Why are humans so fascinated by talking animals? Or animals that wear clothes, go to work, read the newspaper…you know, all those things that humans usually do?

I’ll leave that as a larger philosophical question.  But it sure helps make Fantastic Mr. Fox absolutely delightful.

Mr. Fox (voiced by George Clooney) is the epitome of the slightly-unsatisfied middle class.  He has a steady job as a newspaper columnist, a beautiful and devoted wife and a son.  He lives in a well-appointed den (i.e. a hole in the ground).  Yet he wants more.

The job is a compromise; he promised Mrs. Fox he’d give up burgling fowl (chickens, squab, etc) prior to the birth of their son.  He still longs for the thrill of the hunt, but tries to keep this animal instinct in check.  And his son…is not quite the chip off the old tail Fox imagined.  Ash (voiced by Jason Schwartzman) is a comic-book reading, cape-wearing adolescent fox that fancies himself an athlete, but really isn’t all that good at sports (according to Coach Skip).

Mr. Fox needs something to add a little zing to his life, so he buys a new home – a den in a tree.  Notably, this tree overlooks the three biggest farms in the region.  Fox gets a gleam in his eye for one last heist (albeit a three-part mission).  Of course he has to make all the burglary plans secretly, with only opossum handyman Kylie as his confidant and partner in crime.

This ‘one last mission’ has some unintended consequences for Fox, his family and the animal community as a whole.  They are forced to shed the trappings of humanization and revert, in part, to their animal natures, leading to a man vs. woodland wild showdown that is absolutely fantastic.

Yet never for a minute does Fantastic Mr. Fox feel like anything except a Wes Anderson film, despite the furry characters.  Everything from the music (well done by Alexandre Desplat) to the (humanized) personalities of the animals is very consistent with the rest of his work.  The kids are oddballs – whether it is Ash in his delusions of athletic grandeur or visiting cousin Kristofferson spending hours meditating and oblivious to what a perfect specimen he is.  The adults (mostly Mr. Fox) are reaching for self-actualizing greatness. However, there is still that element of underlying, unescapable animal nature (particularly at mealtime).

The movie kind of feels like Moonrise Kingdom meets Disney classic The Adventures of Mr. Toad, with elements of The Darjeeling Limited and Bottle Rocket thrown in for flavor.  The expected Anderson company players make vocal appearances as well, such as Willem Dafoe as Rat and Bill Murray as Badger.

What really makes this movie magical and truly brings the anthropomorphized animals to life is the level of detail in the puppets.  You can see the individually knitted stitches on Rat’s sweater. Foxy eyes fill up with tears during moments of sadness and regret.  The jugs of alcoholic apple cider look ready to pour and enjoy and the flaming pinecones are fearsome in their own right.

If you:

• Are a fan of Wes Anderson films
• Can identify with being that kid who is a little different
• Find modified profanity quite humorous (“What the cuss are you doing?!?”)

Put it in the queue.

However, if you:

• Think movies about talking animals are just for kids
• Are completely existentially satisfied
• Don’t care for movies based on books by Roald Dahl

Don’t put it in the queue.

Could we cram a few more clichés in there? How about an emotionally distant, strict, traditionally masculine father? Oh, we got that one? Sweet. Can we pair him with a sympathetic but powerless mother? Okay, good. And, let’s see… a really shallow sister who can’t stand her brother because he’s so, like, whatever? Okay, sounds like we’re all set.

The film reveals Norman’s gift in a pretty clever way, having him watch TV with his grandmother, who it turns out has been dead for quite some time. It’s a very understated way of going about it. We then see him happily greeting people on the street that no one else can see. Most of his encounters with ghosts are of this nature.

Things take a dramatic turn, however, when Norman’s uncle passes away and he inherits the responsibility of protecting the town from a witch’s curse. This is actually when things start to get interesting. Norman decides that the solution that has been used for the past few hundred years isn’t good enough, and that he needs to do something that “no one else has done before.”

Actually, the entire sequence with Norman facing the witch is brilliantly animated, and heightened by an effective soundtrack. Norman makes good on his promise to do something “no one else has ever done before,” breaking the cycle of misery and demonstrating incredible empathy and maturity in the process.

This film successfully avoids becoming buried under all the clichés it sets itself up for by taking those cliches and making something new out of them. Ultimately, this film ends up having interesting things to say about themes like tolerance, being yourself, and all that familiar touchy-feely stuff.

Honestly? I was perhaps expecting a bit more from something that quite a few people were calling the best animated feature of the year (2012, that is). But it was smart, charming, well-written, well-animated… well-everythinged. While it may not be busting into the canon of animated features (but consider the exceptional quality that already exists there), I have no problem recommending it.

     Frankenweenie is a sparky little tale telling the story of Victor Frankenstein, a typical Burtonesque protagonist, and his loveable pet dog, Sparky. After the playful pooch falls prey to a fatal accident, leaving him dead and buried on top of a sinister hill, Victor attempts to reanimate his corpse in typical Frankenstein fashion, turning the charming children’s story into another brilliant Burton genre mashup of horror, comedy, fantasy and science fiction.

