A lot of things have happened. Let's allow them to stay in the rearview for the moment and discuss what's happening. Before Braille has been inactive since, well actually I don't know. I don't recall when the last show was, but I'm thinking sometime shortly after our tour with Facing New York and Novi Split in Summer '05. Time doesn't fly, it effing jets like sonic boom style. I David, have been compelled to complete two albums that were left for dead. The tracking has been completed, and now we wait for the mixing session in August. I expect that album one, 'Kill the Messenger, Keep the Message' will be made available around Christmas time. I'm sure it will make quite a stocking stuffer for some of our friends.

Album two, 'Spring Cleaning...' will be release during its namesake season '09.


Before any of that goes down, my new project, ART FOR STARTERS (http://www.myspace.com/artforstarters) will certainly have had our first show and cd release. The record is complete and is only awaiting finishing touches on it's 20-page booklet. The layout should be pretty stunning if all goes right. Please check our pages and let us know what you think. And thanks to all those who have kept in touch. It's always great to hear from you. -david

It's been 4 years since it was recorded, but Kill the Messenger, Keep the Message is still on my mind! I guess closure is hard to come by. But, it's closer. Some tracking is already taking place. I'm 4 songs closer...

It's been 3 years since it was recorded, but Kill the Messenger, Keep the Message is still on my mind. If for no other sake than that of closure. I've paid for and completed the artwork stages for the most part, and I plan to convince the studio to let me finish singing on the 4 songs that remain unsung. For the most part that is all we've been waiting on...the studio to allow for me to sing four songs and mix the damn thing. Band? No band? No matter. I think my never say die attitude is actually killing me. -dave

Unfortunately, I don’t have the time or patience to review movies lately. Working an overnight shift that allows for movie time far outweighs the benefits of actually getting paid well. I gotta go back!
Well, I still have time to see film every now and then (especially when my girl leaves town) but “reviewing” them is another story.
Still, I’ve had people calling or emailing me asking what I recommend and wondering why I wasn’t throwing theses reviews up anymore…so I’m glad to oblige. It helps my ego, if nothing else. So, my thoughts…

AN INCONVIENENT TRUTH
Ummm…Al Gore, I get your point. Time for alternative fuels; I think I heard that somewhere before, but thanks for the scare. Actually, this film did scare me a little, but it would have been more compelling with less graphs and self-serving camera time, and more input from scientists and ideas for solutions. This film felt a lot like an electronic press kit or resume. There are many like it that are much better, but I don’t mind that I saw it. I admit it gave me some more perspective while discussing a topic of great importance. Whether global warming is real or not, I believe clean air and unmolested weather patterns are worth more than most or maybe all technological advances transportation needs. We’ve always needed to do more, and it now appears we have to do more.
C-

THE ILLUSIONIST
I sorta mistook this film for Prestige when I went in to see it and within 5 minutes I knew I was going to hate it. It made itself out to have a story of importance in the first few minutes, and the next thing I knew I was trapped in a crappy love story. As soon as the main character laid his eyes on some cute girl I knew what I was in for. Now, I didn’t leave the theater and ask for my money back because I though my date would still like the film. Upon finding out that she hated it as much as I did, I felt gypped. Dropping 16 bones for what I thought would be a somewhat safe movie…now I’ll have to sneak in to a movie to make up for it. Here’s the whole movie…”oh my gosh, I love you, but I’m but a wee peasant and you a girl of high society.” “oh, I love you too, but I can’t be with you because of my family.” [years later] “Ok, I’m back after running away from the pain, I know you’re in a new relationship now, but I learned a couple tricks if you wanna run away with me.” “Well, of course our puppy love is still meaningful all these years later, so ok….but lets not let the audience know our plan until the end…don’t worry about details, they’ll just accept it cause it’s a happy ending.”
D+

YOU, ME, & DUPRE
Dear Allah, please blow up Hollywood. And while you’re at it, can you put an end to all scenes that have a suitor standoff with his love interest’s close-minded father in which he finally stands up to declare his love and affirmation.
I walked into this film to kill a few minutes before mine started. It put holes is my soul.
F-

CLICK IT
I could tell you a few other things you could do to it. A great date movie for your first 6th grade crush and you to sneak off to in 6th grade, you can focus all your attention on whether or not your hands will touch in the popcorn box and ignore the movie all together. You will have that romantic silence you’re looking for too, for clearly no laughs will enter the room. It might be worth walking into this film to see Christopher Walken’s classic grin under a great haircut.
My sister recommended I see this movie while at my niece’s birthday party. We’re no longer talking.
D

SUPERMAN RETURNS
Alight, I guess I can’t grade a film like this in my usual way. I just need to go in there an enjoy a comic book on screen and hope that it can stay true to what is superman and avoid most the blockbuster trappings. I found that Superman Returns made a valiant effort although the major events that led up to films conclusion were pretty unbelievable. I mean, I know the story is about a dude who can fly and see through walls and stuff, but the characters he comes in contact with shouldn’t be able to hold their breath underwater for 5 minutes. I don’t know, superheroes aint my bag so maybe I’m too harsh. I wasn't sure at first, but I think Brandon Routh turned out to be a good Superman, and although she was to my liking visually, Kate Bosworth didn't work as Lois Lane in my opinion. Too stable and plain.
C+

CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM, Season 4
Come on now, the co-creator/writer of Seinfield. I don’t need to review this HBO show, but I have been watching it on DVD lately, and it’s awesome. I have to believe that many of the great shows out right now were inspired by, if not this particular show, Larry David’s work in general.
A-

HARD EIGHT
Probably my favorite director, Paul Thomas Anderson (Boogie Nights, Magnolia, Punch Drunk Love) turned a short he put together at a film festival and turned it into this feature. Originally called Sydney and renamed for US release, this is a heart wrenching story that I like more when I think about how some people never give up on trying to make things right, even if they have to go about it the wrong way. I don’t necessarily believe that, but I always like the complexity of it. Great dialogue and mannerism, and an awesome conflicts. Hard Eight is my least favorite of PT Anderson’s films, but it was great watching it again.
B+

EVERYTHING IS ILLUMINATED
This is one of those movies that I feel like I need to be vulnerable to enjoy. It caught me at the right time and I found it pleasantly funny and thoughtful. I hear it’s nothing like the book. It gets a little gimmicky and cute, but for the right reasons. I’m down.
B+

GOONIES
Saw this on a houseboat a couple months ago. Of course it’s got some really cheesy moments, but I didn’t catch it as a kid, and I don’t care now. It’s just classic and fun to watch. Still, I wonder why 1-eyed Willie didn’t just sail away in his boat when he was still alive. I’m sure he could’ve purchased a nice plot of land and reared a nice, beautifully cycloptic family.
A

FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH
The first time I saw this movie. I think I came at it too late. I was very surprised to learn that it was directed by Cameron Crowe. I mean he must have been 10 years old when he directed it, dang! Anyway, it was pretty typical, but entertaining. A classic high school movie that deals with the same issues that all the others do, but comes out better than most.
B

FUTURAMA Season 1
I think it’s my favorite animated show. I’ve been watching it like crazy. I know some shows have better episodes here and there, but Futurama collectively outlasts them all. Just funny, ya know?
A

TALADEGAH NIGHTS
Shake and Bake! It aint Anchorman, but it’s mindlessly funny. I don’t know, I’ve always wondered how so many “unfunny” things can find it’s way into a group of such “funny” things. Sacha Baron Cohen (Ali G/Borat) and his accent is fittingly horrible n this film. I laughed multiple times, so I guess I liked it overall.
C+

ALL THE KINGS MEN
Booooring. And I’ve found it’s pretty inaccurate in its portrayal of the events it is “documenting”. I know its only “based” on true events, but if you’re not going to stick to the story, you should at least wow me with entertainment or at least subject matter worth discussing at the water cooler. I mean, why make the movie if it’s just a movie about sorta something…doing sorta nothing? And I’m still unsure why Anthony Hopkins committed suicide. According to the movie he wasn’t really tagged with anything in particular. (I didn’t ruin the movie for you, I saved you 8 dollars.) Sean Penn’s character was pretty interesting.
Ugh.
D+

THE INTERPRETER
Well, I had this written down to comment on a long time ago. Sean Penn was maybe my favorite actor at some point, but he is now stuck with a typecast, in my opinion. His nonchalant mumbling or wild rants have become a little too counter-balanced. I want to see a performance that lies in the middle, and I really need this man to do a comedy…and I what I mean is, a movie that doesn’t make me laugh because it’s sooo horrible, like The Interpreter.
D

HARD CANDY
Does this film rise above the gimmick with the ideas it introduces? I almost turned it off w/in 10 minutes of the film, realizing its gimmick. When the sexual predator becomes the prey, I often lose interest. It’s just not believable. The dialogue is ridden with junior high school moral pamphlets one-liners and phrases. Although, I cannot fault the place from which the script comes, I have to fault the delivery and destination it takes. Just one unbelievable scene and circumstance on top of another. I found it a lazy “purpose” film. One in which someone is trying to make a point and that point is more important than the filmmaking. I believe the point was made, so kudos for that. Although I find it thought provoking, I’d rather save this for some seminar or college forum for dialogue. I think the film does find its purpose, but I wish I wouldn’t have been able to find my wallet when deciding to rent it. note: the front cover of the dvd was so enticing. I’m jealous of how effect it was. Made me pick it up.
C-

