Food: Susan Shortbread Cookies

So, I had been eyeing a version of these cookies at Vons for approximately way too many months now and I finally had an excuse to spend the $6 for a Christmas celebration and they were as tasty as I expected. Like with most new found loves I tend to go bit overboard with cravings so I decided to attempt my own version for our office cookie exchange. These didn't come out exactly like the other version but they definitely have the not-too-sweet yet chocolately taste I can't get enough of.


Susan Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients
*1 1/2 c. packaged biscuit mix
*2 (3 4/8 or 3 3/4 oz.) pkgs. instant vanilla pudding mix
*1 egg
*1/4 c. butter or margarine, melted
*¾ c. hot fudge
*½ c. Pillsbury (or other) chocolate fudge frosting

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Combine biscuit and pudding mixes. Add egg and butter; mix well. (I suggested putting hands to good use on this one)

Roll into 1 inch balls of dough, place on cookie sheet and lightly flatten each cookie.



Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes until the sides of cookies start to firm up (be careful not to burn these ones) Let cool.



Combine hot fudge and frosting in small bowl and dollop on top of each cookie. If desired, freeze for 30 minutes to set frosting.



Enjoy!

Film: 1 Year, 100 Movies - November

December is here which means I'm less than a month away from completing my 1 Year, 100 Movie goal and am proud to say I am 100% on track. In other news, I'm also approx. 1 week away from graduating school FOREVERuntil I get my master's. Oh, and Christmas [baking] is coming and New Year's and everything. Yay!...



11/1/10: Due Date
You can read my official review here.

Bottom line: Not The Hangover, but not too bad.

11/4/10: Morning Glory
I love Rachel McAdams, I love Harrison Ford, I love them together, I would have loved them better in a more well-written plot. This movie was okay, nothing epic. It was a cute story that definitely had it's moments.

Bottom line: Without Adams and Ford this movie would have been worthless.

11/10/10: 127 Hours
Ok, so you know a movie about watching some guy in the same place for however many days 127 hours comes out to is going to be a little slow, and it is. Getting Slumdog music guy was huge plus for this movie and Danny Boyle's stamp is all over this one which definitely makes it bearable but a lagging middle was inevitable. That being said, this was pretty good. Honestly though, to the people who supposedly fainted during this film, "weak!"

Bottom line: Cut it off!

11/13/10: Megamind
This movie was nothing like I thought it was going to be. Every once in a while central plot lines slip through my brain's digestion of trailers and marketing. I'm not exactly sure how but it's kind of nice going in blind. Megamind is a really cool twist on a classic story, something I think usually makes a pretty good movie.

Bottom line: One for the adults and the kids.

11/15/10: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1
It's true. Hands down best Potter film to date. I'm not huge Potter fan, but I did spend last summer catching up with pop culture and my Potter crazed boyfriend reading the books and watching [some] of the movies. This one is great because we are finally out of stuffy old Hogwarts so the scenery and special effects have a whole new landscape to magicatize. Nicely acted and true to the literary version as usual.

Bottom line: I love Ron, Ron, Ron WEASLEY!

11/18/10: Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
Hey! A second Chronicles of Narnia movie! No my friends, a 3rd. Where I was when the last one came out? No idea, but I was hear for this and I'm glad I was. Apparently the hot older bro was exiled the last time around which was entirely disappointing since I had no idea but I forgot approximately 3/4 way through this one. It's got all the Narnia spectacle you could want and is quite lovely.

Bottom line: It comes out today. You may want to see it.

11/20/10: The Next Three Days
OMG this movie was so epic it gave me a headache in a terrible way. My worst nightmare (literally re-occurring) is me trying to get somewhere within a certain time constraint and stupid shit preventing it. Welcome to this movie, I couldn't handle the suspense. It was one of those experiences where you're like damn if i knew then what I know now I would not have seen this but since I did I will gawk at its coolness.

Bottom line: This is srsly tmth.

11/29/10: Love and Other Drugs
Another sideswipe as far as major plot themes go (two in one month, odd). I failed to look into this movie beyond who was in it and the incredible OneRepublic song they used in the TV spot so I missed picking up on it's central theme prior to viewing. This was pretty good. A little artsy, a little tragic, and a little romantic. If you want to see Anne Hathaway's boobs here's your chance as well.

Bottom line: This is no Princess Diaries that's for sure.

NOVEMBER: 8
Total count for 2010: 97

Food: Cream Cheese Fudge

Obviously, by my choice in baking endeavors I'm a huge sucker for cream cheese and chocolate so when I saw this recipe I knew it'd be in my near future. I have to say though that this may very well be one of those "too much of a good thing" situations. This fudge is ok but definitely a far cry from any traditional fudge I've had. I feel like there needed to be more balance to the sweetness (nuts maybe). I attempted cutting the sugar and using semi-sweet chocolate but I'd recommend going with the original recipe. One thing is for sure, a little bit goes a loooooong way because this stuff is RICH. Also, if you look at the ingredients this sounds more like a frosting than a stand along treat and that is definitely a great way to go.


