INsite Atlanta November 2007 Issue by INsite Magazine

Thank you for voting us

”Best Health Club 2007” 7 years running!

Convenient Locations | Sports Club Amenities

� DAY SPORTS CLUB PASS Come into LA Fitness® Sports Clubs and redeem this Seven Consecutive Days Pass. Must be 18 years of age or older and show valid I.D. One pass per person, per 6 months. Pass activation hours 8am to 8pm. *Extra charge for some amenities. Sales presentation tour required. Other memberships may be presented. Redeemable by non-members only. Facilities and classes vary from club to club. Leagues extra. Not available for resale or redeemable for cash. 11/07

REDEEM BY 11/30/07

AKERS MILL | 770.956.9093 2995 Cobb Pkwy. ALPHARETTA/WINDWARD 678.393.2733 5530 Windward Pkwy. ANSLEY MALL | 404.249.6463 1544 Piedmont Ave. NE ATLANTIC STATION | 404.810.9015 261 19th St., Suite 1140 AUSTELL | 770.432.4262 1025 E. West Connector #2

BUFORD | 678.714.5075 3420 Buford Dr. N.E. CAMP CREEK | 404.344.1248 3755 Carmia Dr. SW, Suite 700 DUNWOODY/PERIMETER PT. 770.350.4951 1155 Mount Vernon Hwy.,#600 EAST COBB | 770.973.3370 4400 Roswell Rd.

KENNESAW/TOWN CENTER 770.427.9668 2801 George Busbee Pkwy. LENOX/BUCKHEAD | 404.233.8311 3232 Peachtree St. MCDONOUGH | 800.607.1750 Join Now at the Preview Center! 2023 Jonesboro Rd. MIDTOWN | 404.249.6404 75 Fifth St., NW, Suite E

ROSWELL WEST | 678.494.6464 4801 Alabama Rd. SNELLVILLE | 770.979.1288 2279 Pinehurst Rd. SOUTHLAKE | 770.960.0393 7057 Mount Zion Circle

SPRAYBARRY - Coming Soon! 800.730.7261 2550 Sandy Plains Rd., Ste. 325

HOLCOMB BRIDGE | 770.640.8137 1475 Holcomb Bridge Rd.

NORTHLAKE | 770.414.0651 1990 W. Exchange Place

SUGARLOAF | 770.822.2533 1860 Duluth Highway

JOHNS CREEK | 770.623.9433 11720 Medlock Bridge Rd.

PEACHTREE CORNERS | 770.797.2661 7050 Jimmy Carter Blvd. #118

TOCO HILLS | 404.248.2998 2880 N. Druid Hills Rd.

WWW.LAFITNESS.COM

GET YOUR

�� ON!

BUY ONE PAIR & GET THE SECOND PAIR 1/2 OFF! FABULOUS FALL INVENTORY REDUCTION SALE!

Hurry in today and buy 1 pair of shoes and get the 2nd pair at half off. That’s any shoe of equal or lesser value at half off Shoemakers’ retail price. This offer is for a limited time only and available on all shoe merchandise including the latest fall arrivals.

CONTENTS • NOVEMBER 2007 • VOLUME 16.3

INTERVIEWS 12 BEN AFFLEK 14 JIMMY CARTER 15 STEVE CARELL 18 JODIE FOSTER 19 MICHAEL PENA 23 WU-TANG CLAN 25 PETER BJORN & JOHN 26 LES PAUL 27 REEL BIG FISH 27 JOAQUIN PHOENIX

FEATURES 29 BEST OF ATLANTA 35 NCAA PREVIEW 37 NBA PREVIEW

COLUMNS

05 UNDER THE LIGHTS 06 ON TAP 07 BOOKS 18 07 WASHINGTON OUTSIDER 08 AROUND TOWN 10 WANTON DISTRACTION 16 MOVIE REVIEWS 17 VIDIOTS 20 CONCERT CALENDAR 22 ROAD WARRIORS 22 WE GOT NEXT 24 ALBUM REVIEWS 27 38 FANATIC

www.insiteatlanta.com STAFF LISTING Publisher Stephen Miller steve@insiteatlanta.com National Managing Editor Bret Love bret@insiteatlanta.com Art Director �� graphics@insiteatlanta.com Film Editor Matt Goldberg matt@insiteatlanta.com Local News Editor Glenn LaFollette glenn@insiteatlanta.com Local Events Editor Rav Mansﬁeld rav@insiteatlanta.com Sports Editor DeMarco Williams demarco@insiteatlanta.com Web Design Kalico Productions

PG 4 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

Contributing Writers / Interns: John Davidson, John Moore, Mathew Goldberg, Russell Fisher, Zena Scott, Margo Aaron, Andrea Hatter, Kim Guelcher, Richard Marsh, Tracy Gould & Mark Fitten, Dave Cohen CONTACT US 2250 North Druid Hills Rd. #100 Atlanta, GA 30329-3118 phone 404-315-8485 website insiteatlanta.com ADVERTISING INFORMATION �� Editorial content of INsite is the opinion of each writer and is not necessarily the �� false or mi leading advertising or editorial content, nor do the publisher or edi�� information (any and all) in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written ��

THEATER

Under The Lights Theatrical Performances in November Degas’ Little Dancer Nov. 10 - 18 Alliance Theatre 404-733-5000 www.alliancetheatre.org

THE BRUSH, THE TILT, THE HOP, THE TWIRL! The balance, the spring, the leap, the flight! Edgar Degas likely thought of these words as he created his masterpieces, and a young dancer imagining the perfect performance might think the same. Degas’ Little Dancer, the season’s first Alliance Children’s Theatre production, celebrates the power of imagination in a tale of time travel and dance. Directed by Rosemary Newcott, and starring father and daughter Chris and Noelle Kayser, this gem of a play features wonderful ballet routines and a magical story to delight children who love to dream and the adults who encourage their Noelle Kayser dreams. Written by Wesley Middleton, Degas’ Little Dancer is the fantastic tale of a young dancer’s commitment to her art as it inspires a struggling sculptor. The story centers around Marie, a young ballerina-in-training, living with her mother in modern day Atlanta. When they visit the High Museum of Art, Marie is struck by the beauty of Degas’ sculpture “La Petite Danseuse,” or “The Little Dancer.” After a disastrous ballet class at which Marie is criticized for her originality, she travels back in time to Paris and becomes a model for Degas, inspiring him to create the beloved sculpture in his own unique style.

White Christmas

Nov 6-11 The Fox Theatre 404-817-8700 theaterofthestars.com

RVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS is a delightful new musical based on the 1954 Paramount hit movie. It tells the story of two veterans Bob and Phil who have a successful song- and-dance act after the war. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a

Photography by Chris Bennion

Deco L-Frame From $209 ��

Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former Army commander. The boys soon realize they are the only guests at the resort because there is no snow! In order to help the General, they come up with a scheme to bring in a crowd. They decide to stage their newest Broadway revue, as well as make a special television appeal to all their Army buddies to show up on Christmas Eve. The show features the classic Irving Berlin hits “Blue Skies,” “Sisters,” “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep,” “I Love a Piano?” and the most popular song in history, “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas.”

The Shoemaker & The Elves

Nov. 15 - Jan. 6 Center for Puppetry Arts 404-873-3089 www.puppet.org

Date

Thru Nov.10 Dad’s Garage Theatre 404-523-3141 www.dadsgarage.com WORLD PREMIERE FROM THE MIND of our Improv Director Tim Stoltenberg, this show is all about L-O-V-E and the role it plays in the dating w o r l d . Think figuring out relationships is h a r d enough? Try communicating how you feel without words! Video clips, sound bytes, and voiceovers provide the only words spoken on stage. All of the actors must convey their thoughts through emotion alone.

Brand Names. Low Prices. Cash for Clothes!

BEST VINTAGE CLOTHING STORE 6627 Roswell Rd. | Abernathy Square | 404-255-5151 2480 Briarcliff Rd. | Loehmanns Plaza | 404-929-0224

��

Photo by Alliance Theatre

HE HOLIDAYS ARE APPROACHING, BUT BUSINESS IS NOT SO GOOD at Footmeyer's Shoes. Mel and Tootsie have kept their store open for 42 years, and this year may be the last. What's a shoemaker to do? Enter Frankie and Gino, two bumbling, lovable elves who have nothing but time on their hands and a burning desire to build, build, build! Come join the fun as Santa's shoe artists help the Footmeyers spread good cheer all around 1940s New York City. Expect exciting celebrity appearances and swinging big band music to keep the holiday spirit hopping.

��

�� PG 5 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

LOCAL EVENTS

��

OnTap for November EMAIL EVENTS TO ONTAP@INSITEATLANTA.COM

November 2:

WILD BILL'S FIGHT NIGHT

��

Wild Bill's Fight Night, the biggest and most successful Mixed Martial Arts event series in the state of Georgia, returns on Friday, November 2nd. Special appearance by Georgia's own Forrest Griffin! This will be Forrest's first appearance in Atlanta since his dramatic win over the #1 ranked Light Heavyweight in the World, Mauricio "Shogun" Rua. The event will feature no less than 10 fights including four fights that will could all be main events on other cards. For more information visit, www.WildBillsAtlanta.com.

��

November 2:

QUEEN LATIFAH

��

This Grammy-winning singer has conquered film, television, and music, and now makes her ASO debut with a smoldering set of soul and jazz standards. If you've been a fan of Queen Latifah since she exploded onto the music scene in the late 1980s or if films like Chicago and Hairspray have only recently drawn you to this versatile and charismatic performer, this stunning evening at Symphony Hall is certain to be one unforgettable night of music. For tickets, head to: www.atlantasymphony.org

November 3:

GALACTIC

. . . X T I E S N E O WHMES T IGNORANCE IS CO

DEFINITELY NOT BLISS

At the Feminist Women’s Health Center’s brand new clinic, we provide all the FACTS you need to understand your own body and to make the best choices for your gynecological health. � � � � � � � � �

�� 1924 Cliff Valley Way Atlanta, GA 30329

404-728-7900 www.feministcenter.org PG 6 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

Surgi-Center License 044-287

The Variety Playhouse is getting funky when Galactic comes to town. Originally formed in 1994 as an octet (under the name Galactic Prophylactic) and including singer Chris Lane and guitarist Rob Gowen, the group was soon pared down to an instrumental sextet comprised of: guitarist Jeff Raines, bassist Robert Mercurio, drummer Stanton Moore, saxophonist Ben Ellman and Hammond organist Rich Vogel, later adding Theryl DeClouet on vocals. In 2004, the band parted ways with vocalist DeClouet, and now continue as an instrumental group. For tickets, head to: www.ticketmaster.com

November 11:

THE WIGGLES LIVE! Get ready to learn how to Romp Bomp A Stomp, do The Monkey Dance, Move Like an Emu and discover how to make "Fruit Salad" and "Crunchy Munchy Honey Cakes" as The Wiggles bring their all-new Racing to the Rainbow Live tour to the Arena at the Gwinnett Center! From way "Down Under"comes the #1 childrens entertainment name in Australia - THE WIGGLES! Sam, Murray, Jeff and Anthony will have children singing, laughing and dancing to wonderful tunes about numbers, food and fun. For tickets, head to: www.ticketmaster.com

November 23 - 24:

THE WIZARD OF OZ

Imagine the experience of going to the movies in the days when a pianist sat to accompany every silent feature and newsreel. Now imagine that accompanist is your stellar Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and that film is America's beloved classic The Wizard of Oz. With the ASO playing the complete, original score LIVE, you'll hear the the music from the film in a way you never have before. For tickets, head to: www.atlantasymphony.org

November 24:

JOHNNY MATHIS John Royce Mathis, known popularly as Johnny Mathis, is an American Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter of popular music. The last in a long line of traditional male vocalists who emerged before the rock-dominated 1960s, Mathis concentrated on romantic jazz and pop standards for the adult contemporary audience through to the 1980s. Starting his career with a standard flurry of singles, Mathis was far more popular as an album artist, with several dozen of his albums receiving gold and platinum status and seventy three making the Billboard charts to date. For tickets, head to: www.ticketmaster.com.

Book Review NOT THAT YOU ASKED: RANTS, EXPLOITS AND OBSESSIONS Author: Steve Almond � BY JOHN MOORE ��

Grade: B

POLITICS

Washington Outsider

��

BY MATT GOLDBERG ��

��

Senator Larry Craig likes hanging out in public bathrooms.

PG 7 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

Around Town ��

��

PG 8 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

��

consignment shops

Sushi Avenue 308 W. Ponce de Leon Ave.

Taste 416 Church St.

Blue Moon Designs 418 Church St.

� ��

Vivid Boutique 133 E. Court Square

Hoopla 414 Church St.

��

Buckhead Atlanta

Decatur

Click on the News Flash page at www.decaturga.com for details!

Stone Mtn. I-20

404-371-8386

www.decaturga.com

Forget the mall. Enjoy holiday shopping in Decatur for unique gifts, delicious food and friendly hometown service. We’re easy to ﬁnd, inside I-285, just minutes south of Buckhead. Parking is plentiful and most destinations are a short, pleasant walk from our downtown square at Clairemont and Ponce de Leon avenues.

SELL US YOUR TRENDY CLOTHES

Winner Best Consignment Store

Advertising funded with proceeds from the Great Decatur Beer Tasting Festival.

FINE ART GIFTS

Visit our Blick Roswell Store: 1165 Woodstock Road, Ste. 830 770-993-0240

CREATIVE GIFTS UNDER

Roswell Corners Shopping Center/ Super Target Center HUGE SAVINGS ON EASELS & TABLES

sale

holiday NOVEM

B E R 8 TH - DECE MBER T 24 H

PAINTS, CANVAS, BRUSHES & MORE

Art is a gift. PG 9 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

CELEBRITY GOSSIP

Wanton Distraction Skewed Views on Entertainment News BY MATT GOLDBERG PAUL CAMPBELL, ANDY GRIFFITHS, DORIS ROBERTS, and MARLA SOKOLOFF has signed to star in the film, “Play the Game”, where a young single guy instructs his widowed grandfather how to pick up the ladies. Lesson #1: “Hey, how would you like to have my flaccid genitals inside you?” is not an effective pick up line unless delivered with a great deal of charm. And by “charm” I mean George Clooney is the only man alive who could deliver that line and get away with it. Still, I look forward to the scene where the guy and his gramps are in a club and the grandpa complains about the music before making an off-color racial slur that they used back before we beat the krauts and saved the limeys back in dubya-dubya-two. On the heels of the recently announced “Killing Pablo” adaptation from Joe Carnahan, Variety has announced that ANTOINE FUQUA, who hasn’t made a good film since 2001’s “Training Day” (and that was largely due to Denzel Washington’s performance) will be directing the eloquently and imaginatively titled “Escobar”. Based on “Mi Hermano Pablo”, the story follows the perspective Roberto Escobar Gaviria who served as his infamous brother’s accountant and confidant. One of the many revelations: Escobar did not have a 401k but did have a Roth IRA. The magnificently hilarious MICHAEL CERA and the magnificently breasted KAT DENNINGS (she’s 21 so I can say that and get away with it; thanks arbitrary age restrictions!) will be teaming up to star in “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist”. While one might hope this is a reigniting of the brilliant “Thin Man” movies, you’ll note that Norah is spelled with an “h” at the end and is a modern invention that citizens of the 1930s dared not dream. This story does not focus on solving crime in a witty and charming manner with the presence of a lovable wire-haired fox terrier, but on two love-lorn teenagers (is there any other kind?) who fall for each other while searching for an unannounced show from their favorite band. If their favorite band is Nickelback, then I hope they not only fall in love, but die horribly soon thereafter. That’s what you get for liking Nickelback. When I read the first line of the Variety article saying that JAKE GYL

LENHAAL would be teaming up with director DOUG LIMAN for “Untitled Moon Project” I had wondrous flights of fancy. Would the director of “The Bourne Identity” be teaming up with the star of “Zodiac” for a feature length film about exposing your buttocks to people while howling “Whooooo!” ? The answer: no. It’s about “a private expedition to the moon and the race for lunar colonization.” That was not my first thought at seeing the temporary title. I have to say I’m a little disappointed. I mean, once you find out that the moon is not made of cheese and there’s no man in it, what you have got left? I suppose the only bright side is that my spec script: “Untitled Mooning Project” remains an untapped property. Hollywood, if you want to tap my ass [script], give me a call.

words before he dies. I’m pretty sure this is not a real illness, but I don’t know. I’m not a doctor. I’m also not sure how Murphy will fit this in along with the comedy “Nowhereland” and a planned big-screen adaptation of “Fantasy Island”, but in the meantime, I’ll just pop in my copy of Eddie Murphy: RAW and weep. Giant robots descending from outer-space to fight for an a powerful relic known as the All-Spark? I’ll buy that. I don’t buy KATHERINE HEIGL as a plain-jane bridesmaid who can’t find a guy to make her happy. But apparently that’s the premise of “27 Dresses” where Heigl has been a bridesmaid 27 times and now has to plan her sister’s wedding to the man of Heigl’s dreams. And hey, there’s even a joke in there about how men won’t make a commitment and don’t appreciate the work of women who truly love them! Just a note to the lonely women of the Lifetime crowd where this film clearly has its heart: men aren’t afraid of commitment. We’re just afraid of committing to unattractive, neurotic women who can’t get over their own insecurities. I buy the All-Spark more than I buy Katherine Heigl as that woman. I also think that the trailer should come with the following note of caution: WARNING: MAY CAUSE VAGINA.

WARNER BROS. has made a bid to adapt author Seth Greenland’s upcoming book “Shining City” about a “Milquetoast dad who unwittingly inherits a prostitution ring.” I don’t know if it’s a comedy or a drama but either way I’m SOLD. I mean, most milquetoast parents at best inherit chronic arthritis or a treasure chest full of gold doubloons. But a prostitution ring? Well I’ll take that over arthritis any day! More on this film as it develops. Especially the part about the prostitution ring. Apparently there’s not enough time before the strike for ED DIE MURPHY to squeeze into more awful latex make-up so he’s in final negotiations with his Norbit director Brian Robbins to star in “A Thousand Words” about a man who finds out he can only say 1,000 more

Katherine Heigl will star in the upcoming “27 Dresses.”

Best Liquor Store For over 70 years, Green’s has proudly served Atlanta’s beverage needs – thousands of items at deeply discounted pricing every day. Come in and see why we have been Atlanta’s favorite retail beverage store for 16 years in a row!

www.greensbeverages.com 737 Ponce de Leon | Next to Ford Factory Square | 404-872-1109 2612 Buford Hwy. | 1 Block from Lenox Rd. | 404-321-6232 Remember When Drinking & Having Fun...Please Don’t Drive PG 10 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

��

Expires 12-15-07

White Birch birch ﬂavored vodka is 40% alc./vol., distilled from grain, produced in Russia, and imported by Pottsdam Import & Export, Inc., Atlanta, GA.

B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR

Thanks Atlanta

• B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B ESTATLANTA P ATIO • B EST L OOK ING

W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING

W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOK ING

W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING

W AIT S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT PHIPPS PLAZA • BUCKHEAD • 404.814.9640 • LUNCH & DINNER DAILY

S TAFF • B EST H APPY H OUR www.TheTavernAtPhipps.com • B EST P ATIO • B EST L OOKING W AIT S TAFF

Winner: Best New Restaurant!

Italian Inspired Menu Featuring Wood Brick Oven Pizza

Come For the Food... Stay for the Party! SUNDAY 1/2 price wine MONDAY $10 pizza & wine /beer TUESDAY $15 Bar Lobster AND MORE...

