I’ve got to say, this is the best book I’ve read in a while. I can see how it’s not for everyone though. When I read the section “Elector” in The Best Science Fiction of 2005 (I think) I both hated and loved it. The ideas were awesome, but the characters were a little over the top, and I thought the sex-themes were a little unneccisary. Now though, after reading the book through I am a total convert. Its probably the best fictionalization of the singularity written so far. It also has certain Cyberpunk elements. Its hard to actually pin down what those are, maybe its just that the book starts in the not so far future, and skyrockets from there. Anyways, I think anyone thinking they might like this book, and ready to go to wikipedia to read up on some of the references he drops, should definetly go for it.

I’m not exactly sure why I loved this film, but I did. It is extremely hard to watch, but after the first half or so it got easier for me. There is a bit of dark humor, like when the guy’s face flies onto the wall and slides down to the ground. Totally badass. I would say the movie is misogynistic, but its not like the guys get any better treatment. I guess none of the women really did anything though, they were mostly passive as hell. It wouldve been nice to see a more active female role as well. I was surprized by the psychological depth expecting mostly hip japanese ultra-violence. Not that I’m a complete action movie junkie or anything but I totally wanted to see Ichi kick some ass. I’d say if you think you have the stomach for it and can appreciate things a little out of the ordinary you’ll like it. Also, I’m trying to hunt down the soundtrack, it was one of the best parts.

I haven’t heard much of Ratatat’s previous album but I remember one complaint was that it was repetitive. I could see how someone might think that about this album too, but only because its instrumental. I think the fact that these guys can keep things intresting with enough subtle (or some totally dramatic) changes and a good beat makes it all that much more of a rewarding album. The music is both hip and danceable, and geeky and video-gamey, which I love. It seems like there should be more music like this but anything too close would just be called an imitation.