I rented "Blood" on pay per view earlier this week to fill the post Christmas TV void. I didn't have high expectations for the plot or acting, so I wasn't disappointed. It was pretty typical vampire fighting fare.
What set "Blood" apart was the ballet fighting action. The influence of "Crouching Tiger" is evident.
It was definitely worth the $4 and filled a night of of reruns.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
Kung Fu Panda
Kung Fu Panda is not my favorite Dreamworks release. In fact, it is one of my least favorite. The animation is fine. The story is fine, if a little predictable. The characters are fine. That's it - just fine.
The one thing I did really like about the movie was the message: There is no secret ingredient. Things are special because people believe they are special. I know this message is supposed to teach kids that they can be what ever they want to be and help bolster their self-esteem, but that I like the message because it reminds people not to take things so seriously. Most "special" things are only special because we endow them with "specialness."
There are something that are special because they posses rare qualities, but those things are few and far between.
Kung Fu Panda is not one of those things. It is just fine.
The one thing I did really like about the movie was the message: There is no secret ingredient. Things are special because people believe they are special. I know this message is supposed to teach kids that they can be what ever they want to be and help bolster their self-esteem, but that I like the message because it reminds people not to take things so seriously. Most "special" things are only special because we endow them with "specialness."
There are something that are special because they posses rare qualities, but those things are few and far between.
Kung Fu Panda is not one of those things. It is just fine.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Avatar
Like the big nerd that I am, I rushed out to see Avatar on opening day. I saw it in the full glory of IMAX 3D and am glad I did. It is a movie that deserves a huge screen and a big sound system. I'm sure it would look great on a smaller screen and in 2D, but it was meant for the full treatment.
Like the original Star Wars, Avatar moves the bar up for what is possible using special effects. Cameron's new world looks as real as any set I've ever seen. The creatures also look real. They don't look "sort of" real like allot of CGI creatures. They look like flesh and blood. The facial expressions, the body movements, the skin, everything. It is hard to distinguish between what is CGI and what isn't even when humans and creatures are interacting. The 3D makes it all the more engrossing. However, there were a few times when the 3D effects fuzzed things out.
The story is nothing special. It is Ferngully in space. The trailer gives the whole plot away and there are no surprises. The script is clunky in places, but not as bad as the scripts for the last three Star Wars films. The acting was top notch considering that half of the time you are watching CGI and could still feel the characters.
At nearly three hours, the movie could use a bit of trimming. A lot of screen time is taken up showing off the fancy effects and the lushness of the world. There is also a little too much exposition. Overall, though, I didn't notice the long running time because I was so engrossed in the visual spectacle.
It is not the best sci-fi movie of the year, but it is top three. I highly recommend going for the full IMAX treatment. The seating is better, the sound is better, the visuals deserve the bigger screen, and the price difference is nominal. I paid 14 bucks - the extra $2 is worth it.
Like the original Star Wars, Avatar moves the bar up for what is possible using special effects. Cameron's new world looks as real as any set I've ever seen. The creatures also look real. They don't look "sort of" real like allot of CGI creatures. They look like flesh and blood. The facial expressions, the body movements, the skin, everything. It is hard to distinguish between what is CGI and what isn't even when humans and creatures are interacting. The 3D makes it all the more engrossing. However, there were a few times when the 3D effects fuzzed things out.
The story is nothing special. It is Ferngully in space. The trailer gives the whole plot away and there are no surprises. The script is clunky in places, but not as bad as the scripts for the last three Star Wars films. The acting was top notch considering that half of the time you are watching CGI and could still feel the characters.
At nearly three hours, the movie could use a bit of trimming. A lot of screen time is taken up showing off the fancy effects and the lushness of the world. There is also a little too much exposition. Overall, though, I didn't notice the long running time because I was so engrossed in the visual spectacle.
It is not the best sci-fi movie of the year, but it is top three. I highly recommend going for the full IMAX treatment. The seating is better, the sound is better, the visuals deserve the bigger screen, and the price difference is nominal. I paid 14 bucks - the extra $2 is worth it.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Union Bar and Grill
The Union Bar & Grill, located on Washington Street in Boston's south end, is an upscale brunch spot in a land of brunch spots. The decor is classy and the staff is dressed accordingly. The space is large and the table layout optimizes the space.
