Sad commentary on the state of journalism

"So you want to be a journalist" is the title of this humorous but biting piece on the state of journalism posted on xtranormal.com. This piece is full of bitterness but was obviously written by someone with intimate knowledge of the newspaper business. Sadly, more than a few bits are dead on. 

Keaton's genius gets props, 86 years later

After reading a very interesting Wired magazine story on Buster Keaton's ground-breaking stunts and special effects, I went online in search of the 1924 movie in question. Outside of the clip with the Wired story, I never found a legal version of the movie. I did stumble across the video above, however, which delivers a summary of Keaton's crazy genius in matching stunts and choreography. 

He was the Jackie Chan of his day, and while I knew his name, I have never seen his work. Shame on me.

I always thought The Three Stooges deserved major props for their masterful choreography. Add Keaton to that list. 

"Boardwalk Empire" is superb TV

I just finished watching Season 1 of HBO's "Boardwalk Empire" and have to say I haven't enjoyed a TV series as much in a long time. 

In a pinch, I'd place it between "The Wire" (best TV series ever) and "The Sopranos" in terms of quality.  "Boardwalk Empire" shares key themes from both of those HBO series -- gangsters, crime, sociology -- but manages to stay fresh, even under the direction of Martin Scorcese, who never seems to stray far from tales of organized crime. Perhaps it's the grandiose sets and period dress that give it an edge.

Steve Buscemi is excellent in the lead role of crime boss "Nucky Thompson" but his supporting cast is equally top notch, particularly Michael Pitt as "Jimmy Darmody" and Michael Shannon's multi-layered "Agent Nelson Van Alden." Like "The Wire," many involved storylines intertwine over the course of 12 episodes, leading to an exciting finale that has you itching for Season 2. Note for the fainthearted: There's lots of cussing, nudity and violence. 

"Boardwalk Empire" is not yet out on DVD so HBO is your only legal viewing choice at this point. Those who seek it out will not be disappointed.