Our Philosophy
UPBEAT Entertainment
News has always maintained a rather
interesting philosophy on writing reviews. While we do NOT guarantee
any reviews, we do review all items sent to us in consideration for
reviews. UPBEAT is focused on delivering consumer-friendly,
positive content to all of our clients. We pride ourselves on
our ability to take the high road when it comes to
interviews/features and reviews. If we do not like something, we
simply do not review it. Our goal is to inform, entertain and
educate the audience in easy-to-understand terms with articles
that are insightful and uplifting. Okay, so perhaps that's not
the most popular stance to take. In a media-based feeding frenzy
where trashing artists is deemed "cool" and no one really cares
about anything more than the "bottom line"... we've erased that
line. The fact of the matter is— audiences usually pack
theaters for big action movies and lowbrow comedies no matter
what the critics say, and sci-fi and horror fans will march to
the nearest cineplex to see anything in their favorite genres.
So, why do critics bother with these films when their opinions
do so little to effect their fates [particularly in the face of
multi-million dollar publicity campaigns]? This isn't an empty
challenge for some sort of justification, or even a noble call
to arms; it's actually a genuine question. Readers already know
about Millar and Romita Jr.'s Wolverine and Azzarello and Lee's
Superman. They don't need reviewers to tell them anything more.
It's the lower-selling quality titles, both "mainstream" and
independent, that readers may not know about. Aren't those the
sort of books and films reviewers should be spotlighting instead— the
ones whose fates may depend on a few hundred additional readers?
As far as we are concerned, the point of writing reviews
is to write something interesting or entertaining. We don't
envision what further purpose is necessary. If other
publications want to crusade and rant and rave, fine, but we
don't see that as being remotely inherent to the role of a
reviewer. The bottom line is that we write because we enjoy
almost everything about movies: seeing them in theaters,
watching them on video, writing about them, talking about them,
and so on... we adore books and games and music... To all of us
here at UPBEAT, they're more than entertainment, but less than a
lifestyle choice. They can be a great source of passion and
pain. All art affects each of us differently, according to our
experiences, memories, and hopes. Writing positive reviews allows us to
offer readers a glimpse into our "reality", and exploring the
works of other critics gives us an opportunity to delve into
theirs. Reviews, therefore, aren't just global critiques, but
deeply personal statements that can say as much about the writer
as they do about the subject.
In a world where the media is taught that most artists
are merely "merchants of cool," and that art is simply a
by-product of ratings and an endless sea of award shows, perhaps
we all should accept and finally understand that maybe it's the
rest of the world that doesn't get it, and maybe they never
will. But, to quote actor Bill Murray in one of the best lines
ever uttered on film, "IT JUST DOESN'T MATTER!"... because we
love what we love and we prefer "recommendations"... not public
floggings.UB
The Tube File Column is
all things television... and then some. We give you profiles,
new shows...old shows, in depth reviews, industry info, insight and
detailed editorial analysis. The Tube File captures the very core of Network Television,
Cable Television, Pay-Per-View Television and all that it entails. Whether it's 'Leave it To Beaver' or 'The Practice', The Tube File
simply covers it all. Exclusive interviews with some of the
biggest and brightest stars in television today... Profiles on the
best new shows to watch... Information on all of the latest trends...
For example, did you know that network programmers get extremely aroused by pairing up members of different casts during sweeps months
for those ever-popular crossover episodes? It's true. The Tube
File also adds trivia and fun perspectives to the mix
integrating variables that can enhance your viewing pleasure. Are you a major 'Xena' addict?
Or just an old diehard 'Trekkie' with a bad attitude and your
own set of original Spock ears? Whatever your TV taste calls for... The Tube File covers it.
But more importantly, your secret television addictions are safe
with us, as we certainly have quite a few of our own... and
we'll share each and every one of them with you. The Tube file is an
intellectual romp, an informative ride through the exuberant "visual pop culture" that is television.
Some Cynical Guy
dares to take a much-needed poke at society... Some Cynical Guy is a humorous look at life through the eyes of a
self-professed cynic. Funny and introspective, ironical and somewhat farcical, the suburban "cynic" is a true purveyor of our collectively jaded yet comedic timing. In this
rather provocative column, Some Cynical Guy charts the many ridiculous subtexts, subplots counter-cultures and absurd twists of contemporary society's culture of irritating yet hysterical parody.
Some Cynical Guy's latest philosophies: Bumper sticker: If
God had intended us to vote, he would have given us
candidates. The reason that I talk to myself is that I
enjoy hearing a good conversationalist, and I appreciate
an attentive listener. Life is much better when
accompanied by background music. If you put glasses on no
one will ever recognize you. The butler always did it.
After all, that's why you pay him. In the world today, it
has been proven beyond the shadow of doubt, the truth is
no longer required. Success is all that matters and money
matters more than truth. But then again, how many people
really know truth from fiction? This is a column for all those fascinated by the state of chaotic reverence, critically amusing thinking, and the plight of the individualistic thinker beyond the next
millennium.
The publishers of UPBEAT Entertainment News Syndicate
publish material in good faith as editorial news or paid
advertisements and make no claims or endorsements for any
products services or procedures which appear in any of our
syndicated columns nor do the publishers accept legal
liability in response to any claims made against or
litigation involved with any/all material written in these
columns. Articles and opinions expressed are those of the
author and not necessarily the views/opinions of the
publishers. Reproduction of UPBEAT Entertainment News
Syndicate in whole or in part without expressed written
permission by the publishers is strictly prohibited.
UPBEAT Entertainment News Syndicate cannot be held
responsible for any unsolicited material.
