Get Out November 8 2012

Dahlonega Literary Festival set for this weekend, page 7

Salute to the

weekend

Area celebrates local veterans 5 PAGE

S Thursday November 8, 2012

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g o inside Thursday, November 8, 2012

Thursday, November 8, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

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on the web

family

http://evernote.com/

The only app you will ever need when it comes to taking notes. A “note” can be a piece of text, a webpage, a photo, a voice memo, or a handwritten “ink” note. Organize, annotate, edit and search notes. And remember everything.

Take your pooch, kitty, rabbit or bird to have its picture taken with Santa Claws and help other pets find homes.

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movies

Taking a break from the barrage of 3-D animated flicks churned out by studios, Disney’s The Associated Press “Wreck-It Ralph” is all heart and simply entertaining.

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outdoors

Get to know your outside world a little better with a reading at Elachee Nature Science Center by sustainable gardening guru and author Doug Tallamy.

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on the cover

FILE | The Times

Show your thanks to our veterans of all wars with various events in the region including a parade, tribute concert and a reading of veterans’ names.

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arts

The Slotin Art Auction starts Saturday with an enormous array of art and collectibles from around the world for visitors to get a look at ... or even bid on!

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Thursday, November 8, 2012

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Thursday, November 8, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Whose pet is naughty or nice?

Humane Society offers pet photos with Santa Claws From staff reports Begin celebrating the holiday with your furry friends by bringing them to the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia for photos with Santa Claws on Nov. 9-11.

Pets and their people are welcome for the photo sessions.

Sittings are available by appointment for $30. Each photo sitting includes six poses and can include pets and/or people.

Appointments are available from 1-5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday.

Compact discs of the photo sessions are available for an additional $5.

Photos are taken by professional photographer Fox Gradin of Celestial Studios in Gainesville.

All proceeds from the annual fundraiser will benefit rescued, homeless animals in the care of the Humane Society.

To make an appointment, or to learn more, call 770-5326617 or visit www.hsnega.org.

Pet Photos with Santa Claws When: 1-5 p.m. Nov. 9, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 10,.

1-5 p.m. Nov. 11 Where: 845 W. Ridge Road, Gainesville More info: 770-532-6617, www.hsnega.org, JulieEdwards@hsnega.org

Braselton lights the holidays with free concert, movie Movie fans and families can get into the holiday spirit early Saturday in Braselton as they take in the lighting of the holiday tree, a free concert and a feature animated comedy, “Arthur Christmas.”

The community tree will be lighted in historic downtown followed by the concert and movie around 8 p.m.

“Arthur Christmas” will be featured as the Movie Under the Holiday Stars in Braselton Park. The 97-minute feature is rated PG and features James McAvoy, Jim Broadbent and Bill Nighy.

Braselton’s movies under the stars are presented free by the Braselton Visitors Bureau Authority.

From staff reports

etc events This week

Veterans Day exhibit, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 8-10. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., NE Gainesville. Special exhibits of military artifacts and memorabilia representing WWI through Operation Iraqi Freedom. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 children 17 and younger, veterans are free. 770297-5900, www.negahc. org or jcarson@brenau. edu Bringing Nature Home, Gainesville. 7 p.m. Nov. 8.

Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Author Doug Tallamy will discuss the important ecological roles of plants in landscapes. $10 general admission, $5 students. www.elachee.org 21st annual Marketplace.

6:30-9:30 p.m. Nov. 8.

Gainesville Civic Center, Gainesville. Proceeds benefit Radiation Oncology at The Cancer Center at Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

770-219-1830.

Pet Photos with Santa Claws, Gainesville. 1-5 p.m. Nov. 9, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 10 and 1-5 p.m.

Nov. 11. Humane Society of Northeast Georgia, 845 West Ridge Road, Gainesville. $30 donation.

770-532-6617, www.

HSNEGA.org.

Murph for Mutts CrossFit competition, Gainesville.

8 a.m. Nov. 10. 1974 Delta Drive, Gainesville.

“Murph” is a CrossFit Hero workout consisting of 1 or 2 person teams: run 1 mile, 100 pullups, 200 pushups, 300 squats, run 1 mile. All proceeds to benefit the Hall County Animal Shelter. $20. 678450-1587, crossfitnega. zenplanner.com 4-H fundraiser, Gainesville. 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 10. Hall

County Farmers Market, Gainesville. 9th annual Dahlonega Literary Festival. Nov. 10-11. www.literaryfestival.org.

Jackson County Historical Society meeting, Jefferson. 2:30 p.m. Nov. 11. First Christian Church of Jefferson, 104 Lee St., Jefferson. 706-207-6889.

East Georgia Genealogical Society monthly meeting, Winder. 2 p.m. Nov. 13. Piedmont Regional Library, Belview St., Winder. www. rootsweb.com/~gaeggs.

History Forum, Gainesville. 7 p.m. Nov. 13. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St. NE, Gainesville. Program topic: Camp Merrill Rangers, presented

by Commander Bob O’Brien. Free for members, $3 for nonmembers. 770-2975900, www.negahc.org or jcarson@brenau.edu Challenged Child and Friends’ Champions for Children, Gainesville. 8-9 a.m. Nov. 13. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville.

Recognition of 2012 Champions for Children.

770-535-8372 ext. 112, cwilson@challengedchild. org

Upcoming

Rabies and Microchip Clinic, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 17. 4175 Nopone Road, Gainesville.

The Hall County Animal Shelter will hold a rabies and microchip clinic at the new North Hall Park.

Rabies vaccination $10, microchip $20, both $25. 678-450-1587, animalshelter.hallcounty. org Forgotten Past, Gainesville. 10 a.m.

Nov. 17. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St. NE, Gainesville. Make Christmas gifts from nature. $40, members, $45 nonmembers.

get out Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

To have your event listed, we must have the following information: ■ The name, time and date of the event, and a short description ■ The location, street address ■ Admission and contact information ■ Send to getout@gainesvilletimes.com ONLY emails will be accepted. No faxes, flyers, mailers or phone calls. The deadline to have your event listed in Get Out is the FRIDAY before the next publication. Listings run at the discretion of the editor.

If you would like to purchase an ad, call Betty Thompson at 770-532-1234 or email bthompson@gainesvilletimes.com Advance registration appreciated. 770-2975900, www.negahc.org or jcarson@brenau.edu Mountain Laurel Quilters Guild annual charity SewIn, Clarkesville. 9 a.m.

Nov. 20. Clarkesville United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.

Sew until about noon, then break for lunch and regular meeting.

Guests are welcome and new memberships are encouraged. 706-8781898.

Ongoing

Buford Lanier Woman’s Club monthly meeting, Buford. 9:30 a.m. second Wednesdays. Buford Community Center, 2200 Buford Highway, Buford.

Meetings start with coffee and fellowship. www. bufordlanierwomansclub. com.

American Business Women’s Association,

Gainesville. 6 p.m. fourth Tuesday each month.

Recess Southern Gastro Pub, 118 Bradford St., NE Gainesville. Dinner, speakers, meeting. 770654-9277, www.abwallcc. org.

Learn Conversational Spanish. Free. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursdays. Goodwill Oakwood Career Center, 3715 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. 770-538-4209 Friendship Woman’s Club, Flowery Branch.

Meets every fourth Thursday. Flowery Branch Depot, Flowery Branch. 404-394-9865 or SallyWeatherbee8@aol. com.

Toastmasters, Gainesville.

Improve your public speaking skills. 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Mondays.

Jacobs Building Room 208, Brenau University, 340 Green St., Gainesville.

Free. 678-469-2777. gainesvilletoastmasters@ yahoo.com.

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, November 8, 2012

Parade your pride Dawsonville hosts Veterans Day celebration From staff reports A ceremony and parade Saturday will honor veterans of all ages and each military branch as part of Dawsonville’s eighth annual Veterans Day celebration.