THE BLACK DAHLIA
This film noir is a film bore. A clear case of form over function; style over substance. The mom was sooo awesome though. I’m not sure if she was more bad than good, but definitely both. If you were unfortunate as I to see this film, then you know what I mean. I just think cutting people with knives makes people want to watch. I think that’s why I did. I know I was tired when I saw it (I just came from watching The Departed), but this film would have put me to sleep if I was sitting next to the entire cast. This movie was the first scene of Sin City (the worst scene of Sin City) the whole film, but slower and worser. Yes, worser!
D

THE DEPARTED
Everyone loves Martin Scorsese, as they should. I enjoyed the film, but maybe I went in expecting more. Something about it had me detached from the story. I don’t know if it was the film or me. I might have not been alert enough to follow the fragmented story and calculated misdeeds. I didn’t feel as though anything caught me off guard, but I just don’t have much of a reaction to the story as I think about it. If I could pinpoint a reason for this, it might be the editing. I seem to have this problem with many of the Scorsese films. They build up to probable greatness, but then just sorta end like an unfinished jigsaw puzzle. I guess I’ve become accustom to too much resolution and drawn out conclusions. This Scorsese film in particular does have a strong resolution, but it just happens to fast for me. It felt like The Godfather II in some ways, but w/o the strong sense of family. Vera Farmiga was…here it comes, I’m going to say the word…amazing! I do not regret using such a word because it is true. She landed a perfect character. I know the Academy wants to give Scorcese an academy award really badly since they’ve missed their chances to do so to date…but this is not the one that achieves it. At least I hope not. Anyway, if you like Taxi Driver mixed with NYPD Blue, go see this film.
B

LOLITA
Can’t get this story and film out of my mind. I can’t imagine how intense it was when it was released in 1962. How this film was ever released in 1962 is beyond me. Although tasteful, the subject matter just seems too shocking. It’s probably because Stanley Kubrick intelligently towed the line between inappropriateness and substance and the actors made everything seems so comedic and permissible. 3 words for Stanley Kubrick: poetically altered mindscape.
A-

TRISTRAM SHANDY: A COCK & BULL STORY
Pretty funny.
B+

ANNE OF A THOUSAND DAYS
I wish I would have written something about this film when it was fresh in my mind. Let me steal something from imdb.com:
Tagline: He was King. She was barely 18. And in their thousand days they played out the most passionate and shocking love story in history!
Plot Outline: Henry VIII of England discards one wife, Katharine of Aragon, who has failed to produce a male heir, in favor of the young and beautiful Anne Boleyn.
I sorta loved this old picture. I’m actually too tired to write right now. Bye.
B+

Got a couple calls about film reviews, wondering where the new ones have gone. Unfortunately I can't dedicate the time I had been before because I lost my job position where I was viewing most of the films. But, I can let you know about a dvd i just checked.

LENNY
Dustin Hoffman blew me away with his performance as Lenny Bruce, a comic and social "evangelist" of his time. This was his story. All the acting performances were spot on. The lighting and choice of black and white was right on. I was thoroughly delighted and enjoyed every minute of this film. Good to get to know Lenny a bit better too. Interested point being made at the end of the film as well. grade: A
p.s. drugs made my favorite comics, drugs ruined my favorite people.

Oh, I saw this movie in the dollar theater just for the hell of it...just tagging along, ya know?
FIREWALL
(It was either this or go in 45 mins late to Curious George, what was I supposed to do? Just killing time and brain cells.) Ok, never trust a movie that has a dated title. Firewall makes sense in our day and age and the heist was hip to the computer generation, but what happens if we don't have ipods in 30 years or even 15? Modern slang belongs in break dancing movies only. Despite all of this, I enjoyed part of the movie, but couldn't help but thinking the producers decided it couldn't go over 90 minutes and just sawed details and developments off the reel. Harrison Ford made his great constipated sounds and herky-jerky movements. His Fugitive-esque expressions were right on, but most everything else wasn't. The movie moved like an America's Most Wanted skit. But hey, $1 while I waited for an appointment...almost worth it. grade: D

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE 3
Well, they got the Hollywood Blockbuster stuff right. Tom Cruise with big strong funny black guy side-kick, Hot flexible asian doing side-kicking, Stuttering, intelligent English guy (from Shawn of the Dead), Tom Cruise, his totally amazing looking wife, Phillip Seamor Hoffman (probably my favorite actor...he's really great at being mean/angry just see Punch Drunk Love!) and Tom Cruise. Also, surprisingly the main character from Woody Allen's Match Point who must have had his role as mole cut out of the film, cuz he seemed like the guy to hate.
Anyway, I'm not going to knock the film. It was what it set out and portrayed itself to be. I begrudgingly went to see it, but I didn't hate my time in the theater. There were a couple points where I bowed my head in shame and a few moments of nervous laughter when I was embarrassed for the script writers, but I have to say that there was plenty-o-action, and lots of great explosions. The sound effects hurt my ears. Am I getting old? Seriously though, compress those freaking missile jet stream zippy sounds, my ears are still ringing! Anyway, there aren't the twists and turns in the plot that you might hope for, and they're aren't a lot of great moments of dialogue. Plus, the oneliners, although few, were always really horrible. The director of Alias did this film right? Well, that show sucks worst that most so this guy still surpasses all expectation with a C-, which is what I will give the film. And that's being reeeeally nice. maybe C--

ALI G, SEASON 1
Look ladies and guys...if you haven't checked this out you need to hurry before it get's too punchy. Ali G is now doing commercials for the NBA. Hurry up, don't miss the funniest guy in showbiz right now. Borat is my fearless leader!
A (for fans of Christopher Guest a'la Spinal Tap and Waiting For Guffman)

L'Avventura
An Italian film touching on subjects of infidelity and aloofness/riches. A long distance relationship turns into a boating trip, that turns into an investigation, that turns into another romance, that turns into a betryal, that turns into something that i won't mention because it was eeriely touching. This film took major chances back in the day. It was really sexy, the cinematography was really cool, and it speaks truth in a sort of lost way. I know the elements above make it seem like a hack job film, but it was done well and I'm sure set a standard for today. Director Michelangelo Antonioni it won the Jury Prize at the 1960 Cannes Film Festival. I came across this film after seeing this Z Channel documentary which has lead me to see some cool stuff. This picture moves slowly, but it's worth it if you stay patient. I need to grades for this film (on modern and classic standards) A for then, B+ for now.

CURRENTLY, ALL DAVID'S FILM REVIEWS & OTHER SUCH THINGS ARE HOSTED ON MYSPACE. YOU HEAR MUSIC & READ HIS BLOG AT http://www.myspace.com/artforstarters

sunsetalliance.net will be the home for most things as soon as the new look is complete. it looks like things are changing once again. stability is an artform that i have clearly not mastered. keep in touch w/ me. afterbraille@yahoo.com

Also, look for an Art For Starters (post Before Braille)
debut release late this year or early '07. Mucho love, dave

Oscars are over. And I have to admit I was pretty glad that Brokeback didn't win for best film...but it still took home other awards...ugh. I feel bad for Heath Ledger, he may never get another chance at an Oscar, well, unless they do A Knight's Tale 2! ha! Anyway, it's not the concept or subject matter, it just wasn't a great film. Heath was great, the film...pretty ok-good.
Anyway, here are some movies I forgot to mention before when I saw them:
SLUMS OF BEVERLY HILLS
Pretty funny. I gotta tell you I enjoyed most of the film, but once again the female director ended it on a weak tip. Sorry, it just happens too often. Almost every time I'm disappointed in a film in the way I was as I watched this one, I check the credits and it's a female director. Call me prejudice or just specific. Anyway, fun, cute, laughable...all meant in the good and bad way. It's worth seeing for sure, it just had so much potential. Good performances, and awesome menstruation scene. -one benefit of a female director, i guess
B-

BUFFALO '66
I've seen it before, but it was nice to rent and burn. Some of the dialogue in this film is monumental! The humor blows my mind. The acting isn't really noticeable. At times when Vincent Gallo is being ultra comedic the dialogue goes a little overboard, but it still gets a solid laugh. Christina Ricci is awesome. The story and humor is so creative and loose you don't even know you're watching a "romantic comedy". The film becomes totally touching. It's kinda like Sons & Daughters in that way (if you haven't seen the this new sitcom on ABC- Tuesday @ 8pm, i think...then Tivo it or arrange your schedule accordingly. it's the best new show on tv for sure! -ala Arrested Development)

THE BEST OF HE-MAN, SEASON 1, DISC 1
Very glad to get this in my collection. It graces my voicemail greeting right now. Man I loved this cartoon as a kid. I'm still bitter that Mom and Dad never bought me any of the action figures. I'd go over to bratty friends' houses and just stare at their Castle of Grayskull, or their Battle Cat or Man at Arms. I wanted a Battle Cat and Orko so bad, damn it! Skeletor and He-man would have been taken from under my pillow every night and waged the most wicked wars in history all night. I wouldn't have slept a wink. Well, it was nice to have the dvd, but it really needs to be remastered. Strong compression is needed for the sound effects. They're way overboard...well, actually that's kinda awesome. crank it!

