Couples RetreatUniversal PicturesDon’t waste the $8.50 to see it. It’s as simple as that. This “romantic comedy” is neither funny nor a great date movie. “Couples Retreat” focuses on four couples who go on a relationship therapy vacation on a tropical island resort, but in the end, it is the viewers who need a therapy vacation from the boring film. The occasional amusing scene couldn’t save the overall forgettable movie from drowning. Bora Bora may be paradise, but it is hell for viewers of this movie.
FC. Vogels—An EducationBBC Films”An Education” is a beautifully filmed coming-of-age movie that manages to avoid the typical clichés involving adolescent life lessons. Impressionable college-bound cellist Jenny meets an older man who opens her eyes to a new world of possibilities while the adult figures in her life continue to pressure her academically. This film accurately displays the challenges placed upon those with overbearing parents. The wardrobe is authentic ’60s, and the English countryside settings are breathtaking. The actors’ performances are impeccable. A touch of comedy added to the romance and drama makes it all the more enjoyable.A
L. Nunez—The Flaming LipsEmbryonicWarner Bros.It’s hard to imagine, after 26 years, The Flaming Lips could ever top themselves — but it’s time to start believing. On its 12th studio album “Embryonic,” the band has gotten back in touch with its roots and has done something near impossible: combine the intimate feeling of playing in a small setting with the extravagance and emotion of its amazing live shows. The album’s two discs are packed with amazing epics and a few short clips of ’60s-influenced psych-rock. Old fans will feel at home, and new fans will quickly become hooked.AJ. Clapp—The Temper TrapConditionsGlassnote Entertainment GroupAfter debuting on the soundtrack for the movie “(500) Days of Summer,” Australian rock band The Temper Trap released its first studio album, “Conditions,” stateside. Lead singer Dougie Mandagi offers synth-laden vocals reminiscent of Coldplay, accompanied by soaring instrumentals heavy on the drums and bass tones. Overall, the tracks sound too similar to each other for the album to be a huge success, and the lyrics tend to lean toward romantic cliches about finding love, but The Temper Trap isn’t a band likely to fade into obscurity soon. The epic “Sweet Disposition,” stands a chance at becoming an indie-rock hit.BE. Slack—Dead by SunriseOut of AshesWarner Bros.Known for providing lead vocals for Linkin Park, Chester Bennington makes a break from the band with his side project Dead by Sunrise. Even though departing from Linkin Park’s stagnant nu metal sound would seem like a good idea, “Out of Ashes” certainly isn’t the right direction. Riddled with mediocre songwriting and attempts at radio-friendly hard rock, this is a boring album at best. Tracks like “Fire” and “Give Me Your Name” sound fresh off a Creed album, which is pretty damning. Bennington is well on his way to having one of the most forgettable rock cuts of 2009.DB. Bourgeouis—The SaturdaysWordshakerPolydor/FascinationThe renaissance of the girl group is in full swing, and The Saturdays are leading the way. The group’s spirited sophomore effort begins with a couple mid-tempo jams in “Forever Is Over” and “Here Standing,” which lead the listener into the body of this addictive album. The album’s depth is its greatest strength, with massive tunes like “One Shot” and the explosive title track coming in the middle of the record. The album’s catchiest tracks, “Open Up” and “Lose Control,” come in the final third. “Wordshaker” is pure, unapologetic pop and will pick up many new fans and make old ones, like blogger Perez Hilton, very happy.A-A. White