nicely.

Fear not fellow Gowalla-ers, looks like it’s not the Sharks vs the Jets on check-ins just yet!

So terrified. So enthralled. So excited.

Darren Aronofsky’s Black Swan.

So here’s my summer recap, but I can’t be sure. It kills me that it’s so SLIM! But things have been pretty busy. Hooray though, my running gauge of 75 was correct!

June:

Film 57: The Road, heartbreakingly solemn

Film 58: A-Team*, a surprise love

Film 59: Legion, disappointment

Film 60: Bomb It, interesting docu ft various countries

Film 61: Eclipse*, a drinking tradition - the worst of the 3

Film 62: The Slammin’ Salmon, I will see every Broken Lizard flick

July:

Film 63: Everything is Illuminated, Straight to the favorites list

Film 64: The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou+, An all-time fave

Film 65: The Wolfman, A revisit of the 40s horror classic, worth a watch

Film 66: Inception* , See link. WOW, Christopher Nolan, wow.

Film 67: The Last Station, meh.

August:

Film 68: The Kids Are Alright*, Enjoyable flick with solid performances. A queue-r

Film 69: The Vicious Kind, Adam Scott does scary and it’s good.

Film 70: Love Story, I finally got around to shedding those tears.

Film 71: Notorious, Unexpectedly good!

Film 72: Inception*+, I had to return for more mind explosions.

Film 73: Dance Party, USA, Remove from the queue, believe me.

Film 74: Le Divorce+, I sorta love, sorta hate this movie. Going in donation pile.

Film 75: The Virgin Suicides+, Dark, weird, haunting… but sort of cheery? I like it :)

* seen in theaters, + repeat viewing

I’m moving cross country 1 month from today, so I can’t promise that my up keep will get any better nor my frequency during this time….but expect reports from Alamo Drafthouse soon!!

Gah. It kills me how badly I need to catch up on my cinedocu project for the year….and that I’ll miss some in the count, I’m sure. sigh

Anyways, The Virgin Suicides (1999).

Director: Sophia Coppola,  Starring: Kirsten Dunst, Josh Hartnett, James Woods

I’d passed through this film years ago without much thought, but it’s been looming in the 2-4 range on my Netflix queue for about a year now. It finally popped through this week.

I think this film tips the scales on my thoughts on Sophia Coppola. It’s beautifully shot with amazing lighting that makes the whole film have the feel of a summer afternoon. But on such a dark, dark film. This film seems to be about opposing forces, the beauty of youth next to the harshness of suicide. Naivete vs corruption. Parents vs children. Even some of the elements used to tell the story seem strange and out of place. The introduction of interviews with adult Trip, and the slideshow of the neighborhood boys travelling the world with the young Lisbons….such strange devices, but interesting.  I must say, for a directorial and writing debut, I’m impressed - even if she’s a Coppola.

I really enjoyed the film this viewing, and many things I’d not noticed nor paid attention to caught my eye.

• One of the sisters is played AJ Cook (or Jennifer Jareau if you’re a Criminal Minds fan)
• One of the homecoming dates is Hayden Christensen, which caused an audible WHOA.
• And then some serious heavy hitters, James Woods, Kathleen Turner (oh that voice!) and DANNY DEVITO as the counselor!! This I probably realized before and just forgot.

 Tripp Fontaine : coolest name, worst haircut.

I also did not realize that novel, on which the film was based, was written by Jefferey Eugenides. I was riveted by his novel Middlesex and can now see very similar threads in both stories. I’m sure there’s a lot more to be said than what the film can convey, and the book may shed some light into the way Coppola chose to weave the story and structure the film. I’ll be picking a copy of this story up immediately!

Also, fun trail brought to light by IMDB: AJ Cook and Hayden Christensen were both in the show Higher Ground together, with Jewel Staite. Staite kept Serenity in the skies, Christensen grew up in a galaxy far away….now will Cook look past profiling and PR and have her own space adventure?

8.15.10

Today is RogueFest at Capital Ale House in Midlothian, and as a proud member of the Rogue Nation, I’m sitting here like it’s Christmas morning and I’m waiting for my parents to wake up. SO EXCITED.

Not only will there be the better part of Oregon-based Rogue brewery’s line up for tasting, there will also be oysters shipped in from the Pacific Northwest. Not to hate on our delicious devils from the Rappahannock, but what a pairing!

