California Lovin'

Katy Perry's got some major competition! I really think that this version of 'California Gurls' is far superior to the original. In my opinion, dropping references to LOST and Star Wars is just so much cooler than shooting whipped cream out of your brassiere.

This Is The End

After the disappointment of the finale, I have to admit that I was angry. I didn't think that the episode was awful, but my mind swiftly dismissed any emotional satisfaction replacing it with resentment. The time I've spent mulling over theories with co-workers and friends seems to have been in vain. We didn't even get one solid answer. Although a small minority enjoyed the way the series ended (and in turn have produced some compelling recaps), I'm glad the guys at College Humor seem to feel the same way I do. At least I had my Dharma beers to help dull the pain.

Sweet Sweet Sawyer

By the time I write my post for Monday, the final episode of LOST will have aired, and I will be in the grips of a deep depression. My LOST withdrawal will most likely take two forms: theory discussion withdrawal, and hot man withdrawal. In preparation for that depression, New York Magazine conveniently created this video showcasing the glorious bodies of our beloved LOST men. Seriously - best idea ever! Now it's time to sit back and drink it all in:

Via New York Magazine

True Romance

This was a hard week for LOST fans. A collective "Nooooooo!" was heard across the blogosphere, so I was surprised to find this ridiculously silly video courtesy of ABC and the Cuse/Lindelof camp. I don't really get why the Muppets were necessary, but I guess I should stop asking for answers at this point. Regardless, it's worth taking a peek at, if only to dull the pain of our loss.

For The Love of Food

New York City's cupcake boom may be over, but cravings still abound. I eat a cupcake maybe once or twice a year, but when I do I'm overwhelmed by just how satisfying eating a tiny cake really is. However, I do have to take into account the mess factor, as I often feel like I'm inhaling the delicacy in anticipation of the infamous cupcake crumble. All crumbs, no fun. Jorge Garcia, better known as Hurley from LOST, may have just resolved my major issue with these dainty cakes. So what's the best way to get a perfect ratio of cake to frosting, and how can you do it without making a complete mess? Garcia provides the answer, along with a helpful shot by shot demonstration of the technique, on his blog Dispatches from the Island. Dude knows his cakes.

From Dharmaville To Springfield

Via Springfield Punx

Smokey's Pissed!

The Final Countdown

It's really happening people! The final season of LOST is only a week away, so of course in anticipation, I'm in major geek mode. Fingers crossed for the season premiere to blow my mind... I hope to end the evening with a Dharma beer in my hand, and a smile on my face. Regardless of its outcome, it's nice to look back on how all this LOSTiness began. It was that first critical event that made all the pieces come together: the now infamous crash of flight 815. A devoted fan created this multiple POV montage of the crash, that seamlessly links every character's perspective. It's really jarring to see it all sewn together so neatly, and it's a great way to kick off the new season!

Via io9

See You In Another Life, Brotha!

There's only 28 days left until the premiere of LOST's final season! The anticipation is killing me! Check out the Last Supper ode above... what does it all mean!?! I'm sad that my favorite Scotsman seems to be MIA, but let's just hope he pops in to say hello at some point. There's not much time for non-LOSTies to catch up, but ABC has released an updated version of "Everything You Need to Know About LOST in 8:15" for you crammers who want to brush up on your knowledge. It's quite amusing, though I doubt anyone who hasn't seen the show will be able to follow the insanity. Let the countdown begin!

Via Gawker

What Lies In The Shadow Of The Statue?

Scott Campbell's "LOST Showdowns" are just one of the many LOST inspired pieces you'll see on display at L.A.'s Gallery1988. I can't get enough of Mr. Ecko versus the Smoke Monster, or Boone versus the plane! Simple cartoons that speak volumes to LOST fans - the perfect way to get pumped for the final season. The exhibit runs until Christmas eve, so you better hurry if you want to get a glimpse of the action. Check out Flavorwire's interview with gallery owner Jensen Karp to get the whole story behind this unique venture.

Normal People Are So Hostile

With only a few more episodes of Dexter left until the season finale, I'm scrambling to find a new show to help me get through these dreary cold months. Sure there's always movies and cable, but where will I get my bloody satisfaction? That's still left to be seen. In any event, the fine folks over at Flavorpill recently highlighted some work by graphic designer Albert Exergian, who's been putting a pared down spin on classic television imagery. I love the poster he did for Dexter (pictured above) but he's also tackled a handful of my favorites from LOST, to Six Feet Under, Mad Men and Twin Peaks. I have a feeling the list will continue to grow, so check out his site and maybe you'll finally find that desktop image you always wanted.

Dude, Hawaii Is Totally Sweet!

