Book Review “Shootin’ the Sh*t with Kevin Smith: The Best of the SModcast”

Author: Kevin Smith
Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: September 22, 2009

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

I have to start this buy saying I never (and still haven’t) got into the whole podcast phenomenon.  I am sure that they are absolutely hilarious if you chosen the right one  but I never found the interest.  SModcast began back in February 5, 2007 and this book is perfect for people that have not been listening this day one. This book consists of transcriptions of Kevin Smith’s favorite SModcasts.

The conversations between Kevin and his friend/producer Scott Mosier are absolutely priceless.  There are no topics that are safe and nothing that is too weird.  I don’t know how it is possible but an example from SModcast 78, the duo mixes the topics of jaundice and wait of it “Star Wars”.  Absolutely classic.  Jennifer Connelly takes topic in SModcast 37 and the guys talk about her remaking movies. I just need to quote a line from this one: “KS: If  somebody said “Jennifer Connelly is going to be in a remake of Goodfellas, do you get mad?”, SM: I don’t think that there is a remake that would make me mad.”  The topics are mostly for adults only and are very raunchy but that is what makes them so funny.

This book isn’t just transcriptions, there is also fun illustrations by Michael Macari. Kevin Smith honestly knows his way with words and of course we all found that out with the script from “Clerks” and his work following.  If you enjoyed “My Boring-Ass Life”, this is a great companion to that.  Honestly I am sure that these are much funnier with live audio but this is a great way to catch up on the back log and just get the best of.  “Shootin’ the Sh*t with Kevin Smith” is a must for all fans of his work!

Film Review “Safe House”

Starring: Denzel Washington, Ryan Reynolds and Robert Patrick
Directed by: Daniel Espinosa
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hour 55 mins
Universal

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

Life as a spy isn’t as glamorous as it seems. In spite of all the dreams of shooting people and trading secrets and bedding beautiful women, somebody has to start at the bottom. Today our somebody is Matt Weston (Reynolds). Hoping for a transfer as a field officer in some exotic city (Paris is currently his preference), Matt’s current position finds him the baby sitter of a safe house. For those of you who aren’t spies, a safe house is a place where, if you were on the run from a bad guy, you could go and be, well….safe. As you can imagine, Matt’s job is pretty boring. At least until he meets Tobin Frost (Washington), the baddest of the bad!

Filmed in a herky jerky motion that may cause seizures (the over exposed lighting doesn’t help) “Safe House” is an over the top thriller that apparently doesn’t know it’s over the top. As directed by Daniel Espinosa, the film is a non-stop (often to the point of absurdity) punch ‘em up/drag ‘em out action film that wants to be a psychological thriller. In a nutshell, Denzel has something every other agent from every other country wants, especially ours. Sam Shepard and Brendan Gleeson play the C.I.A. big wigs who try to push the right buttons in Reynolds, keeping him oblivious to the big picture. The two do credible work, carefully avoiding chewing too much scenery. To do that would scream out “cartoonish bad guy!” Washington and Reynolds are very strong and sincere in their roles, which is a credit to their talents. They both go above and beyond in this one.

The film isn’t helped by the fact it was photographed by Shaky the Cameraman and lit by someone with a Sun gun. There was a great invention in the mid 1970s called the Steadicam. Sadly, the filmmakers apparently never heard of it. And what’s even more annoying? EVERYTHING is shaky. Sometimes the whole frame shakes. Other times, the frame is steady but EVERYTHING INSIDE THE FRAME shakes! The action scenes are drawn out so long that it’s like watching a live action re-enactment of Peter Griffin battling the Giant Chicken on “Family Guy!”

CD Review: A Sound of Thunder “Out of the Darkness”

“Out of the Darkness”
A Sound of Thunder
Nightmare Records
Producer: Kevin “131” Gutierrez
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Out of the Darkness” is the latest release from the heavy metal group A Sound of Thunder. The Washington DC based band consists of Nina Osegueda- Vocals, Josh Schwartz- Guitar, Chris Haren- Drums and, Jesse Keen- Bass. The album is being released via Nightmare Records and features 10 brand new tracks produced by Kevin “131” Gutierrez (Shinedown).

