—Keillers Park: This 2006 Swedish movie (with English subtitles) focuses on Peter (MÃ¥rten Klingberg, sporting some impressive man-cleavage), a man engaged to a woman who falls for free spirit Nassim (Pjotr Giro). The next thing Peter knows, he’s arrested and being interrogated for Nassim’s murder—but did he actually do it? This well-done movie exhibits moments of sheer happiness, violence and eroticism—plus, the scene with Giro in nothing but a hat on his head and a ribbon you-know-where does wonders.
—The cheesecake shake at Urban Burger Bar: If you feel like indulging, try this sinful concoction at this new eatery at 1578 N. Clybourn. In addition to tasting like liquid cheesecake, it’s topped with mini-Nilla wafers and whipped cream. Lord knows you’ll feel guilty in the morning—or even later that night.
—Loving Hut: As opposed to the previous culinary item, Loving Hut, 5812 N. Broadway, offers vegan fare. While the desserts are a bit hit-and-miss, the appetizers, salads and entrees (especially the yakisoba) definitely hit the spot. Also, the place is spotlessly clean and the man who served was one of the nicest individuals I have ever encountered. See LovingHut.us/chicago/.
—Leonard Cohen: Bird on a Wire: Not to be confused with the Goldie Hawn-Mel Gibson comedy, this Bird on a Wire features the inimitable Leonard Cohen in a European tour film originally made in 1972. The movie contains 17 classic performances, four poems and tour footage. Among the songs on the soundtrack are “Avalanche,” “Sisters of Mercy,” “Chelsea Hotel” and, of course, “Bird on a Wire.”
—D.S. Tequila: This new bar/restaurant on the Halsted Street strip in Boystown offers a fun atmosphere complete with burgers, margaritas and tacos. John Dalton and business partner Stu Zirin are veterans on the scene (being behind minibar), so they know what they’re doing.
—Andrew Davis
(Andrew@WindyCityTimes.com)