heather Duke, and Heather McNamara (Heathers)

Oh, those Heathers. They represent the type of girls everyone hated in high school. The clique consisted of Heather Duke (Shannen Doherty), Heather McNamara (Lisanna Falk), and the leader Heather Chandler (Kim Walker). They were rich, pretty, and popular. Did I mention they were mega-bitches too? Although they knew they were top shit at their school, behind at that they had problems just like everybody else. That pretty much explains why they were hated by their peers more than they were adored by them. Veronica Sawyer (Winona Ryder) was one of the those people that were sort of in between. Even though she was friends with the Heathers, she was also enemies with them too. She wanted to put a stop to them and once she met new guy J.D. that wish came true, just not in the way she had planned.

2. Steff McKee (Pretty in Pink)

If I was in Andie Walsh's (Molly Ringwald) shoes, I would've called Steff McKee (James Spader) a jerk too and then probably made out with him afterwards. Yes, I admit I can be a sucker for assholes. Only if they are able to make it look sexy anyway and James Spader did just that. Enough with me rambling on about how hot I think he is, because I know he's an asshole too on the other side. All Steff cared about was smoking cigarettes, being rich, and screwing all the girls at school. He didn't even care that he tried to ruin the relationship between his best friend Blane (Andrew McCarthy) and Andie, because the truth was that he really wanted her and was pissed at the fact that she wasn't ever going to give him a chance. Just shows how mature he was about it since there was another guy by the name of Duckie trying to win Andie over too, but you didn't see him call her a bitch.

1. Johnny Lawrence (The Karate Kid)

Well, who else did you think was going to be number one? William Zabka is the quintessential jerk of the 1980's. Period. Without him, we probably wouldn't have a lot of the other jerks that we love to hate today. Although he played a bully in several teen films from the '80s like Just One of the Guys and Back to School, his most memorable role is of course the role of Johnny Lawrence in The Karate Kid. It almost seemed like everything was all peachy for new kid Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) until the night he met his friend Ali Mills' (Elisabeth Shue) ex-boyfriend Johnny Lawrence. From then on Johnny and his gang made Daniel's life a living hell by using their Cobra Kai moves on him, eventually forcing him to learn karate from his neighbor Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita) in order to fight back. As we all know Daniel succeeds in the end, but we also sympathized with Johnny a little bit. Johnny wanted to try and beat Daniel fair and square, but his sensei John Kreese (Martin Kove) thought different and forced Johnny to cheat. Even when Daniel won Johnny handed him the trophy and complimented him showing that he wasn't as bad as we all thought. Although he is one of the few people to play a bully that changed his evil ways at the end, we still can't forget all of the other bully roles Zabka did after that.

Honorable Mentions:

Mick McAllister (Teen Wolf)

Ace Merrill (Stand By Me)

Wendy Richards (Prom Night)

Fred Gallo (The Heavenly Kid)

Brad (Night of the Creeps)

Tommy (Valley Girl)

Chet Donnelly/Ian & Max (Weird Science)

Russ Deacon (18 Again!)

R.I.P. Poly Styrene

2011-05-03T03:08:00.004-05:00

I know it has been several months since I've been on here, but I think it's time to start updating more often. So for my first post in months, I've decided to pay tribute to a punk icon. Poly Styrene, whose real name was Marion Elliot-Said, passed away last Monday at the age of 53 from breast cancer. She was the lead vocalist and songwriter for X-Ray Spex. The band is best known for their single, "Oh Bondage Up Yours!", which has since became a punk rock anthem. They were also known for creating one of the greatest punk rock albums of all-time, Germ Free Adolescents. Despite being together for a short period of time, the band were a major influence on both punk and new wave music.

Shortly after the band split up, Poly pursued a solo career and released a few albums. Most recently with her third studio album Generation Indigo, which was released three days after her death. Poly will be remembered for being a pioneer of punk rock and new wave music with her anti-consumerism/feminist lyrics and thrifty style. She was an artist way ahead of their time. Styrene will certainly be missed and her spirit will continue to live on through her music.

Oh, You're So Cool, Stephen Geoffreys!

2010-12-12T19:44:00.006-06:00

Stephen Geoffreys, oh how I love thee! For the past several years, your nerdiness has given me butterflies in my stomach. Every time you say, "Oh, you're so cool, Brewster!" or "To what do I owe this dubious pleasure?", I melt inside. Now I'm starting to sound like a total pervert so I'll stop. What I'm trying to say Mr. Geoffreys is that I am a fan of your work. I should probably make it clear that I love the work you have done under the name of Stephen Geoffreys and not that of Sam Ritter or Stephan Bordeaux (no offense). In honor of the man that is Stephen Geoffreys, I thought that I would share some of my favorite films from one of my favorite movie nerds of all-time.

