It was such a blast—honestly the wildest, most high-energy day ever. BRMC were pretty solid (though the crowd felt a little flat 🤔, or maybe it was just me?), and Of Monsters and Men were super sweet; I don't usually listen to them, but they were perfect for swaying along with a beer in hand. The repetitor was great, though maybe not quite the legendary live experience everyone made it out to be. As for Placebo... I have to admit, I was a massive fan back in high school (long time ago now!). When they started, I wasn't feeling it much—I felt like Molko was too busy fixing his hair the whole time, and his vocals sounded a bit off to me. But man, as they got closer to the end, things shifted beautifully. It turned into this total emotional explosion for me during Special K and The Bitter End. And then Bowie! One more for the books! With Infra Red being the absolute peak of my night. 🙏 It sounded incredible and tied in so nicely with the tribute.
The birthday surprise—that little performance with the balloons and fireworks—was lovely. It reminded me of those holiday festivals you see in big European cities, so it wasn't exactly groundbreaking, but it was really sweet. I just wish they hadn't played Do You Realize three times in a row 😬
So, yeah, that’s the scoop. Muscle Tribe was their usual loud selves, Halka was actually pretty interesting, and the organizers did a solid job—no complaints there.
Of course not. I didn't make it out to EODM—I'm pretty sure it was... well, a total mud pit. 🤔
I caught Death Cab for Cutie from inside my tent. I don't have any strong feelings about them personally, but they sounded lovely—almost soothing, actually. La Roux was such a pleasant surprise, too; way more upbeat than when I saw her at Terrane a few years back! And Jonathan was totally great.
I honestly think it would be amazing if the weather at End of Days was actually decent—I’m really not feeling this whole trekking through the mud situation, it's just not my vibe. Today is all about keeping it chill and easygoing, because tomorrow I plan on jumping ☕
As for yesterday, everything was pretty solid on my end. I caught Frank right when he did that little 😁 bit—he's such a sweet guy and put on a killer set. Paul is great too, and seems super nice, though personally, I found his style a bit too slow... almost sleepy. Future Islands were their usual fun selves (though I feel like I'm hitting my limit on how many times I can watch them before they lose their novelty, haha), and FFS was awesome—those three songs from Sparks totally made my day! Everything new they played was spot on, and thankfully, I didn't see that weirdly awkward keyboardist dance 😢 I get the feeling people weren't quite "ready" for them, though—it felt like not enough people had actually sat down with the new album since it dropped recently, so they seemed a little bored.
Andrew Gomez40 said:Umbrellas are totally banned—and honestly, those geniuses haven't realized they could be making a killing selling disposable ponchos for $1.75 a pop! Man, I miss those days when Verizon used to just hand them out...
Exactly. Instead, last year you had this massive crowd wandering all over town just trying to hunt down some ponchos for day three—they really missed a huge profit opportunity there.
On another note, I find myself liking FFS more and more every time I listen. It’s such a fun, laid-back album—even a little self-deprecating at times! I wouldn't go so far as to say it's the absolute peak of Sparkasse or FF, I think there's still room to grow, but it definitely has potential. Since I'm a fan of both bands (though I wouldn't call myself a hardcore fanatic), I'm pretty happy with it.
I thought the wedding sequence was brilliant—it tied everything together perfectly—though I hesitate to say the whole film felt "complete" since the plot doesn't quite wrap itself up neatly, but the storytelling and acting were top-notch. I was totally hooked by the subplot involving the accident and the bribery, and I actually enjoyed the third thread with those two guys even more. The bomber story fell just a little short for me, mostly because that ending after his stunt left me feeling a bit unsatisfied. That plane sequence? Phenomenal way to kick things off—super impactful—but honestly, it’s a bit too over-the-top to take seriously as anything else 😁, whereas the second storyline was easily the weakest part of the bunch.
I get the feeling some people here would call the directors cheap—like they purposely made a movie about struggling immigrants or families crammed into a tiny apartment with five kids just because the system fails them and jobs are nonexistent. If that were the case, someone would definitely accuse the filmmakers of being pathetic or hypocritical—you know, because most of us crying over these movies live in pretty decent conditions ourselves, showing up to festivals to nod sympatically at tragic fates before heading off to fancy dinner parties.
