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(01/27/10 11:51pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Since they arrived on the scene in 2005, Cold War Kids have been keeping fans relatively pleased by releasing their fair share of extended plays. However, for the first time since “We Used to Vacation,” the new “Behave Yourself” EP contains songs not previously heard on the band’s two studio albums.The band picks up right where they left off with 2008’s “Loyalty to Loyalty.” Those who enjoyed the Kids’ venture into the slowed tempo vibe found on that album will almost certainly enjoy “Behave Yourself.” Unfortunately, those wishing for the return of the Cold War Kids they first came to enjoy might find themselves less than enthusiastic.However, lead singer Nathan Willett’s cool whine is something everyone can agree on. His screaming of “Lord Have Mercy on Me!” at the end of the epic “Sermons” is the EP’s brightest spot. The other three songs are good – teetering on great. “Behave Yourself” will surely excite everyone who has the band’s last album on their playlist.
(01/20/10 5:52pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Since the release of their self-titled debut album two years ago, Vampire Weekend has become one of the go-to choices for indie rock. At the least, they have certainly become the most popular group for African Rumba-influenced rock, or “Upper West Side Soweto,” as lead singer Ezra Koenig puts it. For fans worried the band’s next album would drift too far from that unique sound, “Contra” puts all fears to rest.The success of the band’s critically acclaimed debut has resulted in inevitably high expectations for a follow-up. Although it’s not quite as instantly exciting, “Contra” delivers on all the levels one hopes it would. Like with “A-Punk,” the album’s first single “Cousins” is up-tempo with a punk vibe. And oddly, like “A-Punk”, the catchy single says little about the band’s common sound. For the majority of the album, they stay rooted in their African and Paul Simon influences. “White Sky” crackles with its 808 drumbeats and almost wordless refrain. Top 40-style music, this ain’t.“Horchata” showcases Koenig’s knack for exciting, if sometimes ambiguous lyrics: “In December drinking Horchata / I’d look psychotic in a balaclava.” In the same song, he reminds listeners, “Here comes a feeling you thought you’d forgotten.” And Koenig’s Ivy League education still shines and adds to each song’s charm. Another gem, “Run,” addresses what many fearful college graduates undoubtedly wish they could do in this troubled economy: “There’s nowhere for us to go / But it struck me that the two of us could run.”The only miss is “California English,” which uses an unnecessary auto-tune. But the rest of the songs on the album are more-than-worthy additions to the band’s catalog; they are instantly catchy and irresistible. With another first-rate album, Vampire Weekend can expect even higher expectations next time. But after “Contra,” there’s no reason to think they won’t deliver.
(07/22/09 11:06pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Given J.K. Rowling’s books as their source, those in charge of translating “Harry Potter” onto the screen are blessed to have such fantastic material to work with. Her stories are too compelling, her world is too developed, and her characters are too relatable for accomplished filmmakers to make a bad movie out of them.Unfortunately, they are also cursed by this, for it’s downright impossible to condense 700-plus pages of epic, in-depth, complex story writing into 140 minutes. For those reasons, it’s almost unfair to judge “Harry Potter” movies for what they’re not, or for what they lack. Instead, the films can only be judged on what they are: undeniably solid entertainment. When you embrace this, they are infinitely easier to enjoy.True, there are things from the book I wish I could have seen on the screen in this latest installment. It would have been nice to have seen more memories involving Voldemort; without them Harry doesn’t have a real clue where to start his assigned task for the next film (in the book, he has a very good idea of what he might encounter). I also wish the final battle at the end wasn’t cut out, rendering Draco Malfoy's task throughout the entire movie essentially meaningless.However, I simply loved every performance in the movie, especially Jim Broadbent’s hilarious Professor Slughorn. It was great seeing Dumbledore brought to the forefront, creating a meaningful relationship between him and Harry. Alan Rickman’s Snape is perfect as always, David Yates’ color scheme and cinematography is nothing less than beautiful, and for the first time, Harry seems like someone who would be fun to hang out with. Finally, the climax with Harry and Dumbledore at the lake is as creepy and chilling as I remember it was in the book.Yes, this “Potter” has the least amount of action sequences of them all. But the film’s pacing is such that it’s never boring, and the subplots are as enjoyable to watch as any wand waving. Plus, for us readers, it’s nice to know that an orgasm of intensity and action is headed our way in “Deathly Hallows,” parts I and II.No “Potter” movie will ever be close to perfect or Oscar-worthy like its “Lord of the Rings” counterpart was. But unlike other series’ such as “The Matrix,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Terminator” or the god-awful “Transformers,” they’re consistently captivating and fun. And, for readers of the tremendous series, that’s all you can ask for.