Showing Monday Night Football on TV’s and BIG Screen Open Sunday thru Friday for Lunch, Dinner Everyday and Sunday Brunch

��

PG 11 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

FILM INTERVIEW

BEN AFFLECK BACK, BABY, BACK

BY MATT GOLDBERG

did end up writing one more.

EN AFFLECK ENTERS THE ROOM WITH A BIG SMILE ON his face, ready to face the onslaught of questions. Inside I’m anxious to talk to an actor who I feel has been unfairly dragged over the coals for making misguided choices in his past films and relationships. But the confidence to co-write and direct one of the year’s best films, Gone Baby Gone, can only come from a man who has finally realized how to deal with the press and feel comfortable with his decisions.

[At this point, Ben’s phone starts ringing] Forgive me! This is the real Rudy Giuliani moment. It is! [Answers the phone] Hi, honey. I’m in the middle of my roundtables. I’m in the middle of the thing, so I gotta call you later. Alright, bye.

Why did you choose to make your return to writing with Gone Baby Gone? Well, I was initially sent the book by a few people, and I read the book and I liked the book, so I pursued it in increments. I thought this would be really interesting to adapt and look at as something to act in. And then I was kind of hanging out with a friend of mine, a writer (Aaron Stockard), and kicked it around with him and sort of working on it. We pursued it in a way that was very tentative because we said, “Look, we don’t want any money,” to Alan Ladd Jr., who owned the rights and hadn’t done anything with them, “because we’re not sure we can execute this properly. It’s structurally diﬃcult. So don’t give us any money because we don’t want to feel weird about having our names on something that doesn’t work. We’ll take money if we think it works.”

Was [Jennifer Garner] calling about box office on The Kingdom? At the junket for that film, she said she wants to make sure you have a role for her in your next movie. I should be so lucky! This film really focuses on protecting children, and President Bush recently said he would veto anything that would give free healthcare to children of low-income families. As a politically active person, I was just wondering why you think the Democrats don’t use this as something to fight him on? I think they have, or they’re sort of trying. The Democrats have not been exactly what you would call successful at capitalizing on what would seem to be politically low-hanging fruit. It’s interesting that you talk about that in terms of this story because it is about– and I asked Lehane, who is also a politically-minded guy, and I think politically a man after my own heart although we didn’t get too deeply into it– he saw this story as kind of a defense of children at its root. He saw the politics of this, and while they’re not didactic, they’re present at the root. And there’s something about the cycle of poverty and how that feeds into the cycle of addiction and abuse and neglect. It asks this question

I GOT TO A POINT IN MY LIFE WHERE I REEXAMINED WHY I WAS DOING WHAT I WAS DOING. I ULTIMATELY DECIDED THAT THE ONLY PERSON I COULD REALLY TRUST AS A BAROMETER WAS MYSELF. SO IF I WAS GOING TO SUCCEED OR FAIL, I WAS GOING TO SUCCEED OR FAIL ON THE BASIS OF MY OWN INSTINCTS RATHER THAN TRY TO PANDER TO SOME IMAGINARY AUDIENCE.

And how did you come to make the decision to direct the film? When the script was finished, it took a long time and I thought, “Well, maybe I’ll try to act in it and find a director…” Ultimately it evolved to a place where I liked it and I came to a place where I felt that I could direct something. I really fell in love with this piece of material and I thought it would be appropriate to direct for a number of reasons. I really understood the world it was set in, I came from this city, and it had a plot architecture that was built in that I could fall back on. I was really insecure about my ability to manufacture plot architecture. I was more comfortable with character and dialogue and the universe of Boston. That turned out to be a mistake, because this is a really tricky plot and it was dumb to think, “This is all set!” Dennis [Lehane, author] has this construction in this book that you think, “Oh, okay! He’s got it all built!” Then you try to adapt it and work it into a script, but it’s so labyrinthine and complex that as soon as you try to pull out one little piece, you realize how tricky it is. The whole thing comes apart and you have to rebuild it, and it’s all patched up and broken apart. It was way, way more work.

What was it like directing your brother Casey, and did you consider other actors for the role? Initially, the part was written older, so the idea wasn’t about Casey because the guy was like 35 to 40. But as I looked it, I had a hard time getting excited about that. When I reconceived of him being 29, it seemed more exciting, story-wise, because the guy had more to lose and the stakes were higher. You go through a trauma at 40, it hurts you, but it doesn’t change your life. It maybe really forks the road of your life when you’re 29 or 31, say. And not only that, but all of sudden I had a fantastic actor who was that age, who understood Boston, who I really had a short-hand with, who was available, and who I knew I could get! And we could afford! [laughs] Was this the first thing that you’d written since Good Will Hunting? Certainly the first thing that I’d written that had more contiguous pages than 15. Well, I’d written some television pilots, but beginning-to-end feature screenplay, yes. And what about that these characters, Patrick and Angie, who were in a series of books and this was the fourth part of that series. Did you have to get the rights to the whole series? I thankfully didn’t have to deal with any of that because I handled things more from the director side and Alan Ladd, who’s very old-school, who just got his star on the Walk of Fame, he’s one of these guys who every time you talk to him, he’ll be like, “So I remember when we were making The Right Stuff…” or “Blade Runner” or “…when I gave the green light to Star Wars…” He’s got all these incredible stories. He had the rights already and he had a relationship with Lehane and he was the guy I had to go to. Basically, I went to him and said, “Here’s the one of the books you have that I’m interested in. I don’t want to do the whole series. I’m not trying to be the Peter Jackson of the Patrick and Angie stuff. My ambitions extend only to this one book. I don’t need to try and ask you for all of it.” I didn’t view it as a part of the larger series. I really liked this ending. This ending had finality to it. Later I talked to Dennis, and he really saw this, when he wrote it, as the end. He PG 12 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

that exists between these two paradigms, liberal and conservative, and part of this debate at the end about judgment and forgiveness. How much do we forgive people who are the victims of their own circumstance and upbringing and say, “Okay, you get another chance”? And how much do we say, “No, you’re just abhorrent and what you’ve done is unpardonable.” And I really liked that that was in the book without any kind of preachiness or explicitness, saying, “You see? That’s what this person represents!” I thought it was a smart manifestation of some very contemporary political ideas.

Was there something that inspired you to get back to writing and having that hands-on approach to the film after taking such a long break from what got you noticed in the business? Yeah, probably. It took me a really long time to get it. It was like starting a bicycle in 12th gear. You kind of start peddling in a really labored way, but once I got going I really got going. But it took several years to get this project from start to finish. I think part of it was wanting to change the direction of what I was doing. I used to kind of make choices on what I anticipated other people would find interesting or what would appeal to other people in terms of a mass audience. I used to think like, “Maybe I’ll do this movie or I’ll make this creative choice or this decision because it will be well-received.” I got to a point in my life where I reexamined why I was doing what I was doing. Why I was kind of making the choices I was making. I ultimately decided that the only person I could really trust as a barometer was myself. So if I was going to succeed or fail, I was going to succeed or fail on the basis of my own instincts rather than try to pander to some imaginary audience. And so that’s what brought me to doing Hollywoodland, and after Hollywoodland I decided I’m going to direct this movie that I’ve been afraid to do. And now you’re being more selective about your acting choices, because you’re planning to direct your next movie. Yeah, I’ve really fallen in love with the process of doing this stuff. It’s really exciting and it’s really scary and every day there’s a part of the day where I felt like I had no idea what I was doing! But then parts of the day, or at some point in the process, I found it satisfying and exhilarating in a way that was just very rare for me. And as long as I keep having the opportunity to do it, I’ll keep running it down.

t s a f h fres d o o f College Night at Willy’s!

Show your college ID the first Tuesday of the month and get a $3.50 burrito. Limit 2 per customer and some restrictions may apply.

www.willys.com

15 Atlanta locations Athens location now open!

we cater to a crowd – tailgating, holiday parties and more! Call 404-422-7107

WINNER!

PORK, BEEF & LAMB RIBS! FRESH HOMEMADE SIDES

Where the Ribs Fall Off the Bone

wy.

rnon H

Mt. Ve

�

Hilderbrand Dr.

Roswell Rd.

BEST BBQ IN ATLANTA IS AT KC PIT! Hammond Dr.

LIVE JAZZ THURS – SUN

THURS $10.99/PP

www.kcpitbbq.com ALL-U-CAN-EAT 404-459-6497 | Fax: 404-459-6427 RIBS 234 Hilderbrand Dr. | Sandy Springs, GA | 30328

Monday to Thursday 11am–9pm | Friday & Saturday 11am–10pm | Sunday Noon–9pm PG 13 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

POLITICS

JIMMY CARTER

Speaking His Peace BY BRET LOVE

ORN AND RAISED IN THE SMALL TOWN OF Plains, where his family has owned land since 1833, Jimmy Carter is arguably among the most accomplished individuals ever to spring from Georgia’s red clay soil. In addition to being the state’s only US president, the former Georgia governor is also a Nobel Peace Prize winner, bestselling author and respected lecturer at Atlanta’s prestigious Emory University. With the Carter Center currently celebrating 25 years of work spreading democracy, negotiating peace and seeking cures for diseases around the globe, Carter has continued to serve as a world leader. We spoke with the former president, who revealed his thoughts on the city of Atlanta, the state of the nation and the obstacles being faced on the road to world peace.

lanta has doubled in size, expanding in every direction. So I’m thrilled that Georgia has continued to progress while maintaining a high quality of life. What are the characteristics that, in your eyes, make Atlanta special when compared to the many other major metropolitan cities you have visited over the course of your world travels? I don’t think there’s any doubt that Atlanta has maintained a

Most U.S. Presidents seem to largely fade from public view after leaving office, yet you seem to have only increased your dedication to furthering the causes of human rights, peace and health worldwide. What is it that drives this passion within you? I’ve had a wonderful opportunity, challenge and obligation to fulfill the purposes of the Carter Center in Atlanta, which has very specific goals to promote the causes of world peace, democracy, freedom, human rights and the alleviation of suffering. The work of the center has been the avenue through which I’ve continued to maintain my interest and involvement in international affairs.

What do you think the rest of humanity can learn from your experiences? The major thing I’ve learned is the character of the people we try to help. These are the poorest, most isolated, most neglected people in the world. And in dealing with literally millions of them, I’ve learned that they’re just as intelligent and ambitious and hard working as I am, with family values that are just as good as mine. So would you say that the only thing separating us is the level of opportunity? That’s correct. The Carter Center is located near the heart of Atlanta. What are your feelings on the city’s explosive growth over the past 25 years? I’ve really been pleased and surprised. The state [population] has almost doubled in size since I was governor, and AtPG 14 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

Given your remarkable success with revamping the voting process and promoting democracy in Third World nations, what fixes might you suggest for the problems with the American electoral system? After the 2004 election, former Secretary of State James Baker and I made recommendations on how our electoral system can be improved. We don’t have any central system for controlling elections; we essentially have over 400 different electoral systems, with each county having control. We have too much influence of money. In most countries, everyone who qualifies to seek office has guaranteed equal access to the news media, whereas in our country you have to buy TV and radio time, which is extremely expensive. Over the last 20 years or so, an excessive amount of that is negative advertisement, trying to destroy the reputation and character of your opponent. This has caused sharp divisions between Democrats and Republicans after the elections are over, and all that negativity condemning your opponent tends to make people think neither candidate is worthy of trust. Those things didn’t exist when I ran for office. Regardless of which party ultimately wins, what do you think our next U.S. president needs to do to instill confidence in our citizens, and to smooth the diplomatic bumps in our international relations? They need to elevate the peaceful resolution of differences that are inevitably going to exist to a top priority, and make sure we communicate with people who disagree with us. We need to comply with international law. We need to protect human rights. We need to honor the agreements that have been reached in the past concerning the control of nuclear weapons. We need to preserve the environment. We need to make sure we have fair systems of justice and taxation so that working-class people get fair treatment… We need to cling to the values that have made this country great over the last 200-plus years.

When you were growing up in Plains, did you ever imagine you’d one day grow up to be President, or did that aspiration come later in life? Much later. When I was growing up, my highest ambition was to go to the Naval Academy and get a college education. Nobody in my family had ever been to college before. It was during the Great Depression, and my parents knew the only free universities in the nation were Annapolis and West Point. Going to Annapolis was my ambition the whole time I was growing up.

The Carter Center is celebrating its 25th anniversary, and has achieved quite a lot over the past quarter-century. Is there any particular accomplishment of which you are proudest? I think the work of the Carter Center demonstrates in the most vivid way the finest ideals that make all Americans proud. We promote the basic concepts of peace, negotiate to prevent and end wars, spread democracy and freedom by monitoring 68 elections on all the major continents, help to control or eradicate six diseases in the world, and promote mental health, and we also have a strong agriculture program through which we’ve taught about eight million families how to grow more food grain.

feel that their votes don’t matter? Our votes do matter, and it’s a tragedy how few people in America actually vote. We monitor elections in countries where 90% of the people vote, and half the registered voters are in line when the polls open early in the morning. In the US, we often have less than 35% of registered voters going to the polls to choose our leaders.

In your eyes, what is the single biggest obstacle on the road to global peace, and what can we as individuals do to conquer it? I think the most powerful nations on earth, and certainly the United States, need to set the preservation of peace as a very high priority and avoid wars unless our own security is directly threatened. We need to give a higher priority to mediation and negotiation of conflicts that exist between other countries that might lead to military action, and let every nation know that if they have a problem that might lead to a civil war, they can turn to Washington for help in preserving the peace.

I THINK THE MOST POWERFUL NATIONS ON EARTH, AND CERTAINLY THE UNITED STATES, NEED TO SET THE PRESERVATION OF PEACE AS A VERY HIGH PRIORITY AND AVOID WARS UNLESS OUR OWN SECURITY IS DIRECTLY THREATENED. high standard of Southern hospitality. The extreme flexibility of the city’s cultural and economic life have made it possible to get involved in almost any profession here. The diversity of life, from the mountains to the Atlantic coast beaches, provide Georgia residents with an opportunity not only to earn a living, but to have a pleasant environment in which to live. Atlanta’s foundation for economic prosperity has almost always been transportation, and the airport, railroad and highway system have made it a natural center for commerce and trade. I hope we can continue to put the preservation of our natural resources at a high priority. A lot of Americans have grown frustrated with our political system in the years since the controversial 2000 election. What would you say to those disillusioned U.S. citizens who

In the 25 years since you’ve left public office, as you’ve watched world events unfold, has there ever been a part of you that longs to be back in the thick of U.S. politics again? Not really. I think I have a role to play that’s much more gratifying to me, and maybe even much more effective, in the work of the Carter Center. We maintain a very strong and positive presence in over 70 nations around the world, among the poorest and most needy people on earth, and we’re deeply involved in international affairs. So I don’t think that I could possibly find a better opportunity to have an adventurous, gratifying, unpredictable and exciting life. Plus, you don’t have to run every move you make by a few hundred congressmen. (Laughs) No, that’s right. We’re pretty much independent, but we’re very careful to comply with political proprieties. You and your wife recently stepped down from active fundraising for the Carter Center. How will that affect your personal efforts on the Center’s behalf, and what is your personal dream for the Center’s next 25 years? Rosa and I are still trustees, and ultimately I still make the final decisions about the Carter Center. But the management of the Board of Trustees and the details of the operation of the center, thank goodness, are not mine anymore. I would hope that the center would stay independent, flexible, idealistic and willing to take a chance if a project seemed worthwhile. I hope that we’ll reach out and get as many partners as possible to join us in worthy projects, and continue to be willing to let other people get credit when successes are realized. And I sincerely hope that the basic principles of morality, idealism and human rights will still prevail.

FILM INTERVIEW

OFFICE SPACE

STEVE CARELL TAKES A BREAK FROM TV FOR REAL LIFE BY MATT GOLDBERG

HOUGH HE MAY BE MAKING HIS name in scripted comedies, Steve Carell’s innate comic talent shines through from the moment he enters the room and his improv training takes off. From the table in the front of the room where he’ll be speaking, he’s able to crack jokes about marriage, divorce and circumcision before anyone has even had a chance to fire off a question. Playing a widower with three children in his latest film, Dan in Real Life, we talked with Carell about his own family life, his monumental success and what we can hope to see this season on his hit show, The Office.

All the time. But it wasn’t just preparing myself or worrying about the future and how I’m going to handle an older kid who challenges me. There’s the ﬂipside of it that I can’t wait for. These kids were smart and funny and charming and had so much life to them. It was exciting to be around them because literally their whole lives are ahead of them and they’re just starting to understand that. They’re making that transition between childhood and adulthood, so there’s a lot of turmoil and conﬂict and upheaval, but it’s exciting because their eyes are opening to all these new things. So I think that’s what I took away from it, the experience with these older teen kids, that’s it going to be a very exciting time for my daughter and son.

So how old are your kids? Three and six.

How long have you been married? Twelve years.

Are you dreading the teen years? Your character in the ﬁlm seems to be having a tough time with his teenage daughters. I look into the future and it’s a scary place. The girl who played my 15-year-old daughter is such a good kid– really smart and charming– but I know that my daughter is going to be hell-on-wheels when she’s 15. So yeah, I’m bracing myself. I don’t want to be an overly protective dad, and I think that the reason people are is that you’re concerned your kids will get hurt. When they’re little, you’re concerned that they’re going to be hurt physically, more than anything. But when they get older, you’re concerned that they’re going to be hurt emotionally. At some point you have to give up that sense of protectiveness and let them get hurt and let them make mistakes, and I think that’s the hardest thing to do.

And did you feel that way? Oh yeah, all the time. I was not a good dater. I literally don’t ever remember asking a girl out on a date. It just sort of happened to be someone I’d been working with or someone I was friends with, but it was never… like, we’d kind of just ﬁnd ourselves on a date. Like, everybody goes out to dinner and then it’s just the two of us sitting at a table, and that turns into a date. That’s the way my romances seem to have gone. I was always far too shy and insecure.

Are you worried that your personality is going to come right back at you in the form of your kids and their behavior? Oh yeah. All my stubbornness, all my eccentricities will be reflected in them. I’m already seeing in her a very cynical sense of humor, and she’s six! She understands irony at age six, which kind of freaks me and my wife out. It’s not in a rude way. It’s not that she’s being sassy. For example, I bought these shoes and she has this fashion sense and I think, “Oh, I’m the cool dad. I’m gonna show her my new half-boot shoes that I got.” I said, “What do you think of these?” And she goes, “Nah. Not liking them.” She’s six! She knew she was being funny, but she was also saying, “Yeah, they don’t work for me.” Just the way she phrases things is so funny, but that’s definitely a reflection of my wife and I. Did you take any mental notes in working with the girls who played your daughters that there are things you may need to know when your kids get older?