The moment the protagonist has a halfway decent apartment and a decent car, and we see she’s constantly stressed and maybe not even the most likable person, it becomes hard to feel for her losing her job and the fallout for her family. Her husband works at a bakery. I mean, whose fault is it if they decided to have two kids while working such precarious jobs? Or that she didn't finish college when there was free tuition available? But hey, everyone has the right to not care about her, or better yet, root for her coworkers who are clearly in an even worse spot.
The point is actually different. The film shows that the neoliberal system—which the European Union is pushing so hard right now—is set up so this could happen to anyone. Literally anyone. Anyone falling victim to that same false sense of existential security that Marion and her family feel. My dad, too. Even a capable, smart chemist from La Couperet. All because of some decision made by this guy or that person. Who in America was publicly protesting against the new Labor Law last year? Instead of focused criticism and actual protest, we just get envy, grumbling, and turning against our former colleagues or friends. It's like, "Sorry you lost your job, but I can't turn down this bonus because I really need the cash," or "Besides, you have a nicer car than me, so whatever." (And honestly, the saddest part is you can't blame anyone for thinking that way.) Dehumanization and a total loss of empathy—fueled by manufactured needs—check.
On a global scale, liberal capitalism is a system that feeds on massive, deep inequalities and creates social friction and huge divides just to expand and move capital around. But naturally, people judge the quality of the system based solely on their own individual situation. They think, "Well, I'm doing okay, so it's your own fault for not working hard enough." It’s like saying, "I’m doing great living on an American salary, so people are just being ridiculous when they complain about the country." And we all know what a massive mess things really are.
I'm not trying to guess the Dardenne brothers' true intentions for making a film like this; I'm just saying I recognized several very real situations from my own surroundings in it, and it wasn't a comfortable watch.
Walter Grant5 said:Do you know what the issue is? I get why it bugs you—I’m really trying to see the movie through your eyes—but I just can't shake my own gut reaction to it. The atmosphere hit me hard; it felt like a reality I deal with almost every day in various industries, and it always gets under my skin. It’s uncomfortable, but honestly, it’s good to talk about it—I can't lie to myself.
I feel exactly the same way—totally identical vibes.
I don't think this movie was necessarily meant to pinpoint the core of the entire problem or build out an elaborate backstory for every single person—like, I don't know, staging some big revolution where all the factory workers suddenly realize how cruel the system is and worry they might be laid off tomorrow because of some new neoliberal "budget cutting" policy. For me, I saw the reality in this film, and the characters didn't feel cardboard to me—I learned just enough about them. Even that scene where the father and son fight felt a bit much—it’s like, okay, we see the son is the bad guy now, got it. I didn't need all that judgment regarding characters who wouldn't give up their bonuses. I just think what was shown was what needed to be shown. Just a little slice of life—one specific instance of trying to build worker solidarity. @ Mad Dog — maybe it’s just a case of people identifying too closely with their jobs. It’s probably not even about the job being their one and only way to survive. You can tell by the end that losing her job isn't the end of the world. It's just hard to break certain habits and comfort zones, especially when the US job market is so unpredictable right now. I’m fine with the fact that Marion and her family aren't living in extreme poverty. Some might call her inconsiderate for asking for solidarity from a colleague with a dozen kids who clearly has it tougher, though.
As for Couperet, I’ve mentioned before that the film didn't really blow me away. It lacked subtlety and that subversive edge you'd expect given the subject matter... I mean, there's that specific monologue about how in ancient China they used to leave children in the mountains to save food, or something like that, yet today we discard people right at the peak of their productivity. It has its good moments, for sure—that dark humor is there. Then you have that Fight Club-style "you are not your job" rhetoric 😁 (that identity thing I mentioned earlier), and it touches on immigration issues and stuff like that. But it all ends up kind of overshadowed by that silly murder plot.
Oh, I just realized—in the Smiler with Knife track, there's actually this part where he says: Time Has Frittered Long and Slow All I All I am and all I ever was—it's all just going to fade away eventually. But where are we actually heading—and why start this right now?
