Orlando Cabrera "Could go to Twins"...Do we want him?

Buster Olney has reported that the A's and Twins are "making steady progress" toward a trade for A's shortstop Orlando Cabrera.Ken Rosenthal has also reported that "The teams continued their discussions on Thursday and plan to continue talking Friday."

No specific Twins prospects are noted in either report, but previous reports have indicated that Billy Beane has asked for Danny Valencia in a deal. It is not clear whether Beane has reduced his asking price or if he's standing firm. What I can say is that the Twins open affection for Cabrera (from Gardy to Mauer and Morneau - allegedly) hasn't helped our bargaining position.

LEN III and many others have noted that Cabrera's OPS is pretty much the same as Brendan Harris and that he's not really worth pursuing. I disagree. While Cabrera is NOT worth the price of a Danny Valencia or other top 10 minor league prospect, I do think he's worth a lower tier prospect such as Trevor Plouffe or Luke Hughes just to get Alexi Casilla off the field (though his performance Wednesday was promising).

The real question regarding Cabrera (or Marco Scutaro, who the Twins are also pursuing) is the degree to which they would upgrade the ballclub. In an attempt to answer this, I did a quick and dirty analysis of the two players, plus a number of additional alleged targets (including Freddy Sanchez for comparison) and our current trio of Nick Punto, Alexi Casilla and Brendan Harris. Using fangraphs batting and fielding runs above average, weighted 50% / 30% / 20% over the last three years. Since we're only talking about middle infielders, and since we're comparing only to each other, I disregarded replacement and defensive position value for the purposes of this analysis.

Player	Batting	Fielding	Total
Marco Scutaro	3.15	5.32	8.47
Freddy Sanchez	(2.20)	3.40	1.20
Adam Kennedy	(3.29)	2.28	(1.01)
Nick Punto	(12.09)	7.13	(4.96)
Orlando Cabrera	(7.17)	1.85	(5.32)
Brendan Harris	(3.56)	(5.76)	(9.32)
David Eckstein	(3.82)	(5.60)	(9.42)
Alexi Casilla	(10.17)	(4.48)	(14.65)

According to these numbers, we should be all over Marco Scutaro, as he's nearly 10 full runs (assuming a full season) better than any other available player on the "shopping list". Plug him in at shortstop, move Punto to second and you end up with an astounding +23.2 runs. Accounting for the fact we're roughly 2/3 of the way through the season, and we're still talking about a more than 7 run improvement. Do the same with Orlando Cabrera and we're talking about a 3 run improvement from here on out. Not a whole lot in either case, but an improvement like this can mean an extra win or two. Obviously, players can over or under-perform these numbers, but at least they give us a baseline we can work with to evaluate options.

Regarding Valencia, there is absolutely no way I give him up one for one, even for Scutaro. However, I would at least listen if it meant the Twins getting not only a middle infielder, but also a solid bullpen arm we would keep beyond this season. Valencia + lower level prospect for Scutaro and Scott Downs? Perhaps...

Big Brother 11: Week 4 HoH Endurance Aftermath

Last night was a great night for Big Brother 11. By the time the live feeds came back on we already had three of the 9 competing houseguests down from the competition. After three hours we were down to just two competitors: Jeff and Russell. Finally, at the four-hour mark, a deal was made and one man dropped…

Russell is the new Head of Household this week after agreeing with Jeff that they both wanted Ronnie out of the house. Russell has promised Jeff safety and even said that he’d let Ronnie compete in the PoV competition. While that of course makes me nervous there’s also no reason Ronnie couldn’t end up in the PoV fight anyway, but at least this route will put him in the hot seat for the entire week.

Other worthy notes from the Big Brother 11 endurance competition:

* Kevin won the $5,000 gift
* Jordan won a “Have” pass for this week and had to select 3 Have-Nots. Kevin, Natalie, and after pulling Jeff’s name the other HGs made Jordan pull someone else and Jessie ending up being selected.
* Russell still seems to be targeting Ronnie

Also there is big news in regards to Big Brother’s Coup D’Etat power play. CBS has announced that all voting before 12:20AM EST has been nullified due to technical errors on their end. The voting page was all messed up last night and had the wrong pictures at one point, then the wrong message at another time. That means all the Jeff fans need to get back on there. If you were planning to vote for Ronnie or Jessie, then you don’t need to do anything at all (snicker).

If you missed last night’s exciting Big Brother 11 HoH Endurance competition then you can still get on the live feeds and use the Flashback times I’ve listed to see all the vomiting and brutal conditions the HGs had to endure.

Funny side note: Had anyone else never heard of ‘Shiantology’? Apparently Shia LaBeouf has developed quite the cult following. Good for some Friday humor.

Bruce Rossmeyer, Harley Davidson dealer, killed in a motorcycle accident on the way to Sturgis

Harley Davidson dealer and icon

Bruce Rossmeyer died in a motorcycle accident

Legendary Harley Davidson dealer, Bruce Rossmeyer was killed in a motorcycle accident yesterday. Rossemeyer was headed to Sturgis when he was killed while trying to pass a pickup truck.