(04/16/09 11:22pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>The Hold Steady’s new album “A Positive Rage” is not so much a gift for fans of the band, but more of a fantastic introduction for those unaware of its previous efforts. It is a live album featuring 17 songs off its previous four albums. In addition, the physical copy found in stores features a behind-the-scenes double-disc documentary.For those of you unaware of The Hold Steady’s sound, imagine a combination of Bruce Springsteen and punk, with an emphasis on Bruce. Though The Hold Steady have a much more bar-band vibe than The Boss, they band is similar to him in that its even more exciting in concert.Unfortunately, most of that excitement comes from the energy band members onstage, something that gets lost in the translation to CD. The strength of the songs themselves makes up for most of the energy lost, but I would be lying if said I didn’t enjoy the more polished, cleaner versions found on their studio albums.Popular songs like “Chips Ahoy,” “Your Little Hoodrat Friend” and “Stuck Between Stations” can all be found here. And while these and the rest of the band’s songs are certainly consistent with the studio album versions, they’re much more raw, but not always in a good way. For example, “Southtown Girl” – their most obvious Springsteen homage, or rip-off if you view it from that angle – is a song one would think would be dynamite in concert, but it falters pretty significantly. It’s still a decent song, but the fact that they didn’t blow it out of the water is surprising, even astonishing.But to their credit, The Hold Steady managed to make me a fan of slower songs I previously skipped. True, “First Night,” like most of the others, sounds just like the original. However, because the song itself deals with meeting girls in bars, it works significantly better when performed it in an actual bar-like atmosphere.Fans of The Hold Steady will enjoy “A Positive Rage,” but not because it provides them anything undeniably new. Instead, because it contains some of their best material from their previous efforts, the album works much better for outsiders as an introduction to the band’s work.
(01/29/09 4:54am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Although “Let It Be” would be The Beatles’ last released studio album
in 1970, the last actual recordings they did as a band were in 1969 for
the “Abbey Road” sessions.
Frustrated with the “Get Back” session, which would later be turned
into “Let It Be,” the estranged group members reunited one last time,
determined to finish off their career as the most successful band in
history on a high note.
What followed was arguably their greatest achievement and, for the most
part, a return to the stripped-down, rock ‘n’ roll/pop style they had
basically created six years prior.
Generally free of any lavish productions, studio embellishments or tape
loops, “Abbey Road” features four band members who had parted ways
socially and creatively, coming together – no pun intended, seriously –
and playing harmoniously.
Because of word restrictions, I only have the space to focus solely on
the most important part of the album: the medley. Commonly considered
the greatest 16 minutes of rock ‘n’ roll, this conclusion would be epic
to any album, much less a career.
It begins with the greatest three-part harmony in the history of rock
‘n’ roll. “Because” may be the Beatles’ slowest song ever recorded, but
it is without a doubt one of their most entrancing. Soon after, we are
again treated to another beautiful three-part harmony with “Sun King.”
The combination of Lennon’s “Mean Mr. Mustard” and “Polythene Pam” are
welcome, upbeat songs that spill perfectly into the fun. “She Came in
Through the Bathroom Window” continues the pace.
The last five minutes are nothing less than a perfect, epic ending to
an astonishing career. It features not only Ringo’s only drum solo
ever recorded and the greatest three-part guitar solo ever put on tape,
but the most perfect last line: “And in the end, the love you take is
equal to the love you make.”
To quote Chris Farley in his famous “Saturday Night Live” sketch, “That was awesome.”