Unlike Burton’s previous few films, Frankenweenie returns to his roots of a love for Hammer House horror movies, and doing so in what can only be described as an elegant, nightmarish encounter with the  hauntingly imaginative mind of Tim Burton. The German Expressionist elements are boldly evident throughout the film, from the stark contrasts in lighting, to the ghoulish shadows reminiscent of F.W. Murnau’s Nosferatu (1922), extending to the characters clad in Expressionist fashion. Similarly, Frankenweenie is very postmodern in relation to its intertextual references, not only to Burton’s homage to the old horror movies that the ingenious director watched growing up, going so far as to mimic the look of those films by filming the animation in black and white, but likewise to his own movies. The glasses Vincent is wearing in the above left image for instance, when worn, is reminiscent of Willy Wonka in Charlie And The Chocolate Factory (2005).

The genius behind the film itself, Tim Burton, originally directed Frankenweenie as a live-action short film way back in 1984 before he was made famous for films such as Edward Scissorhands (1990), Batman (1989) and Beetlejuice (1988). The inter-textual reference could not be more
clear, transforming Frankenweenie into a delightful pastiche, introducing the classic movies that inspired Burton’s latest animated feature to a new generation.

The dvd unfortunately has a disappointing lack of special features, containing only a promotional Frankenweenie music video by Plain White T’s and a look at the touring exhibit that provided cinephiles worldwide with a glimpse of the props from the film. For a Disney children’s film, the dvd is lacking in its bonus content. The blu ray edition however does contain the original live-action Frankenweenie short, alongside the original short Captain Sparky vs the Flying Saucers, and a look at animating the minute figurines in Miniatures in Motion: Bringing Frankenweenie To Life.

So if you are looking to buy the dvd primarily to catch a glimpse of the behind the scenes of the film, then blu ray is the way forward. Nevertheless, there is a significant lack of bonus features on both formats, even surprisingly excluding the trailer.
However, Frankenweenie was a brilliant film, being nominated for various ‘best animated feature’ awards including a nomination at last night’s Oscars, and so if you are a fan of classic horror movies, Tim Burton, or animated features, then Frankenweenie is an unmissable film of the past year.

The Frankenweenie (region 2) dvd is out and available to buy now.

Congratulations to the ‘Brave’ team for taking home the Oscar tonight! The other nominees in the category included ‘Wreck it Ralph’, ‘Frankenweenie’, ‘The Pirates! Band of Misfits’, and ‘ParaNorman’. This makes the 7th win for Pixar since the category started in 2002, meaning they have dominated the category. It’s to be expected though. Tonight at the Oscars viewing party I attended, many of my friends agreed that Pixar doesn’t mess around with their movies, and with a Pixar movie in the category, a win is to be expected. I must also say that ‘Brave’ holds a very deep grasp to my heart, with such an incredible mother/daughter storyline. After watching it, I  immediately called  my mother just to tell her I loved her.  Nights like tonight make me proud to be a Pixar fan.

Persepolis (France)

In 2007, Iranian graphic novelist and author Marjane Satrapi worked with French comic artist Vincent Paronnaud to adapt her 2000 autobiographic graphic novel Persepolis into an animated film. The resulting film is at once moving, funny, educating, and artistically innovative. With the backdrops of the Iranian protests against the US-backed Shah, the Iranian Revolution, and the Iran-Iraq war, Persepolis tells the story of a young girl coming of age.

In addition to the usual childhood and young adult struggles of love, rebellion, and friendship, the film follows Marji as she grapples with political and social oppression, the unappreciated privilege of others during her time studying abroad in Vienna, and her identity as an Iranian. For many Western viewers, Persepolis will offer a shocking and completely new perspective on Iran, a country generally portrayed by our media and government as villainous and entirely antithetical to the West. In that context, it can be hard to remember that a country’s government and laws oftentimes don’t reflect the people who live there. Persepolis offers a humanising look at life in Iran and serves as a reminder that humans have much more in common than that which sets us apart.

Wings of Desire (West Germany)

First introduced to Wim Wenders’ 1987 classic as a child, I most certainly didn’t understand its beautiful complexities. Later, I re-watched Wings of Desire while studying in Düsseldorf. The film follows a group of angels living in Berlin. Though the angels can see and hear the thoughts of the troubled mortals, the Berliners cannot see the angels. One such angel, played by Bruno Ganz, decides to give up his immortality for the love of a trapeze artist.

Suddenly he can see, feel, taste, and fully experience the human condition in all its beauty and pain. The German film was so popular that it was later remade into a thoroughly awful Hollywood film starring Nicholas Cage and Meg Ryan. Lacking all of the complexity and cinematic creativity (Wings of Desire was shot both in sepia tone and color), City of Angels was remarkably forgettable. Perhaps my favourite aspect of Wings of Desire is the atypical treatment of the love story – it’s not the central focus of the film, but rather a small part of the angel’s journey.

