MOVIES Call toll-free: 800-228-0429 Cara Recine, Lifestyles and special projects editor cara.recine@thesouthern.com / ext. 5075 Adam Testa, Lifestyles writer adam.testa@thesouthern.com / ext. 5031 Brenda Kirkpatrick, lists, live music flipside@thesouthern.com / ext. 5089 Rhonda Ethridge, cover designer rhonda.ethridge@thesouthern.com / ext. 5118 The Southern Illinoisan (USPS 258-908) is published daily at a yearly subscription rate of $178. It is published at 710 N. Illinois Ave., Carbondale, IL 62901. It is owned by Lee Enterprises of Davenport, Iowa.
WHAT’S INSIDE Theater . . . . . . . . . . .3 Things To Do . . . . . . .3 Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Live music guide . . .6 Cover story . . . . . . . .7
Concerts . . . . . . . . . .7 Music . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Country Scene . . . . .8 Movies . . . . . . . . . . .10 DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Buy a Lunch Combo & Get the 2nd 1/2 Off • Must be of equal or lesser value • Monday - Friday 11:00 - 2:00 pm • Dine in Only Not valid with other coupon or offer
2310 N. Reed Station Rd.
618-457-4020 One Night Only Legendary Country Star
George Jones coming April 1st Tickets on sale NOW at the Carson Center!
Grand Ole Opry Star Terri Clark on April 29 Call 270-450-4444 Talent search every Saturday night
5 miles south off Kentucky Dam on 641in Draffenville
www.kentuckyopry.com or call 888-459-8704 Page 2 Thursday, March 3, 2011 FLIPSIDE
ART
MUSIC
WINERIES
FOOD
BOOKS
DANCE
Top 20 Restaurant of the Week: Walts Pizza Pasta Grill BY SHAWN CONNELLY FOR THE SOUTHERN
ince 1977, the Neids family has made it their business to offer the best food and customer service possible. Because of that commitment to quality, business has been — and continues to be — good at Walts. Quality is something of a family tradition for the Neids. Walt Neids, along with his wife, Peggy, and son, Walter, are all involved in the restaurant and take pride in using superior ingredients, offering healthy choices and providing a familyfriendly atmosphere that truly offers something for everyone. As Neids puts it, “We’re pretty health-conscious for a little old pizza place.” With a variety of low-carb menu options and a promise to never use artificial or imitation ingredients on the salad bar, that’s an understatement. Neids realizes that no two families are alike, and catering to diverse tastes is one of Walts’ hallmarks. The restaurant features a broad menu that includes everything from appetizers, soups and salads to their famous Double Decker pizza, a real pizzalover’s dream featuring two layers of Wisconsin cheese, premium meat toppings and a handmade, Frenchtwisted crust. But that’s not all. Explore the menu further and you’ll find an array of sandwiches, grilled chicken, steaks, salmon and pork chops along with nearly two dozen specialty pasta dishes. When asked about the everexpanding menu at Walts, Nieds references the restaurant’s evolving tagline, a descriptor that has changed several times in the business’ 34 years of existence in order to better reflect what is offered to the customer: “When we started out, we were known as ‘Walts — home of the Double Decker,’ then it was ‘Walts — more than great pizza,’ then ‘Walts — good food and good times.’ Now we call it ‘Walts Pizza Pasta Grill.” This evolution has largely centered around the notion of family and Walts takes the idea of familyfriendly dining even further by
S
SHAWN CONNELLEY / FOR THE SOUTHERN
Walts in Marion has a warm, comfortable interior and a great patio for al fresco dining.
Buy one entrée and get one free at this restaurant and other featured restaurants across Southern Illinois with the 2011 Top 20 Dining Card. Purchase them at The Southern’s office at 710 N. Illinois Ave. in Carbondale, call 618-529-5454 or online at www.thesouthern.com/top20. Cards are $20. offering a dedicated children’s menu (and even crayons and puzzles for the little ones), a game room, and on Mondays, children younger than 10 get to eat for free. But Walts doesn’t leave the adults out. An expansive patio provides a place for customers to unwind, enjoy a multitude of food and drink specials and even listen to live music throughout the week and on weekends, weather allowing. And when there’s no live music offered customers can take in a game on one of Walts’ two 47-inch flat-screen TVs, which are especially popular during football season. “The patio is more casual dining for adults, really,” according to one of Walts’ managers. “It’s a great change of pace for a couple on a date or a relaxed evening out.” With all of these great lunch, dinner and entertainment options, customers are sure to get thirsty, too. Walts has, of course, thought of that as well. The obligatory sodas (both Coke and Pepsi) and iced tea are available, but Walts shows its diversity once again by featuring a surprisingly robust menu of beer, wine and spirits. Try enjoying a Long
DETAILS Who: Walts Pizza Pasta Grill What: Pizza, pasta, salads, sandwiches, steaks, chicken, fish Where: 213 S. Court St., Marion Hours: 4 p.m.-11 p.m. SundayMonday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. TuesdayThursday, 11 a.m.-midnight FridaySaturday Phone: 618-993-8668 Web: www.waltspizza.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ waltspizza Island Iced Tea, Margarita or Golden Sangria on the patio. If wine is more to your liking, you can choose from nearly a dozen reds and whites available by the glass or bottle. Oh, and if you’re a fan of beer, there’s more at Walts than the typical light lager beers you can find anywhere. Walts tries to feature three or four craft and specialty beers, available in bottles, to pair with dinner or enjoy on the patio as well. These offerings change frequently and seasonally and are just one more example of what makes Walts Pizza Pasta Grill special.
MOVIES
ART
MUSIC
WINERIES
THINGS TO DO
BOOKS
DANCE
Ringling Bros. to bring thrilling act to Carbondale CARBONDALE — Southern Illinoisans will be invited to spend a weekend under the big top next month when Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey bring their world-famous circus to SIU Arena. Audiences will be treated to the high-flying excitement and pulsepounding acts of the company’s touring “Zing Zang Zoom” show for a total of five performances the weekend of April 15 to 17. Tickets go on sale to the general public March 12 and are priced at $11 for Friday, April 15, and $14 and $19 for subsequent shows. Southern Illinoisan readers, however, can purchase tickets immediately by using the code “RINGLING” when purchasing tickets online at www.southernticketsonline.com or by calling 618-453-6000. Thrillusionist David DaVinci highlights this particular show with eye-popping illusions and mind-blowing transformations, all mysteriously interwoven throughout the event. This modern Houdini even attempts to escape a straightjacket while suspended three stories in the air above a den of lions. “Zing Zang Zoom” also showcases captivating performances by international daredevils from around the globe. The Hairdaring Duo execute
PROVIDED BY SOUTHERN LIGHTS ENTERTAINMENT
Southern Illinoisans have the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of animals and performers when Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey bring their ‘Zing Zang Zoom’ circus show to SIU Arena from April 15 to 17.
