Videos To Watch

1. Feeling cranky or downtrodden? Stop. This video about a quadruple amputee veteran will inspire you in ways that you may not have thought possible. If this guy can deal with life with no arms and legs -- and still manage to go snowboarding and jump out of airplanes -- then day to day life for the other 99% of the population couldn't possibly be so unbearable.


2. I'm obsessed with the coverage of the criticism of Thomas Piketty's work. (Warning: Smart People Fighting!) The Huff Post Live had a great segment today discussing all the different takes on Piketty's calculations. It goes on for about 25 minutes and is worth a watch.


3. Children of the 80s are freaking out today because Le Var Burton has a Kickstarter campaign to make Reading Rainbow free for any school or kid with an internet connection.


Next: Can we bring back Square One TV? It could have done for math what Reading Rainbow did for reading.

Wicked Game: Why Do Almost All Men Love This Song And Video?

Apropo of nothing, this morning TR blurted out, "Wicked Game! That video is so hot!" My head almost imploded, because he is the umpteenth guy I've known who has felt exactly the same way about that video. I've also never known a guy, born in the 1970s or earlier, who didn't own Chris Isaak's CD (yes, I just said CD). Or, for that matter, James Brown's greatest hits. What does that signify?

What is it about this video and song? It does nothing for me, mostly because I think it's far too typical of early 90s, black and white videos that try too hard to be arty. Also, the song drags a bit. Then again, maybe I have no appreciation for the Art of Seduction. Judge for yourself.


Personally, I like Janet Jackson's "Love Will Never Do" video much better, which looks spookily similar and is much more digestible. It's got a good beat, and I can dance to it. Janet's never looked better than she did in this video.


And while we're on the subject of black and white, early 90s Janet Jackson videos, "Rhythm Nation" must get a mention. Amazing on so many levels, from choreography to concept to direction.

I am always amazed by the amount of people who make videos about their cats on You Tube. I just found this one, which gets mucho points for both creativity and production. It's kinda catchy.

Also: How cute is Sparta?

Saks Fifth Avenue Makes Video Catalogue

This came through Handbaggery's e-mail, but I think everyone should know about this.

Saks Fifth Avenue -- always thinking fashion forward -- has created a video catalog to show off the assorted looks on offer. It's basically short videos of models turning this way and that as a sophisticated voice recites fashion copy about each ensemble. Of course, if you see something you like there are links to purchase it. It's also oddly soothing to listen to this woman talk about the clothes.

I have a feeling that other retailers are going to start doing this as well. I'm not in a mood to shop today, but considering how easy online shopping is (click...click...), this idea is rife for impulse purchases. Kudos, Saks!

Speaking of songs that get into your ear and never leave, here's one for your Friday.

There's something very sweet about the very late 90s. It's almost as if they never happened.