North Country
Charlize Theron was really good, but not great. Her supporting actress, the Fargo lady was awesome. The film is so loosely based on the real story that it's not even worth watching. As I watched I thought, "wow, this is really lame stuff to be happening to these ladies and I wouldn't even believe half of it if it wasn't a true story..." well, the events were mostly made up, thus...totally lame. The story fell flat as the characters didn't seem like real villians, but more like boy scouts with wild hormones. Give me a documentary over this crap any day. I admit there are a couple touching moments (town meeting), and Charlize's mother and father's relationship is dramatic and believeable. Overall, it's a puff piece with loosely based facts and a poorly written screenplay.
C-

Le Tour De France: Magnificent 7
Sports highlight film/documentary that covers Lance Armstrong's 7 Tour win in a row. If you like Lance and/or the Tour de France, you'll love it. It's very in depth and intelligent. Coverage and interviews are great and commentary knowledgeable. There are 6 discs in the series, I think. Check em out.

Bad Timing 1980
I saw this a while ago and forgot to write about it. Harvey Keitel and Art Garfunkel star. Harvey is a private investigator who is trying to figure out Garfunkel's relationship with a girl who had been rushed to hospital (won't tell you if she dies or not, cuz that's a major part of the film). Anyway, the film is a bit drawn out, but it pieces together nicely. subjects of love/lust, life/death, rich/poor...can pleasure be purchased, and if so can it be maintained w/o crossing over the lines of caring for another. If you're a patient viewer, it's wroth seeing.
B+

Manufacturing Consent: Noam Chomsky and the Media
gotta go, but this film wasn't a good as it should have been. still, good. just make sure you're wide awake to follow along. i think that was my problem. Noam is a wise man. One should listen to his perspectives.
B

I'm sure my picks will be quite different that the results. I never seem to agree with the academy. Boohoo.
Leading Actor
Philip Seymour Hoffman in “Capote”
Terrence Howard in “Hustle & Flow”
Heath Ledger in “Brokeback Mountain”
Joaquin Phoenix in “Walk the Line”
David Strathairn in “Good Night, and Good Luck”
-Wow, almost impossible to choose. Finally, a solid list of actors that are all deserving. I guess I’ll have to go with Philip Seymour Hoffman, even though this is not his best performance. He was better in Owning Mahoney where he played lead, and his supporting roles in Punch Drunk Love, Magnolia and Almost Famous. PSH has probably been my favorite actor for the last few years. My next pick would be Terrence Howard or Joaquin Phoenix.

Supporting Actor
George Clooney in “Syriana”
Matt Dillon in “Crash”
Paul Giamatti in “Cinderella Man”
Jake Gyllendhaal in “Brokeback Mountain”
William Hurt in “A History of Violence”
-Paul Giamatti has been robbed twice. He was great in the Negotiator (bad movie), and amazing in Sideways. His role here is good, but it’s just like the Academy to nominate someone a year or two after their “oscar worthy” performances. They always play from behind. Anyway, this choice is easy. William Hurt. Holy blew me away! Jake Gyllenhaal is a joke. Donnie Darko and Proof are the only really good performances he’s had. If Clooney gets it, I won’t be too bummed. Matt Dillon is a distant 3rd along with Paul Giamatti.

Leading Actress
Judi Dench in “Mrs. Henderson Presents”
Felicity Huffman in “Transamerica”
Keira Knightley in “Pride & Prejudice”
Charlize Theron in “North Country”
Reese Witherspoon in “Walk the Line”
-Any other year Reese Witherspoon would be holding an Oscar, but unfortunately Felicity Huffman makes too good of a Transsexual. I didn’t see Mrs. Henderson Presents yet, but I doubt any performance in that film could equal Witherspoon or Huffman. Oh, and give a break with Pride & Prejudice. How many times are they going to make that film?

Supporting Actress
Amy Adams in “Junebug”
Catherine Keener in “Capote”
Frances McDormand in “North Country”
Rachel Weisz in “The Constant Gardener”
Michelle Williams in “Brokeback Mountain”
-Another list that has all deserving winners, but no performance equals that of Amy Adams in Junebug. She carried that film even when it didn’t need carrying. Frances McDormand would have probably got my vote if it were not for her similar performance in Fargo. Still, if she won it (and she won’t), I’d be fine with that. Constant Gardener girl had a great performance too, but her character kinda bugged me.

Best Animated Film
Come on, like you need a list. Tim Burton made an animated film this year. Easy choice. Note: I don’t really watch animated films, so you can take my comments for what they’re worth. I don’t know where Sin City fits in, but it was partly animated and partly genious.

Best Director
Ang Lee, “Brokeback Mountain”
Bennett Miller, “Capote”
Paul Haggis, “Crash”
George Clooney, “Good Night, and Good Luck.”
Steven Spielberg, “Munich”
-This is an easy choice. Bennett Miller for Capote. The others were alright. In fact, I don’t think any of the others would have even been on my list of top 5. PT Anderson should have made a film this year.

Best Feature Documentary
Darwin’s Nightmare
Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room
March of the Penguins
Murderball
Street Fight
-Shame on me, I didn’t see all of these yet. Still, how could you beat out the universally appealing March of the Penguins. Murderball was moving, Enron was enlightening, but Penguins captured it all.

Achievement in Film Editing
Cinderella Man
The Constant Gardener
Crash
Munich
Walk the Line
-Well, they missed the one that would have won it for me. March of the Penguins first, Match Point second, and Syriana third. I might choose Crash or Munich for this one, but both movies had a lot of writing flaws for me. Walk the Line ended too poorly. And dude, where the hell is Sin City on this list?!!

Best Foreign Film
Don’t Tell, Italy
Joyeux Noel, France
Paradise Now, Palestine
Sophie Scholl – The Final Days, Germany
Tsotsi, South Africa
-I’m embarrassed to say that I haven’t seen any of them. I’ll have to catch up w/ Netflix. Weird that Cache was ignored.

Original Score
Brokeback Mountain, Gustavo
The Constant Gardener, Alberto Iglesias
Memoirs of a Geisha, John Williams (didn’t see it)
Munich, John Williams
Pride & Prejudice, Dario Marianelli
-Personally, I think it should go to Grizzly Man. Brokeback Mountain sounded a lot like it, but wasn’t as good. I think my vote would go to The Constant Gardener, but I have to admit that I need to pay more attention to the score because none of these really jumped out at me while watching. I guess the good ones don’t.

Original Song
-I would probably choose the Hustle in Flow song, even though it was the worst of the bunch from the film. There were 2 others that were better. “Whoop That Trick” and a song that I can’t remember the title was best, something like “My Life” or “My Day” or something.

Best Motion Picture
Brokeback Mountain
Capote
Crash
Good Night, and Good Luck
Munich
-Don’t believe the hype on Brokeback. It was pretty good at best. Crash rubbed me wrong because it was too unbelievable and ended up saying nothing. I’m going to see it again though. Since I’ve seen it, I kinda feel like it wasn’t trying to pinpoint anything, it was just showing complexities, so I’ll give it another chance. Sandra Bullock seriously deserved a nomination for her supporting role though(yes, I am serious). Munich was too preachy, and GN&GL was too uneventful cinematically for a perceived “event” in history. Capote was magic, bu I gotta tell you that it would have been the only film that I would’ve had on this list of five. My nominees would have been Match Point, Junebug, March of the Penguins, Proof, and Capote. A strong runner up would have been The Squid and The Whale.

Adapted Screenplay
Brokeback Mountain, Larry McMurty & Diana Ossana (please! enough already!)
Capote, Dan Futterman
The Constant Gardener, Jeffrey Caine
A History of Violence, Josh Olson
Munich, Tony Kushner and Eric Roth
-Capote. The problems I had with all those other films were the screenplays. The stories were all great.

Original Screenplay
Crash, Paul Haggis & Bobby Moresco
Good Night, and Good Luck, George Clooney & Grant Heslov
Match Point, Woody Allen
The Squid and the Whale, Noah Baumbach
Syriana, Stephen Gaghan
-I have to apologize to the Squid & The Whale because I was down with it for sure. Match Point wins this Oscar very easily for me. It was probably my favorite film this year. Crash will probably win due to the whole race relations-thing. Woody Allen always gets screwed, but he probably deserves it.

If they so kindly allow, the remaining members of Before Braille will let me continue posting film reviews on here until I get a new sunsetalliance.net page up and running. As soon as I do that, I will have all of them on "Dave's Corner" or something of that sort. I'll be sure to post a link here and on the before braille links page...again, if B4B kindly allows.

I won't have much to say do to my time, but off I go anyway...
JUNEBUG
I could have done w/o the "tough guy" from the OC. It was hard for me to get by thinking, "oh, it's the OC kid with a mustache and a poor southern accent." Bad southern accents don't get by me, sorry. I grew up there and I spent some time trying to get rid of mine when I moved to AZ. Anyway, contrary to that, the interactions between the characters were truly "southern" and gave the film its value. The conversations, the slang, the dominate mother and wise but quiet & loving father, the nosey neighbors, and talkative children...and the character flaws were believeable. Don't read this next part if you hate any idea about endings...but I have to say that I feel the ending was very believeable. The resolution wasn't complete, but it was a light shift in mood and behavior...and like "fault"lines, that's what brings commanding, solid change.
A-

THE KING OF COMEDY
As in Taxi Driver, Robert Dinero masterfully handles the uncomfortable "ticking time-bomb" qualities/short comings of his character. There no surprise that Martin Scorcese is directing. Dinero's character wants to be a comedy legend and will stop at nothing to do so. Problem is, he is unwilling to go through the proper channels and is without any experience outside of that which exists in his own mind and his mother's basement where he performs for his fake audience. It's not Taxi Driver, but it does resemble such an achievement. Consider this the PG version. And if you're a fan of the old school, you'll enjoy many of the actors who throw down great performances.
A-

ENRON: THE SMARTEST GUYS IN THE ROOM
One must see films like this. To think what we as people are capable of when focused on our "unrighteous desires." Eye-opening. Upsetting. Not the monster documentary that "The Corporation" is, but this documentary cleverly digs into the pit that Enron sunk into. Lets hope that if not in this world, the next will give these horrible opportunists and their clan the justice they deserve...I imagine it will be a much deeper and darker pit.
B+
p.s. this film is R for some bad language and for creating a "setting" with a strip joint. You will see a couple sets of boobies and catch a few Fbombs. Skip that part. Whether the storm. Be educated in this subject.

