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(06/01/06 4:00am)
Rarely does a band build on the success of its debut album by completely altering its sound. The Stills' 2003 debut, Logic Will Break Your Heart, with its Cure-on-steroids dark pop, put the Montreal-based band at the forefront of the doom and gloom renaissance. Their second album, Without Feathers finds the band in a much lighter and happier mood, owing just as much to McCartney, Elton, Oasis and Blur as it does to Echo and the Bunnymen.\nThis change in attitude was undoubtedly facilitated by the major lineup changes that the band underwent in between Logic and Feathers. After sacking lead guitarist Greg Paquet, drummer and primary songwriter Dave Hamelin switched to guitar and also managed to wrestle most of the lead vocal duties away from usual frontman, Tim Fletcher. The result is an album that is heavy on piano, organ and major-key melodies, while still retaining some of the bite of their earlier work.\nFeathers opens with the effective one-two punch of "In the Beginning" and "The Mountain." The former establishes in five minutes of pastoral pop that the band is a completely new entity not interested in reliving its past. The latter finds the band lifting Jackson Browne's "Running on Empty," piano lick, only to whip the song into a swirling, frenetic climax.\nOne of the most interesting facets of the Stills is their ability to draw upon a mishmash of influences. "In the End" sounds like a Bowie outtake from the early seventies with its off key piano balladry, while "Destroyer" is a pop gem complete with a chipper brass section that would have sounded right at home on Blur's Parklife. But, even though the band's influences are evident, they avoid sounding like a tribute band by managing to make these songs their own.\nThose interested in finding any semblance of the dark sound of Logic only have a few tracks to choose from. The Fletcher-sung songs come the closest with "Helicopters" and "Outro" both being depressing enough to ruin your day. Also, "Baby Blues" sounds very similar to "Allison Krausse" from their debut.\nFeathers isn't perfect by any means. The middle of the album lags a bit and there are moments when the new sound doesn't quite click, but you've really got to admire the Stills for daring to fall on their faces. It takes some guts to do a creative 180 and follow a different creative path than what others expect from you. And while they've undoubtedly lost some goth-kid fans, who really wants to be a sad conformist anyways?
(06/01/06 4:00am)
In the song "Love Me" Mr. 50 Cent rapped that D'Angelo "went butt-ass for his record to sell." While it is true that the once active R&B star used his marble carved abs as a powerful weapon to attract the attention of the MTV generation, this musical rarity will always be more than just a poster boy for the masses. \nVoodoo was the follow up release to the breakout 1995 album Brown Sugar. As far as successful sophomore releases go, Voodoo is as good as it comes. Released during a time when R&B was making a huge comeback thanks to artists like Maxwell, Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu and others, Voodoo came as a crowing achievement for D'Angelo and still remains one of the finest albums of the last ten years. \nWhat makes this album such a successful record is how it treads the water of different musical styles and influences. The 13 tracks resonate with '70s Al Green/Marvin Gayeesque balladic R&B, heavy bass infused funk and just a touch of modern hip-hop stylings to give it that extra unique feel. The songs are sexy, with tracks like the cover of Roberta Flack's "Feel Like Making Love," or the album's single, "Untitled (How Does It Feel)," a cut which is oozing with sexual innuendos. But Voodoo is much more than simply an album to get your freak on to since D'Angelo also chooses to sing about what's close to his heart.\nPersonal songs like the album's beautiful closer "Africa" or the Latin flavored "Spanish Joint" are more mature lyrically than most pop songs today and his use of real musicians and instrumentation, rather than heavily polished beats makes Voodoo that much more effective.\nD'Angelo hasn't released an album since Voodoo and is starting to look like he has gone the way of fellow artist Lauryn Hill who after her 2000 opus The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill found the lord and faded away from the spotlight. Voodoo is the kind of perfect album that only comes around once and a while. It is brilliantly arranged, the lyrics are solid and D'Angelo has the kind of smooth, mellow voice that is in the same vein as a young Marvin Gaye in his heyday.
(06/01/06 4:00am)
When TV veteran David Milch ("NYPD Blue") first came to HBO with the idea for "Deadwood" he wanted to do a show that revolved around a camp in America's history that was rough, primitively civilized, dirty, without stable government or law and ultimately, fascinating. The first season of the show presented us with this overall premise, introducing us to the ensemble of brilliant characters and major themes like loyalty, greed, trust, corruption and self-discovery. Season two essentially picks up right where its predecessor left off and revolves mainly around outside threats and the inevitable organized future of Deadwood, N.D.\nIn season two, tensions continue to rise amidst the residents of Deadwood. The often livid Seth Bullock (Timothy Olyphant) struggles with his duties as sheriff and his commitment to wife and child, while keen bar keep/pimp and town Caesar Al Swearengen (the brilliant Ian McShane) deals with some nasty physical ailments, continues his stronghold of the camp while also dealing with eminent threats from outside business prospectors and the inevitable need to annex Deadwood into the U.S. government.\nWhile the threat of outside powers ascending on the gold miner's utopia is the overall premise of season two, it is the small side stories and development of minor characters that really makes this show fascinating. \nSol Star (a highly underused John Hawkes) pursues his complicated relationship with Swearengen's top whore Trixie (Paula Malcomson), self appointed mayor and slimy hotel connoisseur E.B. Farnum (William Sanderson) continues in his treacherous, snake-like ways and finally there is the newly introduced character Francis Wolcott (Garret Dillahunt, who previously starred as Wild Bill Hickok's assassin in season one), a prospector and businessman who has dark and nasty secrets.\nThe six-disc DVD set features enough special features to satisfy both hardcore fans of the show as well as those interested in exploring the historical background of the story. \nThe impressive set features nine commentary tracks by actors, creator Milch, and some producers, a documentary featurette on the real Deadwood and finally there is a nice little behind the scenes, "making of" video that chronicles the show's extensive and highly detailed set and costume designs, and how the actors and crew endured filming in unbearable desert heat, among other things. \n"Deadwood," like so many other series in HBO's impressive canon, is complicated and asks a lot from its audience. However, it never once insults our intelligence and is rewarding after its completion. The writing is stellar and at times poetic (even with its plethora of fantastic obscenities). The actors, many of whom are fairly unknown, are all top of their game and the show invites us to witness the wild side of the wild West while also showing us an important part of American History.
(06/01/06 4:00am)
One of last year's biggest and most controversial films was "Brokeback Mountain," which raised a new bar for the gay community and homosexual themes in mainstream movies. "Transamerica" was just as groundbreaking as "Brokeback" was, but it probably wasn't as talked about because of the light-hearted comedic tone throughout the film. Although the plot and mood were substantially different, "Transamerica" is just as important for the transgendered community as films like "Brokeback Mountain" are for the gay community. \n"Transamerica" follows a pre-op male to female transsexual named Bree, played by Felicity Huffman. Bree saves up a lot of money in order to get her sex change operation, but her plans are interrupted when she finds out she has a son which was conceived during her college days when she was still a man. She takes a plane from LA to New York City to bail her son out of jail, and offers to drive him to his stepfather's home, posing as a Christian missionary. Bree and her son Toby, played by Kevin Zegers, end up driving cross-country back to LA, and they gradually form a strong bond, which is tested towards the end of the film when Toby discovers who Bree really is. \nThrough the course of the film, Toby isn't the only one who is deceived by Bree, and aside from the dark humor, it becomes clear how much of a burden Bree's pre-op gender is to her. The characters around Bree become just as confused as she is, and the film covers a lot of the aspects and terms dealing with transgendered individuals that most people don't really know. Although the film raises social awareness about transgendered individuals, it was more about acceptance in general. Gender roles may define us, but like other factors, i.e. race, religion, etc., they're certainly not barriers.