an unbelievable extreme hair hang 35 feet in the air; the Kung Fu Kings combine martial arts with mind-boggling strength to complete an array of feats, including wrapping metal poles around their bodies; the Barons of Balance amaze on the high wire; and the Urias family ride customized motorcycles inside a steel globe. The show’s action begins one hour before the start time, with an
All-Access Pre-Show, where guests can meet the stars — human and otherwise — of the show. Shows are scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, April 15; 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, April 16; and 1 p.m. Sunday April 17. The shows are sponsored by the Southern Illinois University Event Services and Southern Lights Entertainment. — Adam Testa
FESTIVALS
THEATER
‘Steel Magnolias’ takes center stage CARTERVILLE — Robert Harling’s “Steel Magnolias” will take the stage at John A. Logan College this weekend. The college will present the tale, which draws on the strength and love of its female characters, giving them the special quality to make them touching, funny and marvelous amiable company in good times and bad. The action of the play is set in Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, La., where all the ladies who are anybody come to have their hair done. Helped by her eager new
assistant, Annelle, the outspoken and wisecracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town’s rich curmudgeon, Ouiser; an eccentric millionaire with a raging sweet tooth, Miss Claire; and the local social leader, M’Lynn, whose daughter, Shelby, is about to be married. The play begins at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 4 and 5. Tickets for the play are $12 for adults and $5 for students. To purchase them in advance or for more information, call 618-985-2828. — Adam Testa
Union County Museum reopens Saturday COBDEN — The Union County Museum will reopen Saturday after being closed for the winter. A special exhibit on the Civil War will be featured to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the war’s beginning. The exhibit will continue through summer. Local collectors have loaned a variety of artifacts including weaponry, photos, documents, an 1863 flag and an issue of the Mound City Gazette
detailing the Battle of Bull Run. A display highlighting the career of Gen. John A. Logan will also be shown. Mike Estel of Anna will sign copies of his Civil War-themed book “The Last Hope — A Civil War Tale.” The museum will have an opening at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 5, to promote the displays. Operating hours are 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. — Adam Testa
Now open for lunch at both locations 20% off at lunch with coupon M-F 11-2:30 No alcohol • exp 3/17/11
Burgers Hand Made
Go Green! 611B S. Illinois Ave, Carbondale • On the Strip • 529-FATP (3287)
Dine-In, Carry-Out or Free Delivery (On orders over $8) Mon-Thur 10:30-9 • Fri-Sat 10:30-Midnight • Sun Noon-6
3000 West DeYoung St. Suite 156 Marion 993-9686
715 N Giant City Rd Carbondale 549-2000
FLIPSIDE Thursday, March 3, 2011 Page 3
MOVIES Book and authors Mike Estel: Signing copies of Civil War-themed book “The Last Hope — A Civil War Tale,” 1-5 p.m. Saturday, March 5, Union County Museum, Cobden; www.unioncountyilmuseum. com.
Classes Student Center Craft Shop: Variety of crafts and classes offered, SIUC; 618-453-3636, www.siuc studentcenter.org.
Comedy The Carbondale Comedians: Stand-up comedy, 9-11 p.m. Wednesday, Station #13,
ART
MUSIC
2400 W. Main St., Carbondale; attached to the old Royal Plaza Inn; 618-5292424.
Events Dawg’s Nite Out: For SIU students, 8 p.m.-midnight Friday, March 4, Student Center, SIUC; games, entertainment, food, prizes; performance by impressionist Brandon Styles; caricature artists; 618-536-3393 or www.siucstudentcenter.org. Trivia Night: 6 p.m. Saturday, March 5, Carterville community building; $12; cash prizes, 50/50 drawing, auctions and concession stand; proceeds to Love and Truth Church kids camp; 618-925-2840.
Delicious Breads & Pastries Baked Fresh Daily!
WINERIES
THINGS TO DO
Mardi Gras event: Dinner and dance, 4:30-11 p.m. Saturday, March 5, Christopher Knights of Columbus Hall; sponsored by St. Andrew Catholic Church in Christopher; $10/$5; 618-724-9455. Mardi Gras Party: noon4 p.m. Sunday, March 6, Magnolia Manor, Cairo; features Cajun cuisine plus King Cake and a flowing champagne fountain; music by the Richard Moore Trio and Friends; house decorated Mardi Gras style with beads for everyone; $20; call 618-734-0201 for reservations. American Legion Mardi Gras: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 12, American Legion Post 147, 11720 Longstreet, Marion; food, music, auction; proceeds to scholarship fund; music by Righteous Rebel; 618-9976168. Michael Feldman’s Whad’Ya Know?: Public radio program, 9:30 a.m. Saturday, March 26, Shryock Auditorium, SIUC; this will be Feldman’s second visit to Carbondale;
BOOKS
DANCE
he recorded a live program at Shryock in 1998; tickets now on sale; $26-$50; www.southernticketsonline. com.
Film Film Fridays at the Varsity: Includes recent works by women directors and avant-garde works, Varsity Center for the Arts, 418 S. Illinois Ave., Carbondale:”Self,” shown 4:30 p.m. Friday, March 4; 618-453-1485 or www.cp.siu.edu.
History Storyteller: Shanta Nurullah will tell African folk tales and explain their evolution in the American South, 4 p.m. Saturday, March 19, Harrisburg District Library; funded by the Illinois Humanities Council; 618-253-7455.
Theater RLC Spring Musical: ‘South Pacific,’ 7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, March 3-5 and 2 p.m. Sunday,
FESTIVALS
THEATER
March 6, Rend Lake College Theater, Ina; $12; 618-4375321 ext. 1467. ‘Steel Magnolias’: 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, March 4-5, John A. Logan College, Carterville: $12/$5; 618-985-2828; ‘How to Succeed In Business Without Really Trying’: Presented by Marion High School, 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, March 4-5, Marion Cultural and Civic Center; $10; www. marionccc.org or 618-9974030. New York Theatre Ballet presents: ‘Alice In Wonderland Follies’, 7 p.m., Saturday, March 5, The Carson Center, 100 Kentucky Ave., Paducah; $15/$7.50; 270-450-4444 or www.thecarsoncenter. org. ‘The Wizard Of Oz’: 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, March 11-12 and also, 2 p.m. March 12, The Carson Center, 100 Kentucky Ave., Paducah; area children will perform the roles of munchkins; $34/$59; 270-450-4444 or online at www.thecarson center.org.