Is that what happened with your wife, Nancy Walls? Yeah! She worked at Second City [comedy troupe], and I worked at Second City. She was also bartending across the street, so after a show I would go over and talk to her. We became friends that way, and we sort of backed into the whole idea of going on a date. It was so roundabout because we’re both really shy. I said, “Boy! If I were ever to go out on a date with someone like you…” And she said, “I bet I’d date someone like you…” It was like we danced around it for weeks until I finally said, “You wanna?” She said, “Uh, okay.” [Laughter]. It was so stupid and so sloppy, frankly. It was not neat or cool, but romantic in its own right. It was just two people who sort of gravitated towards each other, and I think that kind of speaks to the movie. It’s two people who could not not fall in love. They’re good people and they’re trying not to because they perceive it hurting each other, but ultimately they couldn’t help themselves. You’ve had such a rapid ascent through The Daily Show, 40-Year-Old Virgin and The Office. I was wondering what’s changed for you, personally and professionally? I have a helluva lot more money than I used to. [Laughter] Honestly, that’s the most perceivable difference in my life. I will definitely be able to send my kids to college now, which was a question. That was

my barometer for success– if I could support a family, send my kids through school and provide for them, that’s really all I was hoping for from day one. To make a living doing that as an actor? That would have been completely satisfying. So all of this is so far beyond my dreams and expectations. You’re going from playing an everyman in this film to one of the most iconic screw-ups of all-time as Maxwell Smart in Get Smart. What were the different kinds of challenges between the two? It was hard, because in doing the American version of The Office, I was also filling someone else’s shoes and stepping into this iconic role. But I took the same approach in that I wanted to do justice to the original Get Smart, but I didn’t want to do an impersonation. I tried to take elements of what I felt made that character so interesting. I don’t think he’s a bumbling Inspector Clouseau type. I don’t think he’s clueless. I think Maxwell Smart is actually a good spy and proficient, but he has a counter-intuitive way of getting the job done. He’s also very straight-laced, and sometimes that works to his advantage and sometimes it doesn’t. But he can fight. He can shoot. He can do things. He’s not the best at it, but he’s pretty good. And I always like the grey area. He’s not a super-idiot, but he’s not a superspy. He’s somewhere in-between. And in that sense, he’s sort of an everyman. If you became the best spy you could be, you may not be the best spy there is, but you could probably get by. The movie itself, we finished shooting it and I think it’s going to be really good. It’s going to be funny, but also have a lot of action in it, which I think will surprise people. I’m sort of billing it as a comedic Bourne Identity, because I wanted it not to be a spy-spoof, but a spy movie that was funny. And I hope that’s what ends up looking like.

What can we expect to see this season on The Office? Well, we shot four hour-long episodes, and I think all of them are very strong. These episodes go places you do not expect the show to go. Not like we’re trying to hype the show in any way, but definitely within the place of what we started. But they’ll take these twists and turns you don’t expect. That’s what I like about The Office– it doesn’t service its audience. It doesn’t pander or necessarily do what you want it to do, or go where you think it’s going to go. So there are some rocky roads ahead for these relationships, and you get to see all the inner workings of the office in more detail. You also get to know more of the ensemble this season, which is good. Will your film career ever take you away from The Office? No, I’m committed for at least a full seven seasons, and I love it. It’s great. I’m extremely close with the cast and the writers. I can’t imagine a better work environment. I think it’s smart, and it’s a fun character to play. How does the dynamic of working on The Office compare to working on The Daily Show? They’re kind of similar in that there’s an enormous freedom to fail, and it’s very fluid. The writers and the actors and the producers and everyone else all working together to make the best product they can. It’s not like there’s one person saying, “You must do it this way and that’s the only way you can do it.” I think the scripts are so good, but then they let us play with them and improvise. A lot of times it’s just what was written originally, and sometimes they’re shaped a little bit based on what we’re doing on that day. I think that’s the main similiarity. It’s a very fluid, very free-flowing creative process.

In Stores Nov. 6th!

Must Be Available for Daytime Screenings Please e-mail bret@insiteatlanta.com with inquiries. PG 15 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

FILM

�� AMERICAN GANGSTER:� �� – Matt Goldberg THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD:� �� PG 16 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

�� – Matt Goldberg BEFORE THE DEVIL KNOWS YOU’RE DEAD:� �� – Matt Goldberg DAN IN REAL LIFE:��

Wes Anderson’s new movie proves to us that some movie stars would never get laid if they weren’t movie stars. Check out “The Darjeeling Limited.” �� – Matt Goldberg THE DARJEELING LIMITED:� �� – Matt Goldberg THE GAME PLAN:� ��

�� – Zena Scott LARS AND THE REAL GIRL:�� – Matt Goldberg LIONS FOR LAMBS:� ��

�� – Matt Goldberg MICHAEL CLAYTON:��

�� – Matt Goldberg RENDITION:� ��

Vidiots This month’s DVD & VHS Releases

LIVE FREE OR DIE HARD – As always, it’s John McClane vs. Terrorism, but after 9/11 the series has to find a new threat: cyber-terrorism. The villain (Timothy Olyphant) is more concerned about money than furthering a cause, but Gabriel isn’t so much a villain as much as a collection of motives and abilities in search of a personality. While he’s eased up on the swearing, Willis knows that the heart of McClane is a working stiff who does the tough job not because he wants to, but because he feels morally obligated. There’s never a doubt that he’ll do whatever it takes to protect the wise cracking but hapless hacker (Justin Long). There’s a little sadness, as McClane is a little too old, technology has left his street smarts behind, and the demands of modern filmmaking mean that he now has to battle fighter jets and keep it PG-13. Still, the character doesn’t go down without a fight. Grade B –MG OCEAN’S THIRTEEN – When Willie Bank (Al Pacino)

betrays Reuben Tiskoff (Elliot Gould), leaving him destitute and in a coma, the other ten from Ocean’s Eleven decide it’s time for payback via an elaborate plan to rig every game in Bank’s new casino so that he’ll lose $500 million on opening night. The film is almost a love letter to the city of Las Vegas. The nonsequitors Pitt and Clooney had in Twelve make a glorious return, while supporting players like Casey Affleck and Don Cheadle get some of the best scenes. The con is bigger and the villain is badder, but Ocean’s Thirteen feels bloated and barren. The film delivers everything you wanted from Ocean’s Twelve, but, in doing so, the series has finally cashed in its chips and sold out. Sure, it may be rich, but it’s not quite as happy. Grade B –MG

RESCUE DAWN – Werner Herzog’s latest film follows

Dieter Dingler (Christian Bale), a cocky Navy pilot as-

�� – Matt Goldberg� RESERVATION ROAD:�� – Lonie Haynes

PICKS OF THE MONTH RATATOUILLE

– Critics and audiences were divided over whether this animated ode to foodies and France was Pixar’s most fanciful film to date or a rare misstep, but the biggest complaint seemed to be that people simply couldn’t get past the fact that the lead character, Remy (Patton Oswald), happened to be a rat with a culinary gift. I personally loved Pixar’s artiest film to date, especially colorful characters like Remy’s fairy God-chef, Gusteau (Brad Garrett); his hapless accomplice, Linguini (Lou Romano); and scornful restaurant critic Anton Ego (Peter O’Toole). Director Brad Bird elevates the computer animation game to provide a rat’s-eye-view of the world, creating dazzling chase sequences and sumptuous settings perfectly matched by the jazziest soundtrack this side of The Jungle Book. Its lively flavors may not suit every animation connoisseur’s tastes, but to this viewer’s senses Ratatouille was trés magnifique. –BL

THINGS WE LOST IN THE FIRE:� �� – B. Love

signed to take out strongholds in Laos during the Vietnam War. On his first mission, Dingler is shot down and thrown in captivity with several other prisoners (including Steve Zahn as fellow pilot Duane Martin), ultimately convincing them to devise an escape plan. There’s some violence and a wonderful vein of dark comedy that courses throughout, but it’s the examination of the prisoners’ day-to-day lives that’s most appealing. At its worst, the film is neo-right wing pro-war propaganda, but for the most part the story is compelling and thought provoking, reminding us of the US soldiers currently fighting overseas. The factual story of Dietler as a POW is enthralling, but the real strength of Rescue Dawn lies in the simplicity of Herzog’s storytelling and the power of its narrative. Grade B+ –LH

SHREK THE THIRD – Shrek films have always been me-

SICKO – The latest production

from provocative director Michael Moore is an informative, entertaining depiction of the American health care industry. Throughout the film he talks with people who’ve been affected by the scheming nature of health insurance companies and the stoic position of the US government. In hopeful scenes filmed in France, England and Canada, the filmmaker speaks with natives as well as Americans enjoying the benefits of these countries’ universal healthcare. Moore’s argument here is not only in favor of healthcare for the uninsured, but also improved healthcare for even those who are insured. While right wing naysayers remain cynical of Moore’s political views, those on the center and left side of the political spectrum are glad to have someone unafraid to talk about the problems that we’ve been prodded into accepting. –NG

diocre, but the third is even more forgettable, without a hint of charm or purpose. Fiona’s preggers, Shrek’s not ready to be a daddy, but he’ll learn when he brings back Artie, heir to the Far Far Away throne. There are a bunch of jokes that children won’t get and adults won’t find funny. I’ll admit to chuckling regularly throughout (because fart jokes are like manna from comedy heaven), but when a 90-minute piece of fluff feels too long, something has gone awry. If the Shrek films had half a soul and a quarter of a brain, they might comment on the sad irony that the first Shrek commented on the over-commercialization and emptiness of Disney in 2001. While the film’s message to kids is to “be yourself ” (while you bug your parents to get you loads of Shrek stuff ) the message to everyone else watching is “sell out, sell out as fast as you can.” Grade C –MG

WAITRESS – Jenna (Keri Russell), a waitress/pie artist, is miserable because her husband (Jeremy Sisto) is a possessive prick and she’s pregnant with his child. She feels no love for the life growing inside of her, but she does start to feel love for the town’s new OB-GYN, Dr. Pomatter (Nathan Fillion), which makes things complicated. Writer/director Adrienne Shelly, who was murdered last November, scrambles to find material to make the story worthwhile. But as the film wears on through Jenna’s pregnancy, the story’s sweeter aspects begin to sour because Jenna’s not really growing as a person. Since most of the characters aren’t interesting enough on their own merits, the desperate groping for a through-line ends up smothering the lovable aspects that made the film a cute comedy for the first 30 minutes. Grade C- –MG PG 17 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

Jodie Foster

FILM INTERVIEW

BY B. LOVE

T A TORONTO FILM FESTIVAL PRESS CONFER ENCE to promote her latest project, The Brave One, Jodie Foster seems absolutely nothing like what you might expect from a 40-year showbiz veteran. Exhibiting a level of passion and exuberance for ﬁlmmaking that you rarely see in someone with her lengthy resume (nearly 50 ﬁlms since her debut in the 1972 Disney adventure Napoleon and Samantha), the 45-yearold actress-turned-director touched on topics ranging from how her Brave One character compares to Taxi Driver’s Travis Bickle to working with auteurs such as David Fincher and Spike Lee.

it’s true. I think that, perhaps, is what distinguishes us from Death Wish, which was a pure genre movie and more about the popcorn aspects, whereas our ﬁlm is more of an exploration of character.

You mentioned Taxi Driver, which was one of your ﬁrst movies. At what point in the process did you realize the connection between your character in The Brave One and Travis Bickle? I didn’t honestly think of the Taxi Driver comparisons until we were in the midst of development. But what’s beautiful about comparing and contrasting them is that the experience of a man is very

You’ve been acting since you were a very small child. How do you remember your career’s early days? Almost the only memories that I have really are making ﬁlms as a young person. I started so young; I don’t know if I can be objective. I think that whenever you look back at yourself at 13 or 14, you just cringe in horror and can’t really see any good about it. It’s hard to look back at yourself in your adolescence.

building and this man who is determined to fix it, is very different from post-9/11 New York, where there’s a cop on every corner in Times Square but my character doesn’t feel safe. Every inch of her is caught up in a fearful state of orange or red alert, even though this should be the safest city in her life. I love contrasting the two films, because it’s two different eras and such a different experience of the same city. You’ve been kicking a lot of ass in your movies lately, but you’re a fairly petite woman. I said to Joel, “I’m kinda small for this movie,” but he likes that I’m petite. I’m not an action hero like Arnold Schwarzenegger, but I think there’s something quite beautiful about a woman whose power does not come from her body. She’s a voice– a ghost, and you barely notice her when she walks down the street. She’s always been a witness, but this thing in her pocket materializes her for an instant. When she pulls the trigger, for five seconds she says, “I live, you die.” If she can do that, maybe she can get her body back, get that man back and change the past. That materialization of using the gun is so interesting for a woman who’s so small, she’s almost not there. What’s the secret of your career longevity? I just keep working and working. I did movies in the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and into the 2000s. American culture is kind of cyclical– every three years somebody new comes along and they kind of forget you, but I’ve managed to create a career that’s consistent. My career maybe hasn’t been as flashy as some people’s, but I’m like an Energizer bunny– I just keep going and going.

What’s the main thing you look for in a role these days? When you’re a dramatic actor, you look for films that hit you in this unconscious place that really moves you, then you can’t help but make the movie because it’s something that you fear and you want to know more about it. I think that every film I do, even though it might not relate to me autobiographically, has some very personal pull. There are questions that I ask myself that I can’t really resolve any other way, and some of it is about the strength of my character. I don’t know that I’m a very brave person, but I play brave characters. It’s a way for me to be in a safe environment and find the brave part of myself and keep in touch with it, because I don’t know how I would react in life. (Producer) Joel Silver mentioned that you came up with a lot of the ideas that helped to define your character, right down to the outfits she wore. Is having that sort of collaborative input important to you? That’s what I LOVE about making movies– you have this beautiful idea that may not be fully fleshed out, and everybody who gets brought into the process recognizes that beautiful idea and is able to bring their depth and skill to turn it into something that is a deeper experience. So as each person comes on, they kind of download their psyche onto the page, and the final one of course is the vision of the filmmaker, who is the voice of the film and allows the seams not to show.

Home of the Brave

As you look back over your career, are there any major regrets? I sometimes wonder if I hadn’t been an actor at all and if I’d managed to become a director, if maybe I would’ve directed more movies by now. But when you still have a pile [of scripts] that’s sitting beside your bed as an actor, there’s always this pile that you’re saying, “I have to read this one. I have to read that one.” It’s hard to entirely focus on your career as a director.

THE BEST THING ABOUT THE LAST 10 YEARS IS THAT I REALIZED I’M ONLY REALLY HAPPY WHEN I WORK WITH DIRECTORS THAT I ADMIRE AND RESPECT. ISN’T IT CRAZY THAT IT TOOK ME 40 YEARS TO FIGURE THAT OUT?

A lot of people have been comparing The Brave One to Death Wish. Would you agree that there are similarities between them? I think a better comparison from the ‘70s is Taxi Driver or some of the other antihero ﬁlms that we all loved, like Straw Dogs and Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion, where you’re allowed to walk in the shoes of the character without apology. You may not agree with them or like them, but this is who they are and this is how they feel, and their experience is demonstrated onscreen without this phony ﬁlmmaker voice that says in the end, “By the way, the cops came and arrested them.” It’s like at the end of Taxi Driver: You know Travis Bickle is gonna do it again, and it’s not a good thing, but PG 18 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

diﬀerent from the experience of a woman in the same shoes. Travis Bickle was unconscious: He doesn’t know why he’s doing what he’s doing, and he doesn’t ask those questions. He’s primal, and he just reacts, whereas she is an intellectual who thinks about what she’s doing, has shame and guiding moral principals, which is what makes them so diﬀerent. And of course post-Vietnam New York City, this degraded cesspool with 12-year-old prostitutes and burned-out

Do you have plans to do more directing in the future? I’ve barely started as a director. I have a lot to learn, and I’m looking forward to that. I’m excited about learning new things as a director. As an actor, I’d like to do something where I was asked to learn some weird special skill for four months before we start shooting, like javelin throwing or a language or violin or something that I would never in my own life immerse myself in. I’d love to get the calluses and all of that and then bring that experience to the character. Your career has taken a unique turn in the last 10 years, with genre films such as Panic Room, Flightplan, Inside Man and now this. Why do you think you’re so drawn to this type of film at this stage of your life? That’s true, you get drawn to certain paths. The best thing about the last 10 years is that I realized I’m only really happy when I work with directors that I admire and respect. Isn’t it crazy that it took me 40 years to figure that out? (Laughs) It is such a wonderful experience for me as an actor who’s been working in this business for so long to be able to stand behind the director and go, “Why’d you think of that?” I’m so inspired by that experience, to be able to work with directors who are skillful and excellent and better than me. To me, that’s the best part of acting.

FILM INTERVIEW

MICHAEL PEÑA The Politics of Filmmaking

BY MATT GOLDBERG

IKE ANY ACTOR, MICHAEL PEÑA wants to work with the great filmmakers of our time. What makes him unique is that it’s clear the great directors also want to work with him. In the past four years he was in the Oscar-winning Crash and Million Dollar Baby, the Oscar-nominated Babel, and in Oscar-winning director Oliver Stone’s World Trade Center. His latest role is with Oscar-winning actor/director Robert Redford in Lions for Lambs. While it’s clear that the onslaught of interviews to support the film has been exhausting, it’s also clear that Peña believes in the projects he chooses, and his enthusiasm for Lambs could not be any more genuine. I was in college when the war started, and since I went to a really liberal college, we all knew to protest then. It’s been almost five years since then, and I was wondering what you thought had changed in terms of student response. It seems like the war is out there. It’s far, far away. It doesn’t really seem to be affecting anyone unless you know somebody that’s fighting over there. And not that I want it at all, but back in the Vietnam War, there was a draft, which made people have to step up and say “We don’t want this war!” In this one, there isn’t any. There are recent polls that show Americans are warweary, but even those who are against the war don’t want to leave Iraq in shambles. The thing that I want to do is make good movies so that I can make the audience ask those particular questions. This film doesn’t point one way or the other. Some liberals are like, “This is a very liberal movie,” and some conservatives are like, “This is a very conservative movie.” I was really surprised by that reaction, but Redford wanted it that way. First, we wanted to make an entertaining movie, because if not nobody’s going to see it. We wanted it to be an honest movie with valid points of view that make you think. You’ve been in films that are very contemporary. How did those experiences shape your ideology? I’m definitely trying to learn more about politics, but it seems like the more I try to learn, the less I know. I’m an artist, man. I’m not gonna try to be a politician, but I want to be informed about it. It’s tough to get informed, because I don’t know which outlet to really believe. Like if you have one incident, you have four different opinions and how do you get the true facts? So just doing research is tough. And it seems like Lions for Lambs wants to start a discussion rather than add to the noise of opinion. Right, like Crash did for racism. If it would’ve told you what to think about racism, I don’t think people would’ve liked it. Although I don’t think a lot of Americans need to be

told, “Don’t be racist.” But that’s your point of view! It is my point of view! Because there are other people like in the ‘60s where that was the way of life. And you say, “No one should be told,” but there are some people who really wanted segregation to remain. But in the ‘60s racism was overt, and I think Crash was trying to say that today we do it in a much more subversive fashion. But then it had people talking. Not necessarily subversive. Sometimes it was overt. Right, but it’s not like there are picketing lines. There’s still discrimination. But there are still country clubs that don’t allow blacks or Hispanics or anything like that. I’m just thinking of when former press secretary Tony Snow said that racism isn’t a problem anymore. From my point of view, it’s actually dying down a lot. I go golfing in the south, and to this day no one’s ever messed with me or said anything. I’m a MexicanAmerican, and it’s been smooth sailing for me. Does it still exist? Yeah, I think so. And does it need to be handled? Yeah, and I think we’re a lot better off than we were thirty years ago. Yeah, but just six months ago the immigration debate was massive, and there is a racial aspect to it.. Yeah, because we’re all immigrants. Except for the Native Americans. No one’s really American except for the Native Americans, and they’re not really here anymore. I just think it’s funny that we’re all immigrants, and I have Spanish and Mexican blood. “We were here first and we can’t let you in!” But everyone I know is either Polish or Jewish or German, so I haven’t really met many true Americans.

