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Peak Season Insider Blog, Episode 1×6

Joelle Tomlinson — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:21:19 +0000

This week on Peak Season: Episode Six

Episode six of Peak Season was, for lack of a better word, overwhelming. To clarify, take the best parts of the Real World, Twilight and Intervention, mash them together, and you’ve got an imitation of life in Whistler. Don’t let those serene snowflakes at the beginning fool you, that’s what some people refer to as the calm before the storm, and this episode was a level nine on the Richter scale.

What happens:

Matt and Elle: Adrenaline-Junkies.

On a coffee date, Elle questions the value of remaining in Whistler to Matt, while he sheepishly defends his actions at the club earlier. One thing I really like about the Australians is their lingo, which consists of talking how I did in elementary school. I mean, how can Elle even consider leaving after hearing how “sucky” it will be for poor Matt?

Fortunately, all it takes is accompanying Elle to a skills competition, consisting of jumps, backflips and your typical ring of fire. I half-expected a bearded lady to Allie Oop through the ring after the competitors. After this, they continue on to complete their couple bonding by tandem bungee-jumping off a bridge. I’ll give it to Matt, he certainly knows how to make unique apologies. These Canadian fellows need to step it up!

Matt continues his new gentleman act at the bar when the Australian posse meets up for beers. When Elle is hit on, he immediately gets defensive, which translates into standing on the bar and making faces at the perpetrator. The poor guy is already single, don’t you think he has enough problems? A bar fight ensues, where they end up sloppy-UFC’ing outside in slippery conditions. Elle cries, because that’s what girls do best when someone else gets hit, and Matt the manly man comforts her outside the bar. All’s well that ends well.

Lauren: The Head-Honcho of Blackout Promotions.

Lauren and Fabia visit Peak to Pear novelties, to promote Blackout Promotions and select costumes for a snowboarding video premiere event. After picking out the most elegant options in pirate-wear, she moves on to complain about the elusive Steph Weber, who won’t answer her cellphone.

Later on, at Lily’s boutique, the two model their costumes (or lack, thereof) for the night to follow, and apparently that consists of skull tattoo’s on your boob for Fabia. Lauren then demonstrates what Whistleronians do best: fight on speakerphone (with Steph). This ensues in an awkwardness between the two pirates at the event later on, and a bit of a temporary downfall for their relationship. Hopefully the two work it out, they go together better than tequila and lime.

Amanda: The estrogen-pumped Chris Brown.

I think Amanda’s role in this episode would be much better explained in discovery channel mode:

It is commonly believed that the species, “Amanda”, attack mainly smaller, lip-pierced specimens, while this is not actually the case, and DJ’s in their prime are often stalked. Amanda’s have little stamina, and will usually get up close to the prey before charging. In about 10 per cent of kills, the prey is ambushed. The Amanda’s final charge is usually made from as close as 10 metres, seldom exceeding 20 metres. Attacks are best orchestrated under poor lighting conditions, wherein the victim (in this case, the species “Andreas”) will be unable to see and fend off the vicious female.

After this engaging display, Amanda is physically escorted from the bar. I remember this game I used to play with my 6”4, 200 pound father, where I would grab hold of his leg and he would obligingly drag me around the house. Imagine Dre as the father, and Amanda as my former eight-year-old self, and you’ve got the perfect reenactment of my youth.

Dre: Apparently this makes him the Barbadian victim.

After witnessing the bruises and scratches on Dre’s arm, I was surprised he didn’t call 9-1-1, but then I realized that it’s probably one of his friends on a snowmobile with a siren and a first-aid kit.

I wonder if he found anyone to lick his wounds after the attack. If not, it was certainly on his mind during his boys-bonding moment shoveling the drive. He contemplates his female options in the city, which admittedly, must be excessive. Then again, maybe it’s time for Dre to take a break from the dating game, and focus on his bros. Their touching snow-flinging shovel fight is reminiscent of female pillow-fighting fantasies. It doesn’t seem like a fair trade in the fantasy game, but beggars can’t be choosers, right?

Ian: The perfect picture of innocence.

I kind of missed the ever-witty Ian in this episode. Fans were treated to his and Amanda’s shredding skills and high-pitched screams on the jumps (yes, both of them), and the east-coast stud showed that he’s worth more than his dirty texting abilities. After talking with Amanda about the biting incident at the Savage Beagle, I’ll admit he gives some pretty solid advice. Unfortunately, I didn’t quite hear it, as I was too absorbed in the disarming pom-pom on his toque. I’ll give him some credit this week, good choice of headgear, and top-notch behaviour points.

Steph Weber: The sad pirate.

