Squinting: A Bespectacled View of the Silver Screen

RACHEL GETTING MARRIED (2008)

2009-03-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

DEMME DOES DYSFUNCTION
My dissatisfaction with the 2009 Academy Awards has lead me to re-examine the recent Oscar pool, in hopes of understanding what I deem to be a pretty poor outcome. Aside from determining that Slumdog Millionaire was a more than a far cry from Citizen Kane, (heck, it didn’t even touch City of God), I was able to discover hidden gems, such as Johnathan Demme’s refreshing Verité drama, Rachel Getting Married, featuring Best Actress nominee Anne Hathaway. Demme paints a surprisingly real, original portrait of crisis around Hathaway and a cast of others, including Rosemarie DeWitt, in the title role, Debra Winger, as the ominously detached mother, and in a brilliant, yet unsung performance as the well-intentioned, yet tragic father, Bill Irwin. Moments of emotion that typically seem slightly sappy, conventional, and melodramatic are plentiful, but oddly seem to work amidst handheld cinematography and casual dialogue (in a screenplay deftly penned by Sidney Lumet’s daughter, Jenny). A beat of particular poignancy comes during Tunde Adembimpe’s (of TV on the Radio fame, who stars as Sidney, the bridegroom), a capella rendition of Neil Young’s “Unknown Soldier” – if I weren’t so emotionally impervious, I may have shed a tear. At the epicenter is Hathaway, who shines despite a borderline-histrionic subplot; her “Kim” is at once abrasive and empathy inducing. Director Demme’s auteur identity seems to have taken yet another turn, and his eclectic body of work, which now includes the unlikely trio of this film, Silence of the Lambs and Stop Making Sense, seems to signal his mastery. This flick lives and breathes like none other this Oscar season; it is invigorating to experience inventive cinema in the shadow of self-indulgent Hollywood malarkey (you know who you are, Ben Button!)

Link: IMDB

RAISING ARIZONA (1987)

2009-03-13T18:25:00.000-07:00

PROOF THAT NIC CAGE WAS ONCE ACTUALLY COOL!

While the brothers Coen are often lauded for their recent film-craftsmanship (No Country For Old Men), and helming of modern cult classics (Lebowski, Fargo), their earlier work often goes overlooked. Their second feature film, after 1984’s pants-urinating-suspenseful neo-noir debut Blood Simple, Raising Arizona, is the cornerstone of their comedic efforts. The film stars Nicolas Cage before he shit his proverbial career-bed with films like Ghost Rider and National Treasure (sorry, Jon Turtletaub ‘85), and Holly Hunter, pre-oscar, at their comedic finest. A simple story of a morally-bereft, yet good-hearted trailer-dwelling couple who steal a baby is given the decidedly quirky ‘Coen Touch.’ The sound design, expansive camerawork, and rhythmic editing that have become the brothers’ trademark breathes stylistic life into the film in the signature Coen way. Supporting performances by Frances McDormand and John Goodman round out an idiosyncratic universe of comedy that is thought-provoking, quotable, and knee-slapping all at the same time. For those who miss the Valley Girl/Cher-romancing Nicolas Cage, or enjoy smart, cinematically-interesting comedy, see this film immediately, or risk not getting a slue of inside jokes – (“He’s awful damn good, I think I got the best one!”)

Link: IMDB

NOTORIOUS (1946)

2009-03-13T18:21:00.000-07:00

(HITCH, NOT BIGGIE)
The on-screen team of Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman is enough to make any golden-age film fan feel all fuzzy inside, but the addition of Alfred Hitchcock into the mix is downright orgasmic. The film itself does not fail to live up to its on-paper potential; a sultry plotline of secret agents, seduction, South America, and a staggering screenplay written by the legendary Ben Hecht (His Girl Friday, Hawks’ Scarface) round out this classic. Particularly interesting is Hitchock’s use of space, as he creates a character out of a certain staircase and wine cellar, turning the inanimate into the suspenseful with pacing, editing, and swooping camera movements. The cinematography here is especially notable during a slow, creeping crane shot that begins wide, and gradually tightens on Bergman’s hand holding a crucial key – signaling the tightening circumstances and creating an air of uneasy anticipation. Moreover, Claude Rains’ villainous ‘Alexander Sebastian’ provides a perfect foil to Grant’s iconic, dashing, romantic, and ultimately bad-ass T.R. Devlin, creating a dynamic of layered characters and detailed performances that works to help Hitchock’s hair-raising hand. Maybe someday the title Notorious will conjure images of old-Hollywood glory and not B-list dead rapper biopics.