So here are the brews I’m quite excited about tasting:

John John Juniper - A Pale Ale brewed with juniper and aged in spruce gin barrels - be still my heart! As much as I love beer, I also LOVE gin. Will it pair with oysters as well as its spirit predecessor?

John John Dead Guy - Rogue’s Dead Guy Ale aged in Dead Guy whiskey barrels. The only thing better than a good beer, is a good beer than also tastes like whiskey!

(These barrels are from Rogue’s own distillery! and are an effort of their distiller, John and their brewmaster, John. Brilliant, I know).

Speaking of Dead Guy, I’m looking forward to comparing Dead Guy Ale (which is a Maibock style) with the Double Dead Guy (which ranks American Strong Ale)

Mom’s Beer- Declaring Starr Hill’s Lucy as my beer of the summer, I’m eager to try Rogue’s similar belgian to see how it compares. Perhaps a comparable substitute for westward journeys?

Orange Honey Ale- Made with Oregon wildflower honey, orange peel and coriander this sounds like a summery treat. How will it compare to Mom’s?

Morimoto Soba- Brewed with buckwheat - this malt lover is intrigued! (and secretly hoping some of the Black Obi [the Soba’s darker cousin] sneaks in!)

Chipotle- I’m not a fan of most chipotle items as I prefer my peppers without smoke, but I can’t pass up peppers + beer!

I’m also very excited about the sheer range of STOUTS! Normally you’ll find 1, possibly 2 for tasting, but Rogue is busting out with 3 in addition to their Double Mocha Porter and their Hazelnut Brown Ale (that I love). The selection you ask:

Shakespeare Stout- An oatmeal stout

Chocolate Stout- Brewed with Dutch bittersweet chocolate

XS Russian Imperial Stout - my love for Russian Imperial Stouts is troublesome (just ask me about how ‘Old Raspy on 3’ has become a commonplace phrase)

Yes, it’s quite a list. I did eliminate some of the brews I tend not to favor (hoppier pale ales or the ever ambiguous amber), but I may get to them. Plus I’m attending with a hop-lover so I’m sure to get the report.

(via oldfilmsflicker: fuckyeahgwtw: via blissfulreverie)

Frankly Scarlet…..I’d like to think that my life would have many of these same controls.

Look at that pug’s face! Having snuck my own pug’s picture into a commercial, I absolutely support whoever the prop master is on Lie to Me. BEST!

2010 started off strong with film, I was enthused, keeping my standard (aggressive?) pace, then…

CLUNK.

Sure there were distractions *cough* 6 seasons of Lost *cough* but overall I’ve found myself disappointed and disengaged with film as of late. (I mean even on the cusp of Oscar night I was disinterested see: 1 week till Oscars)

But tonight, sure enough, my pal Chris Nolan gave me a boost out of the funk.

Inception. I’m sure there are plenty of eloquent, raving, perhaps even profound reviews out there, but I’m going to give you a checklist of sorts. The things-Kristin-adores-in-film-that-happen-to-be-present-in-Christopher-Nolan’s-Inception checklist.

• Well done - non-gratuitous effects. Some may argue, but I didn’t think this one altered the physics of the shark.
• Heist or Con-centric plots. Especially when executed by a strong, ensemble cast.
• Beautiful men. Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon Levitt, Cillian Murphy, Tom Hardy, wow.
• Artfully tailored suits. (and spot on costume design) This at times mesmerized me more than the visual effects.
• Science fiction. To a greater extent when not indicative of a specific time, win! 
• Emotionally burdened yet breathtakingly beautiful French women. I’ll even argue a love triangle in this one, albeit flipped from general French standard. Thoughts?
• Cerebral thriller. Yep, a most visited Netflix recommendation category.
• Exceeding my expectations. I was meh on the trailer, but sold by Nolan/cast.
• Michael Caine.
  
• Tortured romance. Call me crazy, but I appreciate it more with a dose of heartache.
• Notable cinematography. More so when not a lone standing attribute to a film.
• Hoth. Okay so this doesn’t happen often, but didn’t it come to mind? Just a little?
• More than just a chase scene. Pay attention Michael Bay.
• Not yet. Books, TV, film…I adore when you’re almost pleading for them not to end.

Alright, enough.

Yes, I just saw it and am still on my theater-high, but I really did think this was a great story executed as an artful balance of time.

7/20/10

Ever since I came across Mast Brothers Chocolate on the Selby earlier this year, I’ve been anxiously waiting for a chance to get to their factory in Brooklyn, and my opportunity awaits in less than a month!

