Get Out January 17 2013 by The Times

Evenings of Intimate Jazz kicks off Saturday, page 14

A little action,

a lot of fun

GTA brings ‘7-Shot Symphony’ to Sylvia Beard Theatre. E 5 PAG

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http://manybooks.net

This free website offers nearly 30.000 ebooks in many different formats. Whether you want to read the ebook on your iPad, iPhone, smartphone or ebook reader, you can get it here.

Habersham Community Theatre in Clarkesville has scheduled two one-act plays to be presented Jan. 17-20. PAGES 5 An exhibit by painter, printmaker and book maker Ke Francis is on view through Feb. 21 at the Piedmont College Mason-Scharfenstein Museum of Art. PAGES 6

movies Now that the nominations for Oscars are out, let the predictions begin. PAGE 10

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Led by Cirque du Soleil clown Noah Bremer, “The 7-Shot Symphony” uses live bluegrass music to meld the classic “spaghetti Western” with some of the greatest myths from around the world. PAGE 5

The Associated Press

The ProMusica Concert Series will start up for 2013 with a selection of youth-oriented concerts. PAGE 7

outdoors

North Georgia Astronomers will offer two free telescope workshops this weekend. PAGE 15

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Jefferson museum opens display Exhibit focuses on Long’s travels From staff reports The Crawford W. Long Museum in Jefferson has opened a new permanent exhibit showcasing artifacts related to traveling in the mid-1800s. “Traveling” takes events from Dr. Crawford W. Long’s life to illustrate the difficulties of moving between cities during that era. Long began his medical studies in Lexington, Ky., in the late 1830s. He rode horseback from his family home in Danielsville through western North Carolina to Knoxville, Tenn., then on to Lexington, a trip of more than four weeks. Maps show the route Long would have followed and charts from the time period lists costs of crossing privately owned toll bridges. Long likely chose to travel through

North Carolina because his mother’s family resided in the area west of Asheville, providing him free room and board along the way. Otherwise, he would have followed the established Federal Road through northern Georgia to Chattanooga and points north. Later in his professional life (1850s-1870s), he traveled by train once per year to Philadelphia and New York on buying trips for his Athens pharmacy. His train trips involved frequent reroutings due to rail line repairs. Jefferson’s role as an overnight stagecoach stop serves as an example of stagecoach travel throughout the south and west. Unlike depictions from Hollywood, travelers did not arrive at their destination wearing lavish clothing;

‘Traveling’ When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday Where: Crawford W. Long Museum, 28 College St., Jefferson How much: $1 through January More info: www.crawfordlong. org, 706-367-5307

in fact, stagecoach travel was slow, crowded and dirty. Overnight stops might provide only a straw bed and a glass of milk with cornbread. The Crawford W. Long Museum located at 28 College St. is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. A special admission price of $1 is offered for January only. For more information call 706-3675307 or visit www.crawfordlong.org.

Traveling Holocaust exhibit opens From staff reports The University of North Georgia will play host to the traveling exhibition “Fighting the Fires of Hate: America and the Nazi Book Burnings” produced by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. The exhibition runs from Jan. 17 to March 15 at the Library Technology Center on the university’s Dahlonega campus. The exhibit and accompanying lecture series are free. The exhibition opening is set for 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 22, in the Library Technology Center. Internationally known scholar Dr. Deborah Lipstadt, the Dorot professor of modern Jewish history and Holocaust studies at

‘Fighting the Fires of Hate: America and the Nazi Book Burnings’ When: Jan. 17 through March 15 Where: University of North Georgia, Dahlonega campus, Library Technology Center How much: Free More info: bmorris@northgeorgia.edu, 706-864-1521

Emory University, will present the keynote address at 6 p.m. in the Hoag Student Center auditorium on the Dahlonega campus. A reception and book signing will be held beforehand from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. in the great room, located in the student center. Schools and other groups are invited to schedule a Friday tour of the exhibition. Tour reservations must be

requested at least seven days in advance. To schedule a tour, contact Bonnie Morris at bmorris@ northgeorgia.edu, 706864-1521. Other events scheduled throughout the exhibition include: ■ “Teaching about the Holocaust: A Workshop for Educators” at 7 p.m. Jan. 28 in the Special Collections Room of the Library Technology Center. ■ “Banned Music in

the Nazi Era,” a concert and lecture, at 7 p.m. Feb. 8 in the Gloria Shott Auditorium. This event is made possible through the support of the North Georgia’s Department of Performing Arts. ■ “Degenerative Art, Architecture, Film” at 6 p.m. Feb. 25 in the Library Technology Center’s Special Collections Room. ■ “Looking Back, Looking Ahead,” at 6 p.m. March 13 in the Library Technology Center’s Special Collections Room. The exhibition and lecture series is supported by a gift from The Friends of North Georgia and is a collaboration by faculty from UNG and Kennesaw State University and the KSU Museum of History and Holocaust Education.

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To have your event listed, we must have the following information: ■ The name, time and date of the event, and a short description ■ The location, street address ■ Admission and contact information ■ Send to getout@gainesvilletimes.com ONLY emails will be accepted. No faxes, flyers, mailers or phone calls. The deadline to have your event listed in Get Out is the FRIDAY before the next publication. Listings run at the discretion of the editor. If you would like to purchase an ad, call Betty Thompson at 770-532-1234 or email bthompson@gainesvilletimes.com

etc events This week

Living Healthy Seminar, Cumming. 6-9 p.m. Jan. 17. Forsyth Conference Center, Lanier Technical College, 3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Cumming. Free. www. livinghealthymedical.eventbrite.com, 770-450-4225. “Peace Price: We honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,” Gainesville. 8-9 a.m. Jan. 19. Brenau Radio WBCX 89.1FM. The Newtown Florist Club relates the life and times of Nobel Peace Prize-winning patriot Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Contra Dance, Sautee. 8-11 p.m. Jan. 19. Sautee Nacoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N, Sautee. $8, $7 for SNCA members, $4 for students, 7 years and younger are free. 706-754-3254, thrivingspirit@me.com NEGAPFA Poultry Show, Jefferson. Jan. 19. JCCHS Ag Barn, 1668 Winder Highway, Jefferson. Judging begins at 9 am. Fee to enter birds. Free for spectators. www. negapfa.com or NEGAPFAshow@yahoo.com

Upcoming

Monarchs in Mexico, Gainesville. 12:30-2 p.m. Jan. 24. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Land Protection Branch Environmental Outreach Coordinator Kim Bailey will discuss monarchs in Mexico. Bring lunch; $10 donation requested. 770535-1976, www.elachee.org

