American Beauty, a film review.

 This 1999 black comedy psych-drama film stars Kevin Spacey. It was written by Alan Ball and directed by Sam Mendes in his directorial debut. It tells the story of a family that is overcome with drama, and the eldest son turns to dealing marijuana, and documenting his life with a video recorder. This movie is atypical, and is a statement on the suburban sprawl and the premise that it could be a"hollow" existence that is the American middle class "utopia". The philosophical inquiry is much appreciated especially if your interested in environmental justice. I very much enjoyed this movie, and give it a 5 out of 5.

 

 

The Trotsky, a film review.

 This 2009 Canadian comedy film was directed & written by Jacob Tierney. In it the main character Leon Bronstein, played by Jay Baruchel, believes he is the reincarnation of the writer Trotsky. He is passionate about creating a student's union & works toward a revolution. There is a plot of young romance blossoming as well. Overall I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Anne of Green Gables, a book review.

 This 1908 novel was written by Canadian Lucy M. Montgomery. It is set in the picturesque countryside of Prince Edward Island. The story goes that, Anne, a young orphan, is adopted by on older couple with the aim of her helping with the chores. The plot develops around her life as a schoolgirl, and her many comings and goings with the townsfolk. One thing I very much liked about this book is that Anne had enthusiasm for her life even though she was a quirky, red--headed orphan. The author spent time in Saaskatchewan, and it is my belief her time there might have had an impact on her writing. This book went on to become an international bestseller. Overall, I very much liked this book that was developed into a movie & tv series. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins, a film review

 This 2008 film stars Martin Lawrence. It is a slapstick comedy that makes light of a family reunion taking place somewhere in the South. It grossed $43.6 million on a $27 million budget. This movie is good for a laugh for a mature audience. The plot is a story between a few people where a love triangle forms. It is somewhat of a poignant statement on the sometimes messy home lives, in terms of relationships, of Black people, even though their hearts are in the right place. Overall I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Aphex Twin, an artist Spotlight.

 This eccentric gifted electronic musician started with the Rephlex records label. Later he signed with Warp records and made a major impact in the underground experimental music scene. His bravado for creating diverse melodies including industrial, organic, and chugging cyber tracks. His marketing is pure genius and he has a cult following. His music has ascended to the relevant Barbican venue. Overall I recommend his music especially his ambient stuff to anyone. I give this artist a 5 out of 5.

Amadeus, a film review.

 This 1984 period drama tells the story of the wunderkind, or virtuoso, composer Amadeus Mozart. It was directed by Milos Forman. It is a fantastical interpretation of a real-life theme. The celebrated musical talent of Mozart is portrayed, and the jealous but patronly Antonio Salieri are both depicted brilliantly. It is with tragic consequence that Mozart's story ends in a bitter demise. However, it adds to the intrigue of such an enigmatic artist. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Battleship Potemkin, a film review.

 This 1925 epic film was directed & co-written by Sergei Eisenstein. It features a very unique and inquisitive perspective of the military. As well as a philosophical postulation about the nature of film, or the simulacrum. It was groundbreaking for its time and propelled the medium forward. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.