Delusions of Adequacy

Saw Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy today. As a fan of the books since I was twelve, I'm happy to report that it's a terrifically good adaptation, preserving not only the vast majority of the events and memorable dialogue of the book, but also -- and far more importantly -- its irreverent spirit.

Yes, it's all there -- towels, Belgium (though only mentioned once), and bad Vogon poetry. Even the sperm whale and the bowl of petunias put in their appearances.

And the Guide itself is imaginatively and raucously reproduced on screen via animated clips with voice-overs that sound remarkably like those of the radio series (no idea if it's the same guy, but it could be). It's introduced to the tune of the radio show's theme song -- that plaintive, forlorn, cosmic-sounding banjo that gives way to and joins in with a heroic orchestral hook.

Here's hoping it's successful enough that they make sequels. Given the audience reactions in the theater I was in -- in which a handful of people (including yours truly) laughed loudly at intervals the other theater-goers seemed to think odd -- I'm not sure it will be. But even if it's not -- even if we never get to see the Restaurant at the End of the Universe, or find out on-screen why that bowl of petunia's last thought was "Oh, no, not again" -- we'll still have this minor cinematic masterpiece to ameliorate the loss.

UPDATE: According to Morning Edition this morning, Disney will make sequels. And HHGTTG beat xXx this weekend! Boo-yah! Belgium you, Ice Cube!

At first light, lay proud foundations. Sense the greatness that before you unfolds. Seek no more for hollow answers, answers that lay within you all along. Farewell to dawns seen through saddened eyes. Farewell to pasts to sorrows chained. Forget your fears and want no more. You will be strong and want no more. You'll be adored. You will have everything. You will be strong and want no more. Forget your fears. You will have everything, and want no more.
- VNV Nation, "Arclight."

I'll be in Virginia from Saturday (tomorrow) till sometime next weekend. During that time, no Internet access for me.

I am increasingly conflicted about vacations, because I enjoy being here. Of course, I enjoy being home, too. Penny Arcade's Tycho puts it best, I think:

"I will miss our time together desperately. I understand that vacations are supposed to be awesome, but I don't think of my life as something that needs getting away from."

Still, if you're here, drop me a line in the comments. There's none of you I don't want to hear from, about anything.

See you later.