JudyBlue

In an incredible combination of splatter-humour, surrealism and shocking violence, Gregg Araki gives a thorough description of a generation attracted to filth and darkness. "The doom generation" as he names them, are aroused by violence, sexual deviance and anything that can further degrade them as human beings. The plot is simple, three teens on a roadtrip through their own perception of hell unintentionally end up on a killing spree. The characters all live entirely in their own world, and the dialogue shifts between consciously pretentious and Beavis&Butthead-stupidity. Gregg Araki is an excellent director, the film is packed with talented actors, and although it is obviously low-budget and the more technical things, like the sound, are often less than perfect, the movie has no problem distributing the blows when it needs to, and delivers a climax that sticks with you for weeks. So yes it certainly has more to offer intellectually than you might think. It's "Generation X" for those of us who can't identify with people doing nothing. These are people doing everything without giving a damn. Whatever.

Like most of Spike Lee's films, "Get on the bus" is first and foremost a refreshing alternative to the wave of black-on-black violence cinema started by "Boyz n the hood". While racial issues are present and highlighted, the focus is still human interaction and man's flocking nature. Spike Lee knows how to add depth to his characters, and as the film evolves, the lives and pasts of the central characters unravel piece by piece. Yet, as the many differences are revealed, so are the similarities, and ultimately, the need for companionship in the fight against racism is stronger than any prejudice. Other issues, like reverse racism and homophobia are added as extra spice, preventing the film from ever becoming boring. "Get on the bus" is a warm feel-good movie from the man who convinced me that Harlem would be a nice place to live.

'Merlin' is an impressive attempt at blending old-fashioned fairytaling with modern direction techniques and computer effects. Though some of the 3D modelled creatures are cartoony and reminiscent of horrible turkeys like 'Spawn', most of the time it works its magic, believably sculpting a classic world of adventure. At worst it's 'Hercules' or 'Xena', a good story made hip by cheesy acting and special effects. At best it's a cross between 'Snowwhite' and 'Masters of the universe', magical and beautiful, where it's clothing and makeup that represent the moral integrity of your intentions, not your actual actions.