Blogamole ›

By Michael Lopez

In today’s world, being multilingual is a huge asset. It can help increase your employment opportunities, open the lines of communication and save you from having to read subtitles for such amazing films as Biutiful. Although learning a new language can be difficult, Susanna Zaraysky’s book Language Is Music makes it a lot less painful and a lot more fun! Susanna sat down with Blogamole for an exclusive interview to discuss her unique process.

“My philosophy is that you first have to listen to a language before you start speaking it,” Zaraysky said. And she’s definitely one to know. So far Susanna’s mastered seven languages, including French, Russian, Spanish and Italian.

And if you think you’ll need to bury your face in boring textbooks or overpriced Rosetta Stone software to get to her level, think again. Susanna’s approach relies more on pop culture than pop quizzes.

“To learn a language, I wouldn’t want to be on a computer,” she explained.

“There are a lot of English speakers who are listening to Shakira, who are listening to Juanes, who are listening to music in Spanish. If they were to listen to it with the purpose of later on learning Spanish, it would help them a lot because they’ll pick up words without even realizing it.”

Language Is Music offers more than 70 different tips on how music, TV and film could help you stretch beyond your native tongue, including switching your iPad menu to a different language or listening to a foreign news broadcast.

Which music artists make the best idioma instructors?

“I try not to recommend artists too much because different people have different styles," Susanna said. "Although I really love Marc Anthony because he has really good elocution.”

We got plenty of other interesting techniques out of Susanna, but we’d hate to spoil the fun of reading the entire book. Visit her website for more tidbits on how to expand your worldwide vocabulary, and don't forget to add Language Is Music to your cart while you’re there.

What’s the next language that you’d like to learn? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Books, Cultura, Education, Exclusive Entrevistas, Language Is Music, Languages, Susanna Zaraysky

By Michael Lopez

The hotly anticipated I Am Number Four movie may still be a few weeks from release, but that didn’t stop us from finding out about the explosions, secrets and high-flying stunts happening on set. This month, we sat down exclusively with stars Alex Pettyfer, Teresa Palmer and Dianna Agron for all kinds of behind-the-scenes details.

Based on a popular book of the same name, I Am Number Four has been described as a Twilight meets Terminator teen angst action fest. Lead character John Smith (aka Number Four) came to Earth from another world and is now on the run from deadly Mogadorian aliens.

British up-and-comer Alex Pettyfer stars as Smith, bringing a strong brooding presence to the role.

“I just look for great stories," he said about playing a teen from outer space. "[John’s] just a guy trying to find his destiny. Trying to find out who he is.”

Australian actress Teresa Palmer plays someone from John’s home planet, though for a good part of the movie you’re not quite sure who.

“There’s definitely something mysterious about her,” Teresa said. “Could she be one of the good guys or one of the bad guys? I like that!”

Dianna Agron, who plays John’s Earth girl love interest, may be more recognizable to American audiences for her role as Quinn on Glee. But don’t expect her Sarah character to wear any cheerleading uniforms. In Number Four, she’s much more introspective and even somewhat of an outcast.

“It was a real chance to step into a different world,” said Dianna.

Unlike at McKinley High, special effects play a huge role in this film, something Dianna had a tough time adjusting to.

“There was a certain challenge to it,” she explained. “It was just amazing, the effects and what they accomplished.”

We can certainly attest to that. We’ve already seen an advanced copy of I Am Number Four, and you can bet we’ll give you all the juicy details about the crazy mutant beasts flying out of the sky in our upcoming review. The film opens Friday, Feb. 18. Be sure to check Blogamole for our in-depth review!

Are you excited about I Am Number Four? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Alex Pettyfer, Dianna Agron, Exclusive Entrevistas, glee, Hot Stuff, I Am Number Four, Movies, Teresa Palmer

By Michael Lopez

February is almost here and love is in the air, at least for onscreen perritos Chloe and Papi. Yup, even though they’re now on the direct-to-DVD circuit, Disney’s popular Beverly Hills Chihuahuas are back and bringing a batch of cute pups along with them. Tuesday, Feb. 1, marks the video release of Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 and we’ve got a brand new review.