From their beards to their hand-wrapped bars, these guys have a dedication and aesthetic that I can 100% support!

Another exciting addition to my need to learn everything about what makes brown roasted things delicious (beer, coffee…now chocolate!)

Check out this video and you’ll be on the wagon:

themadeshop:

My new iPhone homescreen background.

I always leave the bottom row of icons empty on my phone so there’s a visual break between the dock and the apps above (and also because 20 apps in a 4x5 feels overwhelming to me). I also like using this area to swipe between screens because it bugs me to swipe on top of apps. I know, weird.

Anyway, I had promised myself that I would immediately set my background back to pure black once iOS 4 came out. I didn’t want extra visual noise distracting from the beautiful simplicity Apple had kindly and wisely forced us into these past years.

But I couldn’t resist,  so I thought maybe I can make something that’s simple, low-contrast, and that uses the negative space for something fun.

I made this church-lobby letter-board design and it hides all the high-contrast elements behind the icon grid so it looks cool as a lock-screen, but doesn’t distract as a home-screen.

Seriously, have you checked out the Made Shop?

No? Do it.

things I love:

owls

dr who

root beer (not pictured)

My bike was in need of a refresh! Originally found on Craigslist as a rasta taped road racer, my ‘77 Raleigh (I call him Desmond) now has more the air of the vintage English chap I know he is at his roots.

• Handlebars, levers and a tune up… via the awesome guys at Richmond Re-cycles
• Cork grips and tape… via Velo Orange
• Locker basket and military issue ammo pouch… vintage via local thrift shops
• And thanks to Rivendell Bicycle Works for drool-worthy cruiser inspiration

Okay, I didn’t ACTUALLY* see this, but my sister did and promptly sent me photographic evidence.

*if I saw an armadillo in Richmond I’d be freaking out, not blogging about it.

GPOYW: I May Have Dressed Up Like Admiral Spaceship from Laser Cats for a Party Once edition.

(Yes there are pictures, but only if you inquire by written request in triplicate)

Flashback! World Cup 2006 @ Penny Lane Pub.

What a delicious summer of futbol.

You know you’re a Richmonder if…

(also, check out the reflection of my bike Desmond in the window! - stay tuned for that update!)

I’m pretty sure there were a few extra films viewed in May - I know I caught at least part of Twister and The Notebook on cable while crashing in a hotel at the beach one weekend.

Film 50: Splendor in the Grass (1961)

Director: Elia Kazan, Starring: Warren Beatty, Natalie Wood

Warren Beatty, a native Richmonder (!) in his debut feature. Also a great performance from Natalie Wood as a young girl who stumbles on a wild streak.

5.01.10

Film 51: Lolita (1962)

Director: Stanley Kubrick, Starring: James Mason, Sue Lyon

05.07.10

Film 52: Two-Lane Blacktop (1971)

Director: Monty Hellman , Starring: James Taylor, Warren Oates

Simple but far from simple-minded. The driver, The mechanic, the car, the road…..the ending!

05.15.10

Film 53: The Door in the Floor (2004)

Director: Tod Williams, Starring: Jeff Bridges, Kim Basinger

One: Watch this film, it’s heartbreaking but well worth the viewing. The tale of an eccentric author, lost mother and confused-in-love teen.

Two: My head about exploded when I realized young Exeter student, Eddie is now the bonehead guy in Accidentally on Purpose (or Dharma Gets Preggers) now on CBS

05.22.10

Film 54: Mystery Team (2008) 

Director: Dan Eckman, Starring: Donald Glover, DC Pierson, Dominic Dierkes

The viewing of this film was eagerly anticipated for quite a long time. I have to say, quite an impressive production from the guys who are known mainly for YouTube sketches. The plot or humor didn’t win me over, but wow - I really didn’t expect quite the high production level for this film! And hats off to Donald Glover on the score….although I’m pretty sure I caught some Childish Gambino playing in the background of a scene or two.

05.24.10

Film 55: Tropic Thunder (2009)

Director: Ben Stiller, Starring; Ben Stiller, Robert Downey, Jr, Jack Black

 Gag comedy meets war film parody. But wow, ROBERT DOWNEY, JR. that’s really all you have to say.

05.29.10

Film 56: Pandorum (2009)

Director: Christian Alvert, Starring: Dennis Quaid, Ben Foster

05.30.10

I know, I know….I’m sorry. (A really slim) May is coming soon, promise!