The songs contained on A Sound of Thunders latest full length release could be described as a blend of 70’ and 80’s metal but with a modern twist. Vocalist Nina Osegueda takes an approach to singing that could rival the likes of Bruce Dickinson and Rob Halford as she effortlessly belts out note after note. Tracks such as “Murderous Horde” showcase not only Osegueda but the entire band as a whole. A personal favorite of mine was “Out of the Darkness” with its double bass, screeching falsetto entrance is a track that just grabs you from the very start. From a production stand point the album seemed very streamlined which I think only adds to its appeal. Though the length of some of the songs may be too much for a casual listener fans of both new and classic metal will surely want to check out this album.

Track Listing:
1.) The Day I Die
2.) The Nightwitch
3.) Kill That Bitch
4.) Murderous Horde
5.) A Sound of Thunder
6.) Out of the Darkness
7.) Calat Alhambra
8.) Flight Until the End
9.) This Too Shall Pass
10.) Discovery

Concert Review “Reborn In Defiance Tour” Syracuse, NY

“Reborn In Defiance Tour”
Biohazard, Sworn Enemy, Ghost Ship, Caustic Method, Jonestown
Date: Wednesday, February 8th 2012
Venue: Station 58, Syracuse, NY

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

Biohazard brought their brand of NY hardcore to Station 58 in Syracuse, NY on Wed. Feb. 8th and even though the turn out for the show was somewhat small and, Biohazard guitarist Bobby Hambel was suffering from pneumonia the Brooklyn born band still put on a great show for all those in attendance.

Jonestown hailing from Watertown, NY kicked off the show as fans slowly made their way through the intimate venues door. A small number of people posed no problem for the band as they put on performance as though the venue was filled to capacity. Fan favorite Caustic Method took the stage in the form of a 3 piece due in part to still training a new guitar player. You wouldn’t have known the band was playing a man down as they blasted through a 30 minute set which had people banging their heads and pumping their fists. Syracuse’s own Ghost Ship followed and performed a solid straight edge filled set reminiscent of early spirit 90’s era Earth Crisis shows.

Veteran hardcore group Sworn Enemy was on next and after a brief stage change proceeded to kick the night/crowd into a giant circle pit of fury. Performing a variety of songs from the bands 17 year career did a great job of priming the crowd for what was to come. As soon as their last song was done the crowd pushed forward in preparation for the nights headlining act to take the stage.

Biohazard helmed by energetic vocalist/guitarist Billy Graziadei hit the stage at 10pm and for one sweat filled hour packed enough punch in their set to knock out the likes of UFC champion Anderson Silva. Despite guitarist Bobby Hambel suffering from a severe case of pneumonia he played as nothing was wrong and only paused for a brief second to throw up behind his amp once or twice. The set list featured a variety of classic songs and a few songs of the band’s latest album titled “Reborn in Defiance”. Even though the bands line up was not fully the original due to former bassist/vocalist Evan Seinfeld leaving the band last year Scott Roberts did a great job filling the void. On February 8th, Biohazard proved to Syracuse, NY that they are still the raining kings on NYC hardcore.

Biohazard Set List:
1. Urban Discipline
2. What Makes Us Tick
3. Chamber Spins Three
4. Reborn
5. Black and White and Red All Over
6. Retribution
7. Down For Life
8. Come Alive
9. Vengeance is Mine
10. Shades of Grey
11. Love Denied
12. Howard Beach
13. Punishment
14. Hold My Own

CD Review: Tyrone Wells “Where We Meet”

Tyrone Wells
“Where We Meet”
Position Music
Producer: Bill Lefler, Thomas Doeve
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Where We Meet” is the 5th full length album from singer/songwriter Tyrone Wells. This album is the first release from Wells since his departure from Universal Republic. Produced by Bill Lafler and Thomas Doeve the album features 11 brand new tracks which are being released via Position Music.

The latest release from Tyrone Wells features 11 feel good arrangements that have the power to turn a bad day into a good one. “Where We Meet” features a straight forward production approach which allows the musicianship and vocal abilities of Wells to shine. The opening number titled “Freedom” provides a calming mood which instantly sets the tone for the later tracks on the album. I personally enjoyed the song “I Can’t Save You Now” which blended Well’s voice and guitar playing with a steady back beat of drums and piano. If you’re feeling down and need a pick me up or just want to listen to a feel food album Tyrone Well’s latest release “Where We Meet” will do the trick. For those wishing to check out Well’s live he will be kicking off a 38 date U.S. tour on March 20th in Provo, Utah.

