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Entertainment

5 Reasons the Play Hamilton is a Big Deal.

July 2, 2020 by Jim Stalker

A Broadway Phenom

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s play, Hamilton, a musical based on founding father Alexander Hamilton, is a bonafide Broadway sensation. Sold out for the remainder of 2016 and the foreseeable future. Single seats sell for 3 to 10 times the ticket value (if you can find them).

Hamilton racked up more Tony nominations than any play in the history of Broadway. Hamilton was the biggest winner at the 2016 show. The buzz generated from word of mouth about this play seems limitless. Nearly all who see the almost three-hour play leave the theater converted into Hamilton zealots.

Some Questions To Ponder

  • So what’s the big deal with this play, anyway?
  • Why is Hamilton a must-see?

Three Reasons:

  • The Story. Based on Pulitzer-prize-winning author Ron Chernow’s 700 + page biography, Hamilton is not a story about kids skipping class to play rock and roll supporting a fraudulent teacher. That would be the “School of Rock” playing down the street. “Rock” is the latest re-swizzled movie-to-a-play from Andrew Lloyd Webber. Hamilton is entirely original. Miranda’s play is about a “founding father without a father” who enjoyed the company of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison and played a significant role in the formation of the American government and the economic system still in place today. It’s an unfamiliar yet essential story worth telling to an audience.
  • Smartness. At over 20K words, there is a lot to digest in Hamilton. You’ll hear ideas, personalities, family drama, and historical references peppered with relevance and humor through the songs. Listen carefully, and you can listen to hip-hop references to the Notorious B.I.G., DMX., and Big Pun. There are also storytelling homages to Harry Potter and wordplay that invokes Shakespeare. All this comes with the caveat if you’re smart enough to grasp them. I missed you so much. Later, reading up on the material, the complexity became more apparent. Nearly every line of Hamilton is thoughtful and intelligent. Every. Line. Then, with historical icons playing off against one another for over 30 years, there is a lot of ground to cover. But, get this, the time flies. You will be sad about how little time is left for this captivating theater piece.
  • Unconventional Telling.
    • Hip Hop. By winning Tony in 2008 for best musical, Miranda’s last play, “In the Heights,”  somewhat legitimized the hip-hop musical form. But, with Hamilton, hip-hop takes a giant leap to another level being both more refined and more accessible. The use of hip-hop is hardly a gimmick here. The street rhymes and rhythms are central to updating Hamilton’s story. With hip hop, it turns a dusty book off the shelf to become contemporary and hip.
    • Casting. The casting of non-whites into key roles is nothing new (see Voodoo McBeth by Orson Welles in 1936). Yet the cast of a racially diverse group of actors in the parts of Washington, Jefferson, and Hamilton seems fresh and brilliant. It works. Hamilton ascends as a story while transcending time as the political themes of two hundred years ago reverberate with today.

Two More Reasons:

  • Classic Broadway. Miranda and his team are squarely rooted in the Broadway musical form as Hamilton references Sweeney Todd, South Pacific, Les Miserable, and many other Broadway plays. The Sondheim influence is there for those who see that type of thing. And there are great moments of theater throughout the play.
    • Hamilton’s entrance.
    • The “My Shot” ensemble show stopper.
    • King George’s recurring bits.
    • The “Immigrants, we get the job done!” A line that receives rousing ovations nightly.
    • Rap battles between Jefferson and Hamilton.
    • Great melodies that rival any on Broadway in the last ten years.
    • There is also a sizeable rotating stage that enables complex choreography.
    • First and foremost, Hamilton is a great night out at the theater. It’s worth going to the city to see. It is that particular play. It never loses sight of that target.
  • America’s Zeitgeist Moment. Look, I’m a zealot and entirely in the bag for this play. I also like musicals. Hamilton, however, is more than just another musical. It’s bigger than that. It’s become, with its premiering, the first song of a rough play at the White House for President Obama, a thing. Hamilton strikes a high-wire balance between audacity and self-conscious cleverness without ever being patronizing. Hamilton is a zeitgeist moment for the theater and a moment for America.

Conclusions

I am not sure that Hamilton will convert anyone to the Broadway musical form who doesn’t like Broadway. Singing and dancing are not for everyone – even when done this well. I would also caution that the ferocity of the lyrical delivery may be too much “work” for some – especially those unfamiliar with rap. I strongly urge getting comfortable with the soundtrack before seeing the show – this way, you’ll catch more.

