Inhouse, vol. 2 (2002)

A superb set of deep house tracks from Germany, this unmixed CD delivers some great gems. There are far too many standout tracks on this compilation to call them out individually, but with mellow jazz chords and an electronic edge, this album has a cohesive groove that inspires many spins. Grade: A. AllMusic: Inhouse, Vol. […]

Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events (2004)

Jim Carrey brings his comedy chops to bear as the highly eccentric Count Olaf, in this deeply sinister and quirky comedy about three orphans whose distant relative tries to wrangle their inheritance from them. Spectacular visuals and decent acting shine through a convoluted story and an ending that feels forced. Grade: B-. IMDB: Lemony Snicket’s […]

Marques Wyatt – Horizons (2004)

This CD, mixed by Marques Wyatt, is a solid set of deep house tracks from diverse artists. A few of these tracks stand out well, with funky basslines and jazzy chord progressions that evoke summer nights on hardwood dancefloors. Some of these tracks, though, seem quite disposable and forgettable. Grade: B-. AllMusic: Horizons.

Coach Carter (2005)

Samuel L. Jackson shines as a no-nonsense high school basketball coach in this sports picture. The story is full of jump-into-the-air moments, but does trudge in a couple of places. Some of the situations of grandstanding seem quite plastic, but otherwise, the film is inspirationally entertaining. Grade: B. IMDB: Coach Carter.

Panic (2000)

Memorable acting performances, a loathesome villain, and a flawed protagonist make this small crime drama an excellent rental. The tension in the story is understated and palpable. The quiet acquiescence of William H. Macy’s performance and his interaction with the alluring Neve Campbell drive the script to its satisfying end. Grade: B. IMDB: Panic.

The Funeral (1996)

An all-star cast fail to prevent this gangster picture set in the World War II era from becoming a litany of confusion and clichés. The dialogue is stilted and tired. The story is convoluted and absolutely predictable. The end leaves us unsatisfied and feels tacked on and poorly executed. Grade: C-. IMDB: The Funeral.

Star Wars: Clone Wars – The Animated Series (2003 – 2005)

Star Wars Clone Wars (2004) This two volume series is fast paced, well written and more enjoyable than the prequels. Set between Episodes II and III, we find out what happened during the Clone Wars and watch Anakin drift closer to the Dark Side. Worth watching for the lightsaber duel between Anakin and Asajj Ventress. […]

A Prairie Home Companion (2006)

Garrison Keillor brings his radio show to the big screen: an “alternate reality” of the goings-ons on and off stage during the show’s broadcast. A wide spectrum of incredible actors bring to life the characters familiar to avid listeners. All the while, the Angel of Death stalks the show. Color: Blue IMDB: A Prairie Home […]

Matishyahu – Live At Stubb’s (2005)

Matishyahu’s sophomore effort is much tighter and more powerful than his first release. His incredible energy comes across more clearly in concert. His religious beliefs are stated strongly but briefly – he’s vocal enough so you understand some of who he is, brief enough that it doesn’t come across as preachy. Color: Green Allmusic: Live […]

Waking Life (2001)

This Richard Linklater film in Rotoscope style follows a young man as he listens to a series of extremely heavy philosophical monologues from people he encounters in Austin, Texas. The multitude of animation artists and the material make this a film that bears watching a few times to get it. Grade: B+. IMDB: Waking Life.

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