On the spur of a moment we decided to catch The Golden Compass on opening weekend.

I didn’t know much about the plot or premise of the movie beyond the blip or two I had seen on commercials, however being a news junkie I was aware of some of the buzz coming from some religious voices calling for followers to boycott the movie. Needless to say this only served to further pique my curiosity so I was anxious to check it out for myself.

The Golden Compass is very much a story in the vein of Harry Potter or The Lord of the Rings in the sense that the plot centers on a special child with a special destiny coupled with an epic journey. It was refreshing to see our hero cast as a girl but not a common stereotype of a girl but an actual person acting and behaving in gender neutral way.

The female actresses in this film are excellent and definitely take center stage. Both Nicole Kidman (Marisa Coulter) and Dakota Blue Richards, who plays the hero Lyra Belacqua, put completely believable performances. Again, the raw and human portrayal of Lyra was a refreshing change from the typical roles boys and girls too often play in movies.

I was skeptical of the overtures made in the news by the Catholic League and others but their concerns are certainly understandable after viewing the film. Of course as in any good versus bad epic such as Star Wars there is a group that encompasses and institutionalizes the evil. In the case of Star Wars it is the Empire and in the case of The Golden Compass it is the Magisterium where conformity and order and the spreading of doctrine are of the highest priority. It is difficult to avoid the overt similarities between The Magisterium and institutionalized religion. From their attire to their doctrine the references are too many to ignore. Modern mythologies all too many times make guarded and artistic references but it was refreshing to see this story being told unabashedly.

The final component of the film that I wish to describe are the ancillary characters that help draw the film together. The Polar Bears which you have undoubtedly seen are awesome. The characters are well placed, well conceived and useful to the plot. There are not too many names, places or people to keep track of which make the film easy to understand and follow although for some may make it a bit childish at times.

Part Epic Fantasy, part social commentary I found The Golden Compass to be a sometimes simple, easy to understand yet entertaining voyage.

We had some wonderful food at Milwaukee’s latest Turkish / Mediterranean restaurant Tulip. While the address indicates its at 117 N Jefferson St we found the entrance to actually be on the corner of Milwaukee St and Erie St in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward but it wasnt too hard to find and when we did it was worth it.

Our group decided to entertain 5 different dishes between us as well as try a sampler appetizer platter which included any 4 items.

Each of us found at least one of the appetizers to be our favorite with mine being the yogurt based dip. We also tried the hummus, the dolmeh and a spicy tomato based dip shown below. Only complaint here is the appetizers didnt arrive with bread so we had to drool for several minutes while they delivered some more bread to the table.

The atmosphere was very consistent with what my imagination was expecting to find at a Turkish restaurant. Deep woods furnished the establishment with bright windows delivering light and airy contrast. The walls were a bit sparse with ethnic artwork, however I expect that details may be filled in or altered as the establishment gets its footing. There was also a nice patio outside that is conveniently positioned right on the corner of the street for ample scenery.

Several dark leather couches surround a fireplace in the middle of the restaurant providing a cozy, relaxing feel to the establishment. A nice, unique touch in my opinion which sets a pleasant atmosphere.

We ended our evening by dining on several delicious dishes. I ordered the lamb shank which was covered in cooked eggplant and served in a dish of sweet tomatoe sauce. We also tried the spicy meatball plate, the lamb shoulder and the apricot chicken. Their specialty dish, Iskender, is pictured below and is served with a side of yogurt that brings out the many wonderful flavors in the dish.

The chicken with apricot was exceptional as well. I intend to have the two dishes pictured when I return next time.

Of course no Turkish dinner is complete without a Turkish coffee so make sure you give this strong potion a try after your done eating. Entree’s were priced between $14 and $17 for the most part. Our tab including drinks for 6 came to $149.00 without tip so that averaged about $35.00 per person with tip (and cocktails) for what we all would consider an excellent and unique meal.

For more photographs and discussion about Tulip, join us on our Discussion Boards.

