The Lock Box: A Transfix With Netflix - Chasing Amy (Spoilers)

Chasing Amy/Miramax

Chasing Amy is probably the best received of Kevin Smith's entire View Askewnivers film series. It's a very well written story about two best friends that work in the comic industry as one finds love where he least expects to, while the other is there to back him up.

The film is a true romance movie, filled with cuss-filled rants, and comic books. A romance film, nonetheless, told in a very Kevin Smith way. That, by no means, is a shot at the writer/director as I love all of his movies. But meaning that the story is told in a non-traditional way, i.e. our hero's love interest being a lesbian.

The movie opens at a comic book convention, set in New York. This is where we are introduced to Holden(Ben Affleck), our male lead, and Banky, his potty-mouthed best friend(Jason Lee).

Question: Do inkers really get disrespected the way Banky does throughout the movie? I would hope not; not everyone can ink and shade with such brilliance.

After clearing a Q and A with a planned "angry black man" stunt planned by Hooper X(Dwight Ewell) with the help of the pair, we meet the non-traditional Alyssa Jones(Joey Lauren Adams).

A game of darts and a shared moment later, Holden and his bestest pal, Banky, find themselves in a club, "with a lot of chicks." Overconfident and cocky as hell, Holden assures Banky that he will "hook up" with Alyssa. But, as fate would have it, it was not meant to be.

While Banky argues with Hooper about Archie's sexuality, Holden still tries to process what had taken place moments before, when Alyssa dedicated a sing to a special someone, only to find it was for her...pause for dramatic effect...GIRLFRIEND.

After convincing a still-shocked Holden that a friendship between the two would be a good idea, we're treated to a very nice montage is shown of Holden and Alyssa spending a lot of quality time together. While it was nice, it was no Rocky IV montage. I mean that thing had it all; anvils being lifted, running in the snow and even a damn car being pulled by Rock-o in the snow, no less.

The former could've been on that epic level, but what we were shown was nice, I guess.

Anyway, a confrontation between Banky and Holden leads the latter to inform Banky that he's in love with our precious Alyssa.

That realization also leads to Holden baring his soul in his SUV, while driving home in the rain from a cafe, I'm guessing. I'm not really sure, they didn't show any signs or labels there.

The setting they're in, in that scene, seems to be a metaphor for what's to come, as Alyssa doesn't hold back her anger towards Holden for bombarding her with emotions and feelings. Gross.

The storm between the two dissipates as she comes running after him with a warm embrace, followed by some good, old fashioned face sucking. Seriously, when Ben Affleck was kissing Joey Lauren Adams, it looked like he was trying to eat her face. He definitely would've made a good zombie.

Ben Affleck and Joey Lauren Adams in Chasing Amy/Miramax

The next morning, Banky walks in to find the two snuggled up on the couch. Stunned, he drops his coffee and heads out side with Holden not far behind.

Alyssa faces similar circumstances as she tells her friends about being love with a man. Maybe these are the type of man-hating, agenda-having "dykes" Banky was talking about a few scenes earlier.

With regards to their friends, the couple faces an uphill battle full of obstacles, including Holden himself.

Showing Holden Alyssa's high school yearbook, Banky tells him how she got her nickname, "Finger Cuffs," in school. I bet you want me to describe it all to you, huh? Well, pervert, I'm not going to. Watch the movie, if you haven't, and find out for yourself.

A local hockey game foreshadows this scene perfectly, as Holden can't seem to let go of the information Banky had given him concerning Alyssa's past. Basically, he's being a big baby. The past is called the past for a reason, and Holden is just being a big, no-neck having baby. Why don't you go cry to your mama, you big baby?

Not able to shake said information, Holden basically cross-examines poor Alyssa about her past to the point where she storms out of the ice rink.

Not even an apology from her as to why she never told him about being with, not that it's any of his business, other men before him, will stop his butt-hurt. It seems to me that if he wanted a "normal" relationship, he probably shouldn't have fallen in love with a lesbian, right?

Enter Jay and Silent Bob. Jay being Jay and Silent Bob not being so silent as he gives sage advice to Holden. He tells him a story about how ruined his relationship with "the one" because of self inadequacies in comparison to her past.

The "Chasing Amy" story seemed to had resonated within Holden, seeing as how he didn't notice the dynamic duo had left without paying their tab. Nooch.

Even with all of the knowledge Silent Bob bestowed onto he, Holden never truly gets it until the very end.

