Sunday, March 13, 2011

Documentaries

Blood into Wine -Apparently Arizona is an emerging wine center. This one follows the band Tool's Maynard as he explains the rigors of winemaking in a unique climate that is not traditionally associated with the vine. A lot of info about winemaking, great landscape shots, funny. Recommend watching this with Pinot Noir, duh.

Man on Radio in Red Shows -Garrison Keillor can make just about anything sound interesting in a relaxing sort of way. Offers a good look at all that goes into making Prairie Home Companion and of course praises the under appreciated far North. A lot of focus on average, real people. Recommend watching this on a rainy, contemplative day when you're a little more open-minded than usual.

Exit Through the Gift Shop -A Banksy documentary on the guy who sought to document Banksy. I think anyone can appreciate this one regardless of their knowledge of art, politics, Banksy, etc. At the bare minimum, it's fun to watch graffiti come alive. Ultimately, it offers an interesting commentary on art, street art, consumerism, etc. Recommend watching this with a mixed group.

180 ยบ South -The protagonist travels down to Patagonia to meet up with the founders of both North Face and Patagonia. Several points of view and themes to this one. Largely a political message but travel/self discovery is prominent as well. Phenomenal landscape shots alone make this worth watching. Recommend watching this one late at night with a travel buddy/wife.