Eleven Hours For The One Ring

I always try hard to see films of different genres. Because each flavor offers a little bit of something different every time. Today, I went on an adventure in Middle Earth.

Most people probably heard of The Lord of the Rings. Not only because it is a well-known book by a well-known author, but also because of the commercial success of its movie franchise. The LOTR trilogy— The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), The Two Towers (2002), and The Return of the King (2003)—directed by Peter Jackson. As already mentioned, based on the books of the same name by J.R.R. Tolkien. It tells the journey of the hobbit, Frodo, and his friends to save Middle Earth from the evil ring of the Dark Lord Sauron.  

The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) had an almost 3-hour and 30-minute running time. It was long, alright. But satisfying. I did not expect the open ending though to be like a literal open book when I pause from reading. Cannot believe people waited for a year to see what happens next to the heroic hobbits (except if you read the book, of course). Nonetheless, I think it had a well-written screenplay for an engaging introduction.

As for the second installment, The Two Towers (2002) was a complete failure. It was excruciating to watch because of the abundant exposure of walking. I get it, they walked a lot, but it did not translate well on screen. I guess, I expected too much after the success of the first installment.

Fortunately, The Return of the King (2003) managed to bury all the negativity created by the previous film of the franchise. For starters, it actually lived up to expectations. The highest peak of the story, as well as the final conclusion, were presented satisfyingly. An obvious goof though, with its continuity-fail scene when the horses magically disappeared before the battle with the Orcs at the Black Gate of Mordor. Aside from that, what well-deserved Academy Awards it won.

Likewise, the cast of characters was equally adoring. Viggo Mortensen (Aragorn) and Liv Tyler (Arwen) easily won my heart. Orlando Bloom (Legolas) was beautiful. I did not mind him flying onto his horse. Sir Ian McKellen (Gandalf) and Cate Blanchett (Galadriel) were outstanding as always. I, however, enjoyed Sean Astin's performance better than Elijan Wood. Not because Wood was a bad actor. I think it was only because of how the character of Frodo was written for the film. I hated how his few moments of bravery failed to overshadow his many cringe-worthy moments of weakness. It's like he was not able to redeem himself despite their journey's success. But for those who read the novel, please do enlighten me.

The LOTR trilogy proved all my judgments wrong (except that, it is, indeed, a movie about walking). Its theme of friendship, love, hope, and courage made me fall in love with high epic fantasy fictions. It was glorious. The production designs were beautiful; musical score was grand; and the cast was outstanding. Truly a franchise that is worth watching.

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Dear Johnny

I am keeping track of way too many television series. But here is a new one from my favorite, CBS.

2 Broke Girls (2011-)
Created by Michael Patrick King and Whitney Cummings.

It's a comedy sitcom about two different girls who crossed paths, both broke, and trying to make it in New York City as waitresses and owners of a struggling cupcake business.

Kat Dennings stars as Max Black, along side with Beth Behrs who plays Caroline Channing. Though both have appeared in major motion pictures, I was only familiar with Dennings. And despite loving several of her films (Charlie Bartlett, The House Bunny, Nick& Norah's Infinite Playlist, Daydream Nation), I did not like her character the first time I've seen her. But it was only a first impression thing, because Dennings as Max is actually one of the most magnificent human beings on television these days. Behrs was also just as funny. 2 Broke Girls is definitely worth its half-hour running time with its hilarious one liners and lovable characters.

Speaking of more lovable characters, I have been crushing on Johnny for days now. Johnny, the love interest of Max, is played by Nick Zano — who surprisingly is not as appealing to me when he is his normal self.  Johnny's perfect ensemble of sexy beard and mustache, messy hair, and hipster glasses is just too dreamy.

(photos are not mine; credits to owner)

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The Dead Are Back And Walking

I don't know what's it about zombies, but they always make a good pitch for a story. Even better, if the idea is turned into an actually great series.

Zombies were enough reason already to start watching this show, but the awesome teasers and positive feedback grew my excitement for this further.

The Walking Dead (2010-)

Developed by Frank Darabont

Based on the comic book series of the same name by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore, and Charlie Adlard, The Walking Dead explores the post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. The story begins as Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln), a police officer, wakes from a coma in an abandoned hospital to look for help and find his family.