Chasing Amy is a story about love, sex-- sex and love, and a lot of non-traditional stuff in between. But, it does bring up a major issue with relationships. Even with knowing what will end a relationship, we still continue to make the same mistakes, not learning-- not wanting to learn, as we need to experience the joys and pitfalls of relationships. I guess that's how we to grow enough to be able to tell our kids what not to do, knowing full well that they will eventually make the same exact mistakes we once made.

That's life; learning and passing on knowledge, regardless if it's been absorbed.

One of the better movies by Kevin Smith, it deserves a solid 4/5 stars

Inside The Cage: The Dodgers Weekly Review

Calyton Kershaw(left), Brandon League(middle) and AJ Ellis(right)

The Lead-Off: This week has been an emotional roller coaster, both for the Dodgers franchise and its fans. Below is a breakdown of what's been going on with the Boys in Blue, with my final thoughts of where I feel the Dodgers stand in comparison to the rest of the league.

7/10/2014: Kemp Breaks Slump As Beckett Battles - Sunday was a very good day for Matt Kemp, as he ended, yet, another slump of the season, going 4 for 5, with 2 RBI's. Both of his RBI's came from singles with runners in scoring position, so that's a pretty good sign. If he wants to secure a starting spot on this team, he has to keep hitting with RISP-- he has to.

Beckett had himself a rough outing, as he was never able to retire the side in order. That is, until the bottom of the 5th, which happened to be Beckett's last inning.

Another Dodger we desperately need to hit better with RISP is fan-favorite, Adrian Gonzalez. "A-Gon" only managed to get one hit in the game, but it came with the bases chucked. I guess I'll take it... I guess. Dodgers smash the Rockies: 8-2.

7/8/2014: Tigers Trounce Dodgers With Ryu Taking A Beating - The day started off pretty bad to begin with, and ended in fireworks. With news coming that starter Josh Beckett was placed on the DL because an on-going hip issue, you would've thought that he had given his boys the pep-talk of the year, with how they started off the game. Unfortunately, a 5-0 lead wouldn't last past the 2nd inning.

Ryu was lifted from the game after 2 1/3 innings while allowing 7 runs off 10 hits. Mattingly also wouldn't make it to the end of the game, as he was ejected for arguing balls and strikes. The bullpen, not wanting to be outdone, gave up 7 runs off of 10 hits, as well.

I believe the Dodgers can win a title this year. But, how a team can think it's a playoff caliber team when they give up 14 unanswered runs, is beyond me-- 14 UNANSWERED RUNS! The Tigers maul the Dodgers: 5-14.

7/9/2014: Greinke's Quality Start Wasted As Rojas Hits Career First HR - After being swept by the Tigers in a two-game set, the Dodgers found themselves a half game ahead of the rival Giants. With Greinke on the mound, like All-State, they were sure to be in good hands. Ask and ye shall deliver, as Greinke pitched a quality game, only giving up 3 runs through 7 innings.

Sadly, there was no help behind him, as his offense was only able to squeak by 1 run; the first career homerun by shortstop, Miguel Rojas, in the top of the 5th. They did have a lot on their plate, after all.

That same day, a jury absolved Frank McCourt of the Brian Stow beating while the judge ordered the Dodgers franchise to shell out $14 million to the Stow family, for medical expenses. Sound like an excuse? Well, it is. I'm pretty bitter right now. I mean 14 unanswered runs-- REALLY?! Anyway, the Dodgers lose, blah-blah-blah: 1-4.

7/10/2014: Dodgers Narrowly Win While Kershaw's Streak Ends - It appears history won't be made and records won't be broken, all because of Chase Headley. The entire game, Clayton was in the zone, striking out 11 with only walking one in a complete game victory. The scoreless-inning streak was snapped at 41 innings when Headley took a hanging slider, on a 1-2 count, barely over the left center wall.

The Dodgers wasted a few scoring opportunities, but were able to score at least two runs for the staff ace. Yasiel Puig did what he does and hustled out of the box, turning what should've been a single into a double. 'Stache Van Slick was able to get him home with a bloop single to right-- hey, a hit's a hit, regardless of how hard or soft it's hit. "A-Gon" was also able to secure another RBI with a scoring fly-ball, hit to center.

With Thursday night's win, Kershaw is now 11-2 on the season, with a 1.78 ERA. Even with missing six weeks earlier in the year, the 'Shaw still managed to win 11 games, all by his lonesome. Dodgers squeak by the Padres: 1-2.

