My Gray Morning

My Gray Morning's Sundance Wrap-Up

2012-01-30T21:30:00.015-07:00

* Sundance Award Winner

*The Law In These Parts 101 minutes D

Apparently, I didn't understand this award winning doc about Israel, Palestinians and the occupied territories post war 1967. It was over my head (and frankly, a little boring). But congratulations to these courageous documentarians nonetheless.

Payback 82 minutes C

A documentary about social inequality, based on the book by Margaret Atwood. I liked the idea, but hated the execution of this documentary. The information and images are presented in a way that's confusing and slow building.

*Young and Wild 90 minutes A

Loved this film! A young nympho comes of age and enjoys bacon and tofu.

Corpo Celeste 98 minutes C+

RW had to explain parts of this one, because I know nothing about catechism and Catholics. Good acting by a young actor. Slow start, strong ending.

Red Hook Summer 130 min C-

Spike Lee's new, overlong, sprawling mess... But it was a great Q & A afterwards.

V/H/S 104 minutes B-

Normally, horror flicks aren't my cup of tea, but I have to admit that this one had me on the edge of my seat! Annoying, intriguing, and if you have a weak stomach, eat afterwards and not before.

The Pursuit of Loneliness 96 minutes B-

A slow black and white film about loneliness and death. Not for everyone, but oddly likable.

Shorts Program III

DOL (First Birthday) 12 minutes A-

A gay couple in the closet, but the kids are alright

The Fort 12 minutes B

About a weird kid in the woods

Frozen Stories 26 minutes B-
At this point I was really tired...

L Train 11 minutes A

and I cried...

Rolling On the Floor Laughing 19 minutes A-

A family gathering that goes horribly wrong.

Surveillant 17 minutes B-

I kept waiting for something dramatic to happen... it never did.

My Gray Morning's Best of Film & Music 2011

2012-01-24T20:46:00.127-07:00

The best in films and music (i.e. my favorites) based on what I saw and heard last year. Enjoy!

Films

10. The Big Year

9. Bridesmaids

8. Higher Ground

7. Young Adult

6. The Off Hours

5. The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

4. The Future

3. 50/50

2. The Ides of March

1. Another Earth

Honorable mentioned: Beginners, Horrible Bosses, Swell Season, Beats, Rhymes & Life, Midnight in Paris

Music

5. Wilco - The Whole Love

4. Drake - Take Care

3. Beastie Boys - Hot Sauce Committe Part 2

2. REM - Collapse Into Now

1. Frank Ocean - Nostalgia, Ultra.
Honorable Mentioned: Ryan Adams - Ashes & Fire, Wild Flag - Wild Flag, James Blake - James Blake

First Impression Music Reviews - Kathleen Edwards, Wilco & the Indigo Girls

2012-01-19T20:52:00.187-07:00

Released January 2012

Kathleen Edwards - Voyageur B+
I absolutely can't get enough of the book-end tracks on this album. It opens with an Empty Threat, and ends with a declaration that, For the Record, "I only wanted to sings songs." After one listen I was ready to declare this (her fourth album) the best yet, but that would have been premature. It is however, the best album of 2012, so far... Favorite Tracks- Empty Threat, Change the Sheets, For the Record.

Released September 2011

Wilco - The Whole Love B+

Intially, I had a hard time wrapping my head around this one, despite some undeniable hooks and the eclectic sounds. Truth be told, I've lost a little love for Wilco and I don't know why. Once, I considered them one of the most vital acts in music, now I feel like they have outgrown me. Their welcoming the whole love with open arms, and without the trepidation I've come to know and love. Nonetheless, The Whole Love gets better and better each time I spin it. Perhaps, this old flame is worth rekindling. Favorite Tracks- I Love My Label, Art of Almost, One Sunday Morning (Song For Jane Smiley's Boyfriend).

Released October 2011

Indigo Girls - Beauty Queen Sister B-

I've said it before, and I'll say it again, the Indigo Girls are one of the most underrated acts in music history. Last October, critic Bill Clifford wrote that they can "certainly be considered along side the likes of Simon & Garfunkel, Hall & Oates and the Everly Brothers," and I couldn't agree more. It's been almost 25 years since the independent release of Strange Fire, their first album. These ladies are still making music that moves me, and telling stories that need to be told. Favorite Tracks- Feed and Water the Horses, We Get to Feel it All, Birthday Song.

Sexton's God Thing (A Book Review)

2012-01-17T21:33:00.209-07:00

Publication Date: March 1975

The Awful Rowing Towards God - Anne Sexton B+

I loved the dark and speculative tone of this collection. Sexton keenly questions the meaning of God's existence (and ours), while introspectively coming to grips with her own failures and regrets. The fact that she (allegedly) planned her suicide, and the posthumous publication of this book, adds intrigue and validity.

In the poem, "Is It True," Sexton ruminates- Occasionally the devil has crawled in and out of me through my cigarettes I suppose. While "Rowing," the collection's opening poem, mesmerizes and sets the pace. I found the majority of these poems to be compellingly and powerful; yet, a few had the tendency to keep rambling long after the point... sorta like a great pop song that is six minutes, when it should be three minutes. Nevertheless, The Awful Rowing Towards God really resonated with me. I can't believe I found this treasure for only $2 at the used book store.

Here's an excerpt from the poem "Rowing"

Then there was life
with its cruel houses
and people who seldom touched-
though touch is all-
but I grew,
like a pig in a trenchcoat I grew,
and then there were many strange apparitions,
the nagging rain, the sun turning into poison
and all of that, saws working through my heart,
but I grew, I grew,
and God was there like an island I had not rowed to,
still ignorant of Him, my arms, and my legs worked,
and I grew, I grew,
I wore rubies and bought tomatoes
and now, in my middle age,
about nineteen in the head I'd say,
I am rowing, I am rowing
though the oarlocks stick and are rusty
and the sea blinks and rolls
like a worried eyeball,
but I am rowing, I am rowing,
though the wind pushes me back
and I know that that island will not be perfect,
it will have the flaws of life,
the absurdities of the dinner table,
but there will be a door
and I will open it
and I will get rid of the rat inside me,
the gnawing pestilential rat.
God will take it with his two hands
and embrace it.

Carnage - Movie Review

2012-01-14T21:28:00.011-07:00

Carnage (R) 79 min C+
Dysfunctional couples get overheated in a (stylish) New York apartment

Starring Jodie Foster, Kate Winslet, Christoph Waltz, John C. Reilly

This latest offering from esteemed director, Roman Polanski, is an adaptation of Yasmina Reza's award-winning play God of Carnage. It's one room, two couples and a fight to the finish. Good performances all around, but it's always hard to take my eyes off Kate Winslet (vomit and all).

Shame - Movie Review

2012-01-07T22:02:00.004-07:00

Shame (NC-17) 101 minutes B-
Sex & the City through the eyes of a Predator

Starring Michael Fassbender, Carey Mulligan, Lucy Walters, Nicole Beharie and James Badge Dale

How is it that a film about sex addiction is this unsexy...? Well, that's one of the things that makes Shame so effective, so uncomfortable and so real.  It's not an "entertaining" film, and it's certainly not for everyone. It is however, an intriguing voyeuristic study of sexually addiction.

Brandon Sullivan (Fassbender), is a sexually compulsive New Yorker who is surprisingly dull aside from his obsession. Early into the film we observe Brandon paying for sex, pleasuring himself in the shower, showing up late for work, pleasuring himself in the office restroom, and getting his work computer confiscated because he unknowingly downloaded several viruses. It's obvious he has a problem; but, like all good addicts he hides it well and maintains his predatory routine without any major complications. Until, that is, his capricious sister (Mulligan) crashes his stylish, one bedroom, Manhattan apartment. She's needs a place to stay indefinitely, and as film critic Keith Uhlich so wonderfully wrote, "it majorly f*cks up his mojo because he suddenly has to give a damn about someone."

The film really takes off when Brandon's sister, Sissy, enters the picture. She is equally as damaged as her brother. Her arrival sets off a chain of events that brings Brandon's addiction and her problems to a dangerous crescendo.  It took awhile for me to sink my teeth into this film, but when I did it really lingered. Shame is a hard film to swallow. But Fassbender's vivid portrayal, Mulligan's rendition of "New York, New York" (the best I've ever heard), and a sordid peak into the misunderstood world of sexual addition, makes this ambitious film worth exploring if you're curious about such things. Otherwise, I suggest you proceed with caution.

Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol - Movie Review

2012-01-06T22:12:00.010-07:00

Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol (PG-13) 133 minutes C
Ethan Hunt is back! Run Ethan, Run!

Starring Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Paula Patton, Michel Nyqvist, Vladimir Mashkov, Josh Holloway, Anil Kapoor and Léa Seydoux.

I must admit, I was a little disappointed with this latest installment of Mission Impossible. That's not to say that it won't satisfy many of you reading this review. After all, it's currently the number one film in America, and it's receiving good reviews from my colleagues. I am not one who is easily impressed by hot cars, cool suits, slick gadgets and action sequences. Especially, when I don't feel any emotional attachment to the characters. Even the girl on girl fight scene and a curvy (post-pregnancy) Paula Patton did little to get me interested.

I'm reluctant to imply that I am trashing this film because there were some nice moments (I liked the Kremlin scene). Fans of the genre/franchise will most likely feel as though they got their money's worth. But despite the smarter and edgier facade, Ghost Protocol doesn't live up to the hype. Fun? I guess... but mostly forgettable.

Young Adult - Movie Review

2012-01-02T21:34:00.165-07:00

Young Adult (R) 94 minutes B+
Punch Drunk Love

Starring Charlize Theron, Patton Oswalt, Patrick Wilson, Elizabeth Reaser and Jill Eikenberry.

Young Adult is a Hollywood comedy about a tall, skinny, intoxicating blonde who goes back to her hometown to win the heart of her (happily married) high school boyfriend. Normally, a Hollywood comedy with this storyline would be uber-lame, and reserved for the likes of Kate Hudson and Patrick Dempsey. But thanks to director Jason Reitman (Juno & Up In the Air) and screenwriter Diablo Cody (Juno & Jennifer's Body), Young Adult doesn't suck. It's actually one of the best films of the year.

Mavis Gary (Theron) is a 37 year-old ghost writer of a popular series of YA novels. She left her small Minnesota town after high school, moved to the big city and became something of a success story. Yet, a recent divorce and waning popularity of the aforementioned novels has driven her to drink. Fueled by vulnerability, alcohol and immaturity, Mavis is bringing sexy back with cringeworthy, funny and sad results. After a little bit of a slow start, this film provided one of my favorite endings of the year.

You won't be able to take your eyes off of Charlize Theron, while Patton Oswalt continues to prove that he is more than just a funny guy. Recommended!

Confessional Blogging & Dieting (Book Reviews)

2012-01-02T08:11:00.021-07:00

Publication Date: November 2011

Selected Unpublished Blog Posts of a Mexican Panda Express Employee - Megan Boyle B+

This book sparked my creativity, and provided a lot of writing prompts. Selected Unpublished Blog Posts of a Mexican Panda Express Employee is funny, relatable, and a little sad. It's like reading the secret life of the pretty girl you see in class or at the office, but never speak to. Lately, I've been listening to Juliana Hatfield's new album (There's Always Another Girl), and I've decided that Megan Boyle might be the literary equivalent. Hatfield's first solo album, 1992's Hey Babe, was an impressive, confessional, debut full of hooks and self-doubt. The album garnered plenty of attention; yet, it was her next album, 1993's Become What You Are, that really put her on the map. If this book is Boyle's Hey Babe, I can't wait to read what's next.

Publication Date: December 2005

The Sonoma Diet - Connie Guttersen C+

The Sonoma Diet is intriguing because much of the food it encourages is food I already eat on a regular basis. Yet, I have the sneaking suspicion that it's nowhere near as easy as it sounds. I don't doubt that it works, but who wants to give up sugar, wine and cheese for ten days? I will however, incorporate some of these practices and recipes into my daily routine. This book (we have the hardcover & audio version) covers all the bases, provides helpful nutritional insight and motivates me to improve my diet just in time for the new year. Unfortunately, I don't have the willpower to commit to any diet 100%, but doing half a diet (along with exercise) is better than nothing at all.

Tower Heist - Movie Review

2012-01-01T21:37:00.026-07:00

Tower Heist (PG-13) 104 minutes C
Dumb Fun
Starring Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Casey Affleck, Alan Alda, Matthew Broderick, Tea Leoni, Gabourey Sidibe

This is mindless fun with an interesting cast of characters. I would've liked it less had I waited to see it on video. Well worth the $6.00 I paid for two admissions.

Swell Season - Movie Review

2011-12-30T22:43:00.182-07:00

The Swell Season (NR) 90 Minutes B
The Anatomy of a Break-up

Starring Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova

During the chaos that is my December, I saw this film weeks ago and forgot to post my review. Swell Season is part musical doc, part break-up story. As good as the music is in this film, all anyone really wants to know is, "what happened?" Bandmates Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova seemed so perfect for each other. Those who saw the 2007 classic, Once, would agree. But The Swell Season is the amicable and subdued account of their quiet break-up.

Ironically, these two fell victim to the very lyrics they so passionately sing. There's no bad guy, and no one to blame. Yet, as I watched the film it was apparent that Hansard was not completely present with Irglova. While, she seemed a bit too submissive and occasionally misplaced (I never thought about their age difference until this film).  All of these things, and different approaches to fame, eventually ate away at their union. The couple that once seemed so rocknroll perfect, were suddenly real, with real problems, and a real ending.