‘South Pacific’ rolls into RLC this weekend INA — Rend Lake College will present its spring musical, “South Pacific,” for four shows this weekend. The classic 1949 Richard Rodgers play draws its plot from James A. Michener’s 1947 award-winning “Tales of the South Pacific” and weaves together characters and elements from several of the book’s stories into a single plotline. Several of the musical’s songs including “Bali Ha’i,” “I’m Going to Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair” and “Some Enchanted Evening” have become worldwide musical standards. Tickets for the show are $12 and can be purchased by calling 618-437-5321 ext 1467. Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. tonight through Saturday, March 5, and 2 p.m. Sunday, March 6. — Adam Testa
Taste of Hope
Stop in Today to try Authentic Salvadorian, Guatemalan & Mexican Baked Goods!
La Unica Bakery
Celebrate Mardi Gras at Walts & 20% of your bill will be donated to Williamson County Relay for life.
Panaderia La Unica 213 W. Main St. Unit 12 Carbondale
Reuben Pizza * Bourbon Glazed Salmon * And More!
(parking in rear)
Only on Tuesday, March 8th
Mon, Tues, & Fri 7:30am-7pm • Wed & Thurs 7:30am - 6pm Sat & Sun 8:00am - 6:00pm
New shipment of beads, boas, tableware, banners, and more.
213 S. Court, Marion Shop Local & Your Money Stays Local
The Party Shop 3033 S. Park Ave. 1/2 Mi. North of New Rt. 13 on Hwy 148 (Across from Affordable Home Furniture)
Mon-Fri 10-5:30 • Sat 9-4 Herrin, IL • (618) 942-4431
Page 4 Thursday, March 3, 2011 FLIPSIDE
993-8668 waltspizza.com
Sun-Mon. 4pm-11pm Tues-Thurs. 11am-11pm Fri-Sat. 11am-Midnight
MOVIES
ART
MUSIC
Nancy Gardner to present demonstration, lecture at SIUC CARBONDALE — Ceramicist Nancy Gardner comes to the School of Art and Design at Southern Illinois University Carbondale for a twoday visit this week. Gardner presents a free lecture at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 3, in the University Museum Auditorium in Faner Hall. She will also demonstrate her ceramics techniques in the ceramics classroom in the Industrial Wing of Pulliam Hall from
9 a.m. to noon Friday, March 4. Gardner is a SIUC alumna, having earned a Master of Fine Arts in 1984. She runs her studio, Nancy and Burt Company, now in Oak Park. Gardner’s colorful ceramic designs include functional pieces such as cream and sugar sets, jars and cups and bowls. For more information about the artist, visit www.nancygardner ceramics.com. — SIUC University Communications
Artwork by students sought for competition sponsored by Shimkus COLLINSVILLE — Student artists living within the 19th Congressional District are invited to participate in the annual “An Artist Discovery” competition sponsored by U.S. Rep. John Shimkus. The winning entry from Shimkus’ district will be displayed with other winners from across the country in the Cannon House Office Building and the U.S. Capitol. In addition, the winner will be flown to Washington for a special ceremony. The deadline to submit entries is Friday, May 6. For more information or an entry kit, call 217-4925090 or visit www.shimkus.house.gov. — Adam Testa
WINERIES
THINGS TO DO
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created by black American artists; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free lecture: Ceramicist Tuesday-Friday, and 1-4 p.m. Nancy Gardner, 7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; through Thursday, March 3, University March 11; Museum Auditorium, Faner www.museum.siu.edu. Hall, SIUC; demonstration, Andy Warhol: Little 9 a.m. to noon, Friday, March Presents, University Museum, 4, ceramics classroom, SIUC; prints and Polaroids Industrial Wing, Pulliam Hall, from the Andy Warhol SIUC; www.nancy Foundation; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. gardnerceramics.com. Tuesday-Friday and 1-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; through March 11; www.museum.siu. Exhibits edu or 618-453-5388. Show: By Claudia Wynn, Art with a Cause: 1-3 p.m. Thursday, March 3, Showcases paintings by Joyce Hurricane Creek Assisted Elledge of Du Quoin, Central Living, 400 Lou Ann Drive, Showcase at Realty Central, Herrin; 618-942-4531 1825 Murdale Shopping Civil War exhibit: Union Center, Carbondale; 9 a.m.County Museum, Cobden; 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and commemorates 150th 9 a.m.-noon Saturday; through anniversary of the war’s March 12. beginning; weaponry, photos, Isolated Testimonies: documents, an 1863 flag and Artists Gloria Adams, Robert an issue of the Mound City Sparrow Jones, Courtney Gazette detailing the Battle of Jordan, Jarrett Min Davis and Bull Run; 1-5 p.m. Saturday Brent Webb, Southeastern and Sunday; open at 10 a.m. Illinois College, 3575 College Saturday, March 5; www. Road, Harrisburg; through unioncountyilmuseum.com. March 14; 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Frederick Hart: Sculpture, Monday through Friday; University Museum, SIUC; 10 618-252-5400 ext 2131. a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday Love is in the Air: Little and 1-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; Egypt Arts Association, LEAA through March 5; www. Centre, Marion; through March museum.siu.edu or 31; 618-998-8530. 618-453-5388. Missy Carstens: Williamson African-American Artists in County Pavilion, Marion; the Museum’s Collection: University Museum, SIUC; art 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., MondayFriday; more than 20 original in the museum archives
Art Event
THEATER
pieces, included several experimental works; through March 31; http://www. etsy.com/shop/missycarstens art or 618-997-0421. Solitary Views of the World: By Jan Leuschke, Misselhorn Art Gallery, 611 W. Second St., the old Gulf, Mobile & Ohio Depot, Sparta; through March; 618-443-3577; 618-443-4438 or artsparta@yahoo.com. Burghilde Gruber: Full Circle, University Museum, SIUC; oils, acrylics and watercolors; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 1-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; through April 2; www.museum.siu.edu or 618-453-5388. Italian Suite: By Carol Carter, Main Gallery, Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, Mount Vernon; also, exhibition showcasing works from the SIUC Department of Cinema and Photography, the Beal Grand Corridor Gallery; through May 1; 618-242-1236. Pop Art: University Museum, SIUC; from the museum’s print collection; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 1-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; through Sept. 23; www. museum.siu.edu or 618-453-5388. Katherine Kuh: Creating a Legacy of Art for SIUC, University Museum, SIUC; art critic for the “Saturday
Review,” and a curator for the Art Institute of Chicago; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 1-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; through May 2012; www.museum.siu.edu or 618-453-5388. Sun and Raven Totem Pole: 13-foot totem pole crafted more than 60 years ago in Alaska; University Museum, SIUC; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. TuesdayFriday and 1-4 p.m. SaturdaySunday; www.museum. siu.edu or 618-453-5388. Rotating art exhibitions: anthill gallery, 102 N. Front St., Cobden; original works by more than 50 Southern Illinois artists; www.anthill gallery.com. Ongoing art exhibit: Photographs of Juhree Veach, mosaics from Janet Altoff and sculpture from Tom Horn, StarView Vineyards, 5100 Wing Hill Road, Cobden; 618-8939463 or www.starview vineyards.com. Jo Loomis: Williamson County Pavilion, Marion; 20 paintings; 618-889-5330 or vanjol@frontier.com.