Track Listing:
1.) Freedom
2.) You’re The One
3.) I Can’t Save You Now
4.) Satellite
5.) The Most
6.) Head Over Heels
7.) Run Away With Me
8.) Where We Meet
9.) Don’t Be Afraid
10.) You Still Love Me
11.) A Way Out

Film Review “Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone”

Director: Lev Anderson and Chris Metzler
Starring: Fishbone
Pale Griot Films
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 1 hr 47 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone” directed by Lev Anderson and Chris Metzler is a documentary film chronicling the legendary black punk/ska band Fishbone. The film spans the bands entire career and is filled with performance footage both new and old. Combined with archival footage and candid interviews with both the band as and fans of the group including Gwen Stefani, Ice-T and Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. To top off this already stellar production the film is packed with colorful animation and is narrated by none other than actor Laurence Fishburne.

I have been a fan of Fishbone since first being exposed to the group during their energetic appearance in the 1987 cult classic “Back to the Beach” which starred Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello. Upon hearing that someone was going to be brave enough to tackle the feet of telling this bands story I was instantly drawn in. Chris Metzler and Lev Anderson left no stone unturned no matter how sensitive the issue may have been. I felt this only added to the films appeal. I really enjoyed the films soundtrack which featured a slew of Fishbone staples. However I think what really impressed me the most about the film was the animation and still art which was heavily featured throughout the film. These visual elements really brought something different to the film and added a new take to documentary film making.

Even if you have no idea who Fishbone is I still highly recommend watching or picking up a copy of “Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone”. It is much more than just a documentary about the career and struggles of your not so typical rock and roll band. It is a must for all music fans.

CD Review: Voodoo Terror Tribe “Stands to Reason” EP

Voodoo Terror Tribe
“Stands to Reason” EP
Tracks: 5

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Stands to Reason” is the latest release from the band Voodoo Terror Tribe. The band consisting of Gil PZ- Vocals, Emir Erkal- Guitars, Primer- Bass and T-Bone- Drums play a unique blend of industrial tinged metal filled with catchy lyrical content and thunderous guitar tones. The EP which is being released independently by the band and features 3 new original tracks, a remixed version of the bands song “Never Died Before” and a synth filled cover of the Journey song “Separate Ways”.

Though the album doesn’t have label backing it should not be discredited in any way. Each of the five tracks featured on “Stand to Reason” feature lush arrangements filled to the brim with pure unadulterated power. It should be noted that while recording the EP the band took a great risk venturing into new musical territory while reinventing their sound as a whole. I think this EP is a great testament to the bands new sound and I really can’t wait to hear what is in store next for the Garden State band.

For those interested in checking out the band and its new EP you can go to the bands website www.voodooterrortribe.com. There you can find out more about the band and be able to name your price when downloading songs off the new EP.

Track Listing:
1.) Masquerade
2.) Stands to Reason
3.) Twenty12
4.) Separate Ways
5.) Never Died Before (Re-Mix)

CD Review: Opera Diabolicus “+1614”

Opera Diabolicus
“+1614”
Metalville Records
Producer: Andy LaRocque
Tracks: 8

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“+1614” is the first release from the doom metal group Opera Diabolicus. The idea for such a group came out of a chance meeting between composer David Grimoire and Lyricist Adrian de Crow. Together with the help of Snowy Shaw (King Diamond), Mats Leven (Yngwie Malmsteen), and Niklas Isfeldt (Dream Evil) the group has combined elements of theater and heavy metal into what makes up the 8 tracks contained on “+1614”. The album is being released via Metalville Records and was produced by Andy LaRocque (King Diamond).

If every theater production featured music like what is featured on “+1614” I would stop going to concerts and only attend stage productions. David Grimoire and the rest of the musicians featured on this recording really nailed it. The album played as though you were actually watching a stage production which was taken over by guitar wielding maniacs. The track “Mythos Lamia” featured non-stop face melting guitar solos while the song “Forbidden” was packed full of pounding bass and drums.

