stickyfloor

Jumper

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 08:02:32 GMT

So here's one of the few movies that I've been waiting for this year. I read that it's an action/adventure/sci-fi movie, so that got me interested. And then I read that it had Hayden Christensen in it, and that got me more interested. So I watched it with my friend on opening night, and I'm happy to say that it did not disappoint.

Yehey!! Hooray for movies meeting my expectations!!

I'll tell you the bad news first: The story's quite simple. There are no complicated plot twists or puzzles that you as an audience have to solve. No mysteries, no confusing signs or symbolisms, it really doesn't require too much brain work. Then again, if you're the kind of person who doesn't like to think too much when watching a movie, I guess this would be good news for you. But I'm considering this a disadvantage because no mysteries or moral issues (well, there are little bits of moral issues, but they're not the focus of the story) is a bit wasteful of the sci-fi element. I mean, what's good with creating an entirely different world where people have super abilities is that you can get people to think about what else could happen to their lives and all that, but this movie didn't have too many such dilemmas. Still, it makes for a very entertaining story, especially because of the good news:

Really cool special effects. I honestly can't imagine this story being told as a book or even a graphic novel because the fast-paced action (or at least the change in scenery) is really a great effect. The characters get to visit different places (and they're all really cool sites) in the world, and do cool stuff, so I guarantee you'll never get bored watching the Jumpers, well, jump (or "teleport" is the more common term for it).

Music was fine, and I actually liked the dialogue pretty well. Simple, but it works. I'm glad there weren't any prophetic lines or philosophical discussions, which maybe is contradicting to what I first said (on how the story is really simple), but what I really mean with this paragraph is that I'm glad they didn't try to be pretentious and insert seemingly philosophical quotes in the midst of a simple story. Actually, this is one of those stories where it's as if you're dropped in the middle of a bigger story, and then when the movie ends, that bigger story hasn't ended either, but like I said, for this movie, it works great.

And it gets plus points because Hayden Christensen looks really really good. I mean, he's really got that "mysterious good boy turned bad" role down pat. Random thought: It would probably be really cool if Michael Scofield was a Jumper. I might actually really like Prison Break if that ever happened.

Rachel Bilson was fine. She had kind of a small role, though, so I can't really dwell on it. Actually, most of the supporting characters had small roles, which is kind of a waste in talent because they've got Jamie Bell (he was hilarious, by the way), Samuel Jackson and Diane Lane as cast members, and they're all somewhat "big time" Holllywood actors, right? But I guess too much attention on them would make the audience lose focus on Hayden's character, and that might not make it a good movie.

All in all, I'd say it's a really really good movie, one that I don't regret watching, glad I didn't miss, and wouldn't mind watching again. (Not too many times, though.)

Sweeney Todd - The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 09:36:16 GMT

Call me crazy, but I totally loved it.

Yes, it was gory. Yes, a lot of parts were just way gross, and no, I'm not a sadist, but I really really liked the movie. Most probably because the story's so cool.

Okay, plot-wise, it was kind of typical. I mean--good guy has beautiful wife, bad guy gets wife and makes good guy disappear, and after some years, good guy comes back under a different identity to get revenge. I can name at least two other stories with the same plot--The Count of Monte Cristo, and Zorro (and El Filibusterismo, well, kind of). So what made Sweeney Todd different from the rest? Well, the fact that he killed a lot of people, of course! Because in most other stories, the good guy still remains the good guy, despite wanting revenge. But in Sweeney Todd, there's a point where you think that he might just be worse than the original bad guy.

The supporting characters were all brialliant as well. Mrs. Lovett played by Helena Bonham Carter is so sick in the head, she and Sweeney Todd (Johnny Depp) are the perfect match (as she keeps pointing out herself). And even the children involved, Toby and Anthony, are wonderfully twisted as well.

This is one of those movies where a lot of really bad things happen, but it's not depressing at all. Just... disturbing, I guess. And though I'm not a fan of disturbing stuff, I still think that the dark atmosphere of this is just right.

I've been wanting to know the entire story of Sweeney Todd ever since I heard about it from a writing workshop back in college, but have so far not found any book on it, and it's not like they've ever had a broadway production of it here. Since I can't compare it to the original broadway production, I'd have to say that as a film, and if I were judging it as a standalone thing, I really think that it's very very good. In fact, I think it works really well as a film, because you'd be able to see close-up how Sweeney Todd kills his victims, and the special effects were great (WAY better than Kill Bill).

Nevermind that it was a musical, I think the music even worked better for this one, than for Moulin Rouge. It wasn't at all funny or weird, when they would break into song and dance in the middle of killing people and plotting revenge. I don't know how they did it, but it totally worked.

