What to Watch on IFC in November 2008

By Joanna Varikos on 10/30/2008

Who knew that when Henry Rollins joined the hardcore metal band Black Flag as lead singer 20-some odd years ago, he'd turn out to be one of the most socially and politically outspoken artists in the world today? You may have caught "The Henry Rollins Show" here on IFC, where he welcomed indie musical acts as well as a wide array of guests to discuss politics, world issues and just about everything else. This month, tune in to a series of three specials featuring Henry Rollins as he tours three politically affected areas around the world sharing his uninhibited, uncensored and uncut views.

The first stop: New Orleans. Rollins visits the city, still recovering from Hurricane Katrina, and gives a stage performance at the legendary Tipitina's music venue. Then, check out "Henry Rollins: Uncut from South Africa," where he visits Nelson Mandela's old prison cell, explores underdeveloped areas, and takes his voice to the stage in front of an audience at the University of Cape Town. On the final stop, Rollins heads to Northern Ireland. Before performing to a sold-out crowd in Belfast, he speaks with people who played a significant role during the troubles that affected the region, while also seeking insight on how the situation there can help resolve the war in Iraq. Tune in every Friday beginning at 10:30PM Eastern/Pacific. And check out a special encore of "Henry Rollins: Uncut from Israel" Friday, November 28th at 10pm Eastern.

Also this month, we premiere a news series from producers Meghan O'Hara ("Fahrenheit 911", "Sicko") and Mick McKinney ("The Daily Show", "30 Days"). Populist, edgy and totally independent, the IFC Media Project delves into the news, going behind the story, featuring in-your-face confrontations and much, much more. Tune in Tuesday, November 18th at 8pm Eastern/Pacific.

And, if you think you've got mileage logged this holiday, you got nothin' on IFC's Road Trip. Oh yeaaaaah -- pack it up, fill the tank and get ready for a Thanksgiving Day joy ride; it's an all-day film fest that goes cross country. Thursday, November 27th beginning at 10am Eastern, check out "Roadside Prophets," with two buddies heading on a bike ride through Nevada. Look out for cameos from John Cusack and the Beastie Boys' Adam Horovitz. Plus, "Grand Theft Parsons" takes you through the wild true story of how Phil Kaufman kidnapped musician and good friend Gram Parson's body to fulfill a pact they once made. Also en route: David Lynch's "Wild At Heart," with Nicolas Cage and Laura Dern as a couple trying to escape the bunch of wacked-out hitmen on their trail; "Even Cowgirls Get the Blues," directed by Gus Van Sant, and starring Uma Thurman hitchiking across the US with the world's largest thumbs; "Trans," about a juvenile delinquent on the run; and before the gas tank goes on empty, "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre," which brings the trip to a thrilling end, because hitting the road wouldn't be quite as much fun without getting lost and falling victim to a crazed psychopath.

PREMIERES TO LOOK FOR:

• THE PROPOSITION An outlaw involved in a gang with his brothers is given the opportunity to be granted pardon by the local Captain if he kills his older sibling, or else law enforcement will kill his younger one. Talk about a tough decision. Premieres Sunday, November 2nd @ 9e.


• ME AND YOU AND EVERYONE WE KNOW Author Miranda July makes her feature directorial/acting/writing debut in this indie about an artist and a newly single father who form a relationship while dealing with the tensions of everyday life. It won awards at both the Sundance and Cannes Film Festivals. Premieres Monday, November 3rd @ 9e.


• EDMOND With a screenplay by Pulitzer Prize-winning writer David Mamet, "Edmond" focuses on an unhappy businessman who has his Tarot read, and ends up drastically changing his life after hearing what the cards have to say. Premieres Thursday, November 6th @ 9e.


• THE BAXTER "Wet Hot American Summer"'s Michael Showalter directs, stars and writes this rom-com about a guy who, with just two weeks to go until his wedding, does all he can to fight off a curse that's plagued him in previous relationships. Premieres Monday, November 10th @ 9e.


• THE SEA INSIDE Winner of the Best Foreign Film Oscar in 2005, "The Sea Inside" is based on the true story of Ramón Sampedro, who fought for years for the right to be euthanized. "No Country For Old Men"'s coif-challenged Javier Bardem stars. Premieres Monday, November 17th @ 9e.