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BY SAVANNAH KING

sking@gainesvilletimes.com What happens when you combine live theater, spaghetti Westerns, mythology from around the world, Cirque du Soleil-style movement, bluegrass music and finger guns with a Quentin Tarantino edge? You get “The 7-Shot Symphony,” which will be performed Jan. 18-20 on the new GTA SouthernStage at the Sylvia Beard Theatre in Buford’s new Community Center, 2200 Buford Highway. Touring physical theater company Live Action Set is coming to Georgia to present their unique take on an old-fashioned spaghetti Western. Accompanying them will be Tree Party, a live bluegrass brand. Live Action Set takes the classic western tale, then adds some of the greatest myths from around the world. Famous mythological characters such as Gilgamesh, Odin, Orpheus and Hades, to name a few, become sheriffs, outlaws, gunsmiths and saloon piano players. The story is one of love, action, legend and corruption, all told without any set or props — only the actors, their bodies and their creativity. Ever seen a shootout using finger guns? “It’s unlike a regular play because we were inspired by old Western movies and myths from around the world,” said Noah Bremer, live action set artistic director and company tour manager. “The show is very physical; the actors create landscapes with

theater events This week

7 Shot Symphony, Gainesville. 10 a.m. Jan. 16-17, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 18-19, 5 p.m. Jan. 20. Sylvia Beard Theatre,

their bodies. It’s filled with wonderful language and they create the whole word with nothing but their bodies.” Live Action set is a Minnesotabased touring company known for combining acting, dancing and creative movement to present some of the most unique and inspiring theatre experiences available to the public. Founded in 2003 by a small group of dancers, choreographers, actors and performers, Live Action Set has since grown to a full ensemble cast that performs regularly around the country. Its unique take on theatre has won awards and recognition, due in part to leadership from Bremer, the co-founder, a lead clown with Cirque du Soleil and part of the 7-Shot cast. The show took about seven months to create and has toured the country for the last two years. “We’re still transforming (the show) and always improving,” Bremer said. “We’re seeing what audiences like and what they don’t and we try to make this the best show it can be. It makes the show very exciting for us.” “The 7-Shot Symphony” comes to GTA SouthernStage from a partnership between the city of Buford and the Gainesville Theatre Alliance to build a resident professional theater company for the new Sylvia Beard Theatre. The Gainesville Theatre Alliance is a nationally acclaimed collaboration between the University of North Georgia, Brenau University, Theatre Professionals and the North Georgia Community. Bremer said the live performance has a “movie feel” and is sure to entertain an audience. The performance last a little more than

A blitz of theater

Spaghetti Western meets Cirque du Soleil GTA brings lively theater to Buford

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Habersham to present weekend of one-act plays From staff reports

For Get Out

two hours with an intermission and is appropriate for children over the age of 7. “It’s just a really fun show,” Bremer said. “It’s moving, it’s touching and it’s really funny. It has a little bit for everybody, unless you love sets and props, in that case you’ll be disappointed.” The show will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 18 and 19 and at 5 p.m. Jan. 20. Two half-price tickets will be available an hour before curtain in the Buford Community Center Box Office for patrons with a Buford address on their picture IDs. Ticket prices are dependent on seat location, ranging from $16-$18 for adults, $14-$16 for seniors and $10-$12 for students and children. Boxes are available with two or four VIP seats for $40 a ticket. Patrons can select their own seats online at www. gainesvilletheatrealliance.org or by calling the box office at 678-7173624 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Those seeking group discounts (20 percent for 12 or more people) or ADA seating should contact the box office.

Gainesville. Gainesville Theatre Alliance Public performances. 678-717-3624, gainesvilleTHEATRE alliance.org A ‘Weekend of One-Act Plays,’ Clarkesville. “The Red Merit Badge of Courage,” and “101 Dalmatians.” 7 p.m. Jan. 18-19, 2 p.m. Jan. 20. Historic Habersham Theater, 1370 Washington St., Clarkesville. $10

Habersham Community Theatre in Clarkesville has scheduled two one-act plays to be presented Jan. 17-20. Though aimed at a younger audience, these plays also will be enjoyed by adults. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Jan. 18-19 and 2 p.m. Jan. 20. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for children and full-time students and are good for both shows each day. They may be purchased by calling 706-839-1315 or visiting www. habershamtheater.org. A comedy, “The Red Merit Badge of Courage,” follows a group of Fireside Scouts as they navigate the wilds of Yellowstone National Park without the help of a scout leader or a map. The cast includes Jackson Anderson, Jolie Ford, Skylar Hopkins, Jorjanne Flake, Carson and Kadie Goodwin, Sophie Grace Harben, Emma Harris, Katharine Ivey, Summer Price, Logan Strong, Christie Taylor and Grace Ward. The Disney Kids’ musical version of “101 Dalmatians” will focus on the evil Cruella DeVil as she tries to capture the adorable Dalmatian puppies. Cast members include Kaitlyn Anderson, Daniel Anderson, Colton Augustine, Brianna Bakoledis, Lucy and Sara Ballard, Maggie Barry, Megan Brown, Catherine Burke, Jason Burke, Kristin Burke, Ray and Temple Carr, Nathaniel Caudell, Breckon Chastain, Katie Deaton, Audrey Dillard, Lance Dowing, Emily Graham, Anna Grant; Allison, Katie Claire and Patrick Highsmith; Meredith Hill, Cash Laws, Lawson Lewallen, Katie and Ryan Long, Amber Leigh Mercer, Keelie Parks, Jane Marie Price, Alexandra Shalikashvili, Maggie and Zach Smagur, Alex Summers, Karis Tatum, Emily Thompson, Hannah Holliday and Charleigh Wilbanks.

One-Act Plays When: 7 p.m. Jan. 18-19, 2 p.m. Jan. 20 Where: Habersham Community Theatre, 1370 Washington St., Clarkesville How much: $10 adults, $7 children and students More info: 706-839-1315, www.habershamtheater.org

adults, $7 children and full-time students. 706-839-1315, www.habershamtheater. org BlackTop Improv Group, Lawrenceville. 7:15 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. Jan. 18-19. Aurora Theatre, 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. $15. 678-226-6222, www. auroratheatre.com

Upcoming

“Brigadoon” open auditions, Dahlonega. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 26-27. Free. Reserve an audition time. Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. 706-3442138, brucepilgrim@hotmail.com or www. hollytheater.com.

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Suwanee seeks artists to go ‘out on a limb’ for show From staff reports The city of Suwanee wants to hear from artists who are willing to go out on a limb. Suwanee is accepting proposals and samples from artists who wish to have their work considered for the city’s monthlong, award-winning “Art on a Limb” program. Through “Art on a Limb,” two pieces of original artwork are hidden along the Suwanee Creek Greenway or at one of the city’s parks each day

throughout the month of May. Those who find the art pieces get to keep the unique trail treasures. Past “Art on a Limb” pieces have included clay orbs, small paintings on canvas as well as pieces of the city’s old water tower, magnets, gourds painted to look like birds, the Suwanee S shaped from metal and pottery pieces that include leaves found along the Greenway. The deadline for submitting entries to be considered is Feb. 15. More information and an

arts events This Week

Robert Johnson “Still Life” Oil Painting Workshop, Gainesville. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 21-25. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. $650. 770-5362575.

Upcoming

“Understanding Oil Painting Materials,” Gainesville. 5:30-7 p.m. Jan. 24. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. An oil painting demonstration with instructor Nancy Speilman. RSVP is required. Free. 770-536-2575. Quinlan Visual Arts Center 35th Annual Gala Art Auction, Gainesville. Feb. 28 - March 2. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Original art work by local, regional and national talents juried by acclaimed art appraiser Robert Morring of Atlanta. $125. 770-536-2575, www. quinlanartscenter.org. 2013 Kiwanis Visual Arts Showcase, Gainesville. Through March. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Hall County and Gainesville City middle and high school students are invited to participate. Cash scholarships will be awarded for Best of Show for 10th, 11th and 12th grade artists. 70-536-2575. 2013 Youth Art Competition and Pottery Studio Exhibit, Helen. March 3-16. Helen Arts and Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee St.,

application are available at www.suwanee.com. Area residents have come to look forward to “Art on a Limb” as part of spring in Suwanee. Last year, Michawne Clark found a clay mug created by Sandra Nissan. “I cannot tell you how excited I was to see it hanging from the fence separating the Greenway from McGinnis Reserve,” she said. “Once I realized what it was, I screamed like I had won the Publisher’s Clearing House Sweepstakes.”