Bicycle Thieves (Italy)

Italian neorealism made a tremendous impact on the ways movies can be made. In some ways the tradition was born out of necessity: filmmakers in the late 1940s and 1950s working in postwar countries simply had no access to funds for studio sets, professional equipment, and actor price tags. Instead, filmmakers like Vittorio De Sica, Roberto Rossellini, and Luchino Visconti took to the actual streets of Italian cities, filming non-professional actors in real-life locations.

De Sica’s Bicycle Thieves, often the primary example of Italian neorealism, tells the story of a poor man who obtains a job pasting film posters all over Rome. In order to accept the job, his wife pawns some bed linen in order to buy back his bicycle. On his first day of work, his bicycle gets stolen, and he spends the rest of the film trying to get it back.

What came out of (or perhaps coincided with) these budgetary restrictions was the urge to tell real stories of real people dealing with real struggles. And so, the films of the Italian neorealist movement dealt with tales of poverty, under-representation, and the struggles of postwar life. Additionally, the movement paved the way for independent filmmakers such as John Cassavetes in America and Satyajit Ray in India.

I didn’t like ParaNorman.  Though none of the themes it sets up, such as:

• being bullied at school
• not being accepted by friends/family for aspects of yourself you can’t control
• dealing with unwanted genetic traits (in this case, ability to see/speak to ghosts)
• the majority (or at least those with power) are not always right
• people can be cruel

…are necessarily inappropriate to address, I didn’t feel like the film would be a good way to get the conversations to foster solutions going. Perhaps I was just in the wrong mood to watch the film.

Here’s a synopsis so you can judge for yourself.

Norman is a kid – maybe around 12 or so – who sees ghosts.  It doesn’t bother him, and can actually be enjoyable as he gets to spend time with his deceased grandmother and receives friendly greetings from specters hanging about the neighborhood.  It’s just the living that treat him like a freak – this being a term one of the school hoodlums scrawls on his locker every day.

He sometimes also has frightening visions about not-so-friendly ghosts, particularly relating to a curse that’s been put on his hometown. Apparently a witch condemned and burned to death by the town council hundreds of years ago pronounced the seven council members who decided her sentence would rise from the dead, or something of that nature.  This is supposedly a yearly danger, and only performing a certain ritual will keep it at bay.

So in the span of a few days, Norman has a terrifying vision about this ancient curse during the school play (embarrassing himself and his family and earning him a scathing lecture from his dad), he’s approached by his crazy reclusive uncle and told it’s now his responsibility to hold off the curse, and he makes a friend.  Of course, in true stereotypical fashion, his only hope for friends is among the pool of other social rejects:  the fat kid and the brainy girl with glasses.

Then his crazy uncle has a heart attack and dies, coming back to remind Norman about his responsibility, but not really telling him all the details. So when the 300-year-old zombies start roaming about, Norman really has to spring into action and figure out how to put these moldy oldies (who would rather be resting in peace) back into their graves and stop the witch.

All of this he does of course, earning a tidy little happy ending.  Though honestly it’s not all that tidy, especially as he finds out a couple very unpleasant facts about the trial and sentence (through another vision).  Namely, that the witch executed was not the hook-nosed, broom-wielding, pointy hat-wearing, frightening adult woman depicted on the witch memorial statue in the town square. She was just someone with abilities people didn’t understand.

I believe what bothers me the most about this film is that it just shrugs off some of the horrible injustices done without considering the lasting consequences.  Even though the school bully is acting like Norman is his cool hero friend now…that doesn’t really fly.  Lifting the curse isn’t going to truly undo the damage the town did to the ‘witch’ and the impact on her life and family.  Doing something impressive with his ability allowed Norman’s dad to accept Norman’s abilities, but it doesn’t really change the fact that he never accepted it – and seemed to be angered/ashamed of it – beforehand. Sure, Norman might forgive him – but he also might not forget how all these people made him feel for just being himself before he did something amazing.

The movie isn’t all bad – it does have some very humorous parts with the zombies.  However, if you:

• Have ever felt like an outsider because of some characteristic that is out of your control
• Have ever been bullied/shunned by your peers, family or community because you’re different
• Are trying to teach a lesson about acceptance.

Don’t put it in the queue.  Probably you should only put it in the queue if you’re completely secure about yourself and are more of a stereotypical ‘normal’ person.

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Ebenlo’s Personal Likes

ORIGINAL ART:

Painter of Song Original Art
http://bit.ly/EbenlOriginals

If you’d like to be a part of a new art happening, a person who is seeking to make an art investment, looking to reward yourself or your top earner with that unique gift for the office?  Are you a discriminating collector simply looking for another elusive keeper?  Try art by Ebenlo, Painter of Song at http://PainterOfSong.com!  Cartoonified, Indirect Realism, Nouveau Pop Art!  Something new and different!

