Wonder or Wander

Carlos Saura, Spain, 2005 The magician of visual composition. "Carmen" was a very interesting movie and the one that I came to know the director, but despite the stunning plot and a few striking shots, it remains in somewhat a traditional storytelling movie, where modern technique is hardly seen. But "Iberia", which is composed of a sequence of flamenco dancing in the name of various places in Spain, doesn't have a plot. Only each section delivers emotion and insinuates a bit of story via music and dance. Such vivid lighting, strong contrast in the color and brightness and an extraorinary use of mirrors and video projections in the stage make each scene stand out as a still image. When it comes to flamenco, it doesn't seem to be made for young ballerinas who have a perfect structure of bones and muscles. This dance goes well with some fat and even better with aging. It also seems very adequate with blue jeans. Saura says that he wanted to become a dancer and...

...thrilled experiment on the edge. John Zorn: alto saxophone Dave Douglas: trumpet Greg Cohen: bass Kenny Wollesen: drums It's a very different kind of jazz. The only way of listening to his music is being engaged up to the tips of my fingers. I strongly felt that music players should enjoy themselves while performing in order to impress their audience. Tyring to play the best is not the best idea. Self-indulgence with zeal may bring chemistry with the audience. Am I ready for my recital in March?