(01/15/09 4:33am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>1. “Avatar” Dec. 18As James Cameron’s first movie since “Titanic,” “Avatar” will probably be all you hear about this year. Perhaps this is because it’s a movie we know almost nothing about. But the hype is so high and the 3-D digital technology is supposedly so advanced that I have to list this science fiction epic as my most anticipated movie of 2009. 2. “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” July 17Bad news: This movie was supposed to come out two months ago. Good news: Because of the release change, it’s only about a one year wait until “Deathly Hallows: Part I.” The trailers suggest that the sixth entry will be every bit as eerie, dark and epic as the book was. I guess we’ll all find out July 17.3. “Inglorious Basterds” Aug. 28Quentin Tarantino’s first full-length feature film since “Kill Bill: Vol. II,” “Inglorious Basterds” (the misspelling is intentional) is, in short, a World War II revenge movie. Besides the fact that it’s Tarantino’s attempt to return to form, this film gains some bonus points for its bizarre array of stars like Brad Pitt, Mike Myers, Samuel L. Jackson and B.J. Novak from “The Office.”4. “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” June 26People either loved or hated the original, and I happen to be in the former category. The robots were cool, sure, and the seamless special effects were fantastic, but I was much more entertained by the actual actors in the movie. Hopefully writer and director Michael Bay doesn’t listen too much to the fanboys and keeps the same balance of robot effects and human fun as the original did.5. “Up” May 29Pixar once again out-did itself with last year’s fantastic “Wall-E,” and while I can’t expect them to top their previous effort, they’ve proved me wrong almost every time.6. “Public Enemies” July 1Johnny Depp plays the notorious gangster John Dillinger, who did many of his famous bank robberies in this very state. “The Dark Knight”’s Christian Bale co-stars. Consider me there.7. “Star Trek” May 8I can’t say I’m a “Trek” fan at all, but the trailer is one of the best I have seen in some time. I’m sold.8. “Terminator: Salvation” May 22 “Rise of the Machines” was surprisingly pretty cool, and this new installment features a perfect cast. Christian Bale plays John Connor in the first of an entirely new trilogy. 9. “Angels & Demons” May 15“The Da Vinci Code” wasn’t exactly perfect, but director Ron Howard seems intent on making a better movie in this prequel. He’s helped by two things: 1) Better source material. 2) Tom Hanks’ crazy hair is nowhere to be seen.10. “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” May 1As the only character in the “X-Men” trilogy who actually had character development and a compelling story, Wolverine is once again played by Hugh Jackman in this spin-off. Sure, the plot is questionably similar to the “Bourne” series, but it still looks fresh enough.
(12/10/08 7:24pm)
Three WEEKEND reviewers discuss the newest tracks in music.
(12/10/08 6:53pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Recently, the only band that has continually put out EPs worth listening to has been The Arctic Monkeys. However, with the release of just one fantastic EP, Prospekt’s March, Coldplay can immediately be considered on the same level as The Arctic Monkeys regarding extended plays. With seven songs, Chris Martin and Co. have provided us with more than half an album’s worth of material – and extremely solid material at that. Unlike their recent, lavish, Phil Spector-esque album Viva La Vida (the best album of the year, by the way), Prospekt’s March is surprisingly stripped down. Other than “Life in Technicolor II,” which is essentially an addition to a Vida tune, songs like “Lost?,” “Now My Feet Won’t Touch The Ground” and “Prospekt’s March/Poppyfields” are light years above most tracks on Vida.Surprisingly, the least-interesting song on the EP is one that on paper, looks the most intriguing. Jay-Z makes an appearance on “Lost+” (another reinterpretation of “Lost!”), but he enters the song so late that Hova’s respectable attempt just diminishes the song anyone who has listened to Viva La Vida knows frontward and backward.But not to worry; their other interpretation of “Lost!” on the EP makes up for the lazily thrown together Jay-Z feature. Instead of an organ, multiple drums, and studio echoes over Martin’s vocals, it’s just him and his piano. The result is arguably their most mesmerizing song in years. “Life in Technicolor II” will delight fans who wished lyrics were thrown over the immensely catchy opening hook from Vida. But surely the most exciting part of the album is “Glass of Water,” a tune that starts similarly to many songs in Coldplay’s catalog, but quickly turns into an absolute rocker, much like “Fix You” did on X & Y.I feel it’s important to note that I was by no means a big Coldplay fan six months ago. I had considered them an OK band who occasionally hit the mark with a cool tune but overall were pretty boring. However, even for this lover of old-school ’50s and ’60s stripped-down rock ’n’ roll, there’s no denying Coldplay is on absolute fire. With this EP, they continue that trend.
