Persepolis is a Must-See

Persepolis is a poignant coming-of-age story of a precocious and outspoken young Iranian girl that begins during the Islamic Revolution. The film is French, animated, and almost completely in black and white. It was nominated for an Oscar and received another 15 wins and 21 nominations. Persepolis is that perfect combination of political commentary, excellent storytelling, and cheeky humor. By the end of the film you will wish Marjane, the heroine, was your best friend. There is a particularly great moment when she breaks out singing "Eye of the Tiger" in her adorably funny Iranian accent. What more can I say? I'm going to go buy the book now.

More Like First String...

The Second String Quintet rocked my world a little tonight. The fact that I've been deprived of the live music experience for a while had nothing to do with it. This local band is a perfect blend of folk, soul, and blues as well as original and covered songs. Their sound comes from a smooth blend of banjo, guitar, ukulele, keys, bass, harmonica and drums. The band features Esteban Aguila, Antonio Borrego III a.k.a Snap Jackson, Tony Avila, Nick Johnson, Justin Anderson, and Mike Klooser (who plays keyboard for the band, Smashmouth). They also just released their first self-titled album. They have some shows coming soon to the San Joaquin County that you won't want to miss.

The name says it all...

Weekend Plans: Euphorah: The Mist Sets Here will be showing at Stock​ton Empir​e Theat​re (in the same building at the Java Aroma coffee shop) on the Mirac​le Mile tonig​ht at 8pm. Doors​ open at 7:​30,​ Box offic​e opens​ at 7. Ticke​ts will be $5 at the door.​ Euphorah is a creative project of Pacific student George Brais that incorporates music, dance, video, poetry, and acting to tell an original story and ensemble piece. It's very avante-garde and unique. If you aren't doing anything tonight, come out and support the arts in Stockton! You can also click the link above to listen to some of the music from the show and from George Brais and his creative team.

Anime-niac

I saw Howl's Moving Castle last night and it was wonderfully good. My favorite part was probably the score, but I did like Billy Crystal's dubbed voice as the fire demon, Calcifer (I know, there are fire demons. I was confused at first too...) Or of course you could watch it in the original Japanese. Foreign films are cool, and this one is one of the highest grossing Japanese films of all time. But really, it's awesome either way so check it out.

Eminence Orchestra performs "Cave of Mind"

Joe Hisaishi performs the Main Theme


Song of the Day: I've been in RA training for a week or so now and my staff and I have created some pretty awesome super hero t-shirts to show off our ridiculous amout of staff pride. So, in honor of loving all things super heroes here's "Goodbye Mr. A" by The Hoosiers.


Weekend Plans: I can't say that Java Aroma is the end all, be all of coffee shops, but it does come pretty close. Walking distance of school? Check. Artsy vibe? Check. Inexpensive date? Why not? Check. White Chocolate Mochas? I'm so there. It also doubles as the Stockton Royal Theatre, which sometimes has some sweet concerts going on. Java Aroma is on Miracle Mile on Pacific Avenue in Stockton, CA.

SongLove

Song(s) of the Day:

"Paper Planes" by M.I.A
Okay, this song is fun, hands down. I first heard it in my best friend's kitchen and it inspired a few questionably cool dance moves. But here's what I really liked about M.I.A (stage name of Mathangi "Maya" Arulpragasam): she's a quadruple-threat singer, songwriter, producer and visual artist AND her songs have something to say. Political and Social Commentary included, her music is just plain bomb.


"Ice Cream" by Muscles
"Ice Cream is gonna save the day!" Need I say more?

Do you Believe in Magic?

I kind of get tired of women's magazines. I mean how many more beauty tips can you come up with, really? So when I read Bust Magazinefor the first time I was totally excited that finally here was a magazine for college students and twenty-somethings that actually had something interesting to say. The August/September issue I just bought while I was up in Seattle had an article on how to be your own landlady, a few DIY projects, an interview with Eva Amurri (daughter of Susan Sarandon), a guide to new music and book releases, advice on choosing your first guitar, a photo story about "Little Edie" Beale, and a story about female stand-up comic Maria Bamford (check out the video below). There's a little bit of language and some stories I decided to gloss over, but overall Bust is cheeky, entertaining, a little rebellious, and full of a lot of woman power. I'm down with that.


Book of the Week: A World Lit Only by Fire by William Manchester. This book puts together an informal history of the Medieval Age that is very readable and intriguing, while still being super scholarly. I wrote a ridiculous number of papers last semester about medieval painters, literature, and theatre and I've always found this age in history to be SO interesting. I think you'll enjoy it too.

Weekend Plans: Ryan Horsfall is another one of those friends I like to brag about. Besides the fact that we're old friends, he's also a super-talented magician. As you may or may not know,

Garbeau's CEO Mark Ferreira and Magician Ryan Horsfall are teaming up to present a new and exciting show of magic and comedy. Ryan feels that life is too funny and too wondrous for anybody to go through his or her days without experiencing laughter and astonishment frequently. To help in this, Ryan created a new show. “Ryan Horsfall’s 60 Minutes of Magic” is an original comedy filled magic show based on this simple principle; let’s try and get audiences to laugh 60 times in 60 minutes all the while baffling them with jaw dropping magic. How jaw dropping? It’s magic you’ve never seen before, magic where racket balls appear suddenly, thoughts are read, cards appear in spectators’ pockets, and even water levitates. It’s magic that isn’t cheesy, comedy that isn’t blue, and a show that isn’t something you’re going to want to miss.

The show is playing Saturdays at 1:00 PM at Garbeau's Dinner Theatre on August 2nd, 9th, and 15th. See you there!

And my favorite...