MUNICH
This filmed moved much too much like an opinion piece about the current unrest of the world due to terrorism and retaliation. I also found it difficult to watch a film about what I felt was the "B" story; the reaction of the terrorist murders of the 12 (I think it was 12) Israeli atheletes at the Munich games in 1972. I've seen a couple documentaries on the subject. I found them to be quite interesting. Munich, directed by Steven Spielberg, is a film about hunting down those who planned the Olympic murders. It had some backdated clips of that horrid event, and those ended up being the shining moments of the film. Although the reactionary story he tells is one worth knowing, I would have been more interested in a film about Munich, not post-Munich. I realize that the film was showing comparisions of extremist activists by each side (The Jews and the extremist-Muslims), but it was much too fair in its perception of the extremists on the Muslim's side. You can compare Muslims and Jews, but you cannot compare extremist Muslims and Jews who are acting extremely because they just had their top atheletes murdered at the Olympics.
B-

CAPOTE
I'm running late, so I have to go. I may say more about this film later. It's a must-see. Maybe my favorite of the year.
A

TRANSAMERICA
Great performances, but the one-liners got a little silly and the story wasn't totally believeable. Oscar for sure goes to the desperate housewife lady.
B

SEVEN UP/7 Plus Seve 1964
Documentary. Enjoyable. Cute when they were kids.
B

HUSTLE & FLOW
I was wrong about this film. I finally gave it a chance and really enjoyed it. Very entertaining. It had some weaknesses, but there is a bathroom scene that i loved, and i have to admit i was feeling the flow when they first started tracking. 'My Life' and 'Whoop That Trick' are hot tracks. Terrence Howard was great, and his studio engineer guy was good. The sluts were a bit unbelievable at times, but I was fully down with the white slut, both her character and her hotness. I've been into freckles lately. Anyway, that neither here nor there. I totally recommend the film if you're looking for easy, but solid entertainment. And it's not very graphic as the story suggests.
A-

CHRONICLES OF NARNIA
Holy Horrible!
Not even good for children. Ugh!
F

I want to make a list of movies to skip. I was inspired by Chumscrubber, which contrary to what the film related, I would have thought meant: "wiener cleaner."

CHUMSCRUBBER
Nice try, but totally over the top. Over portrayal, over acting, horrible direction, unbelieveable story, wanna-be stylish, after school special. The intro of the film was cool, but I should have turned it off when I first thought to 5 minutes in when I noticed the director clearly takes his audience for idiots...or is an idiot himself. Don't see any films my Arie Posin
F+

MELINDA AND MELINDA
EDUKATORS
SARABAND
CARANDIRU
KINDOM OF HEAVEN
BOONDOCK SAINTS

kinda in a rush. forgive me. (note: i think my grades in the past were far too generous, i'll be more conscious of that.)

THUMBSUCKER
This film started in a very funny way for me. For some reason each frame of the film would sit without sound or movement, and then the frames would advance for 10 seconds and then pause again. I just chalked it down as the artistic nature of the film and patiently viewed. After 20 minutes or so, I thought..."man, I can respect someone trying something different, but working the overnight shift, I need much more pleasure for my senses to keep me awake!" So, I decided to take out the dvd and put a new one in...but just to be sure I skipped to the next chapter of the film...to find full sound and traditional film making. I skipped back to what I was watching before and found that the disk must have been dirty or something, because the movie flowed like any other. I got through the same amount of viewing in 3 minutes that took me about 20 minutes before...and the actors were actually speaking. Man, I'm such a dork. See, that's what movies like Brown Bunny do to a guy. You just suspect that the movie sucks on purpose and you patiently await the awesome ending.
Anyway, Thumbsucker unfortunately did not have an awesome ending. The film built lots of great tension similar to Donnie Darko meets Elephant, and humor like I Heart Huckabees meets Rushmore. Performances were good, the story was good...but the film turned out like a WB teen movie. The way moods would swing within moments or days was totally unbelieveable. People would make life-changes and go back to other drastic changes like the flip of the coin. I could be missing the point. Maybe that's what is being said, but personally I don't like the idea that epiphanies and come and go and re-invent a character so quickly without there being any major adverse affects. It would be like having a sex change...then changing back. Yes, it's possible, but you expect some emotional baggage would eventually need to be unpacked for the character to feel comfortable in their own skin again.
I think I'm finding I don't like most female directors. Films like "Me and You and Everyone We Know", like this one always have such an unbelieveable "unicorn factor" that just makes me detach from the story. In a Unicorn Factor, relationships move more like they do when you "play" house rather than live in one. I lump this film into that category.
Still, there were some great points of humor and the story had some real value in subjects of confidence, peer pressure, and medicating our youth. (think Bart Simpson vs "Focusin"). I was very entertained, the movie just moved too quickly to find resolution, and too many "cute", "emo" scene ala' Garden State. (ugh!) High School girls will LOVE this movie.
Also, it's not very inspiring to me to have directors on the look out for material to make a film...and having their agents or friends seeking ideas. The bonus features told the story about how the director and producers came across the book, "Thumbsucker" and how they chose to make it their new project. I don't know, I just don't think that makes for the blood and guts honesty that a great film needs. The film definitely moved like a good team with a borrowed ball.
C+

GRIZZLY MAN
I've always felt a good documentary shows footage of subject matter they're dicussing. If a character on the show goes on the dating game, there needs to be a clip of that in the documentary, and possibly the whole show as a dvd bonus feature. An interesting emotionally awkward character deals with his own weaknesses amoung the wild. It soon catches up with him, but so would have the demons if he didn't do something he believed in. Interesting film. Interesting character. Respectfully done. with the footage the filmmaker had to work with, he did a fine job. the music was great, and worth the seperate mini-film documenting it. (although sound from the final encounter w/ the Grizzly's could have been tastefully and epically done...poor show in not including it. i felt that's what this film was all about.) B (coulda been A+) (*more info on that sound recording from the final encounter...don't read this if you don't want to know any specifics about the film...the main character of the film was eaten by a grizzly. he was quick minded enough to turn on his camcorder, but obviously didn't have time to take off the lense cap. the entire frenzy was recorded. there is a scene of the movie that has the director listening to this recording, and loosely commenting on it as he listened. I think the guy recorded it to be heard. and what an amazing and eye/ear opening event. it should have at least been on bonus features...or at least clips...not for sensationalizing, but for reality, intrige, and education.)

SARABAND
Ingmar Bergman got lazy with this one. This film moved like a low budget play. Tons of overdramatic dialogue with very little movement. Characters were somewhat complex. I like they their truest conflicts were the ones less touch upon and subtly given...but I just couldn't handle the way the characters interacted with one another. You don't share your deepest feelings with someone you barely know, even if you're just venting. Details remain with perfect strangers and bossom buddies, not distant family members. I don't know. They all seemed like assholes to me. I can't feel drama for people who deserve their pain. The film was just lazy. Could have been written and produced in a month. Each time a character would go into their reasons for hating life, the camera would get closer and closer to their faces..."drawing us in". All I really noticed is that some people can go a long time without blinking. Uninspired work to me. The relationship between daugther and widower was the highlight of the film...and seeing and old, naked, fat man take off his robe.
D

EDUKATORS
Ok, again, assholes are hard to care for. Troubled youth decide to take out their misguided frustrations on rich people to teach them a lesson to care about others and stop being so wrapped up in themselves. I don't know what it was meant, but it was pretty ironic that the kids were guilty of the same...only they used their lack of money as an excuse for retaliation rather than service for others. The film was what a german emo kid would write. Hateful relationships, with somewhat of a resolution without having a resolution. Which world war will this film inspire?
C-

THE DINNER GAME
French comedy. Very much like a play, all Abbott and Costello style. Maybe more like Jerry Lewis and what's-his face. Anyway, amusing, but pretty far fetched. Affluent scholars find imbeciles to invite to a dinner party each week to amuse themselves. Unfortunately, the concept was more interesting that the final product. The story never made it to the dinner, and the imbecile ends up thwarting the dinner plan, and every other plan he came upon, inadvertantly...only to show that he probably deserved to be at the dinner to receive the ridicule. "Ah-oh!" "Doight!"
C+

