The film is lacking in originality, believable acting and plot development, but these crimes could all be forgiven if the dialogue was clever and fresh. Amateur director Demian Lichtenstein, straight out of New York University and an extended music video career, got his chance to hit it big with a famous cast, and totally blew it. Even the bits that have the potential to be memorable, such as their argument over who would win in a Sinatra vs. Presley battle, fall short and sound as if the screenwriter didn't really care. I think I quit. As long as it sounds good and has something to say, you gotta like it.
Music is universal.
While many rap albums focus on money, cars and women, Stankonia tries to touch on deeper themes. Now, we just go in the studio and like mad scientists we just mix it up. Once again, her work is bringing critical acclaim her way and has earned the three-time Grammy winner two more nominations. The album has already gone platinum, and with little support from commercial radio which prefers teeny-bopper fluff over substance. A 21-date tour, which began two weeks ago in Boston at the Orpheum, promises the same kind of originality that marked her previous live performances, with set lists and arrangements changing from night to night.