When a film sequel gets the straight-to-DVD treatment, you’re going to lose a few things. Gone are the big budgets and exotic locales (sorry, no trips to Tijuana this time), as well as the A-list cast members you know and love. Drew Barrymore, Andy Garcia, and Jamie Lee Curtis did not return for Chihuahua 2, but Papi’s distinctive George Lopez growl is back in fine form.

So, even though there are some cutbacks in the aesthetics department, Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 hasn’t lost any of the franchise’s trademark heart. Great for the 5 to 10-year-old set, this family-friendly romp’s got comedy, romance and plenty of impressive four-legged tricks.

As the story begins, Papi (voiced by George Lopez) and Chloe (voiced by Odette Yustman) bark down the aisle at a cutesy canine wedding. Flash forward a few months and they’ve expanded their brood to include five adorable pocket-sized puppies. George’s Papi spins some hilarious yarns to the little ones about ancient “Chihuahua Warriors,” complete with flashbacks of Aztec yappers.

Marcus Coloma, Erin Cahill and legendary Latina actress Lupe Ontiveros round out the human cast, who look after the pups. Of course, the story wouldn’t be any fun without some exciting subplots featuring dog show villains, clumsy robbers and nasty bankers looking to repossess Papi’s pad.

Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 may seem a little tedious for the teenage crowd, but kids and parents are sure to love it. The DVD also includes bloopers, interactive games and a music video from Disney Channel star Bridgit Mendler. Of course, the true scene stealers are the “Chihuahua Warriors.” Hopefully they’ll get even more screen time in Part 3.

Were you a fan of Beverly Hills Chihuahua? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Beverly Hills Chihuahua, Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2, George Lopez, Lupe Ontiveros, Movie Reviews, Movies, Odette Yustman

By Michael Lopez

Even though the fall TV season is roughly eight months away, casting agents are frantically lining up the small screen’s next batch of hot young stars. One series that seems to be generating quite a bit of buzz is the reboot of the 1970s classic Charlie’s Angels. So far, two of the lady leads have been confirmed and Dominican actress Dania Ramirez may be in the running to fill the third slot.

Known for her roles in Entourage, The Sopranos and Heroes (for which she was nominated for an ALMA Award), Dania’s been known to be both tender and tough onscreen, traits that should come in handy when she signs on to Charlie’s team.

According to TV Squad, a makeup artist on the Angels set leaked Dania casting rumors late last week. Since then, two of the leads have been confirmed — General Hospital star Annie Ilonzeh and Friday Night Lights headliner Minka Kelly. That still leaves an opening for Angel No. 3.

Though Transformers actress Rachael Taylor has also been rumored to be the third Angel, we’re holding out hope for Dania. We think she'll make a spectacular Marisa Valdez.

Would you watch the new Charlie’s Angels TV show? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Annie Ilonzeh, Charlie's Angels, Dania Ramirez, Hot Stuff, Minka Kelly, Rachael Taylor, Television

By Michael Lopez

It happens every season. Somewhere in the audition process, American Idol viewers find one contender that they immediately fall in love with. Whether it was nerd-turned-crooner Clay Aiken or sweet-faced Sanjaya Malakar, there is always that “one” people can’t stop talking about. This year, Chicago native Chris Medina is filling that role, not only for his singing abilities, but for his heartfelt backstory.

Chris’ story is steeped in tragedy and inspiration. During his audition, Medina explained how his fiancé and girlfriend of eight years, Juliana Ramos, was involved in a devastating car accident two years ago that left her with severe brain damage.

Through it all, Chris remained by Juliana’s side, helping to care for her and her mother. Now confined to a wheelchair, Medina brought his fiancé to the audition and was right beside her when he got the news that he was advancing.

“Nice kid, he sang great!” Idol judge Randy Jackson said.

