Essential December '10

Essential viewing this December:
- With a budget of 54 million kroner, Kongen av Bastøy (King of Devil’s Island), is the most expensive Norwegian production of all time. So it is comforting to see that it also just might be the best thing to come out of the country in a long time. A powerful and emotional story that is both visually and technically impressive. Strong performances, from Kristoffer Joner in particular, make this a compelling view from start to finish. And in adding this to his already impressive resume, director Marius Holst is proving himself as the finest Norwegian filmmaker of his generation.

- Many were impressed, and fairly surprised, when Ben Affleck revealed his directorial debut Gone Baby Gone in 2007. And with his second turn in the big chair he proves that it was not a fluke. The Town is a fast paced, well acted and precisely executed thriller. A terrific ensemble adds to the films credibility and the action sequences are both exciting and memorable. A very strong effort from Affleck with should earn him plenty more opportunities behind the camera.

- One of the finest American indies of the year has to be Cyrus. Brothers Mark and Jay Duplass have a sharp script and a neat approach to the deadpan comedy in this slightly bizarre flick. Great work from actors John C. Reilly and Jonah Hill (finally showing how amazing he can be when he just turns everything down a notch) makes this a fresh and original movie with so many great moments that you’re just dying to see it again.

Essential listening this December:
- The Doors have been both blessed and cursed with the various quality of releases since their existence came to an end. But the double album Live in Vancouver 1970 is luckily one of the best ones yet. A great setlist and a Jim Morrison on the right side of crazy makes this a terrific experience, and the idea that the occasional tuning deserves its own track number is just hilarious.

- The months before Christmas is the high season for greatest hits and best of-collections and the now dissolved Norwegian band Madrugada (and mainly their label) wants in on it. This double album, simply titled The Best of Madrugada is a strong compilation and another reminder of the bands greatness. It’s disappointing that there’s just one new song on it, but if seen as either a summary or an introduction to the band, this more than gets the job done.

- Many were waiting ready with their axes when Kanye West released his latest album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. But they all have to bow their heads in silence since West has produced his best album since his debut The College Dropout (2004). Thankfully leaving his autotune microphone out of it for most parts, the quality of the music is unquestionable. West is more convincing, more loud and more of everything that he does best. Fronted by the superb singles Runaway and Power, there is enough tracks on this to ensure him a dozen more number ones in the year to come.
And the video to the highly addictive Runaway is a real treat.

Merry X-mas

Merry christmas!
Eat. Drink. Sleep. Repeat.
Enjoy!



Classic.

Essential 2010

Essential viewing in 2010:
1. Inception (Christopher Nolan)
This dazzling display of effects combined with some genuinely original writing proved that blockbuster entertainment can also be art. The best picture of the year.

2. The Killer Inside Me (Michael Winterbottom)
The darkest and most haunting film in years, with a career best performance from Casey Affleck. A remarkable achievement in storytelling and character.

3. The Road (John Hillcoat)
The apocalypse has never been more emotional or beautiful than this. Amazing photography and a very strong performance from Viggo Mortensen. One of the most overlooked masterpieces of the year.

4. Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (Edgar Wright)
The most original and hilarious comedy in ages, featuring a great soundtrack and some wonderful editing. We’ve never seen anything like this before.

5. The American (Anton Corbijn)
The best looking picture of the year and a terrific turn from George Clooney. This will make Corbijn the most desireable director for every actor in Hollywood.

Top three runners up: The Messenger – Youth In Revolt – Cemetery Junction

Essential listening in 2010:
1. The National – High Violet
Their fifth album just might turn out to be the cornerstone of their work. No contest. The best album of the year.

2. Arcade Fire – The Suburbs
After their run as indie darlings these Canadians are finally ready to become the biggest band in the world. The Suburbs is the album U2 has been trying to make for 20 years.

3. Tired Pony – The Place We Ran From
Proof that a so called “super group” actually might work sometimes. A terrific collection of pop music with a sentimental heart.

4. Vampire Weekend – Contra
Picks up where their brilliant debut left off and just keeps going! A sensational mix of every musical emotion there is.

5. The Gaslight Anthem – American Slang
Bigger and stronger than their first two, and out to send the most important message of all: rock is a positive!

Top three runners up: Surfer Blood, Astro Coast – Isobel Campbell & Mark Lanegan, Hawk – The Hold Steady, Heaven Is Whenever

Let's have it, 2011.

Beckham

This weekend David Beckham was honored at the annual BBC Sports Personality of The Year ceremony with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Previous winners include George Best, Bobby Charlton and Pelè to name a few, and despite Beckhams young age it is a well deserved accolade. From 1992 to 2003 he made 397 appearances for Manchester United, scoring 86 goals. He is one of only four to have passed 100 caps for England's national team and is very close to becoming the player who has represented his country more than any other.

To watch the presentation and Beckham's moving acceptance speech, head over to BBC's official website http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/tv_and_radio/sports_personality_of_the_year/9303339.stm

And to those of you who think Beckham is the Armani model who used to play for Real Madrid...

Wrong.

There's only one David Beckham.

Great Trailer # 2

A new film from director Alejandro Iñárritu is always an exciting thing and next year will see the release of his new feature Biutiful. Gritty, poetic, violent and tender, and with a towering performance from Javier Bardem. It is one of 2011's most anticipated films and judging by its new trailer, it could turn out to be something really special.

"Benjamin"

the warmth of this small cell
a tired heart longing for rest
another glass of poison with ice
whatever you feed me i’m bound to throw up

is there any peace at the end of this day
driving around looking for a light still on
make these old words sound new
you need more than what i’ve got

no cause for alarm says the broken hero
can you see past the dark part of a soul
there is no substitute for this
while i was drinking you grew up

this time it will be different
weak coffee and dried out biscuits
a torn nametag reads “ben” for short
can you learn something from saving me

Bloodbuzz in England

Music:
The National - "Bloodbuzz Ohio" (Live at The Current)
High Violet (Expanded Edition)
4AD Records

November in Hyde Park

I was in London earlier this week, and one morning went for a walk through Hyde Park. It was quite early and on a weekday, so there were not many people around. Mainly my company was the ducks and seagulls, and the occasional squirrel running around hoping to find a crumble of bread left by the tourists the day before, and so far overlooked by their winged colleagues. The weather had been rather harsh the past few days and this morning was no different. With temperatures just below zero and with a cold wind blowing from almost every direction, it was certainly a chilling experience. There were clouds in the sky but every once in a while the sun would fight its way through and supply the park with some most welcome rays of light. The air was crisp and the frozen roads and grass, while awaiting the first flakes of snow, laid welcoming and inviting across the entire park. In between warming my fingers on a cup of cappuccino I managed to snap a few pictures of this wonderful place.


"boardwalk"


"the trees by the crossroad"


"a quiet walk"


"a forgotten friend"

Essential November '10

Essential viewing this November:
- The Social Network is the new film from David Fincher and it is a comforting return to form after the mildly disappointing The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008). Based on the acclaimed book The Accidental Billionaires by Ben Mezrich and with a script penned by West Wing creator Aaron Sorkin, there is certainly enough talent on display here to get you interested. The film looks great and the solid performances make this a compelling viewing. There is a feeling of uncertainty that creates an almost claustrophobic atmosphere which makes even the most dialogue driven parts very exciting. Fronted by a phenomenal turn from lead actor Jesse Eisenberg, this is one of the best character dramas of the year.

- Will Ferrell and director Adam McKay have created some of the past decades finest comedies, with 2004’s Anchorman as the standout. This month they are back together again with The Other Guys, with Ferrell playing a desk riding police officer alongside Mark Wahlberg. Wahlberg struggles to keep up sometimes, but the two make for a surprisingly fine comic duo. The comedy works far better than the action, and the use of Steve Coogan as the villain is hardly the best casting of the year, but all together this is an enjoyable flick with some genuinely hilarious bits.