7/11/2014: Padres' Rookie Looks Like Veteran As Dodgers Lose Cool - Friday night was a very frustrating time for the Dodgers and Dodger fans, alike. Three Dodger players had 0-for nights and the team as a whole still can't figure out how to hit with runners in scoring position.

Matt Kemp made his frustrations visible when he snapped his bat over his knee following, a fly-out with, you guess it, RISP.

Yes, it's a very frustrating time indeed. Especially when you're facing a rookie on the mound that, with Friday night's win, was able to notch his 5th "W" of the season.

Dan Haren, who can't seem to do anything right on the hill lately, had yet another short outing, lasting only 4 innings while allowing four Padres to cross home plate on six hits. Also taking another beating, was the clubs' bullpen, as Jamie Wright gave up two earned runs in his two innings of work.

"The results were terrible," said Haren, who is now 8-6 this season. Yeah, I'd say the results have been pretty darn terrible, as of late, Danny. The Padres win in a nail-biter: 6-3.

7/12/2014: Maholm Pitches Gem As Ellis Hits Walk-Off - With Saturday night's win, the Dodgers are back on top on the NL West. Paul Maholm tried to do his best Clayton Kershaw impression, and it wasn't too bad. He pitched six strong innings, allowing only two hits while striking out four. I guess what they say is true: 250th times' a charm!

The bullpen, which has struggled as of late, was solid, backing Maholm's efforts with three shut-out innings of their own. League, Howell and Jensen gave up three hits, combined, through three innings, with Kenley adding two more K's to his stats.

The Padres' Ian Kennedy pitched a gem, as well. While striking out eight Dodgers in eight innings, he only gave up three hits, but also walked four.

Even though the Dodgers were able to get the "W" with a scoring fly-ball hit to left field by catcher, A.J. Ellis, in the bottom of the 9th, they continued to struggle at the plate, going 0-5 with men in scoring position. Maybe they just have a flair for the dramatics...? Dodgers walk it off in the 9th: 0-1.

The Close-Out: Going in to the All-Star break, the Dodgers were able to secure the division lead in the NL West, and with Saturday night's win, the best record in the National League.

As a Dodger fan, I can't express how happy I am to be even typing these words, but there's an issue that I can't wrap my head around. The question I keep asking myself: why can't a lineup that has the potential to be one of the most dangerous in the entire league, hit with runners in scoring position? It's disconcerting because the way that this team is built, there's not one man that's dependent on more so than any other.

They all have to pull their own weight without having to carry the entire team on their shoulders as they once have had to do. It's perplexing. It could be the pitch selection, or nerves or what-have-you. This team needs-- and I can't stress this enough, they need to start hitting with men is scoring position.

If they make it to the post-season, and I don't see them not making it, it's going to be that much harder to go deep into the playoffs with the amount of players they're leaving stranded on the base paths.

I know they have the potential to win well over a hundred games, especially with the combined efforts of Kershaw and Greinke, but it's the other eight on that field that need to start pulling their weight, or come October, they won't have a chance to.

The Lock Box: 'Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes' Is A Swinging Success

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes/20th Century Fox

Throughout history, there have been only a handful of sequels that are considered to be superior over the first installments. Off of the top of my head, I could only think of 6; The Terminator: Judgement Day, Aliens, Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, The Dark Knight Rises, X2 and the most recent of which, Captain America: The Winter Soldier.

Now, we can add the sequel to 2011's Rise of the Planet of the Apes, to that list-- or at least I can. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes was a film on an epic scale. Not only because of the action scenes or the film's set pieces, but because the performances was incredible. The film was cast so perfectly, they really made you feel the tension between the two species, throughout the entire movie.

Set 10 years after the first installment, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes takes you inside the lives of the apes that have, more or less, become the dominant species, or at least close to it, as well as the handful of human survivors, stashed away in a corner in San Francisco.

Led by Caesar(Andy Serkis), the apes have built a type of utopian society near a fresh water supply, with tree houses that would put the ones you might've climbed to shame. With Caesar and his mate, Cornelia(Judy Greer), sitting at the head of the table of this evolved group of apes, Koba(Toby Kebbell), the human-hating test ape from the first film, is back and never far from his side.

