Random Thoughts on the Critics Choice Awards

Random Thoughts on the 24^th Critics Choice Awards

• Guys, even if you know you’re handsome, never say you’re handsome to a group of famous movie and TV stars or really at all.
• I fast forwarded through Taye Diggs musical montage. Someone tell me how it was? Was it as cringe-worthy as it looked?
• I love that “Shallow” won, but I just can’t with Lady Gaga, I’m sorry. I know she’s trying to be humble, but I just can’t. (See more on this in my Golden Globe Random Thoughts).
• Emily Blunt’s reaction to Taye Diggs as Mary Poppins, dropping it like it’s hot then asking her to touch it, is all of us.

• I love that to announce the best horror/sci-fi nominees they show all the scariest moments. I’m excited that A Quiet Place gets some love.
• John Krasinski and Emily Blunt are too cute for words.
• What’s up with that guy with the Joey’s Burgers? Skit gone wrong or dude just wants camera time?
• Claire Foy has been in the business since 2008. How come they only showed clips from 3 of the things she’s done? (Fun Fact: She was in my Netflix guilty pleasure movie Vampire Academy as Ms. Karp…anyone? Anyone? No? Just me?)
• Catherine O’Hara: “What the f-hell?”
• A Tie between Amy Adams and Patricia Arquette? That makes things super awkward at the microphone.
• Christian Bale makes fun of the fact that Vice is put in the Comedy Category, but it is a funny movie. And it’s edited like a comedy.
• Ken Jeong’s face is my face for Crazy Rich Asians winning Best Comedy. Asians represent! I also love that they all get a standing O.

• Can I also just say Nina Jacobson’s wardrobe is just as bad ass as that acceptance speech?
• Yay to Black Panther for best Costume Design, but really Vice for best Hair and Make Up? Really? That specialty make-up on Michael B. Jordan is award worthy on its own.
• So on every awards show there’s an award “ambassador” which is just a fancy way of saying a person who holds on to the award until the winner receives it. Then after said winner is done with their speech they always look toward that person as to where to leave the stage. Well why doesn’t that ambassador set themselves up in the direction the actor would be heading toward their exit. As opposed to having to point them in the right way when they are facing the wrong way? Did any of that make sense? Did you all just skip over this paragraph?
• Another tie? The women nominees are KILLING it today. Glenn Close is amazing. She mentions how the world likes to pit women against each other, but that everyone in the room celebrates each other. Love that. Also LOVE that she gets to give her own speech, then her fellow winner will give hers.
• I love the crowd telling Glenn Close to stay on stage when Lady Gaga wins. Congrats to her that she won but I can’t listen to her talk…and it goes on FOREVER. Longer then Glenn’s, perks of going 2nd I guess.
• After finally watching Vice (I just watched it on Saturday), I not mad at Christian Bale winning for Vice. I think the Oscar race will come down to Rami and Christian.
• I’m sad Alfonso Cuaron didn’t get to speak for longer after Roma winning best picture. If Lady Gaga hadn’t taken so long on her speech…okay fine, Alfonso won for best director too, but Gaga also won for best song and gave a speech before that so…come on man!

Anyway, congrats to all the winners. I honestly don’t know where my dislike for Lady Gaga comes from. The ceremony itself was kind of a mess, but at least it’s over now. Thanks for ready all my lazy crazy, hazy thoughts on the Critic’s Choice Awards!

So You Think You Can Dance, Season 14: Top 7 Perform

The sting of Dassy’s elimination still fresh on my mind, we begin another episode of still my favorite dance show. Let’s hope the judges get it right this time.

 

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE

SEASON 14

TOP 7 PERFORM

Just when I was thinking, okay, this is a nice Broadway routine — nothing special, descent routine – they bust out with that awesome tap number in the middle and I wonder is there anything Robert can’t do? Then Jenna comes out in this ridiculous outfit and wow, way to end a number. I’m loving the big extravagant group routines. It really adds so much to the show. (Song:  “Overture” by Merrily We Roll Along (2012 New York Cast) / Choreographer:  Warren Carlyle)

Random Opening Thoughts:

• Cat is wearing an outfit that looks too young for her. Or is it just the braided pigtails that makes it feel that way.
• Also…damn those shoes…she must be like 9 feet tall in those!
• Cat says next week is a double elimination. What the hell?

 

Duet #1: Lex and All-Star Gaby

Style: Hip Hop / Choreographer: Luther Brown
Song: “Humble” by Kendrick Lamar
Performance Thoughts: First of all, what is going on with Gaby’s hair? Second of all, this routine was super fly. What? That words not cool anymore? Dope? Not that one either? Whatever, you could tell these two guys were just having sooooo much fun. It’s like they were breathing these moves. They weren’t thinking about it, they were just dancing and having fun and this kind of dancing was the only way they could express themselves. It just made me smile. I loved it. Standing O well deserved. Performance Grade: A

Solo #1: Taylor

Song: “Open Hands” by Ingrid Michaelson feat. Trent Dabbs
Performance Thoughts:  She really shows off her control and flexibility (and writhing) skills here.  Grade: B

Duet #2: Logan and All-Star Allison

Style: African Jazz / Choreographer: Sean Cheesman
Song: “Kabila” by Lord Kraven
Performance Thoughts:  It’s very animalistic, so quick moving, and there are these crazy intense moves that Logan pulls off flipping and turning Allison every which way. There was a set of leg spins that Logan did that were so beautiful and then when Allison did the upside down splits and Logan spun her around it was pretty amazing. I loved it. Nigel hits it on the nose when he calls the choreography both difficult and impressive. Performance Thoughts: A

Solo #2: Mark

Song: “Funky Town” by Lipps, Inc
Performance Thoughts: I’m sure I’ve said it before but I love seeing him dancing in his own style. He just has so much flair and style and personality. Performance: B

Duet #3: Kaylee and All-Star Cyrus

Style: Contemporary / Choreographer: Tyce Diorio
Song: “DLKA” by Troye Sivan feat. Tkay Maidza
Performance: I love that the piece is weird and funky and Kaylee gets to do weird jerky movements as opposed to the light delicate contemporary. However, I’m not sure how I feel about this piece. Something is missing. Passion, or believability. I feel like Kaylee needs to reach a little more, stretch out a little more, she still feels a little bit muted. I’d really love to see her let go. This piece wasn’t bad, but I wasn’t as into it as I could have been. Performance: B-

Solo #3: Koine

Song: “I Fall Apart” by Post Malone
Performance: I’m a little perplexed as to what she’s wearing, but her solo is full of life which I adore.  Performance Grade: A-

Duet #4: Kiki and All-Star Jenna

Style: Broadway / Style: Warren Carlyle
Song: “Dancing Fool” by Barry Manilow
Performance Thoughts: Okay, soooooo I loved it. Who do you think as more pressure on them? The cane catcher or the cane thrower? This was just a really fun routine and Kiki showed off so much charisma. The props added an awesome level of intensity but the dancing was just a lot of fun. They were in sync, they looked like they were having fun, and they caught every cane. Performance Thoughts: B+/A-

Solo #4: Logan

Song: “Intro” by M83
Performance Thoughts: Love the head spinning, but could have done with more dancing, only because I love watching him dance. Performance Thought: B-

Duet #5: Koine and All-Star Marko

Style: Jive / Choreographer: Dimitry Chaplin
Song: “Rock Around The Clock” by Bill Haley & His Comets
Performance Thoughts: Watching this really made me want to go swing dancing. It had a lot of energy, and Koine looks so cute out there. I loved how all the lifts and twirls were so effortless. It really looked like they were having fun out there.  Performance Thoughts: B+

Solo #5: Kaylee

Song: “Bad Blood” by NAO
Performance Thoughts: I’ve always loved Kaylee’s solo. This is where she really lets go I think, I wish she could bring some of that into her duet performances. Grade: B+

Group Performance – All Stars

This routine is SOOOOO Brian Friedman, with the weird French Mimes. Okay, they’re not Mimes, they’re just super French. But it’s very stylistic. LOOOOOVVVEEE the use of the lamps as please and the fact that the men are dancing on it not the women. (Song: “Derniere Danse” by Indila / Choreographer: Brian Friedman)

Duet #6: Taylor and All-Star Robert

Style: Contemporary  / Choreographer: Mandy Moore
Song: “To Make You Feel My Love,” by Mick McAuley & Winifred Horan
Performance Thoughts: Soooo beautiful. I mean the song realllly helped it along, and that dress is beautiful, but I just love how connected they are. They were just in their own little world together and it was romantic and sweet. It actually reminded me a lot of another yellow dress routine from Season 11 ”Like Real People Do” with Jessica and Casey (and I may have liked that routine better). But this routine was super dreamy. And Taylors look at the end. Melts my heart. Performance Grade: A-

Solo#6: Lex

Song: “Sleep Talk” by Skye Chai
Performance Thoughts: I feel like in every one of Lex’s solos I see something I’ve never seen before and I love that. I love the little back roll he did and the spin in the air move was incredible. Grade: A

Duet #7: Mark and All-Star Comfort

Style: Hip Hop / Choreographer: Misha Gabriel
Song: “No Twerk” by Apashe & Panther x Odalisk
Performance Thoughts: Unnecessary gong noise aside, this routine was actually pretty cool. I loved the tutting, the strong and slick moves, and the jagged edges of the routine. I loved the part where they threw each other back and back and back. It was pretty cool.  Performance Grade: Bish

Solo #7: Kiki

Song: “Land of 1000 Dances” by Wilson Pickett
Performance: Lots of energy. Fancy footwork. The ladies loved it. Grade: B-

Group Routine #3: Lex, Kaylee, & Logan

Performance Thoughts: First of all, great sound choice. This definitely was an anthem song and anthem routine. It took them a bit to find their groove together, they weren’t always in sync. But it felt powerful and it felt strong.  Lex did this crazy spin ending in an arabesque. Beautiful. Performance Grade: B+ (Song: “Strange” by LP, Choreographers: Dwight Roden and Desmond Richardson)

Group Routine #4: Mark, Taylor, Koine, Kiki

Performance Thoughts: Before this piece even started, when I saw the name of the “song” I screamed, Yes! Sean Cheesman has been KILLING it this season with his song choices. From just the beat boxing mouth noises, to this piece with the spoken word, it’s just been so amazing. This piece was so powerful. I almost wish that there was no audience noise. They all showed off their amazing strength, never straying too far from each other always somehow connected always in their little cluster. This piece involved a lot of trust, and a lot of heart, and a lot of strength both mentally and physically. It really was extraordinary.(Song: “Still I Rise (Maya Angelou)” by Alexis Henry / Choreographer: Sean Cheesman) Performance Grade: A

 

Cat Announces the Bottom Three: Kaylee, Mark, Kiki

My Thoughts: I love how Mark laughs about being in the bottom three. It just shows his joy for life. That being said, I am not mad at this three. I think it’s time for Kaylee to go home, but I feel like the judges are going to send Mark home. It was something Nigel said. DON’T DO IT NIGEL!

The Person Going Home Is…Mark. Nigel says it was America’s decision but was it Nigel? Was it? I may have actually gotten a little misty-eyed at Mark’s goodbye package, though I think that has to do a lot with the IZ song. So sad he’s going home!

