SRO Video - Employee Picks

Employee Picks

	Will Waltz With Bashir is an original film. Many films these days seem to be a retread of previous efforts. I've seen the same characters many times in different movies. They simply change the names and actors who play them. Here is a film that is unique in its approach, with real people and stories that stay with you after the film is over. The movie itself is about the director, Ari Folman who can't remember his experiences with the Israeli Army during the first Lebanon War. To help him remember he interviews fellow veterans with the hope that their stories can help him recollect his own. The slightly stiff animation may not be for everyone, I found it to be helpful to the atmosphere of the film as a whole. Many people are turned off by animated or foreign films, this one is both. If you let that fact get in the way then you are truly denying yourself a movie that is moving in its message, eloquent in its delivery and most importantly original in its concept.
	Alex My Name is Bruce: Mention the name "Bruce Campbell" to any normal human being and you'll most likely get a confused smirk. Now try recommending the "Zany new Bruce Campbell low-budget flick directed by and starring himself as himself in which he is summoned to defeat the menacing Chinese immigrant spirit of Guan-Di" to that same normal human being and they'll look at you like you're crazy, and they will be right. So all of you Evil Dead, Army of Darkness and McHale's Navy fans-step right up, My Name is Bruce is the triumphant, wacky and sometimes gory tribute to the b-movie brute that it claims to be. Everyone else, keep on keepin' your distance or make your local video store nerdite giddy by asking them to introduce you to the world of Bruce Campbell, the water is fine!
	Sarah Hunter S. Thompson is one of the most controversial and well-known American journalists of our time. He lived his life like a rockstar and literally went out with a bang. The film includes interviews from friends, family, and politicians who knew him for the peculiar and awesome things he did.
	Sarah Ok girls, tall and small, this movie reminds us, tells us, and shows us females we rock. It says "We are proud! We are loud and the reason why is because we are warriors!" This documentary focuses on Rock N' Roll Camp for Girls based in Portland, Oregon in August 2001. This is a great film for any girl who knows about insecurity, repression, passion, and any friend or mother (or father, if you rock too) who sees her ladies need a boost should grab this film and have an unbridled slumber party.
	Sarah What can I say. The controversial *Blindness* is a stunning adaptation of José Saramago's 1995 novel about an unexplained blindness epidemic that spontaneously wipes through an unsuspecting city. The first group affected is put into an abandoned mental hospital for quarentine and only one person, Julianne Moore, can still see. The plot spirals through the deteriorating civility as desperation takes precedence over compassion. The special features provide a greater understanding of the difficulty of being blind and of the effort that was put into making this film a masterpiece.
	Louis I absolutely love this movie. Anyone familiar with Peter & the Wolf probably remembers it for Sergei Prokofiev's famous composition. With each character embodying a different instrument, it was the music that brought each one of them to life. Now, after seeing director Suzie Templeton's version, which took five years to complete, the same can be said for the animation. It has, hands down, some of the best stop motion I've ever seen. One of the first things you'll notice is just how lifelike the models or animated. Simple things, like a deep breath or the twitch of an eye help bring the characters to life. You'll know what I mean the first time you look into Peter's icey blue eyes. There are even some great extras on the DVD that really help you appreciate the work that went into making this. At just over 30 minutes you really have no excuse not to watch it today.
	Paul Wild Combination: A Portrait of Arthur Russell: A documentary about the late prolific and little known musical composer who's musical taste varied through many genres from folk to disco under various names. The film unfolds with Arthur's childhood in rural Iowa told by his parents, followed by his running away to San Francisco and joining the hippee movement to becoming a key component in the New York City music and performance scene of the 70s and 80s. With interviews from Phillip Glass, rare footage from Allen Ginsberg and interviews with the artist's former lover and friends this film weaves together a (blank) portrait of a musician who's life was cut short by the AIDS epidemic.
	Will Featuring breathtaking landscapes, incredible creatures, and some of the most interesting folk Antarctica has to offer Encounters at the End of the World is a great documentary sure to entertain the inquisitive mind. Werner Herzog proves once again to be an entertaining narrator, and excels at delivering articulate observations of the people and places he "encounters". This isn't just a scientific exploration, but a humanistic one and it proves to be a perfect mixture. Whether you're a fan of Werner Herzog or have never heard the name it's definitely worth your time to check out Encounters at the End of the World.
	Paul Man on Wire: This is a fun documentary about Phillippe Petit a tight rope artist who, with the help of his friends, strung a wire between the twin towers of the World Trade Center just after its completion in 1974. Unfolding like the classic jewel heist movie Riffi with re-enactments of documentary footage, this documentary is brought to life with interviews from the still energetic and eccentric Phillippe and his former friends. Without even a mention of 9/11 this film touches on the heights and determination of one man's artistic determination.
	Meg Mike Terry teaches jujitsu in Los Angeles. Terry's life is guided by his principles and love of the sport, but his wife's craving for a more luxurious lifestyle throws him into a world of money and manipulation. This David Mamet film, starring Chiwetel Ejiofor (Dirty Pretty Things) demonstrates one man's will to do the right thing against all odds. It is a perfect balance between a character driven drama and an intriguing thriller.
	Sarah Burn After Reading is the latest film by the Coen Brothers with a stellar cast including John Malkovich, George Clooney, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton, and Brad Pitt. The plot ridiculously revolves around what happens when the world of the CIA butts heads with some oddball gym employees. The finale is refreshingly funny because of the awkwardness of the scenarios presented, but I don't want to give anything away; you should come see for yourself.
