May: A Memoir

TV SHOW OF THE MONTH: Lost
Six years ago, JJ Abrams pitched an idea for a TV show to ABC. He said the show, whilst having an overall story arc, would be comprised of easy to follow story lines and allow viewers to dip in and out each episode with ease, not needing to know what came before it to understand what was happening. If you watched Lost, whether it was just one episode you found yourself not knowing what the hell was going on, or whether you were a devoted fan for the past six seasons, you would know that JJ Abrams lied. And I, like the millions of like-minded Lost fans around the world, am thankful for it. First Abrams, then Carlton Cuse and Damon Lindelof took us on an adventure of epic proportions, in the truest sense of the word. They made us laugh, cry, theorise for hours over what was in the hatch, who the Others were and whether Tom Friendly was gay. So, when it came to the finale, many of us were on edge over whether it would be a fitting finale. It was. They gave it full closure, but still left plenty open for interpretation, and whilst everyone had been fretting over the mythology and possible clashes of alternate realities, they made us realise one of the true reasons why Lost was as successful as it was: the characters. And it gave them just the send off they deserved.

-Charles

CELEBRITY SCANDAL OF THE MONTH: Hayley Williams Gets Naked!
So, this feature died a few months ago, but I have decided to resurrect it, because it’s awful and fun.
Tweens everywhere were having a Riot! as a topless snap of Paramore’s lead singer, Hayley Williams, emerged on Twitter. You could say we saw the previously wholesome and Christian Hayley with Brand New Eyes- ok, I’ll stop now. However, a few questions have been raised:

1. Hayley claims her Twitter account was ‘hacked’- that may be, but how did the alleged hacker get hold of the picture in the first place? Could it be a little bit of Paramore-produced salacious gossip to keep the wemo-train rolling after we all got fed up of ‘The Only Exception’?
2. Surely Hayley should know that lying on your back is the most unflattering tit pic pose ever, as said mammary glands have a tendency to roam to the sides?
3. Does this mean redheads are cool again, and I no longer have to live in fear of MIA exterminating me?

-Eileen

FILM OF THE MONTH: Prince of PersiaThis month saw the Disney video turned movie hit the scenes and man, was it awesome. In the movie, Dastan, played by the uber sexy Jake Gyl-something, is taken from the streets and turned into a prince. His country, Persia, are known for their miltary prowess and guerilla tactics attack the holy city of Alamut, overseen by Princess Tamina's, played by my favourite actress Gemma Aterton. Course, things are never simple and after the intinal celebration of Alamut's fall, things start to go terrible wrong. Cue a magical dagger, orstich races, poisoned cloaks and lots of sand. All the ingredients to a fantastic movie, I must say. The Prince of Persia, is a movie of hair breath fight scenes, amazing CGI, fantasticly interesting plot twists and a love affair that will made you swoon, not vomit. Oh and lots of sand.

-Chloe

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: High Violet

‘High Violet’; The National’s fifth album, was released on May 10th. Pitchfork reviewed it as "the sound of a band taking a mandate to be a meaningful rock band seriously," giving it a score of 8.7 out of 10, only 0.1 marks higher than their most well known album ‘Boxer.' To be honest, my expectations for this album were unreasonably high, due to a love for ‘Boxer,' leaving me slightly disappointed. However, in its own right ‘High Violet’ is an outstanding album from an outstanding artist, and almost certainly deserves a place in this year’s album charts.

-Tri

FASHION DESIGNER OF THE MONTH: WhitIf I (God forbid) end up having to put in my nine to five in some office somewhere, Whit would be my first choice for smart yet awesome attire. Whit is the debut line from Whitney Pozgay (Kate Spade’s niece), and is said to be influenced by Henry Darger, Nouvelle Vague and Birkin. Combining playful with timeless, polka dots with silk screen and classic cuts with kooky headwear, every piece in this collection is a show stopper. Grab it from July here.

-Eileen

DANCE OF THE MONTH: Diversity

This month’s best dance routine comes from the first semi final of this year’s ‘Britains Got Talent’. Last years winners; Diversity, graced our screens with yet another outstanding performance that shows their...well, their diversity. The things most notable about this routine, other their trademark imaginative choreography, are the way they combine shapes, are always in unison when dancing together, and the little kid with curly hair – so talented and so cute!

-Tri

POSTS OF THE MONTHZooey Deschanel- Charles shares his fool-proof plan to finally get close to the girl of his dreams. To follow this plan, you will need to buy fake sideburns and partake in a bit of good old-fashioned breaking and entering. Trust us, it’s as creepy as it sounds.

