All Entries in the "Reviews" Category
FOODIE FINDS: The B Line for breakfast
By MIKI JENNINGS
It’s hard to find places in Tucson with great food and reasonable prices, so it was refreshing to step into The B Line for breakfast.
There are plenty of places around town to get breakfast and some are even pretty cheap, but they don’t always offer high quality food.
The B Line is a smallish building on Fourth Avenue, with lots of traffic between the kitchen and dining tables. Breakfast hours are 7 to 11 a.m. Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. to noon on Saturday and Sunday.
The B Line serves a tasty, affordable entree of eggs, toast and potatoes. Photo By MIKI JENNINGS
It can get very busy in the mornings, especially when the kitchen is about to switch over to lunch. You might have to fight for seating but it’s worth the effort.
The breakfast menu isn’t expansive but offers the basics: eggs, breakfast burritos served with fresh salsa and crepe-style pancakes (pan crêpes) served with rich pecan butter and smooth maple syrup.
You can add sides such as fruit cups, spinach and chorizo.
The B Line’s eggs are cage-free, well cooked and flavorful. If you want something sweet to go with them, order the 2×2 plate that comes with two scrambled eggs and two pancake-sized crêpes.
Early risers can order from a wide selection of coffees, juices or teas.
If you’re not too stuffed after breakfast, sample something from the rotating dessert case. Treats, made fresh every day, include cookies, tarts, cake, pie, pot de crème and macaroons.
We tried the milk-and-white chocolate mousse, served with chocolate garnishes. It was smooth, creamy and rich.
Breakfast prices range from $3-$7. Cheaper items include biscuits and crêpe short stacks, while full plates are more expensive. Desserts cost $6 or less.
FYI:
The B Line
Address: 621 N. Fourth Ave.
Phone: 882-7575
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 7 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 7 a.m.-10 p.m.
Website: blinerestaurant.com
GAME SYSTEM REVIEW: Viva la vita! (Live the life)
By D.J. ARIZMENDI
Life has a certain motion. Before we can walk, we must crawl. Sony’s new portable gaming system, the PS Vita, on the other hand, has not even reached infancy but already has a running start against its competition.
With one of the best launch lineups in video game history, a gorgeous OLED screen and dual analog sticks, the Vita has everything gamers want in their hands, minus the uber cute anime girl.
The menu interface moves fluidly and the touch screen is surprisingly responsive. If you have any experience using an Apple device, you should feel right at home.
Photo Illustration By MIKI JENNINGS
Does it feel a bit rip-offish? Admittedly it does. In Sony’s defense, it mocks the style well without seeming tacky.
As with any new sexy tech, it’s the inside that matters.
Vita’s opulent 5-inch OLED screen sports a 4-core processor and 512 megabytes of RAM. It has a resolution of 960×544. In other words, the Nintendo 3DS looks last-generation by comparison.
For those worried about the weight, it’s not as heavy as it looks. At 9.8 ounces, the Vita fits into its tight dressing with some lovely handles on the back to assist with grip.
Even though I had no issue with the weight, the width can be overwhelming. Stood on its side, the Vita is a tad over 7 inches. Many people might find it cumbersome to squeeze that much into their pockets, especially since skinny jeans are in style.
If you are feeling artsy, the Vita has two cameras, one rear and one front. The biggest downfall for this feature is the quality it produces. The pictures look as if I resurrected my first flip phone from T-Mobile.
The saving grace is that the video can capture images at a staggering 120 frames per second, but it will look like garbage.
Though the button layout is similar to the PSP, the addition of a right analog stick makes this truly a game changer in the world of handhelds.
“Uncharted: Golden Abyss” is probably the strongest argument for an additional analog stick. Having that sense of complete control really pushes it over the edge for having a console-like experience.
Information about the 3G service has been spotty at best, kind of like AT&T’s coverage — which incidentally is the Vita’s provider.
Setting up the system for the service was beyond a nightmare. I would not recommend getting the 3G model unless it is your only option.
But if you are a glutton for punishment and wish to take advantage of the 3G feature, you can send messages, synch trophy info, look in the Playstation store, use a subpar web browser and access certain apps such as Near.
Be warned, though: You cannot download anything larger than 20MB over 3G. That basically means you will not be able to download any games available through the Playstation store.
By now you may be thinking this review is not exactly glowing, but there is a twist in the third act — the games.
By the Feb. 22 launch date, there will be at least 26 games available. Anyone who has been a part of a system launch knows that is quite impressive. Even more impressive: I already have six of those games and could easily recommend six more on top of that.
If having great games was not enough, Sony has pledged to have every Vita game come out in a digital format on the same day as its physical counterpart.
The incentive for buying games digitally is not only the obvious convenience but the fact it will be sold at a 10 percent discount.
Imagine this: In the near future, you will be able to play a fully featured “Call of Duty” game on the go. Need I say more, bro?
