HBO has ripped apart the pages of the rich and compelling fantasy saga penned by George R.R. Martin and crafted a cable series that decisively gained a cult-like following practically overnight. Game of Thrones is a compelling television series set in the mystical Seven Kingdoms of Westeros following several “noble” families as they struggle, scheme and compete against each other to gain dominion over the kingdom and control of the Iron Throne. Game of Thrones: The Complete First Season
Some movies defy genre, others simply reveal how little you know about them. Kung Fu Hustle does a bit of both. Entertainment Weekly describes the movie as Kill Bill meets Looney Tunes and in some aspects this is correct. However, martial arts films historically have had humor embedded in them. Kung Fu Hustle is no different, except that the comedy is over the top, right along with the action. Set in 1940’s China the story unfolds around a gang member hopeful and the greatest fighters of all-time who live in secret as lowly residents in a small community complex that the gang wants to take over. Kung Fu Hustle makes a unique and entertaining addition to both your comedy and action movie collections. Kung Fu Hustle
The official Haynes Manual for the most celebrated starship ever. The Millennium Falcon Owner’s Workshop Manual meticulously covers in extreme detail every aspect of the ship Han Solo and Chewbacca made famous. The history and development of the Corellian Engineering Corporation’s YT series is covered in depth by Star Wars expert, Ryder Windham, and he provides a wealth of knowledge that helps you further appreciate the immense modifications that went into creating the Millennium Falcon. Exploded diagrams, onboard systems, floor plans, photographs and more are presented in full detail by experts Chris Reiff and Chris Trevas who make it seem easy for you to go outside and modify your own YT-1300.
The most recent studio release from the Roots (Undun) needs time to sink in, thus this tardy review. Unlike the majority of their hip-hop peers, the Roots continually extend their popularity not through the vulgar appeal of strong radio singles, naked women in their videos or massive marketing campaigns, but through the performance and creation of music of a rare and distinct quality that is not often found among the more popular and readily accessible musical landscape. From the opening notes on Dun, to the last lyrics breathed into the microphone and the closing with Finality, Undun continues expanding the catalog of growth and burgeoning genius that is the Roots. A concept album working through themes of life and decision, it features the usual Roots players along with an appreciated assortment of special guests. Contrasted in musical theme from the bulk of their previous work, though some say it compares sonically with How I Got Over, this release stands alone as a complete work and makes a great addition to any music collection. The Root Undun
The plays of William Shakespeare have been celebrated around the world for years. However, for well over two hundred years questions regarding these works remain unanswered. The most prominent question of them all being, “Is William Shakespeare the author?” Directed by Roland Emmerich (Universal Soldier, Independence Day, Stargate), even though the film is about Shakespeare, Anonymous seeps with well placed action, acting and vivid story telling. Creative license and strong characters will have you scratching your head regarding the accuracy of history and the truth of William Shakespeare.
The Criterion Collection has included Hideo Gosha’s Three Outlaw Samurai to its growing vault of celebrated international films. The first feature film by Hideo Gosha, 3 Outlaws is an unheralded classic chanbara (sword-fighting) film. Revenge and murder push the story of two samurai hired to slay a band of rebellious peasants who kidnap the daughter of a magistrate but they happen across a wandering ronin with a strict code of honor and no fear of death. Skilled action and carefully crafted storytelling placed against an elegant black and white canvas makes this film a must have for lovers of samurai movies. Digitally restored with uncompressed audio and a new English subtitle translation, the Criterion Collection release also includes a booklet with an essasy by film critic Bilge Ebiri. Three Outlaw Samurai
There are grilling cookbooks and grilling recipes to keep you busy for every summer cookout from now until the year 3000. So even if you do not currently have supreme skills on the BBQ grill, you can always pick up the slack and learn your way around the time tested and very trusted combination of fire and food. However, your sandwich skills may need some upgrading. The Encyclopedia of Sandwiches does just that. Recipes from around the world, with caveman easy how-to instructions will have you making sandwiches that look and taste so good you’ll wonder how anyone ever gets by with plain old lunch meat.
The pop rock foursome from Denver is back with Scars & Stories. Producer Brendan O’Brien helps the group further polish their sound on this release and enables the group to expand their range and depth sonically. World travels and real life experiences fuel this release and avid followers of the Fray should notice a growth and maturity in the lyrical content. New listeners should be pleased also as the Fray sits comfortably in a position that aligns their constellation with other stars in the pop rock sky.
Ryan Gosling’s Drive is a slow burn action flick that seeps of 80’s nostalgia. Drive is heralded by critics and audiences for the tone, realism and the ability to realistically capture the gritty underbelly of Los Angeles (in a way that doesn’t revolve around the typical gang bangers). The film does have slow moments, but when the violence and action shows up, it is worth the wait. Don’t expect to see lots of high-speed chases though. Drive is somewhat of love story, lead by the characters, the scene and the music. Gosling is a stunt driver who moonlights as a wheelman for criminals. He takes interest in his neighbor and her son and all is well, until her husband comes back from prison. To say more than that really ruins the film. Some critics note that with such a title, Drive should have more action. You would want that, but that is not what the move is about. Drive is not about cars, Drive is about determination. Drive.
The Adventures of Tintin, Steven Spielberg’s first full-length animated film is packed with action, drama and adventure. Follow news reporter Tintin and his dog Snowy as they journey around the world; through the skies and across the seas; in hopes to solve a mystery and find a treasure, all with the constant threat of a curse over Tintin’s shoulders. With a cast that includes Daniel Craig (James Bond, Girl with the Dragon Tattoo) and Andy Serkis (known for his work as Gollum and more recently as Caesar in Rise of the Planet of the Apes), The Adventures of Tintin almost flawlessly combines great storytelling with motion capture and CGI animation for the making of great animated film. Tintin pays homage to and that stays true to the original early 20th century classic comics, yet brings excitement that you can enjoy today. Pre-order Tintin and you save 51%.
