Check out Google's Search Options function, a collection of new tools to filter searches:
- by type: reviews, videos, images, etc.
- by time: most recent, a week ago, etc.
- related searches to expand a query including a Wonder Wheel graphic
To access these expanded search options first type an initial query, then click on the "Search Options" link at the top of the page. See the youtube tour and more discussion here.
Google are also previewing a new tool called Google Squared. GS doesn't find webpages about your topic; instead it automatically fetches and organizes facts from across the Internet. Available to users at the end of May on Google Labs.