Be here to love me
This is a beautiful (sad, happy) portrait of Townes Van Zandt, the country-folk musician. The library has a few of his albums on CD and though I only know a couple of them, I really enjoyed this documentary because the subject is an immensely charming but flawed person and there’s so much interesting footage showing it, spanning about four decades from the 60s through to the 90s. I guess he was an addictive personality – pictures from his high school yearbook make fun of his penchant for glue and socks. Then he graduated to drink, big time, though of course his reason was music and there is plenty of his music in here. Just like you would hope. As someone who doesn’t know country or folk music well, I don’t really know what to say about his music except that it just sounds very true and quite haunting and that’s enough for me.
--Nick, Central
Sonic Youth
Corporate ghost
This nifty little DVD contains all of Sonic Youth’s music videos from 1990 to 2005 – it’s a good watch for the established Sonic Youth fan (you’re bound to see something you haven’t seen before) or the absolute beginner. There’s all sorts of exciting stuff in there, like Macaulay Culkin making out with his wife-at-the-time, some weird soft toys, interviews with all sorts of indie rock superstars and a fan video made by a 14 year old girl, as she paints the cover of Goo on her bedroom wall. Thurston! Kim! Lee! Steve!
-- Elisabeth, Central
Tim Burton's Corpse bride
Burton’s fantastic stop-motion puppets star in this love story. Victor (voiced by Johnny Depp) and Victoria (Emily Watson) are due to marry. It is an arranged marriage – Victoria’s titled parents (Joanna Lumley and Albert Finney) need the money Victor’s low-born, fish-merchant parents (Tracy Ullman and Paul Whitehouse) can provide. Nervous and shy Victor cannot get his vows right at the rehearsal and runs into the forest to practise. There he puts the ring onto a twig – which is the finger of the Corpse Bride (Helena Bonham Carter). Victor, and the viewers, are taken in to the world of dead – a more lively, and bright world than the constraint one above. The Corpse bride’s story is revealed in song, and Victor tries to return to Victoria. The special features, particularly the making of the puppets, stun you in how detailed and precise the puppeteers’ art is.
- Annie, Central
Blades of Glory
I have no idea to describe this movie but its nothing but utter stupidity from the start to the finish. It’s a great dvd to watch if you’re wanting to get sore ribs from watching Will Ferrell and Jon Heder show off their figure skating routine. Bitter men's figure skating rivals Chazz Michael Michaels and Jimmy MacElroy brawl after tying for the gold medal at the world championships. Banned for life from the men's single skating competition, these archrivals find a loophole that will allow them to skate again as a figure skating pair. If you’re wanting a good laugh like I did, I recommend you have it for a lazy afternoon.
-- Leitu, Central
The Muppet Show season one
Ah the memories! Even if you’re not familiar with the guest star, it’s not worth skipping an episode as you’ll miss gems like ‘Mahna Mahna’, ‘Halfway down the stairs’ and the ‘Good grief, the comedian’s a bear’ skit.
If you can cope with the minor distraction – turn on the Muppet Morsels for interesting little facts. What was interesting was the number of tracks on the Muppet Show Album which weren’t originally shown in the US, only the UK – and here.
My favourite guests: Vincent Price and Mummenschanz.
Bring on the rest of them!
-- Annie, Central
Dave Chappelle's Block Party
Don’t you wish you were Dave Chappelle? The guy is funny, rich and famous for it. What’s more, he’s socially conscious and has impeccable taste in music. Thanks to Michel Gondry’s triumphant, uplifting film. We get to see Chappelle live out his personal fantasy, a “Block Party” in Brooklyn’s Bed-Stuy ‘hood. Chappelle handpicked his favourite hip-hop and R&B artists to participate, and the roster includes some of the most significant names of the past 10 years of “urban” music, including the Roots, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Common, and the reunion performance of the Fugees and many more!
You don't have to be a hip-hop fan to appreciate it, whatever your taste, the music and energy becomes infectious. This is one party that shouldn't be missed!
* * * * * Rating: 5 stars
--Leitu, Central
The new world
The latest film by the enigmatic director Terence Malick (The Thin Red Line, Badlands) divided critics and audiences with some declaring it a self-indulgent, plot-less load of twaddle and others labelling it a masterpiece of poetic cinema.
The story concerns the early encounters of English explorers with the Native American peoples in Virginia 1607, focusing specifically on the relationship between the adventurer John Smith and Pochahontas.
The film clocks in at just over three hours and there are large sections that are bereft of dialogue but we do get the thoughtful, pondering voice-over of Smith as his relationship with the innocent Pocahontas takes shape.