Top 4 Performances

1. Mark, Taylor, Kiki, Koine – Group Routine
2. Lex and All-Star Gaby – Hip Hop
3. Logan and All-Star Allison – African Jazz
4. Taylor and All-Star Robert – Contemporary

The Dancers Ranked

1. Lex
2. Taylor
3. Logan
4. Koine
5. KiKi
6. Kaylee

RANDOM THOUGHTS

• Cat: “I love it when Mary gets street!”
• I’m entranced by Vanessa’s yellow eyeshadow. I want to wear my eye shadow like that.
• Mary Murphy: “Lord have Murphy.” – That’s genius.
• Koine is so adorable. I mean really.
• Looking up the “Like Real People Do” video on You Tube sent me down a SYTYCD Best Routines wormhole. Can’t Stop Watching.
• Cat after she makes a corny joke: “Shall I jump?” Meaning off the railing, to her doom.
• Vanessa’s perkiness and the fact that she just loves everything is now grating.
• I love it when Nigel uses dance terms.

 

Next week 2 Dancers are Eliminated….And by Next week I mean tomorrow because I am SOOOO behind on this recap. Until tomorrow…(but I probably wont post my recap till next weekend…) my friends!

So You Think You Can Dance, Season 14: Top 8 Perform

Tonight the dancers are dancing together. That should be fun! I’m excited for it. Lets get on with the show and press play…

 

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE

SEASON 14

TOP 8 PERFORM

It might be wrong how much I loved the opening number performed by all the All-Stars and our Top 8. While part of me wonders what Nigel thinks of this performance (come on, you know why) the other part of me – the larger part of me – loves that a piece like this is allowed to exist. From Robert’s opening solo, to Jasmine being dragged across the floor on a stained glass piece of fabric while Allison throws purple petals behind her, I loved everything about this piece. This is a piece that can rival Ramalama Bang Bang. This is a routine to get excited about! This is a routine to remember. Werk. (Song: “Call Me Mother” by Ru Paul / Choreographer: Mark Kanemura)

 

Opening Random Thoughts

• I didn’t think I could love the opening number any MORE, until I found out it was choreographed by Mark Kanemura. Perfection. Absolute perfection.
• I’m excited that the dancers are dancing together this episode.
• Vanessa is blonde. I can’t tell if it’s a wig or not. She’s got the black roots, but it has absolutely no movement to it. It’s so stiff. Too much hairspray perhaps?
• Mary looks fabulous today.

 

Duet Performance #1: Koine and All-Star Marko

Style: Jazz / Choreographer: Mandy Moore
Song: “HandClap” by Fitz & The Tantrums
Performance Thoughts: I’m trying to figure out what’s going on with the styling, I think I like it? I’m not sure if I like it? The heels with the bare legs is interesting for this number. She’s wearing shorts, but then a long vest that moves like a dress. And what is Marko wearing? But anyway, this number is fun and easy breezy and they just look like they are having a good time dancing. Koine’s facial expressions are a little cheesy and I don’t think we really get to know her at all this piece. But it was a fun routine. The dancing was great, they were in sync and connected. I love that Mary acknowledges Koine’s spirit. The days have been long and hard for them and she made it look easy, which is true. Performance Grade: B

Duet Performance #2: Taylor and All-Star Robert

Style: Hip Hop / Choreographer: Luther Brown
Song: “Bodak Yellow” by Cardi B
Performance Thoughts: Honestly, and I love him so much, but I totally forgot Robert was even in this piece and that’s a good thing. At first I was totally distracted by her hair. It was everywhere, in her face, in Robert’s face, in Robert’s costume, just everywhere, but girl didn’t let it phase it. It was like it was PART. OF. HER. Honestly, she crushed this routine. She was feeling it in her body and her bones. And she was hot hot hot. When Robert takes off her jacket? Whew! I almost didn’t even recognize her. Luther Brown always has these super cool vibes that are evident in all his routines and she embodied it to a T. Fantastic performance. Performance Grade: A-

Duet Performance #3: Lex and All-Star Gaby

Style: Contemporary / Choreographer: Mandy Moore
Song: “Work Song” by Luke Wade
Performance Thoughts: I did not want this performance to end. You could totally tell this was completely and utterly in Lex’s wheelhouse. He was so confident and strong. Every single movement he made was pure strength. There was this move in the middle of the routine where Gaby picked him up by one arm off his back, limbs in the air, it was really fantastic. Or where he balanced on one hand then brown his body down like a broken doll. The routine was fantastic and Gaby really showed her strength as a dancer at one time supporting his body weight with her legs. So beautiful. Performance Grade: A

Duet Performance #4: Kaylee and All-Star Cyrus

Style: Cha Cha / Choreographer: Val Chmerkovskiy
Song: “Respect” by Aretha Franklin
Performance Thoughts:  I have to say, when I heard she get the Cha Cha, I was like man, this girl cannot cut a break with good routines, but I have to say she pulled it off. This was not your conventional ballroom routine. It had a story, modern clothes, modern song. Kaylee was moving her hips and really attacking the ballroom steps well at least in my limited knowledge of ballroom. I thought she did a great job and sold it in her performance and this hips! The routine gets the seal of approval from Mary the Ballroom queen! I’m glad she loved it. Performance Grade: B

Duet Performance #5: Mark and All-Star Comfort

Style: Broadway / Choreographer: Spencer Liff
Song:  “Criminal” by Scott Bradlee’s Postmoder Jukebox, feat. Ariana Savalas
Performance Thoughts: I feel like some of Mark’s personality was flattened with his hair. It was a fun routine but something was a bit off in their chemistry this week. That being said Mark danced it really well, he definitely brought the Broadway out, but there was something missing from his performance. He didn’t bring is own uniqueness into it. Performance Grade: B-

Duet Performance #6: Kiki and All- Star Jenna

Style: Jazz / Choreographer: Travis Wall
Song: “Pop Hd” by AtomTM
Performance Thoughts: I’m not sure how I felt about this routine. It was choreographed really well, I mean come on Travis Wall, the production design, styling, hair and make up, it all worked. It just did. But there was something off, something missing. Travis always has a lot of partnering work and while I thought Jenna did a great job. She can do weird really well, it reminds me of her other futuristic performance. But  I’m just not sure about Kiki. I think he was trying to be weird but instead he was kinda stiff and awkward. He actually reminded of Ross from Friends.  He needed to be a little weirder. Performance Grade: B-

Duet Performance #7: Dassy and All-Star Fik-Shun

Style: Contemporary  / Choreography: Jaci Royal
Song: “Breathe” by Son Lux
Performance Thoughts: The moment I saw Dassy in that all-red costume I thought of American Horror Story. I thought Dassy killed it in this routine, she was so flexible and mesmerizing. In fact that whole routine was enchanting, I was almost holding my breath just trying to take in everything that was happening. When Fik-shun lifts her up like she’s completely weightless and she curves her body back, when she curls around him, that cool lift they did that’s reminiscent of the ice skating move from Cutting Edge…I really loved this routine, it was different, it was quiet, but what they did out there was HARD and they did it effortlessly and brilliantly. Also Dassy’s lipstick is mesmerizing. I think it’s the dark corners to the lipstick. Performance Grade: A-

Duet #8: Logan and All-Star Allison

Style: Hip Hop / Choreographer: Christopher Scott
Song: “Say You Wont Let Go” by Boyce Avenue
Performance Thoughts: It was a really sweet routine. It’s so cool to see Allison doing hip hop, I don’t think I’ve ever seen that before. She had some killer moves out there (Thanks Twitch). But Logan was also doing some amazing B-Boy moves. This routine definitely had me smiling at the end, did I buy them as a married couple, maybe not till the end. Logan still looks like a kid but there’s nothing you can do about that. But it was a sweet routine with little touches that left me feeling warm and fuzzy, and their chemistry was incredible here, so I’ll take it! Performance Grade: A-

Group Performance #2 – All Stars

Thoughts: This routine was super cool, them dancing with the plexi glass. Whenever there’s a sense of danger added to a routine I think it makes the performance more intoxicating. I loved how the dancers used the moments to create unique shapes, have cool movements across the floor and do some insane lifts. (Song: “Truth” by Balmorhea  / Choreographer: Jaci Royal) Performance Grade: A-

Duet #9: Lex and Taylor

Style: Classical Jazz / Choreographer: Spencer Liff
Song: “An American In Paris” by James Levin & Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Performance Thoughts: Man these dancers are killing in tonight. That was another sweet routine. I mean really it was just stunning. I know it was classical jazz, but it felt more like Broadway. And then near the end when they are about to part but the music swells and he lifts her up in the AIRRRR! Seriously major swooning happening there. I think with a little more time their chemistry could have been on fire, but I did get chills when the music swelled and I had another round of warm fuzzies. Taylor looked absolutely stunning and Lex did some amazing bird aerials. Performance Grade: A-

Duet Performance #10: Kiki and Koine

Style: Salsa / Choreographer: Val Chmerkovskiy
Song: “Danca Molengo” by Bonde do Role feat Rizzle Kicks
Performance Thoughts: First, can I just say how adorable Koine and Kiki are in their intro package. It’s like she brought out his goofy geeky side. He’s usually so serious. I love it. They’re adorbs.  Second, I love how this awesome lift that ends with Koine’s arms around his neck is accentuated with the singer saying “Yes.” That is just fabulous. Second, wow, this routine was pretty hot. While I could have done with a few more sultry looks and a little less smile smile, I thought it was a sassy, fun, routine with a major spark at the end. That girl wanted her kiss! Performance Grade: B+/A-

Duet Performance #11: Logan and Kaylee

Style: Contemporary / Choreographer: Travis Wall
Song: “Shadows” by Woodkid
Performance Thoughts: Whoa, this piece was really intense! I loved the concept of the shadow and I really think they pulled it off, it was a fantastic effect and Kaylee being all covered and in dark make-up just made it all the more sinister. Logan’s moves are sooo amazing I just love how he moves, but Kaylee had the weirder, funkier, almost squished versions of his moves that was so cool. I really loved this piece. So intense. Performance  Grade: A-

Duet Performance #12: Mark and Dassy

Style: Hip Hop / Choreographer: Christopher Scott
Song: “Tilted” by Christine and The Queens
Performance Thoughts: Someone out there was yelling “Hey” every time they did something cool with the umbrella and didn’t drop it. Was that Christopher Scott? I mean the didn’t drop the umbrella at all, but they did some super trick moves with it. This routine was light and fun and I think Dassy really brought out her personality. She was definitely more of a stand-out than Mark was. It was just a fun, cute routine. Performance Grade: B

Cat Announces the Bottom Three: ( I’m not ready for this…)  Kaylee, Dassy, Koine

My Thoughts on This: WHAT? How is Koine in the bottom three? I mean seriously. She’s fantastic! Okay so maybe her piece last week wasn’t the BEST, but still. If I had to vote for a bottom three merely by preference,  It would be Kaylee, Mark and Kiki, with Kaylee going home.  I won’t want to see anyone else go home today but Kaylee. Even thought she had a great day today I just love Dassy and Koine more than her.

Who’s Going Home:

 

My Thoughts: Ugh, I can’t believe they sent home Dassy. No….just No.

No.

 

My Other Thoughts: WHO? WHAT? WHERE? WHY? HOW? HOOOOOWWWWWW! NO! Did they not see her amazing contemporary routine? I mean COME ON! Ugh! How was this decision unanimous? Ugh. I hate you all judges!