All of the old favorites from the first film are back as well, and are ape-ier than ever, including: Maurice(Karin Konoval), Rocket(Terry Notary) and also introducing Blue Eyes(Nick Thurston), Caesar's adolescent son.

Humans, on the other hand, are just trying to survive, but at least have an arsenal of weapons behind them.

The film itself doesn't focus on one group over the other, as director Matt Reeves(Cloverfield) has done a fantastic job giving an equal amount of screen time to both species. It does, however, focus on two families in particular, Caesars'(of course) and Malcolm's(Jason Clarke).

Andy Serkis(left), Toby Kebbell(middle), Jason Clarke(right) and Karin Konoval(far right)

Keri Russell joins the cast as Ellie, Malcolm's girlfriend, as well as Kobi Smit-McPhee, who of which plays his son, Alex.

Malcolm and friend, Dreyfus(Gary Oldman), have built a society of their own. But when their towns' power supply starts running low, it is decided that another alternative energy source is needed.

The plot provides a bit of social commentary as well, with humans relying too much on fossil fuel or nuclear power as energy sources. After all, they had invested in learning about solar or wind energy, everyone could've lived happily ever after and war could've been prevented-- maybe. But they didn't and that's how the first chance encounter between the two species happens, and it's just that; chance and out of nowhere.

A small party, which happens to include Malcolm, stumbles on to ape territory, with some of the humans acting just as you'd figure they'd(we'd) act. What follows, starts a ripple effect that's felt by both groups, thus setting up what I feel will be the third and final movie in the series.

At no ones surprise, the stars af the show, no offense to the humans that played humans, are the apes, played by humans. How Andy Serkis does not have an Oscar or two already under his belt is beyond me. I certainly hope this film does help net him one. I mean, the guy's an amazing actor, and it's been proven time and time again that not just anyone can play a fictional character, whilst wearing a unitard, that will end up being completely unrecognizable after a film's post-production. I really hope Andy wins an Oscar for this; I really, really do

In the film overall, there are no weak spots with the amazing cast that's been put together. The film has it all; drama, action, amazing set pieces, a cohesive plot that's not all over the place(I'm looking at you, Amazing Spider-Man 2), amazing performances and fantastic CGI.

This film will receive, and deservedly so, without question, a 5/5 star rating from myself. I would gladly pay again and again to see this movie. If you haven't yet, I suggest you "swing" by your local theater.

Ha-ha.

The Lock Box: A Transfix With Netflix - The Bay (Spoilers)

The Bay

Lately, I've been doing a lot of thinking about the movies I've seen on Netflix. Now, I'm no Roger and Ebert, but I do a good and bad movie when I see one, and Netflix is full of both. So, this is the first Netflix review that I will be doing, as well as giving them their own sub-category within my blog. We'll call it: The Lock Box: A Transfix With Netflix. Catchy, right?

So, here we go.

First one is a documentary-style horror movie titled, 'The Bay.' Now, a lot of people have an issue with the whole first-person style of  shooting; motion sickness, doesn't let you focus on what's going on in the scene, etc.

I, personally, have no issue with these types of films. In fact, I very much enjoy them as I allow myself to get caught up in the moment, along with the characters.

With The Bay, it's not so much a horror movie because there are people captured by aliens, hunted by monsters or even mutilated by satanic clowns. It's scary because, like Contagion, it's entirely plausible.

The main character, Donna(Kether Donohue), is an online, intern field reporter for the local news station. Just so we're clear, the only reason I don't call her our protagonist is simply because, with the way this story was told, there isn't really a good guy. There really isn't a bad guy or antagonist, either. That is, unless you consider the government or companies that see no issue with polluting our ecosystem the bad guy; I'll leave that one up for discussion. Back to the story.

It starts off with actual news footage of incidents that have happened with groups of animals and different types of species dying in a mysterious and unexplainable way, followed by Donna being interviewed via online chat by an unknown person.

Donna's basically our narrator throughout the entire film. She sets up the story with talking about what happened in the weeks leading up to the "present" time in the film. The whole movie is basically one great, big flashback.

Anyway, the film gives you some exposition as to why things are about to go south with an online eco-fighter noticing how close a local farm is dumping chicken crap to the city's nearest water source.

Citizens are shown vomiting after competing in a crab eating contest with crabs fished from, you guessed it, the local bay. Also shown are men, women and children, that have been in contact with the water, breaking out with horrible blisters and legions with no one wanting to get near them for fear of catching whatever it is they have.