Receptions Meet the Artist: Joyce Elledge, 4-6 p.m. Friday, March 4, Central Showcase, Murdale Shopping Center, Realty Central, 1825 W. Main St., Carbondale.
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an upscale resale shop 210 W. Freeman St. • Carbondale
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1/2 way to Walker’s Bluff on Reed Station Rd. Carbondale, IL 618•457•5282 Saturdays 10am-5pm
FESTIVALS
$5 OFF $25 Purchase or More
Not valid with any other offer or coupon. Not valid with any other offer or coupon. Exp. March 5, 2011 Exp. March 5, 2011
Saturday, March 5 (2-6pm) Live Music Performed By
Bud Summers 5100 WINGHILL ROAD, COBDEN, ILLINOIS On 51 S., go 6.3 miles South of the “Smiley Face”then Left on Wing Hill Rd for 3.5 mi.
FLIPSIDE Thursday, March 3, 2011 Page 5
DIRECTIONS & DIGITS
WEEK OF MARCH 3-9
CRAVING KARAOKE? Karaoke and DJ lists are online at flipside online.com.
Coffeehouses, Cafés, Eateries Doug E. Rees: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Cousin Andy’s Coffeehouse, Fellowship Hall of the Church of the Good Shepherd, United Church of Christ, 515 Orchard Drive, Carbondale; $10; students, $5; www.cousinandy.org Andreas Kapsalis and Goran Ivanovic: Guitar Duo, 8-11:30 p.m., Saturday, March 5, Yellow Moon Café, 110 N. Front St., Cobden; $7 in advance, $10 day of show; www.yellowmooncafe.com; 618-893-2233 Magician David Ranalli: Comical sleight of hand, 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Blue Martin, 215 E. Main St., Carbondale; 618-5494326; www.thebluemartin.com Corky Siegel with Chihsuan Yang: 7 p.m. Saturday, April 2, Yellow Moon Café, 110 N. Front St., Cobden; limited seating; $25; www.yellowmooncafe.com; 618-893-2233
Wineries Ivas John: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Rustle Hill Winery Elliott Ranney: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Blue Sky Vineyard Acoustic Twist: 2-5 p.m., Saturday, Von Jakob Orchard Ray Martin: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Rustle Hill Winery Carter & Connelley: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Rustle Hill Winery Dave Caputo Duo: 2-5 p.m., Sunday, Von Jakob Orchard Marty Davis: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Blue Sky Vineyard Ronny Lee: 3-6 p.m. Sunday, Rustle Hill Winery Blue Sky Vineyard: 3150 S. Rocky Comfort Road, Makanda; 618-995-9463 or www.blueskyvineyard.com Lau-Nae Winery: 1522 Illinois 3, Red Bud; 618-282-9463 or www.lau-naewinery.com Rustle Hill Winery: US 51, Cobden; 618-8932700 or www.rustlehillwinery.com Von Jakob Orchard: 230 Illinois 127, Alto Pass; 618-893-4600 or www.vonjakobvineyard.com Von Jakob Vineyard: 1309 Sadler Road, Pomona; 618-893-4500 or www.vonjakobvineyard.com
Page 6 Thursday, March 3, 2011 FLIPSIDE
WANT TO BE LISTED? Call 618-351-5089 or e-mail brenda.kirkpatrick@thesouthern.com
TONIGHT
FRIDAY
BENTON Duncan Dance Barn:: Spring Pond Opry Band, 6:309:30 p.m. CARBONDALE PK’s: Papa and the Moonshiners Tres Hombres: Andy Frasco and the UN, 10 p.m.
CARBONDALE PK’s: Neighborhood Flavor INA Ina Community Building: Friday Night Jam Band, 6:30-9:30 p.m. MARION John Brown’s on the Square: White Gold Centerfold, 8:3011:30 p.m. SPILLERTOWN Track Side Dance Barn: Just Us Band, 7-10 p.m. THOMPSONVILLE Lion’s Cave: Rebel Country Band, 7-10 p.m. Old Country Store Dance Barn: Sentimental Swing, 7-10 p.m. WHITE ASH The White Ash Barn: Lindell and Bob and the Boys, 7-10 p.m. WHITTINGTON Corner Dance Hall: Rebel Country Band, 7:30-10:30 p.m.
TUESDAY CARBONDALE PK’s: Tim Whiteford Pinch Penny/Copper Dragon: Final Say Tres Hombres: Andy Frasco and the UN, 9 p.m. MARION Hideout Restaurant: Bob Pina, piano 5:30-8:30 p.m. THOMPSONVILLE Lion’s Cave: Mike’s Band, 7-10 p.m. WEST FRANKFORT Colyer’s: Righteous Rebel Band, 7-11 p.m. WB Ranch Barn: WB Ranch Band, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY CARBONDALE Tres Hombres: Zoogma, 10 p.m.
SATURDAY CARBONDALE PK’s: South of 70 Tres Hombres: Summer Camp On The Road, 8 p.m. HERRIN Perfect Shot: One Finger Flying JOHNSTON CITY Linemen’s Lounge: Subject to Change w/Dave Clark, 9 p.m.1 a.m. MARION Hideout Restaurant: Bob Pina, piano 5:30-9:30 p.m. Marion American Legion: Danny and the Dreamers; St.
SUNDAY CARBONDALE Key West: Blue Plate Specials, 8 p.m.-midnight MARION Marion Eagles: Feelin’ Country, 6-10 p.m.
Jude auction. Marion Eagles: Feelin’ Country, 8 p.m.-midnight SPILLERTOWN Track Side Dance Barn: Country Sounds, 7-10 p.m. THOMPSONVILLE Lion’s Cave: Swing “N” Country Band , 7-9:30 p.m. Old Country Store Dance Barn: Lil’ Boot & Classic Country, 7:30-10:30 p.m. WHITTINGTON Corner Dance Hall: Nice & Easy Band, 7:30-10:30 p.m.
