- Fringe
- Action films like the Jason Bourne and Hellboy series
- Guillermo del Torro
- J. K. Rowling
- Television shows on DVD
- Entertainment Weekly
- Theorist trading cards and finger puppets
See you the first weekend in December!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving!
As you can tell, I am taking time off from my critiques to enjoy the holiday season. However, before I go eat as much turkey as humanly possible, I leave you with the pop culture items I most thankful for this holiday season.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Another Good Week for Entertainment
As the weather has gotten colder, I have taken to burying myself under a blanket and enjoying a good show, a good movie, and a good book. (Although not all at once.)
Film: Before the Devil Knows You're Dead
It's been a week since I've seen this film and I'm still trying to decide where my sympathies should lie. There aren't many redeeming characters here, except maybe the mom. Although the majority of characters are all shady at best, the actors portraying them are wonderful. Brothers Hank (Ethan Hawke) and Andy (Philip Seymore Hoffman) are both in financial trouble, so they stage a robbert of their parents' jewelry store. As you can imagine, the robbery goes wrong. There is just one desperate act here after another. What I liked about this film - other than the acting - is the narrative flow. If you're easily confused by a film like Pulp Fiction, you'll be doubly confused by this one. The movie goes back and forth in time between the lives of both Hank and Andy. Events overlap and are told from different points of view. The editing here is fantastic. Sidney Lumet did a brilliant job directing the film. Also, the ever-brilliant Albert Finney (the boys' father) delivers a powerful performance at the end of the film that will leave you shocked (but in a good way, I think). If you are in the mood for a strong drama, go out and add this one to your Netflix list.
Television: Fringe
I mentioned this show back in September as a new "must watch" series. Sometimes my interest in a television show peters out (read: My Own Worst Enemy). Not so with Fringe. If you haven't tuned in yet, do so immediately. People will make comparisons to The X-Files and while there is an element of "X-Files-ness" here, Fringe is its own show. Each week is a self-contained event of supernatural or crazy death/destruction. It is then Agent Olivia Dunham's job to work with scientist Walter Bishop and his son, Peter, to discover a cure/reason. That's the basic premise. What I really like about this show, and what keeps me coming back every week, is Walter Bishop (John Noble). No one argues that this man is crazy and J. J. Abrams plays that up in very minor ways. For example, in last week's episode Peter realizes that his father used to experiment on him. When Peter confronts Walter, Walter simply goes back to work and changes the subject. Also, Walter has a problem remembering names. For awhile he couldn't remember his FBI assistant, Astrid, at all. Now he calls her everything from "astro" to "astroid." It is moments like these that make this show work. You'll be a bit grossed out, you'll be fascinated, and you'll even laugh a bit.
Book: The Terror
I bought Dan Simmons's book because Stephen King loved it and said it creeped him out. While it didn't really creep me out, it was definitely a page-turner. The book follows the doomed crew of Sir John Franklin's actual, historical 1845 voyage to find the North-West Passage. This book is historical fiction and presents alternate stories of the crew members. As if being stuck in the ice for three years wasn't enough, a supernatural beastie starts stalking and killing members of the expedition. I am a big fan of historical fiction when it is done well and this one is done well. Simmons nicely details the daily experiences of men frozen in the ice in an age where canned food was often poisoned and wool was the best protection from the elements. I will say that you will be thankful that we live in an era of synthetic fiber and warm boots. You will honestly feel sorry for the men on board both the HMS Terror and the HMS Erebus as they optimistically hope for rescue. But the man to keep an eye on is Captain of the HMS Terror, Francis Rawdon Moira Crozier. Don't be turned off by King's praise of this book. You won't have to read it with the lights on. Enjoy this novel as a piece of historical fiction with a supernatural twist. It's a long one - about 800 pages - but well worth the ride. The ending with throw you for a loop.
