An Empty Glass

I propose this maxim after spending yesterday and today working outside under a harsh sun: 


"Give the son an axe, a shovel, a trowel, and a chainsaw and he will do hard work." 


When you're faced with stump removal in climates upward to ninety-five to one-hundred plus degrees, the likelihood of accomplishing any work slightly diminishes minute-by-minute. In the same event, if your tools consist of any of the above mentioned, weather be damned. Negotiating with foliage remnants with extreme prejudice (and by that, I mean a gas-powered chainsaw)just becomes so f*cking awesome. We've all come across the moment in Doom 3 when we finally get our hands on the coveted Bucky chainsaw. Toss those cheat codes in and the game becomes a downward roller coaster ride of demonic pacification. Years after tearing through Hell's hordes with my precious saw, I put those skills to good use. Of course, maniacal laughter becomes a must whilst sawing through organic material......don't take that out of context. This isn't a murderous declaration of intent. Just a factual account of a first-time chainsaw experience. 


Now, as to matters pertaining the entertainment society, this week's box office release were a handful of hit-and-misses. That's My Boy and Rock of Ages released today amidst a sea of negativity. While I've not the chance to view either film, these come down to preference. Sandler fans will flock while true fans of his earlier works might turn a blind eye. As for a rock-and-roll themed musical, I honestly can't and won't say anything against until a viewing has occurred. Granted, Detroit Rock City wasn't a musical and focused on one primary band (KISS, of course), I feel like this can act as a decent basis to judge Rock of Ages. Think about it: you have two groups. One maintains a deep appreciation for the music while another protests against it. Both sides encounter each other at some point in the film to exchange ideals. I can only go so far until actually seeing the movie which will most likely occur given the film's ensemble cast. 


Next week carries some boastful entries all releasing 22 June. 


1) Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter
2) Pixar's Brave 
3) Seeking a Friend for the End of the World
4) To Rome with Love 


All four equally deserve serious attention. Hopefully, I can score a second day off and enjoy a movie marathon. There's one film in particular, Safety not Guaranteed, that slipped under the radar last week. Naturally, most independent films appear at Sundance, Cannes, or the Indie Film Fest, but rarely make it to a nation-wide release. Hell, I haven't even seen the damn trailer to this, but I'd be willing to drive as far as Austin if it meant a chance to view (keep in mind, I live in Lewisville. We're talking a five-six-seven hour drive). This point I cannot stress enough. Appreciate the effort of indie filmmakers and their contributions. These genius minds strive to support traditional methods of filmmaking by removing audience expectations like ridiculous explosions or unnecessary action. Instead, they focus on plot developments, character building, and a thoroughly satisfying denouement. Intrigue behind these films becomes almost instant. Words can be spoken in whisper, yet news of these cinematic art pieces will sneak out into the public. 


UPDATE: Only two theatres in the Dallas/Ft Worth area have showings. Cinemark in Plano and the Angelika Theatre in Dallas. This is like The Artist all over again. Damn you, limited release films!!!!!!!!! You draw me in, yet don't let me see you!!!!!!! If a theatre nearby has showings, don't pass this up. Don't ignore my pleas. And certainly, don't spoil the film until I've seen it. 


In other news, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows will fall into my hands very soon. We'll see how the master detective fairs on blu-ray/digital download. Alternate scenes would be interesting. 


Thus ends a film nut's discussion. 


An empty glass.


A vacant space.


An empty glass.


Number nine- Turn your favorite film into a novel adaptation or vice versa. Go nuts with the ideas. 


Jonesy signing off.