" Thanks for keeping me alive "

Searching For Sugar Man

Rodriguez was a mysterious rock 'n' roll musician in the late 60s and early 70s in Detroit. He generated some buzz amongst recording studios for his unique style and inspired lyrics that eventually lead to the production of two records. However both records were on all accounts massive flops in the US. Yet at the same time unbeknown to Rodriguez or the rest of America he became a cult sensation in South Africa. Due to a sole record that was brought into the country Rodriguez's music spread across the country. His music could be heard from every home and ultimately inspired resistance to Apartheid, being for many South Africans the soundtrack to their lives.

Hopefully that brief intro should have peaked your curiosity and interest enough to see the film however that's just the start of the story. In the documentary it's accurately stated that the second half of the story is the best part. It's here that you learn where all the money went for Rodriguez's record sales and why he never saw a cent. You learn more about the elusive rock idol whose back story was basically non existent. But most importantly you find out once and for all the truth behind his supposed suicide on stage of which there have been many rumours throughout the years.

Searching for Sugar Man is without a doubt one of the best documentaries ever made, the story is so unbelievable that you cant help but be captivated throughout. The documentary is told by two South Africans who were fans of Rodriguez and had discovered the bizarre reality that he was unknown in America. It was their determination to find out about Rodriguez's life, inspiration and ultimately uncover the truth about how he died that lead to one of the greatest stories in music history. What they discovered was more than they ever hoped for, leading to a conclusion that is both inspiring, heart warming and tragic that will leave you in disbelief.

Throughout the documentary many people are interviewed that either worked with Rodriguez or were responsible for producing his records and there is no shortage of praise. He is described as a songwriter equal to that of Bob Dylan, an inner city poet, a prophet and more famous than Elvis or The Beatles in South Africa. Yet to Rodriguez he was nothing more than a construction labourer who enjoyed playing music. No matter what praise he has received or who he was compared to Rodriguez comes across as a humble, generous and modest person that you can't help but admire.

Director Malik Bendjelloul has made an inspiring documentary that will hopefully pick up an Oscar this year in recognition for the amazing story that was told. Putting aside the unique nature of the story the documentary is a success in itself. It is beautifully made and supported by an amazing soundtrack courtesy of Rodriguez. For anyone looking for a great story or simply to discover some great music Searching for Sugar Man is a must see.

" Is it a hugging gun? "

Ted

When the premise of a movie is a stuffed bear that comes to life you may think Disney cartoon, but Ted is a far cry from an innocent child's tale. Or is it?
When lonely child John Bennett wishes that his teddy bear comes to life his wish miraculously comes true. Fast forward to the present day and John now 35 years old (Mark Wahlberg) is still loyal to his best friend Ted. The only problem is Ted's immature behaviour is getting in the way of John getting a real job or committing to his longtime girlfriend Lori Collins (Mila Kunis). John is forced to make a choice about the future of his life that involves Ted moving out and fending for himself in the big wide world.  

Seth MacFarlane creator of hit animated series such as Family Guy and American Dad! makes his feature film debut with this outrageous comedy centered around a sweet teddy bear that swears, smokes, drinks and has sex...? The film is sure to offend many viewers, especially viewers that are unfamiliar with MacFarlane's previous shows that continually push the boundaries of comedy. Personally I found the film hilarious, it was exactly what I expected and hoped for. There is no doubt MacFarlane treads a fine line with his style of comedy but I feel he has succeeded in this film as he once again shamelessly shares his unique views on the world.

Seth Macfarlane is not just the director and writer of Ted he also provides the voice talent for the central character, as he does for his other shows. It's a well known fact that MacFarlane has an impressive talent when it comes to doing voices and although Ted may sound like Peter Griffith there's no denying the character is original and unique.

There is great chemistry between best friends Ted and John played with enthusiasm by Wahlberg. I'm sure it would have been challenging for Wahlberg, because I'm not sure what or who he was talking to most of the time given that Ted is CGI. Together the two share in some very memorable scenes such as the white trash guessing game (it will make sense when you see the film), meeting their childhood hero (a great cameo that I wont spoil) as well as the over top fight sequence that is dare I say it Family Guyesque (think Peter vs The Giant Chicken).

Mark Wahlberg is perfectly cast as a man struggling to grow up and let go of his friend Ted. Whalberg is an actor that has stared in some quality films (The Departed, The Fighter) but he has never quite proved himself as a versatile actor. Sure he can play a tough guy or helm a summer blockbuster but he never really established himself as a quality dramatic actor. However he recently proved that he has a knack for comedy after appearing in the refreshingly funny film; The Other Guys. I feel he has proved once again in Ted that he has great comic timing as he was a great support to the character of Ted.

Ted is a film that doesn't hold any punches, the comedy is honest, often offensive but for the most part very funny. The film shouldn't be taken too seriously, I mean its about a bear that's come to life, just go with it and your sure to have a good time. All I can say is look out for Ted 2 and bring on the Oscars, I'm excited to see what MacFarlane has in store.