(12/03/08 10:46pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>It’s early December, which means we’re coming up on awards season, and all the critics are making their predictions about which films are Oscar contenders. This year is shaping up to be one of the more competitive races in recent memory, with few movies or actors looking like they will definitely pull away from the competition. But as close as every category will be, three will have everyone arguing between now and January 22, 2009, when the nominees are announced.Best PictureNominee predictions: “Milk,” “Frost/Nixon,” “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” “The Dark Knight,” “Slumdog Millionaire”Other Possibilities: “WALL-E,” “Doubt,” “Revolutionary Road,” “Australia,” “The Wrestler”“Milk” is the only lock in this list, gaining universal acclaim for all parties involved in the film’s production. One would think the critical lauding of both “WALL-E” and “The Dark Knight” would make them locks as well, but comic book and animated movies don’t have a track record for winning the award. However, with its $530 million gross and large Oscar campaign, I can’t see the Academy ignoring “Knight.” “Frost/Nixon” will be helped by Frank Langella’s performance, while “Slumdog Millionaire” will be impossible to leave out as it gains steam in the coming month. The pre-screening reviews of “Benjamin Button” seem to solidify that it is every bit as good as the trailers, and its epic scope is right down the Academy’s alley.Best ActorNominee Predictions: Sean Penn, Mickey Rourke, Frank Langella, Richard Jenkins, Brad PittOther possibilities: Clint Eastwood, Leonardo DiCaprio, Will Smith This is the most interesting category this year. The Academy’s favorite actor Penn has emerged as a favorite for his portrayal of Harvey Milk. However, Langella’s ability to make us buy him as President Nixon and Rourke’s amazing comeback from obscurity that parallels his wrestling character make them solid bets as well. Eastwood almost always finds a way into the race, so don’t count him out for his performance in “Grand Tarino,” but Pitt is due for his first nomination since 1995’s “Tweleve Monkeys,” especially considering the aforementioned buzz for “Button.” Jenkins’ solid year should help him be rewarded for his stellar performance in “The Visitor.”Regarding “Revolutionary Road,” it comes down to how much the voters get wrapped up in the reunion of Kate Winslet and Leo. If they don’t, watching the two bicker over how much life sucks may not be enough to garner a nomination. Best Supporting ActorNominee Predictions: Heath Ledger, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Robert Downey Jr., Josh Brolin, Michael SheenOther possibility: Dev PatelThe ratings for the Academy Awards in 2009 will probably be through the roof for one reason: Heath Ledger. He’s certainly the favorite in this year’s race, and most of the people who saw “The Dark Knight” are hoping he wins. However, there’s an obstacle to overcome. Out of the seven times an actor has been nominated posthumously, only one (Peter Finch for “Network” in 1975) has actually won the award. Unfortunately for fans of “Knight,” he has some stiff competition. The Academy has been obsessed with Hoffman, and his role in “Doubt” could further that, while they may be willing to hand the Oscar to Brolin for his peformance in “Milk” to make up for his Best Actor snub in “W” (it’s not his fault the movie sucked). It’s becoming more apparent that Downey will get a nom for “Tropic Thunder,” which is richly deserved. His performance was hilarious instead of racist and mocking. Sheen may make it into the category, helped not only by his performance but for his ability to keep up with co-star Langella.This is one of the most competitive Oscar races in recent memory. The race to the nominations might be even more intriguing than the show itself. Many will be tuning in mainly to see how “The Dark Knight” fares, but there are plenty other categories up in the air that should keep everyone tuned in, even before the show airs.
(12/03/08 10:36pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Although it has become a cliche to say it, Pixar has outdone itself.Besides “Cars,” each new film the animation studio has released has been richer in not only animation but overall substance. So it comes as no surprise that “WALL-E” is Pixar’s strongest film to date and arguably the best movie of the year. What is even more impressive about “WALL-E” is that, on paper, there is little reason to think it should be good. Only Pixar could make a masterpiece about a love story between two robots who can’t talk.While previous Pixar classics have succeeded tremendously in being pleasing to both kids and their parents, “WALL-E” is the first Pixar film to be targeted more toward adults. Kids love WALL-E because of his silly antics. However, parents should appreciate the robot’s subtle emotions, such as his extreme loneliness due to his infatuation with EVE. This three-disc special edition also has some fascinating extras.Featurettes like “Building Worlds” and “The Pixar Story” will surely entertain older audiences interested in how this and other remarkable Pixar films are made.Those who have seen “WALL-E” know it’s an incredible film. Those who haven’t should consider this edition as an early, must-have Christmas present.
(11/19/08 5:32pm)
Three WEEKEND reviewers tackle the latest in music.