- When actor Joaquin Phoenix announced in 2008 that he was retiring from the business, people immediately thought it was a joke. Two years later, the film I’m Still Here arrives, and just a few weeks after its release, director Casey Affleck admitted that it was in fact just that. Which is a shame because the film would definitely have benefitted from having its audience in the dark throughout. Regardless, it is still a fascinating experiment and fake or not, Phoenix does pull out one of the best performances of his career. The quality of his various encounters vary a little too much, and Affleck should have realized that the best parts are often when Phoenix is left alone and that it is then we get the closest to him. It is a superb performance and a courageous exploration of celebrity that maybe suffers a little bit from its own making.

Essential listening this November:
- Håkan Hellström has firmly established himself as Sweden’s top provider of pop music over the past ten years. With his new album 2 Steg Från Paradise he should ensure that his position is not under any threat. There is plenty of both rock and powerpop and Hellströms voice still sounds strong and fresh. While tipping his hat to the likes of Springsteen and Morrissey he belts out tunes with confidence and high energy. A terrific pop record.

- The debut album from Scottish trio Sparrow and the Workshop has actually been out for some months, but it was not until I caught them live a few weeks ago that I really got a sense of them. The album Crystals Fall is a strong first outing and the band sounds tight and alive from the very beginning. They’re hard to place in genre, but the album has strong elements of folk and pop while there are also quite a few rocky tracks. Think Florence and The Machine meets The White Stripes. In a good way.

- I’ve made my love and admiration for Bruce Springsteen known before on this site so it probably won’t come as a surprise that the release of his Darkness on the Edge of Town box set finds its way into this month’s column. Alongside a re-mastered edition of his 1978 record there is also The Promise, a two disc album featuring songs that didn’t make the final cut. A three year legal ban from releasing new music due to a conflict with his former manager gave Springsteen plenty of time to record and the result was about seventy new tracks. Needless to say, there is plenty of quality and it should be interesting for more than just the average fan. A rock solid release and a reminder that they just don’t make ‘em like this anymore.
The single Save My Love has a nice video which shows you The Boss both now and back in the seventies, recording what would become in my opinion his finest and most complete album.

Band Photo

This coming weekend a newly formed band from Tromsø, The Northern Lies, are playing their first official concert.
Since they're just starting out, they asked me to take some photographs of them for press releases earlier this week, and I'm happy to say that there is a full page article in todays edition of the newspaper Nordlys featuring one of my shots.

This is my first photograph to be officially published and you can read the article online here: http://www.nordlys.no/kultur/article5385855.ece


The Northern Lies are Håvard Stangnes, Henry Johnsen and Anne Nymo Trulssen, and they are performing at Countryfest 2010 at Blå Rock Cafè this friday November 19th.

Downtown Blues

A couple of weeks ago my friends in The Considerate Lovers, a terrific rock band from Tromsø, played a gig at the glorious Bastard Bar. I tagged along for the rigging and soundcheck and as an experiment tried out my new camera. It's a Nikon D5000 (not a film camera) and I've put it together to this nice little video. It shows what goes on before the doors open, the work of putting all the equipment up and making it sound right.



The song featured in the video is "Downtown Blues", taken from the bands forthcoming album "Young & True" which is due out early next year.

Photograph # 8

"first snow"
/AMATEUR/

Commercial

Could this be the television commercial of the year?

Original. Moving. Relevant. Funny.
Simply superb.

Essential October '10

Essential viewing this October:
- Scott Pilgrim vs. The World has been mentioned before on this site and it turns out for good reason. Finally released on these shores this month, and it is truly something unlike anything you’ve seen before. Brit director Edgar Wright has been given a sizeable budget and has worked hard to put as much of it as possible up on screen. This is a comedy spectacle that despite some skepticism stateside should prove to become a massive cult hit. Based on the graphic novels by Bryan Lee O’Malley it is a perfect fit for the ever so brilliant Michael Cera. Known for his awkward and deadpan style, this is a different role for him. As Scott he is both hopeless and helpless and altogether simply irresistibly funny as he struggles to seduce the girl of his dreams while occasionally having to throw a punch or two. The supporting cast is also terrific with standouts from Kieran Culkin, stealing every scene he’s in, and newcomer Ellen Wong, charming her way to what will surely be bigger roles in the future. It’s fast, intense and delightfully original. And as we enter November this is destined to be one of the finest comedies of the year.

- Leaves of Grass is an independent American feature from actor and director Tim Blake Nelson and features not only one, but two great performances from Edward Norton as he plays both sides of twins Bill and Brady Kincaid. The film was given a limited US release which is a shame because this is an interesting and enjoyable comedy. Its change in tone and genre along the way may be surprising, but Nelson makes it work and by the end it has become a moving film well worth remembering. It struggles a bit to keep its rhythm through the final act, but with a terrific central performance from Norton and a script filled with fun scenes and sharp lines, this effort would have deserved to find a larger audience.

- On television this month we find An Idiot Abroad on British Sky1, a different travel show from Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. I’ve sung their praise before and this experiment is both entertaining and well made. The idea is to send their mate Karl Pilkington, known from their podcasts and the occasional sketch on one of Gervais’ stand up DVD’s, around the world to see the Seven Wonders of the World. Needless to say, it will not be your average Sunday night travel special. Pilkington’s views have been the subject of many laugh-a-minute podcasts and interviews and when facing the magnificent destinations of his travels the hilarities are never far apart. If the early complaints and frustrations of the explorer do not amuse you, you will struggle to find any value in this series, but for the rest of us, this is a refreshing take on the whole idea of travel as television entertainment.

Essential listening this October:
- American singer/songwriter Joshua Radin impressed me with his first two albums and even though his third outing The Rock and The Tide might not be as strong, it is still a well made and well written record. There are many out that there that fit this genre, but Radin to me still appears to have more on offer than the majority of his colleagues. The songs are not amazingly original but Radins approach to his music just seems more honest and simple. The voice, accompaniment and lyrics all suit each other very well and the resulting songs are very easy on the ear. This does not make the music forgettable but makes you appreciate it even more. This is a decent third album but there is a feeling that Radin may have to come up with something more next time around.

- Swanlights is the new album by Antony & The Johnsons and even though I’ve at times struggle to really enjoy their previous work, this album struck me as a very sober and poetic record. Singer Antony Hegarty without a doubt possesses one of the most sore and remarkable voices in music and this comes out perhaps even more on this fourth album than the previous ones. It is both simple and stripped but never less artful or ambitious. The collection of tracks here may be more various than usual, but the quality of the album is very strong.

- The Airborne Toxic Event delivered one of last year’s finest debuts and before releasing the sequel they have produced a live album, recorded at the massive Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. All I Ever Wanted naturally focuses on the songs of their self titled first album but there is also some new material and the occasional cover song. The performance is superb and to get the full experience you might wanna check out the DVD as well. The band has a terrific acoustic rock sound and also combines an indie pop feel, surrounded by a very strong vocal. Backed by The Calder Quartet, a tremendous orchestra, this is a great live album that does more than whet the appetite for that much wanted second studio album.
Here is a performance from the show which gives you an idea of the playful style of the band, as well as their ability to write great pop songs. This is one of the finest tracks of their debut album.

Photograph # 7

"the bridge to church"
/AMATEUR/

"In Between"

confront this silence with well spoken words
heavy footsteps on cold wet leaves
this shot up house is out of room
it all comes out when night falls

this mountain side does not have a sign
words that sound raw are still valid
two steps back but still closer to home
desire always runs in circles

with these skies who needs sunlight
a fool’s defense lies in the gutter
it sounds fake but tastes like the real thing
the blessing got lost somewhere in between

Great Trailer

One of the most anticipated films of next year is 127 Hours, the new flick by Danny Boyle. A teaser for the film has been around for a few weeks now, but yesterday the first proper trailer for the film arrived. And boy is it terrific. If this sort of trailer doesn't make you wanna go to the movies, I'm afraid nothing ever will.
The best bits: that killer shot falling into the water about a minute in, the little kid when he mouths "wow". Oh, and that Band of Horses song.
January 2011 can't get here soon enough!