Formal ceremonies will begin at 1:45 p.m. in the gym at Dawson County Middle School, followed by a parade through downtown Dawsonville that begins at 3 p.m.

“The public is invited to line the streets in downtown Dawsonville with ‘welcome home’ signs and show support for our veterans and active military,” said Pam Hamalainen with Dawson County Veterans Affairs.

In honor of the 40th anniversary of the United States beginning the withdrawal of troops from Vietnam, the festivities will include a special recognition for veterans of the conflict, who will serve as the event’s grand marshals.

“We all know the terrible treatment they received when they landed on American soil,” Hamalainen said.

“Protesters cursed them, spit on them and threw rotten tomatoes at them. This year, we are going to give our Vietnam veterans the welcome home that they never received.”

To commemorate the initial withdrawal of troops from Vietnam 40 years ago, there are also plans for Huey

flyovers during the parade.

Wayne Watkins, president of Vietnam Veterans of American Chapter 970, said the sound of the Huey is one “no Vietnam veteran will ever forget.”

“It would put us in harm’s way and would be there to take us to safety, as well. It was our lifeline,” he said.

Dawsonville is one of just two cities in Georgia designated as a 2012 Veterans Day Regional Site by the Veterans Day National Committee. The other is Atlanta.

Capt. Larry Freeland is scheduled to serve as master of ceremonies, while the event’s keynote speaker will be retired Lt. Col. Nancy J. Jurgevich, current president of the Woman’s Vietnam Veterans Organization.

“We will concentrate most of our efforts on our Vietnam veterans, but of course, we are going to honor all our veterans and active military,” Hamalainen said.

“We all must get involved and show support by attending the formal ceremony and then line the streets and cheer as our heroes pass by in the parade.”

There will also be a tribute to honor the 2012 Veteran of the Year during the ceremony.

Before the festivities, veterans and their families are invited to a private luncheon. The banquet is set for 12:15 p.m. in the middle school’s cafeteria.

A musical tribute to veterans Believers Band to perform special concert From staff reports The Believers Concert Band will offer a musical salute to the nation’s veterans with a concert entitled “Our Proud Heritage” at 3 p.m. on Veterans Day, Sunday, Nov. 11.

The free concert will be held at Gainesville First United Methodist Church on Thompson Bridge Road.

The program will feature retired Navy Cmdr. Thomas Metcalf as guest conductor. The Believers Band will pay a special tribute to “The Star Spangled Banner,” presenting

narrations from Presidents Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy and other patriotic selections.

Veterans and their families will receive recognition during the performance.

Metcalf “We want to offer an uplifting, positive and patriotic program for our veterans and our country. We hope you will be in attendance, to honor the heritage of America and become refreshed,” band director Richard Petty said.

In his 33-year career, Metcalf has performed for kings, queens, princes, princesses, Pope John Paul II and U.S. presidents.

He conducted the band that accompanied Bob Hope on a world USO tour. He conducted the Naval

‘Our Proud Heritage’ veterans concert When: 3 p.m. Nov. 11 Where: Gainesville First United Methodist Church, 2780 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville How much: Free More info: 770-536-2341, believersband.org

Academy Band and Glee Club for the 150th anniversary of the Naval Academy.

Metcalf is one of only 28 men in its 160-year history of “The Navy’s Oldest and Finest Band, who has earned the position of Leader and Director of The United States Naval Academy’s Band.”

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VETERANS DAY events

Veterans Day Ceremony, Gainesville. 2 p.m. Nov. 11.

Rock Creek Park. Presented by the American Legion.

Family Day, Gainesville. 1-4 p.m. Nov. 11. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St. NE, Gainesville. Commemorating veterans from WWI, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Veterans Service Organizations. Free.

770-297-5900, www.negahc.org or jcarson@brenau.

“Our Proud Heritage” Believers Band concert, Gainesville. 3 p.m. Nov. 11. Gainesville First United Methodist Church, 2780 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville. Free. 770-536-2341, believersband.org Parade and celebration, Dawsonville. 1:45 p.m. ceremony, Dawson County Middle School gym; 3 p.m. parade through downtown Dawsonville.

Veterans Day at Chattahoochee National Forrest. Nov. 10-12. The U.S. Forest Service is waiving fees at most of its day-use recreation sites over the Veterans Day holiday weekend. www.fs.usda.gov/conf. edu.

Veterans Day exhibit, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Nov. 8-10. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., NE Gainesville. Special exhibits of military artifacts and memorabilia representing World War I through Operation Iraqi Freedom. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 children 17 and younger, veterans are free.

770-297-5900, www.negahc.org or jcarson@brenau. edu

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family events This week

“Hawgin’ on Lanier,” Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Nov. 10. Laurel Park, Old Cleveland Hwy., Gainesville.

Barbecue competition, music, arts and crafts vendors, cornhole tournament, car show, inflatables for kids, petting zoo, pony rides and food.

Skylake Fall Festival, Sautee Nachoochee. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 10. Artists, vendors, children’s activities and food. Free parking, no admission. Skylake Community, Skylake Road, Sautee Nacoochee. 706-878-3563, ccc1015@earthlink.net.

“Arthur Christmas” movie in the park, Braselton. 8 p.m. Nov. 10. Braselton Park, Downtown Braselton.

Traditional lighting of the holiday tree, free concert and then showing of animated movie.

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Thursday, November 8, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Be one with nature Author to discuss native plants at Elachee event From staff reports Elachee Nature Science Center will hold a lecture Nov. 8 with Doug Tallamy as he discusses his book, “Bringing Nature Home; How Native Plants Sustain Wildlife in Our Gardens.”

Tallamy is a professor and chairman of the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology and director of the Center for Managed Ecosystems at the University of Delaware. In his spare time, he tours the country conducting a lecture series based on his book.

The book was awarded the 2008 silver medal by the Garden Writer’s Association. In it, Tallamy offers insight on biodiversity and the necessary role that native plant species play in order to preserve and build our local ecosystems.

‘Bringing Nature Home’ lecture by Doug Tallamy When: 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8 Where: Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville How much: $10, $5 students More info: 770-535-1976, www. elachee.org

He provides real world solutions and recommendations on how to achieve a balance of native and alien species in your own yard, designed so that scientists, hobbyists and all nature lovers can improve the biodiversity in their immediate environments.

The lecture will begin at 7 p.m. but attendees are welcome to come earlier to visit the preserve and Nature Center.

Admission is $10, $5 for students with a valid ID. Space is limited; reservations may be made by calling 770-535-1976.

Saying thanks with freebies Forest Service waives fees for Veterans Day weekend From staff reports The U.S. Forest Service will waive fees at most of its day-use recreation sites over the Veterans Day holiday weekend, Nov. 10-12.

The fee waivers are offered in cooperation with other federal agencies under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act. Day-use fees will be waived at all standard amenity fee sites

operated by the Forest Service.

“This is our way of saying thanks to the brave men and women, past and present, who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe at home,” U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell said. “We encourage veterans, their families and all visitors to take time out over the holiday weekend to enjoy the benefits that nature provides at forests and grasslands throughout the country.”

In the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests, recreation areas participating in the fee waiver will indicate this at the fee stations. Concessionaire operated dayuse sites may or may not be included in the waiver. Forest visitors may check with their local Forest Service office to find out in advance whether waivers will exist at specific sites.

Get more Get Out Find more events and listings at www.gainesvilletimes.com/getout

outdoors events This week

Evening Kayak and Wildlife Watching Adventures, Winder.

4-6 p.m. Nov. 9. Fort Yargo State Park, Winder. The stealthy kayak is a great vessel to sneak up on all sorts of wildlife. Ages 4 and older. $15, $5 parking. 770867-3489.

“Run of The Mill” 5K. 8 a.m. Tot Trot, 8:30 a.m.

5K, Nov. 10. 1210 West Ridge Road, Gainesville.