(11/19/08 4:47pm)
It’s unfair to expect this Bond outing to be on the same level of the near-flawless “Royale.” That said, it seems the filmmakers have forgotten some of the reasons why that movie was so great: Bond beating his opponents not by his strength, but by his wits.
(11/05/08 8:26pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Before you pop in a John Legend album, you count on hearing a few things: beautiful, effortless vocals; superior lyrics and good ol’ sweet, baby-making music. Evolver lives up to these standards. Even so, this album has more than a few unexpected touches that make his album title choice much more understandable.Although collaborations with Andre 3000 and Kanye West are surprising, an appearance by Brandy (raise your hand if you knew she was still around) isn’t as surprising in that she could also be placed under the soul music genre. Yet these changes only enhance the experience. Andre 3000’s appearance in “Green Light” adds to what is already one of Legend’s better songs. A piano can’t even be heard, but his soft voice and the great hook will most likely make this tune Legend’s first true club hit.Other notable songs include the reggae-induced “No Other Love,” featuring soul singer Estelle, the guitar-flavored “Everybody Knows,” and “Quickly,” the song featuring Brandy that would have felt at home at any club in 1986. But anyone looking for Legend to continue his old-fashioned piano-driven sound will unfortunately be disappointed. After pretending he’s been stuck in the ’60s and ’70s, Legend wants to make sure he doesn’t miss out on what’s happening now. Some may see this as disappointing, but this is a welcome change. Change is good for careers and even better for listeners. Where would we be if Bob Dylan hadn’t decided to go electric?Evolver contains sounds that are undeniably different from the norm of Legend’s catalog, but the substance of the material is of the same high quality.
(11/05/08 8:17pm)
Three WEEKEND reviewers tackle music's latest tracks.
(10/29/08 6:43pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>The presidential election is just days away, and Oliver Stone’s “W.” is already beginning its fade from popular culture. So now is a perfect time to examine the best president-centric films of recent memory. Because presidency films have multiple sub-categories, I’ve broken them down, focusing on the more common genres.Actor makes the movie :“W.” vs. “Nixon”These movies rely on the performance of the lead actor to make them entertaining. It’s safe to say “W.” should fit here, as Josh Brolin had a difficult task taking on the role of George W. Bush. It would be too easy to resort to an over-the-top Bush impression. The only way to make the story work was to get into the psyche of Bush: a subtle portrayal without resorting to mockery. Brolin succeeded in that and in turn is getting some serious Oscar buzz. Anthony Hopkins had the same problem with his role as the president in “Nixon,” another Stone picture. Audiences already had a rock-solid opinion of Nixon, making it all the more difficult for Hopkins. And much like Brolin, he didn’t resemble the president in any way. But his dead-on impersonation and subtle body gestures made the performance so strong that audiences had no problem believing he was Tricky Dick.Both actors did an incredible job portraying their respective presidents, but “Nixon” is a stronger film: The story of the rise and fall of the most shameful president in history is more interesting than the rise of the most mocked president in history. Winner: “Nixon”Drama: “The American President” vs. “The Contender”Although “The Contender” is more focused on Joan Allen’s vice presidential candidate caught up in a sex scandal, the movie is still a film about the U.S. presidency because of its behind-the-scenes look into White House dealings. Jeff Bridges plays President Evans as super laid back, totally in control and extra cocky. Multiple times throughout the movie he hilariously calls the White House cooks to order ridiculous sandwiches, solely to see if they will actually make them for him. Although “The American President” is a drama, it’s considerably lighter, focusing on a budding relationship between widowed President Shepherd and his girlfriend. Every facet of the film – especially the script from “West Wing” creator Aaron Sorkin and the supporting cast featuring Michael J. Fox and Martin Sheen – are exceptional. And though “The Contender” is extremely well made, the edge goes to “The American President” because of its great dialogue and incredible cast. Winner: “The American President”Badass president: “Air Force One” vs. "Independence Day”Both movies depict the president as the ultimate man’s man. In what had to have been the easiest pitch ever (“Indiana Jones as the president”), “Air Force One” showed Harrison Ford kicking terrorist ass single-handedly. But don’t underestimate Bill Pullman’s President Whitmore. In “Independence Day” he shoots down aliens in his own F-16. Each movie brings new meaning to suspending disbelief, but when it comes to who is more badass, Bill Pullman can’t compete with Harrison Ford. Yet, when it comes to which movie is actually better, the decision is tougher. They are essentially the same movie: Kill the terrorists who have taken over the plane, and kill the aliens taking over the world. But if forced to make a decision between the two, there is still nothing cooler than seeing the White House blow up in “Independence Day.” Winner: “Independence Day”It will be interesting to see how “W.” holds up in the years to come, because his cinematic oval office peers have set the bar high. But I think the real question is: When is when will the Barack Obama movie be released? Will Smith, get ready.