And that was an intense season one marathon. It was everything I've expected, and more. The first few minutes only would make you catch your breath. It definitely did not lack suspense and thrill with so many terrific scenes with the walkers/geeks. The narrative would get you hooked in an instant. It also had the right amount of moving back stories that would make you empathize, and identify even, with the characters. Likewise, the production design was too incredible. The cinematography, and the special effects would leave you in awe. The zombies were made disturbingly realistic, it would make you cringe every time they devour their preys or as they get gruesomely killed by the survivors. Indeed, it deserved every good review it received.

I cannot wait for the second season.

And oh, hi, Andrew Lincoln and Steven Yeun.

(photo is not mine; credits to owner)

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Forrest

Forrest Gump is a name, probably, if one does not know would still ring a bell. But aside from its blockbuster reputation, there is so much more to this film than just being famous.

Forrest Gump (1994) 
Directed by Robert Zemeckis
Screenplay by Eric Roth

A comedy drama based on the novel of the same name by Winston Groom, tells the story of Forrest Gump—a man who may not be as intelligent as most, but is full of optimism—as he takes on challenges in life while inspiring people.

Forrest Gump, like any other individual, had many life hindrances. But unlike most people, he had a certain condition making him seemingly different. Yet, despite his everyday struggles to cope with people and normal life, he never once thought of giving up. Instead, he used his supposed disadvantage as an asset to believe in himself more. And that his incredible accomplishments never got into his head. He remained humble, appreciating the little things that people tend to neglect. And that made him a better human than most.

Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get.

I love how this film is filled with life lessons. It's like all the advice we need to hear about life in a nut shell. Aside from its fruitful narrative, Tom Hanks shows one of his most notable performances in the big screen.

It's what I love most about films--they will teach you, and touch you in any way; and you carry it with you even after the credits roll, forever.

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From Ryan, With Love

There are so many romantic comedy films. And you have probably seen almost all of them. Because they are the 'feel-good' kind of movies that you often need to relieve stress. But they are not always satisfying. Admit it, most of the time, you just sat through the whole movie just because. So when a really entertaining rom-com comes along the way, I'd have to write about it.

Crazy Stupid Love (2011)

A film by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa

The Weaver couple is having marital crisis. As Cal (Steve Carell) and Emily (Julianne Moore) try to seek answers and comfort in different ways, they further mess up the relationship. The film also stars (my boyfriend) Ryan Gosling  as a charismatic womanizer and the adorable Emma Stone as a conservative lawyer.

But first, let me take a moment to appreciate the existence of Ryan Gosling. I question myself sometimes if I truly enjoy a film because of its plot or simply because of all the Gosling in it. In all honesty though, Gosling can act. And seeing this other side of him simply makes me love him more (what can he not do?).

Aside from the above mentioned gem, the film was actually good. With its brilliant layer of stories, and funny dialogues, it easily becomes a favorite. In addition, the casting was perfection. I might be a little biased because I love all the lead actors in it. But seriously, the excellent ensemble of cast made Crazy, Stupid Love an instant rom-com classic. Simply because each and every one of them share a connection with one another: Carell + Moore; Tipton + Carell; Carell + Gosling; Gosling + Stone (not surprised that Stone and Gosling are set to star in another film because of their surprising chemistry); and Stone + Moore.

I really went to go see the new Twilight movie by myself, and it was so bad.

Such an entertaining film! Something I do not mind watching over and over again.

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Remembering Jane

I will always love Jane Austen. But I have to admit that her books are not always as easy to read as some of today's contemporary novels. I believe due to the usage of the Old English language. And this one is not an exception. It had to lay on my shelf for a year.


Emma (1815)
by Jane Austen

Emma tells the story of Emma Woodhouse—a beautiful, clever, rich young lady who entails herself never to marry. She thinks highly of herself, particularly her match-making skills that it blinded her to see her friend Harriet's feelings, as well as her own.

Full of witty lines, and hilarious twists and turns, Emma was such a fun read (I cannot help but imagine Clueless, a film loosely based on the novel which starred Paul Rudd and Alicia Silverstone).  I did like Pride and Prejudice more than this one, though. Nonetheless, both share the right amount of brilliance and entertainment. Emma, though a bit silly and stubborn, still showed a great deal of firmness in her beliefs.

