Creative Erection: Mad Men

I have to admit, I miss watching new episodes of great television as it’s airing live to the world. Maybe there’s something in the cultural identity where the energy level rises, the show’s community is abuzz and if you’re even moderately active on social networks, you’ll be privy to this information instantly. People tweet action during the commercials. It’s somewhat insane. I don’t participate in this, but I certainly check in periodically throughout the day and some person or publication is discussing some item of pop-culture. The long-awaited return of Mad Men, in its 5th season, begins this Sunday. I truly cannot wait. This show is a true kaleidoscope of creativity, no stone is un-turned. In it’s vernacular and vision, it is true to the 1960’s. From its soundtrack and score, to the costumes and character development, this show is compelling from episode 1. In the event you’ve been avoiding, resisting or inexplicably ignorant to Mad Men’s unprecedented genius, then let me respectfully request you UNdo your NONwatching and get the hell on it. Suspend whatever preconceived notions you have. Forget about whatever annoying person over-exaggerated their love for it, stemming unnecessary disdain from you and therefore creating a hardened wedge between you and this remarkable piece of art. All four completed seasons are streaming right now on Netflix. If you’ve got some expendable income, the DVDs are well worth owning. I plan to show the children I don’t want to have how impossibly great a few TV shows were back in the double decade of reality nonsense. My hope is by the time these fictional kids are old enough to appreciate the show, they’ll have so much great content to absorb because we’ve finally evolved out of our stupidity coma and now expect more out of the content we absorb. If not, baby’s watchin Blu-Ray whether they want to or not. Mother of the year.

Many of my twenties cohorts have a shared an affinity for the 1960’s. I’m unsure as to whether their parents are influencing this, if it’s that whole “nostalgic for a time we never knew” thing, or if they have unbelievably smart and interesting grandparents who happened to also marry in 1960, producing spawn throughout that decade and then passing on their years of wisdom to every child in their wake. In case it’s not clear, my interest in the 60’s stems from the latter. I have zero desire whatsoever to live in that time. Even the modicum of facts I gathered before watching Mad Men taught me better than that. You do not want to be anything but white and male during that period. Nonetheless this New York City based drama remains compelling, intriguing and immensely educational. The artistic integrity is astounding. Writer/Creator Matthew Weiner holds the show to a standard only AMC could uphold. Those who’ve lived through the 60’s to those who for their enjoyment became experts on the subject, most credible minds agree this show reflects that time in American history with nearly pinpoint accuracy. Some beauty and great story-telling don’t hurt either.

The show follows the life of Don Draper, an impossibly handsome man in his mid-thirties, a creative director at a powerful advertising agency on the Big Apple’s famous Madison Avenue, husband to a beautiful blond trophy-wife, and father to a boy and a girl living in a lovely home outside the city. It’s fairly common knowledge event amongst those who’ve never watched that Don is the king of the boardroom and the bedroom. He could charm the pants off a blind nun, making even the most prude, conservative women cross many moral boundaries just at one sultry stare. The man breathes sexy, seriously, and has a 5 o’clock shadow almost immediately after shaving. He simply knows how to command respect and admiration. You want to know more. He keeps just enough hidden behind the vest and showcases some brilliant off-the-cuff wisdom and truth that you just cannot turn away. The life of Don Draper is steeped with lies and intrigue, and Jon Hamm pulls every aspect of emotion off without a hitch. He deserves the respect and success he’s received. And then some.

Don’t worry straight men, there’s some goodies for you too. Nearly every secretary on the show is gorgeous, thin, poised and bright. But if you need some serious Jon Hamm caliber hotness then look no further than Joan Harris, the queen of the assistants. She carries a razor-sharp wit and a ridiculously stunning hour-glass figure, mirroring that of Marilyn Monroe, but with flaming red hair, deer like blue eyes and a very seductive voice and demeanor. Christina Hendricks has been named The Sexiest Woman Alive and it’s obvious why. She’s unusual looking while also exuding this classic, timeless quality. Her body is healthy and voluptuous, and more importantly, she carries herself with a quiet confidence that every mother should instill in their daughters. Goodbye heroin chic, hello genuinely beautiful, sexy women, from the inside out. Similar to Jon Hamm and the other wisely casted actors in this show, Hendricks is the real deal, carrying some serious, raw talent under exquisite physicality. Many I know well yearn for a Don and Joan sex scene, but it would probably be too much for the public to handle. One for the mental files, I suppose.