Link: IMDB

SUNDANCING

2009-03-08T18:29:00.000-07:00

(Six or So Weeks Late)
My time spent dodging the paparazzi, bearing the snow, and geeking out in Park City has left me in awe for the past while; it has thus taken me so long to articulate my film festival experiences. Either that, or I just got lazy. Here goes nothing:

Humpday
It seems oddly fitting that a comedy about two straight twentysomething males making a gay porno was the film that popped my Sundance cherry. Humpday also opened the entire dramatic competition, and served to be an apt start to the party. Although I entered the theatre a skeptic, I was quickly converted; director Lynn Shelton constructed an overwhelmingly realistic, laugh-out-loud, and hilariously awkward portrait of two men at a unique crossroads. The no-scripted-dialogue, voyeuristic form seemed to conjure more than the seemingly sophomoric-premise implies, and the film is at once a buddy comedy gone insane, and a poignant coming-of-age ‘mumblecore’-esque story with real resonance. Actors Mark Duplass and Joshua Leonard completely kill in what may be my favorite film of the entire festival.

Lymelife
Ever since Home Alone opened my 3-year-old eyes to the wondrous magic of harming criminals during the holiday season, I have been a fan of the Culkin brothers. Lymelife, which premiered at the Toronto Film Festival, but screened at Sundance, starred the youngest of the Culkin trifecta, Rory, previously notable in You Cant Count on Me and Mean Creek, and featured middle brother Kieran, who shined in The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys and the Salingerite Igby Goes Down. Set in 1980s Long Island, this high-school coming of age story was likeable, but not overwhelmingly original, although supporting performances by Cynthia Nixon, Alec Baldwin, and the creepily-pathetic, but extremely talented Timothy Hutton, were highlights. Hearkening elements of Ang Lee’s masterful suburban drama The Ice Storm, but really more in vein of Thumbsucker or The Squid and The Whale, the film contained moments of exceptional emotion, but was ultimately mediocre and cinematically uninspiring, especially during the disappointing ending scene. Writer/Director/Brother team Derrick and Steven Martini seem nonetheless promising, at least according to fellow New-York-based-Italian-American executive producer Martin Scorsese.

Side Note: Lest you think I forgot about Macaulay, I did spot the most famous leg of the Culkin triangle on a pre-show trip to the restroom, during which he offered me various types illegal substances. (Not really)

Paper Heart
Buzz for this film was far and wide, and it was easily my most anticipated of the festival. Penned by first-time director Nicholas Jasonovec and Knocked Up stoner girl/Andy Kaufman-esque comedienne Charlene Yi, this ‘NOT-umentary’ follows the also-starring Yi on a semi-fictional quest to find love, straddling the lines between meta-comedy, Cinéma vérité, and mockumentary. Yi’s real-life boyfriend and it-guy Michael Cera co-stars as himself, and the use of real-life testimonials and paper figure/puppetry segments make this film surprisingly stylistically interesting. Yi’s original music, which is sprinkled throughout the film, is that sort of ‘cute-indie-hip’ that seems to be so popular since Juno. All in all, I wouldn’t be surprised if this sentiment, combined with the ‘Cera-factor’ propels Paper Heart into semi-mainstream popularity.

500 Days of Summer
If God were an unreasonably beautiful woman with luscious dark hair, fair skin, and enchanting, iconic blue eyes, He would be Zooey Deschanel. If that semi-ilogical attempt at a metaphor didn’t quite convey my affinity for her, which began when I swooned over her in David Gordon Green’s All the Real Girls, I’m not sure what will. This film, from acclaimed music video director Marc Webb (Brand New’s "Sic Transit Gloria…Glory Fades" video, among others), is, as the tagline implies “Not a love story, it’s a story about love.” Yet as much as it tried to veer off the traditional ‘love story’ path – and it did, what with its hilarious dance scene, omniscient narration, animated sequence, and decidedly non-linear storyline – it ended up still stuck in the very conventionality it seemed to oppose. Despite certain familiarities, 500 Days of Summer was pretty powerful in that it played out as smoothly as one of Webb’s music videos – the film was set to an amazing, eclectic soundtrack (the Smiths, Regina Spektor, Belle & Sebastian, etc.) that amped up energy and created emotion in the vein of Garden State. Joseph Gordon-Levitt of Brick fame, plays male protagonist Tom, and proves himself to be a relatable leading man that appeals to the Seth Cohen crowd. Just as Tom is wooed by Deschanel’s ‘Summer’, (especially during her mouthwatering rendition of Nancy Sinatra’s “Sugartown”) one can’t help but be wooed by this film.