Film 26: Shutter Island (2010)

Director: Martin Scorcese  Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Sir Ben Kingsley, Mark Ruffalo

Predictable - but yet I still left the theater satisfied. Stellar cast, and a great handling of an otherwise underwhelming “twist”

3/13/10

Film 27: The Pleasure of Being Robbed (2008)

Director: Joshua Safdie

Do yourself a favor and skip this one.

3/14/10

Film 28: Paris (2008)

Director: Cédric Klapisch, Starring: Romain Duris, Juliette Binoche

I loved Klapisch and Duris’ collaboration with L’Auberge Espagnol and Les Poupees Russes, but this story didn’t leave me as enthused.

3/20/10

Film 29: Brief Interviews with Hideous Men (2009)

Director: John Krasinski, Starring: Seriously Everyone… ANNND Christopher Meloni!

3/21/10

Film 30: Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005)

Director: Shane Black, Starring: Robert Downey, Jr.,Val Kilmer, Michelle Monahan

3/24/10

Film 31: When Harry Met Sally (1989)

Director: Rob Reiner, Starring: Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan

3/27/10

Film 32: Boondock Saints 2: All Saints Day (2009)

Director: Troy Duffy, Starring: Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, Billy Connolly

As you can imagine, this was not a spectacular film. I’m happy that they finally made this flick since it gossip, rumors and theories have piled up since the original film came out and gained cult status. I’m sure there are still legions of loyal fans who were overjoyed by this excursion of the brothers McManus, but I think my enthusiasm for the saints ran out years before this next chapter came about.

3/28/10

Film 33: The September Issue (2009)

Director: RJ Cutler , Starring: The Staff of Vogue

Interesting documentary on the creation of Vogue magazine’s September Issue, their largest of the year. Creative Director Grace Coddington is spectacular - the way she works with fashion super-bitch Anna Wintour (who inspired Merle Streep’s character in the Devil Wears Prada), it’s like watching the underdog take the trophy.

3.29.10

Film 34: New York, I Love You (2009)

A collection of various directors and actors for different vignettes.

Following the same formula as Paris, Je T’aime - The American salute falls short.

4.3.10

Film 35: The Prince of Egypt (1998)

Starring: (Voices of) Val Kilmer, Michele Pfieffer, Ralph Fiennes, and more!

SUCH a wonderful film, and perfect for Easter morn :)

4.4.10

Film 36: Gangs of New York (2002)

Director: Martin Scorcese, Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Daniel Day Lewis, Cameron Diaz

Spectacular, every time. How Scorcese missed the Oscar for this one is still a mystery.

(Chicago!? Really?!)

4.4.10

Film 37: Jackie Brown (1997)

Director: Quentin Tarantino, Starring: Pam Grier, Samuel L. Jackson, Robert De Niro

4.11.10

Film 38: How to Deal (2003)

Director: Clare Kilner, Starring: Mandy Moore, Trent Ford, Allison Janney

Guilty pleasure needed on a Saturday afternoon.

4.11.10

Film 39: Footloose (1984)

Director: Herbert Ross, Starring: Kevin Bacon, Lori Singer, John Lithgow, Chris Penn

Screw Flashdance and Saturday Night Fever - my dance-flick heart belongs to Kevin Bacon and his fight for public dancing in the rural midwest!

4.11.10

Film 40: The Science of Sleep (2006)

Director: Michel Gondry, Starring: Gael Garcia Bernal, Charlotte Gainsbourg

Who knew Gael could be so hilarious. Stunning, comical, surprisingly dark at times.

4.11.10

Film 41: Beer Wars (2009)

Director: Anat Baron, Starring: Figures from the craft and commercial beer industries

Awesome look into beer, but it didn’t quite go deep enough. I’d love to see someone expand upon this film and cover more of the craft beer industry. Hearing from Sam Calgione of Dogfish Head was fantastic, but the flaky start-up chick with the caffeine beer….really? That’s it? Good idea, needs a better execution!

4.13.10

Film 42: Date Night (2010)

Director: Shawn Levy , Starring: Tina Fey, Steve Carell, Mark Wahlberg

4.13.10

Film 43: I Sell the Dead (2009)

Director: Glen McQuaid, Starring: Dominic Monaghan, Ron Perlman

meh.