Complete Photo Shoot: http://www.themilwaukeescene.com/photos/tulip-071707

Discuss: http://www.themilwaukeescene.com/forum/index.php/topic,3317.0.html

117 N Jefferson St
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 273-5253

by Jack Roman

Just a little bit south of the bright lights of downtown, on K.K. near Logan Street in Bay View, there is a little shop with a big reputation. The shop is Fashion Ninja boutique, and its reputation is growing as the heart of the independent fashion design community in Milwaukee.

“If I had a microphone and the world’s attention I would tell everyone about the power to make a difference in their community by buying local products,” preaches Areka Ikeler, owner and “Sensei” of Fashion Ninja boutique and the Fashion Ninja School of Sewing and Design. Her boutique and school sells the original designs from the brightest of her 500 plus total students.

Helping to spread the message of purchasing from your local community is www.FashionFlat.com, a website that exclusively features independent fashion designers. While FashionFlat is locally based, it is also larger than just the Fashion Ninja. Currently there are five designers featured on the site which serves as a unifying force amongst fashionistas both locally and nationally. In addition to Areka, of Fashion Ninja, there is Kristy Schomburg of Bill Label, Stevie of ICEBARK and Rochelle Nason of LACKA; all four from Milwaukee, and all four sell their clothes in the Fashion Ninja store. The website also features Sue Havens of Cozy Hoods, who is a designer and artist working out of Brooklyn, NY.

The name FashionFlat is actually a play on words. “The idea behind FashionFlat.com is exactly that, a flat where independent fashion lives,” says website founder Kristy Schomburg, who spends considerable time at the Fashion Ninja store and school. Through the website the ladies offer not only their individual fashion styles, but it is also a “home” for a strong community of independent designers.

Building a community of independent designers is what the website, the school and the store are all about. Areka, who has loved fashion her entire life and studied at the Mt. Mary College Fashion Design program, says there is a real passion in her students to learn and try new things. She also stresses the importance of supporting local fashion scene. “All the small shops make Milwaukee bright. Just one shop is not fun, but 40 shops make it an interesting place to shop,” says Areka. And the designers all agree.

LACKA designer, Rochelle, says small stores and websites give her the opportunity to talk to customers about why it is important to support local business as well as showcase her work. “I think it is perfect for independent designers to get their collections out there.” Rochelle got her start in fashion from a sewing machine handed down from her late grandmother. Mostly self-taught, with a few classes from Areka, Rochelle draws inspiration for LACKA from the hours she spent honing her craft.

Another former student and designer Stevie whose label ICEBARK features hand painted garments, says she likes when someone can appreciate the sweat equity it takes to make a garment. That is why she enjoys being a part of the community. “I have always been artistic, so I decided to teach myself to do design. I design and sell things that I like, thinking that if I like it maybe other people do to.”

Bill Label designer Kristy has different motivations for getting involved in fashion. She relishes the excitement of having something truly different. “It is very fun to meet these designers from all around and it’s a great way to show off what great design work is coming out of Milwaukee.” Kristy’s fashion aspirations started when she was five. She was very good at illustrating fashion, but when it came to sewing, that was a different story. With aggressive encouragement from the Areka, Kristy continued learning and designing for fashion shows, gallery night events and photo shoots.

Although FashionFlat and the Fashion Ninja boutique and school are separate, they have a unique shared identity. The designers know that there is more than just a dollar value involved. There is the value of living in, working in and supporting a community and that is what inspires them to build a place, online and in Bay View, where fashion can truly live.

Support your local designers at:
www.FashionFlat.com
www.FashionNinja.com

By Andy Zupke

Photography by: Jessica Turnbull

Upon walking into the BBC Upper Level on February 17^th, my wife and I were immediately greeted and hugged by Jayme Dawicki, who thanked us for coming, which showed us a gratitude and appreciation that is sadly uncommon among musicians.