So beyond the visual spectacle that is the set design, lighting, costuming, hair, makeup, and actors, is the most important element of any piece of entertainment you’ll ever enjoy: story, writing, script. Every word of dialogue, including the silences in-between, are ripe with intrigue, intelligence and weight. From the way men talk to men, men talk to women, women talk to women, parents talk to children, teachers talk to students, and the Ad Men at Sterling Cooper speak to their clients, the conversations are not only reflective of the time, but also indicative of the care and passion taken by the very smart people working behind the scenes on this show. The depths we’re taken into the character’s lives and the pinnacles they reach, make you fall in and out of love nearly every episode. The density of egos and psychosis amongst the leading roles feeds the story in what feels like a slice of life drama, like a real story unfolding before your eyes. Each episode has the quality of a film, with the gift of seeing the narrative develop with increasingly engaging detail, week after week, and year after year.

In the recent months, I’ve re-watched most episodes with my brother, who is frantically on a quest to finish all four seasons before the fifth begins. As the episodes fly by, we’re both blown away and even more addicted after each one ends, deciding late at night to watch one more than we initially planned. Can’t get enough. Following these very personal stories as they happen, in conjunction with famous historical events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, MLK Jr.’s iconic speech, Malcolm X’s untimely death, the details surrounding the Civil Rights Movement, the pervasively relevant gender equality issues, and the impending Vietnam War, allows the show to weave into the fabric of the American psyche, the America that once was, and the American we’re still trying to become. This show is historically factual and therefore, educational. It is bold and clever, covering topics of abortion, race, adultery, divorce, addiction, sexuality and previously unspoken truths with grace and ease. It shines a light on a bygone era so many wish to return and by telling this quietly audacious story, we’re given a glimpse as to how far we’ve come and how far we’ve yet to go. We see our parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends and even ourselves in these well-written characters, recognizing many psychological constructs present in society today, within family units and our culture as a whole.

Every character shines, brings something unique to the table. Don Draper immediately went down in history as iconic and Jon Hamm will now stand the test of time as an incomparable actor, one who can be understated in a supporting role, and also a clear leading man. The level of detail expressed even in the pauses is the make of a truly talented actor, and beyond his inherent sexiness, Jon Hamm has the goods to back it up. As I mentioned in a previous article dedicated to what makes men empirically sexy, Jon Hamm falls easily into this category. Somehow he’s an even better George Clooney, showing us his innate knack for humor during his multiple stints hosting SNL, his major departure as a dimwitted asshole in Bridesmaids, and in his many interviews with comedians on podcasts and late night television. His casting alone shows the impeccable decision making by this very dedicated and accomplished crew. This show deserves every award and accolade it continues to receive and I have little doubt it’ll be remembered many eras from now.

In this 90 second clip, you get a bit of the show's mystifying intro score and a glimpse into Don Draper without any spoilers. Knowing the show probably makes it funnier, but it's good either way.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsJSRP7cZVo

Just as your muscles need exercise so they don’t weaken and atrophy, your brain requires similar care. Laziness, be it mental or physical, will show equivalent results. Stimulate those neurons and then some. Watch Mad Men, for the first or tenth time. You won’t regret it.

Anxiety with a side of Crystal Meth...the genius of Breaking Bad

Tonight I sit and stare at my DVR, reading through the info on episode 4-10 of the best show on television, Breaking Bad. I’m filled with a breadth of knowledge, a lifetime of memories, scar tissue and endless suspense, and a deep, psychological need to see this through, to satiate my built up anxiety, to whatever end I’m given. Never before has a channel been so bold, so unrelenting, and so innovative in the pursuit of story-telling. I could not be more engrossed or more dedicated to a show. I cannot get enough. To relinquish any detail would give away some of the show’s magic. Basic details: The show is on AMC. On Sunday nights. At 10 p.m. I already fear I’ve said too much. Oh well. The show centers around Walter White (played brilliantly by veteran actor Bryan Cranston), a middle-aged, married, high school chemistry teacher living in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Because of the travesty that is the education system in our country, coupled with the fact that politicians clearly under-appreciate teachers, Walter works a second job at a car wash, under a demoralizing asshole boss. Immediately we see Walter finding out he has terminal lung cancer, and his world begins to spin madly out of control.

Crippled with the daunting, patriarchal burden of providing for his pregnant wife and disabled son, Walter quickly recognizes the harsh reality of his situation, and swallows the big, ugly metaphorical pill when finding the only solution to his problem is cooking meth. For those living under rocks (crack or sedimentary) or other sheltered environments, meth is short for methamphetamine, commonly referred to as crystal, or ice, known for its generous helping of dopamine, on top of increased energy, libido, confidence and euphoria. Sounds fun, eh? Not too fast druggies, this shit is serious. If you want to lose your teeth, weight, attractiveness, friends and morality, then this is the drug for you. Otherwise, kindly seek something more natural, herbal even (yoga and living green have helped a few nameless humans I know). Suffice it to say Walter put his genius to work, to acquire a safety net for his family before this nasty disease takes his life.