4.18.10

Film 44: Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)

Director: Francis Ford Coppola, Starring: Gary Oldman, Anthony Hopkins, Wynona Rider

Gary Oldman, Anthony Hopkins… I love you…always, but damn this is a sad excuse for a vampire film

4.20.10

Film 45: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2010)

Director: Niels Arden Oplev, Starring: Michael Nyqvist,  Noomi Rapace

I still am not quite sure why they’re determined to make this in English. (insert my Haneke defense but condemnation of all other Americanizations) But if they do I hope they speed up the middle a touch. Overall, worth a watch.

4.21.10

Film 46: The Shining (1980)

Director: Stanley Kubrick , Starring: Jack Nicholson, Shelly Long

Brilliant Horror, still terrifying after so many viewings.

4.22.10

Film 47: Uncertainty (2010)

Directors: Scott McGehee, David Siegel, Starring: Joseph Gordon Levitt, Lynn Collins

4.25.10

Film 48: Strangers on a Train (1951)

Director: Alfred Hitchcock, Starring: Farley Granger, Robert Walker

4.27.10

Film 49: My Summer of Love (2004)

Director: Pawel Pawlikowski, Starring: Natalie Press, Emily Blunt

Another one to skip for sure.

4.30.10

bc I definitely am still keeping track of all the movies I watch but only in my drafts folder.

Last posted: #25 on March 7

Now at: #46 on April 26

hooray for viewing, fail for posting.

mild snaps for boosting curiosity?? ….. C’mon aren’t you curious about those 21 films in 50 days??

oldfilmsflicker:

dialogues:fuckyeahfrenchcinema:

Jules: Do you think I should marry her? Answer me honestly.
Jim: Is she cut out to be a wife and mother? I’m afraid she will never be happy on this earth. She has a vision. Maybe she can’t belong to just one man.

Oh, I’m not sure if you know how much I love Jules et Jim.

nevver:

Q: Who do you like - The Beatles or the Stones?
A: The Kinks

For a recent episode of Fringe that looked into life in an alternate universe in 1985 where many of our current technologies exist - 80’s style credits for a current show! Brilliant!

And for any of you not watching Fringe…..I highly recommend that you start!

Good ol’ JJ Abrams and his what if’s…

Tip of the day: Sneak a Harry Belafonte track into your library, it will pop up when you least expect it yet need it the most.

GPOYW: because I happened to notice edition :)

Film 25: The Hurt Locker (2009)

Director: Academy Award Winning Kathryn Bigelow, Starring: Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie, Brian Geraghty

So on the afternoon of the 82nd Oscars, which I wasn’t too terribly excited about, I decided to sit down and partake in the Hurt Locker and hopefully get enthused about my evening.

And The Hurt Locker did not disappoint, while it didn’t fuel my fire as much as films in years past (the best picture battle between There Will Be Blood and No Country For Old Men comes to mind) it was solid, and very compelling.

I was drawn in by the realistic feel of the film, but appreciative of Bigelow’s choice not to play the pseudo-documentary style card. It seemed authentic, not gimmicky, and still retained a high amount of production value. And damn it if she didn’t prove that a movie of explosions can be spectacular and not a Michael Bay piece of crap.

But while it was Bigelow’s evening, winning an award all women can respect and celebrate, this was Renner’s film. His portrayal of SSgt. William James was what made the experience so compelling, that made you laugh and be pissed off simultaneously, that caused you to hold your breath…sometimes a little too long. Damn if James wasn’t a character that you absolutely loved to watch being a jerk. A fantastic performance for an actor I hope to see more of in the future.

3/7/10

I’m at the top of the list of people who hate capiz shell mobiles/chandeliers, but this version made of old prescription bottles is a nice twist on the form. This guy lives at The Collective, a new restaurant and bar in NYC.

Upcycled or recycled…up for debate

Today was a good day.

First day of SPRING!

I took Winston hiking for the first time….you’ve not seen anything worthy of the word champion till you see a pug jumping rocks on the James. But once we got home…

(snoozefest)

So I hit the kitchen….

I made my own ricotta for the first time (and plan to from now on!)

Then some black bean burgers with lime sour cream - thanks to an awesome recipe from my sis.

and now I’m about to take part in brown butter & sea salt rice krispie treats that I’ve been dying to devour for hoooours.

back to the grind tomorrow, but for now life is grand :)

I saw this original via swissmiss and decided it needed a little improvement via winston

j0e:

polyonymous:

Cupcakes with a QR Code on top!  Made by http://www.clevercupcakesmontreal.com/

Hyperlick anything!

