Beer Wars

Here's an interesting, informative and entertaining documentary, 2009's Beer Wars.

Written and directed by Anat Baron, a former executive for Mike's Hard Lemonade, this movie describes the fight micro-breweries have to endure to try to compete with the "Big Three" (Anheuser-Busch, Coors, and Miller).

I've been interested in this subject ever since Coors bought the rights to Caffrie's Cream Ale and then refused to sell it in the U.S.A.

Do not be put off if you're not a beer snob/aficionado/casual fan. This documentary doubles nicely as a Big-corporations-are-too-greedy essay.

Information is abundant in the movie. I learned Stella Artois, Kirin, Bass and other "good" imported beers' rights are owned by Anheuser-Busch, if not owned outright, for example.

There are a few problems with Beer Wars. The female subject isn't nearly as sympathetic as she should be, and Anat spends almost all her time on the east coast. Stone Brewery and Mike's are mentioned in passing, but those are the only mentions of anything west coast - Odd, I thought, as the micro-brews are doing so well here.

But over-all I liked this movie and would recommend renting (or streaming) it!

Shinobi: Heart Under Blade

I'm suggesting the next movie to a very select few. I just watched Shinobi: Heart Under Blade and enjoyed it. But I don't think very many people will.

Shinobi is billed as X-men meets Romeo and Juliette, and it doesn't lie. Two ancient clans of warriors (each warrior has a different 'special ability') face off to determine the rightful ruler of Japan. Unfortunately for them, two happen to have just fallen in love.

What I liked about it:
A] It was adapted from a Manga [anime] series, and indeed it is a well-done, for the most part, live-action anime. The action scenes are stunning. The characters' super powers are as realistic as super powers get and well shot. B] This movie is beautiful to look at, especially the backrounds and scenery. C] They introduce the love story and then leave it at the door - no cornyness here. D] Its many references to my favorite anime movie Ninja Scroll.

What I didn't like about it:
A] It was really hard to follow in spots! B] It's ending. I won't say any more in case you actually rent it. But really, unless you're a big fan of anime, I don't think this is a good rental for you.