blast-o-rama.

Shamelessly stolen from Kottke.org, here’s my media diet for February 2022

…only 11 days later than I intended for it to be.

Movies

Tick Tick Boom: A tour-de-force performance from Andrew Garfield here, but I have to admit, there’s not a ton of substance to the story of the musical itself. Beautifully shot and choreographed, sure, but I wonder if the film would be a tenth as effective without Garfield at the center? (B)
Licorice Pizza: I am an absolute sucker for coming-of-age movies, and this one might be one of the best. A glorious, dream-like homage to the awkwardness of growing up, and a love letter to 70’s California. Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman were INCREDIBLE. (A)
The King’s Man: A top tip here — you cannot be both a serious World War II drama AND an irreverent skewering of one. An atonal mess, even with how awesome Ralph Finnes is here. (C-)
The Matrix Resurrections: Normally, I’d roll my eyes at constant fourth wall breaking, but the concept of revisiting The Matrix after 20 years, and being aware of the weight of it all really worked for me. The action was very much lacking, however, sadly. (C)

I’ve been revisiting Brooklyn Nine Nine from the beginning, and it’s been an absolute joy.

Nightwing, Vol. 1: Leaping into the Light by Tom Taylor and Bruno Redondo: Easily the best DC Comics release I’ve read since Mister Miracle. Brilliant writing, blue-sky artwork, a complete joy. (A+)
Beta Ray Bill: Argent Star by Daniel Warren Johnson: Beta Ray Bill German suplexes someone. COMIC OF THE YEAR. (A-)
Moon Knight, Vol. 1: The Midnight Mission by Jed McKay and Alessandro Cappuccio: A nice, story resetting run just in time for the Disney+ series. McKay is quietly becoming one of Marvel’s best writers. (B+)
Hedra by Jesse Lonergan: A simple, wordless, absolutely awesome 48-page one-shot story about a journey into space. Very much my shit. (B+)

Blood, Sweat & Chrome: The Wild and True Story of Mad Max: Fury Road by Kyle Buchanan: It turns out the story behind one of the best movies of the 21st century is as enthralling and exciting as the film itself. Proves simply that the creation of all great things is a tenuous process. (A+)

And So I Watch You From Afar - Jettison: The latest by the incredible Irish four-piece post rock group is a lush concept album. Meant to be seen as a live performance with visual compliment and a live orchestra, the album can only capture the audio, but what a great album it is. (B+)

We upgraded our Internet! I recommend it. And also getting all your equipment in person instead of waiting for your ISP to send it to you.

See you next month!