Now can I just scan to my phone and have them delivered? mmmm tastes like the future

Awesome Camera, Awesome Deal, Awesome Experiment.

Thanks Photojojo, you guys really keep the inspiration and great ideas flowing!

(Be sure and reblog THEIR post - not mine,  I’m not sure if the RB’s count otherwise!)

photojojo:

Photojojo is running a CRAZY experiment for the next 3 hours!

Reblog this post before 4pm EDT on 3/19 (1 pm PDT) and the amazing Instax Instant Camera price goes down 10 cents for EVERY REBLOG!

Reblog, check the price & snap one up before they’re gone. Price goes back to normal @ 4pm or when they run out!

p.s. The lowest possible price is zero, no negative funny business, mister. And you should follow Photojojo on Tumblr cuz it’s awesome!

Nothing says happy Tuesday like a friend bringing you a bottle of Root!

What is this delicious alcoholic concoction and where did is come from?

See: Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction

Today actor Peter Graves passed away. And while thousands will remember him from roles on such shows as Mission Impossible or Biography - and even films such Airplane. I will remember him from the 1979.. um…. classic, Clonus

I find lots of practical uses for the ol’ do you like me - yes or no? note.

I, Kristin, queen of good intentions and half finished projects declare March 13th, CATCH UP DAY.

I’ve been riddled with guilt over the long chain of movies that has been just sitting in my drafts folder waiting to be published. Horrific, I know.  I had lofty dreams of writing my thoughts on each film and sometimes skipped over it in favor of inspiration at a later time. BAD IDEA. So here’s a recap.  Some of these will get reposts/links because I actually DID write something - some will remain here in list only with their snippets.

So here it is folks, all those empty gaps:

Film 5: Daybreakers (2010)

Director: The Spierig Brothers, Starring: Ethan Hawke, Willem Dafoe, Sam Neil

I thought this movie was great save for Willem Dafoe’s HORRIBLE character - like a redneck Green Goblin. I think the story behind this vampires-as-the-majority-face-their-own-extinction story is incredibly strong - but the Spierig Brothers rushed through at times. Despite those previous comments, I highly recommend this film for a much needed break from Twilife.

01-10-10 (hooray binary for futuristic dramas)

Film 6: The Hangover (2009)

Director: Todd Phillips, Starring: Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms & Zach Galifianakis

01-11-10

Film 7: Youth in Revolt (2010)

Director: Miguel Arteta, Starring: Michael Cera, Portia Doubleday, Zach Galifianakis

01-12-10

Film 8: Kicking and Screaming (1995)

Director: Noah Baumbach, Starring: Josh Hamilton, Chris Eigerman, Eric Stoltz, Parker Posey

This movie makes me realize how much I love Reality Bites, but only because it’s nowhere near as good. I did like Max (Chris Eigerman) but possibly only because he reminded me of Michael Showalter. And let me throw this out - does  Olivia D’Abo remind anyone else of Maria Bello?

01-14-10

Film 9: A Single Man (2009)

Director: Tom Ford , Starring: Colin Firth, Matthew Goode, Julianne Moore

01-16-10

Film 10: Moon (2009)

Director: Duncan Jones, Starring: Sam Rockwell

BRILLIANT. I came into this movie fearing too much of a semblance to Kubrick’s 2001 but this movie is indeed it’s own. Rather than feelings of suspense and fear I was filled with sadness and empathy for the heartbreaking story of self realization (albeit a very unique example) for Sam Bell (as incredibly portrayed by Sam Rockwell). I loved Rockwell before this film, but he really came into a new level of performance and carried this film. Where was this on Oscar night?!?!

01-18-10

Film 11: Mystic River (2003)

Director: Clint Eastwood , Starring: Sean Penn, Kevin Bacon, Tim Robbins

I finally got around to seeing this, and you know what? I was disappointed. Another meh film from Clint.

01-19-10

Film 12: Two Lovers (2008)

Director: James Gray , Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Gwenyth Paltrow

01-20-10

Film 13: Roman Holiday (1953)

Director: William Wyler, Starring: Gregory Peck, Audrey Hepburn

01-24-10

Film 14: An Education (2009)

Director: Lone Scherfig , Starring: Peter Sarsgaard, Carey Mulligan, Alfred Molina, Dominic Cooper

01-24-10

Film 15: Leap Year (2009)

Director: Anand Tucker, Starring: Matthew Goode, Amy Adams

01-25-10

Film 16: Dear John (2010)

Director: Lasse Hallström, Starring: Amanda Seyfreid, Tatum Channing, Richard Jenkins

Free Screening. Sometimes I want a movie that will just make me bawl, and much like it’s predecessors The Notebook, A Walk to Remember, Message in a Bottle, etc  Dear John was just the trick! However, it’s worth noting that Richard Jenkins puts on a great performance, as always.

