hadleyk

As a writer, an essential component of the process is the period known as “distraction time” aka surfing the web. Here are a few of my favorite sites.

Got anymore suggestions?

io9 – Their tagline alone “we come from the future” speaks volumes, but this scificentric Gawker site is one of the most reliable and entertaining homes for news and op-eds. Bonus points for recruiting occasional guest bloggers like Sarah Connor creator Josh Friedman.

Deadline Hollywood – Nikki Finke is the reigning queen of honesty, brash and unapologetic, when it comes to reporting on the business side of Hollywood. Bonus points for her use of “Toldja!” and expanding coverage of all things geek.

Ausiello Files – Sure, he’s a sneak on sets and tends to make unfair and often illogical snap judgements on your favorite televisions series’, but there’s no denying that he always gets the goods first. Not to mention that the Entertainment Weekly scooper was a dedicated supporter of all things Sarah Connor and Veronica Mars, dating back to his roots at TVGuide.

Blip – Best, most original video content provider around. Certainly more interesting and more professional than what you’d find on YouTube, Blip carries webseries’ other leading video ventures like WB.com would never dare go near. Special attention goes to two badass shows, RoboGirl and KCRW’s Tuned-In with Nic Harcourt.

The Hype Machine – Want to find the greatest new music out there without wasting (too much) time investigating every badass music blog? Here it is, all compiled for you. Your iTunes can thank me later.

My Take on TV and Ramblings of a TV Whore – If you’re a TV fiend, these two sites will guide you to all the right stuff the boob tube’s got to offer and they’ll say what the other, more corporate sites are afraid to mention. Special thanks go to both webmasters for their fun coverage of Good Morning Rabbit.

Ideas for Change – A “platform for creating a sustainable world,” this site is the self-proclaimed only home for video content with a purpose — tackling issues and bettering the world. For filmmakers and fans alike.

Funny or Die – Come on, who doesn’t want to laugh out loud? Will Ferrell and Adam McKay’s site has enjoyed furious attention and praise, but it’s all deserved. Some recent standouts: Gus Porter, American Legend with Thomas Haden Church and Prop 8 – The Musical starring Jack Black and John C. Reilly.

Tyler Shields – He’s a friend and he’s a fantastic photographer who’s all the buzz. If you want to see your favorite actor in the most uncomfortable of situations, this is the place. Don’t forget to check out his insane video portraits, like the one of Zachary Quinto getting doused in milk.