Cloud Atlas Directed by Tom Tykwer, and Lana & Andy Wachowski There’s something inherently off-putting about attending a screening of a film at which the studio feels the need to warn the audience that it’s a difficult film to watch and one that demands patience. It’s also odd to watch the stars of a film on talk shows, seemingly attempting to explain in greater detail than one might normally expect, just what the film is about and how it’s structured. And I can’t help but assume that the filmmakers are concerned about whether audiences will “get” the film or care for what they’re getting. I haven’t read the book of the same name that the film is based on, but I have read about it, in t

"Robot & Frank" Directed by Jake Schreier This odd, low budget little movie is probably my favorite of the new releases this week, starring Frank Langella as the coincidentally titular Frank, an ex-burglar who lives alone and has early signs of some form of dementia or memory loss and a diminishing ability to take care of himself. His son Hunter (James Marsden) makes onerous weekly visits to clean the house and make sure he’s OK, while his daughter Madison (Liv Tyler) pursues social justice causes in remote spots around the world. Faced with the possibility of needing to place his ailing but reluctant father into a care facility of some kind, Hunter instead buys a robot that’s programmed

I’ve only seen the original Total Recall once, and while I found it entertaining I was never smitten with it the way some people are. Maybe it’s the weirdness of the story, maybe it’s the weirdness of Paul Verhoeven’s direction. In any case, I was largely indifferent to the idea of a remake of the movie, especially if the director was going to be Len Wiseman, of Underworld fame. But when I saw the first trailer my interest was piqued, even if it was only because of the futuristic visuals. I’m disappointed to say that the visuals and the frenetic action scenes are the only reason this movie is watchable. In this second take on Philip K. Dick’s short story “We Can Remember It for You Wholes

The 2012 Hair & Fashion Battle Fundraiser was held at the Sacramento Scottish Rite Masonic Center on Saturday. The competition serves as a fundraiser for the Roberts Family Development Center. The center provides services to families with children facing challenges in school and to families who have a desire to improve their existing circumstances. This fundraiser helps set up scholarships for deserving children and allows them to participate in fun, recreational activities year-round and hands-on education. The annual competition showcases innovative hair and fashion styles and designs and brings them to the runway. Cash and other prizes are awarded to the top salon and designers and

Q: I dated my ex-boyfriend for nearly three years, but we kind of mutually decided that we didn't have a future, so we parted ways. We have stayed in touch and have no hard feelings toward each other. We have gone out a few times with mutual friends and we always have a good time. Occasionally he'll call me if he wants to talk to an old friend. Anyway, I have started seeing someone new, who I really like, but he doesn't like the fact that I am friends with my ex. I want to stay friends with my ex, but I really like the guy I am with now. Is it wrong for me to want to stay friends with my ex? Or does my new boyfriend have a point? A: I see this situation a lot and I think the answer is alm

It may sound cliche, but I love America. Not for what she is, or the thing she’s done, but for what she represents: the idea that we are born free, that every citizen is free to pursue their own path to happiness, and that in this land one is free to speak their mind, whether or not that opinion is popular. America is more than the earth between its borders. It is hope. Hope that shines like a beacon into the darkest corners of this world, calling to those who want more for their destiny than their homelands can give them. The best and the most determined to succeed from all over the planet come here to learn, to raise their children, and to hope for a better future. When the brave are c

"Why the Climate Crisis Can Only be Solved by Citizen Lobbyists” Sacramento Sustainability Forum is a monthly venue for connecting businesses, non-profits, government and interested citizens in the Sacramento region in order to promote sustainability, share insights and resources, and support movement toward a more sustainable future. The May SSF event was held at SMUD Auditorium Thursday, May 20. Approximately 65 attendees filled the auditorium, including interested citizens and students as well as members of the business, nonprofit and government communities. The Keynote topic was called "Why the Climate Crisis Can Only be Solved by Citizen Lobbyists", presented by Mark Reynolds, Exec

Are you a small business owner or a direct sales representative unable to meet your revenue goals? Are you scared that you won’t have enough money to pay your bills tomorrow? Are you one of the unfortunate thousands who just lost their jobs and fear for their financial future? If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, then get ready to free your fear and take control of your financial future by attending the free workshop “Managing Your Money” being held March 16th, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Sacramento or on March 19th, 9:00am – 11:00am in Elk Grove. Hosted by Barbara Thompson, certified financial stress reduction coach, the workshop focuses on stress reduction based on the princip

I am not sure what the Mayor of Sacramento is doing on the legislative side of things.  Nor am I sure what concrete plans he has to help the struggling business climate in "his" city and the surrounding region.   What I do know, is that for the first 100 days or so the Mayor has spent the majority of his time in very media freindly meetings, round tables, summits and otherwise talking.  He has also taken a couple trips back to Washington DC, with another soon on the horizon.  His short tenure in office, has sure been interesting to watch, but at the same time a little worrisome to this observer.  In a recent article, the Mayor commented on his celebrity relationships and the doors that ha