(10/22/08 9:34pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Last year, one of the most decisive questions for film buffs was “‘Knocked Up’ or ‘Superbad?’” But now, the new question will, or at least should be, “‘Superbad’ or “‘Sex Drive?’”“Sex Drive” has some undeniable similarities with “Superbad”: both films center on high school kids; both films center on high school kids who talk insanely dirty, and both films center on high school kids who are obsessed with getting laid. Much like the modern masterpieces “Superbad,” “Knocked Up” and “Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” “Sex Drive” works not only because it’s sidesplittingly hilarious, but because at the core of the story it has heart.The film centers on Ian, a lovable loser whose brother suspects he is gay because of his total ineptitude at landing girls. When the bombshell who has been talking to him on the Internet tells him that if he drives down to Knoxville, Tenn., to meet her, she’ll “go all the way” with him, he steals his brother’s 1969 GTO Judge and embarks to Tennessee. Along for the ride are his best friend Lance (Clark Duke), a smooth ladies man despite his goofy looks and his secret crush Felicia (Amanda Crew). The plot, of course, is cliche, but the laughs are not. If you’re looking for the witty pop-culture references that worked for the Apatow films, you won’t find them here. Instead, “Sex Drive” gains its laughs from, but not at all limited to the following: Ian’s continuous and total humiliation in front of his new mother-in-law, a talking donut costume with a boner, a sarcastic Amish asshole (played to perfection by Seth Green) and the ridiculous party-crazy ways of the Amish as they’re depicted here.Some of the best comedies ever made have been released in the last year and a half (and all by Judd Apatow), and it’s pretty easy to say “Sex Drive” belongs right beside them.
(10/15/08 9:22pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>It’s been about seven years since the United States became hotly involved in the war on terror, but besides George Clooney’s “Syriana,” it’s been equally as long since a truly good movie has been made about it.And sadly, “Body of Lies” doesn’t really change that. Considering the major power behind the film, “Body of Lies” is a surprisingly run-of-the-mill espionage thriller. In fact, throughout the movie I kept wondering to myself why all three stars – Leonardo DiCaprio, Russell Crowe and director Ridley Scott – signed on to make it. DiCaprio plays Roger Ferris, a CIA operative stationed in the Middle East who comes across a tip on a new terrorist safe house in Jordan. His superior Ed Hoffman (Crowe) deals with him almost solely over the phone, comfortable and relaxed in his Virginia town. Ferris must not only deal with Hoffman but also gain the trust of Hani Salaam, the head of Jordanian Intelligence to successfully take down the terrorist target.The performances by Crowe and DiCaprio are as strong as expected, but especially impressive is the subtle performance of Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani. Her character Aisha is Ferris’ love interest in a subplot that is unnecessary but at least a nice change of pace. Even though Crowe’s performance is fine, I was surprised, and in some ways, upset by his character. His whole involvement in the plot is relatively minimal, and his character isn’t necessary at all. Sure, it’s nice to see actors of the caliber of DiCaprio and Crowe face off against each other, but it’s not as fun to watch when one of the characters has no real substance. It’s almost bewildering Crowe even agreed to be in a movie where he not only is second billing, but in an unimportant role.But analyzing the movie’s many faults is somewhat unfair because it has some real thrills and great scenes. Once the movie gets going about 45 minutes in, it doesn’t slow down. A subplot involving the painting of an innocent Arab as a lead terrorist through computer trickery and maneuvers is as interesting as anything on film recently. As all movies about the Middle East do, “Body of Lies” really opens your eyes to a world that truly exists. You’ll be reminding yourself plenty of times that this type of stuff goes on all the time over there. But when it comes down to it, without DiCaprio and Crowe, “Body of Lies” is your average espionage thriller.