I lay it down as a general rule, Harriet, that if a woman doubts as to whether she should accept a man or not, she certainly ought to refuse him.

That's what I like most about Austen's novels: her heroines. They have their odd characteristics too, but they are almost always unafraid to show their true selves regardless of what society imposes. Considering the customs of proposal and marriage (in relation to the importance of social status) during her time, Austen writes without fear of society's judgment. She creates characters with wit and strong convictions; further bending the conventional image of women during her period. 

In her novels, women are admired because of their intelligence, and they rebel against society's banalities; while men are not only liked because of their social status. There is, of course, other factors, and enough chemistry and romance that would balance the contradictions. Likewise, despite of Austen's seeming fondness of creating male and female protagonists with huge age gap, the development of the relationship remains rational, and with justified conclusion.

(c)

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Rocket Science

I have not seen any film for a week or two now, but it felt like years. Not watching movies is like not eating anything healthy or delicious. It is depriving. And this one's a good starter.

Rocket Science (2007)

A Jeffrey Blitz film

Hal Hefner, a 15-year high school student who has a terrible stutter, struggles to get over troubles at home as he joins his school's debate team.

Hal is not only having a hard time at home, but also a hard time speaking. He finds it difficult to say things on his mind, even answering simple questions about his daily food preferences (fish or pizza, answer me!). But his life started to change when a beautiful classmate asked him to join the debate team. Of course, he eventually falls for her. But this is not a love story.

The narrative was simple, but definitely entertaining. In the most realest way possible, high school kids are actually portrayed and appeared like normal high school kids. But aside from its naturally interesting plot, the actors, particularly the 'debaters' gave such outstanding performances you would root even for the story's antagonist. Anna Kendrick was sensational. While Reece Thompson has undeniably won my heart. With such a lovely soundtrack (singing "That's why I love the unknown."), effortless-like narrative, and pretty awesome characters, Rocket Science easily captivates its viewers' hearts. Sharing its own kind of flavor, it is a coming-of-age film worthy to be seen.

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Birth of Fancynation

After years of planning (and several attempts of trying) to separate my too-personal posts from entries of daily randomness, I have finally created a blog dedicated to many of my favorite things. Technically, this is my first post on Fancynation. But I imported some of the entries from More of What I Have in Mind (personal blog) I believe fitting to be moved.

Reality Bites-Winona seems happy about it.

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The Ultimate Final Destination

After a decade and a year, and a fourth installment which was supposed to be the final movie from the series, a fifth and way better installment (if I may say) was released.

Final Destination 5 (2011)
Directed by Steven Quale
Written by Eric Heisserer & Jeffrey Reddick

The Final Destination franchise will forever remain a classic movie. With its unique style and pattern of premonitions, and the heart pounding gory death sequences, people have learned to anticipate for its every installment. Looking back, it sure has come a long way to have many sequels. But now, *SPOILER ALERT* time for a prequel (there, I said it).

Though I hardly remember every scene from the first one (explosion of flight 180) because I was so young when I first saw it, it definitely gave a major impact. Ergo, it must be really good, because 1) there's Devon Sawa; and 2) because it is obviously the root of all these. Then comes the second installment (route 180 pile-up) which stars Ali Larter and A.J. Cook. And it sure did live up to the viewers' expectations. Based on reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, this got the second highest rating among the five films. While the third installment (devil's flight roller coaster accident) starring the stunning Mary Elizabeth Winstead was not as remarkable. It was still acceptable. Not as satisfying as the first two, however, entertaining enough. Besides it was still a James Wong film after all. Unfortunately, there will always be that one movie that everyone would hate -- and that was the fourth installment (McKinley speedway car crash). I don't remember this film even making a buzz despite the history created by its predecessors. It was not all bad, but it was more bad than good (which makes it really bad). I just cannot believe the fact that the people (Eric Bress & David R. Ellis) behind this were the same guys who worked for the second installment. Maybe they run out of creative ideas, eh? And I quote, "It is the only film in the series to not devote a scene to reference the past films, only a news paper clipping of 'The Flight 180 Premonition' is seen for a brief second." * So yes, that's another lesson learned: Never forget where you came from. With that being said, the final installment was produced, giving all the recognition to the original film: where it all began. And I loved that idea.

