The Great British Overreaction

Now as I'm sure you get by now I watch a lot of TV... I mean a lot! I studied TV and Radio Production at university so not only do I love TV but the nature in which we as a nation/world use it is of great interest to me.

One of the few shows that has passed me by is 'The Great British Bake-Off'. There's no particular reason for this. I'm aware it's about as popular as One Direction at a teen girl's sleepover. I'm even vaguely aware of Paul Hollywood but I don't know if that's his real name or not. I don't dislike it. It's simply something I've never watched. 

However I get the premise; to put it crudely it's like X-Factor meets the Apprentice meets Greggs. It's a hugely popular show; good for the BBC! However it seems since 'Bake-Off' moved on to BBC 1 that it has adopted some of the controversy usually reserved for shows like the X-Factor.

Now I'm the first to get annoyed when the weekly controversies and sob stories unfold on X-Factor but it's undoubtedly great telly. The tabloids splash Louis Walsh all over the front page, Internet forums go ballistic and the Mary Whitehouse's of the nation phone Ofcom because "something must be done". Although it can be tiresome it is just as much part of the show as the contestants. How does this relate to 'Bake-Off'? Well the show has been under intense scrutiny this week... And why?

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...

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Someone took someone's Baked Alaska out of the freezer.

I'll run that one by you again...

Someone took someone's Baked Alaska out of the freezer!!

Someone stop the presses!! Was anyone hurt? More importantly was the Baked Alaska hurt? Oh the humanity!! 

Please remember I don't have an issue with the show. I don't have an issue with the fact that they have capitalised on a 'controversy' the way they have. Admittedly it's amusing that people have contacted Ofcom because someone may or may not have sabotaged someone's pudding. I guess the big question is how is this media frenzy any different than what happens on X-Factor every year? 

Maybe the fact that it was covered on Newsnight????

Yes you've read that correctly. The baker of the terminal dessert was interviewed on the BBC's premier political TV show. Let's not worry about what's happening in the Middle East or what's going on with the NHS. I'd much rather hear about someone exiting a reality show because their Baked Alaska wasn't quite right!

You may think I'm overreacting... I think that the pot may be calling the kettle black. There's no escaping the media frenzy surrounding these shows; it's all part of the drama. The tabloids will always generate buzz to sell papers. That being said next time your favourite singer goes out on X-Factor or a baker's dough doesn't rise on 'Bake-off' please consider the following...

1. Is this *really* worth phoning Ofcom over... I mean really??

2. Is this going to affect your life in even the slightest measure?

3. Is this worthy enough to make its way on to Newsnight?

If not calm down, have a nice bath and watch something a bit less controversial... I hear Doctor Who hasn't had any Ofcom complaints lately ;-)

Thank you and help!

I'd like to quickly take the opportunity to send a HUGE thanks to everyone who has even glanced upon this blog so far. It's only a few weeks old but I love having the opportunity to ramble about stuff that interests me. If you have read any number of my posts; thank you. If you have shared or recommended my page to anyone; thanks! If you have favourited or retweeted a tweet (here's looking at you Mick Foley!) then once again thanks! Now that's out of the way I have a couple of ideas related to this blog and other projects and I would really appreciate anyone who could help...

First of all I've been thinking a lot about the topics I post about here at Norris Approved. Originally Norris Approved was going to be about music exclusively but I decided to write about other passions in my life including TV, movies and pro wrestling. Some people will be interested in what I have to say about WWE while others will be far more interested what I think about the latest rock albums.

That's not to say that I'm not willing to check out other stuff to write about. That's where you all come in. 'Norris Approved?' (title subject to change) is going to be a weekly post where I watch/listen to/read something I've had little or no experience of before and at the end of the post I'll decide whether it is 'Norris Approved' or not. This is where you come in. Is there a TV programme or movie you love or hate? Is there a band or album you worship or despise? Maybe there's a book you've read to death or absolutely loathed. All you have to do is send me your suggestions and I'll pick the best of the bunch. There are three ways you can suggest something for 'Norris Approved?':

1. Comment in the box below
2. Leave a message on the Norris Approved Facebook Page
3. Tweet me @NorrisApproved3

I'll post the first edition once I've picked something and had time to read/listen/watch whatever I've chosen. So PLEASE get suggesting...

My second request is something not entirely related to the blog but it seemed a good platform to reach out for help...

My good friend Shaune Kimberley and I have discussed for a while now starting our own podcast. He's coming up to visit in a couple of weeks and we are looking to record a pilot of sorts to see how that may look. With Kimbo and I both wrestling fans we no doubt will have wrestling as part of any podcast we do. An idea I have had for the podcast would involve help from someone with ZERO knowledge of wrestling.