Song(s) of the Day: Some of you might recognize Conor Oberst as the frontman from Bright Eyes (if you haven't heard "First Day of My Life" then you need to). Well, Oberst will be realeasing a self-titled album this August and all of his songs are streaming on his website. Also here's the press release:

Produced by Conor Oberst with the help of engineer and longtime associate Andy LeMaster, the album was recorded in Tepoztlán, Morales, Mexico. Creating a temporary studio in a mountain villa for a one-month period this winter, Conor and a tight-knit group of fellow musicians, who aptly call themselves The Mystic Valley Band, crafted a lush and beautiful record that evokes the deep sense of harmony in which they lived and worked during that month.

Enjoy!

Lots of Love and Magic,
Caitlin

Movie Making is Fun...Sometimes

Luckily, my first film experience has been nothing like this:


(From the set of I Heart Huckabees)

Song of the Day: "Nothing at All" by Wired All Wrong

When Opportunity Comes Knocking...

To put into words the crazy excitement of the last three days would be impossible, so I'm just going to give a quick summary for now. So at church on Sunday the pastor told everyone that a member of our church was about to start filming an independent film on Monday. The best part was that they were looking for volunteers. My ears perked up (which is surprising since my Sunday morning coffee hadn't kicked in yet) because I had no idea about the film and I thought I knew all about artsy goings-on like that. Needless to say, during the rest of the service I could hardly keep still. I wanted to know all about it and how I could be involved. Sunday night, my mom introduced me to Jodi, the wife of the writer of the screenplay/producer of the film (called, tentatively, "Wheel of Knowledge" by Mike Sewell), she told me to show up for the first production meeting Monday night! Ahh! So on Monday most of the cast (the ones who weren't flying out from L.A. later in the week) was there as well as the crew to have the first read through. I soon got the job and the title of Production Assistant along with one of my best friends, Kirsten. The actors read through the script (and I don't want to give too much away, but the most important part was that it's a movie with a great message and really touching characters). So by the end of the reading, Kirsten and I were wiping away tears and totally stoked to start working on what seemed to be the coolest summer volunteer job possible. And then of course, they tell us that crew call is at 6:30 am the next morning. Okay, maybe that part is not so cool. I don't think I've been up before 9:30 since I finished last semester. But, bright and early at 5:00 I woke up, got some coffee, and then hit the road to our location in Rocklin. The day lasted until almost 5:30 pm and was filled with unloading the equipment, hairspray runs, organizing the wardrobe, fixing make-up and hair, getting coffee and food to the actors and directors, running to the store for ice, moving furniture and lights, waiting, taking notes, fixing lunch with Jodi, more waiting, and getting to know everyone on the set. And today was supposed to be the easy day. So wish me luck! Tomorrow we have two locations, Thursday we have FOUR! The next few weeks are going to be busy, to say the least. I'll miss writing for Caffeine, but I'll be back soon!

Song(s) of the day: Okay, so during some down time on the set today, Kirsten and I started listening to the 7th Harry Potter book read by Jim Dale (like the proud Harry Potter lovers that we are). This reminded me of my (embarassingly?) large collection of wizard rock. Yes. Wizard Rock. Google it. Check it out. It will make you laugh. A lot. Accio Love by Ministry of Magic is probably my favorite. They also do a parody of "Here In Your Arms" by Hellogoodbye called "Here In Your Car" about Harry and Ron in the Ford Anglia. 

Lots of love and Lights! Camera! Action! 

Caitlin

Playlist Play-by-play

In Elk Grove, where I live when I'm not at school, there is what some would call limited entertainment. If you like shopping and going to parks, then Elk Grove is probably your Mecca, but I have to work a little harder to find exciting things to do. (Okay, we really do have some GREAT parks, I'll admit). One the whole though, I have to get creative with the stuff I do for fun in my hometown (the reason for the Weekend Plans section of this blog). However, I can say this: my one-stop, quick fix for many of my entertainment needs is Borders. Elk Grove has a pretty good one. I mean there's a fountain outside and everything! So in honor of the many trips to Borders I will make this summer, I decided to make a playlist for book browsing (Weird? Yes. Cool? Also, yes). So here's a list of what I put together: songs I like a lot, but ones that won't make me want to rock out (too much) or jump around (because no one wants to see that when they thought they could enjoy some peaceful book reading). Enjoy. And share some of yours!
:)