The night started out with a folk-rock group from Madison called The Sharp and Harkins Band. It’s hard to say anything about this band, as they seemed to be “just there”. None of the band members really seemed to be enjoying performing their music, especially the bass player who kept playing octaves as if he’d recently discovered them. The band didn’t get into the music until they started playing covers. A Johnny Cash tune got a lethargic audience somewhat worked-up enough to be ready for the next band.

Jayme Dawicki Band went on next. Plagued by technical problems, the show threatened to go down-hill quickly. Luckily, Jayme Dawicki and her accompanists are true performers, and the show went on with the fun and friendly atmosphere that they’re known for. Jayme’s compositions are varied and interesting, each song changing feel and mood. Her lyrics are sometimes fun and playful, sometimes wistful. She shows influences from the great female storytellers like Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez, especially in songs like, “Jokin’ Joe, Miss Kitty, and Me” and “72 and ½ Toyota Truck”.

Her accompanists- Jordan Roepke, Dylan Brown, and Jeff Brueggeman- all shined through the set. Jordan, a mere 20 years old, is one of the most impressive guitar players in this city, and any band would be lucky to have him. The Jayme Dawicki Band creates a welcoming environment that is sure to keep the listeners coming.

The final band was Neverstatic, a reinvigorated band with a new line-up. They’re an acoustic-rock band that features two cello players giving the band a deep and dark ambience, although the sound guy didn’t really find a niche for them in the mix until the third song.

Jordan again shows his talents, this time on electric bass, with his fellow Downrazor bandmate Heath playing 12-string acoustic guitar. Their new singer Amanda has excellent stage presence, playful and bordering on flirty, with a voice to match. She blends with the band well, despite little slips into a style that may be too soulful (think Christina Aguilera). Neverstatic was highly entertaining and could definitely be placed in the “up and coming” category.

On our way out, Jayme Dawicki once again gave us a smile and thanked us for coming. It’s always nice to see musicians who understand the value of their fans, and how crucial it is for them to go home feeling like they’re part of something. This is the incredible value of local music. By supporting it, you can really feel like you’re supporting something unique that most people don’t know about, but you’ll feel good if a few more do because of you.

For more information on the Bands, Venue or Big Andy’s Milwaukee Music Support:

The Sharp and Harkins Band - http://www.myspace.com/harksharp
Jayme Dawicki Band - http://www.myspace.com/jaymedawicki
Neverstatic - http://www.myspace.com/neverstaticband
Upper Level - http://myspace.com/upperlevel
Big Andy - http://www.myspace.com/bigandybassplayer

by Jack Roman

In the weeks since the last Empress Envy Night and the end of the electronic Kamasutra there has been a tight-lipped group working on delivering the second coming to North Avenue. With the close of Mantra, an electronic music Mecca, this diverse group of people have fully revamped the location and brought a slick new concept.

With construction under a fair bit of secrecy, the rumors about what’s next for the underground spot have bounded from a “Water Street ” sports bar concept, to strip club, to talk about some new “clubby” place coming to the underground spot. To dispel some rumors and get a sneak peak, The Milwaukee Scene was invited for unprecedented access to a club still under construction.

From the designers computer generated renderings the first impression is that the space is huge, sleek and stylized. Designer and project manager Scott Genke, who’s work can be experienced at Yaffa Lounge, Redroom, and Mantra has really pushed the envelope on what you can expect in a club environment. “It’s nice to start work in a gutted space,” says Scott as he shows us the renderings of a space with three bars, two DJ booths, two entrances and two distinct layouts.

What you can expect from the staff and management is superior service. “This is a completely VIP club,” says D. Bowie entrepreneur and partner in the new hot spot. “We have really expanded the ideas about what a club experience should be.” Partners in the venture include the afore mentioned D. Bowie, Drew Deuster and JJ Kovacovich all 3 established night life regulars. Drew brings club knowledge and experience that stretches from his young day’s bartending in Florida to the present as VIP and Event Manager at CO2 Ultralounge. JJ Kovacovich has been a staple in the industry and is best known for his work at Hi Hat as well as soft-core inspired Sunday nights at Redlight.

