NEW ORDER STORY
(1994)
A nice documentary on New Order, which was satisfying to watch after the somewhat depressing Ian Curtis biopic “Control”. Happily learned more than I expected to, of how the band views their own synth-drumkit music success and the cheeky and detached scene they created. Interviews include the band’s manager and the graphic designer Peter Saville, who was responsible for the band’s iconic album covers and “new order look”. The documentary also talks with impresario Tony Wilson who helped out a few emerging Manchester bands, like Joy Division and the Stone Roses, as well as managed Factory Records and the Hacienda nightclub. Tony Wilson, as portrayed in the documentary, was a big part of New Order’s personal story. He passed away in early August of 2007 at the age of 57. There is also great footage of Peter Hook slamming into his hot bass playing, if you like that sort of thing, which I do. Promptly loaned this DVD to a buddy.
This is cool. A more recent album cover design from Peter hook.
IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE
Directed by Kar Wai Wong (2000)
2046
Directed by Kar Wai Wong (2004)
Even though there is a 4 year gap between the filming of “In the Mood for Love” and “2046″, the story line seamlessly carries forward, so I recommend viewing both movies as close as possible. The second movie “2046″ is a continuation of the moody and bohemian newspaper man’s story from the first movie– who, after the prior events-of-the-heart, attempts to give up not only writing news but other certain feelings. I really liked “2046″ better then the first movie, because of its great analogies, epic character pathos and tender subplots… but also the way it echoes and makes sense of the prior film. The director blurs the sense of place, breaks time lines, and strongly carries the character’s feelings to the viewer. There is even a yearnful sci-fi train ride, heading back from the future, vainly trying to traverse emotional time, which is coiled around the main plot.
It’s a romantic and poignant double-bill — bathed in beautiful light, alien in setting and pace, and rich with exploration of every character’s emotional world — that cannot be beat. Sixteen thumbs up.
more… 2046