1. I'm a Bitch - Alanis Morisette (Because it feels a little naughty to listen to this song and then even naughtier to sing it out loud! But the message is still pretty good, so points for that).
2. Anyone Else But You -The Moldy Peaches (From the Juno Soundtrack, kinda...but you have to make sure you listen to the full version by Kimya Dawson...so funny!)
3. Falling - Ben Kweller (I just want to dance).
4. Someday Never Comes - Brandi Carlile (Why can't my voice sound like hers?!)
5. First Day of My Life - Bright Eyes (This song is on every playlist I ever make...no, really.)
6. I Fought The Law - The Clash (So it's on the Border's Playlist because you can totally rock out to this behind the bookshelves while reading magazines that you have no intention of buying!)
7. Lonelily - Damien Rice (He has a dreamy voice that is better than an iced latte).
8. No Sunlight - Death Cab For Cutie (I have no idea why I chose this song over the other ones on Narrow Stairs...but in my book (Ha! Get it?) they're all good, so it doesn't matter).
9. Invasion - Eisley (I don't know if I could honestly read while listening to this, but I love it anyways).
10. Mushaboom - Feist (I feel like you have to listen to this song while you're in the section with all the Stich n' Bitch books...why? I have no idea).
11. Almost Lover - A Fine Frenzy (Probably the most well known, but I can't get enough of this song. Uhh...maybe because it sometimes makes me think of my life. Sigh. Listen to it in the Romance Section, for sure!)
12. Indiana - Jon McLaughlin (He's pretty).
13. Let Go - Frou Frou (Ah! Love!)
14. I'm Yours - Jason Mraz (This song gets stuck in my head whether I like it or not, so it might as well be on here).
15. Sunday - Sia (I don't really know why I like this...)
16. Falling in Love at a Coffee Shop -  Landon Pigg (Okay, this really is my heart's song...and secretly the theme song for this blog).
17. This is Home - Switchfoot (New song! From Chronicles of Narnia, but still!)
18. Raincoat - Kelly Sweet (Sweet! Get her whole CD, actually, because her voice is so amazing and she sings in other languages).
19. One of the Boys - Katy Perry (I love her voice, but I just can't handle getting "I Kissed a Girl" stuck in my head so I chose this as the alternative).
20. Let's Call it Off - Peter Bjorn and John (I think this is just the right amount of mellow-ness for a book store).
21. Falling For You - Ronnie Day (I like the lyrics, fo sho!)
22. These Streets - Paolo Nutini (Ah! His name! His voice! This song! Can't get enough...so of course he has to be on here).
23. Photograph - Jamie Cullum (...This is not your daddy's jazz singer).
24. Hide and Seek - Imogen Heap (I can't help laughing at this song. I have no idea why. It has to be the opening line in the synthesized voice saying "Where are we? What the hell is going on?" Exactly).
25. Stop This Train - John Mayer (John Mayer was the soundtrack to summer '07 but then my car stereo got stolen with HIS CD IN IT!! So listening to it again this summer is a total throwback).
26. Leavin' - Jesse McCartney (What happened? He used to suck! I actually like this)!
27. Ordinary People - John Legend (His voice makes me melt into a puddle...which I guess wouldn't be the best thing to happen in Borders, but I don't really care).
28. Chicago - Sufjan Stevens (Very catchy! My best friend introduced me to this song).
29. Where Do I Go? (Acoustic) - Relient K (From their newest EP The Bird and the Bee Sides. Also the free download I mentioned in my previous post)!

Lots of Love and Endless Playlists,

Caitlin

A Quick Hi, Hello

I'm so excited about the Fourth of July this year. I can't wait to get to picnicing with all my friends and family. It's my first time celebrating the Fourth at home in about 6 years! Hooray for America!

Song(s) of the day: Relient K's new extended play album The Bird and the Bee Sides was released today! Check out the website, where you can follow the scavenger hunt clues to a free song download. The EP features 13 new songs as well as a ton of remixed, re-mastered favorites. 

Weekend Plans: 

The Annual Salute to the Red, White and Blue festival and fireworks display will be held on Friday, July 4th, at the Elk Grove Regional Park (9950 Elk Grove-Florin Road). The festivities begin at 3 p.m. with lively music, and will feature food, vendor booths and a kids’ activity area. A musical fireworks display will begin at 9:45 p.m.
Admission is free; parking is $10 per vehicle.

Also, check out the 4th of July Celebration at Cal Expo. Gates open at 6 with live music and dancing until the fireworks show at 9:30.

Lots of love and patriotism,

Caitlin

An Urban Dictionary Love Affair

Sometimes, Urban Dictionary cures boredom like no other. To Do Today: Look up your name. It's fun.

Slang word of the day:
Frisbeetarianism
The philosophy that when you die, your soul goes up on a roof and gets stuck. (George Carlin)
ex. "I don't believe in reincarnation. I am a strong Frisbeetarianist."

Lots of love and slang,
Caitlin

Hello, stranger!

I've returned! I just got back from my first camping trip - ever. I had the privilege of being the counselor for a Jr. High camp this weekend and after four days of becoming one with nature, jumping off waterfalls (for reals!), and sleeping with pine cones in my back - it's good to be back among civilization. That's not to say I didn't learn important lessons along the way though - like the value of a flashlight to avoid wandering into neighboring camps and being mistaken for a large animal. That totally could have happened to me, but luckily I was prepared. I also learned that I am terrible at card games. Really. I have very little strategy or will to strategize. Also, I learned that just when you think boys are about to get bored of skipping stones in a river for an hour, they invent a new game - throwing stones at boulders! It's like video games only better, apparently. But really, to be honest, I loved camping. Hot dogs have never tasted better, I slept like a baby, AND (and this is a big deal) I actually enjoyed running around and hiking all day. If you're ever around Mt. Shasta, totally check out Castle Crags - it was pretty sweet.

So in the last few weeks I've been trying to catch up on some reading. You know, books that I definitely should have read by now since everyone and their mother is reading them? Yeah, those. So here's a look at my reading list at the moment:
1. Helen of Troy by Margaret George - I don't know if everyone is actually reading this or not, but I am (about a fourth through) and so far it's pretty good. It's like learning about Greek mythology without actually having to crack a textbook. I'm down with that.
2. The Hours by Michael Cunningham- Okay, so maybe everyone isn't reading this either, but I was reading Virginia Woolf for a class last semester and I was interested to see how her story is woven into this novel. Plus, Cunningham won a Pulitzer Prize, so that must count for something, right? Right.
3. Varieties of Disturbance by Lydia Davis - This is one of those books that I randomly grabbed while in the library, but so far I'm really enjoying it. It's a collection of some pretty unconventional short stories. Some are really, really short...In fact, here's one for you called Collaboration with Fly: "I put that word on the page, but he added the apostrophe." Ha! The end.
4. Dead Heat by Joel C. Rosenberg - So you've probably heard of The Last Jihad, the book about a terrorist plane attack written 9 months before 9/11. Well, Dead Heat is yet another book by Rosenberg. Here's what the back of the book says, "The stage is set for war. Oil prices are surging to record heights. A new dictator is rising in Iraq. China is threatening Taiwan. North Korean forces are ready to strike south. Israel is feverishly trying to complete the third temple." Some of that sounds a little familiar, doesn't it? Oooo...I've got chills already. I can't wait to get started on this one. I love political thrillers.
5. A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers - So a few friends recommended this book, so of course I had to see what all the hype was about. Once you get past the psuedo-self-indulgent introduction (How is that possible you say? No idea, but it's there.), it's actually quite a...uh...heartbreaking work of staggering genius? I don't know. There's some really funny and original stuff in here though.