RESTAURANT PROFILE

VIA

RESTAURANT AND BAR Come For the Food...Stay for the Party S BUCKHEAD VILLAGE TRANSITIONS ITSELF from Bourbon Street to Rodeo A Drive, old rundown buildings are being bull-

dozed to make way for new high end establishments. Amid all the construction resides a diamond in the rough. Located on Pharr Road and occupying the first two stories of the Eclipse building you will find VIA. Voted Atlanta’s Best New Restaurant in 2007, VIA offers an Italian inspired menu featuring a classic brick oven which serves as its focal point. Owners John Frasier and Rick Seaman traveled the globe for thier inspiration, and gathered ideas choosing from the best cuisines and look for the new restaurant. All of that came together this summer with the opening of VIA. Unlike any other restaurant in Atlanta, here you will find contemporary cuisine and styling that offers mediterranean feel. “We are looking to bring that sophisticated experience to Atlanta in the form of a modern restaurant and cocktail lounge for a discerning crowd...one that will appreciate our attention to detail,” says Seaman. Pulling from their research, the owners sparred no expense in creating a $1 million plus restaurant. They hired Patti Krohngold of Art Mix (designer of Tongue & Groove) as their principal interior designer. She created a breathtaking space with bold contrasts of white and blue. The floor is made up of white tile and blue glass with navy blue accenting the walls. While the dining room is quite large at 3,200 square feet, it is designed to offer plenty of intimate seating. The second floor overlooks the main and is the perfect size for private parties. ”We really wanted to create a destination spot for professionals who desire good food and appreciate superior design,” says Frasier. On the ground floor, VIA displays a 40 foot bar with 4 inch thick granite, built in giant flat screens, and a fully stocked bar with a deep

selection of brand names. You will find a good selection of boutique vodkas, single malt scotches and tequila. They carry everything from entry level to highest end. A house favorite and becoming a VIA signature drink is the Tommy Bahama Mojito. For their menu, they hired Shaun Doty as consultant. Shaun is known for his standout cuisine at his previous establishments: Shaun’s, MidCity Cuisine, Table 1280 and Mumbo Jumbo. The menu changes seasonally and is broken down by 1st course, 2nd course and Pizzas. Some outstanding first courses currently being offered are Antipasto, Steak Tartar, Shrimp and Grits and Spinach Ravioli. Inspiring second course offerings include the Lobster Fettuccini, Wood Oven Roasted Chicken and Pan Roasted New York Strip. From their original selection of pizzas you will find Wild Mushroom, Autumn Vegetable and Picante which is topped with spicy coppa ham and jalapeno, chilli flake and sriracha. VIA is open Sunday through Friday for lunch and dinner everyday. 262 Pharr Rd. 404.214.5404 www.viarestaurant.net

BEST STEAKHOUSE - INSITE Magazine 2006 & 2007

Were you born here in America? Yeah, I was born and raised in Chicago and moved when I was 16 to California. On Babel you worked with Alejandro González Iñárritu. One of the things I love about cinema today is that so many great directors are of either Mexican or Spanish descent, such as Iñárritu, Pedro Almodovar, Alfonso Cuarón and Guillermo Del Toro. All phenomenal directors. I loved Y Tu Mama Tambien and 21 Grams and Amores Perros and Babel, and I got to admit that I love the fact that there are Mexican-Americans making it happen on the international front as opposed to just in Mexico. I would love it if I could see all the best movies all the time, and work with all the best directors.

TIM E PRIME TIME

I’M DEFINITELY TRYING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT POLITICS, BUT IT SEEMS LIKE THE MORE I TRY TO LEARN, THE LESS I KNOW. I’M AN ARTIST, MAN. Next to The Ritz-Carlton Buckhead • Dinner 7 Nights • Reservations 404.846.0644

www.NewYorkPrime.com PG 19 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

CONCERT

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

WINNER BEST LOCAL MUSIC! ��

Please Contact Bret at bret@insiteatlanta.com with Inquiries. Include the Type of Music You Would Like to Cover and Any Samples of Past Work.

TEXAS HOLD’EM POKER Open Daily 3pm

Ask About Atlanta Room for Private Parties

1578 Piedmont Ave. 404-875-1522 www.smithsoldebar.com

CALENDER

�� Breakfast Club �� Big Time, SWEAT �� Say Hi (to your mom) �� Lucy Kaplansky �� Johnette Napolitano �� DJ Spooky �� That ‘80s Band �� Cowboy Mouth �� Josh Kelley �� The Sweetloves �� Paolo Nutini �� Brian Wiltsey Band �� Stars �� The Beggars’ Guild �� Sea Wolf �� Tony Furtado �� Circa Survive �� Celebration �� Bob Dylan Tribute �� She Wants Revenge �� Daybreakdown, Protomen, Friendly Strangers �� Uncle Earl �� Chris Trapper �� Open Mic �� Smashing Pumpkins �� Blue Rodeo & Friends �� The New Pornographers �� Shannon McNally �� The Black Angels �� Best Damn Halloween Party �� Shout Out Louds �� Escape Vehicle �� Scout Niblett �� Perpetual Groove

�� Gone Bananas �� Modern Skirts, Gringo Star �� Packway Handle Band �� Andy Makely �� Angie Aparo w/ Brilliant Inventions �� As I Lay Dying �� The Velcro Pygmies �� Blueground Undergrass �� Torche, Magicicada, Scars �� Mute Math, Eisley �� Open Mic w/ Larry �� Galactic �� Fishhawk �� Miranda Lambert

R. Kelly @��(11-14) �� Rick Dang �� Jan Smith Studios Student Showcase �� T. Bone Smith �� Papa Grows Funk �� The Cult �� Pepper �� Fat City Wild Cats �� Funk Lords �� Austre Giltrap, The Archibalds, The Train Wrecks �� Morrissey �� John Butler Trio �� Against Me! �� White Rabbits �� Wilson Empire �� Crosstown Allstars �� Mum �� John Frank, Jody Abernathy �� Al Smith’s Midtown Jam Session �� Zac Brown �� Clay Cook �� Frankie’s Blues Mission �� Mice in Cars �� Francisco Vidal Band �� Down

Stevie Wonder @��(11-1) �� Frank Zappa Tribute �� The Good Good �� Pylon �� Tuff Whitﬁeld �� Eliza Gilkyson �� Song of the South �� Reckless �� Stevie Wonder �� RAQ, Kingrat �� Grinder Nova, Attractive ‘80s Women �� Josh Ritter �� Dave Matthews Cover Band �� The SoundCatcher Tour �� Queen Latifah �� Andy Birdsall Band �� Dr. Dog �� Matthew Perryman Jones �� Kenny & Them �� Angie Aparo w/ Patrick Davis �� Randy Rogers Band �� The Hackensaw Boys �� Sovus Radio, The Nobility �� Motion City Sountrack �� Dominic �� They Might Be Giants �� The Joy Requiem �� Girlz, Girlz, Girlz �� Roots Rock Reggae �� Fall Out Boy

PG 20 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

�� Go-Go �� Justin �� Rogue Wave �� Eliot Morris �� Chickenshack �� Stephanie’s ID �� 17th Floor �� TransSiberian Orchestra �� Reverend Horton Heat, Nashville Pussy �� The Legendary JC’s, Ike Stubbleﬁeld �� Bain Mattox & Shot From Guns �� Brian Pad Tyler �� Pat Monahan �� Tron Jackson �� Dave Barnes & Matt Wertz �� Moby Dick �� Tentonic �� Matthew Kahler �� Cherry Vendetta �� Jonathan Coulton, Paul & Storm �� Grayson Hill �� Johnny Winter �� Twinkledome w/ Adam & The Pinx �� Brian Regan �� Educaters �� The Pipettes �� The White Leppard Crue �� Brenda Nicole �� Walkin’ Sidewayz �� David Bazan �� Music in the Glen �� The Soulshakers �� Sam McPherson Trio �� Dear Enemy �� The Wrong Way �� Webb Wilder �� Hope For a Golden Summer �� Sevendust �� Gareth Asher & Joel Williams

ain Wrecks

Session

ville Pussy

�� My Siamese Self �� Fat City Wild Cats �� Small Town Sleeper, The Earps, Shawn Pander �� Chuck Prophet �� Slave Called Shiver �� Crosstown Allstars �� Reckless Kelly, Sons of Bill �� Ani DiFranco

�� The Wizard of Oz: Film with ASO �� Pistoltown �� Young Antiques �� Ellis Paul �� Black Cat Bone �� Rock 4 Research Beneﬁt �� Tim Brantley �� Corey Smith �� Critty �� Zac Brown Band �� Shaw-Blades Infuence

�� Radney Foster �� R. Kelly �� Family Force 5 �� Regina Spektor w/ Only Son �� Gareth Asher �� Rose Hill Drive �� Big Trouble in Little 5, Judi Chicago �� Who’s Bad �� One Hand Loves The Other �� Hipnotic �� Euros Childs, David Kilgour �� Sandra McCracken �� The Santos Brothers �� Uncle Joe’s Medicine Show �� Brantley Gilbert �� Tegan and Sara, Northern State �� Toubab Krewe �� Sons fo Roswell, Cedric Burnside �� Mike Lee & Hank �� Doc Watson �� Rehab �� Zoso �� Blue Man Group �� Joanna Newsom & ASO �� Barry Richman Band �� Captured! By Robots �� Carolina Herring �� The Nightshades �� None the Weiser �� Raul Malo �� Colonel Bruce Hampton �� James Hall, The Empites �� Three Days Grace, RED �� Mike Lee & Hank �� The Swell Season �� Blue Man Group �� Sonia Leigh �� T. Bone Smith �� Avenged Sevenfold �� The Hold Steady �� Fat City Wild Cats �� Fishbone �� Rob Bell The Gods Aren’t Angry Tour �� Cass McCombs �� Travis Singleton �� Crosstown Allstars �� Coheed & Cambria �� Of Montreal

SEE WEBSITE

Marc Broussard @��(11-24) �� ANUNA: Celtic Origins �� Todd Barry �� Open Mic Shootout �� The Two Timers �� Ike Stubbleﬁeld �� Baby Anne & Darling Nikki �� Stewart & Winﬁeld �� Jonathan Davis �� The Waltz Ensemble �� Marc Broussard, Will Hoge �� Shawn Mullins �� Ellis Paul �� T. Bone Smith �� HIM w/ Bleeding Through �� Zookeeper �� Far City Wild Cats �� Hawthorne Heights �� Suzanne Vega �� Little Brother �� Crosstown Allstars �� Chuck Ragan �� David Berkeley �� Frankie’s Blues Mission �� NodFactor2 �� Francisco Vidal Band �� Hellyeah �� Caddle, Brandon Jenkins �� Deguello, Pink Steel �� Winter Ransom �� Alasdair Roberts, Charalambides �� Girlyman �� Chickenshack �� The Lindsay Rakers Band �� Ben Lee �� Wade Bowen �� Bobby Lee Rodgers & The Codetalkers �� The Booze, Beat Beat Beat �� Kinchafoonee Cowboys �� Southern Culture on the Skids �� Tom Willner �� Trey Wright Trio �� Crop Circle �� GWAR �� Trotline �� The Elvis Show �� J. Roddy Walston & The Business �� Villians �� The Black Lips �� Tracy Lawrence

FOR

INFO

Every Tuesday 10pm LIVE 80S FOR THE LADIES Every Sunday BLACK OUT W/ FRANSICO VIDAL Friday, Nov. 2 DOMINIC Saturday, Nov. 3 OPEN MIC W/ LARRY Thursday, Nov. 8 BRIAN PAD TYLER Friday, Nov. 9 EDUCATERS Friday, Nov. 10 GARETH ASHER & JOEL WILLIAMS Thursday, Nov. 15 GARETH ASHER Fri & Sat, Nov. 16 & 17 MIKE LEE & HANK Friday, Nov. 23 CRITTY Friday, Nov. 30 VILLIANS

FULL TEX-MEX MENU 2591 Briarcliff Rd Atlanta 404-329-4700 tinroofcantina.com OPEN MON-SUN 11AM-4AM

Sat, Nov. 3

The Black Lips @�� (11-30)

�� 8PM,FREE ��

��

9PM, $7

SOVUS RADIO

�� 9PM

��

�� 9PM ��

9PM

��

9PM

��

9PM

��

9PM

��

9PM

��

9PM 9PM

��

www.starbaratl.com for Full Schedule of Events

Fri, Nov. 9

Sat, Nov. 10

The Velcro Pygmies

Grayson HIll

The Wrong Way

Sat, Nov. 24

Fri, Nov. 30

Also This Month

(80s Rock Cover)

(Sublime Tribute)

Fri, Nov. 16 Brantley Gilbert (Country)

Sat, Nov. 17 None the Weizer (90s Cover)

Stewart and winfield

�� Al Smith’s Midtown Jam Session �� Zac Brown Band �� Electric Six �� Frankie’s Blues Mission �� That 1 Guy �� Heavy Heavy Low Low �� Francisco Vidal Band �� WILX �� Brand New w/ Thrice �� Chickenshack �� Jim Hodgson, Justin Brogdon, Midnight Clear

LIVE MUSIC TUES–SUN

UGA BUS TRIP

�� Al Smith’s Midtown Jam Session �� Zac Brown �� Buck 65 �� Porterdavis �� Frankie’s Blues Mission �� Rock Box �� Helmet �� Francisco Vidal Band �� Dead Confederate, American Bang �� The Good Good �� Jane on the Range �� The Steepwater Band �� Scott Miller �� Chickenshack �� The Roosters �� Die Sektor

Mondays: Karaoke 8pm Tues & Thurs: Trivia 8pm Wednesdays: Texas Hold ‘em

437 Moreland Avenue Little Five Points 404-681-9018 THR.NOV29 SAT.NOV17 FRI.NOV16 THR.NOV15 WED.NOV14 SAT.NOV10 FRI.NOV09 THR.NOV08 SAT.NOV03 FRI.NOV02 TUESDAYS MONDAYS

Showcase

�� Beneﬁt for US Troops �� T. Bone Smith �� Delta Nove & Brock Bulter �� Second Wind Retreat Beneﬁt

Fri, Nov. 23 Rock 4 Research

(Country Cover)

Beneﬁt Concert with the Brave’s Jeff Francoeur

Thanks Atlanta! Voted Best Small Music Venue

3179 Peachtree Rd. 404-842-1700 • www.peachtreetavern.com PG 21 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

Road Warriors This Month’s Hottest Shows BY JOHN DAVIDSON 11/01 PYLON

The EARL Pylon remain one of Athens’ most underrated bands—they came up with R.E.M. like so many others in the 1980s, yet never managed to capture the zeitgeist and become a household name. Their sound sort of falls somewhere between R.E.M. and fellow Athenians the B-52s, a jangly guitar band with a jerky dance vibe, and we’re excited to see them playing out once again in honor of the re-release of their fantastic Gyrate album.

11/01 JOSH RITTER W/ERIC BACHMANN

Variety Playhouse With an eclectic blend of folk and rock, Josh Ritter works the same territory as Ron Sexsmith or even M. Ward. His excellent new album is called The Historical Conquests of Josh Ritter but it’s not nearly as pretentious or as dry as might be imagined. Eric Bachmann, who’s now been on his own for a decade after gaining indie fame with Archers of Loaf, opens up the show with a similar singer/songwriting vibe.

11/03 TORCHE

Star Community Bar Miami hasn’t produced many rock bands, so when one comes along with the spitﬁre of Torche, it’s hard not to notice. Torche kicks a heavy stew of post-metal sludge in the vein of Jesus Lizard and it’s hard not to be a little

frightened of the volume involved. Luckily, they’ve got just enough sense of melody to keep the din interesting, but that’s assuming you can follow along without having your ears melted.

11/03 EISLEY

Tabernacle You can’t go wrong with a family act (three sisters, a brother, a buddy) that is easy on the eyes and easy on the ears but it’s taken a little longer for Eisley to become something more than a pretty splash of pictures in Rolling Stone. The recently released Combinations shows a lot of ambitious growth beyond the straight up pop-rock they’re known for, and their strength in melody keeps them chugging along the soundtrack path to semi-stardom.

11/05 MORRISSEY

Tabernacle Steve Morrissey has long been one of the most polarizing men in rock, his uber-sensitive heart worn on his sleeve and supercharged by his romantic inclinations. His work with the Smiths was unparalleled, but his solo career hasn’t ever had quite the same heft. Still, he managed to surprise many with the strength of 2006’s Ringleader of the Tormentors, and if he’d be less of a prick maybe so many people wouldn’t hate him.

11/05 JOHN BUTLER TRIO W/IAN BALL

Variety Playhouse Like John Mayer with a country bent, Butler and his band remain a commercial force in his native Australia while nurturing a small but loyal fanbase in America. This year’s Grand National is more of the same—competent roots-rock music with a nod to improvisation— if a tad boring. Gomez’ Ian Ball steps out on his own to open the show in honor of his new solo album.

11/5 THE HIGHER/

DAPHNE LOVES DERBY

The Masquerade That other dance-friendly rock band from Vegas, The Higher bring their keyboards to The Masquerade this month. Having toured with bands like Motion City Soundtrack, Jimmy Eat World and The Matches, The Higher is one of the few original sounding young pop/ punk bands. Though they will likely cringe at the label (naturally), they actually add a little bit of cred to the emo tag.

11/08 HANK WILLIAMS III W/ NASHVILLE PUSSY

Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre Nobody’s ever really called bullshit on Hank III for his selfmythologizing, and maybe that’s because he embraces his outlaw status like an alcoholic does a bottle of whiskey. And to his credit, he mixes aggressive country with old-school stuﬀ with a good ear and ace lyrics. Nashville Pussy—they call themselves “Motorhead with tits”—opens up the show with their legendary ﬁre-breathing excellence.

11/08 ROGUE WAVE

The EARL Rogue Wave’s shimmering modern pop-rock is on par with the Shins, though less lively than the New Pornographers. The best part has been leader Zach Rogue settle in with a group of players, turning what was once a limiting musical view into a bona ﬁde band. While this year’s Asleep At Heaven’s Gate doesn’t have the clarity of 2005’s Descended Like Vultures, it’s still a keeper and Rogue Wave remains a promising live act.

11/13 ANI DIFRANCO

Variety Playhouse Ani became an indie legend on her massive touring (at least 100 shows a year for 15 years) and her charismatic stage presence; her records never seem to capture her genial sparkle all that well. She recently announced a desire to scale herself back a bit, and many are specu-

WE GOT NEXT FAREWELL Latest Project: Why You Should Care: For Fans of: BY JOHN B. MOORE

ETWEEN MOTION CITY SOUND track, The Higher and now Farewell, the Epitaph label is actually turning into quite the tastemaker for quirky, danceable synth-pop. Hailing from the unlikely town of Greensboro,

lating that she’ll never return to such a heavy promotional load. Get out and see her while you still can.

11/14 TORI AMOS

Fox Theatre Tori Amos hasn’t been relevant in a decade, but there was a time when her weirdness was interpreted as genius. Time proved that theory an exaggeration, though not nearly before Amos built a rabid fan base of people who share her many superstitions. Still, her musicianship and unpredictable approach make her a compelling show even today, especially behind her surprisingly good new album, American Doll Posse.

11/17 THE POLICE

Philips Arena Surprisingly, the roots of The Police are in the turbulent late 1970s that birthed punk; the ska/reggae inﬂuence is of course pervasive in their early work but by 1983, they were an angular pop band conquering the charts worldwide. Singer/bass player Sting is an ego of legendary proportions, and when he broke up the band in 1986 most observers thought that he’d never stoop to reform. Apparently, money has spoken once again.

11/18 ART BRUT W/ THE HOLD STEADY

Variety Playhouse Imagine the caustic spirit of Johnny Rotten with a punk version of the Strokes, and Art Brut is your new favorite band. Okay, so maybe Art Brut’s ﬁfteen minutes of fame may be ebbing, but clearly The Hold Steady are still on the rise. A compelling mix of Springsteen-sized rock chops and hipster lifestyle lyrics, the Hold Steady’s populous charm is completely contagious once you get past Craig Finn’s ragged howl.