We all got drinks that were good. H got a pimossa which is a mimosa made with pomergranite juice. It was very good. I got the wake up call which is an odd concoction of liquors, esspreso, and juices. When it came out I was taken aback because I thought it was a coffee drink, but it is a martini with a rusty orange color. Once the surprise wore off, I enjoyed the drink.
For food H got the cod cakes. The cod cakes are a twist on eggs benedict where the English muffin and Canadian bacon is replaced by lightly breaded cod cakes. H found them interesting and tastey. I got an omlette instead of my usual steak and eggs. I immediately regretted the decision, but not because the omlette was bad. I just don't like omlettes much. Fortunately, this omlette was very good and made my bad choice bearable.
The prices were in the high range, but the Union earns them. The entire experience was high class.
We all got drinks that were good. H got a pimossa which is a mimosa made with pomergranite juice. It was very good. I got the wake up call which is an odd concoction of liquors, esspreso, and juices. When it came out I was taken aback because I thought it was a coffee drink, but it is a martini with a rusty orange color. Once the surprise wore off, I enjoyed the drink.
For food H got the cod cakes. The cod cakes are a twist on eggs benedict where the English muffin and Canadian bacon is replaced by lightly breaded cod cakes. H found them interesting and tastey. I got an omlette instead of my usual steak and eggs. I immediately regretted the decision, but not because the omlette was bad. I just don't like omlettes much. Fortunately, this omlette was very good and made my bad choice bearable.
The prices were in the high range, but the Union earns them. The entire experience was high class.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Alice
SyFy's reimagining of Alice in Wonderland makes me wonder if SciFy's writing team couldn't use a bit more therapy to work out their family issues. Like the Oz reimagining they did with Zoey Daschenel, Alice revolves around a young girl who is the key to saving a magical land and the key to her power lies in resolving a deep family rift. In Alice, she must overcome her distrust of men caused by the disappearence of her father.
This is a mild criticism. I prefer my sci-fi to be more social commentary than the modern mopy dysfunctional family stuff. I'm probably also older than the target audience who digs Twilight and sensitive emo-pires who lust after their own angst.
Alice does have some strengths. The story is well paced if a bit predictable. The CGI set work is lush. The acting is good. There are some gags that elicited a titter.
For what it is, a long SyFy movie, it is good. Unlike the attrocious Prisoner redo on AMC, it delivered what it promised: a few hours of escape.
This is a mild criticism. I prefer my sci-fi to be more social commentary than the modern mopy dysfunctional family stuff. I'm probably also older than the target audience who digs Twilight and sensitive emo-pires who lust after their own angst.
Alice does have some strengths. The story is well paced if a bit predictable. The CGI set work is lush. The acting is good. There are some gags that elicited a titter.
For what it is, a long SyFy movie, it is good. Unlike the attrocious Prisoner redo on AMC, it delivered what it promised: a few hours of escape.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Five Guys Burgers and Fries
On our way home from RI Sunday H and I stopped at the new Five Guys Burgers & Fries place in Norwood. The chain is well known as a premium burger joint with good prices and fast service.
They score well on both counts. The burgers are tastey and huge. The small is a "normal" size burger. My large was a double decker. The large Cajun fries were enough for a family of four.
The gamut of burger toppings are available. I got jalapenos, cheese, and BBQ sauce.
The burgers were better than average but not great. I personally like the burgers at Wild Willy's in Watertown better. The Cajun fries were also above average. One nice thing is that all of the ingredients are fresh. The fries are cut each day and the meat is never frozen.
Our meal came in at around $20 with two drinks. While not cheap, the price is good for the quality of the food.
The only part of the experience I found lacking was the atmosphere. Most McDonalds have more charm than Five Guys. The food comes in a brown bag perfect for take out. Unless you enjoy eating at formica tables in uncomfortable chairs, I'd take the hint. Eat the burgers at home or in the comfort of your car.
They score well on both counts. The burgers are tastey and huge. The small is a "normal" size burger. My large was a double decker. The large Cajun fries were enough for a family of four.
The gamut of burger toppings are available. I got jalapenos, cheese, and BBQ sauce.
The burgers were better than average but not great. I personally like the burgers at Wild Willy's in Watertown better. The Cajun fries were also above average. One nice thing is that all of the ingredients are fresh. The fries are cut each day and the meat is never frozen.