According to the Wyoming State Patrol, Bruce Rossmeyer tried to pass a truck that was pulling a trailer. The truck was trying to turn left when the accident happened. Rossmeyer was thrown from his Harley after striking the driver side door and landed under the truck.

The police said the driver of the truck had his turn signal on. Rossmeyer was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

News of Rossmeyer's death has shaken many of those attending Sturgis. Rossmeyer has been a beloved icon to the motorcycle community.

Woody Woodruff, owner of Buffalo Chip Campground, spoke with the Orlando Sentinel about Rossmeyer's death. He said "His death is going to change the entire motorcycle industry," He also stated, "You have movers and shakers, and Bruce was definitely a mover and shaker. He made things happen. You lose someone like that and it creates a big void."

Bruce Rossmeyer leaves behind his wife Sandy, five children and grandchildren.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Rossmeyer's family.

At the time of this report funeral plans for Rossmeyer have not been announced.

Bruce Rossmeyer's Geico commerical

Video of Bruce Rossmeyer interview

Omer Bhatti Michael Jackson Love Child Says Joe Jackson

Omer Bhatti Michael Jackson Love Child - Joe Jackson did an interview with NewsOne where he confirmed that Omer Bhatti is indeed Michael Jackson’s son.Jackson said:

“Yes, I knew he had another son, yes I did.He looks like a Jackson, acts like a Jackson, can dance like a Jackson.”

Bhatti spent about 14 years living and traveling with Jackson.Joe Jackson: “Omer Bhatti is Michael’s Secret Son” video is after the jump.




That’s all we have for now on Omer Bhatti Michael Jackson Love Child.

Ben Brown Baton Rouge

LOS ANGELES—Detectives from the Office of Sheriff are searching for a Baton Rouge man named “Ben Carey Brown”, who disappeared on Wednesday morning. Ben Brown was last seen while entering into his office located at “United Plaza Boulevard” on Wednesday morning. It is very tough time for his wife “Ragan Brown”, who sit at house while hoping that her love will be alright.

“I just miss him so much and I love him and I just want him back,” she said.
“I got up about 6:30 a.m. and realized he was gone and I called his cell phone and he didn’t answer,” she said.
“He would never go anywhere or do anything without telling me or letting me know what he’s doing,” she said.
According to the Authorities, 28-year-old Ben Brown entered into the “Postlethwaite”& Netterville Building” situated at 8550 United Plaza Boulevard at round about 5:20 AM. Casey Rayborn Hicks (spokeswoman from Office of the Sheriff) said that video which they got from Surveillance camera doesn’t show him leaving the office.
Casey Rayborn Hicks further said that Detectives also found his car in the parking lot and his several personal things in the office. Officers searched for him in the office, grounds nearby the office building and also tried to locate Ben through calling his mobile phone but all in vain.
Ben Brown is a white man with 5’ 7’’ height and 170 pounds weight. He is an accountant if anybody has information regarding his location can call the Sheriff’s Office at (225) 389-5000 or Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-7867.

Ben Carey Brown

Miami Beach Trying to Evict Mr. Clucky?!

The latest buzz on South Beach is regarding a local celebrity chicken named Mr. Clucky. South Beach residents are very familiar with Mr. Clucky as are many, if not most, visitors who have walked along Lincoln Road. He is a white chicken that is always perched upon his owner’s shoulder or bike handlebars while he bicycles his way through South Beach all day, every day. People also always easily spot Mark Buckley, Mr. Clucky’s owner, with his trademark jean overalls and a beanie hat.

Word is, someone complained about Mr. Clucky and, thus, began the feud. The City of Miami Beach is now saying that Mr. Clucky gets the boot! City code enforcement says that farm animals are not allowed to live in Miami Beach and that Buckley and Mr. Clucky must move out of their Jefferson Avenue studio apartment and get out of town.

Buckley is arguing that his long-time resident of Miami Beach has brought smiles to children’s faces for years and has become more like an ambassador of the city. In the past few months, Buckley has collected signed affidavits from neighbors promising that the rooster does not make any noise or act as a nuisance. People have gathered on Lincoln Road to show their support and protest with signs. On Wednesday night, July 29th, a news conference and candlelight vigil was held for Mr. Clucky. Mr. Clucky went into Miami Beach City Hall this Thursday morning at 9:00AM to learn his fate. Will he be evicted or accepted?

UPDATE: “A special hearing officer ordered Buckley on Thursday to pay a $50 fine and gave city code officers the authority to remove Mr. Clucky and his publicity-shy hen girlfriend, Wallflower, from Buckley’s first-floor condo on Jefferson Avenue.”

Tiger Woods struggles to a 71 at Buick Open

Trailing leader Steve Lowery by eight shots, Woods is in danger of missing another cut.

Tiger Woods played a lot like the guy who didn't make the cut at the British Open.

Woods shot a one-under-par 71 on Thursday at the Buick Open at Grand Blanc Township, Mich., and finished the first round eight shots behind leader Steve Lowery.

"Probably one of the worst putting days I've ever had," he said. "It was just terrible."

Tied for 95th, Woods is in danger of missing cuts in consecutive tournaments for the first time as a pro.