So pick up the Questlove-produced, Grammy-winning, original cast soundtrack in advance of putting out big money for your tickets. Listen to the words. You can thank me later.

One Last Thing

What struck me most about Hamilton?

Hamilton, in the most straightforward undeniable way,  is an easy and thrilling work of genius. And it is indisputable.

Big word, genius.

And, yes, I know there is a whole team of people who make it so. But Miranda is something special. He is something new and singular. And yeah, minor footnote, Manuel did win the MacArthur “genius” award. There is that. So, by definition, Hamilton is a work of genius!

Don’t miss this original moment of pure inspiration.

Filed Under: Entertainment, Feature 1

2019 Entertainment

July 15, 2019 by Jim Stalker

I’m always in need of at least one hour a day of entertainment. That’s 365 hours a year—a lot of programming.
While I end up kissing a lot of frogs each year and, when reporting, often state the prominent (Game of Thrones, amazing! – duh!), I do come across a few gems I’d like to share.
The caveat is these all suit my peculiar tastes, so they might not be for you. Hopefully, I have made the appropriate notations below to help you decide if they are right for you.

Best of 2019 – So Far

Chernobyl – HBO – Five Episode Mini-series. The best series of the year that will win all the awards Grammy/Golden Globe time. Painstakingly accurate, this richly detailed illumination of a fuzzy moment (for many of us) of a significant historical event is both dramatic and poignant. Not to be missed. My favorite thing of the year by far.
The Chornobyl Podcast – Each episode of the HBO series is dissected by the writer Craig Mazin and NPR’s Peter Sagal, answering all the obvious and not-so-obvious questions. Who is a composite character? How much radiation is lethal? All that and more in this great use of the podcast medium.
Veep – HBO – Seven Seasons – This vulgar series comes to a glorious end, revealing star Julie Louis-Dreyfus’s Salina Meyer as one of the most fabulous comedy creations ever. And Jonah. What can I say? Pure laugh-out-loud gold!
Toy Story 4/John Wick 3/Always Be My Maybe – It’s the year of Keanu Reeves! And wow! The Matrix icon comes to Toy Story as Duke Kaboom, brings even more firepower to John Wick, and steals a whole series with a two-scene cameo playing “himself” on the Netflix show, “Always Be My Maybe.” Now, if only those memes turn out to be true.
Conan Needs Friend Podcast – Before Conan was steamrolled into the non-mainstream TNT by Jay Leno and NBC, Conan was the most innovative and funniest man on the comedy scene. The Simpsons, Saturday Night Live, and his late-night show were no problem for the Harvard-educated lanky redhead. So, maybe you’re not one of the 56 million who saw Kevin Hart, Ice Cube, and Conan driving around LA on youtube with his CONAN clips. You should; it’s hilarious. This podcast connects him one-on-one with hilarious and exciting guests like Dana Carvey, Lin Manuel Miranda, and Howard Stern. Thoughtful and always funny.
Revisionist History Podcast – Malcolm Gladwell’s delivery is not for everyone. Still, you can’t go wrong here if you want a podcast with the highest production value and a treasure trove of thoughtful (if not riveting and compelling) topics. Best of all, four seasons if you haven’t caught any! The “Save Brian Williams” episode is a favorite.
Stranger Things – Netflix – Three Seasons – This throwback to eighties styles, music, and storytelling has been a massive success because it’s both fun and creepy. The details and creepiness get even more delicious as each season receives more money.

The Quirky Good of 2019 – So Far

Rolling Thunder – A Bob Dylan Story by Martin Scorsese – Netflix – Bob Dylan is not for everyone. Still, if there is a chance, this hazy “historically accurate” retelling of his 1975 tour is the best chance to understand his appeal. “Hurricane” is fresh and delivered with a scorching passion while Joan Baez dances the boogaloo and wins our hearts! But did KISS inspire Bob’s makeup?
Aziz Ansari Right Now – Netflix – If you are unfamiliar with the Parks and Rec/Master of None star, you might not love this one-hour stand-up as much as I did. Ansari touches on race, what’s entertainment these days, and his recent METOO allegations, all with a refreshingly sincere approach. A unique and captivating voice!
Barry – HBO – Two Seasons – Last year’s best series’ winner came back as strong as ever, with the very odd Henry Winkler and the always fascinating Anthony Carrigan as NoHo Frank, a character you’ve never seen before.
Bosch – Amazon – Five Seasons – I feel like a broken record hawking this excellent adaptation of Michael Connely’s LA-based detective fiction protagonist Harry Bosch. The production is excellent. The LA backdrop is always visually exciting and recognizable. Each season is better than the last.
Shangri-La – Showtime – Only for die-hard music fans who know who producer Rick Rubin is. A fascinating look at the creative process at a very famous Malibu recording studio.
Of course, many others have a good performance or a few good episodes here or there. Alternatively, one or two good/great seasons. Streep is fantastic in Big Little Lies, but did we need a second season? No. Same for Handmaid’s Tale. Enough already with dystopia.
The good news is more to come! Especially, in late fall, with what might be the last season of the magnificent Curb Your Enthusiasm!