We need an open-minded person (preferably with a sense of humour) who has NEVER watched wrestling in their entire lives. Just to be clear it needs to be someone who has no opinion on wrestling either other than curiosity. Someone who thinks it is 'fake' and 'shit' despite never watching it will be of no use. Said person can be any age, sex, race etc. All that's needed is access to Skype (in order to take part in the podcast) and access to WWE programming (Sky Sports). If the podcast is ongoing we'll get you as a regular contributor as you watch WWE every week. If this sounds like something you (or someone you know) would be perfect for then please DM me @NorrisApproved3 or email me at mikenorris339@live.com. Alternatively if you think you can help us with our podcast adventure in ANY way please do the same.

Well that's it for now. Thanks again for reading and if you can help with either of my ideas PLEASE get in touch,

Mike

Dean Ambrose- future World Champion?

There's no doubt that in the 21 months since they crashed the Survivor Series main event, the collective members of the Shield have changed the face of WWE. It's been a rare treat for fans to see three hungry, young superstars make their own indelible mark on wrestling. Almost without exception wrestling stables are built around one or two wrestlers while the rest simply make up the numbers. Think about the Rock as part of the Nation back in the 90s or Randy Orton in Legacy. The Shield were unique in that all three of the members were showcased, highlighted (and most importantly) prepared for the future.

When Seth Rollins turned on Roman Reigns and Dean Ambrose back in June there were many doubts and questions. Was it too early to disband the group? Was Seth Rollins the right member to turn heel? What will become of the three wrestlers formerly known as the Shield? This writer believes that all three wrestlers have the ability and the opportunity to usher in a new era for WWE. An era that is less about kid friendly catchphrases and more about exciting in ring action. I would genuinely have no problem with these three wrestlers becoming the top tier of WWE as the likes of John Cena and Randy Orton hurtle towards retirement. As of right now it looks like Roman Reigns will be the first to get his hands on the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Since his stellar showing in the Royal Rumble the fans have been firmly behind him and his victory over Randy Orton at Summerslam seems to indicate further what WWE have in store. With Brock Lesnar as champ, what better way to build a new star than have Roman Reigns conquer The Beast at next year's Wrestlemania? Meanwhile Seth Rollins having possession of the Money In The Bank contract guarantees him at the very least a championship match in the next year.

But what of Dean Ambrose? I'd argue that while his rise to prominence hasn't been the most straight forward that in the long run he may have the most fruitful career of all three Shield alumni. My first introduction to Dean Ambrose came from a disagreement with Mick Foley. Before the Shield debuted back in 2012, Ambrose was pencilled in for a feud with the Hardcore Legend which was shelved when Ambrose allegedly brought Mick's family into the proceedings. While this delayed Ambrose's debut, it also surely must have created a small amount of animosity for the young wrestler from Foley fans.

Upon the debut of the Shield, all three had spectacular six man matches with the likes Ryback and Team Hell No and it wasn't long until Ambrose pinned Kofi Kingston to win the US Championship. However the title reign while long was quiet and uneventful- certainly not two words one uses for Ambrose these days. When the Shield split, I was somewhat worried about Ambrose. With Reigns flying high and Rollins holding Money in the Bank would Ambrose become the next D'Lo Brown, Ted DiBiase Jr or David Otunga?

What I discounted was how talented Ambrose really is. Out of the former Shield members, Ambrose has reinvented himself the furthest. Somewhat ironically given his initial confrontation with Foley early in his career, Dean's character and wrestling style harks back to early Cactus Jack. He's mentally unhinged and has no regards for his own safety. In the PG, non ECW world that is modern day wrestling, that's pretty unique. His matches aren't gorefests, they are just wild and out of control. His lumberjack match with Rollins at Summerslam stole the show and it was down to the hard work both men put in.

This next point may sound odd and is merely cosmetic but the ring attire of a wrestler is so important. While Roman Reigns is pretty much stuck in his Shield attire, Rollins appears to have raided Batman's wardrobe. Ambrose however appears to wrestle in his street clothes. It adds to his character. You don't imagine him working out in the gym or warming up. He literally comes off the street and fights. Out of all the Shield members, his gimmick is the furthest removed from what it once was.

Then there's that connection with the fans. It's very rare and only comes once in a while. Mick Foley had it. CM Punk had it. More recently Daniel Bryan had it. It's almost more satisfying than being anointed the future by Vince and company. Roman Reigns might have the office behind him but Ambrose has really clicked with the live audience on his own. The fact that #lumberjackmatch was the number one worldwide trend on Twitter during his Summerslam match shows the power that the fans have when they get behind someone. It might take a while but just like Foley and Bryan before him, WWE will have to react if the grassroots support for Ambrose grows at the rate it is currently.