(10/08/08 9:36pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>If you like James Taylor, you’re going to like his new album. That may seem like an obvious statement to make, but considering the material it’s important to know. Covers consists entirely of, you guessed it, cover songs Taylor has performed numerous times before a live audience but never recorded in a studio. Actually, these songs weren’t performed in a studio either, but instead recorded live in a Massachusetts barn. Some fans dismiss their favorite musicians performing covers because they already know the original song too well or because the artist covering the song sways too far from their already-established sound. But instead of going the Bruce Springsteen route and simply putting his own stamp on a genre, fans of Taylor succeeds in making each song a “James Taylor song.” Some of the more interesting choices include Elvis Presley’s’ “Hound Dog,” Eddie Cochran’s “Summertime Blues” and Buddy Holly’s “Not Fade Away.” By no coincidence, these are also the album’s best. They have far more energy than the others and their crisp, clear sound makes it all the more impressive that they were recorded live.But a problem with Covers is that the above mentioned songs are so good that the others on the album seem boring by comparison. It’s not that they’re badly put together or poorly sung; they simply fail to show any real passion and don’t hold up well amidst Taylor’s catalog. True, the Dixie Chicks cover “Some Days You Gotta Dance” is a catchy track that I enjoy better than the original, but “Suzanne” and “On Broadway” fall victim to the unavoidable question that lingers when listening to a collection of covers: “Why?”But that doesn’t mean Covers is short on shining moments. There are enough tracks that will pleasantly surprise newcomers and plenty of Taylor’s beautiful voice to satisfy old-time fans.
(10/01/08 9:25pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Take the pace of “The Fugitive,” combine that with the plots of “Enemy of the State” and “2001: A Space Odyssey” and throw in the newest “It” actor, and you get “Eagle Eye.” “Eagle Eye” is not as good as the movies that inspired it, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t work.Shia LaBeouf plays Jerry Shaw, a broke, 20-something slacker who suddenly finds that his bank account, normally displaying “insufficient funds,” contains more than $750,000.Shocked and scared as anyone would be, Jerry gets a call from an unknown woman saying if he doesn’t leave immediately, the FBI will arrest him within seconds. He decides to stay, resulting in arrest. Meanwhile, Michelle Monaghan’s Rachel Hollman gets a call from the same woman who states that her son will be killed if she doesn’t follow every instruction.After explosions, a foot chase and fired shots, the two begin their roles as pawns in an increasingly complex game.What’s impressive about “Eagle Eye” is that it keeps the audience guessing in a genre normally full of cliches. There was never a moment in the movie where I even had a clue where it was headed next. LaBeouf continues to prove why he’s the next big deal. Much like Will Smith, he has the charisma to elevate a mediocre thriller into something worth your $10. He did the same thing in “Disturbia” and “Transformers” while he held his own with Harrison Ford in the new “Indiana Jones.” Some may think “Eagle Eye” tries to make some political point on the ever-increasing reality of constant surveillance. Perhaps that’s true, but to be honest the movie is too intent on being a loud, stupid action thriller for its message to be overbearing. But no matter what, it’s a bunch of fun.
(09/24/08 10:03pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>There are artists like Bob Dylan who continuously reinvent themselves and keep throwing fans curveballs. There are artists like Steve Miller who keep touring solely on the back of popular music they put out 30 years ago. And then there is Lindsey Buckingham, who, while not the most daring artist by any stretch, is easily one of the most refreshing and reliable.Much like Paul McCartney, Buckingham simply continues to put out solid albums with catchy songs. He hasn’t changed his style or recording techniques, but time and time again he creates tunes with catchy hooks and beautiful melodies. His new album, Gift of Screws, is no exception. In fact, it’s fantastic. The album opener, “Great Day,” with its euphoric guitar solo, is perfectly titled: Listening to the song, indeed, makes any day great.What is so impressive and what will undoubtedly please any Fleetwood Mac fan is that each song feels like it could have been recorded during those glorious sessions with Mick Fleetwood and Stevie Nicks. On that note, could the track, “Did You Miss Me?” be referring to Stevie? It’s not clear, but it certainly makes an excellent song even more interesting. Along with “Did You Miss Me?” tracks like “Love Runs Deeper” and “The Right Place to Fade” could realistically be at home on legendary Mac albums like Rumours. It would be redundant to go through and describe each track because, in short, they’re all brilliant. Any Fleetwood Mac fan will be thrilled to hear this album not just because of the powerful tracks but because it’s so exciting to hear an artist plug so perfectly into the sound of his former band.But what Buckingham succeeds at is this: Although the songs will certainly remind anyone of his days with Fleetwood Mac, at the same time they stand alone as a great album by Buckingham, the solo artist.