	Meg Transsiberian is a new thriller starring Woody Harrelson, Emily Mortimer, and Ben Kingsley. An American couple traveling through Moscow unknowingly become involved in drug trafficking. When they discover they have been set up they turn to the only person they can trust, but they may have already gotten in too far over their heads. This is a complex mystery that is intriguing from beginning to end.
	Sarah Indie Sex is an excellent documentary about the history of sex in cinema, from silent stag films to the creation of film ratings by the MPAA to the public obsession with celebrity sex tapes. It offers a Double-Disc cup size of controversial footage from monumental films and interviews on theory and practice with some of today's leading film directors, actors, writers, and critics.
	Paul This documentary about a senior citizen choir that covers edgy songs hits the heart in the right place. The film documents the seniors choir practices, focusing on the lives and struggles of the choir to learn new songs building up to a big performance and tour. The film breaks away from its "School of Rock" theme when it delves into the lives of a couple of former members hoping to make a comeback, and letting the wit and charm of the seniors shine. While real tragedy seems around every corner the choir and its relentless director push through delivering a touching and funny performance.
	Meg This Academy Award winner is well worth your time. The Counterfeiters is the true story of Salomon Sorowitsch, a con man with a reputation as a accomplished counterfeiter. After he finds himself in a Nazi concentration camp, he decides to bargain with his skills. If he can produce money for the German army he can keep himself and others safe for another. If he saves himself he is supporting the Nazi effort. Sorowitsch is a morally complex and unlikely hero.
	Alex Shotgun Stories: If the phrase "family feud" only spurs a thought of the eternal game show with its revolving door of hosts, then you owe it to yourself to pick up Shotgun Stories. The directorial and writing debut from Little Rock native, Jeff Nichols, is a movie that operates as not only a powerful drama, but a thriller brooding with tension. Son, Boy, and Kid are three blue collared brothers that have come together after Son's separation with his girlfriend/baby mama. When Son makes a scene at their estranged father's funeral, the father's second set of sons take serious offense and set off a chain of retaliations. Unlike flashy modern Hollywood thrillers, this indie gem does a lot with a little. Characters with depth, violence without gore-sploitation and a script with a genuine mid-western voice. These are the things that make Shotgun Stories unmissable.
	Will Persepolis is about Marjane Satrapi, a young girl who grows up in Iran during the Islamic Revolution. It also numbers among the best animated films I have ever seen. Based on the graphic novel Persepolis is funny, dramatic and very engaging. The animation is mostly black and white, but is nonetheless superb. The movie never gets too slow or confusing and tells its story in such a fascinating fashion I found myself completely enthralled by Marjane's tale from its innocent beginning to its contemplative end. To put it bluntly, this is a movie that deserves to be watched.
	Meg This is a sweet character driven story from the filmmakers of Sideways. Evan Rachel Wood is charming as a daughter dealing with the return of her father (Michael Douglas) from a mental institute. Michael Douglas' performance so so well done, I completely forgot it was him while I was watching the movie. His character is obsessed with finding a long-lost Spanish treasure and his daughter, although initially annoyed, gives in to his obsession and the two of them embark on a journey to find a treasure.
	Alex The World According to Shorts: This collection of six short films from six different countries spans the spectrum of style and content. There is a satirical, borderline of goofy Chilean La Perra in which a wealthy couple create a strange fantasy world involving their new maid. Another highlight of the collection is the Norwegian United We Stand, a thoughtfully poetic dark comedy. The open conversation among elderly men and their acceptance with death paired with some symbolic visuals calls back to 8 1/2 and other Fellini films. The other films on the disc while not on par with United We Stand are still visually stunning despite some lack of substance.
	Louis This documentary examines those who are obsessed with what, for others is mindless entertainment. It follows the challenger Steve Wiebe, the endearing family man who wears his heart on his sleeve as he tries to dethrone Billy Mitchell, the mullet sporting master of metaphors who's held the high score for over twenty years. The reason this film is so enjoyable has little to do with Donkey Kong and much more to do with the people involved. Like any good documentary its the characters that pull you in. You'll get to meet Walter Day, a very likable gaming referee who in the early 80's established Twin Galaxies, a world renowned website for tracking official high scores. Along with Brian Kuh, a sniveling little disciple of Billy's who sadly has no worthy accomplishments of his own. The heroes and villians are pretty clear cut. Its the classic story of rooting for the underdog. In the end, its an inspiring movie about human beings, not just Donkey Kong.
	Christopher Bell The Ten: This film is a clever contemporary spin of the ten commandments. Each commandment is presented in a seperate vignette, each of which is woven into a tapestry of satire. The movie is a must see for fans of David Wain who is responsible for Wet, Hot, American Summer, tv's Stella Shorts, and was a member of the sketch comedy troupe that created The State. The State included Kerri Kenney-Silver, Robert Ben Garant, Thomas Lennon, Ken Marino, Joe Lo Truglio, Michael Showalter, and Michael Ian Black. All of these comedies have made films and TV shows that many know and love such as Reno 911, Balls of Fury, The Pacifier, The Baxter, and Diggers. I for one enjoyed following all of their careers and love the way they support each other with cameos, co-writing, and co-directing credits. Their comedy may not be for everyone, but does have a tendency to run the gamut from tongue in cheek to shockingly disturbing. As the territory of the ten commandments is fairly well-worn, the unpredictable nature of David Wain's comedy makes it fresh again, both light-hearted and thought provoking.