It appears that Steph takes styling advice from Ian in this episode, as she proudly dons her oversized pink feathered pirate hat to Blackout’s first big event. It’s a battle of the wenches between her, Fabia and Lauren, as she is told to surrender and set sail from the bar. In this case, I perceived the villain to be Fabia, who was (perhaps) a little too the pirate theme, and showed no mercy to the crying wee lass. All in all, it’s another bump in the road for Steph and Lauren’s friendship, but this busty blonde has staying power.

Best lines:

“Like, that’s going to be so sucky..like..yeah.” -Matt about Elle leaving.

“Just don’t bite him, ever again.” -Ian

“Keep your teeth to yourself.” -Amanda

“Is that your girlfriend? …That must be spectacular” – Random guy in the bar to Matt

“Just trying to import.” -Dre, in reference to city girls.

“Classy chicks don’t bone on couches, do they.” -Dre’s friend, Jason.

“You’re a f**cking liar, you’re a f**cking liar… kiss me.” -Amanda to Dre

Overall:

What an episode. Abusive relationships, bar fights and pirates are all in a day’s work for Peak Season. I wouldn’t recommend taking relationship advice from this show, you might end up picking skin of out your teeth for a few days. I have an almost-maternalistic pride for Lauren and her company, as though my watching has helped her mature from the world of cleavage shots into the world of business. In conclusion, not too sucky at all Peak Season, not too sucky at all!

andPOP insider interview with Amanda Scheller:

It’s about time we hear from this firecracker. Drama seems to encircle her like a hungry vulture. Read and see what she has to say about her life in Whistler.

Describe Peak Season in one sentence

“It’s just a group of 20-somethings, and we’re just living our life in Whistler.”

Did you have to audition for the show?

“No, I didn’t. I met the producers after they had all of their cast, and I guess they really liked me and Dre so I got on the show.”

What has been your favorite moment in the show so far?

“Favorite moment? Well (chuckles), the funniest moment is the date that me and Stoof went on with the boys. It was so funny to watch!”

What about least favorite moment?

“Probably the scene with me and Dre, and the little fight that we got into. That was the worst.”

When you re-watch the arguments between you and Dre, does it feel like you are living the fight over again?

“Actually, I’ve teared up a few times, because it was so hurtful.”

Do you think the show has shown all sides of you as a person yet?

“No. Not yet, there’s lots more to come.”

What drew you to live in Whistler?

“Well, after high school I came straight up to Whistler to snowboard because I did the whole-sponsored thing and I did contests and everything. Dre was living in Vancouver at the time, but I met him around then in Whistler.”

Were you dating Dre before you started working for his mom?

“Yeah, I was. I was dating him and then I started helping his mom out and got a job with the company. It wasn’t so much awkward between me and his mom, because it was on a professional aspect, but he would come into the office sometimes, and it was just super weird.”

Were you riding for anyone during this first season?

“Yup! I rode, and am still riding for Electric, Home and Forum, I was on the program. I think there’s a few more shots of me snowboarding, and there was that one already in the beginning with me and Dre. I’m sure there’s more shots.”

You also model, what led you to that?

“One of my friends is a photographer, and she just kind of set everything up for me, and was like ‘you should model.’ So it was just, ‘do this, and do that.’ I definitely think being in the show will help my modeling career, there’s a lot more in the show to come, so watch!”

Have you noticed a change in the public’s perception of you?

“Yeah, like being in Vancouver, a bunch of people stop me on the street, and they’re like ‘Oh my god, you’re from Peak Season, I love you!’. It’s so crazy and weird, they know me by name.”

Do you ever regret signing up for the show?

“No, most definitely not. No regrets at all.”

Is there anything else you want to let the Peak Season fans know?

“Thanks for the support! And, I just came out with a calendar, and the proceeds go to spinal cord research. You can get it on my blog at http://www.amandascheller.blogspot.com or my fan page.”

Finally Someone Admits The Twilight Kids Are Doing It

Jordan Bortolotti — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 03:48:46 +0000

It’s official! According to the superficial.com, Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson have had some sort of romance. The news comes from the original Twilight director Catherine Hardwicke. In a recent interview with Time Magazine she spilled the beans stating, “I didn’t have a camera in the hotel room. I cannot say, but in terms of what Kristen told me directly, it didn’t happen on the first movie.” I think we can all read between the lines as to what “it” means. However, I can’t really say I’m shocked. Seriously? Is this news? Two really good looking people can only be stuck together for so long and eventually they’re going to find their way into bed together.