Anyway, this is one of those proofs that story can overcome anything (any other film aspect) any day. Because when you think about it, a barber singing and dancing, isn't exactly something you'd be scared of, or even a crazy old hag who makes pies. But put into the context of a good story like Sweeney Todd, well, it's completely different. Very creepy-different. I love it.

Oh, and hooray! The ticket lady and security guard asked me and my friend if we were over 18! Haha! I look younger than my age! :P

The Golden Compass

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 09:59:39 GMT

Right. So I have not updated this blog in more than a month. Pardon me, but I just don't find a lot of recent movies interesting. Add to that the fact that I'm still finding it difficult to find people to see movies with me, my lack of funds, and time, and anyway... I'm glad this was still being shown in cinemas, despite my long absence, and that my sister was back home for a while and so we got a chance to see it. Anyway...

I'm not really too keen on discussing the whole controversial issue regarding this film. Mostly because I haven't read the book, haven't read the e-mail that says controversial things about it, have no idea who Philip Pullman is and what his beliefs are, and could frankly care less about all the controversies in literature. I mean, Harry Potter has been burned and banned in a lot of circles because they say it promotes witchcraft, and therefore the "devil's work". But when I read it, it's just good fun, which is the same thing I can say for this movie, except I didn't read it, I watched it. And I had a really good time watching it.

The story goes like this: In The Golden Compass universe, people's souls are detached from their bodies and takes shape of animals (which is really cool, by the way), which they call Daemons. Some of them believe that there are parallel worlds wherein daemons don't exist (I suppose that that is the world we know). And those people who believe that, want to find it. Unfortunately, finding such things as parallel worlds brings about a lot of questions, that are contrary to the teachings of the organization that rules said universe, and so the organization does its best to quiet the people who are looking for more answers (or questions). One of which, is a girl named Lyra, played by Dakota Blue Richards, who is prophesized (by the witches) to be the one (the only one in their universe) who is able to read the golden compass, which is the key to finding the parallel worlds, and other truths. Hence, she is being chased by people of the organization, Mrs. Coulter for one, played by Nicole Kidman, so as not to spread the word that organization's teachings aren't all correct/true.

Okay, that's not actually the story but the main idea of it. The story is that, Lyra goes on a quest to rescue her friends who have been kidnapped by the organization. Along the way, she meets a bear (and it's a magical bear, so it's strong, and it can talk to humans) called Iorek Byrnison, voiced by Ian McKellen. She enlists his help, and succeeds in the rescue of her friends, but in the end, she finds out that her work isn't finished because despite having set kidnapped children free, she still has yet to find her uncle who has been marked for death by the organization, and let people know the truth.

Of course, in order to do those things, the characters do a lot of other cool things, like ride in blimps, or other air-vehicles that aren't exactly like the airplanes we know. They talk to animals, and fight with beasts, and ride in carriages pulled by animals that aren't quite horses. The truth is, I really enjoyed watching the movie, because the fantasy world is really very original, and though the story is yet again about some Chosen One who needs to tell people the truth and go up against some bad guys, well, the little things, like the animals changing shape, or other magics, more than make up for it.

Another truth is that I didn't find any connection whatsoever with what people say about it, how it promotes atheism and all that. The only thing I can find that might have a connection to it, is how Lyra is very defiant, questioning everything she's being told, and doing whatever she wants, regardless of whether the adults in the story allow her to do them or not. But that trait is present in many other characters of stories (fairy tales even) that are well-loved to this day by most people from all religions, that it hardly qualifies as atheist propaganda.

Of course, the book might be another case, but as this is a review of the movie, I'm going to say that the movie is really quite safe. I'm thinking, that if I didn't think I should be an atheist after seeing it, chances are, other people (especially kids) wouldn't either.

One More Chance

Sat, 24 Nov 2007 03:57:56 GMT

And I finally got to see another movie! Yeah!

I'm seeing another one later tonight as well (Enchanted), and I'm just soo glad that the movie slump is over. Well, sort of. After Stardust, it seemed as though the only movies playing were action/political/bad comedy ones, so I didn't get to watch another movie until yesterday. Anyway, I had lots and lots of fun seeing One More Chance with my friends!