(06/01/06 4:00am)
Known best as a cult classic, "The Boondock Saints" is back and edgier than ever. Just when you think this well-written, witty, dark comedy could not get any better, a new unrated collector's edition is released.\n"Boondock" is the story of fraternal twins Connor (Sean Patrick Flannery) and Murphy McManus (Norman Reedus), religious Catholics who soon take on the identity as the "Boondock Saints." As a friend of theirs is being stiffed by the Russian Mafia, the twins immediately step in to help and end up killing the Russians. Soon thereafter, Connor and Murphy come to believe that they have been given a mission from God. Their mission: to rid the city of Boston of all mafia criminals. While doing so, the twins instantly become heroes, although their identity remains unknown to the public.\nHowever, there is one man who is on their trail to finding their identities, detective Paul Smecker (Willem Dafoe). Although Detective Smecker is determined to find who is behind the crusades, he admits that what the boys are doing has secretly been something he has wished to happen. The Saints end up risking their lives to stand up for Veritas (truth) and Aequitas (equality).\nBoth Flannery and Reedus' performances are great. Although, at times it does become a little hard to understand them with their Irish accents. And the famed Willem Dafoe is both witty and funny as a homosexual detective trying to crack the case of the Boondock Saints. The movie is full of great crime scenes that will have you sitting at the edge of your seat in suspense, as well as a bit of comedy to go along with it. \nThe new release DVD comes with more features than the original. Along with commentaries from writer and director Troy Duffy as well as actor Billy Connolly, the DVD offers a variety of deleted scenes, funny outtakes and cast and crew filmographies. The most notable feature is a printable script, something I've never seen with a DVD. It's quite interesting for anyone who is unfamiliar with what an actual script looks like. \nThis movie is a true classic. I know that there was a second one in the making, however I think filming has either been delayed or cancelled, which is a shame. Not exactly a family movie, (the new edition is unrated), I would stick to showing this to kids in their teens and older. If you have yet to see it, I suggest you do so. You will be continuously entertained and not the least bit disappointed.
(06/01/06 4:00am)
Movies have a way of changing perception. Films have shaped public opinion of the mentally challenged just as they have race or sexuality. Films like "The Ringer," directed by Barry W. Blaustein, have to walk a fine line between tastelessness and sappiness, either taking the role of the mentally challenged too far or failing to push the material far enough to suit mainstream audiences. \nThe mentally challenged rarely get a fair shake in Hollywood. There are big name movies featuring challenged protagonists, but most of these feature straight-laced actors feigning disability. "Rain Man" and "Forrest Gump" both smack of Amos and Andy hopping on stage in blackface. The masquerade may be compelling, but the showman is ultimately a phony. "The Ringer" plays on this Hollywood trend in a twisted way. Steve Barker (Johnny Knoxville) is a regular guy who, because of exceptional circumstances, pretends to be mentally challenged so that he can compete in the Special Olympics. In the process, his preconceived notions are shattered as he discovers that he is competing against legitimate athletes with a lot going for them.\n"The Ringer" isn't crass or crude. It doesn't make fun of the Special Olympics like the similarly premised "South Park" episode. The movie was endorsed by the Special Olympics, and authentically challenged individuals are merged seamlessly with the cast of supporting actors. There isn't the jeering over-the-top presentation that most comedies would have resorted to. Ultimately, the movie wants us to laugh with, not at, the mentally challenged. The result is syrupy and sometimes forced, but the characters manage to stay in stride even when the script falters. The movie only falls apart once it reaches its contrived, feel-good ending.\nThe right audience will have a hard time finding this film. "South Park" enthusiasts and "Jackass" fans looking for cheap laughs and "retard" humor will walk away disappointed. "The Ringer" is best seen as a sports comedy movie, and the athletes have to be taken seriously for the shticks to hit their mark. The sincerity of the movie will ultimately appeal to the very same heartwarmer-loving crowd most likely to be turned off by the film's charged premise.\nThe DVD includes both widescreen and full screen on the same disc. The deleted scenes are funny, and a cut above those from many other movies. Otherwise, the features are a little sparse -- including commentary, a "Look at The Ringer" featurette and two plugs for the Special Olympics.
(06/01/06 4:00am)
Until just recently, I never had the pleasure of viewing "Patton." I had heard all the praise, seen clips here and there, yet in my entire WWII cinema intake I managed to overlook it somehow. I'm sure if "Old Blood and Guts" were alive today he'd kick me in the ass before handing me a cigar and calling me a son of a bitch. \nFrom the early battles against the Afrika Korps, through Italy, Normandy and Germany, Patton's entire campaign in WWII is the backdrop for this massive picture. It showcases his distinct humor, stern leadership, arrogance towards the British, paranoia towards the Russians and even the General's personal beliefs in reincarnation as if he was fighting in wars during the beginning of civilization. \nWritten in part by Francis Ford Coppola ("The Godfather"), he provides a commentary track and introduction to the film that is rich in honesty and anecdotal passages -- something more commentary tracks should contain. There is nothing I find more enjoyable than someone's interesting and/or humorous reminiscences about filmmaking. \nAside from the usual trailers and photo galleries, three vastly different documentaries are located on the second disc. The first, "History Through the Lens: Patton -- A Rebel Revisited," is a solid 90-minute feature discussing how "Patton" so faithfully chronicles its subject. "The Making of Patton" rounds up all those who worked on the film in celebration and tribute to its director, Franklin J. Schaffner, whose most famous work next to "Patton" would be cult-classic "Planet of the Apes." \nThe third documentary is the one that startled me. "Patton's Ghost Corps" is an unexpected 45-minute experience. Compiling interviews with over 60 living WWII veterans, a story is weaved together by men who Patton had forsaken at the time of the Battle of the Bulge. While "Patton" often mentions those who loathed the General's methods, these men provide tales ranging from faint praise to absolute condemnation.\nWith a modest $15 price tag, not only will you be treated to a piece of cinematic history, you'll also get a full history course thanks to superior extras.
