bluknu

With this movie being a take on Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," one challenge is to get the audience invested in the main characters, and drawn in by the storytelling, while presenting an overly familiar plot. However, the idea that Murray's character learns the error of his ways, or is worthy of redemption in the eyes of a love interest, is a bit strained. (A Bill Murray movie that does this well, by comparison, is Groundhog Day.) The idiom of describing a thing as "better than the some of its parts" is not true in this case. This film feels more like a bunch of parts that are disjointed, but shown in sequence. Some saving graces of this movie include: Nice celebrity cameos in the TV production of "A Christmas Carol" (which Murray's character oversees) and some good costumes and makeup. All in all, it's not the worst way to pass the time, while you're huddled in front of a living room TV with your extended family during the holidays.

I'm reviewing "Jaco" after seeing it for the second time in three years. This time it became apparent to me that Jaco ("the greatest bass player who ever lived") was a real life Tragic Hero in the classical sense. He had a seemingly supernatural gift, but ultimately mental illness and addiction plagued him after his rise to the top. The documentary lays out that story, and features commentary by some of the collaborating musicians who were also at the top of their field (Joni Mitchell, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter). Viewers who are unfamiliar with Jaco Pastorius might not find this as engaging as his fans will. But for those who are curious about a musician who completely revolutionized the way of playing his instrument, this doc might turn you on to one of the greats.

This comedy can really hold your interest. Huntsberger has an effortless, stream-of-consciousness delivery style, which stands alongside clever animations throughout. It's a unique special with thoughtful twists to its humor.