Helen. Opening reception March 3. Free. 706-878-3933, www.helenarts.org or info@ helenarts.org “Mountain Matters,” Helen. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. March 21. Helen Arts and Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee St., Helen. 706-878-3933, www.helenarts.org or info@helenarts.org “Dreamwork,” Helen. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. May 23. Helen Arts and Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee St., Helen. 706-878-3933, www.helenarts.org or info@ helenarts.org

Ongoing

Dreamers/Soñadores exhibit, Oakwood. Through Feb. 13. Roy C. Moore Art Gallery, University of North Georgia Gainesville campus, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. Free. 678-717-3707, ung.edu. The Six, Gainesville. Through Feb. 16. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Artists Douglas Fromm, Yasharel Manzy, Kelly Morgenstern, Alan Stecker, David Wendel and Marc West. 770536-2575, www.quinlanartscenter.org. “Local Color” photography exhibit, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays through March 9. Sellars Gallery, Simmons Visual Arts Center, Brenau University 200 Boulevard, Gainesville. Free. 770-534-6263. Kareem Harris and Dustin Morris art exhibit, Gainesville. 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Through January. Inman Perk Bistro, Historic Gainesville Square. Creative calligraphy and original images of drawing and painting. Free. 770-572-1908.

A wash of narratives Art by Ke Francis on display at Piedmont museum From staff reports An exhibit by painter, printmaker and book maker Ke Francis titled “Narrative Works” is on view through Feb. 21 at the Piedmont College Mason-Scharfenstein Museum of Art. A public reception for Francis is scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 24 at the museum, 567 Georgia St. in downtown Demorest. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Born in Tupelo, Miss., Francis is a professor in fine arts at University of Central Florida and also owns “Hoop Snake Press,” which publishes

For Get Out

A painting, titled “Ghost Rabbit and the Flood” is one of 41 works by Southeastern artist Ke Francis on display at Piedmont College in Demorest.

books and art prints. He spends his time between Mississippi and Florida. Francis’ work is inspired by subjects familiar to him through his travels. “Recorded images and stories from my travels are the raw materials of my narrative work,” he said. Since the majority of his time is spent in the Southeast, his art is most reflective of that environment.

While his work naturally springs from the most available visual resources, he also attempts to integrate concepts and images that have been passed down from a variety of cultural sources. It is the integration of these collective ideas, along with the use of firsthand regional idioms and personal environmental references that makes his work American.

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ProMusica youth series strikes up First concert scheduled for Wednesday From staff reports The ProMusica Concert Series will start up for 2013 with a selection of youthoriented concerts by some notable young virtuosos titled “Music for the Mind, Body & Mood.” The first concert will take place Wednesday, Jan. 23, at North Georgia Christian School, 4903 Chestnut Mountain Circle in Flowery Branch. The 10 a.m. performance will feature a violinist and cellist, both of whom currently play with the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra. Keanu Mitanga began playing the violin at age 4 with violin teacher Martha Yasuda. At the age of 9, he auditioned for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Talent Development Program successfully with his first Mozart Concerto (A Major), and has been a member ever since. He also auditioned successfully for the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra last year, where he now holds the position of principal second violin.

Mitanga has taken lessons from or participated in masterclasses held by Alan Bodman, the Manhattan String Quartet, Steven Moeckel, Samantha George and Professor Tong Wei Dong of the BeiJing Conservatory. He has been coached in chamber groups by Jan Mark Sloman, Steven Rochen, Steven Moeckel, Gary Hammond, Martha Gerschefski and Rhonda Respess. Mitanga has played under numerous notable conductors and has received masterclasses from Alan Bodman, the Manhattan String Quartet and several chamber groups. Myrtil Mitanga started playing the cello at age 4. In 2004, she was admitted to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Talent Development Program where she continued her studies. In 2008, she successfully auditioned for the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra at the youngest possible age. In spring 2011 and again in 2012, she won the

Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra Scholarship Competition and attended the Meadowmount School of Music to study with Hans Jensen. She is the currently the principal cellist in the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra. She was also accepted into the semifinal round of the National Sphinx Competition 2012. She has studied privately with Astrid Scwheen from the University of Massachusetts, Melissa Kraut from the Cleveland Institute of Music, Tahirah Whittington from the Ritz Chamber Players and Hans Jorgen Jensen from Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music. The ProMusica Concert Series has brought music performed by world-class musicians to the Gainesville area for more than 50 years. In 2009, ProMusica expanded its mission through partnerships with other organizations to support those most in need within the community. ProMuisca Concert

Darnell Boys hit Toccoa stage From staff reports The Darnell Boys of Athens will perform at 7 p.m. Jan. 18 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts, 125 W. Doyle St. in Toccoa, as part of the New Harmonies Concert Series. The concert is free. Formed in late 2010, the Darnell Boys originally consisted of three brothers: Austin (guitar, harmonica, vocals), Caleb (lead guitar, slide guitar, vocals) and Gus Darnell (guitar, harmonica, percussion, vocals). The band was expanded to include Elijah Neesmith on upright bass

and Patrick Weise on junkyard percussion. The group’s sound is a diverse blend of American musical elements that draw upon blues, country, gospel, soul and rockabilly traditions, all centered upon the three brothers’ unique songwriting and vocal work. Barry Stiles, curator of the Foxfire Museum, will present a workshop on roots music at 2 p.m. Jan. 19 as part of the New Harmonies series. Foxfire is a not-for-profit, educational and literary organization based in Rabun County. For more, visit www.foxfire.org.

Series offers free admission to students of any age elementary through college. To ensure ticket availability, request for student tickets should be made in advance of the concert by contacting the ProMusica office at 7700967-2768. Adult tickets are $20. The next concert in the series will be Jan. 29 featuring the talents of violinist Bojidara Kouzmanova and Virginia Luque on classical guitar. The final concert will be Feb. 17 featuring Yoonie Han on piano. For more information on the concerts and to order tickets, call 770-967-2768 or visit the website, www. promusicaconcertseries. com.

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Young People’s Concert Music for the Mind, Body & Mood

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What: Keanu Mitanga on violin with cellist Myrtil Mitanga When: 10 a.m. Jan. 23 Where: North Georgia Christian School, 4903 Chestnut Mountain Circle, Flowery Branch Tickets: $20, free for students with ticket reservation More info: 770-967-2768, www. promusicaconcertseries.com

ProMusica Subscription Series, Concert 1 What: Duo virtuosi featuring violinist Bojidara Kouzmanova and Virginia Luque on classical guitar When: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 29 Where: Gainesville First United Methodist Church, 2780 Thompson Bridge Road NE, Gainesville

ProMusica Subscription Series, Concert 2 What: Piano concert featuring Yoonie Han When: 4 p.m. Feb. 17 Where: First Baptist Church Gainesville

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The Associated Press

The Darnell Boys of Athens Concert, Toccoa. 7 p.m. Jan. 18. Schaefer Center, 125 W. Doyle St., Toccoa. Free.

review, 10

Christoph Waltz’s turn in “Django Unchained” was simply brilliant and elevated the entire movie. Even Quentin Tarantino would likely tell you “Django” would not have worked without Waltz. The same cannot be said of the other actors.