This is a good film that is better if you are familiar with Hansard and Irglova.  It is a musical documentary that can't escape undertones of sadness. When the closing credits rolled, everyone walked out of this one as quiet as a pack of church mice.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo - Movie Review

2011-12-27T20:59:00.003-07:00

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (R) 158 minutes B+
Rebel Girl

Starring Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer, Stellan Skarsgard, Steven Berkoff, Robin Wright, Yorik van Wageningen, Joely Richardson, Geraldine James, Goran Visnjic, Donald Sumpter, Ulf Friberg, Bengt Carlsson, Tony Way, Per Myrberg, Josefin Asplund, Eva Fritjofson, Moa Garpendal, Maia Bergqvist, Sarah Appelberg and Julian Sands

I have not read the novel (by the late Stieg Larsson); nor, have I seen the 2009 Swedish film adaptation. Yet, none of that is necessary to enjoy one of the best films of the year. I would've given this film an "A" if the director could've figured out a way to make this film a little shorter without sacrificing quality. With a running time over two and a half hours the film tends to feel long. Nevertheless, Lisbeth (Rooney Mara) is the biggest badass heroine since Evelyn Salt (Salt, Angelina Jolie) and Hit Girl (Kick-Ass, Chloë Grace Moretz). Matter of fact, Lisbeth might be one of the best in movie history.  The scene in which Lisbeth asks, "may I kill him?" is as memorable a moment as any I've seen this year.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo encapsulates much of what I seek in a good thriller- darkness, introspection, sexy time, likable characters and honest emotion. By the end of this one I experienced all of that, plus a little fatigue.

Best viewed on the big screen.

A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas - Movie Review

2011-12-26T21:41:00.104-07:00

A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas (R) 90 minutes D-
Dumb, and almost fun

Starring Kal Penn, John Cho, Neil Patrick Harris, Danny Trejo, Isabella Gielniak, Elias Koteas and Richard Riehle

If you simply take A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas for what it is - a stupid, juvenile, stoner comedy... It's not horrible. But unless you're a fan of the aforementioned genre, don't waste your time. Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle was a fresh idea in 2004, Escape from Guantanamo Bay in 2008 was silly but permissible, and this latest installment jumps the shark.

It isn't so much that it's offensive, it's just dumb and unfunny. It's like the joke is on the audience for paying money to watch it. John Cho and Kal Penn can do better. Neil Patrick Harris (NPH), on the other hand, is the only performance worthwhile here.

Skip A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas, and rent one of these stoner comedies instead: The Wackness (2008), Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001), Friday (1995) or Dazed and Confused (1993).

The Working Poor and Other Realities (Book Review)

2011-12-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

Nickeled and Dimed - Barbara Ehrenreich B+
Publication Date: May 2001

Writer Barbara Ehrenreich leaves behind the comforts of her middle class existence, and goes undercover as a low-wage worker. She's a waitress in Florida, a cleaning lady and nurse's aide in Maine, and a Wal-mart employee in Minnesota. This type of investigative journalism feels familiar nowadays, yet Nickel and Dimed still manages to be provocative, entertaining and relevent.

Out of the Fireplace and into the Fire (Book Review)

2011-12-26T13:10:00.002-07:00

Out of This Furnace - Thomas Bell B
Publication Date: September 1941 (reissued June 1976)

Now that I have finished Out of This Furnace, I feel like I should work harder and love smarter. This multigenerational novel explores the plight of Slovak Immigrants from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. It's an eye opening look at their history, dreams and desires. Bell's novel (which is based on real-life events) exposes the early origins of America's cheap labor addiction.

This was my first foray into historical fiction, and I found these characters to be simple, yet inspirational. I was moved by their relationships, friendships and family dynamics. I was appalled by the evils that constantly threatened to ruin their dreams, take their lives, and keep them in a continuous cycle of poverty.

Out of This Furnace is as much about love as it is about the hardship of immigration; it's an easy read that will surprise you.

Moneyball - Movie Review

2011-12-18T21:54:00.007-07:00

Moneyball (PG-13) 133 minutes B
Swinging for the fences

Starring Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Robin Wright and Royce Clayton

Moneyball is a solid baseball film based on Michael Lewis' 2003 bestseller, Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game. It follows General Manager Billy Beane (Pitt) as he tries to redefine baseball by adopting a statistical/computer-based approach to obtaining overlooked and underestimated talent. The players not only fit into a statical scheme, they are also affordable. This allows a small market team to compete with the big market cash cows (i.e. Yankees & Red Sox) at a fraction of the price.

Brad Pitt does a nice job in the film, as does Jonah Hill. But much like their performances, the film is good not great. Moneyball has succeeded critically, and seems likely to receive at least a sniff from Oscar. Yet, this outing is more of a triple than a home-run.

Interesting Concept, Disappointing Result (Book Review)

2011-12-15T22:23:00.006-07:00

The Homeless Channel - Matt Silady C
Publication Date: June 2007

The Homeless Channel is an interesting concept, and the illustrations are great. But ultimately, my interest waned as the story progressed. The characters fell flat, and it all felt a little contrived.

"B" List of New Releases (Music Reviews)

2011-12-08T22:14:00.148-07:00

Take Care - Drake B

Release Date: November 2011

Thank Me Later was the most addictive hip hop album I'd heard in years. I was afraid that Take Care would be over the top, over produced and crowded with too many guest stars. Fortunately, my fears were mostly unwarranted. The more I listen to Take Care, the more I like the songs I was initially less than impressed with ("Shot For Me" & "Make Me Proud") and still love the songs that stood out from the first listen ("Crew Love" & "Marvins Room"). However, I still hate the title track featuring Rihanna, and I can't help but feel like some of these songs are close to perfection, yet too overworked and glossy for my liking. Nevertheless, Drake is still my boy and I dig his style. File under Emo Rap. Favorite Tracks: Crew Love & Marvins Room

Crazy Clown Time - David Lynch B

Release Date: November 2011

Much like his films, Crazy Clown Time is spooky, intriguing and weird. The perfect album for cruising down a dark highway in the middle of the night- just you, your thoughts, and the twisted soundscapes of a Crazy Clown Time. Favorite Tracks: Good Day Today & Noah's Ark.

Modern Art - Matthew Sweet B

Release Date: September 2011

I remember when Matthew Sweet was poised to become the next big thing. Modern Art is a reminder that he's still relevant as a solo artist and still on point. This is not an easy listen, but ultimately I think it's refreshing and rewarding. Sweet sounds like an man with nothing to lose, and Modern Art feels authentic and loose. His best album (that I have heard) since 1995's 100% Fun. Favorite tracks: Late Nights With the Power Pop & Baltimore

Ashes & Fire - Ryan Adams B

Release Date 2011: October 2011

When I heard that Ashes & Fire was a quiet album I had mixed feelings. I was still high from the surprising 2010 album, III/IV, and frankly I was hoping for more of the same. Besides, Adams can crank out quiet albums in his sleep, and at the very least they will be half way decent. However, this one is more than half way decent. Ashes & Fire is achingly beautiful, accessible and earnest. It might be better than his last seminal low-key effort, 2007's Easy Tiger. Favorite Tracks: Come Home and Lucky Now.

The Decendents - Movie Review

2011-11-25T17:24:00.003-07:00

The Descendants (R) 115 minutes B-
Single dad faces reality

Starring George Clooney, Shailene Woodley, Nick Krause, Amara Miller, Judy Greer, Beau Bridges, Robert Forster, Matthew Lillard, Mary Birdsong and Rob Huebel.

Considering all the hype surrounding this film, and considering that it is directed by Alexander Payne (Sideways)... this movie was not as good as I expected. I am not comparing it to Sideways (one of my all-time favorite films), or any other film for that matter. But this story of a man who is forced to re-evaluate his life after he learns that his wife is dying, and she was previously having an affair, falls flat emotionally despite being a well-rounded film otherwise.

It has and will receive a lot of attention come award season. It is worth seeing, but don't have a lot of inflated expectations like I did.

The Rum Diary - Movie Review

2011-11-10T01:12:00.089-07:00

The Rum Diary (R) 120 minutes C+
The price of everything, the value of nothing

Starring Johnny Depp, Aaron Eckhart, Amber Heard, Michael Rispoli, Giovanni Ribisi, Richard Jenkins, Bill Smitrovich, Julian Holloway

The Rum Diary is fun, and a bit over the top. Then again, it's based on the novel by Hunter S. Thompson so what do you expect... I expected a script that would be less campy and more edgy. The Richard Jenkins and Giovanni Ribisi characters were wasted, while Amber Heard's primary role is eye candy and nothing more. Aaron Eckhart and Johnny Depp makes this worthwhile. Depp is charming, his character grew on me as the film progressed. Eckhart simply manges not to over act, which seems to be no small feat in this adventure dramedy.

Thompson wrote this novel in his twenties, it wasn't published until 40 years later. Allegedly, it also took almost a decade for the film adaptation to get off the ground, plus a couple more years to land in theatres. This might be a fun trip for Hunter S. Thompson fans, everyone else should proceed with caution.

Flying My Wild Flag (Music Review)

2011-11-03T23:26:00.055-06:00

First Impression Music Review
Wild Flag - Wild Flag B+
Release Date: September 2011

If you're a fan boy of 90's indie rock, and the whole rebel/riot grrrl thing, this female super group is like a wet dream- Helium's Mary Timony, Sleater-Kinney's Carrie Brownstein & Janet Weiss, and the Minders' Rebecca Cole. These ladies will rock and rebel you through 40 minutes of blazing bliss.  I've listened to this album six or seven times, and my favorite song changes each time. Currently my favorite tracks are: Future Crimes, Boom and Racehorse. Turn it up loud and enjoy!

Only the Lonely (Book Review)

2011-11-02T21:17:00.007-06:00

Publication Date: May 2011

Life with Mr. Dangerous - Paul Hornschemeier B-

Amy Breis is going nowhere fast. She just broke up with yet another loser boyfriend, and is feeling disconnected from all humanity. Between her passive-aggressive mother and dead end retail job, Amy seeks solace in reruns of her favorite cartoon (Mr. Dangerous) and phone conversation with her friend Michael.

I was drawn to this graphic novel because of the beautiful illustrations, and the sad-but-true theme of loneliness and singledom. Yet, the story feels a little flat and the best moments are few and far between. Hornschemeier seems über-talented, but I wanted to like this one more than I actually did.

Book trailer for Life with Mr. Dangerous--> http://vimeo.com/22702086

The Big Year - Movie Review

2011-10-30T08:46:00.009-06:00

The Big Year (PG-13) 111 minutes B+
For the Birds

Starring Steve Martin, Jack Black, Owen Wilson, Rosamund Pike, Brian Dennehy, Anjelica Huston, Rashida Jones, Dianne Wiest, JoBeth Williams, Kevin Pollak, Joel McHale and Tim Blake Nelson

The Big Year is billed as a comedy about competitive bird-watching (or "birding" if you will); however, it's really a film about sacrificing everything to follow one's dream. In this case, that dream is birding all over the world for one year. I really enjoyed this film, and found it somewhat inspiring. But it isn't very funny, especially considering it stars three of Hollywood's most popular funny men. Nonetheless, if you're seeking a smart adult dramedy with heart, go see The Big Year.

Pretty Girls With Guitars (Concert Review)

2011-10-29T00:32:00.029-06:00

Katie Herzig @ Larimer Lounge 10/28/2011 B+

with Butterfly Boucher

Photo courtesy of Beth Wooley

There are few things in life that give me a natural high like a good rock show. I can't say I'm a big Katie Herzig fan, but I will say she puts on one helluva live show. This is my second time seeing her perform. Each time has been a small venue, and each time she sounds like an angel. Somehow she manages to sound crisp and clean without sacrificing honest emotion. Plus, she played "Hologram," the song that blew me away the first time I saw her in the summer of 2010.

Opening for Herzig was Butterly Boucher. I'd never heard of her before; however, she might be one of the sexiest creatures I've even seen on stage. She's got the whole skinny rock grrrl thing down pat, and her sound is full of seductive hooks. When she ramped of the volume and the beats I was thoroughly impressed, but when she slowed things down I got a little bored. Nevertheless, she's one to watch.

Biracial in the USA & the Dubstepper (Music Review)

2011-10-12T21:44:00.012-06:00

First Impression Reviews

Lenny Kravitz- Black and White America C+

Release Date: August 2011

Black and White America is an ambitious and admirable musical statement. But unfortunately this retro hodge-podge of funk, soul and rock feels a tad overdone. For every great song (Come On Get It), there's an equally disappointing one (Dream), and lots of songs that I will either like or loathe after more listens. This one is catchy enough to be a commercial success, but ranks somewhere in the middle of his catalog of music. Favorite Tracks: Come On Get It, Black and White America (Acoustic Version), Superlove

James Blake - James Blake B

Release Date: February 2011

It has taken a while to digest this one. Initially, it struck me as more interesting than good. But this much-ballyhooed, blue-eyed soul dubstep album is beginning to grow roots and plant its self inside my head. Trippy, yet sensitive... Favorite tracks: I Never Learnt To Share, Lindisfarne I, Unluck

The Secret Lives of Women (Book Review)

2011-10-11T23:33:00.003-06:00

Fly Away Home - Jennifer Weiner B
Publication Date: July 2010

Fly Away Home is surprisingly sad but entertaining. It's the story of three women (a mother and her two daughters) at the crossroads; Sylvie- the politician's wife, Diana - the overachieving (super freaky) older daughter, and Lizzie- a recovering addict with good intentions.