On this week's Raw, Rollins curbstomped Ambrose on to the 'injured' list while he takes time out to shoot a WWE Studios movie. The timing is disappointing for me as a fan but it's a great sign that WWE have big plans for the Lunatic Fringe. Time will tell when he comes back and when he does one can only think that with the WWE Universe behind him that his first WWE Championship reign is coming in only a matter of time.

5 great movies to remember Robin Williams by

I woke up this morning to some genuinely crushing news, Robin Williams; one of Hollywood's greatest comedy actors has tragically passed away. The outpouring of grief across the Internet has been huge and my entire Facebook feed was dominated by Robin and people's tributes to a man who clearly made a huge impact on millions of people.

As someone who has suffered from depression and anxiety in the past, it is his struggle with mental health that has impacted me the most and how he must have felt in his final hours. A man who was a strong contender for "The Funniest Man On Earth" is no longer with us.

What really stuck out amongst all the articles and reports was a poignant quote from Robin's wife who said:

"it is our hope that the focus will not be on Robin's death but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions." 

In a moment of pure sadness like this it is easy to forget the sheer joy that Robin Williams at his very best brought to the table. So from one Robin Williams fan to another here are five Robin Williams films that stand as a fitting tribute to a true Hollywood great!

1. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

If you are currently in your 20s, chances are your defining image of Robin Williams is dressed as an old lady with his 'boobs' on fire. It's the perfect Sunday afternoon film and amongst all the hilarity there's actually a touching story in there, Plus it's one of the few films about divorce that doesn't go for the schmaltzy happy ending but shows that people can put their differences aside for their kids. Expect to see plenty of Mrs. Doubtfire clips on the news over the next few days,

2. Good Morning Vietnam (1987)

An Oscar nomination and Golden Globe victory still don't do this movie justice. Williams' portrayal of Adrian Cronauer is dominated by his trademark manic humour but also showcased a dramatic flair (more on this later). Plus anyone who has seen the movie can't simply say the title in a normal manner. So make sure you check out 'GOOOOD MORNING VIETNAM!!' if you haven't already.

3. Aladdin (1992)

To this day Robin Williams voicing the Genie in this Disney classic is probably the definitive celebrity role in an animated film. It was a huge thing at the time and the Genie wouldn't be half the character without Robin's input. Now it happens all the time but no one has surpassed Genie. It's made all the better by the fact that a huge percentage of his lines were improvised, leading the animators to having a lot more work to do than expected. A real treat.

4. One Hour Photo (2002)

A real departure from the comedy roles he'd become renowned for, Seymour Parish the mild mannered employee of a photo lab who becomes obsessed with a young family was simply chilling. There are moments where you don't know how to feel about this very mixed up and lonely man but it's the likeability of Robin Williams that leaves you really feeling for Seymour. Quite possibly my personal favourite Robin Williams film.

5. Good Will Hunting (1997)

How could we ignore the movie that gave Robin the Oscar he so sorely deserved? His role as psychologist Sean Maguire helped Ben Affleck and Matt Damon launch their respective careers while further solidifying his own place as a true Hollywood stalwart.

So instead of feeling down, I'm going to revisit these movies and be thankful that at least this wonderful actor was able to give us so many career defining roles even beyond the ones I mentioned here.

Nanu Nanu Mork. RIP Robin Williams

10 Reasons Why 'Guardians of the Galaxy' was awesome!

Anyone who knows me will be aware that I've been looking forward to 'Guardians of the Galaxy' for a long time. From the moment I heard the premise I had a feeling that Marvel (while taking a huge risk) may really be on to something. With a ragtag group of space criminals including a raccoon with anger issues and a talking tree it's only going to go one of two ways isn't it? Well I'm glad to say the movie is a rousing success.

I'd go as far to say that it's my favourite installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe so far. However I don't feel the need to post a blow by blow review; there are plenty of those scattered across the Internet. I should probably explain why I love it so much...

(I'd like to point out that while some of these reasons are genuine reasons I'd argue anyone should use to consider seeing the film, others are admittedly a little sillier. However I can promise you they have all genuinely crossed my mind either during or after watching 'Guardians'. Now is also a good time to let anyone on the fence know that my entire post is SPOILER FREE!)