Opera Diabolicus’s album “+1614” is very unique and could probably be considered group breaking in its approach. I would also like to commend producer Andy LaRocque for his ability to capture all the various elements of each song. His production of the 8 tracks on this album in a way transported you into the middle of a chaotic landscape set to a an extremely technical pieces of music. Even if you are not a fan of concept or themed albums, do yourself a favor a give this album a listen. There is a lot that can be taken from this album both musically and from a production stand point.

Track Listing:
1.) Overture
2.) The Gates
3.) Blood Countess Bathory
4.) The 13th Guest
5.) In Memoriam
6.) Mythos Lamia
7.) Forbidden
8.) Stone by Stone

 

Related Content

CD Review: Hemina “Synthetic”

Hemina
“Synthetic”
Hemina
Nightmare Records
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

“Synthetic” is the latest release from the Australian progressive/metal band Hemina. The album is being released via Nightmare records and features 11 brand new tracks mixed by Tommy Hansen (Helloween). Packed with a variety of tones and sonic landscapes the latest album by Hemina is what I would describe as Devin Townsend meets Evanescence.

Most of the 11 songs contained on “Synthetic” feature very lengthy arrangements that I found hard to focus on as the tracks dragged on past the 4 minute mark. Though the album was not as heavy and guitar dominant as I would have liked there were one or two tracks worth mentioning. “Even in Heaven” is a straight forward rocker with melodic vocal passages and a ripping instrumental accompaniment. While the albums closing track “Haunting Me” has a really cool fell and vibe to it.

The production/mixing on the album I thought was very well done and helped enhance the performance of each musician. Though I personally would have preferred the songs to be a bit shorter If you are a fan of bands like Yes, Dream Theater and Ayreon then you will surely want to check out the latest release from the band Hemina.

Track Listing:
1.) This Hour of Ours
2.) To Conceive a Plan
3.) The Boy is Dead
4.) For All Wrong Reasons
5.) And Now to Find a Friend
6.) With What I See
7.) Hunting Is For Women
8.) Even in Heaven
9.) Conduit to the Sky
10.) Haunting Me!
11.) Divine

CD Review: Imminent Sonic Destruction “Recurring Themes”

Imminent Sonic Destruction
“Recurring Themes”
Producer: Roy Z
Tracks: 9

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Recurring Themes” is the latest release from the Detroit based progressive/metal band Imminent Sonic Destruction. The bands line up consists of Tony Piccoli – Lead Vocals/ Guitars, Pat DeLeon Drums/Percussion, Scott Thompson – Guitars/Vocals, Pete Hopersberger – Keyboards/Vocals and Bryan Paxton – Bass/Vocals. Together they are independently releasing their new album which features 9 original tracks produced by Roy Z (Halford, Bruce Dickinson).

Prior to listening to the new album from Imminent Sonic Destruction I was a little worried that I would be spending the next hour or so trying to digest another progressive rock album. An album without label backing worried me even further. Despite my preconceived notions I forged ahead and was greatly surprised by the power and diversity found on “Recurring Themes”. Vocalist Tony Piccoli does a great job blending melodic harmonies and guttural growling over the top of some really great instrumentation. Tracks like “Breaking Through” and “Here, It’s Over” really showcase the band as a collective crushing unit. Though there are a couple tracks that run past the 10 minute mark the arrangements of those songs are put together in a way that keep the listener on track.

The band along with producer Roy.Z did a good job at making a really solid album that I feel will stand out above a lot of others in the progressive/rock, metal genre. If you are a fan of bands like Strapping Young Lad and Meshuggah you surely want to check out the latest release from the Motor City’s Imminent Sonic Destruction

Track Listing:
1.) Driving Home
2.) Monster
3.) With Death, The Story Ends
4.) Breaking Through
5.) Temple
6.) Here, It’s Over
7.) Sick
8.) The Remembering
9.) Raven

CD Review: Adrenaline Mob “Omerta”

Adrenaline Mob
“Omerta”
Elm City Music
Producer: Adrenaline Mob
Tracks: 11

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Omerta” is the first full length album from the hard rock super group Adrenaline Mob. The album is the follow up to the group’s well received self titled EP which was released in August of 2011. “Omerta” is being released by the newly formed Elm City Music and features 11 tracks produced by Adrenaline Mob and mixed by Jay Ruston.