Filed Under: Entertainment

Good Stuff – I’m Into

October 14, 2018 by Jim Stalker

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I thought I would share some of the good things I’ve tapped into lately.
Like most of us, I try to be deliberate and thoughtful with how I spend my time (sometimes a bit too much so). My hope here is my obsession with all this might lead to you finding a similar value in these things.
In no particular order:

Work Stuff

  • New Job – I had a great job with a great company, but, I wasn’t happy. A friend told me I should look for another job because I would get hired right away. I didn’t think this would be the case. But, guess what? That’s precisely what happened! I am now working for a fantastic company, with great people.  I couldn’t be happier where I think I can make a real difference!
  • Apple Ecosystem – After years (and many headaches) of having to manage two completely separate systems, one for work and one for home, thanks to cloud applications, and Apple, I have been able to integrate it all. Best of all, the new Home Pods in stereo sound amazing!
  • Steelcase Gesture – After twenty years, it was time to buy a new office chair. I was getting some back pain with my Steelcase Leap chair. After months of research, I landed on this one. Love it. People often get cheap with chairs and beds, not smart IMHO as so much time is spent on them.
  • Chroma Key Background – Remote workers are now spending more time than ever on video conferences, primarily when they work from home. Most have less-than-great backdrops (bad walls, bookcases, kitchens). This past year I went to the fantastic B & H Photo in NYC where their knowledgeable staff hooked me up with a camera, microphone, and backdrop.  Now I’m looking super professional and ready if the call comes from CNN.

More Work Stuff

  • Moleskine Lined 5 x 8.25 Notebooks – I don’t like whipping out the laptop (or even the iPad with the Apple pencil) during meetings. I prefer the Moleskine. I see them everywhere, and they seem classy and inoffensive to me.
  • Tul Gel Retractable Medium Point Pens – I love the feel of this pen and find medium better than fine in blue ink.  Having a good pen makes me want to write, so I always have them.
  • Tumi Logan Arrive Backpack – This total indulgence was purchased at a Tumi outlet store about four years ago and still gets comments (“hey, cute backpack). It’s small form factor and style make it a total winner.
  • Classic Business Books – Reading is always hard and so many business books today run out of steam after about thirty pages. I have found that going back to some classics has kept me interested longer, reminding me that it’s not so much the ideas that matter, but the execution. Right now I am enjoying The Effective Executive, by Peter Drucker.
  • Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs – Stuck in a hotel room near the airport, elevator, or always-cycling air conditioner? Mack’s to the rescue.

Personal Stuff

  • Self-Centered Parenting – Our son is a junior in high school, and now we’re almost at Christmas.  We are halfway through his second to last year before his going away to college. Every moment is so precious (to us), and fleeting.  So, I’ve been stepping in and “forcing” him to go out to dinner with us.  See movies (and having him drive).  We’ve also suckered him to watch a TV show with us (Jack Ryan – excellent!).  He gets annoyed by all this. Too bad. Wait, I’m going to cry.
  • Getting Things on the Calendar – If I don’t look ahead and put it on the calendar, it won’t happen.  I was delighted I put my mom’s 90th Birthday on the schedule, as I was able to spend time with my siblings and mom. That’s precious. I’ve got NCAA March Madness for the third year in a row with my brother, but that’s it. We hope to drag our boy to Europe.
  • Calling People – It started with my mom about 25 years ago. I started calling her every week, rain or shine.  Then I added my dad and the rest of my family. Today I telephone a lot of people. Human connection has never been easier to keep up. Plus, the results of actually talking to someone for years (or decades) is something not to miss!