Random Thing I Want: One Sketch a Day Journal- So far, in her ‘RTIW’ series, Chloe has brought us edible facial hair, poultry, and launched a campaign to prevent cruelty to lobsters. This edition shares a common ATS love- notebooks.

5 Vintage E-Bay Sites- E-Bay isn’t just a domain for used lawn furniture and tat you couldn’t flog at a flea market. A select few sell exquisite vintage clothes, and Eileen has trawled through the used bathrobes and authentic Shatner toupees to bring you the best of the best.

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April: A Memoir

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: SIX GALLERY- BREAKTHROUGHS IN MODERN ARTOk, so technically speaking, this album was released in March, not April, but it would actually be a crime not to share this with you. The few who were familiar with Six Gallery before ‘BIMA’ were acquainted with a supremely talented instrumental math-rock band, known for their ridiculously complex rhythmical structures and downright amazing guitar skills. What’s been added to the mix this time around, surprisingly, is a young vocalist by the name of Daniel Francis. It’s a decision that could’ve completely compromised the core sound of Six Gallery- fortunately, it’s allowed them to scale all new heights of genius. Francis’ voice acts as a soothing lullaby when accompanying the fleetingly soft percussion, and as a commanding roar as the guitars rage on in a cavalcade of perfect, delicious noise. It’s difficult to remember as you’re smacked in the face with their sheer musical prowess that this is a debut album- and it’s easily the best debut I’ve ever heard.


FILM OF THE MONTH: KICK-ASS
It was one of my ‘Could-Go-Either-Way’ film picks, and it definitely went in the right direction. What I wasn’t expecting, though, was how dramatic this film was. When watching the trailer, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were about to watch a comedy film- well, you’re not. As well as feeding the more violent appetite in turns both bloody and brutal, it would take an audience with a heart of stone not to be touched (or slightly disturbed) by the father-daughter relationship between Big Daddy (Nicholas Cage) and Hit Girl (the talented Chloe Moretz). If you’re looking for something light-hearted, this potentially isn’t the film for you- but if you’re looking for violence, kick-ass stunts, laughs, sex, bazookas, and maybe a tear or two, you’re onto a winner.

TV SHOW OF THE MONTH: GLEE (MADONNA SPECIAL)
I'm doing it a little different this month when it comes to TV- why? Because I can. Instead of a show as a whole, I'm zooming in on just one episode and I'm doing 'Glee' again. Why, you might ask once more? Because it was fucking AWESOME. Last week’s episode saw the cast turning to the pop goddess that is Madonna and I don't think anyone in the whole world cannot appreciate that pointy boobed, trend setting, leotard wearing, gyrating wizard of music. With amazing renditions of Marge's best loved hits including 'Like a Prayer', 'Express Yourself' and 'Like a Virgin', it was an almighty hour's TV to behold. I got very excited. However, the cherry on top of this momentous episode had to be Sue Sylvester's copy of the almighty 'Vogue' video. Watch it below- enjoy!



FASHION DESIGNER OF THE MONTH: LEWIS

It’s pretty difficult not to fall in love with Lewis’ Spring/Summer collection just for the pictures- bright, gorgeous images that capture all the fun of the fair. But the collection itself is just as playful- by turns both delicate and bold, capturing the pastel shades of ice cream with clashing block colours straight from the big top. Not only that, but the collection taps into the floral trend, and the sudden vintage fetish that’s swept the high street. It does come at a price- each piece costs upwards of $200- but still, we can dream, can’t we?

POSTS OF THE MONTH
Spotify Discoveries- Chloe shares some hidden musical treasures discovered through Spotify.

5 Male Artists I Have A Man Crush On- In this post, Charles finally puts rumours of his sexuality to bed. Expect naked pictures of Kevin Barnes, and footage of Ryan Dicks ‘Ridin’ tha Chillwave’. Whatever that means.

The Sex Playlist- Our most viewed post this month (wonder why) featured Eileen discussing the dirty and depraved depths of her musical tastes. Giggidy giggidy.