Fright Night

I would not be writing about Stephen Geoffreys right now if it wasn't for Fright Night. Evil Ed is of course my favorite character that Stephen Geoffreys has ever portrayed. It was almost like he was born to play that role. He was a monster geek who was tired of being made fun of and for once wanted to be treated like he was normal. I almost shed a tear ever time I watch the scene when Ed is attacked by Jerry, because you can see that he hides his pain behind all the laughs. Sure, he made fun of Charley for believing that Jerry was a vampire, but without Ed, Charley would have been a victim of Jerry's from day one. Evil Ed is certainly Geoffreys' most entertaining role, and I'm sure mostly everyone could agree with that.

Fraternity Vacation

As if Geoffreys' characters weren't geeky enough, he wore glasses to top off the look in the sex-comedy, Fraternity Vacation. In the film he plays Wendell Tvedt, a guy who goes to Palm Springs with a few buddies for spring break, in order to find himself a girlfriend. While his buddies are in a bet with a couple of other frats guys to sleep with the babe next door, Wendell falls for Nicole (Amanda Bearse). This was the first film that Geoffreys' and Bearse starred in together before co-starring again in Fright Night. The relationship between Wendell and Nicole soon ends 'cause Nicole is too much of a daddy's girl and the bet to sleep with the hot babe fails for the frat guys. Towards the end, Wendell gets the babe and everything else is forgiven and forgotten. Now I know Cameron Dye, Leigh McCloskey, Tim Robbins, and Matt McCoy are some major hunks, but Geoffreys had the personality! That's what got him the girl. Remember: Personality > Hottness

976-EVIL

If you were to take Wendell Tvedt and an eviler "Evil Ed" and put them in a blender, you would get Hoax. Hoax is just plain creepy in my opinion. He's a geek (go figure) who wants revenge on those who torment him and that's exactly what he does, thanks to the phone line 976-EVIL. Anyone who calls that number to get their "Horrorscope" soon become possessed and that's exactly what happens to Hoax. This is Geoffreys' most horrifying role, especially during the scene when he interrupts a poker game by asking if he can play with a pair of hearts as he pulls out two human hearts and throws them on the table. Clever, but totally disgusting. That scene also reminds me of another character from the horror genre who goes by the name Freddy Kruger.

Fun Fact: 976-EVIL was actually directed by Mr. Freddy Kruger himself, Robert Englund.

Heaven Help Us
Heaven Help Us was actually the first film that I saw with Stephen Geoffreys where he played a supporting role as a sexually frustrated, Catholic boy named Williams. The only time you see or hear Geoffreys in this film, he is either pulling his pork or he is talking about pulling his pork. Yes, I'm serious. Sometimes I wonder if this film was responsible for leading Geoffreys into the world of adult entertainment. Even though Geoffreys' role is only minor, it is definitely worth a watch.

You're An Evil Woman: Top 5 Mothers in Horror

2010-12-01T16:54:00.002-06:00

If you want to know a few things that make me so very happy, it's talking about awesome mothers and horror films. Over at From Midnight, With Love, The Mike has asked his Midnight Warriors (followers) to talk about mothers in horror films. I knew right away this Warrior had to do something. So for my post I've decided to share my top five mothers that have somehow frightened me over the years with their devilish ways. Hope you enjoy!

Here is the woman who has been there with me through it all. Love you, mom!

5. Vera "Mum" Cosgrove (Dead Alive/Braindead 1992)

Vera Cosgrove (Elizabeth Moody) was just plain vile. Being a mean old bitch is one thing, but not allowing your son to fall in love is just heartbreaking. It's like every mother's dream of watching their child find true love and get married, but old Vera doesn't care. She wanted her son all to herself. Lionel (Timothy Balme) was more of a errand boy than he was a son in Vera's eyes. For the fact that Mrs. Cosgrove lied to her son about his father is a reason why she deserved to be bitten by that infected rat-monkey.

4. Debbie Salt/Mrs. Loomis (Scream 2, 1997)

One thing I love about horror films is seeing an actor or actress I love switch roles. As a child, I always remembered watching Laurie Metcalf play the funny and off-the-wall, Jackie on Rosanne. Then when I saw her in Scream 2, she was the total opposite of Jackie. She was a little on the psychotic side there with her role as Billy Loomis' mother, Debbie. Debbie sort of reminded me of Mrs. Voorhees, she wanted revenge over the loss of her son. The only problem I had with her though was that she blamed everything on everyone else but herself. Yeah Sidney's mother, Maureen, slept around a lot with men like Mr. Loomis, but Debbie didn't have to abandon her own son over it.