Film: Before the Devil Knows You're Dead
It's been a week since I've seen this film and I'm still trying to decide where my sympathies should lie. There aren't many redeeming characters here, except maybe the mom. Although the majority of characters are all shady at best, the actors portraying them are wonderful. Brothers Hank (Ethan Hawke) and Andy (Philip Seymore Hoffman) are both in financial trouble, so they stage a robbert of their parents' jewelry store. As you can imagine, the robbery goes wrong. There is just one desperate act here after another. What I liked about this film - other than the acting - is the narrative flow. If you're easily confused by a film like Pulp Fiction, you'll be doubly confused by this one. The movie goes back and forth in time between the lives of both Hank and Andy. Events overlap and are told from different points of view. The editing here is fantastic. Sidney Lumet did a brilliant job directing the film. Also, the ever-brilliant Albert Finney (the boys' father) delivers a powerful performance at the end of the film that will leave you shocked (but in a good way, I think). If you are in the mood for a strong drama, go out and add this one to your Netflix list.
Television: Fringe
I mentioned this show back in September as a new "must watch" series. Sometimes my interest in a television show peters out (read: My Own Worst Enemy). Not so with Fringe. If you haven't tuned in yet, do so immediately. People will make comparisons to The X-Files and while there is an element of "X-Files-ness" here, Fringe is its own show. Each week is a self-contained event of supernatural or crazy death/destruction. It is then Agent Olivia Dunham's job to work with scientist Walter Bishop and his son, Peter, to discover a cure/reason. That's the basic premise. What I really like about this show, and what keeps me coming back every week, is Walter Bishop (John Noble). No one argues that this man is crazy and J. J. Abrams plays that up in very minor ways. For example, in last week's episode Peter realizes that his father used to experiment on him. When Peter confronts Walter, Walter simply goes back to work and changes the subject. Also, Walter has a problem remembering names. For awhile he couldn't remember his FBI assistant, Astrid, at all. Now he calls her everything from "astro" to "astroid." It is moments like these that make this show work. You'll be a bit grossed out, you'll be fascinated, and you'll even laugh a bit.
Book: The Terror
I bought Dan Simmons's book because Stephen King loved it and said it creeped him out. While it didn't really creep me out, it was definitely a page-turner. The book follows the doomed crew of Sir John Franklin's actual, historical 1845 voyage to find the North-West Passage. This book is historical fiction and presents alternate stories of the crew members. As if being stuck in the ice for three years wasn't enough, a supernatural beastie starts stalking and killing members of the expedition. I am a big fan of historical fiction when it is done well and this one is done well. Simmons nicely details the daily experiences of men frozen in the ice in an age where canned food was often poisoned and wool was the best protection from the elements. I will say that you will be thankful that we live in an era of synthetic fiber and warm boots. You will honestly feel sorry for the men on board both the HMS Terror and the HMS Erebus as they optimistically hope for rescue. But the man to keep an eye on is Captain of the HMS Terror, Francis Rawdon Moira Crozier. Don't be turned off by King's praise of this book. You won't have to read it with the lights on. Enjoy this novel as a piece of historical fiction with a supernatural twist. It's a long one - about 800 pages - but well worth the ride. The ending with throw you for a loop.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Back to Pop Culture
After an excellent discussion of politics, it's time to get back to the roots of this blog. I, for one, have still be reading and watching lots of interesting stuff this week.
Film: Smart People
I loved this film. It's billed as a romance, but I don't think I'd call it that. It's more a study of sad, depressed, dysfunctional people. Who happen to be smart. And one is a college English prof. And it's set in The Burgh. What isn't there to like? We all know that I don't watch a lot of romantic comedies; this is not a comedy. In the end, there hasn't been a great revelation. There hasn't been a significant change in any of the characters. Instead, the characters are aware of their short-comings and are trying to be less sad, depressed, and dysfunctional. Whether or not they succeed is not important. Heck, I can't even tell you if the film has a happy, romantic ending. I think that's why I like it. Well, that and the fact that Dennis Quaid, Sarah Jessica Parker, Thomas Haden Church, and Ellen Paige are all awesome. Oh, and if you happen to be an English prof (or a future English prof), or you ever took an English course in college, you may see a little too much of yourself, your English prof, and/or colleagues in this film, which just adds to the humor.