11/30 DEERHUNTER/ SELMANAIRES/SNOWDEN/BLACK LIPS Variety Playhouse

In what amounts to be an all-star lineup for Atlanta’s indie scene, the pickings for this Friday night are so strong that you actually might want to be sitting down when the ﬁrst act hits the stage. While the Black Lips and Deerhunter have picked up the most national press recently, the Selmanaires and Snowden are just as likely to succeed, so you’d better get this one while the getting is good.

Artists on the verge of making it big

Isn’t This Supposed to Be Fun!? Because it’s synth-heavy power-pop from the label that discovered Motion City Soundtrack Motion City Soundtrack, All Time Low, The Higher

NC, Farewell is the epitome of modern powerpop, with witty lyrics and strong harmonies tied to infectious rock. Managing to marry the sensibilities of both The Beach Boys and Green Day, Farewell’s debut is bound to be pulling in listeners from all types of scenes. How did the band ﬁrst get together? This is always a tough question because the band has been around in diﬀerent forms for nearly four years. The members have changed and the music has changed a good bit, too. We met at school in Greensboro, and I joined the band in late 2003. This was a pivotal point in the bands sound, ‘cause I started singing and everything kinda shifted from there.

Brett (Gurewitz, label founder) called me while we were recording some demos in Chicago. He said he liked our music and that he was sending out an A&R rep to see us play the next day. It was so funny, ‘cause he was telling me about his label, and I had grown up listening to all the bands on it, including his. You might not see it in our music, but many of those bands are the reason we play music at all.

Do you guys share similar inﬂuences? (Laughs) Not really. Our musical tastes all started in punk and pop-punk, but they all grew in different directions. We pump everything from the Beach Boys to Green Day, from Radiohead and The Rentals to Refused. We even listen to a little hip-hop now and again. Most of all, we love great songs with memorable choruses. That’s the most important thing to us, regardless of the genre.

I USUALLY TELL PEOPLE THAT WE ARE A ROCK BAND WITH POP-PUNK SENSIBILITIES. I HAVE NO IDEA HOW TO DESCRIBE US, BUT THEN AGAIN WHAT BAND DOES?

I’ve been to Greensboro a few times and it never really struck me as a strong musical town. Is there a music scene there? What’s it like? Greensboro actually has a fairly good music scene. While the crowds are more divided, music as a whole is a big part of the city. There are tons of hardcore/metal bands and a ton of indie-rock outﬁts, but there are only a few pop/rock bands that really play out. This is both good and bad for us,’ cause we stand out, but it was hard to ﬁnd bands to play with when we were just starting. Fortunately, we became friends with a lot of the heavier bands in the area, so we usually played with them. We love our town and have some of the most loyal fans you could ask for. How did you end up on Epitaph? PG 22 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

Epitaph is a great label, but with a reputation of launching more punk bands. Were you leery at all about signing to Epitaph? We were far from leery about signing to Epitaph. It was the label we wanted to be on. They may have a reputation for signing more punk -sounding bands, but they also have a reputation for signing bands that they really believe in a support 100 percent. We couldn’t ask for a better label in my opinion. How was the recording experience? Recording was and is always fun for us. We worked with our longtime friend and producer, Marc McClusky. We had so much fun, and are really excited to see what people think about our record. It’s been almost two years in the making, so it is a relief to ﬁnally unleash it into the world.

How do you describe your music? I usually tell people that we are a rock band with pop-punk sensibilities. I have no idea how to describe us, but then again what band does? I have a diﬀerent sounding voice, I think, and our music is poppy, but without disregarding substance. You tell me what we sound like.

How long have you been working on the songs that made the record? There are some songs that we started writing in 2004, and there are some that we wrote in the studio. None of our songs are ever really ﬁnished, so it’s hard to tell. We rework things live and change small parts, but basically these songs are from the past two years. What are your plans after the record comes out? After our record is released we plan on touring as much as we possibly can. I’m sure we’ll make our way through the US, and hopefully into other countries. Just be sure to come out when we’re near you!

MUSIC INTERVIEW

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Rest Easy, Wu Tang Clan Fans. Masta Killa Says a Return of Real Hip Hop is Coming Sooner than Later. BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

EXT MONTH WHEN HARD CORE fans of the Wu cough up their $10.99 for the Clan’s new album, 8 Diagrams, they’ll do so with heavy hearts. November 13, the CD’s long-anticipated release date, marks the three-year anniversary of Ol’ Dirty Bastard’s shocking death. Various reports say the Wu Tang’s recorded 40 or 50 songs (including some with unused ODB verses on them) and will pick the 14 sharpest lyrical swords for the fall project. Of course, the eight-man crew said something similar with 01’s Iron Flag but that dull stab couldn’t cut through the plastic it came wrapped in. Masta Killa, arguably the Wu’s most underrated member, insists the group’s first postODB effort will be very different. Here Killa, who added Made in Brooklyn to the list of Wu-affiliated gems a year ago, does the math on the Clan’s comeback.

of my own work. I do it for the people to appreciate it or tell me criticism so I can make it better. But I can honestly say that this is going to be an album that I can happily put in my joint and I don’t have to fastforward nuthin’! I’m going to be able to put it on and ride, and I think the people are going to appreciate that. The W was cool. Iron Flag was cool, you know what I mean? What we do individually is cool. Much success to the individual talent in my structure, but there’s nothing compared to what we do as a whole when we come together and lay it down for real. We’re getting ready to capture that magic again, but I don’t like to say it. Like I said, I do the work and let the work be judged.

I LOVE HIP HOP. I LOVE HOW IT’S GROWN. I DON’T THINK ANYTHING IS WRONG. I JUST THINK WE HAVE A DUTY TO A MUSICAL UNIVERSE TO ALWAYS PUT OUT THE EDUCATION OF WHAT HIP HOP IS REALLY ALL ABOUT.

Kanye and 50 Cent blew some life into hip hop last month. But on a whole, the industry has been kinda stagnant in ’07. Do you like where we are right now? Well, when you look at the whole world, it’s like a changing of the guard in a lot of different areas. When things are starting to evolve and change, it’s like hip hop doesn’t really know where it really wants to be because it has taken on so many different faces. It has adapted and became apparent to so many different cultures. Hip hop is not only in Queens, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan and Staten Island; it’s the universe now. You can go anywhere in the world now and hip hop is there. Once something goes out, it has to return. Once it returns, everything has added on to it, it’s up to us as the fathers, the founders, the soldiers of this to strengthen it again and send it back out with the proper information so it can be appreciated. I love hip hop. I love how it’s grown. I don’t think anything is wrong. I just think we have a duty to a musical universe to always put out the education of what hip hop is really all about. How are you educating the masses? Everytime I come, brutha, you’re gonna hear Masta Kill and appreciate my art. So, what can you tell me about 8 Diagrams? I think I got a date of November 13, if I’m not mistaken. That’s the next thing coming from the family. I don’t like to be the judge

thinking with that mindframe, there’s no limit for real. Besides using the same mindframe, what’s going to make 8 Diagrams work where Iron Flag didn’t? I’m looking forward to nurturing this thing all the way through. Personally, like I said, I’m, proud of the project as far as the sound. Now I would just love to see us as a unit, just walk it all the way through. Take

it as far as we can take it- together. Not missing two people or not seeing somebody walk it all the way through. That’s a vision like heaven to me ‘cuz I love seeing all my brothers around me. It’s rare ‘cuz we’ve grown into so many different things. We have brothers acting and doing The Wire. How can I not tell [Method Man] to do The Wire? It’s just rare to get everything into one room.

Speak on that magic for a minute. What was it about the Wu that folks hadn’t witnessed before? I love Run DMC. That’s one of my favorite hip hop groups, but the magic of Run DMC was that Run and DMC never separated. It was Run, DMC and Jam Master J –Let that brother rest in peace. In a household, you could have your physical brother and sister. That’s your brother and sister. There’s no Cosby Show family that doesn’t have a problem. What we did? Nine individuals?! We’re not talking about two. It’s hard to keep two together. But nine individuals coming together as one?! Nah, hell no. It’ll never work. You can’t get nine niggaz to do shit together. Can I get three to help me move? That unity made a lot of people want to come together. With all your fingers on one hand you can poke the shit out a muthafucka, but it won’t be like knockin’ him the fuck out with five fingers coming together. The music was one. Killa, you and some of the other members had to play in the shadows of Method Man and Ghostface. Did you ever want more cameras turned in your direction? See, that’s the uniqueness of making something work. If the only way for something to work, or for a team to take the championship, the whole team has to feel good. It makes me feel good to see the success of my brother. If I couldn’t see my brother in a successful light, it would be a problem. This would never work. For things to work, it has to be law and order. If there’s no law, there’s no order. For yor mathematics to add up right, for your money to add up right, it’s a certain system we count by. With that understanding and that maturity, you can go anywhere. With nine people PG 23 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

MUSIC

��

By B. Love, DeMarco Williams, John Davidson, John Moore, Tom DeFreytas & Richard Marsh

RADIOHEAD – IN RAINBOWS (Self-released) It’s free! �� ONCE – MUSIC FROM THE MOTION PICTURE Soundtracks that don’t suck �� PG 24 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

��

�� IMPERIAL TEEN – THE HAIR THE TV THE BABY & THE BAND (Merge) Eagerly awaited power-pop returns

BAND OF HORSES – CEASE TO BEGIN (SubPop) Rock from a rural gravel road ��

�� ROBERT POLLARD – COAST TO COAST CARPET OF �� LOVE & STANDARD GARGOYLE DECISIONS (Merge) �� Prolific indie-rock Godfathers �� VARIOUS ARTISTS – THE BRIT BOX: U.K. INDIE, �� SHOEGAZE AND BRIT-POP GEMS OF THE LAST �� MILLENNIUM (Rhino) �� Just in case you missed out on post-punk UK �� DAN WILSON – FREE LIFE (American) �� Semi-pleasurable ��

�� JOHNATHAN RICE – FURTHER NORTH (Reprise) Alt-rock with folk leanings � �� SHOCKING PINKS – SELF-TITLED (Astralwerks/DFA) Fuzztastic ��

�� 500 MILES TO MEMPHIS – SUNSHINE IN A SHOT GLASS (Deep Elm) & RYAN BINGHAM – MESCALITO (Lost Highway) Country-ish debuts with very different perspectives �� JILL SCOTT- THE REAL THING: WORDS AND SOUNDS VOL 3 (Hidden Beach) & J. HOLIDAY- BACK OF MY LAC (Musicline/Capitol) Soulful soundtracks that go bump in the night ��

�� THE TURBO A.C.’S – LIVE TO WIN (Acetate) Veteran surf punks return �� HAM 1 – THE CAPTAIN’S TABLE (Orange Twin) Echoes of Elephant 6 ��

MUSIC INTERVIEW

PETER BJORN & JOHN NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK BY TOM DEFREYTAS

NE OF 2007’S MOST SURPRISING musical success stories, Peter Bjorn and John’s third album (Writer’s Block) rose up through the indie ranks largely on the strength of the breakthrough single, “Young Folks.” We recently spoke with two-thirds of the twee Swedish pop trio, who ruminated on subjects ranging from whistling while they work and rocking with Kanye West to the merits of ABBA and Ikea. During the production of Writer’s Block, the band instituted rules such as trying to maintain the initial spontaneity and limiting yourselves to four hours at a time in the studio. Was it diﬃcult to adhere to the guidelines? Peter: It’s much easier to work as a group if you have some kind of rules, since we all have so many ideas that are all over the place. We know that the end thing is gonna be pretty diverse, since we write diﬀerent kinds of songs. That’s why it’s important to tighten the thing by production and arrangements. We know it won’t become boring. John: Our guideline is to make timeless music that sounds fresh.

other or something. So it wasn’t intentional, but it does set a sort of tone to the album. It seems like songs traditionally deal with the highs or lows of relationships, but many of the songs on Writer’s Block seem interested in aspects involved in making a relationship work. Peter: It’s things we all are working on, I think. It’s hard but worth it. All the songs (almost) deal with our own personal thoughts and things that happen to us, but I guess most people can relate to it. The band recently performed with Kanye West. How did that come about? Bjorn: He did his own version of “Young Folks,” and people from our label and his label picked up that we were going to play the same festival in Sweden. So we did that, and he was a nice fellow. Hopefully we can hang out in Chicago some time.

I HAD TWO ABBA RECORDS WHEN I WAS A KID. I LIKED THE COVER WITH THE GROUP IN A HELICOPTER. TOUGH.

You guys also frequently change instruments with each other. What kind of effect did that have? Peter: If one guy has an arrangement idea on an instrument that is not his main, it’s faster than teaching it to someone else and sometimes it sounds better as well– a bit more unprofessional and childish, but that’s what we’re striving for. But me and Bjorn just can’t play drums, so John does all of them. John: Everybody can play drums. It’s not so hard. Just for Peter and Bjorn. I find Writer’s Block as the album title to almost be ironic since the album has a good range of different sounds and lyrics. Was the process of creating this album more difficult in comparison with your previous albums? Peter: It was pretty much the same, apart from the fact that John contributed songs for the first time. We’ve never been short on material. The title is a joke, referring to blocks of houses in the same area we live in around Stockholm. Whistling plays a vital role in many of the songs, especially “Young Folks.” Is there any significance to it or were you guys just really happy while making this album? John: We were very happy at that time. It was summer and we ate ice cream and whistled the whole days thru. Nowadays we moan. So just wait for the next album. Bjorn: Whistling could be happy, sad, good or bad. But not good bad. Just evil. In the album’s first song, “Objects of My Affection,” the line “I am more me” is very provocative and seems to set a tone for the rest of the album. Is the line something that inspired the album, or was it a result of if it? Peter: We write songs separately and then it just so happens that they go well together, even thematically. It’s just luck, I guess. We progress in time with each

How do you feel about your recent MTV Music award nomination as best new artist? Bjorn: Someone on MTV really likes us. John: We felt surprised, then worried, then happy and, after the award ceremony, sad. Not because we didn’t win, but because we cancelled two nice gigs in Canada.

Writer’s Block is one of the best pop albums over the past few years. Do you think Sweden’s excellent welfare state and quality life helps contribute to your music? Peter: Not really. You don’t write better songs cause you’re happy. Rather the opposite. John: Thank you. In some ways, yes. In Sweden we have had (and still have, I hope - the government just changed) this thing called the music school that every child and teenager can attend for free. It´s one lesson a week on the instrument you prefer and/or that is available. Many of Sweden’s leading artists started with music through this. But I really think it’s more about role models. After Bjorn Borg’s success, a lot of Swedes started playing tennis, and I wanted to play music when I heard older guys playing. Does it bother you at all when people frequently feel compelled to mention ABBA when talking about your band? John: I had two ABBA records when I was a kid. I liked the cover with the group in a helicopter. Tough. Peter: Abba is a lot better than a lot of other pop music from Sweden, and a lot of pop music from other places as well, so why not? I’m not a frequent listener, but I’m becoming more of a fan the older I get. Some of their compositional structures are amazing. They sound simple, but a whole lot of stuﬀ goes on there and in the production, a bit like the Beach Boys. As Swedes, what do you guys think of IKEA? Peter: I think everyone has something at home from IKEA over here. It’s cheap and some of the stuﬀ looks pretty good, too. But it’s awful to go there, especially on weekends. So crowded. Gives me panic attacks. John: Ikea sucks. Their philosophy to throw away furniture more often is bad for mother nature. I like things and people with a soul that you want to keep for the rest of your life. PG 25 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

MUSIC INTERVIEW

BRING IT BACK HOME Guitar Ledend LES PAUL

Proves You Can Go Home Again

BY BRET LOVE

HOUGH HIS NAME MAY NOT BE as familiar as inventors such as Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison or Henry Ford, many would argue that Les Paul’s contribution to humanity is every bit as significant as the telephone, light bulb or automobile. Born and raised in Wisconsin’s Waukesha County, Paul’s frustrations with the limitations of the acoustic guitar in the 1930s led him to create the electric guitar prototype (later known as the Gibson Les Paul) that remains the standard of excellence today. Over the course of an influential 70-year career that included a broad range of country, pop and jazz hits, he also blazed trails in the fields of multi-track recording and effects processors. In short, without Paul there would never have been a Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck or Eric Clapton, all of whom have made pilgrimages to pay homage to the Wizard of Waukesha. Now, at the age of 92, Paul still performs once a week at New York City’s Iridium jazz club, and is awaiting the opening of an exhibit in his honor at the Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum as well as the DVD release of “Chasing Sound,” a documentary about his life’s work. We recently caught up with this influential music legend as he prepared for his first concert in Waukesha in over 20 years.

transmitter and study with the engineer there, and had the privilege of taking piano lessons from Bob Downey, who lived within eyesight of the transmitter. So it was just a perfect place for me to grow up, and being able to play all the clubs around Waukesha gave me all the breaks I needed. What inspired you to want to play music in the ﬁrst place? There was a ditch-digger working out in front of our house, and on his lunch hour he played the blues harmonica. I leaped oﬀ the front porch and went down and stared at him. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. It attracted me so much, he handed it to me and said, “I think you want this more than I do!” Just as I reached for it, my mom took it and says, “You’re not playing this thing until I boil it!” I’ve been boiling my guitars ever since! (Laughs)

IT’S MORE IMPORTANT TO ME THAT THE YOUNG PEOPLE ARE ENCOURAGED TO FULFILL THEIR DREAMS. I WANT THEM TO SEE THAT EVEN THOUGH THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING TRYING TO KEEP YOU FROM BEING SUCCESSFUL, YOU CAN WIN THAT BALLGAME; YOU JUST HAVE TO HAVE THE BELIEF AND THE GET-UPAND-GO TO MAKE IT HAPPEN.

What are some of your fondest memories of growing up in Waukesha? The most important one was the exposure to the radio, telephone and phonograph, all in my living room. I had a chance to go to the WTMJ

You started on harmonica and piano: What made you take up the guitar? My mother was the one who said, “[When you play piano] you’ve got your back to the audience, and you’re not gonna ﬁnd a piano down at the beach.” I tried the saxophone, but my mother pointed out that I couldn’t sing with a sax in my mouth. So I went to the accordian and a couple of other instruments before I tried the banjo. Then I heard my ﬁrst guitar player on WTMJ. I used to ride my bike– even in the rain– to sit under that transmitter and hear him. This amazed me, and I wondered how that sound got into my home and came out a loudspeaker. One day the engineer invited me to come inside out of the rain and said, “You sure are intrigued with electronics.” I told him I loved it, and he said if I came out every Sunday he’d teach

BILL REEVES REALTY Office Leasing Specialists

TOMMY BARBER SPORTS

CATCH YOUR PANTHERS ON

WRAS-FM 88.5

PG 26 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

me how things worked. That was a very important part of my life. When did you start your own electronic experiments? As soon as I could play and people told me I was pretty good. I couldn’t take their word for it– I wanted to hear it myself– so I rigged up a phonograph recorder with a crank telephone. Long before I knew what Edison was doing, I was making my own aluminum records in my dad’s garage. All of a sudden, here I am deep into electronics and music. Everybody in Waukesha loved it, so I had to build my own radio station so I could broadcast around the neighborhood.

most important thing. Nowadays, the Gibson Les Paul is the guitar every serious musician wants to play. How does that feel to have your name associated with such a revered brand? It’s the most rewarding thing that ever could’ve happened, along with the inventions of the multitrack tape machines and all of the other electronic stuﬀ that followed suit. They wouldn’t have all these digital recording devices and computers or the electric guitar if it hadn’t been for good old Waukesha. I was lucky enough to start there, and you have to be lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time.