Benefits student ministries of Montgomery Memorial Baptist Church. Tot Trot $15, 1K $15, 5K $20, Phantom Runner $20.

Register at active.com.

770-534-3469.

Veterans Day at Chattahoochee National Forrest. Nov. 10-12. The U.S. Forest Service is waiving fees at most of its day-use recreation sites over the Veterans Day holiday weekend. www. fs.usda.gov/conf.

Upcoming

Stars Over Elachee handson telescope workshop, Gainesville. 5-7 p.m.

Nov. 17. Elachee Nature Science Center. Learn how a telescope works, how to set up a large 6-inch Dobsonian telescope and then use it to take a tour of the moon, planets, stars and constellations.

Reservations are required for each of the telescopes.

$10 adults, $5 under 12 and free for Elachee members. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 770535-1976 Full Moon Hike, Tallulah Falls. 6-8 p.m. Nov. 28.

Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls. Enjoy the gorge in the magical, shimmering light of the full moon. $5 admission, $5 parking. 706-754-7981.

Jingle Bell Run/Walk, Lawrenceville. 8 a.m. Dec. 1.

2125 Tribble Mill Parkway, Lawrenceville. Wear a holiday-themed costume and tie jingle bells to your shoelaces. Adult $30, ages 18 to 6 $25, 5 and younger $10. 678-237-4458, pmcadams@arthritis.org or www.jbrwgwinnett.org

Ongoing

“2012 — The End of Time?”

Dahlonega. 8 p.m. Fridays through Nov. 16. What does the Mayan Calendar really have to say about the world coming to an end on Dec. 21, 2012. Free. Coleman Planetarium North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. With clear sky, the observatory will open for telescope viewing following the show. jjones@ northgeorgia.edu.

CCC Saturday rides, Gainesville. 10 a.m. Various loop routes from Dewberry Church on Clarks Bridge Road. Distances, 8 to 50 miles, and difficulty, easy to strenuous, rider’s choice.

Chicken City Cyclists 770-534-7075, or unnoldl@ charter.net.

Triathlon Club, Gainesville.

No experience necessary.

Meets 7 p.m. second Tuesdays, Fit 2 Tri Store, 1292 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville. 770-7129129, fit2tri@gmail.com.

ISI Cycling, Gainesville.

7:30 a.m. Saturdays; 7:30 a.m. Sundays, Corinth Baptist Church, Thompson Bridge Road; Thursdays 6 p.m. Dewberry Baptist Church, Clarks Bridge Road. Free. www.isicycling. com.

Elachee’s Trail Crew Work Day. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. first Saturday each month. Bring water, lunch, gloves and rain gear. Tools, training, and refreshments provided.

Free. Under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Call to preregister.

Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, 770-535-1976. www.elachee.org.

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, November 8, 2012

Celebrating the written word

THEATER EVENTS

Dahlonega hosts 2012 Literary Festival

GTA’s “The Producers,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6-10 and 13-17; 2:30 p.m. Nov. 11 and 17. Brenau University’s Hosch Theatre in the John S. Burd Center, 429 Academy St., Gainesville. $20-24 for adults, $18-22 for seniors and $1416 for students. 678-717-3624, www. gainesvilletheatrealliance.org.

“Titus Andronicus,” Atlanta. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 3-25. The New American Shakespeare Tavern, 499 Peachtree St., Atlanta. $20 adults, $15 students, $5 parking. 404-874-5299, www.shakespearetavern.com

BY CHRISTEN ROBINSON crobinson@ gainesvilletimes.com

The changing of seasons will mean spending plenty of time indoors, so why not have a book or two handy for entertainment?

The ninth annual Dahlonega Literary Festival takes place, Nov. 10-11.

A celebration of books and reading is what the Literary Festival is all about.

From fiction to nonfiction, paranormal to romance, mystery to history and everything in between, this festival has something to offer every kind of reader.

The Dahlonega Literary Festival events begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 10 and continues until 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11 at the North Georgia College & State University Library and Continuing Ed Building and various locations around Dahlonega.

The 2012 festival features 18 authors from all over the world.

The Literary Festival offers readings from each of the authors as well as classes to become a better writer, book signings, a

2012 Dahlonega Literary Festival When: Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 10-11 Where: North Georgia College & State University, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega How much: Free More info: www.literaryfestival.org

Q&A session and lunch with the authors.

Barbara Brown Taylor, a New York Times bestselling author, will be the keynote speaker.

Nick Wynne will deliver the Extravaganza Speech 7 p.m. Nov. 10 at The Crimson Moon. He is the author, co-author and editor of more than a dozen historical books and fictional stories.

Hall Book Exchange, one of nearly 40 sponsors for the event, will sell books with 10 percent of the proceeds going to the Literary Festival.

The festival will in turn give all of the proceeds to the Lumpkin County Literacy Coalition, which provides programs to improve literacy level among children and adults.

“Our goal is to promote reading and get people to love books,” said Pat

One-man ‘Christmas Carol’ returns to the Aurora Theatre Lawrenceville – Anthony Rodriguez returns for a sixth year with his compelling solo performance of the holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol.”

Similar to the way Charles Dickens performed his stories by the fireside in Victorian England, Rodriguez focuses on the classic art of storytelling. Using his voice and mannerisms, Rodriguez brings

Wozny, Literary Festival chairwoman.

Each featured author will donate two books; one to the county library and another to the Lumpkin Literacy Coalition.

“This is one of the few book festivals that has programs for kids,” said Wozny.

Events for kids include a plush doll program based on the off-Broadway production of “StinkyKids, the Musical,” a program for fourth- through eighthgraders about social studies, and hands-on art activities.

Every event is free and open to the public, but donations are greatly appreciated.

To find a full schedule of events, sponsors and registration information, visit www.literaryfestival. org.

life to Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Jacob Marley and the astonishing ghosts found in what many deem the greatest Christmas story of all time.

The one-man show returns for a threeweek run Nov. 29 – Dec. 16 at the Gwinnett Federal Credit Union Studio. The 90-seat theater is transformed into Dickens’ parlor.

Although a few special theatrical effects have been added, this rendition captures the true spirit of Christmas — the joy of giving. The story is adapted for the stage and directed by Tony Brown.

For times and tickets, visit www. auroratheatre.com or call 678-226-6222.

From staff reports

This week

Upcoming

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“The Curious Savage,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 27-29. Gainesville Performing Arts Center, 830 Century Place, Gainesville. $5. ghstheatre@bellsouth.net “A Christmas Story,” Clarkesville. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30-Dec. 2.

Habersham Community Theater, 1370 Washington St., Clarkesville. 706-8391315, www.habershamtheater.org.

“The Nutcracker,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. Nov. 30-Dec. 2.

Pearce Auditorium, Brenau University, Gainesville. $12 children, $18 adults, $14 seniors. 770-532-4241, www. gainesvilleballet.org.

“It’s a Wonderful Life,” Dahlonega. 8 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays.

Dec. 7-9, 14-16, and 21-23. The Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. $15.

“Madeline’s Christmas,” Atlanta. 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m. Dec. 8-30. Horizon Theatre Company. $15 adults, $12 children. 404584-7450, horizontheatre.com.

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Gainesville Lions Club Children’s Theater, Gainesville. 10 and 11:30 a.m. Nov. 17.

Gainesville Civic Center, 830 Green St., Gainesville. To volunteer or sponsor, call 404-310-0905.

Comedian James Gregory, Dahlonega. 7 p.m. Nov. 17. The Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. $27 & $35. www. hollytheater.com.

ongoing

“Betrayal” by Harold Pinter, Lawrenceville. Oct. 4-28. Aurora Theatre, 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-2266222, www.auroratheatre.com.

get out Thursday, November 8, 2012

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family

movies

music

“Smokin’ Fish,” Oakwood.

Nov. 8. Martha T. Nesbitt Academic Building, Gainesville State College, Gainesville.

