Time Out New York’s Q&A with Aziz Ansari
February 3rd, 2010
From Time Out New York:
In your Comedy Central special, you have a whole bit about getting chummy with Kanye West. Does he know you’re doing it?
I performed that whole Kanye routine over speakerphone for him when I did a show in San Francisco, to make sure he was cool with all of it before I put it down on the special. He was cool with all of it.
What about your younger cousins? You make fun of them, too.
Now, unfortunately, they get beat up by this big kid at their school named Mongo. It’s really a bummer. No, I’m just kidding—they are fine and still chubby weird kids that watch Burn Notice and Psych all the time.
Ever since I saw the episode of your old show, Human Giant, with Michael K. Williams, I’ve wanted to ask: Are you a big fan of The Wire?
The Wire is hands down my favorite TV show ever, and I’ve been lucky enough to meet and work with some of the cast. I was standing behind Jamie Hector [who plays Marlo Stanfield] in line at a party once, and they were checking his name off the list; I was hoping the person mispronounced it, just so he could say, “My name is my name!” And then maybe Chris Partlow and Snoop could take that person out and put ’em in the vacants. If you haven’t seen The Wire, I just wasted your time with those last few sentences.
Showing posts with label interviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label interviews. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Monday, January 18, 2010
Interview: Aziz
In 2009, you had one of the biggest years ever. Besides Parks and Recreation — of course — you guest starred in multiple episodes of ABC’s Scrubs; appeared in Funny People, I Love You, Man and Observe and Report; performed stand-up comedy across the country (including the taping of your Comedy Central special in July) and sold three movie projects to Judd Apatow and Universal Pictures. Why do you think 2009 turned into the year that you truly broke out into the mainstream?
I started using a really good facial moisturizer. Once I moisturized and people noticed how soft and smooth my skin was, things starting going up, up, up!
Your winter holiday was spent in Japan and then Australia, where you performed a stand-up show on January 2. Explain what that trip was like. Parks and Recreation writer Alan Yang tagged along too, right?
I’d always wanted to go to Tokyo, and Alan and I’s mutual friends James, who is very familiar with Tokyo was going to be there, so we tagged along with him to Tokyo and Australia. It was a great trip. I mainly ate a lot of food (ramen, sushi, teppanyaki, yakitori, etc.)
You’re said to be collaborating with TV on the Radio’s Dave Sitek on a hip-hop mixtape featuring your popular Funny People character, Randy. How’s that coming?
QUIT REMINDING ME OF ALL THE WORK I HAVE TO DO. Dave sent over a bunch of beats to me and they are really great. I’m busy with the buildup to the special so I haven’t had time to really get to work on my end, but I think it’ll be a really fun project.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall’s spin-off, Get Him to the Greek, is scheduled to be released this summer. Your character in the movie works for a record company headed by a dude named Sergio Roma (Sean “Diddy” Combs). It also employs guys like Aaron Greenberg, played by the consistently funny Jonah Hill. Katy Perry and Christina Aguilera play themselves, among other cameos. How hilarious of a movie are we talking here?
This movie is going to be great and people will especially be impressed with Sean “P. Diddy” Combs.
One of your good friends, Jason Woliner, directed a Parks and Recreation episode earlier this season. A few weeks later, your friend (and fellow comedian) Paul Scheer appeared on the show as KaBOOM! project manager Keef Slertner. Is this by coincidence or do you have some pull in who comes on the program?
I have zero pull man. I’ve been trying to get Nelly on the show since day one. They are not having it.
Obligatory Parks and Recreation question: Give Tom Haverford fans something to look forward to in the second half of the current season.
Here’s some teasers that should get you excited without spoiling anything: Tom’s house. Soloflex. Bowflex. Nightclub. New suits. Jamie Foxx.
I started using a really good facial moisturizer. Once I moisturized and people noticed how soft and smooth my skin was, things starting going up, up, up!
Your winter holiday was spent in Japan and then Australia, where you performed a stand-up show on January 2. Explain what that trip was like. Parks and Recreation writer Alan Yang tagged along too, right?
I’d always wanted to go to Tokyo, and Alan and I’s mutual friends James, who is very familiar with Tokyo was going to be there, so we tagged along with him to Tokyo and Australia. It was a great trip. I mainly ate a lot of food (ramen, sushi, teppanyaki, yakitori, etc.)
You’re said to be collaborating with TV on the Radio’s Dave Sitek on a hip-hop mixtape featuring your popular Funny People character, Randy. How’s that coming?
QUIT REMINDING ME OF ALL THE WORK I HAVE TO DO. Dave sent over a bunch of beats to me and they are really great. I’m busy with the buildup to the special so I haven’t had time to really get to work on my end, but I think it’ll be a really fun project.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall’s spin-off, Get Him to the Greek, is scheduled to be released this summer. Your character in the movie works for a record company headed by a dude named Sergio Roma (Sean “Diddy” Combs). It also employs guys like Aaron Greenberg, played by the consistently funny Jonah Hill. Katy Perry and Christina Aguilera play themselves, among other cameos. How hilarious of a movie are we talking here?
This movie is going to be great and people will especially be impressed with Sean “P. Diddy” Combs.
One of your good friends, Jason Woliner, directed a Parks and Recreation episode earlier this season. A few weeks later, your friend (and fellow comedian) Paul Scheer appeared on the show as KaBOOM! project manager Keef Slertner. Is this by coincidence or do you have some pull in who comes on the program?
I have zero pull man. I’ve been trying to get Nelly on the show since day one. They are not having it.
Obligatory Parks and Recreation question: Give Tom Haverford fans something to look forward to in the second half of the current season.
Here’s some teasers that should get you excited without spoiling anything: Tom’s house. Soloflex. Bowflex. Nightclub. New suits. Jamie Foxx.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Aziz in Tv.com
Aziz Ansari talks Jenna Haze, The League and Kanye in TV.com Q&A
December 4th, 2009
From TV.com:
I saw on your Tumblr that you are doing an interview with Animal Collective. I tried to Google it, and discovered that if you plan on typing in “aziz ansari animal collective” into Google, when you get to “aziz ansari a,” Google suggests “aziz ansari and jenna haze.” Given that Haze is a porn star, on a scale from “very” to “defining moment of career,” how proud are you of this?
That’s great to hear. Jenna worked with us on the Randy shorts and is a very nice lady. I was once looking through my wallet for my CVS card and accidentally sat Jenna’s business card on the counter without realizing just how graphic it is. I made quite an impression on the staff there.
Have there been any discussions about you appearing on The League?
Nope, but I would love to do something on that show. [Nick] Kroll and [Paul] Scheer are real good friends of mine.
Did Kanye invite you over for Thanksgiving?
No, I just had Thanksgiving with my family and Busta Rhymes.
December 4th, 2009
From TV.com:
I saw on your Tumblr that you are doing an interview with Animal Collective. I tried to Google it, and discovered that if you plan on typing in “aziz ansari animal collective” into Google, when you get to “aziz ansari a,” Google suggests “aziz ansari and jenna haze.” Given that Haze is a porn star, on a scale from “very” to “defining moment of career,” how proud are you of this?
That’s great to hear. Jenna worked with us on the Randy shorts and is a very nice lady. I was once looking through my wallet for my CVS card and accidentally sat Jenna’s business card on the counter without realizing just how graphic it is. I made quite an impression on the staff there.
Have there been any discussions about you appearing on The League?
Nope, but I would love to do something on that show. [Nick] Kroll and [Paul] Scheer are real good friends of mine.
Did Kanye invite you over for Thanksgiving?
