The Filtered Excellence: May 17, 2012
Bob Geldof once asked us, “Where is the filtered excellence!?” Its right here. Here are this weeks picks of what to WATCH, what to DO what to TRY what to READ what to LISTEN TO and more:
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WATCH THIS:
Elena. Be on the lookout for Zeitgeist Films’ Elena, out now (May 16th) in limited release. A tense and engrossing Russian thriller, the film has been winning awards in the European film festivals. A normally shy and hesitant housewife, Elena must take matters into her own hands when the fate of her future inheritance falls into question, after an unforeseen health crisis strikes her cold and distant second husband. A risky plot is concocted and a compelling film unfolds in film noir style; it’s study in depravity, desperation, and human psychology. Also notable, the film boasts a score by renowned composer Phillip Glass, heightening the film’s feeling of suspense.
My Perestroika. Another Russian film , this one documentary about the last Russian children raised behind the Iron Curtain. They now tell their story about the shock of sudden change and the confusion , excitement and chaos that took place when Punk Rock , dance and free expression were introduced to kids raised on a Russian propaganda . Now available on DVD.
Saturday Night Live Season Finale. Mick Jagger , the biggest living Rock Star in the world is hosting without the Rolling Stones, so Mick has brought in some heavy hitters. Arcade Fire, Foo Fighters and guitar hero Jeff Beck and hopes are large that this show will become a musical blow out. It’s also the Swan song for some of SNL’s recent big names . Wiig, Samberg and Sudeikis have been reported to be leaving, so look for them to shoot for some memorable moments and big tears to end the night.
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LISTEN TO THIS
Heroes by Willie Nelson. Remember that sweet Chipotle commercial from the Super Bowl featuring Willie Nelson’s cover of Coldplay’s The Scientist? The song is actually the last track on The Redheaded Stranger’s latest album (just released May 15th) and though it’s the closer, it’s an excellent example of the type of Willie album that the listener can expect to hear; it’s all in Willie’s interpretation. Heroes is a composite blend of cover songs, collaborations with his son Lukas Nelson, as well as a smattering of some new songs. Standout tracks are Willie’s cover of Pearl Jam’s Just Breathe, and as already mentioned, his heart-tugging rendition of Coldplay’s The Scientist.
Shape Shifter by Carlos Santana. Santana is back with an almost entirely instrumental album that is dedicated to Native American Indians. The title song channels American Indian Spirits and features some traditional tribal chanting. Carlos Santana is a true American original who has fused Latin American music with Jazz fusion with Rock. This is his 36th album and with the recent lost of some many great musicians of the rock era , we had better cherish this music while we still have it.
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DO THIS
Wes Anderson’s Worlds at The Musuem Of The Moving Image. With his new film, Moonrise Kingdom about to hit theaters on May 25th, The Musuem Of The Moving Image will be screening all of his films from May 18th through May 26th. As an added bonus, there will be video introductions by Anderson for each film. This retrospective will also include a screening of the Orson Welles’ The Magnificent Ambersons, the film that inspired Anderson to become a filmmaker. If you are a member or become a member of The Museum Of The Moving Image, you’ll be able to see an advance screening of Moonrise Kingdom on Tuesday, May 22nd. If you’re a fan of Wes Anderson, this is a great chance to see all of his unique and captivating films on the big screen again. If you’re not familiar with Wes Anderson, this retrospective will make you one.
Loudon Wainwright III in Concert. The Town Hall May 18th. Insightful, witty, and undeniably brilliant, Loudon Wainwright III will be at Town Hall in New York in support of his album Older Than My Old Man. The new album doesn’t shy away from topics such as death, parenthood and aging, but be assured that you’ll get a ton of classic material to balance it out. It will also be a family affair: Rufus, Martha, Lucy and Lexie are scheduled to make appearances as well as the one and only Ramblin’ Jack Elliot. A perfect opportunity to hear the matriarch of one of the musical families.
New York Uke Fest. If you love playing or listening to the ukulele (and who doesn’t?) then cancel your plans for June 7th through the 10th and head for New York City. There will be films, dance, a ton of music and even a Luau in Central Park.
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BROWSE THIS
Penn Radio Archives. Is it late at night and you have nothing to do? Stop looking at videos of people drinking absurd amounts of tequila and go check out the amazing archive of Penn Jillette’s radio show, Penn Radio from Episode 1 in January 2006 through Episode 288 a year later. Be entertained and educated at the very same time. That’s magic.
Jeffrey Stockbridge. This photojournalist has been chronicling the lives and stories of the residents and dwellers of Kensington Avenue in Philadelphia since 2008. The Philadelphia-based photographer had originally intended the focus of the project to feature the interiors of abandoned houses throughout the city, but would eventually reshape the piece as he became inspired by a new narrative and environment. Great concept, great story, and some really incredible shots of the city and some of its survivors up in the BadLands.
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