Just like life, the Vita is not perfect. However, it is too wonderful to miss out on. With time, it has serious potential to become the greatest gaming handheld of this generation.
Grade: A-
FYI
Notable games at launch:
- “Uncharted: Golden Abyss”
- “Lumines: Electronic Symphony”
- “Super Stardust Delta”(download only)
- “Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3”
- “Touch My Katamari”
- “FFIA Soccer”
- “BlazBlue: Continuum Shift Extreme”
- “Escape Plan”(Download Only)
- “Rayman Origins”
- “Tales From Space: Mutant Blobs Attack”(download only)
- “Ninja Gaiden Sigma Plus”
- “Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational”
Best Bets – Indie quartet plays Feb. 24
LIVE MUSIC
Friday, Feb. 24:
The Holy Rolling Empire with Mergence and The Electric Blankets at Plush, 340 E. Sixth St. Doors open at 9 p.m. $5 at door. 21+. Details: plushtucson.com.
In the stellar environment that a small venue provides, the Holy Rolling Empire will be a delight worth the five dollars crumpled in your pocket.
The only respectable alternative would be saving for the Merle Haggard show on Feb. 28 at the Fox Theatre. However, that $65 ticket price is pretty steep, compadre, and the show is sold out.
Holy Rolling Empire is not just another pop-rock indie quartet. The guys are all local and put on a hell of a show wherever they play. Whether it’s The Hut, Club Congress or even a backyard, they are a loud, foot-stomping, dance-provoking sort of band.
Mergence front man Adam Bruce is a progressive spin on traditional bluesy vocals. Check out his track, “The Road.” It’s like My Morning Jacket had sex with The Black Keys … well, not literally. But you get the point — awesome music.
College Times called Bruce’s voice “an updated version of Jim Morrison’s laid-back, rolls-off-the-tongue phrasing.”
And why not toss in another local garage rock gem with The Electric Blankets?
Seriously, it’s five dollars. GO.
Friday, March 2:
Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular at the Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress St. Doors open at 7 p.m. $20 in advance, $22 day of show. General admission, all ages. Details: rialtotheatre.com.
In 1986, jazz and blues concert producer Steve Monistere combined two of the coolest things on the planet, aside from Tagalongs and Kung-fu films.
He teamed with a Texas laser production company to create Laser Spectacular set to Pink Floyd music, and sold out the first two shows at Woodlawn Theatre in San Antonio.
In 1991, “Laser Dave” McConkey became tour production manager, and is still the manager to this day.
After 24 years, the Laser Spectacular is both the world’s longest touring laser show and the longest touring theater show in history.
Here’s what I suggest: Dust off that vinyl you scored from your parents (or your own records, for our older readers) and dance around with lasers in hand. Just make sure your blinds are closed.
For Laser Spectacular, purchase tickets as soon as possible. Rialto tends to sell out shows.
-Compiled by Kyle Wasson
NEW TV SHOWS
It’s the time of year for an influx of new TV. Fresh midseason episodes are popping up all over the place. Here’s a list of shows worth checking out if you haven’t already.
‘The Walking Dead’ (AMC):
I can think of few better ways to put off my homework than by watching “The Walking Dead” horror series. I’ve been anxiously awaiting new episodes since the show ended during finals week last December. Its midseason premiere aired Feb. 12.
If you’re bummed about missing the most recent episodes, catch up online so you’re ready for next Sunday’s episode.
More info: amctv.com/shows/the-walking-dead.
‘Archer’ (FX):
If you missed previous seasons of “Archer,” check it out now. It’s an animated spy comedy with a perfect combination of quirky characters and great writing.
Calling it a spy comedy might be a tad misleading, since that aspect doesn’t make up nearly as much of the show as the witty banter. That said, it’s a great show.
More info: fxnetworks.com/shows/originals/archer.
‘Californication’ (Showtime):
Now in its fifth season, “Californication” stars David Duchovny as Hank Moody, a writer with a penchant for strong booze and attractive women.
The series follows Moody through his tangles with shady characters, law enforcement, women and their jealous boyfriends. The most recent season has Moody collaborating with an intimidating rapper with anger problems, played by RZA of Wu-Tang Clan.
More info: sho.com/site/californication/home.sho.
-Compiled by Miki Jennings
ALBUM REVIEW: The Roots – “Undun”
By KYLE WASSON
The Roots – “Undun”
Released By Def Jam Records, Jan 24
Jimmy Fallon’s late-night band, The Roots, has returned with “Undun,” their 10th full-length album. It’s a storyteller with potential for greatness.
The core sound of the group is still mind-numbing instrumentals making way for the usual soul-infused melodies we love.
“Undun” is a story told backwards. Redford Stephens, the main character, is an everyday hustler from the streets. His work and his lifestyle reflect the world in which he lives, a world that never changes.