So, maybe not everyone and their mother is reading them. But I am! (Very slowly - the consequence of trying to read a few different books at a time). And so far I definitely recommend that you pick them up.

Song of the Day: "I'm Amazed" by My Morning Jacket - My Morning Jacket's fifth album Evil Urges was released a few weeks ago (June 10). I love these guys. There's something truly Americana about their sound...if that makes sense. Described as a mix of indie rock, country rock, southern rock, psychedelic, and jam band styles, the band was also featured (under the name Ruckus) in the film Elizabethtown (one of my faves). Basically, I think a few of their songs belong on your Fourth of July playlist. Check out the free download here.

Oh! And guess what? While I was away camping, Caffeine celebrated (without an actual celebration) it's one month anniversary! Thanks for reading!

Lots of love and Americana,
Caitlin

Music Video Show and Tell

Metronomy - Radio Ladio

Vampire Weekend - A-Punk

Sia-Breathe Me

To My Boy - "I am X Ray"

Justice - D.A.N.C.E

Yelle - "ACDG" (I love the Eurotrash boys Dancing).

Bat for Lashes - What's a Girl to Do

Flyleaf - All Around Me

AND SURPRISE! A music video my friend Bryce and I made for 23jinx.

Weekend Plans: I always like to brag about the cool and artsy friends I get to hang around. Some of these guys I know, Chris, Matt, and Tim are in a local band called Burgundy. They have some of their sweet songs up online and hopefully, in the near future, an interview with all four members of the band will be available here on Caffeine for your reading pleasure. If you're in the Sacramento area this Friday night you can check them out at the VOX café on the corner of 19th and X at 7 PM. If you've wondered where to find all the Christian, hardcore/metal bands in Sacramento - this is the place! Burgundy will be playing with The Shotgun Effect, The Fall of Autumn, Hello, Sailor, and The Color Amnesty. Tickets are only $5. Come support the local music scene, people!

Lots of love and hxc,
Caitlin

Books and Movies and Museums, oh my!

Hello again, dear Reader. This week I'm appealing to all of you bibliophiles. You know how seeing a movie before reading the book can kill even the best novel ever? I hate that. So, to save you from a similar fate, here's a heads up to some new movies in the works that come from some of my favorite (or, at least, well liked) books. Read them first!

1. Journey to the Center of the Earth - It's going to be in 3-D with Brendan Fraser. Need I say more? Release Date (or Read Before): July 11, 2008

2. Inkheart - Brendan Fraser again? It's a teen fiction read by German author Cornelia Funke about a bookbinder who can bring characters to life in his books when he reads them aloud. This equals trouble when the villain escapes. I read this book in middle school and I remember liking it enough to read the sequel, Inkspell. There's also a third book, Inkdeath, due out in English in October of 2008. Read Before January 20, 2009.

3. The Giver - You have plenty of time to read this one - it's release is set for 2011. This still has to be one of my favorite books from middle school...about a utopian society that seems perfect until a young boy learns about the true suffering and joys of the "real" world. And Dustin Hoffman!!

4. Angels & Demons - Dan Brown's prequel to the DaVinci Code has just as much controversy surrounding the film as ever. Director Ron Howard and actor Tom Hanks have been banned by the Catholic church from filming in two Rome churches considered vital to the plot. Crazy, huh? Read before May 15, 2008.

5. Dune - Peter Berg (Hancock, The Kingdom) will be directing the latest attempt to adapt Frank Herbert's popular sci-fi novel. Read before 2010.

6. The City of Ember - I loved this book back in the day (okay, it was 2003). It's a three part series including The People of Sparks and The Prophet of Yonwood. The first in the series is about a city that has always flourished until the lamps that light the city start to flicker and darkness threatens their entire way of life. Two teenagers try to unlock the mystery of their city, have an adventure, and so on. Bill Murray is going to play the mayor and the main character, Lina, will be played by Saoirse Ronan (Atonement). Read before October 10, 2008.

7. Twilight - Considering all the hype that's surrounding this movie, you really have to read the book first. Sure, a film (or book, for that matter) about love and vampires seems incredibly cheesy, but maybe it will stray away from being your average chick flick. Some have compared the popularity of the book series to that of Harry Potter. I don't know if I agree, but I'm willing to give these books a chance - mostly because they are the perfect beach read. The Twilight Saga has four books total: Twilight, Eclipse, New Moon, and the soon-to-be-released Breaking Dawn (August 2nd). The film also looks pretty promising with Kristin Stewart (Into the Wild, In the Land of Women) and Robert Pattinson (Harry Potter as Cedric Diggory, Vanity Fair) playing the lead characters. Read before December 12, 2008.

8. Atlas Shrugged - A powerful railroad executive, Dagny Taggart, struggles to keep her business alive while society is crumbling around her. It's rumored that Angelina Jolie will be playing her. Just to warn you, this is a heavy read. At over 1,000 pages long, it is one of the longest novels ever written in any European language. The book explores a number of philosophical themes Rand would later develop into Objectivism. Atlas Shrugged was voted the most influencial book in reader's lives after the Bible. Read before 2009.

