After his directorial debut Gone Baby Gone in 2007 and the highly acclaimed The Town (2010), Ben Affleck has established himself as one of Hollywood's most trusted directors within the crime/drama genre. And his shoes are bound to get even more shiny with this month's Argo. Based on the article by Joshuah Bearman and the incredible true story about the classified CIA-operation that extracted six American diplomats from Iran in 1980. The story is not without humor, and this is surprisingly one of the things that Affleck handles best. The balancing act between the comedy within the insanity of the operation, the personal drama and the suspense is delivered in terrific fashion. Affleck may lead the pack, but he is helped by a superb ensemble of actors. Bryan Cranston, John Goodman and Alan Arkin all provide superb supporting acts, and combined they have created one of the most enjoyable Hollywood fares of the year.
Brad Pitt and director Andrew Dominik created one of 2007s finest films with The Assassination of Jesse James by The Coward Robert Ford, so it was no surprise to learn that they had teamed up again for this month's Killing Them Softly. This however, is something entirely different. With a modest budget of 18 million dollars (about half of Jesse James) this is simple, yet tremendously effective storytelling, fronted by a true movie star performance from Pitt. It is definitely not for everyone, and despite a relatively short running time it is not in any real hurry to get anywhere. But that doesn't really matter when it looks as good as this, courtesy of photographer Greig Fraser. Pitt is also assisted by a superb turn from Scoot McNairy (who incidentally also shines in Argo), and strong supporting work from Richard Jenkins and James Gandolfini. Taking his debut Chopper (2000) into consideration, Dominik stands comparisons to the legendary Terrence Malick, not spoiling his audience, but taking his time in creating close to flawless masterpieces that are certainly different, but always engaging in style and story.
One of the most memorable, moving and entertaining documentaries of the year has to be The Punk Syndrome. The Finnish film tells the story about Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät, a hard rocking punk band where all four members share more than a love for music, they are also mentally handicapped. That does not stop them from living out the myth of rock and roll though. Directors Jukka Kärkkäinen and Jani-Petteri Passi allow for every member to tell their story and with their very personal and honest style, it does not take long for them to secure the audience's attention. Funny, heartfelt, thought provoking and truly inspiring it stands out as a true gem, that deserves to be seen by many.
ESSENTIAL LISTENING THIS NOVEMBER:
Ida Jenshus is one of Norway's brightest stars in the country/pop genre. Her first two albums were both rewarded with Spellemannsprisen (the Norwegian Grammy) and her newest album Someone To Love is bound to be a contender for next year's awards. Her recipe has not gone through too many changes since her debut three years ago, but listening to the end product one cannot think to wish for it either. This is another strong album, with well written tracks delivered by one of this country's finest female voices. Jenshus is a romantic; both in her lyrics and performance, and one will be hard pressed not to be moved by a majority of the albums twelve tracks.
With their previous album Hissingen Blues, released last year, making them a household name in their native Sweden, this month's Lights Out is looking to establish Graveyard as a major force of hard rock and roll. The new album is similar to its predecessor in many ways, mainly in sound and attitude. With obvious references to the greats of the 70s and 80s, the swedes are not in any way out to re-invent neither their riffs nor approach. There are touches of both psychedelic and emotional blues, but this is a genuine rock album as true as they come, out to do nothing more than shake your socks off.
It may have come out earlier this fall, but since this writer failed to discover it until now it deserves mention. Beacon is the second album from Northern Irish band Two Door Cinema Club. While their debut Tourist History (2010) managed to catch the attention of critics and audiences alike, their sophomore effort proves that they are more than a one trick pony. This is a terrific pop/rock record that is both catchy in riffs and seductive in style. The trio may wear their influences on their sleeves, but the quality of the songs are certainly strong enough for them to claim their own fame. The first single of the album, Sleep Alone, is a great example.