Final Destination 5 was worth every penny. I am not saying that it is better than the original, but it is a very satisfying end to the FD franchise. The plot was nothing new nor extraordinary. The premonitions were given in a way we all knew. The order of deaths was in no different from the first installment. But it is all because they were meant to be that way in retrospect of the original movie. The collapsing bridge incident also reminded me too much of the pile up in Route 180 (FD 2). I was not sure though if the information about 'killing another life to spare your own' was a new idea or was already mentioned in the previous films. But anyway, the gory scenes and the visual effects were quite decent. Nonetheless, it was the twist that saved the final installment.

Sadly, there would not seem to be another installment after this. This is actually the FINAL-FINAL INSTALLMENT of the franchise. Though there is still the thirst for a final-destination kind of death porn, this movie is a very acceptable denouement (and at the same time, beginning).

*wikipedia

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The Dude

After seeing Burn After Reading, it is only natural to want more from the Coens. Let's start with one of their most notable films yet: here comes, The Dude.

The Big Lebowski (1998)

A film by Joel and Ethan Coen

Jeffrey "The Dude" Lebowski, a slacker and avid bowler, gets himself in a crime warfare after he is mistaken for a millionaire Lebowski.

As expected of the Coens, the film has an absolutely great narrative. With strong foundation, the complex layers of the story are still comprehensive, and very entertaining. What I truly admire about the Coen brothers is how they brilliantly play several subplots while still giving each one rational and justifiable conclusions. Likewise, the actors are equally engaging. Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, and (my ever beloved) Steve Buscemi have given remarkable performances. These people are the epitome of humor and slack with "class". And of course, Julianne Moore is nothing but perfection. Two words to sum up this amazing film: total badass.

Truly starting to love the Coens.

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Burn After Reading

I don't think I have seen any of the Coen Brothers' films. Which is a shame, really. Because after watching this one, I realized that the dark comedy genre is something I truly enjoy.

Burn After Reading (2008)

A film by Ethan and Joel Coen

Two gym employees, a former CIA analyst, and a treasury department employee's lives cross and interfere with one another because of a disc found in a women's gym's locker room.

The plot was intentionally messy (in a good way). With the lives of all the characters connected and heavily-tangled, the film could get a little confusing. However, despite the several layers happening all at once, the humor remained constant. The plot and its subplots were constructed perfectly, its ending was not surprising to have a satisfying turn-out. Sum it up with such talented actors, and you have an overall entertaining piece.

I have never seen this side of Brad Pitt before, and he owned it. The adoring John Malkovich has proven himself over and over again. The rest of its glorious casts including George Clooney, Frances McDormand, Richard Jenkins and Tilda Swinton made me fall even more.

With the unique, and sometimes disturbing kind of humor the dark comedy genre offers, it is not much of a surprise to know it has some kind of a cult following. But with its brilliance, the genre, indeed, deserves every fan who appreciates. And no doubt about it, it's the Coens' specialty.

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Hello, Seoul!

When it comes to overexposure of anything kawaii (cute), I think Koreans and Japanese do it best. While soap operas and the like are the Filipinos' cup of tea, they have their own magic. Just like the Thais, but a little better.

Hello, Stranger (2010)

A film by Banjong Pisanthanakun

Two Thais (Chantawich Tanasewi and Nuengtida Sopon) with their own motives fly to Seoul and accidentally cross paths. The two agree to hide their real identities for the sake of having fun and not getting attached.

There was nothing much to its narrative. The couple only toured Seoul. Though it was not exactly awful (because the country was really beautiful), the film was quite long, repetitive, and predictable. It failed to have a convincing first and second culminations (it's a freaking fictional romantic comedy, make the leading man a little more like a prince charming or at least less of an asshole). Nevertheless, the actors have natural chemistry. The female lead, whom I have seen for the first time, looked a lot like Baifern (First Love). While I first saw her male-counterpart, Chantawich Tanasewi, in the 2008 horror film Coming Soon. It was refreshing not to see him screaming all the time. Aside from the leads (who had the two-hour exposure together consistently), there's not much to say about the supporting cast members. But Hello, Seoul is still entertaining and filled with kilig moments (that were just not sewn perfectly). It was fun getting to tour Seoul, even only in the movies.

