Child Labor
When dealing with a problematic manager or supervisor, you’ve undoubtedly come to the conclusion that some jobs require no special skill. Like, seriously, a bucket of wet dirt could do the job better. But, since hiring mud is generally frowned upon, I suggest we put kids in these positions. They’d achieve the same results and […]
Hunting For Treasure In L.A.
The other day, I took my boys on a treasure hunt — an actual hunt for actual treasure. And as we crisscrossed Hollywood on the trail of [REDACTED], we naturally discussed aliens. Well, one alien in particular… Let me explain. In the film Earth to Echo, a group of kids discover a mysterious life-form and […]
Some Muppets That I Used To Know
During my visit to the set of Muppets Most Wanted, the upcoming installment to the decades-long movie franchise, I got to witness some filming on a completely closed Hollywood Blvd. Though I’ve seen many film productions, it’s still great fun to witness, especially when it involves characters that played such an integral part of my […]
Defense Against Misinformed Parenting Advice
When you’re learning to navigate the turbulent waters of new parenthood, you’ll undoubtedly encounter a lot of folks offering what they think are time-tested words of wisdom. Sure, these (usually childless) people mean well, but when caring for your first newborn, these bits of advice often do nothing more than exacerbate your already tense […]
Way Way Back in the Day
With a cast that thrives when charged with carrying a story without the aid of giant robots or zombies, “The Way Way Back” acts as a salve for those feeling bludgeoned by mid-air battles and fart jokes. It seems tailored for the indie film crowd. But, it also offers something else, something not seen in […]
This Metaphor Can Kick Your Ass
The latest movie featuring Marvel’s metal-clad hero, Iron Man 3, manages to do something seemingly impossible. It takes Tony Stark’s character down a more serious path without losing any of the inherent fun superhero stories should have. In fact, if Iron Man is Marvel’s Batman (both rich white guys with no superpowers but lots of […]
Caveman Love
Not all dads fall in love with their baby right away. There, I said it. Now, I can see that you’re reaching for your pitchforks and torches. Before you light that Zippo, hear me out. Dad blogs are full of images of new fathers cooing over their babies and expressing tearful joy over their new […]
In Praise of Mediocrity
As a father, I am not perfect. In fact, I’m so far from perfect, if I wanted to overnight a letter to perfect, it would cost me $46. David and the Vienna clan. So, while I do strive for perfection, I think mediocrity serves as a realistic short-term goal for me””mostly because I’ve already attained […]
