Knowing The Truth

I realize that I frequently discuss Nicolas Cage on this blog so I must apologize for bringing him up again. I do it out of admiration for his daring choices. I do it for his brilliance. Mainly though, I do it because he faces such harsh criticism. Let's take his new film, Knowing, for example. Opening day was a rough day for this film. Around 90% of the critics were bashing the film and more specifically Nicolas Cage. His performance, his hair, his roles in the past. All this came in to question once again.

I believe that most people go to his movies expecting to be disappointed or hate him in the film. In fact, his life as an actor seems to mirror that of the character he plays in The Weather Man. I truly believe that if people could, they would throw food at him. But his performances are unique, funny, brave even. What other actor could portray a depressed alcoholic drinking himself to death, a southern marine sent to jail for defending his wife all the while becoming a reluctant hero, an out of work and down on his luck man confused for a hitman, and a police officer thrown into a confusing world of bees, women, bear suits and punching sprees? Imagine Sean Penn doing that? Imagine Denzel Washington? Can you see Russell Crowe playing those parts? No, and they too are Academy Award winning actors.

Nicolas Cage seems to get the last laugh though. Knowing opened up to #1 at the box office and continued to do reasonably well it's second week. I, unlike most people with the exception of Roger Ebert, enjoyed this movie. Is it absurd? Absolutely, but it's completely entertaining and exciting along the way. It strives to be frightening, visually spectacular, entertaining and even a bit thought provoking. Is life predetermined? Do we have a say in our actions and consequences of those actions? What happens when we die? You may have your doubts, but it sure is a fun ride. Nicolas Cage's performance is frantic and energetic. The film does a great job of coasting along with his feelings, his "shit happens" attitude, his hope to save lives to finding the real answers that await us at the end. I ask you to note the variety of his roles, the comedy and drama in them, the small nuances that set him apart from his peers. Know the truth. Open your eyes to the magic that is Nicolas Cage.

SMG

Elton & Billy Pride : Honda Center Shame

The night has finally arrived. We, the Princes of the Universe, will don our flight suits and decorative stickers to go with our dates to see the great Elton John & Billy Joel. This brings up an important issue.

While in attendance at concerts at the beautiful Honda Center in Anaheim we have repeatedly experienced an unfortunate phenomenon. The crowds are excited about the show, just not thrilled enough to stand and cheer. All of us in the audience paid for tickets to the show. Don't we have the right to rise with pride? Why is it the people sitting down are inconvenienced victims while the people standing up are convicted felons?

This deeply troubles the Princes of the Universe. We know there is a solution, a sort of truce to be had but the patrons of the Honda Center seem unwilling to change their ways.

Shame on them.

Prince BTB & Prince SMG

Bailey Chase

The last thing on my mind was Harrison Ford as I left a screening of the movie Crossing Over tonight. A movie dealing with immigration, family loyalty, tolerance, hate should have me thinking about some current issues. However, one thing continued to play over in my head...who was that border patrolman toward the end of the movie? I had to find out because this guys performance, even though the screen time is limited, is the among the best in the movie. Mr. Ford was doing his thing, sure Ray Liotta was good, Ashley Judd was herself, Cliff Curtis was fantastic as usual but Bailey Chase the border patroleman represented. With the brief time you spend with his character in the film you really feel the mounting frustration immigration brings. The hardships people immigrating here suffer, the lives they dream of having but are taken away so easily, the system trying to keep them out and continuing to amount a large mass of debt for our country, hateful people, is this right, is that right, etc...it is all in Bailey Chase's well executed performance. I'd give Crossing Over 3 out of 4 stars but his is a 4 star performance.
-SMG

One Week

In exactly one week around the time I'm posting this, approximately 6:00pm, myself along with Prince BTB and our dates will be headed to see Elton John in concert. Both Prince BTB and I have had the joyous pleasure of seeing Elton multiple times but this time he will be playing side by side, partially of course, with Billy Joel. I cannot wait to put on our Peace Officer Uniforms and get into character for a memorable evening of fun, music and love. If there is one thing that Elton's music inspires, surely it's love. Love of music. Love of life. Love of tolerance and acceptance and change. Love of people. It's bound to be a blast. My only hope is that all of you put on your favorite Elton John song or album and sing until it brings a smile to your face.