MELINDA AND MELINDA
Lazy. Lazy. Lazy. From the genious who brought us Play It Again Sam, Deconstructing Harry, Crimes and Punishment, etc...Woody Allen, you better hope Match Point is good, cuz even I, your loyal follower, am bored by you. Poor acting mixed with poor story telling. Two stories are being told simultaneously...one comedic, one tragic. I noticed some minor tragedy being told, but other than a couple spoonfuls of sugar provided by Will Ferrell, i'm still looking for the comedic side of the tale. The only real tragedy was making this film. It kinda drives me crazy to see scenes of guys at a blacktop basketball court in the slums of manhattan "shootin hoops" and the ball they are using was clearly purchased from Kmart 10 minutes before the scene was shot. Bright orange ball sticking out like a sore thumb. It's that kind of laziness that I can't take in a film. Freaking borrow some ragged ball from some kids at the court for 10 minutes and shoot your stupid scene already. Don't make us accept poor props so you can fill in your over-sensualized dialogue. Ugh! Woody Allen is like a punk band. He releases films as fast as he can write them. The end up all being the same film, and you might as well just stick to the old stuff. (we'll see if Match Point can disprove this theory)
D

MATCH POINT
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A+

JUNEBUG
A-

THE SQUID & THE WHALE
Well, all I really need to say is that this film was produced by Wes Anderson of Royal Tennebaums/Life Aquatic/Rushmore/Bottle Rocket fame. The film moves with a similar speed and comical artistry. It got a little hoakie, but overall quite entertaining and dramatically funny. Somewhat dark, mostly grey-comedy.
A-

BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN
Ok, You would hope that by 2005 a film wouldn't still be able to garner critical acclaim just because 2 hollywood stars take a "risk" and partly "get it on" in the film. "Two-homo-thumbs up!" Enough already! So, I hoped I would be proved wrong in thinking this is why "The Academy" chose to make Brokeback Mountain it's babe at its recent award ceremony...but unfortunately I wasn't. Another case of form over function, press release over content. The film was good. Keith Ledger was great. I'm beginning to think Donnie Darko was a fluke for Jake Gyllenhall. Poor showing for the boy. You have an englishman out-classing his southern accent 10-fold! Anyway, there are some key theatrical events and cinematography that should draw one's attention. The score was really great too. (althouth Grizzly Man has it beat in my mind). I can appreciate the story (or "predicament"), and I enjoyed the film. Pretty good tension and a GREAT moment in which Ledger gets his final postcard...the following events of the film are pretty awesome (especially the "he got a flat tire" phone call and imagery). I wish I could go on, but I'm late for work.
B-

I should probably keep a diary about music or this band, but whatever. Seems like I touch too many buttons when I write the diaries, so a movie log is cool, right? (note: I'm not a critic. I barely know what I'm talking about. These are just my thoughts based on my likes/dislikes)

MILLIONS
The kids were adorable. The images and "ghost interventions" were delightful. The movie was lame.
C-

KING KONG
A royal King Dong.
Well, I can't say for sure. I only lasted about 30 minutes. I hated it to that point. I might go back and try to sit through the 3hrs, 7mins when there is nothing better to see...but not anytime soon. I hate seeing movies while they're "hot". I thought I was going to avoid talkative, crying kids by going to the latest showing this last time...but nope. Man, I hate going to see movies with people around. They chomp on their popcorn, slurp their straws, crackle their wrappers, answer their phones, carry on complete conversations with their friends, run in and out of the theater, take their infants, crying babies...and the worst...sit their 2-10 year old kids in a PG-13 movie. AHHHHHHHH!!!! What's wrong with people! Why would you have your 5 year old with you at a PG-13 movie until 1am?! There should be an age minimum for these films, even with your parents, like 10years old. The worst thing is, the kids are sometimes better behaved than their parents. I want to open a theater one day. I will have ushers...you say a word and we take you out of the theater, into the alley and beat the stuffings out of you. then we bring you back in to make an example of you. So yeah, King Dong.

BLOOD SIMPLE
The Coen Brothers first film. I don't know about anyone else, but I wonder if anyone has had the experience of sensing desire of the directors/writers/producers in their early films. Just the kind of wide-eyed hunger that the great ones have early early in their careers. This film was a great example. The Coen Brothers seem like they still have that hunger, but it has been no more exemplified than in this film. It's just an exciting movie to see. Great tension. Great film.
A

KINGDOM OF HEAVEN
Pretty accurate to what I know from many documentaries about the Crusades and the battle for Jerusalem. Problem is...they introduced stories and people far too quickly. Good battle scenes, but a hollywood mess. Watching the dvd with "pop-ups" enabled (some feature they have that gives info about the life and times of that age) makes the film a B. It's totally sweet. The film itself...blah, humbug.
D+

SYRIANA
Not as hard to follow as I expected. Like 'Traffic', it gives great conflict and dialogue and "real life" scenes...ya know, believable shite. But, it just wasn't good. I cared little for the characters, just kinda bummed out that the world portrayed in this film is so depressing and unfair. A believable portrayal, a sad tale.
B-

I have a feeling I'll be seeing a number of films in the next couple weeks. I've got my eye on Syriana, King Kong, The Family Stone, The New World, Match Point, Munich, and The Producers. I'll probably update this blog as I hit the theaters. Maybe try to catch a "triple feature" or two.

THE FAMILY STONE:
Awkward, quirky, but worked for me. I was afraid it was going to get Chevy Chase "fall guy" style on me, but it worked its way out of it. I thought it was going to turn into some "Serendipi" romance mess, but worked its way out of it. I then thought the film was going to make some kind of ethic/racial/homosexual statement, but worked its way out of it as well. This film brilliantly danced around a number of intimate and serious topics to turn out to be...just a fine entertaining movie. Funny and thoughtful...and maybe a little too resolving...but entertaining. It didn't need to, to be worth my money, but the film almost turned out to be incredibly great. Still, a way above average holiday film that I wouldn't mind having around for xmas viewing...maybe it'll get that Chevy Chase guy off the tube!
C+

Here's a couple recommendations:
THE SADDEST MUSIC IN THE WORLD
Awkwardly genious. Shot to look like it was in the era of silent movies, which that point alone feeds to the genious of the plot which is about mood and it's affects within music and life (and how they are related) versus silence. An affluent beer company mogule has the ingenious idea to have a competition between all the cultures of the world to see who can create the saddest music in the world. Many people have many different ways to show sadness as well as hide it. Music does too. Watch this movie and see some.
p.s. A story in which the following takes place...A woman loses her legs from a car accident after a man "comes to her aid" and saws off the wrong one to cut her free from the wreckage, and then the same man tries to get back into her good gracies by making beautiful legs of glass filled with beer from the company she owns for her to walk and dance again...is one worth check out, right?! Wow!
A-

BARAKA
Gotta be in the right mood for this, no doubt...or have a huge screen you can show it on during an opening at one's art gallery...either way, this film looks and sounds aaaaamazing. A documentary showing history and lives of people and cinematography that can blow most away.
B+ (cuz it's pretty boring if you try to sit through the whole thing)

Z CHANNEL:
Before HBO, Showtime, Skinemax and the rest, there was Z Channel. It gave a voice to independent film and did so by being viewed within the houses of those in the LA area. If you're an independent movie buff and you like tragedy, check out this documentary. Let me also say that this film has interviews with some of the greatest directors of our time, as well as great film critics and artists. It speaks about influencial films for them, and how they were first introduced to them. Z Channel was like the film channel that saved lost masterpieces and brought real, quality film to the people...boy do we need a channel like that today. The documentary turns out to question moral importance a bit as well when you find out the tragic event in which that the Channel's director, Jerry Harvey is involved.
B-
----
CARANDIRU
Brazil's Sao Paulo House of Detention is among the largest (and most severely overcrowded) prisons in South America. In October 1992, the deplorable conditions led to a massive riot that killed 111 unarmed inmates. This chilling drama tells the story of a group of those prisoners as seen through the eyes of a doctor who attended to many of the riot victims. (I stole that from Netflix). A documentary of this film woulda been better. I liked it, but I had to forgive the way they would go into the life stories of the innmates. And to be honest, I didn't mind so much when the inmates were massacred. Most were murderers and rapists and continuing those same acts while they were in prison. A deplorable act by the state? -yes. Understandable? -ummmmaybe. Some of the changed or less-severe criminals were no doubt caught up in the madness and that's a real shame. Again, maybe it's because the film was sorta cheesy in the way it displayed the stories so I couldn't really feel for any of the characters. Overall, this film has good stories, it just needed a better story teller.
C-

MUDERBALL
That's what they used to call Quad-Rugby or Wheel Chair Rugby, which is probably one of the most inspiring sports I've witnessed. These guys play for life. Atheletes who have chosen to go beyond their expectation and turn their frustration to motivation. Imagine strapping some of the heaviest competitors into chairs and let them go at each other...add in some great background stories that lead up to the competition, and a totally awesome animated sequence of one of the character's dream (a guy who caught a blood disease as a small child and had his legs and half of his arms aputated...often dreams of flying). The US and Canada are the worlds premier teams and they meet up often in this film to try to best one another. This film follows them through world championships and the 2004 Olympics in Greece. It's not as much of a sports film as it is a film of competition, and it's not as much of a documentary as it is a drama. It's just a great film and it brings life...to life.
A

HAPPY ENDINGS
Maggie Gyllenhall has a great voice. I loved listening to it. It's about the only thing about her well played character than I liked. What an evil little lady. I found it to be about decisions and consequences and the good things that may come by seemingly awful ones. "Endings" are inevitable. They don't have to be "the end." Learn about yourself. Don't give up. Hang in there, just be honest and strong. Happy endings will likely come.
B++

BOONDOCK SAINTS
I heard so many things about this movie that I expected it to be great. I can't say that I trusted the sources that much, but they were just so adament about how fabulous this movie was. Man, I just gotta say that it was pretty painful to watch. The language was horrible and didn't work like Tarantino would make it work. The "stunts" were so incredibly fake, and all the tough guy stuff was just cheesy. This movie went like a teenager's first date. It had to be an unexperienced director trying to do and say too much until every word and action was forced and uncomfortable. Ultimately nothing came from this film. Unless you think Ranbo with Irish dialogue could go somewhere. A great disappointment...much like my first date.
D (props to a couple cute ideas, even though unproperly directed)

I don’t have a lot of time to “review” these films very well, but I’ll try to at least note something. I aint no qualified critic, just interested and like to spread the word.