Part of the South Arts Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers. $7 adults; $5 students and seniors. 770-534-2787, www.TheArtsCouncil.net.

Erick Baker with guest Carl Dylan, Dahlonega. Nov. 8.

The Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. $12. 706-864-3982, www. thecrimsonmoon.com.

For Get Out

NGCSU Children’s Chorus presents “Carry Me Over the Sea,” Dahlonega. 7 p.m.

Nov. 9. Shott Hall, North Georgia College & State University, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega. 706-482-9968, rppurcell@windstream.net or ngachildrenschorus.org

Piedmont Singers “Glorious Things,” Demorest. 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 9. Piedmont Chapel, Demorest. The Piedmont Singers will present a program of music ranging from Renaissance to 21st century pieces.

Murph for Mutts CrossFit competition, Gainesville. 8 a.m.

Nov. 10. 1974 Delta Drive, Gainesville. “Murph” is a CrossFit Hero workout consisting of 1 or 2 person teams: run 1 mile, 100 pullups, 200 pushups, 300 squats, run 1 mile. All proceeds to benefit the Hall County Animal Shelter. $20. 678-450-1587,

The Associated Press

Tribute to Elvis, Dahlonega. 8 p.m. Nov. 10. $15. The Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. www. hollytheater.com

For Get Out

RevIeW, 10

Disney Animation Studio’s first CGI feature since “Tangled” (2010) combines huge heart, hilarious dialogue and video game culture into perhaps the best animated movie of the year — and undoubtedly one of the year’s most purely entertaining movies.

‘Wreck-It Ralph’

Athens Youth Symphony Fall Concert, Athens. 4 p.m. Nov. 11. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall, University of Georgia Performing Arts Center, 230 River Road, Athens. The program will include works

by Bizet, Berlioz, Andrew Lloyd Webber and John Philip Sousa. Free. 706-543-1907.

“Our Proud Heritage” Believers Band concert, Gainesville. 3 p.m. Nov. 11. Gainesville First United Methodist Church, 2780 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville. Free. 770-5362341, believersband.org

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

weekeND plANNeR

Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

gainesvilletimes.com/getout

“A Christmas Story,” Clarkesville. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30-Dec. 2. Habersham Community Theater, 1370 Washington St., Clarkesville. 706-839-1315, www. habershamtheater.org.

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Dog and Pony Show, Gainesville. Opening reception 5:30-7 p.m. Dec. 6. On display through Feb. 16. Call for artists to submit work relating to animals. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia. $10 for one, $15 for two. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. 770-536-2575, www.quinlanartscenter.org.

Appalachian Thanksgiving, Dawsonville. 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Nov. 22. Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge, Dawsonville. Explore the magic of handmade folk toys and churning butter. Reservations required lodge’s Thanksgiving buffet. $5 parking. 706-344-1505.

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From folk to antique, this auction will have it all.

Slotin Art Auction.

Full Moon Hike, Tallulah Falls. 6–8 p.m. Nov. 28. Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls.

Enjoy the gorge in the magical, shimmering light of the full moon. $5 admission, $5 parking. 706-754-7981.

lOOkING AHeAD

GTA’s “The Producers,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6-10 and 1317; 2:30 p.m. Nov. 11 and 17. Brenau University’s Hosch Theatre in the John S. Burd Center, 429 Academy St., Gainesville. $20-24 for adults, $18-22 for seniors and $14-16 for students.

678-717-3624, www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org.

“Messiah,” Dahlonega. 8 p.m. Nov. 12-13 and 15. Dahlonega United Methodist Church, Dahlonega. 80-person chorus featuring student and community soloists accompanied by a chamber orchestra. $10.

706-864-1423.

Get Out

Skylake Fall Festival, Sautee Nachoochee. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Nov. 10. Artists, vendors, children’s activities and food.

Free parking, no admission.

Skylake Community, Skylake Road, Sautee Nacoochee.

706-878-3563, ccc1015@ earthlink.net.

crossfitnega.zenplanner.com

Northeast Georgia Arts Tour. Nov. 9-11. Visit a variety of local artists and craftsmen in their studios while traversing Northeast Georgia. artstour.org.

Veterans Day exhibit, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 8-10. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., NE Gainesville. Special exhibits of military artifacts and memorabilia representing WWI through Operation Iraqi Freedom. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 children 17 and younger, veterans are free. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org or jcarson@ brenau.edu

NOv. 12-15:

theater

arts

Get Out

CMYK

go o movies ‘Wreck-It Ralph’ is built to last PAGE

10

Thursday, November 8, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

JEFF MARKER jmarker@gsc.edu

Film Review “Wreck-It Ralph” demolished my defenses. I went into this movie with the same mixture of skepticism and hope with which I approach everything I review, but by the end I was pummeled into happy submission. I became a fan, just sitting there loving a movie.

This doesn’t happen very often.

But Disney Animation Studio’s first CGI feature since “Tangled” (2010) combines huge heart, hilarious dialogue and video game culture into perhaps the best animated movie of the year — and undoubtedly one of the year’s most purely entertaining movies.

The titular character Ralph (voiced by John C. Reilly) is the bad guy in a fictional game called Fix-It Felix Jr., which borrows from real games Rampage and Donkey Kong.

The character Felix (Jack McBrayer) is a squeaky-clean, gee-whiz hero reminiscent of the beloved Mario.

Ralph’s job is to wreck an apartment building. Game players control Felix and must fix all of Ralph’s destruction, scaling the floors of the building just as Mario has to climb horizontal levels.

Within the game’s world, these avatars are full-fledged characters who are merely doing the jobs for which they were programmed.

Most characters accept their roles, but after 30 years of being flung off of a building each time a player completes a level and living alone atop a massive pile

Disney

Ralph, left, voiced by John C. Reilly in a scene from “Wreck-It Ralph.”

of bricks, Ralph doesn’t want to be a bad guy any more.

So in a desperate attempt to earn acceptance from the other game characters, he does the unthinkable and begins “jumping games.”

Ralph enters a first-person shooter game called Hero’s Duty, in which players must kill hundreds of horrific, hoarding alien insects to reach the top of a tower and earn a medal.

In a hilarious yet poignant moment, Ralph looks directly into the first-person camera and screams in terror, “When did games become so violent?”

Ralph is soon catapulted out of Hero’s Duty and into a game called Sugar Rush, which looks like Candyland but is a go-kart racing game similar to Mario Kart.

There, Ralph meets an adorable, pugnacious outcast named Vanellope von Schweetz (Sarah Silverman). Ralph and Vanellope seem like total opposites at first (beginning with Ralph’s enormous stature compared to tiny Vanellope), and

they instantly fight and become enemies for a short time.

Before long, though, they discover they’re a perfect odd couple.

The scenes that show Ralph and Vanellope bonding are about the time when the movie takes a firm grasp on your heart, and it never lets go, as we watch Ralph and Vanellope strive for that most crucial of human needs: friendship.

Despite being wrapped in a modern, video game package, the relationship between Ralph and Vanellope follows the classic formula of pairing a hard-edged, outcast man with an adorable kid. That device is at least as old as Charlie Chaplin’s “The Kid” (1921), and it still works.

The voice casting is perfect across the board.

Reilly, as he showed in “Magnolia,” “Chicago” and elsewhere, plays the most lovable of losers. Silverman is generally a controversial figure, but here her voice takes on an ideal mixture of sweetness and sarcasm. McBrayer also nails

Felix’s naivety and earnestness.

If anyone steals the show, though, it is Jane Lynch as the tough-as-nails Sergeant Calhoun, who guides players through Hero’s Duty, spewing a constant barrage of R. Lee Ermey-style motivators. (“Fear is a four-letter word, ladies! You want to go pee pee in your bigboy slacks, keep it to yourself!”)

“Wreck-It Ralph” is not only a great movie, but it also feels like a pivotal moment for Disney.