Those not familiar with Adrenaline Mob need to take notice! The groups line up consists of Russell Allen- vocals, Mike Orlando- guitar, Mike Portnoy- drums and the newest member of the group Disturbed bassist John Moyer. “Omerta” runs the gambit of pure metal goodness. Tracks like “Undaunted” which features a great sing along choruses while the in your face attack of “Hit The Wall” will having you instantly banging your head. Each member of the band seems to have put everything they have into their performance leaving nothing on the table. A guest vocal performance by Lzzy Hale of Halestorm puts the icing on the cake with the bands spectacular rendition of the Duran Duran song “Come Undone”.

Those familiar with the members of Adrenaline Mob’s previous works will surely want to check out “Omerta”. The album has a little bit of everything and is complimented by a great mix courtesy of Jay Ruston. The album is scheduled for release in mid March of 2012 so definitely be on the lookout for it.

Track Listing:
1.) Undaunted
2.) Psychosane
3.) Indifferent
4.) All On The Line
5.) Hit the Wall
6.) Feelin’ Me
7.) Come Undone
8.) Believe Me
9.) Down To The Floor
10.) Angel Sky
11.) Freight Train

Concert Review “Children of Bodom’s 15th Anniversary Tour” Rochester, NY

“Children of Bodom’s 15th Anniversary Tour”
Children of Bodom, Eluveite, Revocation and Threat Signal
Date: Monday, January 30th 2012
Venue: Water St. Music Hall, Rochester, NY

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

January 30th ad the Water Street Music Hall in Rochester, NY played host to the third show of a 36 date tour which is celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Finnish heavy metal group Children of Bodom. Along with Children of Bodom the nights line up featured special guests Eluveite, Revocation and Threat Signal.

Ontario, Canada’s Threat Signal kicked off the show playing a blend of harmony infused metal that did a great job priming the audience. Though their set was brief the band seemed to put everything they had into their performance. Revocation would take the stage next and treated the crowd to what could be described as Mid-Evil Metal. Front man Dave Davidson did a great job of setting the story for each epic song prior to its performance. This only seemed to draw the crowd more into the band’s blend of progressive, mystically tinged music.

The 8 piece Celtic-metal group known as Eluveite would be up next and despite every inch of the stage being filled with band members and instruments Eluveite stole the show. Lead vocalist Chrigel Glanzmann had the crowd in the palm of his hand during the bands 40 min. set. Chrigel and the rest of the band filled the venue with a variety of unique sound normally not heard in the metal genre. The band performed a number of tracks off their 2010 release “Everything Remains (As It Never Was)” album as well as a few new songs off the upcoming “Helvetios” album. After an impressive 40 min. performance the band left the stage to repeated chants of “one more song”.

Children of Bodom closed out the night treating the fans with songs that spanned their 15 year career. Front man Alexi Laiho put on a blinding display of guitar playing only further confirming why he is often considered one of the top metal guitarists of the day. Through most of the set I found Alexi’s vocals hard to hear over the deafening roar of guitar and drums. This could have been attributed to the tour being only on its third show and still having some bugs needing to be worked out or, the band is really just the loud. Over all the bands performance was ok. Personally I would have liked to have heard one or two covers tracks off the bands “Blooddrunk” album.

If you have never seen Children of Bodom before I highly recommend making out to one of the shows on this tour. I recommend getting their early as the entire tour package is really solid. Also you definitely won’t want to miss Eluveite.

Children of Bodom Set List:
1. Shovel Knockout
2. Are You Dead Yet?
3. Not My Funeral
4. Kissing the Shadows
5. Living Dead Beat
6. Round Trip to Hell and Back
7. COB/Deadnight Warrior/Hate Me!
8. SixPounder
9. BloodDrunk
10. Angels Don’t Kill
11. In Your Face
12. HCDR
13. Bodom After Midnight
14. Bodom Beach Terror
15. Downfall

Book Review “Vicious Dogs Attack Me In Sleepless Nights Of Summer”

Author: Scott Schiaffo
Paperback: 112 pages
Publisher: Scott Schiaffo
Release Date: January 5, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

The subtitle really sets the mood for this book perfectly: “a collection of prose, tales, and streams of semi-consciousness”.  Actor and musician, Scott Schiaffo not only authored this book of poems he also self-published it.  Scott is known best for his role in “Clerks” as the “Chewlies Gum Guy”. Before reading this book I have never really took much interest into the world of poetry.  After reading this book I think my mind has been opened to this world new world that I never really took notice to.  Be warned before you read this book it is some heavy stuff and you should really prepare yourself before diving in.