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February: A Memoir

FILM OF THE MONTH: Youth in Revolt“I Want To Tickle Your Belly Button… From The Inside”
The words of a genius? I definitely think so! This line is from the hilarious new film ‘Youth In Revolt’ starring the boy who have made his money off being awkward, Michael Cera, as well as host of others; Jason Long, Zach Galifianakis (the guy from ‘The Hangover’) and ‘new star’ Portia Doubleday- at least, that’s how she keeps being described. It tells the story of Nick Twisp, your stereotypical sensitive virgin who lives his mother who can’t hold down a stable relationship and her idiot boyfriend who rips off three sailors. Because of this they flee to a cabin for a week, where Nick meets Sheeni. Cue the madness. In order to get back to the cabin when they eventually venture back, Nick invents Francois Dillinger, his evil alter-ego with a pedo mustache and the freakiest fucking eyes I have ever seen. But setting fire to his town with his mums car, old caravan and a lot of petrol is just the tip of the iceberg. The best movie I have seen so far this year!

-Chloe

ALBUM OF THE MONTH: Los Campesinos!-Romance is Boring'In Media Res' kicks things off with the heart-wrenching first line, "Let's talk about you for a minute." It builds into an angry, brooding middle section before again threatening tears in what has to be one of Gareth, and indeed the band's, finest moments: "If you were given the option of dying painlessly in peace at forty-five/But with a lover at yr side, after a full and happy life/Is this something that would interest you?"
From then on, the album takes us on a roller-coaster journey of emotion and musical styles, ranging from traditional Los Campesinos! twee pop such as 'There Are Listed Buildings', to the more rockier title track 'Romance Is Boring', eventually culminating in the final, devastating Coda, which leaves me swallowing sadness I feel every listen. It is a record crafted from the heart, and an early and surprising contender for album of the year.

-Charles

TV SHOW OF THE MONTH: CSI TrilogyThis spectacle was for CSI lovers what Jesus’ resurrection would be to Christians. Millions of us tuned in to watch Laurence Fisburne (Grissom-replacement-extraordinaire) travel the country, and with the help of a few of his CSI buddies, try to take down a trafficking system responsible for some of the worst atrocities CSI has ever shown us- illegal organ harvesting, sex slavery, and even making girls who weren’t fit for prostitution become surrogate mothers for cash. Despite being a little disappointed that there wasn’t more interplay between the three CSI teams, this trilogy was as compelling as it was shocking, and I loved every moment of it.

-Eileen

DANCE ROUTINE OF THE MONTH- Rufus Hound's 'Fight for This Love'.

As its coming to the end of this month, I’ve chosen my favourite dance clip (so far) from the first episode of Sport Relief’s ‘Lets Dance’ – basically a mick take of all the other serious dance shows, where celebrities dress up like other celebrities and raise money for charity by making fools of themselves. Genius.
I don’t really have much to say about this video, other than Cheryl Cole if you saw this, you should be worried, because a ginger man in his 30’s wearing split trousers and less than half a top made this song much more entertaining than you ever could. Sorry love.

-Tri

DESIGNER OF THE MONTH- Peter Piloto



Come spring and summer, you may find your high street stores bursting with all the usual classic cuts and work wear staples, but with a twist- a splash of colour here, a few ruffles there. If this is the case, the man to thank for this is Peter Pilotto. But the real reason this fledgling London-based designer really caught my eye is That Dress (on the left). Although gaining a reputation for being a dab hand at the tunic, this dress is something else- part bird of paradise, part firework, this dress is a melange of colour in irregular, painter-esque swathes. An absolute dream.

-Eileen

FUN FACT OF THE MONTH- Women in Horror MonthSeeing as how I know how much my pointless trivia enthrals you, I’ve decided to give you a fun fact about every month. FUN FACT TIME!: This February was the first official Women in Horror Month. This may seem quite trivial, bit it couldn’t have come at a more crucial. In this month’s ‘SFX Magazine: Horror Special’, which claimed to be an ‘ultimate guide’ to horror in all media, not a single woman was mentioned. Not one. Meaning the hard work of writers from Mary Shelley to Poppy Z Brite was completely ignored. I for one feel it’s about time that the stigma of women only being seen in hotpants screaming in the horror genre clears up for good. Find out more about it here.

-Eileen

BEST POSTS OF THE MONTH
Tri's Guide to Toe-Tapping: In a new series here At the Sinema, Tri introduces us to the exciting world of dance. Not one to be missed.

5 Presents to Lose Your Partner- No stranger to scaring people, Chloe shares the secret to making people think you're crazy through the art of tactless gift-giving. Expect bed-wetter covers and toupees.

Lost Knives in a Basement- Charlie's review of up-and-comers Lost Knives, whom he saw in a basement. Because he's that indie.