Essential September '10

Essential viewing this September:
- One of the most controversial films of the year so far has been Michael Winterbottom’s The Killer Inside Me. Based on the novel by Jim Thompson and featuring a stirring performance from Casey Affleck, this deserves attention for far more than the few strikes of controversy. Underneath the brutal violence, and to be fair, it is some of the hardest viewing you’ll ever undergo, this is one of the strongest character pieces of the year. Affleck is not only convincing, but through a disturbing presence in every scene and with a voice that is slowly becoming his trademark, he delivers what is surely his best performance to date. It will be interesting to see if nomination comities will be able to see across the brutal subject matter and give him the nods he certainly deserves come award season. The supporting cast is very good too, with surprisingly solid turns from the likes of Jessica Alba and Kate Hudson, miles away from the familiar romantic comedy territories they usually frequent. This is challenging, thought provoking and, if you can handle it, ultimately rewarding viewing.
- The highly anticipated new film from Anton Corbijn, the dutch photographer gone film director, is called The American and is one of this month’s finest treats. Starring George Clooney (surely the biggest movie star on the planet by now) in an unusual part, he spends most of the time walking the quiet streets of small town Italy and you could fit all of his dialogue on a couple of pages, but it is a fascinating performance and a more nuanced character than we’ve seen him do lately. The style is revealing to Corbijn’s love for the visual, and the Italian landscapes are given the star treatment just as much as the close-ups of his leading man. It moves slowly, sure, but the sober and discreet script suits its director perfectly and as it builds towards a noisier climax it is a joy to simply sit back and take it all in. An intelligent thriller, beautifully photographed, which would not have been possible to create on a Hollywood studio back lot. Should ensure that Anton won’t need to make another music video for a while.
- Television saw the premiere of one of HBO’s biggest shows ever this month. Boardwalk Empire is created by Terence Winter, last seen as executive producer and writer on The Sopranos and it is a big leap from the suburbs of New Jersey to the glorious promenade of 1920’s Atlantic City. When alcohol was outlawed the powerful men of high society made it their business to become rich of providing the people with their need for whiskey and gin. Centered around and tailored for Steve Buscemi, the indie actor/filmmaker who has been worthy of his own show for ages now, it looks tremendous and manages to be both intelligent and entertaining. Only two episodes in, the creators may have trouble continuing the established quality and flow from pilot director Martin Scorsese, but there is enough talent on both sides of the camera here to make sure this becomes one of this seasons finest TV shows.

Essential listening this September:
- With such a vital front man as Brandon Flowers it was only a matter of time before The Killer’s vocalist was given his shot at a solo album. And a fine pop album it has become indeed. This is not experimental or “the other side of Flowers”, as most of the songs are broken in similar moulds as the tracks from his band’s records. But there is plenty of quality and if not as strong, Flowers is certainly strong enough to carry an album on his own. Flamingo is a romantic and cheerful effort that serves best in its catchy pop tunes and loses some of its power when Flowers attempts to be equally epic on his own as he is used to be when backed by his band.
- A collaboration between John Legend & The Roots is enough to get any music lover curious, regardless of your preference in genre. And the album Wake Up! is a wonderful discovery this month. A great mix of R&B, gospel and hip hop with a deep, and sometimes religious core. Also, the lyrics are some of the finest I’ve heard on this type of album. But mainly, this is an extremely well put together record that is both funky and engaging.
- One of the finest artists working today is Nick Cave, and he has been for decades now. So a release from the dangerous Australian is always an exciting event. This time it is with his likeminded colleagues in Grinderman, who return with their second outing, simply titled Grinderman 2. Wheter it is with his beloved The Bad Seeds or these gentlemen, Cave always seems to enjoy himself the most when in company with a band. As you would expect, this is certainly dark and gritty, but in a manner that comes across as playful and enthusiastic. With a modest nine track album, Grinderman insist on making the most out of every song, so this is a wide and fully loaded record filled with sound and arrangements all across the board. Explosive, powerful, and honestly brilliant fun.
Several future classics, including this one, a personal favorite on the album.

Photograph # 6

"new roof"
/FAMILY/

"Rosie"

rosie still can't sleep at night
with too many shadows inside her room
scared to die where she was born
she won't take no more regret

rosie knows the feel of a bruise
and the pearls 'round her neck don't look right
a tattoo across her heart says "debt"
she should have stayed at home tonight

rosie wishes she had a yard
her quiet creek is your wildest river
if alone on the wire, she's scared to look
she wonders can i cry in my sleep

rosie brushes her hair and smiles
a broken heart ain't hard to find

Photograph # 5

"fishing with company"
/AMATEUR/

Essential August '10

Essential viewing this August:
- The first feature film from Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant was bound to raise high expectations in fans of great comedy. After creating two of televisions best shows in the past decade (The Office and Extras) it is an interesting move to the big screen for the brilliant duo. And Cemetery Junction is not exactly what we expected, but that only serves to impress us even more. Set in 1970's gritty small town England, it comes with more drama than laughs (even though there's plenty) and there is never any doubt that this films heart is more important than its funny bone. A young cast filled with unknown but terrific young Brits and strong support from the likes of Ralph Fiennes and Emily Watson. The film is genuinely moving and it is refreshing to see something that is usually a well known American formula work so well in the hands of Gervais & Merchant. After the heartbreakingly disappointing The Invention of Lying (2009) which Gervais wrote and directed alongside American Matthew Robinson, it is comforting to find him back together with his original partner. And the vast difference in quality should be enough to ensure Ricky does not stray too far away from Steve anytime soon.
- After blasting onto the stage of American independent films in the 90's, it has now been nearly ten years since Albert and Allen Hughes last presented a feature. This month sees the release of The Book of Eli, a strong comeback after the poorly received From Hell (2001). Proving they are not afraid to "go epic" the film looks beautiful, and creative photography helps to serve the state of helplessness and tragedy of the story. Walking in front of camera is Denzel Washington, strong as always but the character's good heart and cool-as-ice persona is becoming a bit too familiar when it comes to this particular actor. Thankfully we have Gary Oldman, who seems happy to do a film every other year now, in terrific form for support. His villainous Carnegie might also feel a bit like familiar territory, but one we're not treated to nearly enough these days so it is endlessly satisfying to take him all in. You'll need a bit of patience through the middle part, but the ending is worth the wait and it turns out to be a welcome return from The Hughes Brothers.
- Louis C.K. has grown to become one of the most recognizable American comedians over the last few years, so it was to expect that he would get his own show soon enough. Simply titled Louie each episode contains enough laughs to keep you tuned in, but the man becomes a little too self centered sometimes (which is to expect I suppose since he writes, directs and even edits every episode himself). Like his stand-up this is rough and filthy and filled with improv and features some hilarious guest apperances. It will be an aquired taste and the star might have benefitted from sharing some production duties in change for a bit more rehearsal in front of camera.