And what was the song that captured Steven, Randy and J.Lo’s hearts? None other than “Break Even” by The Script. A very emotional track about pain and heartache, Chris captured its essence perfectly. So much so that Script guitarist Mark Sheehan tweeted his approval:

"Not only R U a major talent but U R 1 in a billion! Stay Strong, Never waver, This world needs more MEN like U. Peace+Love, Mark"

Do you think Chris Medina has a shot at going all the way on Idol? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags American Idol, Chris Medina, Hot Stuff, Música, Television

By Michael Lopez

Way back before Xbox Kinect remotes and Wii dancepads, electronic thrillseekers had to spend their time staring at green and black Apple II screens. Worse yet, the computer games of the early 1980s were oftentimes (dare we say it) “educational.” But they were still entertaining, so much so that two of the all-time classics, The Oregon Trail and Where In The World is Carmen Sandiego?, are making their way to Facebook.

Manufacturer Blue Fang Games hopes these old favorites will enjoy the same success as other Facebook gaming apps, such as Mafia Wars and Farmville. And they very well could. According to Yahoo News, web searches for Oregon Trail and Carmen Sandiego have jumped up to more than 500 percent in the past week.

YouTube trailers advertising both titles have certainly helped build buzz. Long gone are the shoddy graphics and drawn-out keyboard commands. The new versions of Oregon and Carmen feature colorful scenery, easy point-and-click features and plenty of the flair that made the originals great.

Based on the real-life adventures of American pioneers, the 1981 game The Oregon Trail let players take the role of wagon leader on a trek from Independence, Missouri, to the Pacific Northwest, providing great insight into the lives of 19th century settlers and plenty of cool ways to die (with dysentery being the most popular).

Where In The World Is Carmen Sandiego?, on the other hand, allows you to explore the entire planet. First released back in 1985, Carmen came with its own almanac and sent gamers on a globe-trotting journey based on geographic clues. And it was one of the first video games to feature a Latina lead character.

We imagine the new Facebook versions will be just as addictive and just as educational, particularly on the subjects of history and geography. The Oregon Trail hits the social network on February 2, followed by Carmen Sandiego exactly one week later.

Which classic video games would like to see rebooted? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3!

Tags Carmen Sandiego, Education, Facebook, Hot Stuff, The Oregon Trail, video games, Where In The World Is Carmen Sandiego

By Michael Lopez

When does a rumor become a full-blown fact? Earlier this month, we blogged about a potential love connection between Eva Longoria and Penelope Cruz’s brother, Eduardo. Though it was still speculation at the time, three weeks later they were photographed sharing a dinner at Hollywood’s romantic Café Was restaurant. Does this mean they are now “officially” a couple?

Judging by the pic PopSugar snapped, we’re saying yes. Eva seemed way too happy (and dressed way too cute) to be having a dinner with “just a friend,” as their reps like to say. Eduardo, on the other hand, tried his best to play it cool, sporting an oversized baseball cap and leaving the eatery shortly after his Desperate date.

Lately, Eduardo has had plenty of reasons to spend more time in California. Just last weekend, he welcomed the arrival of his newborn nephew at L.A.'s Cedars Sinai Medical Center. Could Eva be another excuse for extending his stay?

Longoria does have a thing for younger foreign guys. She was seven years older than her French-born ex, Tony Parker, and 25-year-old Eduardo is 10 years her junior.

Who knows, maybe in a few years they'll give Javier Jr. a new cousin to play with!

Would you like to see Eva join the Cruz clan? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Celebrity Couples, Chisme, Eduardo Cruz, Eva Longoria, Hot Stuff

By Simone Hilliard

When Katy Perry candy-coated her lady parts in the "California Gurls" video, fans everywhere clamored for a bit of Katy's imaginary candy land — and it looks like Perry got the memo. When Mrs. Brand embarks on her California Dreams tour this February, concert-goers will be greeted by the sweet aroma of Katy's pink cotton candy clouds.

"It's the first concert that's going to smell good," Katy told Rolling Stone. "It's going to smell like you're in cotton candy heaven. It's a fun little nuance. I am a woman of detail, and you will be seeing that — even down to the 15 outfit changes I'm doing in concert."