Cream Cheese Fudge
Recipe Courtesy of Stater Bros. powedered Sugar :)

Ingredients
*6 oz. cream cheese, softened
*4 oz. squares unsweetened chocolate
*4 c. confectioner's sugar
*1/2 tsp. vanilla
*dash of salt

Directions
Cream cream cheese in bowl until smooth. Slowly blend in powdered sugar and salt.

Melt chocolate in microwave safe bowl and fold into cream cheese mixture. Add vanilla.



Pour into 13x9 pan and spread out to desired thickness.

Refrigerate until firm, at least 30 minutes. Cut into [small] squares.



Enjoy

Film: Due Date Review

Here is my latest review for the new R-rated comedy, Due Date. This is a big one for Zach Galifinakis in his first [co]leading man position and there is no one better for him to embark on the journey with than the awesomely talented Robert Downey Jr.

Due Date: GotchaMovies Review
Warning: This is not The Hangover

Enjoy!

Film: 1 Year, 100 Movies - October

Since I am on top of my game and actually posting on time (what?!), some of my October movies haven't been released yet. Because of this I'll be adding to this post after Unstoppable comes out, and tacking on Tangled to next month. As for now, here's the ones I've seen and can talk about.

10/4/10: Life As We Know It
There is no hiding the fact that I love chick flicks and this was no exception. I love Josh Duhamel (who doesn't? I know...) and Katherine Heigl, although not my favorite in real life, does have a charm in these kind of things. This was an interesting concept, commendably so, and the plot was well thought out. This isn't your traditional boy meets girl story and the film makers didn't decide to play it out like that.

Bottom line: I'd rather see 27 Dresses, but this was still cute.

10/7/10: It's Kind of a Funny Story
Not to be confused with It's a Funny Story, this movie is not the next Hangover. I wasn't duped, but apparently audiences were. Just because Zach Galifanfsdihfdusihg was hilariously retarded in The Hangover doesn't mean every movie he's in has to be that way. This is a nice story. The acting is good, the characters are enjoyable, and it just makes you feel good about the fact that your life doesn't suck as bad as some people's. It's a nice film about the human experience.


Bottom line: This isn't a movie for everyone, but if it's for you, you'll like it.

10/14/10: Jackass 3D
This was pretty much my first Jackass experience. I've seen maybe a combined 4.356 minutes of the show and none of the past movie. I admit it's kind of funny, then it goes to far, but hey that's the brand. Really though, I mean you know what this is and if you're going to see it or not. One thing I do need to note however is that this is one of the only 3D movies that has actually been 3D! I want shit (unfortunately in this movie that meant literally :/) popping out at me and that's exactly what they did. If little kids don't feel like they should reach out and touch, I don't think you can call yourself 3D.

Bottom line: If you've seen Jackass you know exactly what this movie is, if you haven't don't start now.

10/17/10: Red
This was is pretty good. It's hard to go wrong with Bruce Willis as a lead in an action flick. There were good fight scenes, good spy tricks, and a good cast. I don't know what magician convinced Bruce Willis, Helen Mirren, and Morgan Freeman to do a movie like this, but more power to him.

Bottom line: Retired and extremely dangerous...the cast or their characters?

10/18/10: Hereafter
Epic disappointment, OMG. I wanted to see this so bad. A movie starring Matt Damon and directed by Clint Eastwood, what could go wrong? nothing!... WRONG! Everything could and did go wrong with this BS. Slowest, crappiest film of the year. I didn't give 2 shits about any of the characters, the chick from Lady in the Water was annoying as hell and I still don't even know what this film was about. I've walked out of 2 movies in my entire life and if I'd paid for this one it would have been a third.

Bottom line: Tragically terrible here and after.

10/20/10: Unstoppable Release date: November 12
This was one comes with a built in enjoyment purely because of the cast. The story moves fairly well for a couple hours about one runaway train. It's not the best film out there right now, but it's not the worst either.

Bottom line: Denzel Washington and Chris Pine are in it so why not?

10/30/10: Tangled
I'm not happy to hear that this will be Disney's last princess endeavor (at least for awhile), but they definitely went out with a bang. Mandy Moore is flawless and this story has all the makings of a great classic Disney story. I can't get enough.

Bottom line: :)

OCTOBER: 6
Total count for 2010: 89

11 more to go!

Film: 1 Year, 100 Movies - September

I really can't believe it's already been 9 months since I started this blogging experiment. Only 3 more months left to go and I'm pretty sure hitting my goal of 100 movies in a year is going to happen. Here's what I saw in September, 2 weeks late as usual. Hey...there is something to be said about consistency right? 