High Heel Hunt- Eileen embarks on the daunting quest of finding a pair of comfy, clumsy-proof yet beautiful shoes. This may be quite a long series...

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January: A Memoir

The first month of the year has been and gone, which is a bit bleak since I've basically done nothing. If you, like me, have been a bit of a cultural hermit this month, here is our concise round-up, giving you all of the best bits of January without all the snow and coldness and misery. This way, you can get up to date with all of the latest stuff, and your friends will never have to know you spent the entire month in your room, watching Tarantino movies and progressively becoming wider- or what that just me? Anyway, moving on...

TV Show of The Month: Glee

Glee, for us British, has only just hit our screens, but has already caused quite a stir with the public. And apparently that's not just with us, after only 11 episodes airing on American TV is managed to scoop a Golden Globe. Get them! So whats the hype? Glee is a musical spectacular set around a normal high school glee club who are desperately trying to hold it together to get to sectionals and eventually nationals. It has your stereotypical 'musical drama' crazed fangirl, played by Lea Michelle, who was in the original cast of 'Spring Awakening', so me and Eileen already loved her. It has the gay kid, shown rocking out to Beyonce's 'Single Ladies', the black girl with a voice as big as heaven and the sporadically placed 'other nerds with good voices'. Enter the 'cool kids', Flynn and his cheerleading girlfriend, and you've got a club worth listening too. Throw in a sarcastically evil cheerleading coach, a germ-fearing guidance councilor and a stupidly gorgeous spanish teacher to run it all and by god, you have a hit! Definitely worth a watch.

-Chloe

Film of the Month: Up in the AirNominated for five academy awards, 'Up in the Air' tells the tale of Ryan Bingham (as played by the ever-so-handsome George Clooney)- a man hired to fire people, who can fit his entire life in a suitcase- and completely loves his emotionally-stunted existence.
That is, until a plucky young upstart in his company (Anna Kendrick, the chick from Twilight) threatens his way of life. The relationship that pans out between them reveals them both to be pretty damn childish- Bingham shuns all connection and responsibility, and Kendrick's character lives in a much more idealised and naive world.
I guess what makes this film different is that after this journey of self-discovery, the end is still bittersweet. The lesson here is not 'Open up your heart, and you WILL find love!', it's 'Win or lose, you have to play the game'- and I for one quite like that.

-Eileen

Album of the Month: 'Heartland' by Owen PallettSet in the fantasy world of Spectrum, Heartland is a tale of an ultra violent farmer, Lewis, and his struggle to come to terms with his creator and main deity of the land, our very own Owen Pallett. An ambitious project, but nevertheless, despite the mythologies and stories Pallett has created, he never loses sight of the single most important feature: the music. A lot denser than He Poos Clouds, Pallett has maintained his personal charm whilst at the same time adding electronics and orchestras to create something that sounds, for want of a better word, epic.
Read full review here>>>

-Charles

Fashion Designer of the Month: Hayden-Harnett
It's the age-old conundrum- you want to look sophisticated, but also capable of fun. Regal, yet playful. Basically, not a slut, but not boring.
Step in Hayden-Harnett. They primarily make (awesome) handbags, so they bring a completely different perspective to the table. You can expect patchwork, metallics, and detailing to make you dribble, but all finished off with a certain undeniable decorum.
The collection (including the Pandora Dress and the Cambria Patchwork Silk Skirt, above) may set you back a bit, but come on- it's totally worth it.

-Eileen

Posts of the Month
A few of the cool things that have been going on here At the Sinema:

At the Sinema's Best of 2009- They said it couldn't be done. They were wrong. The ATS writers have managed to cram all the juicy bits of 2009 into one epic post. Check it out- you won't be disappointed.

What Does the Nation Listen To?- Chloe wrestles with that unknown beast- the UK singles chart. Not for the faint-hearted.

Should I Listen to Last.Fm?- Millions use Last.Fm, but how useful is it, actually? We find out.

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November: A Memoir

IT'S CHRISTMAS!
Well, not quite, but as we open the first doors on our advent calendars tonight, we know it's on its way. However, the future is not my concern at the moment- the past is. Here is our memoir to November, summing up some of the cultural gems you might have missed if you spent the last thirty days in sleep deprivation.

