Preview for The Butler

If you would like to see a movie regarding race relations in the 20th century; an insider look into the White House; father-son relations; furthermore, family dynamics; and take a journey through the milestones which defined the culture and feel of 20th century America- then this is the movie for you.
If you are also interested in seeing seamless acting and scenes which concreticize the verisimilitude of the medium of film, then I suggest that you see this film, THIS weekend! This is a film that should be witnessed on the big screen.. especially a certain bus scene where the buses pull into KKK country. Please go see it!

PREVIEW: Audra McDonald this Sunday!!

Returning to UMS for the fifth time, Audra McDonald performs this Sunday, September 15 at 4 pm in Hill Auditorium. She brings a repertoire filled with Broadway classics and in particular, a special attention paid to the works of Gershwin, having just finished her time in Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess. What do I love most about Audra McDonald? She has wicked pipes and a vibrant personality that makes for a stunning performance experience, sure to make any music-lover, Broadway-fanatic or not, giddy with delight. Not to be missed!

Review: Annie Hall – heartwarmingly awkward

Opening Scene – Annie Hall

A wonderful, sweet and heart warming film about the awkwardness of life and relationships, Woody Allen’s “Annie Hall” remains my favorite of his many films. Originally this film was intended to focus on Allen’s quirky, relationally challenged, comedian character Alvie Singer. However, after shooting all the footage, the decision was made to focus the narrative attentions of the film on Dianne Keaton’s relatably human persona, Annie Hall.

Not only is this story wonderful to experience, the film its self is masterfully shot, with some scenes and sequences done in one take, balance in the frame, color sequences, set design, costuming, it all comes together to create a vivid image of real life.

The writing is witty and quick, written in the 1970’s some of the jokes may go over the heads of younger generations, however there is enough content to keep all entertained.

The Michigan Theater will be screening previously released comedies every Monday night at 7pm until the middle of December. Seeing Annie Hall on the silver screen allowed for a completely new experience of this film, which I have seen many times before. I suggest you take some time out of your busy life to sit for a couple of hours and enjoy some laughs on the silver screen. Next Monday will be Harold and Maude.

Ending Sequence – Annie Hall

Review: El Ten Eleven – they did infact begin at Eleven

While many people were cheering on the Victorious Wolverines on Saturday night (Go Blue!) a crowd of music enthusiasts traipsed across Ann Arbor to flail and bounce to El Ten Eleven’s masterful instrumental compositions.

El Ten Eleven have been creating music since 2002. An LA based “indi or post – rock” group with Kristian Dunn on a fretless bass or 1977 Carvin guitar/bass doubleneck with loop pedals and various methods of sound modulation and Tim Fogarty keeping the beat on electric drums, acoustic drums and drum pads.

This duo are, in my personal opinion, some of the most talented musicians and composers working in music today. Their songs are heavily layered with contrasting melody, harmony and rhythm. singular pieces can range from 5-15 minutes in length and time seems to slide right on by as Dunn and Fogarty weave their way from melody to melody.

The Blind Pig is a perfect venue for this group. The small space, intimate proximity to the artist and one’s fellow audience members, creates a relaxing yet thrilling experience of the brilliance these musicians bring to the stage. El Ten Eleven performed at the Pig last fall as well. There were many returning fans as well as some who had only explored BandCamp and SoundCloud (https://soundcloud.com/elteneleven) to experience a taste of what these musicians are capable. Each walked away from this event in awe of the talent, dedication and musicianship of El Ten Eleven.

Video: El Ten Eleven \"Living on Credit Blues\"

Preview: Annie Hall – Life in Techni-Awkward

What: Annie Hall, a film by Woody Allen
Where: Michigan Theater
When: Monday the 9th of September 7pm
Cost: $8 with student ID, $10 general

Annie Hall marks the kick off of Michigan Theater’s “Monday Funny Film Series.” Every Monday from the 9th of September to the 9th of December, Michigan Theater will screen a previously released comedy.
Film List: http://www.michtheater.org/series/monday-funnies/

Annie Hall, starring Dianne Keaton and Woody Allen is a wonderfully comical, charming and excruciatingly awkward film about relationships. If you have never seen this movie you must do so promptly! It is a favorite of many a Allen fan, as well as others who aren’t so keen on the bespectacled comedian/writer/director/actor.

PREVIEW: HomeGrown Festival

HomeGrown Festival

Tonight, the Kerrytown Farmer’s Market welcomes students back into town and townies back into downtown with the sixth annual Home Grown Festival. From 6-10pm this evening, the usually bustling market place will be even more crowded and lively. With booths, vendors, food carts, live music, and a craft beer tent for those who are of age, this is a wonderful way to reintroduce yourself to Ann Arbor for the fall. The entire event is coordinated and run by volunteers who support regional foods, drink, and music. Many restaurants from downtown will be serving their cooking, and several farmers will be offering samples of their special crop, like heirloom tomatoes and exotic strains of garlic. Again, for those who are of age you can observe and even sample the home-brew competition. Don’t miss this cozy and celebratory townie event! For more information on performers, location, vendors, and more, click the image above. See you there!