There are a handful of different selections for you to choose from:

Originals hang on the wall and attract the eye in vibrant, sparkling color in jewel tones.  http://bit.ly/EbenlOriginals

Limited Edition Prints make you feel like you made a most excellent art investment decision.  http://bit.ly/EbenloLtdEd

Standard Prints are great for sharing on your walls and make delightful gifts for friends.  http://bit.ly/EbenloArt

JUICE:

Woongjin Green Plum Juice

http://bit.ly/GreenPlum01

I finally found it!

This is my favorite soft drink that I drank regularly when I was stationed as a G.I. at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea.  This may sound a bit odd, but it tastes a lot like drinking a cold and refreshing green apple sweet-n-sour hard-candy juice!  However, it’s NOT THE SAME as drinking apple juice, period.  There is not a suitable American equivalent.  Your experience in tasting is simply incomplete until you’ve tried it!

I have no idea why this has not become a sensation in America or Europe yet!

I truly feel that soft-drink companies are missing the boat on Asian green plums, and I’m only too happy to be the person to introduce you to them!

This is NOT your grandma’s prune juice!!!

This is the sweet, sweet, nectar of Asian Ume Green Plums.  You are really going to enjoy this juice!  I brought home a cache of this juice when I returned from duty overseas, used several bottles as gifts, and was sure sad when I’d finished the rest and it was all gone.  I’m glad I’ve found a new supplier, Rakuten Global Market, and they have it in stock!

I’m so excited that I’ve finally found a source for this wonderful drink for my guests to enjoy!  You’re going to want a case of this to share with family and friends, so go ahead and start yourself off with 24:
Woongjin Green Plum Juice

Buy From Japan’s #1 Shopping Site!

Any questions at all? Please send me a web-based VOICE MESSAGE!

BREW:

Do yourself a favor, and please check out:  Ballast Point Brewing Company “Sculpin” IPA  You’ll thank me later!

http://bit.ly/bpsipa8q

This is not the swilling man’s beer.  In fact, we don’t offer any of that around here.

This is the savoring man’s brew!  Imagine a complex India Pale Ale that dances on the tongue and informs you of the all the flavorful reason’s of just why hops, malt, spices, and water were created in the first place!

If you’re into pale ales, you know you’re the one in charge of the flavor reaching your taste buds, and likely, you’ve tried it all.  If you could only drink one beer, for the rest of your life, this is it.  

Because life’s too short too not drink the best.

Your new favorite brew?  It’s time for you to try this beer now!  http://bit.ly/bpsipa8q

MOVIE:

“5 Centimeters Per Second”
Directed by Makoto Shinkai

DVD:  http://bit.ly/5CMPSDVD

DVD (Another Link):  http://bit.ly/5CMPSDVD2

BluRay:  http://bit.ly/5CMPSBLU

This is a gorgeously crafted film, I don’t know how else to put it!  The visuals are all incredibly beautiful, and the story is excellent and interesting to follow.

When it’s late, and around time to sleep, and the last thing I want to watch is an action picture, I put on this movie and enjoy an art cocoon before bedtime.

It’s rare on Amazon, so don’t wait! 

Please do yourself a favor and buy one of the last few remaining copies available of this movie now!  http://bit.ly/5CMPSDVD

Any questions at all? Please send me a web-based VOICE MESSAGE!

PLEIN AIR EASEL:

Pro Art French Plein Air Easel

http://bit.ly/PleinAir01

This looks EXACTLY like my first plein air easel and believe it is really all an up-and-coming fine artist needs who wants to try their hand at working outdoors.

I would attach a bungee cable at the bottom of the drawer and put a paper towel roll there and be good to go to paint all day!  When I’m oil painting I go through a lot of paper towels, so if you’re a new painter, be sure to stock up on paper towels and felt gloves (like the gardening kind).  Cut a bit off the index finger and thumb of your dominant hand.  The gloves are then great for both painting and are anti-smudging for drawing.

I enjoyed using it, and the reviews about it at Amazon are stellar, which, I recall is why I bought it in the first place!  Best wishes on your plein air adventures!  http://bit.ly/PleinAir01

GUITAR:

Takamine Supernatural Series TAN16C12 Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic/Electric Guitar

http://bit.ly/TAN16C12

This guitar is a whole lot like the 12-String Takamine I’ve owned for a little over a decade.  I’ve spent many an hour plinking away on mine over the years, searching for songs.

I would go so far as to say that this is the most excellent first guitar that there is!  If you can play a 12-string, an electric guitar is going to be a breeze for you to grow into.  This guitar will grow your callouses proper, but the Takamine neck-actions are so excellent, and the sound is so good, you’ll find you just want to play and play your amazing sounding guitar!  I played dozens of Takamines before I bought one like this, and was sure a happy camper once I did!  Isn’t it time you make one your own?  http://bit.ly/TAN16C12

Any questions at all? Please send me a web-based VOICE MESSAGE!

