“Rabbit-Proof Fence” (DVD currently available)
Based on a true story, “Rabbit-Proof Fence” refers to a 1,500-mile fence separating the outback desert from the farmlands of Western Australia. In 1931, it was also the scene of a particularly horrible portion of Australian history.
The fence is the site where three Aborigine girls were separated from their mothers and transported to a government-sponsored training school where they were assimilated into a racist society. The story follows the young girls (played flawlessly by newcomers Everlyn Sampi, Tianna Sansbury and Laura Monaghan) throughout their escape and their inspiring journey back home. The film also stars Kenneth Branagh as the police officer who freed the girls.
Director Phillip Noyce (“Dead Calm,” “The Saint” and “Patriot Games”) retains the tenderness of the straightforward book on which the film is based. The film is ingeniously enhanced by Peter Gabriel’s excellent score.
“Rabbit-Proof Fence” proves there are still heart-warming true stories to be told in today’s often cynical world. – Jeska Dzwigalski
“The Hot Chick”
DVD release May 13, 2003
Along the same lines of Rob Schneider’s other ridiculous movies (“Deuce Bigalo: Male Gigalo” and “The Animal”), “The Hot Chick” is just as outrageous, yet still remains slightly humorous.
Mix up a 1980s-esque body-switching spell that leaves a small-time crook (Schneider) and a vindictive high school queen (Rachel McAdams) to cope with the banalities of the other sex, and the recipe is ripe for stupidity.
This movie is stupid, don’t get me wrong. Crude and off-color humor abounds and there is something to insult almost anyone in the film. Of course, what else could one expect from a movie executively produced by Adam Sandler?
The DVD comes with several interesting behind-the-scenes features including a commentary by director Tom Brady, deleted scenes and even an alternate ending. Check this out if you can’t wait until the next wacky Schneider offering. – Nicholaus Biela
The Routine – Hotwire
Hotwire grew up in the suburbs of LA listening to the Buzzcocks, Slayer, Sex Pistols and Motley Crue. But before you dismiss them as another flash in the pan, take into account the impact their debut album The Routine is making, to be released June 3. They are also playing the second stage at Ozzfest this summer.
They must be doing something right to be invited to join the rock festival tour Ozzfest, which boasts such bands as Trust Company, Finger Eleven, Korn, Marilyn Manson and of course Ozzy. So how did a band whose debut album has yet to be released score a gig with some of the biggest rockers? It’s all due to a four-song self-titled LP released in 2000 by RCA that propelled the band onto the road. After seven months of touring, the band had developed a strong following and made a name for itself.
Hotwire’s music is powerful because it’s honest. The sound resembles the Deftones or a heavy Jane’s Addiction with traces of Buzzcocks. The ebb and flow of the music changes throughout the 12-track album.
Some points are intense and powerful, like “How It Goes,” while others like “Say What You Want” display more melodic and calm moments. Guitar solos by Gabe Garcia range from rapid to intricately slow. Rus Martin’s vocals also vary from soft and harmonious to raggedly raspy. Brian Borg keeps time on the drums, and Chris Strauser plays the bass.
Their album, produced and mixed by Matt Hyde (Porno for Pyros, Fu Manchu and Slayer), is named after their philosophy on life. The band says they believe believes one of the worst things a person can do is get into a consistent routine.
“Our music makes me excited and I want to break out,” Martin explained. “I always want shit to be switched up.”