There is a moment during the ending when a character makes a choice I have never seen a Disney character make, and it has significant implications for the entire Disney brand. Time will tell whether this is a turning point for the studio or merely a blip in their history.

What isn’t in doubt, is that “Wreck-It Ralph” is a must-see family movie.

Jeff Marker teaches film and literature at Gainesville State College. His reviews appear weekly in Get Out and on gainesville times.com/getout.

‘Wreck-It Ralph’ Starring: John C. Reilly, Jack McBrayer, Sarah Silverman

Rated: PG for some rude humor, mild action and violence Runtime: 1 hour, 41 minutes Bottom line: Loved it, plain and simple

goo movies Showtimes

Bargain shows denoted by parenthesis ( ).

Hollywood Stadium Cinemas 770-539-9200 120 Green Hill Circle NW, Gainesville

Alex Cross (PG-13) Thu. 4:15-9:45 Argo (R) Thu. 4:00-6:45-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 1:15-4:00-6:45-9:30 Chasing Mavericks (PG) Thu. 7:00 Cloud Atlas (R) Thu. 5:00-8:30 Fri.-Sun. 1:30-5:00-8:30 Flight (R) Thu. 4:00-7:00-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-4:00-7:00-9:30 Fun Size (PG-13) Thu. 4:15-7:00-9:15 Here Comes the Boom (PG) Thu. 4:45-7:159:45 Fri.-Sun. 1:45-4:45-7:15-9:45 Hotel Transylvania (PG) Thu. 6:45-9:15 Fri.Sun. 1:30-4:15-6:45-10:00 Hotel Transylvania 3D (PG) Thu. 4:30 The Man With the Iron Fists (R) Thu. 4:457:30-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 2:15-4:45-7:30-10:00 The Metropolitan Opera: The Tempest Live (Not Rated) Sat. 12:55 Paranormal Activity 4 (R) Thu. 4:45-7:1510:00 Fri.-Sun. 2:15-4:45-7:15-9:30 Pitch Perfect (PG-13) Thu. 4:15-6:45-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 1:45-4:15-6:45-9:30 Silent Hill: Revelation (R) Thu. 4:30-9:45 Fri. 2:00-4:30-7:00-9:45 Sat. 7:00-9:45 Sun. 2:00-4:30-7:00-9:45 Silent Hill: Revelation 3D (R) Thu. 7:00 Sinister (R) Thu. 4:30-7:15-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 2:00-4:30-7:15-9:45 Skyfall (PG-13) Fri.-Sun. 12:30-1:15-3:454:30-7:00-7:45-10:15 Taken 2 (PG-13) Thu. 4:45-7:15-10:00 Fri.Sun. 2:15-4:45-7:15-10:00 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu. 4:30-7:30-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 2:00-4:30-7:30-10:00 Wreck-It Ralph 3D (PG) Thu. 4:00-7:00-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 1:15-4:00-7:00-9:30

Regal Mall of Georgia Stadium 20 678-482-5858

3333 Buford Drive, Suite 3000, Buford

Alex Cross (PG-13) Thu. 12:05-2:25-4:557:20-9:50-12:10 Fri.-Sun. 8:05-10:30 Argo (R) Thu. 1:30-4:25-7:30-10:20 Fri.Sun. 10:30-1:30-4:30-7:15-10:00 Chasing Mavericks (PG) Thu. 12:05-5:0510:05 Cloud Atlas (R) Thu. 12:30-4:30-8:30-12:05 Fri.-Sat. 12:00-3:45-7:30-11:10 Sun. 12:00-3:45-7:30 Flight (R) Thu. 1:00-1:35-4:00-4:357:00-7:35-10:00-10:35 Fri.-Sat. 10:30-12:10-1:35-3:20-4:35-6:30-7:359:35-10:35-12:40 Sun. 10:30-12:10-1:353:20-4:35-6:30-7:35-9:35-10:35 Frankenweenie (PG) Thu. 12:55-3:05-5:15 Fun Size (PG-13) Thu. 12:15-2:30-4:45-

CMYK

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, November 8, 2012

‘Wreck-It Ralph’ scores $49M, ‘Flight’ hits $24.9M LOS ANGELES — Disney’s animated video-game adventure “Wreck-It Ralph” has rolled up big box-office points with a No. 1 opening weekend of $49 million.

Denzel Washington’s airline saga “Flight” debuted solidly at No. 2 with $24.9 million.

The top 15 movies at theaters Friday through Sunday, followed by distribution studio, gross, total gross and number of weeks in release, as compiled Monday are: 1. “Wreck-It Ralph,” Disney, $49,038,712, $49,038,712, one week.

2. “Flight,” Paramount, $24,900,566, $24,900,566, one week.

3. “Argo,” Warner Bros., $10,209,103, $75,860,240, four weeks.

4. “The Man With the Iron Fists,” Universal, $7,910,980, $7,910,980, one week.

5. “Taken 2,” Fox, $5,919,493, $125,586,929, five weeks.

6. “Cloud Atlas,” Warner Bros., 7:10-9:20-11:35 Fri.-Sun. 11:30-1:50-4:10 Here Comes the Boom (PG) Thu. 1:35-4:107:05-9:35-12:05 Fri.-Sat. 11:00-1:35-4:107:05-9:35-12:05 Sun. 11:00-1:35-4:107:05-9:35 Hotel Transylvania (PG) Thu. 12:25-2:507:40-9:55-12:10 Fri. 11:15-1:30-4:00-6:40 Sat. 1:30-4:00-6:40 Sun. 11:15-1:30-4:006:40 Hotel Transylvania 3D (PG) Thu. 5:20 The Man With the Iron Fists (R) Thu. 12:50-3:10-5:30-7:25-7:50-9:45-10:1012:05-12:30 Fri.-Sat. 12:15-2:40-5:107:50-10:10-12:30 Sun. 12:15-2:40-5:107:50-10:10 Paranormal Activity 4 (R) Thu. 1:25-3:405:55-8:10-10:25 Fri.-Sat. 11:10-1:25-3:405:55-8:10-10:25-12:35 Sun. 11:10-1:253:40-5:55-8:10-10:25 The Perks of Being a Wallflower (PG-13) Thu. 2:40-7:40 Pitch Perfect (PG-13) Thu. 2:20-5:00-7:3510:15 Fri.-Sun. 11:40-2:20-4:55-7:3010:10 Silent Hill: Revelation (R) Thu. 12:40-2:555:10-7:30-9:45 Fri.-Sat. 2:30-7:10-11:50 Sun. 2:30-7:10 Silent Hill: Revelation 3D (R) Thu. 12:102:25-4:40-7:00-9:15-11:30 Fri.-Sun. 12:10-4:50-9:30 Sinister (R) Thu. 2:10-4:50-7:45-10:30 Fri.Sat. 11:20-2:10-4:50-7:25-10:00-12:30 Sun. 11:20-2:10-4:50-7:25-10:00 Skyfall (PG-13) Thu. 12:07-12:30 Fri.Sat. 10:45-12:00-1:10-1:55-3:10-4:155:00-6:20-7:20-7:40-8:10-9:00-9:3010:25-10:45-11:20-12:10-12:40 Sun. 10:45-12:00-1:10-1:55-3:10-4:15-5:00-

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2:35-5:00) 7:25 Paranormal Activity 4 (R) Thu.-Sun. (12:152:35-4:55) 7:45-10:05 Pitch Perfect (PG-13) Thu. (1:00) 7:00 Fri.Sun. (1:00-3:45) 7:00-9:45 Silent Hill: Revelation (R) Thu. (2:40) 7:30 Silent Hill: Revelation 3D (R) Thu. (12:155:05) 9:55 Sinister (R) Thu. 7:10-9:50 Fri.-Sun. (1:104:00) 7:00-9:40 Skyfall (PG-13) Thu. 12:07 Fri.-Sun. (12:003:25) 6:45-10:00 Taken 2 (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (12:25-2:505:15) 7:40-10:10 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu.-Sun. (2:45) 8:05 Wreck-It Ralph 3D (PG) Thu.-Sun. (12:005:25)

go o movies

$5,379,314, $18,391,743, two weeks.

