The Struggling Blogger

Hillary Clinton’s pledge of support for Barack Obama drew a lot of reactions from people around the globe, not only to the American populace. Her call for unity among Democrats to rally behind Obama’s bid for presidency finally shelved her own presidential bid for good. Such is an unselfish act. Although not really an American, nor am I in the land of the free, I can’t help but contemplate on these developments and imagine it happening in the Philippine soil.
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I saw it on the television today, Filipino comedian Michael V is the cover on Reader’s Digest September issue. I like Michael V, so does my kids. The guy is really talented. But I was still surprised that he made it to the cover of an international magazine…. Reader’s Digest no less.

Granted that September’s issue is their “5th humor special“, our Kabayan has bested who knows how many number of comedians from how many countries in the selection process. Only shows that Bitoy have it made. He was recognized in Asia as evidenced by Asian TV Best Actor Awards, which he believed was what qualified him for the cover opportunity.
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My favorite actually was Ram, in spite of the presence of the Kabalen in Jayann. But as most probably know, he was eliminated early in the proceedings of the program. Which leaves Gretchen and Jayann competing for the coveted title, and the mark of being the ‘first ever’ Pinoy Idol.

Obviously, I’m writing this blog as the program progresses and hoping to finish it once the final winner is already announced. While I can only root now for a Kabalen, it really doesn’t matter to me who wins at this point. While this ‘text votes’ thing makes the competition more interesting, it definitely defeats the purpose of a talent show.
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Tallan “T-Man” Latz is not your ordinary 8-year old boy, because he can play the blues. He was inspired after watching Joe Satriani playing guitar on TV when he was only 5-year old. Three years later and he can be seen playing in bars and clubs, including the House of Blues in Chicago. He even jammed with Les Paul and Jackson Browne. He is one blues guitar prodigy who has caught interest from all over.

Unfortunately, this boy from Wisconsin has more reasons to play the blues now. Why? Because he has been ordered to stop playing in clubs. All because a well-intentioned person sent an anonymous letter to state officials saying that he is too young to perform in taverns and nightclubs citing state child labor laws.

Isn’t that just swell? Although there have been suspicions that jealous ‘older’ musicians are behind the stoppage of the boy’s ‘gigs’ as clubs were said to be packed when he is playing with other musicians. Of course, nobody would admit to the insecurity for an 8-year old boy. That’s why it took an anonymous letter to tell the authorities.

Maybe the purpose is correct, of course without telling what the real intention could be, but stopping a child from exploring his full potential can be detrimental. He maybe too young for bars, but I hope the city would find some alternative venues for the boy to express himself… in the manner he would be most happy with.

Adults should support children, instead of just being another ‘hurdles’ on their path.

It took quite a while, but I’m glad it happened in my lifetime. Vic and Dolphy, two of the country’s comedy icon, together in one movie, a hilarious one I bet. The trailers alone show great promise of lots of laughter ahead in the full movie.

Okay, I may be biased, these two are my two idols when it comes to comedy. But hey! There are not few people who doesn’t believe in these two when it comes to bringing laughter in this otherwise hard times. I grew up watching Dolphy movies. Be it John Puruntong, Facifica Falayfay, Darna Kuno or The Quick Brown Fox - he sure knows how make people laugh. So is it any wonder I am excited in this next movie of his?

Vic Sotto came with his two buddies, Tito and Joey, via Iskul Bukol and then Eat Bulaga. They made some movies together which were hilarious as well. But he became bigger when he goes solo. Enteng Kabisote became a household word. And no kid in these times doesn’t know how to chant ‘Bossing‘ a name Vic is being called by his household help in ‘Okay Ka Fairy Ko‘ which became his trademark.

Pidol and Bossing in one movie, I’ll say it’s about time. My only disappointment is that they were not bringing along their trademark character with them. Wouldn’t it be nice to have Enteng Kabisote meet John Puruntong? But who’s complaining? It’s Vic and Dolphy, Dolphy and Vic. They may not bring the character, they sure still carry the charisma, the timing, and the antics that people would love to see.

Titled ‘Dobol Trobol‘ which is very appropriate as these two test each other’s wits. Both complementing each other’s style. This movie will definitely be a big hit, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that out.

It will be shown on August 13, so… Let’s get ready to rumble!