9/1/10: Secretariat
This movie just came out a couple of weeks ago so there is still plenty of time to catch it in theaters, and that my friends, is precisely what you should do. They're calling this one the new Blind Side and I'm going to agree with that one on a personal level. I was dreading screening this movie. It looked boring and cliche just like Blind Side did. For those who don't know me I HATE horses (blah blah blah I know) and am not usually a fan of movies based on true stories but this movie is awesome.  

Bottom line: Inspiration and suspense, what more do you need? 

9/6/10: The American
This movie is the biggest waste of time I've experienced in a long time. The marketing campaign wasn't a sales pitch it was an out right lie. I'm pretty sure there is more truth in the Shamwow and Magic Bullet commercials than the preview for this POS. 

Bottom line: I don't like being tricked and neither will you.

9/12/10: The Virginity Hit
After I got over the initial weirdness of realizing I saw this entire cast at Comic-Con and they acted exactly like they do in this movie I realized how annoying that actually was. It's just awkward and not in a good way. I really have no idea who this was made for. 

Bottom line: Calling the number they gave out on those massive "Are you a Virgin?" billboards was pretty much more entertaining than the whole movie. 

9/15/10: The Town
Buzz about this movie notes the "crazy" marketing campaign they used with men dressed in nun masks and wonders how it could recover from such a risky move so beautifully. Here's the answer, straight from the brilliant mind of me: showing pictures of men dressed in nun's masks isn't that crazy and this movie is legitimately good. Screw Ben Afleck haters because you don't know actual talent. You can't fake directing skills like that.
 
Bottom line: The Town is the movie films like Takers can't even dream of being.

9/16/10: Easy A
This is one good ol' fashioned teen comedy. The situations are relatable and actually funny and Emma Stone is awesome. She's got the goods to go far and I think she will. This story is really about that fine line of not caring what people think and not standing up for yourself. It's a story not often told and I'm glad someone finally did.

Bottom line: A+! 

9/16/10: Devil
Uh...................... 

Bottom line: Shyamalan has done it again. Take that as whatever you want it to mean. 

9/10/10: Legends of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole 
You can read my official review here. 

Bottom line: Oddly violent, also I want a talon blade.


9/23/10: The Social Network

Man this movie is good. I don't like anyone who hates this movie, and I definitely won't be your friend on Facebook. Which, by the way, I'm using no less than before or think no lower of Zuckerberg so no need to worry about this film ruining your image. I'm not a fan of you because you are unattractive, not cause you're an asshole. All around this film was nicely acted, plotted and executed. Good job Sorkin and guy who wrote this "untrue" book that is for the most part backed up by the Facebook Wikipedia (yes, I checked) so I actually believe you. Don't be scared off by the running time, I didn't want this to end.   

Bottom line: Rolling Stone calls it "The best movie of the year, that also defines a generation," so do I.

9/26/10: You Again
This movie is actually really laugh out loud funny. Can't really go wrong with Jamie Lee Curtis or Kristen Bell. For anyone who's ever had a frienemy (ie. the entire female population) or hates those bitches who see you months to years after they screw you over and run up with a squealing "Hiiiieeeee, How are you?" (ie. the entire female population) you'll be able to appreciate this one.

Bottom line: Betty White is in it, instaWIN.

9/26/10: Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps
I don't know. This was boring and not that great.
 
Bottom line: ^^^

Total count for 2010: 83

Food: Petite Nutella Pochettes

These fancy looking little crescents are surprisingly easy to make. They taste like a Mexican wedding cake filled with Nutella and are quite delicious. I reduced the flour and replaced it with confectioner's sugar to add more sweetness to the dough, it was definitely a good choice.



Petite Nutella Pochettes
Original recipe courtesy of Melissa D'Arabian

Ingredients
*1 cup (2 sticks) butter, at room temperature
*8 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature
*1 cups flour
*1 and 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
*1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons Nutella
*Water, as needed
*3 in fluted biscuit cutter or clean jar (approximately 3 inches wide)

Directions
In a medium bowl, cream the butter and cream cheese together until light and creamy. Gradually add the flour and 1 cup confectioner's sugar slowly until the dough forms. Do not over-mix! Shape the dough into a ball and cover. Let the dough rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

On a lightly-floured surface, using a floured rolling pin, roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Using a 3-inch fluted biscuit cutter, cut out as many circles as you can. Form the scraps into a ball and reroll to make more circles.



Fill each dough circle with a small spoonful of the chocolate-hazelnut spread. Dip your finger in water and spread on the edge of half the circle to help create a seal. Fold the dough over to create a crescent.





Bake until golden, about 15 minutes. Cool, then sprinkle the remaining confectioners' sugar on top and serve.



Enjoy!

Film: 1 Year, 100 Movies - August

I opened my movie list today not looking for an excuse as to why I so epically procrastinated at writing this post, but with one quick once-over it hit me. August was utterly underwhelming, especially considering the high that was Julception. My reigning them from that post still rings true, WATCH INCEPTION, it is still in theaters and it still needs to be seen by everyone. That being said, here you go. I swear September is coming soon, I swear.