Film of the Month: New MoonC'mon- how could we not, really? Chloe 'tell-it-like-it-is' Trumper (yes, that is her real name) has already aired her thoughts on this film, but here's a quick summary of what you missed.
For those of you who don't know, 'New Moon' is a novel by Stephenie Meyer, that I have alot of complaint with- the fact it sells sex to tweens, but then forces Mormon-esque morals down your throat ('So you want to have sex with a vampire, huh? Well, you'll have to marry him first...'), it advocates teen suicide, and perpetuates every archaic literary damsel-in-distress stereotype- right down to the big-eyed, waifish appearance of 'heroine' Bella Cullen (a stereotype started by de Fanu's 'Carmilla' and Stoker's 'Dracula').
So, as you can see, I have a few objections to this book. But, what nearly every critic has failed to do is evaluate the film, rather than the source material. Comparing the first book to second book, the first is infinitely better (but still dire), as the second is one a dreary, depressing, pathetic love letter to the long-gone vampire, and a wet account of Bella's several attempts to have near-death experiences so that she can hear his voice in her head. The second film, however, is vastly superior to the first film. It becomes apparent pretty early on that when at the drawing-board of this film, the writers decided to try and inject as much adrenaline into the limp source material as possible. Thus, the anaemic-looking vampires are shoved off within about twenty minutes, and replaced with gloriously-buff, perpetually semi-naked werewolves- yum. Then, rather than playing up Bella's suicidal depression, they focus more on her reckless stunts- and her lukewarm tryst with the delectable Jacob (Taylor Lautner). And, just to make sure we're still paying attention, they throw in an amazing soundtrack- oh, and some more man-nipples, courtesy of Robert Pattinson.
The team on this film do have to be commended for doing their best with a lame concept- it might be a little more high-octane than anticipated, but well, it still sucks.

Album of the Month: John Mayer- Battle StudiesThis month I have had the dulcet tones of the gorgeous Mr Mayer perpetually plugged into my ears with his brand spanking new album ‘Battle Studies’. Like his others John serves up a smooth, easy listening sound laced with beautiful, meaningful lyrics. As the title of the suggests the whole of the album has the ongoing motif of warfare, comparing break up’s to the battlefield, whilst the most original metaphor for heartbreak it’s definitely the most malleable and John Mayer makes it his own; the lyrics are both beautiful and powerful. This motif is most evident in the songs ‘Heartbreak Warfare’ and ‘Assassin’, which also happen to be my favourite songs on the album. Whilst the album isn’t anything groundbreaking or brilliantly diverse from his previous albums, John Mayer has obviously found something that works and ran with it and I pose the question, does every album an artist releases have to go in a completely new direction? No, of course not, just look at Coldplay! So over all I give this album a double thumbs up, not only does it make relaxing, chill out music but if you want something with meaningful lyrics then John Mayer is your name.

Scandal of the Month- Adam Lambert, as an Entity

In 'Scandal of the Month', the Sinema writers take a rare look into the seedy underbelly of celebrity that we so often avoid. This month: Adam Lambert.
For those of you who don't know, Adam Lambert is an American Idol cast-off, who kind of looks like the long-lost punk-rock Jonas Brother. Last week, Adam Lambert to the recent 'BSDM-sex-show' trend (as adopted by the likes of Rihanna and Lady Gaga) to whole new levels of crazy on a live, televised awards show. The performance involved him swinging women around by their naked thighs, dragging dancers around the stage by chokers, making out with men/women/who the fuck knows?, and ending by repeatedly thrusting the faces of several of his dancers into his crotch, in what has been described by The Guardian as 'oral simulation'.

Where do we stand on this? We freakin' loved it! It was absolutely (and hilariously) done in the worst possible taste, and, at the end of the day, it was entertainment. Plus, we think the fact that people are outraged by the man-on-man action is pretty damn stupid. Hardly anyone made a big deal about the threeway Britney/Christina/Madonna moment: surely, a lesbian three-way tongue sandwich between two teenage girls and someone a few years short of OAP-dom is alot more shocking than Lambert's tame stage kiss? Dry-humping that dancer's face might've been a step too far, mind...

Favorite Posts of the Month
Here are some of the latest and greatest goings-on At the Sinema:
Grizzly Bear and London Symphony Orchestra w/ St. Vincent- Charlie's rather magical concert review
5 Films to See This Winter- Got some free time on your hands this festiv season? Go to the cinema- you provide the popcorn, Chloe will pick the movie.
Eileen's Could-Go-Either-Way Upcoming Film Pick- With the last 'ECGEWUFP', 'Jennifer's Body', doing pretty darn good at the box office, will 'Kick-Ass' have the same success? Eileen discusses the pros and cons of what's billed to be the next big superhero flick.