?uestlove’s beats are as insane as ever, adding the necessary funk of a usual Roots album. However, the story does seem a little one-dimensional. The everyday tale of money-lured gangsters and seafood dinners seems to be the recurring theme.
The potential for this record was extraordinary. The boys from Philly settled for mediocrity as far as story goes. Can’t say the same for the music. Give it a shot.
iTunes allows users to sample the complete album at its website: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/undun/id478164170.
Grade: C+
From theroots.com
“The Vow” doesn’t fall far from the tree
By MEGYN FITZGERALD
“The Vow,” starring Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum, is a romantic comedy for people who enjoy being miserable. The plot is generic, depressing and predictable. In other words, it’s everything a romance movie should be.
The action begins right away in the opening scene when a married couple gets into a devastating car accident. After spending some time in a coma, the wife wakes up only to realize that she has no recollection of her husband or their life together.
The majority of the movie after that focuses on the pain caused by her lack of memory and his attempts to get her to fall back in love with him.
The storyline is reminiscent of “A Walk to Remember” and every other Nicholas Sparks novel-turned-movie. Unlike those movies, however, Tatum and McAdams are both sufficiently good at crying on cue (which is good, because there is a lot of crying).
Overall, “The Vow” was good, but doesn’t have much to set it apart from all the other romance movies out there. The leads are attractive, the dialogue is cheesy and the storyline is played out. No matter how many times they rehash the classic love story, though, there will still be plenty of people who want to go see it.
Bottom line: This movie is worth seeing but will rely heavily on opening up on Valentine’s Day to make money. Women everywhere will love it and men everywhere will be dragged to it and like it while pretending they hate it.
Grade: C+
“The Vow” opens in theaters Feb. 10.
Trailer: http://youtu.be/7JoXHO3ceUY
(c) Sony Pictures
Naughty or nice: a video game guide
By D.J. ARIZMENDI
I’ve got a list, and I am checking it twice. With it you will know which games this year were naughty or nice.
NICE
Playstation 3
Santa’s pick: “Uncharted 3”
2011 was the year of the three-quel. You had “Modern Warfare 3,” “Gears of War 3” and “Killzone 3.” Of the three, the nicests came from developer Naughty Dog in the form of “Uncharted 3.” Proving the third time’s the charm, U3 leads the three-quel herd with finesse by setting a new standard for game presentation.
Elves’ picks: “inFAMOUS 2,” “No More Heroes: Heroes Paradise” and “God of War: Origins Collection”
XBOX 360
Santa’s pick: “Gears of War 3”
While “Gears of War 3” is an amazing game, it wins almost by default. With Microsoft’s exclusive lineup being so thin, GOW 3 does what it must to bulk up the slim pickings. Even though it follows a strict “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach, it still has enough variety in the narrative to motivate players to reach the closure-centric ending.
Elves’ picks: “Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary,” “Dance Central 2” and “The Gunstringer”
Wii
Santa’s pick: “The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword”
No surprise here. The Wii has had a tough year, with declining console and game sales. Link saves the system from complete destruction.
Elves’ pick: Buying another copy of “The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword”
Multi-platform
Santa’s pick: “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim”
Selling about half of what the newest “Call of Duty” did, “Skyrim” shows the world that nerdism is not dead and stats matter. Fixing most of the problems “Oblivion” had, “Skyrim” shows how well an open-ended RPG can work and should keep you entertained until the apocalypse of 2012.
Elves’ picks: “CathErine,” “Portal 2,” “Saints Row: The Third,” “Dead Space 2” and “Deus Ex: Human Revolution”
NAUGHTY
PS3
Pick for the fireplace: “DC Universe Online”
This year was probably Sony’s strongest yet, but there’s always one brat who ruins it for everyone. That little imp is “DC Universe Online.” Launching with horrible gameplay glitches and weak mechanics, DCUO had no chance of surviving in the current market of MMOs. The game is still on life support and has become so desperate for players that you can now download the full game for free.
Other disappointments: “Killzone 3” and “Tekken Hybrid”
XBOX 360
Pick for the fireplace: “Fruit Ninja Kinect”
For a game that is free on Android and a dollar on iPhone, I can’t justify the $10 price tag on this port. “Fruit Ninja Kinect” is the prime example of why digitally distributed games are not ready to become the new standard format for consoles, thanks to ridiculous prices. Also, the Kinect controls don’t hold a candle to its phone-friendly counterparts.
Other disappointments: “Carnival Games: Monkey See, Monkey Do” and “Rise of Nightmares”
Wii
Pick for the fireplace: “101-in-1 Sports Party Megamix”
Publisher Atlus must have really needed a paycheck. I can’t find one reason why anyone should be subjected to this shovelware unless they have committed crimes against humanity. A warning to all you mothers out there: Seeing this game in the bargain bin does not make it a good deal. Spend the extra five bucks and buy your loved ones a giant Hershey bar.