Our meal came in at around $20 with two drinks. While not cheap, the price is good for the quality of the food.
The only part of the experience I found lacking was the atmosphere. Most McDonalds have more charm than Five Guys. The food comes in a brown bag perfect for take out. Unless you enjoy eating at formica tables in uncomfortable chairs, I'd take the hint. Eat the burgers at home or in the comfort of your car.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Tower House B&B
This past weekend H and I traveled down to Narragansett for a birthday party. Since it was a night time event and the possibility of drinking, we thought it would be nice to stay nearby. Always thinking about an hour-plus drive home takes some of the fun out of a party.
H found the Tower House B&B online. This is their first season, but you wouldn't have known it. They family running it do an excellent job.
We stayed in the Caldwell suite. It is a large bed room, a sitting room, and a large bath. The bedroom was well apointed. The queen size bed was a little soft for me, but I'm comfortable sleeping on packed dirt. The bathroom was large. There was a full tub with a shower head. The water pressure was good and the multi-setting shower head worked wonders.
In the evening they have a beer and wine happy hour in the common area. The only beer served is Narragansett. The new Narragansett is a step up from the Narragansett I enjoyed in college, but it is still a basement beer.
Breakfast consisted of a french toast casserole, eggs Benedict, bacon, sausage, and fruit. I enjoyed the meats and the casserole. H loved the eggs.
From what we saw of them under the snow, the grounds looked nice. The Inn is set back off of the street and has a good sized back yard.
The location is perfect for people to enjoy the ocean. It is one block from the Narragansett town pier. The town beach is a reasonable walk if you are not hauling too much stuff.
H found the Tower House B&B online. This is their first season, but you wouldn't have known it. They family running it do an excellent job.
We stayed in the Caldwell suite. It is a large bed room, a sitting room, and a large bath. The bedroom was well apointed. The queen size bed was a little soft for me, but I'm comfortable sleeping on packed dirt. The bathroom was large. There was a full tub with a shower head. The water pressure was good and the multi-setting shower head worked wonders.
In the evening they have a beer and wine happy hour in the common area. The only beer served is Narragansett. The new Narragansett is a step up from the Narragansett I enjoyed in college, but it is still a basement beer.
Breakfast consisted of a french toast casserole, eggs Benedict, bacon, sausage, and fruit. I enjoyed the meats and the casserole. H loved the eggs.
From what we saw of them under the snow, the grounds looked nice. The Inn is set back off of the street and has a good sized back yard.
The location is perfect for people to enjoy the ocean. It is one block from the Narragansett town pier. The town beach is a reasonable walk if you are not hauling too much stuff.
Monday, November 30, 2009
The Prisoner
I just finished watching AMC's reimagined The Prisoner. It was self-important pants.
It was well acted and looked lovely. I love most things the Ian McKellen does and his 2 was no exception. He slipped from touching moments with his son, to cool evil, to manic with ease. Jamie Campbell Bower's 11-12 is touching in his self-involved teen angst. Ruth Wilson's 313's predicament as pawn and heroine, need for stability and desire for life, tool of 2 and friend of 6 is poignant.
The supporting cast, the scenery, the costumes, and the cinematography are also superlative.
Sadly it is not enough to make the piss poor script worth the six hours of my life I wasted watching the show. The dialog, although mostly well delivered, is little more than self-help tripe strung into menace. "Only by becoming one can we defeat two." Seriously?
The central conflict between 6 and 2, between prisoner and jailor is convoluted. It would be one thing if it was a simple struggle for freedom. Instead it is clear that 2 wants something from 6. It is not as simple as 6 merely being trouble because you learn early on that 2 is not above simply eliminating trouble. The reason why 6 is a prisoner and why 2 plays with 6 are never made clear until the end. This allows for a number of interesting points to be brought up about terrorism, authoritarianism, free will, our surveillance state, human nature.
When the final resolution came I was left wanting. The truth of the village is disappointing in it unoriginality. The resolution of 6's struggle is unbelievable. It does not flow from the character and makes the moral ambiguity of the ending disappointing.
There was a lot of wasted potential in The Prisoner. A straight remake would have been excellent. The reimagined story could also have worked with better writers. The conflict between 2 and 6, jailed and jailor, needed more tension and more purpose. The Lost style puzzle for the sake of it/flashback story telling technique does not work here. 2's descent needs more time to be believable.