Essential listening this August:
- Surfer Blood, a band of youngsters from Florida actually released their debut album Astro Coast quite a few months ago but completely escaped my finely tuned radar. It was not until seeing them live earlier this month that their brilliance hit me. Not only is this a seriously strong first album but the sound that originally might be heard as a tribute to 90's underground and grunge actually comes across as something completely different. There is plenty of surf guitar, hard drum beats and a terrific vocal. And knowing that they are comfortably solid live there is no doubt that there should be plenty more quality in future releases as well. One of the years finest surprises.
- The third collaboration between singers Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan is entitled Hawk and it could not arrive at a more perfect time. With summer closing its doors and the dark and cold of autumn already here it becomes the perfect soundtrack for the months to come. The voice quality from both parties is no longer news, but with every record they seem to become more and more integrated in each other and this album just might be their finest one yet. Lovely pop songs in company of dark blues and soft country makes this a beautiful album that is bound to have an impact on any blessed listener.
- While some bands find it necessary to work on new material for decades, others seem to need a new album out every year. Arcade Fire appear to have found a natural rhythm with this months release of their third album The Suburbs, three years since Neon Bible and another six since their brilliant debut Funeral. This one is by far their most ambitious yet, containing sixteen tracks and jumping back and forth between both mood, genre and sound. But the result is always original and fresh and though it might require more than one session, as an album, this is starting to stand out as the groups finest work to date. Every song is filled with raw emotion, well written lyrics and an orchestra tight as hell. It is rare for one album to have three or four contenders for song of the year, but The Suburbs does.
Like this one. Turn it up and thank me later!

Big budget

I've always wanted to do a crane shot.
Not necessarily one starring my uncle, but still, it looks pretty cool.

Photograph # 4

"reidar's toolshed"
/AMATEUR/

"Sidewalk"

there is danger in your stride
with your mind on your sleeve
dreaming ‘bout new york or was it paris
across the street going nowhere

born into a room full of strangers
you never looked the other way
the lack of color in everything familiar
was there ever a right move in all this

singing along to the radio songs
about creeps who share the same name
this town with lights inside the tunnel
will never see your face again

your lips are moving, you’re giving it away
too young to die, too old to go back

Photograph # 3

"his own beach"
/FAMILY/

Essential July '10

Essential viewing this July:
- One of the most anticipated films of the year arrived this month. Inception is the return of Christopher Nolan after The Dark Knight (2008), his biggest success to date. And even though expectations have been running high all across the board, the film should prove to be another smash hit for the British director. This is one of the best crafted and original films I've seen come out of America in years. Nolan's firm desire for reality and effects in camera combined with some genuinely intelligent screenwriting makes this the best film of the year so far. Similar to his two Batman pictures, the film is driven by effects (completely mind blowing at times), but the drama stands well on its own and in the steady hands of this particular filmmaker you always feel confident there is plenty more where it all came from. A great ensemble make for some thrilling acting pieces as well, and in the middle there is a terrific performance from Leonardo Di Caprio. Well into his thirties now the kid from What's Eating Gilbert Grape (1993) and Titanic (1997) has established himself as a bona fide movie star. Able to bring heart, emotion and physical skill every time he's onscreen, there is no doubt this is one of the finest actors working in Hollywood today. Inception will be hailed by both critics and audiences and with the success that will follow, one can only imagine what sort of spectacle Nolan will invite us to the next time around. No matter what it is, the line starts here.
- Summer is not the best season for television so it is great that a major show like Entourage has decided to kick off its seventh season this month. Rumored to be its final full season it surely is one of the few remaining must-see shows still on. Not as edgy as it used to be, and the writing appears to be running dry when it comes to certain aspects of the show. But this opens up for some welcome attention towards the supporting players of the last few seasons, mainly the terrific Kevin Dillon. The fresh sensation of the rated R comedy that used to be the heart of the show is toned down, but like everything you know that is drawing towards the end, it is not necessarily a bad idea to slow things down. Regardless if this will be the final hours we spend in the company of these guys, there is plenty to enjoy on the way out.
- One flick I was sad to miss in theatres was Kick Ass, the new film from Matthew Vaughn. Based on the comic book by Mark Millar and John Romita jr. this is a wonderful and highly enjoyable piece of entertainment. What appears to be a silly superhero movie for kids is actually a vulgar and violent affair with some great action and superb performances. In particular a break out role for young Chloe Moretz as the politically incorrect Hit Girl. Supported by Nicolas Cage in his wonderfully quirky and playful mood, the always terrific Mark Strong as the villainous D'Amico and Aaron Johnson in the title role, this is a great ensemble. A great return to form for director Vaughn after the disappointing Stardust (2007) and with the sequel already announced (Kick Ass 2: Balls To The Wall!) to arrive in 2012 this could become one of the most funny and unpredictable franchises in years.

Essential listening this July:
- Tired Pony is a new group with members from wonderful bands such as R.E.M., Snow Patrol and Belle & Sebastian that play terrfic pop country music. Their first album The Place We Ran From is filled with both catchy rock tunes and quiet tracks with qualities from all the before mentioned bands. Along the way there is also some support from the lovely She & Him, and after the initial first listen you are bound to want to go deeper and hear more. Hopefully this will be a full blown effort from everyone involved which would able us to catch them live sometime soon.
- A new acquaintance for me is Deer Tick who just released their third album The Black Dirt Sessions. A great mix of blues, country and 70's style rock with a terrific lead singer in John McCauley. The album starts off slow and melancolic but builds in both sound and impressions. Eleven tracks with poetic and emotional lyrics make this a wonderful addition to the soundtrack of this summer and makes you eager to examine their earlier work as well.
- About ten years after Industrial Silence, Madrugada's album debut arrives in a new deluxe edition, remastered and accompanied by a second disc with B-sides, rarities and demos. You could quickly accuse the mighty record companies of seeking more profits from this mega seller, but there is simply too much good stuff here to feel anything but joy. The album itself still holds its ground a decade upon release, but it is the bonus disc that provides plenty of new gold. Some material has been out there on limited singles and EP's but the newfound demos are really something for any music treasure chamber. With more than enough tracks to fill a whole new album one can only imagine how great this would be as a record on its own, but there is quiet beauty in the simple and accoustic versions of every track. It is a solid reminder of just how impressive this band was. And with songs like this one, possibly the finest ballad the band has ever produced, you can only say thank you.

Photograph # 2

"coming home"
/TRAVEL/

"Riot"

no place like home this time
these streets have no strangers
are these the consequences tonight
is this the storm that never came

this house is ready for me to leave
a mind always wants another riot
the words around here flock like weeds
i'm not too high, not yet

a song unsung in the city
out of breath too far from home
next spring it could all be gone
who will be there when we're out of air

Photograph # 1

"a hug for grandma"
/FAMILY/

I am Neda

Essential June '10

Essential viewing this June:
- You'll have to look long and hard before finding a more idiotic title for a film than Hot Tube Time Machine. So already, you know you're probably in for a treat. This outrageous comedy is the directorial debut from Steve Pink, long time writing partner of star John Cusack. Filthy, naughty and everything in between this is a fun ride that comes off both refreshing and comedically honest in this season of billion dollar blockbusters. The title itself is the filmmakers doing you a big favor, if you're willing to accept that you're going in to see a film called Hot Tube Time Machine (I'll admit, I love saying it), you need to leave both your sense of logic and taste at the door. It could easily do with a few cuts here and there, but all in all this is one of the funniest movies of the summer. Sneak in a few beers if you can.
- After enjoying a nice spell of supporting roles over the past few years it is an absolute joy to see Michael Caine back in a leading role. The film is Harry Brown, a brutally realistic story of a small town community being terrorized by juveniles. Caine is Brown, the lone pensioner who after the loss of both his wife and best friend decide enough is enough and takes matters into his own hands. It is a morally chilling story, but Caine brings meaning to every single part of it and it is truly a thrill to see him go head to head with the young thugs. The film does paint everything a little too black and white, but it is still a challenging and thought provoking experience.
- One of the most pleasant surprises in a long time is Everybody's Fine, the third film from British director Kirk Jones. It hasn't done much business stateside but I fear that is because of a poor ad campaign, also the film seemed to be promoted as a comedy when in fact it is more of a family drama. Robert De Niro plays the widower who goes travelling across the country in attempt to reunite with his children, and along the way finds out things are very different inside his own family from what he believed. De Niro is wonderful and plays down his own part so much you could be fooled to think it was lazy, but he has created a strong and familliar character that might just be his best work in years. A great supporting cast featuring Sam Rockwell and Kate Beckinsale makes this one of the best ensemble pieces in a long time and it is a shame it has failed to reach a bigger audience. Thank heavens for DVD.