Jane McNeill in The Bay

Things pretty much start going from bad to worse as we meet Dr. Abrams(Stephen Kunken), as he contacts the CDC(Center for Diseases Control and Prevention) regarding the recent outbreak in his town.

The story also centers around two oceanographers, Jaquline(Nansi Aluka) and Sam(Christopher Denham). The couple(I guess...?) are the first ones that discover the cause of death in the bay and also the films first deaths, as well. After examining a fish caught from the bay, they find a mutated isopod, later confirmed by the CDC to be Cymothoa exigua, in the belly of said fish, eating it's way out. Mutated you say? Yes, from an apparent runoff of chicken excrement I had covered previously.

That is when the CDC are provided with more information as they are told about a nuclear reactor leak, which happened all of the way back in 2002, that was never properly cleaned up.

At this point in the film, every worker in the hospital that are in direct contact with any patient that pours through their doors, are wearing contamination gear, complete with masks and gloves.

People, infected or not, are either trying to flee the town, or are just deciding on killing themselves and their loved ones from the sheer panic.

And with that, I will decide to stop and NOT spoil the ending and also because my skins crawling and I don't like that feeling.

Like I had said, what makes this flick scary, is that it's entirely plausible, right down to the reaction of the general public. Regardless of how shaky the camera is, or how much you believe it could or couldn't happen, The Bay really makes you at least think about what could potentially happen with pollution to our drinking water.

With character development lacking, I'm gonna give this flick 3/5 stars. Even though it hasn't received much love from viewers, I'm going to suggest you check it out for yourselves. Especially if you want to feel like bugs are crawling over your body. It's definitely an underrated movie, as far as the horror genre is concerned.

If you have any suggestions for movies that you would like me to cover and review, comment below and we'll see if I'm paying attention to you or not(kidding!).

The Lock Box: Superman Revealed For Snyder's 'Batman v Superman' Film

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice/Warner Bros. Pictures

I know, this is not breaking news by any means. But, when the first look at the new Batman costume for the up coming superhero film, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, both fan boys & girls rejoiced, for the most part.

The general consensus was that fans loved the new look, maybe in part, due to the tonal difference Zack Snyder's bringing to the legendary character. "It's cooler to see a crusty old Batman beating the snot out of guys," Snyder has said as his take will focus on a more road-weary Batman. Well, that works for me as every incarnation we've seen of the Dark Knight has been in his mid-30's, with the exception of The Dark Knight Rises, which I thought was...okay.

Recently, Warner Bros. released a brand new picture of Henry Cavill as Superman, as reported by Brian Truitt of USA Today, rockin' his new duds. Some might think that he looks almost exactly the same as he did in his first outing, Man of Steel, but that's not true-- he's got a new haircut! The suit itself looks a tad different, as well; the blue is a little more prominent that it was before. But aside from that, there's really not too much of a difference that can be seen in this shot.

It looks as if he's paying Gotham a visit, hanging out on some rooftop, definitely not flying on rooftops. I mean, I'm pretty sure it's Gotham, only because it's raining and the color palette is dark and bleak, as Gotham is usually portrayed as. The sun doesn't exist in Gotham, didn't you know?

As far as the duo's relationship goes, Zack Snyder has said that, "there is a 'v' in between their names to keep it from being a straight 'versus' movie, even in the most subtle way." That means that even Snyder knows who would actually win in an actual fight between Superman and Batman, and does not want to start WW3 with comic "enthusiasts."

This film is going to be the catapult that slings moviegoers into the awesomeness that will(should) be the Justice League, in which the director is slated to helm as well.

In the Dawn of Justice, expect cameo's and easter eggs up the yin-yang from various characters throughout the DC universe.

Ben Affleck Photo by Zack Snyder/Warner Bros. Pictures

Joining the star-studded cast, aside from Ben Affleck who is playing one of the title characters, Batman, will be Gal Gadot, who will be suiting up as the Amazonian princess, Wonder Woman. I can already feel you shaking your head while reading that last sentence, but rest assured that, according to the Dawn of the Dead director, "she's working out and getting buff and ripped."

Also brought in to the mix is Ray Fisher, an actor best known for his time spent on Broadway, that is being transformed into Cyborg.

There have been recent rumors of a Green Lantern showing up at some point or another, but I believe it's merely speculation at this point.