The Weatherman- Entertaining. Kinda like a “multi-purpose” film. What I mean by that is, it covers many elements of a good feature so that it would be universally entertaining to many. Got drama, got comedy, got suspense, got milk?
Anyway, I could relate to elements of the story, so maybe that’s why the high grade. The small sub-plot with the son and his counselor was probably more interesting than any other.
B+

Jarhead. Ok, an uni-purpose film. War really sucks. No duh. This film is a real disappointment for the director to “American Beauty.” I mean, WTF? I guess we can chalk it down as a good attempt. War movies are nearly impossible to pull off in my opinion. Some interesting elements, and the "time counter" was great (you'll know what i mean when/if you see it). C

The History of Violence: Entertaining if you just wanna see a few good scenes of violence and a couple average stories within a simple plot. I mean, I didn’t mind watching. C-

Walk The Line: It’s a shame when a film can be billed as one of Johnny Cash’s life and 13 year old are allowed to see it. Dude lived a rated R life, don’t give me Hollywood endings and Hollywood stories. I liked it, but I expected to love it. Good performances though. And the lead acting/singing was pimp. Overall it was mostly enjoyable, but the last 5 minutes were horrible. C+

LAST DAYS: Gus Van Sant has a way with offering glympses of "real life" thru his methods of filming portions of "real time." Successfully achieved in "Elephant" (film inspired by Columbine events), it was a near miss in "Last Days." The vibe created by the performances, the music (much of which created by the actors and performed live) set up this film to be great. Unfortunately, nothing happened. I think Van Sant may have accomplished what he had intended, but maybe the drawing board should have been more expansive. When you pattern a film after the last days of Kurt Cobain you should offer something that isn't already clearly know. In contracts, there was oo mystery or intrigue here, as surrounded Cobain's death...but maybe that was the point?? --A lonely man, unhappy, confused man with a drug habit and a lost desire for creation probably doesn't do much during his last days other than seclude, elude, and eventually...if shut off long enough, end his own suffering. A thread of intrigue did subtly exist...apparently one of the friends staying on the Cobain grounds wanted Kurt to have his own time alone, and was aware of a shotgun Kurt had. I guess I just wish this film was called LAST WEEKS, so we could have an idea how and why the gun was there(much more info about this sort of thing exists in the documentary "Kurt & Courtney"-recommended!), and why Kurts seclusion was enabled. In spite of its cinematography, anti-rock stature, and great performances, "Last Days" does not site better than average to me. A prequel would be appreciated. I'd be willing to sit through the "real time" that seems to be so popular with all hip directors now. Just give me some content. You don't have to be "24" with a dramatic event every second, just remind me that I actually watch film for entertainment. C-

BENJAMIN SMOKE: Singer, lyricist and poet from the slums of Atlanta in his dying days. After abusing drugs and any other sensational form of "pick me up", we are left to see Benjamin, of the band Smoke, as course as the leathery skin covering his cross-dressing, homosexual body. Ignoring the negative impact of drugs and lifestyle, Benjamin has a slew of quotable phrases and ideologies to stretch the perspective and imagination like taffy. Only to find that like all rationales, they always tear apart in the "end". Fortunately, the music & words of this torchered soul/creative mind, and the sonically sensitive musicians who gathered him, remain. Jem Cohen (he did the Fugazi docu-video too) and friends capture the story well, although I feel the story ended before the film did. Jem's editing assistant should ahve cut out the last 7-10 minutes of this film and concluded with the mystical words/poetic observations of Patti Smith and you have your tightly knit docu-drama with the perfect ending, creating a great relationship with the intro. But hey it's just an opinion, I'm not Jem Cohen. C+ (otherwise B+)

OK, So I've pretty much cut out all TV. I just give about and hour or so to whatever film i get in the mail from Netflix. Man, I've seen a lot, but I haven't had a lot time to review them...so here is the latest group with a quick note and grade by them.

RIDING GIANTS: Peralta follows up Dogtown with this greatest show on water. So well done, too. A-

THIN BLUE LINE: Being on Death Row for a crime you didn't commit has got to be one of the worst adjustments the human body and mind would have to make. See the details behind this case. A 70's documentary that rates up there with those of Paradise Lost, etc. A

THE CONTROL ROOM: See what journalism from the side of Al Jazeera looks like. Or more specifically, what the war in Iraq looks like with a much wider lense. It was great to view this angle, but I'm not sure how slanted it may or may not have been. Still, great truths abound. And I got one of my favorite quotes from the head of Al Jazeera (sorta like CNN of the Middle East) "History is written by the victors." A-

THE BROWN BUNNY: It's not fair to expect a film as good as Buffalo 66 each time that what's his face decides to make one. But this one could have been accomplished in a couple days with very little brainstorming and effort. I don't know. If you can sit through the drive sequences, you might catch yourself enjoying it, or at least feel for the characters. C

ME AND YOU AND EVERYONE WE KNOW: Trying way too hard, but still mostly entertaining and thoughtful at times. C+

SCARED STRAIGHT: Kinda what Maury Povich or some other talk show host tries to do when they send "troubled" youth to jail for a day to see if it will change them. This documentary captured the idea when it was fresh and more constructive. Cellmates try to convince the kids that this life was not for them...then Danny Glover (huh?) follows up on their lives today. Film made in late 70's and rereleased with bonus features/follow up in late 90's. May have been cutting edge then, but plays more like an after-school special now. B-

GATES OF HEAVEN. Same documentarian who did Thin Blue Line...forgot his name. A much less serious, and more fun approach about Pet Cemetaries...the owner/operaters and those who bury their pets. There is a 3-4 minute interview with a bitter, aging lady that makes this film worth watching. The rest has high points, but remains sorta "blah". C+

next up...Gus Van Sants "Last Days"!

I only comment by my own tastes of film. I understand that I'm just a fan and no expert. Also, it looks as though I grade films very easily when you see so many A's and B's...but it's because I'm usually efficient at picking out movies that are to my liking. (and note: expect typos! i watch much intently than I type.)

BROKEN FLOWERS
Being somber and sad doesn't do it for me when you don't seem to have a reason. Or even if you have a reason, you're too lethargic and apathetic to care. Some real intensity at times, and spare humor kept me interested to the end, but the drive sequences were more boring than effective. I don't know why Bill Murray went on the adventure to track down a child that he may or may not have "fathered", but by his journey's end his character sure didn't discover any sort of wisdom to impart. I guess the appealing aspect of the film for me is...if you aren't doing something with a full heart, you can't expect it to fill itself on it's own...and same goes if you start a film without a full story. C

TEAM AMERICA: WORLD POLICE
Expect it to be pretty annoying, I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that it was, but still funny. The depiction of Kim Jong Ill and Alan Baldwin was as hallarious as any parity I've seen. Taking shots at current events and those who try to shape them, and hitting the mark. A little gross at times, but quite entertaining. If you don't like poking fun at stereotypes, don't see this film. But, if you're down to see puppets taking on the "leftist" hollywood, terrorism, and making wild love while saving the world in the process of destroying it...all for the good of our "great" country...this film is for you. A-

MARCH OF THE PENGUINS
I can't believe the length in which these Emperor Penguins went to create and maintain life...and captured beautifully by amazing images and fine narration by Morgan Freeman. This intimate view at the animal kindom is as cool as the temperatures. I was way into it. Damn those talkative, rude brats who keep coming in and out of the theater with no regard to anyone. This is the 2nd time I've had a horrible experience at Superstition Springs 25 and I'm not going back. Anyway, the film was great even with the interruptions. Real life and further understanding films better than almost any feature. Done well, and you have a masterpiece of cinema. Ok, here I go with my dramatic nature again. Sorry. A

DARK DAYS
An adverturous Brit follows a bum under the tracks in Manhattan to find the hidden underworld that people often mention but don't quite believe. Immersing himself in the filth and in the people, he gains the respect of those who not only live there, but do so in a relatively reasonable manner. They decide to document their lives and eventually become discovered by Amtrak workers. See what happens before, during, and after that. Not the best documentary, but done well enough to capture some pretty amazing stuff. Ambitious for this first time director/producer/film maker and his "homeless" crew. (dude they even tap into the electricity and have light and running water down there!) It's so great to hear the moral issue these people discuss and their methods of making a "living." See, real life captured well is always awesome. A- (note: the story about the 'making of' and the bonus features are just as good or better than the film)

