New video from Villa Rosa (Muja Messiah & Maria Isa) directed by Greg Grease. I love the production by Benzilla. Track from 2011′s Blue Diamond Island, out now.
If you are in Minneapolis without any plans tomorrow night be sure to catch Muja Messiah opening for Freddie Gibbs at the 7th St. Entry.
Transmission Zero, the new Ghoul album, is out now. It’s a slasher thrash masterpiece, filled with tales of decapitation, voodoo and gore. Check out the amazing cover by local artist Bill Hauser. His work has also graced albums by Hirax, In Defence, Toxic Holocaust and many more. Cover art is such a crucial piece of a good thrash album.
THE GREY -
<begin spoiler if you’ve seen the trailer>
Do yourself a favor. Don’t watch any trailers or TV spots for this movie, it gives away the final scene, not to mention the last shot of the movie.
<end spoiler>
Director Joe Carnahan has come along way since his first film BLOOD,GUTS,BULLETS & OCTANE. It was a low budget film that was trying too hard to be CLERKS with an edge. But his follow-up NARC was an effective, gritty cop thriller. His next films (SMOKIN’ ACES and THE A-TEAM) were crazy fun. This time he’s teaming up with Liam Neeson again.
Neeson stars as a hard ass who works on an oil rig in Alaska. His job is to protect the place from wolves, using his trusty rifle. He accompanies the men from the rig on a flight, only it crashes in the middle of the cold landscape. There are only a handful of survivors, and the bad news is that they seem to be days, maybe weeks from civilization. And if that wasn’t enough, they are being stalked by a pack of hungry vicious wolves. Neeson knows how the wolves thinks, so he takes charge of the group as the men struggle to stay alive.
The plot is about as basic as you can get, but if you have good characters and some inventive filmmaking it can be solid entertainment. And this film delivers. The movie wastes no time as the plane crashes before the 10 minute mark. And what a crash sequence, which is what I can only describe as the most emotionally disturbing and intense moments I have experienced since THE DESCENT. It’s going to be awhile before I fly again. We get to know the characters briefly, and they’re your typical stock characters. The bad ass, the coward, the loud mouth, the family man, etc. But the actors (notably Dermot Mulroney and Frank Grillo) make the roles their own, and succeed in getting the viewer to care about them. Then the wolves start attacking and it’s very unsettling. The rest of the film is a kind of cat and mouse game between the men and the wolves.
Neeson owns this film. Remember his bad ass from TAKEN? Total pussy compared to his character here. The movie gives him just enough back story to make him sympathetic. And there is a moment early on when he talks a man through dying that shows just how totally awesome Neeson is. But what I liked most about the movie is that there is a certain poetic element to it. It’s not just a straight action film. It’s a man vs. nature adventure that has some thrilling moments. There are some great scenes that has Neeson reflecting on his life and his beliefs (loved it when he yells at God).
It’s not a perfect film. I thought some of the characters were a bit too cliched at times. The movie reminded me of a better movie, THE EDGE, with Anthony Hopkins and Alec Baldwin. But for the most part, I think Carnahan has accomplished something most Hollywood directors dream of doing. Making a solid adventure film with characters you care about. Also, the direction isn’t boring. There are some very creative and inventive shots that add to the film rather than distract, though occasionally he uses the shaky cam too much during the wolf attacks.
I can see some mainstream moviegoers being upset that the film doesn’t exactly deliver what the trailers promise, but I thought the actual movie is something better than what the trailer suggests. It’s more cerebral, and that was right up my alley. Wide Release. Rating: 
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ALBERT NOBBS – Glenn Close first played the title character on stage 30 years ago, and has since been trying to get it made for the big screen. Close plays a woman passing as a man in order to work as butler in a posh hotel during the early 1900′s in Ireland. She has been posing as a man for 3 decades and is now , in a way, trapped. She falls in love with one of the other maids (Mia Wasikowska), but doesn’t have the courage to act upon her feelings… Until she meets another woman passing for a man, Hubert Page (Janet McTeer), who has a wife. But Nobbs has stiff competition from a maintenance boy who is also trying to woo the girl of her fancy.
This is your typical upstairs/downstairs story and that aspect is done much better in GOSFORD PARK. However, Glenn Close is excellent in the leading role, as you would expect. She is definitely the reason to see this, and as the film went on, I became compelled by her character (but is it me, or does Glenn Close look a lot like Robin Williams when she’s dressed up as a man?). McTeer is a bit hammy, but overall does a decent job. Mia Wasikowska turns in another solid performance, but I found her romantic interest, Aaron Johnson a bit of a pud. But fortunately, he’s not the main star. The direction is serviceable, the script follows the formula effectively, and Close is stunning. I also like the way the film concluded.