No, I just had Thanksgiving with my family and Busta Rhymes.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Aziz in AOL TV
Aziz Ansari’s Q&A with AOL TV
December 2nd, 2009
From AOL TV:
You’ve guest-starred on a number of shows, including ‘Scrubs’ and ‘Flight of the Conchords.’ What show would you most want to make a guest appearance on?
I think I should play David Palmer’s long-lost son in the next season of ‘24.’ But I’d work at CTU. I’m not a politician.
In terms of your own stand-up, it’s been said by older comics that you need at least 20 years to develop your style.
Yeah, there’s a quote from Jay Leno, I think, that said your first 500 shows don’t matter and I think that’s pretty true. I didn’t put out my first album until now and it’s been eight years since I started. You’re always developing as a comedian. You look at guys like Louis C.K., who’s been doing this for 20 or so years, and it’s like, wow, that guy’s been doing stand-up for about as long as I’ve been alive. He’s so far ahead of everyone.
You moved to Los Angeles from New York last year. What’s the best and worst part about living in L.A.?
The best thing is there’s a lot of really delicious taco trucks there and occasionally you’ll see Lorenzo Lamas walking around. And the worst thing is occasionally you’ll see Lorenzo Lamas walking around.
December 2nd, 2009
From AOL TV:
You’ve guest-starred on a number of shows, including ‘Scrubs’ and ‘Flight of the Conchords.’ What show would you most want to make a guest appearance on?
I think I should play David Palmer’s long-lost son in the next season of ‘24.’ But I’d work at CTU. I’m not a politician.
In terms of your own stand-up, it’s been said by older comics that you need at least 20 years to develop your style.
Yeah, there’s a quote from Jay Leno, I think, that said your first 500 shows don’t matter and I think that’s pretty true. I didn’t put out my first album until now and it’s been eight years since I started. You’re always developing as a comedian. You look at guys like Louis C.K., who’s been doing this for 20 or so years, and it’s like, wow, that guy’s been doing stand-up for about as long as I’ve been alive. He’s so far ahead of everyone.
You moved to Los Angeles from New York last year. What’s the best and worst part about living in L.A.?
The best thing is there’s a lot of really delicious taco trucks there and occasionally you’ll see Lorenzo Lamas walking around. And the worst thing is occasionally you’ll see Lorenzo Lamas walking around.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Aziz in Movieweb
EXCLUSIVE: Aziz Ansari Brings the Laughs in Funny People
November 30th, 2009
Aziz Ansari Brings the Laughs in Funny PeopleBy now, if you're a comedy fan who doesn't know the name Aziz Ansari, you are in some dire need of comedic catch-up. Aside from his famous rants on the IMAX format Ansari currently stars as the mischevious Tom Haverford on the hit NBC comedy Parks and Recreation and he makes a brief but memorable appearance in the film Funny People, which is currently available on DVD and Blu-ray shelves everywhere. Although his role in the actual film is (sadly) fairly brief, he has a much bigger presence on the DVD special features with the documentary on his character Randy. I recently had the chance to fire some questions over to Aziz via email, and here's what he had to say.
You've had a rather meteoric rise through the comedy ranks in such a short period of time, so what was it like to get a call from Judd Apatow for a role in Funny People?
Aziz Ansari: It was great. I'd just lost the role of Chev Chelios in the film Crank 2 after coming very close to getting it (they decided to let Jason Statham reprise his role as Chev again for the sequel), so times were tough. The call from Judd came at just the right time.
Can you talk a bit about working with Judd on your Randy character? Did you write your own stand-up material or did he have bits scripted for you? How did the whole process of creating Randy come about for you?
Aziz Ansari: Judd and I talked a bit about what he had in mind for Randy and the early ideas he mentioned were about him being really cocky and very conscious about things like merchandise and how much money he made per gig. That attitude reminded me of those new young hip hop superstars like Soulja Boy, and that really became my inspiration. That's what triggered the ideas about the dance, the DJ, idiotic catchphrases, etc. Those to me are the defining aspects of Randy and it was not a shot at any particular comic, like many people think. Another notion that stuck in my head was the idea of the comic that kills with audiences but it is despised by the other comedians backstage. These guys are at every club, talking non-stop about their dick and their dumb stories about going down on girls, etc. This kind of was the jumping off point for when I started writing material specifically for Randy. Initially I started doing my own standup and just "Randy'ing" it up, but then I started writing Randy specific bits and that was really fun.
Like all of Judd's films, Funny People seems very much grounded in reality. Can you speak to the reality of these kinds of struggling stand-up characters and how it's reflected in the film?
Aziz Ansari: It seemed pretty real to me. The main difference I think is that now it's not as much centered around the comedy club scene. In NY and LA, most of the young talent seems to be coming out of places like the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre and small standup rooms around town, as opposed to the big clubs.
Now this Funny People DVD is just jam-packed with extras including this three-part Raaaaaandy documentary. Can you talk about the making of that? Was that done during regular production of the film, or was that something that came up afterwards?
Aziz Ansari: We were having so much fun with Randy that I asked Judd if myself and Jason Woliner, a collaborator from Human Giant, could make those documentaries. He was into the idea and let us run wild with it. It was shot after production stopped and many people that worked on Funny People worked super hard to help us make it happen and Jason and I love them all very much. The version on the DVD actually has some extra bits that haven't been seen before and is actually one long piece that tracks Randy's journey to getting a spot on the Jimmy Kimmell Live. It also features appearances by two of my favorite people ever - Nick Offerman and Eric Edelstein
I remember they released the videos of that "documentary" online before the film came out and they were quite popular. It seems that there could almost be a spin-off film for Randy seeing as how popular he was. Would you be up for something like that and has it been discussed at all?
Aziz Ansari: Judd talked to us about the idea of doing a movie with him and urged us to come in with some pitches, including one about Randy. We came up with 3 ideas. One about two guys that work for a motivational speaking company, a second about two disgraced astronauts, and a third that was a take on Randy. After the meeting, Judd and Universal decided to buy all 3. We were stunned and it wasn't what we're expecting, but we're totally up for the challenge. Right now, we're developing all 3 ideas and trying to figure out which we'll go with first. Our experiences working with Judd and his team have been great so we are thrilled to work on a bigger project with them.
You have Get Him to the Gig, previously titled Get Him to the Greek, coming up. Can you talk about your character in that film, and what it was like working with Jonah Hill again and the hilarious Russell Brand?
Aziz Ansari: Jonah is a good friend and hands down one of the funniest dudes I've ever worked with. I have so much respect for that guy. I didn't get to do a lot of scenes with him until Greek and seeing him work is incredible. He's a pro and deserves all the success he's gotten and more. I didn't have any scenes with Russell, but I did work with Sean "P. Diddy" Combs, who also absolutely kills in this movie. I have the utmost respect for Sean as well. Think about it like this - I've been working hard for years to establish myself as a comedic actor and after this film is released, Sean will have done that in a much shorter period of time, in addition to creating a successful vodka and cologne. Not to mention, I've seen a photo of him riding a jet ski in a tuxedo. What a life.
I'm a big fan of Parks and Recreation and, of course, of Tom Haverford as well. Can you talk about what we can expect from Tom as far as his relationship with his wife is concerned, and if there might be an office fling for Tom in the near future? At this point in the season, does Tom see Leslie as more of a big sister, mother or perhaps a lonely aunt?
Aziz Ansari: Tom's divorce hits him pretty hard and we end up at the Glitter Factory. It's the episode airing this week and I think it should be great. Not sure about future romances at this moment, but I imagine that should be an interesting new direction for Tom. As far as his relationship with Leslie, I think she's kind of like a great, great aunt; which is how I joke to Rashida and Amy that I see them in real life.