RANDOM THOUGHTS:

• Cat (in response to Taylor’s Hip Hop Routine with Robert): “I think everyone needs this facet of their personality to come out once in a while.” Preach!
• Vanessa used the creepy word “lit” correctly and it wasn’t weird. Is that what that word is supposed to sound like?
• Cat to Robert: “I also admire your six-pack work.” God, I love that woman.
• Hey is that JaJa behind Jaci Royal?
• There are a lot of kisses happening on this show today.
• Kaylee to Logan: “So Travis Wall.” Logan: “Let me just melt real quick.” LOVE LOVE LOVE!
• All of the routines were so great today.
• Nigel: Mary you need never worry about anyone hearing you, darling.
• Marko hugging Fik-shun when Koine is safe is everything. And then he grabs her and hugs her? His face. OMG.

 

Top 5 Performances (Because there were so many good ones)

1. “Call Me Mother” Opening Group Number
2. Lex and Allison – Contemporary
3. Robert and Taylor – Hip Hop
4. Dassy and Fik-Shun – Contemoirary
5. Lex and Taylor – Jazz

My Ranking of the Dancers (50% Preference 50% Performance)

1. Taylor
2. Lex
3. Koine
4. Logan
5. Mark
6. Kiki
7. Kaylee

(NOTE: If Dassy were still here she would be #5.)

 

Final Thoughts: Nigel…I am soooooo mad at you. While this episode was filled with great routine after great routine and my heart still swells for that bird routine, all this is dulled by the sending home of Dassy. I just can’t believe it!

 

Until next episode my friends….

So You Think You Can Dance Season 12: Top 10 Perform + 2 Eliminated

This is it, guys. This is where everyone’s game steps up. This is where stars start to emerge from the pack. This is Top 10, ya’ll, with ALL STARS and I can’t wait to see some fantastic and memorable routines.

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE: Season 12
Top 10 Perform

This has Sonja written all over it, it’s weird, it’s funky, it’s creepy, it’s rhythmic. The men are dress in weird skirt things which she loves. The song as a great beat, but I felt like the dancers could have definitely hit it harder. There’s room for improvement here folks. WOW ME Top 10! (Song: “Earth Intruder” by Bjork)

Cat tells us Team Street won today 51% to 49%. That was probably all my fault, the majority of my votes went to Ja Ja and Neptune. JJ is missing from the introductions because she hurt her ribs automatically putting her in the bottom. That’s a bummer. I like her. But she hasn’t been doing well so this doesn’t bode well for her.

All the solos tonight are danced to the songs from Empire. I’ve only seen the pilot to this series, but I haven’t watched the entire series. I know, I know I’m missing out, but there is So. Much. Good. TV to watch! Anyway, I’m very excited about the solos. I love seeing the dancers dance in their street styles. I’m especially excited to see the Street Dancers dance.

THE PERFORMANCES

SOLO #1
Who: Virgil – Team Street
Song:  “Conqueror” by Empire Cast feat. Estelle & Jussie Smollett
Performance: It’s very b-boy-esque but there is actually a lot of substance to it. He shows a lot of range in his moves and it’s not just the same trick over and over again. It’s leaps and jumps and spins and floor work. It’s pretty fly. Rating: 7/10

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ROUTINE #1
Who: Hailee (Team Stage) and Brandon (All-Star)
Style: Jazz
Choreographer: Warren Carlyle
Song: “It Don’t Mean A Thing” by Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga
Performance: First of all, Brandon looks so trim! He looks like he lost a lot of meat on those bones. Not that he fat or anything, he was just a meaty guy. He looks slim here. Must be that Britney Spears Tour Diet!  Second, these two were so in sync and so in step with each other it was just crazy! They both had the same energy level, same movements, they just worked so well together. And Hailee really stood out and it’s not just because of the shiny dress and shoes. She was really giving it her all in this piece. I enjoyed it. Plus if you can make your choreographer jump up and down then you know you’ve done good. Grade: A-
Judges: Hailee is great! I don’t remember what else they said, but it probably wasn’t important.

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SOLO #2
Who: Neptune – Team Street
Song: “Power Of The Empire” by Empire Cast feat. Yazz
Performance: I love the emotion Neptune gives on his face. And I love how he does his “bone-breaking” stuff. This routine has a lot of impact, style and personality. Rating: 7/10

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ROUTINE #2
Who: Derek (Team Stage) and Kayla (All-Star)
Style: Jazz
Choreographer: RJ Durell & Nick Florez
Song: “Got It” by Marion Hill
Performance: There was some killer killer choreography in this piece. I mean I loved everything that happened in it. There were intricate tricks and moves and Kayla was giving us smoldering looks and fierce hair whips. Derek, however, felt more like a prop, a way for Kayla to get from A to B. I’m not saying the steps he did weren’t right. I just didn’t feel any passion or emotion or sex appeal…ANYTHING from him. I didn’t really feel like he was into this routine at all. Derek is a great dancer, but he doesn’t connect, and this routine was his chance to do that because it had everything going for it. Grade: B
Judges: Paula his technique is flawless but he needs to convey passion. He was a different man today, and Kayla had a lot to do with that, but he needs to show more passion and performance.

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SOLO #3
Who: Gaby – Team Stage
Song: “Can’t Truss ‘Em” by Empire Cast feat. Yazz
Performance: I like how she uses different parts of her shows and different way in creating the beat. It’s a weird song to tap to like she admitted in the beginning of the show, but she did it well and showed off her personality. Rating: 7/10

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ROUTINE #3
Who: Virgil (Team Street) and Comfort (All Star)
Style: Hip Hop
Choreographer: Christopher Scott
Song: “Just My Imagination” by The Temptations
Performance: This performance reminded me a lot of “Misty Blue” with Sasha and Twitch a few seasons back. It has a story, the song has a good grove, and so on. The dancing was great, Virgil has such personality and he was able to bring out a side of Comfort I’ve never seen before. I’ll say it again, I like Comfort so much better now than I did when she was on the show. I think they could have been a little sexier (there were a few parts that really showed off their chemistry) because at times it felt almost TOO CHEESY. But the dancing was incredible, I don’t know how Virgil was able to be on his knees so long and I just loved the way they used the stage and the props. Fun routine. Grade: B+/A-
Judges: Judges give it a standing O. Jason says the routine wasn’t over the top and Virgil is the one to beat. Nigel says though it appeared to be simple there were a lot of difficult intricacies. Paula talks a little crazy, so we will just move on now…

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SOLO #4
Who: Ja Ja – Team Street
Song:  “Keep It Movin’” Empire Cast feat. Serayah McNeill & Yazz
Performance: That backwards hat is out people, you know what that means. Ja Ja came to kill it. And she does. Her performance is powerful, hard hitting, with some flirty looks in between. She’s fierce and I love seeing her dance in her style. Rating: 9/10

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ROUTINE #4
Who: Megz (Team Street) and Marko (All Star)
Style: Jazz
Choreographer: Ray Leeper
Song: “Canned Heat” by Jamiroquai
Performance: Megz was so into this routine man. It was a really cool routine. It had a lot of energy and it was just fun to watch. You could tell Megz was having a BLAST. I love it when dancers just throw their all into a routine and that’s what she did. Those synchronized flips at the end were CRAZY! I just love the whole vibe of the routine. They had such a great vibe about them. Grade: A-
Judges: Nigel says Megz sticks out, Paula says she made her want to get up there and dance with her, Jason says she’s catapulted herself into being a true contender.

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SOLO #5
Who: Jim – Team Stage
Song: “You’re So Beautiful” by Empire Cast feat. Jussie Smollett & Yazz
Performance: Jim has crazy legs. I just love the way he dances, he has such amazing feet and technique. The song is a happy song, which is perfect for him. Rating: 7/10

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ROUTINE #5
Who: Edson (Team Stage) and Jaimie (All-Star)
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Travis Wall
Song: “Your Day Will Come” by Son Lux
Performance: Ugh, Travis Wall, you are just the worst. And I mean that in the best way possible. I can’t even with you. You are so frickin’ talented. I’m pretty sure I was holding my breath this entire piece. Everything about this piece was breathtaking, the lighting, the camerawork, the song, and the dancers just fell into the role completely connecting with each other and letting the rest of the world slip away. There was only one moment where they weren’t touching each other, but every other moment they were linked, flowing in and out of different body shapes. Edson was strong. There were a lot of crazy things happening in this piece and he never wavered. And that SCREAM man, it was like something just woke up in Edson. He appeared. He won me over in this piece. And Jaimie is just beautiful. Those legs man. The dancers really threw themselves into this piece adding electricity into every moment, even when they weren’t moving. Love love loved it. Grade: A
Judges: Nigel thought it was powerful and the best Edson has every performed. Paula loved his transitions and lifts and loved how he was there for Jaimie. She calls them magical. Jason calls it a breakout performance.

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SOLO #6
Who: Hailee – Team Stage
Song:  “Nothing To Lose” by Empire Cast feat. Jussie Smollett
Performance: This routine was just explosive with energy and she even threw in a couple of hip hop moves. Rating: 8/10

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ROUTINE #6
Who: Neptune (Team Street) and Jasmine (All-Star)
Style: Hip Hop w/ krump
Choreographer: Pharside and Phoenix
Song: “Milk Was A Bad Choice” by Yultron
Performance: This was actually a pretty crazy routine. I don’t know if it was the costumes or not but it didn’t feel clean. The movements were kind of a mess. That being said some cool things did happen in the routine despite it not being the sharpest or the cleanest. I loved the back crawl, I loved the tutting with the arms, I loved the krumping section and I loved just the overall theme and how much Neptune got into character. It could have been better, but it was fun. Grade: B
Judges: Jason thought the routine was crazy. Nigel loved the theatricality of the routine. He thought Neptune was “dope.” Paula thought he and Jasmine were a great couple.

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SOLO #7
Who: Derek – Team Stage
Song: “Drip Drop” by Empire Cast feat. Yazz & Serayah McNeill
Performance: He did a lot of tricks that had a lot of height to it. It was powerful movements, but was a bit off-putting with that smile at the end. He’s not my favorite but he gets a high score because of the powerful tricks. Rating: 8/10

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ROUTINE #7
Who: Jim (Team Stage) and Jessica (All-Star)
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Dee Caspary
Song: “Heal” by Tom Odell
Performance: I don’t know if Jessica and Jim had very good chemistry. Something was definitely missing from this piece. That being said despite a wobble here, they both danced it really well. Jim was strong and emotional and I felt like he was really connecting to what he was doing, but not necessarily to Jessica. I guess all that really matters is how Jim was doing but I wasn’t really able to connect to this piece. He danced it well…but yeah…you know? Grade: B
Judges: Nigel says there is nothing wrong with Jim’s technique, but needs to work with his chemistry. They all want Jim to focus on the story and Jason felt like he wasn’t enjoying it as much as he should have. Wow, again, I agree with Jason.

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SOLO #8
Who: Megz – Team Street
Song: “No Apologies” by Empire Cast feat. Jussie Smollett and Yazz
Performance: It was so short! Is that right? Whatever it was it was hardcore and passionate, just like Megz. Rating: 8/10

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ROUTINE #8
Who: Ja Ja (Team Street) and Alex (All-Star)
Style: Bollywood
Choreographer: Nakul Dev Mahajan
Song: “Naacho Re” from Jai Ho (Soundtrack)
Performance: I love Alex “Freakin” Wong, I really do. He’s probably one of my favorite dancers ever along with Allison Holker and Travis Wall, that being said…I could not take my eyes off of Ja Ja. Girl had me scared from the package but she KILLED IT. Those knee glides around the gazebo was CRAZY. They were so smooth. And her facial expressions were killer. She just looked like she was having a lot of fun. This routine was probably one of Nakul’s best. It had high energy, lifts, stunts, tutting, and fantastic floor work. Great routine, great performance by Ja Ja. And this is not me being biased even though I am. Rating: A
Judges: Paula says Ja Ja can do it all. She’s so charming. Nigel says whoopi. In reference to Whoopi Goldberg. Who’s in the audience. Can you say random? He is amazed by Ja Ja’s ability to transform.