Though it has it’s flaws, it’s a good story with an Oscar Nominated Glenn Close doing a fantastic job carrying the film. It’s worth a look. Opens at The Edina. Rating:
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Also Opening this weekend:
MAN ON A LEDGE – Intriguing premise is ruined by an absolutely ludicrous and laughably unbelievable script. The performances are fine I guess (I liked Ed Burns), except for Genesis Rodriguez as Jamie Bell’s love interest and heist partner. Her character and performance was terrible and is easily a contender for next year’s razzies. The direction is actually pretty good and for the first hour it delivers a solid (yet generic) thriller, but the final act goes off the deep end with it’s credibility. Wide Release. Rating:
ONE FOR THE MONEY – Wasn’t screened for critics. Wide Release.
NORWEGIAN WOOD – Missed this one. At St. Anthony Main.
You know how Darren Aronofsky‘s the Wrestler was totally brilliant? Well, fuck that. I don’t want brilliance, I want wrestling (actually, I want brilliance, but just go with me here). I want Verne Gagne and Ed Asner throwing body slams and hamming it up. I want 70s movies with poster art that is so cool the movie could never possibly live up to it. The Parkway is delivering this in the original the Wrestler, showing from 1/27 to 2/2. During the weekend showings, Verne is going to make an appearance and his son Greg is going to do a Q&A.
I am very pleased to report that the Uptown Theater will be going under a complete renovation. I have been going there for almost 20 years now, my first time being when I saw THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW at Midnight when I was in High School (sometime in the early 90′s). I have many, many great movie memories from this iconic theater, and deserves to be restored to it’s former glory. Here is the official press release:
“Landmark Theatres and Swervo Development have announced plans to completely refurbish and renovate the historic Uptown Theatre in Minneapolis. The renovation of the theatre, built in 1930, will preserve the best features of the Uptown, including the famous neon sign and beloved balcony. Landmark plans to add a variety of new amenities, including an expanded concession stand, full service bar, giant screen, completely new luxury seating and digital projection.
Landmark has operated the Uptown since 1978, in that time cultivating a loyal customer base. “In a day when most single screens are closing, I am truly honored to not only keep the Uptown alive, but oversee the complete transformation into what will be Minneapolis’ premiere movie theatre,” said Ted Mundorff, CEO Landmark Theatres, noting that “If it wasn’t for the vision, perseverance and support from our partner Ned Abdul, this undertaking would not have been possible.”
”We are so happy to be part of keeping the historic Uptown open and provide a first-class theatre-going experience to the many people who enjoy one of the best areas for nightlife in Minneapolis,” added Mundorff.
Landmark expects the theatre to re-open in late spring, 2012.”
Being a huge Pac-Man fan, I love this show. It’s cheesy and ridiculous, full of lousy jokes. And that’s why this show rules! The 80′s released some of the most insanely bizarre cartoons and thanks to Warner Brothers Archives, the complete first season of PAC-MAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES comes out on DVD Jan 31st! Make your way over to the WBshop and pre- order your copy now!
Are you ready for eight-minute long stoner metal jams interspersed with classic hardcore? Corrosion of Conformity are headlining a show with Torche, Valient Thorr and A Storm of Light.
Thursday, March 8
Triple Rock
7 PM | $18 | 18+
I know a lot of people are psyched about the Ghost show at Station 4 tomorrow night. I am too. Ghost seems like a lot of fun. But I have to admit I’m more interested in Blood Ceremony‘s flute-wielding progressive doom metal. While seeing the word flute may make you want to run, I suggest you don’t. Somehow, these guys manage to make the instrument work in all the right (and by right, I mean evil) ways.
Wednesday, January 25
Station 4
7 PM | $13 | 16+
The first time I saw the Miami Dolphins, I walked out because I thought they sucked ass. Then I intentionally showed up late when they opened for Melt Banana last year. For whatever reason, I decided to give them a second chance. In this case, I’m glad I did. Their new album, Neon and Foam, is actually pretty awesome. It’s chaotic, squeaky, gritty, poppy noise. I swear I even heard some super fast ska guitar in there.
The existence of Resident Evil 6 was officially revealed today by Capcom and…DAMN. It looks fucking huge.
It also got a release date of November 20th, 2012 for PS3 and Xbox 360. A PC version is also in the works.