Essential listening this June:
- New Jersey rock band The Gaslight Anthem return this summer with American Slang, their third studio album. After the success of 2008's The '59 Sound they've got their work cut out for them, but thankfully the result is another great sounding rock & roll album. They still wear their inspirations on their sleeves, but at least their honest about it and it never stops being refreshing to hear a band that is simply out there just to make great rock songs and make you wanna jump around. The lyrics of leading man Brian Fallon are still about girls that got away, fighting your way out of that small town and the thought of one day making it big. That tune might have to change in time for the next album. A great rock record. Can't wait to catch them live in August.
- This next one might just as well have been listed under "viewing" since a Bruce Springsteen concert is just as much about what you see as what you hear. And in his latest concert film London Calling: Live from Hyde Park you get the Boss and his E-Street Band at the top of their game. A three hour rock show that never slows down and moves from a sunny afternoon in London (it's Springsteen's first concert filmed in daylight) and well into the evening of one of Englands biggest music events, the Hard Rock Calling Festival of last year. With a recording career that spans close to forty years now, you get songs from the very beginning all through his most recent album Working On A Dream (2009). Wheter you're a Springsteen fan or just love good music performed by top class musicians, you simply cannot go wrong with this release. And if you still haven't gotten the thrill of seeing this rolling show live, this is a rock solid reminder that should ensure you claim your tickets the next time the man comes around.
- The Drums are a young band from New York who play catchy pop songs with a few hints of 60's nostalgia. Their self titled debut album is filled with great tracks that are both original and refreshing. Terrific lyrics and a strong lead singer in Jonathan Pierce makes The Drums one of the most exciting bands of the year and if their next album manages to impress as much as this one, they will surely be a fun act to follow.

Upcoming Treats # 2

Summer is as always the season for huge Hollywood blockbusters, but there are other American films on the horizon that should be just as exciting as any Iron Man, Robin Hood, A-Team or whatever vampire themed teenage franchise being released this month. So with that in mind, here are five upcoming treats that should be well worth a look upon arrival over the next few months.

- Inception is the new film from Christopher Nolan, the brilliant British director who has risen to fame through the latest Batman installments. And even though the budget for his latest flick still looks decent, the themes and the ensemble cast of character actors could seem more like his first films such as Memento (2000) or Insomnia (2002). This is Nolan's first feature where he is the sole screenwriter and he still wants to be original and push the envelope while never letting the story suffer. Every single teaser and trailer looks incredible and I can honestly say I can not remember being this excited about a movie since... well... ever.
http://inceptionmovie.warnerbros.com/

- Even though many directors working today started out making music videos there are not that many that have actually established themselves as serious filmmakers. One man who is looking to do just that is Anton Corbijn. This Dutch director has made memorable videos for bands such as Metallica and U2, but it was his 2007 biopic of Ian Curtis and Joy Division, Control, that really caught the eye of audiences and major production studios as well. This September sees the release of his newest film The American, starring George Clooney as the lone assasin out on that one last job. Sure, you may have heard that tagline before but with Corbijns sober and seductive style and George Clooney in a played down and attention shy part, this could prove to become one of the finest films of the year. With the cool retro style classic poster (see above) and a great trailer there is no reason to fear the arrival of cold autumn.
http://focusfeatures.com/film/the_american/

- Michael Winterbottom's latest The Killer Inside Me has already raised some eyebrows on its journey through various film festivals around the US and Europe. Based on the controversial novel by Jim Thompson it is a dark and gritty character piece with a rumoured very strong leading performance from Casey Affleck. There are scenes of violence and abuse that have been talked much about, but underneath there should be a chilling and interesting drama. Winterbottom has never feared the use of extremes to achieve an emotional reaction from his audience and though this certainly seems to be no different, there looks to be a rewarding experience for those who can stand to take it all in.
http://www.ifcfilms.com/films/the-killer-inside-me

- After the smash hits Shaun Of The Dead and Hot Fuzz, there was only a matter of time before Brit director Edgar Wright would be calling his shots in Hollywoodland. His first American feature Scott Pilgrim vs The World should offer more of Wright's clever and dry humour, filled with intense photography and snappy editing. The trailers have been more and more revealing and the latest one makes this look just as much as a video game as an actual movie, but Wright has earned the right to be given the benefit of the doubt. And the fact that it stars the always brilliant Michael Cera just adds to the already rapidly growing excitment.
http://trailers.apple.com/trailers/universal/scottpilgrimvstheworld/

- A film that has been hard to read from its trailer is The Adjustment Bureau. The directorial debut of George Nolfi stars Matt Damon, which is no surprise considering Nolfi has served as screenwriter on films such as Ocean's Twelve and The Bourne Ultimatum. It looks and sounds interesting enough, with a touch of surreal reality and a romance at the core. Based on a short story by sci-fi guru Phillip K. Dick it is bound to have enough qualities to keep you tuned in, but it is a dangerous line between sci-fi and love story to walk, in particular for a first time director. But it is intriguing enough to earn some attention, and with a Matt Damon who can do no wrong with his career apparently, we're willing to give it a try.
http://www.theadjustmentbureau.com/

Essential May '10

Essential viewing this May:
- The long overdue arrival of director Miguel Arteta's new film is the highlight of this month. Based on the novel by C.D. Payne, Youth In Revolt is the story of troubled teen Nick Twisp, who in order to impress the girl next door creates his own alter ego, the dangerously cool Francois Dillinger. A delicious and filthy comedy with a terrific central performance from Michael Cera, who is cruising along nicely on the road to becoming Hollywoods official prince of deadpan comedy. And when you get Steve Buscemi and The Hangover's Zach Galiafianakis as the designated father figures, what more could you possibly ask for.
- The Messenger is a strong and well acted drama about two American soliders whos job it is to inform families of the death of their sons and daughters serving overseas. It is an impressive film from a first time director, Oren Moverman and stars Ben Foster and Woody Harrelson. The photography and editing is gritty and sober in style and a tight script secures a nice pace throughout. Foster is convincing, but it is Harrelson who impresses the most with one of his best performances in years (he along with the screenplay received a well deserved Oscar nomination earlier this year) and makes this a challenging and rewarding viewing.
- For something completely different we have the spectacle that is the new Ridley Scott picture. The director of Gladiator, Black Hawk Down and Kingdom of Heaven returns to the summer blockbuster with his version of Robin Hood. Reuniting with Russell Crowe (it's their fifth collaboration in just ten years), Scott does fall short in some areas but this is a great comeback compared to last years disappointing Body Of Lies. In spite of its running time (it clocks in just shy of two and a half hours) the script feels trimmed and the film moves along nicely, with Scott making sure we don't get too much of a history lesson on the way to each battlefield. Crowe is in usual hero mode, but it is the supporting cast who gives you most value. Cate Blanchett is wonderful as the stiff lipped Lady Marion, but the finest thing in here is a breakout performance from Oscar Isaac as the snotty Prince John, guaranteed to send him head first into major Hollywood spotlights. A decent film, which does its best to cover its lack of charm with roaring battles and magnificent photography. It just manages.