It was also announced that Will Arnett would be stopping by Pawnee this season. Are there any other big guest stars you can tell us about for the rest of this season?
Aziz Ansari: At this point, just Will and Justin Theroux, both of whom are hilarious and very nice dudes.
Since you've written for TV before, I was wondering if we might see an Aziz Ansari-scripted episode of Parks down the line? Are there any other writing projects you're working on right now?
Aziz Ansari: No thanks, I prefer napping/eating snacks in my trailer when I'm not acting, as opposed to slaving away at a script. Truth be told, that would be really fun to do. Even though I'm not a writer, Mike and Greg are really cool about hearing any ideas we have for our characters and when we're on set, I always pitch Tom jokes to the writer on set and the director; so I feel a part of the process even as an actor. The only writing projects I'm working on now are the Apatow projects I mentioned above.
You have a brand new stand-up special coming out on DVD in January called Intimate Moments for a Sensual Evening. Can you talk about some of the material you cover in the special, and if there are plans for future tours or stand-up specials?
Aziz Ansari: Its material I did on my Glow in the Dark standup tour. I talk about a bunch of stuff - thread counts in sheets, my chubby cousin Harris, and end with a special 10 minute Randy set that includes dancers, DJs, smoke, two minutes dedicated to making it rain. I'm still doing standup and working on new material to tour with in 2010, but with the shooting schedule of the show, it can be a difficult, slow moving process. I'd like to tour in 2010, it's just a matter of getting the set together. So far I have 25 new minutes I like, once I get it up to 45, I'll hit the road a little and then do a big tour in the Spring. That's the plan right now.
You can catch Aziz Ansari in Funny People, which is available on DVD and Blu-ray everywhere.
November 30th, 2009
Aziz Ansari Brings the Laughs in Funny PeopleBy now, if you're a comedy fan who doesn't know the name Aziz Ansari, you are in some dire need of comedic catch-up. Aside from his famous rants on the IMAX format Ansari currently stars as the mischevious Tom Haverford on the hit NBC comedy Parks and Recreation and he makes a brief but memorable appearance in the film Funny People, which is currently available on DVD and Blu-ray shelves everywhere. Although his role in the actual film is (sadly) fairly brief, he has a much bigger presence on the DVD special features with the documentary on his character Randy. I recently had the chance to fire some questions over to Aziz via email, and here's what he had to say.
You've had a rather meteoric rise through the comedy ranks in such a short period of time, so what was it like to get a call from Judd Apatow for a role in Funny People?
Aziz Ansari: It was great. I'd just lost the role of Chev Chelios in the film Crank 2 after coming very close to getting it (they decided to let Jason Statham reprise his role as Chev again for the sequel), so times were tough. The call from Judd came at just the right time.
Can you talk a bit about working with Judd on your Randy character? Did you write your own stand-up material or did he have bits scripted for you? How did the whole process of creating Randy come about for you?
Aziz Ansari: Judd and I talked a bit about what he had in mind for Randy and the early ideas he mentioned were about him being really cocky and very conscious about things like merchandise and how much money he made per gig. That attitude reminded me of those new young hip hop superstars like Soulja Boy, and that really became my inspiration. That's what triggered the ideas about the dance, the DJ, idiotic catchphrases, etc. Those to me are the defining aspects of Randy and it was not a shot at any particular comic, like many people think. Another notion that stuck in my head was the idea of the comic that kills with audiences but it is despised by the other comedians backstage. These guys are at every club, talking non-stop about their dick and their dumb stories about going down on girls, etc. This kind of was the jumping off point for when I started writing material specifically for Randy. Initially I started doing my own standup and just "Randy'ing" it up, but then I started writing Randy specific bits and that was really fun.
Like all of Judd's films, Funny People seems very much grounded in reality. Can you speak to the reality of these kinds of struggling stand-up characters and how it's reflected in the film?
Aziz Ansari: It seemed pretty real to me. The main difference I think is that now it's not as much centered around the comedy club scene. In NY and LA, most of the young talent seems to be coming out of places like the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre and small standup rooms around town, as opposed to the big clubs.
Now this Funny People DVD is just jam-packed with extras including this three-part Raaaaaandy documentary. Can you talk about the making of that? Was that done during regular production of the film, or was that something that came up afterwards?
Aziz Ansari: We were having so much fun with Randy that I asked Judd if myself and Jason Woliner, a collaborator from Human Giant, could make those documentaries. He was into the idea and let us run wild with it. It was shot after production stopped and many people that worked on Funny People worked super hard to help us make it happen and Jason and I love them all very much. The version on the DVD actually has some extra bits that haven't been seen before and is actually one long piece that tracks Randy's journey to getting a spot on the Jimmy Kimmell Live. It also features appearances by two of my favorite people ever - Nick Offerman and Eric Edelstein
I remember they released the videos of that "documentary" online before the film came out and they were quite popular. It seems that there could almost be a spin-off film for Randy seeing as how popular he was. Would you be up for something like that and has it been discussed at all?
Aziz Ansari: Judd talked to us about the idea of doing a movie with him and urged us to come in with some pitches, including one about Randy. We came up with 3 ideas. One about two guys that work for a motivational speaking company, a second about two disgraced astronauts, and a third that was a take on Randy. After the meeting, Judd and Universal decided to buy all 3. We were stunned and it wasn't what we're expecting, but we're totally up for the challenge. Right now, we're developing all 3 ideas and trying to figure out which we'll go with first. Our experiences working with Judd and his team have been great so we are thrilled to work on a bigger project with them.
You have Get Him to the Gig, previously titled Get Him to the Greek, coming up. Can you talk about your character in that film, and what it was like working with Jonah Hill again and the hilarious Russell Brand?
Aziz Ansari: Jonah is a good friend and hands down one of the funniest dudes I've ever worked with. I have so much respect for that guy. I didn't get to do a lot of scenes with him until Greek and seeing him work is incredible. He's a pro and deserves all the success he's gotten and more. I didn't have any scenes with Russell, but I did work with Sean "P. Diddy" Combs, who also absolutely kills in this movie. I have the utmost respect for Sean as well. Think about it like this - I've been working hard for years to establish myself as a comedic actor and after this film is released, Sean will have done that in a much shorter period of time, in addition to creating a successful vodka and cologne. Not to mention, I've seen a photo of him riding a jet ski in a tuxedo. What a life.
I'm a big fan of Parks and Recreation and, of course, of Tom Haverford as well. Can you talk about what we can expect from Tom as far as his relationship with his wife is concerned, and if there might be an office fling for Tom in the near future? At this point in the season, does Tom see Leslie as more of a big sister, mother or perhaps a lonely aunt?
Aziz Ansari: Tom's divorce hits him pretty hard and we end up at the Glitter Factory. It's the episode airing this week and I think it should be great. Not sure about future romances at this moment, but I imagine that should be an interesting new direction for Tom. As far as his relationship with Leslie, I think she's kind of like a great, great aunt; which is how I joke to Rashida and Amy that I see them in real life.
It was also announced that Will Arnett would be stopping by Pawnee this season. Are there any other big guest stars you can tell us about for the rest of this season?
Aziz Ansari: At this point, just Will and Justin Theroux, both of whom are hilarious and very nice dudes.
Since you've written for TV before, I was wondering if we might see an Aziz Ansari-scripted episode of Parks down the line? Are there any other writing projects you're working on right now?