You’re widely credited as the inventor of the electric guitar. How did you develop that ﬁrst rig? There was a BBQ place in Waukesha I used to play on Saturday nights, so I rigged up a PA system that consisted of my mother’s radio speaker and a telephone. I sang into the telephone and was heard through the radio, playing for these cars that would drive in, sending requests up to me. One night I got a note that said my system was very good, but my guitar wasn’t loud enough. So I went home and got a phonograph pickup and jabbed it into the top of the guitar, but it fed back and I had more problems with trying to shuck socks and rags into it. Finally I realized the best thing was to test two mock-up guitars: one was a string stretched across a plank of soft pine and the other was stretched across steel from a railroad track. The wood sounded terrible, but the other was sensational! I ran and told my mom that the railroad track made a great guitar, and she said, “The day you see a cowboy on a horse holding a piece of railroad track...” (Laughs) She blew me outta the water again, so I started looking for a denser wood material that would allow the guitar to sustain notes and sound good.

But your passion played a signiﬁcant part in your success, and you still play weekly gigs in New York City. What keeps you going, even as you enter your 90s? I think the therapy of having a reason to get outta bed and do something is terribly important. I had a little 11-year-old violinist who was very good up on stage with me last night, doing what I did when I was his age. I love the age span of the audience and their reaction to the music, how they love and remember it and what it meant to their lives. When I sign autographs after the show, people from Ireland or Tokyo or Russia will tell me, “You have no idea what you did to my life,” and these are very touching moments. Last night there was a woman in the front row bawling like a baby, because I played something that meant so much to her. It’s a pleasure to play for them, to talk and laugh and share stories.

How did you establish your historic connection with Gibson? Finding a company interested in making such a device was the biggest problem I had. Gibson labeled me as the character with the broomstick with pickups on it, and for 10 years I was just a joke. Finally, one day the phone rings and they ask me to bring “that gadget” down to their oﬃces, and at that point I’d come a long way and was using it regularly. So I brought it to Chicago and played for the Chairman of the Board, who was amused and amazed, but skeptical. He wanted to go through a lot of tests, but eventually everyone was unanimous in the opinion that the electric guitar had so much more to oﬀer. The acoustic was so sweet and beautiful, but the electric was a super-brute: Turn the volume up and you could be louder than any instrument in the band! But you could also change the tone, which was the

You’re playing a beneﬁt for the Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum, which plans to use the money to fund a permanent exhibit on your life and career, to which you donated money and memorabilia. How do you feel about that honor? Well, I think these things should have a home, and their home should be where my home was. The Smithsonian would like to have all these things, but I know if I put ‘em there they’ll probably end up in some warehouse in Baltimore. If I put ‘em in Waukesha, they’ll be there forever, and it’s more important to me that the young people are encouraged to fulﬁll their dreams. I want them to see that even though there’s always something trying to keep you from being successful, you can win that ballgame; you just have to have the belief and the get-up-and-go to make it happen.

How does it feel to be going back to perform in Waukesha for the ﬁrst time in over 20 years? It feels just like yesterday, because I don’t think they’ve changed the bandstand one single bit since I lived there. (Laughs) All the memories are still there, though many things have changed.

FILM INTERVIEW

JOAQUIN PHOENIX DRAMA KING

BY MATT GOLDBERG

OAQUIN PHOENIX ENTERS THE room and is instantly bemused. Sony Pictures publicity has set up their standard press conference mega-table, which is essentially a huge rectangle. While it is an old axe to grind for the assembled press, Phoenix is clearly fascinated with the setup. That bemusement continues throughout the interview as we talk about re-teaming with The Yards director James Gray, his choice of characters, and what it’s like to be rescued by legendary director Werner Herzog.

James is the only director you’ve worked with more than once. That’s true. And he obviously likes working with you, for whatever reason. I think it’s desperation, honestly. I think everyone else was unavailable. What is it about this guy that you trust more than you have other ﬁlmmakers? It’s not who I trust more. I’ve talked with virtually every single director I’ve worked with about working together again, and it rarely [happens] for a number of reasons. But I do like working with James a lot. It’s diﬃcult for me to be able to pinpoint exactly what it is, but I think it’s that he loves human psychology. He loves actors. He loves talking about acting. We just exchange texts, e-mails and phone conversations. We’re getting ready to do something in November. He’s just available to talk about anything and I really enjoy that because, to me, that’s what the prep period is about. I’ve never found a director that wasn’t really available for the actor, but James just has an interesting way of looking at things and what he’s trying to conjure. Nothing is really just what it seems. I was trying to think of an ex-

ample and I can’t think of one. Like if there was a funeral scene, let’s say you were talking about it, trying to figure out what everybody might say. “Well, you know how everyone comes together from thousands of miles apart and they all meet together and everyone’s there to take care of each other?” And you go, “Oh, yes. Do you feel that?” He goes, “No. That guy’s your uncle, and he was trying to screw over that person. Your mom, she screwed that guy.” He suddenly introduces all these less than favorable qualities that most humans have, and you find those dynamics in families. I always find that interesting. He delves beyond the surface of the obvious dynamics between people and introduces things that you might not have thought of, or that you get trained by Hollywood to not think of. This and your character in Reservation Road, do you have an affinity with those kinds of characters? Does it flex your acting muscles in a way that other characters don’t? Yeah. First of all, drama is conflict. You want conflict in the character. If not, I’m bored to fuckin’ death. I don’t know a single person in life that doesn’t have conflict. It’s a movie, so they’re like extreme versions of these things that we don’t necessarily experience in life, but it’s a way to experience and study it. I’ve been on films where they were just like “regular guys,” and it was really fuckin’ tedious to me. I don’t enjoy acting enough to not want to experience something that really affects things. If you were a surfer, would you want to surf where there were two-foot waves, or would you want to surf on 10-foot waves? To me, the more dramatic stories are more exciting for me to play or else I’d just… There’s too much other stuff that goes into it– the make-up, the hair, the wardrobe, taking pictures and doing press and all this shit that I don’t really enjoy. It’s not worth it without having an experience that would be intense. With this and Reservation Road, you’re going to some very dark places. It’s an awkward position to be in. I’ve read some stuff about bands or a particular album and you find out that your favorite song is written about his aunt or something and you’re like, “Hell, I’ve been loving this girl because of this song! What are you doing to me?! It’s about your fuckin’ aunt?!” [Laughs] Oftentimes I feel like actors just lie in the press and say they’re really affected by things, or else it ruins the experience should anybody happen to read this. I wouldn’t really want to listen to that, thinking that the [actor] was thinking about what was for lunch. But, to be honest, I’ve done a lot of scenes where I’m thinking, “What the fuck is for lunch? I can’t wait to get out of here.”

How did the second Oscar nomination compare to the first one? I don’t think it was much different. I still had to go around, wear the suit, say “Hi.” I think I got out of a lot of stuff the first time because Russell [Crowe] did everything, and I was working as well. I was out of the country when Gladiator came up for the Oscars, but for Walk the Line I was here, so they had me. I had a few more things to do.

Your character in this is comfortable in the club scene, but are you comfortable in that world? Is that your scene, personally? Do I feel comfortable? No, it’s not my scene, but the trouble is I don’t think I have a scene. I’ve been to clubs in New York when I was in my twenties, although it’s changed quite a lot. I just think they’re awful. It’s unbearable to me. I don’t like being in an enclosed place with really loud music and a lot of drunk people. It’s not my idea of a good time. So I went and talked to a lot of these people that ran clubs, going around and looking in the back room and the offices to see how they did it. Honestly, they’re there ‘til like five in the morning, and then back at like three in the afternoon. It’s just such a miserable life. So what do you like doing when you have time off? It’s terrible. No one ever believes me. I do nothing. TV? I will say that I do very much like Discovery Channel, which I just watch a lot. There’s like four channels that are like History, Discovery and National Geographic, and I basically just flip through those. What do you recall from the night of your accident in the Hollywood Hills with Werner Herzog? Uh, it was day. I remember that. It was funny, I don’t remember being frightened at all, just more like fascinated that I was turned sideways and [something] was broken. I just heard this German voice saying “Please relax.” I was like, “I know that voice. Is it God?” [Laughter] Did you see Grizzly Man? When he listens to the video of the guy getting killed, and he tells the guy’s girlfriend, “Don’t ever, ever watch”? It was that same voice. I was like, “I am relaxed,” and he’s like, “No. You must relax.” I think I really was relaxed. There’s a story that Werner told you not to light a cigarette and there was a puddle of gasoline right next to you. Do you recall that at all? That’s totally ridiculous! No, because Werner disappeared before I had my cigarette. Another guy came around the back. The car was tilted in such a way that, if I climbed out the passenger side, the driver side was on the street, and I thought that the weight would then roll it over, so I can’t go out that way. Then this guy opened the very back door– it wasn’t Werner, it was the other guy– and I crawled through and said, “Thanks very much.” I turned around and Werner was long gone, then I smoked next to the firemen.

PG 27 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

DINING

BEST CAJUN Redfish

687 Memorial Dr. SE 404-475-1200 www.redfishcreole.com

BEST BARBECUE KC Pit BBQ 404-459-6497 www.kcpitbbq.com

One of Atlanta’s favorite home-grown gems recently joined the Raving Brands family. Known for their mouthwatering biscuits and original and affordable menu items.

BEST BURGER Highland Tap 1026 N. Highland Ave. 404-875-3673 www.highlandtapatlanta.com KC Pit BBQ is a family business with the owners originating from Kansas City. Their KC brand of BBQ has been a Sandy Springs favorite since they first opened in 2003. Word has spread, making them an Atlanta favorite in our 2007 Poll.

17 Metro Locations www.jchristophers.com

BEST BRUNCH The Flying Biscuit Decatur 404-687-8888 Midtown 404-874-8887 Buckhead 404-816-3152 Marietta 770-321-4445 www.flyingbiscuit.com

BEST CUBAN Havana Sandwich Shop 2905 Buford Hwy. 404-636-4094

A little bit of Havanna on Buford Hwy. Popular place to meet for an unique lunch experience. Great Sandwiches and Cuban dishes.

A landmark of good eats, 24 hours a day. When you crave a 2 a.m. breakfast or an 8 a.m. steak, the food at Landmark Diner will hit the spot.

BEST GREEK Athens Pizza

1341 Clairmont Rd. 404-636-1100 www.athenspizzaatlanta.com

3887 Peachtree Rd. 404-816-2229 and other locations www.chinchinonline.com This subterranean hide-away can be found on the corner of N. Highland and Virginia. The award winning Prime Rib served here is a big reason their burgers are so good as they are made from the trimmings of their steaks. The burgers are cooked on the same wood grill the steaks are on, which give them a backyard barbecue taste.

BEST BURRITO Willy’s

The place to go for all your traditional breakfast favorites. Go for their signature dish, Eggs Benedict. Several new locations including Vinings and Brookhaven coming soon.

3652 Roswell Rd. & other locations 404-816-9090 Landmarkdiner.com

Nestled in the revitalized cabbagetown district, Redfish adds a touch of New Orleans. From the Zydeco music playing softly, to the great cajun fare, Redfish has earned its place as one of the best new restaurants in Atlanta.

BEST CHINESE Chin Chin

BEST BREAKFAST J. Christopher’s

BEST DINER Landmark

15 Area Location Catering 404-422-7107 www.willys.com

From crab rangoons to cashew chicken, Chin Chin offers fine dining that won’t break the bank. This Chinese chain offers several locations around Metro Atlanta, each with the same great flavor, healthy portions and elegant décor. Perennial Best Of winner.

BEST DELI Goldberg’s

4 Area Locations www.goldbergsdeli.net

Originally opened in the summer of 1977 by the Papadopoulos family, Athens Pizza is still serving the same delicious Greek recipes their customers have come to expect.

BEST INEXPENSIVE RESTAURANT Eats 600 Ponce de Leon Ave. 404-876-6161

Atlanta’s original burrito chain. Willy’s award winning signature California-style burritos keep the concept of freshness true.

For 15 years people have been heading down to Ponce to experience their great jerk chicken and pasta dishes. Over all this time they have maintained the great quality of their food and kept their prices low.

Now with their Sandy Springs renovation completed, all Goldberg’s locations offer full dine in seating. Here you will find authentic kosher meats and dishes.

BEST ITALIAN Figo 4 Metro Locations www.figopasta.com

PG 29 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

BEST NEW RESTAURANT VIA

www.JohnnysPizza.com

262 Pharr Rd. 404-214-5404 www.viarestaurant.net

With their focus on freshly made pastas and sauces, Figo has expanded its presence in Atlanta by offering affordably priced high quality Italian dishes.

BEST MEDITERRANEAN Mezza Bistro 2751 Lavista Rd. 404-633-8833 www.mezzabistro.com

Among all the construction in Buckhead Village, VIA stands out as a diamond in the rough. One million plus was poured into its creation and their attention to detail shows. As does their standout entrees like the Lobster Fettuccini and Pan Roasted New York Strip.

BEST NOODLE BOWL Doc Chey’s

1556 N. Decatur Rd. 4-378-8188 1424 N. Highland Ave. 404-888-0777 www.doccheys.com

When their first location opened in East Point back in 1977, it was an instant success. There are now 65 Johnny’s Pizza restaurants. The secret to their success is in the preparation. they alwys have used the finest ingrediaents accompanied with friendly service that keeps customers coming back.

BEST PIZZA BY THE SLICE Fellini’s

7 Metro Locations www.fellinisatlanta.com

415 Memorial Drive 404-523-6664 685 11th St. 404-810-0040 www.sixfeetunderatlanta.com Unlike the big bronze fish that marks the Buckhead landscape, Six Feet Under has quietly been building a following and earning a reputation as one of Atlanta’s best seafood restaurants. The restaurants urban locations with neighborhood feel stay packed throughout the week.

80 Powers Ferry Rd. 770-321-1177 5697 Buford Hwy. 770-455-8570

BEST MEXICAN Nuevo Laredo

Winner of numerous dining awards by various magazines over the years. They offer many house favorites such as the chicken mole, stuffed chile rellenos, and fork tender brisket.

BEST SEAFOOD Six Feet Under

BEST SUB SANDWICH Baldino’s

Mezza....lebanese bistro and dar offers one of the most characteristic elements of Lebanese cuisine. Mezza is a top rated Labanese restaurant in Zagat’s survey six years in a row and a critic’s choice as a top 50 restaurant by the AJC.

1495 Chattahoochee Ave. 404-352-9009 www.nuevolaredocantina.com

Featuring finger-licking-good smoked meat and tangy sauce. Eat ribs by the slab, half-slab, as a combo or on a sandwich and listen to local blues bands in this friendly honky-tonk.

The original pan-asian noodle house in Atlanta. Menu includes dim sum, salad bowls, soup bowls, noodle bowls and rice plates. Best Spicy Thai Basil Noodle Bowl in the city.

BEST PIZZA Johnny’s Pizza Multiple Locations

Here it always seems to be busy, which is why it is great to be able to grab a slice in a hurry. Great slices made to order the Fellini’s way.

BEST RIBS Fat Matt’s

1811 Piedmont Ave. 404-607-1622 www.fatmattsribshack.com

Since 1975, Baldino’s Giant Jersey Subs has been recognized as the only true New Jersey Style submarine in the South. When you eat a Baldino’s sub, you know the difference.

Your Neighborhood Pizzeria! CANDLER PARK

1655 McLendon Ave. | Atlanta | 30307

404.687.8888 MIDTOWN

1001 Piedmont Ave. | Atlanta | 30309

404.874.8887

BEST PIZZA!

& Multiple Atlanta Locations: www.JohnnysPizza.com PG 30 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

VOTED BEST SUBS IN ATLANTA

BEST BRUNCH!

NIGHTLIFE BEST BEER SELECTION Taco Mac

Multiple locations www.tacomac.com

BEST SOUTHWESTERN Agave

242 Boulevard S.E.404-588-0006 www.agaverestaurant.com Agave’s unique blend of eclectic southwestern cuisine, extensive tequila bar and wine list coupled with exceptional service makes this one of Atlanta’s top resturants. They are the recipient of numerous awards from various publications for their cuisine and great margaritas.

BEST STEAKHOUSE New York Prime Buckhead 404-846-0644

Located in the Monarch Tower next door to the Ritz-Carlton hotel, New York Prime is a tow time winner of our Best Of poll. Their light airy dining room offers an inviting contrast to the usual steakhouse dimly lit decor. Once seated, you will find their steaks rival any in the city.

BEST TAPAS Sweet Devil Moon

980 Piedmont Ave 404-347-3600 www.sdmatlanta.com

With over 200 botled beers and up to 100 beers on tap, Taco Mace has the largest beer selection in the city. People come to try beers they never heard of before and wash them down with their great wings.

BEST BLUES CLUB Northside Tavern

1058 Howell Mill Rd. 404-874-8745 Bringing great blues to the westside. A Wonderfully rhythmic sound emanates from this popular tavern at night. Here you will find all sorts of people with one thing in common; their love for the blues.

BEST BREWERY Sweetwater Brewing Co. 195 Ottley Dr. 404-691-2537 www.sweetwaterbrew.com

17 LOCATIONS! After six years of brewing up the best beer in the Southeast, the upstarts from Georgia gained national attention by being awarded the title "Small Brewery of the Year" at the Great American Beer Festival. Tours are offered Wed., thu., and Fri., from 5:30 - 7:30 pm.

BEST CARRYOUT Doc Chey’s

Sweet Devil Moon is known for their authentic Peruvian Tapas. They offer tapas in various meats including exotic seafood tapas like their Pulpo a lo Callo. It is bite sized octopus flavored with herbs and olive oil. Sweet Devil Moon is located in the heart of midtown on the corner of 10th and Piedmont.

BEST VEGETARIAN Cafe’ Sunflower 2140 Peachtree Rd. 404-352-8859 5975 Roswell Rd. 404-256-1675 A vegetarian’s delight. Cafe Sunflower located in south buckhead and Sandy Springs has become a staple for those carnivore adverse. You can also find great vegan desserts.

1556 N. Decatur Rd. 4-378-8188 1424 N. Highland Ave. 404-888-0777 www.doccheys.com

The original pan-asian noodle house in Atlanta. Menu includes dim sum, salad bowls, soup bowls, noodle bowls and rice plates. Easy menu, quick service and affordable pricing make Doc Chey’s an Atlanta carryout favorite.

BEST COLLEGE BAR Moondog’s

3179 Peachtree Rd. 404-231-2401

MIDTOWN 950 West Peachtree St. 404-917-1790

BUCKHEAD 3050 Peachtree Rd 404/917-0350

DECATUR 250 E. Ponce De Leon Ave 404.378.2662

ALPHARETTA 3000 Old Alabama Rd. 770.360.0970

PONCE DE LEON 774 Ponce De Leon Ave 404.892.6262

CRABAPPLE 10930 Crabapple Rd. 678.822.0129

DULUTH 3294 Peachtree Ind. Blvd 770.622.4775

DUNWOODY 5482 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd. 770.395.1642

POWERS FERRY 1247 Powers Ferry Rd. 770.953.0002

WINDWARD PKWY. 3070 Windward Pkwy. 770.740.8571

SANDY SPRINGS 227 Sandy Springs Circle 404.531.0242

PEACHTREE CITY 264 Commerce Drive 678.216.1010

ROSWELL SQUARE 605 Atlanta Street 770.640.5548 EAST COBB 1205 Johnson Ferry Rd. 770.579.6800

BEST WINGS Taco Mac

Multiple Area locations www.tacomac.com

SAVANNAH 122 East Liberty 912.236.7494 TAMPA, FL 14366 N Dale Mabry Hwy 813.908.7023

NEWEST LOCATION! Site of this year’s INsite Best Bartender Contest, one can see why the students love it. Great bartenders, plenty of rooms to wander, pool tables, dart boards, texas hold’em, and rock’in music.