Although, there was a considerable age difference between the two on the first movie. At four years apart, Twilight’s boy wonder was dangerously close to earning the nickname Robert Polansky. The director even cautioned the young superstar, “After I cast him, I told Rob, Don’t even think about having a romance with her,” Hardwicke says. “She’s under 18. You will be arrested.” Well, I guess Edward really would do anything for Bella. Even if it means spending some time in the slammer, once again Twilight is showing us all that love has no boundaries.

Gaming at a Glance: What you should be playing

sarge-ak47 — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:20:03 +0000

I drew this.. really I did!

Hello readers, it has been a while since I’ve gone on a rant. Truth be told I have been thinking of different ideas to write about. I figured since most sites talk about what is out these days and what our dear readers played, I will go the opposite route in a segment called “What you should be playing”.

The idea is to look at whats been happening around us in the wild world of video games and then pull out a title from the past(or future if possible) and tell you why a certain game is worth your time and money.

Take Halloween for example, all the horror movies around you and the constant imagery of ghoulish characters would make you want to play a good horror game right? YES!
Hey I’m not asking you to conform! Just suggesting that with the themes around us what game takes the best advantage of that.

So if Halloween is about scary things (and candy)then a good horror game is due right? Right!
Halloween just passed I thought I would give out my person take on what you should be playing..er..should have played.

Scary games are a dime a dozen these days but finding a good one is a hard task indeed. Fall has always been an odd season in my book, just the dreary atmosphere can be quite suited for staying inside and playing a good game.
What you should be playing this week is a good scary game just because Halloween is over doesn’t mean your scary game quest should be. Here are my picks

1 Dead Space – PS3/XBOX 360/PC- released October 14 2008
This was my game for Halloween last year! Quite possibly one of the most scary games out there.
The graphics and production values are second to none, developed by the fine folks at Visceral games, Dead Space had a crew respond to a distress signal aboard the USG Ishimura – a large interstellar mining ship.

Those creatures are messed up.

You take on the role of an engineer name Isaac Clarke who arrives to find most of the ship abandoned and eerily quite. Turns out most of the crew have been stricken by a virus that turns them into monsters known as necromorphs. this virus has some occult origins and soon enough it is your task to go through this insanely large vessel and reactivating its key functions as well as trying to decipher what went horribly array.
The mood and ambiance of this game is just amazing. Truly playing this alone in the dark (after 1 am) with the sound turned way up is scarier than any horror movie out there. Whats even more cool is that you end up utilizing mining equipment as weapons to take out these truly hideously freaky creatures. Think a head shot will stop them? Think again. Dead Space builds on what Resident Evil 4 started, by decapitating their dangerous limbs you have a better chance of killing them.

Notice how the ammo count is an in game hologram

This is a true Scifi horror game- it almost feels like a dreary version of event horizon. Tons of enemies and an amazing variety of locations aboard the ship will leave you at the edge of your seat. This is survival horror at its best.
You can probably pick it up for real cheap these days since it has been a year old.

Tons of tense momments.

It is all these factors combined with a smart HUD that increases the level of immersion and forces you to be compelled by this beautiful title.
Go get this!

2. Resident Evil 4- GameCube, PS2,Wii edition(recommend) Jan 11 2005 & May 31 2007

Yea I've heard of Lord of the rings, whats your point?

Maybe you don’t want the full blown horror and want a bit of action in your gameplay. Or maybe you just don’t care for futuristic settings and weaponry. The RE series has been the true innovators of horror games and the fourth installment is a series is quite possibly the best. With a new over the shoulder view a better inventory system and some truly interactive environments this is the horror game that inspired a whole lot of next gen shooters.

You know this was actually toned down for the Japanese version.

Would you believe Cliffy B of Gears of war fame was in love with this installment so much that it is one of the games that inspired the critically acclaimed shooter.

It is true, RE 4 was a last gen title that played out like a next gen game. It had some of the most atmospheric environments ever seen in any game, dreary villages, murky swamp lands, Gothic castles, ambient cavers- the list can go on and on. The visuals still hold up today as a testament to the artistry at Capcom. Compared to this, RE 5 is a step backwards. This title had copious amount of gore and horror packed into it and an action packed campaign that lasted almost 16 hours. RE4 is the best Resident Evil in the series if not the genre of survival horror. So why don’t you revisit this gem? Play it again! If you haven’t? Where have you been for the last 5 years? Go now and play this!

