Minimalist Oscar Movie Posters

Showcasing the 10 Best Picture Nominees for the 83rd Academy Awards, David Lopez created a series of minimalist posters.  I love his idea of breaking each film down into a symbol, and in a stylized way putting each movie on an even keel.

I think it can be debated for every one of these films what the best symbol should be, but it's an intriguing exercise in simplicity and categorization.  How would you sum up an entire movie with a single image?  It's a great work out for the brain and certainly made these worth sharing.

Will Smith Medley by Pearl and the Beard

From mashup artists like DJ Earworm to indie cover acts like Pomplamoose, YouTube has been amazing for randomly introducing me to some very cool musical groups and videos.  This Will Smith Medley by Pearl and the Beard is both a cover and mashup in the best sense of the style - and once again proves that there are lots of clever ways to get yourself noticed.  

Wall Drug in South Dakota

To truly appreciate what Wall Drug is, you first have to abandon any notions that you might have about your typical drug store. Located in Wall, South Dakota this strip mall is one of the few reasons you'd probably stop in this little town along the interstate.

Opened in 1931, Wall Drug has evolved over the decades into a massive roadside tourist attraction featuring shops, restaurants, kitschy western displays, and of course, a drug store.  What makes Wall Drug unique is in how it advertises. You can't drive anywhere in South Dakota without seeing a billboard along any of the interstates. 

In fact, there's a display of photos throughout the store showing people holding a Wall Drug sign all over the world and saying how far away they are from it. Wall Drug even marks their geographical coordinates right next to their doors in case you needed further proof that you've actually arrived. We spent an hour looking around and buying souvenirs. It's one of those quirky roadside attractions that you just have to see for yourself.

Welcome to South Dakota.