MONDAY CARBONDALE Tres Hombres: Head For the Hills 8 p.m. MARION Marion Youth Center: Ragtag Band, 7-10 p.m.
20’s Hideout Restaurant: 2602 Wanda Drive, Marion 618-997-8325 Anna VFW: 70 VFW Lane, Anna 618833-5182 Corner Dance Hall: 200 Franklin St., Whittington 618-303-5266 Coulterville VFW: 511 VFW St., Coulterville 618-758-9009 Duncan Dance Barn: 13545 Spring Pond Road, Benton 618-435-6161 Gatsbys Bar & Billiards: 610 S Illinois Ave Carbondale 618-549-9234 Hangar 9: 511 S. Illinois Ave., Carbondale; 618-549-0511. Ina Community Building: 504 Elm St., Ina 618-315-2373 John Brown’s on the Square: 1000 Tower Square, Marion 618-9972909 Just One More Bar & Grill: 1301 Enterprise Way, Marion 618-9939687 Key West: 1108 W. Main, Carbondale 618-351-5998 Linemen’s Lounge: 100 E. Broadway, Johnston City Lion’s Cave: South Street, Thompsonville 618-218-4888 Mack’s Lake of Egypt Marina: 12024 Laguna Drive, Lake of Egypt Maddie’s Pub and Grub: 14960 Illinois 37, Johnston City 618-9838107 Marion American Legion: Longstreet Road, Marion 618-997-6168 Marion Eagles: Rural Route 3, Marion 618-993-6300 Marion Youth Center: 211 E. Boulevard St., Marion 618-9227853 Mollie’s: 107 E. Union St., Marion 618997-3424 Murphysboro Elks Lodge: 1809 Shomaker Drive Murphysboro 618684-4541. Old Country Store Dance Barn: Main Street, Thompsonville 618-2184676 Orient American Legion: 404 Jackson St., Orient 618-932-2060 Outlawz Dance Club: 10032 Samuel Road, Carterville 618-922-0610 Park Plaza Pub: 3 Park Plaza, Herrin, 618-988-1556 Perfect Shot Bar & Billiards: 3029 S. Park Ave., Herrin, 618-942-4655 Pinch Penny Pub/Copper Dragon: 700 E. Grand, Carbondale 618-5493348 PK’s: 308 S. Illinois Ave., Carbondale 618-529-1124 Steelhorse Saloon and Campground: 202 Dewmaine Lane, Carterville 618-985-6713. Tavern on 10th: 224 S. 10th St., Mount Vernon 618-244-7821 The 127 Lounge: 657 N. Mill St. Nashville, 618-327-8014 Toad & Lily’s Restaurant: 112 N. 14th St., Herrin, 618-998-1516 Trackside Dance Barn: 104 Rock St., Spillertown 618-993-3035 Trails End Lodge: 1425 Skyline Drive, Cobden 618-893-6135 Tres Hombres: 119 N. Washington St., Carbondale 618-457-3308 WB Ranch Barn: 1586 Pershing Road, West Frankfort 618-937-3718 White Ash Barn: 207 Potter St., White Ash 618-997-4979 Wit and Wisdom Nutritional Site: 225 E. Poplar St., West Frankfort 618937-3070 Zeigler Eagles: 114 N. Main St., Zeigler 618-596-5651
MOVIES
ART
MUSIC
WINERIES
THINGS TO DO
A youth movement
COVER STORY
Camerata Ireland promotes classical style, heritage
Camerata Ireland Classical Irish orchestra, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 9, Shryock Auditorium; $39 and $49 or $10 for children and students of any age and can be purchased online at www.southernticketsonline.com or by calling 618-453-6000. BY ADAM TESTA THE SOUTHERN
arry Douglas’ intentions in forming Camerata Ireland were two-fold. The award-winning pianist desired to preserve and promote the culture of Irish entertainment by keeping young musicians in their homeland and showcasing the prosperity of the country’s classical performance style. “I wanted to show the international arts community that while Douglas Ireland is very well known for theater, U2, the Chieftans and poetry and prose, its classical musicians are not so well known and appreciated,” he said. “I thought this might be a good way to do that.” Camerata Ireland gave its inaugural concerts in April 1999 at the Northern Ireland Parliament in Belfast and now enjoys a very busy touring schedule. Highlights of the group’s history include being the first Irish classical music ensemble to play in many major South American cities, as well as performances in China, Poland, England, France, Italy and Germany. This year, the group makes its sixth tour of the United States, including a performance at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 9, at Shryock Auditorium at SIUC. “I have noticed that the audiences in the U.S. have enjoyed Camerata Ireland immensely in the past,” Douglas said. “Our first trip was to (Washington) D.C. in 2000 and then we have done three major
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PROVIDED
Camerata Ireland, a classical Irish orchestra, will perform at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 9, at Shryock Auditorium at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
tours since, coast to coast. This year we have a shorter trip as we would like to start to keep our tours short to enable a good level of energy throughout. There is nothing worse than seeing a musician on the 40th concert and tired and routine. Camerata Ireland is never routine.” At the heart of Camerata Ireland’s success is a commitment to the youth movement in Irish music. Each year, the orchestra provides a week of mentoring and classes for a dozen students with Douglas and international artists from the United States, Europe and Asia. The orchestra provides a unique springboard for the career development of many young
artists, some of whom are awarded the opportunity to appear with the orchestra. These characteristics and commitments separate Camerata Ireland from the other world-renown orchestras and ensembles Douglas has been and continues to be involved with. “While I enjoy the relationships with very fine orchestras all over the world, my orchestra is one of those with a young, vibrant dynamic,” he said. “They enjoy music making, and you see it on stage. They and I know each other very well and so there is a real telepathy, which makes for spontaneous performances.” adam.testa@thesouthern.com 618-351-5031
DANCE
FESTIVALS
THEATER
Concerts Southern Illinois Vienna Boys Choir: 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 4, Shryock Auditorium, SIUC; $10-$49; www.southern ticketsonline.com or 618-453-6000. Benefit concert: emma’s revolution, 7 p.m. Saturday, March 5, Carbondale Unitarian Fellowship, 105 North Parrish Lane; Zambian HIV/AIDS Partnership Benefit Concert & Silent Auction; advance, $15; at the door, $18; students, $10; http://emmas revolution.com/live/ or 618-529-2439. Memories: A tribute to Barbra Streisand by Sharon Owens straight from Las Vegas, 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 7, Marion Cultural and Civic Center; $20/$30; www.marion ccc.org or 618-9974030. Camerata Ireland: Ensemble and pianistconductor Barry Douglas, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 9, Shryock Auditorium, SIUC; includes works of Mozart; $10-49; www.southern ticketsonline.com or 618-453-6000. Son de Madera: Traditional Mexican music, 7 p.m. Thursday, March 10, O’Neil Auditorium, John A. Logan College, Carterville; $15/$10; 618-985-2828 ext. 8287. Italian Saxophone Quartet: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 19, Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, 2600 E. Richmond Road, Mount Vernon; $18/$20/$5; 618-2421236 or www.cedarhurst. org. Yesterday & Today Beatles Tribute: 7 p.m. Monday, March 21, O’Neil Auditorium, John A. Logan College, Carterville; $15/$10; 618-985-2828.