More Personal Stuff

  • Walking Dogs – I’ve talked to others about this, and they agree, nothing like walking your dogs. I’m lucky to live in a place I can walk them year around. I walk for about 45 minutes, a little over 2 miles. The Apple Watch keeps track of the steps. What adds to the fun is I listen to…
  • Lululemon – For anyone down with stretchy pants and a hoody all day long. Nothing better when complemented with…
  • ASICS Gel Kayano – You don’t need to be a runner to appreciate these great shoes. They work fantastically with my…
  • Leather Orthodics – For someone flat-footed who has been wearing orthotics for decades, my new leather orthotics are so much a revelation I have two pairs. Support and comfort, and no blisters. Ask your podiatrist.

Entertainment

  • Podcasts – Hey, it’s old news that Podcasts can be amazing.  Despite the explosion in both listeners and content, I run across many who have never heard a podcast. Get started as the right guest on a topic you’re interested in can be the most riveting conversation. Some guests do suck, so I’ve found it best to rotate between these podcasts deciding quickly if you’re drawn to the guest:
    • WTF – Marc Maron – One of the originals who got this whole podcast thing started. There are great talks with Obama, Keith Richards, and hundreds more for up to two hours of chat.
    • Fresh Air – A billion episodes, but, Terry Gross is one of the best hosts. I check the topics and guests every week.
    • Tim Ferris Show – Tim deconstructs what successful people do which with the right guest, is riveting.
    • Revisionist History – Malcome Gladwell’s podcast only does ten episodes a year. All great.
    • The Moment with Brian Koppelman – Screenwriter/Producer. Feels like you’re in with the Hollywood writing community.
    • Gilbert Gottfried’s Amazing Colossal Podcast – A tribute to old showbiz. Gilbert and Frank’s show is something else. Danny Thomas, Ceasar Romero, Bob Hope!
    • Here’s the Thing with Alec Baldwin – I love his interviews and passion.

More Entertainment

  • The Americans – Best show Annette and I watched this past year, hands down. Maybe one of the best. A few very slight missteps, but broadly the storytelling and acting were stellar. The late 80s milieu was captured perfectly, and the ending might be the most satisfying wrap up to a serialized show yet.
  • Movies – Three movies have caught my attention this year. I’m hoping some great stuff comes during movies season.
    • Star is Born – All hail Lady Gaga. I haven’t been this mesmerized in a long, long time.
    • First Man – All hail Ryan Gosling and the incredible, realistic, claustrophobic, capsule scenes in the story of a real hero.
    • Eight Grade – Love this genre, and comedian Bo Burnham delivers.
Hope you like the list and find something you’ll try! It’s in no way exhaustive.

One More Thing

It’s not lost on me how fortunate I am in my life. Every day I get to do things I love to do, with people who are wonderful. I also get to use the best tools. Then, on top of all that, I get to take in some of the greatest entertainment ever made.
The result is I am happy 95% of the time. I wish my face could show it more, but it doesn’t. Instead, I work on my attitude. This too, sorry to say, doesn’t always hit the mark either. But, I’m getting better.
Thanks to all and see you soon!