8/11/10: The Extra Man
If you like Lars and the Real Girl you’ll probably like this. If you have no ideas what Lars and the Real Girl even in, you definitely won’t. This is one of those weird indie character studies that just keeps you wondering what the hell is going on the entire time. If you’re into that kind of stuff, I suppose this is as good as any.

Bottom line: Good for those who like indie character studies…and cross dressing.

8/12/10: Eat, Pray, Love
I was really stoked for this one. I love me some Julia Roberts and had heard nothing but good things about this book. What I forgot to take into account is that I heard from women how good this book is. I shouldn’t listen to women when it comes to recommending stories about love and self-discovery. This movie is terribly long and still manages to create underdeveloped relationships and an unresolved ending. For a women finally taking time to be single, Liz jumps from man to man surprisingly fast. I was looking for empowerment and got nap time.

Bottom line: Zzzzzz….

8/17/10: The Switch
You can read my official review here, but if you know the premise of this shit you probably already know where it’s going.

Bottom line: A story about hijacking pregnancy is not trendy, innovative, or funny.

8/18/10: Going the Distance
I feel confident enough that I haven’t said this yet, am too lazy too make sure of it, and take it back if I gave it to another film…best comedy of the year. This movie was amazing! The realism and hilarious ad-libbed dialogue are frickin’ genius. You know I’m serious since I just wrote a whole paragraph despite having an official review here.

Bottom line: Screw you movie-goers, this movie should have be making mad more money than it has been.

8/23/10: Piranha 3D
This is one movie you just can’t hate. All the gore and nudity you could want in just over an hour of flawless campy horror. I’m proud to say I say this movie in the theaters and I don’t care what any one thinks about it.

Bottom line: Go to happy hour, then to see this and LOL for days.

8/25/10: Takers
I was looking forward to Takers back in February when it was originally supposed to be released. When the date got pushed back, I got a little worried…apparently for good reason. This film has a commendable entourage of leading men but the execution just isn’t there. The ending is terrible and the action isn’t all that epic. There is really nothing I can find that should motivate you to see this one.

Bottom line: I’m waiting for the day Paul Walker doesn’t play the white man who saves the day.

8/26/10: Centurion
I discovered something about myself while watching Centurion, I hate any movie where I will never remember the character’s name when I leave the theater. I think that’s an understandable qualification for a film to be liked, so I’m okay putting that in writing. I don’t even know what this movie was about, honestly.

Bottom line: I don’t know who likes these kinds of movies, but it’s not me.

8/28/10: Vampires Suck
Not gonna lie, the chick who plays Bella does an EXACT impression of Kristen Bell as Bella. The problem with that though is that she bugs the crap out of me during Twilight so and hour of all that annoyance being exaggerated is even more annoying. This movie would be better if they didn’t drag imitations out through the whole film. The beauty of spoofs is short bursts of making fun of annoying crap, then moving on. Not making annoying crap even more annoying and continuing throughout the whole movie.

Bottom line: I’ve already forgotten this movie exists.

Total count for 2010: 73

Film: Legend of The Guardians The Owls of Ga'Hoole Review

It's hard to get everything right. Just ask movie makers. You think paying millions of dollars in production and distribution costs would up the standards of perfect...notsomuch. but that's why we love cinema, you never know what the hell you're going to get. An that, my friends, pretty much sums up what happened with this movie.

Legend of The Guardians The Owls of Ga'Hoole: GotchaMovies Review
Glorious Animation, Tragic Execution

Enjoy!

Film: Going the Distance Review

Here is my latest review for the [sadly] lowly anticipated Going the Distance. As you'll read this movie is amazing, so good in fact I categorized it as a movie I wanted to see for a second time right after the first, a feat not reached by many and usually with the words Christopher Nolan associated with it somewhere. There is a lot to be learned from this film, whose charm lies in its realism. And for any one wondering, apparently Drew thinks Justin is a good kisser, and no matter what you shouldn't cook non-kosher meat on a kosher grill...oops.

Going the Distance: GotchaMovies Review
Something To Be Said About Believability

Enjoy!

Food: Italian Sausage Rolls

In case you haven't noticed, the majority of my cooking efforts result in some kind of sweet treat. But, when I do actually buckle down and cook something "real" it almost always involves Italian sausage, pretty much my favorite thing next to chocolate, I really can't get enough. This recipe is inspired by my favorite Italian place, Jojo's pizza and their delicious sausage role. This version is a lot cheaper and healthier and did I mention DELICIOUS? Don't worry Jojo's this can't beat the real thing, but at least I'll tide myself over until my next visit.



Italian Sausage Rolls
Recipe by Desiree Roughton

Ingredients
*4 fully cooked Italian sausage links (suggested: Jenne-O Turkey Italian Sausage)
*1 tube reduced fat crescent roll dough
*Dipping sauce, I suggest a nice tomato alfredo especially if you get it from Fresh & Easy but a nice marinara would work as well
*Optional: dry Italian seasonings, garlic powder

Directions

Preheat oven to 350.