(06/01/06 4:00am)
The 2D Platformer is dead, and Mario is the one who killed it. But after two trips into the third dimension, Mario tries to resuscitate the genre with "New Super Mario Bros."\nDon't be confused by the title, "New Super Mario Bros." isn't so much new as it is nostalgic. The game basically takes attributes from all of the Mario games and combines them into something that plays more or less like "Super Mario World," from the Super Nintendo. My favorite inclusion: killing Bowser the old school way, by taking out the bridge from beneath him a la the original "Super Mario Bros."\n"New Super Mario Bros." is a solid game even if it is basically a sequel to a 14-year-old game. The only real problem is that it is probably a little too easy for any Mario vets out there. If you are heading straight for the goal, you can probably finish this game in about 4-5 hours. However, if you are just in it to beat the final castle, you are going to be missing a lot. In fact, two entire worlds are only accessible as secret levels.\nAs any real Mario vet would expect, the real fun in this game comes from trying to beat/find everything, and therein lies the challenge as well. There is a myriad of secret levels, and every level, secret or not, has three gold coins you need to find. Some might claim that getting all of the coins is optional or even pointless, but trust me, when you see that gold coin in the middle of a stage, virtually inaccessible, laughing at you with its stupid high pitched gold coin laugh, optional quickly turns to obsession. \nYou will be shocked at the obscenities that will escape your lips as you fall into the lava for the twentieth time while going after that little gold coin. After a while I started making up bad words because the traditional fare didn't seem to capture my frustration. "Fusht" is sort of a combination of two bad words and should be used after five or more deaths in a row at the exact same point. "Shpeku" means "if that stupid giant eel eats me one more time I am going to drown a puppy." And of course "Belgium" is the most grievous of curses and should only be used in the direst Mario situations.\n"New Super Mario Bros." is definitely worth your time and money, but it gets points off for basically being "Super Mario World: The Lost Levels." Good job Mario, but let's try and show a little more originality next time.
(06/01/06 4:00am)
I never imagined how deep "Lost" would delve when I first started watching it in the autumn of 2004. I also never imagined how popular it would become, or how many people who watched it on a weekly basis would profess their hatred for and unending frustration with it while still tuning in religiously. In short, "Lost" is still the best show on television (as the 250-member Facebook group I created proudly proclaims), and after two fantastic seasons on ABC I felt the need to discuss it at length in the IDS once again.\nBy now, anyone who isn't a rabid fan of the show will have most likely closed the magazine or dismissed my praise and fanboy ranting. I'll freely admit that I'm a "Lost" fanboy, but I firmly believe that recent developments in and around the show have rendered it far more important and groundbreaking than any television program on the air today. "Lost" has succeeded at developing a mythology about itself unlike any show in recent memory, save "The X-Files" and possibly "Twin Peaks." With the deft employment of viral marketing exemplified by thehansofoundation.org, the Gary Troup novel "Bad Twin," hansocareers.com and the toll free number 1-877-HANSORG, as well as the hundreds of thousands if not millions of blog and message board postings logged after each new episode aired this past season, "Lost" has cemented itself in the upper echelon of cult television.\nIt doesn't hurt that the Emmys and Golden Globes honored the show with their Best Television Drama awards for its first season, but critical praise is beside the point. Upon the close of the second season last week, "Lost" has become the first moderately interactive scripted program on television, with a fanbase consisting of everyone from 80-year-old nursing home residents to teenage D&D nerds.\nAs much as I would love to avoid transforming this column into an aggressive fellation of Lost's impressive member, it's hard not admire what the show has accomplished in its first 47 episodes. Aside from introducing and fleshing out a cast of over 20 principal members, it's also introduced a mysterious island and a duo of nefarious corporations \nboth steeped in a mythology almost impenetrable to casual viewers. No other show's writing staff works so hard to keep so many viewers simultaneously enthralled and completely in the dark.\nWhile season one focused on a tight-knit group of castaways dealing with day-to-day life on the island on which they were planted, season two vastly expanded the show's scope. Viewers now have a whole new faction of castaways to assimilate, as well as members of the mysterious Others (a clan of islanders present before the main cast crashed on the island) and a stable cast of displaced animal life and monsters made of black smoke and video screens to take stock of. The show's tendency to reveal answers to previously asked questions about the aforementioned things while piling up a mass of newly unanswered ones both frustrates and excites viewers, and such mysteries are the primary catalyst of the show's mass appeal and unrivaled tension.\nSeason one ended with the mystery of "what was inside the hatch," and as soon as we found out the answer to that question, there were 100 more questions posed. As I said in my first IDS write-up on "Lost" (only six episodes into its run), this show is not for the casual viewer. Either you're in for the long haul or you're an outsider doomed to be baffled at people like me endlessly browsing the Hanso Foundation's website for clues.\nThe multiple websites, interactive phone number, and tie-in novel only enhance the "Lost" experience for die-hards, and while such viral marketing may seem to some to only enhance the brain-deadening effect of television, I can't help but champion television as stimulating and positively unnerving as this show is. I can't imagine such an elaborate marketing scheme working in the benefit of any show that wasn't as meticulously detailed and impossibly dense.\nI've encountered my share of doubters, all with valid concerns dismissing "Lost" as watered-down sci-fi posing or as a show with no idea of where it's going. Most of those doubters were lent my season one DVD set only to become immediately hooked and tune in obsessively to season two. "Lost" simply cannot be pigeonholed into any genre, and its characters can't be pigeonholed into typical television drama stereotypes. Its main fanbase remains in a constant state of "push the button/don't push the button," just like the show's primary protagonists.\nSeason three begins in October, and I, and millions of others can't help but wait feverishly. "Lost," while being immensely popular among many demographics, finds it hard to compete with some of today's most popular television series. It can't compete with "American Idol" because it actually has a meaningful purpose. It can't rival "Desperate Housewives" since it actually has a moral center. It can't even touch "CSI" due to the fact that its plot doesn't recycle itself week to week. "Lost" is in a class of its own, and no other television drama today (besides "The Sopranos") can even come close to touching it.