I'm lucky to say that I've been able to travel to many places throughout the world, thanks to the kindness of friends and family. Even so, the most satisfying vacation I've ever experienced took place within the United States. Hawaii is by far the most scenic, accessible, and invigorating place I've ever visited. Maui's biodiversity is incomprehensible - in a few hours you can travel from arid desert, to lush jungle, to frigid mountaintop. It's no wonder that Americans have been seeking adventure, and love in this real life paradise for decades. My interest in Hawaii was first stirred by Elvis' idealistic romper films, but I have to admit that that interest flew into overdrive once I became addicted to LOST. Hawaii truly is the perfect backdrop for the show, with its awe inspiring views, and untapped mysteries. Every time I set out on a hike while in Maui I couldn't help but whistle "The Good Shepherd" from Season 3, and this week I found the perfect fix to satiate me until LOST is back in January: Jorge Garcia's blog! Yes, Hurley from LOST has a blog, and it's called "Dispatches From The Island." It makes me love him even more. He writes about everything from going to the Emmys, to his latest Halloween costume. Jorge is just as lovable as Hurley; he even posts an address on his blog so fans can send him letters. I wonder if a couple of cases of Apollo bars would sweeten him up enough to spill some secrets from Season 6...

Photographs copyright Laura E. Marcus

Sneaky Like A Hoser

After the success of my Members Of The Tribe post, I started to think about other groups that are in dire need of some recognition. I found Canadians at the top of my list. Most people think that being a Canadian living abroad is a snap, but I can tell you from experience that our presence in the United States is more complicated than you think. Sure, we pass as Americans for the most part, with or without subtle accents, but as invaders from the north there are minute details that can easily bust our cover. For example, there's the eternal debate over 'cutlery vs. silverware' - why would you call it silverware if it isn't silver? And who could ignore the fact that the only countries not using the International System of Units (aka the metric system) are the United States, Burma and Liberia. We're so similar, yet so different! In Canada we learn about Canadian history, and almost entirely ignore American history, a fact that agitated my American father to no end. Being a Canadian in the United States is like being the best spy ever: we observe, we succeed, and we do it all with your consent... your adoration even!

Canadian born celebrities have been part of the infamous Brain Drain for decades. Just watch old episodes of Saturday Night Live, and you'll see that a handful of their most successful comedians were from the North. A new generation of Canadians have infiltrated American media, and not only are they talented, but they're extremely attractive. Not bad, eh?

With Ellen Page's new flick Whip It! hitting theaters Friday, and the luscious Evangeline Lilly making LOST fans lose their minds, Canadian actresses are slowly seducing the nation. And who could forget the Ryans! Both Ryan Reynolds, and Ryan Gosling grew up before Canadian audiences' eyes, on their respective teen soaps Hillside, and Breaker High. It would be safe to say that they also have their feet firmly planted in Sex Symbol Status. So the next time you think about cracking a Canuck joke, just remember you may be in the company of some undercover agents.

Looking Into The Eye Of The Island

For those of you looking for something to quench your LOST thirst in anticipation of the sixth and final season, here are two little tidbits. First up is this amazing ode to Locke (pictured at left) by designer Olly Moss. Although this edition is already sold out, sixteen top designers and artists have come together to create a series in celebration of the show in editions of 200 or less - so you still have a chance to snag a bit of LOST memorabilia.

Last up is an oldie but a goodie. As a global phenomenon, I've always wondered how the show translates into other languages/cultures. I've definitely figured out one thing: LOST is wayyy scarier in German. See for yourself in this season one promo featuring Evangeline Lilly.

Breaking The Habit

I'll be the first to admit that when I get into a show I'll consume it 'til the last drop. I drank down the first season of Dexter in two days, and months later gorged on the first four seasons of LOST, but I'd like to think that my addiction never superceded other elements of my life. In this hilarious sketch by Saturday Night Live's Fred Armisen, and fiancée Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men) we see what could happen if I really went off the deep end.

[FunnyOrDie via Jezebel]

Back In The Day

When you're a celebrity, whether you're an actor or a senator, your past becomes an open book. Unlike us common folk who can easily hide that devastating senior photo, or that late night karaoke explosion, for celebrities their past is often documented and broadcast for all to see. Case in point these 90s era commercials starring Jeremy Davies (Saving Private Ryan, LOST), Seth Green (Austin Powers, Family Guy), and Paul Rudd (Clueless, Knocked Up). These dudes are hawking Subaru, Nerf and Super Nintendo - how totally 90s of them! There's a real sense of enthusiasm from these young actors, and considering the amount of success they've had since these ads first aired I'd say that enthusiasm paid off.

Titans of Tease

This year's Comic Con was the biggest yet, and although I didn't have the pleasure of wading through miles of pocket protectors and costumed Anime girls I am reaping the benefits - brand spanking new video gems from LOST and True Blood!

The first two videos were released at the LOST panel, and although they don't shed much light onto the upcoming and final season, they do quench my undeniable thirst for LOST during this horrible drought. We can always speculate about the upcoming season, and fellow Lostie MikeD made an interesting point about the teasers: if Oceanic has a perfect record and Hurley has good luck, does this mean that Flight 815 never crashed?!? Did the bomb really go off and was time reset? (I still can't help but think: when do we get more Smoke Monster!?!) Argh.

The last video has been making the rounds on the Interwebs this morning because everyone is as addicted to True Blood as I am. This video is just a taste of what we can expect from the second half of this season - not sure I'm digging Evan Rachel Wood as the Queen of Louisiana, but alas I trust Mr. Ball. And did anyone else notice the blond in bed with Sookie? The most hated hunk strikes again!