book/movie review; week 2

Rant by Chuck Palahniuk


Rant is one of those books that makes you crack up laughing, cringe in disgust, and freak out when it throws you for a loop. Presented in the style of an oral biography from the points of view of the deceased protagonist, this book offers a new twist to the trademark Palahniuk style, allowing multiple personalities to emerge and coexist, while not always in a complimentary way. Through differing opinions and perspectives on the same events, the reader can develop their own opinion on the story as it is not completely clear by the end. Surprisingly, a lot of the "stranger" parts of the actual story seem somewhat average compared with "normal" Palahniuk. It isn't even until about 100 pages in does the reader realize that the entire book takes place in a near future dystopia and may very well deal with an awkward Grandfather/mother paradox that makes songs like "I'm My Own Grandpa" take on a new meaning. Even without the awkward incestuous overtones or the somewhat confusing futuristic setting, this book leaves the reader satisfied, even if not to the degree that Survivor or Lullaby do.
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SLC Punk! directed by James Merendino

Why am I reviewing this? An amazing movie that I have revisited time and time again, SLC Punk! is and will always be one of my favorites. I may have a huge issue with the punk culture and the music may not be my absolute favorite, but Matthew Lillard as Stevo and Michael Goorjian as "Heroin" Bob never cease to entertain as they take viewers through a chaotic, hilarious, and, in the end, profound journey during the summer of 1985 in Salt Lake City. It's one of those movies that is a must-see for any of my friends, for anyone who might have a slight interest in fun. Doesn't matter if you're punk and you listen to the Sex Pistols, something clearly stated in the movie. This movie is for anyone who chooses to be different and chooses to think outside the norm. And, of course, for anyone who likes having fun doing it. Watch it.

Varsity Blues directed by Brian Robbins


This is what I get for dating a cheerleader. Sports movies. But this one is actually really good. It has the typical motivational message at the end, the dramatic injury, the pressure from parents and peers, the tough coach, et cetera et cetera. But it also has crazy parties, slutty cheerleaders, stolen cop cars, Kurt Vonnegut, and the ever dreamed of stripper/teacher combo. Not that I care for football, alcohol, whip cream bikinis, or country music This film certainly entertains everyone, from sports diehards, to the ones who will tolerate it because their weird girlfriend feels like yelling at a group of sweaty guys every weekend. If you're just hanging out with some friends and need a decent, fun movie to watch, this is a good choice.


Good Will Hunting directed by Gus Van Sant

This movie proves two things: Gus Van Sant can direct good movies if he really wanted to. And some movies definitely deserve the hype they get. This movie is a must-see for anyone. I'm not even going to say much more than that. What is it about? See it and find out. Who is in it? Shouldn't be too hard to figure out from the above image, but see it anyway. All the actors deliver great performances, and Matt Damon and Ben Affleck deserve the recognition they got for writing it. I don;t know what else to say, just watch it



Scott Pilgrim Versus The World directed by Edgar Wright


This movie was weird. But it made me laugh a lot. I love Michael Cera, and the music was cool and the weird video game motif was different, and yeah. Go see it, it will keep you entertained for a great two hours. Enough said.

Zay.