Essential listening this May:
- One of the musical highlights of this year as far as I'm concerned is the release of The National's new album. The title is High Violet and regardless of my already well known admiration for this New York group, I am certain it will stand as one of 2010's finest albums. Despite achieving some fame through their third outing Alligator (2005) it was the 2007 release of Boxer that really got the eyes and ears of audiences and critics alike. So even though this is the bands fifth studio album there is an unquestionable pressure on them to deliver. And they do, in spades. From the haunting opening Terrible Love through the ten tracks that follow, this is an absolute rock solid piece of work. Every song is filled to the rim with wall to wall beats and accompaniments yet it never feels excessive, you simply want to succumb to every note that floats out. The first single Bloodbuzz Ohio (along with its beautiful and amusing video) is a stroke of genius and best of all, there is plenty more where it came from. Right now there is quite simply nothing better out there than The National.
- Another quality rock album on an independent label this month is Brothers, the sixth album from The Black Keys. Produced by the band themselves there is a wide variety and much to take in (the album has fifteen tracks) but the overall quality is very strong. The style is quite simplistic, but underneath every key you feel there is a massive roar waiting to explode! Soaked in blues and jammed full of soul it is a terrific listen and should be a rattling experience live.
- The Hold Steady is another great rock band that have actually been around for quite some time, but never really made it into my record shelves. But their latest album, with the instant classic title Heaven Is Whenever, made an impact from the very first runthrough. Their fifth album has strong references to the likes of say Springsteen or Tom Petty and there is a classic rock feel throughout. With well written lyrics and great riffs and solos it does more than enough to keep you jamming along for the forty plus minutes it has on offer. Could very well become the rock soundtrack of the summer.

"Control"

stranded here but you can't tell
knowing this won't be an easy sell
losing touch while saving face
soaked in bourbon a kiss with grace

get this day under control
forever with a need to be alone
always taking it just too far
listening to bowie in a crashing car

disposable emotion is hard to miss
there's enough blood to bleed through this
a shattered house built in sand
i'd feel better if i could see your hands

Helium

Went for pizza with my nephews last week.
Everything's more fun with helium.

For a written transcript please contact the website.

Vote For The Lovers!

As part of their farewell tour, norwegian band a-ha are giving out several grants to support young and promising new norwegian acts. Each one is worth 1 million kroner and in order to find out what is moving around in the northern part of Norway, they have acquired the help of newspaper Nordlys and its readers. The readers are requested to suggest names for the band to consider and the newspaper have also started a poll on their website to see which ones are the most popular.
I have nominated my friends The Considerate Lovers, a terrific rock band from my hometown of Tromsø. And if you have a minute I would like to encourage you to visit the Nordlys website and throw another vote their way. The poll has been open for a few weeks, but I actually just got around to dropping their name in, so we've got some catching up to do!
Go to www.nordlys.no, scroll down a bit to find a banner on the right side that says "a-ha stipendet", click on the tag for The Considerate Lovers and you're done!
Thanks a bunch!

Essential April '10

Essential viewing this April:
- The unlikely pairing of Jim Carrey and Ewan McGregor should be enough to make any moviegoer curious. Add that I Love You, Phillip Morris is the directorial debut from the writers of already cult classic Bad Santa (2003) and regardless of the result, you should have one of the most interesting comedies of the year so far. And indeed it is. Bold, rude and egdy, it is almost everything you wanted it to be. The plot runs a bit on fumes towards the end, but by that time you will already have laughed, flinched and looked discreetly towards the theatre floor in awkward embarrasment so many times that it should feel overwhelmingly satisfying. Carrey delivers his best performance since Man On The Moon (1999), and it's not often that a film with an A-list Hollywood star arrives in Europe before home (it is still struggling to find an American distributor). But when it does it is usually for one or two reasons; it is truly awful, or a bit too much to handle for the Twilight or say, J.Lo's New Adventure loving audience. Thankfully, it's the second one.
- Five years after the success of Danish drama Brødre by Susanne Bier, the American remake arrives. Directed by Jim Sheridan, Brothers can not carry the same punch as the original, but it is still strong enough filmmaking to make a, however soft, genuine impact. A superbly cast trio with Jake Gyllenhaal, Natalie Portman and Tobey Maguire make the most of their generously split parts and the result is both moving and thought provoking. It may have benefitted from a more confronting director (an Oliver Stone or Todd Field) to make it a rightfully harder experience to watch, but this is still worth both a look and a mention.
- Terry Gilliam's latest The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus did not live long in theatres and was mainly noticed for being Heath Ledger's final performance (he passed away mid-production and major script alterations had to be made) but it deserves to find an appreciative audience on DVD. Gilliam is still wonderfully original and a master at making the most out of limited resources. The film does well with both its humourous and dramatic plotlines and the pure desire to be challenging in story as well as visually makes this a successful affair. As for Ledger's final performance, it is simply another reminder at the massive talent that was gone far too soon.

Essential listening this April:
- British rock band Doves have been at it for more than a decade now and decided it is time for a look back. Yours truly have never been a big fan of compilations and greatest hits collections, but after five terrific releases the band is certainly desevering of such an album. The Places Between features music from their debut, and arguably still finest hour, Lost Souls (2000) up until last years Kingdom of Rust and it is a cracking collection of tracks. If you're unfamilliar with the band it will definitely leave you craving more and even if you know their whole catalogue, compiled together it is a wonderful statement of the bands consistent quality. If you're smart, you'll spring a little extra for the limited edition with both a bonus disc and DVD. Oh, how spoiled we have become!
- She & Him is an American pop duo featuring Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward. Their second album, simply titled Volume Two is one of the most charming and seductive records to come across the great seas in a long time. Uncomplicated in a most positive way, it is equally playful and impressive. With the stupidly addictive single In The Sun already growing in radio spins, it could become a sleeper hit record.
- Having read stories about Roky Erickson and his, should we say medically fascinating life, it is indeed slightly surreal that in the year 2010 he is releasing a brand new album. And adding to the surprise of his return he has got American indie favorites Okkervil River along for the ride. The title is True Love Cast Out All Evil and hearing the themes running through the songs it is a fitting one. Love, death and everything in between, having seen it all Erickson still sings with an impressive energy and belts out tunes that will both stir and touch your nostalgic rock loving heart.

"Gone"

what is a dream that does not come true
whatever good there was has gone away
the loss of faith is the loss of a smile
love has a way of seeking revenge

the ice is drawing towards the middle
you wanna talk about this or everything else
an empty photo album in a quiet house
this place will not remember us

this lifeboat is getting crowded
but no one says a word
save your breath for something important
it's too early to say your prayers

another day is almost here
i'll save you a seat next to me

Easter # 2

In the wintertime, especially at easter, there is no place more beautiful than back home. Up north.

My favorite part about coming to our house in Faksfjord, after about a three hour drive from Tromsø, is coming over that last hilltop and looking down on that beautiful white house sitting on top of this quiet fjord, surrounded by the snow covered mountains. Nothing in this world looks more peaceful.

One of the best things about going home on vacation is as always seeing my three young nephews again. And as always we had a terrific time. So here, back by popular demand, is the youngest one.
One year later. Same kid. Same hill. Same result.

Essential March '10

Essential viewing this March:
- One of the most exciting young filmmakers working in America today is Wes Anderson. Previous films of his include Rushmore, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou and his greatest triumph so far, The Royal Tenenbaums. Now he is back and with a brand new bag indeed. Attempting his luck at animation Fantastic Mr. Fox is one of his most interesting pictures to date. Now that the entire industry of feature animation films mainly are computer generated it is surprisingly refreshing to see a film made with models and puppets again. Based on the book by Roald Dahl the story is well known, but the script is original and the poppy dialogue works well whether it is spoken by the mad farmers or Mr. Fox himself. A wonderful picture that brings back an old label that is rarely used right anymore: a great family film.
- Hans Petter Moland is one of Norways most acclaimed filmmakers though his work rarely manages to fill the theatres for a long degree of time. That might change this year with his new film En Ganske Snill Mann (A Somewhat Gentle Man). As usual Moland is collecting rave reviews with this dark and grim comedy. Stellan Skarsgård is in top form as leading man Ulrik, just released from prison and trying to pick up the pieces he never knew how to put together in the first place. Surrounded by a great ensemble you’re always in good company, but it gets a bit too crowded towards the end and some of the great ideas are worn out a bit too soon. A filthy pleasure that might have benefitted from knowing when to stop.
- The work of director Werner Herzog rarely gets a long life in cinemas and that is again the case this time around with his new feature Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans. Considered a remake of Abel Ferrara’s classic from 1993, the part of the questionable officer is played by Nicolas Cage this time. And this is Cage back to the form that made him a cult hero in his early work. Completely out of control and unafraid he is an absolute thrill to watch. The mood of the picture is great and the photography makes you feel the humidity of the south on your skin as you take it all in. It is definitely an acquired taste, but if you’re willing to be a respectful and quiet viewer, though sometimes it might require discipline, you’re in for a great piece of off road entertainment.