Corky Siegel with Chihsuan Yang: 7 p.m. Saturday, April 2, Yellow Moon Café, 110 N. Front St., Cobden; limited seating; $25; www. yellowmooncafe.com; 618-893-2233. Tokyo String Quartet: 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 15, Shryock Auditorium, SIUC; $10-$49; www.southern ticketsonline.com or 618-453-6000. Willie Nelson Country Throwdown Tour: June 11, World Shooting and Recreational Complex, Sparta; $55; www. countrythrowdown.com.
Kentucky Kentucky Opry Talent Search: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5, Kentucky Opry, 88 Chilton Lane, Benton, Ky.; $16-$7.50; 270-5273869 or www.kentucky opry.com. The Pink Floyd Experience presenting ANIMALS: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5, The Carson Center, Paducah; $25-$45; www.thecarson center.org; www.the pinkfloydexperience.net; 270-450-4444. Music for a Cause benefit: Paducah Symphony Orchestra, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 19, First Baptist Church, 2890 Broadway Ave., Paducah; benefit for Western Baptist Hospital; $25/$12.50; family pass, $62.50; 270-444-0065. George Jones: 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 1, The Carson Center, Paducah; $35-$140; www.thecarson center.org or 270-450-4444. Missouri Celtic Woman: Songs from the Heart, 7:30 p.m. May 2, Show Me Center, Cape Girardeau; 573-6515000 or www.showme center.biz.
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Z-R wants another Coaches vs. Cancer win COUNTRY SCENE Vince Hoffard
Zeigler-Royalton’s Got Talent Fundraiser for the American Cancer Society’s ‘Coaches vs. Cancer’ program; featuring several musical talents with ties to Franklin County and Southern Illinois; 6:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5; Zeigler-Royalton High School; $5 admission rganizers for the second annual Zeigler-Royalton’s Got Talent program are hoping lightning can strike twice, as David tries to take down a highly competitive field loaded with many Goliaths. Last year, tiny ZeiglerRoyalton High School, with an enrollment around 650, finished first among all Illinois high schools in donating to the American Cancer Society’s “Coaches vs. Cancer” campaign. The school raised $11,000, beating out schools from the Chicago suburbs with more than 4,000 students. An event designed to help Tornado supporters repeat the impressive feat, the second installment of Zeigler-Royalton’s Got Talent will take place at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at the high school gymnasium. Admission is $5. Preceding the talent display at 5 p.m. will be a chicken soup dinner prepared by Ted Dollins. The $3 cost includes a drink and desert. All proceeds from the soup dinner and talent
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show will be donated to the fight against cancer. Randall Risley, co-coordinator of the event, said statistics reveal the overwhelming need for the community to make the fund-raising effort a success. “Franklin County has the third highest incident rate and the fourth highest mortality rate of cancer in the state, per capita,” he said. “The disease has affected everyone in the community. Right now is an especially tough time because we have several young children directly involved in the fight.” With the standard set high last year by a performance by two local celebrities, Risley says it will be a challenge to make this year’s show bigger and better. “It was absolutely amazing last year. Deanna Freeman and Juli Ingram were simply awesome,” he said. The pressure of assembling this year’s cast fell on Z-R native Mike Horn, a principal in the Herrin school district and drummer for the popular Life Church Band. “We started looking around and quickly discovered this little school has produced a lot of talent over the years. Many alumni have had success in the music business. We tried to find as many as we could and bring them back this weekend,” Horn said. Casey McCauley is a perfect example. She sings professionally in the Chicago area. Her vocal range on covers from Janis Joplin’s “Piece of My Heart” to “Straight Up” by Paula Abdul is incredible. Originals like “Black Fingers,” “O Mama” and “Do What I Want” are
major-label quality. Courtney Flowers is another potential star. A child prodigy on fiddle, the 2007 graduate from Z-R High School is now a history major at prestigious Belmont University in Nashville. Flowers will perform the Irish fiddle tune “Toss The Feather,” a Lambert cover and original tune “Takin’ Out The Trash” for the hometown crowd. “I want to finish my degree, then pursue a music career on a fulltime basis,” the 21-year old said, during a telephone interview Monday. “If it doesn’t work out, I’ll always be able to find a job.” Besides fiddle, Flowers also plays piano and guitar. When she isn’t not studying, she is honing her songwriting skills. She has a four-track demo of original material she is ready to use in her pursuit of the elusive record deal. Also in the lineup this weekend will be James Slomka, a former finalist in the Southern Illinois Colgate Country Showdown; Nathan Arnett, choral music director at John A. Logan College; and John DeNosky, a music producer. Rounding out the stellar lineup is Deidra Dollins, The Burkhamer Sisters, Mike McCluskey, Quality Point Average and others. “This concert is just one event in a series of fundraisers,” Horn says. “They have a whole lot going on all year.” For additional information, contact Risley at 618-218-7194. VINCE HOFFARD can be reached at 618-658-9095 or vincehoffard@yahoo. com.
PROVIDED
Emma’s revolution will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at Carbondale Unitarian Fellowship, 105 N. Parrish Lane.
Emma’s revolution combines music and mission CARBONDALE — Washington-based musicians emma’s revolution will be hitting Southern Illinois for a concert combined with the duo’s signature activist efforts. Comprised of Pat Humphries and Sandy O., emma’s revolution deliver the strength and energy of its members’ convictions through beautiful harmonies and powerful acoustic instrumentals. Their songs have been sung for the Dalai Lama, praised by Pete Seeger and recorded by Holly Near. Emma’s revolution will be performing at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at Carbondale Unitarian Fellowship, 105 N. Parrish Lane, as part of the second Zambian HIV/AIDS Partnership Benefit Concert and Silent Auction. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door and $10 for students. They can be purchased online at www.emmas revolution.com/live or by calling 618-529-2439. — Adam Testa
MOVIES
ART
MUSIC
WINERIES
THINGS TO DO
BOOKS
DANCE
FESTIVALS
THEATER
Pink Floyd Experience to unleash ‘Animals’
PROVIDED
Dame Evelyn Glennie will perform at 7:30 p.m. on March 7 in Shryock Auditorium at SIUC.