"There's treasure children always seek to find,
And just like us
You must have had
A Once Upon A Time"
-Elton John's "Curtains"

-Prince SMG

Unconcealed Exposure

I have never been much a fan of shopping for clothes. I put zero effort into my fashion style, and my manly credibility suffers as a result. It's not a priority of mine to schedule expeditions for classy garments. Last night, as in many Friday evenings, my only focus was on eating a tasty meal and seeing a movie. That film, ironically, is called "Confessions of a Shopaholic."

Things did not go as planned yesterday. My California Pizza Kitchen dinner was wonderful. Everything blissfully bewildered me afterward. My date and I left C.P.K. to quickly purchase some new recreational shoes for me before hitting the movie theater. In the end, I purchased more than one pair of shoes at DSW. With my female assistant as a guide, my feet fell in love with both a retro pair of New Balance sneakers and also some super cool Converse. I could not deny it. I was hooked and couldn't have cared less about watching a movie. I wanted more, more, more. Next, we rushed to Ross and grabbed me two types of sexy jeans and a third pair of shoes. It's too bad we wasted so much time trying things on. Time had run out and stores were in the process of closing for the night. No matter though. It's a new day now, and I'm on my way out the door to go purchase six crew neck t-shirts from Foreign Exchange...

My name is Bryan Barbour. I am a shopaholic. This has been my confession. -BTB

Oh Happy Day

It's another one of those special Friday's. People go to work. Children head to school. Babies are born. In the midst of all this, some very lucky people will head to see the new Nicolas Cage movie. I cannot review it because I have yet to see it but for me, it's already entertaining. I always cherish the thought of seeing a new film starring the reliably good Nic Cage. "Bangkok Dangerous was supposedly terrible," you say. I was first in line to see it and actually liked it, I respond. No matter where you are. No matter what you do. You cannot avoid the work of the finest actor around, Nicolas Cage.

Knowing is now playing at a theater near you.

------------SMG---------------

Peace Officers and Security @ The Wiltern

Featured in LA Weekly

Super Awesome Lazer Team

May I request all readers of this blog to please immediately support my cousin, Mr. Cory Gilbride. He and his friends strive to land on television with their futuristic tale following a group of renegrade camp counselors. Sadly, Valentine's Day has been banned by the Evil Emperor Cowboy. The Super Awesome Lazer Team daringly strives to restore the love...

Spread the word about the power of this entertaining romp everywere you go. Cory and company need our help. They are seeking over 1,000,000 views to help them land a television deal. The Princes of the Universe are in full support of helping this group reach their artistic goals. Simply click on the title above (Super Awesome Lazer Team) and let's all help my cousin out. - BTB

America The Great

Tonight I felt very American. After coming home from work I walked over to Mcdonald's around 8:40pm where I purchased combo #3 with extra pickles and extra onions. Then I quickly walked back to my house and turned on the tv just in time for the newest episode of "24." As I opened my bag of fast food I was not only pleased with the fact that I had stimulated the economy, but the food also tasted wonderful.

And Jack Bauer as a side dish aint too shabby either. Nothing says America like a bit of torture and nobody threatens torture better than Jack Bauer. It's good to have you back Jack and this season is finally shaping up to be fantastic. The episode winded down, my food digested and I sipped on a frosty coca cola until a smile appeared on my face. I've done my job America and you are welcome.

---SMG

Radio Heart

I spend much of my work day inside of my car. Years ago, I accidentally stumbled upon 97.1 FM TALK. My life was never again the same. I remained absolutely glued to every word that was transmitted from this beautiful little station. In particular, it was the wonderful hours filled with "Frosty, Heidi, and Frank" & "The Tom Leykis Show" that especially charmed me. All sorts of life stories and advice came out of these four irreplaceable talents. CBS Radio unfortunately made the financial decision to change broadcasting formats. Now, 97.1 FM is basically like every other Top 40 station out there. Not that anything is wrong with that. Plenty of great tunes are featured here. But then again, these pop hits are all over the place. 97.1 FM TALK, you are missed. I cherish the years I shared with you.