"I not only have to play well to make the cut, I got to play well to get myself back in contention," said the two-time Buick Open champion, whose worst finish in eight previous stops at here was a tie for 11th. "Guys are going to continue to go low. That's the way the golf course is playing right now.

"It's going to be 20-plus to win."

Lowery took advantage of perfect conditions in the morning by tying a course record with a 29 on the front nine and finishing at nine-under 63. John Senden made five consecutive birdies in the morning and finished with nine to end up only a shot off the lead.



U.S. Senior Open

Greg Norman birdied four straight holes on the front nine of the U.S. Senior Open, but a bogey on the final hole at Carmel, Ind., left him in a four-way tie with Joey Sindelar, Dan Forsman and amateur Tim Jackson at six-under 66. Andy Bean and Fulton Allem are one shot back at 67.

Jackson, a real estate developer from Tennessee, broke the record for low score by an amateur at this tournament, and he did it in his senior tour debut at Crooked Stick.

Norman and his senior tour colleagues had no problems playing on a cool, relatively calm day. Those atop the leaderboard made it look easy on the 7,316-yard course, the longest in Senior Open history.

"If you're going to shoot a low round at the U.S. Senior Open, this is the day," Forsman said.

Tom Watson, who lost the British Open in a playoff two weeks ago, shot a 71.



Gal leads Women's British Open

Sandra Gal of Germany shot a three-under 69 to take a one-shot lead after the first round of the Women's British Open at Lytham St. Annes, England.

After a nearly six-hour round, Gal was one better than Angela Stanford and Song-Hee Kim. Gal's best finish was a tie for fifth at the Corning Classic in May..

Michelle Wie coped well to shoot a 73. Paula Creamer had a 74 without a birdie, one shot better than Lorena Ochoa.

Contessa Brewer Steamed By Palin Defender: You're Insulting Me, "Cut His Mic"

MSNBC's Contessa Brewer on Wednesday hosted John Ziegler, documentary filmmaker and professional Sarah Palin-supporter, for another one of those vertiginous interviews that have become Ziegler's stock in trade. Serving as the news peg for this one was a comedy bit from David Letterman that made fun of Sarah Palin, at times rather viciously. Of course, the problem with interviewing John Ziegler about anything, is that pretty soon, the subject of conversation becomes John Ziegler.

And this interview was no different. Basically, it's five minutes of Contessa Brewer attempting to ask questions and Ziegler responding with tangentially-related anti-MSNBC agitprop. Ziegler led off the interview by referring to MSNBC as "Barack Obama's official network," grousing about how the topic of the interview wasn't Keith Olbermann, answering questions glancingly and with subtle digs, and, OF COURSE, making sure to plug his website and movie. Brewer played her part by being miffed and appalled right up until the moment where she calls a halt to the discussion and asks for Ziegler's mike to be cut.

One of the substantive points that Brewer brings up is the fact that a new Gallup poll indicates that Palin doesn't rate among self-identified Republicans as any sort of party leader. Ziegler blamed MSNBC for that: "You find this surprising or shocking that because you and the media portray Republicans as old white men, that the public perceives Republicans as old white men?" Yes. The perception that the GOP was filled with old, white men was invented by the media, in 2009, to hurt Sarah Palin's electoral chances. Truly, a cunning bit of subterfuge.

I tend to think that public favor of Palin has diminished because every time someone says something about her that should simply be beneath her, like a late night host's Top Ten List, Palin turns it into a national opera of personal outrage. She doesn't seem to understand that she'd be better off ignoring it. Sometimes, you just have to act like the small stuff doesn't affect you. And, hey, maybe you should avoid having a guy who's trying to earn a living selling you as a documentary film subject as your chief spokesman in the press. But if Ziegler is going to step up and fight those battles for you, there's even less of a reason to become personally invested. Sarah Palin should let the small people sweat the small stuff, instead of constantly retreating behind them.

Naturally, the whole exchange sort of loses its impact when you understand that there is no way that MSNBC could have expected this interview to turn out any differently, given Ziegler's prior performances. I suppose Brewer should be commended for pretending to be surprised at Ziegler's behavior so convincingly.

[WATCH]

Air Berlin's Very Own 'Deltalina'

True to our promise, we've gone and jetted off to Berlin for a week with thoughts of currywurst and cycling over cobblestones dancing in our head.

We safely arrived early this morning to Berlin's Tegel airport via Delta's non-stop flight 78 from New York-JFK, an experience we'd rather not repeat due to a decrepit terminal, mass confusion at the gate, and the horribly cramped seats of an older plane. And remember that jazz about Delta being tops in terms of tarmac waits? They aren't kidding; we had read through our guidebook before even hitting the skies.

Beyond the terminal's hot pretzel stand and the vending machine stocked with Ritter Sport chocolate and Haribo Gummi-Bären, we spotted this carry-on luggage measuring rack and its image of a perky Air Berlin representative.

Is this frisky-looking lass the German version of Deltalina? Sadly we didn't book the Air Berlin direct from JFK, but next time we just might have to if she promises to help us latch the overhead bins.