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Filed Under: Entertainment

2018 Things to Watch

May 22, 2018 by Jim Stalker

So much content out there. I can’t even begin to digest all that is good. To save you time, here are my recommendations.
The Good Fight – (CBS all access) – If you loved the “Good Wife,” this streaming-only and hard-to-find series picks up where it left off, only without Alicia. Much of the cast returns, and a great set of new actors. Delroy Lindo, Audra McDonald, Nyambi Nyambi, and Sarah Steele are great additions. This show succeeds on so many levels. It’s brilliant; it’s funny, correctly cast, and well-acted. I love this show.
The Americans – (FX and Amazon Prime) – This show has just gotten better year after year. The current and last season might be the best yet. Double agents, multiple operations, and operators. Always moving, and who knew Felicity could be a total badass?
Silicon Valley – (HBO) – The big question was, can the series survive the departure of its breakout star T.J. Miller who played Erlich Bachman? Yes. It can. Partly because of the excellent cast and “feels authentic” set, setting, and storyline. Season 5 wasn’t the best, but it was still delicious.
John Mulaney – (Netflix) – Kid Gorgeous at Radio City – Mulaney was a writer for SNL who started making standup specials a couple of years ago. This is his best routine yet. Plus, little to no profanity.
The Wild Wild Country – (Netflix) – This six-part documentary about the overtaking of Antelope Oregon by Rajneesh and his followers in the early 1980s sounds like a snooze. Yes, it starts slow, but what a story.
Bosch – (Amazon Prime) – Micheal Connelly plotting. Edgy, worn detectives are flawlessly doing their thing in beautifully filmed LA. Ray Donovan with a bit more smarts.
Elvis Presley – (HBO) -The Searcher – This four-hour documentary about the “King” has unseen footage and the rarely heard perspective of his wife, Pricilla. If you have ever wondered what the deal is with Elvis, this provides some context.
Handmaid’s Tale – (Hulu) – Margaret Atwood’s dystopian allegory is presented with such sincerity that the disturbing nature of the story arc can go unnoticed. Dark stuff. I didn’t love this, but I could not stop watching.
City of Gold – (iTunes) – Jonathan Gold is the only food critic to win a Pulitzer. His takes on food trucks and strip mall restaurants created a new wave of foodies. An excellent documentary about him, his city, the food he loves, and his writing process.
The Zen Diaries of Garry Shandling – (HBO) – This guy was huge. He was the heir to Carson until he voluntarily turned it down. Judd Apatow’s documentary might be the best thing Judd’s ever done. Fascinating in so many ways. Love this.
Last Week Tonight with John Oliver – (HBO) – Wants some perspective on the world’s events? This show captures it all week after week. Some weeks miss the target but most hit the bullseye. Granted, many easy targets this year.
Anything you love? Let me know!

Filed Under: Entertainment, Feature 2

Things to Watch – 2017 Movie and TV Recap

January 22, 2018 by Jim Stalker

2017 – A Good Year for Movies and TV

I thought I would give some of my thoughts on what TV and movies I liked in 2017. I watch about an hour a day, 365 hours a year—a lot of programming.
Hopefully, I can help you decide whether to invest in seeing if Carrie can stop yet another terrorist attack before she loses her marbles. FYI that is the primary “Homeland” plot. Season 7 begins Feb 11. Answer – you shouldn’t.
Broadly, 2017 was excellent for both movies and TV series. There were some very satisfying original and continuing projects on both the big and little screens. I have great programs that I would like to call to your attention.
I have four guiding principles in my evaluations:

  • Did the show have excellent execution?
  • Do I like the genre?
  • Do I want a principal participant?
  • Is there something special going on that merits paying attention?

This year, I enjoyed some shows in genres I don’t like (Stranger Things and Get Out). I also revisited the series I had given up on (Peaky Blinders). Both additions were made because of strong word of mouth from friends. Keeping an open mind is essential to finding great stuff!

Consider Watching These

That’s the point of this post – get you to consider some shows you might not be aware of.
I haven’t still seen everything. Admittedly, there are some significant omissions. Some were on purpose because I wouldn’t say I like the genre (Blade Runner) or the principles involved (Phantom Thread). Others, like “The Post,” “Call Me by Your Name” and “The Shape of Water,” will all be viewed shortly. I expect them all to be on the Oscar nomination list this Tuesday.
On TV, I’m watching “The Handmaid’s Tale.” It’s compelling, but I can’t comment until I finish. I also plan to get to “This is Us,” “Fargo,” “Riverdale,” and “The Good Place.” Soon.
And there is “The Leftovers,” which ended this year. I know critics love that one. I need to see why.
So, here they are, the shows you might investigate for future viewing.

Must See Movies

  • Get Out – Part suspense, part horror, and because Key & Peele’s Jordan Peele is the writer/director – it is also a part comedy. Whatever it is, this genre-defying film is terrific, and its take on race is original.
  • Three Billboards – This dark dramedy is all about the writing that serves up an original plot laced with dark humor anchored by rich characterizations by three veteran actors (Frances McDormand, Woody Harrelson, and Sam Rockwell). Golden Globes for McDormand and Rockwell. A solid A and best picture frontrunner.
  • Lady Bird – Greta Gerwig’s coming-of-age valentine to Sacramento is sweet, insightful, and always surprising. An excellent performance by Saoirse Ronan anchors it; this directing debut by the indie-darling actress/writer signals the arrival of promising new talent. A solid A.
  • The Disaster Artist – Unexpectedly sweet and silly retelling of how “the worlds worst movie” was made. So much of this movie’s charm and the delicate balancing act employed in its telling is due primarily to a Golden Globe-winning performance by James Franco. It’s flawless. The more delicate balancing act will be Franco’s future career after recent allegations of sexual misconduct.