I got a little bored with Sylvie about half way through; however, Diana and Lizzie more than made up for that. On the surface, this will remind you of several scandalized politicians, their fractured lives and public humiliation. But underneath you will find an emotional story of longing, lust and self-discovery.

50/50 - Movie Review

2011-10-10T20:48:00.012-06:00

50/50 (R) 99 minutes A-
A Cure For the Pain

Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anna Kendrick, Bryce Dallas Howard, Anjelica Huston.

I was squirming in my seat all throughout this film. The thought of a massive cancerous tumor growing on my spine is a bit unnerving. Yet, that was the predicament of our protagonist in Jonathan Levine's latest film, 50/50. The dramedy starring Seth Rogen and Joseph Gordon-Levitt is about a twenty-something public radio employee, Adam, who has been diagnosed with a rare form of spinal cancer. Adam, who doesn't drink, smoke or drive, naturally views the diagnosis as a death sentence. Furthermore, to add insult to injury, his relationship with his girlfriend dissolves during chemo treatments, leaving him to rely on his womanizing best friend, his inexperienced (but terminally cute) therapist and worrisome mother. It all sounds pretty serious and sad (and it is), but it is also laugh-out-loud funny. Based on a true story (Rogan's real life friend, Will Reiser), the film was better than I expected. It also had me weeping like a little b*tch!

Recommended.

The Ides of March - Movie Review

2011-10-09T18:02:00.000-06:00

The Ides of March (R) 101 minutes A
The politics of hope

Starring George Clooney, Ryan Gosling, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Paul Giamatti, Evan Rachel Wood, Marisa Tomei, Jeffrey Wright and Max Minghella.

The Ides of March was so good that I did not want it to end. The gripping political thriller (based on Beau Willimon's play Farragut North) follows the campaign of Democratic presidential hopeful Mike Morris (Clooney), as he tries to win the key state of Ohio. A once promising campaign begins to derail when it's best and brightest young star, press secretary Stephen Meyers (Gosling), engages with the enemy. This sets off a chain of events that reaches a crescendo more emotionally intense than anything I've seen this year. Great film!

Contagion - Movie Review

2011-09-28T23:31:00.002-06:00

Contagion (PG-13) 105 minutes B
Shaking the Disease

Starring Laurence Fishburne, Matt Damon, Marion Cotillard, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jennifer Ehle and Gwyneth Paltrow

Who ever decided to release this film right before cold and flu season is a genius. I think about Contagion every time I touch a public door handle, faucet, elevator button, etc... This smart, creepy, contagious disease thriller will make you want to smack anyone in close proximity who doesn't cover their sneeze.

I didn't find a lot of engaging characters here, and RW is right when she said, "it sorta has a TV movie feel to it." But nevertheless, Soderbergh continues to be a favorite, and one of the most intriguing filmmakers around. I hope to god that nothing like this ever happens. Scary stuff!

Higher Ground - Movie Review

2011-09-18T19:56:00.006-06:00

Higher Ground (R) 109 minutes A-
Losing my religion and reaching a higher (emotional) ground

Starring Vera Farmiga, Joshua Leonard, Norbert Leo Butz, McKenzie Turner and Donna Murphy

This film is based on the 2002 memoir, This Dark World: A Memoir of Salvation Found and Lost by Carolyn S. Briggs. This film really struck a chord with me; it almost brought me to tears. It reminds me of the Counting Crows song, "Rain King," and the lyrics to that song best encapsulates the film:

When I think of heaven (Deliver me in a black-winged bird)
I think of flying down into a sea of pens and feathers
and all other instruments of faith and sex and God
In the belly of a black-winged bird
Don't try to feed me
I've been here before and I deserve a little more

I recommend this film to general moviegoers, and anyone who has ever questioned religion and/or spirituality.

First Impression Reviews - Another Girl, Hot Sauce & a Sabor Tooth Tiger... Oh My!

2011-09-17T14:39:00.009-06:00

Juliana Hatfield - There's Always Another Girl C+

Release Date August 2011

I really want to like this one, but so far I haven't been able to sink my teeth into it. As soon as I read that the album's central theme was failure, the title track was inspired by Lindsay Lohan, and the project was initially called Speeches Delivered to Animals and Plants, I was uber-excited to hear these songs. Unfortunately, this has been a slow burn with only one song standing out so far, and a few others bubbling under. Favorite tracks - Someone Else's Problem and Thousands of Guitars

Beastie Boys - Hot Sauce Committee Part 2 B

Release Date: May 2011

A playful and fun party record that I haven't taken too seriously. Lots of old school hooks and clever beats. It occasionally sounds cluttered, but ultimately satisfies. File under: Sounds like summer, smells like cayenne pepper. Favorite tracks - Lee Majors Come Again and Nonstop Disco Powerpack

Sean Lennon & Charlotte Kemp Muhl - Ghost of a Sabor Tooth Tiger: Acoustic Sessions D+

Release Date: October 2010

I like Sean Lennon, I was excited to see he had a new project, but this one is nothing more than boring background music. Favorite track - Rainbows in Gasoline

Celebrity Rehab

2011-09-14T20:50:00.164-06:00

Wishful Drinking - Carrie Fisher B
Publication Date: September 2009

This one feels like a guilty pleasure, but a pleasure nonetheless. I actually didn't know much about Fisher's life, yet my weakness for scandal-ridden celebrity memoirs made this one too tempting to pass up. The Princess Leia thing is interesting, however it is the substance abuse and her relationships (with Paul Simon and Bryan Lourd) that were most intriguing to me.

Wishful Drinking is humbling, amusing and a little annoying. But it is hard not to like Fisher, who I suspect left out some of the juicer bits and darker moments.

November Spawned A Monster

2011-09-11T07:55:00.001-06:00

The Answer Key - NFL Preview 2011

2011-09-08T17:27:00.015-06:00

My annual picks and predictions for the upcoming NFL season.

AFC

AFC East

1. New England 12-4

2. NY Jets 10-6*

3. Miami 6-10

4. Buffalo 5-11

AFC North

1. Pittsburgh 11-5

2. Baltimore 10-6*

3. Cleveland 6-10

4. Cincy 3-13

AFC South

1. Houston 10-6

2. Indy 8-8

3. Tennessee 7-9

4. Jacksonville 4-12

AFC West

1. San Diego 11-5

2. Kansas City 8-8

3. Oakland 7-9

4. Denver 6-10

Wild Card

(3) Pittsburgh over (6) NY Jets

(5) Baltimore over (4) Houston

Divisional Round

(5) Baltimore over (1) New England

(2) San Diego over (3) Pittsburgh
AFC Championship

(2) San Diego over (5) Baltimore
*****

NFC

NFC East

1. Philly 10-6

2. Washington 8-8

3. NY Giants 8-8

4. Dallas 6-10

NFC North

1. Green Bay 11-5

2. Minnesota 9-7*

3. Detroit 7-9

4. Chicago 7-9

NFC South

1. Atlanta 11-5

2. New Orleans 9-7*

3. Tampa Bay 8-8

4. Carolina 3-13

NFC West

1. St. Louis 10-6

2. San Francisco 7-9

3. Arizona 6-10

4. Seattle 5-11

Wild Card

(3) Philly over (6) Minnesota

(5) New Orleans over (4) St. Louis

Divisional Round

(1) Green Bay over (5) New Orleans

(2) Atlanta over (3) Philly

NFC Championship

(2) Atlanta over (1) Green Bay
*****

Super Bowl

San Diego 17

Atlanta 14

Tree of Life - Movie Review

2011-09-03T22:03:00.002-06:00

Tree of Life (PG-13) 138 minutes C-
Like watching a tree grow- beautiful but boring

Starring Brad Pitt, Jessica Chastain, Hunter McCracken, Sean Penn and Laramie Eppler.

Maybe I would like this film more if I watched it a second time? Maybe I would like it more if I took the time to consider how gorgeous, imaginative and profound it was? But as it were, I found the film to be overdone, overlong and overrated. Tree of Life is Passion of the Christ for the IMAX set.

If you dare, watch it on the big screen. It is a sight to behold if nothing else.

30 Minutes or Less - Movie Review

2011-08-27T22:30:00.005-06:00

30 Minutes or Less (R) 83 minutes D-
Bungled buffoonery

Starring Jesse Eisenberg, Danny McBride, Aziz Ansari, Nick Swardson, Fred Ward, Dilshad Vadsaria, Michael Peña and Bianca Kajlich.

An asinine action-comedy about a pizza delivery boy (Eisenberg) forced to rob a bank with an explosive strapped to his chest. The film is shockingly unfunny and surprisingly disjointed considering how much I like Jesse Eisenberg, Danny McBride, Michael Pena and director Ruben Fleischer's last film, Zombieland.

Don't waste your time or money on this one.

The Future - Movie Review

2011-08-21T21:57:00.011-06:00

The Future (R) 91 minutes A-
Full of possibilities... or not

Starring Hamish Linklater, Miranda July, Isabella Acres, Joe Putterlik, Angela Trimbur, David Warshofsky, Mary Passeri

Miranda July is an artist in every sense of the word. Sure, she's a little quirky and her art is an acquired taste. But whether you like her or not, there's no denying that she's an original. Her latest film may seem whimsical, and probably a little strange to those unfamiliar with her work. Yet, below the surface, The Future is a telling anecdote about loneliness, missed opportunities, and yes... the future.

Maybe I'm reading too much into it, but several things in this film felt symbolic of current society, as well as our not so distant future. Paw Paw (a stray cat and the film's narrator), for example, could be interpreted as a symbol of those who are wounded (literally or figuratively) and waiting for that big break, that something or someone who will change their lives.

The story follows Sophie (July) and Jason (Linklater), a non-assuming couple who have been together almost 4 years. They live a low-maintenance/low impact lifestyle; she's a preschool dance teacher and he does tech support from home. In 30 days they will be adopting a stray cat (Paw Paw), but before they become pet parents they've decided to take advantage of their freedom and live it up. They quit their jobs and vow to do whatever and go wherever life takes them. They begin to explore future possibilities and in a dramatic twist (because these two seem made for each other) they find that the future is not at all what they expected or hoped (such is life, that's for sure).

Funny and intriguing, I recommend this film for those seeking something a little different. General audiences proceed with caution.

The Future in HD

2011-08-18T21:05:00.005-06:00

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2507775257/

The Chemicals Between Us (Book Review)

2011-08-14T21:29:00.007-06:00

The Wait of Atom - Jessie Carty B
Publication Date: November 2009

I discovered Jessie Carty via YouTube a couple years ago. After watching her videos and browsing her website, I recently decided to buy one of her (chap)books. It was something I’d been meaning to do for a while and I’m glad I finally did. The Wait of Atom really surprised me. For whatever reason I didn’t expect these poems to resonant with me the way they did. Furthermore, I liked the periodic table theme despite my complete oblivion about all things science. Favorites here included: "The Wait of Atom", "House Haunting" and "Pink was the color of his weakness". I look forward to reading more of her work.

Crazy, Stupid, Love - Movie Review

2011-08-08T23:20:00.163-06:00

Crazy, Stupid, Love (PG-13) 118 minutes B
The rebirth of cool

Starring Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore, Emma Stone, Analeigh Tipton, Josh Groban, Jonah Bobo, Marisa Tomei and Kevin Bacon

As the title suggests, love is crazy and stupid, especially when you act like these characters. This bittersweet romantic comedy follows three relationships: a thirteen year-old and his seventeen year-old babysitter (Bobo and Tipton), a couple of good lookin' twenty-somethings (Gosling and Stone), and a forty-something couple (Carell and Moore) whose relationship has dissolved after 20+ years of marriage.

On the surface this film isn't much different than other star-studded, it's complicated, adult romantic comedies of its genre. But here the cast rises above the material and makes the film worthwhile, despite grandiose notions of soul mates and everlasting love withstanding the obstacles (age, womanizing manwhores and infidelity).

Crazy Stupid Love runs about fifteen minutes too long, features one ridiculously stupid fight scene and is slightly predictable. However, there's at least one twist you won't see coming, a great cast and enough sexy and cute to keep you interested.

Beats, Rhymes & Life - Movie Review

2011-08-03T22:06:00.165-06:00

Beats, Rhymes & Life (R) 95 minutes B+
Beats, Fights and Forgiving

Starring Q-Tip, Phife Dawg, Ali Shaheed Muhammad and Jarobi White

In 1988 the Jungle Brothers dropped Straight Outta the Jungle. The album was straight dope and an instant favorite. Q-Tip was featured on two of the album's best tracks, "Black is Black" and "The Promo". Yet, it was still all about the JBs- Mike Gee, Afrika Baby Bam and Sammy B.

In 1989 De La Soul released 3 Feet High & Rising, an album that literally blew my mind and changed the way I viewed rap forever. So when ATCQ released People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm in 1990, I liked it but didn't love it as much as the aforementioned albums.

I didn't buy 1991's Low End Theory despite all of the great things I was hearing, and 1993 I was lukewarm about Midnight Marauders (which eventually grew on me and became a personal fav). Consequently, I skipped Beats, Rhythm and Life in 1996, and by 1998's The Love Movement there was no love left among the three remaining members.  The constant bickering had taken its toll and the band broke up.

This documentary details the rise and fall of ATCQ. It sort of vilifies Q-tip as a passive-aggressive control freak/creative force behind the music, and apparently Q-tip was none too pleased.  As far as I know he has never done any promotion for the film. Nevertheless, this was an enlightening and highly entertaining look at one of the most important hip hop groups of a generation.