Big Fan
As a native North New Jerseyan, I was born and raised as a New York Giants fan, so naturally I was excited for Big Fan, a tongue-in-cheek drama about an loner obsesses with Big Blue. Written and Directed by The Wrestler scribe Robert Siegel, this flick turned out to be something of a awkward bastard child of The King of Comedy and Celtic Pride. VH1 pop-culture-show commentator and B-list comedian Patton Oswalt delivers a passionate performance as the creepily pathetic protagonist, who becomes embroiled in an ill-conceived altercation with his favorite player on the G-Men. The first 50 minutes of this film was poorly paced, amateurish, and sometimes unintentionally cringe-inducing. However, a second-half performance and plotline involving a personal favorite actor, Michael Rappaport (see Ted Demme’s Beautiful Girls), results in an unforgettably original scene, and an ultimate positive attitude towards the film. While sports fandom and its culture is certainly a worthy filmic subject, Big Fan’s storytelling flaws prevent it from doing to athletic aficionados what Lars and The Real Girl did for people in love with dolls.

Black Dynamite
For those that thought Samuel L. Jackson’s Jules Winnfield in Pulp Fiction was the ultimate Bad-Ass Motherfucker, I urge to observe the Bad-Assery that is Black Dynamite: the new standard for gun-toting, bitch-bangin, fro-coiffing action heroes. I was lucky enough to witness the debut of this homage to the Blaxploitation genre at the premiere midnight screening – an experience that was as raucous and outrageous at the film itself. While my lack of knowledge of the genre seemed to hamper my appreciation of certain aspects of the movie, the sheer quotability of film (“Dyn-o-mite! Dyn-o-mite!”), intentionally bad production gags, and ridiculous kung-fu choreography scenes warranted a laugh from all. What Tarantino tried to do in Grindhouse, filmmaker Scott Sanders does successfully here. Black Dynamite is Austin Powers in the hood, on crack, and fly as hell – a destined cult film for the jive-talking crowd.

HERE'S LOOKING AT YOU, WEB

2009-01-13T21:15:00.000-08:00

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the new Squinting: a small corner of the internet where one can kick back, relax, and enjoy film snobbery at its very finest. Squinting will henceforth be dedicated to all things cinematic; the blog will be mostly comprised of film reviews, previews, trivia, and miscellaneous movie musings. I often liken the return of Squinting to that of the recently-revived Mickey Rourke; the old blog was handsome, young, and rough around the edges (see Rourke in 1984's The Pope of Greenwich Village), whereas the new blog will be simple, seasoned, and wise (see Mickey's recent tour-de-force The Wrestler.) Coincidentally enough, between eras, Squinting also went through a rough patch of substance abuse, plastic surgery, and even a failed attempt at professional boxing.
To ring in a new era in the blogosphere, I will be reporting about my experiences at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival. As I battle the inclement weather conditions and fend off the droves of Mormons in Utah, I will be posting reviews/reactions, reporting on buzz, showcasing celebrity sightings, and perhaps even sharing an amateurish paparazzi photograph or two. Enjoy the ensuing anecdotes.

Above: Harrison Ford in Ridley Scott's 1982 Sci-Fi Epic Bladerunner

O'BIDEN OR McPALIN?