WILSON'S BARTENDING JOB LEADS TO HOLLYWOOD RETURN

WILSON'S BARTENDING JOB LEADS TO HOLLYWOOD RETURN

PORKY'S actor-turned-bartender ROGER WILSON has gotten a career boost after nearly giving up on the movies - restaurant bosses sent him back to Hollywood after discovering they hired a celebrity.
The star has struggled to land another role in a film equally as successful as his 1980s flicks and recently began serving up drinks at Chinese restaurant Philippe East Hampton.
Restaurant owners were stunned when patrons began to recognise the star, and decided to promote him to a position at their Los Angeles branch, where he'll mingle with more A-listers.
Owner Stratis Morfogen tells the New York Post, "The story I heard was, he was a struggling musician trying to make it. But then every A-list patron who walked in the door knew him... we spoke in detail about his past - amazing guy and amazing story. Now I've decided to bump Roger up to manager in our new Philippe location in Los Angeles opening this September (09). He is so happy to go back to Hollywood... I knew none of this."

So You Think You Can Dance - Season 5 - Top 6 Results - VIDEO

Jeanine Mason, Brandon Bryant, Kayla Radomski and Evan Kasprzak move on to the final! - VIDEO

Melissa Sandvig and Ade Obayomi are Eliminated

I got all my pool points for the first time in many weeks. But I won’t brag, because tonight’s results were a no brainier. On to the finale for Jeanine, Brandon, Kayla and Evan. I’ll be rooting for Jeanine and Brandon, but would not be surprised if Evan took it all. I could live with that, too.

Tonight’s reprise of those wonderful Emmy-nominated performances from Season 4 was not only a fantastic idea, but a very sweet treat as well.

Live blog and Videos after the JUMP…

Which 4 dancers move on to next week’s final? Stay tuned to find out!

Group Dance by Tyce Diorio: “Send in the Clowns” by Judy Collins - The dancers are dressed as clowns. I hate clowns. Aw. Sad clowns. - VIDEO

The 4 Emmy nominated routines from last year will be performed tonight! Yippee!

YAY.

Plus, reggae superstar, Sean Paul.

Next…recap of last night’s performance show! Or, in other words–time wasting filler…

The Top 3 girls are center stage. Cats recites the dancer’s deets, first Jeanine, next Melissa and then Kayla. Cat will send one dancer to the final–not necessarily the dancer with the most votes. And it’s Jeanine! Melissa and Kayla will dance solos later. Lil C says Jeanine is worthy and “deserves this.” - VIDEO

• Next, the Emmy nominated “Silence” (by Unfaithful) - by Tyce Diorio featuring Jessica and Will. - VIDEO

After the break, the boys are center stage. Cat recites the dancers deet’s starting with Ade next is Evan and then it’s Brandon. Cat send one dancer, not necessarily the highest vote getter, to the finals, and it’s…Brandon! Mary reminds Brandon that she believed in him from the beginning (unlike Lil C and Mia!). Evan and Ade will perform solos tonight. - VIDEO

• The second Emmy nominated routine: Mercy (Duffy) by Mia Michaels featuring Katee and Twitch - VIDEO
  

• After the break, the next Emmy nominated routine - A Los Amigos (Forever Tango) by Dmitry featuring Chelsie and Joshua. (both of Chelsie’s routines are live, the others were taped ahead…) - VIDEO

Solos: Melissa, next it’s Ade - VIDEO

Next, it’s the dance crew, Jabbawockeez - “Freak a Zoid” by Midnight Star - Entertaining, and freaky - VIDEO

• And last but not least, my personal fav of the four, Bleeding Love (Leona Lewis) by Napoleon and Tabitha featuring Chelsie and Mark - VIDEO

Solos: Kayla, next it’s Evan - VIDEO

Next, Sean Paul performs “So Fine”. Hip Hop Reggae! Uh. What the hell was that at the end? - VIDEO

Elimination! The girls are first….Kayla goes on to the finale! Melissa is eliminated. Next are the boys…Nigel says “we don’t have losers on this show.” He mentions the passing of dance legend Merce Cunningham. Evan moves on to the finale! Ade is eliminated. Melissa and Ade get their big video goodbye…and we’re out. - VIDEO

Safe (and on to the finale):

• Jeanine
• Brandon
• Kayla
• Evan
  

Eliminated:

• Melissa
• Ade

'Alice In Wonderland' Trailer Arrives! Again!

For a few glorious hours on Wednesday, Tim Burton fans got their first glimpse of "Burton's vision -- from what we've seen thus far of course -- does right by the source.

Well the trailer is here now. Officially. It's not going to up and disappear on you in a few hours. We're planning a closer look at it later today, but for the time being just sit back and immerse yourself in the psychedelic freakout.

Comic-Con: David Tennant Denies 'The Hobbit' Casting Rumor

Sadness over the impending end to David Tennant's "Doctor Who" run was softened recently by a rumor that the fan-favorite actor could be moving on to play the lead role in Guillermo del Toro's upcoming adaptation of "The Hobbit" -- a big step for the star of the long-running science-fiction series. However, now it looks like the casting buzz is exactly that: a rumor.