Before I give the review though, I guess I just want to rant about how watching Filipino movies are getting to be so mainstream. A friend told me that she saw this movie on its opening day and the line for it was so long, she felt like she was seeing Harry Potter again. Okay, maybe she was exagerrating, but nonetheless there was a long line. Even within my office, a lot of people made plans to see it, which is of course good, because that keeps Philippine Cinema alive (!), but oh well, you know me and mainstream stuff. I'm just not too keen on sharing things with people who I feel don't genuinely appreciate them, and are just in it because they think it's funny. And I don't appreciate the sarcastic remarks either (e.g. "It's the best movie kaya!"). I mean, if they really thought that, they wouldn't be laughing while they said that it was the best movie (ever!) they've seen, right?

Okay, but I'm ranting on places where rants are not needed. This is supposed to be a movie review! Right. So... Beware of spoilers!

Quick synopsis:

Basha (Bea Alonzo) and Popoy (John Lloyd Cruz) have been together for five years. They started going out in college, and since then they've been inseperable. Having the same friends and being in related fields (Basha's an architect, Popoy's an engineer) make them live, almost just one life. And so, Basha wanted out. She needed some space. So she breaks up with Popoy, leaving him a broken-hearted mess, while she goes out to "find herself", learning how life could be without him.

Just some (small) pet peeves:

I don't like their names at all. I kept cringing whenever I heard them say "Bash", just because it sounds like a wrestler name to me. But it's just a name. A rose by any other would smell just as sweet. Blah blah. I'm very nitpicky with names.

I'm not very fond of the terms "finding yourself" and "I need space". It's right up there with "friends with benefits" and "I need closure", which are all right up there with "It's not you, it's me." and "We could still be friends". Yes, I am aware that it's difficult to express thoughts and feelings, and there's nothing wrong with using "pre-set" terms to define a relationship. But somehow, when you use something that's already been said by a lot of people that it becomes a staple break-up line, or worse, a running joke among couples, it just seems less sincere to me.

I'm so used to seeing John Lloyd and Bea in a GP - PG13 movie, that well, I just don't think the semi-R scenes were necessary. For example, that scene where they kissed and eventually went to bed, I think, could've been just fine if they'd just kissed (very passionately, if the point was to show that they still had that physical connection), and then one of them comes to his/her senses, and suddenly stands back and retreats to either the elevator or the apartment. I think that would've given the same message.

And now that those are out of the way:

Did y'all notice the symbolisms in the movie, yeah? I like this movie because it had a lot of it. I like symbolisms because 1) it makes the audience think a little more; and 2) it's great when you find it! :)

So here are the ones I found:

1) Basha's Wardrobe - Sure, she went through a "change", the most obvious one being her haircut, but did y'all notice that her clothes became different, too? I did, because I remember noticing how cute her dresses were at the beginning of the movie, and how she kept wearing pants in the middle of the movie, and how in the scene where she and Popoy sort of "rekindled" their feelings, she was once again, wearing a dress. And then at the ending, she'd "combined" the old her, and the new her, by wearing an outfit of the new her, with the hairstyle of the old her. It's nothing big, but sometimes I do think that costumes are underrated, despite it being a huge part of a character.

2) The Picture Frame - This being the most obvious one, I suspect we all know that of course, when Popoy was trying to erase the dust mark (?) that an old picture frame (which had his and Basha's dreamhouse on it) made, he was really trying to erase the mark that Basha had left on his heart (eww, mush). But he just couldn't.

3) The Hardhat! - Did you all remember Popoy's comment about how he didn't need to give Basha a hardhat because she wouldn't leave him anyway? It was just mentioned in passing, but how cute was it when Basha put a hardhat on his head at the end of the movie, symbolizing that she would ensure that she wouldn't let him go again? I think it was just so cute. At first I thought it was unfair because hey, they both need hardhats in the kind of relationship they had, but I guess it was justified because it had been Basha who left Popoy in the first place. The scene reminded of the Korean movie My Boyfriend is Type B, where at the beginning of their relationship it was Lee Dong Gun's character who could say to his girl "If you're not here in 100 seconds, I'm breaking up with you." But then in the end, it was the girl who says that to him, and it's his turn to submit. It's just so cute.

4) The Umbrella! - Whee! I love the rain! And I love umbrellas! I actually collect them. Haha! Anyway, I think it was hard to miss how Popoy used the same umbrella from their romantic scene in their college days, that time when they'd already broken up, but he rescued Basha anyway when her car broke down. Sometimes I think it's really the little things like that that hurt even more, because you very often forget the little things, but when you see them again, they can bring back the deepest of feelings you've ever felt.

(Disclaimer for the next part -- the quotes are just an approximation. I couldn't very well write them down in the cinema, so these are all from memory. They might not be exact. But the meaning's just the same (I hope).)

What else can I say? This movie was a total tear jerker! Namaga ang mata ko! I think I was already crying 10 minutes into the movie where Popoy had said, "You're asking for too much! Hinihingi mong mawala ka sa buhay ko..."