7. “Hotel Transylvania,” Sony, $4,409,785, $137,477,403, six weeks.

8. “Paranormal Activity 4,” Paramount, $4,252,468, $49,529,682, three weeks.

9. “Here Comes the Boom,” Sony, $3,528,143, $35,500,223, four weeks.

10. “Silent Hill: Revelation 3-D,” Open Road Films, $3,285,113, $13,880,270, two weeks.

11. “Pitch Perfect,” Universal, $3,064,080, $55,633,703, six weeks.

12. “Sinister,” Summit, $2,734,446, $44,276,820, four weeks.

13. “Fun Size,” Paramount, $2,294,636, $7,454,579, two weeks.

14. “Alex Cross,” Summit, $1,958,360, $23,086,315, three weeks.

15. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” Summit, $1,241,870, $13,059,220, seven weeks.

Associated Press

6:20-7:20-7:40-8:10-9:00-9:30-10:2510:45 Skyfall: The IMAX Experience (PG-13) Thu.Sun. 12:50-3:55-7:00-10:05 Taken 2 (PG-13) Thu. 12:50-3:10-5:35-8:0010:20 Fri.-Sat. 10:35-12:55-3:10-5:358:00-10:20-12:40 Sun. 10:35-12:55-3:105:35-8:00-10:20 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu. 12:00-2:30-5:007:30-10:00-12:30 Fri.-Sat. 11:00-12:201:40-2:55-4:20-5:30-7:00-9:35-12:15 Sun. 11:00-12:20-1:40-2:55-4:20-5:30-7:009:35 Wreck-It Ralph 3D (PG) Thu. 12:30-2:003:05-4:30-5:35-7:00-8:05-9:30-10:35 Fri.-Sat. 10:35-11:40-1:05-2:20-3:45-5:006:25-7:40-9:05-10:20-11:40 Sun. 10:3511:40-1:05-2:20-3:45-5:00-6:25-7:409:05-10:20

Movies 400 678-513-4400

415 Atlanta Road, Cumming

Alex Cross (PG-13) Thu. (3:45) 9:45 Argo (R) Thu.-Sun. (12:45-3:35) 6:45-9:35 Atlas Shrugged: Part 2 (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (1:15-4:00) 7:00-9:45 Chasing Mavericks (PG) Thu. (2:20) 7:3010:20 Fri.-Sun. 7:10-10:00 Cloud Atlas (R) Thu. (1:00-4:35) 8:10 Fri.Sun. (1:05-4:40) 8:15 Frankenweenie (PG) Thu. (12:00-2:20-4:45) Fri.-Sun. (12:05-2:25-4:45) Fun Size (PG-13) Thu. (12:00-5:10) Here Comes the Boom (PG) Thu.-Sun. (12:50-3:25) 6:50-9:25 Hotel Transylvania (PG) Thu.-Sun. (12:10-

Habersham Hills Cinemas 6 706-776-7469 2115 Cody Road, Mount Airy

Cloud Atlas (R) Thu.-Fri. 4:30-8:00 Sat.Sun. 1:00-4:30-8:00 Fun Size (PG-13) Thu. 5:30-10:00 Here Comes the Boom (PG) Thu.-Fri. 4:157:15-9:30 Sat.-Sun. 1:30-4:15-7:15-9:30 Paranormal Activity 4 (R) Thu.-Fri. 5:157:30-9:45 Sat.-Sun. 12:45-3:00-5:157:30-9:45 Skyfall (PG-13) Fri. 3:45-7:00-10:15 Sat.Sun. 12:30-3:45-7:00-10:15 Taken 2 (PG-13) Thu.-Fri. 5:30-7:4510:00 Sat.-Sun. 1:15-3:15-5:30-7:4510:00 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu. 4:00-7:00-7:309:45 Fri. 4:00-7:00-9:45 Sat.-Sun. 1:004:00-7:00-9:45

Dawson 400 Stadium Cinemas 706-216-1622 189 North 400 Center Lane, Dawsonville Argo (R) Thu. 4:15-7:15-9:15 Fri.-Sun. 1:05-4:15-7:15-9:15 Chasing Mavericks (PG) Thu. 7:10 Fun Size (PG-13) Thu. 4:10-9:45 Here Comes the Boom (PG) Thu. 4:05-7:159:35 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-4:05-7:15-9:35 Hotel Transylvania (PG) Thu. 4:55-7:00-9:50 Fri.-Sun. 12:35-2:45-4:55-7:00-9:50 The Man With the Iron Fists (R) Thu. 5:057:20-9:40 Fri.-Sun. 12:35-2:50-5:05-7:209:40 Paranormal Activity 4 (R) Thu. 4:50-7:309:40 Fri.-Sun. 12:30-2:40-4:50-7:30-9:40 Silent Hill: Revelation (R) Thu. 4:55-9:25 Silent Hill: Revelation 3D (R) Thu. 7:10 Sinister (R) Thu. 4:00-7:00-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 12:50-4:00-7:00-9:30 Skyfall (PG-13) Fri.-Sun. 12:30-1:15-3:454:30-7:00-7:45-10:15 Taken 2 (PG-13) Thu. 4:50-7:05-9:55 Fri.Sun. 12:30-2:40-4:50-7:05-9:55 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu.-Sun. 5:00-9:15 Wreck-It Ralph 3D (PG) Thu. 7:10 Fri.-Sun. 1:15-7:25

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now showing Movie reviews from Associated Press. Stars out of four.

John Hawkes and David Strathairn are among the supporting cast that might be too crammed with gifted character actors.

upcoming

opening

‘Lincoln’

go o movies

Thursday, Novmeber 8, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

HHH (PG-13 for an intense scene of war violence, some images of carnage and brief strong language.) The movie is actually a wonky, nutsand-bolts lesson about the way political machinery operates than a sweeping historical epic that tries to encapsulate the entirety of the revered 16th president’s life. Talky and intimate but also surprisingly funny, “Lincoln” focuses on the final four months of Abraham Lincoln’s life as he fought for the passage of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery, and sought to unite a nation torn apart by the Civil War. This tumultuous period provides a crucible to display everything Lincoln was made of, both his folksiness and fortitude.

Totally unsurprisingly, Daniel Day-Lewis inhabits the role fully. He disappears into it with small details and grand gestures, from his carriage to the cadence of his speech, and the Academy should probably just give him the best-actor Oscar now and get it over with. Although “Lincoln” itself often feels too conservative, stagey and safe, Day-Lewis’ performances is full of so many clever choices that he keeps it compelling.

Of course, the film has all the top-notch technical hallmarks we’ve come to expect from Spielberg: It’s handsomely staged and impeccable in its production design. But this is a movie that’s easier to admire than love; it’s impressive but not exactly moving. Tommy Lee Jones, James Spader,

‘Skyfall’

HHHH (PG-13 for intense violent sequences throughout, some sexuality, language and smoking.) To borrow a line from Depeche Mode, death is everywhere.

James Bond’s mortality has never been in such prominent focus.

Simultaneously thrilling and meaty, this is easily one of the best entries ever in the 50-year, 23-film series, led once again by an actor who’s the best Bond yet in Daniel Craig.

So many of the elements you want to see in a Bond film exist here: the car, the tuxedo, the martini, the exotic locations filled with gorgeous women.

Adele’s smoky, smoldering theme song over the titles harkens to the classic 007 tales of the 1960s. In the hands of director Sam Mendes, it almost feels like a reinvention of the series.