ASSASINATION OF RICHARD NIXON
Say what you want about Sean Penn, but he certainly has the "poor ole me" role mastered. Penn carries his desperate character through the morals and questions of ethics like an maid carries a feather duster...quite naturally. The dilemma of a man who is losing everything...life, family, etc in realization of a new ideology on the complexities of human interaction and social and financial injustices. His soul is torchered, especially by the interactions with his past employeers, and he feels he needs to take it out on the president. (The government is always to blame, right? Wrong.) Anyway, I found myself agreeing with the poor man, only his ideas on how to deal with his demons are quite misguided. Based on a true story and sorta in the vein of Taxi Driver, this film was overlooked like 21 Grams...because it was just too good for the masses. If the Interpreter was a disappointment for you (as it should have been), this should make up for it by having much of the tension that the forgettable summer blockbuster attempt had. A-

ROSEMARY'S BABY
Why it took me so long to get around to seeing this picture, I don't know...but it was well worth the wait. If nothing else, the look, the fashion, the dialogue, the performances were all quite appealing. Roman Polanski never has trouble with this sort of thing. He obviously only has trouble with the little ladies he seeks after...but I digress. Suspense and fraud. I told a friend about this movie almost frame for frame and it made me like it more...especially by the terrified reaction I got. A lesson in eerie film making. Subtly to the T. And a moral question to end it all in a virgin-mary fashion. I can't imagine seeing this film when it was released in the 60's. I would have lost my mind. Anyway, even today it was pretty intense. A

HELL HOUSE
What the Hell?! This documentary is about as good as they get. It is for sure in my top 10. The reason is because of the content and subject matter. I was turned on to this fright-flick by my dear friend David J of Novi Split. He talked about it on tour and I couldn't believe I hadn't seen it. It's about one of those over-zealous Christian churches who diving into really "explicit" churchy stuf like speaking in tongues. I mean this group of folks really take the gloves off for Jesus. You know the type...they get tatooes of the crucifix, and forget all--so long as you "accept" Christ and be "born again." So anyway, these folks throw their 10th annual haunted house that they have given the name "Hell House" and to the delight of anyone, it is documented. Scenes of rape, homosexuality, drinking/driving, etc. acted out by very dramatic teens who try to show their horrors of these immoral activities. At the end of experience you are invited to either be on your own and risk damnation by exiting door 1, or follow the spirit and see what's behind the curtain?
Oh man, just the questions of moralitly, tolerance, religious, Jesus and the rest are interesting enough. But scenes of kids going through their acting try-outs and rehearsals, and seeing people being "overwhelmed by the spirit" and speaking in tongues only adds to the already enlightening and entertaining jubilee. Again, seeing people dealing with different versions of truth and watching the directions they choose to take those portions of truth makes for some great discussions and 'damn' good viewing. A+

PALINDROMES
Todd Solondz has created one of the most stirring films ever made, in Happiness. Because of this example of genius, added to other evidence "Welcome to the Dollhouse" and "Storytelling", it's what I have come to expect. When I see a film like Palindromes I expect to be sucked in (or scared in) right away. I was. The way in which Solondz tackles moral dilemmas and stigmas is without comparison. In this film he chooses to use mulitple actors to play the part of the same character. I couldn't decide if this was a way to show that the trials and desires of that character are shared by many, or if the problems the character faced can be realized by all races and ages, or if it was done for the reason explained at the end of the film by the accused child molestor. I won't give it away, but if you want to hear my presumptious moral of the story you can try to reach my voicemail and catch the defining soundbyte. When thinking back on this film, I enjoy it much more, espcially when the main character runs into a compound of handicapped children run by "Mama Sunshine" and joins their gospel-pop singing group...but overall I felt this film isn't as fabulous as Solondz's highly regarded predecessors. B (p.s. if you're disheartened by the subject of abortion, pro or con, avoid this one.)

AMELIE
After surviving years of hype and beckonings to see this film, I finally got around to it. I don't know what caused me to browse over it for so long, but the day finally came for me to watch it. I started it in the home of Joe Troy (RXB bassist and joke-man...dude is hallarious!) and decided I was too tired to watch intently(my little sign of respect to quality films). So, I waited a month or so to try again. I started from the beginning while alert, and I'm glad I did. I don't think I could have sat through this whole film if I wasn't wide awake. It was about a cute as a film can be (a good thing in this case), and pretty imaginative...but it struck me more like Martha Steward creative. I guess I just couldn't relate enough to anyone in the film. I didn't really care of any outcome. Because of this, the characters just seemed like that...characters. I didn't see them as people. The film looked really great and it had some light conflict that invited my emo side, but overall I think it fell flat in comparison to the hype. I know that's unfair, but I couldn't help being overwhelmed by the protagonists of this film. Still, it was good. B.

SIN CITY
If I were a comic book, I would want to look like this in film. Dang man! Awesome. If I was a comic book character, I would want to be as cool and fearless as these. But, if I were a hero, I'd probably want a better fait. I love films that aren't scared to let the good guys lose a bit. Good guys lose. In fact, some say they never win. Bad guys suck though. And these bad guys really sucked...upsettingly. A few stories intertwined loosely, but finding common moral crossings and values. Comics always have injustices that cause the characters to choose one side or the other. Sin City doesn't really go into why the good guys are good and the bad guys are bad as the recent Batman Begins did, but it gives you enough to really want a resolution of each story in the film. At least it did for me. I was really entertained by this "comovie" (part comic, part movie) and I hope there's some kind of prequel or sequel. Either way, I expect many copy-cats, if not on the silver screen, at least on mtv. A (note: Enjoying this film means accepting that dialogue and acting is in the nature of the comic books.)


THE STORY OF THE WEEPING CAMEL
The power of music and the essence of gentle persuasion. After giving a difficult birth to her colt, the main character (a camel) denys her young in the Mongolian desert. The shepherd family has to find a method to save the colt. A trip to the nearest town across the desert by family's adolescent boys to seek help is the final option. The younger sees TV for the first time, as well as other modern technology. A camera follows the journey and the conflict at home. Witnessing the lifestyle of the family and learning about their culture and way of survival was enlightening. Simplicity is clearly missed in our culture. The documentary movies slowly(probably to prove the aforementioned point), but if you can hang in there you will witness a heart wrenching conclusion. The best things come to those who wait, right? B+

PROOF
Gweneth Paltrow, Anthony Hopkins, and Jake Gillenhall or whatever his name is (Donnie Darko) all do their party do avoid a cheesy film. The film seems to avoid it as well. Almost falling into the cheese factory on a couple occasions, but overcoming the urge. This is why it's not in every theater in America, and I appaud the studio for allowing it. Paltrow drops out of school to take care of her sick(insane) father, Hopkins despite her own aspirations in finding monumental mathematic proofs, as her father (before he went nuts). I don't want to say too much more about that aspect of the film. Paltrow, like many other gems of society find themself struggling with the status quo and moral complexities of society. What to do about herself, her father...what matters, and what makes things matter. Can all emotion be solved within a mathematical proof, or does love or depression extend beyond solutions by numbers. Paltrow's sister comes back into town and brings comic relief with her, as well as some frustration for dear Gweneth. Gillenhall (that's his name right?) is a student of Paltrow's ailing father and a fan of his distinct work. He does his part in the film trying to disprove the nerd-factor of mathematicians. All the performances in the film are great. Dialogue is great, a couple directorial moves get a little too ripe, but get saved by a fresh script. B+ (A if you're considering it's rating of PG-13.)

MOOG
Well, I'm glad I saw this documentary if only for 1 reason...I now know that Moog is widely mispronounced. It's not Moog like a cow would say, it's Moog like Bob Hoag. The "oo" makes an "O" sound. OK, now that that is clear, I have to say to only watch this film if you are wayyyy into the electronic sensation. Man, it is difficult watching. Way too slow and poorly edited. No real eye or ear candy of any kind. Just slow dialogue. And the choices of bands and musicians that were used to show uses of the Moog and Mini Moog were not to my liking. Not to say that most weren't good, they were just no where near my musical soul. The best aspects of this film (other than the fact that teremins are way awesome) is the questions that Dr. Moog raises with truly feeling and communicating with the instruments and electrons...and even taking it as far as communicating with any other source of energy or life (being a car, an instrument, and anmimal, a computer, anything). The demonizing that Dr. Moog had to withstand in his early years of creating synthesizers was interesting. Also to see how things eventually caught on and evolved from TV/Studios using the instruments for commercial and cartoon uses, to creating strong melody...and how really experimental musicians sorta led the way to the general pop uses of today. Much like all new creations, many looked at his altered sounds as destroying music, ears, brains, etc...but as we know today, different strokes for different folks...almost all things can find a place, and inspired things make their place. C- (sorry, subject was cool, delivery was painful) http://www.moogmusic.com/ (R.I.P. Bob Moog)

DOMINION (PREQUEL TO THE EXORCIST)
I like the fact that it was trying to be more intellectual/historical than frightful, but the story fell flat on its face with unbelieveable human relations and reactions, as well as some pretty laughable digital effects. The movie builds up to a standoff between good vs. evil, villagers vs. military, old world vs. new world. Merrin, a Catholic priest, and Satan, within a possessed cripled boy, battle with words and gestures through their dominative commands...as outside battle rage within some kind of adobe photoshop/premier haze of high school graphic design. The leading lady was subtly beautiful and had some sort of "I'm not a good actress, but I can act like a good one might" quality (or like thereof). I'm not sure how this film ties directly to the original Exorcist. The ending is too vague to relate to anything. I mean, there was an exorcism in the desert...so maybe that counts? The final camera shot is so totally awesome. You see the main character (whose performance almost saved the film) walking off into the distance and slowly disappearing in smoke/haze framed by the door he just existed. Classic. Too bad he didn't have a six-shooter attached. D