When guests enter through the North Avenue doorway they will be greeted by a hotel concierge inspired desk area. Then as they move into the club, the left side will be known as DeepBar and will offer a warm feel to its customers. Complete with plasma screens, a billiards table and its own DJ booth, DeepBar is designed to deliver atmospheric effects as well as multi media providing the place with versatility and comfort. As Bowie describes how we were standing at the dividing line of two different spaces, he says, “So often you have a place that is a club, or a place that is a bar. This place will be both and will pull it off with exceptional confidence.” The vibe on this side will be all about being a bar seven days a week.

For the weekend scene, guests will enter on North Avenue and walk through a glass door on the right and into a space called Decibel that is comfortable, yet high energy. With a booming state-of-the-art sound system, a sophisticated lighting and visual display system, a DJ booth, two bars and a dedicated VIP lounge Decibel is where a lot of action will be. VIP’s get a raised and spacious area nestled behind the DJ booth; a great location to watch the night life from. There is also a bar, the third in the club, dedicated to VIP patrons. The second entrance on Kenilworth will continue to be VIP access and leads directly into Decibel’s VIP lounge.

Other interesting features of the club will be a few new bathrooms that will service the DeepBar area as well as the elegant geometry of the bars, DJ booths and dance floor. The original capacity of the space was in the vicinity of 320 but with the restructuring of the space and addition of more bathrooms the capacity is expected to be greater than that of Mantra. LCDs, projectors, vivid colors and fabrics selection and media art will be a big part of the environment. According to the team, guests can expect to experience a fully multimedia capable lounge and club where anything is possible.

So what about Mantra Lounge? Who gets the neon sign outside? The group is not sure yet. Perhaps a party will decide its fate. What about the artifacts and details that delivered much of Mantra’s charm? Some those mementos will be used to decorate the back office. Decibel won’t remind you of anything else in the city we’re assured. Everyone involved has taken great care to provide a unique identity to the new project. Will any of the familiar employees be returning to staff Decibel? Drew recognizes that part of Mantras success was due to an excellent staff and will be the first to be considered for opportunities when the doors open.

Oh ya – when will the doors open? In April, Deuster says will a smile.

The team says they want to lead the next generation of nightlife in Milwaukee and we agree they can from the glimpse we’ve seen of Decibel. Best Wishes.

Stay up to date and find out more at The Milwaukee Scene and at:

http://www.decibelmke.com
http://myspace.com/decibelmke

by: Jack Roman

Old Blue Eyes got it right when he said, “A simple I love you means more than money.” And that’s what Valentine’s Day is all about, creative ways to say I love you with out getting caught up in the over hyped commercialism of it all. For this first edition of The Blue Print I sat down with Ben Christiansen of Waterford Wine Company, and Danielle Gray and Libby Mast of Miss Groove and Miss Groove Intimates to offer up some low maintenance ideas that will make your valentine’s heart melt.

Day-time Romance

Many women say that anticipation is the most essential part of having a romantic night. Even in 2007 nothing will make a woman anticipate seeing you like getting fresh flowers at work. It’s not just the gesture, or the fact that women love gifts, but also because the other women in the office will talk about what a great guy you must be. While red roses are the traditional for love, try a different color, white or yellow ones are just as stunning. Or ask your florist to come up with a custom arrangement, something that includes your woman’s favorite flowers.

Pre-Dinner Romance

It’s time to have a few moments before you rush out to that romantic dinner. A perfect way to unwind is with some champagne and some chocolate. Ben Christiansen, an expert sommelier, says that nothing that can relax you and inspire candle light romance like champagne. He suggests a Rene Geoffroy Selectionee, describing it as, “A floral, rich and rounded wine. Like a million simple pleasures or a slight kiss in a glass.” A little champagne will definitely do the trick in getting your heart in the mood, he says. When she comes home from work meet her at the door with a glass of bubbly, some quality dark chocolate and a neck massage. Just a few intimate moments early on will go a long way later in the night.