	Louis Satoshi Kon's latest movie is definitely a strange one, no question of that. The premise involves the misuse of a stolen technology that allows therapists to enter the dreams of their patients. What follows is probably one of the most visually entertaining animes you'll ever see. Anyone familiar with Kon's previous works (Perfect Blue, Millenium Actress) knows more than one viewing may be in order to fully understand what is real and what is just a dream, but for me, that is just an excuse to watch it again and again. If you are a fan of anything remotely strange you should give this one a try. You won't be disappointed.
	Alex In a nutshell Rescue Dawn is like the Great Escape if it took place during the early stages of the Vietnam War and was directed by Werner Herzog. Which is to say it is a bit darker and tells a story of primal human survival. Christian Bale once again gets alittle dirty in his portrayal of Dieter Dengler, whom Herzog worked with directly for his documentary film of Dengler's story of being shot down over Laos during his first flight in the Air Force. Eventhough the film is arguably the closest Herzog has come to a Hollywood narrative, it is still clearly one of his own and therefore worth a rental at least.
	Andrew Ace in the Hole: Billy Wilder's 1951 film noir Ace in the Hole explores the rise of the American media circus and its impact on modern culture. Journalist Chuck Tatum (Kirk Douglas) has been fired from virtually every newspaper in America. Working for an Albuquerque newspaper, Tatum happens upon a local man trapped in an abandoned mine and exploits the situation for his own personal and professional gain. Though widely hailed by critics as a masterpiece, Ace in the Hole was a box office dud that remains relatively unknown to this day. The Criterion Collection recently restored this lost cult classic providing film geeks with loads of extra features to supplement our viewing experience.
	Meg Waitress: Waitress is a fun and original story about a woman stuck in a dead-end job and is married to a dead-beat husband. Kerri Russell lights up screen with her somehow charming pessimism. It's a heartwarming story with a great message about finding happiness within yourself.
	Will The Lookout: The Lookout has a great plot that is supported by fine performances from everyone involved. Joseph Gordon-Levitt is great as Chris Pratt, a student who's bright future is ruined by a severe head injury. Jeff Daniels plays Chris' blind roommate to comedic perfection. That's not to say this is a funny film. "The Lookout" is dark, gritty and a genuinely good movie.
	Ethan KILL ZONE (Sha Po Lang): "Kill Zone" is a martial-arts movie that's trying to be a cops-and-robbers thriller. In a way that's too bad, because a straight-forward kung fu flick starring Sammo Hung ("Martial Law,""Project A,""Wheels on Meals,""Eastern Condors") and Donnie Yen ("Iron Monkey,""Once Upon A Time in China II,""Hero [2002],""Wing Chun") would have been a true must-see. After all, Hung is widely considered one of the greatest martial-arts movie stars of all time (up there with Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan), and Donnie Yen is rapidly achieving similar regard. As it is, "Kill Zone" is still an excellent action movie. For martial-arts fans, it is a classic in the making. For everyone else, it's just a good time. Is it as good a film as "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" or "Curse of the Golden Flower"? No. But it's imminently more watchable. The action scenes are better (Hung and Yen are both masters, and relative new-comer Jackie Wu outshines them both), its considerably shorter, and it is mercifully NOT a period piece. But it really shouldn't even be compared to those films -- it's just not the same genre. It's much closer to say, "Ong Bak" or "The Protector," despite being from Hong Kong (instead of Thailand). And against those movies, "Kill Zone" wins every comparison. Only a fool would watch a martial-arts movie for plot or (the horror!) the acting, but the story in "Kill Zone" is at its worst mediocre, and often surprised me with (of all things) emotional depth and resonance. And as new and exciting as Tony Jaa is, Donnie Yen is the best in the business, right now. Shiny, slick, and fast-paced entertainment.
	Will After the Wedding: Filled with mystery and intrigue, "After the Wedding" is a surprisingly good watch. The film revolves around Jacob, a man who runs a struggling orphanage in India. Hoping to save the orphanage from closure, he travels to Denmark to meet Jorgen, a wealthy businessman who appears to be more interested in Jacob than the orphanage. Great acting and a solid story make "After the Wedding" one of the best movies I've seen this year.
	Ethan The Fountain: A few things need to be made clear before I go any futher: Yes, Hugh Jackman (X-MEN) plays among other things a bald monk floating through outer space in a translucent bubble while meditating in his zen garden. Yes, that same bald monk is in love with a tree. And, yes, this movie is as strange as it sounds. I think it's important to know those things before you watch "The Fountain" because the film is completely, and without reservation, unashamed of them. The scenes (which rest assured, comprise at most 20% of the film) are intended to resonate emotionally with the viewer through spectacle and metaphor. Unfortunately, they only seem to have a 40% success rate.
	Louis The Bridge: In 2004, Eric Steel and his crew set up cameras to film San Fransisco's Golden Gate Bridge with the intention of capturing people during their final moments before taking the 4 second, 220 foot plunge. It would be easy to dismiss this movie as voyeuristic snuff but, theres much more to it than that. Most of the film is actually spent talking to friends and family of the jumpers, providing a backstory to what led them to that point. It's all done as tastefully as possible. Haunting and disturbing "The Bridge" touches on a subject often overlooked in society.
