Sunshine

One of my favorite movies of last year was Danny Boyle's "Sunshine". About a crew who's mission is to jump start the sun, the movie explores human interaction in the face of massive castastrophy. Shot brilliantly by Alwin Kuchler, the film has some flaws towards the end but is definitely worth watching. To me it was a great gem in a summer of mindless blockbusters.
I found these pictures on Flickr.

Mongolian Deel

My great friend MR recently came back from a three week job in Mongolia and returned with a Deel (or Del) for me. After working the last three nights in Connecticut, I wrapped myself in it's silk lining and passed out. It feels great.

"The del is the Mongols' traditional garment worn on both workdays and special days. It is a long, loose gown cut in one piece with the sleeves; it has a high collar and widely overlaps at the front. The del is girdled with a sash."

"The del for everyday wear is grey, brown or some other dark colour, while the holiday del is a bright blue, green or claret silk with a silk sash of contrasting colour several metres long."

More info @ Super Fashion Galore

Below are a few pictures from that trip. Looks very barren and then the shockingly colorful remnants of Russian central planning.

Are We There Yet?

Happy Birthday

Hotel Babylon

So we tore threw the first 3 seasons of "Footballers Wives" a few months ago and now, through Netflix, we're devouring "Hotel Babylon". Not as much sex and skullduggery as those footy players but a bit more heavy on character. Based on a non fiction novel about London's high end hotel business, the show glossy and bright and quick. Star turns are afforded to such stalwart brits as Joan Collins and Steven Berkoff, although Paula Abdul is supposedly in season two for an episode. While others can watch inane reality shows, dark crime dramas or idiotic sitcoms, top off your champagne glass and get pampered by the Babylon staff.

The Raleigh

We've been in Miami scouting for the feature film we will be starting in two weeks. The local crew has been swell and we've been staying at The Raleigh on Collins Ave. Great atmosphere and the pool is spectacular.
After a redeye flight and a forgettable lunch, we returned to the hotel for a few hours. some of us met by the poolside banqates and a waiter soon arrived. I ordered a gin and tonic.....he suggested a mojito. Of course he was right. The prop man joined the group and wanted a frozen marguarita.....our waiter frowned then gave a big uneven smile and suggested on rocks with salt. I told my colleague to aquiese.... this guy knows what he's doing! Great to be in a place where they gently steer you towards what you want.

Chilean Quantum

USA Today has some pics from the new Bond flick currently shooting in remote Chilean mountains. Looks like alot of cardio for Daniel Craig.
Seems that the local populace is non too happy with their landside being filmed for Bolivia. The two countries warred over this land in the 19th century and wounds have never healed. More in The Sun.

Quantum of Solace homepage

Gone

The 300sd got donated this morning ending 13 years of always starting up and rumbling around town. It get given to the Diabetes Association for auction. I tried for awhile to give it a name but nothing ever seemed appropriate other than "the SD". Ciao.