This is a sports documentary that explores what happens to some athletes after the glory days are over an they find themselves in financial hardship.
Broke was featured at the 2012 Tribeca Film Festival and was directed by Billy Corben. They explore the road to riches that many athletes enjoy and for some... the steep decline to bankruptcy. This film covers in depth the dark side of success.
Players like Andre Rison, Bernie, Kosar, and Cliff Floyd are interviewed and talks about the pressures and mistakes they made during their playing years. Watching this has a lesson for everyone. You think that money will make you happy and solve all of your problems? Think again. Broke is a lesson for all of us... Its not about how much you have... Its about what you do with whatever you have.
Pros
1. This film balances empathy for the athletes and the hubris that get them into to trouble.
2. There are big name stars in this film... not just B rate players.
Cons
1. You may not feel sorry for these guys since they made mistakes along the way and they were super rich.
Things that make me happy... Steve Martin and The Steep Canyon Rangers
What do you know about bluegrass music? Yes... that music. With the bango and the fiddle.
If your answer is nothing or not enough... it's time you challenge yourself to step out of your musical comfort zone. The Steep Canyon Rangers is a North Carolina based bluegrass band that is currently on tour with Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. Of course Steve Martin is the headline and star of this tour, but he will be the first to admit that The Steep Canyon Rangers is fuel that makes this a truly entertaining show for die hard bluegrass fans or novices (like me) alike. An added treat is the talented and delightful Edie Brickell who happens to be touring with the group.
Edie Brickell and Steve Martin joined up to produce an 2013 album called "Love has Come for You" and they featured a few songs from that album. Steve Martin's comic genius is featured throughout the performance and even makes an appearance in a song or two (Athiest Ain't Got No Songs.)
The core band features the mandolin, base, fiddler, and a pair of banjos (one expertly wielded by Steve Martin). They are joined by an electric guitar and a percussionist on many of the songs. The Steep Canyon Rangers are excellent musicians that can play, sing, and plain ole jam with the best of them. This is excellent evening of music filled with laughter, toe tapping beats, and great story telling by Brickell.
Take a leap and check out some bluegrass this summer at one of the tour stops. Or grab one of Steve Martin's, The Steep Cannon Rangers', or Edie Brickell's albums and grab a sweet tea, a rocking chair and enjoy the music.
One more thing... Steve Martin has and continues to trend at number one on Amazon Bluegrass Best Seller List. Who knew?
Athiest Ain't have No Songs
Pros
1. Steve Martin is funny! Period. But he also a great muscian. That two shows for one.
2. The Steep Canyon Rangers is the best (and only) bluegrass band I've every seen live.
3. Edie Brickel - Great storyteller, so adorable, and still is a talented singer.
Cons
1. Anyone new the bluegrass may have to get over themselves and open their minds to great music no matter the guise.
2. A lot of bluegrass is instrumental... but even without the lyrics each song tells a story.
Bluegrass? I say yes. Put it on the playlist. That's what I'm listening to this month.