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Blackbird

It's five forty-one in the morning, and this book is not planning to give me a good night sleep.



The Perks of Being a Wallflower (1999)
by Stephen Chbosky

The book is an epistolary novel about Charlie, as he battles his fears from the past, and faces every day struggles of a teenager at school and at home, along with his friends, Sam and Patrick.

Chbosky opened us into the world of adolescence, trauma, and teenage struggles with drugs and alcohol; easily making the story as awakening as it was haunting. Eye-opening, in a sense like it was written particularly for all the readers.

Aside from the story that we established was already perfection, the cultural references further empowered the emotions the book was inflicting upon its readers. The music, films, and books mentioned were equally illuminating. It was a natural response to want to hear, see, and read all of them to keep the connection. From films The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Dead Poets Society; to shows like M*A*S*H; to the music of The Beatles, Nirvana, and The Smiths; you would grew even more attached to the book and its characters. It was nice to know many beautiful creations in one book.

We are who we are for a lot of reasons. And maybe we'll never know most of them. But even if we don't have the power to choose where we come from, we can still choose where we go from there. We can still do things. And we can try to feel okay about them.

When I reached the last page of the book, I did not want it to be over. You know that feeling you get when you cannot stop reading, but at the same time, you do not want it to end yet? Because it became a part of you in a short span of time.

I crave for more books of Chbosky. And oh, how I'd love to receive mixed tapes as presents (or even a lovely playlist).

CUE IN: BACKGROUND MUSIC
(among the songs mentioned in the book; a favorite, classic Beatles)

I believe that things are good with him, because he said it is. And if it was not, I know, it will be.

(photo is owned by site; video from youtube)

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Magically Phenomenal

"Harry Potter."

A name everyone probably knows, and sometimes, too well.

It is, without hesitation, among the most notable fictional characters of today. From books to films, Harry Potter touches lives of people of all ages and will surely touch lives of many generations to come.

Seeing the final film of the series in the big screen was overwhelming. It was inexplicable. I grew up with it (and collected a lot of stuff about it). It was one of the greatest marks of our generation. And it was beyond perfection.

So I have not read the novels yet. For that, I am sorry. But Harry Potter will always have a special place in my heart. Because despite not knowing every little detail about the trio and the Wizarding world (like the readers do), I know, I have loved them, still. It's a part of my childhood, a part of me, after all.

"Whether you come back by page or by the big screen, Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home." — J.K. Rowling

Thank you, J.K Rowling, for creating such a wonderful masterpiece for humans to enjoy. You are a hero.

Today, I witnessed the end of a great franchise. But not the end of its glorious era.

On a lighter note, there's Pottermore.

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A Thing For The Classics

I think you will never go wrong with 'the classics' (but yes, depends on how you define it). But really, the classics are timeless. And whatever that may be -- a movie, a song, or a book, for it to be remembered after several years (or even decades, centuries), there has got to be (at least one) something special about it.

With that being said, Mark Steven Johnson's When in Rome (2010) is obviously not a 'classic'. Bear with me, because the next one is.

Kristen Bell plays Beth Martin, a busy bee who may or may not be unlucky in love. Down and desperate, during her visit in Rome for her sister's wedding, Beth finds herself caught up in a crazy mess with several guys (stalking?) trying to win her heart after stealing coins from the Fountain of Love.

Nothing extraordinary about this one. Given your typical narrative, the only beautiful thing about this movie is Veronica Mars finding true love in the perfect form possible — Josh Duhamel. And because of this pairing, the plot has somehow become tolerable, and (fine) entertaining enough to satisfy my kilig craving. Still, the ending was awful. Rome was ethereal though.

So, yes. Here's a real classic. Gary Marshall's Pretty Woman (1990). Julia Roberts as a hooker.

Edward Lewis (Richard Gere), a rich business man who needs a little time away from his busy life finds a beautiful hooker (Julia Roberts) to escort her in social events. Eventually, he falls in love with her.