Television: Moonlighting
I have been feeling retro these past few weeks and have been walking down memory lane with David Addison and Maddie Hayes. I remember this show fondly but was afraid that my fond memories would end poorly upon rewatching (think Superfriends). Much to my surprise, this show stands the test of time (except for Maddie's wardrobe). The chemistry between Bruce Willis and Cybill Shepherd is amazing. I can only think of a handful of television duos to have such chemistry. Also, the writing is brilliantly funny. They were talking fast before the kids (and moms) of the WB/CW made it popular. Plus, they are constantly referencing the fact that they are a television show, yet no one blinks an eye when it happens. They tear down the fourth wall without anyone thinking much about it. Finally, they've got some fun people on the show. A very young Tim Robbins appears in one of the first eps and a very old Orson Welles appears in another. I am almost through Season 2 and couldn't be happier. I know the show eventually jumps the shark, but I am enjoying every moment until that happens. If you're feeling a little nostalgic, check out some old eps of Moonlighting. (By the way, the show appeared in 1985, 23 years ago. Does that make anyone else feel just a smidge bit old?)
Book: The Road
Go out and read Cormac McCarthy's saga of a father and son before it ends up at your local cineplex (due out in January). Set in a post-apocalyptic America, this book will send shivers up your spine. I have to warn you, though, nothing really happens in this novel. A father and his son are heading to the ocean where, hopefully, it will be warmer. They are following the road to get there but always vigilant in case one of the many cannibalistic hordes finds them. (There is no explanation but the world has died. There are neither animals nor plants left alive.) I was surprised to find myself so caught up in this world. Trust me, as you read you will never think of canned food, shopping carts, and shoes the same way. I am a bit concerned about the adaptation; Hollywood will have to make some significant additions to appeal to the masses. That's why I recommend reading this book now.
Film: Smart People
I loved this film. It's billed as a romance, but I don't think I'd call it that. It's more a study of sad, depressed, dysfunctional people. Who happen to be smart. And one is a college English prof. And it's set in The Burgh. What isn't there to like? We all know that I don't watch a lot of romantic comedies; this is not a comedy. In the end, there hasn't been a great revelation. There hasn't been a significant change in any of the characters. Instead, the characters are aware of their short-comings and are trying to be less sad, depressed, and dysfunctional. Whether or not they succeed is not important. Heck, I can't even tell you if the film has a happy, romantic ending. I think that's why I like it. Well, that and the fact that Dennis Quaid, Sarah Jessica Parker, Thomas Haden Church, and Ellen Paige are all awesome. Oh, and if you happen to be an English prof (or a future English prof), or you ever took an English course in college, you may see a little too much of yourself, your English prof, and/or colleagues in this film, which just adds to the humor.
Television: Moonlighting
I have been feeling retro these past few weeks and have been walking down memory lane with David Addison and Maddie Hayes. I remember this show fondly but was afraid that my fond memories would end poorly upon rewatching (think Superfriends). Much to my surprise, this show stands the test of time (except for Maddie's wardrobe). The chemistry between Bruce Willis and Cybill Shepherd is amazing. I can only think of a handful of television duos to have such chemistry. Also, the writing is brilliantly funny. They were talking fast before the kids (and moms) of the WB/CW made it popular. Plus, they are constantly referencing the fact that they are a television show, yet no one blinks an eye when it happens. They tear down the fourth wall without anyone thinking much about it. Finally, they've got some fun people on the show. A very young Tim Robbins appears in one of the first eps and a very old Orson Welles appears in another. I am almost through Season 2 and couldn't be happier. I know the show eventually jumps the shark, but I am enjoying every moment until that happens. If you're feeling a little nostalgic, check out some old eps of Moonlighting. (By the way, the show appeared in 1985, 23 years ago. Does that make anyone else feel just a smidge bit old?)