It was well acted and looked lovely. I love most things the Ian McKellen does and his 2 was no exception. He slipped from touching moments with his son, to cool evil, to manic with ease. Jamie Campbell Bower's 11-12 is touching in his self-involved teen angst. Ruth Wilson's 313's predicament as pawn and heroine, need for stability and desire for life, tool of 2 and friend of 6 is poignant.
The supporting cast, the scenery, the costumes, and the cinematography are also superlative.
Sadly it is not enough to make the piss poor script worth the six hours of my life I wasted watching the show. The dialog, although mostly well delivered, is little more than self-help tripe strung into menace. "Only by becoming one can we defeat two." Seriously?
The central conflict between 6 and 2, between prisoner and jailor is convoluted. It would be one thing if it was a simple struggle for freedom. Instead it is clear that 2 wants something from 6. It is not as simple as 6 merely being trouble because you learn early on that 2 is not above simply eliminating trouble. The reason why 6 is a prisoner and why 2 plays with 6 are never made clear until the end. This allows for a number of interesting points to be brought up about terrorism, authoritarianism, free will, our surveillance state, human nature.
When the final resolution came I was left wanting. The truth of the village is disappointing in it unoriginality. The resolution of 6's struggle is unbelievable. It does not flow from the character and makes the moral ambiguity of the ending disappointing.
There was a lot of wasted potential in The Prisoner. A straight remake would have been excellent. The reimagined story could also have worked with better writers. The conflict between 2 and 6, jailed and jailor, needed more tension and more purpose. The Lost style puzzle for the sake of it/flashback story telling technique does not work here. 2's descent needs more time to be believable.
Friday, November 27, 2009
The Informant
H and I have been kicking around the idea of seeing the Informant for months, but we were always scared off by the tepid reviews. Tonight we finally gave in and decided to see it at the local cheap theater.
I'm glad we went and I'm glad we went to the cheap theater. Matt Damon was excellent and overall the movie was funny. However, it was definitely a B-movie. There were several things both of us found to be off putting:
The overall look of the film was wrong. The date said the action took place in the early to mid 90's, but the everything from the clothes to the sets screamed 70's. It was jarring and not in a way that helped moved the story along.
The FBI agents were way to strident. Did they seriously not think the informant had something to hide? Did they not bother to do a background check and figure out that he was not adopted?
The wife was not well played. Was she complicit or just vacant? If she was just vacant the actress did a great job. However, I never really cared much about her either way.
It went on just a little too long. By the time he fires the good lawyers, I was ready for it to end. The ridiculousness had gone a little too far and I was tired of watching the character's twists and turns.
Overall, it was worth six bucks for a night out.
I'm glad we went and I'm glad we went to the cheap theater. Matt Damon was excellent and overall the movie was funny. However, it was definitely a B-movie. There were several things both of us found to be off putting:
The overall look of the film was wrong. The date said the action took place in the early to mid 90's, but the everything from the clothes to the sets screamed 70's. It was jarring and not in a way that helped moved the story along.
The FBI agents were way to strident. Did they seriously not think the informant had something to hide? Did they not bother to do a background check and figure out that he was not adopted?
The wife was not well played. Was she complicit or just vacant? If she was just vacant the actress did a great job. However, I never really cared much about her either way.
It went on just a little too long. By the time he fires the good lawyers, I was ready for it to end. The ridiculousness had gone a little too far and I was tired of watching the character's twists and turns.
Overall, it was worth six bucks for a night out.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Epoch
Tonight we ate at a little place in Exeter, NH called Epoch. For a change of pace we tried the tasting menu: six small courses.
The first course was oysters with caviar. I'm not a big fan of shell dish, but the dish was pleasant. I wouldn't get it again, but I didn't dislike it.
The second course was a beet salad with a hazelnut dressing. It was sweet and earthy.
The third course was a lightly seared tuna. This was my favorite course. The tuna was perfectly cooked.
The fourth course was duck two ways over a butternut squash purée. The. seared duck breast was pleasent. The fois gras was fine for fois gras. The purée was excellent.
The fifth course was a lovely cheese and cracker course. The accompanying wine was a white port. The wine was a subtle desert wine.
We finished the night with a squash cake and Ginger ice cream. It was a perfect end to the meal.
The price was not too bad at $65 per person for the food and $35 per person for the wine.