While early predictions of a "Hobbit" casting announcement during Comic-Con fell through, Tennant told MTV News that there was never much chance of it happening -- at least, not with him involved.

"The Internet is a curious place, isn't it?" Tennant told MTV News.

"I think someone sits in their bedroom in Saskatchewan and comes up with an idea and they post it. And within minutes it's around the world and I'm getting phoned up by journalists and friends of mine saying, 'When are you off to shoot with Guillermo [del Toro]?'" said Tennant. "It's not something I know anything about."

"No one's talked with me," he added.

While Tennant's no stranger to special effects, he doubted even the most impressive computer's ability to bring him down to Hobbit size.

"I'm a bit tall, aren't I?" he joked. "I know they do things with CGI now, but I'm 6'1". Hobbits are little. I do have quite hairy toes, though."

What do you think? Would Tennant make a good Bilbo Baggins? Sound off in the comment section!

Peter Jackson And His Peers Are 'Geeks'

Yes, we can all thank Captain Obvious for the above headline. Peter Jackson is an admitted fanboy. And as he reveals in the video below, so are his contemporaries. Dudes like James Cameron. Robert Zemeckis. They hail from an older generation of course, so their influences skew a little further back than some might. But they all love themselves the nerdfest that is Comic-Con.

As Jackson puts it: "These are guys that, really, if they weren't filmmakers they'd be walking the floor of Comic-Con wearing ["Star Wars"] Stormtrooper outfits."

'Ong Bak 2: The Beginning' EXCLUSIVE Images Bring On The Elephants!

"Ong Bak: Muay Thai Warrior" introduced me to a whole new realm of kickassery. You can keep your kung fu masters, your ninja, your black belts by degrees. I'll take Tony Jaa and Muay Thai style. Flying fists, feet, knees, shins, elbows... anything goes really. But with style. And now we get more, thanks to the upcoming prequel "Ong Bak 2: The Beginning," which hits theater on October 23 and HDNet Ultra Video On-Demand a month earlier, on September 25. Now, behold the poster!

You're not here for a poster you've already seen though. You want elephants!!! ...wait, what? Just hit the jump and check out the exclusive "Ong Bak 2" goodness.

'G.I. Joe: The Rise Of Cobra' Premieres In Tokyo

"G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra" is out next weekend! As an avid viewer of the classic cartoon series and hoarder of action figures/vehicles, I'm kinda sorta a little bit excited for this one. I'm actually seeing the movie this weekend to prepare for Sunday's press day with the cast. You can look for that coverage to appear on MTV.com next week in anticipation of the movie's release.

To get the hype train rolling a little early, we've got some video for you from the "Rise of Cobra" premiere yesterday in Tokyo. Check out that awesome signage; movie titles always look so much cooler in a different language. You'll also see stars Channing Tatum, Sienna Miller and Marlon Wayans stepping up to the red carpet mic to say howdy.

The 'New Moon' Soundtrack Has Nothing On The MTV Newsroom Staff Picks

Every week, MTV Newsroom editor Kyle Anderson runs an in-office poll on the topic du jour. The idea is to acquaint you readers with some of the crazy people who inhabit the MTV newsroom. Last week's poll asked the difficult question: what is your favorite film soundtrack of all time?

As you've likely already figured out, that's a particularly relevant topic for MTV Movies Blog. I didn't have much trouble with my pick: "Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight." Here's what I had to say to the Newsroom audience:

"This one is easy for me, though it may earn me a few behind-the-back snickers around the office. The soundtrack to "Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight" remains my favorite to this day. It dropped while I was in high school, and every track was something I wanted to go home and crank up to 11. Let's start with the face-melting crunch: Sepultura, Biohazard, Pantera, Megadeth, Ministry, Rollins Band, Machine Head, Filter, Melvins — it's enough to make a budding young metalhead's skull explode. "The Crow" soundtrack almost edges this one out for me, but "Demon Knight" ultimately wins for introducing me to Gravediggaz. The record's closing track, "1-800-Suicide," showed me the shock and awe that is hip-hop horrorcore. You heard me: Shock. And. Awe."

Head over to MTV Newsroom to read through the rest of last week's poll, How The 'New Moon' Soundtrack Stacks Up Against Our Favorites: The Newsroom Poll. And please share with us. What are your favorite soundtracks? Why?

Jon Hamm Goes To 'The Town' With Ben Affleck

Just about every woman alive is in love with Jon Hamm, and I'm certainly no exception to that rule. The wait between "Mad Men" seasons is very long, so it's wonderful to see him getting steady feature film work, developing into a leading man in his own right. But to put Hamm in a romance? Well that's just every woman's dream come true, right?

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Hamm is set to star alongside Ben Affleck and Rebecca Hall ("Frost/Nixon") in "The Town," a romantic thriller to be directed by Affleck himself. "The Town" is based on Chuck Hogan's novel "Prince of Thieves," but don't look for any Kevin Costner antics here. This isn't Hogan's first time making news in recent months. The vampire book that he co-wrote with "The Hobbit" director Guillermo del Toro hit shelves at the beginning of June, to a positive reception from critics and average Joe/Jane readers alike.