01-27-10

Film 17: It’s Complicated (2009)

Director: Nancy Meyers , Starring: Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, Steve Martin

You know how awkward it is to hear your parents talk about sex or dating? Well this movie is kinda like that. Although John Krasinski is HILARIOUS in this.

01-28-10

Film 18: Empire Records (1995)

Director: Allan Moyle , Starring: Renee Zellweger, Liv Tyler, Joe LaPaglia, Ethan Embry, Rory Cochrane

If you made a list of the movies I’ve seen the most times - this would be solidly on top. I don’t think a weekend went by between 96-98 where I didn’t watch this. My group of friends even went as all the characters one year for Halloween. The number of girls was much higher - I played Warren (shopliiiiftteerrrrr). Anyways, I was in a mood to watch it so rather than pulling out my VCR I relied on my old pal Netflix. Realizations: I still have an unfortunate amount of the dialogue memorized from this film & I still rank it in my favorite films of all time.

01/30/10

Film 19: Steel Magnolias (1989)

Director: Herbert Ross , Starring: Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Shirley Maclaine, Dolly Parton, I could go on…

As with Empire Records, Steel Magnolias is also a movie I can quote endless and will love forever. When I was in Austin a few weeks ago, my sister and I kept finding instances to work it into everyday conversation - which is why I love my sis. I’ve even made a red velvet cake with grey icing. I’ve watched this movie so many times since childhood - I feel like M’Lynn, Truvy, Clairee, even Ouiser are my own set of crazy Southern aunts.

2/6/10

Film 20: The Hours (2002)

Director: Stephen Daldry , Starring: Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore, Meryl Streep

I had high hopes for this film - 3 incredible leading ladies and a score from Phillip Glass! However, it settled out of mediocre in my book. Perhaps Mrs Dalloway just wasn’t as moving for me as for these 3 characters.

2/6/10

Film 21: Beerfest (2006)

Director: Jay Chandrasekhar, Starring: Broken Lizard

Okay, so everyone loved Super Troopers, everyone hated Club Dread (except for me, I think it’s HILARIOUS, but I stand with a very small group), but I never really hear anyone talk about Beerfest. I probably rank this as my favorite of the Broken Lizard films I’ve seen so far (Slammin’ Salmon still to be seen). Super Troopers and Club Dread arguably have some of the funniest moments/lines I’ve seen, but both get a little slow. While Beerfest may not have such stand out moments, I find it’s the most entertaining to watch as a whole. Plus it’s about being being drunk and stupid - but it’s clever! I love the guys in Broken Lizard, I’ll watch whatever they throw at me, and I still am sad I missed the chance to get drunk and eat tacos with them courtesy of Alamo Drafthouse.

2/6/10

Film 22: Imagine Me & You (2005)

Director: Ol Parker, Starring: Matthew Goode, Piper Perabo, Lena Heady

This one is called, “snowed in at my mom’s house”. I’m ashamed because I even saw it before! It’s still total crap. Poor Matthew Goode, Poor Anthony Stewart Head.

2/7/10

Film 23: Bright Star (2009)

Director: Jane Campion , Starring: Ben Whishaw, Abbie Cornish, Paul Schneider

2/13/10

Film 24: Zombieland

Director: Ruben Fleischer, Starring: Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone, Abigail Breslin

I saw this in theaters and was incredibly disappointed, so I figured I’d give it another shot since a pal wanted to see it. Nope. Still not very good. Everyone talked about how great this flick was -but really? WHERE WAS ALL THE ZOMBIE KILLING. I love Romero, Fulci and Argento - this crap just doesn’t cut it. Although, I will say that Woody Harrelson is hilarious, and there’s a cameo that makes worth seeing the flick worth it. Plus the slow motion intro sequence is fantastic and the “rules” titling is a nice graphic touch - I just don’t know why they had to turn into to some half-assed teen romance. end rant.

2/14/10

And so ends the longest tumblr post ever. Pardon my negligance.

Giant Robot sf has a new show opening tonight that looks AMAZING.