Other disappointments: “Just Dance 3,” “Conduit 2” and “Mario Sports Mix.”
Multi-platform
Pick for the fireplace: “Call of Juarez: The Cartel”
If someone translated one of those low-budget Mexican-made action films, they would create something very similar to “Call of Juarez: the Cartel.” Not only is this probably the worse shooter of the year, this might be one of the worst products ever released to the public for $60.
Other disappointments: “Dragon Age II,” “Rage,” “Brink” and “Homefront”
Photo illustration by Miki Jennings
REVIEW: ‘Uncharted 3′ proves not all developers dream equally
By D.J. ARIZMENDI
If there ever was a console-exclusive game that could unify every gamer, of every genre, of any system, “Uncharted 3” would be that ambassador.
The story is a rather simple one. Players assume the role of thrill-seeking Nathan Drake as he and his streetwise gang seek treasure that spans across various corners of the globe. It’s a tale that’s as old as it is quintessential.
Though some may perceive the structure trite and contrived, the pace is unarguably hasted and never forgets what it is all about, the adventure.
All the usual suspects return to their respective roles, and all bring their A-game to the table.
None of the performances feel forced, which is rare for a game, and has a caliber that can only be matched overseas from works like the “Yakuza” series. The real stars of this shameless blockbuster are the set pieces and graphics.
Anyone who read my “Batman: Arkham City” article may be experiencing deja-vu from that last sentence, so let me make this clear: U3 has the finest, superlative and most ambitious set design seen in video game history.
The terrain you explore and interact with make ‘Pandora’ look like a bitch.
The worlds explored range from the desert to the sea and everything in-between.
Instead of playing it safe and having these elegant levels stay in one piece, the folks at NaughtyDog have no problem watching their world burn, literally. What you passed by once as a room of beautiful art, becomes a flaming graveyard on the way back.
What helps these astonishing scenes come to life is the blistering detail put into every bit of texture on the screen.
To simply say that the visuals are the premier example of how games should look would be understating it. The graphics in U3 actually represent how games in the next generation should look in terms of constancy.
No matter the scenario, day, night, indoor or outdoor, U3 handles them almost as they were different games. It makes sure that every chapter is as good looking as the last.
While some developers work tirelessly to make their games feel more pragmatic, U3 is unashamedly proud to show it’s gaminess by giving players control over events that any other game would have made into a cutscene. The transitions from gazing eyes to trigger happy hands is so seamless you might forget that you actually get to control the action.
Gameplay remains largely similar since the last outing, but it’s all the small changes that make a major impact.
For instance, you can now throw back grenades if your timing is right and melee combat is now contextual with the environment. Thanks to these enhancements, the combat is flawlessly adaptable and you never get the sense you did something wrong.
That being said, that does not mean you will not die. The difficulty has some sharp spikes, but fortunately the checkpoints are very forgiving and well placed.
If having probably the greatest single player experience is not exciting enough, you can always hook up with your bros in multi-player for either co-op or competitive modes.
The two modes are actually surprisingly deep and offer perks, badges and a leveling system that so many “Call Of Duty” fans have come to adore.
With so many games out this year, I had some doubt that U3 would stick out, but after completing its story and dipping into the multiplayer, I absolutely have no doubt in my heart, mind or soul when I say that “Uncharted 3” truly is the definitive game of this generation.
Grade: A+
Photo Illustration by Miki Jennings
“The Three Musketeers” a fun steampunk adventure
By APRIL GEORGE
At first glance, it would appear that “The Three Musketeers” is simply a remake of the 1993 Disney film of the same name. While it does follow the same storyline -both are films based on the classic novel by Alexandre Dumas- this new version does not have the fun-loving, Disney feel of its predecessor.
“Musketeers” features Logan Lerman (“Percy Jackson”) as the idealistic D’Artagnan, a young man who, as the son of a former musketeer, embarks on a journey to Paris to join the King’s Musketeers. Unfortunately, because of a blunder on a previous mission, and some scheming by the wicked Cardinal Richelieu (Christopher Waltz) and his hired help Milady (Milla Jovovich), the musketeers have been disbanded.
When Richelieu plots to use the Duke of Buckingham (Orlando Bloom) as a scapegoat for a war with England, D’Artagnan recruits Athos (Matthew MacFayden), Porthos (Ray Stevenson) and Aramis (Luke Evans) to stop the treacherous Cardinal.
The film features a star-studded cast as well as several unknown faces. Lerman shines in his breakout role, and Bloom steps out of his traditional pretty-boy, action hero role to give a star turn as the villainous Buckingham. Jovovich is beautifully wicked as the double-crossing, multi-talented Milady, and the rest of the cast does not disappoint.
The film features some pretty cool special effects too. Ranging from epic sword fights and explosions to an airship straight out of steampunk fantasy, “Musketeers” shows that it has footing in the SFX world as well.
