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King of the independent stylized film, Wes Anderson, is a director worth falling in love with. Anderson has directed films like "The Royal Tenenbaums," "The Darjeeling Limited," "Rushmore" and "The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou." If you are familiar with any of these films, you know how easy it is to love Anderson's trademark style. The portrayal of comedic situations against the backdrop of real, emotional themes creates the backbone for Anderson's films, many of which he wrote or co-wrote. Like directors John Hughes and Andy Warhol, Anderson often uses a familiar cadre of actors in multiple films including Owen Wilson (with whom Anderson co-wrote several films), Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray and Anjelica Huston. Not only are these movies great entertainment, each boasts an impressive soundtrack thanks in no small part to the musical genius of Mark Mothersbaugh, a collaborator of Anderson's. Mothersbaugh mixes catchy old favorites with unique cover versions of famous songs and includes some of his own instrumental tracks. If you typically think instrumental tracks and think of a track to leave off your iPod, think again. These are catchy, upbeat, new and exciting; some "instrumental" tracks even have words! The music simply completes near-perfect films for Anderson, whose unique stylistic choices and intriguing plots ensnare you visually and emotionally. Everyone likes an independently minded film; it's a plus when those films deliver. And with Anderson at the helm, they definitely do.

How to Get Into It: Rent the movie "The Royal Tenenbaums." Then buy the soundtrack. Trust me, after watching the film, you'll want to own the songs.

-- ERIN BRITTON

PLAYLIST

Kate Perry stirs it up

Katy Perry's "I Kissed a Girl" has caused quite a stir, not only receiving a ridiculous amount of radio play but also enlisting a troupe of 15-year-old girls to sing along at the top of their lungs. You've got to admit, it's obnoxiously catchy. The following pop "hits" feel so wrong, but they sound so right.

• I Kissed a Girl -- Katy Perry

• Shake It -- Metro Station

• Forever -- Chris Brown

• 4 Minutes -- Madonna ft. Justin Timberlake

• Pocket Full of Sunshine -- Natasha Bedingfield

• In Love With a Girl -- Gavin DeGraw

• Mercy -- Duffy

• All Around Me -- Flyleaf

• Don't Stop the Music -- Rihanna

-- JOSE DELREAL

QUE PASA

Air show thunders into town this weekend

Alaska's famous air show, Arctic Thunder, is Saturday and Sunday beginning at 9 a.m. (flying begins at 10:30 a.m.). Join tourists and fellow Alaskans at Elmendorf Air Force Base to watch the spectacular performance. Food, music and festivities are available. Call 552-SHOW (7469) or 552-7480 for more information.

Celebrate 50 years

This is Alaska's 50th year of statehood, and Anchorage is celebrating with "We're In! Weekend," a 1950s-themed day of celebration on Fourth Avenue from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. There will be music, games, free entertainment, food and fun for the whole family to enjoy and celebrate our great state. For more information, visit www.anchorage.net/50.

-- CHLOE MILLER