"Thieves" follows a Boston-based career thief named Doug MacRay (Affleck). He and his buddies rob a bank, badly traumatizing the manager, Claire (Hall). The two meet and end up developing feelings for one another, though Claire is unaware that Doug is the same man who robbed her bank and -- unintentionally -- her peace of mind as well. Doug must also contend with a romantic rival who is also a legal rival: FBI Agent Adam Frawley (Hamm).

It's a tantalizing threesome. I wish Hamm were getting to leave his stuffy suit behind, but I can't wait to see him facing off against Affleck. The film shoots in September, after Hamm wraps up the third season of "Mad Men." "The Town" should hopefully hit theaters just when we're needing a Don Draper fix.

What other roles would you like to see Hamm take on?

Kung Fu Cyborgs And Living Through 'Saw' Around The Blogosphere

Maybe it's just that my search skills aren't up to snuff today, but there's not a lot of stuff popping Around the Blogosphere at the moment. I suspect it has something to do with the post Comic-Con comedown. As fun as these events can be, they're also incredibly draining. Especially if you're looking at a schedule crammed with appointments and panels from sunup to sundown. When do the writers write, you ask? In transit and in lieu of bed!

Slow day or not, you will find Kung Fu Cyborgs after the jump. And a "Saw"-themed Las Vegas attraction. TWO of them. And of course the usual helping of opinions and lists. So what are you waiting for? Click through already!

-- How can I do anything other than lead with a story relating to "Kung Fu Cyborgs"? Not just any Kung Fu Cyborg either... this sucker transforms. Thanks go out to FilmDrunk for pointing me over to the trailer for Jeffrey Lau's "Kung Fu Cyborg." And yes, I'm aware that I just used the phrase "Kung Fu Cyborg" (there it is again!) four times in as many sentences. It's just kind of... awesome. (Twitch Film)

-- The Guardian film blogger Ryan Gilbey runs through some of his most shameful film obsessions. I'm not sure that I'd really call obsessing over "The Blues Brothers" shameful, but to each their own. It's funny to see what shames different people. In a response on Cinematical, Jessica Barnes declares "Clue" to be one of hers. Blasphemy, I say! As for me? "Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight." Mock away, adoring public. (The Guardian and Cinematical)

-- Dave Gibbons' name may not be as recognizable as Alan Moore's, but he's nonetheless exactly one half of what makes "Watchmen" (the graphic novel, that is) so damn incredible. In an interview with the artist, Rotten Tomatoes' Luke Goodsell gets him to run through his five favorite films. And no, Zack Snyder's adaptation of "Watchmen" is not among them. (Rotten Tomatoes)

-- Back to Cinematical for a bit of (hilarious) news. The city of Las Vegas, shrine of all things tacky, will soon be home to not one but two public attractions themed after the "Saw" franchise. The once-glorious hotel Circus Circus hosts a yearly Fright Dome attraction during the Halloween season. This year, two of the five haunted houses constructed within the five-acre space will be themed after "Saw" villain Jigsaw's traps. I'm just not sure what's more terrifying: living the "Saw" experience or having to visit Circus Circus to do so. (Cinematical)

William Shatner Drops Some Awesome With Sarah Palin Poetry

William Shatner is a weird, weird dude. I can't say I blame him. He's been turned into a living god of sorts by "Star Trek" fans who worship him. Sure, there are plenty of cast members from the original TV series still around. Shatner's just the one with the biggest ego. Again, totally cool. I'm just saying.

Of course, true fans know that Captain James T. Kirk also has a flourishing music career of sorts. The sounds he makes fall somewhere between spoken word, Beat-era poetry and... well, no. It's spoken-word, Beat-styled poetry set to music. He's covered The Beatles. And Elton John. And now, Sarah Palin on the Tonight Show with Conan O'Brian.

Bless you William Shatner. Bless your weird, deranged ravings and all of the joy that they bring to the world.

Charlize Theron Fights For Human Rights In 'Florence Of Arabia'

I was going to begin this by noting what a political turn Charlize Theron's career has taken in recent years. A scan of her IMDB page reveals that she's always favored roles with some message-driven weight to them, and that the comedic and romantic selections are really pretty rare. Well now you can consider the status quo maintained.

Theron will be keeping to her political roots with a starring role in "Florence of Arabia." Variety reports that the actress/producer acquired the rights to the satirical novel, written by Christopher Buckley, to be developed under her Denver and Delilah Films banner.

"Florence" follows the passionate quest of Florence Farfaletti, a beautiful government employee who carries the unwieldy title of Deputy to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Near East Affairs. One of her friends is married to Prince Bawad of Wasabia, but is executed for some medieval era crime. Angered by Wasabia's archaic and sexist belief system, Florence decides to do her part by helping to liberate the oppressed women of Wasabia. Her plan becomes a crazy, topsy-turvy adventure that is filled with jabs at the United States, the Middle Eastern world, foreign policies, government officials, and everyone in between.

While the 2004 novel had the potential for controversy, it was critically well-received upon its release. We'll just have to wait and see if a Hollywood adaptation can be accepted as calmly. Something tells me there's controversial waters ahead for "Florence," but that kind of publicity might be just what Theron is aiming for. Then again, Buckley transfers well to film if the adaptation of his "Thank You For Smoking" is any indication.