Despite the really predictable story, Gere and Roberts simply have a certain kind of unforgettable chemistry that would make you want to watch this movie. Oblivious about the fact that Roberts plays a hooker here, I was in a bit of shock when I found out. Because seriously, she cannot pass as a prostitute (she just can't). Not that she did not give a remarkable performance (because she did, and that's actually 80 percent of the reason why Pretty Woman is one of the most notable chick flicks of today), but because she was too classy. In my mind, she will always be that bubbly girl in My Best Friend's Wedding. Playing as a hooker and still looking flawless. While Gere is simply charming. His eyes and smile is prince-like, making this Cinderella-story very fitting.

We all know that they would fall in love, and (yes) would end up together, yet their fist kiss appeared so magical. I guess, I'd have to give a point for that well-written screenplay.

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Joe Dirt

Watching Date Night for the nth time, and still laughing so hard like the first time. I will always adore the brains inside the beautiful faces of Tina Fey and Steve Carell. 

Date Night (2010)

Directed by Shawn Levy

Written by Josh Clausner

A boring couple (Steve Carell and Tina Fey) from New Jersey wants a romantic night out when they decide to take somebody else's reservation in a restaurant. Stealing the identity of the Tripplehorns, their boring night turns into one of the most dangerous and exciting adventures of their lives.

One word: hilarious. I may be a tad biased because I am clearly a fan of Tina Fey and Steve Carell, but this film has a perfectly written screenplay. If there are any plot holes, I am oblivious to it because I was too busy being entertained. Aside from the obvious chemistry of the two leads, all the funny punchlines worked in every turning point of the story. The party got even better as Mila Kunis and James Franco joined the adventure as the Tripplehorns. Just the right comedy-action movie for the weekend!

Meanwhile, in a very different light. Let's talk about a biopic movie of one of the world's legendary icons.

Amelia (2009)
Directed by Mila Nair

From the title itself, the film tells the life story of legendary pilot, Amelia Earhart, in the 30s, as she attempts to fly around the world, and disappears over the Pacific.

I know very little about Ms. Earhart. I remember singing to Switchfoot's song Someday We'll Know, "Whatever happened to Amelia Earhart, who holds the stars up in the sky..." Because sadly, up until now, we don't really know. And I guess, that's partly why biopic movies automatically become interesting — we see a part of a non-fictitious person's life. It may be sensationalized, and lacking accuracy and information most of the time, it will still be eye-opening. It may not answer all our questions, having a glimpse of the era they lived in and the real-life significant contributions to the world they made will always be mind-blowing.

Though the film, Amelia, offered very limited facts about the first female aviator who flew solo across the Atlantic Ocean, it was still quite a revelation. Her passion and strong spirit to fly remain an inspiration to many. No danger nor criticisms from people stopped her from fulfilling her dreams. And despite the unfortunate end to her adventure, we all know that she was one bad-ass woman with a strong determination.

In addition, it was lovely watching Ewan McGregor who continuously sweeps us off of our feet. Making us swoon with his dreamy voice in Moulin Rouge; taking us to out-of-this-world adventures in Big Fish; and now, winning our hearts with his charm in Amelia. Of course, who would forget his remarkable portrayal of the famous Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars franchise. I'm raising a glass for Ewan and his Scottish folks (throw in some James McAvoy in there as well)!

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Like A Boss

All kinds of relationships should have to be mutually beneficial for all parties involved. Take mutualism for example, wherein interaction between two organisms of different species benefit from each other's activities. However, in real life, there is almost always someone who unconsciously (and even consciously) gives more. Is it not sad? So on an unrelated matter, here's a review about a movie that made me sad, but more hateful.

Leap Year (2010)

Directed by Anand Tucker

Written by Deborah Kaplan and Harry Elfont

Anna (Amy Adams) decides to go to Dublin from Boston to propose to her 4-year boyfriend on a leap year. Unfortunately, she ends up in another town, Dublin, instead. Owner of a struggling pub in town, Declan (Matthew Goode) offers to drive Anna to Dublin in exchange of money to save his business.

Despite the leading actors (Amy Adams, Matthew Goode) being my favorites, their beauty, charm, and talent were not enough to save the horrible narrative. Even the cliché moments failed to salvage it. Though the very idea about leap year was interesting, that's all there is to this predictable, cringe-worthy movie. I think I have set my expectations too high for this one. Nonetheless, Ireland was beautiful.

First on the list of movies I hate that stars my beloved Matthew Goode. What a shame.

