Rosario Dawson in Desccent. ACL Music Fest? What music fest?

If Music Fests Aren't Your Thing - See A Movie!

Since I'm trapped at work for the next few days during ACL this year, I've decided to attend a few ACL Aftershows. But for those who already get the limit of music in Austin 362 days of the year, may I recommend seeing a movie? The summer blockbuster seems to be a thing of the past, but the offering of small budget but well-made documentaries exposing the injustices around the world in our own backyard, independent and upscale revenge dramas, and comedy and action flicks based on a popular TV series and a bestselling novel are resplendent.

Instead of lengthy movie previews, I offer a one sentence synopsis of some movies I recommend this "holiday" weekend.

ACL is a holiday now, right?

Anyway, if you aren't attending ACL Fest or a plethora of aftershows (official and unofficial), here are my glowing recommendations. Simply click on the titles for a better synopsis or review, and for theater listings.

Documentary


Someone dares to question the policies of Bush?!

The Devil Came on Horseback: The controversy of the Darfur crisis in the Sudan and U.S. (lack of) intervention is explored through the p.o.v. of a dutiful soldier turned social activist.

Drama

(See top photo of hot actress.)

Descent: I know everyone is going ga-ga over the Jodie Foster revenge drama, and I expect an Oscar buzz about it, but I'd like to mention another revenge drama, an independent film featuring Rosario Dawson as a rape victim who blurs the line between vengeance and self-destruction.

Comedy


Better than the Flintstone Movies combined. Ha-ha.

The Simpsons Movie: While the thought of seeing a comedy about a nasty gym teacher named Mr. Woodcock, and a comedy about a washed-up ping pong ball prodigy avenging his father's death are oh-so appealing*, I'll have to pass on these flicks and recommend a movie I can't believe I haven't seen yet that may actually be a well-plotted extension of the famed animated series.

Action/Adventure


We've officially lost our indie cred.

The Bourne Ultimatum
I've seen it with my *BFF*, and we both agree that it was like a fast paced carnival ride - thrilling and entertaining for a moment, but lacking the depth of a theme park ride.

I'm probably going to some aftershows, but I had to buck against the local entertainment establishment. That's just how I roll...

~ DIY Danna

*Sarcasm is a lost art online.

In Memory of Damon O'Banion: A Music Benefit at Trophy's
Saturday September 8, 2007

Damon O'Banion w/The High Divers at the club formerly known as Velvet Spade - July 13, 2006.

The music benefit featuring an amazing line-up of solo artists and bands - including Gibby Hanes (Butthole Surfers), Jad Fair and Pong, will be a bittersweet affair. It's a music celebration, and a benefit for the family after the death of a loved one who contributed a lot to two music communities during his brief life. Less than 6 months ago, singer and music journalist Damon O'Banion died, leaving a wife and young ward for whom a college fund has been established. In August, musicians in his hometown of Houston, TX, held a benefit for O'Banion, who was in electrifying rock bands like Dixie Waste, and Austin's own The High Divers.


Toof: One of many talented local artists to perform this Saturday.

According to an unreliable but sexy source (Toof), and the wonderful Austin, TX Showlist, the line-up for the benefit dubbed Damon Fest will include:

The High Divers (featuring Gibby Hanes on vocals)
Honky
Dixie Waste (Houston, TX)
Unicorn Magic (11-year reunion)
Drunken Thunder
Toof
Pong
Jad Fair

The cover is $5 and doors open at 4:00 pm, with the show starting at 5:00. I will publish more pertinent details about Damon Fest as soon as I receive them. Here's the OFFICIAL Damon O'Banion Tribute Space.