Overall, the film is worth a watch, as long as you don’t take into account that the Renaissance time period clashes with the steampunk themes. Wrapped up in a nice little two hour package is a film that takes into account many different tastes and styles. “The Three Musketeers” lives up to expectations, and surpasses the ’93 version as one of the best renditions of Dumas’ novel.
“The Three Musketeers” is playing at all major theaters. It’s rated PG-13 for sequences of violence.
Grade: A+
November brings new music
By ALLIE PEOT
Florence + The Machine: ‘Ceremonials’
“I want my music to sound like throwing yourself out of tree, or off a tall building, or as if you’re being sucked down into the ocean and you can’t breathe,” says Florence Welch, front woman of Florence + the Machine.
If you fall for it, Florence + the Machine’s debut album, ‘Lungs’, was like a dropping out of a sapling. ‘Ceremonials’, their latest release from Universal Records, is like taking flight from a towering oak tree.
With vigor that captured audiences from London to New York, ‘Ceremonials’ bursts forth as a thunderous and shimmering collection of songs. Drawing upon predecessors like PJ Harvey, Kate Bush, the Banshees and U2, the album begs to be played upon a lofty mountaintop or overlooking a tumultuous sea.
Welch plunges bravely into her feverish melodrama on the first track ‘Only If For a Night’. A harp-heavy anthem from a graveyard, Welch indulges in some of her favorite themes: sacrifice and the surreal.
On ‘Shake It Out’ she shamelessly belts “it’s hard to dance with a devil on your back, so shake him off”. If it weren’t for the epic sound behind her, it might be hard to believe. “I am done with my graceless heart, so tonight I’m gonna cut it out and restart,” she swells. You won’t doubt her, and that’s half the fun.
‘Lover to Lover’ is a piano-powered, rejoicing romp through gospel and Motown, Florence-style, with searing vocals and endless emotion.
Listen to ‘Ceremonials’ and escape to a world void of the mundane. It is glorious heartbreak, bleeding romance and howling wind.
Brown Bird: ‘Salt for Salt’
Morganeve Swain and David Lamb of Brown Bird layer whistles, tambourines and violins in eerie, stripped-down melodies straight from a shipyard on ‘Salt for Salt’. Deftly skirting around most bland modern-folk, the Rhode Island duo keep it simple and brilliant by sticking to their American roots and drawing inspiration from all over the world.
‘Salt for Salt’, the fifth album from this veteran folk duo, was recorded straight to tape and evokes their raw, energetic live performances. Combining poetry, grinding gypsy percussion, rollicking bluegrass and Turkish melodies, this album carries the Halloween spirit into winter.
Swain’s haunting vocals add warmth and dimension to Lambs’ folksy singing on the single ‘Finger to the Bone’. It’s a song of longing, drudgery, and awakening. Well-timed and catchy, you might indulge in the misery and howl along.
‘Blood of Angels’ is a bubbling and sneering rebellion. “I tried to be good, I was a failure,” sings Lamb, “So I took to taking all the good men down.” Rhythmic and rootsy, its dark harmony and lyrics set it apart. “Don’t come round here spreading sentimental cheer,” warns Swain in the second verse.
Not every song isn’t a gemstone; several are disappointingly vague. Lamb’s crooning occasionally draws too much upon those blue-jean clad bullfrogs of Americana. However, the instrumental track ‘Shiloh’ proves these two have serious collaborative talent and a sense of restraint, making it well worth a listen for the folk or gypsy fan.
For a chilled winter night, or an anecdote for the sticky-sweet holidays, find relief and energy in ‘Salt for Salt’.
Bombay Bicycle Club: ‘A Different Kind of Fix’
The Bombay Bicycle Club runs dangerously close to falling into the sea of indie-pop-rock bands with no outstanding qualities. Except that they’re actually good. Their latest album, A Different Kind of Fix, is a relaxing and dreamy blend of dance, rock, and electronica. Mixing elegant harmonies and dizzying loops inside a sturdy frame of trust, this third release proves that the Bombay Bicycle Club has staying power.
The single ‘Shuffle’ loops piano riffs and spontaneous hand claps behind the most energetic, electric vocals on the album. The rest of the album’s songs feature soft vocals gently climbing up solid, stadium-worthy drumming.
The songs are heavily influenced by dance music, evident in the leading track, ‘How Can You Swallow So Much Sleep’. Part melancholy, part late-summer sweetness, it is tender, yet flexes the strength of the last lone dancer on the floor. You might have heard this song on the ‘Twilight: Eclipse’ Soundtrack, but don’t let that ruin it for you.
‘Your Eyes’ rattles around brilliantly as the stand-out track out on the album, the one you’ll be humming later in the day and rushing back to hear again. Sweeping through cymbals and not-quite-cheerful vocals, it frolics around with a wooden block and rhyming lyrics.