3. Woman/Mom/Mrs. Robeson (The People Under the Stairs, 1991)

Mrs. Robeson (Wendy Robie) was one sick and twisted "mother". Just for the fact that she was carrying out an incestuous relationship with her brother, Eldon, (who love to dress up in full leather BDSM gear) for many years is disgusting to me enough, but what grosses me out even more is how they raised their children. Who knew being parent involved hiding your children in the basement and referring them as the "people under the stairs"? Did I also mention that these children no longer had their eyes, tongues, and ears? It's true, 'cause "mommy" and "daddy" wanted the "people under the stairs" to 'hear no evil, see no evil, and speak no evil'. How messed up is that? Mrs. Robeson was so horrible that she didn't even deserve to be called a mother.

2. Pamela Voorhees (Friday the 13th, 1980)

The mother of all horror mothers is definitely Mrs. Voorhees (Betsy Palmer) without a doubt. Getting pregnant at fifteen and being disowned by those around her, the only person in Pamela Voorhees' life was her son, Jason. Then after he drowned, it was like she had lost everything. This was a woman so torn up over the loss of her son, to the point where she was hearing voices that were telling her to kill. I think the reason why Pamela Voorhees is one of those mothers that we never forget is for the fact that she would risk anything for her child.

1. Margaret White (Carrie, 1976)

Never was I so afraid to go near my own mother and become a woman, than the time I first saw Piper Laurie as Margaret White in Carrie. My first horror film experience was Carrie at the age of five and seeing Margaret White abuse her own daughter physically and verbally absolutely terrified me. I seriously thought my mother was going to start telling me that I had dirty pillows and that everything was a sin. I think I even cried after watching it for the first time due to the way Margaret was treating Carrie. When a character like that can somehow have that effect on me, they can guarantee themselves a number one spot on my list.

This is for all of you evil ladies out there...

Cliff Richard - Devil Woman
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Top 10 'Freaks and Geeks' Moments

2010-11-26T14:45:00.018-06:00

You know when people say that things are ahead of their time? Well, that's true in Freaks and Geeks' case. Can you believe that one of the greatest shows of all time only lasted one season? Sure it's not the only greatest show the lasted one season (My So-Called Life, Cop Rock, even the Freaks and Geeks spin-off, Undeclared), but it was probably the only show that almost left me in tears when it ended. I think the reason why people loved this show so much was that they could relate to it. Whether you grew up during that time or not, you understood the characters and the storylines. People were getting tired of watching shows like Beverly Hills 90210 and Sweet Valley High, that focused more on the rich, popular kids. They wanted to see the kids who were not very popular on TV for once and that's what they got with Freaks and Geeks. It was able to be funny, but still be real at the same time. To celebrate the show that made weird nerds like myself feel very proud of who we are, I have picked my ten favorite moments.

10. Kim Kelly Goes Psycho (Kim Kelly is My Best Friend)

If I could give awards to crazy bitches in television, I would so give one to Kim Kelly. It always seemed like she was always on her period. Sure, I wasn't a fan of hers when she was being mean to Lindsay, because what did Lindsay ever do to her? But I must admit after the end of Kim Kelly is My Best Friend, I felt bad for her. Not only did she come from a dysfunctional family, but the only person she felt she could really turn to was hitting on her friend. I would try to run my boyfriend over too if he was shoving his thumb in some girl's mouth. The only thing that sets me back from admiring Kim Kelly even more is that she took Daniel back. I guess that's how love works sometimes. Whatever.

(Scene begins at 4:00)

9. Nick Turns to Disco (Discos and Dragons)

I didn't think I would see this moment coming. If you were a fan of classic rock back in the day, the last thing you would want to hear was a disco song. That's how Nick was and then all of the sudden he was the total opposite. He was all about silky shirts, bell-bottoms, and doing the Hustle. Nick was needing a change though when you think about it. He had recently had his heart broken and his father wanted him to join the military rather than pursuing a career in music. Can't blame him for wanting to try something new to make him happy.