MUSIC:

A LONG WAY TO FALL
~Ulrich Schnauss

http://bit.ly/USALWTF

This music is very complex and interesting, with a beat, yet relaxing at the same time with a dreamy feel.  Perfect for playing while you’re working, waiting for your connecting flight, or staring out the window in peace.  Buy this album today!

http://bit.ly/USALWTF

CAMERA:

Nikon D5100 16.2MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens and Sigma 70-300mm f/4-5.6 SLD DG Macro Lens with built in motor + 16GB Deluxe Accessory Kit

http://bit.ly/NikonD5100FS

This is the new camera I got for Christmas that I’ve been so excited about lately!  You can do both ultra-high-res photos and movies with sound!  I really wanted this one because it has the time-lapse shutter feature which I can make stop-motion type films with for showing painting progressions.  It can also handle a host of photography tricks I haven’t scratched the surface of, but will likely spend the rest of my life learning and implementing!  A lifelong hobby that can grow into a lucrative profession in a bag (or much more if you like).  Get yours now!  http://bit.ly/NikonD5100FS

If you’re looking for a digital camera course, here’s one that people enjoy learning from:
http://bit.ly/CameraCrs

Any questions at all? Please send me a web-based VOICE MESSAGE!

ELECTRIC GUITAR:

PRS DC 22 10-Top with Bird Inlays Electric Guitar Fire Red Burst

http://bit.ly/prsdc22

I’m still undecided as to the exact guitar I’m going to buy next, however I’m quite sure it’s going to be a PRS, unless I’m struck by lighting, the moon reverses it’s trajectory, or greek tragedy.  For someone like me who primarily paints for a living, I can afford myself the time to continue looking for the sweetest sounding instrument I can find.  I’ve been playing them for quite some time now, and every one I’ve picked up has been a beauty!  I have no qualms whatsoever recommending a PRS guitar to anybody, especially a 10-Top!

World renown for it’s delicious sounds, eye-candy woods and hardware.

Imagine yourself exploring the sounds of this beautiful instrument, or giving the perfect gift to a guitar aficionado now!  http://bit.ly/prsdc22

CRAFT BEER CLUB:

http://bit.ly/CraftBeers

As near as I can tell, and I’ve searched relentlessly on the subject, this is the premier craft beer of the month club to be a part of!

Please do yourself a favor and take a  look at their mouth-watering “Recently Featured Beers” section to check out the great value this club provides.  Whoever is choosing the beers every month is doing it right, in my opinion.  A wonderful selection of IPA’s, ales, stouts, porters, lagers, and just downright rare brews are the mainstay of this program.

Because you should be drinking something fantastic tonight!

Imagine every month, having four varieties of interesting and delectable new beers to enjoy yourself, and to share with your friends!  You surely won’t find any of these micro brews in your local grocery store, which makes the experience of being a member that much more interesting and prestigious for the craft beer aficionado.  Order yours or your gift to a dad or grad now!  Free Shipping at CraftBeerClub.com- Get the Finest American Craft Beers! Click here!

Any questions at all? Please send me a web-based VOICE MESSAGE!

YES STYLE – A NEW WAY OF STYLE:

http://bit.ly/YESSTYLE

If you’re anything like me when it comes to fashion, you go out of your way to creatively differentiate yourself from the people around you.  Imagine going to your closet and always having something cool, fun, and interesting to wear!  And fashions no one else will likely have for hundreds of miles.

Yes Style is a great source for ultra hot asian fashions for both men and women.  They offer clothing, jewelery, shoes, bags, accessories, beauty products, and more!  I’m currently in the market for a new jacket, and they’ve got some of the hottest looking jackets, hoodies, and outerwear that I’ve seen lately!  The designs are unique and different than what I’m used to seeing here in the States.  You’re sure to find something novel and exciting to wear.  Take a look at their site now!  http://bit.ly/YESSTYLE

DEXCLUSIVE - LUXURY WATCHES:

http://bit.ly/DEXCLUSIVE

Imagine you had a blank check but were only allowed to spend it on any three watches.  Which would you choose?  And wouldn’t you still want to get a good deal?  This is the place to go when you feel like buying the best while saving thousands on luxury watches!

Here’s exactly what I choose when it’s only a question of style:

A.  The Bvlgari Diagono 18k Gold Automatic 42mm Chronograph  DG42BGVDCH – I find this watch by Bvlgari striking with it’s contrasting gold and black tones.  If I were in a parallel universe and had to wear one watch all my life, this would be what I’d choose.  http://bit.ly/DG42BGVDCH

B.  The Rolex Submariner Men’s Automatic Watch 116610LV – This watch really caught my eye, as I like the fresh and vibrant look of the color green.  Because doesn’t too much gold get a little boring after a while?  http://bit.ly/116610LV

C.  The Ulysse Nardin Maxi Marine Black Sea 263-92-3C – I think this watch would look great with my favorite pair of black pants.  http://bit.ly/263923C  Save up to 75%, shop at Dexclusive now!