In this book we delve into the mind Scott Schiaffo and his darkest times in his life.  We glimpse into his issues with existential angst, addiction, and even near death experiences. I really need to give Scott credit for revealing this very troubled time in his life. Two notable poems have to be “Naked” and “Stitch”.  I also really enjoyed the title poem “Vicious Dogs Attack Me In Sleepless Nights Of Summer”. To quote the closing line of “Elapse”…”I want to live, not exist”,  this pretty much sums its up.

The book itself extremely simple and is not too showy.  It really let’s the words do the talking and it is what it is and take it or leave it.  To accompany these deep and honest poems are some great illustrations from Scott Meaney, co-author of the great sci-fi graphic novel, “Constellation Park”. I feel that Scott really digs deep and really reveals to us his darkest secrets and you really get an appreciation for his story that you find being told throughout each poem.  I recommend this book very highly.

DVD Review “Looney Tunes Super Stars: Pepe Le Pew”

Created by: Chuck Jones
Voiced by: Mel Blanc
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Distributed by: Warner Home Video
Episodes: 17
Run Time: 119 minutes

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Well Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and why not celebrate it with the old school French Skunk, Pepe Le Pew! He has looking for love since 1945 and it still is fun to watch his adventures.  Looney Tunes has really created some of the most memorable characters and he is one of my favorites.  This collection from Warner Bros features, for the first time, some of Pepe’s greatest shorts, which deserve to be showcased.

Here are the list of episodes included: Odor-Able Kitty, Scent-imental Over You, Odor of the Day, For Scent-imental Reasons, Scent-imental Romeo, Little Beau Pepé, Wild Over You, Dog Pounded, The Cats Bah, Past Perfumance, Two Scent’s Worth, Heaven Scent, Touché and Go, Really Scent, Who Scent You?, A Scent of the Matterhorn, Louvre Come Back to Me!

This collection is labeled “Zee Best of Zee Best” and it is exactly that. Easily one of my favorites is the “Wild Over You” where Pepe falls in love with a wildcat from the zoo.  The cartoons still look amazing especially since some of them are almost 70 years old.  Some of the episodes are presented in widescreen, while most though are shown in full screen ratio.  Truly a great tribute to one of Looney Tunes most romantic characters.  This is a must purchase for all fans.

Synopsis:
A new compilation featuring 17 iconic shorts of the loveable French Skunk, Pepe Le Pew! Pepe is always strolling around Paris in the springtime, where everyone’s thoughts are of “love”. While he is constantly seeking “l’amour” of his own, his huge turnoff to any prospective mate is his malodorous scent. Together for the first time are some of Pepe’s most beloved and comical shorts.

The Looney Tunes Pepe Le Pew Collection Available on DVD 12/27 at http://bit.ly/rTf1wm!
Like us on Facebook at http://on.fb.me/WBEntFB
Follow us on Twitter at http://bit.ly/WBHETW

Blu-ray Review “Urbanized”

Directed by: Gary Hustwit
Starring: Sir Norman Foster, Rem Koolhaas, Oscar Niemeyer, Amanda Burden, Enrique Penalosa
Distributed by: New Video
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 85 minutes

Film: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Urbanized” is the final documentary in director Gary Hustwit’s design film trilogy following “Helvetica” and “Objectified”. This film is the series focuses on the design of cities. I felt that the film keep my attention very well for the first 30 minutes during the films look at different cities in the world. Once it started going into topics of economic development and environmental policies, I started fading fast.

The film not only looks at design but also the issues and strategies behind urban design. It features interviews with some of the world’s most respected architects, planners and builders. There is much focus on problems with housing, public space and the government interactions. If that sounds like your cup of tea then then film is for you, otherwise you might want to take a pass.

The Blu-Ray of this film delivers with its great both video and its 5.1 surround track, though since it is a documentary its nothing special. It actually also has a notable case and booklet, which is rare for films these days. The cover art is illustrated beautifully and includes liner notes by director Gary Hustwit. If you are looking for bonus features, this film contains an additional one hour of interviews and footage. Worth checking out for sure if you enjoyed the film.