Oscar predictions are in!

Alex Hall, Flowery Branch. Jan. 19. www.facebook.com/ musicbyalexhall

Telescope Help, Dahlonega, Oakwood. 5-7 p.m. Jan. 19. University of North Georgia, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega; 5-7 p.m. Jan. 20, UNG’s Gainesville campus, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. Help setting up telescopes old and new. Free.

Jeni Michelson with Society Express Quartet, Gainesville. 8 p.m. Jan. 19. The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SW, Gainesville. $30. 770-5342787, www.TheArtsCouncil. net

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

weekeND plANNeR

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telescopehelp2013@gmail. com

Winter Birding in Georgia, Gainesville. 12:30 p.m. Feb. 21. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Ornithologist Georgann Schmalz will discuss winter birding in Georgia. Bring lunch; $10 donation is requested. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org

Diving Bell Dedication, Dahlonega. 5:30 p.m. Feb. 5. Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site, 1 Public Square., Dahlonega. $3.50-$6. 706-864-2257, www. gastateparks.org

Uganda, Africa Watoto Children’s Choir, Gainesville. Feb. 3. The Highlands Church, 3678 Cleveland Highway., Gainesville. 706-726-5686, thehighlandschurch.net

Havana Son Trio, Gainesville. 8 p.m. Feb. 1. The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SW, Gainesville. $30. 770-534-2787, www.TheArtsCouncil.net

Chick Corea and Gary Burton with the Harlem String Quartet, Atlanta. 8 p.m. Jan. 26. Ferst Center, 349 Ferst Drive, Atlanta. $40-$50, club seating section $65. 404-894-9600, www.ferstcenter.org

JAN 26:

lOOkING AHeAD

Songs for a New World, Buford. 7 p.m. Jan. 18 and 19. Buford High School Theatre Auditorium, 2750 Sawnee Ave., Buford. All seats $7. bhstheatre.weebly.com.

A Weekend of One-Act Plays, Clarkesville. “The Red Merit Badge of Courage,” and “101 Dalmatians.” 7 p.m. Jan. 18-19, 2 p.m. Jan. 20. Historic Habersham Theater, 1370 Washington St., Clarkesville. $10 adults, $7 children and full-time students. 706-839-1315, www.habershamtheater.org

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The Crawford W. Long Museum in Jefferson has opened a new permanent exhibit showcasing artifacts related to traveling in the mid-1800s. “Traveling” takes events from Dr. Crawford W. Long’s life to illustrate the difficulties of moving between cities during that era.

‘Traveling.’

older; 770-297-5900, www. negahc.org or jcarson@brenau. edu

The University of North Georgia will play host to the traveling exhibition “Fighting the Fires of Hate: America and the Nazi Book Burnings” produced by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. The exhibition runs from Jan. 17 to March 15 at the Library Technology Center on the university’s Dahlonega campus. The exhibit and accompanying lecture series are free.

Holocaust exhibit.

JAN. 24: Feb. 1: Feb. 3: Feb. 5: Feb. 21:

theater

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An exhibit by painter, printmaker and book maker Ke Francis titled “Narrative Works” is on view through Feb. 21 at the Piedmont College Mason-Scharfenstein Museum of Art.

‘Narrative Works.’

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ration e d i s r con

For you

Handicapping top Oscar performers Phoenix may get trumped by Lincoln, while a child could walk off with actress honors

JEFF MARKER jmarker@gsc.edu

Film Review Now that the nominees have been announced, the Oscar discussion shifts to predicting winners. This week, I’ll look at the actor races, then next week I’ll handicap the Best Picture and Best Director categories. And just to be clear on something: The Oscars don’t really determine the bests of the year. They’re just a commercial for Hollywood. But hey, the college football season is over and this is more fun for me than the NBA, NHL or NFL (Go Falcons!). Before we get to the actor races, let’s see how I’ve done so far in this series (warning: gratuitous self-back-patting follows). Turns out I’ve been fairly spot-on so far. (I warned you.) I included all of the Best Actor and Best Actress nominees in my lists of contenders. “Argo,” “Zero Dark Thirty” and “Beasts of the Southern Wild” all were nominated. And as predicted, perfect filmmaking craft did not translate into a nomination for “The Master.” Paul Thomas Anderson’s opus did, however, produce three acting nominations and a segue for me. In my opinion, Joaquin Phoenix’s performance in “The Master” is the best of the year. Phoenix displayed greater command of his body and face

Fox Searchlight Pictures

Quvenzhane Wallis portrays Hushpuppy in a scene from “Beasts of the Southern Wild.”

The Weinstein Company

From left, Christoph Waltz as Schultz and Jamie Foxx as Django in “Django Unchained,” directed by Quentin Tarantino.

than any actor in any category. The role required him to cycle through an acrobatic range of emotions, yet be restrained during some of the movie’s most intense moments. It is an astounding performance. But it isn’t the kind of performance likely to win an Oscar. Portraying one of the most popular presidents in American history — now that wins statues. Daniel Day-Lewis is the odds on favorite for his lead role in “Lincoln.” Day-Lewis is the male equivalent to Meryl Streep. Each one of their roles is so strong it’s surprising when they don’t win an Oscar. Day-Lewis’ only serious contender seems to be Hugh Jackman, who delivers an impressive musical performance in “Les Miserables.” If anyone else wins, it might be because these two split the vote. The Best Supporting Actor race looks to be about as competitive as the Alabama-Notre Dame

game. Alan Arkin, Robert De Niro, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Tommy Lee Jones all gave great performances this year. But Christoph Waltz’s turn in “Django Unchained” was simply brilliant and elevated the entire movie. Even Quentin Tarantino would likely tell you “Django” would not have worked without Waltz. The same cannot be said of the other actors. The Best Supporting Actress category is probably the most predictable. It seems a foregone conclusion that Anne Hathaway will win for “Les Miserables.” No one even knew Hathaway could sing before this movie, and while her voice is decidedly not up to Broadway standards, it was quite powerful when combined with some gut-wrenching tears, facial contortions and a shaved head. Amy Adams’ quietly menacing matriarch in “The Master,” Sally Fields’ subdued strength in “Lincoln” or Helen Hunt’s ... um,

exposed sex therapist in “The Sessions” might have outside chances, but their odds are long. The least predictable, most interesting race is for Best Actress. One could make a case for each one of these nominees. Jessica Chastain carries “Zero Dark Thirty” and stands toe-totoe against every male actor in the movie, including heavyweight James Gandolfini. Naomi Watts’ role in “The Impossible” is the most emotionally and physically demanding of the year. Jennifer Lawrence is wounded, complicated, yet winning in “Silver Linings Playbook.” Emmanuelle Riva, already a legend in France, steals everyone’s heart in “Amour.” But if this year’s Academy Awards offer a big surprise at all, it might come in the form of a Best Actress award for Quvenzhané Wallis for “Beasts of the Southern Wild.” Wallis is the youngest lead actor nominee ever, male or female, and would be the youngest winner in any acting category. The Academy likes to be seen as willing to reward emerging talent, and it especially likes the publicity it can produce. Wallis is

Associated Press

Daniel Day-Lewis portrays the 16th president in “Lincoln.”

certainly deserving, and she very well might become the darling of this year’s Oscars. Jeff Marker is head of the Communication, Media & Journalism Department at the University of North Georgia. His reviews appear weekly in Get Out and on gainesvilletimes.com/getout.

goo movies Showtimes

Bargain shows denoted by parenthesis ( ).