Your numbers mean nothing to my rocket launcher

So which version you ask? The Cube version may be the original but I will tell you nothing compares to the Wii edition. Not only does it pack the additional content of the PS2 port of the game (released after the Cube version) It retains the stunning look of the Cube version. Oh and did I mention it uses the IR sensor and revolutionizes your aiming? Well it does!
RE4 is still the gold standard for action horror games

Honorable mentions
Hey those two up there are my personal picks, but if you don’t want to dive into them because they don’t tickle your interest then how about renting Dead Space Extraction for Wii- a co op on rails shooter take on the franchise that isn’t as scary as it is action packed. Not that? Then try out Resident Evil, the remake version for the GameCube (Now out for the Wii as well)This remake takes that old formula and uses some of the most realistic pre rendered backgrounds ever. Truly awe inspiring! Or maybe go with a game that has the autumn theme going for it like Batman Arkham Asylum, it’s one of the biggest and best surprises of this year. Truly excellent title that even has a couple of chilling moments.

Either way GO FORTH AND PLAY!

Peak Season Insider Blog, Episode 1×5

Joelle Tomlinson — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:14:15 +0000

This Week on Peak Season: Episode Five

Another Monday night has passed, and with it, another drama-filled episode of Peak Season. As I sat down with my twelve-pack of beer and snow globe (the closest I can get to be Whistler local), I realized this episode marks the halfway point of the first season. It’s almost like the six month anniversary of a relationship, when you decide to persist or ditch. Is it worth the emotional investment, the time and the mind games? In my opinion, yes. Sure, it’s maddening when your emotional other can only dedicate thirty minutes to you a week, but sometimes, that’s what these one-ended relationships consist of. I mean, what other show has tractors plowing snow as a riveting opening shot? It’s one-of-a-kind, and I’m excited to see where this season will take the psychologically-insane individuals of Whistler.

What happens:

Stephanie Just: The fearless snowboarder.

In this episode, a lot of focus is put on Steph and her snowboarding. Her pass for the slopes has been reinstated, and she wastes no time getting back on the hill. When watching Steph in the park, hitting every jump and rail possible, it’s hard not to feel inadequate in comparison. I find myself on my feet, carving and leaning as though she is my Wii character (outfitted in my baggy pants and Jamaican toque), and I’m (not her!) garnering points for every trick. It works wonders for temporary self-esteem boosts.

In shows like The Hills, Lauren and Lo can use their powers to bypass lines at celebrity-infested club events. However, in shows like Peak Season, Steph and her friend use their overwhelming star power to wheedle and talk their way into getting spots in full Snowboarding competitions, more specifically, the “Showcase Showdown.” This competition features inflatable Redbull, gnarly tricks and Steph’s announced “aggressive frontside board slide.” I feel as though this is a personality characteristic of girls in Whistler. Instead of long walks on the beach, the new thing to enjoy is aggressively grinding a rail (no inappropriate innuendo implied).

After placing a respectable fifth place in the competition, probably due to a tragic bail on her final run, Steph congratulates her third-placing companion with a reassuring “I told you, if you beat me, I would kill you.. Congratulations!”

It’s truly hard not to love this girl.

Amanda and Stoofie: The conversationalists.

Amanda and Stoofie have a great dynamic as best friends. Within every one of their pointless conversations lies an absolute truth: which is, we (being female, that is) must talk about pointless things in order to exist. They discuss the undefined relationship between Amanda and Denny, Dre, and the volatile situation between Stoofie and Ian. Apparently, dishing about dirty ‘sexts’ is unacceptable in the elegant Ian’s book, and Stoofie believes it just may be over. The poor girl gets to join the Ross-causality list- a lot of brave soldiers have been lost in those trenches, but they persist tenaciously against the enemy with shots in hand and Uggs on feet.

Ian: Always the gentleman.

Apparently, Ian hasn’t mastered the meaning of the word “hypocrisy,” as he so cunningly demonstrates by reading the texts Stoofie has sent him aloud to his motley crew. It is fairly obvious that his short-lived fascination with Stoofie is dwindling, and it’s time to move on for the oversized-hat wearing stud. Even more awkward than this ensemble is the double-date that ensues between him, Stoofie, Amanda and Denny at a restaurant, which I suspect moonlights as a bowling alley.

Sometimes, when I’m walking alone by a shifty-looking character, I’ll pull out the whole immersed-in-my-texts bit, but this act is strictly reserved for strangers. Unfortunately for Stoofie, this rule does not apply to Ian. At one point she could have been naked dancing on top of the table, and her three other technologically-astute companions would have been oblivious.

Elle: the advocate for “Gill’s Night.”

For those of you less accent-inclined, the Canadian translation is girl’s night. This ensues in an evening of pampering, curling 20-inch extensions and donning the biggest sparkly ring you can find. As the ladies, or gills, enjoy their estrogen-only party at Bazooka Joe’s, Elle is understandably disappointed when her Australian hubby, Matt, crashes the party with his posse. Even more disappointing, apparently, is when he proceeds to ignore her and the high-pitched clan. This ensues in the “weirdest” fighting match I have ever witnessed. Case in point:

Elle: “Why are you being such a weirdo to me?”