Waahh! I get teary eyed just thinking about it. But the part I really cried in, at least the first part (haha!) was when Popoy stood in the rain and said, "Kung magkasakit kaya ako, kakausapin niya 'ko?" Waah T_T it's just so, true, isn't it? I mean, I've not only thought of getting myself sick, but actually seriously considered walking into an "accident" that breaks some of my bones, just to get the attention I want.

And that whole, "Isang text lang ng nanay niya, nandun na'ko. Isang text lang!" that Popoy was saying, when he was drowning his sorrows with alcohol, well... I think I even wrote a poem with that same feeling.

Oh no, I'm giving too much information about my life now, aren't I? Is it a bad thing that I can relate more to Popoy and not Basha? (Haha! I'm a controlling freak! :P) Maybe this entry belongs to my other blog instead. Hehe. But seriously, I think the biggest strength of the movie lies in how so many people will be able to relate to it. A friend of mine said to me once, "The common mistake that people in relationships make is that they always do the things that's for the growth of the relationship. They completely neglect their personal growth."

And a line like that was said in the movie, too. (By Bea's (er, PBB Bea, I don't know her last name and I'm too lazy to research) character) "Hindi sila magiging okey unless okey si Basha. At hindi magiging okey si Basha unless magkahiwalay sila." Or something like that.

Anyway, I think that that's the main message of the movie, so I don't hate Basha's character at all. And when she said she was hurting, too, well... It really made me see that it's not necessarily just the "dumpee" that gets hurt, no matter how much the "dumper" wants to get out. And yeah, I think she's right in thinking that she might be hurting even more than Popoy because it was her choice to break up with him in the first place. So when he gets over it, she doesn't really have a right to get mad at him. And not having the right to get mad at anyone, well, that's a b*tch.

The only other thing I didn't like was how Maja Salvador who plays Popoy's new girlfriend Trisha, did not give justice to her role as a singer, and didn't deliver her lines well at all. Can she maybe get a speech coach or something? Because I really think that the scene where she said some lyrics out loud was such a key scene, and it was totally ruined by her pronunciation. Audiences notice things like that. Why is Winona Ryder so famous for giving dramatic monologues? Because her pronunciation is top notch.

And now that's done. This is by far the weirdest movie review I've ever written. Or, the weirdest time I've had, writing a review. I'm just feeling very emotional at the moment. And although there are a lot more stuff I could say about the film, I'm just not in the condition right now where I can think straight.

P.S. The 3-month rule was hilarious, and so were all the comedy scenes including the whole "Love is blind" and "Take me, Lord" thing. Hehe.

Stardust

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 03:49:17 GMT

First off, let me start by saying I've never read the book this was based on, so don't expect any comparisons here. And for those of you who are thinking of leaving a comment on how the movie sucks because they left out very important details/scenes that were in the book, then I'd rather you not leave a comment. I'm reviewing the movie. Not the book. I just want to make that clear.

And now that that's done, let's get on with it.

The story was a tad predictable. And I don't just mean the love story (because obviously that's predictable), but the whole thing--how the king's just died and so they're looking for a new ruler, and how there's a "long lost heir" to the throne. And even the whole, "wicked witch wants to capture a young maiden to steal her youth and beauty" is such a fantasy/fairy tale postulate, I'm surprised Lamia (Michelle Pfeiffer) didn't plan on marrying the hero herself in order to become Queen of Stormhold. So I guess I have to say that it's not the story that makes this movie good, which is not to say that it's bad, because I really really liked it.

So the characters were a bit flat since there were no internal dilemmas (save for Captain Shakespeare--although his dilemma was more of a comic relief rather than a heavy dramatic issue that becomes the turning point of the story) within themselves--the good guys were still good by the end of the movie, and same goes for the bad guys. But whoever said there was anything wrong with an old-fashioned battle between good and evil? I, for one, enjoyed immensely how the seeming underdogs--a shopboy and a star who does nothing but shine (this reminds of the glowing kid in Sky High whose power was considered semi-useless so he was just a "sidekick") were able to overcome the obstacles thrown at them--escaping the powerful witch's clutches, becoming friends with a pirate crew, and even beating a handful of princes (okay, technically they only met 2 of them) at a chance for the throne (and they did this unconsciously).