Highly recommended for anyone who likes hip hop.

Horrible Bosses - Movie Review

2011-07-23T23:12:00.032-06:00

Horrible Bosses (R) 100 minutes B+
Desperate Times Desperate Measures

Starring Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Kevin Spacey, Jennifer Aniston, Colin Farrell, Donald Sutherland, Jamie Foxx

I liked Horrible Bosses. It's one of the best comedies I've seen this year. However, it does feel like a retread of a clever Seth Rogan, Will Ferrell, Zach Galifianakis film. The subject matter (albeit exaggerated) is something most of us can relate to. The dynamic cast and current job market makes it funny and relevant.

Colorado Proud! Jeni Olin Strikes a Nerve & Keeps on Truckin (Book Review)

2011-07-19T21:25:00.037-06:00

Hold Tight: The Truck Darling Poems - Jeni Olin B+
Publication Date: May 2010

Hold Tight: The Truck Darling Poems are wild, crazy and unpredictable. I love the images these poems evoke and the way Olin's words crash and burn with fearlessness. In the poem Welcome To Costco. I Love You, Olin delivers the catchiest line of poetry I've heard in a long time-"downing pale ales & downy pale males". While Closer, one of my favorite pieces from this collection, brilliantly captures her wit and vulnerability with precision- "touching each other professionally until it hurts just right."

Jeni Olin earned her BA and MFA degrees from Naropa University (Boulder, CO). I recently read that she has changed her name to Truck Darling.

Larry Crowne - Movie Review

2011-07-13T16:49:00.010-06:00

Larry Crowne (PG-13) 99 minutes C-
Downsizing two of Hollywood's biggest stars

Starring Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Wilmer Valderrama, Cedric the Entertainer, Taraji P. Henson

Larry Crowne (Hanks) is an ordinary guy. He spent 20 years in the Navy. He works hard. He is divorced. He never went to college. He is a victim of downsizing. He can't afford gas. He buys a scooter. He enrolls in community college. He bags Julia Roberts. We should all be so lucky.

Hanks and Roberts are the best and worst things about this film. I also find it ironic that a film about tough economic times stars two of the richest people in Hollywood. The script is surprisingly unoriginal and bland. Fans of uncomplicated, big budget, adult rom-coms might find this appealing. For everyone else, proceed with caution.

Best Films & Music of 2011 so far...

2011-07-13T16:02:00.003-06:00

Wow! I didn't realize how weak the first half of this year was until I sat down to make this list. Excluding the Sundance films I saw in January (which haven't officially hit theatres yet), this has probably been one of the worst years (so far) for films and music. Nevertheless, here it is:

Films
5. Cedar Rapids
4. Midnight in Paris
3. Win Win
2. Beginners
1. Bridesmaids

Music
3. Demolished Thoughts - Thurston Moore
2. Several Shades of Why - J Mascis
1. Collapse Into Now - R.E.M

I was unable to upload my video...

2011-07-10T23:05:00.029-06:00

So this picture is all you get.

Beginners - Movie Review

2011-07-03T23:41:00.012-06:00

Beginners (R) 105 minutes B+
melancholy and the infinite sadness

Starring Christopher Plummer, Ewan McGregor, Mélanie Laurent and Goran Visnjic.

Beginners is a semi-autobiographical film by Mike Mills (Thumbsucker). It's the story of Oliver (McGregor), a 38-year-old commitment phobe, graphic designer, who is coming to grips with his mother's death and her relationship with his father. Oliver's father, Hal (Plummer), has recently announced he's gay. This revelation is interesting but not heavy-handed. The film doesn't delve into Oliver's feelings on homosexuality because Hal has also discovered he is terminally ill. It's weighty subject matter that comes off honest, likable and bittersweet.

Also present, Oliver's commitment issues. Much of Beginners centers around his romance with a free-spirited beauty named Anna (Laurent). She too has commitment-related issues, but watching them fall in love is wonderful. Yet, Hal is ultimately the most memorable. He effects everything in the film, and is a testament to how short life can be when you miss so many opportunities. Expect more drama than comedy despite the talking dog scenes; a touch that is executed rather nicely. This one might surprise you.

Catching up on First Impression Music Reviews

2011-07-02T23:51:00.002-06:00

Thurston Moore - Demolished Thoughts B-
Release Date: May 24, 2011
This is a mellow album. Much has been made about it being produced by Beck.  However, this album lacks the accessibility of Beck's 2002 mellow masterpiece, Sea Change (I can't help but assume that's what Moore was going for). Demolished Thoughts is a little bit of a grower, but it's definitely introspective. This album would be a perfect companion on a long drive, a dark road, and miles of nothingness... or slitting your wrists. Highlights - "Benediction", "In Silver Rain with a Paper Key" & "Mina Loy"

TV on the Radio - Nine Types of Light C+
Release Date: April 12, 2011
I will admit, the first time I listened to this album I thought, "what the f*ck!" I was expecting a catchy, immediately accessible, phenomenal follow-up to Dear Science. Initially, the first half of Nine Types of Light didn't grab me at all. While the second half struck me as some sort of curiously addicting Cameo (the band) revival. Fortunately, the album continues to grow on me with each additional listen. Highlights - "Caffeinated Consciousness" & "New Cannonball Blues"

Duncan Sheik - Covers 80s C+
Release Date: June 7, 2011
I normally don't like cover albums. Although, I think it's cool when an artists covers a song and either makes it their own, or stays so true to the original that there is no drop off. Unfortunately, most artist can't sustain the latter for an entire album. Hence, the latest by Duncan Sheik, an 80's cover album. Previously I heard Sheik cover Radiohead's "Fake Plastic Trees" (a trendy choice but excellent nonetheless), D-Mode's "Blasphemous Rumors" and The Smith's "Reel Around the Fountain", all with good results. So why the hell are those songs missing from Covers 80s? Highlights - "Stay", "William It Was Really Nothing" & "The Ghost in You"

Nas - Hip Hop is Dead B+
Release Date: December 19, 2006
Vibe magazine called it "disorienting and sometimes brilliant", I agree wholeheartedly. I am really starting to like Nas, yet the album that most consider his magnum opus, 1994's Illmatic, is still a head scratchier to me.  Highlights - "Black Republican", "Hip Hop is Dead" & "Carry on Tradition"

Julie Doiron - Loneliest in the Morning B
Release Date: August 26, 1997
So what if she sounds like a million other female singer-songwriters with an acoustic guitar. She writes a damn good song! Each song sounds similar to the next, yet they still stand on their own. I'm curious about the rest of her catalog.  Highlights - "Explain", "Sorry Part 1" & "Sorry Part 2"

Page One: A Year Inside the New York Times - Movie Review

2011-07-02T00:11:00.008-06:00

Page One: A Year Inside the New York Times
(R) 88 minutes C+
The Death of Newspapers

Starring David Carr, Bill Keller, Gay Talese, David Remnick, Andrew Ross Sorkin, Larry Ingrassia, Seth Mnookin, Katrina vanden Heuvel, Nick Denton, Jimmy Wales, Rick Lyman, Dean Bacquet, Ken Auletta, Bruce Headlam and Carl Bernstein.

I think journalists are cool, and I love watching how an edition of the newspaper is born each day. Page One, Andrew Rossi's documentary about the New York Times is an interesting examination of dead tree journalism. However, there were few revelations in this examination. This would've been better off as a documentary about David Carr first, the New York Times second.

Recommended for news junkies and/or anyone interested in journalism.

Sobule, So cool (Concert Review)

2011-06-24T22:47:00.010-06:00

Jill Sobule @ Lannie's Clocktower Cabaret B

Denver's own Jill Sobule made her annual stop at Lannie's Clocktower Cabaret tonight, and as usual the multi-talented singer-songwriter did not disappoint. Each time I see her I can't understand why people aren't lining up down the block to see her perform. Yet, I am always surprised at the amount of people who scream "I Kissed A Girl" when Jill asks for requests. It's still a great song, and damn you Katy Perry for stealing her thunder. But my god, Jill Sobule has made so much great music since that 1995 hit (the original "I Kissed A Girl"), it's a crying shame that people don't know or appreciate her impressive catalog of music.

Highlights from tonight include the acoustic rendition of "Bitter" from her 1997 album, Happy Town. A brand new song http://crooksandliars.com/david-neiwert/jill-sobule-sings-netroots-they-sa-0 called, "They Say They Want Our America Back" that I absolutely, positively, can't get out of my head. As well as a cover version (featuring her mother) of Nelly's "Hot in Here". I'm already looking forward to her visit next year.

The Trip - Movie Review

2011-06-23T20:57:00.042-06:00

The Trip (NR) 109 minutes C+
Eat Talk Fornicate

Starring Steve Coogan, Rob Brydon, Claire Keelan, Margo Stilley, Kerry Shale, Dolya Gavanski and Rebecca Johnson

If you're going to see The Trip, pack a little patience. The film centers around British actors/comedians Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon, and is directed by Michael Winterbottom. Coogan and Brydon portray exaggerated versions of themselves as they embark on a six day trip through the countryside of northern England. They talk, they eat, they do great impressions (the Woody Allen impressions are my favorite) and they talk some more. This dialogue heavy film is part travelogue, part road trip buddy comedy, with a dash of food porn sprinkled throughout.

Once close friends, the two forty-something men find themselves drifting apart, almost to the point of rivals. Their strained relationship is one of the more interesting dynamics in the film because it feels authentic. Additionally, Coogan's not so subtle longing for commercial success and indecision about his love life makes this highly improvised duel somewhat intriguing. Despite being well-received by critics, The Trip is not for everyone. I would be surprised if anyone outside of film critics, a few cinephiles and fans of this British duo embraced this film domestically. It's not bad at all, but I don't foresee at lot people taking this trip.

Good vs Evil in the Garden of Kim (Book Review)

2011-06-14T22:13:00.006-06:00

Lucifer at the Starlite by Kim Addonizio B-
Publication Date: August 2009

The first time I saw/heard Kim Addonizio read poetry it blew me away. She was unlike anything I had experienced before. Her writing was brash, sexy, raw, and 100% unpretentious. Furthermore, she delivered it with style and verve that indicated she lived it, been there and done that. I remember thinking at the time, "this woman should be as popular as any female singer who has ever written a hit love song."

After that, I read more of her work, bought a couple of her books, corresponded (once) via email, and I even bought her hybrid music-poetry CD, Swearing, Smoking, Drinking, & Kissing. She is a tremendous talent. However, I did not think this collection lived up to its full potential. Lucifer at the Starlite definitely has its moments, but overall it didn't consistently grab me and pull me in.

Midnight in Paris - Movie Review

2011-06-05T23:40:00.002-06:00

Midnight in Paris (PG-13) 94 minutes B-
An Ode to Paris, Nostalgia, and the Muse

Starring Owen Wilson, Marion Cotillard, Rachel McAdams, Kathy Bates, Michael Sheen, Adrien Brody, Carla Bruni, Nina Arianda, Kurt Fuller, Tom Hiddleston, Alison Pill, Lea Seydoux, and Corey Stoll.

Everyone knows that I "heart" Woody Allen films. Therefore, it is sometimes hard to write about his work without great affection. Additionally, all of the hype surrounding Midnight in Paris elevated my excitement more than usual (I have yet to see a negative review). So, with expectations high, I have to admit that I didn't love it as much as I thought I would.

The film is clever, smart and beautiful. However, it is missing a little of the edginess and cynical bite I often get from an Allen film. For my tastes, Midnight in Paris could have benefited from less nostalgic ambiance and more profundity into the main character's psyche. Yet, most literary and artist-types will find it quite amusing to see the return of Gertrude Stein, F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, T.S. Eliot, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and other icons from the early 1900's.

I tend to like Allen's darker, more tragic material. Nevertheless, that doesn't change the fact that this is good film with mass appeal. Furthermore, every woman I know who has seen Midnight in Paris really liked it. This surprises me a little, but I guess there is no denying the mystical and enchanting charm of Paris, and the golden age of love, art and literature.

Beguiling & Magical Stories (Book Review)

2011-06-04T09:48:00.005-06:00

Magical Thinking: True Stories by Augusten Burroughs B+
Publication Date: October 2004

How did I not know that Augusten Burroughs was so funny, interesting, outrageous and gay!?! Apparently, I mentally erased all remnants of the 2006 film Running with Scissors (which I saw and promptly forgot).

Magical Thinking is a collection of true personal stories that hooked me from the beginning and ever so slightly waned near the end. Yet, the book is still highly entertaining and recommended.

Something Borrowed - Movie Review

2011-06-03T18:05:00.097-06:00

Something Borrowed (PG-13) 103 minutes D
A contrived love triangle

Starring Ginnifer Goodwin, Kate Hudson, Colin Egglesfield, Steve Howey, Ashley Williams and John Krasinski.

Directed by Luke Greenfield and based on Emily Giffin's best selling novel, Something Borrowed could have been so much better. But instead, it's overripe and contrived. I'm convinced that Kate Hudson jumped the shark after Almost Famous in 2000. Ginnifer Goodwin is the ultimate cutie patootie, but her character, Rachel (who is a lawyer), is way too clueless and too much of a pushover to be realistic. While, John Krasinski (The Office) represents the comic relief and does an admirable job of playing a character that is both unoriginal and insignificant.