Aziz Ansari: No thanks, I prefer napping/eating snacks in my trailer when I'm not acting, as opposed to slaving away at a script. Truth be told, that would be really fun to do. Even though I'm not a writer, Mike and Greg are really cool about hearing any ideas we have for our characters and when we're on set, I always pitch Tom jokes to the writer on set and the director; so I feel a part of the process even as an actor. The only writing projects I'm working on now are the Apatow projects I mentioned above.
You have a brand new stand-up special coming out on DVD in January called Intimate Moments for a Sensual Evening. Can you talk about some of the material you cover in the special, and if there are plans for future tours or stand-up specials?
Aziz Ansari: Its material I did on my Glow in the Dark standup tour. I talk about a bunch of stuff - thread counts in sheets, my chubby cousin Harris, and end with a special 10 minute Randy set that includes dancers, DJs, smoke, two minutes dedicated to making it rain. I'm still doing standup and working on new material to tour with in 2010, but with the shooting schedule of the show, it can be a difficult, slow moving process. I'd like to tour in 2010, it's just a matter of getting the set together. So far I have 25 new minutes I like, once I get it up to 45, I'll hit the road a little and then do a big tour in the Spring. That's the plan right now.
You can catch Aziz Ansari in Funny People, which is available on DVD and Blu-ray everywhere.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Amy on Managing her Double Life
As fearless bureaucrat Leslie Knope on Parks and Recreation, Amy Poehler usually has her hands full with her day job. Behind-the-scenes, Poehler is much more of a multi-tasker. Besides starring in the NBC comedy, the Emmy nominee returned to her old SNL Weekend Update stomping grounds this fall, and she is also raising her first child, 13-month-old Archie, with hubby Will Arnett. How does she do it? To find out, TVGuide.com turned to Poehler, who also discusses her blossoming series, her relationship with fellow NBC star Tina Fey and whether she'll appear on her best friend's show.
Parks and Recreation: Leslie and co. have love woes
TVGuide.com: Parks and Recreation has really taken off this season. How does it feel having so many fans latch on to the show?
Amy Poehler: It's super exciting. I've always felt very proud of the stuff we've been doing, and then to have people notice it has been great. The journey of the show is: You hope the pilot gets picked up, you hope the back nine gets picked up, you hope people watch it, you hope people like it. The slow process of that has been exciting for everybody.
TVGuide.com: How are you finding the balance between motherhood, this show and popping up on Saturday Night Live every now and then?
Poehler: Any working mother will tell you that it's a day-to-day thing. You just do your best and try to make it work. Some days are harder than others. I mean, I'm lucky to have a great job and people that help me. I wouldn't be able to do it without them.
Will Arnett to guest-star on Parks and Recreation
TVGuide.com: Has Tina Fey asked you to come over to 30 Rock yet?
Poehler: Well, you know Will is over there all the time, which is so great. We talked a lot about how we're both working long hours with kids. Our emails and texts are mostly about formula and nannies [Laughs].
TVGuide.com: So there's no chance of you popping up over there?
Poehler: Right now it's too hard to do this here.
TVGuide.com: What's ahead for Leslie Knope?
Poehler: She's got a little bit of excitement happening because the pit has been filled in, but we're going to see if that's one step forward, two steps back. The fun thing about this show is that it moves in a fast and slow pace. It's not the kind of thing where everything is resolved in one episode. The writers do such a good job making sure the stories have a sense of real time. I have a feeling that it's going to take many, many years — like in government — for anything to change.
TVGuide.com: Has anything surprised you this season?
Poehler: So many things. What surprises me most is how many times people think we're improvising when we're not. We're just doing the script, which is an indication of how great the writers are. People think, "Oh that seems really loose and you're improvising." No, that's an actual really loose and well-written joke in character. That's been really fun.
Parks and Recreation: Leslie and co. have love woes
TVGuide.com: Parks and Recreation has really taken off this season. How does it feel having so many fans latch on to the show?
Amy Poehler: It's super exciting. I've always felt very proud of the stuff we've been doing, and then to have people notice it has been great. The journey of the show is: You hope the pilot gets picked up, you hope the back nine gets picked up, you hope people watch it, you hope people like it. The slow process of that has been exciting for everybody.
TVGuide.com: How are you finding the balance between motherhood, this show and popping up on Saturday Night Live every now and then?
Poehler: Any working mother will tell you that it's a day-to-day thing. You just do your best and try to make it work. Some days are harder than others. I mean, I'm lucky to have a great job and people that help me. I wouldn't be able to do it without them.
Will Arnett to guest-star on Parks and Recreation
TVGuide.com: Has Tina Fey asked you to come over to 30 Rock yet?
Poehler: Well, you know Will is over there all the time, which is so great. We talked a lot about how we're both working long hours with kids. Our emails and texts are mostly about formula and nannies [Laughs].
TVGuide.com: So there's no chance of you popping up over there?
Poehler: Right now it's too hard to do this here.
TVGuide.com: What's ahead for Leslie Knope?
Poehler: She's got a little bit of excitement happening because the pit has been filled in, but we're going to see if that's one step forward, two steps back. The fun thing about this show is that it moves in a fast and slow pace. It's not the kind of thing where everything is resolved in one episode. The writers do such a good job making sure the stories have a sense of real time. I have a feeling that it's going to take many, many years — like in government — for anything to change.
TVGuide.com: Has anything surprised you this season?
Poehler: So many things. What surprises me most is how many times people think we're improvising when we're not. We're just doing the script, which is an indication of how great the writers are. People think, "Oh that seems really loose and you're improvising." No, that's an actual really loose and well-written joke in character. That's been really fun.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Amys top 10
Amy Poehler’s 10 favorite Parks and Recreation moments
November 19th, 2009
From The Star-Ledger:
Ann and Leslie go on a practice date.
It was very fun to get harassed by Rashida Jones in a nice restaurant. Its not the first time. I really enjoy how terrible Leslie’s dating track record is.
Ron has a hernia. April asks what’s wrong.
In a perfect scene, Ron Swanson is frozen at his desk because he sneezed, and April suspects something is wrong. I could watch Nick Offerman do anything, but I especially enjoy it when Aubrey Plaza is quietly torturing him.
Andy crying when Greg Pikitis wears him down.
I love how a sixteen year old kid was the perfect nemesis for the Parks Department. During his “interrogation” Andy was totally unmatched, and as usual, Pratt plays Andy as a hilarious mix of cocky and childlike.
Dave thinks Madeline Albright is Leslie’s grandma.
Louis C.K. is a great actor, and I love when he is uncomfortably flirting with Leslie. When Dave doesn’t recognize Madeline Albright in a picture on Leslie’s desk, Leslie has a crisis moment where she wonders if he is the right guy for her.
Ron and Tammy ripping their clothes off before they get to their motel room.
Megan Mullally is incredible. She ripped her shirt off at 6:30 AM. First shot of the day. Unscripted. What a pro.
Tom becomes moved by a piece of art.
In last week’s episode, we see Tom look at an abstract painting and lose his mind. He can’t believe he is moved by art. As usual, Aziz Ansari is hilarious.
Fred Armisen and The Venezuelans come to Pawnee.
I loved it when Fred’s character did a run about all the reasons a person could be arrested in Venezuela. Most of it was improvised. Fred is awesome.
Everything at the pit.
Leslie falling into the pit. Mark trying to kiss Leslie at the pit. Mark falling in pit. Andy jumping in pit. Andy living in pit. Leslie and Ann filling pit. “Pit” becomes “Lot”
Leslie looking out her window on a rainy day.