2008-10-09T17:26:00.000-07:00

By Contributing Political Columnist Jon Sheehan
How great was the story John McCain told a crowd in Pennsylvania – the one about how when he was a POW and asked to name some of his commanders by interrogators, he listed the starting defensive line for the Pittsburgh Steelers! – (it was actually the Packers, as he noted in his biography, but Pennsylvania’s a swing state, so that story played well) Besides, McCain is a war vet who has the foreign policy credentials to keep us safe (he’s determined to keep that “Iraq/Pakistan border” secure, right?) Running mate Sarah Palin shakes things up; she’s a reformer; she got rid of Alaska’s incumbent governor and corruption in the state house (as well as a certain state trooper). Sarah Palin is the real candidate for change! (insert your own one liner here). Barack Obama, on the other hand, is too much of a celebrity (in fact, when he went to Germany, 200,000 people showed up cheering his name to hear him speak. Ew!). What does Joe Biden add to the ticket that Hillary doesn’t? – (Only 36 years on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee). Obama is so elitist, how can he relate to ordinary folks like teachers? – (it’s not like he was one or anything!) Executive experience makes great presidents, and neither Obama nor Biden have any (It’s true, all good presidents have executive experience; take our current one for example!) Heck, can anyone name the last president from Illinois who was called inexperienced, and who did a pretty good job in the White House (Abraham, something?)

About the Author: Always on the campaign trail and forever in the hearts of countless young women across the country, Jon Sheehan is Wesleyan University’s foremost sarcastic political analyst and lone Irish Jew.
Link: Jon Sheehan's Facebook Public Listing

WHAT'S SPINNING SUCKA

2008-09-14T11:40:00.000-07:00

Delta Spirit
The formula of ultra-hip, ultra-catchy young rock and roll bands has been all but perfected over the past year (see MGMT and Vampire Weekend), but these San Diego natives seem to break the mold – and the results are groovy as heck. These gentlemen specialize in heartfelt, strained vocals layered over toe-tapping, danceable low ends. Catchy and raw at the same time, Delta Spirit combine the grit of the early Stones with jazz-rock sensibilities of the Cold War Kids: a formula that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Singer-songwriter Matt Vazquez also often shows hints of Bruce and Conor Oberst; to my delight, a few songs off of “Ode To Sunshine, ” their debut album, actually tend toward the folky and away from the overtly hipster. That said, “Trashcan” is one of my favorite jams in recent memory; lend a listen, grab a dancing partner, and feel the Spirit.

*Side Note: One of the only downside of the band is the name (for obvious reasons).
Link: Delta Spirit Site

JOCK ITCH

2008-09-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

The 'New Look' Knicks
New York sports are as prestigious as they are storied; the Yankees, Giants, and others, consistently do us tri-state natives proud. However, New York basketball has been in a rut for some time – a rut that is about to be transformed into a mountain of success. All other major American cities have achieved NBA-dynasty status (the Jordan-era Bulls, the Celtics/Lakers current and past dominance) except, of course, the Big Apple. Now, ladies and gentlemen, it is time for the New York Knickerbockers to find their place in the sun. Finally free of the cancerous coaching lesion that was Isaiah Thomas, and armed with savvy, popular new head honcho Mike D’Antoni, the Knicks are ripe for an era of hardwood dominion. The team has recently acquired questionable-but-promising draft pick Danillo Gallinari, and also, in a genius move, signed Patrick Ewing Jr., the very being who sprung from the loins of the legendary, ineffable Knicks legend himself. If Starbury, Nate Robinson, David Lee, and others cooperate this year, a ticker-tape parade may be in our near future. Or maybe I just jinxed the entire thing.

Link: John Starks Agrees

INTERWEB VIDEO PICK

2008-09-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

‘Bill and Jerry Microsoft’ Campaign
Few companies have been able to conjure the unique sense of mystery, style, and function as well as Apple has in recent years. Even the “Hi, I’m a Pc; Hi, I’m a Mac” ads have been entertaining, purposeful, and chuckle-inducing for some time now. However, it looks like Justin Long may be out of a job; Microsoft is striking back with a decidedly subdued, intelligent campaign featuring Jerry Seinfeld and Bill Gates himself. It seems as if Mr. Gates is stepping up his game amidst his newfound Jay-Z-like “retirement”, and hilarity ensues. Seinfeld, as well, seems to be recovering from recent lackluster projects (see ‘Bee Movie’), and shows off a little of his trademark comedic flair here. All in all, perhaps this new Microsoft makeover will spell better product quality for PCs, but if the ‘Microsoft Zune’ is any indication, we are a long way from there.