There were a number of suspenseful moments, too. I mean, it's no Die Hard 4.0, but the action/fight scenes were made in such a way that is still pretty exciting to watch, even if you already know who's going to win. Anyway, I think what makes this movie really stand out is the involvement of magic. Granted, that there are many other "magical" movies out there, but only in this one can you find a Babylon Candle that takes you to places, merely by thinking about them, and runes (I love these things!) that answer your "Yes or No" questions accurately. Most especially, where else have you seen a star, in human form, whose heart can give eternal life to whomever eats it?

There is something to be said, for stories like this, which can compile all the usual fantasy elements, characters, even plot lines, but still make it work as something that's like no other.

I'm also quite glad that even though Stormhold is another world, there weren't any half-human, half-something else or other invented creatures that don't exist in our world (save for the unicorn, but these are so common in fantasy movies nowadays, it's hardly magical). The animals were just animals, and the people were just people. No orcs, elves, centaurs or wookiees getting in the way. Really, that alone is already a refreshing change from all the other stories of the same genre.

And speaking of the same genre, was anybody else reminded of "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" while seeing this movie? Because that scene in the pirate ship totally reminded me of the Vogon ship in the Hitchhiker's Guide. Anyway, my conclusion is that this is the first movie that although it doesn't have any shocking twists, was still able to surprise and excite me, so I'm giving it 5 stars (if I gave stars, which I don't really, but that's not the point, hehe :P).

I've Fallen For You

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 06:01:58 GMT

So far, it's the fluffiest movie I've seen this year. Or... Ever. At least in the local movie industry. This movie's got so many romance postulates, you'd think they were making a film compilation of it. Starting with the common interest that brings our 2 main characters together -- in this case, it was cycling, or rather, tandem cycling. And let's face it, any activity that involves a guy and a girl having to spend a LOT of time together, would of course have them develop feelings for each other. But it didn't stop there. Our main characters had to have the same name too: Alex Reyes. And it was cute and all, but after a while, it got weird how they both kept saying "Alex" to each other. Of course, I'm aware that while this may very well happen in real life, but when put in a film, it does reach the point where you get sick of how "cute" it is.

Actually, this movie was really too cute, it sickens you. Let's see...

They went out on dates, checked out each others' Friendster and Multiply sites, met each others' parents, they even got stranded alone together in a cave because of the pouring rain. I swear, it's like a Disney channel movie, only without the "Believe in yourself" theme. Still, I think it's a nice break from the heavy drama or too much comedy that's been dominating the big screen nowadays. The drama part in this movie, the one about their parents' history, got quite dragging and too explicit, considering it was only a side story. I get how it's essential to the ending (which I won't give away), but really, I think they could've found more ways not to have the entire explanation drag on and on in one scene. It was just the most boring 15 minutes ever.

One disturbing scene was one of the couple's arguments -- because Kim Chiu had her back to Gerald Anderson. He had his arms around her, and I guess it was sweet at the start, but the scene just took sooo long that you would think that they should've at least changed positions by the time Kim had finished "crying". In the end, it didn't look so much like she was "breaking down" as she was just feeling uncomfortable (or "nangangawit", I should say. I don't know how to say that in English, sorry).

Anyway, I mostly watched this movie for the cosplayers. The what? I mean, the people who were at the Anime Convention where the 2 Alexs met. I wanted to see how the movie industry would depict such an event. And yeah, it wasn't very accurate. They made the conventions seem like a party that you go to wearing silly costumes, and you bring a date and all. And while I'm aware that there are actually people who do this (bring dates to conventions, I mean), I think the cosplayers take their cosplaying waaay more seriously than the movie characters did. I mean, to the 2 Alexs, cosplaying was just something they had to do, just so they won't be left out in the crowd (To quote Kim's character: "Nandito lang ako para sa cellphone, hindi para sa anime." (or something like that)). But really, when you go to an actual anime/comic book event, you'll find out that the raffle prizes, are mostly secondary targets for the real cosplayers who really spend their money and time and effort making costumes, thinking of sketches for the crowd, and everything else. It's more for the sake of art, than for the prizes. But perhaps, they weren't really going for "accuracy", and I guess they were able to make the whole scene look "cool", so it's really not that bad.

All in all, I'd say it wasn't really that bad a movie. It's actually pretty accurate in describing how "romance" is for teenagers. I'm glad there weren't many too far-fetched scenes, and it didn't focus too much on "teen problems" like unwanted pregnancies, flunking out of school and all that. It's way better than Let the Love Begin, and to be completely honest, I found it even better than some of the Disney channel movies I've seen.