This was a simple scene in our first episode, where Leslie talks about her dream for a park. Greg Daniels was directing Michael Schur’s script. I was looking out the window thinking about what it would be like to stay optimistic and hopeful. How I would need to prepare myself for a new project that would take years, and how it would be hard but amazing work. It is my favorite scene to date.
November 19th, 2009
From The Star-Ledger:
Ann and Leslie go on a practice date.
It was very fun to get harassed by Rashida Jones in a nice restaurant. Its not the first time. I really enjoy how terrible Leslie’s dating track record is.
Ron has a hernia. April asks what’s wrong.
In a perfect scene, Ron Swanson is frozen at his desk because he sneezed, and April suspects something is wrong. I could watch Nick Offerman do anything, but I especially enjoy it when Aubrey Plaza is quietly torturing him.
Andy crying when Greg Pikitis wears him down.
I love how a sixteen year old kid was the perfect nemesis for the Parks Department. During his “interrogation” Andy was totally unmatched, and as usual, Pratt plays Andy as a hilarious mix of cocky and childlike.
Dave thinks Madeline Albright is Leslie’s grandma.
Louis C.K. is a great actor, and I love when he is uncomfortably flirting with Leslie. When Dave doesn’t recognize Madeline Albright in a picture on Leslie’s desk, Leslie has a crisis moment where she wonders if he is the right guy for her.
Ron and Tammy ripping their clothes off before they get to their motel room.
Megan Mullally is incredible. She ripped her shirt off at 6:30 AM. First shot of the day. Unscripted. What a pro.
Tom becomes moved by a piece of art.
In last week’s episode, we see Tom look at an abstract painting and lose his mind. He can’t believe he is moved by art. As usual, Aziz Ansari is hilarious.
Fred Armisen and The Venezuelans come to Pawnee.
I loved it when Fred’s character did a run about all the reasons a person could be arrested in Venezuela. Most of it was improvised. Fred is awesome.
Everything at the pit.
Leslie falling into the pit. Mark trying to kiss Leslie at the pit. Mark falling in pit. Andy jumping in pit. Andy living in pit. Leslie and Ann filling pit. “Pit” becomes “Lot”
Leslie looking out her window on a rainy day.
This was a simple scene in our first episode, where Leslie talks about her dream for a park. Greg Daniels was directing Michael Schur’s script. I was looking out the window thinking about what it would be like to stay optimistic and hopeful. How I would need to prepare myself for a new project that would take years, and how it would be hard but amazing work. It is my favorite scene to date.
Monday, November 16, 2009
KnopeKnows interviews Arnold!
When we first met Arnold in “The Camel‘, Tom Haverford accused him of making a piece of art that looked “like a lizard puking up Skittles.” Some time later, Tom actually analyzed it and found there was a lot to like about it. (So many shapes!).
Below is a Q&A I conducted with Doug Jones, who played Arnold in last week’s Parks and Recreation episode. Enjoy!
All of your screen time in “The Camel” was spent working alongside the hilarious Aziz Ansari. Explain what that was like.
It was great, Aziz is hilarious. I loved watching him on MTV’s Human Giant but he really won me over when I saw him headline a stand-up show at the Punchline in San Francisco earlier this year. It’s inspiring to me because he’s so new to acting yet he’s funnier than some comedians who have been in the business for several decades. So watching him rehearse, and try things different ways with various takes… it was all a very good learning experience for me.
Did either you or Aziz improv anything in your scenes together?
Totally, once they got what they needed as far as shooting what was in the script they let us take it wherever we wanted. That was my favorite part of the day for me because that’s when I relaxed and started having fun. At one point Aziz was serenading me with a Jamie Foxx impersonation. That being said, what you saw on the show is pretty much exactly what was written in the script, except for “It looks like a lizard puking up Skittles!” which was something Aziz came up with.
What were your experiences like on set when the cameras weren’t rolling?
The entire experience of working on a TV show like this was very new and exciting as I’ve only done commercials up until this point. Everyone behind-the-scenes seemed to care about what they were doing and the director Millicent Shelton was incredibly friendly and really put me at ease. When we wrapped at the end of the day everyone said goodbye and patted me on the back, even though it was a small role they made me feel like I was part of the team.
Who would you say you were most thrilled in meeting/working with during your time on Parks and Recreation?
Unfortunately the scenes with Aziz and I were shot at the very end of the day so by the time I got to the set everybody had pretty much gone home. I didn’t get to meet any of the other cast members except for Aubrey Plaza who was still lingering around shooting the scenes where she was digging through the dumpster putting her “Multimedia piece” together. Aubrey was really nice and so was everyone else I got a chance to meet.
I see you do work for Upright Citizens Brigade. How did you get involved with the sketch comedy group, and what do you do for it?
About five years ago I read an interview with Will Arnett and he talked about going to see Amy Poehler perform ASSSSCAT at UCB New York. I didn’t know exactly what ASSSSCAT was, but I bought tickets to see them perform at an improv festival in L.A out of curiosity and my life was forever changed. When the UCB theatre opened in Hollywood in summer of 2005 I decided to give it a shot and signed up for one of the first rounds of classes. It has been said by many others but it’s worth repeating, anybody who is interested in acting or comedy must take improv classes and learn how to write their own material and the best place to do that is Upright Citizens Brigade.
Do you have any upcoming projects we should be aware of?
Last week I worked on a short film called “The Big Dog” directed by Eric Appel. It’s being produced by Funny Or Die (the comedy video Web site founded by Will Ferrell and Adam McKay) and it’s going to be 20 minutes long so it’s one of the biggest project they’ve done to date. My part is very small but I got to work with Bob Odenkirk, one of my comedy heroes, so I can’t complain!
Thanks, Doug! To keep tabs on Doug, feel free to follow him on Twitter @hey_doug.
Below is a Q&A I conducted with Doug Jones, who played Arnold in last week’s Parks and Recreation episode. Enjoy!
All of your screen time in “The Camel” was spent working alongside the hilarious Aziz Ansari. Explain what that was like.
It was great, Aziz is hilarious. I loved watching him on MTV’s Human Giant but he really won me over when I saw him headline a stand-up show at the Punchline in San Francisco earlier this year. It’s inspiring to me because he’s so new to acting yet he’s funnier than some comedians who have been in the business for several decades. So watching him rehearse, and try things different ways with various takes… it was all a very good learning experience for me.
Did either you or Aziz improv anything in your scenes together?
Totally, once they got what they needed as far as shooting what was in the script they let us take it wherever we wanted. That was my favorite part of the day for me because that’s when I relaxed and started having fun. At one point Aziz was serenading me with a Jamie Foxx impersonation. That being said, what you saw on the show is pretty much exactly what was written in the script, except for “It looks like a lizard puking up Skittles!” which was something Aziz came up with.
What were your experiences like on set when the cameras weren’t rolling?
The entire experience of working on a TV show like this was very new and exciting as I’ve only done commercials up until this point. Everyone behind-the-scenes seemed to care about what they were doing and the director Millicent Shelton was incredibly friendly and really put me at ease. When we wrapped at the end of the day everyone said goodbye and patted me on the back, even though it was a small role they made me feel like I was part of the team.
Who would you say you were most thrilled in meeting/working with during your time on Parks and Recreation?
Unfortunately the scenes with Aziz and I were shot at the very end of the day so by the time I got to the set everybody had pretty much gone home. I didn’t get to meet any of the other cast members except for Aubrey Plaza who was still lingering around shooting the scenes where she was digging through the dumpster putting her “Multimedia piece” together. Aubrey was really nice and so was everyone else I got a chance to meet.