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SOLO #9
Who: Edson (Team Stage)
Song: “I Wanna Love You” by Empire Cast feat. Jussie Smollett
Performance: I’m a sucker for a good jacket and right now Edson has on a great jacket. He has some good tricks in there thrown in with some crazy sexy dance moves that’s fitting with the song and the jacket. He would have had an 8, but he needed just a bit more smolder. Rating: 7/10

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ROUTINE #9
Who: Gaby (Team Stage) with Joshua (All-Star)
Style: Hip Hop
Choreographers: Pharside and Phoenix
Song: “I’m Really Hot” by Missy Elliott
Performance: This routine was really dirty! In a good way. There was so much to love about it, even if the routine subject was super stereotypical. I love the fact that Gaby is in this dainty and sweet little geisha outfit with boots and she’s dancing all hardcore. I just love that juxtaposition. I loved Josh jumping over her legs, or them tutting with Gaby’s legs around Josh’s waist as she’s parallel to the floor. There were so many intricate things happening in this routine. It was surprising and fun and I love just how much Gaby committed to the entire thing. She is awesome. I loved her little “drop the mic” point she did to the audience after “breaking” Josh’s neck and bowing politely to the audience. Bad. Ass. Rating: A
Judges: Jason calls it amazing and didn’t know Gaby had it in her. Nigel says Gaby and JaJa are his favorites from both teams. Paula says she proves every week just how good she is at everything.

BOTTOM FOUR

• Derek – Team Stage
• JJ – Team Street
• Megz – Team Street
• Edson – Team Stage

MY THOUGHTS
I think his performance tonight may have just saved Edson. Derek is going home. As for Megz and JJ, I’m sorry to say she may be going home. I love the girl but she hasn’t had that breakout moment and the judges love Megz. Plus her performance tonight was really good.

ELIMINATION TIME
I totally forgot there was no Twitter vote! That blows. Cat tells us that Edson and JJ are going home.

MY THOUGHTS
That’s a big bummer for Edson. He did so well today. And seriously, who are all these people saving Derek?? Cat reminds us, JJ is “delicate” because of her injury and that’s a double bummer to go home when you’re injured and didn’t even have a chance to dance for the last time. So long JJ and Edson, you will be missed.

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND QUOTES

• Cat: “I love it when Nigel talks street.”
  Cat to Gaby: I,” couldn’t love you more right now with every bit of my being.”
• I always felt a special connection to JJ because she’s Asian and cute and has such great style – that dress she’s wearing tonight is amazing. I’ll miss her. Asians gotta represent! Has there ever been a female Asian Dancer on SYTYCD since Season 1 Melanie?
• Love the dancers coming in for delicate hugs for JJ. Especially Marco, so sweet.
• End goodbye: From that angle it looked like Nigel was trying to open mouth kiss JJ.

TOP 5 ROUTINES
(The top three are miles and miles ahead of 4 and 5)

1. Gaby and Josh – Hip Hop
2. Edson and Jaimie – Contemporary
3. JaJa and Alex – Bollywood
4. Virgil and Comfort – Hip Hop
5. Hailee and Brandon – Jazz

RANKING THE DANCERS
(In terms of my preference, not necessarily skill or performance)

1. Ja Ja
2. Gaby
3. Virgil
4. Neptune
5. Megz
6. Jim
7. Edson
8. JJ
9. Hailee
10. Derek

FINAL THOUGHTS
The dancers and the choreographers really stepped it up this episode. There were so many good routines and the show was just a lot of fun. As the numbers dwindle down I’m only going to get sadder and sadder. I think Derek will find himself in the bottom again. As well as Jim, unfortunately. As for who else could be in the bottom? I have no freakin’ clue. All I know is I’m voting for Ja Ja and Gaby right now!!

So You Think You Can Dance Season 12: Top 14 Perform, 4 Eliminated

Whoa, whoa whoa, I didn’t sign up for this…FOUR DANCERS are going home? That’s just crazy! Who is it going to be? Now that Asaf is gone, I have no idea!

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE: SEASON 12

Top 14 Perform & 4 Eliminated

The Top 14 routine showcases Derek’s crazy flips. It’s nice to see that his back is better and he’s able to pull out all the stops.  The costuming and the make up is out of control today. In a good way. It’s a fun routine focusing solely on the girls. It’s the styling that make this routine though, much more than the dancing. (The routine makes much more sense after I hear it’s choreographed by: Brian Friedman, Song: “100% Pure Love” by Crystal Waters.)

Cat comes out wearing a gorgeous rainbow dress that’s designed by Matthew Williamson. It’s so flowy and gorgeous and her jewels are so sparkly! Cat tells us street won the week with 53% of the votes and also that the judges no longer have control. It’s up to America and Twitter. Tonight the Top 10 will be revealed.

THE ROUTINES

Who: Jim (Team Stage) and Yorelis (Team Street)
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Sonya Tayeh (FINALLY)
Song: “Asht” by Nebulo
Performance: Okay see, this, THIS is why we all need Sonya back in our lives. And thank GOD she is. She really brought out the best in Yorelis. Girl was dynamic, and breathtaking, and captivating. In fact, the entire routine was captivating. Sonya really knows how to use the music and use the dancers. They created unique shapes with their bodies, used every single muscle they could and it was beautiful. I love watching pieces that just capture you and showcase the dancers. No gimmicks, no fireworks, just bodies moving to the music. I love Jim’s leaps, his jump onto Yorelis’ back where she had to support his entire weight, Yorelis’ pointed toes. Girl’s got some good feet and some crazy legs. Love love love. Welcome back, Sonya. Grade: A
Judges:  Nigel  thought this routine allowed Yorelis to shine. He loved the impact the music had on her body. Jim is the best technical dancer he’s seen and he’s brilliant. Paula loved the strength and athleticism of the dancer. She felt they complimented each other. Jason thought they were amazing.

Who: Ja Ja (Team Street) and Edson (Team Stage)
Style: Hip Hop
Choreographer: Misha Gabriel
Song: “She Came To Give It To You” by Usher feat. Nicki Minaj
Performance: It was a cool routine. Definitely different. Didn’t really feel like hip hop. I feel like I got to know Ja Ja really well during that piece, but not Edson. His personality didn’t really come out. They danced great together, but Ja Ja was just giving off a completely different vibe than Edson was. She was having fun, she was being creative and just grooving to the music. He was a little more technical, using more of his brain to complete the steps than his heart. It was just a missed connection. They didn’t have great chemistry and they never really felt like they were dancing the same routine. Grade: B-
Judges: Paula said she found Edson’s swag. Paula thinks Ja Ja is cool, feisty, fun and flirty. Jason thought it was a basic performance. Nigel wasn’t a fan.

Who: Virgil (Team Street) and Hailee (Team Stage)
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Tyce DiOrio
Song: “Cellophane” by Sia
Performance: Say what you want about Tyce (that he seems full of himself, that I thoguth we were done with him from this show, that he likes the sound of his own voice), but the man has some BIG ideas. While his concepts can be hit or miss, when they are on they are ON. And they were ON with this routine. There were some BIG moments and the piece had a big emotional impact. I love Hailee twisting Virgil with her leg, love their musicality with the beats to the music, love that ending move with Virgil dragging Hailee by the legs with his legs. Though Virgil wasn’t happy shiny happy, he was still a joy to watch. You could feel his emotion and his heart and soul and passion bursting through this piece and that’s one thing that Tyce does well. He transfers his passion to the dancers. Hailee even stuck out for me. I haven’t really connected with her but I thought her performance was spot on today. I like seeing her darker side. Grade: A-
Judges: Jason loved seeing a different side of Virgil and loved the choices the dancers made in the piece. Nigel thought Virgil exposed his lack of technique (not true Nigel, you stop it), Paula defends them by saying he just has a different technique from Hailee – a different style.

Who: Alexia (Team Stage) and Ariana (Team Street)
Style: Burlesque Jazz
Choreographers: Tracy Phillips and Dominic Carbone
Song: “Circus Fish” by Vermillion Lies
Performance: It’s definitely a weird piece. I see what the choreographers were going for in there, but it felt like the dancers were having problems finding their footing. They’re both so flexible and have good mobility but it wasn’t as smooth and sultry as I wanted it to be. Alexis at least connected with the audience and had some good flirty and seductive facial expressions, but Ariana’s face was in perpetual smile which didn’t really fit the piece. It wasn’t great in my opinion. Grade: C+
Judges: It missed the mark for Nigel. Their smiles felt wrong and he wanted more darkness. Paula wish they brought sexiness to it and needs them to believe they can do it even when they are unsure. Jason thought it was rough and felt like the dancers didn’t like what they were doing and it was reflected in the piece.

Who: Megz (Team Street) and Derek (Team Stage)
Style: Hip Hop
Choreographer: Dave Scott
Song: “Worth It” by Fifth Harmony feat. Kid Ink
Performance: Derek, Derek, Derek, you tried, but there is NO DENYING MEGZ! With the intro piece, the package, and the routine, Megz just made me fall in love with her. She is coming out of her shell. She’s hilarious, super cool, and was a band geek for crying out loud can this girl do no wrong? Derek was holding his own and for a little bit there he looked like he actually belonged in the piece, there were some awkward moments, but he was pulling it off. However, he was majorly overshadowed by the awesomeness of Megz, who brought her cool to the routine. Don’t mess with Megz! Grade: B-
Judges: Wow, the judges are just poo pooing everything today. Derek was awkward and uncomfortable and Megz thought Megz wasn’t as sexy as she could have been (what?!). Paula’s crazy comes out saying Megz should have a sax…um…that’s not Megz fault Paula. You Crazy. Jason thought it wasn’t her best performance. Derek needs to find his swag.

Who: Gaby  (Team Stage) and Neptune (Team Stage)
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Stacey Tookey
Song: “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” by Ledisi (Selma Soundtrack)
Performance: Ok, there was this moment in this routine that made me tear up, Gaby had this heartbreaking expression on her face and Neptune scooped her up into this all encasing bear hug. It was just so beautiful and so pure. This piece is why So You Think You Can Dance exists. It’s definitely my favorite of the season. I gasped, I said WOW, I held my breath, I didn’t even notice it was all one single shot until Cat mentioned it at the end there. It’s like nothing existed in the world but these two dancers. One moved flowed into the other and the dancers literally threw themselves into it whole heartedly and it was just nothing but pure, unaltered emotion. So beautiful. This piece better earn Stacey Tookey an Emmy nomination. I’m going to watch it again. Be right back. Grade: A+
Judges: Jason calls the performance unreal. He’s so excited about it he can’t sit down. He said it’s a clear difference between someone who is living the performance and between someone who is just going through the motions. Nigel says Gaby shines no matter what she is doing.

Who: Kate (Team Stage) and JJ (Team Street)
Style: Jazz
Choreographer: Brian Friedman
Song: “A Different Beat” by Little Mix
Performance: Fun. But not memorable. That’s all I have to say about that. Grade: C
Judges: Nigel says the performance brought out Kate’s personality. Paula said some of the facial expressions were too on the nose and made it feel immature. Jason says to show variation in the facial expression.