	Chris Diggers: A character driven dramatic c omedy with an all-star cast headed by local boy Paul Rudd. The story centers around 1970's bay area clamdiggers attempting to alter their own lifestyles due to sudden changes in the clamming industry. Along with excellent chemistry and a true to life writing style, this film showcases an actual historic paradigm shift in American working class culture. The dvd has great special features including a documentary about real "Bay Men."
	Ty Who the #$&% is Jackson Pollack?: This documentary follows a truck driver on her journey after she finds out that a $5.00 painting she purchased at a thrift store may be an authentic Jackson Pollack valued at over 50 million dollars. She soon discovers how difficult it is to enter the world of art as she attempts to have her painting, and herself, validated. At 73 minutes this is a quick watch for anyone interested in art or someone still hoping to find that discarded winning lottery ticket.
	Colbert Notes on a Scandal stars Cate Blanchett and Judi Dench in a thriller of sexual promiscuity. Dench plays a veteran teacher recluse. She is drawn to the youth and beauty of Blanchett, a first year art teacher. Dench poses as confidant as she endeavors to seduce the young teacher. But Blanchett is engaged in her own affair. She becomes involved with an attractive male student from class. Notes on a Scandal is a delightfully uncomfortable story of transgression, victimization, and betrayal.
	Andrew Shogun Assassin 2: Lighting Swords of Death Here's a tip: never challenge Ogami Itto to a duel. If he can't kill you, his young son will. Warning: Contains violence, nudity, and rivers of blood. No kidding, you will love this.
	Alex PBS' Jonestown documentary is a fascinating yet disturbing report on the rise and fall of Jim Jones and the People's Temple. The film features rare archival footage of their isolated commune in Guyana; along with recent interviews of survivors-creating a clear image of a corrupt manipulator who destroyed the lives of thousands. The most fascinating aspect is the confusion that offsets the image. The survivor interviews expose a suprisingly fond outlook on the vision of the temple...CREEPY STUFF.
	Meg "Dead Girl" is the story of six strangers who are affected by the death of one person. The film is about the characters not about a clever way to have their lives intersect, in fact most of their lives never intersect. Each character has their own personal connection to the death and each story is acted superbly. This is one of those films that sits on the fine line between a drama and a thriller. Starring Toni Collette, Britney Murphy and Marcia Gay Harden.
	Will "Little Children" makes for an interesting film. Great acting combines with several intriguing plots makes for an all-around good movie. "Little Children" may be a little on the long side but is still worth watching from beginning to end. Former child actor Jackie-Earle Haley is especially good.
	Meg Wow, Nick Nolte was amazing in this film. He plays a weathered man who has come to live with his mistakes from the past. He forms an unlikely friendship with a young man and reveals just how much heart is behind the gruff exterior. Nolte is a truley faulted hero who proves he still has something to offer. This is well told story about two people who could use alittle help from each other.
	Will Stranger than Fiction: The name Will Ferrell brings to mind several of his recent movies. I have never liked any of Will Ferrell's films, until now. Stranger than Fiction is a film about IRS agent Harold Crick. Harold's life changes drastically when he begins to hear a person's voice narrating his life. Things take a run for the worst when the voice announces that Harold's life will soon be cut short. I highly recommend Stranger than Fiction. Aside from being an all-around good movie, Will Ferrell is excellent as Harold Crick and gives the best performance I have ever see.
	Ty Set in 1922, The Tracker follows a Native Australian (The Tracker) as he guides three white policemen (The Fanatic, The Follower and the Veteran) through the Australian Outback searching for another Native Australian accused of killing a white woman. With a visually stunning look at the Australian Outback and a haunting soundtrack, I was completely engrossed as the expedition began to unravel. As the men travel deeper into the Outback, racism and paranoia increase, and it gradually becomes apparent just who exactly is in charge.
	Meg I am plugging Inside Man because I am always surprised how many of our customers have not seen it. Who doesn't love a great heist movie with a grade A cast? Clive Owen, Denzel Washington and Jodie Foster star in this film and all give outstanding performances. If you like a good thriller and happen to be one of the people this film slipped by we all recommend this one.
	Andrew San Pedro, California natives Mike Watt, D. Boon, and George Hurley formed their band the Minutemen during the punk and hardcore explosion of the early 1980s. Their unique blend of country, folk and punk brought them wide acclaim leading up to the tragic death of guitarist D. Boon in 1985. While this dvd is a must-see for dedicated fans, the Minutemen's songs are accessible to any music fan. The dvd contains interviews from over 50 artists and musicians who were touched by their politically and creative discography.
	Colbert The first season of *Rome, HBO's attempt at an ancient history, succeeds in bringing to life the Republic's infamous shift to dictatorship. The series portrays, whether realistically or not, the events leading to Julius Caesar's ascension and his inevitable fall. Rome's* largest obstacle may be the largeness and familiarity of it's story. Indeed, I spent most episodes wondering how they would deal with this event or that, before those events came on screen. Though, I suppose, this is the fun of making a history. The faint of heart should be warned of lusty nudity and gratuitous violence; there are lots of both here.