‘What You Want’ pierces the listener with a bare opening lyric repeated – “your flesh and bone” – and a rapt guitar riff. Leaving the listener exposed and empty, it fills back up with a rich and honest love song.
‘A Different Kind of Fix’ is a step up for the Bombay Bicycle Club, and showcases their growing strength as a quartet. Textured and thoughtful, it borders on repetitive, but weaves a desirable spell of sweetness.
REVIEW: “The Rum Diary”
By NINA ELLIOT
Director Bruce Richardson is a master of memoir, scene and mood. It is no wonder this film is as beautiful, compelling and tiring as Hunter S. Thompson’s style of writing.
“The Rum Diary” is a movie made for Thompson’s readers. It begins with a graceful introduction to the beauty of Puerto Rico on the heels of Thompson’s biting criticism of tourism, white Americans and big business.
Despite the unusual plotline classic archetypes remain: stranger to town, arch enemy, femme fatale, fat and funny foil. Surprisingly, Johnny Depp did not overly characterize his role of Paul Kemp.
The strength of the storyline relied on the comic relief of Kemp’s roommates and coworkers, their scene stealing made other characters feel boring despite how good looking the other actors are.
Plot drags a few times but glimpses into the dominant culture of white men at the wheel in 1960s America. There is cursory acknowledgement of native Puerto Ricans and their poverty but nothing substantial.
It is gratifying to see the way past bullshit resembles current bullshit without nostalgia, which resonates through characters’ comments about politicians (“this guy lies like he breathes,”) capitalism (“the average guy don’t rock the boat because he wants to climb aboard,”) and journalism (“do you smell it? It’s the smell of bastards. I smell the truth and I smell ink.”)
Robinson paints men in the worst of obstacles, compelling them to change as Kemp does when he finds his true voice: “It will be a voice of ink and rage.” And oh, did it rage.
Don’t watch this film looking for the outrageousness of “Fear and Loathing” nor the book “The Great Shark Hunt;” you will find neither. Watch this movie for the craftsmanship and story.
© Dark and Stormy Entertainment
‘Batman: Arkham City’ proves bigger just as good
By D.J. ARIZMENDI
“Batman: Arkham Asylum” is considered by many to be the greatest superhero game of all time. Its sequel, “Arkham City,” holds the throne for that title, but does nothing else.
That said, Batman AC is still an immense experience that no bat-fan or gamer should miss out on. Just don’t go in expecting all avant-garde material.
Batman AC takes places a few years after Batman AA. Even with the asylum gone, there is still a place dedicated to the loonies.
That place is called Arkham City, a cut-off portion from Gotham that acts almost as an island for prisoners.
The warden, Hugo Strange, plans to unleash a plan called “Protocol 10” that one way or another will affect all inmates in Arkham City. The caped crusader intends to stop that from happening.
You might be saying that saving a bunch of convicts is not the dark knight’s style.
The truth is that many of the people trapped in Arkham City are political prisoners who simply spoke against Strange and harmed no one. For Batman, innocent victims are more than enough to get his emo blood boiling.
The gameplay remains mostly untouched, which is not a bad thing, but at the same time shows lack of innovation.
When going from mission to mission, I felt slightly fatigued by the formula.
Batman flies to objective, bad guys surround entrance, beat up baddies to gain entrance, solve Zelda-like puzzle, use stealth to take out armed enemies, learn info, sprinkle in a boss fight or two, then repeat with a Catwoman cherry on top.
Speaking of the feline, I did not find playing as her enjoyable at all. For someone who is supposed to be limber, she moved more sluggishly than Batman himself, and provided little to no point in the overall plot.
It’s insulting that they are charging people who buy the game used ten bucks to play as her. To be honest, I wouldn’t have minded not downloading it.
Amazing aesthetics are the saving grace for this overly blown blockbuster. The aesthetics are some of the best seen all year.
The attention to geeky detail is staggering. From flying over the chemical compound seen in Tim Burton’s “Batman” to Mark Hamill making a “Star Wars” reference as the joker, it’s all very surreal and fun to find.
Even though this review sounds bitter, it’s really just me showing tough love.
Olaying through Batman AC was like reuniting with an old friend. While the reunion brings great joy to the heart, nothing on the surface implies change.
Grade: B+
Photo illustration by Miki Jennings
Cult 35: ‘Win Win’ succeeds without stereotypes
By D.J. ARIZMENDI
For the most part, sports movies try to make you feel inspired, motivated and euphoric. “Win Win” will not make you feel any of these things.
However, strong feelings do arise and the film’s sense of humor never gets ahead of the story.
Under-rated Paul Giamatti plays a down-on-his luck attorney named Mike Flaherty. He faces having to close his practice because he can’t generate enough business.
Going against the traditional belief that lawyers are scum, Mike handles his cases honestly. The plot implies that’s the reason for his financial struggle.