Dame Evelyn Glennie to lecture, perform at SIUC CARBONDALE — Dame Evelyn Glennie, described as the “first person in musical history to successfully create and sustain a full-time career as a solo percussionist,” brings the stage presence and musical savvy that earned her the title to Southern Illinois University Carbondale for a four-day residency. For many, the highlight of her visit is her concert, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 7 in Shryock Auditorium. General admission is $22, students and senior citizens tickets are $9, and SIUC students get in free with a valid student ID. Glennie will also deliver the annual Charles D. Tenney Distinguished Lecture at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5, in the Student Center Auditorium. The Tenney lecture is free. “Touch the Sound,” is a movie about Glennie’s musical sensibility and interpretation of the sonic realm. A screening of the film is at 7 p.m. Friday, March 4, in the John C. Guyon Auditorium in Morris Library.
PROVIDED
Head for the Hills will perform Monday, March 7, at Tres Hombres in Carbondale.
PADUCAH — After a near sellout performance two years ago, The Pink Floyd Experience returns to The Carson Center this weekend. The nation’s leading Pink Floyd tribute act, the Experience, will present the band’s 1977 concept album “Animals” in its entirety. When it was originally released, that album was a statement about the decline of society of the day, and while making it did set in motion the discord that would eventually destroy the
original band, the subsequent tour planted the seeds for what would become “The Wall.” The Pink Floyd Experience recreates more than just music. The band presents a fullon sensory assault with interpretive videos, plane crashes, a flying pig and a helicopter. Tickets for the show, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5, range from $25 to $45 and can be purchased online at www.thecarsoncenter.org or at 270-450-4444. — Adam Testa
Head for the Hills headed for Carbondale CARBONDALE — Colorado-based progressive acoustic/modern roots band Head for the Hills will take the stage at Tres Hombres this weekend as the band continues its trek to the South by Southwest music festival. Rooted in the tradition of bluegrass, Head for the Hills produces a vibrant mixture of homegrown compositions, traditional harmonies and improvisation. In the live setting, the group ventures into a myriad of musical
styles and sonic landscapes that appeal to an array of listeners. Head for the Hills has performed, supported and shared programming with notable musicians like Ben Folds, David Grisman, The Flaming Lips and Sam Bush. Last year, they were voted the best bluegrass band in Colorado. The band will perform the evening of Monday, March 7, at Tres Hombres, 119 N. Washington St. — Adam Testa
March 4, 5, & 6, 2011
Pretty Little Empire to play Hangar 9 tonight CARBONDALE — Popular St. Louis musical act Pretty Little Empire will stake a claim in Carbondale tonight. Formed in 2008, the group quickly put out its first album, “Sweet Sweet Hands” to positive reviews. Though the sound on the record was subtle and sweet, the group is known for its highly energetic and rock-fused live shows. Taking inspiration from early ’60s rock and the sonic sounds of The
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PROVIDED
Pretty Little Empire will perform at 10 p.m. tonight, March 3, at Hangar 9 in Carbondale.
Pixies with hints of Uncle Tupelo, Pretty Little Empire has built a loyal following in St. Louis and the
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surrounding area. They will perform at 10 p.m. tonight, March 3, at Hangar 9. — Adam Testa
FLIPSIDE Thursday, March 3, 2011 Page 9
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THINGS TO DO
‘Take Me Home Tonight’ is a decade too late ‘Take Me Home Tonight’ *½
the recent M.I.T. grad working for Suncoast Video as he tries to decide Rated R for language, what to do with his life. sexual content and drug Anna Faris, now 34, is use; starring Topher Grace, Wendy, Matt’s twin sister, Anna Faris, Teresa Palmer, equally directionless also working at Suncoast. Dan Fogler; directed by And Dan Fogler, now 34, Michael Dowse; opening is Barry, Matt’s burly, Friday at University Place boozy loose cannon pal. He 8 in Carbondale. skipped college and is regretting it. BY ROGER MOORE Their story? Straight out MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE NEWS of the ’90s — the “Can’t Hardly Wait” tale of a guy“Take Me Home who-never-confessed-toTonight” is a 10-yearshis-high-school-crush. too-late comedy. It’s ’80s Teresa Palmer plays Tori, nostalgia vamped up by the object of Matt’s crush. people who were too young At 24, she’s at least the to have lived through the right age to be playing actual ’80s, but entirely too somebody just starting her old to be playing college career and her life. kids nostalgic for their ’80s Through one wild, long high school glory days. night Matt, Barry, Wendy It’s “Hot Tub Time and Tori experience Machine” without the time multiple parties, freaky machine or the hot tub. Or L.A. party sex, cocaine, the fun that entailed. grand theft auto and a Topher Grace, now a great, deadly dare. well-preserved 32, is Matt, Texture is what we look
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Page 10 Thursday, March 3, 2011 FLIPSIDE
for in our nostalgia pieces and ’80s nostalgia, which was very briefly a big deal in the ’90s, is all about skinny ties, moussed hair, Duran Duran and “Safety Dance” — all delivered in copious quantities here. With a little cocaine on the side. Life lessons are doled out as well. Matt, who is driving his cop dad (Michael Biehn) and his sister nuts with his indecision, must decide to “go for it.” Barry must figure out that he’s on a dead end street and find purpose. Wendy needs to open that envelope from grad school and decide what to do with the boyfriend who just proposed to her at his big Labor Day party. It’s a shame Grace, who came up with the story idea for this comedy, didn’t get this up and running right after “That ’70s Show” ended. Even taking into account how long it sat on the shelf, hampered by a ratings controversy, he and those he surrounded himself with are a bit too long in the tooth to make this work. Faris, not playing the dumb blond for once, finds the confusion and pathos in Wendy, who doesn’t want to hurt the guy who wants to tie her down for life. If only she were a convincing 20something. Fogler seems doomed to play the flailing fat frat boy, but we’ve seen everything Barry does here done before and done better. The lesson of these movies are all the same: that you can go back, you can make sure that you don’t live the rest of your life bitter that you didn’t “go for it.” But you can’t go back, no matter how many Hollywood agents say, “You could still pass for 22.”
MOVIES
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MUSIC
WINERIES
THINGS TO DO
BOOKS
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FESTIVALS
THEATER
New on DVD
STUDIO
‘Rango’ features the voices of Johnny Depp, Isla Fisher and Bill Nighy. It opens Friday at ShowPlace 8 and University Place 8 in Carbondale.