Should See Movies

  • Wonder Woman – I’m tired of superhero movies, but this one is mesmerizing, thanks to Gal Gadot’s heartfelt and credible performance in the lead role. This is not Linda Carter.
  • Wind River – Great sworld’slling in a rich undercovered milieu with a strong performance by Jeremy Renner. You are missed by many for no good reason.
  • John Wick 2 – Not for everyone. For those to whom this loner-badass-who-kills-em-all genre speaks, Keanu is perfect again. I find this better than the latest round of Liam Neeson vehicles.
  • Logan – I know, another superhero movie? Hugh Jackman here is extra, ordinary, making you genuinely care about the character of Wolverine. Takes the superhero genre further than any other film.
  • The Greatest Showman – The La La Land/Evan Hansen songwriters deliver memorable original tunes to showcase Hugh Jackman and director Michael Gracey in this genre-pushing musical-on-film. The film is flawed. Musicals may not be your thing. But, several numbers are breathtaking.

Must See Series

  • Game of Thrones – HBO – Epic storytelling of revenge and conquest reached incredible new heights this year with special effects that rival anything on the big screen. This series will be in the top 10 series of all time list, forever.
  • Big Little Lies – HBO – A can’t lose cast (Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Laura Dern) is at times a bit too graphic, but it always keeps you guessing in this year’s big Emmy winner.
  • Mindhunter – Netflix – Fantastic and unfamiliar terrain (the development of the science of serial murderer profiling by the FBI) brilliantly realized by A-list film director David Fincher and an excellent lead performance by Jonathan Groff.
  • Stranger Things – Netflix – Channeling of “Goonies” and 80’s-style horror films, almost speall-timeilistsies’ second season was better than first. Most of all were the shows visuals, the result of a bigger, sometimes kids’ aging might kill part of its charm in season 3. Good for us; these two seasons are already done and golden.
  • Manhunt – The Unabomber – Discovery – With the success of “People vs. OJ” expect more dramatizing history series like this one that dusts off some cobwebs going into stories we “sort of” followed. The gold here is the singularly fascinating reality of the Unabomber. A real enigma is given great context in this disturbing series.

Should See Series

  • the Curb Your Enthusiasm – HBO – Some people can’t stand Larry David. Too bad. This year’s season might be his best. Every word out of Leon’s mouth is hilarious, and the “Fatwah the Musical” threadSearchination with Lin-Manual Miranda’s two-episode arc is, well, incredible.
  • Bosch – Amazon Prime – Surprised how many haven’t seen this author-involved adaption of Micheal Connelly’s Harry Bosch novels. Now three seasons in. Titus Welliver is perfect as Bosch and the LA locations are rich with culture and atmosphere. This is my favorite genre in my famous city which may explain why it’s listed.
  • Master of None – Netflix – The first season of Aziz Ansari’s series was cute and at times sweet, but this year, he really swings for the fences and as a result ups his game as writer/director/star. What I like most is that this story requires all the episodes to tell. Great cast.
  • Ozark – Netflix – Jason Bateman is perfect in his wholly dramatic role as an accountant on the run. Plus, being chased by gangsters and Oakies for money laundering is unfamiliar. A great cast that includes Laura Linney.
  • Better Call Saul – AMC – Too quirky and slow-moving for most. What is most noteworthy is Bob Odenkirk’s relaxed performance as S, aul. Then, Breaking Bad pedigree changes to unfold may be irr some.
  • Peaky, Blinders – Netflix – Cillian Murphy’s Tommy Shelby has been an excellent lead performance by a familiar actor, usually in supporting roles. This year’s season kicks into to overdrive with menacing turns by Tom Hardy and Adrian Brody in this six-episode-a-season British series.

