ThomYorke

I discovered this film at Blockbuster, and it's coming on DVD tomorrow and it's a film that suspense fans should rent.

The plot is minimal, but, that's meant to be a compliment. It's suspenseful at times and "grungy Santa" was very disturbing. And, it's darkly humorous at times a le De Palma.

Some minor quibbles. The quality even of the DVD is a bit grainy, especially in the earlier scenes. And the acting by the owner of the restaurant is terrible. Even the girl overacts sometimes.

But the way the plot unfolds is sad, tragic. But, it's about what you would expect. You do end up feeling sorry for Alec.

Rent this on a lonely Saturday night, if you like suspense films. You'll not be disappointed.

This is a mockumentary taking us inside Roc A Fella records. If you are not a fan of rap and don't know much about Jay-Z and Damon Dash, this film will not much appeal to you. But, if you're a fan of rap, as I am, then it's definitely worth a look.

There are some good things in this film. The actors playing Jay and Damon, as they do not play themselves, are very good for this sorta material. And, there are some very funny moments and in jokes, especially if you know a lot about the people in this record label before hand. This is also a very good look at hip hop culture and also a moral tale about selling one's soul for fame or respect.

But, sometimes, the script is sometimes childish, and the main character is really annoying and is obviously a generic poser, but, maybe that's the point.

I would overall have to say for some, this film will seem terrible. But, with a built in crowd, and if you are looking for a few laughs and a different kind of movie, check this one out as a rental sometime.

6 out of 10.

When "Reasonable Doubt" was released, it was an instant classic by one of the best rappers of all time.

Jay-Z's "Fade to Black" is two movies in one. The first is Jay's last concert at Madison Square Garden promoting his latest and last album, "The Black Album." The second film is recording sessions that go behind Jay'Z's making of said album.

Well, the concert footage is great. One of the best concert films I've ever seen. Jay-Z's performance on stage is nothing short of adrenaline pumping. The guests are always game, even, if only for a verse. Some get more screen time than others, such as Memphis Bleek. Twista, Kanye West, Memph Bleek and Beanie Siegel make an impression. Mary J Blige is excellent. Others, such as Missy Elliott and Foxy Brown barely make an impression.

In short, this is an excellent concert film and if you are a Jay-Z fan, you should buy this one, because you will not be disappointed.

Some minor quibbles. The making of the album footage, while interesting, because Jay-Z never writes his rhymes down, he memorizes them all, and kinda freestyles in the booth, that's very compelling. But, it does get a bit redundant.

This film would be a ten if it was just the concert from beginning to end.

Minor quibbles. Great concert film. Energetic, always entertaining and humorous, this is a good film, especially if you're a hip hop fan. If not, something may be lost in translation. But, if you're inclined to read this, you will not be disappointed. Thumbs way up.