Matt: “What are you talking about, I’m not being a weirdo!”

Elle: “Yes you ARE, you ARE being weirdo!”

And thus it continues. At the commencement of this vocabulary-infused debate, Elle decides that perhaps Australia isn’t her breeding grounds, and the Switzerland boy in the bar is more to her liking. On a following, more-sober morning, she is inclined to question her relationship and whether staying in Whistler is the greatest option at the moment.

Matt: The perfect boyfriend.

Otherwise his touching display of affection for Elle at Bazooka Joe’s, there is not much of Matt in this episode. What’s the equivalent of a gills-night out? A mates-day-outing! Matt, Dane (his shaggy-haired roommate) and Rory (a visiting friend), go snowmobiling in the beautiful slopes of Whistler. They rip around with accompanying rap music and flurries, a combination that represents the new hot threesome in television.

Best Lines:

“Dude, I know I have you hooked, I can call her anytime of the day and she’d be here.” -Ian, about Stoofie.

“Switzerland!” – Elle beckoning to her new man/country of choice.

“That’s why we have the best group, because we have all the hot people.” -Ian

“It takes typing texts to wheel a chick … that’s sometimes how it goes.” -Ian

“Gnarly, Shred, Bummer, Let’s peace” -Whistler Lingo

“F**k this sh*t, F**ck boyfriends.” -Elle

Overall:

I think it may be virtually impossible to say anything negative about the show itself in throes of a growing addiction. I will say that this episode was surprisingly lonely without Lauren Horton, Dre Morel or Stephanie Weber. I felt a tension throughout the entire show, like something big, sorry…gnarly, was about to happen, and I believe next week will be brimming with an above-average quota of drama. Character descriptions are slowly solidifying, but there still hasn’t been a lot of meaningful advancements in understanding each person on the show. Essentially, Fraggalosch (the creator of the show), is doing his job impeccably, because it seems as though next Monday is light-years away, a far-too long period of time in which I will most likely re-watch episode five an admittedly embarrassing amount of times.

andPOP insider interview with Stephanie Just

Stephanie Just weighs in on the show, her snowboarding, and what it was like growing up in Whistler.

Loving the show, what do you think of it so far?

“I think it’s great! It’s definitely dramatic!”

You just made your big debut on the third episode.. do you think it accurately reflected your personality?

“So far, it’s pretty accurate!”

Describe growing up in Whistler.

“Growing up in whistler was amazing. I feel like I grew up outdoors. I was always doing something outside; whether it was swimming, skiing, snowboarding, or just playing nicky nicky nine doors on the neighbors. It’s a very small town though so you can’t get away with a whole lot. It teaches you to be honest because everyone’s going to know everything you do. My high school was small, and most of us were together since preschool. We’re kind of like a big family! I feel very fortunate to have grown up in such an amazing place. ”

How would you describe your style?

“Hmmm, my style? I don’t really know if I have a style. I like to dress how i feel, mostly comfortable. I love sweat pants. I love big baggy clothing, but i also like to dress like somewhat of a girl. I love hippie shirts! Sometimes when I’m feeling super sexy, I’ll dress like it.”

Have you and the other local on the show, Dre, always been friends?

“Dre and I have been friends for a long time. When I was younger I used to hang out with Dre’s older sister Nat. She’s the funniest girl. Nat, Dre, and I hung out a lot. We even traded pets. I traded my turtle for their two guinea pigs… ha ha!”

What about the rest of the cast? Did you know them all before Peak Season?

“I’ve know Amanda for a while. I met her at a snowboard contest a few years ago. I know Lauren and Ian from around town, and I met Matt and Elle while we were filming.”

What led you to snowboarding?

“My blood, my childhood, and my dad! My dad bought me my first snowboard. It was a rental SIMS for $75. I didn’t really want to snowboard, but I thought I’d give it a shot.”

Your parents are obviously big supporters of your boarding. What do they think of you being on Peak Season?

“My parents are really excited for me! We watch the show together every Monday night, and they love it! My dad calls it freak season. Ha!”

If boarding wasn’t an option what else would you want to do with your life career-wise?

“I think I would be somewhere out in the middle of know-where trying to save animals. Or I would be in architecture.”

You have to give up one thing: partying, guys or snowboarding. Which one would it be?

“I’d like to say boys, but that’s the whole reason we party in the first place. And if I cut boys, who would I snowboard with?”

Have you been signed on to a boarding company?

“I ride for Westbeach, Kombi, OGIO, Mayday, Spy, and Omatic.”