The rest of the cast is more of the same. Colin Egglesfield is "Dex," a character that most women will intially like and end up hating. Additionally, he spends the entire film channeling his inner Tom Cruise. In minor roles Steve Howey portrays the horndog friend plausibly, and Ashley Williams is entertaining as the smothering, fatal attraction gal pal.

Furthermore, New York Times critic A.O. Scott wrote, "the most dispiriting thing about Something Borrowed is that with a little more art, craft and wit it could have been a lot better, maybe even good." The film features intiguing elements of real-world drama and emotion that could have evoked something substantial. Yet, unfortunately these wishy-washy characters leave a lot to be desired.
____________________________________________
Bonus DVD Review
Who Took the Bomp? Le Tigre On Tour (NR) (65 minutes) B
Girls Rock!

DVD Release Date June 7, 2011
Starring Kathleen Hanna, JD Samson and Johanna Fateman

It’s a little known fact that Kathleen Hanna has always been one of my biggest "celebrity crushes". However, I wasn't sure what to expect in Who Took the Bomp? Le Tigre on Tour. The documentary follows the band across four continents in support of their 2004 album, This Island. The doc itself really isn't earth-shattering; although, it is an entertaining look at their socio-politics and electrifying live shows. This toe-tapping behind-the-scences footage is sure to appeal to Kathleen Hanna/Le Tigre fans. Everyone else may not be as geeked.

The Hangover Part II - Movie Review

2011-05-29T22:20:00.006-06:00

The Hangover Part II (R) 101 minutes D+
Been There Done That

Starring Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Justin Bartha, Mason Lee, Ken Jeong, Paul Giamatti

The Hangover Part II is basically the same as the original. Except here, the wolfpack is in Bangkok instead of Vegas, there's a monkey instead of a tiger, and there are trannys instead of hookers... voilà! I present to you The Hangover Part II.

Despite a few laugh-out-loud moments, the film is ridiculously silly, slightly darker and predictable. It might be worth seeing at your local discount theater in a few weeks, or on DVD if you really loved the first Hangover film. Otherwise, don't waste your money.

Jumping the Broom - Movie Review

2011-05-22T20:49:00.005-06:00

Jumping the Broom (PG-13) 108 minutes B-
Bourgeois vs Working Class

Starring Angela Bassett, Paula Patton, Laz Alonso, Loretta Devine, Meagan Good, Tasha Smith, Julie Bowen, Romeo Miller, DeRay Davis, Valarie Pettiford, Mike Epps, and Brian Stokes Mitchell.

Jumping the Broom is a faith-based romantic dramedy that I found very likable, occasionally laugh-out-loud funny and entertaining (there were a couple twists I didn't see coming). Yet, the film also seemed longer than 108 minutes and at times felt extremely contrived and unfamiliar.

I'm glad I saw Jumping the Broom, and Paula Patton is always easy on the eyes, but this one didn't linger long after leaving the multiplex.

Recommended for fans of African-American Romantic Comedy/Drama.

Bridesmaids - Movie Review

2011-05-21T22:19:00.211-06:00

Bridesmaids (R) 125 minutes B+
Hold On, Break Free From the Chains

Starring Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, Chris O'Dowd, Melissa McCarthy, Ellie Kemper, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Jill Clayburgh and Jon Hamm.

When I think of Kristen Wiig I think of her SNL character, "Penelope". But after seeing Bridesmaids I might start thinking she's the next Tina Fey. Wiig is terrific in this BFF comedy and it doesn't hurt that she has a whip-smart script and killer co-star in Melissa McCarthy. As a matter of fact, if the Academy had an award for Best Comedic Performance in a Supporting Role, McCarthy would be a shoo-in.

Bridesmaids centers around Annie (Wiig), a down-on-her-luck, former bakery shop owner who seems destined to be alone forever. On the heels of losing her boyfriend, her business and all her money, Annie's longtime friend (Maya Rudolph) announces her engagement. The news is bittersweet, yet meshing with a rival bridesmaid will prove to be hilariously more bitter than sweet.

The film is funny and surprisingly sincere. I, for one, was reminded that you can't get anywhere by sitting around feeling sorry for yourself. Bridesmaids is the best comedy to hit theaters so far this year and there is already talk of a sequel in 2013.

Recommended.

Everything Must Go - Movie Review

2011-05-14T23:56:00.118-06:00

Everything Must Go (R) 96 minutes C+
Open Container

Starring Will Ferrell, Rebecca Hall, Christopher Jordan Wallace, Laura Dern, Michael Peña and Stephen Root.

If you've the seen the trailer for Everything Must Go then you've seen the funniest parts of this film. Despite a deadpan Will Ferrell and a dash of humor, this is not a comedy. The film falls into a genre I like to call "broken man". Broken man films are usually depressing and strange black dramedies or profoundly dark dramas in which the male protagonist is falling apart and/or experiencing some sort of major life crisis. I'm a fan of this genre and some of my favorite examples include: Leaving Las Vegas, The Weather Man, Sideways, Eyes Wide Shut, The Square, A Single Man, Adaptation, and The Wrestler.

Everything Must Go is based on a Raymond Carver short story in which Ferrell plays an alcoholic who is having a very bad day. Upon being fired from his job he goes home to discover his wife has locked him out, discarded all of his belongings on the front lawn, changed the locks, frozen the joint bank account and left. He spends the next fours days trying to drink himself into oblivion and selling his things.

I like Will Ferrell and I'm always curious about any film he does, yet there's not enough here for him to carry this one on his own. Every scene with Rebecca Hall is terrific, Laura Dern is good in a cameo role and Christopher Jordan Wallace (son of Faith Evan & Notorious B.I.G) is a functional side kick. But ultimately this is Ferell's film and his metamorphosis is not quite convincing enough to push me over the hump.

Personally, I love seeing comedic actors like Ferrell, Jim Carrey, Robin Williams, Ben Stiller, Hugh Grant, etc, portraying dark/serious characters from time to time. However, if you prefer your funny men funny, skip this one.

For further viewing of serious/semi-serious Will Ferrell see Stranger than Fiction and Melinda Melinda.

Sex and Violence (Book Review)

2011-05-10T18:45:00.006-06:00

James Patterson & Maxine Paetro - Swimsuit B+
Publication Date: June 2009
This one had me squirming on the edge of my seat throughout. Protagonist Ben Hawkins is a former L.A. cop turned reporter and author. While investigating the murder of a younger supermodel Hawkins gets mixed up with a serial killer and is forced to write the killer's tell-all biography. Flawed- yes. Captivating- hell yes!

The ending is a head-scratcher and I admit it threw me for a loop. But when I consider how Patterson and Paetro could have wrapped things up nice and neat, I like the ending even more.

POM Wonderful Presents: The Greatest Movie Ever Sold - Movie Review

2011-05-07T23:38:00.100-06:00

The Greatest Movie Ever Sold (PG-13) 90 minutes C+
Sell, Sell, Sell

Starring Morgan Spurlock and Ralph Nader

The Greatest Movie Ever Sold is the new Morgan Spurlock (Super Size Me) documentary about marketing and advertising. Here we follow Spurlock as he attempts to finance this entire film (1.5 million) through product placement. It's an original idea but one that doesn't teach us anything we didn't already suspect.

While I enjoyed the film and think that Spurlock is a unique talent, this one was a little spotty, a little cutesy and didn't linger in my mind afterwards. Not bad, but not as good as I'd hoped.

A Tease, A Flirt, Limbs Too Short (Music Review)

2011-05-06T19:45:00.001-06:00

First Impression Music Review
Radiohead - The King of Limbs B-
Release Date: March 2011
Listening to The King of Limbs the first couple times reminded me of how I felt when I first heard Radiohead's 2001 album, Amnesiac; initially a little underwhelmed but intrigued by the album's tone. After repeated listening that album became more than just really cool mood music, it became a staple in my weekly rotation.

The King of Limbs has better beats, is more soulful and will sound amazing on blast in my subee. But what it's lacking thus far is the aching beauty of a track like Knives Out and the heartbreak of You and Whose Army (both from Amnesiac). Perhaps it's unfair to compare the two albums which are almost a decade apart, but oh well, sometimes it's fun to compare things.

Favorite Tracks- "Lotus Flower", "Separator" and "Morning Mr. Magpie"

Win Win - Movie Review

2011-04-30T18:01:00.005-06:00

Win Win (R) 106 minutes B
Wrestling with life's choices

Starring Paul Giamatti, Amy Ryan, Alex Shaffer, Bobby Cannavale, Melanie Lynskey and Burt Young

Mike Flaherty (Paul Giamatti) is a small time New Jersey lawyer, family man, high school wrestling coach and all-round good guy. But with his business on a downturn and no compensation for his coaching gig, Flaherty is struggling to make ends meet. So when a profitable but immoral opportunity presents itself he takes advantage. It's not exactly a win win situation but it'll keep him afloat until he can get back on his feet. Unfortunately (or fortunately) the jig is up soon after it begins and Flaherty risks losing everything.

Win Win is a wonderfully crafted film by Tom McCarthy (The Station Agent and The Visitor) that won't bowl you over but will definitely pin you to your seat. Everything about this dramedy is subtle but affecting. It almost feels too neat and tidy but it's hard not to like Win Win.

Recommended.

J Mascis on Fire in Denver (Concert Review)

2011-04-28T23:57:00.004-06:00

J Mascis @ the Hi Dive - April 28th, 2011 B

Dinosaur Jr's legendary front man made a tour stop at the Hi Dive tonight in support of his latest acoustic album, Several Shades of Why. Despite intermittent (and annoying) fire alarms throughout the show and an appearance by the Denver Fire Department, Mascis seemed unfazed.

He opened with "The Wagon" from Dino's Green Mind album, followed by "Listen To Me" and "Several Shades of Why" from the new disc. But it was the fourth song of the night that ended up being my favorite, a cover of Edie Brickell's 1988 hit song, "Circle". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOQmMzn7djw

The rest of the show was a nice mixture of quiet loud acoustic distortion with Mascis occasionally tilting back his head and closing his eyes; seemingly lost in the music. Other highlights included the songs "Repulsion" and an old favorite of mine, "Ammaring" from J Mascis & the Fog's More Light LP.

Cedar Rapids - Movie Review

2011-04-18T17:00:00.026-06:00

Cedar Rapids (R) 86 minutes B-
Cedar Rapids: the Las Vegas of the midwest

Starring Ed Helms, John C. Reilly, Anne Heche, Kurtwood Smith, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Stephen Root and Sigourney Weaver

Naïve and sheltered insurance agent Tim Lippe (Ed Helms) has never ventured outside his hometown of Brown Valley, Wisconsin. But after the unfortunate death of his company’s number one salesman, Tim must attend the annual insurance convention in Cedar Rapids, Iowa where the goal is to win/bring home the coveted “Two Diamonds” award for excellence.

Reluctant to leave his comfort zone and cougarlicious girlfriend (played by Sigourney Weaver), Tim realizes this is a chance to rise above his own mediocrity. Yet, when he arrives in Cedar Rapids Tim takes an unforeseen walk on the wild side that includes: falling in love with a prostitute, having sex with a married woman, smoking crack, participating in extortion, and getting drunk every night (reminiscent of the character Ed Helms played in The Hangover). Needless to say the man child becomes a man by the time he leaves "Cedar Crapids".

Essentially this is a good indie film; a little uneven and not as funny as I expected, but one that stuck with me for days afterwards. Everyone in the cast was good, with the exception of Anne Heche, who was great as the vivacious strawberry blonde vixen seeking escape from her mundane home life. Cedar Rapids is the type of racy indie comedy that fans of the genre will love, while others might find it slightly overblown.
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Bonus DVD Review
Hannah Takes the Stairs (NR) 83 minutes B-
Use to be a sweet girl

DVD Release Date: April 2008
Starring Greta Gerwig, Kent Osborne, Andrew Bujalski, Ry Russo-Young, Mark Duplass, Todd Rohal

Hannah is young, pretty and self-absorbed. She's insecure, slightly immature and craves lots of attention. If this sounds annoying to you don't watch this film- you'll hate it! If this reminds you of yourself or someone you know, it might be worth your while.

Hannah Takes the Stairs is improvised, highly experimental, raw and realistic; it's definitely not for general audiences.  Mumblecore fans rejoice!

I Know This is Changing Me (Music Review)

2011-04-05T21:00:00.006-06:00

First Impression Music Review

R.E.M - Collapse Into Now B

Release Date: March 8, 2011

This one is a grower. I've listened to it a dozen times and I like it more with each spin. It's probably their best album since 1996's New Adventures in Hi-Fi.

"Mine smells like honey" and "Überlin" grabbed me immediately (they're also the first two singles from the album), other tracks were slightly more challenging but they eventually won me over. Special guests include Eddie Vedder, Patti Smith, Peaches, Lenny Kaye and Joel Gibb.

Favorite Tracks - Mine smells like honey, "Überlin", "That someone is you", "Blue"

Leftovers Never Tasted So Good! (Music Review)

2011-04-05T18:44:00.033-06:00

First Impression Music Review

Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - III/IV B+

Release Date: Dec 14, 2010

I own several Ryan Adams/Whiskeytown albums and this collection of leftovers from the 2007 Easy Tiger sessions is among his best work. Just when I was afraid Adams might be going soft he released a metal album (2010's Orion) and delivers this gem- a catchy pop album that holds together surprisingly well over the course of 21 tracks.

Billed as a "double-album concept rock opera" (tongue-firmly-tucked-in-cheek), III/IV is Demolition meets Gold with a little Rock N Roll thrown in. A single disc opposed to the two would've been a full blown masterpiece but as it stands I'm not complaining.