*Shameless Plug: The campaign is also produced by Hungry Man.
Link: Microsoft Site

ILL THREADS

2008-09-14T11:29:00.000-07:00

Supreme Fall/Winter '08 Line
Edging out Dave’s Quality Meats, Flight Club, and Clientele by a mere shoelace, Supreme remains my choice NYC sneaker/clothing boutique. Recently, their fall/winter 2008 line dropped, and items are now available in an online store. But fear not, Supreme has not gone from an uber-exclusive dive to merely a commercial webstore; they remain the benchmark of cool. The new items speak for themselves – there is a wealth of rockable new swag, and Supreme’s signature retro-hip-hop-meets-urban-skater-culture vibe is still certainly present. Standout products include the JFK t-shirt, the “Kings” Beanie, (an homage to the classic LA Kings logo), custom boxing gloves, and these slick flagship hats. If you are quick enough (or wealthy enough) to snag one of these, more power to you.

Link: Supreme Store

SNACK ATTACK

2008-09-14T10:48:00.000-07:00

Pirate’s Booty
Ever since I was a young bespectacled lad, I have had a fascination with all things pirate; from enjoying B-list buccaneer-based flicks (Peter Pan, Shipwrecked, Blackbeard’s Ghost), to taking part in the late 90s music-pirating boom, I have always had an inkling for swashbuckling. Naturally, I am also drawn to ‘Robert’s American Gourmet’ Pirate’s Booty, the similarly-themed snack that satisfies both my taste buds and my affinity for pirates. Lying somewhere between Cheese Doodles and the classic Smartfood White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn lies this treat, which is so flavorful, yet so light, that one can easily empty an entire bag in one sitting. As the back of the bag says, “Fans are called booty heads, eat ‘em and you’ll be hooked”, and as a ‘Booty Head’ myself, I wholeheartedly agree. That said, I have not sailed the seas far enough to try the “Barbeque Booty,” “Simply Booty,” or “Veggie Booty,” but these related snacks may be on my horizon in the near future.

Link: Robert's American Gourmet Site

CINEMANLY MAN

2008-08-31T11:22:00.000-07:00

Hamlet 2
In the history of cinema, there have been few sequels of value; ‘The Spy Who Shagged Me,’ ‘Godfather Part II,’ ‘The Empire Strikes Back,’ and even ‘Back to the Future Part II’ all come to mind as noteworthy follow-ups to classic movies. And now, a new movie poster shall be lifted into the rafters of sequel glory, and no, I’m not referring to ‘Breakin 2: Electric Boogaloo’, I speak of Hamlet 2. Although technically not a sequel, the film, in my opinion, does justice to the memory of Billy Shakes’ himself. The previously-obscure Steve Coogan stars as a hilariously pathetic high school drama teacher, and supporting performances by Catherine Keener, Amy Poehler, and Spring Awakening Standout Skylar Astin result in a well-written, outlandish* comedy. Skeptics are far and wide for this film, but genius musical numbers such as “Raped In The Face” and “Rock Me Sexy Jesus” are enough to convert even the most fervent doubters.

*A moment of self-congratulation; my first official use of the word “outlandish” on the blog.
Link: Hamlet 2 Site

INTERWEB VIDEO PICK

2008-08-20T16:55:00.000-07:00

Nike “Courage” Ad
Nike is the epitome of cool; their advertisements, slogans, products, and overall image has always been a focal point of pop culture. With the advent of Nike Sportswear, the swoosh has been slicker than ever. This particular commercial is basically an amalgam of ridiculously awesome images set to a ridiculously awesome song (which happens to be The Killers’ “All These Things That I’ve Done.”) – and reminds me of The Strokes’ “Hard To Explain” video – but even cooler. Although simple, this ad speaks for itself; if you watch it and don’t immediately feel compelled to buy a pair of air force ones and take over the world, please see a doctor.

Link: Nike.com

JOCK ITCH

2008-08-20T16:51:00.000-07:00

The Mothafuckin' Olympics
In the midst of this epic athletic competition, and as the country prepares for Obamanation, a new sense patriotism has swept over me. Stories that are noteworthy include Phelps becoming the greatest Olympic athlete in history, The “Redeem Team” seeking to return USA basketball to international glory, The Wariner/Merritt ‘clash-of-the-titans’ battle in the 400, and Misty May Treanor’s domination in the sand (and status as an all-around dime piece.) Perhaps between these events, I’ll be able to catch some more obscure Olympic sports, like table tennis, skeet shooting, and pinball.