(06/01/06 4:00am)
When I first heard about the plans Nintendo had for the Wii (formerly codenamed "Revolution), I was convinced the people in charge had taken a few too many magic Mario mushrooms.\nIn the middle of Microsoft and Sony's pissing contest to have the most powerful, high definition system, with the latest and greatest disc technology, and online services that will replace porn as the greatest thing about the Internet, Nintendo announced a system slightly more powerful than a current generation Xbox that uses DVD technology and a controller unlike anything console gamers have ever seen before.\nAnd while graphically the Wii games shown so far are completely outclassed by what Sony and Microsoft are doing, I'm a lot more excited about the possibilities on Nintendo's upcoming console because of the sweet controller.\nThe Wii-mote as it has been dubbed looks a lot like a TV remote with a digital bad and a few familiar gamepad buttons, but what makes it really special is the motion sensor inside, that opens up limitless gameplay possibilities.\nAt E3, the video game tradeshow where companies show off all their games for the next year, the public got its first glimpse of just what this thing is capable of. Ubisoft's "Red Steel" showed that the Wii-mote could be swung like a sword as you hack away at waves and waves of enemies. It's not a very violent game (think the current James Bond games), but just imagine a game in the future where you use this thing to hack off limbs as blood spurts everywhere. That's the type of game that could give Senators Hillary Clinton and Joe Lieberman seizures.\nFor slightly more traditional gameplay, there's also an analog stick attachment which turns the Wii-mote into "the nunchuck." This frees up to remote to handle control over camera, or offer control in first person shooters such as "Metroid Prime 3: Corruption" that could end up rivaling the mouse and keyboard combo.\nThe real stars of E3 Wii show were the Nintendo games though. Wii Sports is a collection of basic games like tennis, golf and baseball, all using the controller as the racket, club and bat respectively. \nNintendo has never really been known for its sports games, but with this new level of immersion, the Wii could be the system for superfans. Even EA is developing a special edition of Madden that uses the controller as a football for ultimate pass control.\nNintendo's "big three," Metroid, Zelda and Mario will all hit around the November launch in games taking full advantage of the new hardware. Besides enhanced control, the aforementioned Metroid game also features a grapple beam, so when Samus grabs on to an object you actually pull it towards you with the remote.\n"The Legend of Zelda: Twighlight Princess" has been completely reworked from the Gamecube version shown at last E3 so that when Link pulls out his trusty bow and arrow, you pull back on the controller like drawing an arrow and let it fly towards enemies. \nThen there's "Super Mario Galaxy," a classic 3-D Mario platformer where the Wii-mote acts as the famous plumber's hand, allowing him to interact with objects onscreen. Besides the games that will take advantage of the new technology, Nintendo also showed some games that won't take advantage of the motion sensor, but looked impressive for other reasons, such as "Super Smash Bros. Brawl."\nThis sequel to the N64 and Gamecube that has taken dorm rooms by storm showed off new super smash moves, new Nintendo characters such as Wario and Pit from "Kid Icarus," and an additional character no one expected, Solid Snake from "Metal Gear Solid." The possibility of Sonic, Mega Man, Simon Belmont and tons of other characters from other companies is now open and fanboys everywhere are no doubt frothing at the mouth.\nOh yeah, and the whole thing is going to be online too.\nAs far as pure power goes, the Wii just can't compete with the Xbox 360 or Playstation 3 (it's not going to cost anywhere close to $600 either), but the games shown so far look damn fun to play, and isn't that why most of us got into gaming?\nThe original "Super Mario Bros." on NES looks like crap today, but even now it's fun to play. It's like gaming has gotten way off course from this original purpose and into this weird place where all that matters is the latest graphics and physics technology and a console that can do everything but get you laid.\nNintendo promised a Revolution and it looks like they are well on their way to delivering. Forget the hype of Xbox 360 games that barely look better than what you can get on your current Xbox, and stop paying attention to all the Blu-Ray and HD you don't need crap Sony is trying to sell you.\nThe Wii is the real future of gaming.
(06/01/06 4:00am)
So you're finally done with classes, or maybe you're not. Regardless, it's summer whichever way you look at it. Sure, you could occupy these hot summer days sitting on your ass, sleeping, playing video games. But, if you're feeling nimble, and have a little cash, you might want to look into taking a road trip. The open road awaits you, and there are plenty of big cities that are within driving range (1-5 hours away). This guide will take you through seven states and a dozen or so cities, so get out your map and follow along as you plot out your destinations for this summer.\nIndianapolis\nLet's start with the closest of the locations, a city that's just a hop, skip, and a short drive away from good ole Bloomington, Indiana's state capital. That's Indianapolis for those of you who failed Geography in high school. Indy, while one of the smaller cities in our guide to summer travel, is still home to some good sites and great fun. Feeling like a kid? Then check out the Indianapolis Children's Museum. If you want to spend some money, go shopping at Circle Center Mall. Indy is also a great place to see a show. If you're over 21, check out the Vogue, if not, the Emerson Theater is a great place for local and national acts alike. Indy is a great place to spend the day if you you're feeling bored and want a quick trip.\nCincinnati\nHeading east, we arrive in Ohio, the Buckeye state. You can zip over to Cincinnati, a three hour drive from Bloomington. If you're into sports, check out a Red's baseball game. If you're into music, check out a show at Bogart's. Feeling a little nerdy? Visit one of Cincinnati's many museums, including the Taft Museum of Art and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. \nLooking for some thrills this summer season? You can always trek up to Mason, Ohio, home of the Midwest's best theme park Paramount's King's Island. They have some great roller coasters, as well as a water park to cool off at on a hot summer's day. Just a mere 3 hour drive from Bloomington, so it's a fairly inexpensive outing, and it's great fun for a group of friends.\nLouisville, KY.\nOur next two destinations have us going south. Our first stop is Louisville, Ky. Senior Susanna Schneider loves visiting Louisville whenever she can. Her family lives in Lanesville, Ind., just minutes away from the Kentucky border and Louisville. \n"When I'm in Louisville, I like to go down to Bardstown Road, there are lots of cool shops and restaurants there," said Schneider. \nShe also likes to go downtown and stroll down Waterfront Park and take a look at the Ohio River.\n"Louisville has lots of places to see bands play," said Schneider. \nHeadliners, Jillian's and Bulldogs are popular places to stop by and see some bands rock out. She also likes to stop by the famous Ear-Xtacy Records store and pick up a CD from her favorite bands. Louisville is only two hours away from Bloomington, so it's a great place to take a trip to, and if you've never been there before, it's worth the trip.\nNashville, Tenn.\nIf you like country music, you should head down to Nashville, Tenn., not to be confused with the town just south of Bloomington of the same name. Nashville is home to country music, they even harbor the Country Music Hall of Fame. Nashville is also a great place for state parks, if you want to see some beautiful nature.\nProbably the biggest happening going on in Tennessee this summer, is the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Manchester. Freshman Bruce Murray plans on attending the event with a few of his friends. It won't be a cheap experience though. \n"I think it will cost me around 300 to 350 dollars total for the show, gas, food, and anything else that might come up," said Murray. \nThe drive will clock in at a little under six hours (yeah, I know…we're shooting for 1-5, but hey, this is Bonnaroo we're talking about!). The festival will feature well over 75 bands, but Murray is mainly interested in Radiohead.\n"Yeah, mainly Radiohead. But there are many others, like the Streets and Tom Petty that I will be checking out," said Murray.\n Murray views Bonnaroo as a three day vacation/relaxation session. \n"Bonnaroo for me will be an odyssey," said Murray. "Besides the music, and a few friends, I am going to use it as an opportunity to be by myself, without the distraction on family and mindless entertainment, like TV and videogames. I have pictured a sort of reflective-heavy holiday."\nSt. Louis\nWe whip back up to St. Louis, roughly a four hour drive from our beloved Bloomington. St. Louis is, of course, home to the famous Gateway Arch. In addition, St. Louis is a land of nature. Bordering the city is the great Mississippi River, where you can cruise in a paddlewheel riverboat. See a Cardinals baseball game if you're into sports. And beer, did I mention beer? St. Louis is home to the world's largest brewery, Anheuser-Busch. Looking for music? St. Louis is the home to the blues, and there are plenty of live music clubs to check out. St. Louis is an interesting city, and it's worth the drive if you're willing to make it.\nChicago\nOur final destination will take us to the Windy City, Chicago. Sophomore Emily Mnichowski plans on taking her friend from the big west coast, California, to downtown Chicago this summer. \n"She's never been there before, and I think she'll love it. When we are there, we are going to see McSmokerson play (a punk rock band from none other than Bloomington) and do some shopping," said Mnichowski. \nChicago is a great place to do just about anything. The city is right on the edge of Lake Michigan, so there's plenty of beach fun to be had. \nChicago is a town of sports. The White Sox and the Cubs for you baseball fans, and if you're a soccer hooligan, check out a Chicago Fire game in the brand new Ridgefield Stadium. Music is also a huge part of Chicago, and there isn't a lack of venues: the House of Blues, the Metro, the Bottom Lounge, the Beat Kitchen, just to name a few. \n"In my opinion, Chicago is the greatest city in the world because a lot of great bands play there and they have the best pizza. If I have time, I will probably go to a few museums, and bookstores," said Mnichowski. \nSo if you're looking for something to do this summer, something beyond the realm of Bloomington, you don't have to drive too far to find something to do beyond sitting around watching the shit on MTV or going to the bars all summer. Get out, travel, explore the world. It can be as inexpensive as you want to make it, except for gas maybe. But if you've got the transportation, there are thousands of things for you to find in the greater Midwest area that won't drain you of your limited funds.
