Watchmen by Alan Moore (*****)

Yes, I know, you have heard it a trillion times before, but Watchmen really is the ultimate graphic novel; one of the first mature ones, it tackled deeper issues than its predecessors (excluding Moore’s Swamp Thing, see below). A story of all-too-real superheroes investigating a potential conspiracy, Watchmen grips from the first page with its uncompromising, “neon-noir” futuristic style and Moore’s trademark snappy dialogue, brimming with wit and intelligence. This guy knows what he’s doing. If recently the reclusive author has perhaps delved too deep into metaphysical explorations, this incredibly influential masterwork will forever serve as a perfect gateway to the world of intelligent, adult graphic novels.

Read more

(Note: This article pertains to to stuff I watched/read in 2008, which doesn’t mean it necessarily came out in 2008)

Funny Games (brutal – Haneke makes a perfect case of what’s wrong with our addiction to violence on the silver screen… in his own words “if you didn’t walk out half-way through the film, there’s something wrong with you”);

Juno (”overrated but witty and boasting great performances all around… go Michael Cera!)

There Will Be Blood (love P.T. Anderson… “I drink your milkshake!”)

Iron Man (R.D.Jr is the man, and this comic adaptation flies, surpassing its source by a significant quotient)

Grizzly Man (Werner Herzog never disappoints… this is more than just about some crazy man living with the Grizzlies)

Read more