Cut each sausage link horizontally in half so you have 8 short pieces.

Roll out crescent dough and sprinkle with Italian seasonings and/or garlic powder.



Roll each sausage piece in one crescent and seal dough with fingers.



Place on cookie sheet and bake for 15-20 min or until dough is golden brown. Make sure to check that dough is cooked all the way through.





Serve with tomato alfredo.



Enjoy!

Film: The Switch Review

I post this review in hopes that you will all forgo seeing this atrocity and spend your time doing your part to help the Arrested Development movie effort. Stalk Jason Bateman, hit up some forums, tweet your opinion because this movie is exactly the opposite of how awesome Batemen is. It's called The Switch, and it's definitely off. There was a lot of flack surrounding this movie and it's sad that Aniston's decision to speak up for herself was decimated by such an epic fail.

The Switch: GotchaMovies Review
The Most Expected Comedy Ever Conceived

Enjoy!...my review, not this movie.

Film: 1 Year, 100 Movies - July

As you can see, I'm back to my old self and posting a week and a half late. Luckily, I've been getting so ahead of the theaters that a lot of these movies are still out, and some aren't even release yet! I just got back from a week and a half of "vacation." I spent 4 days at a ridiculously intense marketing conference and then headed to Washington, DC for the weekend and walked about 39209 miles. Overall, it was seriously good times, and A LOT of information, but enough about all that...let's get to the movies. I was intensely tempted to blow off commenting on any other movie besides Inception because, well, nothing else really deserves it, but for my love of movies here is the whole list.





7/1/10: Cyrus
This movie has pretty much come (if you can say that) and gone by now and there's nothing sad about that. It's just another mundane and awkward character study with a weird cast. Each of the actors, including John C. Reilly, Jonah Hill, and Marisa Tomei, have talent, but this plot is just not good.

Bottom line: Watch Inception

7/6/10: Despicable Me
Haha, just recalling this movie makes me want to sing that bad ass hip hop song they made as a theme. This movie is cute, and definitely a winner for families. It's not Toy Story 3, but it's worth a trip. The characters are really cute and it's a nice spin on the traditional kids movie format.

Bottom line: Leave your children in the theater and sneak into Inception

7/8/10: The Sorcerer's Apprentice
You can read my official review here.

Bottom line: Wait for the video and go watch Inception.

7/11/10: Predators
I hate movies where crap coined "impossible" becomes ridiculously possible for no reason at all. This movie needs a huge "meh" stamped all over it. I'm honestly bored thinking about it. The acting is okay, the "twists" are stupid and predictable and the ending is unfinished.

Bottom line: Watch Inception.

7/12/10: Inception
*sigh* I'm so glad to finally be here. There is seriously a smile on my face. You've already heard that this is the most epic and intelligent movie to come out...ever. I have nothing bad to say. There are no holes, nothing left unexplained, just pure and complete creativity, action, and thought sewn together into an oral and optical masterpiece. I've already seen this 3 times and I'm ready for another. The way Christopher Nolan can imagine manipulation of time (Memento anyone) and piece everything so seamlessly together is a sign of utter brilliance. The acting is great, the story is great, and you end the movie wishing it would start again.

Bottom line: Watch Inception, then again, then rent Memento and watch The Dark Knight

7/14/10: Charlie St. Cloud
This is a solid film, especially if you are a fan of Zac Efron sans shirt. The story is all about grief, life, and moving on. It's not too sad or predictable and really does have a nice message about life and death. The plot really keeps your interest and is definitely worth seeing.

Bottom line: Watch Inception, then this.

7/15/10: The Kids Are All Right
Lesbians, no. Organic food, no. Mark Ruffalo, yes.

Bottom line: ^^^, watch Inception

7/20/10: Salt
You can read my official review here.

Bottom line: You know what to do.

7/24/10: The Last Exorcism
This movie isn't released until October, so I can't write about it until then. What I can say is that Eli Roth is the shit (not a necessarily reflected in this movie)

Bottom line: Watch Inception.

7/26/10: Scott Pilgrim vs. The World
You can read my official review here.

Bottom line: Watch Inception.

7/27/10: Step Up 3D
I love the Step Up movies. What more do I need that hotties tearin' up the dance floor? Hotties tearin' up the dance floor in 3D?! YES! The 3D elements of this is surprisingly cool and the dancing is sick as usual. The plot does a nice job of stringing together the previous stories and is quite charming.

Bottom line: You should have seen Inception by now and if you liked the other Step Ups, you'll be into this one.

7/28/10: Dinner for Schmucks
I have no idea what anyone was trying to do when making this movie. It is really long, really dumb, and just an overall fail. There are some lol moments, but mostly just out of embarrassment. Steve Carell's character is COMPLETELY forced and extremely annoying and no one else in the movie helps his case.