Hollywood Stadium Cinemas 770-539-9200 120 Green Hill Circle NW, Gainesville

Argo (R) Thu. 6:45 Broken City (R) Thu. 10:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:304:15-7:00-9:45 Django Unchained (R) Thu. 5:30-9:00 Fri.Sun. 2:00-5:30-9:00 The Guilt Trip (PG-13) Thu. 4:15-6:45-10:00 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (PG-13) Thu. 5:00 Fri.-Sun. 5:00-8:30 Hyde Park on Hudson (R) Thu. 5:00-7:1510:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-3:00-5:00-7:1510:00 Jack Reacher (PG-13) Thu. 4:00-6:45-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 1:15-6:45-9:30 The Last Stand (R) Thu. 10:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:45-4:30-7:00-9:45 Life of Pi (PG) Thu. 4:00-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 6:45-9:30 Lincoln (PG-13) Thu. 3:45-7:00-9:00 Fri.Sun. 1:15-4:30-8:00 Mama (PG-13) Thu. 10:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:454:15-7:00-9:30 The Metropolitan Opera: Maria Stuarda Live (Not Rated) Sat. 12:55 Les Misérables (PG-13) Thu. 4:30-8:00 Fri.Sun. 1:00-4:30-8:00 Monsters, Inc. 3D (G) Thu. 4:30 Fri. 1:454:30 Sat. 4:30 Sun. 1:45-4:30 A Night With Nicholas Sparks’ Safe Haven: Filmmakers, Author and Stars Live (Not Rated) Thu. 8:00 Parental Guidance (PG) Thu. 4:00-7:159:45 Fri.-Sun. 1:30-4:00-7:15-9:45 Promised Land (R) Thu. 4:00-4:15-7:009:45 Fri.-Sun. 1:15-4:00-7:00-9:45 Silver Linings Playbook (R) Fri.-Sun. 1:004:00-6:45-9:30 Texas Chainsaw (R) Thu. 5:15 Fri.-Sun. 1:00 Texas Chainsaw 3D (R) Thu. 7:30-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 3:15-5:30-7:45-10:00 This Is 40 (R) Thu. 3:45-6:45-9:30 The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 (PG-13) Thu. 7:00 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Fri.-Sun. 2:00-4:15 Zero Dark Thirty (R) Thu. 5:00-8:30 Fri. 1:30-5:00-8:30 Sat. 1:15-5:00-8:30 Sun. 1:30-5:00-8:30

Regal Mall of Georgia Stadium 20 678-482-5858

3333 Buford Drive, Suite 3000, Buford

Argo (R) Fri.-Sun. 4:15-9:45 Broken City (R) Fri.-Sun. 10:20-11:45-1:102:20-3:45-4:55-7:05-7:30-9:40-12:15 Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away 3D (PG) Thu. 5:00-7:30-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 5:15-9:55

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, January 17, 2013

‘Zero Dark Thirty’ hunts down $24.4 million at box office LOS ANGELES — “Zero Dark Thirty” nabbed the biggest haul at the weekend box office. The controversial Osama bin Laden raid drama earned $24.4 in its first weekend in wide release. The horror spoof “A Haunted House” and mobster drama “Gangster Squad” debuted in the second and third spots, respectively earning $18.1 million and $17 million. The top 15 movies at U.S. and Canadian theaters Friday through Sunday, followed by distribution studio, gross, total gross and number of weeks in release, as compiled Monday by Hollywood.com are: 1. “Zero Dark Thirty,” Sony, $24,438,936, $29,919,743, four weeks. 2. “A Haunted House,” Open Road Films, $18,101,682, $18,101,682, one week. 3. “Gangster Squad,” Warner Bros., $17,070,347, $17,070,347, one week. 4. “Django Unchained,” Weinstein Co., $11,040,485, $125,374,607, three weeks. Django Unchained (R) Thu. 12:00-3:30-7:0010:30 Fri.-Sun. 12:05-3:30-7:05-10:35 Gangster Squad (R) Thu. 12:00-1:10-2:353:50-5:10-6:30-7:45-9:10-10:20 Fri.-Sun. 10:25-12:00-1:05-2:35-3:50-6:30-7:509:10-11:50 The Guilt Trip (PG-13) Thu. 7:50 A Haunted House (R) Thu. 11:35-1:55-4:107:10-8:00-9:25-10:15 Fri.-Sun. 12:102:25-4:50-5:30-7:40-9:55-10:35-12:10 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (PG-13) Thu. 1:00-8:10 Fri.-Sat. 1:00-4:35-8:1011:40 Sun. 1:00-4:35-8:10 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey 3D (PG-13) Thu. 11:30-3:15-4:35-7:00-10:45 Fri.-Sun. 11:40-3:20-7:00-10:40 The Impossible (PG-13) Thu. 1:20-3:557:15-9:50 Fri.-Sun. 10:45-1:20-4:00-6:409:20-12:05 Jack Reacher (PG-13) Thu. 1:50-4:45-7:4010:40 Fri.-Sun. 10:55-1:50-4:45-7:4510:40 The Last Stand (R) Fri.-Sun. 11:45-2:205:05-7:40-10:15 Life of Pi (PG) Fri.-Sun. 10:05 Lincoln (PG-13) Thu. 12:25-3:50-7:05-10:20 Fri.-Sun. 12:25-3:50-7:15-10:30 Mama (PG-13) Fri.-Sun. 10:10-11:15-12:351:45-3:05-4:15-5:35-6:45-8:00-9:1510:25-11:45 Les Misérables (PG-13) Thu. 11:45-3:106:40-10:10 Fri.-Sun. 11:50-3:10-6:4510:10 Monsters, Inc. 3D (G) Thu. 12:45-3:05-5:30 Parental Guidance (PG) Thu. 11:45-2:104:35-7:35-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 11:00-1:40-7:20

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Les Misérables (PG-13) Thu. (1:00-5:00) 8:30 Parental Guidance (PG) Thu. (12:15-2:455:15) 7:45-10:15 Rise of the Guardians (PG) Thu. (12:00-2:305:00) Texas Chainsaw (R) Thu. (12:30-5:20) Texas Chainsaw 3D (R) Thu. (2:55) 7:45 This Is 40 (R) Thu. 6:50 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu. (12:45-3:25) Zero Dark Thirty (R) Thu. (2:00-5:30) 9:00

go o movies

5. “Les Miserables,” Universal, $9,644,465, $118,723,185, three weeks. 6. “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,” Warner Bros., $9,168,431, $278,212,618, five weeks. 7. “Lincoln,” Disney, $6,335,193, $152,600,253, 10 weeks. 8. “Parental Guidance,” Fox, $6,088,838, $60,639,142, three weeks. 9. “Texas Chainsaw 3-D,” Lionsgate, $5,279,245, $30,880,985, two weeks. 10. “Silver Linings Playbook,” Weinstein Co., $5,018,527, $41,324,232, nine weeks. 11. “Jack Reacher,” Paramount, $4,820,255, $72,628,585, four weeks. 12. “This Is 40,” Universal, $4,373,225, $61,442,180, four weeks. 13. “Life of Pi,” Fox, $2,704,574, $94,800,726, eight weeks. 14. “The Impossible,” Summit, $2,531,117, $6,845,206, four weeks. 15. “The Guilt Trip,” Paramount, $1,901,160, $34,464,057, four weeks. Associated Press

