I was recently asked on a questionnaire what I thought was the worst movie of all time and I responded with 'Pootie Tang', certainly a valid answer. Had they gotten to me several days later I would have responded with 'Public Enemies' . I read the book (of the same name) and thought so highly of it that I brought it with me when I visited my youngest son and asked him to read it (which as of yet he has not done). The movie has almost nothing to do with the book and is simply a vehicle for Johnny Depp and Christian Bale. Its a shame because the book wove an interesting story of crime, corruption and government ineptitude in law enforcement surrounding the turn of the century (circa 1890-1930) criminals and efforts to curtail their activities. The book centers on the old 'Yegs' (a term of endearment for old bank robbers/safe crackers) and the influence they had on the younger generation of bolder, more violent criminals gradually taking their place. Central to the book's story is one Alvin (creepy) Karpis, a kind of bridge between the older and younger generation of career criminals. Karpis lived an interesting life, having taught guitar to a young Charles Manson and as part of the Ma Barker gang, however, the book hardly mentions him. Also missing from the movie was Baby Face Nelson (aka Lester Gillis), one of the most fearsome runts since Napoleon. Keep away from the movie, but give the book a read; it is excellent.
On the flip side is a movie which I thought was so funny that I can't even explain the plot to someone without laughing my ass off; 'Bubba Hotep'. Who the hell thinks up and devotes the time to fleshing out and completing a story like this, is beyond me (actually its Joe R. Lansdale) but I hope he continues to do so for many years. Bubba Hotep is one of those guilty indulgences you don't tell others about unless you're sure they're as insane as you are. This movie is done extremely well and about 90% of it is simply dialog between Bruce Campbell (Elvis) and Ossie Davis (JFK). What a wonderful surprise this movie is. Many critics panned it but don't let that fool you. Its an awesome piece of Americana.
Well, its the day after Christmas so I'm off to do my shopping. Happy Holidays :-)