Now, I know fans have been clamoring for a Justice League movie for some time now, even before Marvel's The Avengers came out. But I, on the other hand, have always wanted to see a Worlds Finest film before watching the Justice League.

I don't know, but the thought of seeing Superman ascending from the sky to meet up with Batman has always peeked my interest over seeing three or four characters that are supposed to be the "strongest in the galaxy," in Martian Manhunter, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman and, of course, Superman on screen together. And on the ground, you have Batman and the "fastest man alive," in the Flash, and now Cyborg, I guess.

The master of slow-mo has said, "I don't know how you get bigger than that," regarding his highly anticipated team-up flick. And while I have no doubts about the aforementioned film, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, I do wonder how they will try to make the Justice League stand out from the rest. Yes, it's THE Justice League, but they're all incredibly strong, or fast, or invincible, or some kind of fusion of all three.

I guess we'll have to wait until 2018 to find out. I hope the world doesn't end by then.

Anyway, here it is, in all it's glory. Let me know what you think in the comments section below.

Henry Cavill Photo by Clay Enos/Warner Bros. Pictures

The Food Bench: Buffalo Wild Wings Soars

Buffalo Wild Wings in Sherman Oaks, California

There’s no better way to celebrate your birthday than going to a fancy restaurant and being with family and friends. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Buffalo Wild Wings is NOT a fancy restaurant.” While it may not be as fancy as Geoffrey's in Malibu, it's still a damn fine eating establishment.

Founded on the principle of "no bathroom shall go unused," Buffalo Wild Wings offers a plethora of choices for any "wing" aficionado. It does, however, offer a variety of burgers and salads, if you don't feel like donating to a bathroom.

But, let's face it, we all go there for one thing: wings. The mozzarella sticks are pretty cheese-tastic, as well.

If you manage to make it between a certain time, "B-Dub's" will certainly make it worth your while with their "Happy Hour" prices; $3 drafts, anyone? You really can't beat that. That is unless, of course, you're stealing beer. But let's face it, at $3 a pop, it's practically a steal!

WARNING: The Eclectic Locker does not condone the theft of any kind. Buffalo Wild Wings reserves the right to steal your heart & stomach with their deliciously flavored wings, but does not support the reciprocation of theft regarding company property.

When we first arrived at the Buffalo Wild Wings in Sherman Oaks, California, we were greeted with nothing but service with a smile.

We were then asked, by the hostess, if we would like to be seated. I had informed her that we would, but were part of a larger party. Although we were curious if we could be seated while Happy Hour was still in effect, the hostess informed us, with a mournful expression, that since we were, in fact, part of a larger party, at least half of our party would need to be present in order to be seated.

I obliged, as they did not know I was the guest of honor in their prestigious establishment.

Not more than five minutes had elapsed as we were greeted by a waiter who understood we were party of a large party, but gladly took an order for an appetizer for us, before we were seated, as he recognized our desire to enjoy Happy Hour, unconditionally.

As he hurried off, order in hand, the very same hostess that had once informed us of our prolonged torture for enjoying the deliciousness that is Buffalo Wild Wings, had come to us in glad tidings; since they were not at capacity, they would bend the rules in our favor, seating us at their finest table.

From that moment on, the stars aligned, cats and dogs lived in harmony, Rose let Jack climb aboard her make-shift life boat, and the rest of my party had started to show up; the universe was at peace.

So began the feast of feasts, as our waitresses brought our orders, one by one, and we lived, laughed and loved our savory wings.

My order, the 15-wing "medium" set, was cooked to perfection, as they were submerged in both Medium and Parmesan Garlic sauce, to which I had ordered, "extra wet."

Yes, Buffalo Wild Wings gave me a truly wonderful present. One that I had emphatically enjoyed, until nature called. But I do not live my life in regret, where as the great James Hetfield has once said, "I'd rather regret doing something than not doing something." Would I do it all over again? You bet your sweet ass I would, and I'm planning to very, very soon.

So, if you're looking to enjoy great food, watching a million televisions all the while witnessing a fellow carnosaur sweating profusely as he/she tries to devour a serving of their famous Blazin' Sauce, then Buffalo Wild Wings is the spot for you.

It deserves a solid 5/5 stars:

Inside The Cage: The Dodgers Weekly Review

Clayton Kershaw pitches against the Rockies Photo by David Zalubowski/AP

Losing a series to open up a new month is not what any team wants. But that's exactly what happened to the Los Angeles Dodgers. By losing today, the Boys in Blue are now in the red, with having lost three of their first five games to open up July.