The Teenage Dream singer will be the first to incorporate smell-o-vision into her 95-date tour that will take her throughout Europe, Japan, Australia and the U.S.

"I just really want to raise the bar," Perry said. "Touring is no longer an ordinary thing where you play an instrument in jeans and a T-shirt. It has some pizazz these days, and I'm definitely bringing the pizazz with a lot of bells and whistles."

Katy has certainly grown since her 2008 Warped Tour days. We can't wait to see and smell what she has in store!

Will you attend Katy's California Dreams tour? Let us know in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags California Dreams, Katy Perry, Teenage Dream

By Simone Hilliard

Is Kristen Stewart the "fairest of them all?" According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Twilight teen queen is being courted to play the title role in Snow White and the Huntsman along with fellow contenders Riley Keough, Felicity Jones, Alicia Vikander and Emily Browning.

While we're sure Stewart's gig as Bella Swan makes her a top pick, we have to wonder why K-Stew would return to the PG realm once Breaking Dawn is complete. Throughout her Twilight career, Kristen's made an effort to play off-character roles in such indie flicks as The Runaways and The Yellow Hankerchief, so taking on yet another puff princess/damsel in distress role seems like an unlikely next step.

However, now that A-listers Viggo Mortensen and Charlize Theron are in negotiations to play the roles of the huntsman and evil queen, their involvement may entice Stewart to join the live-action fairy tale. Like Kristen, Viggo made his mainstream breakthrough starring as Aragorn in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

We think Stewart could have a great opportunity to shine as Snow White.

Do you think Stewart should play Snow White? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Alicia Vikander, Breaking Dawn, Charlize Theron, Emily Browning, Felicity Jones, Kristen Stewart, Riley Keough, Snow White And The Huntsman, The Lord Of The Rings, Twihards, Twilight, Viggo Mortensen

By Sharmaine Jones

Your votes are in! The NBA announced the starting lineups Thursday, Jan. 27, for the 2011 NBA All-Star game.

The most entertaining game of the NBA season will be held Feb. 20 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, so its befitting that Lakers guard Kobe Bryant earned the most votes, with more than 2.3 million. Bryant is no stranger to the All-Star game — he's won the All-Star MVP twice and this will make his thirteenth consecutive appearance.

New Orleans guard Chris Paul will join the vet in the Western Conference back-court; the Denver Nuggets' Carmelo Anthony and last year's scoring champion Kevin Durant of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who is appearing in his first All-Star game, will man the forward positions; and the Houston Rockets' Yao Ming made the cut at center, but will miss the game because of an injury. NBA commissioner David Stern will announce Ming's replacement, but we're rooting for Minnesota Timberwolves' forward/center Kevin Love. He's well deserving after an impressive first half averaging 21.6 points and 15.7 rebounds.

Miami Heat teammates Dwyane Wade and LeBron James will represent the Eastern Conference at the guard and forward positions respectively, Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose will fill the other guard slot and Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard will play in the center position. New York Knicks forward Amare Stoudemire beat out Boston Celtics ' Kevin Garnett to claim the remaining forward position. Stoudemire was sure to tweet credit where credit is due:

“Thanks to all my Amazing fans, you guys have made this a special year in NY. All-Star isn't possible w/o my teammates. Thanks 2 my TEAMMATES”

Although we're excited to see the West avenge their 139-141 loss to the East last year, we're even more excited for this years Sprite Slam Dunk contest. Powerhouse dunker and rookie phenom Blake Griffin is set to contend, with the league's most popular player, Kobe Bryant, taking notice. Kobe tweeted:

“Got to say congrats on a break out game for @BlakeGriffin I'm watching big fella”

If Griffin dunks anything like does during actual games, basketball fans are in for a real treat!

Who did you vote for? Tell us in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags All-Star Game, Amare Stoudemire, basketball, Blake Griffin, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Derrick Rose, Dwight Howard, Dwyane Wade, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, NBA, Yao Ming