9. The Hobbit - Guillermo Del Toro (Pan's Labyrinth) directing the Hobbit?! I'm so there. Ah! And James MacAvoy is rumored to play Bilbo. Sweet! Read before December 2011.

10. The Tale of Desperaux - The tale of three unlikely heroes - a misfit mouse who prefers reading books to eating them, an unhappy rat who schemes to leave the darkness of the dungeon, and a bumbling servant girl with cauliflower ears - whose fates are intertwined with that of the castle's princess. This film has some pretty big star power: Sigourney Weaver, Emma Watson, Dustin Hoffman, and Matthew Broderick, to name a few. Read before December 19, 2008.

11. The Lovely Bones - Great, great book. The story of a young girl, brutally raped and murdered, as she watches the effect of her death on her family, friends, and murderer from Heaven. Directed by Peter Jackson (Lord of the Rings, King Kong)! Mark Whalberg, Saoirse Ronan, Rachel Wiesz, and Susan Sarandon are all in this one. Read before October 9, 2009.

12. The Time Traveler's Wife - A lovely book, hopefully a lovely movie? It's a romantic drama about a Chicago librarian (Eric Bana) with a gene that causes him to involuntarily time travel, and the complications it creates for his marriage to Clare (Rachel McAdams). Read before December 25, 2008.

13. My Sister's Keeper - Directed by Nick Cassavettes (The Notebook) and starring Cameron Diaz, Abigail Breslin, Alec Baldwin, and Joan Cusack. Read before 2009.

I love the Tony Awards. Take a look at this year's winner of Best Musical, In The Heights.

Weekend Plans:

I think everyone who lives in the Sacramento area has visited the Crocker Art Museum at least once. Chances are it was in elementary school - that time in your life where you look at modern art, scoff, and think to yourself, I could do that. Well, I think it's time to give the Crocker Art Museum a second chance. With it's current exhibition, The Language of the Nude, the museum unveils 60 of it's rarely seen drawings of the human form. In August, Andy Warhol and American Pop will be the focus of its new exhibition. Also, every Thursday the Museum is open late to host special tours and programs including lectures, classes, and concerts. Highlight tours feature different themes every month and begin at 6:30 PM.

Okay, here is the best part: admission is only $3 with a student ID and FREE Sundays from 10 AM-1 PM. I see some serious inexpensive (yet romantic) date potential here. Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 AM-5 PM. Thursday, 10 AM-9 PM, (closed on Mondays)

NOTE: Don't forget to check out Digital Crocker, the Museum's Online collection of over 500 works of art.

Song of the Day: Last Request by Paolo Nutini

This Scottish singer/songwriter released his first album, These Streets, in 2006. His song, Last Request, was featured at the end of the Scrubs episode "My Words of Wisdom" in Season 6.

Lots of love and artsy-ness,
Caitlin

iblog mini

Watch Into the Wild with Emile Hirsch. It will bring out your inner hippie, introduce you to the call of the wild, and make you want to go rough it in the wilderness (well, sort of) - and all in 148 minutes, ladies and gentlemen. It's based on the real story of Chris McCandless, an Emory University grad who gave up his possessions, money, and indentity to live in the wilderness of Alaska. It's a gem in my book. Not to mention director and author of the screenplay, Sean Penn's great attention to detail and heartbreaking insights into society's young generation. Do not delay.

To go along with that, the song of the day comes from the movie soundtrack, comprised largely from original and covered songs for the film by Eddie Veder (Pearl Jam vocalist) and with songs by Michael Brook in the credits. I really recommend the whole album, but definitely check out the cover of Indio's Hard Sun and Rise. Make this the soundtrack to your summer road trip.

Lots of love and tree hugs,
Caitlin

Espresso Yourself: Check it out!

Summer finally feels like it's taking off, which in my life usually means that I am busy, busy, busy. You see, my summer style doesn't really revolve around lazing around by the pool and having endless movie marathons, I'm all about going out and doing something. Hence, the short hiatus from Caffeine. But fear not, I have returned, and after a lovely three day vacation spent antique shopping and tea partying with my best friend, I come to you with some more new and exciting things you need to check out this summer.

First of all, I'd like to take this opportunity to highlight the Expresso Yourself links on the sidebar. Not only because there are some pretty interesting blogs and websites that will surely entertain you, but also because many of them are interactive, D.I.Y., and boredom busting!

1. 21Q (or Who Knew Sactown was Interesting?) - So I stumbled across this when I was looking up our subscription to the Bee and was surprised to see all that is happening in the world of arts, entertainment, fashion, and pop culture just in Sacramento. With contributors from The Bee and multiple posts a day, there is always something new to check out.

2. 253 (or the Online Novel that Conquers Boredom) - Imagine 253 people on London's Underground headed for Elephant and castle. Each car holds 36 seats and a driver, each with their own stories. This is how 253 begins to unfold. It's the ultimate novel about degrees of separation. As you read snapshots of each character you can follow hyperlinks to another and discover their relationship. It's a throwback to those Choose Your Own Adventure novels. This is really the perfect 0n-the-go novel. It's entirely online, it's interactive, and you can never lose your spot. Ryman's comedy is spot-on and he has a mosaic of insights to share.

3. Cosmogirl DIY (or How I Keep Myself Busy) - Now before you chuckle about my link to Cosmogirl, you have to check it out. Though intended for ladies, the step-by-step instructions for making t-shirts, necklaces, curtains, and the like could be made as gifts too.