BEST COMEDY CLUB The Punchline

When it comes to wings, the mantra at Taco Mac is “We did ‘em first and we still do ‘em best!” Taco Mac brought the southeast its first taste of Buffalo Style Chicken Wings back in 1979. Their wings immediately had people talking and since then, they have consistently won awards for Taco Mac.

Breakfast, Brunch & Lunch THE BEST BREAKFAST IN TOWN IS AT J. CHRISTOPHER’S!

280 Hilderbrand Dr. 404-252-5233 www.punchline.com

Since 1982 The Punchline has showcased more than 3,000 comedians. Located in Sandy Springs, 1/2 mile north of 285 off Roswell Road, the Punchline is Atlanta's legendary and historic comedy club.

VININGS AT IVY WALK 1675 CUMBERLAND PARKWAY 678/213-0312

COMING SOON - BROOKHAVEN

7 Days a Week from 7am–2pm

www.jchristophers.com

PG 31 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

Best Hair Salon VOTED BEST OF BY: �� Buckhead 39 West Paces Ferry Rd. Atlanta, Ga. 30305 (404) 237-4664 Virginia Highlands 778 N. Highland Ave. Atlanta, Ga. 30306 (404) 874-6604 Sandy Springs 220 Sandy Springs Circle Atlanta, Ga. 30328 (404) 255-0026 Norcross 5161 Peachtree Parway, Suite 606 Norcross, Ga. 30092 (678) 987-3600 www.vanmichael.com

staff, and Best Happy Hour. Needless to say, tables on the patio can be hard to come by.

BEST COUNTRY HALL Wild Bills

BEST POOL HALL Twains

2075 Market St. Duluth 678-473-1000 www.wildbillsatlanta.com

211 Trinity Pl 404-373-0063 www.twains.net

With a capacity of over 5,000, they can show you a good time. Wild Bill's is located just off of I-85 on Pleasant Hill Rd, in front of Gwinnett Place Mall.

Best Margarita by numerous publications and is one of ATL’s top 50 dining establishments.

BEST DANCE CLUB Hole in the Wall

BEST MARTINI The Highland Tap

3179 Peachtree Rd. Buckhead

404-233-9801

The dance floor has been bump’in at Hole in the Wall this year and Insite readers have come to notice. A great place to head to at the end of the night.

BEST HAPPY HOUR The Tavern at Phipps 3500 Peachtree Rd. 404-814-9640

The city’s hottest spot for cool cocktails after work. Atlanta’s Best Bartender Patrick Kelly is shown in action playing to the crowd. The Tavern is also home to the Best Patio and Best Looking Waitstaff.

BEST LOCAL MUSIC Smith’s Olde Bar 1578 Piedmont Ave. 404-875-1522 www.smithsoldebar.com

1026 N. Highland Ave. 404-875-3673 One of Virginia Highlands best kept secrets. The Highland Tap is known for their great steaks and great martinis. Go down stairs and enter an atmosphere reminicient of Lake Tahoe in the 50’s.

BEST MUSIC VENUE INDOOR Fox Theatre

660 Peachtree St. 404-881-2100 www.foxtheatre.org The cities oldest and most renown venue is most known for its theatrical performances. However they do house musical acts from time to time and for those who have been to a show here know it is one of the best experiences around.

BEST MUSIC VENUE OUTDOOR HiFi Buys Amphitheatre 2002 Lakewood Way 404-249-6400 www.hob.com

Atlanta’s largest and premier dedicated concert venue. Advanced lighting and clear, unrescricted sightlines make HIFI Buys Amphitheatre the favorite summer concert site for the avid music fan.

This Decatur establishment has been winning over billiards fans with there multiple tables and laid back pub atmosphere since 1996. With a wide selection of beers on draught, people flock here for the drinks as much as the pool.

BEST PUB Meehan’s

227 Sandy Springs Pl 404-843-8058 2810 Paces Ferry Rd 770-433-1920 www.MeehansPublicHouse.com

“Meehan’s has thrived with an upscale take on the traditional Irish pub. Part of 101 Concepts (which includes Food 101 and SoHo), they feature full bars, imported beers on tap and a grub that goes beyond the usual.” Bob Townsend, AJC

BEST SMALL MUSIC VENUE The Peachtree Tavern

3179 Peachtree Rd. 404-842-1700 www.peachtreetavern.com Here you will find a great collection of local artists, cover bands and up and coming acts

looking to burst onto the national scene. Views of the stage are unubstructed from any of their many bar stations. Some acts appearing here in November include Grayson Hill, The Wrong Way and Trotline.

BEST SPORTS BAR The Famous Pub 2947 N. Druid Hills Rd. 404-633-3555

Located in Toco Hills near Emory, Famous boasts six big screens and over 40 TV’s shwoing every major college and pro game. In addition they have plenty of pool tables and other games to make it a great time out.

BEST TEXAS HOLD’EM Moondog’s

3179 Peachtree Rd. 404-231-2401 As poker’s popularity has risen, Moondog’s crowds have grown as they have been increasing the amount of tables and now hold Texas Hold’em on Tuesday , Wednesday and Thursday nights. You will find a wide range of skill levels to play with. There are plenty of rooms to wander offering pool tables, dart boards,and rock’in music.

100 Tequilas Lime Optional.

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR The Red Door Tavern 3180 Roswell Rd. 404-846-6525

Original live music seven nights a week. The music venue is located upstairs from the bar and offers an intimate setting that is a favorite among Atlantans. Here you will find national acts as well as local artists during the week.

BEST LOOKING WAITSTAFF The Tavern at Phipps 3500 Peachtree Rd. 404-814-9640 See for yourself. Tavern waitress Lauren shown.

Located on Roswell Rd. one block north of the Roxy Theatre, The Red Door Tavern has quickly become a favorite watering hole among locals in North Buckhead. On weekends their front deck fills up as SEC grads come to cheer on their favorite team.

BEST PATIO The Tavern at Phipps 3500 Peachtree Rd. 404-814-9640

BEST MARGARITA Agave

242 Boulevard SE 404-588-0006 agaverestaurant.com Here you will find 10 different award winning margaritas. They boast 85 tequilas and use the finest ingredients including fresh squeezed juices in their drinks. For the last 5 years Agave has been rated excellent by the Zagat survey, voted

No place comes close to The Tavern at Phipps patio on a Friday afternoon. They boast Atlanta’s Best Bartender, Best Looking WaitPG 33 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

RETAIL BEST ADULT NOVELTY STORE Starship

Multiple Area Locations For location nearest you 404-766-6993 www.shopstarship.com An Atlanta favorite for those into the erotic. Thousands of videos, dvd’s, adult toys, condoms, candles and novelties to meet whatever your desire.

BEST ADULT VIDEO STORE Southern Nights 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 404-728-0701

The largest selection of dvd’s and videos starting at $9.99 under one roof. They are open 24 hours, offer free membership and also house a wide variety of magazines and adult toys to get your nasty on.

BEST ART SUPPLY Binders

3330 Piedmont Rd. 404-237-6331 www.bindersart.com Located in the Kroger shopping center on Piedmont Road, Binders is a favorite place to shop for art supplies. There are hundreds of frames to choose from, with many 50% to 75% off. A great place to find that perfect gift for the holidays.

BEST CIGAR STORE Highland Cigar

245 N. Highland Ave. 404-477-2415 www.highlandcigar.com With a knowledgable staff and walk-in humidor and state of the art ventalation system, Highland Cigar is unmatched among afficionados in Atlanta.

BEST CLOTHING STORE Junkman’s Daughter 464 Moreland Ave. 404-577-3188

Little Five Point’s favorite and largest store. Here you will find eclectic and unique clothing that has made the area a most stop shopping destination.

BEST CONSIGNMENT Psycho Sisters

Little 5 Pts 404-523-0100 Sandy Springs 404-255-5578 Lilburn 770-923-5228 Cartersville 770-607-0888 An out of the ordinary name for a unique boutique. From fun to funky, wacky to wild, Psycho Sisters is the queen of consignment. Featured threads include Levis, Diesel, costumes, footwear and plenty of polyester.

BEST FUTON STORE Home Concepts 6440 Dawson Blvd. 770-448-8425 729 Ponce De Leon Pl. 404-885-1505 www.atlantafutons.com Atlanta’s premier futon store has been voted “Best” 12 times by Atlanta publications. Hundreds of frames, cushions and covers plus desks, nightstands and chairs suit you’re futon and furnishing needs.

BEST FURNITURE STORE Cort Furniture Doraville 770-939-5222 Marietta 770-955-4044

Name Brand Home and Office furniture being offered at up to 70% off the new retail prices. Cort Clearance Center is a great way to get high quality furniture pieces that will hold up for years , but at an unbeatable price. Our readers agree!

BEST LIQUOR STORE Green’s

737 Ponce de Leon 404-872-1109 2612 Buford Hwy. 404-321-6232 Green’s has been serving Atlanta’s beverage needs since1937 with thousands of items at deeply discounted pricing every day. Voted Best retail beverage store in Atlanta 16 years in a row.

BEST MEN’S SHOE STORE Abbadabba’s Multiple locations www.coolshoes.com

Known for there wide selection of casual shoes like Birkenstocks, Vans and Crocs, Abbadabbas is a favorite for men, women and kids.

BEST WOMEN’S SHOES Shoemaker’s Warehouse 500 Amsterdam Ave. 404-881-9301

Want designer footwear without designer prices? Featuring 13,000 square feet of all styles and sizes at 30% to 60% off, Shoemaker’s Warehouse is popular for its bargain buys. Plenty of shoes for men.

BEST SMOKE SHOP Smoke 911

6124 Roswell Rd. 404-256-1116 Coming Soon 710 Holcomb Br. Rd. If you are looking for premium cigars, they have a walk-in humidor with all the accessories. This is the place to go from everything for your smoking needs and more. You will also find adult novelties, incense, vaporizers, and aromatherapy.

BEST VINTAGE CLOTHING Plato’s Closet 2480 Briarcliff Rd. 404-929-0224 6627 Roswell Rd. 404-255-5151

Dress like a rock star in the great selection of vintage clothes at Plato’s Closet.

LIFESTYLE BEST CAR WASH Cactus Car Wash Midtown 404-876-3232 Buckhead 404-846-4040

Winner of multiple awards in Atlanta, their Ponce location was recently rated as best nationally. See their Best Of Atlanta special, a handdried exterior wash for $2.95!

BEST HAIR SALON Van Michael Multiple Locations www.vanmichael.com

Voted one of Atlanta’s best and most affordable salons by numerous publications including: Atlanta Magazine, Creative Loafing, Access Atlanta and the AJC. It looks to be unanimous.

BEST HEALTH CLUB LA Fitness Multiple locations www.lafitness.com

LA Fitness offers tons of amenities at unusually low rates. Here you can take classes in boxing and cycling, swim in their many pools, or take part in a game of basketball or racquetball. With so many locations, there is bound to be one near you.

BEST BODY WAX Brazilian Wax

80 Powers Ferry Rd. 770-579-3201 1230 Powers Ferry Rd. 404-454-4742

Owner Andreia Longshore has been waxing for over 16 years. They have expanded to two locations in Marietta with an Alpharetta location coming soon.

MUSIC INTERVIEW

EISLEY

NOT YOUR OVERHYPED INDIE ROCK BAND BY JOHN B. MOORE

T WOULD BE EASY TO DISMISS Eisley as just another overhyped indie rock band. When they first caught the attention of the music media a few years ago they had a back story that launched a hundred profiles: three teenage sisters, their brother and a friend from small town Texas, playing lush rock numbers that call to mind late 80’s early 90’s college radio staples like The Sundays and The Innocence Mission. Then came their first full length, Room Noises, and it appeared that maybe some of the hype was justified. With the release of Combinations, the group’s brilliant follow up, Eisley may actually be one of the rare bands that has actually eared their pre-release accolades. With 10 tracks, each beautifully written and executed, the group has delivered the album by which they will constantly have to live up to with each successive release. Eisley singer/guitarist Sherri DuPree spoke recently about their new album, touring with her siblings and life married to a fellow rocker. I really like the sound on Combinations - it sound s a bit different from the last record. How would you describe this record to those who haven’t heard it yet? Everyone grew up so much between this album and the first that the writing and music naturally progressed too. To us, the album is a bolder more sophisticated Eisley. It’s not as adolescent sounding. It’s an Eisley that’s grown into itself a lot more. Was it a conscious decision to change the sound or just a natural progression? I think it just came naturally with age and lots of touring. PG 34 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

Are there any songs on the new record that you’re particularly proud of? To be honest, I’m proud of myself anytime I can actually accomplish the completion of a song! I’m always really proud of Stacy though. I think she’s a brilliant writer. Is there a general theme to the songs on the record? Love! I got engaged and married....that’s

what my songs are mostly about. Do you all have similar musical inﬂuences and similar musical tastes? Yes, we all mostly listen to the same bands/music. I think its part of what helps us work things out creatively so well.

TO BE HONEST, I’M PROUD OF MYSELF ANYTIME I CAN ACTUALLY ACCOMPLISH THE COMPLETION OF A SONG!

Obviously much has been written about the fact that you are all family members. Does it ever become diﬃcult

to communicate what you really want because you all have that history; or is it much easier than the dynamics in most other bands? For us, it works best, I think. I’m closer to my family than anyone, and especially since we’re all in a band together. We work together well and disagree rarely. Not to say we never disagree because we do. Usually about who gets to shower first on tour. Me, duh. You made a really interesting choice with your producer. What made you decide to work with Richard Gibbs? Because he used to be in a band with Danny Elfman. And we heard he had dreadlocks. Just kidding. We did choose him because of his musical background though. He’s a composer. We thought it’d be neat-o to work with someone out of the norm, not a regular producer, you know. How was he to work with? He hadn’t worked with a lot of bands, so I’m not sure if he was used to not making all of the decisions on a project. But we had a lot of fun, all of us, and he’s got this great musical mind that we really were glad to be able to tap into. He’s super talented. Your husband (New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert) is also a musician. With both of you touring in separate bands, is it difficult to be apart for so long? Easy as pie. I don’t like him very much you know? Just kidding, of course! It sucks is the real answer. But we try to fly out and hang out on each others tours as much as possible if we have days off. And when we’re home it’s great because we don’t have to do anything but hang out and be in love. Have you thought about working with him on any music projects? Yes, we joke about it a lot, but there hasn’t been time to sit down and write and songs yet. Stacy and I did sing on their Coming Home album and on their new CD coming out this month though. And he produced and played guitar on one of the songs on Combinations (“Taking Control”). So there’s that. And who knows what else in the future!

SPORTS

State of Euphoria

Folks around North Carolina are all smiles. Must be college hoops time again.

BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

IDING SOUTH ALONG I85 IN THE great state of North Carolina, you eventually pass a mile marker sign that simply reads, “Durham 9, Chapel Hill 22.” While a mere 13 miles separate Duke and the University of North Carolina, the two schools of thought couldn’t be more diﬀerent on the subject of basketball. However, if there was one thing the rival teams might agree on it’s the declaration that they’re the two preeminent hoops schools in the state going into the ’07-08 tilt. But after a careful scan across the Tobacco State, that statement meets opposition, mainly from b-ball fans in Raleigh and Davidson, the homes of North Carolina State and Davidson University. Both unheralded units should not only join the aforementioned ACC powers in the NCAA tournament, each could prove quite the test once there. But North Carolina isn’t the only state debating its basketball superiority these days. Similar wars are waging across the country, ranging from California (USC or UCLA) to Indiana (The Hoosiers vs Butler) to Tennessee (The Vols against Memphis), and likely won’t cease until the winning team cuts down the nets in San Antonio after the title game on April 7. Here are the 25 squads INsite feels have the best chance at pulling out the scissors. 1. NORTH CAROLINA- You remember Tyler Hansbrough’s bloody nose. You remember how easily Ty Lawson got to the hole. Do you remember the looks on Tar Heel faces after the tourney loss to Georgetown? They do, and they won’t be revisited. 2. MEMPHIS The Tigers, preseason No. 1 in most publications, should roar to their third straight Conference USA title. Chris DouglasRogers and freshman Derrick Rose will do all they can to prove those other publications right. 3. TENNESSEE Coach Bruce Pearl isn’t the loose cannon many out there paint him to be. Chris Lofton and JaJuan Smith, on the other hand, are exactly the all-around scoring nightmare SEC foes think they are. 4. INDIANA If your friend says he knows a better inside/outside combination than frosh guard Eric Gordon and senior forward D.J. White, he’s lying. We’re saying these Hoosiers could be up to something special this year.

5. KANSAS Slashers Mario Chalmers, Darrell Arthur and Russell Robinson are more than capable of holding things down until point guard Brandon Rush is able to stand back up on his own right knee. 6. TEXAS Now completely out from Kevin Durant’s shadow, guard D.J. Augustin can tell the world that he averaged 14.4 points and nearly seven assists per game. All the other Longhorns will tell the masses they’re for real by winning. 7. DUKE This much we know: Freshmen Nolan Smith and Kyle Singer can flat-out play. What’s vexing to all, even Coach Mike Krzyzewski, is finding a player capable of replacing giant Josh McRoberts in the paint. 8. MICHIGAN STATE Forget the brutal Big Ten schedule, just look at the non-conference sked (Texas, NC State, BYU) the Spartans must contend with. Drew Neitzel, we hope you have enough 18footers in your arsenal for all of that. 9. OREGON Most have already forgotten that these same Ducks (four starters return) made it to the NCAA regional final a season ago. Malik Hairston and Bryce Taylor start refreshing memories from the three-point line really soon. 10. GEORGETOWN The Hoyas play in D.C., so it’s only fitting that big man Roy Hibbert’s nickname is “The Governor.” If he can lead G’town to another Final Four showing, the 7-2 NBA prospect could run for mayor and get plenty of votes. 11. OHIO STATE Former Mr. Ohio Jamar Butler has been the centerpiece of many teams before. With three Buckeye teammates defected to the NBA, the senior point will again be called upon to shoot, steal and scold the incoming class. 12. FLORIDA Though they return only 15% of their scoring from last year’s title team, there’s enough talent (freshman Jai Lucas) and coaching (Billy “Screw the Orlando Magic” Donovan) to keep Gator fans from chomping at the bit. 13. UCLA- Kevin Love, the Bruins’ mushed over

top recruit, has an uncle who was a founding member of the Beach Boys. If the forward comes in and makes the splash most expect, it’ll be fun, fun, fun ‘round Pauley Pavilion this winter. 14. KANSAS STATE Durant took the college world by storm by winning every major individual accolade, Big 12 or not. Incoming Wildcat Michael Beasley, who’ll be running things with Billy Walker, is gifted enough to do the same thing. 15. SOUTHERN ILLINOIS Far outgrown of the “Cinderella” tag, these Randal Falker-led Salukis are more like the Big Bad Wolf: You notice the fangs and menacing eyes but you don’t realize the complete threat till you’re down 20 at halftime. 16. WASHING TON STATE Derrick Low and Kyle Weaver. You won’t ﬁnd two better guards at FAO Schwartz on the Friday after Thanksgiving. They’re quick. They’re heady. They’re exactly what’ll be needed to slow down USC and UCLA. 17. KENTUCKY Tubby Smith’s coaching replacement, Bill Gillespie, takes over a team that’s stacked with guards (Ramel Bradley, Joe Crawford) and lacks with giants. Bigs Jared Carter and Perry Stevenson must attack the basket. 18. LOUISVILLE The top seven scorers (including Edgar Sosa and Terrence Williams) from a Cardinals ﬂock that won 24 games are back. Doing the quick math, that equates to serious problems for the Big East. 19. NORTH CAROLINA STATE The frontcourt is nothing but agile pine trees (Brandon Carson, Gavin Grant). It’s the greatly untested backcourt that needs to come up roses if the Wolfpack are to blossom into true ACC contenders. 20. WEST VIRGINIA Bob Huggins returns to coach at his alma mater. This Hollywood story could have a sensational ending if guard Darris Nichols keeps making those sweet passes and

In Person with Rod Barnes BY DAVE COHEN

S THE GEORGIA STATE BASKETBALL team begins its thirds season in the Colonial Athletic Association, it’s the ﬁrst season for new head coach Rod Barnes. Barnes comes to Atlanta after serving as an assistant coach at Oklahoma last season following eight seasons as the head coach at the University of Mississippi. In those eight seasons in Oxford, Coach Barnes guided the Rebels to three NCAA Tournaments and four post season berths while averaging 18 wins per season. In 2001 Barnes was honored at the Naismith Coach of the Year and the SEC Coach of the Year after leading Ole Miss to a 27-8 season and a spot in the NCAA’s Sweet 16. Barnes inherits a Panther program that has not enjoyed consistent success since the days of “Lefty” Driesell. He spoke recently with the radio “Voice of the Panthers,” Dave Cohen. This being your ﬁrst year at Georgia State, I would

imagine that you’re anxious to get things underway? Well, I am. Every season you get excited about it but this right here is a really special one for me to have the opportunity to be a head coach again and then to be at a place that I think we’ve got an opportunity to build a great program so I’m excited about it. It’s time. You’ve gone through the pre-season and the workouts and it’s time to start practicing and get ready for some games. What have been your observations so far regarding the returning players that you have on this year’s team? I think our kids have really taken to what we’re trying to do. You know, we’ve got some concerns obviously being depth up front with Deven (Dickerson) being out, we’re kind of short handed there but I’ve seen a lot of guys improve. Trey Goldston to Michael Moynihan to Rashad Chase, so I think our team is much more improved. Whether we’re good enough to win a lot of games

that’s still yet to be determined but I like their work ethic, I like their togetherness and closeness as a team and I think if we stay that way we’ve got a chance to be pretty good. You have the reputation of being a defensive oriented coach. Is that your style? I think so. What defense will do for you, it’ll help you win championships because you can be consistent more than you can on nights when you have good shooting nights or bad shooting nights. You can defend every night and I think that’s the good thing. I’ve really worked with our guys because I knew there was a problem last year of scoring. I’m not just trying to build up a team that can compete, these guys need conﬁdence. We need to have the right attitude going into the season.

