Carrie, Mike, and the Kitchen Sink

Trying to fit three subjects into one gripe...well, let's see how this goes.

First, if you can grab a hold of Carrie Underwood's latest album, "Carnival Ride", you are in for one heck of a ride (no pun intended). In the few short years since she won "American Idol", Carrie has become one of the greatest young entertainers since Celine Dion burst onto the scene in the 1980s. Carrie has won every single major music award, and her powerful vocals on this album are proof positive that she is definitely the next Celine. I have heard several tracks from this album, including her latest single, "Just A Dream". With all that star power behind her, she is poised to be truly a legend. And she's only 25! By the way, and for the record, she's been on "Saturday Night Live" twice--I didn't see them, simply because she didn't appear in any sketches. But wouldn't it be nice if she did on her next appearance? Or even host the show? Anyway, somewhere on the Internet she has a blog site of her own to communicate with her fans, so do your searching and check it out. Also check out her latest album.

Next, a little salute to a good friend who I (and other Superman movie fans) have had the pleasure of doing an Internet chat session some years back. Mike Matessino is truly one to help the cause of preserving movie soundtracks and contribute his input on major LaserDisc and DVD releases. Some time back, I had the opportunity to see the documentary on the "re"-making of "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" Director's Edition. Mike has helped to bring the first "Star Trek" movie its continuing cult status nearly 30 years after its original release. His work on numerous video re-issues of "The Sound of Music" and others has been substantial. His soundtrack work is no exception. His latest project, of course, is the reissue of the scores to all four Christopher Reeve "Superman" movies, compiled together into a box set, "Superman: The Music". The first edition was a sell-out, and the second edition, due out very shortly, promises to do just as well. I have yet to bring myself to get a copy, but when I do, it will be worth waiting for. Oh, did I mention I still have the 2000 Rhino 2-CD reissue which Mike also helped to produce? I have no intention of letting it go on eBay...not for all the rice in China! Hopefully for a future blog I'll ask Mike what would be the one soundtrack or DVD project he'd like to tackle the most.

Finally, and here's the "Kitchen Sink"..."Juno". This award-winning but highly overlooked film is a must-see. It's not to be seen for the plot (a troubled teenager gets pregnant and wants to give away her baby), but for the quirkiness and funny moments that make this a great film. Ellen Page (in the title role) really takes on teenage life to the hilt! The supporting cast (headed by Jason Bateman and Jennifer Garner) helps to propel the story. I'd check it out tonight, if I were you.

Whew! Three gripes in one. Never thought I'd get that far. See ya later.