	Alex The Oh! in Ohio: Are you lost in a sea of recent unfunny "comedies"? Did The Break-up break your brain? Do you like balloons? If you answered "yes" to two or more of these questions you should probably come in and rent The Oh! in Ohio. The film stars Parker Posey and Paul Rudd as a sexually frustrated married couple that are on the verge of throwing in the towel. The two discover other means of fulfilling their needs and chuckles ensue, especially from a deadpan comedic performance from Keith David of Star Trek fame. This is a perfect flick for "dinner and a movie" night with that special someone whether they're human or plastic.
	Louis The Dish is a heartfelt story about the efforts of a satellite dish crew in the small town of Parkes, Australia that was responsible for relaying the iconic images of Neil Armstrong first stepping onto the moon. This movie does everything right, most notably, depicting the emotional effect that moment must have had on the world. All of the characters are fully realized and each provide their own dose of comic relief. It even has a bit of a love story thrown in for good measure. If your a fan of good storytelling, and I'm sure you are, than you will definitely enjoy this movie...but you don't have to take my word for it.
	Ethan At 76 minutes, Primer might have the most ideas per minute of any movie I've seen. Not surprisingly, it's also one of the most intellectually stimulating movies I 've seen. Unfortunately, there's a downside to all that brain candy: the plot is all but impossible to follow. Don't get me wrong, though; what I understood, I loved, and I wasn't frustrated by the amount that went over my head as much as I was impressed by it. Primer is the most fiendishly difficult logic puzzle ever filmed. (There are even websites dedicated to helping people follow the story.) The premise is simple enough: two engineers accidentally invent a device that can send objects back in time. Over the ensuing few days, each starts experimenting with the machine without the other's knowledge. At first, their travels are exploratory, but inevitably things escalate. What makes things extra confusing is that for roughly the first hour of the film, we think we are following the "original" copies of the two engineers as they weave their byzantine ways through time, but slowly realize that one or both of them switched places with a counter-part from different timeline while we weren't watching. I can't honestly say this film is for everyone. Many people will undoubtedly be nothing but frustrated by it. Still, most people (and in particular Sci-Fi fans) who liked Christopher Nolan's Memento should enjoy this film as the ultimate in jigsaw storytelling.
	Andrew The Pusher Trilogy follows three Danish Men in the Denmark drug underworld. The series stems from the 1996 cult film Pusher known for conjuring up early Martin Scorcese action/drama flicks while keeping a unique perspective on modern crime films. This is a must see series for action fans who appreciate foreign perspective on the genre.
	Will Thank You For Smoking: Aaron Eckhart plays "The Sultan if Spin" Nick Naylor, a big tobacco lobbyist who can talk his way out of any predicament. Nick deals with lawsuits, senators and his 12-year-old son in this hilarious film where anything can be right or wrong, all it takes is a little persuasion.
	Meg Spring Forward is a great character driven story about the relationship of two city workers who are assigned to work together day in and day out. In recent years movie goers have appreciated simple films with moving stories like Off the Map and Junebug and Spring Forward is a great example of that genre from 1999. Ned Beatty and Liev Schreiber do a wonderful job as two men dealing with the complexities of real life.
	Sam The Boys from Baraka is from the same filmmakers who did Jesus Camp and if that does not interest you this will also appeal to Wire fans. The film is about a select number of boys from Baltimore who are chosen to go to school in Africa and leave behind the public school system they are used to. I was amazed at how the boys flourished in a natural environment and away from the pressures of Baltimore life. If you liked Lost Boys of Sudan you will enjoy this documentary as well. The film was well made and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys documentaries.
	Meg Everyone kept telling me to watch Dear Frankie but I just kept putting it off in fear it was just another unrealistic love story but I gave in and watched it and I am glad I did. It is really about a mother and her son and how they manage during a tough time in life. The mother writes her son letters and signs off as the father who was never around and when a classmates challenges the stories in the letters the mother has to decide how to handle the deceit she has been keeping up over the years. It was a wonderful story with originality that has been lacking in Hollywood films in recent years.
	Ethan With an unimaginably harsh landscape and deeply affecting performances, "The Proposition" has-in spades- the only two things a great western needs: wilderness and humanity. Indeed, the struggle between civilization and uncivilized land (the deserts of Australia) is portrayed better here than in any other movie in a decade. And the execution of the more minor themes of family and justice is top-notch as well. The graphic portrayal of the severe flogging of the meek youngest brother in a family of outlaws is particularly emotionally gripping. Excellent stuff all around. I give it 4 stars out of five.
	Andrew Stemming from a trend of awful video games to feature film productions, Silent Hill takes a step above the rest with it's dark, apocalyptic visuals and grotesquely nightmarish characters. In order to put an end to her stepdaughter's constant nightmares and sleepwalking episodes, Rose (Radha Mitchell) travels to a small mountain town named Silent Hill. Although the town burned down years ago, the townspeople creep around all day and barricade themselves inside the church every night. When the town goes dark, the sirens sound and the nightmare really begins. There are no stand-out performances or complex plot twists but the brutal death scenes and intense atmospheric apprehension make Silent Hill an entertaining horror flick.
	Meg Sometimes it is nice to find a great movie that you could watch with your entire family and The World's Fastest Indian is one of those. I sat down to watch it and was not sure if I could make it through the movie with no real interest in motorcycles but ended up loving it. Anthony Hopkins is great as an odd but driven older gentleman obsessed with proving his 1920's Indian can beat the world speed record. His crosses paths with all types of characters during his quest and proves that without judgement almost everyone has something to offer. It is delightful.