With Mendes collaborating once again with the great cinematographer Roger Deakins, it’s definitely the most gorgeous. This time, James Bond must try and protect his nononsense boss, M (the always intelligent and dignified Judi Dench), from what feels like a very personal attack, even as it seems that she may not necessarily be protecting him in return. Javier Bardem pretty much steals this entire movie away from a cast of esteemed and formidable actors as the villainous Silva, the former MI6 agent getting his revenge against this staid, old-fashioned organization in high-tech, ultra-efficient ways that make him seem unstoppable.

David James | DreamWorks/20th Century Fox

Daniel Day-Lewis, center, as Abraham Lincoln, in a scene from the film, “Lincoln.”

Continuing ‘Wreck-It Ralph’ ■ Review, 10 ‘Flight’

HHH½ (R for sex, nudity, drugs, alcohol, profanity, adult themes). It’s unlikely the Pilots Association will put its seal of approval on “Flight,” a high-wire drama about a commercial airline captain — Denzel Washington, in an extraordinary, Oscar-worthy performance — who crash-lands a jet carrying “102 souls,” saving all but six. But not only were his alcohol levels off the charts, blood tests

show he had been using cocaine before the flight left Orlando for Atlanta.

The audience is already keenly aware of this fact: “Flight,” bracingly directed

by Robert Zemeckis, begins with the alarm buzzing in Whip’s motel room, where he has spent the night in the company of a coworker in an orgy scene of substance abuse. “Flight,” with its surprisingly raw depiction of binge drinking, of the ingestion of illegal drugs is a movie about addiction. It examines the nature of faith, and the failures and flaws of human beings, plagued

by self-deception, selfdestruction. Washington, as he demonstrated in “Training Day,” is at his best when he is exploring moral compromise and corruption, when he plays someone gone bad, given in to temptation, to despair. The road to redemption in “Flight” is an exceedingly rocky one, and director Robert Zemeckis is smart enough to have us believe for a time Whip might never get there.

‘Seven Psychopaths’ HH½ (R for strong violence, bloody images, pervasive language,

sexuality, nudity and some drug use.) In his second movie, Irish playwright Martin McDonagh has mangled together a comic, self-aware revenge flick that’s half Guy Ritchie, half Charlie Kaufman. It’s manic and messy. But it’s also filled with deranged wit and unpredictable genre deconstruction that make it, if not quite a success, a fascinating mutt of a movie. Colin Farrell plays Marty, a hard-drinking screenwriter in Los Angeles. He has his movie title — “Seven Psychopaths” — but little else. He gets sucked into the hijinks of his friend Billy (Sam Rockwell), whose dog-napping scheme turns bloody when Billy and his friend Hans (Christopher Walken) swipe the Shih Tzu of a pooch-loving gangster (Woody Harrelson).

Rockwell — enthusiastic and deranged — is exceptional. In the film’s meta narrative, he’s a kind of stand-in for movies, themselves: violent, funny, crazy and irresistible. When the action decamps to the desert, the film finds its footing. The writer-director is best in such Beckett-like limbos, heavy with Catholic guilt, an enthralling talent even when obscured by all the self-aware playfulness here. After breaking apart the crime film, he puts it back together again for a conclusion worthy of the genre.

CMYK

goo movies ‘Argo’ HHHH (R for language and some violent images.)

A movie about the 1979 Iranian hostage crisis probably doesn’t sound like it would be a laugh riot — or should be —but that’s just one of the many ways in which this is a glorious, gripping surprise. Directing his third feature, Ben Affleck has come up with a seamless blend of detailed international drama and breathtaking suspense, with just the right amount of dry humor to provide context and levity. He shows a deft handling of tone, especially in making difficult transitions between scenes in Tehran, Washington and Hollywood, but also gives one of his strongest performances yet in front of the camera as the film’s star. It’s exciting to see the confidence with which Affleck expands his ambition and scope as a filmmaker. “Argo” reveals his further mastery of pacing and storytelling, even as he juggles complicated set pieces, various locations and a cast featuring 120

speaking parts. And the story he’s telling sounds impossible, but it’s absolutely true (with a few third-act tweaks to magnify the drama). When protestors stormed the U.S. embassy in Tehran, taking 52 people hostage, six employees sneaked out a back door and sought refuge at the home of Canadian Ambassador Ken Taylor (Victor Garber).

Longtime CIA operative Tony Mendez (Affleck) comes up with a crazy scheme to rescue them: He’ll fly to Tehran, pretend that they all entered the country together to scout locations for a schlocky sci-fi movie called “Argo,” then walk right out the front door with them and fly home. Bryan Cranston, John Goodman and Alan Arkin are among the excellent supporting cast.

‘Cloud Atlas’ H½ (R for violence, language, some sexuality/ nudity and drug use.)

Maybe if you’re 20 years old and high in your dorm room with your friends, the platitudes presented here might seem profound. Anyone else in his or her right

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, November 8, 2012

mind should recognize it for what it is: a bloated, pseudo-intellectual, selfindulgent slog through some notions that are really rather facile. Ooh, we’re all interconnected and our souls keep meeting up with each other over the centuries, regardless of race, gender or geography.

We’re individual drops of water but we’re all part of the same ocean. That is deep, man. Perhaps it all worked better on the page. “Cloud Atlas” comes from the bestselling novel of the same name by David Mitchell that, in theory, might have seemed unfilmable, encompassing six stories over a span of 500 years and including some primitive dialogue in a far-away future. The A-list actors who comprise the cast (including Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Susan Sarandon, Hugh Grant, Jim Broadbent) play multiple parts across the various stories and in elaborate makeup that’s often laughable.

But rather than serving as a satisfying, cohesive device, this strategy feels like a distracting gimmick.

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go o movies Warner Bros. Pictures

Robert Fyfe, left, stars as Mr. Meeks and Jim Broadbent as Timothy Cavendish in the epic drama, “Cloud Atlas.”

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go o the arts Thursday, November 8, 2012

Thursday, November 8, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Expand your collection

arts events

Slotin auction features folk art, antiques

Oconee Student Art Exhibit, Watkinsville..

Nov. 8-30. Oconee Campus Gallery, Gainesville State College, 1201 Bishop Farms Pkwy., Watkinsville. 678-7173438, gallery@gsc.edu “Smokin’ Fish,” Oakwood. Nov. 8.

Martha T. Nesbitt Academic Building, Gainesville State College, Gainesville.

Part of the South Arts Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers. $7 adults; $5 students and seniors. 770534-2787, www.TheArtsCouncil.net.

Northeast Georgia Arts Tour. Nov. 9-11.

Make Your Own Basket, Helen. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 10 and 17. Smithgall Woods State Park, Helen. Leave with a completed berry basket. Advance registration required. $35, $5 parking.

706-878-3087.

Slotin Folk Art Auction, Buford. Nov. 10-11. Historic Buford Hall, 112 E. Shadburn Ave., Buford. 770-532-1115 or 404-403-4244, auction@slotinfolkart. com The Murals of Helen, Helen. 5:30 p.m.

Nov. 13. Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee St., Helen. Artists John Kollock, Elizabeth Shepherd and Joseph Mahler and others, will talk about their murals and view pictures of the past. 706-878-3933, www.helenarts. org.

From staff reports A weekend sale featuring 1,225 lots of self-taught art, outsider art, Southern folk pottery and antique and anonymous folk art is set for Nov. 10-11

by Slotin Auction in the Historic Buford Hall, 112 E. Shadburn Ave., in Buford.

Premiere examples will be on display from The Chuck and Jan Rosenak Collection, The Kelly Ludwig Collection and The Columbus Museum of Art. LiveAuctioneers.com will host Internet bidding.

The auction will provide bidders with an eclectic and exciting mix of art, including: Southern folk pottery, circus and carnival items, tramp art, religious and fraternal items,

quilts, African-American carvings and paintings, game boards, self-taught artworks, masterpieces, international paintings, Native American art, pottery and blankets, trade signs, contemporary art and more.

