Cheek by Jowl’s performance of Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy “Othello” commends the bard by paying homage to tradition, but adds a few modern twists and unique interpretations to this particular tale of woe. Read more...

Although I had gone to interview him, writer/director Alexander Payne asked me the first question. “Can I offer you something to drink?” “A glass of ice water would be great.” “Sure you don’t want something else? Read more...

Sum 41 “Chuck” Island Records At first glance, the liner notes of Sum 41’s “Chuck” appear to represent a band ready to step into punk rock’s hallowed tradition of political criticism, from the ’50s-style cartoon children drawn over missile schematics to the ugly greens and reds violently splattered over everything. Read more...

“The Grudge” Directed by Takashi Shimizu Columbia Pictures Based on the Japanese blockbuster “Ju-On,” directed by Takashi Shimizu, “The Grudge” may seem like just another American remake following last year’s hit, “The Ring.” While Ghost House Pictures and Columbia Pictures may be confirming Hollywood’s current Japanese fetish with its new thriller, “The Grudge” attempts to set itself apart from its predecessor. Read more...

If getting the standard rock-quartet together to practice isn’t easy, imagine preparing 82 students for an orchestral performance. The UCLA Philharmonia Orchestra, conducted by Jon Robertson, is playing tonight at Schoenberg Auditorium at 8:00 p.m. Read more...

What would P. Diddy do? At the MTV Music Video Awards, this artist’s very publicized message was “Vote or Die.” It might seem illogical to turn to the rap star for political advice, or any advice, but P. Read more...

An excruciating injustice happened to me this past weekend. No, a friend didn’t drag me to go see “Taxi.” Nor was I sued by our good friends at the Recording Industry Association of America. Read more...