RECENT VIEWING
Black Politics
One Night in Miami (Amazon Prime)
Set in February 1964, One Night in Miami brings together four Black men on the cusp of fame or notoriety. It’s the early days of the Civil Rights era. Boxer Cassius Clay has just defeated Sonny Liston, and this gathering of friends is partly a celebration of that victory. It’s also the day before Clay joins the Nation of Islam and changes his name. Malcolm X, a leader in the Muslim brotherhood, is the dominant figure. Present along with Clay and Malcolm X are football great Jim Brown and songwriter Sam Cooke. These men debate, disagree, and spar over what each one should be doing in the cause of Black freedom.
Based on a play of the same name, the film is quite static with little action and lots of dialogue. It’s an intense film and a powerful one that has new relevance in light of Black Lives Matter. Recommended. (~jWFarrington)
Archaeological Treasure
The Dig (Netflix)
In 1939 in Suffolk, England, the widowed Mrs. Pretty hires an excavator to dig up some mounds on her land. She has a good feeling about one of them. She is certain there are buried artifacts to be discovered. Basil Brown is not a professionally trained archaeologist; rather he learned his trade from his father and grandfather. But he has been recommended for his work on other digs.
Based on a famous archaeological discovery, the film proceeds at a somewhat leisurely pace. There is pleasure in the budding friendship between the widow and the excavator and in the rapport between her son Robert and Mr. Brown. And which of the two museums vying for the prize will be the winner? Carey Mulligan and Ralph Fiennes are excellent in the lead roles! (~JWFarrington)
A BIT OF FUN—DANCING NOSES
Given that we all spend much time these days with our noses covered by masks, I thought you’d enjoy this crazy dance from an opera. Thanks to the Chief Penguin for sharing it with me.
NACHOS ANYONE?
Tomorrow is Super Bowl Sunday. The game will be played in Tampa at the Buccaneers’ home stadium. With Tom Brady on their side, the Bucs have re-discovered their mojo. Go team!
I won’t be glued to the set, but I will check the score regularly. And, in the spirit of the day, nosh on some nachos.