8. Daniel Hangs with the Geeks (Discos and Dragons)

After getting caught trying pull the fire alarm at school, Daniel is forced to join Audio/Visual club with the geeks. Both sides are not happy at first, but the geeks invite Daniel to play Dungeons and Dragons to be nice. What I love about this scene is that it shows that we really are the same whether we think we are different or not. Carlos the Dwarf forever!

7. Sam and the Disco Jumpsuit (Looks and Books)

I hated those days when you would wear an outfit or style your hair a certain way to school only to learn that everyone thinks you look lame. I really didn't care about what other people thought of my style in my junior high and high school days, but I sure did back in elementary school. I knew exactly what Sam was going through when he wore that baby blue jumpsuit to school and feathered his hair to try to impress Cindy Sanders. I felt his pain, but I don't think I ever went that far in order to impress someone. Besides, it's what's inside that is more important.

6. Ken Questions His Sexuality (The Little Things)
After Ken learns that his girlfriend Amy was born an intersex woman, he begins to question himself on whether he is gay or straight. This soon leads to him having to make the decision on whether he should break up with Amy or not. My only question is, who knew that music played a huge role in discovering your sexuality?

5. Daniel is a Punk (Noshing and Moshing)
Having problems with both his family and Kim, Daniel decides to change his appearance for a girl he's attracted to. The thing is, she's a dropout who is into the punk scene. That means here come the liberty spikes, pinned shirt, and leather jacket for Daniel. Like I said before, it doesn't matter what you look like on the outside, it what's on the inside that counts. And to be punk doesn't mean you have to look punk.

(Scene begins at 3:08)

4. Nick Sings "Lady" to Lindsay (Girlfriends and Boyfriends)

Nothing is more adorable than a guy trying to sing, especially in this scene when Nick sings Styx's "Lady" to Lindsay to let her know that she is the one for him. It's funny and sort of creepy, but really sweet at the same time.

3. Bill Dresses Up as the Bionic Woman (Tricks and Treats)

There is nothing I love more than seeing a Halloween episode from a television series. In the episode Tricks and Treats, my favorite moment was watching the geeks get ready to go trick or treating. Sometimes people just get too into the character they are dressing up as like Bill does with the Bionic Woman. I couldn't tell you how many times I had to tell people that my boobs were not bionic and that they were all me. Bill felt my pain.

2. Sam Goes "Streaking" (I'm with the Band)

Sam finally has the courage to take a shower in the boys' locker room after being teased about his body. As he makes his way towards the showers, Alan and his friends start whipping everyone with towels and stop Sam so they can make fun of him. The teasing gets worse whenever Alan locks Sam outside of the locker room leaving Sam naked in the hallway. This leaves Sam running through the school naked until he can make it to his locker to get some clothes. And what makes this moment so special in heart is that Sam streaks to Madness' "One Step Beyond". One of my favorite songs.

I wish Thomas F. Wilson was my gym coach.

1. The Geeks Fight Alan (Pilot)

If there is one thing that really frightens a geek it's fighting a bully. Getting tired of Alan's bullying, Sam, Bill, and Neal beg him to stop, but Alan thinks otherwise. He then challenges them to a fight in which the geeks gradually accept. Bill, Neal, and another geek (I always forget his name) who is there to watch end up fighting Alan, because Sam is too busy trying to ask his crush Cindy Sanders to the dance. The winners are of course the geeks, because Alan can't face the fact that he is a geek too. Never has Styx's "Renegade" sound so badass.

(Scene starts at 6:25)

Meme: Images of Big Hair in Horror Films

2010-08-09T00:24:00.030-05:00

I was recently tagged by Kristy Jett at The Person You Benefit From Knowing , Emily at The Quest to Watch Every Movie Ever , and Fred [The Wolf] at Full Moon Reviews - Horror, Sci-Fi, Action, B-Movies for a meme that involves posting images from horror films that all have a common theme. Thank you guys so much! I thought I would pick a theme that had a lot to do with horror in the '80s and one that I could relate to.

BIG HAIR IN HORROR FILMS

Basket Case (1982)
Splatter University (1984)
Cheerleader Camp (1987)
Trick Or Treat (1986)
Sleepaway Camp III: Teenage Wasteland (1989)
Madman (1982)
The Lost Boys (1987)
Summer of Fear (1978)
Night of the Comet (1984)
The Blob (1988)
The Toxic Avenger (1985)
Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers (1989)
Night of the Demons (1988)
Friday the 13th Part 3 (1982)
The Return of the Living Dead (1985)

I have to tag some people!

PLANET OF TERROR!!
The Real Stuff Cats Like
(Optimus) Prime and Prejudice
CINEMA GONZO
Club Silencio