Any questions at all? Please send me a web-based VOICE MESSAGE!

WINE:

Wine.com

I sought out a bit of help from a sommelier friend in choosing some excellent wines that I should try next.  I thought I’d pass on the info to my guests!

A.  Maximin Grünhäuser Abtsberg Riesling Spätlese 2010 – I’ve come to know Rieslings for being enjoyable and sweet on the palette.  As a rule of thumb, I typically pair any white with white meat; however, in my opinion, none of that really matters: what matters is that you and your guest(s) simply have a good time!

B.  Krug Grand Cuvee (Any Year) – If you’re serious about celebrating, you’ll likely find a new favorite in Krug.  I’m looking forward to checking this one out, it sounds like it dances on the tongue!  The consensus appears to be that you should cellar it for 3 to 6 years, but the regardless of when you drink it, this champagne is a chart-topper that everyone raves about.

C.  Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 – I once recieved a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon as a gift and have liked it ever since.  I’m told the Silver Oak Napa Valley 2008 is an excellent vintage and I’d like to try some!  As a rule of thumb, I typically pair any red with red meat.

90 point wines under $20 at Wine.com. Shop Now!

AIR:

Virgin Atlantic
http://bit.ly/VIRGINatlantic

I find Richard Branson and the stories of his life fascinating, and always seriously consider learning if his businesses can help out me or my guests in any way at all.

The next time I fly to London, I’d consider using Virgin Atlantic.  They even have seats that turn into beds!  There are videos of the Virgin Atlantic experience.  Take a look, see if it’s for you!

Any questions at all? Please send me a web-based VOICE MESSAGE!

PAINT PENS:

Uni – Posca Paint Pens

I was introduced to these pens by an amazing surf artist, Drew Brophy, who uses these pens almost exclusively for all his art.  If you’re a slower painter like myself, this is really going to help!  The fact that one doesn’t need to dip a brush makes painting and illustrating go much quicker.

Try them out!  I’m sure you’ll like them!

Available in several sizes:

Medium:

http://bit.ly/POSCAMd

Fine:
http://bit.ly/POSCAFn

Extra Fine:
http://bit.ly/POSCAEF

GREAT BOOKS:

Books I’ve read along the way.  I recommend you look at all reviews before you buy.

Wild At Heart by John Eldredge – I read this book five or six years ago.  It is an inspiring read.
http://bit.ly/WildAtHeartJE

Totally Guitar by Tony Bacon & Dave Hunter – My brother got me this for Christmas a few years ago.  I’ve enjoyed reading it and looking at all the amazing looking guitars in it.  Great for learning anything there is to know about electric and acoustic guitars, and for illustration references.
http://bit.ly/TotallyGuitar

I’d Rather Be In The Studio by Alyson Stanfield – This book has been a great guide to a step by step way to build any art career.  A great book to refer to when asking yourself “what should I do next?”  http://bit.ly/IRBITS

Any questions at all? Please send me a web-based VOICE MESSAGE!

HAUTE COUTURE FASHIONS:

FORZIERI Italia – TRUE FASHION, TRUE STYLE, TRUE LUXURY

At Forzieri Italia, sure you can expect to pay a little more for the soughtafter luxury brands, but you’re going to have the absolute hottest in avant garde super-star-quality fashions on the market!
Shop JUICY COUTURE’s Bold Bags and Jewelry collection here at FORZIERI.com!

FINEARTCOUTURE.com – Haute Couture Fashion Designs by Ebenlo, Painter of Song

On the first minute, of the first day, of the first month of 2013, I introduced my first couture fashion designs, a collection of shirts I called “Lucky 13″.  View them at FineArtCouture.com!
Shop EBENLO’s FINE ART COUTURE for the hottest couture shirt designs at FINEARTCOUTURE.com!

Any questions at all? Please send me a web-based VOICE MESSAGE!

DILIGENT HANDS:

They say a man should have a talent in his hands.  Develop yours by working on art or learning to paint!  Is painting your self portrait on your bucket list?  Sarah Parks has an excellent drawing program called “Drawing Secrets Revealed”, and she weilds a classy looking style I could recommend to anyone!  Click Here! Learn To Paint Your Self Portrait!

MisterArt.com: The world’s largest online discount art & craft supply store!

Another thing we do with our hands is work on our homes!  Automate yours with stuff from SmartHome!
SmartHome Clearance Items Up to 90% Off

Better Lighting, Better Living.  At Lumens Light + Living, you’ll find the Web’s best selection of contemporary lighting, modern ceiling fans and modern home accessories.  They offer more than 15,000 items from the world’s leading modern lighting and design brands, in styles ranging from contemporary to classic, transitional to mid-century modern.

Lumens.com for contemporary lighting, modern fans, and home accessories.