	Andrew H. The Venture Brothers-Season One: Adult Swim cartoons don't often step outside of their demographic, but "The Venture Bros." is one of the more widely accessible shows. It follows Dr. Venture; his twin sons, Hank and Dean; and their bodyguard Brock Sampson, voiced by the brilliant Patrick Warburton. "The Venture Bros." makes reference to old Hanna Barbara cartoons like "Scooby Doo" and "Johnny Quest," as well as, DC's "Super Friends," but the humor is not purely juvenile. "The Venture Bros." is smart as a whip and cracks like one too. I recommend this for viewers ages 14 and up.
	Meg Robert Downey Jr. and Val Kilmer are both a lot of fun to watch in kiss kiss, bang bang. Kilmer plays a detective who is in charge of showing Downey, a hopeful actor, the ropes for an upcoming film. It's got the comedy, action and suspense of any good buddy movie but enough of it's own quirks you don't even realize your watching a buddy movie until it's over. It got good reviews in the theatre but did not stay long, so it's a great one to catch on DVD.
	Alex Funny Games focuses on an Austrian family (Anna, Georg, and Georgie) retreating to thier fancy lake house. Shortly after thier arrival, they are confronted by Paul and Peter who claim to be relatives of the next door neighbors. Peter and Paul quickly wear out thier welcome with a series of odd requests, prompting Annna to ask the pair to leave the house. The relaxing vacation soon escalates to a hostage situation in which Peter and Paul force the vacationing family to engage in thier "funny games." The games that ensue are full of humiliation and truly challenging the viewer to continue watching as the family is torn down to nothing. The film is horrifying and is very well executed by the acting and direction. Funny Games may be almost 10 years old, but it had more of an impact on my nerves than any thriller I've seen in years. So if you thought Saw was decent but missing something, come in and pick up Funny Games and het your twisted appetite.* The film has just been re-released on DVD in promotion of the video release of director Michael Haneke's newest film, Cache.
	Hollie "I Love You, Alice B. Toklas:" "And so does Gertude Stein," as the theme song goes to a newly released DVD with Peter Seller's smashing and subtle physical comedy. Light-hearted as a Brady Bunch episode, the only difference is what "Alice" puts in the brownies(it's not nutmeg). This movie from the 1960's involves Peter Sellers, a middle-class man with a mediocre girlfriend and over-involved parents. His life changes when he meets the movie's token hottie, a honey-haired-hippie, girl-next-door type. Thrown into a new bohemian lifestyle, he oscillates between wanting freedom and wanting to do what's right. His struggle for identity, spirituality, and purpose just goes to show that nothing has changed in forty years. While this movie doesn't enrich our lives, or have a complex plot, it is still a hillarious movie to "just chill out" with, man; and ask yourself, who is Alice B. Toklas?
	Perry Winter Passing: Zooey Deschanel stars in this film as a troubled 20-something theatre actress named Reese struggling in New York. A woman from a publishing company meets her at a bar after a performance and offers her a great sum of money to publish love letters that her parents, both legendary authors in their own time, wrote to each other before Reese was born. Reese feels the need to travel back home to confront her father (Ed Harris) and figure her life out, as well as figure out what to do with the letters her deceased mother had left her. What she finds is her father, slowly sinking into senility and living in the garage behind his house, now occupied by two friends and caretakers, one of whom is played by Will Ferrell. The movie was quite good, I really enjoyed it. It takes a little while at the beginning to really gain momentum, but once you're through the first half hour or so, it's really good. Will Faerrell does not disappoint, and even though this is sort of of a more serious role than the ones we love him for, the character he plays in this film is perfect for him. Zooey Deschanel and Ed Harris both give great performances, and of course, there's a touching ending. Definitely worth your time.
	Andrew H. Dave Chappelle's Block Party: Fans of Dave Chappelle were shocked when he left his highly successful Comedy Central sketch comedy show in an attempt to regain his sanity and general well-being. He managed to keep himself busy, as well as sane, by throwing a block party in Brooklyn, New York; inviting a cast of Brooklyn natives and his favorite hip-hop and r&b musicians. Director Michel Gondry (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind) documented the day in this film. The comedy in ...Block Party is not as jaw-dropping funny as Chappelle's television show but his genuine sense of humor holds this film together quite well. The musical performances are top notch and display Chappelle's impeccable taste in music. Highlights include Dead Prez, Erykah Badu, and a one night Fugees reunion. The best thing about this DVD is the option to extend musical performances during the film. Michel Gondry's direction is seamless and his collaboration with Chappelle is a treat for fans of stand-up comedy, hip-hop, and documentary film making.
	Will Alcoholism is a prevalent problem in today's society, and no other movie has portrayed a true alcoholic better than Duane Hopwood. With some excellent acting by David Schwimmer as Hopwood himself, the movie makes some great points about the difficulties of living with alcoholism without being entirely sympathetic to Duane's cause. The ending does not disappoint.
	Andrew The Five Obstructions: Some director's would be completely appauled if asked to recreate one of their personally designated masterpieces. There are few exceptions: Alfred Hitchcock, Charlie Chaplin, and in this case, Danish filmmaker Jorgen Leth. In 1967, Leth made a 12 minute feature film titled The Perfect Human. In 2002, director Lars Von Trier asked him to remake The Perfect Human five times, adding a new obstruction for each recreation. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed this documentary, you just have to see it.