“We have a stunning catalog, with some of the best examples by each artist and art form we have ever put together in one auction. There is much to choose from,” said Steve Slotin of Slotin Auction.

“Whether you are looking for a museum-quality masterpiece or a starter piece for your collection, this sale will definitely have something for everyone.”

Previews are set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 9. In

Slotin Auction When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nov. 10, noon-6 p.m. Nov. 11 Where: Historic Buford Hall, 112 E. Shadburn Ave., Buford

addition to online bidding participation, phone and absentee bids will also be taken.

Doors open at 8 a.m.

Saturday, with the auction beginning at 10 a.m.

There is no cost to attend and visitors can enjoy complimentary meals.

Bidders may register at the door.

To learn more about Slotin Auction, visit www. slotinfolkart.com.

Event highlights artistic walls Helen’s latest mural gets under way From staff reports Fall visitors to Helen may spot a guy with a paintbrush in the vicinity the Helen Arts & Heritage Center.

Artist Steve Burgess has begun work on Helen’s newest mural for the Center, funded in part by a grant from the Georgia Council for the Arts.

Burgess will work on the mural as weather and scheduling permit. The mural is to be located on the Center’s west facing wall, and will depict an alpine artist painting the scenery around him, including Mount Yonah and the Indian mound and gazebo.

Balloons will dot the skies over the landscape, a tip of the hat to the annual Helen to the Atlantic Balloon Classic, an area event that will celebrate 40 years in 2013.

“Murals are in the air here at the Center,” says Executive Director Theresa Rice. “We are celebrating our new mural in lots of ways.”

HAHC’s November History of Helen event, set for 5:30 p.m. Nov. 13, will feature the Murals of Helen, with guests John Kollock, Elizabeth Shepherd, Joseph Mahler and other artists whose works have become familiar and beloved parts of Helen’s landscape.

The artists will talk about their murals as the audience is treated to an array of slides.

The art and heritage center in Helen invites visitors to come inside to learn about the project and the organization.

“It’s an opportunity to get to know us and view the displays in the History Room and the Gallery, where we have artwork from fifty regional artists.” Rice said.

The Helen Arts & Heritage Center is located at 25 Chattahoochee Strasse.

For information call 706-878-3933 or visit www.helenarts.org.

This Week

Upcoming

Dog and Pony Show, Gainesville.

Reception opening Dec. 6, 5:30-7 p.m.

Through Feb. 16. Call for artists to submit work relating to animals. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Humane Society

of Northeast Georgia. $10 for one, $15 for two. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. 770-536-2575, 2013 Youth Art Competition and Pottery Studio Exhibit, Helen. March 3-16. Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee St., Helen. Opening reception to be held March 3. Free. 706878-3933, www.helenarts.org or info@ helenarts.org HAHC Second Tuesday Get-together, Helen.

March 12. Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee St., Helen. Alternates between a History of Helen event and an ART-y Party with a demonstrating artist followed by a shared supper. Free. 706878-3933, www.helenarts.org or info@ helenarts.org

Ongoing

“Imminent Overgrowth” Art Exhibit, Oakwood. Nov. 1-28. Roy C. Moore Art Gallery, Gainesville State College, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. Artwork by Heather Deyling. Free. 678-717-3707, www.gsc.edu “The South American Song,” Gainesville.

Through the month of November. Works by artist Cecillia Espinosa Murphy.

Inman Perk Cafe, 102 Washington St., Gainesville. Free. 770-532-1636. www. quinlanartscenter.org.

65th Annual Members’ Exhibition, Gainesville. Through Dec. 1. Showcase of Quinlan members’ artwork. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Free. 770-536-2575, www. quinlanartscenter.org.

Exhibit: Palmetto Hands Fine Crafts, Gainesville. Simmons Visual Arts Center, Sellars Gallery, Brenau University, Gainesville. 770-534-6263, www.brenau. edu. Free.

goo music

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, November 8, 2012

Strummin’ and hummin’ Banjo and jazz masters unite for unique concert From staff reports The UGA Performing Arts Center will present a unique musical experience when Béla Fleck, the world’s premier banjo player, joins forces with classic jazz traditionalists the Marcus Roberts Trio.

The concert is set for 8 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 9, in Hodgson Concert Hall. The evening will showcase selections from the musicians’ recently released album, “Across the Imaginary Divide.”

At the 2010 Savannah Music Festival, Fleck sat in with jazz pianist Marcus Roberts for an

Béla Fleck and Marcus Roberts Trio When: 8 p.m. Nov. 9 Where: Hodgson Concert Hall, 230 River Road, Athens How much: $20-$47 More info: pac.uga.edu, 706-542-4400, 888-289-8497

impromptu jam session. The unlikely pairing caused a sensation and resulted in the new, critically acclaimed recording.

A native New Yorker, Fleck began playing the banjo at age 15 after being impressed by the bluegrass music of Flatt and Scruggs. In 1980, he released his first solo album, “Crossing the Tracks,” with material that ranged from straight ahead bluegrass to Chick Corea’s “Spain.”

In 1982, he joined the progressive bluegrass band New Grass Revival, and in 1989 he formed the genre-busting Flecktones. Boasting 14 Grammy Awards and 30 nominations, Fleck

has been nominated in more different categories than anyone in Grammy history.

Roberts, who lost his sight at age 5, founded his trio in 1995.

Led by Roberts on piano, the group also features Jason Marsalis on drums and Rodney Jordan on bass. The Trio is known for a virtuosic style that is strongly rhythmic, melodic, and filled with dynamic contrast.

Tickets are $20-$47 with discounts for UGA students and groups of 10 or more. Tickets can be purchased online at pac.uga. edu or by calling the box office at 706-542-4400 or toll free at 888289-8497.

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concert calendar This week

go o music

Erick Baker with guest Carl Dylan, Dahlonega. Nov. 8. The Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. $12. 706-8643982, www.thecrimsonmoon.com.

Travis Meadows, Dahlonega. 8-10:30 p.m. Nov. 9. The Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. $10. 706-864-3982, www.thecrimsonmoon.com.

Piedmont Singers “Glorious Things,” Demorest. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 9. Piedmont Chapel, Demorest. The Piedmont Singers will present a program of music ranging from Renaissance to 21st century pieces. piedmont.edu.

NGCSU Children’s Chorus presents “Carry Me Over the Sea,” Dahlonega. 7 p.m. Nov. 9. Shott Hall, North Georgia College & State University, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega. 706-482-9968, rppurcell@windstream.net or ngachildrenschorus.org Bela Fleck and the Marcus Roberts Trio, Athens. 8 p.m. Nov. 9. Hodgson Concert Hall, Athens. 706-542-4400 or 888-2898497, www.pac.uga.edu.

Tribute to Elvis, Dahlonega. 8 p.m. Nov. 10. $15. The Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega.

“Our Proud Heritage” Believers Band Concert, Gainesville. 3 p.m. Nov. 11. Gainesville First United Methodist Church, 2780 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville. Free. 770-536-2341, believersband.org Athens Youth Symphony Fall Concert, Athens. 4 p.m. Nov. 11.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall, University of Georgia Performing Arts Center, 230 River Road, Athens. The program will include works by Bizet, Berlioz, Andrew Lloyd Webber, and John Philip Sousa. Free. 706-543-1907.

Melissa Etheridge, Atlanta. 8 p.m. Nov. 12. Atlanta Symphony Hall, 1280 Peachtree Street Northeast Atlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta. 404-733-4900.

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get out

• gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Historical PersPectives: a New Deal Selections from the Permanent Collection of Brenau University

An exploration of Brenau’s collection of artwork created for the United States government

by American artists through the Federal Arts Project in the 1930s and ’40s.

November 1 to January 6 Leo Castelli Art Gallery, John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts

www.brenau.edu

Free and open to the public. For information and gallery hours, call 770.534.6263