The one bright spot in his life is coaching a high school wrestling team. The only problem is that the team sucks, severely.
When an elderly client named Leo Poplar (Burt Young) pops into Mike’s office for what should be a simple case, temptation enters the equation.
State officials want to put Leo in a retirement home because they believe he is incapable of living alone.
At first, Mike is genuinely concerned about Leo’s fate. Once in court, however, he realizes he can help himself out of his financial slump, at the cost of his client’s independence, by accepting $1,500 a month to serve as Leo’s guardian.
Mike convinces the court he should be Leo’s guardian, then throws Leo in the dungeo… I mean retirement home. Mike figures Leo should be fine as long as he routinely checks on him.
Thinking that no one attached to Leo would ever appear, Mike is shocked when he finds Leo’s 16-year-old grandson Kyle (Alex Shaffer) waiting at his grandfather’s previous residence.
Kyle, lighting a cigarette like a developed habit, tells Mike he came from another state to live somewhere temporarily because his mother is in rehab.
Mike feels sorry for Kyle, and allows him to stay at his home for a night to catch the next bus back to his hometown.
Before the bus goes far, Kyle gets kicked off and sent back to where the bus originated. Kyle admits to Mike that he got booted on purpose and did not want to return to his mother’s home.
When Mike’s wife, Jackie (Amy Ryan), discovers that Kyle lives in a destructive household, she provides room in the house and allows him to stay as long as he pleases.
With no one to really talk to, Kyle starts to follow Mike everywhere during the day.
Kyle becomes intrigued after witnessing several wrestling practices, and wants to give this whole wrestling thing a try.
At the next practice, Kyle wins a few sparring rounds, then crushes the entire team in wrestling fundamentals.
The movie tries to be a bit realistic, so does not use the traditional convention of natural talent.
Mike digs up information on his prodigy and discovers Kyle was once a real threat in the wrestling world. He suddenly dropped out, and Mike intends to find out why.
“Win Win” is one of those special little films that becomes a chameleon with whatever subject matter is on screen. Both the drama and comedy succeed, and the acting is powerful.
Even the sport portrayed achieves common-sense ground that doesn’t take itself too seriously or too lightly.
In other words, this movie truly is a win-win.
FYI
“Win Win”
Director: Thomas McCarthy
Starring: Paul Giamatti, Alex Shaffer, Amy Ryan, Burt Young
Length: 106 minutes
Where it can seen: Blu-ray/DVD or video on demand
TOP 10: Best board and card games
By MYLO ERICKSON
As nerds, my friends and I often play board and card games when we get together. They can be great fun, especially if you get caught up in the fantasy of the game.
Here are 10 of my favorite board or card games, with a brief description and a retail price. You can find lower prices if you look around.
1. Robo Rally- Players take the role of robots with a task of reaching flags. You can become a robo junk heap if other players or obstacles knock you off the board or destroy you. 2-8 players, $54.99.
2. Survive: Escape From Atlantis- Players control tribes desperately trying to flee the sinking city of Atlantis. Sea monsters, whales and sharks allow you or your friends to hinder each other’s advancement to one of four safe islands. 2-4 players, $49.99.
3. Scattergories- Off the top of your head, can you name a sport, an ice cream flavor and something in a pet shop that all begin with the letter B? The trick is to take on 12 categories in three minutes or less and not match anyone else’s answers. 2-6 players, $39.99.
4. Family Business- In this card game, you control one of many mob families. Your objective is to put all rival families on the execution wall, leaving yours as the last mobsters standing. 2-6 players, $14.99.
5. Formula D- Get behind the wheel of a race car and try to beat your friends. Go around the track as fast as you can but don’t push it too hard or you just blow your engine. 2-10 players, $59.99.
6. Zombies!!!- Be the first to make it past a zombie hoard to a heliport. Stop a friend’s advancement by putting zombies in the way or taking away bullets. There are numerous expansions available. 2-6 players, $27.99.
7. Management Material- In this card game of cubicle denizens, the only way to win is to remain a corporate peon. Use lame excuses to pass impossible projects to other players and avoid being promoted to management. 2-5 players, $14.99.
8. Pit- Shout a deal and trade your cards to corner the market. Be the first to get all cards for one commodity, ring the bell and win the hand. 3-8 players, $13.99.
9. Power Grid- Work to supply the most cities with power. Compete by buying power plants and resources. Deal with struggles to upgrade while keeping enough wealth to expand. 2-6 players, $44.99.
10. Apples to Apples- It’s as easy as “comparing apples to apples.” Just open the box and deal the cards. Select the card from your hand that best describes a card played by the judge. If the judge picks your card, you win that round. Everyone gets a chance to be the judge. 4-10 players, $27.99.
Faceoff: Who makes the best mac ‘n’ cheese?