4. Domino (or How to Make the World Prettier) - Domino is hands-down my favorite home decór and interior design magazine of all time. If nothing else, it can help you figure out how to make your dorm room somewhat resemble a homey place to live. On the website, however, there are instructions for everything from wiring an outdoor plug to starting your own garden. Basically, the inspiration for my future home will come from the pages of this magazine.

5. Instructables (or Show and Tell) - If you've ever wondered how to make a Smoothie-Making Human Powered Bicycle or an Underwater Microphone then this is the website for you. There's How-to and Show-and-Tell videos on virtually everything.

6. Pandora (or Instant Party Music) - Music analysts look closely at the characteristics of each song and then you can choose a song you like and Pandora will look for songs with similar characteristics based on over 400 different factors. It's great if you're someone who is looking for music to match your mood. Pandora gets it right for me almost every time.

7. Ryan Horsfall, Magician (or My Friend Ryan is cool) - The title says it all really. If you're looking for entertainment for a party or corporate event, Ryan does a really good job...

8. The Big Four Blog (or The Blog Written by My Cool, Smart Friend) - The Big Four refers to the prime interests of this blogger - music, movies, sports, and politics. Filled with random facts, the blogger's take on the latest news headlines, music recommendations, and more - this blog is a constant surprise. Plus, he's my friend, which makes it 10x cooler.

9. The Clothes Horse (or Inspiration for my Closet) - Just one of those guilty pleasure blogs that fulfills my fashion quota of the day on a regular basis.

10. The Sound of Young America (or Not Your Grandmother's Radio Show) - This is a real treat for your ears, brain, and funny bone all in one. Each week, host Jesse Thorn, self proclaimed as "America's Radio Sweetheart," interviews personalities from the entertainment and arts world. From stand-up comedians to authors of what may be the next great American novel, you don't want to miss an episode.

11. This Blog Will Make You a Better, Smarter Person (or Yeah....) - So I stumbled across this blog on accident, but it is actually one of my favorites here. I saw a show at the American College Theatre Festival this year by a student at UCLA, Kit Steinkellner. I was looking for information about her play later on google (it was an amazing show, by the way) and I found her blog, which is also a gem. It's artsy and full of personality and I guess you have to read it to experience it. It's definitely served as a bit of inspiration for my own blog. Make sure you look at the Websites she likes. There are some really great webisodes there that I also love: Clark and Michael, Ryder's Reel, Dorm Life, and Quarterlife, to name a few. Though she doesn't update very often, check out the archive for some pretty interesting stuff.

12. Threadbanger (or Cooler Clothes Than Yours) - Videos on a variety of do-it-yourself projects for your closet and home. I promise that watching these webisodes will bring out your inner craftiness like no other.

13. Zulkey (or A Better Blog) - Claire Zulkey describes it best: "It's kind of a humor site, kind of a blog, kind of a repository for my writings, kind of an after-dinner mint for the brain." Check it.

Song of the Day: So out of nostalgia, the song of the day is Anne's Theme from the film Anne of Green Gables. This was the favorite film of my childhood and this song is what I hear driving around on those perfect summer days. The instrumental is beautiful and heartbreaking. If you've ever been a fan of the books or movies, you'll absolutely love it. If not, you are missing out, in my opinion. I have the youtube piano version here, but the full instrumental (10x better) is on itunes.

Lots of Love and Tea Parties,

Caitlin

Song of the Day

Don't think I forgot about the song for today...the last post was just so long I didn't want it to get lost! Dear Readers, you must check out White Hinterland. Casey Dienel, singer-songwriter-pianist extraordinaire, released her debut album, Wind-up Canary, in 2006. Her newest album (featuring today's song), is titled Phylactery Factory and was released in March under the name White Hinterland. This song was also one of Bust magazine's picks on its weekly media taster.

"Dreaming of the Plum Trees" by White Hinterland

Lots of love and indie bands,
Caitlin

Indie or Indy?

So summer movies are probably one of my favorite parts about summer. I love those summer blockbusters, but while I'm waiting for Indiana Jones, The Dark Knight, Wall-E, and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 (no, really), I thought I'd check out some of the lesser known films coming to the big screen this summer in Sacramento. Most of the films I've chosen to highlight are showing at Sacramento's Crest Theatre or Tower Theatre. Also, the Sacramento French Film Festival is coming to the Crest Theatre July 18th - 27th and the Sacramento Film & Music Festival will be there August 8th - 17th. NOTE: Tower Theatre has this great thing called Student Mondays where tickets are $6.50 and include popcorn with refills with a student ID. Check it!


The Visitor:

In a world of six billion people, it only takes one to change your life. In actor and filmmaker Tom McCarthy's follow-up to his award winning directorial debut The Station Agent, Richard Jenkins (Six Feet Under) stars as Walter Vale, a disillusioned Connecticut economics professor whose life is transformed by a chance encounter in New York City. Through new found connections with virtual strangers, Walter is awakened to a new world and a new life. 1 hr. 43 mins.

When & Where: The Crest Theatre, May 2-June 5

Why You Should Go: Not only the Official Selection at the Toronto International Film Festival, Sundance Film Festival, Miami International Film Festival, and South by Southwest Film Festival, this one comes from the director of The Station Agent, Thomas McCarthy, which had 22 wins and 21 nominations from various festivals.

CJ7:

KUNG FU HUSTLE’S Stephen Chow writes, directs and stars in CJ7, a unique Chinese fantasy-comedy about a poverty-stricken laborer who learns a poignant lesson about money and family after his son receives a strange new toy as a gift.

When & Where: Tower Theatre PLAYING NOW

Why You Should Go: It's in Cantonese and only rated PG. And the son in the movie is actually played by a girl. Trés interesting!


