Arts

Hollywood's dumping ground: Dismal 'Deep' and mediocre 'Measures' lead off long-delayed February films

Monster movie can't rise above sea level

Beware of the beast. At least that seems to be what the makers of "Deep Rising" were shooting for with their movie and advertising campaign. Too bad that the creature of the sea is little more than a mass of tentacles that makes a ridiculous squeaking sound whenever it's about to strike.

'Desperate' thriller doesn't measure up

Because of the complexity of its central premise, "Desperate Measures" is one of those films that has an opportunity to set itself apart from standard suspense movies. But the failure to present the film from an original perspective prevents it from being anything other than a forgettable cinematic experience.

7th House enjoys McCain's 'Solitude'

Pontiac's 7th house was the place to be on Friday night as Edwin McCain showcased his talent before an enthusiastic crowd. The evening began with a surprisingly enjoyable performance by Thanks to Gravity, an up-and-coming band whose talent lies primarily in the lead singer's ability not only to sing and play guitar but also to play violin extraordinarily well.

ASQ continues Beethoven series

In the "Beethoven the Contemporary" series sponsored by the University Musical Society, the American String Quartet and pianist Ursula Oppens contrast works by the old master with works by new ones. I'd imagine the goal is to get us, the audience, to appreciate the modern music more than we might otherwise.

Girls analyze classic art

At the Detroit Institute of Arts, there is a lovely, bloody picture of the biblical Judith beheading an Assyrian General (Holofernes), with all the grace of an Italian Baroque. In the Guerilla Girls' revision/additional commentary on not only Western Art, but also on the prevailing social and economic conditions of women artists throughout "the ages," Artemisia Gentileschi's "Judith Slaying Holofernes" is one of the highlights.

'Curse' continues 'Island' legacy; 'Casino' proves a lucky gamble

LucasArts has finally unveiled the third addition to the Monkey Island trilogy, "The Curse Of Monkey Island," continuing the saga of the classic game, "The Secret of Monkey Island." The game itself is superior to its predecessors in both graphics, gameplay and sound quality, but remains the same in its dry whimsical humor. "Curse" also brings back some familiar characters such as the Voodoo Lady, Elaine Marley and the unfortunately named, hero/pirate wannabe Guybrush Threepwood.

02-02-98

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