Can we expect anything romance-wise from you in coming episodes?

“Romance in Whistler… hardly. Ha!”

Tell us something about yourself that not a lot of people know.

“I’m kinda obsessive compulsive. I’m obsessed with numbers.”

Anything else you want to say about the show?

“I hope there’s a second season.”

Spiral Beach on Side B – I Guess They’re ‘Ghoul Punk’

Dan Busheikin — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 11:59:09 +0000

The best way I can describe Spiral Beach’s music is “ghoul punk”. Yes, that’s ridiculous, but I stand by my claim. Considering how young the members of this band are, they have an impressively well-developed sound and style. Spiral Beach puts on one of the craziest live shows in Toronto, and their recent album “The Only Really Thing” is a great listen. Check out our interview and hop on the bandwagon.

Outer Panel Haven. 20

sarge-ak47 — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:49:39 +0000

I woke up at 6 am to realize the comic I was working on was left at a friends house.
This comic is time sensitive, so I decided to do what is the fastest recreation ever.
Forget my terrible art, know it was done in less than 30 minutes.
The point of the comic is important, since tomorrow is officially Modern Warfare 2 day!
For some reason there are people playing the game all too early thanks to a couple of retailers.
These retailers will do anything to get you to buy games from them. Anything.

Enjoy!
Oh and next week expect a MUCH better comic.

Click on the image for the full sized glory.

Peak Season Insider Blog, Episode 1×4

Joelle Tomlinson — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:14:12 +0000

Peak Season's Matt James

This Week on Peak Season: Episode Four

As this past Sunday night drew to a close, I couldn’t fathom what that anxious and excited feeling was in the pit of my stomach. I haven’t had this feeling since Heidi still had her original nose on Laguna Beach. Perhaps it was hunger, but perhaps it was the signs of another dilemma. Then I realized it. I have officially become addicted to a television show.

The affliction, commonly recognized by symptoms which include: placing a half-hour segment of television before things such as personal hygiene, university papers, and essentially shunning social interaction, is a serious one. Yes, admittedly, I have googled Whistler on more than one occasion, and I blame my recently terrible social graces on Grant Fraggalosch, the guy who created Peak Season. He can answer to those who wonder where I disappear to on Monday nights, and then reemerge, with an insatiable appetite for alcohol, snowboarding and drama.

This episode of Peak Season revealed a lot, and while it seemed sort-of like a base to set up all the adventures to come, it was definitely essential.

What Happens:

Who is Stephanie Just?

In what appears to be a car reminiscent of the Toyota Camry I remember from childhood, the boys (men?) of Peak Season head to Stephanie Just’s house for a backyard barbeque. For clarification: in Whistler, this means jumping off roofs, and grinding homemade rails, commonly referred to as ladders. Don’t worry, it’s safe, as justified by Just’s “200-pound” father who set the lovely contraption up. It almost seems like an “America’s funniest home videos” moment waiting to happen, but instead, the audience is treated to Just’s snowboarding skills, and can appreciate the loud-mouthed daredevil for her passion to her craft. Unfortunately, the brash snowboarder gets caught for “speeding” on the mountain (does that go on your record?), and her pass is suspended. Cue the heroine of the story: Just’s mom, who also happens to be her sponsor. Remember cunningly asking your parents for help with that long division, slyly slipping the pencil into their hand, and watching the homework magically do itself? Apply this notion to Steph’s apology letter, and you’ve got one happy, marijuana sweater-wearing boarder.

Amanda Scheller: The ever-graceful crier.

Romance is budding in the air for the brunette beauty, Amanda Scheller. After coming down with an illness, she receives soup and a flower from Ians friend, Denny (get it…budding?). Her girlfriend, Stoofie, is there to discuss the implications of what this means, and also, to discuss her growing infatuation with the ever-classy Ian. And by infatuation, I mean, ability to sex text, also known as “sexting,” and dirty talk on the phone.

Later that night at Moe Joe’s, among the throes of platinum blonde hair and flaming shots, things heat up between the two couples (Denny and Amanda, Stoofie and Ian). While Stoofie disappears with Ian into the darkness of the night, Amanda generously shares her little sickness with Denny on the dance floor. Okay, they made out. After playing some hide-and-seek with her oversized parka, Denny and Amanda leave the bar, and leave viewers to their far-too-developed imaginations.

Ian Ross: The always-enlightening ladies man.

Does Ian truly like Stoofie? If he does, it certainly isn’t for her nickname, though it happens to be growing on me every time I say it. If his dirty texting doesn’t show it, certainly his dirty talk on speakerphone with the boys says nothing clearer than “I respect you.” Right? He also lets Amanda know that boys like the chase when it comes to the opposite sex. Wow, this is news to me. Men like the chase? I think I’m going to invent this new mating technique called “hard-to-get” as well, while we’re compiling all this new and foreign dating advice.