I see you do work for Upright Citizens Brigade. How did you get involved with the sketch comedy group, and what do you do for it?
About five years ago I read an interview with Will Arnett and he talked about going to see Amy Poehler perform ASSSSCAT at UCB New York. I didn’t know exactly what ASSSSCAT was, but I bought tickets to see them perform at an improv festival in L.A out of curiosity and my life was forever changed. When the UCB theatre opened in Hollywood in summer of 2005 I decided to give it a shot and signed up for one of the first rounds of classes. It has been said by many others but it’s worth repeating, anybody who is interested in acting or comedy must take improv classes and learn how to write their own material and the best place to do that is Upright Citizens Brigade.
Do you have any upcoming projects we should be aware of?
Last week I worked on a short film called “The Big Dog” directed by Eric Appel. It’s being produced by Funny Or Die (the comedy video Web site founded by Will Ferrell and Adam McKay) and it’s going to be 20 minutes long so it’s one of the biggest project they’ve done to date. My part is very small but I got to work with Bob Odenkirk, one of my comedy heroes, so I can’t complain!
Thanks, Doug! To keep tabs on Doug, feel free to follow him on Twitter @hey_doug.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Aziz stand up special drops in January
The official disc cover to Aziz Ansari's stand-up special, Intimate Moments for a Sensual Evening. The special will both air on Comedy Central and be available in stores in mid-January.
Aziz Ansari’s stand-up special, Intimate Moments for a Sensual Evening — which was filmed this summer in Los Angeles — will air on Comedy Central on January 17, 2010. The CD/DVD will then hit stores two days later.
In an interview, Aziz told Entertainment Weekly that “to have an hour special is really cool”:
It’s bigger than the time I filled up my Quiznos Q Rewards Card, but smaller than the time I filled up four Quiznos Q Rewards Cards.
On the whole, Aziz said filming went surprisingly well:
The crowd gave me a standing ovation after every single joke—there are 53 standing ovations. It’s a little distracting, and some people might say, “Wait a second, it looks like it was edited to look like there were 53 standing ovations,” but that’s not the case. Those were all genuine. I know people are thinking, “But there are so many great specials and that’s never happened before.” Well, I don’t know what to tell you. The material was that strong, and that’s the way those people felt they had to respond—by standing up in the exact same fashion for the exact amount of time, 53 times.
Access the full interview by clicking the link below.
Link: Aziz Ansari talks about his Comedy Central stand-up special and a strip club outing for the ‘Parks and Recreation’ gang
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Chris Pratt-AV club
Chris Pratt sits in the A.V. Club’s hot seat
November 3rd, 2009
From A.V. Club:
Andy Dwyer has become the show’s breakout character; it seems like the more of him we see, the better the episode. Did you have any inkling when you got the part that it might work out that way?
No, at first it was given to me as a guest-star role for six episodes. I had a pretty good idea that by the end of his run, Rashida’s character would break up with him, so I thought I could just have fun with it, and that would be that. There were no guarantees. But they told me if the show got picked up, and if they brought Andy back, it would be as a regular; I guess that was kind of the carrot that you dangle in front of the actor. “Hey, there’s a chance you can come back as a regular!” But they didn’t have to, so I was just assuming they wouldn’t bring him back. As the episodes went on, though, it was more and more apparent that they were writing really funny stuff for the character.
Do you think it was their plan all along to give Andy more screen time, or do you think it was because of how the character was received?
I think it’s a testament to Greg Daniels and Michael Schur, who created the show, that a lot of what they planned gets thrown out the window when it becomes clear how things are developing. We’re obviously working from a plan, but they’re very willing to just throw everything out there, see what’s working, and see who has chemistry. With a cast like this, too, you see a lot of freestyling, a lot of improvisation, and they really swing with it when they go forward. So there just happened to be this ridiculous character, Andy, who kept getting laughs, and that’s been why he’s gotten more scenes. And I think that’s going to happen with more and more characters—I think everyone’s going to get their moments and find their groove, it’s just a matter of letting it work itself out. It’s not something that’s possible to plan, but it wasn’t planned with me, either.
Will we be seeing any more of (Mouse Rat)?
Man, I sure hope so. If it was up to me, Andy would team up with Ron, playing Duke Silver—he’d be blowing the saxophone and Andy would provide the guitar and piano, and they’d go on tour together. Of course, I always pitch stuff like that, and the writers just look at me and go, “Uh, yeah, I don’t think so.”
Andy might not work if he was super-thin and handsome. Part of what’s funny about him is that he’s this type of guy that everyone’s met, this sort of band schlub who mooches off his girlfriend, he’s not too good-looking…
I think if Andy were super-fit and buff, people would really hate his guts. That’s another reason that he stays likeable—he thinks he’s really handsome, but he’s just this dude with a double chin and a belly, who sits around and drinks beer and eats pizza and doesn’t really work toward anything. It was Nick Offerman who told me this first, and I really liked it: he said “Andy is living the American dream—the new American dream, which is do as little as possible and get as much in return as possible.”
November 3rd, 2009
From A.V. Club:
Andy Dwyer has become the show’s breakout character; it seems like the more of him we see, the better the episode. Did you have any inkling when you got the part that it might work out that way?
No, at first it was given to me as a guest-star role for six episodes. I had a pretty good idea that by the end of his run, Rashida’s character would break up with him, so I thought I could just have fun with it, and that would be that. There were no guarantees. But they told me if the show got picked up, and if they brought Andy back, it would be as a regular; I guess that was kind of the carrot that you dangle in front of the actor. “Hey, there’s a chance you can come back as a regular!” But they didn’t have to, so I was just assuming they wouldn’t bring him back. As the episodes went on, though, it was more and more apparent that they were writing really funny stuff for the character.
Do you think it was their plan all along to give Andy more screen time, or do you think it was because of how the character was received?
I think it’s a testament to Greg Daniels and Michael Schur, who created the show, that a lot of what they planned gets thrown out the window when it becomes clear how things are developing. We’re obviously working from a plan, but they’re very willing to just throw everything out there, see what’s working, and see who has chemistry. With a cast like this, too, you see a lot of freestyling, a lot of improvisation, and they really swing with it when they go forward. So there just happened to be this ridiculous character, Andy, who kept getting laughs, and that’s been why he’s gotten more scenes. And I think that’s going to happen with more and more characters—I think everyone’s going to get their moments and find their groove, it’s just a matter of letting it work itself out. It’s not something that’s possible to plan, but it wasn’t planned with me, either.
Will we be seeing any more of (Mouse Rat)?
Man, I sure hope so. If it was up to me, Andy would team up with Ron, playing Duke Silver—he’d be blowing the saxophone and Andy would provide the guitar and piano, and they’d go on tour together. Of course, I always pitch stuff like that, and the writers just look at me and go, “Uh, yeah, I don’t think so.”
Andy might not work if he was super-thin and handsome. Part of what’s funny about him is that he’s this type of guy that everyone’s met, this sort of band schlub who mooches off his girlfriend, he’s not too good-looking…
I think if Andy were super-fit and buff, people would really hate his guts. That’s another reason that he stays likeable—he thinks he’s really handsome, but he’s just this dude with a double chin and a belly, who sits around and drinks beer and eats pizza and doesn’t really work toward anything. It was Nick Offerman who told me this first, and I really liked it: he said “Andy is living the American dream—the new American dream, which is do as little as possible and get as much in return as possible.”