Docs and other notable mentions

  • Bang! The Bert Berns’ Story – What do “Twist and Shout” “Brown Eyed Girl” and “Piece of My Heart” have in common? The incomparable Bert Berns. Bern’s story is probably unfamiliar to many. This doc tells it in what I would call THE must see in music docs from 2017.
  • The Defiant Ones – HBO – Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine have impressive music stories to tell. Put them together, and, “Boom” – Beats is born, and t becomes a billionaire. Another must for music doc fans.
  • Dave Chappell – Netflix – The genius comedian returns with four Nexflix (yes, four) specials that show a storyteller in deep thought and at the top of his game. Fascinating and hilarious as he touches on OJ, #metoo, and why he left show business after the Chappel show.
  • Marvelous Mrs. Maisel – Amazon Prime – I dimust-seee this, but I’ll watch anything from Gillmore Girls creators Amy and Daniel Palladino. They completely capture the period, and Golden Gloe winner Rachel Brosnahan is fantastic in the lead role.
  • Long Strange Trip – Amazon Prime – I know some folks don’t care for the Grateful Dead (me included). I had my mind changed by this four-hour documentary. As a result of full cooperation from the band, I had new insight into their popularity and legacy in the music business.
  • Jim and Andy – Netflix – This is a documentary of how Jim Carey “got into the character” of Andy Kaufman for the movie, “Man in the Moon.” The film is strange and hard to watch, but for people like me, this is an entirely fascinating story about a train wreck that turned out successful.
  • Icarus – Netflix – What starts as a “supersize me” type of project (only with steroids and cycling) unexpectedly snowballs into a riveting documentary about Olympic doping. Timely, given Olympics are around the corner.
  • Bojack Horseman & Rick and Morty – Two similarly silly animated shows documentaries are showing from the Simpsons or Family Guy. Hilarious at times.

 

Filed Under: Entertainment, Feature 2

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – 2017 – Running out of Acts

January 8, 2017 by Jim Stalker

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Steve Perry of JourneyIn the last decade, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has become a bizarre melange of “artists” seemingly harmonized only by being in the music business at some time. Madonna, the Ramones, and last year’s questionable “long overdue” inductee Chicago are strange bedfellows.
Then again, so were Leonard Cohen and Janis Joplin – but they were natural bedfellows. Pretty rock and roll.
The general feeling from rock music watchers is whatever great intentions started the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Inductees Hall and Oates, Abba, and a slew of darlings with nary a hit or much broad exposure/appeal have tarnished whatever nobility the Hall had.

Each year, there is a scramble to find truly worthy inductees to meet the requirements of making entertaining HBO awards show.
Even this has become a challenge. Evidence of Chicago’s inability to get their schmaltzy lead singer Peter Cetera to come to collect his award and sing a hit.
With this backdrop, here are the 2017 inductees:

  • Joan Baez
  • ELO
  • Journey
  • Pearl Jam
  • Tupac Shakur
  • Yes
  • Nile Rogers – Special Award for “Musical Excellence.”

Do any of these acts belong alongside Chuck Berry, Dylan, and the Beatles? Except for Tupac, I don’t think so. I have severe reservations about all of them.
Baez and ELO aren’t Rock and Roll. Neither is Yes, but their contribution to progressive rock and influence upon other inductees is undeniable. BTW, couldn’t you have inducted them last year before founder and bassist Chris Squire passed?
I get the Nile. He’s fantastic and well-liked and inducting him solo saves the Hall of the shame of bringing in his disco band Chic who have been passed over year after year.
I get that Pearl Jam was ground-zero grunge, but they are no Nirvana. Plus, if rabid fandom is the new criterion, who’s next, Phish? Plus, anyone who saw Cameron Crowe’s documentary “Twenty” with Eddie Vedder providing a tour of his home is likely still throwing up.
Tupac was an icon and was murdered, so probably best not to comment any more on that.
That leaves Journey. Steve Perry is arguably one of rock and roll’s most remarkable voices. Their early albums were terrific explorations of progressive rock whose hallmark was virtuoso playing and good songwriting. When Perry joined, however, the band began a slow turn to bathos. Before crap like “Be Good to Yourself” and “I’ll be Alright Without You” was coming out, Journey pioneered “arena rock,” effectively walking the tightrope between rock and pop. Songs like “Wheel in the Sky” and “Separate Ways” have absolute gems and roll bona fides. But hits like “Don’t Stop Believing” and “Open Arms” are more Celine Dion anthems than rock and roll.
So what to do? How about tapping David Foster to build a new wing of the Hall, where Perry can sit alongside Cetera, Abba, Hall and Oates, Billy Joel, Madonna, and other not-yet-inducted mega-sellers like Dion and Mariah Carey? ELO might fit in there too. See, everyone can be happy.
The good news for this year is that tributes to Prince and Bowie have the potential for a great HBO show.

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