Walter, wanting desperately to remain hidden and behind the scenes, knows he needs connections to a dealer, someone in a community he’s never known and only ever criticized. Through a series of events he finds Jesse (performed with genuine talent and devotion by breakout star Aaron Paul), a former student and trouble maker, currently engrossed in this very dangerous, dark world. After a few awkward, semi-negative conversations, they agree to partner up, each on differing sides of the business, with one goal: money.

Hilarity ensues, blah blah, people get killed, shit gets hectic, you know the drill. Nope. Not even. The only levity and break from the impending ulcer comes in the latter half of the 2nd season, with the entrance of a corrupt lawyer, Saul Goodman (could not have been cast better, the BB crew wisely choosing comedy great Bob Odenkirk). Better call Saul. Not to worry though, the sheer magnetic forces of the show’s writing, acting and directing will suck you in, mess with your head and heart and leave you for dead on the floor, battered and confused until next week. Better take some Xanax.

I’m not sure if I’m even able, through the limited availability of the English language, to adequately describe why this show is so great and why more people should be watching. The phrase God is in the details is befitting of this show. No stone is unturned, no piece of information left lingering. You’ll be sucked in by an initial image, ride the tumultuous roller-coaster for two full seasons to finally fit that piece in the weird puzzle you’ve built in your mind. The happenings in between are suspenseful, often times scary, and fueled by urgency.

Each episode, and season, builds, incrementally, on itself, and on your gut, until finally, you burst, into tears or into the hospital but either way, something’s bursting. This show evokes that kind of reaction. This is not your typical CBS, standard, one-note, predictable crime-drama. Breaking Bad has redefined hour-long programming, and even writing and acting in general. It appeals so deeply to your humanity, makes you believe, feel like you could be Walter, Jesse, or one of the very richly written characters yourself. I’m constantly amazed how the show has evolved, the development of each character and their dynamic within the plot, the attention to every minute detail which inevitably comes back into play at some point, boiling your brain and stopping your heart once again.

This show makes you feel, deeply, pondering the consequences of each action and reaction, each step, each word. It casts a mirror, allowing you to see moments in your life, significant occurrences like seeing your parents humanity for the first time. We all can no doubt recall these moments, with mom or dad, or a sibling, a close family member, even your spouse. Unfortunately and fortunately, we reveal ourselves eventually. You get to see all that unfold, and similar to other genres of art, it reminds you how to be human, and above all, triggers your compassion and empathy.

My stand-point on television is similar to that of any art you choose to absorb; selectivity, it’s food for your mind and quite possibly your soul. It’s nice to let the rapidly diminishing brain cells exit without effort, I know, but I strongly encourage those of you who think of yourselves as intelligent, thoughtful people, to require as much out of the television as you do from your furniture, clothes, handbags, and other meaningless “things.” Being impressive from the inside takes work, not just money, so exercise your freedoms and choose wisely. Breaking Bad will challenge you, and as always, you will not regret it.

As much as I love and need comedy, life is full of drama. I prefer to keep the drama inside that light-emitting screen and out of my very loving, cohesive household. Perhaps there is an inverse relationship between the quality of art and food you consume and the quality of drama in your life. Just a theory. In my life, it holds true, and I’d love that for others as well. Keep the drama focused on provocative pieces created by others to entertain, and not within the confines of your family. Evoke kindness from within, and explore the complexity of human existence without.

Save the drama for something other than your momma. And make it worth while. Spend some time with the great work on AMC, especially the likes of Breaking Bad. Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--z4YzxlT8o

Artistry and intelligence in motion: Improv Olympic (iO)

My name is Danielle and I’m a comedy nerd. I just walked out of a small, packed room, with a tiny, unassuming stage, to emerge high off of something I’m unable to pinpoint. My facial muscles are spasming from overuse. My very full belly now half digested from the 90 minutes of gut-busting laughter. My mind now a crock-pot of characters, accents, phrases, and quirky ideas. I yearn to contribute, I’m ready to experience it all again, but that moment is gone. The beautiful quality of improv is the main ingredient of presence. The memory will live on, but that magic will never be re-created and will gradually lose all semblance of sense in our brains, fading away into obscurity, with the rest of the days. Like a junkie aiming to regulate, or elevate, we must keep going back for more, more moment to moment genius, more creativity in motion, more antidotes to stress. I’m attracted to the element of danger and even bravery inherent in every improv actor and on every comedy stage. How will this go? Will there be collective moments of awkward silences? Could I be stuck in a room with dozens of others, all thinking the same thing, “I hope this gets funny soon.” You can predict the potential negative outcomes, but the positive, that's uncharted territory. You’ll find yourself laughing in ways you never have, often while cringing or even crying. There are many “pat yourself on the back” moments when an actor or the group in general refers back to an earlier scene, many many minutes ago, and you’re in on the joke. You get it. You’re laughing, for the right reasons. It’s, in a word, awesome.