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Rashida Jones and Chris Pratt dish on P&R
Highlights from a conference call with Rashida Jones and Chris Pratt:
Rashida on the possibility of Ann and Andy getting back together: You know, I don’t think it’s an impossibility. I think there’s still love in Ann’s heart for Andy. I think so much would have to change for him to be OK with her. But I don’t think it’s an impossibility.
Chris on whether Andy will start dating: I think that Andy’s undying devotion toward Ann is one of the only things that sort of redeems him, so I hope not. I hope that he just keeps pining after Ann for 10 seasons to come. That would be the best for me.
Chris on the nude scenes: Yeah, let’s just say there was a dance belt included and it was uncomfortable. They kind of just are these little things that cover up your junk, but it was almost as if I was wearing nothing at all. Yeah.
Rashida on the show clicking more in the second season: It just takes time. I think for the actors, for the writers, for the audience, you just need some time to settle into what the characters actually are, and what’s funny about their dynamics. And I’m super grateful that people gave us a shot to get there but I definitely think it takes about 10 episodes to even know what anything is, you know? I mean, you watch some early Seinfeld, you watch some early Sex and the City, it’s nothing like the show turned out to be; the things that people loved about that show did not exist at the beginning of that show, you know.
To read more, follow the link below.
Link: Rashida Jones and Chris Pratt Talk Parks and Recreation
Rashida on the possibility of Ann and Andy getting back together: You know, I don’t think it’s an impossibility. I think there’s still love in Ann’s heart for Andy. I think so much would have to change for him to be OK with her. But I don’t think it’s an impossibility.
Chris on whether Andy will start dating: I think that Andy’s undying devotion toward Ann is one of the only things that sort of redeems him, so I hope not. I hope that he just keeps pining after Ann for 10 seasons to come. That would be the best for me.
Chris on the nude scenes: Yeah, let’s just say there was a dance belt included and it was uncomfortable. They kind of just are these little things that cover up your junk, but it was almost as if I was wearing nothing at all. Yeah.
Rashida on the show clicking more in the second season: It just takes time. I think for the actors, for the writers, for the audience, you just need some time to settle into what the characters actually are, and what’s funny about their dynamics. And I’m super grateful that people gave us a shot to get there but I definitely think it takes about 10 episodes to even know what anything is, you know? I mean, you watch some early Seinfeld, you watch some early Sex and the City, it’s nothing like the show turned out to be; the things that people loved about that show did not exist at the beginning of that show, you know.
To read more, follow the link below.
Link: Rashida Jones and Chris Pratt Talk Parks and Recreation
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Amy in People
As an adult living in New York City, Halloween is a little redundant," says the Parks and Recreations star. "For a long time, I got to wear a lot of wigs and dress up. I always wanted to take a break from that [because] I was never a very big Halloween person, but maybe that will change."
That's because this Halloween Poehler, 38, has somebody else to dress up: Her son, Archie, will turn 1 on Oct. 25.
"This year has been an outstanding year and really a thrilling one," she says. "It's gone by really, really fast and I can't believe he's 1."
"Children are amazing for so many reasons and one of them is that they kind of punctuate your life," she says of the milestone. "Often our lives go by so fast without enjoying the moment and being able to reflect. When you have a person living in your house that is growing next to you it's just amazing to watch and reflect the passage of time."
A Special Day
Come Sunday, she'll have more to celebrate than just a birthday. Nickelodeon is premiering a special Halloween episode of Poehler's cartoon, The Mighty B! (11:30 a.m. EST).
The show is based on the character Bessie Higgenbottom, whom Poehler describes as "this feisty, plucky, bossy, Honey Bee scout, who goes on all these adventures in hopes of collecting all these badges." "She's our hero," Poehler says, "and when she's in trouble or needs to dig deep she turns into the Mighty B, which is a superhero in her mind."
The Mighty B!
In the episode, entitled "Catatonic," Bessie decides to dress up like a cat for Halloween. "[The] cat suit has kind of special powers and things go kind of crazy," Poehler says.
But that cat costume was not inspired by something Poehler wore as a kid.
"I grew up with a working mom so I had a lot of last-minute costumes, which can be fun," she says. "I think I rocked the gypsy look for one year too many – which I don't even think is a politically correct term anymore. I think I was a hobo maybe one year too many – again, not sure if 'hobo' is a politically correct term."
from
That's because this Halloween Poehler, 38, has somebody else to dress up: Her son, Archie, will turn 1 on Oct. 25.
"This year has been an outstanding year and really a thrilling one," she says. "It's gone by really, really fast and I can't believe he's 1."
"Children are amazing for so many reasons and one of them is that they kind of punctuate your life," she says of the milestone. "Often our lives go by so fast without enjoying the moment and being able to reflect. When you have a person living in your house that is growing next to you it's just amazing to watch and reflect the passage of time."
A Special Day
Come Sunday, she'll have more to celebrate than just a birthday. Nickelodeon is premiering a special Halloween episode of Poehler's cartoon, The Mighty B! (11:30 a.m. EST).
The show is based on the character Bessie Higgenbottom, whom Poehler describes as "this feisty, plucky, bossy, Honey Bee scout, who goes on all these adventures in hopes of collecting all these badges." "She's our hero," Poehler says, "and when she's in trouble or needs to dig deep she turns into the Mighty B, which is a superhero in her mind."
The Mighty B!
In the episode, entitled "Catatonic," Bessie decides to dress up like a cat for Halloween. "[The] cat suit has kind of special powers and things go kind of crazy," Poehler says.
But that cat costume was not inspired by something Poehler wore as a kid.
"I grew up with a working mom so I had a lot of last-minute costumes, which can be fun," she says. "I think I rocked the gypsy look for one year too many – which I don't even think is a politically correct term anymore. I think I was a hobo maybe one year too many – again, not sure if 'hobo' is a politically correct term."
from
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
20 questions for Aziz
1. The latest book or movie that made you cry?
"Up" came pretty close. The silent montage of the relationship in the beginning was maybe the most amazing, beautiful thing I've ever seen in any movie. I was also surprised to find out that the kid was Asian. I didn't notice that at all! Pixar should make their 3-D depiction of Asians more racist looking so it's easier to tell.
2. The fictional character most like you?
Wow. This is tough. I'll say Dr. Grant from "Jurassic Park." I like to think I'm pretty level-headed and if kids were trapped in a Ford Explorer getting attacked by a dinosaur I would make an effort to save them, as opposed to go hiding in the toilet like that weasely lawyer.
3. The greatest album, ever?
Nelly's concept album, "Sweatsuit." Disc 1, the Sweat Disc, features uptempto party jams and Disc 2, the Suit Disc, is more serious hip hop to listen to when you are in a formal setting.
It's either that or the Beatles' White Album. Actually, yeah, it's probably the White Album.
4. "Star Trek" or "Star Wars"?
"Star Wars." I have to admit when I see the ""Star Wars" version" of things I do get a little excited. You know what I'm talking about? Like the Call of Duty mods that let you play the game as StormTroopers? That would have been dope on "Goldeneye" for Nintendo 64.
Speaking of which, why isn't "Goldeneye" on Xbox Live? Rare and Microsoft need to figure that out or someone needs to make a bootleg version somehow. Wait, what's that sound? Oh, it's the sound of any girl that was interested in sleeping with me changing her mind.
5. Your ideal brain food?
I feel like apples are a good brain food and strawberry yogurt. I eat that on set a lot and it seems good for you. That's based on nothing, though.
Can I just recommend some taco places in LA, instead? I don't know brain food, but I do know tacos. There's a taco truck in Echo Park in L.A. called Taco Zone and they have a great off-menu special called the mulita. Get the carne suadero mulita. So good.
