Reviews

A fascinating, invigorating trip around the world of music. From Scotland to Senegal to Chicago. With a closing performance by the Icelandic rock band, Of Monsters and Men. This is the second episode of what was supposed to be a PBS series, "Sound Tracks: Music Without Borders." A pity that never happened. It's a classy, well-produced show. Lots of entertaining music. But what really sets it apart are the stories and the profiles of the musical artists: Wynton Marsalis, Youssou N'dour, and Julie Fowlis. It's the kind of film you can watch again and again. I only wish Sound Tracks had become an ongoing series. Maybe some day?

A classic investigation of how presidential campaigns are funded -- how the system works. This documentary, which won a DuPont/Columbia University Award, reveals who the biggest donors were to the George Bush and Bill Clinton campaigns in 1992 and what they expected in return for their contributions. Includes some breathtaking interviews and discoveries. A serious documentary that also manages to be funny and entertaining. PBS veteran producer and writer Stephen Talbot takes us on a surprising journey. Correspondent, Robert Krulwich brings a wry touch to the reporting. The opening scene in Middleburg, Virginia provides an unexpected introduction to the subject of campaign finance and the film ends with flair with an expose of a Florida retreat where big-time donors and news media stars co-mingle.