Favorite Tracks -"Numbers", "Gracie", "Breakdown into the Resolve", "Dear Candy" and "Icebreaker"

Battle: Los Angeles - Movie Review

2011-03-25T16:41:00.072-06:00

Battle: Los Angeles (PG-13) 112 minutes D-
Aliens Invade Los Angeles blah blah blah - who cares

Starring Aaron Eckhart, Ramon Rodriguez, Michelle Rodriguez, Bridget Moynahan, Ne-Yo and Michael Peña

The more I think about this film the more I hate it. Unless you like bad sci-fi, gooey aliens, nonstop gunfire, endless explosions, loud and obnoxious video game-like films, don't waste your money.

Lone Dinosaur Ponders Why (Music Review)

2011-03-24T21:47:00.090-06:00

First Impression Music Review

J Mascis - Several Shades of Why B

Release Date: March 15, 2011

Music critic Steve Labate (Paste magazine) wrote, "J’s lazy, just-rolled-outta-bed croon set against the stripped-bare backdrop of acoustic guitars and cellos and jingling tambourines is pure magic." I think that pretty much says it all.

I knew this album wouldn't disappoint, solo acoustic is about the closest we'll get to knowing J Mascis. The dude is a total mystery but I dig the way he sings with an every-man-vulnerability and plays guitar like a god.

Favorite tracks - "Not Enough", "Very Nervous and Love" and "Where Are You"

The Adjustment Bureau - Movie Review

2011-03-12T20:37:00.004-07:00

The Adjustment Bureau (PG-13) 99 minutes C
Two lovers attempt to change their fate while eluding men in fedoras

Starring Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Anthony Mackie, John Slattery, Michael Kelly and Terence Stamp

When I first saw the trailer for the The Adjustment Bureau about a year ago I was floored! It looked like a smart, intense, romantic action adventure starring two of Hollywood's biggest and most talented stars. Then the September 17, 2010 release was pushed back to March 4, 2011... Uh-Oh! It turns out that The Adjustment Bureau needed some adjusting and I can see why.

The film wasted a perfectly good love story by wrapping it in a dull, poor man's Inception-like plot (minus the slow motion dreams). The central idea of free will vs predestination is intriguing but executed flatly and somewhat predictably. Based on a short story by Philip K. Dick called The Adjustment Team, this adaptation feels like a small collage of films that have combined elements of sci-fi with romance to appeal to a boarder audience. By no means is this a bad thing; Damon and Blunt are jive decent and the concept is worth pondering. But the story and the direction falls short.

My recommendation for this one- rental.

Hall Pass - Movie Review

2011-03-06T14:20:00.008-07:00

Hall Pass (R) 105 minutes C+
I Want You to Want Me
Starring Owen Wilson, Jason Sudeikis, Jenna Fischer, Christina Applegate, Nicky Whelan, Richard Jenkins

Yes. Hall Pass is a dimwit comedy that is predictable, bordering on offensive and immature. But it's not without truth, sporadic humor and the underlying sentiment of wanting to feel desirable. Sure, it's all potty mouth, gross out jokes and juvenile humor but at the core is something legitimate. Yet unfortunately (or fortunately?) the film is too goofy to explore such game changers.

Hall Pass is directed by the Farrelly Brothers of Something About Mary and Dumb and Dumber fame. However, I also liked Fever Pitch, Me, Myself and Irene, and the heavily panned Heartbreak Kid (all Farrelly Brother films). Therefore I was bound to like this stinker at least a little bit.

Two suburban dads get the proverbial hall pass from marriage and after a little reluctance they attempt to make the most of their week of freedom with near disastrous results. Meanwhile, the wives enjoy a little pass of their own...

The film is uneven and laugh out loud moments are few and far between. For whatever reason Jason Sudeikis (SNL) never seems comfortable here and I'm not sure how I feel about the Farrelly's casting Richard Jenkins as the ultimate swinging single (Jenkins is a premiere actor but an odd choice). Nevertheless, I have to admit I sort of enjoyed the film.

If you like the Farrelly Brother and you're a fan of Owen Wilson I say see it! For everyone else, I say wait until it to arrives at your local discount/second run theatre.
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Bonus DVD Review
The Answer Man (R) 95 minutes C-
I Can't Be Your Answer Man

DVD Release Date: Novemember 2009
Starring Jeff Daniels, Lauren Graham, Lou Taylor Pucci, Kat Dennings, Olivia Thirlby, Max Antisell, Nora Dunn

In 1988 Arlen Faber (Daniels) released a popular self help book called Me and God. It became a massive best seller and international sensation. Now with the 20th anniversary edition about to be released Faber is nothing more than a cranky, reclusive and miserable human being. Struggling with insufferable back pain he meets a good looking chiropractor (Lauren Graham) and proceeds to fall for her if he can only keep his OCD at bay.

I applaud this film for not taking the easy way out and wrapping everything in a neat and tidy bow which it had the opportunity to do several times. But overall it isn't very good despite Jeff Daniels winning me over in the end.

This might be worth renting if you're a big fan of any of the cast listed above. Otherwise skip it.

Walking the Line Between Illness and Insanity (Book Review)

2011-03-03T22:41:00.015-07:00

The Unnamed - Joshua Ferris B-
Publication Date: January 2010

I almost gave up on this novel about a man who can't stop walking. The protagonist is Tim Farnsworth, a well-to-do lawyer with a lovely wife and young daughter. He has an undiagnosed illness that randomly makes him walk until totally exhaustion. Often times passing out from fatigue and waking in strange/undesirable places (like the time he woke up in an alley with a homeless man trying to rape him).

At first I didn't care and wasn't enthralled by the story. But about a quarter through this journey there's a scene where Tim's wife meets a handsome stranger at the grocery store (or maybe it was a liquor store?), it really has no bearing on the rest of the story but it's the point where Ferris grabbed my attention and the story began to matter.

After that things got edgier, sexier and sadder. Tim's illness kicked into high gear and it really took a toll on him mentally and physically, while his wife developed problems of her own. Essentially the once happy and loving family is torn apart by the unnamed illness and brought together by an unrelenting love.

I liked that Ferris kept me guessing through the latter part of the book, yet I was torn between thinking his prose was pretentious and thinking it was amazing. Finding his story intriguing yet cumbersome. It's a mixed bag but one that might be worth staying with until the end.

The Curtis Awards - Best Films of 2010

2011-02-27T18:00:00.003-07:00

Drum Roll Please!

20. Kick-Ass
19. Mother and Child
18. The Fighter
17. Cyrus
16. Easy A
15. Fair Game
14. Scott Pilgram vs the World
13. Please Give
12. Greenberg
11. Tamara Drewe
10. I Love You Phillip Morris
9. I Am Love
8. Tiny Furniture
7. The Town
6. The Kids Are Alright
5. Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work
4. The Social Network
3. The Square
2. Helena From the Wedding
1. Blue Valentine

Honorable Mention: Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps, Black Swan, Get Low, Chloe, Rabbit Hole, Ghost Writer, Winter's Bone.

Rabbit Hole - Movie Review

2011-02-26T21:35:00.003-07:00

Rabbit Hole (PG-13) 92 Minutes B
Down in a Hole

Starring Nicole Kidman, Aaron Eckhart, Dianne Wiest, Tammy Blanchard, Miles Teller, Sandra Oh

Here's a nice, quiet little film that despite its two stars (Nicole Kidman and Aaron Eckhart) has virtually gone unnoticed. Perhaps it's the subject matter that turned audiences away but anyone who enjoys a well-executed drama and outstanding acting by a leading lady should see this film.

It's the story of a couple struggling to get back on track after the death of their son, an adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize winning play by David Lindsay-Abaire. Becca (Kidman) and Howie (Eckhart) are dealing with the loss in different ways. Ways that are destroying their marriage and dragging them into an abyss of nothingness. However, it's not as depressing as it sounds. At the core is healing, forgiving and a reminder that life does go on.

True Grit - Movie Review

2011-02-21T22:36:00.005-07:00

True Grit (PG-13) 110 minutes B-
Grit-Lite

Starring Hailee Steinfeld, Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon and Josh Brolin.

With the possible exception of Chloe Grace Moretz in Kick-Ass (Hit-Girl) I might have a prejudice against actors/actresses under the age of 15 who portray roles that are intellectually and logically too mature for their age. Hailee Steinfeld is an uber-talented young actress but I'm not buying her character, 14 year-old Mattie Ross. As adorable as she may be, the too-big-for-her-britches shtick at the beginning of the film was off-putting; it took me awhile to really sink my teeth into this film.

That being said, it did get better and much more entertaining after the first 20 minutes or so. Overall the film felt a little generic and lacked some of the edginess I've come to love and expect from the Coen brothers. Not a bad outing, but perhaps a little underwhelming considering the Coen's past success and the star-studded cast (primary cast - Steinfield, Brolin, Damon, Bridges have all been nominated or have won Oscars). An entertaining film but not one that will linger afterwards.

Winter's Bone - Movie Review

2011-02-19T22:30:00.005-07:00

Winter's Bone (R) 100 minutes B
The bone of my discontent

Starring Jennifer Lawrence, John Hawkes, Kevin Breznahan, Dale Dickey, Garret Dillahunt, Sheryl Lee, Lauren Sweetser and Tate Taylor

Because of its Oscar nomination for Best Picture and Jennifer Lawrence's Oscar-worthy performance, Winter's Bone was re-released in theaters late in 2010. By this time I'd heard all the hype and my expectations were high. The film is good in a gritty and resilient kind of way. I'm glad the the Academy recognized such a small, blue collar indie. Yet I can't help but wonder/compare fellow Sundance darlings like 2009's Frozen River and 2004's Down to the Bone. Why didn't they receive the same notoriety? All three films are cut from the same cold, desolate cloth with the latter two films being slightly superior to Winter's Bone.

Nevertheless, you can't go wrong with any of the three aforementioned films. In Winter's Bone Jennifer Lawrence plays a tough, unbreakable 17-year old in the rural South struggling to support her little brother, sister and catatonic mother. With no money, barely any food and the looming threat of losing their home our young heroine braves dangerous territory to find her father... dead or alive.

Best Concerts of 2010

2011-02-03T21:14:00.010-07:00

My Top Three Live Shows From The Past Year

3. Katie Herzig @ the Walnut Room - 7/8/10
2. Chris Isaak @ Arvada Center - 8/7/10
1. The Jill and Julia Show @ Lannie's Clocktower Cabaret - 6/25/10

Writers Respond To Readers @ the Tattered Cover

2011-01-29T22:34:00.026-07:00

This is an annual event at the Tattered Cover Book Store http://www.tatteredcover.com/writers-respond-readers, this year's star-studded line-up included Heidi Durrow, Jennifer Egan, Julie Orringer and Jess Walter. Here's what I thought...

Heidi Durrow
Without saying a word or acknowledging the audience she walked to the podium and began to read. She's stunning and quite fashionable. Her novel The Girl Who Fell From the Sky is currently perched at number 18 on the New York Times (Paperback Trade Fiction) Best Sellers List and getting A LOT of praise from fans and critics alike.

Durrow’s journey to to becoming a published novelist is interesting and inspiring. A graduate of Stanford, Columbia’s Graduate School of Journalism and Yale Law School, the successful corporate litigator (who worked with the NBA and NFL) decided to quit her job and write the next great American novel. She wrote her novel and proceeded to be rejected 48 times before receiving the 2008 Barbara Kingsolver Bellwether Prize for literature of social change for The Girl Who Fell From the Sky.

After meeting and listening to her I was sold. She's got a bright literary future ahead and enough charisma to fill an entire bookstore. Look for big things from this budding talent.

Jennifer Egan
I’m currently reading A Visit From the Goon Squad, the highly acclaimed book by Jennifer Egan that Time magazine called "a new classic of American fiction". I was anxious to see, listen and meet her. When I did, the first image to pop into my mind was Cate Blanchett in Notes From A Scandal. Egan is tall, thin and sophisticatedly sultry. Sporting black knee high boots I would've pegged her as a former model rather than bestselling author.

Egan had my favorite quote of the day when she said her latest book was the literary equivalent of a concept album- I love that! She went on to joke about resurrecting her novel of historical fiction and said that her next project will be very different than Goon Squad, which is too bad because I'm really enjoying it so far.

Julie Orringer
Orringer was the third author to speak and unfortunately she had the after lunch time slot. That's usually when the coffee is wearing off and I slip into an after-lunch-coma, especially when I opt for the oversized burrito (it's a weakness). Of all the books talked about today hers is least likely to rest on my shelf. That's not to say she wasn't good because I thoroughly enjoyed her talk.

She discussed the difficult parts of writing a novel and experiencing "holy panic". I love hearing the inspirational stories of being a writer but I think it's equally important to hear about the struggles, Orringer brought the pain. It took 5 years to revise her collection of 9 short stories called How to Breathe Underwater, she methodically revised/trimmed her latest novel from 1300 to 600 pages, and went through 14 different titles before deciding on The Invisible Bridge.

Jess Walter
Last but not least was Jess Walter, initially he was the main draw for me. After seeing, listening and meeting the first three amazing authors I wondered if he would be disappointing? He wasn't, Walter has jokes and he's hilarious! I read his most recent novel and experienced a few laugh out loud moments yet I was pleasantly surprised how well his humor translated off the page.

The other thing that stood out was how different he looked in person compared to the book jacket photo. The photo isn't bad but in the flesh he looked younger and more vibrant. I learned that he came from humble beginnings, he wrote his last novel quickly (at the speed of light compared to the previous authors) and he's a little shy. Walter read from his novel, answered a few questions and hasta la vista baby!