Son of Rambow:
Garth Jennings (THE HITCHHIKER’S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY) directs SON OF RAMBOW, an affected and nostalgic trip back to the last time in recent history when kids’ imaginations were not controlled by technology. Set over a long English summer in the 1980s, the film follows two imaginative young boys whose quest to create a homemade version of RAMBO yields them a lesson in filmmaking as well as a unique and lasting bond.

When & Where: Tower Theatre PLAYING NOW

Why You Should Go: Well, Sylvester Stallone endorses this film, but if that's not enough to persuade the tagline says it all: Make Believe. Not war.


The Fall:
Acclaimed music director Tarsem Singh produces and directs THE FALL, a poignant and imaginative story set in 1920’s Los Angeles. The story follows a young immigrant girl (Catinca Untaru) who, while recovering in the hospital from a fall, strikes up a friendship with a bedridden man (Lee Pace) who captivates her with a whimsical story that removes her far from the hospital doldrums into the exotic landscapes of her imagination.

When & Where: Tower Theatre PLAYING NOW

Why You Should Go: This film was shot in 26 locations in 18 countries, so you're basically getting a geography lesson in 117 minutes.


The Life Before Her Eyes:
Award-winning writer/director Vadim Perelman (HOUSE OF SAND AND FOG) returns to the big screen with THE LIFE BEFORE HER EYES, a disquieting drama starring Uma Thurman and Evan Rachel Wood and based on the acclaimed novel of the same name. The film follows the trajectory of one woman’s fifteen year struggle to deal with a tragic high-school event that dramatically altered her adolescence and detrimentally follows her into a disrupted adulthood.

When & Where: Tower Theatre PLAYING NOW

Why You Should Go: Uma Thurman in an indie film? Heck yes! Evan Rachel Wood from Across the Universe plays a young Uma Thurman also.


Young@Heart:
Critics and audiences alike are raving about YOUNG @ HEART, a funny, inspiring story based on the real life choral group of the same name. Comprised entirely of senior citizens, the group has entertained audiences all over the world with its renditions of R&B, pop and punk songs. Faced with the challenge of learning six new songs for a show that is only six weeks away, the aging members of YOUNG @ HEART are put to the test in their quest to prove that their unique chorus only gets better with age.

When & Where: Tower Theatre PLAYING NOW

Why You Should Go: These senior citizens sing everything from the Clash to Coldplay...probably more different than any cover band you've ever heard.



American Teen:
A 2008 documentary film directed by Nanette Burstein (On the Ropes, The Kid Stays in the Picture) set in Warsaw, Indiana, and focuses on graduating high school seniors struggling through school and life. It competed in the Documentary Competition at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, where it received the Directing Award: Documentary.

When & Where: July 25 at Theatres (almost) everywhere

Why You Should Go: Besides winning the Directing Award and Grand Jury Prize at Sundance this year, American Teen is described as The Breakfast Club of our generation - the difference being that these stories are true.

Priceless:

A woman who has never had much trouble choosing between love or money tries to teach a man the tricks of the trade in this sly romantic comedy. Irene (Audrey Tautou) is an attractive thirty-something woman who lives a comfortable life by taking up with older and very wealthy men. Irene is not so interested in Jean until Jacques decides he's had enough of her and breaks off their relationship; suddenly forced to fend for herself, Irene turns to Jean for help. Jean, meanwhile, has learned that Madeleine (Marie-Christine Adam) has her eye on him. Jean asks Irene to give him a crash course in the fine art of being a gigolo, while Irene tries to get back in the game by taking up with Gilles (Jacques Spiesser). Slowly but surely, Irene and Jean realize how much they care for one another, but can they get learn to live the good life without money?

When & Where: The Crest Theatre, June 6-June 12

Why You Should Go: If you like French comedy and Audrey Tautou (The DaVinci Code, Amélie) then this is the perfect film for you. The costars won the Best Kiss Award at the NRJ Ciné Awards too.

Before the Rains:

An Englishman intent on opening a spice plantation in Kerala attempts to gain the trust of the local villagers and destroys numerous lives in the process in this period drama from director/cinematographer Santosh Sivan. The year is 1937, and the power that the English wield over the citizens of India can be devastating even in the mildest of cases.

When & Where: The Crest Theatre, June 13- June 19

Why You Should Go: Merchant-Ivory productions are known for stunning visuals, and Before the Rains seems to be no exception.

My Brother is an Only Child:
Set in a small Italian town in the 60's and 70's, the film tells the story of two brothers who want to change the world ? but in completely different ways. The elder, Manrico (Riccardo Scarmaccio), is a handsome, charismatic firebrand who becomes the prime mover in the local Communist party. Accio, (Elio Germano) the younger, more rebellious brother, finds his own contrarian voice by joining the reactionary Fascists. What starts as a typical tale of sibling rivalry becomes the story of the polarizing and paralyzing politics of those turbulent times and, the rift between the brothers is further intensified when Accio realizes that he loves his brother's girlfriend, Francesca (Diane Fleri) who, like everyone else, is blind to Manrico's increasingly dangerous ideas.

When & Where: The Crest Theatre June 13- June 19

Why You Should Go: Four Wins. Six Nominations. Italian Boys. Sounds good to me.

Mongol:

Award-winning Russian filmmaker Sergei Bodrov ('Prisoner of the Mountains') illuminates the life and legend of Genghis Khan in his stunning historical epic, 'Mongol.' Based on leading scholarly accounts and written by Bodrov and Arif Aliyev, 'Mongol' delves into the dramatic and harrowing early years of the ruler who was born as Temudgin in 1162. As it follows Temudgin from his perilous childhood to the battle that sealed his destiny, the film paints a multidimensional portrait of the future conqueror, revealing him not as the evil brute of hoary stereotype, but as an inspiring, fearless and visionary leader. 'Mongol' shows us the making of an extraordinary man, and the foundation on which so much of his greatness rested: his relationship with his wife, Borte, his lifelong love and most trusted advisor.