The waitstaff was attentive without being over bearing. They did an excellent job pairing the wines with the course and describing each course.
The night was fun. We felt like Top Chef judges.
The first course was oysters with caviar. I'm not a big fan of shell dish, but the dish was pleasant. I wouldn't get it again, but I didn't dislike it.
The second course was a beet salad with a hazelnut dressing. It was sweet and earthy.
The third course was a lightly seared tuna. This was my favorite course. The tuna was perfectly cooked.
The fourth course was duck two ways over a butternut squash purée. The. seared duck breast was pleasent. The fois gras was fine for fois gras. The purée was excellent.
The fifth course was a lovely cheese and cracker course. The accompanying wine was a white port. The wine was a subtle desert wine.
We finished the night with a squash cake and Ginger ice cream. It was a perfect end to the meal.
The price was not too bad at $65 per person for the food and $35 per person for the wine.
The waitstaff was attentive without being over bearing. They did an excellent job pairing the wines with the course and describing each course.
The night was fun. We felt like Top Chef judges.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Inglorius Basterds
Irreverent, funny, gory: Classic Terantino. Brad Pit is superb as Aldo the Apache.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
District 9
I like the trend towards sci-fi that is more than cool effects. District 9, as has been discussed, deals with how people treat the unwanted others. We dehumanize them to justify our mistreatment of them.
Overall, I thought the movie was well done. I liked the fact that it was done in the style of a news report with commentary tossed into the mix.
There were a few things that weakens the movie:
The final half of the movie decends into little more than an action film. The main character's behavior is erradic and his sudden change of heart is difficult to swallow.
The narrative leaves too much about the Prawns unexplained. Why can't they fix the ship? Was it just out of gas? Are the majority of Prawns simple workers and the one smart Prawn the boss? Why don't the Prawn use their superior weapons and physical strength to fight their oppression? Is there a millitant Prawn group resisting their treatment?
Despite the flaws, District 9 is a movie worth seeing. It is a refreshing change from Transformers and GI Joe.
Overall, I thought the movie was well done. I liked the fact that it was done in the style of a news report with commentary tossed into the mix.
There were a few things that weakens the movie:
The final half of the movie decends into little more than an action film. The main character's behavior is erradic and his sudden change of heart is difficult to swallow.
The narrative leaves too much about the Prawns unexplained. Why can't they fix the ship? Was it just out of gas? Are the majority of Prawns simple workers and the one smart Prawn the boss? Why don't the Prawn use their superior weapons and physical strength to fight their oppression? Is there a millitant Prawn group resisting their treatment?
Despite the flaws, District 9 is a movie worth seeing. It is a refreshing change from Transformers and GI Joe.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
500 Days of Summer
I went into this movie with low expectations. It looked like just another rom-com - an indie version of The Breakup.
I was pleasantly surprised. The characters are quirky without being weird. The story, although it follows a standard arc, has enough smart humor. I even liked the nod to Salinger. The precocious little sister is perfect.
I was pleasantly surprised. The characters are quirky without being weird. The story, although it follows a standard arc, has enough smart humor. I even liked the nod to Salinger. The precocious little sister is perfect.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Moon
This is a must see for fans of classic sci-fi. It is a thoughtful piece that entertains and makes the audience think. It has hints of Silent Running, 2001, Alien, and Blade Runner.
The acting is top notch. The character is played with tenderness and subtlety. Kevin Spacey is the perfect voice for the robot-kind but flat.
Moon shows that good sci-fi doesn't have to cost a billion dollars and have lots of explosions to be excellent. It just needs a good story and the talent to tell the story well.
The acting is top notch. The character is played with tenderness and subtlety. Kevin Spacey is the perfect voice for the robot-kind but flat.
Moon shows that good sci-fi doesn't have to cost a billion dollars and have lots of explosions to be excellent. It just needs a good story and the talent to tell the story well.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Quarentine
Creepy like the "Blair Witch Project", but not as good. The pacing kept things suspenseful. The movies big problem is that it is merely dirvitive. The framing device has been done too many times to be edgy. People turned into zombies by a mysterious illness have been done better.
This is a decent thriller but not a great one.
This is a decent thriller but not a great one.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Terminator Salvation
The newest entry in the Terminator series lives up to its legacy. The action is top notch. The darkness permeates the movie, as does the twisted hope.