EXTREMELY LOUD & INCREDIBLY CLOSE – I was looking back at director Stephen Daldry’s filmography and realized that he was nominated for an Oscar for all 3 of his previous films (BILLY ELLIOTT, THE HOURS and THE READER). I’m sure he’s hoping he gets nominated for his fourth film in a row.
The story takes place in 2002 New York City and is about a pre-teen named Tom Schell, who may or may not have Asperger’s Syndrome. His father (Tom Hanks) died in the World Trade Center during the 9/11 attacks and the event has extremely effected Tom. But then he finds something in his father’s closet that he believes is a clue. You see, when he was still alive, he would create and send Tom on scavenger hunts across the city, in order to force him out of his comfort zone and communicate with others. So Tom thinks this clue could be another hunt. This adventure brings him all over the city meeting all sorts of characters, including a feuding couple (Viola Davis, Jeffrey Wright) and a mysterious renter in his grandmother’s apartment (Max Von Sydow). Does this journey have an end, and will it bring closure to the death of Tom’s father?
Any time you deal with a subject that is heavy, and is based on true, tragic events, it can be a little touchy. You have to have just the right balance to pull it off, as to not have it feel exploitative or manipulative. I can see someone finding this movie too much. It all depends on the person. At first, I felt that it may be pushing it too far, but as the film went on I was rewarded with a nicely told (even if it is emotionally heavy) character based drama about a kid coming to terms with the hard truths of reality.
Tom Horn does a pretty impressive job as the boy, though I can see how someone can find his precociousness irritating. But since I have Asperger’s myself, I found his portrayal spot on. The supporting cast is solid, from John Goodman as a hotel doorman, to Davis’ tortured wife. Tom hanks does a decent job as the father, but his time is very limited. Sandra Bullock surprisingly delivers an emotional impact as Tom’s mother, who tries to give her son his space. The real standout is Von Sydow as the renter. His character hasn’t spoken in over 40 years and only communicates by writing on a small note pad. His face tells you everything you need to know. It’s a brilliant performance.
The movie is full of sappy scenes, but I bought right into them. I was completely involved in Tom’s story to find out the mystery, and discover the truth. I was crying by the end of the film. The script by Eric Roth is heavy handed, but it kind of has to be with this subject matter. One scene that is handled very well, is when Bullocks gets the call from Tom Hanks that he is in the World Trade Center. Her reaction is heartbreaking. Daldry provides the appropriate direction for his dramatic material. I do think that the film may be too much for the Academy to nominate him for a 4th time, which is too bad, cause I think this is better than his overrated THE HOURS.
If you’re looking for a tearjerker, and an emotionally rewarding experience (if you buy into this kind of thing. You know if you are or not), then this will satisfy you. I am looking forward to sharing this film with my daughter, who was already crying during the previews. Sometimes, people just need a good cry and need to be moved. This fits the bill. In Wide Release. Rating: 
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RED TAILS – Remember those war films of the 40′s and 50′s? Those pro-war, pro-American propaganda films that had simple stories and corny dialogue? Did you like those? Cause that’s what Red Tails is. It’s an old fashioned “Hooray for America” film that used to grace the screen. Who needs cynical, realistic war films when there can be a movie this much fun in the theaters?
The movie is about the Tuskegee pilots in WWII. They were the first black men that fought fighter pilots, battling the Nazi’s. I’m sure there is a lot more to it in History books, but this pretty much sums up the movie. It’s not deep. Colored pilots (but preferred to be called Negros, as we find out in the film), want to prove themselves during the war, and they do. The end. There are four main pilots with schlocky nicknames like Easy, Joker, Ray Gun, and Sticks. Also 2 leaders of the program played by Cuba Gooding Jr. and Terrence Howard. The Nazi’s are one dimensional villains that seem right out of a comic book.
If any of the above comments sound sarcastic or like I’m putting the film down. I’m not. I really enjoyed this. Is it a serious work and accurate account of history? Hell no! But that’s fine. What I got was cornball entertainment. I love old war movies like THEY WERE EXPENDEABLE, FLYING LEATHERNECKS, AIR FORCE, and WINGS OF THE EAGLES. Those weren’t realistic either. But they were a lot of fun. And that’s what this is. It’s cliched, it’s cheesy, and…. it’s really well directed.
The acting is appropriately corny and every actor does there part. The standout for me was Nate Parker as Easy, who looked and acted very much like a young Denzel Washington. The real reason to see this is for the flying assaults. They are perfectly storyboarded and expertly crafted. It’s all CGI, but it looks fantastic! Even though George Lucas is only listed as Executive Producer, his touch is all over this. The action scenes very much have that Star Wars flavor. I even heard several sound effects straight from those movies, which for me, added to the enjoyment. The energy is very high during these scenes which are very excited, and had me cheering in my seat as the Americans blew the Nazi’s to smithereens.