Clayton Kershaw was on the mound, July 4th, in Colorado, and was his usual dominant self. He lost another no-hitter in the third, when DJ LeMahieu singled; which just happened to be the Rockies' first base hit off of Kershaw in 13 innings.

But, it wouldn't matter as the Dodgers brought a little bit of fireworks(oh, c'mon, you knew a pun was coming) of their own to sunny Coors Field.

There wouldn't be much run-support needed, as Clayton extended his scoreless-innings streak to 36. While he was busy shutting down the Rockies offense, striking out eight while only allowing one walk, the bats were brought back to life.

Yasiel Puig homered in the first inning to dead center, giving the Dodgers an immediate 2-0 lead, as Dee Gordon lead off with a beautiful swinging bunt. After Hanley Ramirez had doubled, Andre Ethier tripled with two out, and the offense had closed out the inning with a 3-0 lead for Clayton Kershaw.

After kind-of cruising for four innings, Rockies' starting pitcher, Jair Jurrjens got himself into a little bit of a pickle in the fifth, with a lead off single to Gordon and hitting Ramirez on the hand. No x-rays were taken as he was removed from the game for precautionary reasons only, assured Dodgers skipper, Don Mattingly.

Stache Van Slick was able to bring upon furious vengeance with a homerun to left field. After that, the flood gates pretty much opened and the Dodgers were able to route the Rockies, in a nail-biter, 9-0.

After the game, Rockies center fielder, Drew Stubbs was interviewed and had this to say about the dominant left-hander: "I think his slider right now, to me, is the best pitch in the game for anybody. He's throwing it harder this year than I've ever seen before," he continued. "It's 87 to 90 mph and the arm slot it comes out of, it looks like a fastball then just disappears. It's just a really tough pitch to lay off of when it's down and in to a right-hander."

The general consensus? He really had his ju-ju going on Independence Day.

Dan Haren, who was on the hill Saturday afternoon, lost his very own no-hitter and shutout in the bottom of the first inning. After the Dodgers were able to give him a 2-0 lead, just as they did Kershaw, Haren was greeted with a single by Rockies' second baseman, Josh Rutledge. He was able to score on a fielder's choice by Nolan Arenado followed by Wilin Rosario cashing in Cory Dickerson.

Since the end of the first inning, Rockies' Jorge De La Rosa was on cruise control(not my twitter account), through his six inning s of work.

Dan Haren had himself a pretty horrible game, allowing eight earned runs to cross the plate. The bright side? He struck out eight while walking none.

With the long ball Haren served up to Dickerson in the 5th, he has now given up 17 homeruns on the season.

It wasn't until the top of the 7th where the Dodgers were finally able to make things happen; a ground-rule double by AJ Ellis, a walk to Miguel Rojas and a sharp single by newcomer, Clint Robinson and -- WHAM -- the Dodgers found themselves back in the game.

Failing to get anyone out, Nick Masset took himself out of the game with an apparent foot injury, leaving fellow reliever Boone Logan to try and mop up mid-batter. But to no avail, as Logan was relieved himself after walking the bases loaded.

At this point, Rockies relievers have yet to record a single out.

Adam Ottavino was brought in and immediately gave the Rockies a sigh of relief as he forced Juan Uribe to ground into a run-scoring double play. He, then, was able to strike out AJ Ellis, ending the threat.

Before it was all said in done, the Dodgers almost managed to tie it up, but the Rockies bullpen was able to stop the bleeding and end whatever rally they were trying to mount, with a final score of 7-8.

Perhaps the Dodgers should've saved a couple of runs and hits for today, from yesterday's blowout.

Dan Haren earned his 5th loss of the season while De La Rose notched his 9th win. July 8th's probables are: Josh Beckett for the Dodgers, as he tries for his 6th win and Rockies' Yohan Flande will be trying for his first.

First pitch is at 1:10pm PT.

The Lock Box: 'Deliver Us From Evil' Delivers Us From A Bad Movie

Eric Bana in Deliver Us from Evil/Screen Gems

Typically, haunting & possession movies move at a such a slow speed, I feel like I'm taking the drug, Slow-Mo, from the sci-fi, action movie, Dredd. Almost always, these types of movies start off with satanic ritual being preformed in a cave, or a kid finding a mysterious box buried in their backyard.