Lauren Horton: A burgeoning career woman?

This episode showcases a whole new outlook on the feisty Lauren. Her and best friend, Stephanie Weber, discuss starting up her promotions company, and even I tensed up watching the awkward conversation. Stephanie wants to be a big part of the company, and Lauren is hesitant to mix business and friendship. Being the absolute epitome of a non-confrontational person, I found myself squirming with the implications of their conversation, especially when it leads to Lauren lecturing Stephanie later on about shopping in Vancouver when she needed help. Could this be a new Lauren on Peak Season? I have a feeling she has more sides than people allot her. Swan-rider by day, corporate demon by night.

Dre Morel: The Iron-Man of emotions.

Dre returns for a visit to his once-shared apartment with Amanda, and is greeted with a barrage of tears, confrontation and single stemmed roses. Though undeniably upset by Amanda’s new love interest, he comes across as a stone-cold killer in this episode. And by killer, I mean mean of Amanda’s spirit and heart. Something tells me the two of them are like a warped science experiment though: highly volatile and combustible. I’m looking forward to what shenanigans this non-couple has in store for the next few weeks.

Best Lines:

“A really good-looking dude brings you soup and a flower, your stock went through the roof.” -Ian to Denny, still showing a dedicated admiration of his friends.

“Anyone who is over 200 pounds get off the f**cking rail.” -Stephanie Just’s opening line… to her father.

Ian- “What are you wearing?” Stoofie- “You.”

“I am fighting this, I have done nothing wrong… let’s get drunk.” -Stephanie Just after her pass is revoked on the slopes.

Overall:

At first, I initially thought not much had transpired in this episode. It comes across as more of a transition episode, but it definitely sets the setting and tensions that are sure to explode in the following episodes. I really enjoyed finding out there was more to Lauren than intimidating drinking skills, and watching Stephanie showoff her talents (both physically and verbally) on the mountain. In a completely unrelated point, I also liked the shot of the mother and child walking around the village. It made me realize that other people actually do exist in Whistler. Who knew? I give this episode three-and-a-half dirty text messages out of five.

andPOP insider interview with the Australian couple, Matt James and Elle Hetherington:

This imported couple have already fought, made up, and gone for dog-sledding rides in two episodes. I absolutely love some of the discrepancy between the two answers. Though Matt and Elle aren’t really shown much in this episode, their relationship is sure to turn heads this season.

What is your favorite part about being on Peak Season?

Elle: “I would say for me it was meeting the crew. They were all such an amazing bunch of people and they were there to experience some serious highs and lows in my life. We really had a great time. It is also a great thing and rare to have a part of your life documented that you can look back on and think “did i say that?” Was i really thinking and feeling that.”

Elle, you were in Whistler the previous winter season. Was the show a part of your return? And what drew you guys to Whistler in the first place?

Elle: “No,it wasn’t the reason I returned. I decided that 7 months was too long to be away from Matt and I booked my ticket before we knew about being on the show. It worked out well because Matt would have been so boring without me… ” (she laughs)

Matt: “I visited on a family holiday when I was 14 and was stoked on the place. At that age I was just pumped on the mountain, the powder and the thought of being able to ride everyday. Also loved the idea of Whistler over any other resorts around the world because of Canadian people, very similar to Aussie people apart from the accent. I never realized how good, and intense, the social and nightlife was in Whistler.”

Are you making it an annual visit, Matt?

“I did want to make a good go at living there for a lot longer than I did, but when you have a girlfriend on the other side of the world for half the season, it takes the decision out of your hands. Hopefully second time around I can get settled to just keep living the dream!”

How hard is it to be dating and in Whistler?

Elle: “It’s not that its hard, it’s just different. You can’t expect things to be normal when you are living in this town that is just craziness 24/7. You are busy so much and there isn’t much down time where you can be alone together, and I think that is important in relationships so that you can communicate and talk about the experience and up and downs that you are going through. Also it’s easy to take each other for granted because there are so many other distractions. Nobody wants to miss out on the Whistler experience and in my case at any cost i guess…”

Matt: “I never expected such a focus on my relationship, but then again I never thought all the stuff that has happened would actually happen to Elle and I. I was sweet with the cameras being around, they blend into the background after a little while. I don’t think it was them that made it hard for Elle and I to communicate, it was more the living in each others pockets, not having lots of money and the influence of ‘the party scene’ in your system more days than not.”

Would you recommend it to other people?