Promised Land (R) Thu. 12:20-2:50-5:25 Rise of the Guardians (PG) Thu. 11:40-2:05 Silver Linings Playbook (R) Thu. 1:30-4:407:25-10:10 Fri.-Sun. 10:40-1:30-4:257:30-10:15 Skyfall (PG-13) Thu. 12:10-4:00-7:20-10:35 Fri.-Sun. 9:50 Texas Chainsaw 3D (R) Thu. 12:45-3:055:20-7:40-9:55 Fri.-Sun. 12:20-2:55-7:3512:15 This Is 40 (R) Thu. 1:35-4:30 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu. 1:45-4:25 Fri.Sun. 11:10-1:45-7:20 Wreck-It Ralph 3D (PG) Fri.-Sun. 4:30 Zero Dark Thirty (R) Thu. 12:05-12:253:35-3:55-7:00-7:20-10:25-10:45 Fri.-Sat. 10:10-11:40-1:35-3:25-5:00-7:00-8:2510:30-11:50 Sun. 10:10-11:40-1:35-3:255:00-7:00-8:25-10:30

Movies 400 678-513-4400

415 Atlanta Road, Cumming

Broken City (R) Fri. (1:30-4:10) 7:15-10:00 Django Unchained (R) Thu. (1:00-4:40) Gangster Squad (R) Thu. (1:10-4:15) 7:2010:05 The Guilt Trip (PG-13) Thu. 7:30 A Haunted House (R) Thu. (12:30-2:50-5:10) 7:30-9:50 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (PG-13) Thu. (12:45-4:25) 8:05 Jack Reacher (PG-13) Thu. (12:45-3:50) 7:00-10:05 Lincoln (PG-13) Thu. (1:50-5:10) 8:45

Habersham Hills Cinemas 6 706-776-7469 2115 Cody Road, Mount Airy

Gangster Squad (R) Fri. 4:15-7:00-9:30 Sat.-Sun. 1:45-4:15-7:00-9:30 A Haunted House (R) Fri. 5:30-7:30-10:00 Sat.-Sun. 2:00-5:30-7:30-10:00 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (PG-13) Thu. 4:15-8:00 Hyde Park on Hudson (R) Thu. 5:00-7:309:45 The Last Stand (R) Fri. 4:45-7:15-9:45 Sat.Sun. 1:45-4:45-7:15-9:45 Mama (PG-13) Fri. 4:30-7:15-9:45 Sat.-Sun. 2:00-4:30-7:15-9:45 Parental Guidance (PG) Thu. 5:00-7:3010:00 Fri. 4:30-7:00-9:30 Sat.-Sun. 1:304:30-7:00-9:30 Promised Land (R) Thu. 4:15-7:00-9:45 Texas Chainsaw (R) Thu. 4:45-7:15-10:00 Zero Dark Thirty (R) Thu. 4:30-8:00 Fri. 4:45-8:00 Sat.-Sun. 1:30-4:45-8:00

Dawson 400 Stadium Cinemas 706-216-1622 189 North 400 Center Lane, Dawsonville

Broken City (R) Thu. 10:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:404:10-7:15-9:40 Django Unchained (R) Thu. 4:30-8:00 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (PG-13) Thu. 4:15 Hyde Park on Hudson (R) Thu. 4:25-7:1010:00 Fri.-Sun. 12:05-2:15-4:25-7:1010:00 Jack Reacher (PG-13) Thu. 4:05-7:10-9:40 Fri.-Sun. 1:30-4:05-7:10-9:40 The Last Stand (R) Thu. 10:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:20-4:00-7:00-9:30 Mama (PG-13) Thu. 10:00 Fri.-Sun. 12:002:20-4:40-7:05-10:00 Les Misérables (PG-13) Thu. 4:00-8:00 Fri.Sun. 12:00-4:00-8:00 Parental Guidance (PG) Thu. 4:10-7:00-9:55 Fri.-Sun. 1:25-4:10-7:00-9:25 Promised Land (R) Thu. 4:15-7:00-9:35 Fri.Sun. 1:30-4:15-7:00-9:35 Rise of the Guardians (PG) Thu. 4:40 Silver Linings Playbook (R) Fri.-Sun. 1:354:20-7:05-9:25 Skyfall (PG-13) Thu. 6:50 Texas Chainsaw 3D (R) Thu. 4:40-7:00 Zero Dark Thirty (R) Thu. 4:00-8:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-4:30-8:00

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Thursday, January 17, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

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now showing Movie reviews from Associated Press. Stars out of four.

opening

‘Broken City’

HHH (R for strong language, some sexual content, violence.) The reality is that, while “Broken City” is hardly revolutionary, it’s a slyly entertaining cop saga that leans more heavily on acting and dialogue than gunplay and chases. Mark Wahlberg is Billy Taggart, a New York City detective who left the force under a cloud seven years ago after a high-profile shooting. Now, he’s a lowrent private eye who has been reduced to taking incriminating photos of wayward spouses. To add financial insult to career injury, he then has to hound his loutish clients to get paid. So when the pugnacious mayor (Russell Crowe) summons Billy to his office, says he thinks the city’s first lady (Catherine Zeta-Jones) has been playing around, and offers him $50,000 to come up with the goods, he’s is more than happy to take the job. But the payday soon turns into a nightmare as Billy realizes that what seemed like a simple love triangle is really a complex web of political corruption and civic chicanery.

continuing

‘A Haunted House’

H (R for crude and sexual content, language and some drug use.) Marlon Wayans wrings every last down-and-dirty giggle out of a single joke in “A Haunted House,” his return to “Scary Movie” territory, in truth if not by contract. He’s no longer involved in that series, so he limited himself to

20th Century Fox

Russell Crowe, left, grabs Mark Wahlberg’s coat in a scene from “Broken City.”

making fun not of every modern “scary” movie, but just the “Paranormal Activity” series. And for 85 rude and raunchy minutes, he does his best to drive a comical stake through the heart of horror’s hottest franchise and the “found footage” genre. It’s a “what if ghosts visited a randy black couple in the suburbs” take on “Paranormal,” covering much of the same territory as the movies that inspired it — consulting a Ouija board and a gay psychic, wiring the tract house with cameras to catch images of the things that go bump in the night, and the couple (Wayans and Essence Atkins) who go bump in the bedroom. ‘Zero Dark Thirty’

HHHHH (R for strong violence including brutal disturbing images, and for strong language.) Everyone knows how “Zero Dark Thirty” ends: with the killing of Osama bin Laden in his Pakistani compound by SEAL Team Six. But it’s how it begins — with the hauntingly effective use of voices of the 9-11 victims and then a pummeling abuse of a

prisoner at a clandestine CIA “black site” — that has inflamed the passions of both conservatives and liberals. That world comes brutally alive in Kathryn Bigelow’s new film, a harrowing adventure behind the headlines that is at once a riveting procedural and, at the same time, a bracing political statement on the moral ambiguities of our war on terror. Jessica Chastain plays Maya, a CIA analyst who is singlemindedly on the trail of Osama bin Laden, even when her boss, Joseph Bradley (Kyle Chandler), wants her not to spend so much time on it. It’s the slow piecing together of evidence — along with the increasing urgency fueled by events such as the London bus bombing in 2005 and Islamabad Marriott Hotel bombing in 2008 — that gives Maya the impetus to keep going. ‘Promised Land’

HH (R for language.) An experience that’s alternately amusing and frustrating, full of impassioned earnestness and saggy sections.