(06/01/06 4:00am)
After a seven-month-long hiatus, the sun is out again in Bloomington. So once again it is time to say farewell to your sweatpants and TV screen and say hello to your shorts and sunscreen. There are plenty of things to do outdoors in and around Bloomington. So hop on your bike, strap on your hiking boots and don't forget your tent, as we take a look at where Indiana is hiding the best bits of nature.\nBloomington\nLake Monroe\nAt 10,750 acres, Monroe Reservoir is Indiana's biggest lake. Originally built as a means to control flood damage, the lake has become a major destination for students and Bloomington locals alike. Whether it is swimming, hiking, camping or fishing, Lake Monroe has what you need for some outdoor fun.\nGriffy Lake Nature Preserve\nLocated inside Bloomington city limits, this lake offers plenty of ways to get your kicks outside. There are almost 3 miles of hiking trails to discover. Or if you would prefer to cruise the lake, canoe rentals are $5.\nLeonard Springs Nature Park\nDedicated in 1999, Leonard Springs is one of the newer parks in the Bloomington area, but according to Angie Smith of the Bloomington Parks Department, it is also one of the better places for nature lovers to go and love nature. \n"Leonard Springs is a beautiful park," said Smith. "It is really one of our best."\nClear Creek Trail\nClear Creek trail is a 2.4 mile trail spanning from Tapp Road to Church Lane, just south of Bloomington. This multi-use trail is another new addition from the Bloomington parks department, which was just completed in 2003. According to Smith, "it is a good place to walk your dog, ride your bike or just go for a hike."\nWapehani Mountain Bike Trail\nUp for a little more excitement than hiking or canoeing can offer? The five miles of dirt trails at the Wapehani Mountain Bike Trail may be the place for you. Wapehani was the first mountain bike trail in Indiana, and it remains one of the best places for students to go when they are looking for a place to try and imitate all of the tricks they have seen at the X Games. Hey, if Dave Mirra can do it, why can't you?\nOutside of Bloomington\nMorgan-Monroe State Forest\nThis large park just to the north of Bloomington boasts dozens of camp sites, three lakes and over 20 miles of trails of varying difficulty. Although there are primitive campsites available for a fee, the truly daring may opt to pack up a backpack and head down Low Gap Trail to camp in their Back Country Area. Although camping in the Back Country Area is free, campers are still required to register with the forest office.\nMcCormick's Creek State Park\nMcCormick's Creek State Park offers something that the other places on our list don't, spelunking. One of McCormick's Creek's main attractions is Wolf Cave a natural underground cave ready to explore. McCormick's Creek also offers horse rides, fishing and 17 miles of hiking trails.\nBrown County State Park\nBrown County State park is the biggest and arguably most famous park in Indiana. They offer trails for hiking and mountain biking, camping, horse back riding and one of the most scenic drives to be found in the state. \nDeam Lake State Recreation Area\nDeam Lake is one of the favorite spots for Indiana students and Bloomington locals to go for their camping and hiking. The biggest draw is that it is not patrolled and there are relatively few visitors.\n"Deam Lake is my favorite," said Ryan Minton, Bloomington Local and IU graduate. "Nobody is there. You can walk for miles and not see a person"\nThere are plenty of places around Bloomington to have some outdoor fun, it is just a matter of packing a lunch and over coming the crippling fear of the sun you developed during the cloudy Bloomington winter.
(06/01/06 1:08am)
After a seven-month-long hiatus, the sun is out again in Bloomington. So once again it is time to say farewell to your sweatpants and TV screen and say hello to your shorts and sunscreen. There are plenty of things to do outdoors in and around Bloomington. So hop on your bike, strap on your hiking boots and don't forget your tent, as we take a look at where Indiana is hiding the best bits of nature.\nBloomington\nLake Monroe\nAt 10,750 acres, Monroe Reservoir is Indiana's biggest lake. Originally built as a means to control flood damage, the lake has become a major destination for students and Bloomington locals alike. Whether it is swimming, hiking, camping or fishing, Lake Monroe has what you need for some outdoor fun.\nGriffy Lake Nature Preserve\nLocated inside Bloomington city limits, this lake offers plenty of ways to get your kicks outside. There are almost 3 miles of hiking trails to discover. Or if you would prefer to cruise the lake, canoe rentals are $5.\nLeonard Springs Nature Park\nDedicated in 1999, Leonard Springs is one of the newer parks in the Bloomington area, but according to Angie Smith of the Bloomington Parks Department, it is also one of the better places for nature lovers to go and love nature. \n"Leonard Springs is a beautiful park," said Smith. "It is really one of our best."\nClear Creek Trail\nClear Creek trail is a 2.4 mile trail spanning from Tapp Road to Church Lane, just south of Bloomington. This multi-use trail is another new addition from the Bloomington parks department, which was just completed in 2003. According to Smith, "it is a good place to walk your dog, ride your bike or just go for a hike."\nWapehani Mountain Bike Trail\nUp for a little more excitement than hiking or canoeing can offer? The five miles of dirt trails at the Wapehani Mountain Bike Trail may be the place for you. Wapehani was the first mountain bike trail in Indiana, and it remains one of the best places for students to go when they are looking for a place to try and imitate all of the tricks they have seen at the X Games. Hey, if Dave Mirra can do it, why can't you?\nOutside of Bloomington\nMorgan-Monroe State Forest\nThis large park just to the north of Bloomington boasts dozens of camp sites, three lakes and over 20 miles of trails of varying difficulty. Although there are primitive campsites available for a fee, the truly daring may opt to pack up a backpack and head down Low Gap Trail to camp in their Back Country Area. Although camping in the Back Country Area is free, campers are still required to register with the forest office.\nMcCormick's Creek State Park\nMcCormick's Creek State Park offers something that the other places on our list don't, spelunking. One of McCormick's Creek's main attractions is Wolf Cave a natural underground cave ready to explore. McCormick's Creek also offers horse rides, fishing and 17 miles of hiking trails.\nBrown County State Park\nBrown County State park is the biggest and arguably most famous park in Indiana. They offer trails for hiking and mountain biking, camping, horse back riding and one of the most scenic drives to be found in the state. \nDeam Lake State Recreation Area\nDeam Lake is one of the favorite spots for Indiana students and Bloomington locals to go for their camping and hiking. The biggest draw is that it is not patrolled and there are relatively few visitors.\n"Deam Lake is my favorite," said Ryan Minton, Bloomington Local and IU graduate. "Nobody is there. You can walk for miles and not see a person"\nThere are plenty of places around Bloomington to have some outdoor fun, it is just a matter of packing a lunch and over coming the crippling fear of the sun you developed during the cloudy Bloomington winter.