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October: A Memoir

October has been a pretty exciting month for us here At the Sinema. We've gained not one, not two, but three new writers, which will hopefully make our future content alot more varied (because, really, there's only so long you can probably stand hearing about comic-book obsession/ indie-rock infatuation / love of hairy men). So, here's our round-up of the month, and the TV, music and movies that are not to be missed.

Film of the Month: 'Up'The primary aim of most children’s films these days is to work on a number of levels- they must have plot simple enough to engage with a younger audience, but they must also have elements that keep the parents entertained too. However, never before have I seen a film achieve this goal with as much aplomb as ‘Up’.

From a kid’s perspective, it works. It’s a visual feast, with infantile comedy (talking dogs never go amiss), and a lot of heart- and if that doesn’t appeal to them, there’s also enough balloons to revert Darth Vader to a state of child-like giddiness.

But, there’s so much more to enjoy for an adult audience. This film- which begins with an old man losing his beloved wife, whom has spent all of his life with, and deciding to fulfil their life-long dream alone- is so poignant, so touching, and finished with such a pure, child-like sense of simplicity, it’s impossible not fall head-over-heels in love with it. A better film I have not seen all year- in short, it’s a masterpiece. Go see it now.

-Eileen

Album of the Month: ‘Logos’ by Atlas SoundSainthood, Terra Incognita, Masterpiece Theatre- the list of albums that fell short of my (rather lofty) expectations goes on and on. Month after month, I’ve sat down, plugged in my speakers, prepared to be dazzled, and came away feeling dejected. So, by the time ‘Logos’ arrived, it was fair to say I’d resigned myself to another anticlimax.

Luckily, such expectations were surpassed. There are some truly beautiful moments on ‘Logos’- the title song, for instance, has moments that can only be described as delicate and enchanting. But what sets it apart from most experimental albums of the year is variety- the album weaves from pretty to catchy, making pit stops at melancholy, and all finished off with the sort of fuzzy vocals we saw on Wavves’ latest offering- only this time, they work.

However, the overall impression of this album is almost blurred- in places, the distorted layers of sound build up to a largely forgettable song- you’d be hard-pushed to hum along to most of this record. And although there are much more distinctive, accomplished experimental records around this year, this dreamy and imaginative album is definitely worth a listen.

MP3: Logos

-Eileen

TV Show of the Month: 'Flashforward'

A few months ago I stumbled upon an article about an upcoming American TV show, which had been compared by ABC as a companion show to Lost. As Lost is one of biggest and probably best TV show of the past decade, this was quite a bold claim on ABC's part. But the idea seemed intriguing enough; everyone in the entire world's consciousness skips forward six months. Basically, people see the future. Couple this with a good cast list (including Lost's Dominic Monagan and Sonya Walger) and this show was set to impress. And, after watching the première, I had high hopes that the show would do just that. Although a far cry away from reaching ABC's expectations, it made for a very good series. Unfortunately a good cast list and a brilliant idea aren't everything. Within a few episodes we are submitted to weak script writing, sub-par and seemingly irrelevant story lines and a few cases of rather dire acting (we're looking at you, John Cho).
Read the full review here >>>>

-Charles

Favorite Posts of the Month
Concert Reviews- We've gone a bit concert-crazy this month. Check out our verdicts of the Eastpak Antidote Tour, Bloc Party and This Will Destroy You.

Testimonials- This month, we offered you chance to get to know the whole team a little better, and gave you a little insight into the inner workings of our twisted minds.

5 Fashions: Spring and Summer 2010- Wonder what everyone might be wearing next year? Based on London Fashion Week, Eileen makes her predictions- and shows how to get one step ahead.

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September: A Memoir

I understand my updates have been a wee bit infrequent this month, but here's what's been going on in the wonderful world of Eileen (that's me) this September:

Film of the Month- 500 Days of SummerWhen it comes to the rom-com film industry, the rules of the game are changing. Everything's getting a little more 'indie'- the tick list back in the days was a cute guy, a cute girl, a 'cute meet' and a predictable ending. These days, it's all about geek-chic guys n' gals striking up funny and witty conversations and going on a string of unconventional dates, to a backdrop of whatever music is 'in' (think Feist and Vampire Weekend).

But what seems to have stayed the same is the predictable ending- unless, of course, you're watching 500 Days of Summer.
You've got all of the usual features of a geek-chic rom-com, but with a few commitment-phobes, wise-cracking younger sisters and gratuitous karaoke scenes thrown in- as well as a bittersweet ending you probably won't see coming.
500 Days of Summer won't break any boundaries- it's still cutesie and indie to the core. It's just taking a familiar genre, giving a few extra perks, and trying to gently nudge it in a different direction.

