I told myself that I was not going to buy any software, computer or DVD, until after the end of the year. But along comes the “Beauty and the Beast” DVD and I’m standing in line. So much for resolutions. It’s not my favorite modern-era Disney by any means (that would be “The Little Mermaid”), but there’s some fantastic art and music in it. The extras seem a little thin for a two-disk set, but a lot of space has to be taken up by “games” and such that irritate more than entertain me.

I want some real meat in the extras about the animation process, and in the ones I’ve seen so far it’s been really fluffy. While computer animation like “Monsters Inc.” fascinates me, I’m even more in awe of the artists who sit down and draw these complex characters frame by frame. “Beauty” got a Best Picture nomination, and I still think animation shouldn’t be in its own category. If it holds up, it holds up. And I’d rather watch this movie than most of the Best Picture winners of the last few years.

Well, at least Russ Feingold voted against the “U.S. Does Whatever It Wants” resolution. (Feingold in 2004!) I’d love to write some long eloquent post about how insane this whole thing is, and how I’m stunned how little reaction there has been over it. Bush wants war, ho hum. But I’m exhausted. All my outrage and anger is played out. I’m empty. Sometimes the tide is just too strong. I want to be more like Arthur, but even he is feeling a little overwhelmed. Of course, this fatigue just plays into the hands of those who would turn this society so fully into “1984” that we wouldn’t be able to tell the difference. But I don’t know what else to do. I just don’t.

Wondering

Why are socks always softer on the outside?

Continuing to enjoy the “Election 2000 revisited” plotlines on “The West Wing.” Tonight they dealt with a third-party candidate who threatened to siphon votes away from the President, and debates where the unschooled Republican challenger would triumph just by being able to form recognizable English words.

Any of this sound familiar?

Except in the West Wing Universe, the third-party candidate gracefully bowed out, and no doubt the lovable egghead President will find a way to triumph in the debate.

Fiction can be comforting and hollow at the same time. Know what I mean?

I’m looking for suggestions for topics to cover in my e-mail newsletter. Any ideas out there from the sage webheads who read these words? (I’m also always looking for subscribers, so if you know anyone to recommend it to, I would be eternally grateful.)

I would write a review of “Red Dragon” but I pretty much agree with everything Xkot said, and he got there first. So I won’t repeat it, other than to emphasize how woefully miscast Ralph Fiennes was. A handsome, tiny man with a shaving scar does not a Francis Dolarhyde make.

In its place, here’s my first four-word review:
Go rent “Manhunter” instead.

Done some much-needed maintenance to my links list. Be sure to look to the right and check out some good stuff.

Proof that astrology is a load of bunk

Right now you’re loving this moment, and it radiates from everything you do. Your happy enthusiasm impresses everyone. Some aspire to be like you, while others just want to be around you.

-my horoscope today

Remember what I said about conservatives?

Bush offered no U.S. intelligence data to support his fears, and aides said he may not offer any new details in Monday’s address. The purpose of the address, they said, was to synthesize the case against Saddam with blunt rhetoric and assure Americans that administration plans are well thought-out.

–SignOnSanDiego.com

Word of the day: circumspect.