Do you think "Florence of Arabia" sounds too controversial for the big screen? Or will people be able to discern the political message underneath the over the top humor? Does this news inspire you to go out and pick up the book?

The First Obama Mania-Inspired Romantic Comedy Gets Greenlit In Today's Dailies

Like a media aftershock, last year's U.S. Presidential election appears to be making its first stab at theaters with an Obama-related romantic comedy that I've not seen mentioned anywhere. Details are in today's Dailies, along with Spike Jonze's new project and what Jake Gyllenhall looks like in wet clothing.

-- "School of Rock" and "Dazed and Confused" director Richard Linklater will helm a romantic comedy about a woman on her way to President Obama's inauguration. The new Miramax film, "Liars (A-E)," co-stars Kat Dennings as a pal to the female lead, who is on a quest collect possessions from ex-boyfriends during a her journey. Place your bets now on whether or not Dennings will say "Yes, we can!" at any point during the film. (Variety)

-- Spike Jonze spoke with "Where the Wild Things Are" author Maurice Sendak in a new video mini-feature. Sendak predicts that the film will spark controversy, and screenwriter Dave Eggers talks about "re-fanging" the story. Sendak also makes the time they spent on production sound a bit like Woodstock, which should make everyone who sees this want to be a filmmaker. (The Hollywood Reporter)

-- Jonze immediately popped up elsewhere on the Internet, where it was announced that he has acquired the rights to Shane Jones' novel "Light Boxes." "Death to the Tinman" director Ray Tintori will direct the film. Since the story involves a town suffering from a deadly 1,000-day winter, the shooting locales should be far less exotic than "Where the Wild Things Are." Hopefully Jonze got all the sun he needed before picking this one up. (Variety)

-- Matt Damon thinks "everybody," including director John Dahl, would like to come back and make a sequel to his poker film "Rounders." Writer David Levien corroborated such a possibility by stating that he and co-writer Brian Koppleman are currently concentrating on "Rounders 2." At the very least, the existence of an "idea" which may eventually turn into "Rounders 2" has been verified. (PokerListings)

-- Jake Gyllenhall showed up in a frisky set of photos from the "Prince Of Persia: The Sands Of Time" set. In them, he and co-star Gemma Arterton ride a horse and play in a fountain, which should weigh him down considerably if he has to execute a platform-to-platform jump while avoiding a spinning blade at any point in that scene. (Empire Online)

-- The Toronto Film Festival announced that Werner Herzog's cop movie "Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans" will appear in its September lineup. The Nicolas Cage flick, which is inspired by, but not really supposed to be a remake of Abel Ferrara's original "Bad Lieutenant" from 1992, may get a few more eyes on it thanks to the exposure. (TIFF)

-- Oliver Parker's "Dorian Gray," which is also slated to screen at Toronto, got a new trailer this week. Star Ben Barnes appears with Colin Firth in the new take on Oscar Wilde's classic story about a beautiful man who vows to give his soul up to stay beautiful.

Bryce Dallas Howard Replaces Rachelle Lefevre In 'The Twilight Saga: Eclipse'

There's an old saying that goes "don't change horses in midstream." Never is this more true than when you're talking about major Hollywood franchises. Rabid fans become comfortable with a long-running series' established mythology, and it's jarring to see a new face operating under a familiar name.

I wonder then what you Twilighters make of today's news, that Bryce Dallas Howard will step in to replace Rachelle Lefevre in the villainous role of Victoria for "The Twilight Saga: Eclipse." Lefevre filled the role in both "Twilight" and the upcoming "New Moon." The Hollywood Reporter reveals that the casting switch comes as the result of a scheduling conflict, as Lefevre will join Dustin Hoffman in the soon-to-shoot indie drama "Barney's Version."

Howard brings plenty of experience along with her of course. She starred in M. Night Shyamalan's "The Village" and "Lady in the Water," and she paid her geek dues as Gwen Stacy in "Spider-Man 3" and Kate Connor in "Terminator Salvation." There's nothing quite like "Twilight" out there though.

Still, I have to wonder what you hardcore fans make of the change. Comparing this to a similar situation, I loved the first "Iron Man" movie but I'm pretty disappointed about Don Cheadle replacing Terrence Howard as Rhodey in "Iron Man 2." Cheadle is a tremendous actor, but Howard really nailed the role and the change leaves me unsettled. Perhaps my opinion will change when the sequel hits theaters, but I'm still left feeling uneasy.

Do you fans feel similarly about the Victoria change? Is Howard a good pick? I want to hear your thoughts. The comments section is certainly a good outlet, but those of you with webcams should hop in front of them and record a video response. Share the clip with us at Your MTV, and make sure to tag it "Twilight -- Victoria casting." I'll pull out the best and share 'em here on the blog.

Eclipse Switch: Bryce Dallas Howard To Play Vampire Victoria

Twilight fans are used to the renegade vampire Victoria causing trouble for lovers Bella and Edward, but come the third installment of the film series, they may be taken aback by Bryce Dallas Howard baring her fangs in the role.