BOTTOM SIX

• Yorelis – Team Street
• Ariana – Team Street
• Alexia – Team Stage
• Derek – Team Stage
• Neptune – Team Street
• Kate – Team Stage

MY THOUGHTS
NEPTUNE BETTER NOT GO HOME! I don’t even care anymore. PLEASE DON’T GET VOTED OFF! Sorry NOT SORRY for the caps. I think Alexia and Neptune should stay. Or maybe Neptune and Yorelis. Just Neptune stay PLEASE.

Group Performance: Team Stage
Choreographer: Sonya Tayeh
Song: “Life Me” By Bengsons
Performance: Such a great song. So powerful. Stand outs were definitely Gaby and Derek. I just loved how the breath of this piece, how the dancers moved as one. It was incredible. Miss you Sonya!
Grade: A-

Group Performance: Team Street
Choreographer: Pharside and Phoenix
Song: “Dragula” BY Rob Zombie
Performance: It was pretty cool. I love the characters. Neptune is hard core. It definitely was hardcore and bad ass, but I felt like the dancing could have been harder and had more of an impact. Grade: B+

THE ELIMINATION

WHO IS SAFE?
Twitter Saves…Neptune (THANK YOU!) and…Derek (????!?)

MY THOUGHTS
WOW. WOW. I did not see that coming. Derek was a SHOCKER. I can’t believe 4 women went home too! That is TOTALLY SHOCKING. So happy Neptune is staying, but kinda shocked Derek is staying…and that’s not me saying he doesn’t deserve to stay. So long Ariana, Yorelis, Alexis, and Kate! You’ll be missed!

RANDOM THOUGHTS AND QUOTES

• Twitch: “I’m making a wish on the rainbow dress.”
• Why does JaJa keep getting performing in the beginnin?. We all know the primo slot is near the end! This is like 3 weeks in a ROW!!
• I love the way Travis talks to his dancers.

• Nigel to Ariana: “It was a but like a dead fish on a slab.”
• Paula: “Okay, I’m going to come up with another way of putting it that might be helpful.”
• Cat to Nigel: “Take that and have some chips with it!”

• Did Nigel call Ariana Adriana? Don’t take that insult Ariana, He was talking about Adriana, whoever and wherever she is.

• Paula: “Megz I’d like to see your pants a little tighter. A little sexier you know?”
• (Megz looking confused.)
• Cat to Megz: “Just take them off!”

• Why I love Megz — Derek: “What’s your favorite food?” Megz: “Pizza, I’m a ninja turtle.”
• Just when I think the camera work is a little weird this season the camera does this beautiful single take shot that ends with it going off into the light and I am breathless.

• Why I Love JJ: JJ’s questions for Kate: “Last week when you saw Asaf shirtless were you thinking something dirty?”, “If Jason Derulo proposed to you would you marry him?”, “There’s two chocolate bar: one in toilet water the other on the floor in the dust, which one would you eat?”,  “Neptune’s Armpit or Virgil’s feet, Smell One?”, “You’re not going to marry [Derulo]? He’s going to be maaaadddd.”
• Why I love Kate: Her Answers in response to JJ: “No.” “No.” “Toilet Water.” “Virgil’s feet.” “No.” “Then he better give me better comments.”

• Travis to his in danger dancers:” This is more than a show it’s a family.”
• Cat’s response to the eliminated contestants: “All these gorgeous women, what is wrong with you America?”

TOP 5 PERFORMANCES

1. Neptune and Gaby – Contemporary
2. Virgil and Hailee – Contemporary
3. Jim and Yorelis – Contemporary
4. Team Stage – Group Routine
5. Team Street – Group Routine

MY TOP 5 FAVORITE DANCERS

1. Gaby
2. JaJa
3. Virgil
4. Neptune
5. Jim

FINAL THOUGHTS
Overall the routines were either not very good, or really really great. Contemporary really won the day with some great routines. I voted for JaJa, Gaby and Neptune with the majority of my votes going toward JaJa Who are you voting for? What did you think of the show? Did the right people go home? I, for one, am really glad Neptune is staying. Until next time my friends!

So You Think You Can Dance Season 12: Top 16 Perform & 2 Eliminated

The show opens with a very weird, very plaid, very 80’s dance routine. It’s got a great vibe to it and it is high energy. It reminds me a lot of Sonya Tayeh’s choreography. The costuming and make up is totally on point, even with the creepy mannequin in the back. (Song: “Love Is Free” by Robyn & La Bagstelle Magiqur feat. Maluca. Choreographed by: Nick Florez and RJ Durrell).

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE: SEASON 12
Top 16: Perform and Someone Is FINALLY Eliminated

Cat emerges to introduce the dancer and tell us that Team Stage won but only by the smallest of margins. 50.5% Team Stage, 49.5% Team Street.
I also notice after the intros that Neptune was all by himself. That means someone is missing. Who is it? Did someone get hurt? It’s Derek! He injured himself for the week, poor guy! If he isn’t in the bottom 6 this week he will automatically be in the bottom next week.

GROUP ROUTINES

Who: Hailee (Team Stage) and JaJa (Team Street)
Style: Jazz
Choreographer: Ray Leeper
Song: “Endangered Species” by Dianne Reeves
Performance: It’s definitely an anthem song. It’s a hard hitting piece and JaJa is the stand out. There’s just something that makes that girl stick out. The piece uses the dancers well, forcing them to rely on each other and stay in sync. There’s no crazy flips it’s just pure, raw, dirty fun. Grade: B
Judges: Nigel calls the girls powerhouses. Paula says JaJa keeps growing and Hailer radiates. Jason tells JaJa to work on her leg extensions which is surprisingly helpful.

Who: Alexia (Team Stage) and Neptune (Team Street)
Style: Hip Hop
Choreographer: Dave Scott
Song: “Flex (Ooh Ooh Ooh)” by Rich Homie Quan
Performance: There were definitely some cool things that happened in this routine. Alexia’s back flip off the wall, or this weird spin flip she did that ended on his back. But as much as I like Alexia I felt like she was trying TOO hard. All her face pulling was totally distracting. You’re already in a leather jacket dancing hip hop, no need for the “stank face”. While Alexia’s dancing was labored Neptune danced with ease. He had this carefree, smooth, slick way about him that was totally appealing. Great choreography, great music, great concept, great dancing, poor facial expressions. Grade: B-
Judges: Paula loved it. Nigel said Alexia is getting better and Neptune is the dark horse.

Who: JJ and Derek
Style: Argentine Tango
Choreographers: Miriam and Leonardo
Song: “Duo De Amor” by Astor Piazzolla
Performance: As bad as I feel for Derek hurting his back and being unable to compete, I don’t know if this routine would have been nearly as enjoyable as it was without him. JJ hit the jackpot being able to dance with her choreographer, Leonard. She really needed this moment to shine. And boy did she. The routine was intimate and sexy and captivating. JJ was alluring and totally connected to her partner. Her legs did crazy bends and lifts and twists. She didn’t look like a street dancer at all, she looked like she had been doing the tango all her life. It was a stunning routine and performance. Grade: A-
Judges: Jason calls it unbelievable and knows how hard she worked. Nigel brings back the hot tamale train and says the word “sensual” in a way that creeps me out. Paula calls her lovely and sensational.

Who: Ariana (Team Street) and Jim (Team Stage)
Style: Contemporary:
Choreographer: Sean Cheeseman
Song: “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Lorde
Performance: I loved Jim rolling underneath Ariana as she rolled over him, I loved Jim’s flying leaps, I loved the use of those slanting tables. I loved the way Ariana wrapped herself around Jim, and I loved that ending final kick to Ariana aka depression Jim gave. This piece was really good, but at the same time it was missing something. I really wanted Ariana to attack Jim, wrap herself around him. I wanted more grit. See Mia Michaels Gravity. It was a great piece set to great music but there could have been more! Grade B-
Judges: Nigel acknowledges that Ariana hasn’t been able to connect with the audience (true) but calls her brilliant. Paula loves that the routine showcased their dancing ability. She is blown away. Jason calls her dancing unreal and calls Jim out on his excellent technique.

Who: Virgil (Team Street) and Gaby (Team Stage)
Style: Broadway
Choreographer: Al Blackstone
Song: “Where or When” by Sammy Davis Jr
Performance: Words cannot express how happy Virgil and Gaby’s package made me. It was totally hilarious! Their joyous and playful personalities really came out in their performance and it was just a lot of fun. Gaby looked stunning and a little bit like that one girl from Top Model, Analeigh Tipton. Virgil will always put a smile on my face. I loved the move where he picked himself up from the splits, I loved their high kicks, and I loved her dipping him. An overall fun, joyful routine. Grade: A
Judges: Paula calls Gaby impeccable, Virgil brings out so much joy. Jason says Virgl breathes life into everything and they were amazing. Nigel calls them brilliant.

Who: Asaf (Team Street) and Kate (Team Stage)
Style: Jazz
Choreographer: Sean Cheeseman
Song: “Braveheart” by Neon Jungle
Performance: Ok, seriously, it’s time for Asaf to go home. That fear and concern in Kate’s face was absolutely heartbreaking. She doesn’t trust Asaf. And then to see that all the lifts in the routine were taken out was really disheartening, that means he couldn’t get it together enough to pull it off. No Cinderella story for him. As for the routine and dancing in general, it was just okay, but maybe that’s because I was too distracted by trying to see if there were going to be any lifts or not. Grade: C
Judges: Compliments all around but I don’t understand it. Maybe I need to watch the routine again.

Who: Marissa (Team Stage) and Yorelis (Team Street)
Style: Hip Hpp
Choreographer: Christopher scott
Song: “Let Go” by Kezwik feat Mimi Page
Performance: Marissa didn’t quite fit the part. Yorelis just has this presence about her that makes it look so easy. It wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t a memorable performance. Grade: C
Judges: More compliments and adjectives. YAWN. Jason says it falls short of other performances he’s seen. Wow. I actually agree with Jason.

Who: Megz (Team Street) and Edson (Team Stage)
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Talia Favoa
Song: “You There” by Aquilo
Performance: I’m a fan. A total fan of this piece. There is something alluring about this piece. Megz is amazing. I couldn’t take my eyes off of it. She and Edson were like one. It was so beautiful so emotional and it was like they were in their own little world. I loved the way they connected and they just shut everything else out. I LOVE that Megz wasn’t in a baby doll flowy dress. Love love love this piece. Grade: A
Judges: I agree with Cat. It was fresh! Jason calls it the best performance of the night.

Team Street
Choreographer: Luam
Song: “Commas” by Future
Performance: I miss seeing the dances dance in their own style. This routine really allowed their attitudes, their personalities, their swag to shine through. It was clean, it was wildly controlled, they all danced as one. Loved it. Grade: A-

Team Stage
Choreographer: Travis Wall
Song: “Beautiful Friends” by Helen Money
Performance: So much to love about this piece. Camera work, lighting, music, dancing, make up, costuming and use of props. It was so creative! I love how the dancers worked with the camera and the tricky camera work and lighting allowed the dancers to really look like they were ghosts. So frickin cool! I loved how the music crescendoed as they all danced as one. Goosebumps people goosebumps. Grade: A

Team Routine Winner (In My opinion): Team Stage

BOTTOM SIX
JJ – Team Street
Derek – Team Stage
Ariana – Team Street
Kate – Team Stage
Asaf – Team Street
Marissa – Team Stage

MY THOUGHTS
Asaf better be going home. JJ and Kate better be safe.

Twitter saves: JJ and Derek

Judges Save: Kate and Ariana

Eliminated: Marissa and Asaf
MY THOUGHTS
While a less controversial elimination, I’m glad Asaf is gone. Also, I kinda wish Marissa was staying over Derek.