Romantic Dinner

Even for food lovers, this is sometimes the most mundane part of Valentine’s Day. It’s expected that you will make reservations for “the best table in the house” at the swankiest restaurant in town. But that does not have to be the case. Instead, try a restaurant that she wouldn’t expect on a special occasion. For romance, some of the favorites were a back table at Good Life, an oversized booth in the bar of The Knick, or the incredible downtown view that Roots Cellar offers. What’s important is to think differently about needing to have to go to the busiest, newest, or most expensive place in town, just because it is Valentine’s Day.

Evening Romance

Everyone agrees that waiting until after the night has wound down to exchange gifts is a great way to keep her excited throughout the night. When you get back home she will be anticipating some things. Libby and Danielle say that lingerie should certainly be on that list of “some things.” “Maybe a comfortable two piece boy short and top is a good start,” says Danielle, “Or the I Love You Bag, which has panties that say those magic words in seven different languages.”

Either way she says that women love lingerie and getting her something that is sexy, flirty or fun is a good way to go.

Guys, no matter how you handle Valentine’s Day it is important to remember that it is a special day to recognize and appreciate your most meaningful relationships. Libby sums it up best as, “The best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is expressing your love in an unexpected way. I think that’s what every girl wants.”

Adam the Tree is the Midwest’s best kept secret. Straight from the Northwoods, Adam has become not only an inspiring DJ, but also an originally creative producer. His original track selection, flawless sets and smooth blend of tribal and progressive sounds keep the body moving. Adam’s own sound has grown along with him over the years and his original tracks have an indescribable uniqueness to them that grabs your attention and doesn’t let go.

Since he first heard those pulsating beats radiating from the speakers, electronic music has become his life, his love, his obsession. Because of that rising passion Adam started DJing in 2001 and has since played hundreds of shows across the Midwest.

In 2006 Adam released this first original EP, The Seed EP This EP included five of Adam’s originally produced tracks. Since promotion began for this release he has received amazing great feedback on the EP. The first track on the album, Slow Seduction was nominated for a Madison Area Music Award in 2006 for the category of best electronic song. This same track was also added the Belladonna Records Summer Compilation Album.

2007 will prove to be a busy year for Adam the Tree. Recently married, Adam became a daddy to the “Little Tree.” This new life changed Adam’s musical career as he spends most of his free time in his newly formed studio producing track after track. Later this year he will be releasing another track on Ambersound Records. He also will be spinning at the next StudioGangsta event in Stevens Point on Saturday February 24.

This is a brief look into the life of Adam the Tree.

For any more information, music or video clips visit him at:

http://www.adamthetree.com
http://myspace.com/adamthetree

By Jack Roman

When you look through John Knappe’s book, In Between the Sheets Vol. 1, you see things exactly for what they are. You get raw urban photography. There is the myriad of human experience; soul, sex, violence, love, humor, music, movement, innocence and humility. In the faces you see scenes of, hunger, reconstruction, renaissance, power and redemption. The most interesting thing, perhaps what makes it art, is that just looking at the photos, simply by examining them from wherever you are, you feel like a crucial element of the scene.

I have met John Knappe many times and the thing I remember most is that he is cool to it all. He was forthcoming about offering advice for the novice photographer, “It’s the heart that you put into the photograph that counts, not the equipment.”
With no hype at all, he’ll tell you he’s just a regular guy who will dive head first into a plate of chicken wings. He also talks about finding his roots everywhere from the streetscapes of Milwaukee, to the sun kissed states west of the Rockies, to the sweltering heat south of the Mason-Dixon Line. How does he sum up all that traveling? “I live in a culturally diverse atmosphere. I love it for the experiences I gained.”

The one thing Knappe doesn’t have a cool response to is his work. He says that what some people call simple pictures is his one true love; his addiction even. This is evident by the feverishly hand-written five page manuscript that is the answer to the questions I sent him prior to our meeting.

John Knappe is a photographer and is best summed up like his life’s work. As a truthful snapshot of all things just the way they are.

Here is John Knappe’s take on his life’s work.