(06/01/06 1:01am)
So you're finally done with classes, or maybe you're not. Regardless, it's summer whichever way you look at it. Sure, you could occupy these hot summer days sitting on your ass, sleeping, playing video games. But, if you're feeling nimble, and have a little cash, you might want to look into taking a road trip. The open road awaits you, and there are plenty of big cities that are within driving range (1-5 hours away). This guide will take you through seven states and a dozen or so cities, so get out your map and follow along as you plot out your destinations for this summer.\nIndianapolis\nLet's start with the closest of the locations, a city that's just a hop, skip, and a short drive away from good ole Bloomington, Indiana's state capital. That's Indianapolis for those of you who failed Geography in high school. Indy, while one of the smaller cities in our guide to summer travel, is still home to some good sites and great fun. Feeling like a kid? Then check out the Indianapolis Children's Museum. If you want to spend some money, go shopping at Circle Center Mall. Indy is also a great place to see a show. If you're over 21, check out the Vogue, if not, the Emerson Theater is a great place for local and national acts alike. Indy is a great place to spend the day if you you're feeling bored and want a quick trip.\nCincinnati\nHeading east, we arrive in Ohio, the Buckeye state. You can zip over to Cincinnati, a three hour drive from Bloomington. If you're into sports, check out a Red's baseball game. If you're into music, check out a show at Bogart's. Feeling a little nerdy? Visit one of Cincinnati's many museums, including the Taft Museum of Art and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. \nLooking for some thrills this summer season? You can always trek up to Mason, Ohio, home of the Midwest's best theme park Paramount's King's Island. They have some great roller coasters, as well as a water park to cool off at on a hot summer's day. Just a mere 3 hour drive from Bloomington, so it's a fairly inexpensive outing, and it's great fun for a group of friends.\nLouisville, KY.\nOur next two destinations have us going south. Our first stop is Louisville, Ky. Senior Susanna Schneider loves visiting Louisville whenever she can. Her family lives in Lanesville, Ind., just minutes away from the Kentucky border and Louisville. \n"When I'm in Louisville, I like to go down to Bardstown Road, there are lots of cool shops and restaurants there," said Schneider. \nShe also likes to go downtown and stroll down Waterfront Park and take a look at the Ohio River.\n"Louisville has lots of places to see bands play," said Schneider. \nHeadliners, Jillian's and Bulldogs are popular places to stop by and see some bands rock out. She also likes to stop by the famous Ear-Xtacy Records store and pick up a CD from her favorite bands. Louisville is only two hours away from Bloomington, so it's a great place to take a trip to, and if you've never been there before, it's worth the trip.\nNashville, Tenn.\nIf you like country music, you should head down to Nashville, Tenn., not to be confused with the town just south of Bloomington of the same name. Nashville is home to country music, they even harbor the Country Music Hall of Fame. Nashville is also a great place for state parks, if you want to see some beautiful nature.\nProbably the biggest happening going on in Tennessee this summer, is the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Manchester. Freshman Bruce Murray plans on attending the event with a few of his friends. It won't be a cheap experience though. \n"I think it will cost me around 300 to 350 dollars total for the show, gas, food, and anything else that might come up," said Murray. \nThe drive will clock in at a little under six hours (yeah, I know…we're shooting for 1-5, but hey, this is Bonnaroo we're talking about!). The festival will feature well over 75 bands, but Murray is mainly interested in Radiohead.\n"Yeah, mainly Radiohead. But there are many others, like the Streets and Tom Petty that I will be checking out," said Murray.\n Murray views Bonnaroo as a three day vacation/relaxation session. \n"Bonnaroo for me will be an odyssey," said Murray. "Besides the music, and a few friends, I am going to use it as an opportunity to be by myself, without the distraction on family and mindless entertainment, like TV and videogames. I have pictured a sort of reflective-heavy holiday."\nSt. Louis\nWe whip back up to St. Louis, roughly a four hour drive from our beloved Bloomington. St. Louis is, of course, home to the famous Gateway Arch. In addition, St. Louis is a land of nature. Bordering the city is the great Mississippi River, where you can cruise in a paddlewheel riverboat. See a Cardinals baseball game if you're into sports. And beer, did I mention beer? St. Louis is home to the world's largest brewery, Anheuser-Busch. Looking for music? St. Louis is the home to the blues, and there are plenty of live music clubs to check out. St. Louis is an interesting city, and it's worth the drive if you're willing to make it.\nChicago\nOur final destination will take us to the Windy City, Chicago. Sophomore Emily Mnichowski plans on taking her friend from the big west coast, California, to downtown Chicago this summer. \n"She's never been there before, and I think she'll love it. When we are there, we are going to see McSmokerson play (a punk rock band from none other than Bloomington) and do some shopping," said Mnichowski. \nChicago is a great place to do just about anything. The city is right on the edge of Lake Michigan, so there's plenty of beach fun to be had. \nChicago is a town of sports. The White Sox and the Cubs for you baseball fans, and if you're a soccer hooligan, check out a Chicago Fire game in the brand new Ridgefield Stadium. Music is also a huge part of Chicago, and there isn't a lack of venues: the House of Blues, the Metro, the Bottom Lounge, the Beat Kitchen, just to name a few. \n"In my opinion, Chicago is the greatest city in the world because a lot of great bands play there and they have the best pizza. If I have time, I will probably go to a few museums, and bookstores," said Mnichowski. \nSo if you're looking for something to do this summer, something beyond the realm of Bloomington, you don't have to drive too far to find something to do beyond sitting around watching the shit on MTV or going to the bars all summer. Get out, travel, explore the world. It can be as inexpensive as you want to make it, except for gas maybe. But if you've got the transportation, there are thousands of things for you to find in the greater Midwest area that won't drain you of your limited funds.