Essential listening this March:
- Gluecifer was a terrific Norwegian rock band who retired a few years ago and one of the members was Captain Poon, the guitar virtuoso who went on to form a new band of his own, Bloodlights. After their self titled debut in 2007 they are now back with their sophomore outing, Simple Pleasures and in my opinion it is something as rare as a better second coming. The recipe is quite simple and straight forward rock & roll, but most of the songs hit their target dead on and all together it is a very enjoyable mix of tracks that serves any listener looking to have a good time well.
- One of the most overlooked British pop bands of the past few years, Thirteen Senses, finally return with their third album. Well, close enough. It has not yet hit stores, but you can hear it in its entirety on their website, thirteensenses.com. After their successful debut in 2005, they failed to reach an equal audience with their second record two years later. But with their latest effort, Crystal Sounds, they might be able to bring some of the old believers back. Wisely, they are going for quality over quantity with a modest nine track album, and each one is a delight. Wonderful arrangements, light beats and well written lyrics add up to a very pleasurable sound that hopefully locates many pop loving hearts this year.
- Vidar Vang is one of Norways finest singer / songwriters, a label that is becoming more and more vast and insignificant, but this man can still rightly claim such a title. His fourth studio album Sleepless Songs is a terrific achievement and like before he visits many departments. There are strong rock songs, mellow pop tracks and a good piece of country. His strongest work still remains 2002’s Rodeo, but give this beauty a few weeks on your iPod and it might be able to pick a fight with its superior older brother soon enough.

Bonzo

Meet Bonzo. He's two.

After knowing him for three days, here's what I've learned:

Despite being a dog, he is useless at getting the newspaper.
Not a big fan of stairs.
He needs to say hello to everyone he meets.
It is impossible not to laugh when he snorts inwards.
His grandmother was the half sister of my previous dog's mother.
He loves food, but does not eat crumbs.
He's a great listener.
Does not understand the difference between 'your bed' and 'my bed'.
He prefers company.

"Weary"

there are no other options after this
it's hard to make sense in the cold
alone outside the drugstore window
there are no miracles here

was it worth the seduction this time
a lonesome look in the opposite direction
with eyes that expect too much
a map of your hometown is useless here

an empty house with a hallway full of shoes
a panel of enemies to set you straight
the world slowly turns while we wait
an address can not lead you home

a ghostly shape in the mirror
still digging at rock bottom
please driver, count this money one more time
your cold body cross my weary bones

as i come clean i feel the pain
i felt you the most when you were slowing down

Oscar Time

This coming Sunday the annual Academy Awards, better known as the Oscars, are held in Los Angeles, CA. When the nominations were announced in January it became clear that unfortunately this was not going to be a year with many surprises. And even more than usual I felt that far too many films of last year were shamelessly overlooked. There were no nominations of any kind for terrific films such as The Road, Synecdoche, New York or Moon to name a few, and once again the Academy showed that comedy has no place in their prestigious company, leaving titles such as The Hangover and (500) Days of Summer without any recognition at all. As expected there was plenty of attention for Avatar (which surely will sweep the board in all the technical categories), Inglourious Basterds (a sure thing for supporting actor and an outsider for Tarantino's screenplay), Up In The Air, The Hurt Locker (although people probably didn't expect a whopping nine nominations) and Precious.
So here are the ones I think will walk away with the statue from the major categories, and then who I think deserve it, or who may deserve it more (because I actually do agree with the Academy in some categories - shame!).

Best Picture: The Hurt Locker
Who deserved it more: Moon
Best Leading Actress: Sandra Bullock, The Blind Side
Who deserved it more: Carey Mulligan, An Education
Best Leading Actor: Jeff Bridges, Crazy Heart
Who may have deserved it more: Sam Rockwell, Moon
Best Supporting Actress: Mo'Nique, Precious
Who deserved it more: Melanie Laurent, Inglourious Basterds
Best Supporting Actor: Christoph Waltz, Inglourious Basterds
Who may have deserved it more: Tom Noonan, Synecdoche, New York
Best Director: Kathryn Bigelow, The Hurt Locker
Who deserved it more: Duncan Jones, Moon
Best Original Screenplay: Mark Boal, The Hurt Locker
Who deserved it more: Nathan Parker, Moon
Best Adapted Screenplay: Jason Reitman & Sheldon Turner, Up In The Air
Who may have deserved it more: Joe Penhall, The Road

So there you have it; my Oscar picks.
Lord knows I've been wrong before.

Essential February '10

Essential viewing this February:
- The return of Martin Scorsese is always a big occasion in my house and his new feature Shutter Island is a thrill from the very first frame. Based on the book by Dennis Lehane, the film shows the director at his most intense since Bringing Out The Dead (1999). Once again teaming up with Leonardo DiCaprio, who turns in his most impressive performance in years, this is surprisingly disturbing and will haunt you longer than you'd ever dared to expect.
- Director John Hillcoat's previous outing The Proposition (2005) was one of the finest pictures of the past decade and it is a genuine excitment about going to see another one of his movies. This time it is called The Road and he is proving once again that he is indeed a masterful filmmaker. This too is based on a book, by author Cormac McCarthy, and it will probably be one of the stand out pictures of this year. Visually it is simply breathtaking, without once exceeding the necessary imagery required to serve the story. At the centre walks Viggo Mortensen, in his most powerful and impressive work to date. Stripped to the bone he is hardly recognizable due to the massive weight loss, but the raw emotion in every line of his weary face is bound to have a warm impact on even the coldest soul. An amazing experience.
- It is strange to be affected by a film that appears to be unoriginal and familiar territory all the way through, but still Crazy Heart remains an emotional punch and enjoyable film throughout. Much of this is due to the terrific performance by Jeff Bridges, which will bag him his first Oscar next weekend. Both the film and music is produced by T Bone Burnett, also responsible for classic soundtracks such as O' Brother, Where Art Thou and Walk The Line. The debut of writer / director Scott Cooper is an impressive one that thanks to a superb central performance will without a doubt provide new opportunities for everyone involved.

Essential listening this February:
- The first album from norwegian act Navigators most notably marks the return of Trond Andreassen, frontman of the now disolved Ricochets, one of the most acclaimed norwegian rock bands of the past decade. This time around there is a bit more country and few more ballads, but the quality of the songs are nothing shy of anything that would appear on a Ricochets album. Andreassen is still in dire need of an English lesson, but that has now become part of the charm of this ferocious voice and in a time when Norway certainly could do with a strong rock band on a major label, the album The Straight And Narrow is a most welcome return.
- Ain't No Grave is the sixth and final chapter in Johnny Cash's American Recordings series. And a worthy conclusion it certainly is, needless to say for both sentimental and nostalgic reasons. But the production is solid and the selection of songs is both interesting and compelling. It would be unreasonable to expect anything like the first two or three installments of the series, but nevertheless this is a unique collection, and certainly enough to keep the fans of the genre and the man himself happy. Or sad I suppose, because if the version of Kris Kristofferson's For The Good Times does not bring a tiny tear to your eye, well then maybe all hope is lost.
- The second album from singer/songwriter Ingrid Olava is another norwegian treat this month. Produced by Frode Jacobsen, member of the already legendary band Madrugada, The Guest is a strong follow up to her debut album that arrived two years ago. With plenty of melancholy, soft piano and heartfelt lyrics there is enough here to entitle Olava's lovely voice to an ever bigger audience this time around.

