Avant Garde Film and Nicaraguan Food

I’m a creature of habit. I like routines, schedules, predictability and early bed-times. 

However, once in a while it’s good to stray from the beaten path and try something new. Or a few new things.  Last week my friend Mridu Chandra, a successful documentary film maker whose last two films premiered at Sundance, was in town to present a collection of short documentary films that she curated.  The collection, entitled Monitor, was captivating.  The event was held at Cinecycle, a gritty art space off of Spadina near Queen (Toronto).  The films were varied and beautiful – abstract images of explosive celebrations set to music, a frank portrayal of the meat industry, the humorous portrayal of the disembowelment of a bus, and a poignant depiction of homophobia and racism in Vancouver circa 1915.

I’m so used to a commercial narrative that it took me a few moments to adjust to the films’ offbeat qualities.  But, once I was in the groove, I felt challenged, invigorated – I enjoyed my mind having to bend to comprehend the film. Nothing was spoon-fed to the audience or sugar-coated.  I savoured the films, hung out with friends, and chatted with one of the filmmakers, a fascinating film prof from York University, Ali Kazimi.  It was a stimulating evening – very much off the beaten track of my usual nights at home with the kids.

Another new experience from last week:  Nicaraguan food. Super-yum.  We visited La Bella Managua for a friend’s birthday, and it was a delightful surprise – carne asada (bbq beef), pollo (bbq chicken), gallo pinto (rice and beans), avocado, plantains, fresh juices of canteloupe & orange, tamarind – absolutely wonderful, fresh and filling. An immensely satisfying meal, inexpensive and healthfully prepared.  I highly recommend.