(06/01/06 12:57am)
When I first heard about the plans Nintendo had for the Wii (formerly codenamed "Revolution), I was convinced the people in charge had taken a few too many magic Mario mushrooms.\nIn the middle of Microsoft and Sony's pissing contest to have the most powerful, high definition system, with the latest and greatest disc technology, and online services that will replace porn as the greatest thing about the Internet, Nintendo announced a system slightly more powerful than a current generation Xbox that uses DVD technology and a controller unlike anything console gamers have ever seen before.\nAnd while graphically the Wii games shown so far are completely outclassed by what Sony and Microsoft are doing, I'm a lot more excited about the possibilities on Nintendo's upcoming console because of the sweet controller.\nThe Wii-mote as it has been dubbed looks a lot like a TV remote with a digital bad and a few familiar gamepad buttons, but what makes it really special is the motion sensor inside, that opens up limitless gameplay possibilities.\nAt E3, the video game tradeshow where companies show off all their games for the next year, the public got its first glimpse of just what this thing is capable of. Ubisoft's "Red Steel" showed that the Wii-mote could be swung like a sword as you hack away at waves and waves of enemies. It's not a very violent game (think the current James Bond games), but just imagine a game in the future where you use this thing to hack off limbs as blood spurts everywhere. That's the type of game that could give Senators Hillary Clinton and Joe Lieberman seizures.\nFor slightly more traditional gameplay, there's also an analog stick attachment which turns the Wii-mote into "the nunchuck." This frees up to remote to handle control over camera, or offer control in first person shooters such as "Metroid Prime 3: Corruption" that could end up rivaling the mouse and keyboard combo.\nThe real stars of E3 Wii show were the Nintendo games though. Wii Sports is a collection of basic games like tennis, golf and baseball, all using the controller as the racket, club and bat respectively. \nNintendo has never really been known for its sports games, but with this new level of immersion, the Wii could be the system for superfans. Even EA is developing a special edition of Madden that uses the controller as a football for ultimate pass control.\nNintendo's "big three," Metroid, Zelda and Mario will all hit around the November launch in games taking full advantage of the new hardware. Besides enhanced control, the aforementioned Metroid game also features a grapple beam, so when Samus grabs on to an object you actually pull it towards you with the remote.\n"The Legend of Zelda: Twighlight Princess" has been completely reworked from the Gamecube version shown at last E3 so that when Link pulls out his trusty bow and arrow, you pull back on the controller like drawing an arrow and let it fly towards enemies. \nThen there's "Super Mario Galaxy," a classic 3-D Mario platformer where the Wii-mote acts as the famous plumber's hand, allowing him to interact with objects onscreen. Besides the games that will take advantage of the new technology, Nintendo also showed some games that won't take advantage of the motion sensor, but looked impressive for other reasons, such as "Super Smash Bros. Brawl."\nThis sequel to the N64 and Gamecube that has taken dorm rooms by storm showed off new super smash moves, new Nintendo characters such as Wario and Pit from "Kid Icarus," and an additional character no one expected, Solid Snake from "Metal Gear Solid." The possibility of Sonic, Mega Man, Simon Belmont and tons of other characters from other companies is now open and fanboys everywhere are no doubt frothing at the mouth.\nOh yeah, and the whole thing is going to be online too.\nAs far as pure power goes, the Wii just can't compete with the Xbox 360 or Playstation 3 (it's not going to cost anywhere close to $600 either), but the games shown so far look damn fun to play, and isn't that why most of us got into gaming?\nThe original "Super Mario Bros." on NES looks like crap today, but even now it's fun to play. It's like gaming has gotten way off course from this original purpose and into this weird place where all that matters is the latest graphics and physics technology and a console that can do everything but get you laid.\nNintendo promised a Revolution and it looks like they are well on their way to delivering. Forget the hype of Xbox 360 games that barely look better than what you can get on your current Xbox, and stop paying attention to all the Blu-Ray and HD you don't need crap Sony is trying to sell you.\nThe Wii is the real future of gaming.
(06/01/06 12:55am)
I never imagined how deep "Lost" would delve when I first started watching it in the autumn of 2004. I also never imagined how popular it would become, or how many people who watched it on a weekly basis would profess their hatred for and unending frustration with it while still tuning in religiously. In short, "Lost" is still the best show on television (as the 250-member Facebook group I created proudly proclaims), and after two fantastic seasons on ABC I felt the need to discuss it at length in the IDS once again.\nBy now, anyone who isn't a rabid fan of the show will have most likely closed the magazine or dismissed my praise and fanboy ranting. I'll freely admit that I'm a "Lost" fanboy, but I firmly believe that recent developments in and around the show have rendered it far more important and groundbreaking than any television program on the air today. "Lost" has succeeded at developing a mythology about itself unlike any show in recent memory, save "The X-Files" and possibly "Twin Peaks." With the deft employment of viral marketing exemplified by thehansofoundation.org, the Gary Troup novel "Bad Twin," hansocareers.com and the toll free number 1-877-HANSORG, as well as the hundreds of thousands if not millions of blog and message board postings logged after each new episode aired this past season, "Lost" has cemented itself in the upper echelon of cult television.\nIt doesn't hurt that the Emmys and Golden Globes honored the show with their Best Television Drama awards for its first season, but critical praise is beside the point. Upon the close of the second season last week, "Lost" has become the first moderately interactive scripted program on television, with a fanbase consisting of everyone from 80-year-old nursing home residents to teenage D&D nerds.\nAs much as I would love to avoid transforming this column into an aggressive fellation of Lost's impressive member, it's hard not admire what the show has accomplished in its first 47 episodes. Aside from introducing and fleshing out a cast of over 20 principal members, it's also introduced a mysterious island and a duo of nefarious corporations \nboth steeped in a mythology almost impenetrable to casual viewers. No other show's writing staff works so hard to keep so many viewers simultaneously enthralled and completely in the dark.\nWhile season one focused on a tight-knit group of castaways dealing with day-to-day life on the island on which they were planted, season two vastly expanded the show's scope. Viewers now have a whole new faction of castaways to assimilate, as well as members of the mysterious Others (a clan of islanders present before the main cast crashed on the island) and a stable cast of displaced animal life and monsters made of black smoke and video screens to take stock of. The show's tendency to reveal answers to previously asked questions about the aforementioned things while piling up a mass of newly unanswered ones both frustrates and excites viewers, and such mysteries are the primary catalyst of the show's mass appeal and unrivaled tension.\nSeason one ended with the mystery of "what was inside the hatch," and as soon as we found out the answer to that question, there were 100 more questions posed. As I said in my first IDS write-up on "Lost" (only six episodes into its run), this show is not for the casual viewer. Either you're in for the long haul or you're an outsider doomed to be baffled at people like me endlessly browsing the Hanso Foundation's website for clues.\nThe multiple websites, interactive phone number, and tie-in novel only enhance the "Lost" experience for die-hards, and while such viral marketing may seem to some to only enhance the brain-deadening effect of television, I can't help but champion television as stimulating and positively unnerving as this show is. I can't imagine such an elaborate marketing scheme working in the benefit of any show that wasn't as meticulously detailed and impossibly dense.\nI've encountered my share of doubters, all with valid concerns dismissing "Lost" as watered-down sci-fi posing or as a show with no idea of where it's going. Most of those doubters were lent my season one DVD set only to become immediately hooked and tune in obsessively to season two. "Lost" simply cannot be pigeonholed into any genre, and its characters can't be pigeonholed into typical television drama stereotypes. Its main fanbase remains in a constant state of "push the button/don't push the button," just like the show's primary protagonists.\nSeason three begins in October, and I, and millions of others can't help but wait feverishly. "Lost," while being immensely popular among many demographics, finds it hard to compete with some of today's most popular television series. It can't compete with "American Idol" because it actually has a meaningful purpose. It can't rival "Desperate Housewives" since it actually has a moral center. It can't even touch "CSI" due to the fact that its plot doesn't recycle itself week to week. "Lost" is in a class of its own, and no other television drama today (besides "The Sopranos") can even come close to touching it.