Top Five Routines

1. Virgil and Gaby – Broadway
2. Megz and Edson – Contemporary
3. Team Stage Group Routine
4. JJ – Argentine Tango
5. Hailee and Ja Ja – Jazz

RANDOM NOTES

• Love Cat laughing during the intro of Asaf, “He didn’t do that during rehearsal!”
• Cat about Virgil, “Small but perfectly formed.”
• JJ is adorable
• This quote by Megz: “This piece is letting me be my true self.”
• Nigel: “Finally a shirt came off for a good reason.”
  Cat: “So you say.”

FINAL THOUGHTS
In danger next week? Derek of course, but I don’t know who else! It only gets harder from here people. My vote is still for Ja Ja take the whole shebang! Should it be noted all the dancers are rallied against Marissa? And Asaf is all alone? Good riddance I say.

So You Think You Can Dance: 10 Years of Dance Special Edition

So You Think You Can Dance is celebrating 10 years and 12 seasons.  They’ve promised some of our favorite routines, celebrities, and the All-Stars. I can’t wait!

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE

Ten Years of Dance: Special Edition

The show starts off with an All-Star routine choreographed by Travis Wall. Is anyone else slightly geeking out over seeing Allison and Travis together again? Everything I see them I always think of that moment Allison was eliminated and danced for Travis. The piece is strong and powerful and each dancer gives it their all. Not to knock the Top 20, but they are still learning and it’s easy to see why these dancers are All-Stars. They just give it that little something extra. It was great seeing most of my favorites, Travis, Robert, Allison, Alex, Brandon, Kathryn, Jaimie, Jasmine, Marko and I think that last girl was Jenna right? (Song: “My Tears Are Becoming A Sea” by M83).

Cat emerges wearing a beautiful dress that’s a party in the front and elegant in the back. It’s a gorgeous color accompanied by sparkly wrist cuffs.

THE FAVORITE ROUTINES

Nigel’s Pick
Season 2
Choreographed by: Mia Michaels
The Piece: The Bench
Song: “Calling You” by Celine Dion
Who: Travis Wall and Kathryn McCormick
Performance: Of all the versions of this routine that have been done before (with exception to the original with Heidi of course), this by far is the best. I still get chills every time Travis reaches for his partner through the bench, or he rejects his partners sun flower, or that leap. And I just love Kathryn she’s really grown a lot from her time on the show.

Jason’s Pick
Season 10
Choreographed by: Nappy Tabs
The Piece: Run The World
Song: “Run The World (Girls)” by Beyonce
Who: Jasmine Harper and Comfort
Performance: This was definitely one of my favorite pieces of the season. I can’t believe it took 10 seasons to have a female/female duo perform (or at least according to Jason, is this true?) The routine is just as sassy and as fierce as the first time I saw it. I think the girls might be hitting it a little harder than I remember.

Paula’s Pick
Season 3
Choreographed by: Wade Robeson
The Piece: The Flower and The Hummingbird
Song: “The Chainman’s Waltz“ from Memoirs of a Geisha Soundtrack
Who: Jaimie Goodwin and Hok
Performance: Hok, guys! Remember Hok? I do! I love that they brought him back! I haven’t seen this routine in a long time so it was really nice to see it again. It’s a fantastic piece. I love how the intricate moves juxtaposes with the simple music.

Cat’s Pick
Season 10
Choreographed by: Mark Kanemura
The Piece: K-Pop
Song: “I Am The Best” by 2NE1
Who: Mark Kanemura and Jenna Johnson
Performance: Great seeing Mark. I had forgotten about this piece and I actually like it a lot more than I originally did, I think. Also love the use of the song. This song got really popular and well known after I heard it on this show.

America’s Pic
Season 7
Choreographed by: Travis Wall
The Piece: For Travis Mom
Song: “Fix You” by Coldplay
Who: Robert Roldan and Allison Holker
Performance: Man, when that music swells, it gets me. Every. Damn. Time.

Favorite Routine of All Time
Season 7
Choreographed by: Nappy Tabs
The Piece: Outta Your Mind
Song:  “Outta Your Mind” by Lil Jon feat LM*AO
Who: Stephen “Twitch” Boss and Alex “Freakin’” Wong
Performance: I remembered going “outta my mind” when I first saw this piece. This is the piece that launched Alex into being an all-star even though he didn’t finish the season. I loved how the audience originally freaked out and the roar was so loud. When thinking about my favorite routine of all time this one definitely came to mind. God, I love these two guys.

MY FAVORITE ROUTINE OF ALL TIME
As for my favorite routine….It’s hard. I can’t pick one. There are so many favorites.  From early on in the series Ivan and Allison’s “Why,” to probably one of my favorite seasons ever, Katee and Joshua’s “Hometown Glory” or Katee and Twitch’s “Mercy, to even the group routines “Ramalama Bang Bang” or “Puttin’ On The Ritz.” There’s also Marko and Melanie’s “Turn to Stone” or the sexy “Misty Blue” with Jasmine and Twitch. I. Can’t. Pick. So instead, for your viewing pleasure…watch the routine I’ve been talking about this entire post!

RANDOM THOUGHTS

• Love the little mini solos of the season 12 contestants.
• Loved the shout out to Wade Robeson. Can So You Think bring back “Ramalama Bang Bang” again now?
• Cat told us this show as the launch pad for many artists and she is right. I discovered Regina Specktor, One Republic, Hozier, and many other artists from this show. I remember the first time I heard Ramalama I HAD to download the song and subsequently downloaded her entire album. Same with One Republic. When they first played their song “Apologize” on So You Think I remember being so frustrated that the song WASN’T ON iTUNES at the time.

I know So You Think You Can Dance has been struggling in the ratings, but I really love the show. Here’s to (hopefully) another 10 years of great dancing!

So You Think You Can Dance Season 12: Vegas Callbacks Part 2

Part 2 of Vegas week is here and at the end of the night we will learn who makes it into the Top 20. The judges will pick 10 dancers to join Twitch’s Team Street, and 10 dancers to join Travis’ team. I have my favorites and I’m sure you do too. Here’s hoping at least some of my favorites make it to the show. (Note: As always I recap the shows in “real time” according to the show.)

So You Think You Can Dance: Season 12

Vegas Week Part 2

The episode starts off with breaking up the teams into groups. I have a love/hate relationship with this event the show does: making the groups work all night to different types of music to create a routine. Yes it makes for some great drama and some great routines, but sometimes the routines are cringe worthy. Plus I watch the show to see dancing, not listen to the dancers argue.

Luckily this isn’t your typical reality show and the drama doesn’t last long.

Thoughts while watching the group routines and final choreographed routines:

• The first routine is super adorable, and it has my one of my favorite of the dancers Jessica…so that doesn’t make me biased at all.
• Dude if you’re two hours late for a group rehearsal you should be RUNNING into that rehearsal room. I already don’t like that Thomas just sauntered in like it was no big deal.
• I like how Derulo was all like “you guys are great” and Paula was like “you guys did a good job” but Travis and Nigel kept it real with saying they weren’t together (which they weren’t) and it could have been better (which it could have).
• I’m not a dancer…nor should I be…but team “Puts Black Duct Tape Over Their Mouth” had great music, great out fits, and a great look, and they were just a MESS.
• Oh man, Paula just used the word “eye sore” to describe someone’s dancing. YIKES.
• That’s how you dance to that song! à referring to Bloodline dancing to “O Fortuna.” The song that Team Black Duct Tape botched.
• Hi Sonya!
• Can a Canadian SYTYCD winner compete on the American version? I mean that just doesn’t seem fair.
• That sweet girl Antinina fought so hard. I feel like they should have let her dance for her life.
• It’s weird that there’s a tapper in Street and Stage.
• My girl Jessica is killin it. (Why do people say “my girl” she’s not really “my girl”. I don’t know her personally)
• Burmin “B1” is HOT. I’m glad his abs…HE… HE is staying.
• Asaf Goren is SO weird. And off putting. But for some reason you can’t help but root for him. Plus he’s a great dancer and he has such personality. He makes it through but it ends on a weird weird note. Sometimes things get lost in translation, I guess.

The Top 20 Revealed

Team Stage

• Edson Juarez
• Derek Piquette
• Alexa Meyer
• Moises Parra
• Kate Harpootlian
• Marissa Milele
• Hailee Payne
• Gaby Diaz
• Jim Nowakowski
• Darion Flores

My Thoughts:
I’m so happy my favorites Jim and Gaby made it. I’m definitely rooting for them, but aside from these two I don’t really know much about the other dancers. I’m looking forward to getting to know them.

Team Street

• Yorelis Apolinario
• Liliana Frias
• Virgil Gadson
• Eddie ‘Neptune’ Eskridge
• Megan ‘Megz’ Alfonso
• Burmin ‘B1’ Jusufi
• Alain ‘Hurricane’ Lauture
• Jessica Rabone
• Ariana Crowder
• Ja Ja Vancova

My Thoughts
My faves made it through, Ja Ja, Jessica, Burmin, and Virgil. I’m excited about the other dancers too. We definitely got to know the Street side better than the Stage side. As for the ones who didn’t make it, I have to say I’m glad Asaf didn’t make it, he’s just too much drama. And ss much as I love Standin’ O, I’m not surprised she didn’t make the cut. But I love what she does. Mary Poppins vs Ja Ja was a tough call as Mary Poppins was growing on me. But I’m always biased to Ja Ja because she has such personality. Thought it frightens me when she looks all dolled up. Twitch said it himself “Don’t let it fool you, she mean.” So glad she’s in, I’ll definitely be rooting for her to win it all.

Final Thoughts:
Overall I’m so glad this show is back, but at the very end Cat makes the announcement that one of the dancers had to back out due to injury. This scares me. But we’ll have to find out next week when the competition begins. Are you ready? I know I am!

Fall TV 2014: What I’ll Be Watching

Fall Season is here. Time for new shows, and time for returning favorites. Here’s what I’ll be watching this fall season. What will you be watching?

(*) = NEW SERIES

 

MONDAY

Big Bang Theory
Premieres Sept 22 on CBS
What It’s about: Three nerds, their significant others, and how they deal with their neurotic friend named Sheldon.
Why I’m Watching It: It’s hilarious. And the more Sheldon grows the funnier it seems to get. Plus I love the friendship between the characters. (Tangent: I don’t know how I feel about Kaley Cuoco’s new haircut. I think it may have a Keri Russell ala Felicity impact on the show.)

 

Gotham *
Premieres Sept 22 on Fox
What It’s About: Gotham before Batman. James Gordon Before Batman.
Why I’m Watching: I think it’s interesting creating an origin story about a man that may not be a superhero, but is a hero in his own right. Plus it’ll be interesting to see Comic Book characters we all grew up with before they became the villains we’ve all come to know.

 

 

The Voice
Premieres Sept 22 on NBC
What It’s About: Singing competition. Famous musicians making fun of each other. Red Chairs.
Why I’m Watching: Really, it’s for the auditions. I usually stop watching after that unless there’s some I really love. Also, I love the addition of Gwen Stefani and Pharrell. It’ll be good for some fresh blood.

 

Scorpion *
Premieres Sept 22 on CBS
What It’s About: Really smart people who try and solve crimes and save the world in really smart ways and with shiny expensive toys.
Why I’m Watching: They say it’s like the Big Bang Theory, but with crime. However it’s directed by Justin Lin which is exciting. It also has a great cast and hopefully over time it’ll shatter stereotypes. Also, Katherine McPhee.