The acting in this entry is better than the previous movies. The story is also better written and more complex. The central dilemma of the film is what makes us human. Is John Connor less human at the end of the movie?
There are a few weak spots such as the coincidence that Marcus stumbles into Kyle Reese. I also found the fact that Marcus has a real heart a little trite.
The acting in this entry is better than the previous movies. The story is also better written and more complex. The central dilemma of the film is what makes us human. Is John Connor less human at the end of the movie?
There are a few weak spots such as the coincidence that Marcus stumbles into Kyle Reese. I also found the fact that Marcus has a real heart a little trite.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Star Trek
This "reboot" of Star Trek is good. I think it comes in just after "Wrath of Khan".
The new cast deliver a fun ride that pays homage to the original without slipping into the realm of a cheap copy. I particularly liked the new Kirk, Bones, and Uhura. The new Scotty and Sulu showed promise. Quinto's Spock was OK, but not a real standout.
The script is also good. The pacing is taught and has plenty of action. I also liked the few little touches that are tossed in to show the lineage. The 3rd space diver was a nice touch. I also liked the shout out to Star Wars fans when Kirk has his Skywalker moment on the ice.
There are a few things that I found disappointing. The first was the device the plot revolve around. I think time travel is a tired plot device. Sure it frees Abrahms from the baggage of the Star Trek universes history, but a really creative film maker could have stuck with the baggage and still made good movies. I also found the "relationship" between Uhura and Spock flat and troubling. It seemed like little more than a way to trump up the rivalry between Kirk and Spock.
The new cast deliver a fun ride that pays homage to the original without slipping into the realm of a cheap copy. I particularly liked the new Kirk, Bones, and Uhura. The new Scotty and Sulu showed promise. Quinto's Spock was OK, but not a real standout.
The script is also good. The pacing is taught and has plenty of action. I also liked the few little touches that are tossed in to show the lineage. The 3rd space diver was a nice touch. I also liked the shout out to Star Wars fans when Kirk has his Skywalker moment on the ice.
There are a few things that I found disappointing. The first was the device the plot revolve around. I think time travel is a tired plot device. Sure it frees Abrahms from the baggage of the Star Trek universes history, but a really creative film maker could have stuck with the baggage and still made good movies. I also found the "relationship" between Uhura and Spock flat and troubling. It seemed like little more than a way to trump up the rivalry between Kirk and Spock.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Burn After Reading
Maybe I missed something, but this movie was dreck. A bunch of terrible, uninteresting, stupid people doing terrible, uninteresting stupid things eventually wind up being killed for terrible, uninteresting, stupid reasons.
The only character I felt any thing other than contempt for was the poor gym manager. He may have been pathetic, but he was genuine.
The only character I felt any thing other than contempt for was the poor gym manager. He may have been pathetic, but he was genuine.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Alone in the Dark
This movie has all the things that make for a horror movie that is bad enough to be on SciFi Saturday. The acting is terrible, the script is banal, and it stars Stephen Dorf and Tara Reid.
What makes this worse is that it had a big budget and at least an A- list star. The typical SciFi fare is way low budget.
What makes this worse is that it had a big budget and at least an A- list star. The typical SciFi fare is way low budget.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
State of Play
A great murder mystery. The script is smart and the cast is excellent. The plot has just enough twists to keep you interested but not enough to make you feel confused. It is the clarity that makes the ending work.
Sure the set pieces are pretty tired: corporate bogey men, corrupt politicians, over ambitious reporters. Even the hero is well worn. None of that stops the film from being a fun ride that exercises your brain.
Sure the set pieces are pretty tired: corporate bogey men, corrupt politicians, over ambitious reporters. Even the hero is well worn. None of that stops the film from being a fun ride that exercises your brain.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Monsters Vs. Aliens
In 3-D this movie is a good diversion. We saw it using passes and it was worth the three dollars. Not sure I'd pay full price.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
The Foresaken
Saw this on FEAR.net the other day. It was a good rainy day, free, vampire flick. The action was OK, but predictable. They could have done more with the blonde character. She was little more than eye-candy.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Za
H and I stopped into a little pizza and salad place on Mass Ave. in Arlington. It is called Za and is located next to the Arlington Diner. They are a high end pizza place that uses a lot of locally sourced ingredients and a lot of organic ingredients. They have an eclectic selection of salads that range from a fancy wedge salad to a greek salad on a bed of potato salad. The also have an interesting selection of specialty pizza.