Link: Best Part of Being a Patriot

CINEMANLY MAN

2008-08-20T16:48:00.000-07:00

Pineapple Express
It is no secret that Judd Apatow is the King of Comedy; he reigns unopposed in my mind, and his troop of players join him at the top of cinematic hilarity. Naturally, as a long-time Apatownian, I was extremely excited for this film, which was produced by Judd himself and penned by the talented, extremely Jewish Seth Rogen. However, I found this flick to be thoroughly disappointing; at times it seemed as if the artistic prowess of David Gordon Green (who helmed such rare gems as “All The Real Girls” and “George Washington”) was sacrificed in favor of low-brow stoner improv. Chuckle-inducing one-liners were plentiful, but the Apatow magic was nonexistent.

Side Note: Huey Lewis rocks on the sountrack.
Link: Official Site

STAGE BEAUTY

2008-08-20T16:46:00.000-07:00

In The Heights
As a faithful supporter of Wesleyan University, I felt compelled to see this fine achievement of a Broadway musical, which was written by and starred the talented Lin-Manuel Miranda ’02. A ‘Def-Jam Poetry’ style hip-hop feel, combined with latin-american cultural pride, and amazing pit crew provided for a unique and fun theatre-going experience. Having just witnessed Patti LuPone is ‘Gypsy’ a few months ago, I thought there was nowhere to go but down, but “In The Heights” rose above personal doubts and traditional Broadway conventions. Dankadizzle.

Link: In The Heights Site

SNACK ATTACK

2008-08-20T16:43:00.000-07:00

Blue Hill
Located in the uber-hip West Village, Blue Hill showcases fresh-grown food from local and family-owned farms fused with a sleek, fine-dining feel. The organic dishes are as delectable as they are healthy; I enjoyed some sweet corn ravioli to start, and as an entrée, devoured a buttermilk-glazed turkey breast in a bed of marinated carrots and mushrooms. Other standouts include an “egg of the day,” as well as insane desserts like the chocolate bread pudding and the blackberry cheesecake. All-in-all, this dining experience rivals Del Posto, Bar American, and Craft, as perhaps my favorite of all time. Bonus points for the fact that it’s located in a former speakeasy.

Link: Blue Hill Site

INTERWEB VIDEO PICK

2008-08-20T16:38:00.000-07:00

The Line
The newest masterpiece of the online series genre, joining Clark & Michael and Jake & Amir at the top, The Line is both well-written and well-adapted into short web form, which may be the new comedic fronteir. The story follows two friends, played by one of my personal favorite newcomers, Bill Hader, and the Superbad-scene-stealing Joe LoTruglio, as they clear obstacles and conquer eccentric fanboys while in line for a sci-fi movie. Cameos by SNL’s Jason Sudeikis and generic-vh1-pop-culture-show commentator Paul Scheer add to the magic. Six episodes of pure joy; check out the premiere installment below.

Link: See The Rest

WHAT'S SPINNING SUCKA

2008-08-20T16:35:00.000-07:00

Neutral Milk Hotel – In The Aeroplane Over The Sea
Although released originally over a decade ago, Jeff Magnum’s Indie -Rock masterpiece has gotten better with age. I recently dusted this sucker off and popped it in for a listen, and besides enjoying classics like the eponymous “In The Aeroplane Over The Sea,” “Two Headed Boy,” and “Holland 1945,” I discovered amazing new jams like “Communist Daughter,” “Oh Comely,” and “Ghost.” Frequently imitated (see the Decemberists and the Aracde Fire) and always lauded (my hero Jesse Lacey proclaimed it “the greatest record ever written”), In the Aeroplane Over The Sea is a timeless work of delicate, deliberate, and genius songwriting.

Link: Neutral Milk Site

TV TIME OUT

2008-08-08T21:10:00.000-07:00

Mad Men - Season 1
Taking place in the world of the ever-intriguing 'Madison Avenue advertising industry of the 1960s, this program is the hottest thing on the tube. As season 2 starts on AMC, I encourage all to buy the season 1 DVDs, pop them in, and witness the genius that is this television series. Great writing, art direction, and smokin hot babes raises the bar of quality TV in a suddenly lonely post-Soprano era.