Everything changes, whether we all like it or not. Rush Limbaugh and Dr. Laura Schlessinger now accompany throughout my work week. Indeed, my radio dial now often lands on 640 AM. While this change in my radio station of choice was cruelly forced on me, I will not deny the value of Rush and Dr. Laura. My brain has been quite busy...

Finally, let me shout it out loud - WELCOME BACK U2! For when I'm not listening to talk radio, I am in absolute ecstasy these days repeatedly listening to "No Line On The Horizon," U2s 15th studio album. I merely listened to this musical collection twice and I was hooked. Quite simply, it is no wonder why U2 is the biggest band in the world. -BTB

A Super Bowl

In the morning I enjoy eating cereal. It's something I have almost always started my weekday mornings with over the course of my life. My mom would agree that I have probably eaten enough cereal to last a small family for many years in a post-apocalyptic world. For me, I will need two bowls of cereal or, and my personal preference, one super bowl of cereal. I can dig in with sheer pleasure, until, like this morning, the landscapers begin using all of their extremely loud equipment outside the apartment. Hmmm...do those guys ever take a day off? -SMG

Welcome Back Jason

The thirteenth day of Februay this year had the misfortune of falling on a Friday. Rather than sheltering myself all day long, I behaved like a goat and joyfully sprinted over to the nearest movie theater last weekend. The latest addition to the "Friday the 13th" cinematic series had arrived.

With the powerful name of producer Michael Bay stamped all over it, the newest installment of this neverending horror collection is actually a remake/update of the orginal 1980 horror staple. Honestly, I've never been a dedicated fan of the slasher film genre. The films are all the same. Most of them are pretty lame. Still, for some reason, I always foolishly hope for the best.

Proudly, I am here to announce that the 2009 version of "Friday the 13th" is better than the original. It is a welcome reminder of the goofy joy an audience can share while witnessing pure trash. The movie is excitingly loud, deliciously violent, and remarkably enjoyable. At least for the first half or so. "Friday the 13th" overstays its welcome. Oh well though... I guess that is only nautral. I am thankful the hockey mask at least made an effort. -BTB

The Generic Brand

I used to peruse the cereal isle at the grocery store like a hawk scanning the desert for the plumpest meal. Once I found that perfect choice, I steadied my hand and reached out for the closest thing to cereal heaven available. I'd purchase it for some ridiculous price and take it home to enjoy it for a short four maybe five days.

Recently though everything I once knew has been blown out of the water. For the first time that I can ever remember I purchased a large quantity bag of generic cereal. Times are tough and I do my best to save money and pinch my wallet whenever possible. It's no time to be proud. As I carried the cereal through my door back home I wondered what had I done? What was I getting myself into? Little did I know the sheer pleasure that waited for me.

I tore open that bag of Magic Stars (aka Lucky Charms), poured it into a bowl with milk and cautiously took my first bite. To my amazement it was wonderful. At first I didn't know if it was just the fact that it was cheap that I liked it or that it was legitimately good. After I finished the first bowl I went back for seconds and it was clear, this was as good as if not better than the real thing. So next time you head to the store and contemplate getting the generic brand, go ahead, give it a chance.

-SMG

C.Y.B.O.R.G.

The weather of 2009 has been absolutely crazy. I like things to be unpredictable, but this is getting a little ridiculous. One day, it'll be as hot as sizzling steaks cooking on a grill. Then, a day later, I'll feel like ice-cream chilling away inside of a freezer. I am sitting inside my bedroom right now literally shivering. I actually had to scrape off some ice from my windshield yesterday morning. I didn't think I'd ever be doing this chore in Orange County, California. Fond memories of growing up in Colorado brought a smile to my face. I was a little boy back then.