I had the wedge salad and a simple bacon and jalepeno pizza. The salad came with crumbled blue cheese, carrots, and a nice dressing. The pizza was a greek style pizza and was cooked to perfection. The most interesting part of the pizza was the jalepenos. They were bread and butter pickled. They had an initial sweetness and ended with a hot kick.
H had the greek salad and portabella and goat cheese pizza. She enjoyed it.
It is one more excellent option for pizza.
I had the wedge salad and a simple bacon and jalepeno pizza. The salad came with crumbled blue cheese, carrots, and a nice dressing. The pizza was a greek style pizza and was cooked to perfection. The most interesting part of the pizza was the jalepenos. They were bread and butter pickled. They had an initial sweetness and ended with a hot kick.
H had the greek salad and portabella and goat cheese pizza. She enjoyed it.
It is one more excellent option for pizza.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Watchmen
I went to see "Watchmen" last night at the IMAX in Reading. It was worth the extra dollar to see this film on the gigantic screen. The special effects, which are good, have more punch in IMAX.
The movie itself was good, but not great. It stayed pretty faithful to the original graphic novel. Most of the changes were just to cut the length down and smooth out the story line. Of course the movie still rolls in at just shy of 3 hours, the movie is still long and could be made shorter. The love scene in Archie is needlessly drawn out. Silk Specter looks good in the buff, but it doesn't help the story at all. There are a few other spots where things could have been cut down a bit more. Maybe it could have shaved 5-10 minutes off the run time. It didn't feel overly long however.
The one major difference between the novel and the movie is how Ozymandias tricks the world into peace. While I think the story works either way, I don't see the point of the change. If there is a bigger point to be made, the ending doesn't really make that clear. The alien meme achieves the same effect as making Jon the baddy. The world would still unite to combat a new, powerful, common enemy. If the ending was turned so that humanity saw the error of relying on a single man for their safety, perhaps the altered ending makes more sense. Dan's comment to Spector at the end confuses things even more. Perhaps, I'm missing the irony in it all. Perhaps, the director wants to drill home the question "Who watches the Watchmen?"
I think the real point is not about watching anybody. It is about Rorschach's joke.
I'm not sure how people who are not Watchmen fans will like the film. It is beautiful to look at, the action is well done, and the story is good. It is a little depressing and dark. Few of the characters (OK none of the characters) are likable. (I'll admit to a grudging soft spot for Rorschach. He is the closest thing to a real hero in the story.)
Watchmen fans will likely enjoy the movie even if they don't love the movie. I'm sure a few will decry the ending, but they are little better than the characters in the story.
If you like action movies and don't have anything to do for a few hours, there are worse ways to spend your money.
The movie itself was good, but not great. It stayed pretty faithful to the original graphic novel. Most of the changes were just to cut the length down and smooth out the story line. Of course the movie still rolls in at just shy of 3 hours, the movie is still long and could be made shorter. The love scene in Archie is needlessly drawn out. Silk Specter looks good in the buff, but it doesn't help the story at all. There are a few other spots where things could have been cut down a bit more. Maybe it could have shaved 5-10 minutes off the run time. It didn't feel overly long however.
The one major difference between the novel and the movie is how Ozymandias tricks the world into peace. While I think the story works either way, I don't see the point of the change. If there is a bigger point to be made, the ending doesn't really make that clear. The alien meme achieves the same effect as making Jon the baddy. The world would still unite to combat a new, powerful, common enemy. If the ending was turned so that humanity saw the error of relying on a single man for their safety, perhaps the altered ending makes more sense. Dan's comment to Spector at the end confuses things even more. Perhaps, I'm missing the irony in it all. Perhaps, the director wants to drill home the question "Who watches the Watchmen?"
I think the real point is not about watching anybody. It is about Rorschach's joke.
I'm not sure how people who are not Watchmen fans will like the film. It is beautiful to look at, the action is well done, and the story is good. It is a little depressing and dark. Few of the characters (OK none of the characters) are likable. (I'll admit to a grudging soft spot for Rorschach. He is the closest thing to a real hero in the story.)
Watchmen fans will likely enjoy the movie even if they don't love the movie. I'm sure a few will decry the ending, but they are little better than the characters in the story.