That's pretty much all the films I've seen in the last few months that I can remember. Maybe it will aid your next trip to the video store. -dave

THE BIG ONE
As I’ve mentioned before, Michael Moore is an egotistical meanie. He pretends to me a fawn, when he’s really a lion. He’s quite talented and clever (or cunning depending on how you perceive him) in the editing room and he knows how to trap people while on camera. He usually gets whatever footage he’s looking for and is able to achieve his agenda quite well. I find this to be dangerous, but only for people who are looking for scapegoats and demons. Although I don’t always approve of his methods, I find in helpful in bringing valuable issues to the people to discuss. Like the Coffee Talk Host when she's feeling choked up (I can't spell phleclempdt). We know we aren’t going to get the whole truth from any of our national news sources, but we don’t completely discredit them…nor should we discredit all of what Michael Moore says without looking into them. Moore is most effective in the subject he knows the most about…corporations. In this film, Moore goes on a book tour and finds a lot of opposition around the country. I find that where there is opposition, there is truth. While dodging and teasing his publishing house escorts, Moore brings a crew with him on his book tour to follow his wild escapades and his contentions with corporations around the country who are outsourcing jobs to 3rd world countries. Moore usually gets met by security in the lobby and thrown out of most places (Why are people so scared of cameras? I always wonder about that), but he manages to meet one-on-one with Nike CEO and founder, Phil Knight where he challenges Knight to make more ethical decisions or at least consider the impact of outsourcing on the job market in the United States. Moore also invites Knight to go with him to a plant in Indonesia where most of his shoes are made…in which Knight declines, although he has never even been to the country!! Moore achieves greatness within that meeting, but spoils it with the pompous dialogues leading up to it. Regardless, I’m always entertained by the attack on selfish corporations. This film is pretty good, but don’t bother with it if you haven’t seen Roger & Me (Moore’s best work). Also, the relatively new documentary “The Corporation” belittles this one; if you want to see a grander, fuller take on the evil empire. C+

CELSIUS 41.11
Titled by the temperature at which the brain begins to die, the strength of this film only partly has anything to do with the fair use of the brain. Supposedly a documentary that disproves many elements of Fahrenheit 911, it works more like a device to re-elect GW Bush. I think I went into the film looking for unbiased facts, and ended up getting a little frustrated by the rhetoric. I found much of the info helpful, but some of the film moves like an pro-Bush ad to counter criticism of the president, gathered by citizensunited.org. I don’t think there is anything wrong with dispelling rumors or myths or false accusations of the president, and I think that films like this should be made to balance out the demonizing film that Michael Moore successfully pawned off on the world. Moore often mixes fact with misguided opinions that arrives at “half truths”…as I feel Celsius 41.11 did as well on a smaller scale. I imagine the real true is a version of something that fits in the middle. Unlike FahrenHype 911, this film concludes with reasons to elect GW Bush and reasons not to elect John Kerry. It was a real turn-off to me. I was strictly looking for facts and I got campaign tactics. Still, I found much of the info enlightening and I’m glad I viewed it. If you've seen Fahrenheit 911 it is irresponsible to just take it as fact without viewing either one of the rebuttles listed here. I don't believe Michael Moore hates America, I just think he likes himself Moore. B-

DOWNFALL
The final days of Hitler’s regime as recounted by his secretary who was bunkered down with him and some of the Nazi leaders when Allied forces were closing in on Berlin. It’s in German with English subtitles, as it should be. It’s a pretty intense journey and captures elements of the Third Reich and of desperation that I hadn’t considered in my thoughts of WWII before. It’s interesting to see what people are willing and capable of doing when they are in power and maybe even more interesting when they are in danger of losing it. A.

MR. DEATH
Holy Cow! What a great documentary. So much great footage that it option feels like a dramatic film. An expert in devices for capital punishment is hired on to inspect the ruins of concentration camps in Eastern Europe. His findings fall in line with the Arian Nation and cause much criticism…including the destruction of his career and marriage. The magnified look into methods and capacities of capital punishment and the stories surrounding executions alone make this film worth seeing. Adding the drama and questions of the holocaust, the powers of Jewish sympathizers in the US, and the irrational as well as interesting views of Anti-Semitic groups makes this docu-drama that of near genius. A

DARK WATER
A horror (term used very loosely in this sense) Japanese film about a girl who disappeared from a school in her neighborhood never to be found. She then haunts the apartment complex in which she use to live as a single mother and her daughter (the same age as the lost girl) move in. There is a lot of rain and water in this film. Made me thirsty. But, that’s the only thing the film made me do other than laugh with the ghost of lost girl appears in her physical form. This film is a joke, but not funny enough to watch, and not scary enough to consider horror. How the hell did I come across this thing anyway? Shame on me. F. Oh wait, the English voice-overs are unintentionally funny enough to move up a grade. D.

PRIMER
Sorta in the realm of Pi. A mind twister that might cause a few viewings in order to fully grasp the intricacies of the story. Some driven post-grads work on inventions to sort of stake their claim in the money chain, or even in creative science. As they are experimenting on some newfound scientific advances they realize they’ve stumbled upon something far bigger than they ever expected that is as equally dangerous as it is rewarding. The acting leaves wanting, but the story and dialogue are pretty interesting. After watching the film, I felt a tighter cast and larger budget would really improve upon this film…then I changed my mind. -Maybe just a tighter cast. A-

ROBOT STORIES
Some sketchy acting and dialogue, but the stories and “lessons” for life are thought provoking. There are 4 stories (make that 5 with the additional short film added to the extras) that question the role of mechanics in the work force and in society, and who far we are willing to go in making our lives more “convenient”. I usually find that for every convenience created, a new inconvenience is attached. This film also dives into the “life” of robots, and depending on how complex they are created…at what point will they actually be able to achieve human emotion. “NUMBER FIVE IS ALIVE!” Anyway, it’s pretty good, but you might as well just watch the Twilight Zone. C.


SHADOW OF A VAMPIRE
I wanted so badly for this to be a true story. Well, it is of course based on the lives and “behind the scenes” of the directors, producers, and actors of the film Nosferatu…which very easily goes down as one of the best horror films in cinema history. A silent film that I wish I had seen when I was more impressionable…I have too much Hollywood in my blood, it seems…but yet, still as eerie as can be. Anyway, Willem Defoe blew my mind in his role as vampire (based on the novel, Dracula). I didn’t know this before, but the reason the film was not call Dracula is because the Braham Stoker’s estate would not allow the rights for use in the film. Thus, Nosferatu and Count Orlock were born. This film plays with the idea of assuming the actor playing Count Orlock (Max Shreck) is a vampire playing the role of an method actor in the film. The deal the director makes with Orlock is shocking and the film builds up to a wild finale and thoughtful cliffhanger. I usually never mention things like this, but I also have to be honest in saying that there is a set of breasts in this film (well, breast, you only see one) that are unmatched by most. Quite beautiful. This film is pretty awesome. A.

CORPSE BRIDE
Well, it’s no “Nightmare Before Christmas”, but it has all of those defining elements. I would have appreciated a story with more complexities, but I guess for the sake of the kids the story was simple. Visually awesome, musically great as well…can’t go wrong with Danny Elfman. Wayyy too many puns. Overall, B.

BORN INTO BROTHELS
Humanitarian effort of the documentarian desperately seeking an education for the the children of prostitutes, pimps and drug dealers in the Brothels of India. The coolest part of this film is the insane atmosphere captured by that of the children through cameras provided by the woman documenting their lives. She found that most people had great disdain and contempt for those who might take their picture in the slums, so she taught the native children to do so. The photos they were album to take were quite impressive. True talent blossomed and lives were greatly nourished. Eventually the opportunity of education at nearby schools is created by the efforts of the documentarian. Will the children be allowed to go? Will they want to? And if they go, will they stay?
Pretty impressive view of progression through education; and knowledge through life experience. A.

PEARL JAM: SINGLE VIDEO THEORY
It seems to be the calling card of many bands to be “indie”. They spit out all this ideology and methods of conducting their band, and as soon as opportunity arises, they go with the flow and follow the destructive paths of music business. Pearl Jam has kept it “indie” more than most indie bands, and critics who try to discredit them. This film is great because it just shows the band working during their “Yield” sessions, after a few years of refusing interviews and closing themselves off from most media sources, including their boycott of MTV and other demoralizing media giants, even that the risk of career, Pearl Jam put together this film to show what they are. Thoughtful musicians doing what they do best…create music. An open window to their interactions, but nothing deeper than their work within the band. No personal or dramatic elements and little to no mention of individualism, just footage of the group as a constructive whole. B+

THE FLAMING LIPS: THE FEARLESS FREAKS
Interviews, videos, commentary, and behind the scenes look at the influential band over their 20-ish years of creation. Interesting to gauge what is considered being influenced by predecessors and what’s just ripping them off. The Flaming Lips as well as this film is inspiring to me because it shows what can be accomplished with work. Creativity is nothing without effort, and drugs draw effort from blood. That’s what I saw in this film. I also gathered that often times people who are less creative, but more driven are the ones who succeed over those who are more creative, but unable to complete tasks. There is a role for everyone to play on a movie set, in a family, on a team, and in a band. Tolerance is an interesting subtopic w/in this film…and the point in which it is lovingly reached. B+