Da’Sean Butler works on that sweet shooting stroke. 21. USC California and O.J. just go together. But unlike the other O.J. who insists on making headlines with his stupidity, this one with the Trojans (last name Mayo) has earned them with his amazingly mature game since middle school. 22. BUTLER New Bulldogs coach Brad Stevens, 30, is the second-youngest in the NCAA. If players like all-conference ﬁrst-teamer A.J. Graves and newcomer of the year Mike Green stay around his program, he won’t wrinkle for some time. 23. MARQUETTE We love the fact that exciting guard Dominic James spurned the NBA for one more year of college seasoning. We hate the fact that he was a meager 38.4% behind the arc a season ago. 24. DAVIDSON Stephen Curry can put up points in bunches, exactly like his no-frills pop Dell did in the NBA back in the 90s. Hopefully, pop has some tips saved up, as the Wildcats play UNC, UCLA, NC State and Duke all before Christmas. 25. CLEMSON Good news: Four of last year’s starting Tigers are back for another March run. Bad news: That ﬁfth guy, Vernon Hamilton, was the point guard and second leading scorer. James Mays and K.C. Rivers highlights? Old news. 2630: ARIZONA, GEORGIA, NEW MEXICO STATE, VANDERBILT AND XAVIER OH

SPORTS NEWS team needs to do better in conference play instead of worrying about the non-conference games. (vs. Alabama-Birmingham, at Florida State, vs. Georgia Tech) We really got heavy on the non-conference schedule to prepare us for conference play and hopefully we can get more wins in conference, gain some more respect and then I think we’ll be on our way to being able to compete year in and year out. Georgia State opens the regular season on November 10th vs. Alabama-Birmingham. For ticket information call 404-413-4021 or visit online at www.georgiastatesports.com. Listen to Georgia State basketball on WRAS-FM (88.5)

What are your thoughts on competing in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA)? That’s the major thing for me right now, that this

PG 35 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

��

NBA PREVIEW

SPORTS

Do the Boston Celtics, have the goods for a 17th NBA championship ring? BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

AD BOSTON MANAGED TO LINE anybody with a pulse and a decent pull-up jumper next to Paul Pierce last year, the Celts would have waltzed into the super-thin Eastern Conference playoffs. The fact that Boston’s front office signed perennial All Star Ray Allen and first-ballot Hall of Fame forward Kevin Garnett to relieve some of Pierce’s pressure this season makes the Celtics an Eastern favorite for the first time in a long time. While not quite the sprite, athletic marvels they once were, KG (31 years old), Ray Ray (32) and The Truth (30) are still super and should certainly strike fear into the league—especially after looking at how well they harmonized over the preseason. Of course, the Celts aren’t the only ones who brought in some new life over the summer. Orlando (Rashard Lewis), Phoenix (Grant Hill), the New York Knicks (Zach Randolph) and Seattle (Kevin Durant) have all made changes. Still, will any of it much matter when squads are paired against defending champ San Antonio in the postseason?

THE EAST

1. DETROIT The nucleus (Tayshaun Prince, Chauncey Billups, Richard Hamilton) is as good as any. It’s that sensitive time bomb (Rasheed Wallace) that could potentially explode at any blown whistle we’re worried about. 2. BOSTON The new trio could be called the Big Three 2.0, an obvious nod to Celt icons Larry Bird, Robert Parrish and Kevin McHale. The diﬀerence is that those title teams had Danny Ainge and Dennis Johnson on them as well. 3. CHICAGO MJ is not walking thru that door, but thankfully, current stars (Ben Wallace, Kirk Hinrich), future stars (Ben Gordon, Luol Deng) and international stars (Andres Nocioni) are. 4. ORLANDO Though the East’s most dominant interior presence, Dwight Howard, is built like a world-class weightlifter, adding Lewis’ 20 points per game certainly helps lift the oﬀensive burden. 5. MIAMI If someone could guarantee Dwyane Wade

and Shaq’s health for 90% of the season, the Heat would easily rise near the top of this list. But seeing as how they’re day-to-day like 90% of the people reading this, Miami’s staying put. 6. NEW JERSEY The Tattered Nets Club (oft-injured Vince Carter, Jason Kidd, Richard Jefferson) may have another member, Nenad Krstic. If it can avoid the training room, however, NJ should be OK. 7. CLEVELAND We hate calling the Cavs’ inspired playoff run a fluke because we appreciate great LeBron James highlights and good D like everyone else, but that’s exactly what it was. 8. ATLANTA Don’t look now, but the Hawks’ preseason record was 6-1. Even more promising was the way Josh Smith and Joe Johnson looked as leaders, Marvin Williams looked with the ball and Al Horford looked as a rookie. 9. TORONTO Chris Bosh is on pace for a Garnett-like career. But unlike Big Ticket’s Minnesota days, CB4 has some offensive help (Andrea Bargnani, T.J. Ford) and smart coaching (Sam Mitchell) to assist along the way. 10. WASHINGTON If Gilbert Arenas says he’s gonna score 40, he generally backs the talk up with 43. So, we’re taking his word that his knee feels 100%. The eccentric guard hasn’t uttered a peep about the team’s problem at center. Neither will we. 11. NEW YORK What a bizarre offseason for the Knicks. First, you have Stephon Marbury’s outbursts. Then there’s coach Isiah Thomas’ sexual harassment case. Randolph’s game could give the NY media something else to write about. 12. MILWAUKEE If you like sweet strokes, you gotta love Michael Redd. If you’re into tough breaks, your heart goes out to hard-working Charlie Villanueva, a forward who’s likely lost his starting role to Chinese import Yi Jianlian. 13. CHARLOTTE Sean May and Adam Morrison’s seasons ended before they even started. To prevent a similar fate for the entire team, ex-Warrior Jason Richardson must play at an all-star level. Emeka Okafor has to stay off the disabled list.

14. INDIANA Jermaine O’Neal insists he’s happy in Indy. New head coach Jim O’Brien insists his new playbook will work. Pacers fans, we insist you focus on the Hoosiers this season. 15. PHILADELPHIA With the original A.I. in the Rocky Mountains, the super-gifted Andre Iguodala must put the faceless Sixers on his back if they’re to climb back to respectability in the Atlantic Division.

THE WEST

1. PHOENIX Though clichéd, anything short of the NBA Finals would be a disappointment. No prob. A hyper Steve Nash, heated Shawn Marion and healthy Amare Stoudamire will make Hill’s first year in the desert memorable. 2. SAN ANTONIO 10 players on the roster of the NBA champ Spurs are over 30. If Tim Duncan, Mike Finley and Tony Parker (who’s an astute 25) keep balling like they have, who really cares what brand of dentures they use? 3. DALLAS We can’t put a finger on it, but we’re thinking the Mavs’ best days are behind them. Sure, Dirk Nowitzki is a handful. And yeah, we love Devin Harris as the full-time point man. But Dallas can’t touch the Suns or Spurs right now. 4. DENVER Still getting used to seeing Allen Iverson in a Nuggets jersey, right? If Carmelo Anthony and a healthy Kenyon Martin and Nene keep elevating their games, get used to seeing Denver near the top of the West as well. 5. HOUSTON You know Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming are the guys who fuel things in H-town. What you might not be aware of is that there’s another Rocket, Argentina’s Luis Scolia, who’s on the verge of taking off. 6. SACRAMENTO On paper, the Kings lineup (Mike Bibby, Ron Artest, Brad Miller) should be making headlines across the NBA. But we all know what a good-looking lineup and 50 cents gets ya— a copy of the morning Sacramento Bee. 7. UTAH Catch Eastern Promises? Well, us neither. But if there’s anything to learn from the trailers it’s that you don’t mess with irritated Europeans. Trust, trade-

seeking Andrei Kirilenko and respect-looking Mehmet Okur are quite perturbed. 8. LOS ANGELES LAKERS The never-ending drama that is the Lakers locker room was renewed for another season. Kobe Bryant, of course, will get the most face time. Andrew Bynum will see more cameras. Rookie Javaris Crittenton should cameo. 9. GOLDEN STATE Don’t think the stirring ride the Warriors took us on last spring was a joke. Stephen Jackson and Baron Davis are dead serious about contending in the Pacific again. Matt Barnes and rookie Brandan Wright still believe, too. 10. MEMPHIS The Hawks of the West—and we mean that in a good way. With proven talent (Pau Gasol, Mike Miller) and untapped potential (Rudy Gay, Mike Conley) abound, the Grizz might prove the sleeper of the conference. 11. NEW ORLEANS The Saints’ Reggie Bush gets all of the headlines even though it could be argued that Hornet Chris Paul is the more valuable player in the Crescent City. He’ll further prove his worth by making this so-so bunch competitive. 12. MINNESOTA You know how everything about that Caveman show exudes disaster? Well, this revamped squad (Gerald Green, Al Jefferson and Corey Brewer excluded) is in a similarly hairy spot. KG’s absence will take ages to get over. 13. PORTLAND Greg Oden’s season-killing injury sucks. Lamarcus Aldridge’s nagging aches hurt. A pain-free Brandon Roy is a monster. Martell Webster’s growth is scary. In a year, this team goes for blood in the postseason. 14. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS At tragic times like these (Elton Brand and Shaun Livingston are likely out til Feb/March), one has to accentuate the positive. Beyond the underrated Al Thornton, however, the Clips don’t have any. 15. SEATTLE This might be the only year the Pacific Northwest is blessed with wunderkind Kevin Durant’s presence, as the Sonics appear headed for Oklahoma City. It just bites that the team’s last season also has to be one of its worst. NBA FINALS: PHOENIX OVER DETROIT, 42

PG 37 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

SPORTS NEWS

FANATIC BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

“Do we like players with character? There is absolutely no doubt about that. If people want to interpret character as a religious-based issue because it appears many times in the Bible, that’s their decision. I believe that character is an innate part of developing an organization, and to me, it is nothing more than doing the right thing at the right time when nobody’s looking. Nothing more complicated than that.” COLO RADO ROCKIES GM DAN O’DOWD “Every time you think of something that seems to be a good name, it seems like it’s already taken. The Georgia Peaches isn’t taken yet, but we’ll see how many people think that’s a good name. It’s kind of neat, but it’s not exactly a forceful name. It doesn’t exactly inspire fear, does it? Yes, the Georgia Peaches are sure going to terrify their opponents!” RONALD TERWILLIGER, OWNER OF THE NEW ATLANTA WNBA FRANCHISE

A Monthly Sports Wrap-up KANSAS CITY CHIEFS RUNNING BACK PRIEST HOLMES, after playing in his first game in over two seasons Seems like only a few weeks ago that we were marveling at the Spurs for winning their third NBA title of the past five seasons. Now it’s time for the ’07-08 campaign to tip off. And though Thanksgiving is a few weeks off, it’s never too early for a hoops list. Here are Fanatic’s top 10 players who’ve never been named MVP: 1) Kobe Bryant; 2) LeBron James; 3) Dwight Howard; 4) Dwyane Wade; 5) Gilbert Arenas; 6) Carmelo Anthony; 7) Chris Bosh; 8) Tracy McGrady; 9) Paul Pierce; 10) Tony Parker. “If I get the opportunity to manage this club, it’s about going forward. It’s about winning games and doing whatever we can to win. If I don’t do that and I don’t do my job, and I get criticism, that’s part of it. I’m not afraid of criticism or what somebody may think. I’m going to do what’s best, trying to make a good decision and an intelligent decision. If it doesn’t work out, I’m going to take the heat. I understand it. I’ve been in New York, and it’s part of it. If I had fear, I wouldn’t have got on the plane.” NY YANKEES MANAGERIAL CANDIDATE DON MATTINGLY

We went to press right before Week 8 of the NFL CALENDAR. While that isn’t quite the halfway mark of the year, we’ve certainly seen enough football to declare the following: 1) Though New England and Indy are The Georgia Peaches – the WNBA’s new powerhouse? amazing, you’d be a fool to think Pittsburgh or And finally… San Diego won’t put up a fight in the AFC; 2) Eight WNBA teams are run by the league; the other six, including the Maybe it’s ignorance on Fanatic’s part, but I’m still not convinced Green Atlanta club, are privately owned and operated… Things are so bad for Bay is one of the top three teams in the NFC; 3) the St. Louis Rams have the Dolphins (0-7) that they’re offering to fly in A-list celebrities to watch too much talent to be winless; the Miami Dolphins have too much bad the games and wave at the jumbotron—and many stars aren’t even showluck to ever win; 4) MVP- Tom Brady, New England; Defensive Player of ing up… If you’re looking for someone in track & field to cheer for now the Year- Osi Umenyiora, NY Giants; Most Improved- Randy Moss, New that the deceiving Marion Jones has broken your heart, go no further than England; Rookie of the Year- Adrian Peterson, Minnesota. Allyson Felix, the future of the sport here in the States… Brett Favre’s first interception (back in ’91) and record-setting 278th were both against “I had imagined this in my mind. Once I decided to come back on July Washington… Tix for the Rockies’ first home World Series game ever 29, this was all a part of it. What I love to do is run the ball, so I’m looking were going for about $1300/pair on eBay… Speaking of streaking Coloforward to doing that a little more. But if I have to be a decoy, if I have to rado, wouldn’t sports columnists/reporters be saying this team was one of help out in whatever role they need me to play, I’m excited about that.” the best ever if it name ended with Yankees or Cubs or Red Sox?

Must-See TV

Top 5 Games This Month World Series, Game 7

(Nov 1, TBA, FOX)

Okay, so the Rockies are good. Geez! But are they good enough to take the heavily-favored Red Sox to a deciding seventh game?

New England at Indianapolis (Nov 4, 4:15PM, CBS)

They’re tagging this battle of likely unbeatens as the inaugural November Super Bowl. Sounds about right to us.

Ohio State at Michigan

San Antonio at Dallas/ Chicago at Phoenix

NC State at Michigan State/UNC at Ohio State

(Nov 17, 12PM, TBD)

Now that the Buckeyes are No. 2 and the Wolverines are respectable, this football game regains interest it’s had in years past.

(Nov 15, 8 and 10:30PM, TNT)

The NBA season’s only weeks old, and big match-ups like these are already causing us to salivate.

(Nov 28, TBD)

The state of North Carolina makes an early case for basketball capitol of the world on this night.

HELP WANTED! BUY - SELL TRADE & RENT ��

VIDEOS DVD’S MAGAZINES

��

www.usedmagazines.com

3432 Clairmont Rd.

404-320-7418

FAX 404-320-7337

Johns Creek

�

HELP WANTED New Restaurant & Club

Hiring F/T P/T Wait Staff, Bar & Kitchen Stop by in Person 11-4 M-F

Call 770.817.0909 • Fax 770.817.0910 www.equityvip.com for online application

Models / Actors

Lic. Agency Needs Talent for TV, Film, Modeling. Ages 15-35. M/F. No exp. Nec. Top Pay! Free Interview and Test Photography Shoot on 11/3, 11/4 – 10am til 7pm. Best Western Inn. 330 W. Peachtree St. Call for Reservation

312-337-1300

PG 38 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

Best Adult Video Store!

��

PG 39 • insiteatlanta.com • November 2007

We Take Fresh Seriously

™

Award Winning Chicago Pizza In Atlanta! “Best Pizza in Atla nta” City Search

“Best Stuffed Pi zza” Chicago Mag az

“Number 1 Pizz ine a”-ABC TV “1st Place Best Pi zz Chicago Tribuna To Go” e

FOOTBALL VIEWING

Multiple Flat Screen TV’s to View The Games All Season Long!

WINE AND BEER SOLD!

265 Ponce De Leon • Midtown

SHOW YOUR COLLEGE ID FOR 15% OFF!

(404) 885-9199

Paraiso International Now in Midtown Thursday Nights from 8pm–1am Eclectic Tapas • Multicultural Vibe FREE ENTRY Salsa, Samba, Euro All House, Merengue, Drink Specials Week Long! Top 40 & More! Music by Atlanta’s Elite Global DJs featuring Fernando

and Open for Lunch!

Peruvian Tapas Lounge & Vinoteca in the Heart of Midtown

+ Friday Latin Andean Music feat. Mauricio Amaya Best Tapas! + Saturday LIVE Flamenco

Open 7 Days a Week 404.347.3600 • www.sdmatlanta.com 980 Piedmont Avenue (Corner of 10th & Piedmont) An Uncompromising Environment for Acquiring & Enjoying Premium Cigars and Drinks

��

OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK! Mon-Thur 10a-Midnight ��

Winner! Best Cigar Store!

��www.HighlandCigar.com

Now Open “Al Dar” or lounge - Enjoy great food, wine, belly dancing and hookahs on the weekend. 2751 Lavista Rd. • Decatur, GA 30033 404.633.8833 • www.mezzabistro.com

Best Mediterranean

Landmark DINER RESTAURANT �� Open 24 �� Hours ��

��

�� Red Dawn, GHRelease, Sleepwalker & Zan-X Starting at $6.95

��

HOOKAHS Starting at $24.95

Vaporizers

New ROOR

Starting at $44.95

Starting at $129.95

�� Detox Products

Pipes

Posters

Self Cigars & Body Defense Cigarettes Jewelry Products

Atlanta / Sandy Springs: 6124 Roswell Rd. ��