ESSENTIAL VIEWING THIS MARCH:
The release of a new Martin Scorsese picture is an occasion in itself. This time perhaps even more special as it is something of a stretch for the veteran director. With Hugo Scorsese for the first time is shooting for a young audience, even though this film will find fans of all ages. Based on the book by Brian Selznick it is set in 1930s Paris and follows Hugo Cabret (newcomer Asa Butterfield), an orphan who lives in a train station. It is clear that Scorsese has enjoyed himself while making this picture. His style is still evident, but appears to be more playful and improvised, fitting as the story is mainly told through the eyes of a child. It is beautifully photographed by Robert Richardson and wonderfully put together by Scorseses regular editor Thelma Schoonmaker. Truly a cinematic treat.
Despite having turned 65 Steven Spielberg remains more active than ever and has released films at an impressive rate this past decade. His latest War Horse is another impressive feature, even though it will probably not be standing as one of the Spielberg Greats. Still there is much to enjoy here. Set up against the first World War and the relationship between Albert and his beloved horse, who is taken away to serve in battle. Based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo, this is pure Spielberg territory. As always he tells his stories using big images and with the help of his regular cinematographer Janusz Kaminski it is a breathtakingly beautiful picture. Accompanied by John Williams' lovely score and featuring stellar performances from the likes of Emily Watson, Petter Mullan and Tom Hiddlestone. Pure quality from the most influential filmmaker over the past 30 years.
Christopher Plummer bagged the best supporting Oscar for his performance in Beginners, and rightly so. But there is plenty more to find in writer and director Mike Mills' superb independent film. Alongside the always excellent Ewan McGregor, the pair come across as one of the most enjoyable screen partners in a long time. Plummer is the father who reveals that he not only is dying, but has been a closet homosexual for most of his life. Mills' script balances the drama and laughs perfectly and the film strikes an emotional core, despite never taking itself too seriously. A terrific achivement and ultimately very moving film.
ESSENTIAL LISTENING THIS MARCH:
Having been tipped about a band called Dry The River about a year ago, but never getting around to checking them out, it is with great joy this writer finds their debut album Shallow Bed this month. It is hard to label this album to a genre as it seems to have a bit of everything, which mind you is not always a good thing. But with this one it certainly is. Ultimately is comes across as a folkrock album, but there are elements of country, pop and even gospel. It makes for a very surprising listening experience and every track appears to hold a treasure sweeter than the previous. A superb debut album and a definite band to follow.
Indie darlings The Shins return this month with Port of Morrow, their first album since 2007s Wincing The Night Away. Such a long hiatus might expect you to find a different band, but luckily not too much has changed. Fronted by leading man James Mercer the album leads the way for some beautiful pop tunes, ten in toal, on an album that simply reeks of quliaty. The Shins still come across as some of the most creative and professional musicians in the business and this album is strong enough to stand up there with the best of them.
Three years since his mildly disappointing Working On A Dream, Bruce Springsteen returns with Wrecking Ball. And it is a reassuring and rock solid return to form. The Boss still has a lot on his mind and Wrecking Ball carries a lot of anger in its 11 tracks. Springsteen still manages to sound refreshed and committed even after having been in the business for 40 years. There is much here to enjoy. The terrific opening track We Take Care Of Our Own sets the tone and ballads, anthems and hymns follow. The political edge in his music has been debated plenty over the past few albums, and it is still present. But it never becomes influential and there is still a positive message to be found in every song. Another impressive album from the most enduring and creative music personality of his generation. Can't wait to catch him live for the fifth time come July.
Enjoy the title track Wrecking Ball. Loud.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
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