I sort of expected the audience to be a little put off by the pot-oriented humor of his novel, yet the mainly female audience laughed hard and laughed often. A few ladies looked uncomfortable but he had the majority at hello.

Below are the free galleys from the event. The Tattered Cover also provided free eats throughout the day and a wine and cheese reception afterwards. Thank You Tattered Cover!

MGM's Sundance 2011 Wrap-up

2011-01-28T19:09:00.031-07:00

Here's what we saw:

The Off Hours (93 minutes) A
Francine has no family, few friends and empty sex. The Off Hours is a powerful and moving film about the mundane life of a small town waitress and other lost souls who would rather exist than live life.

Another Happy Day (115 minutes) B+
A well executed melodrama about a family with LOTS of baggage and self destructive behavior. Stars Ellen Barkin, Demi Moore, Kate Bosworth and Thomas Haden Church. Dysfunction Junction.

Another Earth (92 minutes) A+
Director Mike Cahill brings us a truly original film about love, death, space and isolation. An out of this world experience.

Codependent Lesbian Space Alien Seeks Same (76 minutes) B-
Low budget, fun and campy. I wouldn't be surprised if this one goes on to become a cult classic.

Meek's Cutoff (104 minutes) D-
I didn't get it and didn't care. Stars Michelle Williams, Paul Dano and Shirley Henderson; good actors, bad film.

Little Birds (94 minutes) B+
A gritty look at a couple of small town teenagers who run off to LA and get caught up in a teenage wasteland

The Details (91 minutes) A-
Initially I felt like I'd seen this film before, another clever portrayal of a marriage gone wild. But this sad and funny meditation of domestic dysfunction lingered for days after seeing it.

Short Films (Shorts Program II)

Sexting (8 minutes) A-

Babyland (28 minutes) A

Blokes (15 minutes) B

We're Leaving (13 minutes) B

The Wind is Blowing on My Street (15 minutes) B

Brick Novax, Part 1 (8 minutes) A+

Brick Novax, Part 2 (8 minutes) A+

MGM's 2010 Book of the Year

2011-01-25T00:17:00.007-07:00

In The House by Lynn K. Kilpatrick

http://lynnkilpatrick.com/

The Secret Life of Slippers (Book Review)

2011-01-17T20:59:00.009-07:00

Jess Walter - The Financial Lives of the Poets B-
Publication Date: September 22, 2009

Matthew Prior quit his job as a business reporter and decided to intertwine his passions for finance and poetry by creating a dotcom that offers financial news, updates & advice in verse. It was called Poetfolio.com; an original idea, clever name and to no one’s surprise a total dud.

Unemployed, crippled by debt and on the verge of losing his family (he suspects his wife is having an online affair) and home, a late night trip to 7-Eleven changes everything.

The Financial Lives of the Poets is a humorous and sometimes sad story of a desperate man taking desperate measures. I enjoyed this novel but it never hooked me (emotionally) like I hoped it would. Bottom Line: I was hoping for edgier and darker content but Poets is more like network television and less like cable. Yet it's still worth reading if you're looking for something fun with heavier undertones and a sitcom-like feel.

The Fighter - Movie Review

2011-01-16T16:50:00.006-07:00

The Fighter (R) 114 minutes B+
A Junkie's Promise

Starring Christian Bale, Mark Wahlberg, Amy Adams and Melissa Leo

The Fighter is a familiar film, I hate to say it reminded me of the Rocky Balboa films of the late 70's and 80's but it did. However, that's not necessarily a bad thing, Rocky had his day and The Fighter will as well.

A destructive, meddlesome family he loves, an irresistible midriff baring girlfriend, a gang of sisters with big hair, feathered hairdos and more bleach than a Clorox factory, the shadow of his drug riddled brother and a David vs Goliath shot at the title. The film is equal parts grit, nostalgia, drama and good old fashion beat downs.

In the end it displays a surprising amount of heart and is sure to win over most audiences not opposed to the sure violence of boxing and a little crackhead humor.

Blue Valentine - Movie Review

2011-01-14T23:20:00.014-07:00

Blue Valentine (R) 120 minutes A
When love is not enough

Starring Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams

Blue Valentine is an excellent film about a young couple who fall in and out of love. It follows their beautiful beginning and tragic end by toggling between the doldrums of present day couplehood/novelty of their courtship.

This film (along with Helena From the Wedding) feels more authentic than anything I've seen this past year. It was easy to forget you're watching two fictional characters and not someone you know. New York Observer film critic Rex Reed says "movie intimacy reaches groundbreaking new heights in this shocking story", and goes on to add that Blue Valentine left him "racked by feelings of emotional intensity that still linger."

As the credits rolled and people began to slowly come unglued from their seats a quiet contemplation filled the air. I felt speechless, heavy and consumed by it all, usually a good sign that the film has left me with plenty to digest.

Bill Goodykoontz of the Arizona Republic summed it up best when he wrote "There's no blame to assign here. There are just two people in different places in their lives, their differences developing into an open wound in their relationship, until healing seems out of the question." This is a credit to the filmmaker and actors for crafting such a profoundly organic and humanistic study of a phenomena that (unfortunately) most will experience once, twice or more in a lifetime.

Lastly, it's worth noting that the director of Blue Valentine is Derek Cianfrance who grew up in Lakewood, CO and attended CU. I have a feeling we'll be hearing his name a lot more in the near future.

Blind Ambition (Book Review)

2011-01-08T19:28:00.010-07:00

Joe Pernice - Two Blind Pigeons B-
Publication Date: October 1, 2001

It's hard not to compare Joe Pernice the singer songwriter and Joe Pernice the poet (although some would consider them one and the same). My favorite piece is the opening poem, "Considering Paula", everything else simply flirts with greatness and left me slightly unsatisfied, wanting more and curious.

To Live & Die in LA (Book Review)

2011-01-06T22:24:00.013-07:00

James Frey - Bright Shiny Morning B+
Publication Date: May 13, 2008

When this book came out a few years ago I thought I heard something about Frey doing his book tour dates with a full band...? At the time that seemed cool but awfully presumptuous, especially after the Oprah scandal and such. But it turns out that a grandiose book tour is quite appropriate for what happened to be a very ambitious book.

Bright Shiny Morning is a little bit of a mess and could stand to be shorter, however there's few dull moments and plenty to sink your teeth into. The novel evoked plenty of emotions because much of it is about broken dreams in a city where only the ruthless, rich and lucky survive.
Being a dreamer myself this was very disheartening.

Back in 2008 USA Today critic Deirdre Donahue wrote that Morning reads like something "Oliver Stone wrote and Quentin Tarantino directed". The novel is full of parallel story lines that mainly follow these central characters: a homeless man, an Oscar winning actor, a young Hispanic woman with unusually large thighs and a young couple from Ohio. But there's more, more characters, fun facts, not so fun facts, descriptions, lists, etc... If this was musical album it would be a box set.

In his first official novel Frey shows up and throws up. Once you weed through some of the filler you're left with one hell of a novel/fictional history lesson of Los Angeles.

The King's Speech - Movie Review

2011-01-04T22:03:00.034-07:00

The King's Speech (R) 118 minutes C+
Stammer Time

Starring Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter, Michael Bambon, Eve Best and Guy Pearce

Apparently King George VI was a cranky and angry man, but perhaps you would be too if you had such a debilitating vocal handicap. The King's Speech is based on the true story of a rogue speech therapist (Rush) and Albert the Duke of York (Firth). Albert reluctantly becomes King after his brother Edward VIII (Pearce) is forced to resign as a result to his lustful relationship with Wallis Simpson (Best), a twice-divorced sexpot.

The film has positioned itself to be 100% Oscar bait and appears to be winning the hearts of critics and audiences alike. Yet it might be a less enthralling to the historically challenged like myself. I found the acting to be top notch but the film a tad dry. Firth is good (liked him better as a suicidal gay teacher in last year's A Single Man) but in my eyes Rush is the real star. He steals almost every scene inwhich he appears and is easily the most pertinent and likable character.

Recommended for fans of starchy British drama's, Colin Firth and/or Geoffrey Rush.
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Bonus DVD Reviews
Good Hair (PG-13) 96 minutes B+
A Hairy Situation

DVD Release Date: February 2010
Starring Chris Rock

Good Hair is a light-hearted documentary that deals with some complex issues. As a person who has used lye relaxers on my hair more times than I care to admit, this exposé doesn't necessarily leave me feeling judgemental but it does make it hard to envision a scenario in which I would use those types of products again.

Ridiculous and highly entertaining.
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12th and Delaware (NR) 80 minutes B-
Intersection

DVD Release Date: Debuted at Sundance January 2010/Debuted on HBO August 2010
Starring Two Clinics and a Yellow Mustang

Pro-life vs Pro-choice- That's what you have going on at the intersection of 12th and Delaware in Fort Pierce, Florida. I think this documentary film tries to portray each side fairly...? But I'll be honest, the pro-lifers in this film seem like kooks. I know this doesn't represent all pro-lifers and I tried to open my mind, but their logic still makes absolutely no sense to me.

From the directors of the 2006 documentary Jesus Camp, this film is not only sad but it also makes me angry. Yet still, I think it's important to see what's really happening around us even if we don't agree. This is a great example of lives being altered forever regardless of where you stand on the issue.

My Gray Morning's Top 3 Moments of 2010

2011-01-01T21:44:00.013-07:00

<---Fathead (me) at Cellar Stories Book Store in Providence, RI

3. Driving From Connecticut to Providence, RI (May) It was a beautiful spring day, just me and the open road. I took the scenic route, put the windows down and turned the music up loud. The next day I drove to Boston, walked around Cambridge and got caught in a rainstorm.

2. Sundance (January) Always fun, always inspiring and as much as I hate to admit it, fun to stargaze. Last year I was a breast length away from Ron Jeremy while walking down main street in Park City, and at the Joan Rivers (documentary) screening we sat only a couple seats away from Morgan Spurlock. Not to mention I attended my first Jazz game in SLC.

1. The AWP Conference (April) AWP is the Association of Writers and Writing Programs and this past year it was held in Denver. It was so much fun I thought my head was going to explode. It was an incredible experience and I met, saw and listened to lots of prominent writers (and editors). Without a doubt one of the best times of my life.

My Gray Morning - Best Music 2010

2010-12-31T14:01:00.027-07:00

My Gray Morning's Musical Soundtrack 2010
"Of all noises, I think music is the least disagreeable" - Samuel Johnson

15.1,000 Years - Corin Tucker Band

She will always remind me of Sleater Kinney.

14. Love and Its Opposites - Tracey Thorn

I always over use this term but it truly is "heart-breakingly beautiful".

13. How I Got Over - The Roots

I still don't think this album has reached it's full potential with me.

12. Brothers - Black Keys

Surprisingly infectious, I liked this album more than I thought I would.
11. Write about Love - Belle and Sebastian

Always embodies my pouty, whimsical, lovable side.

10. Dear God I Hate Myself - Xiu Xiu

Not their best but it made an emotional connection.

9. Transference - Spoon

I'm surprised how much I like this album every time I listen to it.

8. Swim - Caribou

Inspires me to dance like a dehydrated Helen Keller.

7. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy - Kanye West

It took awhile but it finally clicked... believe the hype.

6. Grinderman 2 - Grinderman

It's true, Nick Cave is my dark, twisted, cool soul brotha from another mother.

5. Lonely Avenue - Ben Folds & Nick Hornby

Where literature and music collides, breaks my heart and makes me smile.

4. Heaven is Whenever - The Hold Steady

Hurricane J might be my favorite song of 2010, it makes me feel alive.
3. Goodbye, Killer - Pernice Brothers

I'm not sure I listened to any other cd more in 2010.

2. Thank Me Later - Drake

A hip hop album with indie sensibility, the most surprising album of the year.
1. High Violet - The National

The National has never been an easy listen but this album is epic in a very modest manner.

Black Swan - Movie Review

2010-12-25T19:54:00.010-07:00

Black Swan (R) 107 minutes B
Lose Yourself

Starring Natalie Portman, Vincent Cassell, Mila Kunis, Barbara Hershey and Winona Ryder

Black Swan begins as a gritty, intense melodrama before venturing into David Lynch/skinemax/bloodletting high-art. Yet Black Swan is no less intriguing even when director Darren Aronofsky overreaches; specially the eurotrash club scenes with "Tom" and "Jerry" and the much talked about sex scene (you'll know it when you see it).

The aforementioned sex scene is sexy but it feels a little cheap and slightly unnecessary despite providing one of the film's funniest one liners shortly thereafter.

This film is good, Natalie Portman is great! It made me want to go to the ballet, It made me feel sorry for the protagonist (Portman) while feeling simultaneous frustrated with her.

If you're like me and go to see Black Swan without knowing much about it be prepared for a ride. It's creepy, sad, sensual and weird but never boring.

With award season just around the corner I doubt this film will win any Best Picture accolades but don't be surprised when Portman walks away with multiple Best Actress statuettes. It's an interesting film to say the least and worth checking out!

Tiny Furniture - Movie Review

2010-12-11T22:15:00.020-07:00

Tiny Furniture (R) 98 minutes A-
Postgraduate delirium and other bad choices

Starring Lena Dunham, Laurie Simmons, Grace Dunham, Jemima Kirke, Alex Karpovsky

How could I not like Lena Dunham? She's talented, charmingly funny and full of naked ambition. In this semi autobiographical, deadpan comedy the twentysomething writer/director/actress has created a wickedly entertaining film that has been compared to Woody Allen's earlier works.