Book: The Road
Go out and read Cormac McCarthy's saga of a father and son before it ends up at your local cineplex (due out in January). Set in a post-apocalyptic America, this book will send shivers up your spine. I have to warn you, though, nothing really happens in this novel. A father and his son are heading to the ocean where, hopefully, it will be warmer. They are following the road to get there but always vigilant in case one of the many cannibalistic hordes finds them. (There is no explanation but the world has died. There are neither animals nor plants left alive.) I was surprised to find myself so caught up in this world. Trust me, as you read you will never think of canned food, shopping carts, and shoes the same way. I am a bit concerned about the adaptation; Hollywood will have to make some significant additions to appeal to the masses. That's why I recommend reading this book now.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
GO OBAMA GO!!!!
I could not be happier about tonight's election results. GO OBAMA! WHOO-HOO!!!!!
Now, I could spend some time addressing all the conservative viewpoints I've been hearing over the past few months. I could point out the hypocrisy coming from the McCain camp over family values. I could remind the McCain supporters that Reps told Hillary Clinton to deal with it when people started accusing the media of being sexist yet yelled and screamed when they thought Palin was being treated unfairly. I could also point out the under-handed tactics used against Obama throughout the last few months. I might even point out that all media is not liberal; we do, after all, have Fox News. Finally, I could reiterate the woderful phrase used by Gloria Steinem in an article: "The wrong woman and the wrong time."
Luckily, like the man I supported and voted for, I am above all that. All I am going to say is that I chose wisely. I spent a great deal of time following both McCain and Obama's campaigns. I read about their agendas from both biased and unbiased media outlets. I spent time trying to understand the issues and vote for the person who best represents what I believe in. I did not let factually-iffy email forwards dictate my political preferences; I preferred facts. In other words, I made an extremely informed decision that was based on my belief system and not gender or race issues.
To those Americans out there who are bitching up a storm, I have two things to say:
1. Get over it. Obama won the electoral vote by 2-1. That's huge and says a lot about the majority opinion in this country. The people have spoken and if they have spoken for the person you didn't vote for, oh well. That's the way politics work.
2. Suck it up. We Dems had to live with "W" for the last eight years. You can certainly suffer through Obama for the next four.
No matter what your political affiliation, however, this election has been historical and momentous. I am proud to be living in an era when an African American and a woman can run for the White House. This election just proves that democracy is still alive and well in America despite the cynics. Hopefully change is on its way and it is change for the better.
Now, I could spend some time addressing all the conservative viewpoints I've been hearing over the past few months. I could point out the hypocrisy coming from the McCain camp over family values. I could remind the McCain supporters that Reps told Hillary Clinton to deal with it when people started accusing the media of being sexist yet yelled and screamed when they thought Palin was being treated unfairly. I could also point out the under-handed tactics used against Obama throughout the last few months. I might even point out that all media is not liberal; we do, after all, have Fox News. Finally, I could reiterate the woderful phrase used by Gloria Steinem in an article: "The wrong woman and the wrong time."
Luckily, like the man I supported and voted for, I am above all that. All I am going to say is that I chose wisely. I spent a great deal of time following both McCain and Obama's campaigns. I read about their agendas from both biased and unbiased media outlets. I spent time trying to understand the issues and vote for the person who best represents what I believe in. I did not let factually-iffy email forwards dictate my political preferences; I preferred facts. In other words, I made an extremely informed decision that was based on my belief system and not gender or race issues.
To those Americans out there who are bitching up a storm, I have two things to say:
1. Get over it. Obama won the electoral vote by 2-1. That's huge and says a lot about the majority opinion in this country. The people have spoken and if they have spoken for the person you didn't vote for, oh well. That's the way politics work.
2. Suck it up. We Dems had to live with "W" for the last eight years. You can certainly suffer through Obama for the next four.
