Sunday, March 29, 2009

Movie: Let the Right One In: A

Out of Norway comes a fantastic little vampire movie. Centered around a outcast 12 year old, he befriends a 12 year old vampiric girl. Most of the movie is a very close and personal movie about the boy and his struggles with bullies, divorced parents, and having no friends. In between are scenes of the vampire, the building friendship, and ultimate resolution. The story is rather predictable, but it's done so well that you don't mind. It's more suspenseful than horror, but there are a few bloody scenes that keep the pacing. Not often can a vampire horror movie be considered charming. And that's what makes this movie special.

There is a bit of controvesy over the subtitles. Apparently the distributor dumbed down the dialog for the US release. But they are releasing a new version with the original subtitles. Without seeing the new version, I can say that the current subtitles are servicable and don't detract from the movie at all. And stay away from the dubbing. It is horrible.

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Music: American Princes - Other People: B

American Princes - Other People, remind me of 80s pop with more of an edge. Their opening track "Auditorium" has a great Spy Hunter-eque riff that really gets its hooks into you. "Watch as the Go" reminds of me of A-Ha! Many of the other tracks are catchy and fun. What I don't like are the poor lyrics sung unclearly. The actual vocals lines are good but what he is saying is from forgettable to just bad. If the American Princes can sharpen their pencil a bit, this band would deserve some mainstream attention.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Music: AC Newman - Get Guilty: D

AC Newman from New Pornographer fame releases another solo album. Unfortunately, he stays very close to his source NP material but without the collaboration of other extremely talented musicians. So instead of greatness, AC gives us pop without substance. Music without interest. Pretty much every song is forgettable. AC should really look to exploring other areas of his musical abilities and interests and therefore won't compare himself to his much better side in the New Pornographers.