He Said, She Said

New Rasmussen polls show as many as 62% of Democrat voters believe the Central Intelligence Agency didn’t disclose its interrogation techniques to House Speaker, and Village of The Damned understudy, Nancy Pelosi. The same percentage of Republican voters believe they did.

Among voters not identified with either party, the numbers split pretty evenly down the line: 42% believe Ms. Pelosi was unaware of CIA techniques, and 42% believe she had some knowledge, but kept quiet.

Ms. Pelosi has escalated things by accusing the CIA of actually misleading her with respect to interrogation techniques, a charge CIA Director Leon Panetta denies flatly.

Ms. Pelosi has since back-tracked and tried to water-down her accusations, in light of CIA briefing documents she received in 2002 – strong evidence she knew, or should’ve known, what was going on. As Representative Pete Hoekstra, the ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee, concluded: “If someone is going to schedule hearings [about potential prisoner abuses]… the first witness should be Nancy Pelosi.”

Given the situation, it’s unsurprising that a vast majority of American voters – whether or not they believe Ms. Pelosi was perfectly aware of the techniques used against suspected terrorists and is only now raising criticism because it’s safe to do so under President Obama - view the CIA favorably (63% of voters surveyed). In contrast, only about half that number (35%) view Ms. Pelosi favorably.  

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Tom Reviews: Flight of The Conchords

Tom Sanfilippo is a 2006 graduate of the Miami University of Ohio and is currently a student at the Saint Louis University School of Law. Tom occasionally, and briefly, reviews film for this site; his work has appeared in such literary and film journals as TheFacebook.com.

Last night’s episode gave us a timely reminder that Bret and Jemaine are the real deal. Season 2 started off strong, but ever so slightly began to taper off below the exceptional precedent set in Season 1. Comically, I have no complaints. Season 2 respects the deadpan, quirky humor that had been so masterfully executed in Season 1. Musically, season 2 is very still strong all things considered. It would be premature and utterly erroneous to besmirch or dismiss the worthy sounds of Season 2.

However, as a true fan I cannot help but offer healthy criticism, as I believe there have been a few unbecoming moments of musical mediocrity. Specifically, Mel’s ballad in the 4th episode was a definite disappointment. The tune was well structured and it carried a pleasant audibility that was, unfortunately, squandered on giving Mel a very unwelcome musical number. Mel’s interpretation was simple, adolescent and bland. The number would have best been performed by a solo Bret on a grand piano. The visual accompaniment just seemed crowded and strange, not to mention lacking of any comedic value.

Not that every song has to be a laugh riot… but I really feel cheated out of what could have been another memorable Conchords jingle, as I believe the song had great potential. However this insignificant blemish has been justly rectified by last night’s remarkable musical accompaniment. Both of the songs are fresh, original pieces that evidence the depth and substance of the Conchords’ musical talent. Without going too in depth, I believe it’s safe to say last night’s show boldly quashed any speculation of the dreaded second album syndrome. ‘Nuff said.

Season 2 is a success. The conchords are serious musicians and exceptional song writers… the humorous value of their songs takes nothing away from their musical merit.

Tom Sanfilippo, Film Critic.