Visually, the film is incredible to behold and I probably enjoyed the ‘making of’ documentary more than the film itself; the director of photography and production crew all elaborating on the painstaking way they recreated the magnificent sets and costumes. Malick himself is absent from the entire docoumentary, but do we gain certain insights into his filming technique, such as his preference to shoot the entire film in natural light.
-- Simon, Central
Hoop dreams
This is one basketball doco you don’t need to be a b-ball fan to watch.
Not to say watching the 2 teenagers Hoop Dreams focuses on shoot hoops isn’t riveting all by itself. But this isn’t about basketball as much as it is about chasing dreams, the the hardships that face poor families, the surprises that life brings both good and bad. Unobtrusively directed by Steve James, this movie is an uplifting watch and a refreshingly real and uncliched portrayal of underprivileged African-American kids and the struggles they face. Recommended.
-- Simon, Central
Twin Peaks seasons one and two
Twin Peaks is undoubtedly David Lynch’s most famous work, a director who is well known for scratching just beneath the thin veneer of American society, exposing a strange and surreal underbelly. Twin Peaks is no exception to his style, and quickly gained a cult following when it screened in the early 90s. Even if you haven’t seen or heard of this series, chances are you’ve seen something that’s referenced or lampooned it.
Set in the isolated logging community of Twin Peaks, the seemingly calm small town is shattered by the murder of a local school girl Laura Palmer. An FBI agent with rather unorthodox techniques is called in to investigate, quickly discovering that there is a lot more to this sleepy community than first meets the eye.
Following Agent Cooper in his search for the killer is perhaps one of the most trippy rides in modern television, with backward talking dream sequences, dancing dwarves and minor birds who know far more than they should. But the question of who killed Laura Palmer is almost second to the almost soap opera, labyrinthine lives of the inhabitants of Twin Peaks. Delightfully surreal, yet still totally watchable, Twin Peaks is how more television should be!
-- Tama, Central
We can be heroes: finding the Australian of the year
Chris Lilley’s “We Can Be Heroes” is a mockumentary series that looks at Australian society’s search for heroes, focusing on the lives of five extraordinary Australian of the Year nominees. Anyone who has spent time in Australia will recognise these types of characters, all of whom are hilariously portrayed by Lilley. There is the airhead schoolgirl, the housewife turned professional “roller”, the Chinese physics buff/aspiring actor, the deluded policeman and the slang-speaking twin farm boys.
Much of the humour appears “unintended” as we are supposed to consider the characters as real. Each individual’s mad hopes and dreams provide us with plenty of laughs and also with insight into Australian attitudes about gender, race and success.
Lilley is a supremely talented writer and performer, and he even composes the theme tune music ! The special features disc includes deleted scenes, character auditions, and Ricky Wong’s performance at The Logies award ceremony. This DVD brought a smile to my face long after I had watched it. It is just so funny.
-- Rose, Central
Beverly Hills 90210: the complete first season
I was so totally stoked when I saw this had come in, especially since I never actually watched 90210 when it first came out and have always really wanted to. Despite all the time that’s passed, it’s still very watchable. The weirdest thing about it though, is seeing how much of the stuff they wear (which we might have made fun of in the late 90s) is in fashion now. Anyway, I’m sure you know the plot – follow Brandon and Brenda, wholesome twins from Minnesota as they adjust to life in the fast paced, extravagant world of Beverly Hills. Brandon is annoyingly moralistic all the time (until he indulges in a spot of drink driving, oooh) and gee, Shannon Doherty used to be pretty cute. Best binge-watched with some like-minded pals. A+!
-- Elisabeth, Central
Fresh
The 90s saw a deluge of urban cinema, as either cautionary ghetto tales, or more glorified gangsta flix. Among them is this little known gem of a film, and one of Samuel L Jackson’s lesser-known roles. Fresh is the story of a young kid who runs drugs in his neighbourhood, whilst dealing with growing up in an overcrowded family, and an absent father who sees life only over a chessboard. Fresh soon dreams of bettering his situation, and what evolves is a story that mirrors the game his father has such a passion for. Fresh is a hard-hitting film carried flawlessly by its young lead actor. Samuel L Jackson’s role as the rather oblivious father is just as good, despite his relatively short onscreen time. Fresh is a chess film, an urban film, and a well-crafted story on many levels.
-- Tama, Central
Macbeth
Whoever thought of setting a modern retelling of Shakespeare’s Macbeth in a restaurant kitchen was a genius. Consider the access to all those knives! Joe Macbeth is the head chef of an award willing restaurant. Despite all his hard work, it is the owner who takes the glory, including the credit of running the kitchen. When they finally win a three star Michelin rating, Joe’s wife suggests the impossible to win back control of what should rightfully be his.