GAME OVER 3 - Work Inspired by Video Games (!!!!!!)

The list of artists is pretty cool - some that caught my eye, and some I will surely need to follow up on.

Check it out

and for you San Fran kids - check it out for real, and let me know how it is!

I’ll be sitting here hoping for print sales :D

Yes, I’m 6. Thanks for asking.

1. am I totally lame for loving this?

2. am I the only one who still thinks of Jimmy Brooks when they see Drake

Thanks to those awesome folks at Foursquare being nice enough to choose Tumblr for their blog I am able to say….

Happy Birthday Foursquare!

…… and mask the fact I’m just sad that I’m not hopping a plane to SXSW (see their post)

Anyways - thanks for such a fun little addition to the social networking-verse. Even though I often describe it as being “kinda like Girl Scouts for smartphones” - I’m glad it’s around.

As as the newly appointed mayor of Lemaire, I promise to treat all the old bourgeois Richmonders that frequent there with the utmost respect ;) (but seriously, it’s amazing!)

However, I’m VERY jealous of all those SX-ers who get to wear their badges for real thanks for Foursquare temporary tattoo!!!!

nedhepburn:

(via doinwork)

via con dios…

laura9:

fyeahmuppeteers:

Young Jim and Frank with Rowlf the Dog.

Rowlf is my favorite muppet. I have a fun theory involving him and Stevie Wonder, ask me about it sometime.

moviesinframes:

American Psycho, 2000 (dir. Mary Harron)

Submitted by ihearttrackingshots

[Note: this is a reframe, you can see the first one here]

the year 2000 might have been the birth of my preoccupation with letterpress….and bret easton ellis

replicant:

(via mutations)

Rear Window is one of my favorite films of Jimmy Stewart, of Hitchcock, of all time. I’d love to have this on my wall - good work Brandon Schaefer

Fun fact: Jimmy Stewart was a distant cousin of mine.

and I’m less excited than I have been in years.

Perhaps it’s the exploitation of the best picture award with 10 nods

or the ridiculousness of the Globes.

Seriously? Avatar?

In 09 aliens, District 9 was far superior.

Frank.

It was love at first glance - a hot dog/sausage restaurant with a creative director? Be still my heart!

This type-laden brick beaut is located in downtown Austin at 4th & Colorado, an easy find. Plus now whenever I see Frost Tower I’ll think, mmm Frank (in addition to the usual “Fortress of Solitude!”). Inside the feast for the eyes continues with a funky mid-century den meets bodega vibe. And the menu is as pleasing to read as to contemplate.

I had to have the Jackalope:

“Our local antelope, rabbit & pork sausage, huckleberry compote, sriracha aioli, applewood smoked cheddar”

As a firm believer in the tao of “sriracha on everything” - the touch of fire in the aioli combined with the sweetness of the huckleberry makes the meal. A perfect ying ang yang to compliment to the delicious game-y weight of the sausage itself. Only negative: it didn’t look very pretty - not that it stayed around that long.

I saddled up the Jackalope with the Corn Cup (“Grilled corn served off the cob with chili mayonesa, lime juice, cilantro and cotija cheese” ) and a draft root beer from Maine Root. I can’t wait to go back and give a corn dog a try (you can Frank Flapjacket any dog!) along with a boozy root beer float.

Thanks to the guys at Public School and their write up of The Decoder Ring for pointing me to this gem! Check out Public School, The Decoder Ring & of course Frank — you’ll be graced with some amazing design at each. Plus how can you resist pointing your browser to hotdogscoldbeer.com ?

yeah you know you were wondering ‘bout them donuts…

The Puddin’

Dirty Berry

Granny’s Pie - my donut, complete with birthday candles snuck in by the donut peddlers

they didn’t shine in their photos, but damn they were tasty! And the bag smelled like twinkies!! (disclaimer: there were 3 people imbibing)

see: Gourdough’s on S. Lamar, ATX

GPOYW: well if I haven’t died yet edition

in honor of my 25th birthday, a day in Austin:

• No ropes rock climbing
• Antelope/Rabbit Sausage (yes, Jackalope) & draft root beer @ Frank
• Granny’s Pie Donut @ Gourdough’s

There is nothing better than this

I was having a pug-walk chat with my neighbor about music and Eastern European sound came up. We bantered but when I mentioned Beirut, he countered too pretentious. But really an American band with a Balkan sound? Its pretension is what I love. (hate if ye must :))