Bottom line: Watch Inception again because you will much happier than if you watch this.

Total count for 2010: 65

Enjoy!

Film: Salt Movie Review

Here in San Diego, Comic-Con is in full swing. I went Downtown yesterday to work a Saw 3D preview for my internship. Tobin Bell, who plays Jigsaw, was the most legit celeb ever and I've gotta say sitting through a Q&A with cast and crew that couldn't hide their passion if they tried made me want to check out the whole set of movies and reminded me what makes the movie business so awesome and something I want to be a part of.

I have a new review for you all for the new Angelina Jolie, who added a little Salt to Comic-Con on Thursday, movie Salt. And in case you're wondering, her long-time beau Brad Pitt failed to make an appearance in the film or alongside at Comic-Con.

Salt: GotchaMovies Review
Salt Could Use Some More Spice

Enjoy!

Film: The Sorcerer's Apprentice Review

My latest review is for the most recent live-action Disney adaptation, The Sorcerer's Apprentice. It stars Nicolas Cage and Jay Baruchel in a story based loosely off the "Sorcerer's Apprentice" scene in Disney's 1940 classic, Fantasia. Indeed, it did fall a bit flat, but was fairly enjoyable nonetheless.

The Sorcerer's Apprentice: GotchaMovies Review
Yet Another one for the kids

Enjoy!

Food: Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Brownies

Awhile back I bought a bunch of brownie mix on sale for like $.69. It's been sitting just waiting to be used so I decided to take it out and create a simple recipe that was a little more than just brownie. I amped up the mix by using butter and milk instead of oil and water and added the always delicious cream filling from the black bottom cupcakes I love to make. This recipe is super easy, looks great, and tastes awesome.



Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Brownies
By Desiree Roughton

For the cream cheese filling:

* 1 block (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
* 1/3 c. sugar
* 1 egg
* 1 c. chocolate chips
* 1/8 tsp. (two shakes) of salt

For the brownie batter:

* 1 box brownie mix
* 1 stick melted margarine (or butter)
* 2 eggs
* 1/4 c. milk (any type you have)

Note: Different mixes may call for different amounts. Replace oil with margarine, water with milk, and use the suggested amount of eggs.

Directions:

Preheat over to 350. Grease bottom of 13 x 9 pan.

Cream together cream cheese, 1 egg, sugar, and salt. Fold in chocolate chips. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, mix together brownie mix, 2 eggs, melted margarine, and milk until smooth.

Pour brownie mix evenly into pan. Pour or spoon cream cheese mixer over the top.

Run a spoon or spatula in an "S" shape along entire pan, swirling the cream cheese mixture and brownie mix together. Aprox. 10-15 times will give a nice mix.



Bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes.

Let cool, ENJOY!

Food: Chili's Loaded Nachos

I am totally obsessed with Chili's loaded nachos. They are delicious and meaty and AMAZING. I decided I'd give it a go and attempt to create my own version of the tasty appetizer for a meal. The experiment was a great success...mmmmm.




Chili's Loaded Nachos
Recipe by Desiree Roughton

* 4 lg. flour tortillas (I used jalapeno, cilantro flavored)
* 1 lb. ground beef
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 2 c. shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
* 1 c. sour cream
* 2-4 green onions, finely chopped
* jalapenos (with juice)
optional:
* lime, cilantro, tomatoes, etc.

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Place tortillas on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes. The tortillas should be slightly brown but still soft.

Brown ground beef in large skillet and add taco seasoning as directed.

Top each tortilla with equal amounts of taco meat (this seems like a lot and it is! Hey, they aren't called loaded for nothing).

Cover with grated cheese (I used almost the whole bag) and bake at 350 degrees until cheese is melted, approximately 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, mix 1 c. sour creme with a tablespoon (or more) jalapeno juice, add a spritz of lime if desired.

Top each tortilla with jalapenos, green onions, and cilantro, tomatoes, etc. as desired. Drizzle with jalapeno sour cream.

Use a pizza cutter to cut each round into 6 slices.

ENJOY!





that's not my manhand btw :)

Film: 1 Year, 100 Movies - June

We're officially halfway through the year and I'm more than on track to my 100 movie goal. June was the busiest yet, most likely due to my internship which let's me watch all of them for free and sometimes get paid for it. The summer box office hasn't been doing so hot, but I have to say June was a pretty enjoyable movie month. For the most part, all these flicks are still in theaters so read on and choose wisely :)

6/2/10: Solitary Man
You probably haven't heard of it, and don't worry, you aren't missing out. This is an indyish character study starring Michael Douglas. It leaves a lot to be desired and carries an unwarranted shock value that leaves you unsatisfied.

Bottom line: Wait for Wall Street.