Modern retellings of Shakespeare can be a hit and miss affair, but this made for television production wins on all the little details, as well as the concept. The acting is spot on, and the second half of the movie is a disturbing, uncomfortable watch as we see the results of Macbeth and his wife’s actions. Their descent into crushing paranoia, and fastidious hand washing is nothing short of painful. At just under one and half hours, it’s a great watch.
-- Tama, Central
No. 2
Inspired by a dream of her childhood back in Fiji, Nanna demands that her grandchildren put on a big feast at which she will name her successor. The grandchildren reluctantly turn up, but as the day progresses their preparations unravel into chaos and an outraged Nanna calls the whole thing off.
A well written & produced film by Toa Fraser. This film captures Great Spirit about tradition, family and the dynamics of Pacific Island family. Keeping it Kiwi from beginning to the end. Set in the streets of Mt Roskill, Auckland; you will not be disappointed. I give it a Massive Thumbs Up!
-- Leitu, Central
The freshest kids: a history of the b-boy
 Hot damn this is one fly doco y'all. Ever wanted to know the history of break dancing (or "breaking" as it was originally called before it blew up pop culture massive styles)?? Well The Freshest Kids is one must see piece of hyperatcively edited doco making. Feast your funky eyes on some of the illest b-boy moves ever captured on camera. It traces a phat thumping line from Kool D.J Herc's house parties in the early seventies into the emergence of now legendary b-boy crews like the Rock Steady Crew right through to the b-boy revival in the nineties. Backing up the footage is insightful commentary from b-boys of the time and hip hop artists (KRS-One, Mos Def) who were inspired into their own forms of long-lasting cultural expression. A great movie reminding us that art begins with and belongs to the people.
-- Simon, Central
Undertow
Undertow, directed by David Gordon Green, is blimming awesome. Set in Georgia, it starts off feeling like a southern gothic drama, but in a rather brilliant and unexpected way shifts tone and out of leftfield suddenly becomes a southern gothic horror! When John Munn and his two sons are visited by John's ex-convict brother Deel the family's peaceful world is turned upside down. The sons are forced on the run and strong performances make this the gripping modern day equivalent of a Flannery O'Conner novel. For realz!
-- Simon, Central
Wolf Creek
Made for the comparable pittance of $1million and shot on high definition video, one gets the impression that the film will be all wobbly handheld camera angles and low budget production values. This is not the case however. Wolf Creek is quite simply one of the most well shot, well-acted and expertly realised horror films in a long time. It deserves to reside in the same canon of horror classics as Misery, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Thing and Deliverance - films that the director has taken individual inspirations from.
The entire first half of the film is spent fleshing out the characters and their relationships with each other. This means that by the time they unwittingly walk into the hell on earth that is Mick Taylor’s remote abandoned mining camp, we are vicariously experiencing their plight on a deeper scale than we otherwise would be had they just been the usual horror film fodder.
The immense backdrop of the Australian outback is, initially, a simultaneously beautiful and awesome vista that reflects the sunny and carefree optimism of the three backpackers as they set out on their road trip. However, by the end of the film it has taken on an altogether more sinister quality showing the hapless three about as much mercy as their attacker has.
-- Ben, Central
Kaikohe demolition
Set in the muddy world of Northland’s demolition derby enthusiasts, Kaikohe demolition is a touchingly honest portrayal of life on the poverty line in small town New Zealand. Full of classic kiwi characters and bursting at the seams with fun, this is one of the most enjoyable documentaries ever made in this country. What the hard-case locals lack in money, they more than make up for with the sort of infectious joie de vivre that will have you laughing out loud and wondering if chainsawing the tyres of that old corolla you’ve got sitting out the back might be a good idea.
Director Florian Habitch grew up around Kaikohe and his understanding of the locals and his love for the area shine through in this beautiful little film. At only an hour long, it’s a quick watch that will leave you longing for more. It also has a lovely soundtrack with music that ranges from local waiata to the fast and furious sounds of Push Push, remember them? This film is a real little gem and a must see for Kiwis and visitors alike.
--Kim, Central
The break up
It may seem to be a typical romantic comedy, especially with the likes of Vince Vaughn, Jennifer Aniston, and Joey Lauren Adams. Brooke calls it quits with her boyfriend Gary. Neither one is willing to move out of the condo they once shared. Taking the advice of their respective friends and confidants, including a few complete strangers, they both engage in mental warfare designed to force the other person to flee the premises. But they might just realize that they might be fighting to keep their relationship alive.
I was expecting a typical romantic comedy, but to my surprise, the film does actually show what a break up is. No sugar coating on the ugly moments, especially in Gary and Brookes’ personal lowest moments. Great chemistry played between Vince & Jennifer. This DVD is for everyone who has broken up with someone and paints it with raw emotion. I guess the cliché saying does come back ‘You don’t know what you’re lost until it’s gone'.