Album of the Month- 'The Resistance' by MuseWith a band like Muse, I really don't want to say anything overly critical, for fear of having abuse hurled at me by their fans.
Lucky I don't have a critical word to say, really.
'The Resistance' is everything we've come to expect from Muse- dramatic, ambitious, experimental- and oh so much more. They appear to got a giant music blender, shoved in a massive dollop of futuristic electronica, a largely unnecessary amount of anthemic riffs, a sprinkling of Orwell references, a spoonful of recycled riffs (mostly from 'Origin of Symmetry', my favorite Muse album), a fair quantity of Queen, and a little bit of Bellamy magic, to taste.
What we have here is bags of ambition, a more modern sound, but a record that in places tries to hard to achieve those big hitters Muse has so often composed before. Not their best work ever, but definitely signs of musical progression there.

Fashion Designer of the Month- Roksanda Ilincic

Tall, sweeping frocks in soft colours, but with a distinctly structured look- what more could you want? From fashion school to fashion star in a few short years, Roksanda combines a punk-rock feel with the classic lines for a collection that's unique and mindblowing.
I would also like to point out how awesome the scruffy-ponytails Dior were rockin' for Spring/Summer 2010 were:
Posts of the Month:
10 Film Love Interests Who Aren't Utterly Loathsome: Tired of vapid, two-dimensional love interests in films? Want to see some legitimate characters, as well as some romance? Well, look no further- I have a list of 10 Romantic Supporting Actors who might tickle your fancy.

10 Songs of the Week- The Cure, The Beatles, Neko Case, Alexisonfire- my ten songs on heavy rotation during September. Bit of a mixed bag, so hopefully something for everyone.

Missed Connections- Gosh, I'm in an amorous mood this month! The Autumn does strange things to me. Art to celebrate the amorous glances and missed chances we all experience.

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August: A Memoir

Sorry I've been so inactive for the past few weeks- it seems like its been one thing after another. As soon as I get back home and am ready to do some blogging, the bloody computer gets a virus! And a mean one, as well-so, my computer's pretty much out-of-bounds, so I've been forced to use my brothers laptop. However, all of the stuff I wanted to share with you guys is still on my computer, so I'm a little restricted as to what I can do.

Enough about me, anyway- lets talk about August. It's flown by, hasn't it? It seems like only yesterday everyone was celebrating 6 weeks of holiday, and now we're all headed back to school/college/wherever. So, lets look back at the good times with August: a memoir.

Movie of the Month: Funny PeopleYou know I haven't frequented a cinema all that often this month when 'Funny People' is my movie pick. It's the only film I've gone and seen this month- and only because it was on a date. With films such as 'The Time Traveller's Wife' and 'My Sister's Keeper' topping the bill, I've been feeling a little uninspired.
Still, this movie has divided critics straight through the middle- some see it as a sprawling and ambitious look into how peoples' live are altered by terminal disease, others see it as 146 minutes of nothing. I must say, I'm with the former- I was initially sceptical about an Adam Sandler movie. He has his moments (Little Nicky), but alot of his films are throwaway and unmemorable. Yet, in this comedy-drama, in which he plays a comedian facing death, he genuinely put in a solid performance. Although I agree with the critics that say not alot happens in this film, I think it is important to show that just because your life may be drawing to a close, you may not necessarily get that blockbuster ending that people in Hollywood films often receive. I also liked the different parts of the film- the comedian roommates dynamic, the family that Sandler's character basically sets out to destroy, the unlikely friendship that arises between Sandler and his assistant, Seth Rogen. If obvious laughs, ridiculously perfect endings and non-stop action, this film isn't for you. But if you're content with a slower pace, I seriously suggest you check this film out.

Album of the Month: 'Humbug' by Arctic MonkeysNow, anyone who comes to this blog for the first time and gets a face full of Arctic Monkeys is going to assume one thing- I'm an indie nerk. Well, I'm not- and I'm not a massive Arctic Monkeys fan either. But just hear me out- this is not your average indie album. It's a got a dark, gothic, psych-rock edge and is practically oozing with kinky S&M sexual undertones. Yeh, seriously. You should check this baby out. Still not convinced? Read my song-by-song commentary here.