A Love Story

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 10:27:21 GMT

I really wasn't planning on seeing this as it starred Angelica Panganiban and well, I really don't like her. And I'm not a fan of Aga Mulach either, not since the early 90's anyway. I do like Maricel Soriano better than a lot of actresses her age, but one out of three aren't very good odds. But then several people started recommending it to me, telling me I shouldn't miss it, that it was something different,and that I wouldn't be disappointed, and so I thought that well, if I could watch a Sam Milby movie (3 times!), I could watch one with Angelica Panganiban (and Aga Mulach) in it. Besides, truth be told, the actors shouldn't be your only basis for deciding on whether you want to see a movie or not.

So on I went to Market! Market! (Yes, it's spelled with an "!", and you're supposed to say it with feelings too ) to see yet another local film. I haven't seen one in a while, so I guess I was pretty excited. Plus, this was the second time that I got a guy friend to treat me to a local film (and a romance/drama at that!), but that's another story.

It was the first time I saw a movie in Market! Market! and I have to say, the cinemas in it aren't bad. Nevermind that the mall isn't as pretty as the usual Ayala Mall, it was still a lot better than the SM Cinemas. But enough immaterial information. I'm supposed to be writing a review here, right?

A Love Story. I'm not too crazy about the title for this one. I mean, I am glad that they didn't use another song title, and if you ask me what title would've been able to describe the movie, I wouldn't be able to answer you either. But I just don't think the story/characters were able to depict the usual romanticism of "love"--the risk all, ends-of-the-Earth kind, for it to deserve the title of "A Love Story". At least, not from the first couple shown on screen, which was of Ian (Aga Mulach) and Joanna (Maricel Soriano). Sure, they looked happy, but I think it's easier to relate to the characters when you see exactly how they fall in love with each other. It's just more believable that way. I mean, it's difficult to root for the characters when you don't know who they are, how they met, and what their special moments were. I guess it's done on purpose so as to keep the mystery of their relationship, but it just didn't work for me.

I think the part that showed Karyn's (Angelica Panganiban) relationship with Ian -- how they met in an elevator in Macau, and how they traveled together, and how they had a special game they played with each other, better illustrates how people fall in love. And also, how people fall out of love.

I don't like to admit it but I liked their (Karyn and Ian) story better. Minus all the love scenes (Okay, I'll acknowledge the need for it -- the point was to show how they lived in pure bliss, the first few days (weeks? months? years?) they were together), because really, there were just too many. And for a movie that's rated PG-13, I just think that Angelica showed too much skin. But I guess times-a-changin', and compared to Ian and Joanna's story, I found theirs (Ian and Karyn) to be a lot more romantic. I actually like the game they kept playing (You can only say questions, and the first one who says something that's not a question loses). I liked it better when they "played" it during a dramatic scene, because Karyn's playful nature came out, even during tough times. It's great character-establishment. Kudos to Angelica Panganiban (what?! I'm complimenting her?!) for giving life to Karyn's character. Where were all these skills when she played "Kikay" in All About Love?!

There were several funny lines throughout the movie (e.g. "You must be the husband."), and some quotable ones (e.g. "Hindi mo siya kailangan, kailangan ko siya."). Well, I don't want to spoil too much in here, for those who haven't seen it yet, but all in all, I guess I'm going to say that I liked it. It's not as dramatic as most local dramatic movies (like the Sharon Cuneta ones), but it wasn't so comedic that you don't take the characters' issues seriously. It's all very well-balanced.

I'd recommend it to people who are sick and tired of too much drama (or Philippine soap operas I should say), but are still craving for a good story that'll make them think, reflect, and that might just make their lives more interesting.

Oh, and yay! for Alabang Town Center's cameo! Did 'ya catch the fountains in Corte De Las Palmas and Bizu and The Body Shop? :P [Okay, I'm getting a bit obsessed about these (movies with ATC in them, I mean.)]

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 02:24:30 GMT

Okay, I only got to see this movie last Monday. A bit late for a Harry Potter fan, I guess. But I had to wait for my sister, and reserving tickets at the IMAX Theatre isn't exactly easy. Ah, but before I talk about whether it's worth seeing it on IMAX or not, let me discuss the movie...

I guess because it was a pretty thick book, a lot of scenes really had to get cut. And even in the book itself, The Order, didn't really get that much attention, despite them being the subject of the title. But what are titles anyway other than a name? And "a rose by any other name would smell just as sweet".

I liked it. The movie, I mean. It's way better than the fourth one, though still reminiscent of some bad directing, specifically with Hermione (Emma Watson). She used to be so cool (at least up until the 3rd movie), but I guess it all went to her head because since the 4th movie, she's been overacting--saying her lines too quickly and with too much emotion, too much anger. I mean we all know Hermione's an uptight know-it-all, but there's nothing in the book that says she's angry all the time and that she makes a big deal out of everything.