Link: Mad Men Site

SNACK ATTACK

2008-08-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

In-N-Out Burger - Secret Menu
It is a tragedy that this left-coast-only burger joint has not ventured east yet; fresh ingredients, a retro decor, and a delicious secret menu make In-N-Out burger an all-time favorite. I requested an "animal style" burger and fries, and the results were delicious. However, beware of the "animal style" dump that follows about a half hour later.

Link: In-N-Out site

ILL THREADS

2008-07-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

Oakley Frogskin Sunglasses
As great Jeff Spicoli once said, "All I need are some tasty waves and a cool buzz, and I'm fine" - and more righteous words have never been spoken. Naturally, these collector's edition 80s-style Oakley reissue shades seem to fit right into the picture, and are essential for the surfer inside us all. Unfortunately, these particular spectacles seem to be pretty hard to come by, but I will ride the waves of destiny until they grace my dome. Cowabunga.

Link: Check Them, Braddah

WHAT'S SPINNING SUCKA

2008-07-29T18:21:00.000-07:00

Wilco - Sky Blue Sky & Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
Following the advice of a long-time friend of the family, Ron M. Seidel, I took a little time to explore these gentlemen, and simply put, I find myself converted. Wilco constructs mellow, melodic jams that serve to both sate my appetite for smooth beatles-esque tunes and subtle indie rock ballads. Jeff Tweedy is not quite Jesse Lacey, but he certaintly has better facial hair.

Side Note: Sweet Guitar
Link: Wilco Site

EBAY JERSEY JAM

2008-07-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

Bobby Hurley Sacramento Kings Rookie Jersey
Last night, after a rough battle with other early 1990s nba jersey fanatics, I won this diamond in the rough. Hurley, a native Jersey boy not unlike myself, played his college ball at Duke during the Grant Hill/ Christian Laettner years, then a little in the NBA before a injurious car crash in late 1993. Close, but no Len Bias.

Link: Ebay

INTERWEB VIDEO PICK

2008-07-22T09:47:00.000-07:00

CHTV - Font Conference
Nobody does viral video like the dudes from CHTV - smart, funny, and well executed. This instant classic joins other strokes of internet brilliance such as Anti-Drug Dog, Honest College Ad, and Brohemian Rhapsody. On a related note, this video contains what I deem to be an unfair depiction of Squinting's most prominent font: Arial. View and decide.

Link: CHTV page

WHAT'S SPINNING SUCKA

2008-07-22T08:51:00.000-07:00

Brand New - "New Song"
Probably my favorite band of all time, Brand New is mysterious, epic, and slightly pretentious all at the same time. As Jesse "The Messiah" Lacey puts it, this is just the beginnings of a new song, but i still wet my pants when I watch the video. Perhaps we will hear some new material in the future, but until then, I am stuck watching this low-quality youtube video over and over again. Enjoy!

Link: Jesse Lacey Photo Gallery

SNACK ATTACK

2008-07-22T08:31:00.000-07:00

Amalia
Last night, in the spirit of NYC Restaurant Week, I feasted at this cozy dive on west 55th, and enjoyed a pre-fixed 5-courser for only $35. The curried onion rings were delectable, and the waitress smiled at me, so it was a great time. So if nothing else, even though the food is incredible, go for the smiling waitress.

Link: Amalia Site

CINEMANLY MAN

2008-07-18T14:02:00.000-07:00

The Dark Knight
The only word I can use to describe this epic achievement of a motion picture is "scrumtralescent" - and that's not even a real word, so it must be amazing. This film blends artistry and entertainment together so masterfully that I wonder if the formula has been perfected. Is there nowhere to go but down? Go to the motherfucking movies and see for yourself.

Link: The Dark Knight Official Site

ILL THREADS

2008-07-17T15:18:00.000-07:00

Nike Sportswear Collection
Set to coincide with the start of the Olympics on 8.8.08, Nike will introduce NSW, a retro-classic line that is bound to be straight cash-money. It focuses on specific products, such as the Air Force 1, the Dunk, the AirMax 90, the Eugene Track Jacket, and these sick jackets. My pants get a little tight just thinking about it.

Link: The Countdown

INTERWEB VIDEO PICK

2008-07-16T09:03:00.000-07:00

Axe - Chocolate Man Ad
Recently winning top honors at the Cannes advertising festival, this little diddy is Hilarious with a capital H. Second only to last year's Skittles "Beard" commercial. I just wish the quality of Axe's advertisements translated into a quality product; instead, the body spray just smells like my 8th grade locker room.