Playlist of the Month: MapsSince this month's playlist is saved on my broken computer (Gah!), you might as well savour this one, since I don't know how long it'll be until I can get the next one on t'internet. This playlist is all about holiday locations- from Paris to Beijing, London to California. Listen to it in the right sidebar now, or click here for the full track list.

My Favorite Posts of This MonthHere is the line-up of my favorite goings on during August here at the Sinema:
Top 10 Sexiest Celebrities With Glasses- Because everyone loves a good bespectacled beauty. If people with glasses don't tickle your pickle, there's also a bunch of music as well.
Bytes From Cyberspace: The Superhero Edition- Finally, I share a little snippet of my comic-book dorkiness with you. Featuring all the latest trends in superhero-related literature, music and fashion.
5 Songs From Soundtracks- Like movies? Like music? Well, I've combined the two together in some sort of crazy hybrid. Check it out.

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June: A Memoir

Ok kiddies, I'm back after a week's break (however, there's been no rest for the wicked- I've been busy all damn week), and thought I'd kick off with a new feature; 'Month: A Memoir' is a section in whcih I will discuss my faovrite things about the previous month (in case for some reason you just slept straight through the month), and round up what you've missed if you're new to the blog. Enjoy!

Album of the Month: 'Old Crows/ Young Cardinals', Alexisonfire

I really, really like this album. It's a diverse and dynamic showcase of all that Alexisonfire has to offer- raging guitars, poignant lyrics, and of course Dallas Green (who I've previously expressed alot of admiration for).
My main gripes with this album are that I felt this album had less power and less convincing vocals than some their previous albums (particularly Watch Out!), but still- definitely worth a listen.
Alexisonfire have been written off as 'just another screamo bad' in the past- a genre I'm not particularly a fan of- but I feel Alexisonfire are a band with alot of talent, and should be appreciated as such, regardless of whatever stereotypes they do or don't adhere to. Give them a try- seriously, you'll be surprised.

Film of the Month: The HangoverIf you haven't watched this legitimately hilarious comedy yet, believe the hype and go see it- if you don't you'll be missing out. Obviously, comedy is a subjective art- what splits someone's sides will leave another person cold- but if you want to see an outlandish, slightly immature comedy with what seems like genuine camaraderie between the cast and an actual plot (no matter how unbelievable), you should check this film out. Not convinced? Read my full review here.


Book of the Month: 'Nights at the Circus' by Angela CarterI'm quite a slow reader, so I don't have time to keep up with current releases, so I'll just use this as a slot to mention any books I read, regardless of release date. Angela Carter has often been acclaimed for her strange and twisted novels- but, if you're not quite ready to be plunged into Carter's insane world of twisted fairytales, mythical beings, and very kinky sex, a good starting point would be 'Nights at the Circus', which tells the tale of Jack Walser, a jaded journalist who slowly falls in love with 'the toast of Europe's capitals', winged aerialiste Sophie Fevvers. What begins as investigative journalism (trying to uncover whether or not Fevver's alleged wings are fake) soon turns into an adventure across the world to follow the woman he loves. As well as having a beguiling story line with meticulously detailed settings, and an array of quirky characters, Carter's sheer intelligence shines through- barely a page goes by without the appearance of a literary allusion. Her conceits are also brilliant- the contrast between the settings- the opulent Siberian hotel in contrast to the impoverished of Clown Alley- have parallels with Fevvers- a penniless Cockney girl thrust into stardom due to her wings. It all adds up to a grand and thoroughly-imagined novel, reeking of burlesque, and well worth a read.


My Favorite Posts of This Month
A quick recap of my personal highlights of 'At the Sinema' during June.

Green-a-Rama! Particularly fitting with the Alexisonfire review above, my personal favorite article of the month (and the most time-consuming article) is 'Green-a-rama!'- a 3-part guide on how to dress like Dallas Green- singer for Alexisonfire, the genius behind City and Colour, and now a fashion icon. You can also listen to some of his work at the end of the article.

Fanboy's Guide to Upcoming Movies- A little guide I did, detailing some upcoming comic/ cult films that I am looking forward to. I saw 'Transformers 2' on a date the other day, and was a tad disappointed, admittedly- I felt it didn't have as much of a coherent plot as its predecessor, and was less intelligent all round. Ho hum.

5 Pointless But Oh-So-Funny Sites- The title says it all, really- five sites that will kill boredom, and maybe make you laugh. If you liked 'FMyLife', check out 'MyLifeIsAverage'- it's like FML, but for people whose lives are actually ok. But don't look at MLIA beofre FML, otherwise it's just not funny.

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