Open Road Films

From left, Andrew Daly, Marlene Forte, Essence Atkins and Marlon Wayans in a scene from “A Haunted House.”

Director Gus Van Sant has the challenge of taking the topic of fracking and trying to make it cinematic. Working from a script by co-stars Matt Damon and John Krasinski, based on a story by Dave Eggers, he succeeds in fits and starts. The impoverished small town that’s the tale’s setting, a place in need of the kind of economic rejuvenation fracking could provide, is full of folksy folks whose interactions with the main characters don’t always ring true. “Promised Land” has its heart on its sleeve and makes its pro-environment message quite clear, but it’s in the looser and more ambiguous places that the film actually works. Damon stars as Steve Butler, a salesman traveling the country on behalf of a bland behemoth of

an energy corporation. Having grown up on an Iowa farm himself and seeing how an economic downturn can devastate a small town, Butler seems to be a true believer in what he’s selling. But he’s also a pragmatist, as evidenced by the playfully cynical give-and-take he enjoys with his partner, Sue (a sharp Frances McDormand). Famously

for his efficiency in persuading rural residents to sell their land for the drilling rights, Steve runs into a major challenge when he and Sue arrive in depressed McKinley, Pa., where an outspoken old-timer (Hal Holbrook) and a flashy, charismatic environmental crusader (Krasinski) dare to question the company’s methods.

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, January 17, 2013

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‘Gangster Squad’

HHH (R for strong violence and language.) “Gangster Squad” is a gang-war drama built on Western conventions, a rootin’ tootin’, Camel-smokin’, whiskey swillin’ shoot‘em-up about a lawless period in L.A.’s history when a small cadre of cops, working outside the law, took on mob boss Mickey Cohen in a fight for “the soul of Los Angeles.” Josh Brolin ably handles the John Wayne role, the paragon of virtue, an incorruptible police sergeant tasked by the only honest police chief (Nick Nolte) to chase out mob boss Mickey Cohen (Sean Penn, pugnacious, ferocious). Ryan Gosling is Jerry Waters, the cynical detective/ gunslinger who will have to take sides, but is going to take some convincing. Anthony Mackie’s the knife-throwing street cop from the black side of town. Robert Patrick is the aged pistolero and holdover from the “real Wild West.” Michael Pena represents the city’s Hispanic underclass, a kid who needs to prove himself. And Giovanni Ribisi is “the brains,” the cop with the glasses and the Army-based knowledge of wiretaps. They’re a regular “Magnificent Six.” “Who’s the tomato?” That would be Emma Stone, playing the “dance-hall girl,” the mobster’s young moll “poached” by the handsome Jerry. ‘Amour’

HH½ (PG-13 for mature thematic material including a disturbing act, and for brief language.) Michael Haneke takes a subject you don’t often see in movies and probably don’t even want to see — the slow, steady deterioration of an elderly woman — and handles it with

go o movies Sony Pictures Classics

Jean-Louis Trintignant in a scene from the Austrian film, “Amour.”

Warner Bros. Pictures

Ryan Gosling as Sgt. Jerry Wooters in “Gangster Squad.”

great grace. The Austrian writer-director, who’s achieved a reputation for a certain mercilessness over the years through films like “Cache” and “Funny Games,” displays a surprising and consistent humanity here, and draws unadorned but lovely performances from his veteran stars, Jean-Louis Trintignant and Emmanuelle Riva. Haneke focuses on the intimate moments of their changing lives as the longtime married couple remains holed up in their comfortable Paris apartment, coping day to day, waiting for eventual death. It will surely strike a chord with anyone who’s watched a loved one slip away in

this manner, whether it’s a parent or a spouse. But Haneke’s aesthetic can feel too stripped-down, too one-note in its dignified monotony. He will hold a shot, as we know, and once again he avoids the use of a score, so all that’s left to focus on is the insular, dreary stillness of quiet descent. Certainly minimalism is preferable to melodrama in telling this kind of story, but Haneke takes this approach to such an extreme that it’s often hard to maintain emotional engagement. In French with English subtitles. ‘Django Unchained’

HH(R for strong graphic violence throughout, a

vicious fight, language and some nudity.) In Quentin Tarantino’s new tale of wickedly savage retribution, a black man (Jamie Foxx) gets to rewrite Deep South history by becoming a bounty hunter on a killing spree of white slave owners and overseers just before the Civil War. The usual Tarantino genre mishmash — a dab of blaxploitation here, a dollop of spaghetti Western there — is so familiar now that it’s tiresome, more so because the filmmaker continues to linger with chortling delight over every scene, letting

conversations run on interminably and gunfights carry on to grotesque excess. Bodies bursting blood like exploding water balloons? Perversely fun the first five or six times, pretty dreary the 20th or 30th. Tarantino always gets good actors who deliver, though, and it’s the performances by Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, Christoph Waltz and Samuel L. Jackson that make the film intermittently entertaining amid moments when the characters are either talking one another to death or just plain killing each other.

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Thursday, January 17, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Swing into spring with jazz series

concert calendar

Jeni Michelson with the Society Express Quartet to perform on Saturday

Jeni Michelson with Society Express Quartet, Gainesville. 8 p.m. Jan. 19. The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SW, Gainesville. $30. 770534-2787, www.TheArtsCouncil.net The Darnell Boys of Athens Concert, Toccoa. 7 p.m. Jan. 18. Schaefer Center, 125 W. Doyle St., Toccoa. Free.

From staff reports If jazz is your thing, the Arts Council has got your swing. The Arts Council’s 2013 Evenings Of Intimate Jazz series begins with a performance at 8 p.m. Jan. 19 by the Jeni Michelson with Society Express Quartet. Other performers in this series include Havana Son Trio, Feb. 1; Evan Christopher Trio, March 23; Annie Sellick Trio, April 13; and Joe Gransden & Kenny Banks, May 18. Each performance will start at 8 p.m. at The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center. Series tickets are $125 per person and include all five performances. Individual performance tickets are $30 per person or $25 each with the purchase of six or more tickets. For tickets call 770-534-2787 or visit www.TheArtsCouncil.net The Society Express Band, from Atlanta, was voted in 2006 and 2007 as a Top 150 Hottest Bands in the USA by Modern Bride Magazine. The group, together for more than 16 years, plays swing, jazz, Motown, classic rock, funk, salsa, pop, beach and blues. Band leader Jeni Michelson has performed in the Atlanta area for more than 25 years, captivating audiences with her powerhouse vocals and piano. She is an internationally published songwriter who has written numerous award-winning advertising jingles for radio and television. She has performed for President Jimmy Carter and Govs. Zell Miller, Roy Barnes and Sonny Perdue, Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, Sen. Sam Nunn and Ambassador Andrew Young.

