Worldsong
What I’m Watching: “Super 8”

A bunch of kids in a small town in the 70’s set out to shoot a movie about zombies on Super 8 film - and end up uncovering something far more frightening…

With superb storytelling from writer/director JJ Abrams, the genius behind series like Lost, and great cinematography and performances by the young cast, this film holds your attention from start to finish (and don’t miss the closing credits!).

Watching the extra “The Dream Behind Super 8” was also very interesting: JJ Abrams talks about the Super 8 movies that he shot as a kid, as did the director of photography who was a neighbour friend, and how this led to them getting to know Steven Spielberg (who produced the movie) through his passion as well for making Super 8 shorts, and how the story evolved.  Fascinating…

Postscript: Want to create your own spectacular action sequences?  Check out this iPhone app from JJ Abrams’ production company Bad Robot

What I’m Watching: “How To Make It In America”

Two young guys and their friends trying to make it in New York - not family viewing, but very stylish (check the credits sequence), stunning footage of New York, and sublimely funny - especially the incomparable Luis Guzman

How To Make It In America is one of the best series I’ve watched in a while.

What I’m Watching: “Downton Abbey”

Gripping story of a large English estate, both family and servants, on the eve of the First World War, Downton Abbey is superbly acted and filmed.  Cannot wait to see the next season…