This could be due to the fact that Ron (Rupert Grint), seems to be pushed to the sidelines. He should speak up! I think somebody really ought to tell that new screenplay writer Michael Goldenberg that Harry has TWO best friends, and not just one. I mean, what's up with giving Ron so very few lines? And what's up with Rupert saying them so softly?

Other than that, can someone also tell whoever was in charge of the Cho character, that Cho (Katie Leung), is the one whom Harry's supposed to like? I mean, why make Hermione hug Harry all the time when Cho is the one he's kissing? And yeah, hugs are very platonic, but still I think there was just too much physical contact between Hermione and Harry and not enough between him and Cho, despite their kiss--which was a bit awkward, but I guess that's not really a bad thing since it is supposedly Harry's first kiss and all.

Anyway, the whole angle on Cho makes me think that there might have been a missing scene in the 4th movie. I mean, if you hadn't read the books, would you really have understood why Cho was so upset over Cedric's death? Their only scene in the 4th movie was during the Yule Ball, and it wasn't even that noticeable because again, the Ball seemed to be all about Hermione!

I'm amending my previous statements to this:
Somebody should tell the filmmakers that this story's about Harry Potter and not Hermione Granger!
You'd think it'd be obvious enough, given that all the titles have "Harry Potter" in them...

Okay, don't get me wrong. I love Hermione. I mean, she's a great character (and I guess role model), but that doesn't mean she should get more lines (and attention) than other equally great characters (i.e. Ron), and essential ones (i.e. Cho).

I do like how they're building up Ginny's character in this movie, though, showing her strength, and at some point, a little jealousy for Harry & Cho. It's too bad they didn't put any scenes of Quidditch -- so movie-Ginny'd have even more skills under her belt, and Ron would, too. After all, didn't Rupert say he was excited about the 5th movie because Ron plays some Quidditch in the 5th book?

The special effects and all the other aspects of production were way impressive. I'm glad they didn't use the usual Harry Potter theme song -- I'm getting kind of sick of it, and I suspect other people are, too. But...

It was totally not worth the Php400 on the IMAX Theatre. Or maybe it would be, at some other IMAX theatre, but definitely not the one in Mall of Asia, no way. I know that one experience isn't enough to judge something, but I'm really kind of hating that theatre (and quite possible the entire mall) right now.

For one thing, there was a technical problem in the middle of Dumbledore's speech (during Harry's hearing). The screen was blank for a few minutes, and the audio stopped. And when the movie resumed, they didn't even rewind it, so we ended up missing the speech! And I guess it doesn't affect the story all that much, but still, if it had happened in a more critical part of the movie, I'm sure they would've done the same, and well, that's just very thoughtless.

And, thanks to the stupid IMAX plug, they totally ruined the music for the credits. Actually, they ruined the whole credits part, because even before it was finished, they turned off the music, so people would be forced to leave. Now, I know the custodians need all the time they can get to tidy up the theater for the next set of audiences, but still, forcing any audience member to leave before the credits finish (whether they care about seeing the credits or not (and can people please acknowledge that some people do watch the credits?)) is just way impolite. It's not our fault they didn't start the movie on time (which may be the reason they needed to hurry cleaning up (Screening was at 8PM, it started 8:10)).

So yeah, hell if I'm watching there again. No 20-minute 3D finale (no matter how cool the effects are (and they really are cool in this movie)) is worth that and 400 bucks.

Meet the Robinsons

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 09:41:58 GMT

How's about it for the new Disney film? I actually cried several times during this movie. Unfortunately, I can't remember which parts I cried at. But anyway, just believe me when I tell you that it's kind of a tear-jerker. Then again, most of Disney's movies are. But I'm glad this one didn't flop, despite it not being as popular as the other Pixar-style animated films (i.e. Cars, Toy Story, A Bug's Life, etc).

So Lewis is a genius orphan boy who's got low self-esteem due to the fact that he's always being rejected by the parents who interview him in the orphanage. Add to that the fact that his inventions never actually work, well, it's enough to make anyone feel bad. Anyway, he meets a strange kid named Wilbur Robinson who tells him how the future is in jeopardy because of a Bowler Hat Guy, and that Lewis is the only one who can save them. Naturally, Lewis agrees to go with him, because really, if you're a bored orphan, what else are you going to do, right?

Anyway, they go to the future, meet a really quirky (but fun) family, and eventually save the world (of course I won't tell you how because that spoils the whole thing). And of course, they learn lessons along the way, they get to be more appreciative of the things they have, learn that family is very important, etc etc.