FRAGRANCES:

Even a child will tell you that going on a date is going out to eat with someone and smelling each other!  Get premium quality scents for the best price at FragranceNet.com!  My most recent selections, have been:
Perry Ellis “360″,  Jean Paul Gaultier “Le Male”, and my latest is Bvlgari “BLV”.
              
FragranceNet.com Items at 50% Off Department Store Prices

FLOWERS:

The samurai of old were very into flower culture and even knew the meanings embodied in the different species.  You don’t have to go that far into them to know that a gentleman is going to have to buy flowers on several occaisions during his lifetime.  Get yours at iReco8o.com by clicking here:   1800flowers.com

CANDY & CHOCOLATE:

Everyone likes candy, and who doesn’t like chocolates?  Candy always makes a great gift!
Try:  Gourmet Chocolate Truffles and More Chocolate Gifts at Chocolate.com

GIFTS:

Whether it’s a gift for “your woman,” a friend, family member, or an entire family, we’ve got you covered!
Check out 3D Laser Gifts for some amazing gifts!  Also, I’ve found a company called Photoweavers that prints your pictures onto top-quality blankets.  Perfect family gifts!
3D Laser Gifts & Photoweavers – The Original Woven Photo Blanket

Another great gift selection to consider for the wife or girlfriend is GlossyBox!  Women LOVE this program!
Have a high-class lady? Debutante? Score MAJOR thoughtfulness and sophistication points on this one guys!

SupaTeez.com – Pop & Poker Tees – The Home of Your Next Favorite Tee!  Aww-YEAH, it’s SupaTeez! The hottest new designer t-shirt boutique that sells the latest and most sought-after clothing and apparel in the west!  They have a great selection of comedy shirts, movie shirts, sports shirts, poker shirts, girly shirts, vintage shirts, geek shirts, hoodies, and more!

       

WINE & BEER:

Whether you’re looking for individual bottles of top-rated wines or champagne, or would like to join
a wine-of-the-month club, you’ve reached your destination:  iReco8o.com!
Check out Wine.com and VirginWines.com!

BEER:

I’m an avid fan of micro-brews, especially India Pale Ales, and am interested in helping people find good beer clubs, learn to brew their own and things of that nature.  I’ve found an excellent beer of the month club, which features four beers a month and recommend  you check them out!
I’ve also found a beer brewing source you might also be interested in!

Free Shipping at CraftBeerClub.com- Get the Finest American Craft Beers! Click here!
Find everything you need to brew your own beer and make your own wine at Midwest Supplies.

TRAVEL:

If you’ll be travelling to and from a major airport, I’ve got just the solution for you!  Virgin Atlantic!  Whether you’re flying economy or would like an all-frills package, Virgin delivers!
Virgin Atlantic Airways

READING, SPORTS, & ENTERTAINMENT:

Be sure to visit iReco8o.com if you ever find yourself sitting around, waiting in a layover, on a bus, or simply looking for something new to watch!  We’ve got excellent sources for magazines, movies (DVD, BluRay, digital downloads & merch), snowboarding, and sports gear.  Get the fun stuff here!

I’m so excited at this moment at 7:20pm on 11MAR13, we just got approved by the W.B. to offer you the Warner Brother’s collection of movies, DVDs, BluRay, games, entertainment, and digital downloads!  Enjoy!
Take $5 off orders of $50 or more at WBshop.com! Shop Now!

Zinio Online Magazines, a 24/7 virtual newsstand for the world’s magazines. Instant access!
20% Off + Free Shipping on 20,000 Sporting Goods, Games, Fitness Products and More at eSportsonline

              

The-House.com: 2013 Snowboard & Ski Gear is In Stock Now! Burton, K2, Rossignol, DC & Many More.

JEWELRY:

I’ve found the perfect store to shop at when you’re looking for a gift for “a person who has everything.”
TitaniumKay are famous for titanium and tungsten, and do personalized engraving on items, including rings, necklaces, jewelry flash drives, and more!
Check them out:
TitaniumKay – Men’s Titanium Jewelry

AUTOMOBILE:

I remember flipping through the JC Whitney catalog for hours and hours as a young man, reading and dreaming about all the incredible things I could do with my car!  I wanted to put in a cb/vocal system, some train horns, make it go front-back-side-to-side, and you name it when I was done looking at their catalog!  It’s also a great source for gifts, I recall a friend recenly installed an automatic car starter in his wife’s car that he ordered from JC Whitney in order to help her beat the cold northwestern winters.
Save 10% off auto parts from JC Whitney using code “JCWPAT.” Offer expires Mar. 17, 2013.

HEALTH & WELLNESS:

I’ve valued good health pretty much my whole life.  I really got into fitness when I read the book “Body For Life” by Bill Phillips, a book I’d recommend to anyone.  His information on fitness, nutrition, and health make a great guideline for physical and mental transformation, and there have been many success stories documented in the Body-For-Life program.  He’s the man who taught me that it is impossible to “spot-reduce,” good info, and food for thought when witnessing everyone who tries to sell you something with the tagline “how to remove bellyfat.”

