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by Mark Maxwell Abushady, NYC Film Vegucated Simply stated, Vegucated answers the question ‘Why choose a vegan diet?’ After a call for volunteers, 3 people from diverse backgrounds (albeit all living in the NYC area) are selected from a larger group of respondents to ‘go vegan’ for 6 weeks. During that time, they are ‘vegucated’ as to what exactly veganism is, what to do to become a vegan and, of course, why. The engaging filmmaker, Marisa Miller Wolfson, handles the subject well, leavening a topic that can be at times very emotional and ‘prickly’ with humor and empathy. Although the medical and environmental benefits are represented, the strongest case was made regarding animal treatment in the food industry. All participants were shocked by the cruelty absolutely rampant, even on those farms which claim to practice ‘free range,’ and ‘organic,’ livestock handling techniques. While not as shocking as the formerly reviewed ‘Earthlings,’ the filmmaker does not shy away from describing some of the myriad abuses rampant in the industry, both in words and in film clips. None of these clips are gratuitous, for lack of a better word, and truly should be understood by the general public as part of the current “animals as food” industry. Regarding other aspects of veganism, it was surprising to learn that wool is a no-no for vegans. Also, that Susan B. Anthony, Cesar Chavez, Rosa Parks were vegetarians, and that Coretta Scott King was a vegan. Even Albert Einstein, at the end of his life went to a plant-based diet and is quoted in the film: “Nothing will benefit human health and increase the chances for survival of life on earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet.” An especially moving event was the breakdown of one of the volunteers whose social and family life centered upon the dinner table. In response, Moni Woweries, Animal Advocate, stated “A lot of people think about veganism like a religion, which is totally wrong because it’s not ‘you have to live by certain rules.’ It’s about minimizing suffering; it’s not about being perfect.” This sort of attitude puts the “goal of minimizing suffering” within the reach of many more people than a militant vegan stance ever will. Aspects of human evolution and diet are explored, although briefly, with more intelligence than I have previously heard around the topic of veganism or even vegetarianism. Definitely a must-see film for all.
What a gem. I loved this haunting, affirmative film. ‘The Way’ refers to the route through the French Pyrenees to Northwestern Spain along the Way of St. James/Camino de Santiago de Compostella; a journey that has been taken by pilgrims for over 1,000 years. The route culminates at the place of interment for the body of St. James. Martin Sheen stars in this movie written, directed and produced by his son, Emilio Estevez. His performance is full of depth and subtlety. Indeed, the film itself is subtle and full of nuance, making it all the more effective. It “works” on so many levels. Each of the characters encountered by Sheen on his journey possesses just the right amount of idiosyncrasies to make him/her absolutely believable. The actors portray characters so true to the kinds of people, relationships and adventure ones finds “on the road.” The same could be said of the story itself, which begins with a freak accident and continues with odd turns. I hesitate to say more, as I think it best to come to this movie without too many preconceived notions. Watching this magical film afforded the opportunity to experience something unexpected and wonderful. In addition to the human interactions, there is some laudable cinematography and beautiful images of the countryside featured in this film. I almost felt as if I had walked the road myself! Highly recommended.
Music
Blessings, Peace & Harmony The Monks of the Desert are in great voice! Blessings, Peace & Harmony is a perfect title for this album of medieval chants performed by the talented monks of The Monastery of Christ in the Desert. A compilation of four previous CDs, the voices are so very gentle and peaceful – it is amazing how powerful this music can be. Beautiful renditions of Salve Regina, Puer natus, a four-movement Mass, and many other pieces make up this wonderful offering. The website of this autonomous Abbey, which follows the Benedictine life, is full of fascinating information about the modern monastery’s sustainable lifestyle, and offers a virtual tour, as well as a section entitled ‘Dear Abbot.’ Uplifting, healing, a beautiful. Highly recommended.
Compilation albums can be a great way to get acquainted with new bands/performers/writers. What can also make a compilation album ‘work’ is the selection and order of songs – do they ‘hang together’ as a group. Sounds from the Circle III contains some really special recordings which do indeed make up a coherent collection. Especially notable are Aleix Riera’s ‘Running Between Diamonds,’ Anjey Satroi’s magical and reverent ‘The Rain,’ Bill Wren’s ‘En Mai,’ David Mauk’s ‘Ground Swell,’ Dr. Sounds’ (Brian Eno/Apollo-reminiscent) ‘Sigil for Life,’ Gnomusy/David Caballero’s ‘Dolmen Ridge,’ Jeffrey Fisher’s ‘Bird Dance,’ Laura Sullivan’s ‘The Serpent Mound,’ . . . I could go on, but will leave it with the statement that there are so many excellent cuts on this album of winning work. Another highly recommended offering!
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The Way
Sound from the Circle III