1987s "Robocop" is a wonderful movie. I remember catching this ultra-violent thrill ride with my father year or so after its theatrical release at my old Coloarado home. Actually, I watched "Robocop" again and again and again back then (thanks to the magic of VHS). Has anyone realized how many actors from "Robocop" have appeared in the brilliant television series, "24?" Think about the seasons from the past and you'll see what I mean. Coincidentally, what is with the initials "J.B.?" Jack Bauer, Jason Bourne, James Bond... - BTB

A Shout, A Slip Of The Mind and A Smile

As Super Bowl weekend comes into full swing I would like to send positive energy through cyberspace, as well as the regular world, to the Arizona Cardinals. It will be a tough game but our hearts are with you Cardinals. In other news Thomas, a good friend of mine, pointed out that I forgot to mention Bloodsport in the JCVD blog. That film is classic Van Damme so add it to your already growing list. One final note, I was speaking with the most beautiful woman in the world today when she let loose news of me and her going to Coachella. I have never been to this mecca of music and am as excited as a little boy who just got his first bicycle. Now it's time for me to take it out for a spin and see how well it rides. Thank you Alison.

Cardinals!!!

SMG

Three Days & Counting

The undeniable fact is that the absolute worst months of the year are fastly approaching us all. Indeed, a life without football is no life at all. Fortunately, the NFL has so overtaken every other sport in America that pigskin news is still all over the place even in the offseason. It certainly will be lonely every Sunday afternoon for many, many months now. That is a fact. Be a man and deal with it.

The Princes of the Universe cheer for two teams. Pride for both the Arizona Cardinals and the Denver Broncos radiates from this blog like grease spurts off fried cheese. Sadly, these two teams are not playing each other in the Super Bowl this year. I did pray for this to occur.

Arizona Cardinals pride - Embrace it. Understand it. Trust it. Believe it.

-BTB

JCVD

Jean-Claude Van Damme is back! If Mickey Rourke, who worked with Van Damme on Double Team, can do it then by the hammer of Thor so can the "Muscles from Brussels." All of his work is just waiting to be re-discovered or seen and enjoyed for the first time. This all started with hype of a film that was released late in 2008 entitled, JCVD. Part mockumentary, part drama, it revolves around Jean-Claude getting mixed up in a bank robbery in Brussels and the cops thinking Van Damme is the one behind it. I immediately began watching his old movies and finding the inner child in me, that young lad who fell in love with movies in the early 90's. In fact, Van Damme can partly be thanked for exposing me to a world of wonder, magic, triumph and defeat, mystery and utter joy. These days his work is primarily straight to video but there are plenty of great ones from his past to observe, respect and celebrate. Here is a quick list to acquaint yourselves with, whether its for the first time or the 15th. By all means, go out and enjoy some Jean-Claude Van Damme.

Essentials: Kickboxer, Lionheart, Death Warrant, Universal Soldier, Hard Target, Timecop, Sudden Death, In Hell and JCVD

SMG

Mr. Bill

Sometimes... I never know where I'm going. Most evenings, I eat my dinner alone. This practice allows me to truly appreciate the power of food. The lack of conversation also speeds up everything quite a bit. I eat, eat, and eat. There is no need to pause and talk. I simply pay attention to my meal. Good food is such a nice esacape. No matter how bad any particular day is, pleasuring my stomach will be all that matters during dinner time. True, this isn't always the case. My appetite ceases to exist during the worst days. Thankfully, those times are few and far between. While I may not talk to anyone while I eat my dinners, I do listen to somebody important. The words of wisdom revealed on "The O'Reilly Factor" fill the silent air for me. Mr. Bill O'Reilly is always there for me. He is smart and concerned. I don't always agree with what his views. I am a better man for listining to them though. Sometimes... I never know where I'm going. -BTB