--Leitu
The fog of war
I’ve never seen a bad Errol Morris doco and The fog of war is no exception. It tells the spellbinding, and often chilling story of Robert McNamara, the U.S Secretary of Defense during the Cold War and the Vietnam War. Morris’ directorial method is typically unobtrusive, at least on a surface level. His editing prowess means that you’re simultaneously charmed by this remarkably sharp 85 year old man and his brilliant mind, and shocked by the infamous world events he played a part in (the fire bombing of Japan, the use of the deadly Agent Orange in Vietnam.) The movie is structured into 11 chapters: each one a lesson for us to learn from the life of McNamara. You will be transfixed by this portrait of humanity’s potential for destruction right to the last chapter. You are unlikely to come away with any clear answers about how we can prevent this. A fog indeed.
--Simon
Russian ark
This film sits easily as one of the most intriguing and unusual films I’ve watched. Russian ark is ambitious in its scope, following the dreamlike observations of our narrator, an unnamed French aristocrat, as he travels though the vast rooms of the Hermitage museum in Saint Petersburg. The ambition isn’t so much in the size of its 2000 strong cast, or the fact it manages to cover 300 years of Russian history (making this movie truly a Russian ark), but the fact that it covers the entire length of the film in one continuous shot.
While this is definitely not a film for everyone, I found it truly engaging. We wander through time and history, almost as if a silent partner to the narrator as he reminisces, wonders and explores. Part of the fun, I found, wasn’t so much the technical achievement of this film, as well as the sets and costumes, but rather guessing at the reasons behind the main characters being there, as well as the motive of some of the characters he meets along the way. Is he really there at all? Despite having no plot and very little character this film is a sumptuous feast for the eyes.
-- Tama
Lost: the complete first season
After a horrific plane crash, 48 passengers are stranded, lost, on a seemingly deserted island in the South Pacific. The chances of rescue are slim, and this group of strangers must work together to stay alive. The island, though paradisiacal, proves itself a place of potential danger, and the survivors’ continued survival is threatened by various mysteries such as the large, unknown creature in the jungle, a locked hatch buried in the ground, and the ominous presence of the other inhabitants of the island. Eventually the characters realise it was more than just coincidence that brought them together, as they struggle to unlock the island’s secrets. At the same time, all are dealing with issues from the lives they have left behind, thus intrinsically condensing the difficulties of society in general.
Created by J.J Abrams, Lost is extremely popular and critically acclaimed. The characters are compelling and well acted, and the island setting is both beautiful and mysterious. Lost is an absolutely must see series, equal parts drama, mystery, adventure and thriller. I cannot recommend it enough.
-- Rose
Tombstone
Great film adaptation of the Wyatt Earp story featuring the famous ‘Gunfight at the OK Corral’, this film came out the year before the stodgy Kevin Costner flick Wyatt Earp and it easily eclipses that snooze-fest of a picture.
Starring the underrated Kurt Russell as Wyatt Earp, and Bill Paxton and Sam Elliot as his respective brothers Morgan and Virgil, the story concerns the arrival of the 3 brothers in the town of Tombstone and their subsequent falling a-foul of the lawless men who called themselves “The Cowboys” – drunken hooligans who shoot off their mouths as well as there pistols with little concern for anyone else and identified themselves with a red sash.
Lots of gunfights and cool swaggering dialogue, especially from Val Kilmer as the tuberculosis ridden Doc. Holliday who steals the whole film in what must be his best performance to date. Also stars Michael Biehn (Aliens, Terminator) as the fast-drawing, fearless cowboy Johnny Ringo
-- Ben
Deadwood: the complete first season
All 12 episodes of this fantastic western series are now available on DVD so you can view them at your leisure and in pristine digital presentation.
Arguably, the finest western TV series since the adaptation of Larry McMurtry’s ‘Lonesome Dove’, the story concerns a South Dakota town in the year 1876. An ex lawman named Seth Bullock (Timothy Olyphant) and his friend Sol Starr (John Hawkes) arrive in Deadwood with hopes of setting up a prosperous supplies store. Bullock is an ex Montana lawman trying to put a dark past behind him.
At the same time, the legendary gunfighter Wild Bill Hickok (Keith Carradine) also rides into town along with the foul-mouthed Calamity Jane (Robin Weigert). Hickok is approaching burn out and spends much of his time losing at poker and dodging challenges from drunk, hotheaded young cowboys keen to make a name for themselves. At the centre of this story is English Saloon owner Al Swearengen (Ian McShane), a ruthless and charismatic man who rules the town of Deadwood assisted by a few loyal henchmen. Bullock must forge some kind of alliance with Swearengen if his business is to ever get off the ground.
If you can stomach the violence and profane dialogue, you will be rewarded with one of the most richly detailed, well cast and refreshingly gritty TV series ever.
-- Ben | 