Upcoming

For Get Out

Jeni Michelson with Society Express Quartet Evenings of Intimate Jazz series When: 8 p.m. Jan. 19 Where: Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St., Gainesville How much: $30 per concert, $125 for series More info: 770-534-2787, www.theartscouncil.net

The top 10 songs and albums on the iTunes Store Associated Press Top Songs: 1. “Thrift Shop (feat. Wanz),” Ryan Lewis, Macklemore 2. “I Knew You Were Trouble,” Taylor Swift 3. “Scream & Shout (feat. Britney Spears),” will.i.am 4. “Locked Out of Heaven,” Bruno Mars 5. “Ho Hey,” The Lumineers 6. “Don’t You Worry Child (Radio Edit) (feat. John Martin),” Swedish House Mafia

7. “Don’t Stop the Party (feat. TJR),” Pitbull 8. “Home,” Phillip Phillips 9. “Beauty and a Beat (feat. Nicki Minaj),” Justin Bieber 10. “Sure Be Cool If You Did,” Blake Shelton Top Albums: 1. “Pitch Perfect (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack),” Various Artists 2. “Notes from the Underground (Unabridged),” Hollywood Undead

This week

3. “Les Miserables: Highlights from the Motion Picture Soundtrack,” Various Artists 4. “Red,” Taylor Swift 5. “Burning Lights,” Chris Tomlin 6. “Night Visions,” Imagine Dragons 7. “The Lumineers,” The Lumineers 8. “Babel,” Mumford & Sons 9. “Unorthodox Jukebox,” Bruno Mars 10. “The Heist,” Ryan Lewis, Macklemore

Associated Press

“Thrift Shop” by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis featuring Wanz, was the top streamed tracks on Spotify from Dec. 31 to Jan. 6.

Chick Corea and Gary Burton with the Harlem String Quartet, Atlanta. 8 p.m. Jan. 26. 349 Ferst Drive, Atlanta. Audience members are invited to “Jazz Connect,” a free pre-show jazz talk led by Jay Edwards, host of “Jazz Tones” on WCLK 91.9 FM at 7:00 p.m. $40-$50, club seating section $65. 404-894-9600, www.ferstcenter.org Havana Son Trio, Gainesville. 8 p.m. Feb. 1. The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SW, Gainesville. $30. 770-534-2787, www.TheArtsCouncil. net Uganda, Africa Watoto Children’s Choir, Gainesville. Feb. 3. The Highlands Church, 3678 Cleveland Highway, Gainesville. 706-726-5686, thehighlandschurch.net Classical guitarist Jeff Bianchi, Gainesville. 7 p.m. Feb. 23. Free. Inman Perk Cafe, 102 Washington St. SW, Gainesville. P!nk, “The Truth About Love,” 2013 North American Tour, Atlanta. March 1. Philips Arena.LiveNation.com, Ticketmaster.com Nuclear Cowboyz, Atlanta. March 2 and 3. Philips Arena. Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Ball World Tour, Atlanta. March 11. Philips Arena. LiveNation.com, Ticketmaster.com Evan Christopher Trio, Gainesville. 8 p.m. March 23. The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SW, Gainesville. $30. 770-534-2787, www.TheArtsCouncil. net Annie Sellick Trio, Gainesville. 8 p.m. April 13. The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SW, Gainesville. $30. 770-534-2787, www.TheArtsCouncil. net Rihanna Diamonds World Tour, Atlanta. April 22. Philips Arena. LiveNation.com, Ticketmaster.com Joe Gransden & Friends, Gainesville. 8 p.m. May 4. The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SW, Gainesville. $30. 770-534-2787, www.TheArtsCouncil. net

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, January 17, 2013

PAGE

Scope out some technical help

outdoors events

Astronomy club holding free sessions for star gazing

Forgotten Skills: Keeping Traditions Alive, Class 5, Gainesville. 10 a.m. Jan. 19. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St. NE, Gainesville. Cooking meals outdoors using dutch oven and bamboo. Class limited to 12. $65, $60 for members. Advance registration appreciated. Ages 10 and older; 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org or jcarson@brenau.edu Survival Skills Series Part 1, Helen. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 19. Smithgall Woods State Park, Helen. Basic land navigation, explanation of the compass, true north, magnetic north, bearing/azimuth, terrain features and more. Register in advance. $20-$95, $5 parking. 706-878-3087. Telescope Help, Dahlonega, Oakwood. 5-7 p.m. Jan. 19. University of North Georgia, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega; 5-7 p.m. Jan. 20, UNG’s Gainesville campus, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. If you have a new telescope or if you have an old telescope in the closet and need some help setting it up, the telescope help sessions are for you. Free. telescopehelp2013@gmail.com

By Christen Robinson

crobinson@gainesvilletimes.com Hollywood isn’t the only place where you can see the stars. This weekend, star gazers have a chance to view them right here in North Georgia by coming to the free telescope help sessions. The North Georgia Astronomers group is hosting two free telescope help sessions detailing the how-tos of putting together your old or new telescope. The first session will be at 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, on the University of North Georgia campus in Dahlonega. At 5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 20, the final session will take place on the University of North Georgia Gainesville campus in Oakwood. This year marks the 15th year the NGA has offered these free tutorial classes. “Usually after Christmas time, people get telescopes they have

Telescope Help Sessions

go o outdoors

When: 5 p.m. Jan. 19 Where: University of North Georgia, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega When: 5 p.m. Jan 20 Where: University of North Georgia, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. How much: Free More info: telescopehelp2013@gmail.com

trouble putting together. That’s where we come in,” said Robert Webb, president of the North Georgia Astronomers. People are urged to register by email at telescopehelp2013@gmail. com and indicate how many people they are planning to bring. The NGA will then email the map of where the meet-up spot will be located. The sessions both start in a classroom and then proceed outside to a site. “We try to do the sessions on

nights when people can see a lot out there. These nights they will be able to see Jupiter,” Webb said. For people who do not own a telescope and want to get a glance at the stars as well, the University of North Georgia’s planetarium has free live shows at 8 p.m. every Friday for viewing of the stars and planets. For more information on the telescope help sessions or to become a member of the North Georgia Astronomers, email telescopehelp2013@gmail.com.

This week

Upcoming

Special Olympics Polar Plunge, Buford. 11 a.m. Feb. 16. Lake Lanier Islands, 7000 Holiday Road, Buford. The Polar Plunge is the largest fundraising effort benefiting Special Olympics. Free to watch, $50 to plunge. 770-414-9390 ext. 119 or Danny.Knight@SpecialOlympicsGA.org, www. polarplungega.com

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Thursday, January 17, 2013

Monday – Friday Through March 9

LOCAL

COLOR Brenau University, Simmons Visual Arts Center, Sellars Gallery

This exhibition explores the work of local photographers who have connections to Brenau University and the Gainesville community. Their outstanding and engaging works reveal the “local color” of northeast Georgia through landscapes, portraits and photojournalism. Free and open to the public. For info call 770.534.6263. Sellars Gallery is located in the Simmons Visual Arts Center, 200 Boulevard, Gainesville, GA 30501 www.brenau.edu