"Melanie"

melanie comes home early every night
writes a poem to pass the time
thinking everything is empty
she feels things turning worse

melanie wants to save the world
a busted bulb that needs to shine
the view is different from down here
she feels a natural thorn in her side

melanie puts on her favorite song
a brand new stranger in every room
human nature with a fading thirst
she didn't see it coming now it's gone

melanie turns off the light
she dreams to save her life

Essential January '10

Essential viewing this January:
- Already a regular at award ceremonies across America, Jason Reitman's third feature Up In The Air is certainly worthy of the attention. On the surface a slick movie with plenty of pace, but there is more here than what you're first lead to believe. The story of a man who spends most of his days flying cross country, hired by corporations to fire expired employees may strike a bigger nerve stateside than here, but there is a raw emotion underneath that is unmistakeable. The mood and honest reality of human relationships makes this a truly engaging film with a wonderful performance from George Clooney, who seems to be growing comfortably into a modern Cary Grant - a genuine movie star.
- Something very different would be Cold Souls by french director Sophie Barthes. Paul Giamatti stars as, erm, Paul Giamatti in this wonderfully original and hilarious picture. Moving between New York and St. Petersburg there is a great flow and brilliant mix of absolute absurdity and heartwrenching emotion. The desire to be original and owning a fresh view on things makes Barthes' a unique filmmaker and certainly one to watch.
- Big Fan, the directorial debut of Robert Siegel, writer of last years brilliant The Wrestler, has earned nice reviews and an impressive debut it is. A surprising and moving performance by comedian Patton Oswalt, playing an obsessive football fan in New York. Rough and slightly brutal, it is an interesting look at how different the world can feel for someone on the outside rather than on the inside of a stadium. A minor gem and a wonderful surprise, Siegel could grow to become a solid voice in independent film.

Essential listening this January:
- Another film that should be mentioned this month is Spike Jonze's Where The Wild Things Are, and one of the best things about it is its soundtrack. With music by Karen O, from Yeah Yeah Yeahs it is a delight that can be enjoyed just as much after the end credits have rolled by. A wonderful collection of tracks with almost childlike sounds, accompanied by her soft and beautiful voice. It brings across the same message and feeling that the film provides and simply makes you want to climb to the top of a tree and hum along to it. Lovely indeed.
- About a year ago I proclaimed that Vampire Weekend had created the finest album of 2008, so it is not only a joy but also a relief to say that their follow up Contra does not disappoint. Stylistic not much has changed from their self titled debut and the objective reamins the same; to create terrific and enjoyable pop songs. From the delicious first single Cousins to the very final title track this is a great album and it is comforting to know that they will probably find an even bigger audience this time around.
- Another soundtrack has caught my ear this month, before the film has even come out. Nick Cave and Warren Ellis provided the score for John Hillcoats previous film, the brilliant The Proposition and have come together once more, this time for The Road. The songs are craftly put together with strong instrumentals and cold atmospheric moods. Like any strong soundtrack should, it stands confident and strong on its own. It might require more than one listen, but it is disturbing and poetic enough to keep you tuned in.

"No Reward"

every time the phone rings hold your breath
a beat of the drum that no one can hear
could this be the last sacrifice
there is no reward in keeping quiet

cold feet from the long walk home
can't tell if it's night with the curtains closed
an open window makes you want to travel
arms will never hold in this hard weather

nothing you say can ever be private
if you're alone grab somebody and scream
cover me just through the worst part
i thought i heard a cry in the background

in this short time it has become
the most beautiful thing i've seen

Scorsese

Last week Martin Scorsese was presented with the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille award by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. The award is given for outstanding contribution to the entertainment field and is presented at the annual Golden Globe Awards in Hollywood, CA. Previous recipients include Alfred Hitchcock, Warren Beatty, Anthony Hopkins and Steven Spielberg (which Scorsese actually presented) to name a few and it has been a while since there has been a more worthy recipient.
Since his first feature film Who’s That Knocking At My Door in 1967 up to his most recent Shutter Island (out later this year), Scorsese has been one of the most respected and successful filmmakers working in America. He is one of a few directors working today who still manage to create films as solid pieces of art while never losing an ounce of entertainment value. His catalogue of films is nothing less than astonishing featuring titles such as Mean Streets, Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, The Age of Innocence, Goodfellas, Gangs of New York and The Departed, just to name a couple. And to this day, the release of a new Martin Scorsese picture is still an event in the circles of cinema lovers.
There is a brutal honesty in the work of Scorsese. Although his films are always highly entertaining and skillfully put together, they are not always easy to watch. Whether it be scenes between family, or a gruesome piece of violence, Scorsese never backs down. What needs to be said will be said and what needs to be done will be done. Having gone through the business of getting films made for decades now, Scorsese has seen both the beauty and brutality of the industry. He will tell you as much as anyone just starting out, that getting films made is certainly not easy. And most times, no matter what any director will tell you, sacrifices have to be made. However, Scorsese just might be the exception. Where others may have been forced to scrap or cancel scenes, this director was not going to let anything tamper with his art. A now infamous story from the set of Taxi Driver (1976) comes to mind. It is the middle of the night in downtown New York and the crew is getting ready to shoot a pivotal scene where Robert De Niro’s Travis Bickle has an uneasy encounter with a customer in the backseat of his cab. Parked outside an apartment building they are going to have a conversation about what goes on behind those windows. It is crucial to Bickle’s view on the human race and the filth that he feels walks the streets of his city. But time is of the essence and the sun will soon be rising, so let’s get going. There is just one problem. The actor playing the customer is missing. Or rather, he never showed up. The crew wants to go home and the producers say they will just have to cut the whole scene from the film. But that is not an option for the director. This scene is key for the entire film he says, and he is not looking to make any compromises. Determined to his vision of what the film needs to be, Scorsese sees no other option than to slip on the actors costume and climb into the backseat of the taxi. Roll the cameras and the director is now speaking some of the most incredible dialogue in the entire film. If you didn’t know Scorsese you would not know that this wasn’t a professional actor, but a director who would not back down and settle for anything less than what was in the story. And looking at it now, it is one of the stand-out performances in a film that had more than its share of challenges and complications. Read Geoffrey Macnab's brilliant The Making of Taxi Driver to get an idea.
Another great example of Scorsese’s loyalty to story and performance can be found in Casino (1995). In a scene between husband and wife Robert De Niro and Sharon Stone, he does something that would be considered “unthinkable” for any other filmmaker. He allows the audience to see a mistake.
The scene is very emotional and Stone is lying down on the bed crying with De Niro talking to her from behind. The camera is very close on the actors and the intensity is high. This is a difficult scene to get through, in particular for Stone so Scorsese wants to be intimate and make sure he catches everything. The scene plays out well and it is very powerful stuff. The actors are really into it and Scorsese is happy to get what he hoped for and more. But then suddenly, the camera bumps into the side of the bed, dropping down several inches, putting the actors out of frame, before recovering and getting back into shot. Any other director would immediately stop and yell out “Cut!” so loud the camera operator would without a doubt start soiling himself. But Scorsese lets it roll and refuses to go for another take when the scene is done. He got exactly what he wanted in that one. The actors where phenomenal and the emotion was real. That is what was important. There was no way Scorsese was going to sacrifice the genuine emotion of the story and his characters for a mere technical slip. That is another testament to the man’s pure desire for art and storytelling.

Martin Scorsese remains one of the finest filmmakers around and a true inspiration for any young director who wants to establish himself in the industry. With his unquestionable abilities as a filmmaker and his true intentions as an artist he is a force like no other working behind the camera.

Here is the montage that was shown at the Golden Globe ceremony, when receiving the Cecil B. DeMille award for his outstanding work. If this doesn’t get under your skin, you have to ask yourself if you really do like movies.