	Andrew H. Spike & Mike's Contagious: The latest collection of Spike & Mike shorts is chock full of fish-hungry cats, bear0humping dogs, and violent children. What else could a Spike & Mike junkie ask for? Bill Plympton? "Contagious" has him too. It also includes classics like "Loyd's Lunchbox" and "Rick the Dick in Hospital Hell." Prepared to be disgusted. You don't really have a choice.
	Hollie Shopgirl: Claire Danes plays a wholesome girl who comes-of-age in her twenties. Dating an older guy, played by Steve Martin, she experiences money, class, maturity, and a bit of her womanhood. However, a quirky, awkward, yet sweet and hilarious Schwartzman is also a good match for her innocence. A really good movie that doesn't act cheesy or idealistic about love, just a comedy anyone can enjoy.
	Meg Everything is Illuminated was a 2005 sleeper hit. It is a film about a Jewish American played by Elijah Wood who travels to the Ukraine to find a woman who saved his grandfather during World War II from the Nazis. He has hired a sweet couple of hardly professional tour guides to help him in his journey. The young tour guide steals the show in his "gangster rapper" attire and subtle humor. The chemistry between the characters is mostly funny and sometimes complicated. This movie has a little bit of everything. It is funny and bitter sweet. It was written and directed by Liev Schreiber, (Walking and Talking, Spring Forward, and Manchurian Candidate) who has always been one of my favorite actors. I would recommend this movie to just about anyone.
	Dan An Unfinished Life: I said to a friend recently, if Robert Redford puts himself in another romantic lead where the female lead is twenty five years younger than him, I am going to lose it. Alas, Bob did right by me this time. Mr. Redford directed this unromantic film with the same skill that he has directed all his films. That is to say, lots. He even managed to make Jennifer Lopez seem like a real person, instead of a commodity we may soon be able to purchase down at the "Board of Trade." This film captures real people having real lives with amazing sensitivity and subtlety. There isn't a single slice of ham in this film. Morgan Freeman's character plays Redford's character's conscience while he is having trouble finding it. He does this without ever seeming pedantic or annoying. He is terrific, as usual. Real people have real pain and that's what this film is about. Check it out. It's Great!
	Andrew F. Searching for the Wrong-Eyed Jesus: I suppose when driving through the South, its always best to have Jesus on your side. If nothing else, a statue of the Good Lord hanging half-way out of the trunk of your car will do just fine. Jim White, whose album "The Mysterious Tale of How I Shouted Wrong-Eyed Jesus" inspired this journey, also acts a a tour guide. Shortly into the film though, it becomes apparent that Mr. White is merely another bystander, taking a backseat for the ride so that we may focus instead on the images, characters, music and stories which populate this wonderful documentary. Tales of murder, revenge, violence, love and faith, among the other things that unfold through the stories, songs and scenery is a beautiful backdrop for such words and music. Everything appears to be washed and tarnished silver, dying grays, and rust, and yet the filmmaker captures such images as works of art. Jim White's South is almost a mythical place where many people have ventured to, but few have ever really seen. It is a fascinating journey and well worth the trip.
	Quinton PHILLIP SEYMORE HOFFMAN: His role in Capote jumped Phillip Seymore Hoffman onto the throne as the King of Hollywood, but the guy was a great scene-stealing actor in about 37 different movies over the past 16 years. He's been a strong supporting actor in a bunch of surprisingly good movies: Cold Mountain, Red Dragon, Almost Famous, The Talented Mr. Ripley, Punch Drunk Love, Along Came Polly, Boogie Nights, and Spike Lee's 25th Hour. (The guy has not appeared in many dogs.) He also starred in some quirky independent films including Happiness, Owning Mahowney and Love Liza (where he oddly plays a gasoline addict.) When you see him in these various roles it's obvious that the guy always had acting chops. You can hardly go wrong watching him work. (Also at SRO Video: State and Main, Magnolia, Flawless, Patch Adams, Big Lebowski, Next Stop Wonderland, Nobody's Fool, and When a Man Loves A Woman.)
	Meg We recently bought three Frontline documentaries that I highly recommend. Is Wal-mart Good For America gives an informative look into the connection between American job loss and Chinese exports and the role Wal-mart plays in this relationship. The next Frontline production I watched was The Meth Epidemic. Like other Frontline documentaries the film not only shows the people and their problem but delves into the circumstances behind the problem. Frontline asks the question, is the government doing enough to keep methamphetamines out of the country and do the powerful legitimate drug companies effect decisions pertaining to restrictions. I was most intrigued by the documentary series Country Boys. The film follows two boys living in the Appalachian hills. They both experience family dysfunction and struggle with poverty and stereotypes. The story highlights how the families and community effect the boy's ability to cope with current conditions and move ahead to brighter futures.
	Quinton SPAGHETTI WESTERNS. Even though these crusty diamonds of cinema history have been short-changed and overlooked by critics, the Eurowesterns of the 1960's deliver a mighty satisfying dose of anti-heroes, brutally realistic violence, and sardonic cynicism. For a cowboy movie, you can't beat them. The first American success in this genre was Sergio Leone's A Fistful of Dollars (1964) starring a young Clint Eastwood and music score by Ennio Morricone. You get a truckload of fabulous cynical violence and awesome scenery. (It was shot in Spain.) Leone followed with Eastwood in A Few Dollars More (1965) and The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly (1966.) Finally, Leone's magnus opus was Once Upon a Time in the West (1968) starring Henry Fonda and Jason Robards. They Call Me Trinity (1970) directed by Enzo Barboni and starring Terrence Hill signals the end of the Spaghetti Western, an Italian cowboy comedy, gritty fun, but already a parody of the genre. Still, you can't go wrong with any of these titles.