Depp is clever, but ‘Rango’ lacks a core audience ‘Rango’ ** Rated PG for rude humor, language, action and smoking; starring the voices of Johnny Depp, Ned Beatty, Isla Fisher, Bill Nighy, Abigail Breslin; directed by Gore Verbinski; opening Friday at ShowPlace 8 and University Place 8 in Carbondale. BY ROGER MOORE MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE NEWS
Whose idea was it to turn those latterday Caribbean pirates Johnny Depp, Bill Nighy and (director) Gore Verbinski loose on a cartoon, ostensibly for kids? Because “Rango” requires some explanation. It is funny, inventive and downright daft. But who is it for, what is it and most pointedly — what is the point? Many’s the movie fan who would pay to watch/hear Depp riff on “ACTING” in a twisted opening monologue. He carries an umbrella-drink umbrella and wields a sword usually reserved for spearing the lime in your gin and tonic. “Acting is RE-acting,” he bellows. “The audience thirsts for adventure. The hero cannot exist in a vacuum.” Well, it’s a terrarium actually. Not a vacuum. And the Depp delivering this monologue on the stage is a lizard en route to his owner’s new home. Terrarium and lizard tumble out of the car and into the desert, where the reptile gets some instant life lessons/stay-alive lessons from assorted desert creatures — a squished armadillo among them. The mariachi chorus of owls croon about his future “untimely death.” Our intrepid lizard stumbles into Dirt, a desert hamlet inhabited by tortoises, owls,
crows, moles, other lizards and the like. The town is dry — no water. Some skullduggery is afoot. So when the lizard takes the name “Rango” and starts passin’ himself off as the rootin’est, tootin’est varmint ever to roam the Old (New) West, they name him sheriff. Rango and the good gophers and gopher tortoises of Dirt both get more than they bargain for. Rango gets into shootouts. How these tiny critters got tiny firearms is anybody’s guess. (Oh, right. Arizona.) Some of them drink and some smoke. Rango runs afoul of the mayor, voiced by Ned Beatty, the villain of “Toy Story 3.” Rango flirts with Miss Bean (Isla Fisher) and wonders, wonders, wonders about the missing water. Depp fills the soundtrack with chatter that sounds so off-the-cuff it’s as if they put him in front of a mic and animated a 3-D movie around his mutterings. Some of that must be true, as the film’s soundtrack was performed like a play by a cast almost fully assembled in the studio at the same time. John Logan (“The Last Samurai,” “The Aviator”) is the credited writer. He’s right at home with the occasional “Son of a ...” and sneaking in a Hunter S. Thompson joke (Depp played the druggie journalist in “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas”) or a Man With No Name cameo. But what animated children’s movie that you can think of has a character shout, “Go to Hell!” at a villainous snake? It doesn’t matter that the snake (voiced by Nighy) answers “Where you do think I came from?” Fitfully amusing or not, the whole demented enterprise of “Rango” comes into question when you’re that tone-deaf about what’s appropriate for children.
Burlesque: A smalltown girl ventures to Los Angeles and finds her place in a neoburlesque club run by a former dancer. Starring Cher and Christina Aguilera. Directed by Steve Antin. Rated PG-13. 127 Hours: A mountain climber becomes trapped under a boulder while canyoneering alone near Moab, Utah, and resorts to desperate measures in order to survive. Starring James Franco and Lizzy Caplan. Directed by Danny Boyle. Rated R. Faster: An ex-con sets out to avenge his brother’s death after they were doublecrossed during a heist
years ago. During his campaign, however, he’s tracked by a veteran cop and an egocentric hit man. Starring Dwayne Johnson and Billy Bob Thornton. Directed by George Tillman Jr. Rated R. Love & Other Drugs: Maggie is an alluring free spirit who won’t let anyone — or anything — tie her down. But she meets her match in Jamie, whose relentless and nearly infallible charm serve him well with the ladies and in the cutthroat world of pharmaceutical sales. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Oliver Platt and Anne Hathaway. Directed by Edward Zwick. Rated R. — Adam Testa
FLIPSIDE Thursday, March 3, 2011 Page 11
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Thrills distract from Damon and Blunt’s romance in ‘The Adjustment Bureau’ ‘The Adjustment Bureau’ **½ Rated PG-13 for brief strong language, some sexuality and a violent image; starring Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Anthony Mackie, John Slattery; directed by George Nolfi; opening Friday at University Place 8 in Carbondale BY ROGER MOORE MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE NEWS
There are these guys, see? And they’re dressed in slightly outof-date suits, gray mostly. And they wear hats — each and every one of them, all the time.
They dress like “Mad Men” and they’re led by a “Mad Men” star (John Slattery). These guys run a vast bureaucracy that clocks in and decides our fate. Make a move that doesn’t follow the predetermined path your life was supposed to follow, they set you straight. That’s what “The Adjustment Bureau” does, manipulate events so that your life, from start to finish, follows their plan. Nobody sees them, nobody knows they’re doing this. Until David Norris. His run for Congress just got derailed and he’s just met a woman who changed his whole world view. An impulsive guy, acting on
impulse, David (Matt Damon) stumbles into the knowledge of this “Bureau.” And as years pass and effort is expended by that apparatus — are they angels, micro-managing aliens? — David battles them for the chance to reconnect with Elise (Emily Blunt), who set off sparks with him on the worst day of his life. “The Adjustment Bureau,” written and directed by George Nolfi, the writer of Damon’s last Bourne and “Oceans Twelve,” has hints of several supernatural romances, especially “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.” Damon and Blunt have spectacular chemistry, and their
flirtations have such snap that you’d swear Damon is blushing as Blunt bats her eyes at him. This “Inception” meets “Made in Heaven” by way of “They Live” is also the screwiest movie Matt Damon has been in since, what, “Dogma?” But “The Adjustment Bureau” is a romantic thriller too caught up in the thrills to be as romantic as it needs to be. David carries around this top-secret knowledge and schemes for that moment when he can go “off plan.” Slattery dons his hat and sets off in pursuit as David tries to escape the manipulating overseers and find his way to the
slender, sexy dancer he only knows by her first name. That tug we’re supposed to feel, the thing that pulls them back together and drags us along with them, rooting for them to connect — it’s not strong enough to sustain what is a cute thriller treatment of the war between free will and determinism, the notion that we do or do not control our own destiny. It’s romantic and intellectually stimulating and like “Inception,” it may have you arguing with your date on the ride home. But it plays like a movie by a thriller writer who is better at chases than at romance.
Pregnancy Matters Walkathon Fundraiser
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Page 12 Thursday, March 3, 2011 FLIPSIDE