My "Best of 3's" List So Far

So the year is half over, and I thought I'd post my top three pieces of media consumed over the past 6 months (books, movies, albums, TV shows).  These aren't necessarily all new, but they are new to me.  If you're bored, maybe you can check some of these out!

MOVIES

1. Amadeus (1984)   Trailer
Starring F. Murray Abraham and Tom Hulce

I had never seen this movie, but I had heard of its greatness, and it is great.  It tells the story of how jealousy can bud into full blown murderous hatred.  Ultimately, the it ends up becoming a modern adaptation of the Prodigal Son.  Visuals and music are incredible.  

2. In the Loop (2009) Trailer
Starring Tom Hollander and Peter Capaldi

This is British comedy at its finest and subtlest.  British and American diplomats attempt to stop another war in the Middle East.  Imagine if the Office meets CSPAN. Tom Hollander (Rev, Pirates of the Caribbean) steals the show.

3. Diplomacy (2014) Trailer
Starring Andre Dussollier and Niels Arestrup

A French language screen adaptation about a play recounting how a Swedish diplomat convinced a German general to defy Hitler's orders and save Paris from destruction.  More than enough drama is provided in this incredible performance.

Honorable Mention:   Beckett (1964)  Trailer
Starring Peter O'Toole and Richard Burton


BOOKS

1. Faith and Sanctification by CG Berkouwer (1952)  Book

A lot of Reformed theology these days seems caught up in debates about the uses of the law (cf. Tchvidjian v. DeYoung).  Preempting these debates by 60 years, Berkouwer, in what serves as a response to Barth, provides a needed and balanced corrective to both of these views. This book is dynamite.

2. The Christ of the Covenants by O. Palmer Robertson (1981) Book

As one relatively new to covenant theology, this book is perhaps the best introduction to the subject.

3. A Praying Life by Paul Miller (2009) Book

This was a re-read, but it's that good.  Miller gets to the heart of what dependence on God is meant to look like.  Convicting, infuriating, sweet, and thought-provoking.  A must read.  

Honorable Mention:  Calvin's Doctrine of Word and Sacrament by R. Wallace (1952)


ALBUMS

1. Alveron by Wolfgang (2014)    "Lay Your Love Down"

This is an excellent sophomore album for this British alt-rock band.  If you like syncopation, high pitched voices, and piano, then this is for you. If not, then tough luck.  Lay Your Love Down is maybe my song of the year.

2. Next Year People by Colin Hay (2015)   "Trying to Get to You"

Hay's music is highly melodic, with catchy guitar runs, tight harmonies, and a folksy-coffee shop feel.  And it comes across as very honest.

3. Lost in the Dream by The War on Drugs (2014)  "In Reverse"

A beautiful sound with some haunting riffs.  It's great for the car.  The future of progressive rock.

Honorable Mention: 1989 by Taylor Swift (2014)  


TV SHOWS

1. Brooklyn 99 Season 2 (2015)  Andy Samberg Highlights
Starring Andy Samberg and Terry Crews

This is maybe the best show on Fox.  Fast paced, subtle and intelligent, and yet incredibly low brow at the same time, Andy Samberg comes into his own as a childish NYPD police detective.

2. Other Space (2015)   Interview
Starring Karan Soni and Milana Vayntrub

This low budget Yahoo Screen production is the postmodern comedy version of Star Trek for our generation.  Directed by Paul Feig of the new Ghostbuster's movie.

3. Selfie (2015)  Trailer
Starring Karen Gillan and John Cho

This show was terrible, and there's no reason for me to have liked it.  Yet this modern adaptation of My Fair Lady was endearing in a lot of ways.  Can't honestly recommend it though.

Honorable Mention:  Community Season 6 (2015)