That's right: The 28-year-old daughter of director Ron Howard will be replacing Rachelle Lefevre, 30, who took on the role for the first film and its upcoming sequel, New Moon.

"Rachelle brought Victoria to great screen life, and Bryce will bring a new dimension to the character,"says Erik Feig, president of worldwide production and acquisitions for Summit Entertainment. "The franchise is lucky to have such a talented actress as Bryce coming in to fill the role."

According to Summit, Lefevre is leaving the series because of scheduling conflicts with a new film project. She's slated to appear opposite Dustin Hoffman in the independent film Barney's Version, which begins filming the same day as Eclipse – only on the opposite end of the continent, in Quebec.

Holly Montag: Heidi Won't Appear "Nude" in Playboy

The naked truth about Heidi Pratt's photos in the September issue of Playboy?

She doesn't bare all.

"She's not nude," her sister Holly Montag told Usmagazine.com Monday at Ryan Sheckler X Games Celebrity Classic in Coto De Caza, Calif. "Her Maxim cover was so gorgeous and tasteful, and I know Playboy is going to be the same. It's really cool that she can be part of the Playboy family. I love it. I go up there all the time and play poker. I love the girls there, and it's very cool to be a part of that legacy."

She is equally psyched for her sister to perform at the 2009 Miss Universe Pageant telecast on Aug. 23.

"She will kill it," Holly said. "I know she will give the best performance ever. She's a phenomenal performer and dancer. That's what she's born to do. I think when she's stepping into her own in singing and concerts, people will see that that's where she really shines."

Oh, and how are things with her new brother-in-law Spencer Pratt?

"We're actually getting along really well right now," Holly told Us. "I don't want to jinx it, but he's been awesome as a brother and better than ever."

Who Killed Darlene Haynes?

Law Enforcement up in Worcester, MA are desperately searching for whoever killed 23-year-old Darlene Haynes last Thursday and they are seriously constrained by time because whoever brutally murdered Darlene in her apartment cut open the belly of this 8-months-pregnant mother of three and removed the baby she was carrying.

The last time anyone heard from Darlene was last Thursday night. She had dropped off her one-year-old baby girl at her boyfriend's house (the father of her 3rd child) who she also has a restraining order against and then later on that night she sent a text message to a friend that said she was having wine coolers with another friend at her apartment. According to the Boston Globe the boyfriend, Roberto Rodriguez, is not considered a suspect.

Monday neighbors noticed a stench coming from Darlene's apartment and when the landlord went to investigate he made the gruesome discovery. She was wrapped up in bed sheets in a closet and had been dead for several days. The body was severely mutilated and her 8-month-old fetus was missing.

Since doctors say that the baby would need medical attention it may be very soon that we find out exactly what happened to Darlene Haynes last week, that is provided that the intent was to remove the baby from alive from the woman.

Darlene does have several different MySpace profiles but the one she seems to have used most recently is here. She hasn't logged in since September of last year and there really doesn't seem to be a whole lot there that would point to anything specific as far as this case is concerned.

Gayatri Devi, former Jaipur queen, is dead

Gayatri Devi, the elegant former princess of Cooch Behar who became the maharani of Jaipur and was once considered among the world’s most beautiful women, died here Wednesday, an official said. She was 90.

She was admitted to the Santokba Durlabhji Memorial Hospital (SDMH) here on July 17.

“She developed gastric problems in London and was admitted to a hospital there. She expressed her desire to return and was flown in an air ambulance to Jaipur. She was in SDMH since then,” an administrative officer of SDMH said.

Gayatri Devi’s death comes a day after the passing away of actress Leela Naidu, both of whom were named by Vogue as amongst the 10 most beautiful women in the world.

Kendra Wilkinson Pregnant Pictures, Kendra Wilkinson Pregnant in a Bikini Photos with Gallery

Kendra Wilkinson Pregnant Pictures, Kendra Wilkinson Pregnant in a Bikini Photos with Gallery

Kendra Wilkinson Pregnant and Kendra Wilkinson Pregnant in a Bikini – Congratulations to Kendra Wilkinson and Hank Baskett. The 23 year-old Kendra Wilkinson reality star had recently expressed her desire to have children soon. See Kendra Wilkinson pregnant pictures and Kendra Wilkinson pregnant in a bikini photos with gallery below.

Kendra Wilkinson told E!:
“I thought I was scared, but I know the moment’s going to come where I’m like, ‘Oh my God. It was so worth it’,” she said.

“It’s only a little bit of pain for a lifetime of happiness. I’m concentrating more on what’s healthy for the baby more than my weight gain.

“I know my weight gain will go away very fast, so if I gain weight and that’s what it takes to make my baby healthy, that’s what has to happen,” Kendra Wilkinson also added.

See Kendra Wilkinson Pregnant Pictures and Kendra Wilkinson Pregnant in a Bikini photos with Gallery

Jennifer Lopez 40th Birthday Photos

The celebrity actress cum singer celebrated her 40th brithday in Los Angeles. Those are the photos of Jennifer Lopez’s 40th bithday.