Q: So you just finished up a show at Moct, and you are highlighted at CO2 right now with your work on display, plus gallery night is coming up. What do you think about all that; just doing shows and “being” John Knappe the artist?

A: “I’ve done about 20-some shows and they usually turn out pretty well. You just have to stay on top of your business when it comes to dealing with promoters and stuff. Most are pretty cool, but some are shady. I’ve been lucky to have good relationships throughout almost all of my shows. But there are a couple horror stories.”

Q: Why do you choose the people you highlight in your book? What do you look for in a subject?

A: “A lot of people will hate me for saying this, but everyday clients bring to the table a reality that trained models have lost. I enjoy the challenge. I enjoy someone who doesn’t think they always know what is best, but who can still offer ideas.”

Q: What do you love about being a photographer?

A: “I love being able to portray people as they can’t see themselves, or bringing out the things that they hide from other people. The honesty that can come through in a photo can last forever. That’s what I do this for, to make photos that people look at later and say, “You know that photo…”

Q: What is the motivation for your work?

A: “The motivation for my work comes from the reactions I get from it. When
someone is in awe from seeing a vision they didn’t think could exist, it lights me
up.”

Q: Who are your inspirations as an artist?

A: “I thumb through books of people I won’t mention. I don’t want to emulate anyone else, or look at their work long enough to subconsciously consider doing it. My real inspiration are living working small business owners who work for and
earn their respect. [They] swallow their pride to do what they love for a living.”

Q: Where do you think you fit into Milwaukee’s art scene?

A: “Not to sound like I don’t care, but be yourself and if people still like you [regardless] of what other [artists] think about you then that’s cool.”

“I feel like once I concern myself with the “arts scene” I pigeon hole myself into what others think I should be. If you do what you want, how you want, and people like it, you will persevere through a scene because you will be able to create work that people like. Artists are disposable. People want what they want, and they hire you or buy your work because it is what they want.”

Q: What about your education. Did you go to school for photography?

A: “I declined a scholarship. I have immersed myself in this art for 13 years. I pretty much breathe it. Love what you do, learn what you can and fine tune it. Ambition is better than any school.”

Q: Do you feel like you are an influence on people?

A: “I feel like once a person looks at himself like an influence he begins to decline. I feel honored to be here and to have turned a lot of people on to photography, but I can’t be arrogant to say that I am some kind of a huge influence, especially on the world.”

Q: Any big plans on the horizon.

A: “Always. I just don’t talk about them.”

You can talk to Knappe himself and see his work on display at CO2 Ultralounge.

http://www.myspace.com/johnknappedotcom

by Jack Roman

To help make you a legend for throwing your first New Year’s Eve cocktail party, here is a “professional” board of experts. The combined knowledge here includes Jack, with 13 years specializing in event planning and hosting, Dan who has spent over 10 years preparing some of the best dishes at top restaurants, and a 23 year old harlot, Kristen, who loves to party and has the photos to prove it. The only way to blow this shindig is if you don’t make it to the club by 12 midnight; but you can handle that on your own, right?

The Drinks

As a group we decided that any legendary party is a classy party, so you will want to focus on the basics. Get a couple of premium vodkas, like Kettle One, Stolichnaya or Grey Goose. A premium gin, like Bombay goes very well with New Year’s cheer. And lastly, one highly coveted bottle of Scotch, something like the Glenmorangie. There are better scotches out there, but this one is bad enough for everyone to like.

If you’re expecting wine drinkers, you should have at least one bottle of Fat Bastard Red, a Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio and several bottles of Martini and Rossi champagne on hand. If you expect Diddy or Fiddy Cent to show up, you will have to drop the $275 on the Louis Roederer Cristal from East Point Pick n’ Save. However, all your going to find in Milwaukee is 1998-2000, the ones preferred by your average hip-hop mogul date back to 1997 and 1995, so expect some disappointment there.