No matter what your political affiliation, however, this election has been historical and momentous. I am proud to be living in an era when an African American and a woman can run for the White House. This election just proves that democracy is still alive and well in America despite the cynics. Hopefully change is on its way and it is change for the better.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Halloween Re-Cap
This week is to fill you in on the three scary movies I watched this past week. Don't worry, next week I'll get back to books and television.
The Reaping
I can't remember how I came across this 2007 film but I'm glad I did. Starring Hilary Swank as Katherine, an ex-minister who has lost her faith and now debunks miracles, the film is about good versus evil. Katherine is brought to Haven, LA where plagues are appearing. She must decide whether or not the plagues have a "real" explanation or have been brought about by God (or maybe even the Devil). I like a good God-versus-Satan movie and this one does not disappoint. The ending left me satisfied yet slightly creeped-out.
Bug
Yes Matt, you can tell that this was a play first in three acts. But besides that, it is a good flick. I was expecting something more along the lines of Arachnaphobia because I thought there might be more bugs. In actuality, there are none. OR ARE THERE????? Seriously, I'm not giving anything away. Although this film was not quite what I expected, I enjoyed it. The fall into paranoia is excellent. This may be Ashley Judd's best performance and she does it all without makeup. Michael Shannon is especially intriguing as Peter Evans. Like The Reaping, this film was very much worth the ending. Wow!
And the scariest film I saw all week...
W
If you like and respect the current administration, you probably shouldn't go see this film. Luckily, I have no such qualms. Josh Brolin, James Cromwell, and Thandie Newton all rock out as W, Poppy, and Condi, respectively. Believe it or not, Oliver Stone actually presents a SOMEWHAT sympathetic view of W. Sadly, we are sympathetic because he's a moron who is controlled by forces way smarter and eviler than he is. The true sympathetic character here is Poppy, who constantly has to bail out his disappointing son. Neither Condi nor Vice come off quite so well. The only person who is truely a "good" guy is good old Colin Powell. Rock on, Colin! I left the theater glad I voted for John Kerry and sad the majority of Americans would rather have a "good-old-boy" in the office than someone who knows something about politics and world affairs.
The Reaping
I can't remember how I came across this 2007 film but I'm glad I did. Starring Hilary Swank as Katherine, an ex-minister who has lost her faith and now debunks miracles, the film is about good versus evil. Katherine is brought to Haven, LA where plagues are appearing. She must decide whether or not the plagues have a "real" explanation or have been brought about by God (or maybe even the Devil). I like a good God-versus-Satan movie and this one does not disappoint. The ending left me satisfied yet slightly creeped-out.
Bug
Yes Matt, you can tell that this was a play first in three acts. But besides that, it is a good flick. I was expecting something more along the lines of Arachnaphobia because I thought there might be more bugs. In actuality, there are none. OR ARE THERE????? Seriously, I'm not giving anything away. Although this film was not quite what I expected, I enjoyed it. The fall into paranoia is excellent. This may be Ashley Judd's best performance and she does it all without makeup. Michael Shannon is especially intriguing as Peter Evans. Like The Reaping, this film was very much worth the ending. Wow!
And the scariest film I saw all week...
W
If you like and respect the current administration, you probably shouldn't go see this film. Luckily, I have no such qualms. Josh Brolin, James Cromwell, and Thandie Newton all rock out as W, Poppy, and Condi, respectively. Believe it or not, Oliver Stone actually presents a SOMEWHAT sympathetic view of W. Sadly, we are sympathetic because he's a moron who is controlled by forces way smarter and eviler than he is. The true sympathetic character here is Poppy, who constantly has to bail out his disappointing son. Neither Condi nor Vice come off quite so well. The only person who is truely a "good" guy is good old Colin Powell. Rock on, Colin! I left the theater glad I voted for John Kerry and sad the majority of Americans would rather have a "good-old-boy" in the office than someone who knows something about politics and world affairs.
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