Also, go to the Alibi Room in Culver City and get some Kogi. The Kogi taco trucks have crazy lines, but the Kogi at the Alibi room is the same thing, arguably better because it has an expanded menu. Get the short rib sliders and a spicy pork kimchi quesadilla (not on the menu).
Also, Best Fish Taco in Ensenada on Hillhurst is dope. Get two fish and one shrimp. And the carne asada taco at Yuca's on Hillhurst is great, too.
6. You're proud of this accomplishment, but why?
I once went on a taco tour with a friend who was visiting me and hit up all those taco places I mentioned above in one day.
7. You want to be remembered for ...?
The accomplishments of a more respected, similarly looking bearded Indian man.
8. Of those who've come before, the most inspirational are?
I take a lot of inspiration from the people that are doing my favorite work now.
9. The creative masterpiece you wish bore your signature?
The Thai food at Jitlada.
10. Your hidden talents ...?
Foosball, ping pong, guitar playing, and I'm also great at splitting checks with a large party at a restaurant.
11. The best piece of advice you actually followed?
"You should try the carne suadero mulita."
12. The best thing you ever bought, stole, or borrowed?
The best thing I stole is three Chick-fil-a chicken nuggets that I snatched from a sample tray at a mall food court in Florence, S.C., after already having my one alotted sample. "Yeah, these are for my brother, my dad, and my mom." That idiot, I ate all of them!
13. You feel best in Armani or Levis or ...?
Osh Kosh B'Gosh for Men (it's a hard to fine clothing line, but it's out there).
14. Your dinner guest at the Ritz would be?
The Dalai Lama, but only if he's up for splitting a few things, so we can get a good taste of the whole menu in one sitting. Otherwise, my friend Alan or my friend Jason, they are usually down to split stuff.
15. Time travel: where, when and why?
I would go to right before Marty was about to go into the store where he saw the Sports Almanac and prevent him from ever seeing it or getting that idea, thus preventing them from having to deal with the Biff centric alternate timeline altogether. (That's a reference to "Back to the Future," for those not in the know.)
16. Stress management: hit man, spa vacation or Prozac?
Spa.
17. Essential to life: coffee, vodka, cigarettes, chocolate, or ...?
TACOS!
18. Environ of choice: city or country, and where on the map?
City. Montreal.
19. What do you want to say to the leader of your country?
"Cream on the inside, clean on the outside! Cream on the inside, clean on the outside! Ice- ice- i- -ice cream paint job!" (That's a reference to "Ice Cream Paint Job" by Dorrough, for those not in the know.)
20. Last but certainly not least, what are you working on, now?
"Parks and Recreation" Season 2, my standup special/CD/DVD, "Intimate Moments for a Sensual Evening," which should be out in a few months (probably January), other things that aren't fully figured out yet, and getting chubbier because I eat too much delicious food.
"Up" came pretty close. The silent montage of the relationship in the beginning was maybe the most amazing, beautiful thing I've ever seen in any movie. I was also surprised to find out that the kid was Asian. I didn't notice that at all! Pixar should make their 3-D depiction of Asians more racist looking so it's easier to tell.
2. The fictional character most like you?
Wow. This is tough. I'll say Dr. Grant from "Jurassic Park." I like to think I'm pretty level-headed and if kids were trapped in a Ford Explorer getting attacked by a dinosaur I would make an effort to save them, as opposed to go hiding in the toilet like that weasely lawyer.
3. The greatest album, ever?
Nelly's concept album, "Sweatsuit." Disc 1, the Sweat Disc, features uptempto party jams and Disc 2, the Suit Disc, is more serious hip hop to listen to when you are in a formal setting.
It's either that or the Beatles' White Album. Actually, yeah, it's probably the White Album.
4. "Star Trek" or "Star Wars"?
"Star Wars." I have to admit when I see the ""Star Wars" version" of things I do get a little excited. You know what I'm talking about? Like the Call of Duty mods that let you play the game as StormTroopers? That would have been dope on "Goldeneye" for Nintendo 64.
Speaking of which, why isn't "Goldeneye" on Xbox Live? Rare and Microsoft need to figure that out or someone needs to make a bootleg version somehow. Wait, what's that sound? Oh, it's the sound of any girl that was interested in sleeping with me changing her mind.
5. Your ideal brain food?
I feel like apples are a good brain food and strawberry yogurt. I eat that on set a lot and it seems good for you. That's based on nothing, though.
Can I just recommend some taco places in LA, instead? I don't know brain food, but I do know tacos. There's a taco truck in Echo Park in L.A. called Taco Zone and they have a great off-menu special called the mulita. Get the carne suadero mulita. So good.
Also, go to the Alibi Room in Culver City and get some Kogi. The Kogi taco trucks have crazy lines, but the Kogi at the Alibi room is the same thing, arguably better because it has an expanded menu. Get the short rib sliders and a spicy pork kimchi quesadilla (not on the menu).
Also, Best Fish Taco in Ensenada on Hillhurst is dope. Get two fish and one shrimp. And the carne asada taco at Yuca's on Hillhurst is great, too.
6. You're proud of this accomplishment, but why?
I once went on a taco tour with a friend who was visiting me and hit up all those taco places I mentioned above in one day.
7. You want to be remembered for ...?
The accomplishments of a more respected, similarly looking bearded Indian man.
8. Of those who've come before, the most inspirational are?
I take a lot of inspiration from the people that are doing my favorite work now.
9. The creative masterpiece you wish bore your signature?
The Thai food at Jitlada.
10. Your hidden talents ...?
Foosball, ping pong, guitar playing, and I'm also great at splitting checks with a large party at a restaurant.
11. The best piece of advice you actually followed?
"You should try the carne suadero mulita."
12. The best thing you ever bought, stole, or borrowed?
The best thing I stole is three Chick-fil-a chicken nuggets that I snatched from a sample tray at a mall food court in Florence, S.C., after already having my one alotted sample. "Yeah, these are for my brother, my dad, and my mom." That idiot, I ate all of them!
13. You feel best in Armani or Levis or ...?
Osh Kosh B'Gosh for Men (it's a hard to fine clothing line, but it's out there).
14. Your dinner guest at the Ritz would be?
The Dalai Lama, but only if he's up for splitting a few things, so we can get a good taste of the whole menu in one sitting. Otherwise, my friend Alan or my friend Jason, they are usually down to split stuff.
15. Time travel: where, when and why?
I would go to right before Marty was about to go into the store where he saw the Sports Almanac and prevent him from ever seeing it or getting that idea, thus preventing them from having to deal with the Biff centric alternate timeline altogether. (That's a reference to "Back to the Future," for those not in the know.)
16. Stress management: hit man, spa vacation or Prozac?
Spa.
17. Essential to life: coffee, vodka, cigarettes, chocolate, or ...?
TACOS!
18. Environ of choice: city or country, and where on the map?
City. Montreal.
19. What do you want to say to the leader of your country?
"Cream on the inside, clean on the outside! Cream on the inside, clean on the outside! Ice- ice- i- -ice cream paint job!" (That's a reference to "Ice Cream Paint Job" by Dorrough, for those not in the know.)
20. Last but certainly not least, what are you working on, now?
"Parks and Recreation" Season 2, my standup special/CD/DVD, "Intimate Moments for a Sensual Evening," which should be out in a few months (probably January), other things that aren't fully figured out yet, and getting chubbier because I eat too much delicious food.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Aubrey Plaza Video
http://makingof.com/insiders/media/aubrey/plaza/aubrey-plaza-on-taking-risks/117/465
Saturday, September 26, 2009
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