WHAT'S SPINNING SUCKA

2008-07-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

Doveman - Footloose
As a closet musical theater fan (yeah, that's right motherfucker), and as a classmate of Kenny Loggins's daughter, I was filled with glee upon discovering Doveman's stripped-down, death-cab-meets-damien-rice re-imagining of the Footloose soundtrack. Kevin Bacon WISHES he could jam like this. Solid gold.

Link: Download the Album

SNACK ATTACK

2008-07-14T08:40:00.001-07:00

Jamba Juice "Secret Menu" Drinks
Recently, I hit up the JJ at the mall, and I inquired about a rumored "secret menu" - and was awarded with a deliciously delicious "white gummie bear" drink. Other clandestine beverages supposedly include the "Hello Jesus," the "Thank You Jesus," and the "Alabaska Skirtsteak." But you didn't hear it from me.

Link: JJ website

ILL THREADS

2008-07-14T08:26:00.000-07:00

Nike "Marty McFly" Hyperdunk
Although only like a thousand were released, these kicks are fly as hell. Kobe even pulled up in the DeLorean to premiere them- rivaling the hype attached to the NYC-exclusive Nike Pigeons. Michael J. Fox must be proud, wherever he is.

Link: Hypebeast Article

CINEMANLY MAN

2008-07-08T12:05:00.000-07:00

The Wackness
Contrary to all implications the title may bring to mind, this movie was oozing with dopeness. The soundtrack, which features Biggie and Biz Markie - is a delicious jam, and Olivia Thirlby is a bona fide DIME PIECE. Check it son.

Link: Trailer

WHAT'S SPINNING SUCKA

2008-07-03T07:16:00.000-07:00

Girl Talk - Feed The Animals
This man is a genius. Listening to his album is like listening to 10 of your favorite songs at the same time. The only way it could be better is if the free CD came with a case of glazed doughnuts. A boy can dream, can't he?

Link: Download the Album

INTERWEB VIDEO PICK

2008-06-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

Shaq Disses Kobe
Perhaps the greatest video to grace the computer screen since Bill O'Reilly's classic "We'll Do It Live" Outburst. Features the instant-classic catchphrase "Kobe, tell me how my ass tastes." Mr. O'Neal, you certainly have a way with words.

Side Note: Despite the ingeniousness of this song, I think we all can agree that
the cheap shot at Patrick Ewing was uncalled for.
Link: College Humor Videos

CINEMANLY MAN

2008-06-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

The Foot Fist Way
I was privileged enough to view this motion picture last night. My chums and I concluded that this flick is half the worst film ever created, and half an ingenious, spectacular creation. You be the judge, motherfucker.

Link: The Foot Fist Way Official Site

EBAY JERSEY JAM

2008-06-26T06:44:00.000-07:00

Shawn Kemp - Sonics, Away, #40
This jersey is boss. I'm going to keep my eye on this puppy, but if a Drazen Petrovic, Detlef Schrempf, or Bobby Hurley pops up, I'm all there. Happy bidding.
Link: Buy This Jersey on Ebay

ILL THREADS

2008-06-26T06:34:00.000-07:00

RetroCampaigns.com: Classic Political T's
In the spirit of the presidential race, I found this nifty little corner of the internet. Great idea, well-executed, handsome African-American models.

Link: RetroCampaigns.com

SNACK ATTACK

2008-06-24T10:21:00.000-07:00

Dirty's All Natural Potato Chips: Jalapeño Heat
I had these bad boys for lunch today; very tasty. As far as I'm concerned, these chips are the holy grail of spicy munchables.

Link: dirtys.com

WHAT'S SPINNING SUCKA

2008-06-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

The Cool Kids - The Bake Sale
I'm not a big rap dude, but these guys are fresh to the max. A little DMC, a little Fresh Prince, and a wealth of old-school basketball references. Legit.
MP3: The Cool Kids - Gold and A Pager

WELCOME

2008-06-24T07:44:00.000-07:00

This be my blogness. I will be posting sticky sticky ish on here from time to time. Among specific topics covered will be shredding axes, ballin'/jays, snacks, threads, sneaks, films, the internet, and much more. Things will be done live from here out. Godspeed.