Bitter Lake

This blog is titled house of Trivia, and although most of the subjects fall into this category, here is one film where the subject matter doesn't. This documentary, by Adam Curtis, uses a variety of footage, including war footage and even stock footage from a Russian science fiction film, to tell the story of the politics surrounding Saudi Arabia and the way that we must find a new way to address the changing world. A lot of the imagery is very harrowing and Curtis makes some very interesting points. It is a very good documentary. It's only on iplayer for a brief time so make sure that you see it while it's still there.

TV Watch: Cucumber, Banana & Tofu Episode 1

The series that Russell T Davies has had in his head since the days of The Writers Tale finally appears on screen and the first episode was certainly very good. The first show, Cucumber, focuses on the older generation and was my favourite of the trio. It was interesting to watch the character of Henry as his world collapse around him because of one date conversation. Banana focused on the younger generation and reminded me of Skins. The character of Freddie certainly reminded me a bit of Tony Stonem from that series. He's probably going to be the ideal guy that everyone wants. I also liked the little reference to HC Clements from Doctor Who, Tofu was okay, as a short documentary with a small mini drama inside of it. It's probably the least important of the three. Having said that, I'd recommend them all. It's enjoyable television and anyone should watch it. Depending on how it goes it could already be one of my favourite programs of this year.

Film Watch: The Adventures of Tintin

 

The first film I've watched in the new year is one I've wanted to see for a long while. I grew up enjoying the Tintin comics when the Funday Times (children's supplement of the Sunday Times) republished some of them in the mid 90s. I also vaguely remember the animated series, though more the imagery than the actual plots. So how did this film version measure up? Mostly very good. The effects were good. Jamie Bell made an effective Tintin. Andy Serkis was good as Captain Haddock and the Scottish accent worked well enough. The plot was standard treasure hunting stuff, drawing on several old Tintin comics, and suitable material for Spieleberg given that this kind of material was part of the inspiration for Indiana Jones. It's not the deepest film you'll ever watch, but it's an entertaining couple of hours.



 

8/10