Inauguration Day Is Upon Us So Dust Off Those Gloves Son

Hello fellow Americans. Tomorrow is a huge day for this country. As a new President is sworn into office, we feel the need for change more than ever. Times are hard and they only seem to be getting harder. Spirits are low. Jobs are few and far in between. We owe ridiculous amounts of money to everyone. The state of California is thinking about giving out IOU's for our tax returns because we are deep in debt. Everyone is looking to the new guy to fix things.
So how do we choose to celebrate? We spend a meer $150 million on an inauguration party. Very sensical indeed. Does this reveal a little of what's to come? I surely hope not and am curving my thoughts toward positive outcomes. Below I have prepared a better way to celebrate and please, share your thoughts on this.
In front of the White House an empty boxing ring sits. All the national news stations are present out to snap photos and document the event. No one knows what the surprise is but a surprise has been promised. Suddenly Mike Tyson and George W. Bush appear from one side of the White House lawn. They are wearing red jumpsuits that read, "Oil Is The Ear In My Appetite" and sport black headbands. Then from the opposite side of the White House, George Forman and Barack Obama make an entrance clothed in Green Flightsuits that read, "My Fists Will Pummel The Economy Back Into Shape."
As they enter the ring, a banner from the White House balcony drops open stating, "Bush Vs. Obama." The crowd goes crazy and Bush does not hesitate. Before the bell rings he rushes Obama and sucker punches his genitals leaving him breathless against the ropes. Bush grins. The people "boo." Obama makes a quick recovery and hustles his way over to Bush, who turns just in time to catch a nasty left hook that sends him to the floor. Bush will not recover from this. The bells ring and shouts are heard across this nation's capital. Obama's hand is raised in victory by the referee and he exclaims, "That was for the people."
An uplifting victory for the American people and a inexpensive way to rally support around our new President. Consider this Inauguration Committee and President Obama, consider this.

SMG

The Power of Free Donut Holes

Monday morning is so often a depressing time. It hits us all like a big slap in the face, rudely snapping us out of the relaxing dream we call the weekend. It actually doesn't have to be this way. To make your Monday mornings absolutely delightful, all you need to do is find a way to receive free donut holes.

Mmm mmm mmm.... just imagining the sweet, chewy taste of what's going to be in my mouth early next week makes me wish I could just skip the weekend. The sweet and frosted outside... the warm, doughy center... it all completes such a delicious introduction to the week ahead. Eating free donut holes on Monday morning is not just my courteous recommendation. It is a lifestyle for all of you to enjoy. -BTB

Whatever You Do, See These Movies

Hello faithful readers, newcomers and all open minded people! As promised before here is a new posting for you. It's a new year and there are already a plethora of films slated for release each weekend. As you stand in line to purchase tickets, grab an inexpensive and refreshing Coke at the concession stand and mosey on into the theater to find a comfortable seat, I want you to think about those films from the not so distant 2008. Did you see them all? Will you see the ones with buzz before the Academy Awards? Is The Visitor about aliens invading from outer space? Why would I see a movie about somebody's red belt? There was a movie starring Woody Harrelson that took place on a train in Russia? Who names their child Vicky Cristina? Josh Hartnett, really? These are all valid questions. I have been kind enough to narrow your list down to only 10 essential films. That's right the wait is over, take a look at my Top 10 Films of 2008 (in no particular order):

The Visitor
Redbelt
The Dark Knight
Slumdog Millionaire
Role Models
Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Transsiberian
The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button
August
Under The Same Moon

I also want to recognize the best film that I saw all year. I am setting it aside because technically it doesn't count as if came out over ten years ago. La Haine was a thought provoking, adrenaline rushing, beautifully crafted film that left me breathless. You owe it to yourself to see this film. Thank you for tuning in for this addition of the Princes of the Universe blog. We appreciate your continued support and patience.

SMG

Redemption

Many apologies.... a thousand times over... we realize and ask for your forgiveness for our failure to communicate with each and every one of you faithful congregations of minions. Our New Year's resolution is to share our thoughts, opinions and feelings more regularly than before. If you are asking yourself exactly what do these Princes mean when they say "regular" we mean every week. This is our promise to you because you deserve it. In other news, the two of us and our bodyguard cried our eyes out, not literally though, while watching the beautiful film Marley & Me. See it if you believe in the power of dogs. We wish you the best of luck in these hard times and hope our blog provides some comfort and escape.

BTB
SMG

P.S. Do not hold us accountable for anything we have written above. Thank you again for your patience and devotion. It is appreciated and honored.