TEAM KRAFT
By RYAN TSARSIS
Kraft is where it’s at. Kraft macaroni and cheese was a staple in my childhood and in the childhoods of many of us growing up in the ‘80s and ‘90s.
Who doesn’t love those classic Mario Brothers, Rugrats, Scooby Do, Flintstone and Spongebob Squarepants pasta shapes?
If you crave mac and cheese, you go with the original, the blue rectangular box of excellence — Kraft. It’s “the cheesiest” and the mac daddy of all mac and cheese brands.
Now let me get to Velveeta Shells. What are Velveeta Shells, many may ask? Exactly. They’re unknown and unimportant.
It’s worth mentioning that Velveeta is not real cheese. It is a “pasteurized prepared cheese product.”
Kraft Mac and Cheese also offers a variety of options, such as the “Deluxe” style. If powdered cheese isn’t to your liking, the deluxe version provides an elegant pouch of liquid cheese.
Kraft also makes Velveeta, but does not incorporate the Kraft name into its Velveeta marketing. That’s another red flag. If a company is proud of its product, why not brand it? Kraft mac and cheese is the “A” lister and Velveeta is the something else.
If you want macaroni and cheese, why would you buy shells and cheese? I have no idea.
If you’re curious, try Velveeta. However, it can’t begin to compare to the one and only — Kraft macaroni and cheese.
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TEAM VELVEETA
By MEGYN FITZGERALD
Macaroni and cheese is like a day off work — even when it’s bad, it’s still good. That being said, not all macaroni and cheese is created equal.
Velveeta brand is the crème of the crop. When you open a box of Velveeta, you are greeted by a shiny pouch of gooey cheese sauce and uncooked shells.
Opening a box of Kraft is disappointing — similar to opening a giant gift Christmas morning, only to find that your parents stuck in an eight-pack of underwear to keep you guessing.
You’re greeted by dehydrated cheese powder and uncooked elbow noodles.
Since when is powdered cheese appetizing? I can’t think of many appealing foods that come in powder form. Dehydrated milk? Baby formula? No thank you.
In addition, Velveeta macaroni and cheese takes one of the simplest dinners in existence and does something glorious with it – makes it even simpler!
Kraft macaroni and cheese may have been a childhood staple for many of us, but that doesn’t mean we must continue to carry it with us into adulthood. Diapers were a childhood staple too, but I left them in the ‘90s where they belong.
There comes a day when we all must grow up. Grab your big girl panties and begin the transition from the sub-par macaroni and cheese of your childhood to the new, improved macaroni and cheese of your adulthood — Velveeta.
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Which macaroni and cheese brand do you prefer? Post your opinion online at AztecPressOnline.com under the “comments’ section for this story.
Cult 35: ‘Red State’ shows Kevin Smith’s true colors
By D.J. ARIZMENDI
“Red State” holds little back in revealing how independent filmmaker Kevin Smith feels about Hollywood, religion and humanism.
The movie begins by introducing three teenage boys who live in a typical no-name town. They go in search of the devil’s business via a sex website.
When they arrive at a love nest buried deep in backroads, an oddly not-as-advertised mature woman awaits them. With raging hormones, the desperate boys are not dissuaded.
Before any romance begins, the woman asks the teens to drink some beer. The boys black out before anyone gets naked.
One teen, Travis, awakes to find himself trapped inside a small cloth-covered metal cage probably meant for dogs. He is not sure where he is, but can hear sounds of worship.
It is soon revealed that Travis and his two buds have been kidnapped by a local extremist Baptist congregation called Five Points Church. Travis will be the center of attention for the upcoming sermon.
As the film progresses, government agencies become suspicious of acts going on at Five Points.
Oddly enough, the suspicious acts have to do nothing to do with stealing people. When the climax hits, nobody sees it coming.
Really good actors save this seemingly traditional scared-straight horror-thriller formula. The cast includes Melissa Leo, John Goodman and Michael Parks.
This is a huge achievement, not only for director Smith but for independent films in general. It proves that small titles can attract big names.
Even though Leo and Goodman are the best-known cast members, they are embarrassingly overshadowed by Parks’ performance. He plays the role of the Five Points pastor.
Parks does the impossible and makes the audience listen to his hate speech as if it is ultimate truth. He utters almost every word with fervor. It addition, he physically matches the look needed for a perfect portrayal.
To fully understand the themes shown in “Red State,” read the history of its creation.
Hollywood moguls wanted this movie to fail because they couldn’t buy it.
Movie bloggers wanted to say it sucked because they did not understand its creative process.
Smith fans did not want to see the movie because it was not part of his “skew-iverse.”
“Red State” redefines what it means to be a true independent filmmaker. Everyone who cares for the integrity of entertainment should see it.
FYI
“Red State”
Director: Kevin Smith
Starring: Michael Parks, Melissa Leo, John Goodman
Length: 88 minutes
Where it can be seen: Almost any service that provides video-on-demand.
© 'Red State'
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