Cassandra Syndromes

In Greek mythology, Cassandra was given the gift of prophecy by Apollo, who was instantly enraptured by her beauty. But when she failed to return his love, he cursed her with an inability to get anyone to believe her prophecies. In an Op-ed recently published in the New York Times Paul Krugman likens climate change warnings to the ill-fated Cassandra, as many ring-wingers are failing to accept what leading researchers so vehemently assert: climate change is real.

Krugman emphasizes that this crisis, though particularly daunting, can be amended in public policy. What the Obama administration does about this issue is to be seen. And there is an immense amount of pressure streaming in from both political sides. But what Mr. Obama needs to do, is scratch the bi-partisanship, give “politics as usual” one long, black middle finger and help restore our environment before the macabre sings his song.

Postcards from Romania

Perhaps it’s my newly found affection for my Central European roots, or the grandiosity with which Beirut and their Balkan ensemble grace my ears with, but whatever the case may be, it is undoubtedly certain that I’ve found a passion for Romanian film. Like many streetwise Cannes winners, 12:08 East of Bucharest (which I unfortunately delayed watching for two years now) depicts the kind of satire that I can’t recall seeing in a film. It’s not simply a melancholy rumination of failed Eastern European communism, but a hilarious insight into a very depressing time. But this isn’t a movie review, so I’ll spare you my bias. What’s more poignant to note here is what many have labeled the Romanian new wave.

I get the realism. I get the hand-held camerawork. And I get the long takes. These are just a few of the characteristics of modern Romanian cinema that I’ve noticed. But it’s tremendously interesting to watch this cinematic breakthrough unfold, especially as my interest in Central and Eastern Europe augments with every new Beirut single and Milan Kundera novel. I’ll redirect you to AO Scott’s video podcast of five different Romanian movies that should reflect everything I just mentioned.

The Death of Mr. Lazarescu – quite simply, an indictment of an indifferent healthcare system. But also reflective of what we struggle with here in the States; therefore making this film very pertinent to America’s rash dismissal of a univsersal health system.

4 Months, 3 Weeks, and 2 Days – perhaps the most succesful of Romanian new wave, if one wishes to go with the label, and beautifully sentimental and melancholy. This film is about more than what the plot aspires. It’s remarkable acumen of societal life in pre-Velvet times makes this worthy both artfully and culturally.

12:08 East of Bucharest – satirical evidence that the Romanian revolution of 1989 really occured (not that any moron wouldn’t acknowledge this, I’m just sayin’). Very minimilistic and incisive, you should enjoy this whether you posses my dry sense of humor or not.

The remaining two I have yet to watch. But am greatly intrigued.

The Paper Will Be Blue

California Dreamin’

Whatever your opinion of international film, it appears Romanian cinema is rising and that is not to be disputed. Three of those five films previously listed, I enjoyed thoroughly. This so-called new wave of art in Romania is just enhancing my already all-consuming love for all-things Central European. Bad news for my parents, I suppose. My desire to expatriate only greatens with these craftful films. Lord how I want to see A Hawk and a Hacksaw on the Charles Bridge.

For the Love of the Accordion,

Winner of a “Best Picture” award at the Albuquerque Film Festival. albuquerquefilmfestival.org/

This is a well-crafted film, and is as Romany and creative as they come.

more about “A HAWK AND A HACKSAW: Housle (Prague,…“, posted with vodpod