If you like action movies and don't have anything to do for a few hours, there are worse ways to spend your money.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Bear Rock Cafe in Reading
Bear Rock Cafe is a Panera Bread alternative. It offers "artisan" sandwiches at a decent price and with relative speed. It also offers free wi-fi.
I had a jerk chicken sandwich on a sourdough roll. It was passable to eat, but the presentation was lacking. The roll overwhelmed the sandwich and was a little stale. The sandwich swam on the vanilla styrofoam plate. H's salad looked nicer and according to her it was good. The salad also arrived on a vanilla styrofoam plate.
I found it to be a poor alternative to Panera. The prices were marginally better, but the food was not on the same level.
I had a jerk chicken sandwich on a sourdough roll. It was passable to eat, but the presentation was lacking. The roll overwhelmed the sandwich and was a little stale. The sandwich swam on the vanilla styrofoam plate. H's salad looked nicer and according to her it was good. The salad also arrived on a vanilla styrofoam plate.
I found it to be a poor alternative to Panera. The prices were marginally better, but the food was not on the same level.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
What if Jesus was gay?
It's a quirky folk song playing on the iPhone. It has a catchy guitar rhythm and harmonica riff.
And it asks a good question....
And it asks a good question....
Slumdog Squarepants
H and I finally saw Slumdog Millionaire this past weekend. It was a good film. The balance between slumdog and millionaire kept it from being standard fare. It certainly deserved the Oscar compared to the other nominees.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Drinking in Newburyport
The Valentines Day plan was to get drunk.
We started the night at Agave. Since we called for reservations at 5pm on Valentines Day we ended up in the bar. That was fine by us. We settled in with margaritas. The drinks were strong, but tasty. We then order a nacho appetizer. The nachos were fine. I thought there was too much cheese and I'm not a fan of refried beans on nachos. We also got there spicy chicken tacos. They rocked.
After Agave we headed over to the Grog. The Grog is a local favorite. I switched over to beer, but H decided to stick with the hard stuff. Her drinks were good. We got a lemon berry cake for desert. It was creamy and well balanced.
It was a night of delicious drinks and fabulous food.
We started the night at Agave. Since we called for reservations at 5pm on Valentines Day we ended up in the bar. That was fine by us. We settled in with margaritas. The drinks were strong, but tasty. We then order a nacho appetizer. The nachos were fine. I thought there was too much cheese and I'm not a fan of refried beans on nachos. We also got there spicy chicken tacos. They rocked.
After Agave we headed over to the Grog. The Grog is a local favorite. I switched over to beer, but H decided to stick with the hard stuff. Her drinks were good. We got a lemon berry cake for desert. It was creamy and well balanced.
It was a night of delicious drinks and fabulous food.
The Garrison Inn
For the big V this year we decided to get out of town. On Saturday, the actual V day, H booked us a room at the Garrison Inn in Newburyport, MA.
After taxes the room cost $190. The room was fairly standard fair. The décor was pleasant, but not $200 pleasant. Breakfast came with the room, but breakfast was fancy McDonalds.
The one special thing about the Inn is the location. It is in the heart of the downtown area. All the bars and restaurants are less than a block away.
After taxes the room cost $190. The room was fairly standard fair. The décor was pleasant, but not $200 pleasant. Breakfast came with the room, but breakfast was fancy McDonalds.
The one special thing about the Inn is the location. It is in the heart of the downtown area. All the bars and restaurants are less than a block away.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Lafamiglia Giorgio
Located at the top of Salem St. on Boston's North End, this Italian eatery is quaint and tastey. The décor is typical of most resturants in the North End-small but cozy. The food, the real reason to eat out, is excellent. I got a pasta dish with spicy sausage and whole wheat pasta. The serving size was large but managable. Prices are reasonable for the area. Most main courses are in the $20 range.
As a side note: We waited for our table across the road at Bacco. We enjoyed Gingertinis. Despite the trendy name and the crazy price, the drinks were lovely. The ginger masks the alcohol with out burrying in Fabreeze. They are worth the price.
As a side note: We waited for our table across the road at Bacco. We enjoyed Gingertinis. Despite the trendy name and the crazy price, the drinks were lovely. The ginger masks the alcohol with out burrying in Fabreeze. They are worth the price.
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