Essential April '11

Essential viewing this April:
- After serving as a screenwriter on films such as Ocean’s Twelve (2004) and The Bourne Ultimatum (2007) it was no surprise that George Nolfi went on to cast Matt Damon for his first directorial outing. And a wise choice indeed as Damon is one half of the finest pairing to come out of Hollywood in years. The other half is Emily Blunt and the film is The Adjustment Bureau. A romantic thriller with a touch of science fiction does not sound as a safe bet, but Nolfi makes it work, much thanks to his compelling leading pair. Based on a short story by Philip K. Dick, this is surprisingly moving and effective, and a very positive debut from a director who will be interesting to follow in his next move from the big chair.

- Another writer making his feature film debut this season is John Wells. After conquering TV with endless episodes of The West Wing and E.R. he now moves to the big screen with The Company Men. A well acted drama about corporate downsizing, perhaps not an idea that screams entertainment, but a strong script (which Wells penned himself) and a solid ensemble of actors make this an engaging watch. A surprisingly strong leading role from Ben Affleck with high quality support in Chris Cooper and Tommy Lee Jones ensures a both moving and interesting film. The sensitive material may have scared off the audiences stateside, but this is a valuable bit of filmmaking from John Wells.

- The podcasts from Ricky Gervais, Steve Merchant and Karl Pilkington have gone on to become a global phenomenon. When HBO first launched the idea of an animated series based on The Ricky Gervais Show, many were skeptical if the humor would be as entertaining on screen. After just wrapping up their second season and already being green lit for a third, it is safe to say that the lads have successfully conquered TV as well. With more detailed and incorporated animation than in its debut season, season two is simply 13 episodes of pure brilliance. Even if you’re familiar with the podcasts, the simple animation is entertainment enough in itself, and if this is your first encounter with these fantastic conversations, simply hit ”play all” and enjoy!

Essential listening this April:
- When The Airborne Toxic Event released their debut album in 2009 this writer went on to list it the second best album of the year, only beaten by Soulsavers’ magnificent Broken. Two years later some of the enthusiasm might have settled down, but the bands second outing still has enough quality to get me going. All At Once is another great collection of indie pop/rock tracks that are fast, playfully driven and occasionally very catchy. The sound and feel of the album remain close to the first one, and even though the immediate infatuation is not as strong this time around this is a terrific American pop record.

- It is hard to believe that Foo Figthers’s latest release is in fact their seventh studio album, an impressive feat for any band. And Wasting Light is a reassuring return to familiar form after the mildly disappointing Echoes, Silence, Patience and Grace (2007). What that album lacked in energy and hard rock, Wasting Light makes up tenfold. From the very beginning Dave Grohl’s crew is there to let you know that this will be a no-nonsense ride. Another impressive trick is to despite being a very well produced record, the band still sounds rough around the edges, which always suited the fighters better than being perfect. Not revolutionary but, more importantly, a quality hard rockin’ album with great tracks that must be kicking and screaming to be played live this summer. Can’t wait!

- Another wonderful American band that have been around for a while is Explosions In The Sky, who this month return with their sixth album (an amusingly titled) Take Care, Take Care, Take Care. The band is still an all instrumental outfit, but the nerve and emotion of their guitars and drums doesn’t fall short to any other band, and a vocalist would simply get lost in this glorious company. With a modest six tracks, this album is one beautiful symphony of inspiring rock that carries its heart on its sleeve.
Close your eyes and enjoy the lovely Postcard From 1952. Sweet dreams guaranteed.