If I have one complaint, it would be that there may have been one too many subplots (just like the old war movies), and the movie was about 15 minutes too long. But overall, I had a fun time. If you want a realistic account of the Tuskegee airmen, then you will be sorely disappointed. You have to know what you’re getting into when you go see this (and it seemed like many critics had no clue, as most of them are criticizing how cheesy it is). It’s like a 1950′ pulp comic book, full of silly dialogue and beautiful, stylized action. If that sounds good to you, then you’ll have a good time. In wide release Rating:
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HAYWIRE – Steven Soderbergh is one of the most interesting filmmakers working today, always challenging himself as he tries different genres and styles. This time he’s made his version of an action movie. It stars MMA fighter Gina Carano as a covert agent who was betrayed by Ewan McGregor. Her plan is to find him and find out why. Along the way she kicks a lot of ass!
If this sounds like a pretty standard action movie that would normally star Jason Statham, don’t worry, cause the filmmakers do everything they can to make it far from mainstream Hollywood junk. Screenwriter Lem Dobbs (who also wrote Soderbergh’s sensational The Limey) makes a smart decision by telling half the movie in flashbacks, which adds to the unique style. Soderbergh shoots the movie like it was an arty low budget indie film, with very little cuts. This makes the action scenes easy to follow, and they certainly let you enjoy the awesomeness of the choreography as you can always see who’s hitting who. An action nut who’s used to seeing crap, full of incoherent action scenes might find this approach to be dull, but those that have taste will appreciate it.
Gina Carano isn’t a serious dramatic actress, but she proves to be an effective action heroine. Her stunning looks clash with her ability to wreak havoc on people, which works to her advantage. Because of this, it’s even more shocking when she’s breaking bones. Soderbergh made the brilliant decision to surround her with some of the best actors around. Ewan McGregor, Michael Fassbender, Channing Tatum, Antonio Banderas, Bill Paxton (as her father), Michael Angarano and Michael Douglas. The only one who doesn’t quite work is McGregor. He is the heavy in the movie, and yet he’s surprisingly dull, delivering every line as if he were a robot running out of batteries. But everyone else is good, even Channing Tatum!
The plot in this movie is secondary to the hip style and tone that is helped by a funky score by David Holmes. The other big reason to see this is for the fight scenes. Since Carano is a professional fighter, it’s of no surprise that she can handle herself admirably in this department. The fights are quick and brutal. I can’t wait to see it again, to dissect how they were staged and shot. Also, Soderbergh did a smart thing by adding a smidgen of humor to a few sequences, the highlight being the end of a car chase, which had the audience laughing out loud.
It’s not going to change the game, but HAYWIRE is a fun, unconventional action movie that still delivers the goods, when most entries in the genre don’t. In wide release. Rating:
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Also opening this weekend:
PARIAH – A low-budget drama about a black lesbian teen who is hiding her secret from her family. It has an unique look and has a great performance by Kim Wayans as the girls mother, but some of the acting comes across amateurish as does some of the writing. I think writer/director Dee Rees’ next film is going to be great, but this one wasn’t. It felt more like it was from a filmmaker trying to find her voice. She’s almost there. Opens at The Uptown. Rating:
UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING – The fourth in the series wasn’t screened for critics. I may see it this weekend, and update the article with my review.
THE DIVIDE – Wasn’t screened for me. Showing this weekend at The Uptown, at Midnight only.
FULL METAL ALCHEMIST: THE SACRED STAR OF MILOS – Wasn’t screened for me. Showing at St. Anthony Main.
Until now and January 23rd, PlayStation Network subscribers can get any of these 12 games for 30% off the retail price. If you’re a PlayStation Plus member, you can snatch ‘em up for 50% off the regular price.
Bloodrayne: Betrayal (now $10.49, original price $14.99)
Cubixx HD (now $6.99, original price $9.99)
Dungeon Defenders (now $10.49, original price $14.99)
Eufloria (now $6.99, original price $9.99)
Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection (now $6.99, original price $9.99)
Okabu (now $10.49, original price $14.99)
Payday: The Heist (now $13.99, original price $19.99)
PixelJunk SideScroller (now $6.99, original price $9.99)
Rochard (now $6.99, original price $9.99)
Rocketbirds: Hardboiled Chicken (now $8.39, original price $11.99)
Sideway: New York (now $6.99, original price $9.99)
Street Fighter III: Third Strike (now $10.49, original price $14.99)