1. Star Lord may be my new favourite Marvel hero.

Might as well start with the leading man. While movie goers and comic book fans alike love the likes of Wolverine and Iron Man, space outlaw Peter Quill may be my new favourite resident in the Marvel Universe. It helps that he's funny (like all the Guardians) but then again so is Iron Man. I guess what makes Star Lord work is that he is relatable. He's slightly bungling yet becomes the hero of the hour. Plus he has a back story that is just the right mix of tragic and mysterious. He's different enough that he stands out amongst the various mutants, demi-gods and superheroes of the Marvel universe. Chris Pratt's casting in the role (like the majority of Marvel casting decisions) is perfect and I sincerely hope he gets more big roles out of this.

2. Awesome Mix Vol. 1

Tony Stark may love a bit of AC/DC but Peter Quill has one awesome mix tape from his mother that dominates the soundtrack of the whole movie. It adds to the humanity of his character but also creates some pretty funny moments in of itself. I've been singing 'Hooked On A Feeling' for days! I'm even happier that you can buy the mix tape from Amazon. Excited much?

3. Batista is a revelation!

I'm sure if you know me or read other entries in this blog you'll know I'm a huge wrestling fan. That doesn't mean that just  because a wrestler lands a movie role that I'll think they're instantly the next De Niro. For example: The Rock in most movies= good. Randy Orton in 12 Round 2... AWFUL! I was sceptical when I heard Batista (or Dave Bautista) had been cast as Drax the Destroyer but how wrong I was. He played it so straight amongst all the craziness that he was arguably the highlight of most of the scenes he was in. His performance makes me forgive him for winning this year's Royal Rumble. Team Dave!!

4. It made me less worried about Star Wars!

Ok bare with me on this one. As we know Disney now have both Marvel and Star Wars on their books. I'm sure I'm not the only one who has worried about what the new Star Wars will be like. However 'Guardians' had a bit of an old school 'Star Wars' feel about it while feeling really fresh. Quill came across like a modern day Han Solo and the mix of species of aliens and distinct planets and civilisations had me thinking that Disney may not do such a bad job with 'Star Wars' after all. It can't be worse than 'Phantom Menace'!

5. I may now have a thing about green skin...

Does anyone else whose seen the film get where I'm coming from? Am I weird or is Gamora rather sexy? Yes there's the whole green skin thing going on but women with kick ass skills (think Black Widow) are hot. Plus while Zoe Saldana is by no means an uggo I think I prefer her with green skin. Right?? I'll get my coat...

6. I Am Groot

Let's face it. People who were sceptical of the film before it came out cited either the talking raccoon or the talking tree. Vin Diesel happily proves the haters wrong. Groot isn't just light relief but is an integral part of the film. His double act with Rocket (more on him later) creates some genuinely heartfelt moments and I'm sure people will have left the cinema more emotionally invested in a tree than they ever thought they would be. Incidentally if no one buys me an 'I Am Groot' t-shirt for Christmas I'll be so pissed off!!

7. It stands alone

While it's great that the Marvel films all link together (and I can't wait for the Guardians to integrate themselves into the Cinematic Universe more) what really stood out that on the whole the movie stands on it's own two feet. No cheeky Avenger cameo or S.H.I.E.L.D. agents tagging along behind. The only real connection at this point is the Collector who we all saw at the end of 'Thor: The Dark World'. There's a real confidence that these characters can sustain a full movie and that they are here to stay. Now they're established let's see where they end up!

8. Supporting Cast of the Galaxy

Yes the main cast shine but Marvel films do a great job of casting everyone outside the main heroes and villains. The likes of John C. Reilly, Glenn Close, Karen Gillian and Peter Serafinowicz all turn up in this film and for movie buffs like me that's always fun. In the case of Reilly it's only a shame he wasn't in it more...

9. Bradley Cooper is a raccoon!

The very idea of casting an Oscar nominated actor as a raccoon is ballsy and hilarious. It helps that Rocket is easily the most badass of the entire group. Watch a raccoon with a machine gun then come back and tell me that this film sucks. Rocket Raccoon kicks ass!

10. Better than Avengers?

Saving perhaps the most controversial point for last... After some serious consideration I believe that 'Guardians of the Galaxy' is a better movie than 'Avengers Assemble'. I enjoyed both films considerably so you may ask how I came to such a conclusion. Simply put 'Guardians' had a bigger mountain to climb. Before 'Avengers' we'd already had films about most of the characters. We knew Iron Man, Thor and the gang and what they were about. The only unknown quantity was Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner. However 'Guardians' had approximately two hours to introduce everyone, make us care about them and establish them as a team. Against all the odds it worked. The movie simply had more to deliver and less chance of succeeding. The fact it did so convincingly simply makes it a better movie outing than 'Avengers Assemble'.

Like it? Don't? Need a poo? Tweet me @NorrisApproved3 or leave a message on my Facebook page. Until next time...