(06/01/06 12:45am)
The 2D Platformer is dead, and Mario is the one who killed it. But after two trips into the third dimension, Mario tries to resuscitate the genre with "New Super Mario Bros."\nDon't be confused by the title, "New Super Mario Bros." isn't so much new as it is nostalgic. The game basically takes attributes from all of the Mario games and combines them into something that plays more or less like "Super Mario World," from the Super Nintendo. My favorite inclusion: killing Bowser the old school way, by taking out the bridge from beneath him a la the original "Super Mario Bros."\n"New Super Mario Bros." is a solid game even if it is basically a sequel to a 14-year-old game. The only real problem is that it is probably a little too easy for any Mario vets out there. If you are heading straight for the goal, you can probably finish this game in about 4-5 hours. However, if you are just in it to beat the final castle, you are going to be missing a lot. In fact, two entire worlds are only accessible as secret levels.\nAs any real Mario vet would expect, the real fun in this game comes from trying to beat/find everything, and therein lies the challenge as well. There is a myriad of secret levels, and every level, secret or not, has three gold coins you need to find. Some might claim that getting all of the coins is optional or even pointless, but trust me, when you see that gold coin in the middle of a stage, virtually inaccessible, laughing at you with its stupid high pitched gold coin laugh, optional quickly turns to obsession. \nYou will be shocked at the obscenities that will escape your lips as you fall into the lava for the twentieth time while going after that little gold coin. After a while I started making up bad words because the traditional fare didn't seem to capture my frustration. "Fusht" is sort of a combination of two bad words and should be used after five or more deaths in a row at the exact same point. "Shpeku" means "if that stupid giant eel eats me one more time I am going to drown a puppy." And of course "Belgium" is the most grievous of curses and should only be used in the direst Mario situations.\n"New Super Mario Bros." is definitely worth your time and money, but it gets points off for basically being "Super Mario World: The Lost Levels." Good job Mario, but let's try and show a little more originality next time.
(06/01/06 12:42am)
Until just recently, I never had the pleasure of viewing "Patton." I had heard all the praise, seen clips here and there, yet in my entire WWII cinema intake I managed to overlook it somehow. I'm sure if "Old Blood and Guts" were alive today he'd kick me in the ass before handing me a cigar and calling me a son of a bitch. \nFrom the early battles against the Afrika Korps, through Italy, Normandy and Germany, Patton's entire campaign in WWII is the backdrop for this massive picture. It showcases his distinct humor, stern leadership, arrogance towards the British, paranoia towards the Russians and even the General's personal beliefs in reincarnation as if he was fighting in wars during the beginning of civilization. \nWritten in part by Francis Ford Coppola ("The Godfather"), he provides a commentary track and introduction to the film that is rich in honesty and anecdotal passages -- something more commentary tracks should contain. There is nothing I find more enjoyable than someone's interesting and/or humorous reminiscences about filmmaking. \nAside from the usual trailers and photo galleries, three vastly different documentaries are located on the second disc. The first, "History Through the Lens: Patton -- A Rebel Revisited," is a solid 90-minute feature discussing how "Patton" so faithfully chronicles its subject. "The Making of Patton" rounds up all those who worked on the film in celebration and tribute to its director, Franklin J. Schaffner, whose most famous work next to "Patton" would be cult-classic "Planet of the Apes." \nThe third documentary is the one that startled me. "Patton's Ghost Corps" is an unexpected 45-minute experience. Compiling interviews with over 60 living WWII veterans, a story is weaved together by men who Patton had forsaken at the time of the Battle of the Bulge. While "Patton" often mentions those who loathed the General's methods, these men provide tales ranging from faint praise to absolute condemnation.\nWith a modest $15 price tag, not only will you be treated to a piece of cinematic history, you'll also get a full history course thanks to superior extras.
(06/01/06 12:40am)
Movies have a way of changing perception. Films have shaped public opinion of the mentally challenged just as they have race or sexuality. Films like "The Ringer," directed by Barry W. Blaustein, have to walk a fine line between tastelessness and sappiness, either taking the role of the mentally challenged too far or failing to push the material far enough to suit mainstream audiences. \nThe mentally challenged rarely get a fair shake in Hollywood. There are big name movies featuring challenged protagonists, but most of these feature straight-laced actors feigning disability. "Rain Man" and "Forrest Gump" both smack of Amos and Andy hopping on stage in blackface. The masquerade may be compelling, but the showman is ultimately a phony. "The Ringer" plays on this Hollywood trend in a twisted way. Steve Barker (Johnny Knoxville) is a regular guy who, because of exceptional circumstances, pretends to be mentally challenged so that he can compete in the Special Olympics. In the process, his preconceived notions are shattered as he discovers that he is competing against legitimate athletes with a lot going for them.\n"The Ringer" isn't crass or crude. It doesn't make fun of the Special Olympics like the similarly premised "South Park" episode. The movie was endorsed by the Special Olympics, and authentically challenged individuals are merged seamlessly with the cast of supporting actors. There isn't the jeering over-the-top presentation that most comedies would have resorted to. Ultimately, the movie wants us to laugh with, not at, the mentally challenged. The result is syrupy and sometimes forced, but the characters manage to stay in stride even when the script falters. The movie only falls apart once it reaches its contrived, feel-good ending.\nThe right audience will have a hard time finding this film. "South Park" enthusiasts and "Jackass" fans looking for cheap laughs and "retard" humor will walk away disappointed. "The Ringer" is best seen as a sports comedy movie, and the athletes have to be taken seriously for the shticks to hit their mark. The sincerity of the movie will ultimately appeal to the very same heartwarmer-loving crowd most likely to be turned off by the film's charged premise.\nThe DVD includes both widescreen and full screen on the same disc. The deleted scenes are funny, and a cut above those from many other movies. Otherwise, the features are a little sparse -- including commentary, a "Look at The Ringer" featurette and two plugs for the Special Olympics.
(06/01/06 12:38am)
Known best as a cult classic, "The Boondock Saints" is back and edgier than ever. Just when you think this well-written, witty, dark comedy could not get any better, a new unrated collector's edition is released.\n"Boondock" is the story of fraternal twins Connor (Sean Patrick Flannery) and Murphy McManus (Norman Reedus), religious Catholics who soon take on the identity as the "Boondock Saints." As a friend of theirs is being stiffed by the Russian Mafia, the twins immediately step in to help and end up killing the Russians. Soon thereafter, Connor and Murphy come to believe that they have been given a mission from God. Their mission: to rid the city of Boston of all mafia criminals. While doing so, the twins instantly become heroes, although their identity remains unknown to the public.\nHowever, there is one man who is on their trail to finding their identities, detective Paul Smecker (Willem Dafoe). Although Detective Smecker is determined to find who is behind the crusades, he admits that what the boys are doing has secretly been something he has wished to happen. The Saints end up risking their lives to stand up for Veritas (truth) and Aequitas (equality).\nBoth Flannery and Reedus' performances are great. Although, at times it does become a little hard to understand them with their Irish accents. And the famed Willem Dafoe is both witty and funny as a homosexual detective trying to crack the case of the Boondock Saints. The movie is full of great crime scenes that will have you sitting at the edge of your seat in suspense, as well as a bit of comedy to go along with it. \nThe new release DVD comes with more features than the original. Along with commentaries from writer and director Troy Duffy as well as actor Billy Connolly, the DVD offers a variety of deleted scenes, funny outtakes and cast and crew filmographies. The most notable feature is a printable script, something I've never seen with a DVD. It's quite interesting for anyone who is unfamiliar with what an actual script looks like. \nThis movie is a true classic. I know that there was a second one in the making, however I think filming has either been delayed or cancelled, which is a shame. Not exactly a family movie, (the new edition is unrated), I would stick to showing this to kids in their teens and older. If you have yet to see it, I suggest you do so. You will be continuously entertained and not the least bit disappointed.