 

Jane The Virgin *
Premieres Oct 13 on CW
What It’s About: A virgin girl is accidentally inseminated with a baby.
Why I’m Watching: Yes, I know the premise sounds TERRIBLE. But I’ll check out every CW show at least once. It’s a sickness.

 

 

 

The Blacklist
Premieres Sept 22 on NBC
What’s It About: Catching Serial Killers/Terrorists, I think…
Why I’m Watching: It’s just good. Though the middle of the season was rocky, the show has its moments. The highs out weight the lows, for now.

 

 

State of Affairs *
Premieres Nov 17 on NBC
What It’s About: Katherine Heigl tries to be a less interesting, more neurotic Claire Danes in Homeland. CIA, spies, terrorists, advise the president…you know, that stuff.
Why I’m Watching: As much as I hate KH as a person, I kind of like her as an actor. Seems political, seems exciting, I’ll at least watch the pilot.

 

 

Are You The One?
Premieres Oct 6 on MTV
What It’s About: MTV matches up 24 people into “perfect couples” sticks them in a house, and makes them try and find each other. Cue the drama.
Why I’m Watching: It was actually hilarious and interesting the first time around. The gimmick is a good one. Though I’m sure it will be less satisfying as the first as once the show has been going for a while MTV can only seem to find trashier and trashier people who would be willing to subject themselves to the torture.

 

 

TUESDAY

Selfie *
Premieres Sept 30 on ABC
What It’s About: A girl becomes the subject of an embarrassing video so in order to fix her image she recruits a marketing expert to help her.
Why I’m Watching: While not the most exciting premise. I LOVE John Cho. And I gotta support my fellow Asians, that being said, if I’m not hooked after the pilot or two, it’s the first to go bye bye.

 

 

The Flash *
Premieres Oct 7 on CW
What It’s About: It’s about The Flash. Google it. See Arrow for future reference.
Why I’m Watching: I love Arrow. I like Danielle Panabaker, and while I’m still not completely SOLD on Grant Gustin as Barry Allen, CW has so far done it’s superheroes well. Hopefully this one will be a little lighter and funnier than Arrow. We all love a good nerd story.

 

Manhattan Love Story *
Premieres Sept 30 on ABC
What It’s About: This show follows the beginnings of a couple just starting to date all while being privy to their inner thoughts.
Why I’m Watching: This wasn’t originally on my list. Until I saw the adorable trailer…oh plus Analeigh Tipton is in it. It’ll be nice to see her playing an age appropriate character

 

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
Premieres Sept 23 on ABC
What It’s About: As the so called head of S.H.I.E.L.D., Nick Fury assembled the Avengers, but as his protégé, Phil Coulson assembled a small team of rag tag “heroes” to help protect the community and the world against Supernatural and alien events. Now that Hydra has infiltrated S.H.I.E.L.D. Coulson and his team must find a new way to pick up the pieces.
Why I’m Watching: This show consistently upped its game until it became so good I couldn’t wait for the next week. It’s smart, funny, dark, clever, and overall a great addition to the Marvel family. It’s a keeper.

 

Chicago Fire
Premieres Sept 23 on NBC
What It’s About: Chicago Firefighters. Duh.
Why I’m Watching: It’s good. It’s exciting. It reminds me of ER actually, it doesn’t get too caught up in the drama of…well the drama of it all (*ahem* Grey’s Anatomy), and it has exciting scenarios week to week. This is one of those shows that keeps getting better.

 

 

Forever *
Premieres Sept 23 on ABC
What It’s About: An immortal man works in a morgue and tries to find out why he can’t die.
Why I’m Watching: I’m just going to check out the pilot. Just to see. I have a feeling this will probably be one of the first shows to go…Plus the CW show iZombie that seems eerily similar will probably be a better fit for my tastes.

 

 

Awkward
Premieres Sept 23 on MTV
What It’s About: The awkward trials and tribulations of a high school girl.
Why I’m Watching: Okay, so I didn’t really like where the show was going last season, but it’s just good brainless fun. Plus Beau Mirchoff isn’t bad to look at on a weekly basis.

 

 

Faking It
Premieres Sept 23 on MTV
What It’s About: Two best friends pretend to be lesbians in order to gain popularity, one of the friends falls for the other.
Why I’m Watching: It’s just good TV. It’s heartfelt, it’s smart, it’s funny. Okay, sure there are TONS of cliché’s everywhere, but it knows it, and it makes fun of its own cliché.

 

 

WEDNESDAY

Arrow
Premieres October 8 on the CW
What It’s About: The livestyle of the Rich, Famous, Heroic…Green Arrow.
Why I’m Watching It: Last season really upped it’s game. Especially with the Black Canary, and now that the torch has been passed, I’m looking forward to more women on the show kicking ass.

 

 

Mysteries of Laura *
Premieres Sept 17 on NBC
What It’s About: An NYPD Homicide Officer balances work and kids. Another Procedural.
Why I’m Watching It:  It looks funny. Like really funny. Hopefully it stays that way.

 

 

Law & Order SVU
Premieres Sept 24 on NBC
What It’s About: I deals with crimes and matters of law and order in the Special Victims Unit.
Why I’m Watching: Can’t stop. And apparently, won’t stop. L&O:SVU is always a background staple when I writing, cooking, or frankly just bored on a Saturday afternoon (my life is very thrilling if you can’t tell) despite my lack of liking the newest cast members…I can’t seem to let this one go just yet.

 

 

Red Band Society *
Premieres Sept 17 on FOX
What It’s About: A group of teenagers living in a hospital.
Why I’m Watching: Octavia Spencer. Hospital Teen Drama. Let’s do this people. Hopefully it’ll funny and bittersweet. Comedy needs tragedy.

 

 

Chicago PD
Premieres Sept 24 on NBC
What It’s About: The happenings of the Chicago Police Department.
Why I’m Watching: Though it’s a lot darker than Chicago Fire I love how the stories between the two shows link together. Overall it’s a just a great show, and I’m really digging Sophia Bush.

 

 

Stalker *
Premieres Oct 1 on CBS
What It’s About: Stalkers and the people that hunt them down.
Why I’m Watching: Maggie Q. Interesting Premise. Could be really creepy. Fingers crossed people.

 

 

American Horror Story: Freak Show
Premieres Oct 8 on FX
What It’s About: A disturbing, really disturbing, probably grotesquely disturbing, circus.
Why I’m Watching: I couldn’t make it past the 3 episodes of Season 1. Never watched Season Two. Hated Coven, even though I couldn’t stop watching it. So…why not watch Freak Show? Plus, I hear Matt Bomer will be in a few episodes…Love him.

 

 

Top Chef Boston
Premieres Oct 8 on BRAVO
What It’s About: Food Reality TV. But the good kind. In Boston.
Why I’m Watching: I’m a foodie.

 

 

 

THURSDAY

Grey’s Anatomy
Premieres Sept 25 on ABC
What It’s About: Doctors in a hospital. And their lives. And drama in the hospital as doctors.
Why I’m Watching: When Grey’s is good. It’s really good. But last year it focused more on personal drama rather than POW (that’s nerd for “patients of the week”).

 

 

Bones
Premieres Sept 25 on FOX
What It’s About: A woman (forensic anthropologist) who looks at bones, a FBI man who helps solve crimes. Gross bone scenarios. Intense sniper action sequences. Married with a baby.
Why I’m Watching: Bones ended on a BIG game changing, fantastically directed finale cliffhanger. I can’t wait to see what happens.

 

 

Scandal
Premieres Sept 25 on ABC
What It’s About: Scandal in the White House. A fixer to the rich, and politically famous finds that she has become the scandal.
Why I Watch: It’s intense. Good soapy drama. It’s a lot darker than the first FANTASTIC season. Hopefully it can bring back some of the humor and of course huge glasses of wine. Less twists for the sake of twists, more juicy dialogue.

 

Gracepoint *
Premieres Oct 2 on FOX
What It’s About: A young boy is found dead in a small sleepy beach town sparking a media frenzy as homicide detectives try and figure out whodunit.
Why I’m Watching: It has a “The Killing” tone about it, and I liked the first season of the killing, until it left us on a stupid, unsatisfactory, frustrating cliffhanger that made me stop watching. I didn’t watch the BBCA series, so I’m looking forward to this one. A serial procedural with some great performances.

 

Reign
Premieres Oct 2 on CW
What It’s About: Mary Queen of Scotland and Francis King of France.
Why I Watch: I didn’t want to watch this first season, but I did, and was immediately hooked. It draws you in with attractive actors, beautiful clothes, and soapy drama. It’s good. I hope it can keep up its soapy twists without getting too outrageous.

 

A to Z *
Premieres Oct 2 on NBC
What It’s About: Boy Sees Girl, Boy Meets Girl, Boy Persues Girl, Boy Dates Girl…and so on…
Why I’m Watching: Cristin Milioti and Ben Feldman have great chemistry already in the trailers and I love these actors. It looks bitter sweet ala How I Met Your Mother.

 

 

How to Get Away With Murder *
Premieres Sept 25 on ABC
What It’s About: Shonda Rhimes and Viola Davis teach kids How To Get Away With Murder. Rather a group of criminal law students and their mysteriously brilliant professor get caught up in a murder mystery. Dun Dun Dun.
What I’m Watching: Viola Davis, Viola Davis, Viola Davis.

 

 

FRIDAY

Z Nation *
Premieres Sept 12 on SYFY
What It’s About: Zombies? Pretty sure it’s SYFY’s version of The Walking Dead, only maybe with Sci-Fi-y elements.
Why I’m Watching: See above.

 

 

SUNDAY

Once Upon A Time
Premieres Sept 28 on ABC
What It’s About: Fairy tales come to life and all twisted like.
Why I’m Watching: Every time I think it’s going wrong, it does something to drag me back in. The Frozen stuff has gotten out of hand, but hopefully it’ll surprise me.

 

 

 

Madam Secretary *
Premieres Sept 21 on CBS
What It’s About: Tea Leoni as the Secretary of State.
Why I’m Watching: I’ll probably only watch the pilot, but I’m mainly watching for Tea Leoni. Plus political dramas…they’re so hot right now. This reminds me, I really should be watching House of Cards.

 

 

Resurrection
Premieres Sept 28 on ABC
What It’s About: People who were once dead have returned alive.
Why I’m Watching: Though the first season as sketchy, it ended on a fabulous cliffhanger that leaves me wanting to at least know what happens.

 

Homeland
Premieres Oct 5 on SHO
What It’s About: A manic bipolar CIA Agent with a great ugly cry face. She loves a possible terrorist. He is and isn’t a terrorist. She gets fired and then unfired, blown up and not blown up.
Why I’m Watching: The last season ended with a game changer and I’m interested in seeing the show get back to its roots.

 

 

Revenge
Premieres Sept 28 on ABC
What It’s About: A girl avenges her Father’s Death by inserting herself into the lives of the people responsible and slowly but surely, brick by brick, taking them apart one by one.
Why I’m Watching: This is another show with another game changer. Plus Emily Van Camp and Madeline Stowe are just a pleasure to watch. Their chemistry is amazing.

 

 

The Newsroom
Premieres Nov 9 on HBO
What It’s About: People in…a newsroom. Their lives, the news, fast-paced hilarious dialogue.
Why I’m Watching: John Gallagher, Jeff Daniels, Emily Mortimer, Alison Pill plus many many more. This show is funny, so smart, and it’s the final 6 episodes!!