When it comes to mixers, rely heavily on anything that will turn your drink some shade of rose. Namely, cranberry juice. Remember the Cosmopolitan, with the help of four chics from New York, kick started the American martini revolution. Also keep tonic, pineapple juice, club soda, cola and a selection of Press Cocktail Sodas on hand. These will make your guests think that you’ve done this before. Have OJ and white cranberry juice cocktail out of the refrigerator and in a decanter and they’ll know you’re a pro.

The Food

If you’re going to liquor them up in a classy way you have to keep them fed in the same manner. Chef Dan says to ditch the potluck idea, and go over to Metro Mart. “For 10-15 people invest a Grant, $50 for you people who don’t see them too often, in a cheese and vegetable platter, sausage platter and shrimp cocktail platter. Now wrench another fifty out of your wallet and drop it on chicken satay skewers, a vegetarian pasta salad, some cheesy spinach dip and French bread.” These are the basics and really all you need to have.

Want to make it special? Dan says to get couple pounds of beef tenderloin, some charcoal and some cooking skills. Then prepare a spread of medium-rare grilled filet topped with Gruyere cheese and a balsamic reduction dipping sauce. Serve them cut into small squares with beef under cheese and use black plastic picks stuck through them as the handle. “You just know these wont last long, but it’s only the late comers who will suffer the consequence.” Which ever way you go with food, don’t forget a fresh holiday cake, German chocolate should suffice.

The Scene

“Women love parties. Men just love to drink.” Keep that in mind, Kristen says, when you start inviting people. “You want to tilt the percentages toward more ladies than men and at least as many singles as couples. This will ensure every one has fun and that they keep telling stories about your party throughout the year.”

We all agreed on a dress code. After all, it is New Year’s Eve! While prom dresses should have been burned years ago, an evening dress for ladies and a button down, clean shoes, slacks and a tie for guys and creates a good look for those late night photos. Otherwise, don the latest in fashion forward gear including a velvet jacket, aviator sunglasses at night, and/or 80’s inspired garb.

Kristen also says to focus on decoration. “If it’s a New Year’s party, make it festive; get the black plates and plastic cocktail glasses; some flowers and make creative use of tinsel. And to round it out, low lights and good music.” Also, make sure you have plenty of disposable cameras laying around, in addition to the host’s digital camera. There’s no better invite for next years party then some photographic reminders of the debauchery of the previous year’s event.

-Jack Roman

Make no mistake about it - Mel Gibson’s Apocalypto is a snuff flick from beginning to end. The movie begins with the brutal hunt and slaying of a wild pig and continues the blood letting up until the very end. With that said, Mel Gibson does a great job, just as he did with Passion of the Christ, of creating realistic cinema about ancient times, ancient cultures and distant lands. No one does it better.

Mel Gibsons fixation with over-the-top expressions of brutality are no less evident in this film as they were in The Passion but just as in The Passion the entire story comes off entirely realistic and believable. Truth be told, Mel probably overplays the ‘joy’ and underplays the brutality, but I’m not sure most will appreciate his efforts to make the story palatable.

Fundamentally Apocalypto is the best “Rocky” movie you will ever see. Its the story of a small tribe of indigenous south americans who are over-run by a “modern”, organized military machine (remind you of any one?) and then sold into slavery and sacraficed at the alter.

Essentially one character (our hero/Jesus figure) after being injured, manages to make it into the forest where a hunting party chases him on his way back to help his wife and child who he has hidden. This is where the story gets interesting but unfortunately its only in the last 3rd of the movie do things go from chillingly grotesque to exciting.

I give this movie 3 out of 4 stars - mainly because Mel does such a great job of recreating a setting and his hero is truly admirable. There are lots of socio-political overtones in this movie that are valid even today but I’m sure I will have to see it one or two more times to grasp them all.

If you have a stomach for Mel Gibsons sense of reality and mythology then I think you will find this movie engaging and entertaining. If you are, however, looking for a pleasant Saturday afternoon at the movies, you may want to choose something different.

Read Slate’s Review Here:

http://www.slate.com/id/2155107/fr/rss/