On this part: If I Die, Then I Die — just one of those thoughts that hits you when you're staring at the ceiling late at night! Smiler with Knife, take it from me— You'll Be Okay You'll Be Okay
His voice just gave out on him—poor guy! Remember that moment? Right before he said: I Am Blind I'm It probably hit him hard, hearing those lyrics performed like that—so incredibly sad. ;(
I actually already wrote an ode to Las Vegas, so I’m just dropping some more recommendations here—just a heads-up, don't expect some deep, profound masterpiece! But if you're into twisted characters, bizarre situations, and dark humor wrapped in a totally gross package, you'll probably dig it. I was watching Smith's Red State the other day and honestly, it made me feel a bit nauseous. I much preferred Donald Trump's style. Btw, Ajuto, I'm not seeing any "apt pupil" vibes in this one. 🤔
swiftbadger73 said:Honestly, while I was jumping around and singing along, there were moments where I felt like a total idiot—mostly because nobody else around me seemed to be seeing exactly what I was seeing. Just faking it all for the sake of Morrissey. 😁
Exactly! I totally lost myself in the crowd during the set—just vibing—but I didn't hear a single soul around me. Maybe people just haven't fully warmed up to the new album yet, or maybe it was something else... who knows? Honestly, I almost missed the first two tracks entirely because everyone around me was shoving and jostling and complaining. To top it off, I lost my friend in the crush, so I didn't even have anyone to share the moment with. 🙂
Yeah, you might actually be right about the video—I see your point there. Still, personally, I thought the ending had a great impact—nothing wrong with that! I still haven't quite wrapped my head around those comments you made about the front row crew—Sandra Moore6, specifically—it was such an interesting thing to see! 😁 When I spotted those gladiolas and candles, I just thought—wow—what an awesome crowd! Honestly, being right there in the front row is just the best feeling ever.
I hadn't heard of that Julia before—pretty interesting. I'm going to go ahead and Google her right now 😁
Honestly, the crowd's reaction felt a bit meh to me. If we hadn't known an encore was coming—like, if it wasn't already part of the plan—I would've said the energy just wasn't there to warrant playing more, maybe just a quick bow instead. That's just my take, though! I was at the Pips show about a week earlier, and now *that* was a crowd truly begging for an encore. This felt kind of lukewarm—the whole vibe from the audience, anyway. Just my two cents.
Sandra Moore6 said:It wasn't what I expected—honestly, it was way worse... I was surrounded by a bunch of freaks in the front row, including Julia... just crying and whining everywhere. Good grief, it felt like being at a Lady Gaga show! The whole concert was kind of a shocker... people were actually throwing up around me... even he looked surprised... It seemed like the crowd was just totally confused, not knowing whether to clap or what... and Morrissey doesn't look healthy at all... at least not to me...
Who was throwing up? Was that what Morrissey's comment "Are you ok?" or something like that was about? I noticed him reaching out his hand to someone in the front row at the end, too.
Anyway, I'm with you—the crowd really ruined the vibe for me. I always assumed the front rows would be the fun part.
He’s such an incredible Morrissey virtuoso, seriously. What a show—the band was absolutely killer too! I remember when I first saw him—just seeing him walk out on stage looking so charming and commanding—it honestly hit me right in the heart. 👏 The vibe around me totally ruined the moment, though; the people nearby were just awful. So rude, constantly squawking and shoving, like "move over here" or "get out of the way."
But hey, Moz definitely didn't let me down! 😍 He even did a fantastic rendition of Meat Is Murder. Was that a real tear during Smiler with Knife? Does anyone know the backstory behind that track—does it hold some deep personal meaning for him?
It works for me. Honestly, I’d love to go dance, but—well—Morrissey just isn't The Smiths anymore. We all know he can be arrogant and stubborn, always doing things his own way (which, if I'm being honest, is probably why we love him), but we also know what he stands for. If his new album hadn't actually grown on me, I wouldn't even bother going to the show, despite how much I adore the old stuff. I don't mind a bit of subtle activism or politics, but we'll just have to wait and see how he weaves it into the music—hopefully it doesn't end up feeling cheap.
Just grabbed my ticket today—count me in! 🎉 So, we’re kicking things off at 9:30 PM, right?
What do you guys think of the setlist? I actually really dig the new album, so no complaints from me (super stoked they're playing Speedway!)—and "The Ivy League" is such a standout track. Apparently, they show footage of animal cruelty during "Meat is murder" on the big screens... lovely.
