Trappist monks who lived in the monastery of Tibhirine existed in harmony with Muslims in the mountains of Algeria until a civil war erupted in the 1990s. Seven monks were captured by the Armed Islamic Group and were killed two months later, although the exact circumstances of their deaths remain unclear. Director Xavier Beauvois revisits the tragic events in his film, Of Gods and Men, chronicling how the monks debated whether or not to remain in North Africa amidst rising tensions between Christians and Muslims. The monks weigh the issue thoroughly, understanding that although they play no role in the …
Neil Young Trunk Show
Concert films are difficult to evaluate because they are similar to the television broadcast of a sports event. The entertainment value of the event is closely tied to the event itself. If a director misses a shot and the viewer misses part of the action, the mistake is recognized but excellent performance is rarely acknowledged. The Neil Young Trunk Show rocks but does it rock because Neil Young rocks or because it is an amazing film? Neil Young certainly rocks, combining acoustic and rock numbers. There are passionate lyrics, intricate solos, and a diverse selection of songs. Anyone could have …
1993 Is a Long Time Ago
The Toronto Blue Jays organization is certainly a wicked problem to which there is no clear solution. The problem has many symptoms: inconsistent performance, poor performance under pressure, and high rates of injury. Rumours suggest that some workout habits that leave a lot to be desired. On-field results appear to have impacted the balance sheet and the team suffers from low attendance and a budget where revenues hardly approach expenses. This all stemmed of a leadership failure, endemic throughout the entire chain of command. Perhaps the best case scenario for the team was a .500 season, but the Blue Jays …