Tiny Furniture was reportedly made for around $50,000, shot with a $1,500 camera, filmed in the family's New York loft and stars Dunham's mother and sister. Many of the actors were not professionally trained, yet several moments here feel authentically awkward, sad and real (see the film's lone sex scene).

The film follows the plight of Aura (Dunham) who has just graduated from college, been recently dumped by her college boyfriend and "temporarily" moved back home with her family. The plan is to get a job, an apartment and figure out what she wants to do with her life. But Aura quickly finds that the transition from college life to real world responsibility can be daunting. Especially when you're vulnerable, unmotivated and living in the shadow of an overachieving mother and sister.

This is a good film that's not for everyone but highly recommended for those who like low-budget, bittersweet indie comedies.
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Bonus DVD Reviews
Man Push Cart (NR) 87 minutes B+
Missing someone and something he can't forget

DVD Release Date: October 2007
Starring Ahmad Razvi, Leticia Dolera, Charles Daniel Sandoval and Ali Reza.

A very heartfelt story about a man who once had it all- a beautiful wife and a promising music career. Now he's just a "Pakistani guy selling coffee and doughnuts" and trying to survive in New York City.

The film was one of Roger Ebert's ten best of 2006 and nominated for three Independent Spirit Awards.
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Blind Date (NR) 80 minutes C
Desperately trying to save the date

DVD Release Date: December 2009
Starring Stanley Tucci and Patricia Clarkson.

A surprisingly sad and depressing film about a couple who try to cope with the death of a child by pretending to be strangers and meeting for blind dates. Tucci and Clarkson are two of my favorites, if this film was done by anyone else it would've been a total disaster.

I'm Doin' Me Before the World Ends (Music Reviews)

2010-12-05T22:41:00.015-07:00

First Impression Music Review Drake - Thank Me Later A-
Release Date: June 2010
Full disclosure: Before I heard this album my only exposure to Drake was that catchy Sprite commercial where he's in the studio, not feeling the flow, he drinks a Sprite and his face, body and mind explodes into a gushing, carbonated wave of lemon-lime refreshment and rejuvenation- "Last name Ever/first name Greatest".

Later I noticed Thank Me Later was racking up good reviews, both Time and Rolling Stone magazines hailed it as one of the top ten albums of the year. Yet, despite the warm critical reception I was still skeptical of the unknown mainstream artist. Especially since the rap game doesn't excite me like it use too.

But to my surprise, Drake, once the star of a teen television drama called Degrassi: The Next Generation, has delivered one of my favorite albums of the year. One that I've been bumpin in my car nonstop. It started as a grower and has blossomed into a bonafide mainstay in my rotation.

The Pitchfork.com review stated that Drake "sings or raps the word I 410 times on his debut album. Even in the realm of hip-hop-- a style famous for its unswerving solipsism-- this is a feat." However, a little self indulgence isn't so bad when you have something worth saying, something that connects with a lot of people on a humanistic level. That bond is part of what hooked me along with a refreshing vulnerability and lush, atmospheric beats that rarely grandstand like another highly praised hip hop album I reviewed a few weeks ago. Thank Me Later is worth being thankful for now!

Favorite Tracks - Fireworks, Karaoke, Over and Fancy
http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,2035319_2034644_2034627,00.html

Pernice Brothers - The World Won't End B
Release Date: June 2001
The World Won't End is vintage Pernice Brothers; smart, sympathetic lyrics wrapped in acute reflection and observations. At first listen it's not as accessible as later releases but ultimately very rewarding. More than just a sad sack record, Pernice proves once again he's one of the best songwriters of our generation.

Tenspeed and Blackshoe (Book Review)

2010-12-01T22:10:00.011-07:00

Walter Mosley - Fear Itself B-

I've always thought of Walter Mosley as a legendary figure in literature. Fear Itself probably wasn't the best place to start but it was enough to inspire further reading.

Throwing Kinney (Music Reviews)

2010-11-28T13:17:00.016-07:00

First Impression Music Reviews
The Corin Tucker Band - 1000 Years B

Release Date - October 5, 2010

1000 Years sounds enough like a Sleater Kinney album to make it instantly likable, yet different enough to stand on its' own. Since leaving SK apparently Tucker has become quite the domestic goddess, fortunately for us it hasn't made the music any less vital.

Favorite tracks - "It's Always Summer", "Dragon", "Riley" and "Doubt"

Kristen Hersh - Cats and Mice B-

Release Date: June 8, 2010

Hersh is never an easy listen for me but she always wins me over with her underdog grit, earthly wit and bewitching voice. Cats and Mice is a live, stripped down, unedited recording of her at Yoshi's in San Francisco. It may not do much for those unfamiliar with Hersh but for the rest of us it's a nice treat.

Favorite Tracks - "Deep Wilson", "Fortune", "Winter", "Teeth"

Love and Other Drugs - Movie Review

2010-11-26T22:19:00.022-07:00

Love and Other Drugs (R) 110 minutes B-
Beauty and Other Disorders: Use as directed

Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Anne Hathaway, Josh Gad, Oliver Platt, Hank Azaria and Judy Greer

Once you get past all the naked perfection that is Jake Gyllenhaal and Anne Hathaway you'll find a slightly above average Hollywood rom-com that is thoroughly entertaining but easily forgettable.

Love and Other Drugs is a familiar story of two unlikely characters who meet, fall in love and break-up before realizing that they can't live without each other. But the film is not without its redeeming qualities, most of which involve Maggie's (Hathaway) struggle with early onset Parkinson, Jamie's (Gyllenhaal) commitment to her and reliving Viagra during its infancy.

In a recent issue of Newsweek writer Jennie Yabroff wrote a piece titled Who Wants to See Anne Hathaway's Breasts? In it, Yabroff admits "there are worse ways to kill 90 minutes than watching two gorgeous actors cavort semi nude." The film didn't really affect me emotionally like a good rom-com can but indeed Yabroff's assessment is correct.

The film is an adaptation of Jamie Reidy's book Hard Sell: The Evolution of a Viagra Salesman and Jennie Yabroff's piece is worth a glance http://www.newsweek.com/2010/11/18/anne-hathaway-s-breasts-are-way-distracting.html

Recommeded for fans of Gyllenhaal, Hathaway, rom-coms and partial nudity.

Frustrating Album by a Frustrated Artist (Music Review)

2010-11-24T20:23:00.012-07:00

First Impression Music Review
Kanye West - My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy B-
Release date: Novemeber 23, 2010
Whether you love him or hate him, if you're a connoisseur of hip hop music it's hard to ignore him. I've grown to like Kanye more and more with each consecutive album so I thought this would be the one to truly blow my mind, peaking after the whole Taylor Swift/public backlash. I looked forward to an album full of smart and witty lyrics, tight beats and snarky angst.

What I have after 3 listens is one ridiculously frustrating, slightly annoying, overly cluttered album with moments of brilliance that are overshadowed by gimmicky showmanship. Hey, I love Chris Rock as much as the next guy, but here I don't need his banter about p*ssy for what feels like 15 minutes on the track Blame Game.

After additional listens I hope to uncover more of the Kanye that makes him one of the few hip hop artist that always evokes me to stand up and take notice.

Favorite track - "Power"

Fair Game - Movie Review

2010-11-20T23:08:00.003-07:00

Fair Game (PG-13) 104 minutes B+
She Got Game

Starring Naomi Watts, Sean Penn, Ty Burrell, Michael Kelly, Bruce McGill, Brooke Smith, David Denman, Noah Emmerich, David Andrews and Louis Ozawa Changchien

Fair Game is an edge-of-your-seat political drama based on Valerie Plame's memoir, Fair Game: My Life as a Spy, My Betrayal by the White House. Plame is played wonderfully by Naomi Watts, while Sean Penn is outstanding as her husband, Joseph Wilson.

Some of you may remember the Valerie Plame's story from 2003... She was the CIA agent whose cover was blown after top secret information leaked to the press. Adding fuel to the fire was her husband's involvement in the operation and his published op-ed piece suggesting that President Bush exaggerated the nuclear threat to legitimize the U.S. shock and awe type onslaught. This is a top-notch dramatization of real life events. Recommended.

Tamara Drewe - Movie Review

2010-11-19T20:50:00.008-07:00

Tamara Drewe (R) 111 minutes B+
Plastic Fantastic: A former ugly duckling seeks love and shags in witty British comedy

Starring Gemma Arterton, Roger Allam, Dominic Cooper, Tamsin Greig and Luke Evans

Personally, I found Tamara Drewe to be a lot of fun; enjoyable and recommended to fans of saucy British sex comedies and/or the lusty eyed literary types. Based on the graphic novel of the same name by Posy Simmonds, Tamara Drewe is essentially an ugly duckling story with twists and good subplots.

It all starts at a writer's retreat in a small English village. Tamara Drewe hasn't been seen since she moved away years ago and in the meantime she's acquired a new nose (to replace the oversized bumpy one she sported as a teen) and a smokin hot body that stops men and women alike in their tracks. This sort of discourse leads to quite a stir in the sleepy village and sets off a chain of sad, funny and sentimental events.

This is one of my favorite ensemble films of the year. There isn't one character here that I didn't find engaging at some point. It never rises to the point of belly achingly funny or strikingly great, but it is a steady dose of bittersweet that inspires and enthralls.

Due Date - Movie Review

2010-11-17T21:46:00.010-07:00

Due Date (R) 100 minutes D
Sour & Expired

Starring Michelle Monaghan, Robert Downey Jr., Zach Galifianakis, Juliette Lewis, Danny McBride and Jamie Foxx

How could I have known that Due Date would be this disappointing? It has good actors (Downey, Galifianakis) and a good Director in Todd Phillips (Old School, Road Trip and The Hangover). But perhaps all this talent is the reason Due Date has expired. It feels like a film trying too hard and settling for the cheap laugh. Essentially it's nothing more than mindless filler until Phillip's next commercial smash, 2011's The Hangover II.

Despite a few laughs here and there the film relies heavily on the tireless shtick between Downey and Galifianakis. It's a two man show that unfortunately doesn't have enough cameos like those by Danny McBride (butt kicking disabled Vet) and Juliette Lewis (weed dealer).

At the Atlanta airport our two main characters meet, Downey is a polished, rageaholic architect heading to L.A. to be with his pregnant wife. While Galifianakis is a socially inept buffoon with Hollywood dreams. Somehow the two find themselves on the no-fly list after a string of chance encounters and inappropriate interactions at the airport/on the plane. Soon, all they have is each other and a due date to get back to L.A.

What ensues is sometimes funny but mostly stupid. The film gets worse as it goes along and by the end this odd couple, buddy comedy derails into forgettable fodder.

Three To See From The 33rd Starz Denver Film Festival

2010-11-13T22:44:00.014-07:00

Starz Denver Film Festival November 3rd - November 14th
We only saw three films at this year's Festival but they were three very good films! Please look for each of these to open in wide release next month.

I Love You Phillip Morris (R) 102 minutes A-
Love Crimes

Starring Jim Carrey, Ewan McGregor and Leslie Mann

Gay, gay, gay, gay, gay! The best performance of Jim Carrey's career!
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Helena from the Wedding (?) 89 minutes A
Lovely & Amazing

Starring Lee Tergesen, Melanie Lynskey, Gillian Jacobs, Dagmara Dominczyk, Paul Fitzgerald, Dominic Fumusa, Jessica Hecht and Corey Stoll

It's not for everyone but I completely adore this film, it's a wonderful example of why I love low-budget indie films. Among all the quiet despair, longing and anxiety lies one of the most beautiful and true odes to coupling I've seen this year.
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Made in Dagenham (R) 113 minutes B
Hey Ladies

Starring Sally Hawkins, Jaime Winstone, Nicola Duffett, Andrea Riseborough, Lorraine Stanley, Geraldine James, Rosamund Pike, Bob Hoskins, Rupert Graves and Miranda Richardson

Women fighting for equality at a Ford Dagenham assembly plant (Ford of Britain subsidiary of the Ford Motor Company) in 1968 and looking very stylish in the process. This is the performance that should earn award-winning actress Sally Hawkins an Oscar nod. As well as her co-star and two time Oscar nominee Miranda Richardson. The film is a little predictable but one that will make you stand up and applaud afterwards.

Rockin' the Suburbs with High Fidelity (Music Review)

2010-11-12T23:02:00.017-07:00

First Impression Music Review

Ben Folds/Nick Hornby - Lonely Avenue A-

Release Date: September 28, 2010

“Some guy on the net/Thinks I suck/And he should know/He’s got his own blog” are lyrics from "A Working Day", the opening track on Lonely Avenue. But au contraire, mon frère, this album does not suck! How could it? Words by the novelist Nick Hornby, music and melody by Ben Folds...

Spin magazine described this collaboration as "music nerd-dom", and although it is goofy at times, it's mostly clever, snarky and sentimental; a familiar concoction for Folds followers. With Hornby on board I can't help but feel like there's so much more to the story than these 4 minute piano-pop gems.

With subjects ranging from Levi Johnston, poet Saskia Hamilton, hacking into a girlfriend's email account, divorced parents reuniting for a daughter's birthday and neighbors with an affinity for weed, junk food and violent pornography. This album is 100% entertaining from beginning to end.

Favorite tracks "Picture Window", "Belinda", "A Working Day", "From Above" & "Claire's Ninth"