For big fans of big stories

Australia
Nov
26
2008

Writer/director Baz Luhrmann made three movies in 10 years time, all of which made money and delivered frenzied moments of unique creativity and style. It's the type of thing cinephiles bemoan as lost when assessing the filmmakers of today. After the heart-on-sleeve romanticism of Moulin Rouge, Luhrmann has waited seven years before offering up Australia. The early trailers promise epic romance, expansive landscapes and pretty stars (Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman), all set amid the Australian run-up to World War II. If it's anything like Luhrmann's previous work, even a long runtime will burst with moments other filmmakers are too cynical to try. - Hank Brockett

 

Give

Baz Luhrmann's Red Curtain Trilogy, $18 at Amazon.com.

 

For season's greetings

Four Christmases
Nov
26
2008

Besides Santa's Slay (starring former wrestler Bill Goldberg!), the Blockbuster holiday section mostly features heart-warming stories of somehow coming together during trying times and enjoying familial togetherness. Vince Vaughn returns to the holiday comedy genre after last season's Fred Claus, and he offers hope that this one will join the type of reformed Grinch movies highlighted by infinite versions of A Christmas Carol. Reese Witherspoon joins him in showing a heart two sizes too small doesn't require a Y chromosome in this feel about the trying times spent with family during the holidays. - Hank Brockett

 

Give

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, Special Edition, $8 at iNetVideo.com.

Nylon flat-pack travelers kit, $25 at Magellan's.

 

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What should I pack for my first business trip?

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Answer

With nearly every airline imposing a baggage fee nowadays, if you can get away with flying with just a carry-on, do it.

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