I have deep, profound appreciation for every genre comedy emerges from, and each interpretation inspired by it. Stand-up has been a long favorite, most likely because of it’s popularity and amount of exposure. Being a child of the 80’s, my foray into comedy came from a decade that idolized comedians, hoisted them up on a pedestal with the likes of hair bands. These artists were catapulted into super-stardom, being given their own sitcoms, massively successful stand-up specials, many even becoming legendary film stars. If images or soundbites are what link us to memories, then Eddie Murphy in a bright red leather suit, 2 seconds of the Seinfeld theme, and Johnny Carson inviting a deserving comedian up to his couch are triggers from my comedic upbringing.

Today, being a stand-up comic does not get you as much money, as many fans, or as many career options as it used to, but it still garners tremendous respect among those with the knowledge and appreciation. I’d imagine the smartest comedians prefer a cult following to massive success because that forces you to stay sharp and creative, the most important result being respect amongst your fellow comedians. As a writer, if I’m ever successful, I prefer my readers to be like-minded people whom I’d respect as well, rather than hoards of mediocre, semi-intelligent fans. But we take what we can get.

Louis C.K. is one who’s created an admirable amount of success by staying true to himself, continuing to pursue his craft, while still appealing to only the smartest, impossible to offend people. Back in the 80’s, being offered a TV show on cable, not a network, on a channel like FX, would most likely look like a step down, a concession. Today, some of the best writing and acting is happening on television, on channels like FX, Comedy Central, AMC, HBO, Showtime and Adult Swim. I enjoy shows like Community, Modern Family, and 30 Rock, but I’d still choose Louie, Wilfred, Workaholics or Jon Benjamin has a Van any day. I wish more people felt the same. But the cult following does make it feel special, a unique piece of art you and other smart (nerdy) people enjoy. What makes you laugh says a lot about who you are and I take that very seriously.

Cycling back to improv and focusing on the rare occurrence of sketch comedy on the small screen, I’m majorly inspired by this form of comedy and feel it deserves slightly more respect from the masses than it receives. Genius shows like Mr. Show, the 90’s classics like the State and Kids in the Hall would struggle to survive today, leading to limited options for middle America. SNL continues to evolve, and their brilliant writers and actors are still emerging from the Chicago improv scene, but my hope is for more appreciation for Upright Citizens Brigade, Jon Benjamin has a Van, Little Britain, and other clever, irreverent, and purely innovative art making a name for itself today. And with that in mind I’d like to encourage not only my fellow Chicagoans, lucky to live in the best comedy city in the world, but all of you around this country of ours desperately in need of some levity. Times are a bit depressing at the moment. It is not the time to cut funding for the arts. It is time to get your big butt off your couch and into a comedy club, supporting those aiming to elevate our moods and provoke thought.

Improv Olympic (iO) is home to some of the biggest comedy stars you know today, from SNL, MADtv, and a slew of great films and TV shows. It happens to be maybe 100 steps from my apartment, so I’m fortunate, but even if it was 30 minutes away, I’d make the trek and support groups like Cook County Social Club and the Reckoning, some of the smartest, most talented improv artists this country has to offer. These people amuse and entertain you, on the spot, off the cuff, for pennies, because they love it, because they have to do it. I’m there and I yearn to take classes, to get up there, and perhaps I’ll finally get the courage one day. For now, I’ll support and pay my respect to the courageous, who give me the greatest gift one can bestow, the gift of laughter. And here, there is no script, no preparation, just rapidly spinning minds, firing funny on all cylinders. Part of the magic is the audience. We are apart of this story unfolding, so the dozens of us in a room are sharing an experience, a very unique and memorable one. Improv is an act of social chess, mental ping-pong, a collaborative sport worth exposing and absorbing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ikXRPgKtw8

Above is a compilation made by iO to promote CCSC. It doesn't do much justice but you can get an idea of their range and talent. When we saw Cook County, two actors were absent. We watched two of them riff a scene for 45 minutes about Don't Ask Don't Tell. It was incredible, we laughed til it hurt.

Please do not stop supporting the arts. And please do not overlook that comedy is art, potentially the most influential form. Maintain high standards, seek it out, drink it in. Enjoy.