Early Cirque Reinvented

Cirque du Soleil: Cirque Reinvente

English

56 minutes, 1992

5 Stars

These are highlights from their 1987 tour. Great fun to watch, but I missed the vocals, it was all instrumental music. I think this is one of their earliest shows, and the shows and costuming just get better and better. Fun to see and compare to the later shows. I didn't care so much for the clown act (schlock isn't my schtick) but I loved the conductor. Here it is from the 1990 performance in German, not the DVD. The acts were marvelous, as they always are. Grab the kids, some popcorn and soda and enjoy!

"Cliff Note" History of Japan

Lost Treasures of the Ancient World: Samurai Japan

English

50 minutes, 2000

3 Stars

A 50 minute "educational" about the history of Japan. Other than a brief mention, it is not about the Samurai. It is interesting, and if you're interested in Asian history and culture, worth the watch; however, it is British, and if you have trouble understanding their accent, it might present it's own, unique problems. It would have been nice to have seen actual photos of many of the places still standing rather than models. There is no way one can film a couple thousand years of history and not cover anything but the high points in 50 minutes. It is well presented, but I wonder how accurate some of it is – they mention early Polynesian influence, but do not discuss it. They also did not mention the people of Ancient Wu having settled there.

No trailer, full program is here.

And Shepherds we shall be

The Boondock Saints

English

110 minutes, 1999

5 Stars

This is a hilarious action/comedy movie. The heroes are way over the top, which is perfect for this genre. Irish twins Conner and Murphy are sure they have heard the Word of God, and are out to rid the world of evil. They turn themselves in after their first killing, only to be released as heroes. Enter the openly gay FBI special agent who knows it's them, but who is drawn to their side. The violence is gritty, but also laugh-out-loud funny. Willem Dafoe stole every scene he was in. The language may be a bit rough for some (maybe 85% of the dialog uses the Olde English word for plow in one form or another) but the movie is worth the watch. As funny as it is, it also may evoke some deep thoughts about crime and punishment and law and order.

Trailer