6/4/10: Splice
I'm legitimately upset with myself for forcing me to relive this atrocity. SPOILER ALERT: This is how it goes...two scientists who happen to also be a couple create a human/alien/beast baby, Adrien Brody has sex with the a fore mentioned alien beast, alien/beast TURNS INTO A MALE and RAPES HIS G/F impregnating her and killing everyone else. AND if that baby thing is destined to be screwed up enough the alien beast is made of her DNA so it's incestuous too. I walked out of the theater feeling like everyone how has been subjected to this movie needs to come together for a therapeutic dialogue. Hi I'm Desiree, and I watched Splice.

Bottom line: ^^^ Need I say more?!!!

6/6/10: Killers
You can read my official review here. As well as how high-maintenance of an actress Katherine Heigl is and how Lionsgate kept Killers from the critics.

Bottom line: Although it's trailer was a marketing fail, this really isn't half bad when you realize what they were trying to do.

6/10/10: Karate Kid
This movie is long, but good. Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith are really cute together and the story is enjoyable. The acting is good from everyone and the karate...er I mean kung foo fights are pretty legit. This is a knock out for kids and adults.

Bottom line: "It's called kung foo, not karate"...oh wait.

6/12/10: The A-Team
Legit. Three huge operations, a good cast, and acceptable twists and turns make this into the stuff summer movies are made of. I don't know why this failed so miserably at the box office, but it wasn't deserved. I mean seriously, who doesn't love Liam Neison? Can't say it's me that's for sure.

Bottom line: I love a good special ops movie and this one is really good.

6/16/10: Jonah Hex
You can read my official review here.

Bottom line: I'm willing to completely dismiss this movie and do my part to contribute to the downfall of Megan Fox's career.

6/18/10: Toy Story 3
*sigh* Where to start? Like all Disney Pixar movies, this one's a gem. Just as good as the first two classics and perfect timing for those of us who remember Woody and Buzz as kids. I love Disney for it's universal age appeal. It has the cutest characters and great dialogue.

Bottom line: Classic and wonderful

6/19/10: Knight and Day
Hands down best June movie-(that-isn't-Toy-Story). So funny, so clever, so interesting. Tom Cruise is crazy in real life which can only make for a great character in a fantasy world I mean c'mon it's pure logic. Cameron Diaz and Cruise are adorable together and if people payed any attention to all the rave reviews this is getting, it really could have been Cruise's comeback movie. Knight and Day is one of those movies that makes you realize while people are stars in the first place.

Bottom line: Great plot, great acting, and funny/interesting as anything.

6/19/10: Robin Hood
I will say this is one of those movies you expect to be boring, and it is. However, the story is pretty cool when it comes down to it. This is the pre-Robin Hood tale of the events that led up to the legend. I'm always intrigued by story twists like that. I pretty much only saw this because I had seen every single other movie that was out. There is really no need to get excited about this one.

Bottom line: I'm bored just thinking abouuuu...Zzzzz....

6/22/10:Grown Ups
Apparently when you put the top 3 most annoying actors, top 2 second most annoying actors, Salma Hayak, and that always pregnant in movies other chick in the same movie it somehow turns into a comedic masterpiece. I went into this thinking it was going to be over-the-top stupid and just annoying all around. I mean really David Spade, Rob Schneider, and Kevin James? No thanks, but to my surprise I was laughing the whole way. This movie is actually pretty tame and really, really funny. It has some great family themes and the raunchiness is pretty mellow. I'm not saying I hate raunchiness, I just hate stupid anything.

Bottom line: If you like Adam Sandler and [insert other 8932 cast members here], you were already going to see this, if not, you should see it and be pleasantly surprised.

6/28/10: The Twilight Saga: Eclipse
You can read my official review here.

Bottom line: I don't care what you think, I liked it! Team Jacob for liiiiife.

6/29/10: The Last Airbender
I don't give a crap about the supposed racism in casting this movie, nothing could have saved this crap. It's boring, slow, and choppy. I do like the two main child actors who brought a lot to what they had to work with but once again, I have no idea what Shyamalan was trying to do. If only he'd stopped at The Village...

Bottom line: Don't watch this, just rent Unbreakable. Trust, you'll thank me.

Total count for 2010: 53

Enjoy!

Film: Eclipse Movie Review

Yes, this is in fact the most ridiculously on time post in the history of Thoughts of a Film Foodie. Eclipse is here and ready to reign in millions this weekend. I saw an advanced screening last night and I'm not going to lie it's pretty epic. I wasn't a big fan of the first two films, but this one actually gets it right. My review linked below.

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse Movie Review
Third Time's a Charm

Enjoy!

Food: Cookies and Cream Cupcakes

I'm finally settled into my summer schedule, including a new internship and a couple of online classes. I think I mentioned before that my new internship allows me to see screenings of virtually every movie before they come out in theaters (YAY!) for free (YAAAAAAY!!!), so I've been checking out 2-3 movies during the week and exhausting all my theater going options for the weekend. Now I have 3 days free to devote to my other passion: food. I've got quite a few recipes to share with you within the next week or so. First up, is a new cupcake (surprise surprise...I know). It's cookies and cream, which isn't my number one flavor choice but they came out really good and I thoroughly enjoyed.