Like every movie ever made, they build up to the second act with exposition of story that most of us don't even care about; what we want to see is some good, ol' fashioned good versus evil. With Deliver Us from Evil, we get just that, but not just in the second and third acts.

The teaser is one of the best I've seen for a horror movie, ever, and the pace of the movie never really slows down. There are some tender moments here and there, where the story allows you to catch your breath. But, even then it's short-lived, followed by a did-you-see-that moment that will leave you jumping out of your seats.

Our protagonist, played by the gracefully-aging Eric Bana, is NYPD Sgt. Ralph Sarchie. The character is flawed with inner demons that plague him throughout the first two acts, and Bana brings very real anger and depth to the character.

Along for the ride, is his partner Butler, played surprisingly well by professional superhero banker, Joel McHale.

Olivia Munn is brought in to play Jen, Sarchie's strong yet suffering wife. The pair have solid chemistry, but the amount of screen time they have together leaves you left wanting. Look, I'm not saying they should've wrote the movie solely around those two, but maybe one or two more moments together, like her practicing jujutsu, or revealing that she's an international assassin...! No? Just me? Okay.

Anyway, yes, the two make a convincing family rounded off by the talented Lulu Wilson, as daughter Christina.

But, the star of this movie, no offense to any of the other actors, is Edgar Ramirez, who plays rock-star priest, Mendoza. Yes, the priest in a movie is finally a certified bad-ass. No more, calm, collective, run-of-the-mill goody two-shoes servants of God. Ramirez is, without a doubt, the star of the film and definitely brings his character to life; one moment he's caring for one of the flock, the next, he'll going to town on a punching bag, and then go right back to kicking a demon's ass. What would be the Spanish equivalent of 007? Dos Equis, maybe? That could work, I guess. I even have the perfect slogan for him:  I go down smoother than the beer. Awesome, huh? But I digress.

Throughout the movie, we follow Sarchie and Butler, kicking ass and taking names. But, when they investigate an attempted murder at the Bronx Zoo, things take a creepy and sinister turn. Yes, there are shock cuts present throughout the movie, but it's a horror film. Besides, I can't remember the last GOOD horror movie that didn't incorporate some kind of shock cuts into the movie, one way or another. To me, those are the best moments; you think everything's going good for our hero(s) at the moment, and then-- WHAM!

Some moments are predictable, some aren't. It just depends on how much you allow yourself to be engulfed by the movie.

Eric Bana and Sean Harris in Deliver Us from Evil/Screen Gems

In the end, to the tunes of the Doors, Sarchie must face his inner demons, and confront the one that possesses the menacing antagonist Santino, played by the nefariously looking Sean Harris.

I enjoyed this film because it was an amalgamation of action and horror, while at the same time, showing the affects of holding pain or guilt inside, as it eats at you every day of your life.

While Deliver Us from Evil may not be a pretentious, "Oscar-worthy" film, it does bring up a valid answer to the question of why evil exists. In the film, Sarchie asks Mendoza the most obvious of questions: If God exists, why does he allow such horrible things to happen. Mendoza answers perfectly by saying something to the affect of, "So that people like you[Sarchie] can rise up and stop them." That's some good stuff there.

The ending was intense that left me clutching my teeth together, and couldn't have ended any other way. I give this movie a solid 4/5 stars.

Happy 4th Of July From The Eclectic Locker!

Photo by Crotale

Happy Independence Day and to everyone celebrating this amazing day, I say to you be safe. If you're drinking tonight, please drink responsibly and please never drink and drive.

Hug the soldiers that have served, pray for the ones that are currently serving for a safe and a fast return home, and proudly wave your flags in the air. Even if you agree or disagree with how this country is currently being ran, never forget that those colors do NOT represent a political side; they represent truth, justice and liberty.

As a great man once said, "Doesn't matter what the press says. Doesn't matter what the politicians or the mobs say. Doesn't matter if the whole country decides that something wrong is something right."

"This nation was founded on one principle above all else: the requirement that we stand up for what we believe, no matter the odds or consequences."

"When the mob ad the press and the whole world tell you to move, your job is to plant yourself like a tree beside the river of truth , and tell whole world-- NO, YOU MOVE."

With that being said, I'll close by wishing everyone a fun day, be safe and happy 4th of July!

"Here's to the Army and Navy and the battles they have won; here's to America's colors, the colors that never run."

- Wang Chi, Big Trouble in Little China.