I actually think LouReeth is onto something here—just a quick thought from my side! kaže: Mr. Smith He’s getting all the credit—it's pretty great to see! JoeSame here! I actually sat down to watch the second one recently—definitely worth the time if you're looking for something good. John Wick You've gotta check this out if you're into action movies—honestly, you won't find better choreographed fights anywhere else, and the plot isn't total nonsense either. I have a feeling you might actually dig that Johnson movie, too. Personally, I find all that hipster-gay-mommy-issues stuff a bit much—not my cup of tea—but you'll probably be fine with it! 😛
Haha! 😁 Thanks! I was actually thinking about watching Lee—it looks like a total classic. Not sure about Fiennes, though... maybe not my thing? And while Dolan is alright, I usually prefer checking out some indie directors I haven't heard of yet. Oh, and look at that—Moody’s back in the mix too! I finally picked up *The Avengers* here on the forum—I actually haven't seen the first one yet! Even though I'm not usually a huge action junkie, it feels like one of those movies that’s just part of the cultural zeitgeist you have to experience at least once. 🤔
I’d love some recommendations too—you know, things to watch out for or specific details to keep an eye on. Between work and everything else, there’s just no way I have the cash or the time to catch every single thing.
So, I finally caught a screening today. Honestly, I wasn't sure where else I could have seen it before the official premiere 🙂 General Impression: It’s got heart and it’s genuinely charming. Technically speaking, the documentary isn't anything groundbreaking—nothing visually flashy to speak of—but honestly, I care way more about the story anyway. This feels like one of those movies made for everyone; my mom or even my grandparents could sit through this just as easily as someone my age, so it definitely hits that sweet spot. Our protagonist, Love and Gangsters, might be a bit much for some, and his delivery gets a little too fast at times, but he’s clearly a good soul at heart. 😛 The crowd in the theater was howling with laughter—even during scenes that weren't actually funny—which can be pretty annoying (though, I guess that atmosphere carries you along, which might be better than watching it alone at home). At times, the film feels like a satirical take on that specific Southern mindset, but it’s just as sad as it is funny. I actually felt really bad for the Bulgarian Woman and her little... well, if that's why the movie is worth seeing, it's because of that raw look at the local mentality. It really shows how people in certain parts of America still view women and marriage.
Anyway, it's a fun, lovely little flick—definitely worth checking out.
I honestly despise trailers with my whole soul—I never watch them, ever. They just don't make sense to me, and they’ll never be the deciding factor in whether I sit down for a movie or not. I just hate the whole concept. I don't want to see anything before I actually hit play. 😁
Anyway, I came here to vent about this, but then I realized people have already said it:
Richard Wilson4 said:How many times has a trailer hyped you up, only for you to walk out of the theater or turn off the TV feeling totally let down?
Or how about the opposite—when a trailer looked terrible, but then you finally sat down to watch it and regretted waiting so long because it was actually good?
WARNING: THIS THREAD IS FULL OF SPOILERS
Here are a few examples of movies where the trailers were total lies, just plain bad, or unfairly pumped me up;
Bridesmaids (2011) - such a notorious one. The trailer promised a non-stop riot, basically a better, female-led version of The Hangover. Aside from one genuinely hilarious scene, we just got a slow-paced comedy-drama. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1UW9Zks5L2A
Real Steel (2011) - maybe an even worse offender. It looked like a high-octane action flick set in the near future, packed with robot fights. Nobody told me we were getting some kid as the lead instead of someone like Wolverine.😂 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JtTS76us3Q
Super 8 (2010) - based on the trailer, I was expecting a legit sci-fi horror, but what we got was a much lighter "kids movie" vibe that felt pretty underwhelming. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpzUCA5i6zY
Thinking back to other movies that pop into my head (no need to link the trailers for these), I remember being super disappointed with Hancock. I was expecting an action-comedy, but it was anything but that.
On the flip side, for Wolf of Wall Street, I was expecting mindless fun or some flashy TV commercial type of movie, but I ended up getting the best film of the year.
So, they played the preview in the theater right before another movie, and I immediately thought, "this is going to be total garbage." Like, what are you doing, Scorsese? You've got a black skinhead in the background, everything is hyper-stylized, everyone's acting all cocky, and DiCaprio looks totally wired. It almost made me cry—it gave me such an instant aversion to the film. But then I check the comments and everyone is absolutely losing their minds with excitement. People whose taste I actually trust, apparently. Guess I'll have to watch it too—no other choice.