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Strip Me Away

When I have these many thoughts further waking my senses, I just gotta blog.

After watching Mr. Nobody (2009), I decided to wash off with a feel-good comedy film. Andy Fickman's You Again (2010) tells the story of Marni, vice president of a prestigious public relations company in New York, she comes home for his brother's wedding, only to find out he is going to marry the girl who gave her high school life the worst nightmares.

It has your typical linear narrative. But I did have a few good laughs, enough to make me want to write something about it. Quite frankly, it is more about Marni's job. She works in the field of Public Relations which happens to be a part of my course, AB Mass Communication. I know that there are a lot of characters in the movies with the same career, but I simply needed to mention it as an introduction for the next review.

CUE IN: BACKGROUND MUSIC

(and every time I listen to this song, I feel the feeling of hope and power, and everything in between.)

 

And so, here goes another romantic comedy film, Roger Michell's Morning Glory (2010). Starring my ever so favorite Rachel McAdams as Becky Fuller -- a hard-working TV producer who desperately accepts a job as an executive producer of a struggling morning show program after getting fired from her previous company. As Becky strives to revive and save the show, she also deals with the network's prominent (and crazy) anchors.

Aside from the adoring McAdams, her character Becky is quite a charmer too. I instantly fell in love with her because, for the most part, she represents people like me in a more convincing way than usual. Clumsy, tends to talk a lot when tense, but is truly a hard worker. Has quirky habits, but optimistic, and determined. In comparison to The Ugly Truth wherein Katherin Heigl also plays a morning show TV producer, Morning Glory focuses more on Becky's line of work. Which is like a breath of fresh air. Because surprisingly, it has enough romance (with the help of the handsome Patrick Wilson) and humor. I genuinely loved this film in so many levels. With its engaging plot, amazing actors (I didn't know Han Solo was such a primadonna), and incredibly inspiring theme, Morning Glory is definitely worth-watching.

Most morning glory flowers perk up and harden during the early morning and are often fully erect, thus their name. They prefer full exposure throughout the day. 

(via wikipedia)

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Mr. Nobody

Suddenly, I wanted to see more of my love, Mr. Jared Leto.

Mr. Nobody (2009)
A film by Jaco Van Dormael

A 117-year old man, the only mortal living on earth, Nemo Nobody, recalls his past as he comes closer to his death. Despite having a difficulty remembering, Mr. Nobody, goes back to his previous life trying to figure out what it was truly like when he was 9, when his parents got divorced; 15, when he fell in love with Anna; and 34, when he was married.

The plot was quite confusing, with at least two or three realities seemingly happening as Nemo retells his story. However, it is not the several layers that make the film perplexing, but the events told that keep on contradicting one another. *MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS* As his memory starts to fail him, his reality and imagination colliding complicates the story even more. He creates and recalls different scenarios in his life as he tries to remember what was the path he really led. Nemo was not the only one having a hard time figuring out the truth from little clues, but the viewers as well. But seriously speaking, it is not always easy to choose a path for yourself and know that you made the right choices that thinking about other possibilities sometimes cling to us.

Aside from its complex but engaging narrative, its visuals are really stunning. The worlds created in the film will capture you further. The transitions will put you in awe despite the puzzling non-linear plot. In addition, Jared Leto was outstanding. Leto and Diane Kruger also have the natural chemistry. Romance, science fiction, and fantasy juggled perfectly into one great film.

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It Starts In Boston And Ends Here

One of the downsides of watching a movie on a Sunday is that you have an early class the next day. Unfortunately for you, films like Big Fish would further awaken your senses, giving you a much harder time to sleep.

I simply cannot say no to a Tim Burton film (thanks to Johnny Depp and German Expressionism). This is one of those films that make me ponder how one can love something and still suck at it at the same time.

Big Fish (2003)

A film by Tim Burton

Based on a book of the same name about the father-son relationship of Edward Bloom and his distant son, Will Bloom. It retells all the adventures of Edward, while he is in his death bed, as Will struggles to get know him behind his sugar-coated stories.

Edward likes adventures and fantasies. Sadly, his son Will, is not as big a fan as he is. That's when it all gets complicated: they view life and reality differently. Will grows tired of listening to his father's stories as he starts to doubt their validity, as well as his father's truthfulness. While Edward enjoys going back to stories too much, he almost forgets to live in the present. Hence, their strained relationship.

