Was it really only yesterday that we were listening to the pop-y ass-kicking slogan, “Since you been gone ... I can breeeathe for the first time ...” from American Idol Kelly Clarkson? Oh wait ... It was. With her latest album, All I Ever Wanted, Kelly relaunched her nearly forgotten career and wowed aging Idol fans. Does anyone even remember a time when Simon Cowell’s British sneer struck fear in the heart of Idol audiences everywhere? Kelly, who is arguably the true Idol because, well, she won the first one, deserved a good comeback, and luckily, she got one.
But speaking of comebacks, will I Love You, Man impress audiences as much as corporate Hollywood wants it to? If its press kit has anything to do with it, maybe not. This week we take a look at the inner workings of corporate promotion and come to the conclusion that it really ... sucks. But perhaps the film will surprise and delight us all. As a side note, the new spotlight on Jason Segel after his beloved run in the cult favorite Freaks and Geeks is fabulous.
Other major news in the A&E world: Resident Evil 5 is awesome. No, but really. For any nay-sayers out there hating on RE2 or any other part of the franchise, shut up and play — and be wowed by the slick character models, the bloodthirsty battles and the “Mercenaries” mode.
For those who frequent Charlottesville’s music venues, take a look at what’s going on at the endangered Gravity Lounge. Located on the Downtown Mall, Gravity is one of the best venues for music in Charlottesville — and not just because it’s one of the only surviving ones. After the deaths of Starr Hill and Satellite Ballroom — combined with the unending renovation of Jefferson Theatre — live music in town has lost most of its spark and, subsequently, space to play. If Gravity goes under, where will our favorite bands turn? Bodo’s? The Rotunda? On second thought, that’d be awesome. For the local music scene to continue thriving and bringing in those acts we love — Girl Talk, Architecture In Helsinki, Minus the Bear — vibrant venues are needed. Do your part to save these places by moshing, head-bobbing and dancing more at the next Gravity show.
Finally, don’t forget to check our brand-spanking-new tableau blog: cd-tableau.blogspot.com. Check in daily for all the latest updates on everything and anything A&E!
—stephanie garcia
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