When & Where: The Crest Theatre June 27 - July 3

Why You Should Go: The dialogue is in Mongolian and was submitted by Kazahkstan for the Foreign Language Film category in the 80th Academy Awards. Since the film is based on scholarly accounts, you can walk away feeling a little more cultured too.

Also Coming Soon to Tower Theatre:

Roman de Gare

Children of Huang Shi

The Flight of the Red Balloon

Mister Lonely

When Did You Last See Your Father?

Brick Lane

Lots of love and $10 popcorn,
Caitlin

Frankly, my dear...

I feel a little bit bad for Scarlett Johansson. Her new album titled Anywhere I Lay My Head has this actor-turned-singer covering Tom Waits' songs (nothing new in Hollywood these days, of course) . I was a little excited at first. I mean, pretty people always look like they should have pretty voices. And Scarlett is gorgeous, so that should exponentially increase the awesomeness of her voice, right? Wrong. Her new album, as a "project" of sorts, is a disappointment. The problem seems to be that her songs are overproduced - her whispery voice is drowned by backup vocals and instrumentals. It's not the "alternative" or "indie" sound that I was hoping for - instead we get to hear interesting ambiance instrumentals hide a seemingly average voice. Also, she sings completely without feeling. There is no soul in her songs - a trait that makes Tom Waits' songs worthwhile in the first place. Poor Scarlett. I would say stick to acting, but if you remember her singing "Summertime" from the album Unexpected Dreams: Songs from the Stars the difference in her voice is like night and day. She has a smoky sound that sounds perfect with jazzy, simple tunes like that. Never mind the irony in Scarlett singing about a black woman picking cotton. Fiddle-dee-dee! But why listen to little old me? Listen for yourself.

"Falling Down"


"Summertime"


And just for fun...here's how Tom Waits does "Falling Down."






Song of the Day: M79 by Vampire Weekend is a jaunty, funky song from the debut album. A mix of Western classical music and African popular music makes a genre that the band describes as "Upper West Side Soweto". Vampire Weekend toured with the Shins last year and had the #67 spot on the Billboard Top 100 for their song "Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa". Enjoy!


Weekend Plans: Rick's Dessert Diner! Okay, you guys, you guys. Let me just take this opportunity to divulge a not-so-secret secret. I would eat dessert as a replacement for every meal...or at least eat dessert first. So...Rick's Dessert Diner in downtown Sacramento is pretty much my Mecca. Located at 2322 K Street in downtown Sacramento just a short walk from the Crest Theatre, this place is the perfect stop for those with a late night sweet tooth. It's open late - Friday and Saturday til 1, Tuesday-Thursday til 12 and Sunday and Monday til 11. With over 285 treats to choose from and all in a cute, retro diner atmosphere you can't really go wrong.

Coming Soon to Caffeine: Alternatives to the Summer Blockbuster. Yeah, we all love Indy and Batman - but there's gotta be something more!

Lots of Love and Chocolate Cake,
Caitlin

This is a Caffeine High

The pun in the title was intended. Okay! So first post! I feel like it should be really epic - like Narnia or Lord of the Rings...or not. Today marks the official one week mark of summer vacation. So far I have achieved a glorious amount of nothing - which would explain the free time for bringing to you, dear readers, a continuous (hopefully bi-weekly) stream of interesting and exciting posts! I'm thinking book of the week/song of the day and then whatever strikes my fancy. At least that is the plan.

Song(s) of the Day: Endless Song of Happiness and New Soul by Yael Naim

Why you should listen: Yael Naim's folksy pop songs will make you want to dance. PLUS...she's Israeli and she sings in English, French, and Hebrew. Her song New Soul was featured in the latest Mac commercial for MacBook Air...if that's not a mark of brilliance, I don't know what is. New Soul was on #9 on the Billboard hot 100 list...the only Israeli solo artist to ever do so. And, come on guys, she's absolutely lovely! So add this to your soundtrack to the summer, everyone. This one's a winner.

Book of the Week: Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys

Why You Should Pick it Up: Okay, so I actually had to read this book for a class last semester and I'll be honest, I didn't actually read it when I was supposed to (you know, before you actually start talking about it in class...) But during finals week I decided to pick it up again for studying purposes and it ended up being the best idea ever. Not only did I trick myself into thinking I was procrastinating, this book is really, really good. For all of you Bronte fans out there familiar with Jane Eyre, you will find this especially interesting. Wide Sargasso Sea tells the story of Bertha (her real name is Antoinette) before Jane and Rochester, on the island of Jamaica, where the untold tale of madness, passion, and loss unfolds. Was Bertha mad or just misunderstood? Fact: Wide Sargasso Sea won the WH Smith Literary Award in 1967. It's a prequel of sorts and I promise you'll like it.

To Do Today: Check out the latest This American Life podcast.

This week's is all about Prom. There's a pretty interesting story about a high school that had a tornado pass through the town on the night of the prom wiping out 1/3 of the town's houses. The students then try to explain why they think the tornado hit where it did. Interesting stuff.

Weekend Plans: Friday Night Concerts in the Park (May 2-August 15)

5:00-9:00 pm every week at the Ceasar Chavez Park in Downtown Sacramento! This week's performers are: An Angle, Knock Knock, Jay Shaner & The Cowboy Killers, and The Definite Articles.

Lots of Love and MacBooks,

Caitlin