With the different point of views of the senior and junior Blooms, the film shares unforgettable morals about love, family, courage, and forgiveness. There is nothing wrong about telling sugar-coated stories. It does not make any of them less true. Edward's stories are real, simply told in the most imaginative way possible. It reminds us to keep dreaming and believing regardless of age and stature. Every fantasies have basic themes, all aiming to teach one life lesson at a time. No matter how many layers you put together or how many non-existent creatures you include; it is always about the realizations you get behind every symbolism. Nonetheless, Will is not all wrong. Stories and adventures are meant to keep us hopeful. They are unspeakably important that it is perfectly okay to carry them with us. But we should not let those stories occupy our whole being. The reality may be cruel, but it is not going to wait for us whenever we decide to live in it. Are we going to wait to be in our death beds before we start to make amends with the people we love? Thus, we should not abuse time, and try to value the present more.

Big Fish is truly entertaining. Aside from its visually stunning frames, the actors, particularly Ewan McGregor and Billy Crudup gave outstanding performances. I cried so bad. As always, Burton's works really get to me.

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The Red Moon

Behold! The longest Lunar Eclipse in 11 years.

A photo I took from our backyard at almost four in the morning. Regardless of my crappy shot, the moon has never been this red and lovely. It was the first lunar eclipse for the year 2011, and it was amazing. I could have stayed up all night if it wasn't for my student duties.

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How I Met This Gang

"Have~ you met Ted?" Just one of the many lines (and reasons) to love Barney and the rest of the most loved group of friends in the 21st century.

How I Met Your Mother (2005-2014)

Created by Carter Bays and Craig Thomas

From the title itself, How I Met Your Mother is a comedy series about Theodore 'Ted' Mosby, the main character and narrator of the story, as he retells his kids how he met their mother. The story takes its course from the young Mosby, along with his friends, Marshall Ericksen, Lily Aldrin, Robin Scherbatsky, and Barney Stinson, as they go through life and take on adventures in the city of New York (mostly just hanging out at MacLaren's Pub) until Ted meets his 'the one', and eventually revealing the identity of the mother of his children.

After a couple of days resisting to watch the final episode of the sixth season of HIMYM, I finally gave in. I did not want to watch it yet because I cannot seem to take another set of months of dreadful waiting for the next season. But here I am anyway, getting all gloomy while the rest of the world's population talk about the victory of Miami Heat.

*SPOILER ALERT* Overall, season 6 was still a pretty satisfying season. Seeing more stories of the every adorable member of the gang we love is almost always enough to continue watching the show anyway. And as usual, the writers keep the ending hanging. Though we know we would not be seeing Zoey in the next season, we still don't have a bit of idea who the mother is. Meanwhile, set aside the food poisoning incident, Lily and Marshall are finally having a baby. Most of the season's conclusions are quite expected (and given). But the real big and ultimate shocker of the finale is Barney's wedding. Of course, the bride was unknown. But please, let it be Robin.

Recent updates said that there will still be two more seasons, with the 'mother' set to be revealed, at least, by 2013. Geez, waiting for season 7 is excruciating enough. I cannot imagine what it will be like in seasons 8 and 9 yet. I love this show so much I feel like I'd be fine not knowing who the mother is (or am I).

(photo is not mine; credits to owner)

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Maroon 5 in Manila

I was so happy to see Maroon 5 perform live. And they were so close. Among the few concerts I've been to, this was the closest to the stage I've ever been seated. They were glorious. They sang all the songs I love. Everybody sang. And I listened as the concert hall slowly turned into a haven.



Sadly, my sister and I did not have any decent photos of the event. We were stupid enough to bring a DSLR (which was not allowed) instead of a digital camera. So all I had was a photo of my precious ticket, and an after-event photo captured from a poor-quality camera phone. Nonetheless, the experience was inexplicable. I could still clearly see, hear, and feel everything whenever I close my eyes. Such euphoria.




(photos are mine; except for maroon 5 image, credits to owner)

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IN PHOTOS: While in Cavite, Year Two

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IN PHOTOS: Anawangin Cove

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