Body of LiesWarner Brothers PicturesGrade: B-“Body of Lies” is a slick political thriller that gives a solid look into the post-9/11 world of intelligence and espionage. Despite the A-list talent of Russell Crowe, who gained more than 60 pounds for the role, and Leonardo DiCaprio, the film manages to become unconvincing in the end. “Body of Lies” will hold audiences’ attention with sharp action sequences as well as lay down enough misdirection to keep viewers guessing. Audiences are advised not to leave their seats – a trip to the bathroom could result in much confusion.A. FELIX- – – -The DutchessParamount VintageGrade: BIn “The Duchess,” Keira Knightley plays the main character Georgina, Duchess of Devonshire. Trapped in a love triangle with the Duke, played by Ralph Fiennes and his live-in mistress, the Duchess starts her own affair with a young politician. Drama abounds as the affair threatens to turn into a national scandal. Although period pieces may seem overdone in recent years, Knightley’s and Fiennes’ near flawless performances carry “The Duchess” above the rest. V. TOUPS- – – -The ExpressDavis EntertainmentGrade: D”The Express” promised to be an inspiring and emotional tale like every other football movie. It achieved neither. It tells the compelling story of Ernie Davis, the first African American to win the Heisman Trophy, but it doesn’t succeed in connecting the audience to his story like “Radio” or “Remember the Titans.” It flaunts mediocre cinematography and a boring score. Audiences shouldn’t waste their time on this film unless they want to gag from Dennis Quaid’s attempt at emotion.C. VOGELS- – – -South Park, Season 12Comedy CentralGrade: AThe second half of the 12th season of South Park premiered last Wednesday, and creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone have given fans perhaps the most obnoxious, disturbing season yet. Fans who love gory, blood-spraying deaths and unexpected plot twists will fall in love with this season. From Kenny getting high off of cat urine to Indiana Jones getting sexually assaulted, the new season dares to break the rules and proves “South Park” is the best show on television.J. CHENIER- – – -Ray LaMontagneGossip in the GrainRCA Victor RecordsGrade: ALike a white Otis Redding, LaMontagne is best known for his soul-bearing ballads, only his sound more like whispers in his empty Maine cabin than shouts in a Georgia gospel choir. With his third album he takes a note from Otis, adding upbeat horn-powered songs without losing any sincerity. The highlight of the album is the high-energy “You Are The Best Thing,” though slower numbers like “A Falling Through” exhibit his continual ability to rip out his heart and serve it on a musical platter.L. WALCK- – – -Lucinda WilliamsLittle HoneyLost HighwayGrade: B+Lucinda Williams, Louisiana native and one of America’s most gifted songwriters, first came to prominence with her 1998 masterpiece, “Car Wheels on a Gravel Road.” On her ninth studio album “Little Honey,” Williams adds some cheerful tunes to her mostly heart-breaking catalogue. The ascending blues boogie of “Honey Bee” is probably the first song Williams made that people can dance to. Williams’ biggest problem seems to be living up to “Gravel Road,” but she still manages to put out great albums every few years.B. LEJEUNE- – – -EDITOR’S PICK: Mount Eerie with Julie Doiron and Fred SquireLost WisdomP.W. Eleverum & Sun”Lost Wisdom,” the collaboration between The Microphone’s Phil Elverum and Eric’s Trip singer Julie Doiron, was recorded during a break in Elverum’s tour. The lo-fi recording is simple and delicate, and Fred Squire’s guitar complements the two singers’ voices perfectly. Standout tracks include “Lost Wisdom” and “You Swan Go On.” The delicate nature of the music and lyrics creates beautiful, haunting melodies that are sure to stay with listeners long after they give the album a first spin.S. AYCOCK
Reveille Ranks
October 15, 2008