It's all very typical Disney stuff if you ask me, but for some reason, it's not boring. The quirky characters are enough to keep you interested, the humor is just right, the ironies and plots are of course not too complicated because it's for kids, but not too simple either that adults won't like it, and the graphics are fantastic. I liked it better than The Incredibles, even though it's less publicized, and a lot simpler.

Recommend everyone to watch it! I'm glad I did!

By the way, just want to mention, sorry for not reviewing Spider-man 3 and Pirates of the Carribean 3:At World's End. Nothing against the movies, I just don't feel like writing about them. :P

Ocean's Thirteen

Fri, 08 Jun 2007 02:37:07 GMT

Whoa! Has it been a long time or what? Apologies for the lack of activity in this blog for quite some time. I have been watching movies, but not as often as before, and I don't have as much time as I used to to write my reviews. I was going to write one for Spider-man 3, but I didn't really like it that much. I couldn't find anything to rave about, so I decided not to write a review about it. Anyway, what am I doing talking about another movie in the entry for Ocean's Thirteen? Let's get on with the review!

First, I didn't think it would really happen. When I first heard of "Ocean's Thirteen" (in one of the episodes of Star Movies' Opening Night - for Ocean's Twelve) I thought the producers wouldn't do it because by that time, people would probably already be sick of George Clooney, Brad Pitt and the others. But I guess since trilogies are a big thing these days, and the 3rd parts of trilogies especially (Spider-man 3, Pirates of the Carribean 3, Shrek 3 -- do you see how there are no new and original stories in Hollywood anymore?!), obviously, I was wrong in assuming that this movie wouldn't work out.

I actually enjoyed this one more than the second. It's just that with Ocean's Twelve, I think they tried to accomplish too much -- what with having to pay Terry Benedict (Andy Garcia) back and being challenged to be the best thieves in the world, add to that the love story between Rusty (Brad Pitt) and Isabel (Catherine Zeta-Jones), plus Danny (George Clooney) and Tess' (Julia Roberts) continuing love story, and Isabel's relationship with the cops and the once greatest theif of all time--well, I like it better when they keep things simple. Like in this one.

Reuben (Elliot Gould), the Ocean's 11's usual financier, gets double-crossed by his business partner Willie Bank (Al Pacino). So Danny and crew decide to get revenge--ergo, theft job in Vegas.

I like the fact how they brought things back "home". Although it was a little premature (for me), because aside from Europe, we haven't really seen the guys in action elsewhere (I'm flashing back to that interview with Brad Pitt in Tokyo where he said that he predicts that if there was going to be a third movie, it would probably be set in Asia). But I guess the producers thought it would be too much of a risk because if they do Asia, they might have to have to make fourth movie, just to bring the guys back to Vegas. And that might be too expensive, considering that 3rd installments aren't always shoo-ins for blockbuster hits. Anyway, despite that, I don't see any other problems with bringing them back, because although the setting is the same as that of the first movie's, the stories are worlds apart.

I think one of the things that Ocean's Thirteen is all about is keeping the balance -- in the characters' lives and in their work. If Ocean's Eleven was a sample of how good they are, Ocean's Twleve a testament to it and at the same time a show of how they're still humans who make mistakes, Ocean's Thirteen shows how they can cope with those mistakes, and minimize them, as in this story, there are times that they fumble, but unlike in the 2nd film where it got to the point that they all ended up in jail, here, they were able to keep things under control, making their foul-ups just near-misses.

Also, there's more justification to what they're doing this time. We all know that stealing is wrong, but just like how Robin Hood doesn't seem so bad at times because he gives what he steals to the poor, here, they make Willie Bank so much of a bad guy (even worse than Terry Benedict), that no audience member would sympathize with him when he gets screwed. And the casualties along the way are also duly compensated (but I won't elaborate on this as I don't want to post spoilers).

Even the comedy aspect of this film is balanced. Unlike in the 2nd movie where, because they made a lot of mistakes, the characters found themselves in several funny situations, here, and probably because the characters have matured, there are less scenes of "goofing around". Although, the movie's not so serious that you won't still find parts that will make you laugh out loud.

A disadvantage I found in this movie though, is that because you already know the characters and what they're capable of, things tend to get a tad predictable, i.e. when you know that there's more to their schemes than meets the eye -- because that's how it was in the first 2 movies, then towards the end of this one, when it appears that they didn't succeed, you'll be able to tell that they didn't really fail, they're just not telling you everything yet. However, it's really a small thing that can be not considered when you're looking at the entirety of the film, because all in all, it really is great fun.

Kudos to the creators, actors, producers and whoever else who helped in making this movie worth my time! :D