Film Review: ‘Cirque du Freak’
I must preface this review by saying that I have yet to read any of the books in Irish author Darren Shan’s series ‘‘The Saga of Darren Shan’’ or ‘‘Cirque du Freak’’ as its known in the United States. Director Paul Weitz’s initial adaptation of Shan’s series, Cirque du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant, is supposed to combine the events of Books 1 through 3. Thanks to watching this film, I plan on reading all 12 books in the series. The film version paints an interesting enough picture and dips just enough into the story to peak the unread’s interest. But that’s where it stops. From what I gathered, while aimed at tween and teenaged readers, Shan’s saga has a dark tone to it. Weitz’s version, a rewrite from the original screenplay, seemed to attempt to morph Cirque du Freak into a dark comedy. That probably explains the casting of comedic staple John C. Reilly in the role of vampire Larten Crepsley. The film has its funny points, but overall, the substance is lacking.
» Full StoryTaste Buds: Zalenski Family Eatery & Pub:
THE BUDS were slaving away at their keyboards last week, pounding out fascinating story after fascinating story when the sunshine became too much for us to resis.
» Full StoryAdam Day to perform at Wheeling Jesuit
WHEELING - Wheeling Jesuit University welcomes singer-songwriter Adam Day to campus at 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6. The show takes place in the Ratt, located in Swint Hall and is open to the public.
» Full StoryAdrian Niles plays the Vineyard Cafe
WHEELING - Shadyside’s Adrian Niles, guitarist, musician and writer, will be the featured artist at the Vineyard Cafe on Nov. 10. The evening starts with open mic from 7-8 p.m. followed by Nate Smith (acoustic, rock, Americana) from 8-8:30 p.m.
» Full StoryComedy-magician at the Moundsville Library
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» Full StoryWSO concert features acclaimed pianist
WHEELING - “Shall We Dance?” is the theme for Friday’s Wheeling Symphony’s 2009-2010 Masterworks II concert which will feature outstanding pianist Benjamin Hochman performing Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor.
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