	Andrew H. Martin & Orloff: Ian Roberts and Matt Walsh of the improv comedy troupe The Upright Citizens Brigade wrote and starred in this black comedy about advertising man Martin Flam (Roberts) as he adjusts to life after a failed suicide attempt. He goes to Dr. Eric Orloff (Walsh) for help. If only recovery was so simple. Be prepared for a soul-crushing comedy. After all, what better of a topic for sketch comedy than suicide. "Suicide, suicide suicide! It makes me want to kill myself."
	Meg N. Steven Soderbergh's Bubble was a new film experience. The cast were not actually actors which made me dubious and I heard it was without the bells and whistles you find in most films, but either in spite of or due to these factors the movie was fascinating. It was truly thrilling. A bizarre love triangle that you know has got to go bad. Yes, Bubble was strange but I have not been as intrigued by characters in a film for a while. It is worth it to take a step off the beaten path and watch Bubble.
	Andrew F. Hostel is not for everybody. It features gratuitous nudity, foul language, blood and other body fluids, sugar crazed children, humor, body parts, and the kind of torture sequences usually reserved for Asian horror films. That being said, I loved it. In a genre saturated with self-aware teen slasher movies, pointless remakes, and video game adaptations, it is refreshing to know there are still a few filmmakers out there who know how to produce a good shock or scare, and right now, in my opinion, (director) Eli Roth is one of the best.
	Will We live in a world of terrible sequels and unnecessary remakes. That said, The Baxter is a charming, original Romantic Comedy filled with witty dialogue and hilarious characters. Don't pass this one up.
	Perry The Corporation has been on our New Release wall for some time now, but it was only last week that I finally got around to seeing it. I loved this movie and I hated it at the same time. HOLD ON, LET ME EXPLAIN. On one hand, it's always a good feeling to the the truth about things, and to gain knowledge. The truth that this movie exposes is that big corporations are evil incarnate, and the have control of every facet of American society and government. On the other hand, IT WILL MAKE YOU FURIOUS to learn that you and I and everyone in this country are SLAVES of the system, and short of moving away to some remote location, there's no real way to escape contributing to The Man's exploitation of less fortunate and lower classes of countries all over the world. So, basically, if you're a believer in the old saying "Ignorance is bliss," don't rent this movie. If you believe in educating yourself and learning the truth, then rent this one and be amazed at how many people are and will remain in the dark about the true evils of this country and the corporations that it's run by. IT'S TIME FOR A SECOND INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION. PS- IBM sold machines directly to the nazis to keep track of the status of Jews in concentration camps.
	Alex This Hungarian film takes place in the Budapest Subway following gangs of ticket-checkers or "controllers" through their daily routines and gives insight to what be most of one of the most annoying occupations in the world. I was entertained on many levels, from the rivalry between ticket-checker gangs to the sweet romantic sub-plot. I loved the film and feel it deserves much more attention than it's been receiving, so come in and rent *Kontroll!*
	Dan Although we Americans can still be a little jumbled up about sex, I couldn't help but feel a great sense of gratitude that I live in a post-Kinsey age. The dedication of Kinsey and all those close to him, as well as the pitfalls they faced, was quite an education. I hope you like this movie as much as I do.
	Meg D. Physical changes are happening to the four lead characters in this new documentary T.V. series put out by the Sundance Channel. I highly recommend taking the time to watch this show on dvd. It focuses on four college students who are transitioning from their birth sex. I just found the characters and their lives fascinating. Not many films take on such a taboo subject matter. It opens your mind and how it might feel if you felt you were in the wrong body. Capturing the emotional effects of this subject has on one's life and the people around them creates an understanding. If you do enjoy this film than look forward to checking out TransAmerica coming to dvd in May.
	Scott "Chumscrubber" has a slightly artistic look an the idea of medicated happiness. It has a very interesting spin on suburban life and the search for true happiness. I loved it!
	Meg "Girl in the Cafe" is an intelligent and heart warming story that everybody loves. Plus its got some gritty politics. It's a sleeper that's gaining momentum around here.
	Entire Staff We all loved "Serenity." It has been a while since we have seen this good a science fiction film. This one is just plain fun. Five of us give this a qualified "awesome" rating.
	Quinton The "Machinist" is a great creepy movie with an original story. Christian Bale nails his performance as usual and you can't believe how he got so rail thin to fit the character. It has not gotten the credit it deserves for being a unique thriller bordering on a well made horror film. Good stuff.
	Andrew & Alex Director Werner Herzog has kept himself busy lately, holding his place as a pioneer of non-fiction film-making. The success of Grizzly Man may have overshadowed his other recent productions entitled Wheel of Time and The White Diamond but they are no less inventive. The White Diamond documents Dr. Graham Dorrington as he tests his helium-filled airship above the Guyanese rain forest. Wheel of Time follows Buddhists on a pilgrimage to become ordained monks. Critics call them "riveting," "stunning," and "haunting." We like to call it World Wide Werner. Don't say we didn't Werner you because this is gonna Herzog.