Berlin: City of Stones
July 27th, 2006
The first part of Jason Lutes’ sprawling graphic novel introduces a surprisingly large number of characters and ties them to historical events in the late 1920. The drawings are detailed and sharp; the plot is heavy with emotion and a creeping sadness. Not as focused as Jar of Fools, but it’s not supposed to be. I hope he hurries up with the second installment.
Jar of Fools
July 5th, 2006
Outstanding “picture story” about an out-of-work stage magician, his senile mentor, his tragic brother, his girlfriend, and a con man and his daughter. Must-read.
A/K/A Tommy Chong
June 10th, 2006
Well-made documentary about the stoner comic’s run-in with John Ashcroft’s Justice Department and subsequent 9-month jail term for selling glass over the Internet. In equal parts amusing and infuriating.
