The Must List: February 12, 2010 – February 18, 2010

By our guest blogger, Spencer Morton

Movie

“The Wolfman” – The stellar Benicio Del Toro stars as Lawrence Talbot, an American man who returns to England after the disappearance of his brother. The search for his brother takes him on a horrific journey--one that will forever change who he is. Anthony Hopkins and the beautiful Emily Blunt co-star.

This movie will be scary for two reasons: 1) The whole premise is a bit creepy, and the trailer shows the film may offer some legitimate werewolf scares. 2) This all-star cast is being teamed with a questionable director. Joe Johnston helmed the wonderful “October Sky,” but is also to blame for “Jurassic Park III” and “Hidalgo.” He hasn’t directed a film in six years. Hope he doesn’t waste this talent.

“The Wolfman” has waffled in post-production for quite some time. Will it offer anything new to the often tedious werewolf horror genre? Will this magnificent cast be given quality direction? Find out as “The Wolfman” reaches theaters on Friday (2/12).

*Runner-up: “Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief” – Sure, the film looks a bit silly. It could be fun, however. There are some big names here (Uma Thurman, Pierce Brosnan, Rosario Dawson, Catherine Keener, Sean Bean). Have they really stooped this low, or will this turn out to be an enjoyable children’s adventure film?


DVD/Blu-ray

“Black Dynamite” – This completely unheralded parody film was one of the funniest movies of 2009. Black Dynamite (Michael Jai White) is the only person brave enough to stand up against ‘The Man’ who has murdered, illegally distributed drugs and alcohol, and been a menace to society.

“Black Dynamite” is as raucous as it is clever. No subject is taboo. The performances are gimmicky and fun. Most spoof and parody movies these days come off as inane and childish. “Black Dynamite” is smart, it isn't PC, and it never fails to amuse. Check out Black Dynamite as he nunchucks his way to justice when the film hits shelves on Tuesday (2/16).

*Runner-up: “Law Abiding Citizen” – One of the stupidest movies of 2009, no doubt, “Law Abiding Citizen” is always entertaining. Its premise is far-fetched and fairly predictable. Gerard Butler and Jamie Foxx are more than capable however. Leave your brains at the door, suspend reality for a few hours, and enjoy “Law Abiding Citizen.”


CD

Story of the Year – “The Constant”: There isn’t a whole lot to choose from in terms of new music this week, so these St. Louis rockers will have to do. Story of the Year burst onto the mainstream scene in 2003 when they released their radio-friendly “Page Avenue.” Since then, it’s been a rollercoaster ride. Their follow-up, “In the Wake of Determination,” was painstakingly generic and an all around poor effort. However, their 2008 release, “Black Swan,” was a good turnaround. On Tuesday (2/16) they release their fourth album, “The Constant.”

Story of the Year has tinkered with a lot of sounds in their day. They’ve been labeled emo, punk, alternative rock and metal. The sound of their new album is faster, punkier and heavier than any of their previous work. SOTY will never be innovative or altogether too interesting. Look for “The Constant” to be a well-made, albeit unoriginal, rock album.

Songs to download:
“I’m Alive”
“To the Burial”
“Won Threw Ate”

*Runner-up: Since there’s nothing else to recommend in terms of new music, I’ll randomly recommend a classic album. Check out “Paul’s Boutique” by the Beastie Boys. If you ever wanted to know where the whole concept of sampling in hip-hop music came from, listen to this album. This is classic hip-hop and is truly a landmark in the genre.


Television

“The Amazing Race” – For some reason, this show never seems to get old. There’s something intriguing about watching dysfunctional couples race around the world. This Emmy award-winning reality show is entering its 16th season. Here’s a preview of some interesting teams to watch out for:

Jody and Shannon (Grandmother/Granddaughter) – Jody is a conservative, active, outspoken grandma. She is the oldest person ever to compete in the race. Her granddaughter, Shannon, is wild and vivacious.

Louie and Michael (Detectives) – These Providence, Rhode Island detectives seem fun and competitive. They’re used to solving clues in real life. How will that translate to the race?

Jet and Cord (Brothers/Cowboys) – Not only are their names hilarious, but they’re cowboys! This team isn’t very well traveled, so will their southern charm be enough to get them around the world?

The 16th season of “The Amazing Race” kicks off at 8 p.m. Sunday (2/14) on CBS. To see a full list and bios of the contestants, click here.

*Runner-up: “The 2010 Olympic Winter Games” – Why is this not the most recommended? 1) I love “The Amazing Race.” 2) These games are going on for weeks. You’d probably know about them whether I told you or not. The grand opening ceremony will be held on Friday (2/12) at 6 p.m. on NBC. Let’s give curling some love this year!


Music Video

Kidz in the Hall – “Jukebox”

Last week, I mentioned my relative disdain for videos that are simply rappers surrounded by booty-shaking bimbos. Some would argue that me recommending this video is hypocritical. In fact, this video is quite cool. There are some super-long cuts compared to most music videos. The slick beat and tight rhymes don’t hurt either. “Jukebox” is the first single of Kidz in the Hall’s forthcoming record “Land of Make Believe.”




Viral Video

There were a lot of so-so commercials during last Sunday’s Super Bowl. One Company, Doritos, really stood out though. This commercial takes the prize as funniest ad of the night. Watch when the little kid gets all up in this guys face. It’s priceless. Enjoy!