 

 

 

 

 

So you Think You Can Dance Season 11: And The Winner Is…

The time has come. It’s the moment the world has been waiting for. Okay…maybe not the world. Maybe just a few million people, but it’s the moment I’ve been waiting for and, come on, it’s all about me. Tonight the winner of So You Think You Can Dance Season 11 will be revealed.

So lets sit back, relax, and watch some dancing shall we?

 

 

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE
Season 11
And The Winner Is…

 

Cat comes out wearing an adorable purple dress…no…no…I take it back. It’s terrible. It looks like it doesn’t fit her. And that it’s made of a sick snake or something. It’s just terrible. You know what’s not terrible? The judges panel: Tara Lipinski, Adam Shankman, Channing Tatum’s Wife, Debbie Allen, and of course Nigel and Mary. Can I just tell you how excited I am right now about Adam “where the hell have you been all season because I miss the contagious passion you exude when there is a routine you love” Shankman and Ms. Debbie “you could be reading the phone book and I’d feel like you were soothing me after a long and terrible day” Allen? I’m excited. Let’s do this, people.

 

First up?

 

Top 20 Perform, ya’ll
Choreographer: Warren Carlyle
Song: “Doctor Jazz”/Jelly’s Last Jam (1992 Original Broadway Cast)
The routine is so full of energy. A ton of people are on stage so there is a lot to see, unfortunately, I feel like the camerawork is sloppy. They try and go in for close-ups and end up missing a lot of the action. I love Valerie’s little tap solo in the middle of the piece there, but did I miss Zack and Jessica getting their moment? (Ricky had his time to shine in the beginning even though he didn’t really dance.) That being said, I think if I had really been able to see the whole performance, I would have loved it.

 

Mary’s Pick to See Again
Jessica and Casey’s Contemporary Piece by Travis Wall
Song: “Like Real People Do”/Hozier
My Thoughts: It was a bit sloppy this time around. Maybe it suffers from the fact that I wore my DVR out watching that piece over and over and OVER again, but I felt like it was a bit messy and even rushed in certain places. That being said, it was still gorgeous and I love seeing Casey back. Hopefully he’ll make another appearance.

 

Debbie Allen’s Pick to See Again
Ricky and Valerie’s Hip Hop Routine by Pharside and Phoenix
Song: “Turn Down For What”/DJ Snake & Lil’ Jon
My Thoughts: I forgot about this Scarecrow vs. Raggity-Ann performance and I think I enjoyed it a lot more the 2^nd time around then I did the first time. It’s a lot of fun and Valerie seemed to be less tense than she was previously. Also, that leg wave is still a winner.

 

Zack’s Favorite Performance of the Season
Zack and All-Star Amy’s Contemoprary Routine by Sonya Tayeh
Song: “Europe, After the Rain”/Max Richter
My Thoughts: I love it when the dancers’ dancing is louder than the music. And I mean that in a good way. I don’t mean that I can hear them move or their feet hit the ground, I just mean you can feel the piece and it vibrates in your bones. That’s what this routine does. I also think it’s a smart choice by Sonya to start and end the piece without music. It’s much more affecting that way.

 

Nigel’s Pick to See Again
Rudy and All-Star Allison’s Jazz Routine by Ray Leeper
Song: “Dirty Diana”/Michael Jackson
My Thoughts: I don’t mean to sound creepy, but I am obsessed with Allison Holker. I just am…okay, that was very creepy. Hopefully guys in suits won’t come a knocking at my door with a big butterfly net, but Allison just kills it every single time. I’ve never seen one episode of Dancing With The Stars, but now that I know Alison is on it, I just might watch.  That being said, I think Rudy brought it harder this time. He was more noticeable this time. His jumps were higher, snaps louder, and he was holding his own against Allison. She didn’t eat him alive like she did last time. She may have just bitten off an arm, or a leg.

 

Next, Paula Abdul comes out…randomly…and starts giving this awkward speech. So awkward, I can’t even watch it and start to fast-forward, but then I see this shirtless kid take the stage, someone I don’t recognize and have to rewind to see just what the crazy lady is talking about. She’s introducing the winner of SYTYCD Australia.

So the kid, Michael Domeski, comes out with his black leather pants, and he just burns down the house. The music “Unstoppable” by E.S. Posthumus is as dramatic has Domeski’s dancing was intense. He flips, turns, rolls, jumps, around that stage until he burns a hole in it leaving the rest of us in the dust. It was definitely a stand ovation performance. No wonder he won. Damn kid. Just Damn.

 

 

Valerie’s Favorite Routine of the Season
Valerie and Zack’s Tap Routine by Anthony Morigerato
Song: “Sing”/Ed Sheeran
My Thoughts: God, I can’t tell you how happy this routine makes me. And damn, it’s such a work out. The routine is just so frickin’ amazing because it combines the three things I can’t do, dance, tap, and walk down (or up) a flight of stairs. So glad to see this one again. It just makes me happy.

 

Les Twins perform and it’s somehow adorable and not adorable at the same time. I don’t really know what else to say about it. I’ll just leave it ambiguous.

 

Ricky’s Favorite Performance of the Season
Ricky and Jessica’s Contemporary Routine by Sonya Tayeh
Song: “Vow”/Meredith Monk
My Thoughts: It rarely happens, but I think this performance was better than the first time they performed it. It just felt stronger this time. You can see how much they’ve grown. And I still held my breath throughout, even though I knew what was going to happen. It’s so haunting, so beautiful, and so breathtaking.

 

America’s Pick Between Three Hip Hop Routines
Carly and Serge’s Hip Hop Routine by Luther Brown
Song: “Senile”/Young Money feat. Tyga, Nicki Minaj, & Lil Wayne
My Thoughts: If I had to see a hip hop routine again, it would be the Zack and Ricky routine from last week. However, between the three choices we were given this skeleton one would have definitely been my pick. It was a little less boney this time around….and that’s all I’ll say about that…

 

Jenna’s Pick to See Again
Tanisha and Rudy’s Jazz Routine by Sonya Tayeh
Song: “You Need”/Bengsons
My Thoughts: Wow, Rudy gets to do a lot of routines today. Is it weird that I don’t remember this performance? Because I’m pretty sure I would have remember the song. It’s KILLER. It has an Imogen Heap kinda thing going on. Tanisha does this cool move on Rudy’s leg and I think the performance is coming back to me a little. It’s a cool routine. But definitely not a memorable one.

 

Adam Shankman’s Pick to See Again
Zack and Ricky’s Hip Hop Performance by Pharside and Phoenix
Song: “The Antidote”/District 78
My Thoughts: First, let me just say, I see Adam all the time at the Starbucks I go to, and there are many times I want to approach him like we’re best friends, but then I remember, he’s a celebrity and would probably serve me a restraining order right there. That being said, I love his pick! And I’m glad we get to see this routine again. I just love the look on Zack’s face when he’s doing that “I’m going to go and get myself some ice cream only in slow motion” move while Ricky is doing Channing Tatum’s worm move on the floor. It’s ADORABLE.

 

Cat Announces the First Person Who did Not Win aka 4^th Place
And, it’s Zack. He gets a loving standing-o. I think if I had to pick a 4^th Place contestant, it would have been Valerie…but I also would not have chosen Zack to win.

 

Tara’s Pick to See Again
Emilio and Jasmine’s Performance by Nappy Tabs
Song: “Get Low”/Dillon Francis & DJ Snake
My Thoughts: Not that the routine isn’t great, but is it weird that the best part of this routine is when Emilio jumps into the snake barrel? I just love it. It’s a fun routine. Nice to see again. Jasmine is so shiny. That’s all I got.

 

Jesse Tyler Ferguson comes out and is adorable. He pitches himself as a contestant for Season 12, but not before using the word “jidges” (Why doesn’t Cat say it like that anymore?) and calling Travis Wall his spirit animal. (Isn’t Travis Wall all of ours Spirit Animal?) So yeah, it’s cheesy and whatever, but I still think is adorbs. The fact that he said “jidges” he could have just stared in awkward silence at the camera for 2 minutes and I would have still loved it.

 

Top 10 and All-Stars Perform
Choreographers: Sonya Tayeh and Christopher Scott
Song: “Sweet Disposition”/The Temper Trap
My Thoughts: Man Oh Man, I gotta say I LOVED this routine. It was so perfect. It played out like a movie. The position of the dancers, the movement of the camera, the timing was SO SO perfect! There was so much to love. DOMINIC! (Everytime I see that kid, I think of this.) I loved when Robert picked up Ricky. I loved the flash mob sequence. I loved Will and Marko just killing it. I loved seeing the expression on Zack’s face when he was doing the tutting there. I loved the kissing shadow in the clock. I loved Dominic’s B-Boy move. There was just so much joy in all the dancers’ face. It looked like so much fun. As for this All-Stars, here’s who I spotted: Fik-Shun, Robert, Kathryn, Will , Jasmine, Marko, Dominic, Jenna, and Amy…Did I miss anyone? I also LOVE LOVE LOVE the little clap Robert does at the very very end then how he envelopes Kathryn. We he also the one kissing her in the background? This routine makes me wish I were a dancer. And I think it’s on par with some of the best group routines of the series like “Ramalama Bang Bang” and “Puttin’ On The Ritz.”

 

 

Jessica’s Favorite Routine
Jessica and Robert’s Contemporary Routine by Travis Wall
Song: “When I Go”/Over the Rhine
My Thoughts: I don’t think I realized how abusive this routine was the first time around. If possible I think the routine had even MORE passion and physicality to it than it did the first time around. I mean Robert nearly ripped the hair off of Jessica’s head. Just frickin’ gorgeous. (Those two statements don’t really go together…haha) I love the look on Travis’ face too. He was like whoa. Damn.  Exactly.

 

Cat Announces Third Place
And it’s JESSICA!? What the damn hell? I thought for sure it would come down to Ricky and Jessica. For sure. That’s a shocker to me. Is it bad that now my thought is Ricky is definitely…and should rightly so, take this competition? Love Valerie, but Ricky is the better all-around dancer. That being said, Jessica…I hope you come back as an All-Star.

 

Cat’s Favorite Routine
Valerie and Ricky’s Contemporary Routine by Travis Wall
Song: “Oh Darling”/Gossling
My Thoughts: First of all, I LOVE the fact that Cat was like, do you think you two could dance this routine for me because we’ve never had 2 finalists dance before I announce the winner before. And in the background Nigel yells, SAY NO. Adorable and hilarious at the same time.  Secondly…OH MY GOD this routine was miles and miles and MILES better than it was the first time around. I even teared-up at the climax when Valerie leaned back all the way to the floor. I’m pretty sure she was sobbing too. It was just so moving. I could really feel the desperation, the abandon, the passion the need the want. I felt it all. Just so gorgeous! Tears people. Tears. What are the judges yelling?

 

Cat Announces The Winner
Cat shows us the video of Valerie and Ricky’s time on the show and the last thing that’s said on the video is from Valerie, “I don’t know what I’m going to do without my partner.” Cut to, the two of them hugging and crying. I mean. You can’t write this stuff people. Tears!

 

America’s…Favorite…Dancer…Is…RICKY!

 

I LOVE all the other dancers bum-rushing the stage as Ricky screams. This is when So You Think You Can Dance is at its best. Feeling the comradery from the other contestants, the heartfelt moments, the bond. No other show has this. It’s not about the fame, it’s not about the money, it’s just about the dancing. And that is why I will always love So You Think You Can Dance.

 

Congratulations Ricky. You deserve it.