Cookies and Cream Cupcakes
Remixed version of oreo cupcakes from Lovin' From the Oven. Cake recipe courtesy of Cupcakes From The Cake Doctor by Anne Byrn



Ingredients

* 1 package (18.25 oz) plain devil's cake mix
* 3 tablespoons Dutch process unsweetened cocoa
* 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
* 1/2 cup vegetable oil
* 3 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
* 24 Oreos

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line muffin tin with 24 paper liners.

Remove top half of the Oreos and place one cookie, cream side up, in each liner. Crush remaining halves in Ziploc baggie, set aside.

Place the cake mix, cocoa powder, buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Blend with an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds. Stop the machine and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Increase the mixer speed to medium beat two minutes more.




Fill the cupcake tins 2/3 full with batter. Bake until they spring back when lightly pressed with your finger, 17-20 minutes.

Buttercream "Dream" Icing
Recipe courtesy of The Repressed Pastry Chef



Dream is quoted for a reason. This frosting is a bit annoying to make (check out the sugar to liquid ratio) and didn't taste good at first bite. However, after it set awhile and we frosted the cupcakes I did change my mind. It works well with the cookies and cream because it really tastes like the cream from an Oreo. Definitely not a frosting I'd run to for everything, but for these cupcakes it worked nicely in the end.

* 1 stick salted butter, room temp
* 1 stick unsalted butter, room temp
* 1 cup shortening
* 1 tbsp vanilla extract
* 2 pounds powdered sugar (about 3 1/2-4 cups)
* 4-6 tbsp cold milk

Cream butter and shortening. Add vanilla extract and combine well.

Begin slowly adding in the sugar and mixing thoroughly after each addition. After all the sugar has been added, begin adding the milk, one tablespoon at a time, combining very well after each addition with the mixer on medium-high to high speed until you reach the desired consistency.

Tip: If the mixture becomes too hard to mix before all the sugar is incorporated, start adding milk to thin it out, then continue adding the rest.

Frost cupcakes and sprinkle with crushed cookie crumbs.

ENJOY!

Film: Jonah Hex Review

I'm finally getting more on top of my postings (yay! summer) so here is my latest review. I even went to post it Friday and Gotcha was being a bit finicky, apparently the universe didn't want me getting too crazy on time :) Anyway, this review is for Jonah Hex. It'll probably end up making about $5 considering Toy Story 3 (amazing!) also came out this week. The cast is full of A- list actors and a few apparent up-and-comers, and of course my (cue sarcasm) favorite actress ever, the recently engaged Megan Fox.

Jonah Hex: GotchaMovies Review
A New Type of Western

Enjoy!

Food: Hamburger Cupcakes

As promised I'd like to share a fabulous summer treat perfect for the upcoming 4th of July weekend! I saw a picture of these while flipping through a magazine and was inspired to figure out how to make them at home. They turned out ridiculously cute and it screwed with a lot of my friend's minds. They come out looking like real mini slider burgers and are the perfect fun dessert for any picnic or your next bbq.

Hamburger Cupcakes
By Desiree Roughton

Ingredients:
*1 box store bought chocolate cake mix (prepare as directed)
*1 box store bought yellow cake mix (prepare as directed)
*1 can white frosting
*red, yellow, and green and food coloring
*8 oz. a bag of white chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350.

Fill 24 muffin tins 2/3 with yellow cake mix and bake 20-25 minutes until toothpick comes out clean. Set aside and let cool.

Fill 24 muffin tins 1/3 of the way full with chocolate cake batter. (You can use the rest of the batter for regular sized cupcakes if you wish.) Bake 15-20 minutes. Set aside and let cool.

Mix half a can of frosting with red food coloring until the frosting turns red (NOT PINK). Make the other half of the can bright yellow.

Melt the white chocolate in a microwave safe bowl on high in 30 second increments until smooth. Fold in a few drops of green food coloring.

Allow the chocolate to re-harden as a small block in the refrigerator.

Assembly:

Cut each of the yellow cupcakes in half to create top and bottom "buns."

Lightly frost the bottom section with yellow frosting. Make sure there is enough frosting on the outer edges to slightly spill over.

Top with thin chocolate cupcake. (Depending on how the cakes bake up you may need to shave off the curved top for easier assembly and aesthetics.)

Lightly frost the "patty" with the red frosting, allowing spill over again.

Use a spoon or knife to create green shavings from the white chocolate. Sprinkle on the outer edges of your red frosting layer. This will look like lettuce.

Top with yellow cupcake top.

Enjoy!



sorry about the terrible picture quality. I tend to misplace things like my digital camera...a lot, so I had to use my cell phone.