Over the years I’ve learned how valuable homeopathics and dietary supplementation can be to one’s health.  I’ve experimented with several homeopathic remedies and wish to share what I’ve learned, I think it will help.  I’ll be adding more links as we go along, but for now, I’ll add a Health & Wellness superstore I like called the Institute for Vibrant Living (aka IVL Products).
$15 off $50+ orders and free shipping on orders $125+ at IVLProducts.com!

ALGAECAL CALCIUM:

I have a severe lower back issue having ruptured discs a few different occaisions when I was younger.  I take calcium to keep my teeth, bones, and back strong.

AlgaeCal Calcium Supplement Will Increase Your Bone Density in 180 Days …Or Double Your Money Back!

TECHNOLOGY:

Here are a selection of Ebenlo  Painter of Song iPhone and iPod Touch cases.

Bob Dylan iPhone Case
http://bit.ly/BobDylaniPhoneCase
BB King iPhone Case
http://bit.ly/BBKingiPhoneCase
Beatles iPhone Case
http://bit.ly/BeatlesiPhoneCase
Jimi Hendrix iPhone Case
http://bit.ly/HendrixiPhoneCase
U2 iPhone Case
http://bit.ly/U2iPhoneCase
2Pac – Tupac iPhone Case
http://bit.ly/2PaciPhoneCase
Eminem iPhone Case
http://bit.ly/EminemiPhoneCase
Taylor Swift iPhone Case
http://bit.ly/TaylorSwiftiPhoneCase
Justin Bieber iPhone Case
http://bit.ly/JustinBieberiPhoneCases
Venice Beach iPhone Case
http://bit.ly/VeniceBeachiPhoneCase

VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE:

I recently had an uncle buy a new computer specifically because he wanted to create videos for his friends and family members.  He found the software for video editing very complicated.

In fact, I know how to use one of the most advanced video editing suites, and find myself not creating videos because of how complicated it is.

Here’s a great solution to this issue!  Give the gift of your cinematic creativity with the help of Muvee!

Storytelling made easy with 3 simple steps using muvee Reveal X

Xiao Zhi Gadgets Leather Fashion

iPad & Tablet Accessories

http://bit.ly/XiaoZhiLeatherFashion

Leather Fashions

Fine leather briefcases, laptop computer cases, business totes, handbags, wallets, and business cases.  Jack Georges Handmade Originals.

http://bit.ly/LeatherBagsAndMore

Leather Briefcases – Many Styles, Prices & Colors!

http://bit.ly/iReco8oSignUp
Any questions at all? Please send me a web-based VOICE MESSAGE!

Stay tuned to @EBENLO for more iReco8o Tastemaking

The film uses the past 30 years of computer games as its playground, with anyone who has even a passing appreciation for games able to find something to latch onto, whether it’s as obscure as a sound effect from Metal Gear Solid or as plain as the unassuming paddles from arcade classic Pong.

The smashing together of the old and new is what makes the film so special. On the one hand you have traditional 8-bit graphics and music, seen from the players’ point of view as they enjoy titles like Tapper or Space Invaders, and the gaming world, which is rendered in the glorious high-def CGI which will convince Pixar fans this is one of their films.

In fact it was produced by Disney itself and directed by Rich Moore, a veteran of Futurama and The Simpsons, and if you listen closely you’ll notice a few familiar voices he has brought along for the ride.

The titular Ralph is a nice guy stuck in a bad guy’s skin, complete with comically oversized hands, and longs for fulfilment in his monotonous life. The beauty of the concept is that children and adults alike can relate to feeling stuck in a rut, whether it’s just being sick of school on a Friday afternoon, or feel like the world is against you as plans continuously fall through at work.

John C. Reilly plays the role to a tee, with Sarah Silverman providing excellent ingredients for double-act moments, and surprisingly there are moments where you begin to tear up as difficult choices have to be made. Alan Tudyk (Firefly, Death at a Funeral) channels the Mad Hatter, with a dash of Tigger, to create giggling eccentric King Candy as the film’s antagonist, and is endlessly entertaining. The rest of the supporting cast perform well but don’t stand out so much, particularly with all the cameos wrestling for your attention.

The plot is as straightforward as you might expect from a Disney flick, but with equal parts action and heart, and plenty to keep you engaged for the almost two-hour run time.

Disney are clearly at the top of their game once again with this effort, with the visuals alone a step up from 2010′s Tangled. This film carries the sort of weight you would expect from a series a few iterations down the line, so you can expect sequels to follow.

The team unashamedly throw in product placements left, right and centre, but due to the nature of the world they inhabit, they don’t feel out of place or forced at any point.

In all, this film is made for gamers, but it doesn’t matter if you don’t consider yourself in that geeky camp. There is more than enough to appreciate with identifiable characters and familiar concepts, beautifully realised with style.

Rating: 5/5

James Michael Parry