Elle: “Of course! All relationships are different and as much as I’ve seen broken ones i seen happy couples come and go. Its case by case. Don’t miss out on Whistler just because you have a partner.”

Matt: “HELL NO… Never again in all my life would I attempt a long distance relationship, especially when I was living the dream in Whistler and Elle was back in Australia working the hard yards. Puts you both of such different wavelengths. It is hard to ever understand what the other person is going through, and can make you feel guilty for having such a good time, knowing that your girl is on other side of world. I am not saying it is impossible, because if you love the person it is worth it, just try avoid it more than anything. It can be a massive downer at times.”

Elle, is it hard to look back and watch scenes of the bickering between you and Matt?

“Yeah it’s weird. It can stir emotions but then you’re like no don’t go there we’ve dealt with that and its in the past. Plus its just so funny to watch yourself angry – who wants to see that?”

How about the more.. loving scenes?

Elle: “Yeah I’m not a fan of the kissy noises but i suppose its better than the bickering scenes.”

Matt (on whether it felt odd looking back on those scenes): “Not at all. Elle and I have such an intense relationship that the bad things are always really messed up and the good things are Epic. So when we are in the moment like that nothing feels odd, i think that night was quite boring compared to other nights we have had.”

Matt, would you consider yourself a romantic guy?

“I am the king of romance, you just got to be lucky enough to experience it for yourself. I am not about being all soft and mushy all the time, but just spoiling the girl when the situation calls for it. If guys don’t fight the romance all the time, they would realize it can be a massive turn on for them as well. I will say that was one of the bigger gestures I have done in the past, but that’s because I was in Whistler and it brings that out in people. There is a lot more of me in Whistler to come, so you will definitely be shocked by things you haven’t seen yet this season.

Being in the Whistler “bubble,” did you find it suffocating to see and party with the same people day in, day out?

Elle: “Not really for me that was no different than partying with your friends back home. The most suffocating part was living away from home. Sleeping on couches and squeezing in time with Matt. But it was all worth it.”

Matt, in your opinion, what are the best things that Peak Season has to offer?

“Peak Season gives the outside world a look into how the most intense snow resort city in the world can affect different peoples lives. I watch some of it back in shock and think Whistler is the only place some of this stuff can go on. It also gets rid of that scripted stuff on other ‘reality’ shows, it is as real a show as you can get.”

Anything else you want to say to your Canadian fans?

Matt: “Keep watching. Lots more of me to love or hate and hope you all learn to take the guys side, that being me every now and again. Also hope I see you all out partying in Whistler or Australia one day, you are only young once.”

Ko On Side B – He Likes Weed (That Direct Enough?)

Dan Busheikin — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 01:03:59 +0000

Ko is a particularly unique artist, with a particularly interesting story. Not only was he able to defeat his drug habits and turn his life around, but he has fulfilled his wildest musical dreams, creating his eclectic debut album “Let’s Blaze” and sharing the stage with hip-hop giants like De La Soul and Snoop Dogg. Oh, and Ko likes smoking a lot of weed.
If you like what you hear, be sure to check outhttp://www.ko-nation.com/

Outer Panel Haven. 19

sarge-ak47 — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:38:58 +0000

So I and many others I know have been glued to Uncharted 2 for the last couple of days. The game is simply amazing and unlike anything you have ever seen. This made me think of the common misconception the title often receives, I mean don’t get me wrong, it certainly has some of the best inspirations behind it, however Nathan Drake and his tales are much closer to the movie Romancing the Stone than say, Indiana Jones.
Don’t even get me started on Tomb Raider comparisons, the game just can’t compete. I honestly never think of Tomb Raider whilst playing since it’s a whole different beast.

Anyhow this was fun since I got to sketch Harrison Ford from a reference pic and tried my best with Lara.
Drake was hard to nail down without it looking too cheesy. In the end I opted for a real pic just because I wanted to give that “head and shoulders” above feel. Plus it just made my work easier.
And in all honesty just try and imagine telling Drake himself of that- I think his response would be something similar.
Click on the image for the full sized version
Enjoy!

Andrew W.K. on Side B – Not What We Expected

Dan Busheikin — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:50:24 +0000

His party anthems were once radio mainstays, but where is he now? Andrew W.K. is alive and active, having recently released 55 Cadillac – an album of solo improvised piano – as well as Gundam Rock, which consists of covered music from the Gundam Series. Additionally, Andrew hosts a show called “Destroy Build Destroy,” where he helps kids destroy things, build things, and destroy things again Yeah, that sounds about right. As you can imagine, I was thrilled to speak with the explosive Andrew W.K. and find out what the hell he is up to.

Don’t forget to watch my interview with Gonzales to hear more about the piano duel.