The Movie Club

Doubt (Film)

2009-01-30T11:23:00.002+08:00

Doubt, which John Patrick Shanley directed and adapted from his Pulitzer Prize-winning play, is a dialogue-driven showdown between traditional disciplinarian Sister Aloysius (Meryl Streep), the school's principal, and liberal, progressive priest Father Flynn ( Philip Seymour Hoffman).

She suspects him of having molested the school's only black student. The evidence is inconclusive, but Sister Aloysius' certainty is unshakable.

Meryl Streep's performance of the ice-cold nun with compassion sends thrills down the spine. Stripped of makeup, her piercing eyes and invulnerable speech is definitely Oscar-worthy. Sorry, I love Angelina and Kate too, but please let her win it.

Even Hoffman, one of my favourite actors since Capote, paled in comparison. But he had his moments with his delivered sermons. Watch out for the one when he talked about gossip.

The surprises come from the supporting roles. Amy Adams successfully moved from Enchanted's cutesy Giselle to play this conflicted young nun with much conviction, and Viola Davis as the boy's mother could hold her candle against Streep in her 10 minutes of restrained yet powerful performance.

75 Critics listed this as one of 2008 best movies. I have never watched such an intense movie for a long time that kept me gripping to my seat. Having studied in a Catholic school, I could identify (not much with the issues) with the uptight atmosphere and message sent throughout the movie.

Doubt - Without a doubt, one of my favourite films.

Vicky Christina Barcelona (Film)

2008-10-02T21:38:00.002+08:00

Ever felt that you had a perfect relationship, except that something was missing – like salt from the diet?

You may be able to see a part of yourself in the characters and relationships portrayed in Vicky Christina Barcelona.

Vicky is a normal girl leading a normal life - practical, committed and engaged with the road ahead of her fully planned out. The spontaneous and gorgeous looking Christina has every reason to be confident, but the one thing she lacks is confidence in what she wants out of life. The couple from Barcelona, Juan Antonia and María Elena, are perfect for one another but not meant for each other.

Such contradiction. But definitely what we see in our relationships.

I could identify myself most with Vicky, sometimes setting myself high moral standards, and feeling there is a ‘right’ way to lead a life. She has a reliable but boring relationship like many of my own friends. Happy? Satisfied? I do wonder if they do desire something more of life.

There is a friend who was about to get married. And I casually asked, “Are you happy?”

“Yes, I am very kan cheong and nervous! All the wedding preparations… ” She never got to answer if she’s happy or not.

Is being standard and settled that bad a thing? It’s not up to me to judge. It’s human nature to want to see what’s on the other side. While most do not cross over, some people choose to step out, hopefully not to be found out.

You can probably see the ‘Christina’s around. She’s free-spirited, hangs around happening people, doesn’t think twice to be seduced, but is just floating about. You can see the same uptight people with ‘high moral standard’s criticizing or even condemning her, when they are not much better off themselves.

Some would quickly dismiss this as that ‘threesome’ or ‘infidelity’ movie. It’s not. And as Christina said, “Why subject ourselves to labels?”

As an audience, you sit back and observe the sad stories untold in an incredible and beautiful city of Barcelona. And you start to think about yourself and people around you. Beyond all these beauty and calmness, is there something going on?

In life, you also hear of such stories but never quite understand what happened or how it happened. It doesn’t quite matter as human relationships can be very intricate and complicated.

Sometimes we go on to rely on others to fill up the empty spaces in our hearts. I walked out of the cinema, reflecting that relationships can be never be perfect, and nobody should pass you that ‘salt’ but yourself.

Original entry available at: http://blog.omy.sg/danielang

Closing The Ring (Film)

2008-09-24T15:46:00.001+08:00

3 young men, 2 countries and 1 ring.

The story starts in 1991 with a funeral of a World War II veteran, with the ever reliable Shirley MacLaine and post-Scream Neve Campbell as her daughter. Everybody acts strangely. The movie starts moving back and forth to 1941, and from America to Ireland.

As more characters move into the picture, you wonder how they are all linked.

Closing the Ring may not be the first option of a weekend entertainment movie. In fact, it feels a little soap-operatic at many instances, like a less dramatic Pearl Harbour.

But if you patiently wait for the story to unfold between times and countries, you will slowly appreciate a bittersweet love story.

Old fashioned but touching nevertheless, close this ring if you like war time love stories.

Mama Mia! (Film)

2008-09-09T15:21:00.001+08:00

Mama Mia! gives you every reason to laugh.

Meryl Streep as Donna prancing around like a young school girl. 007 Pierce Brosnan sounded like he never been to a karaoke in his life ever, choking every time he needed to sing. Julie Walers, Colin Firth and Christine Baranski add on to the star-studded ensemble which shows that good actors always need singing lessons.

The story of young Sophie in search of her daddy shouldn’t be unfamiliar to many, especially when the musical based on ABBA songs was on stage a few years back.

Critics slammed it. The very idea of ‘serious’ actors breaking out in song and dance sequence of Chiquitita and Voulez-Vous out of the sudden is very, very strange. Chilling.

But just let your hairs down, sing along and enjoy the cheesy acting. And look out for ABBA’s Benny Andersson’s cameo as a piano player.

Singaporean audience actually clapped at the end (would call for encore if we could). Thank You not for the movie, but for the Music.

The Love Guru (Film)

2008-08-05T13:32:00.001+08:00

L ove Guru by Mike Myers is

O ver the board

V ery ridiculous and

E ntertaining during the song and dance parts but

G ross and

U ninspiring compared to Austins

R idiculously

U nderperformed TM

Red Cliff 赤壁 (Film)

2008-07-11T09:38:00.002+08:00

One of, if not the most anticipated Chinese epic this year, the news revolving around Red Cliff has been rampant.

Tony Leung out, Chow Yun-Fat quit, Ken Watanabe replaced, Tony back in, Tony criticized for looking stupid instead of heroic, Takeshi found himself in a different role, Lin Chi-Lin criticized to be a vase, and a stuntman died in the clause of filming. And yes, this is Asia’s most expensive film at US$80 million.

The “Chronicle of Three Kingdoms” is one of the most iconic stories in Chinese history. For us raised in the pop culture era, THAT very famous computer game was based on this story.

I found myself walking down the red carpet yesterday with a big bag carrying groceries accidentally. (How unglam! Should have won nicer clothes.) But the rest armed with cameras are waiting for the group of John Woo, Lin Chi Ling, Zhang Zhen and Zhang Feng Yi just behind me.

With an immense opening music score, the film sets in tone that it is going to be huge. The grand sets, ambitious battle scenes and impressive scenery were highlights of this epic.

But it was also little moral stories and strategies by Zhu Ge Liang (Takeshi Kaneshiro) and Zhou Yu (Tony Leung) which brought out the beauty of the story.

Some of the lead casts look misplaced though. Zhang Zhen and Tony Leung didn’t bring out the strength of the characters, and Lin Chi-Ling never looked more awkward in bed and bandage.

However, Takeshi Kaneshiro was suitably good bringing out the wise character, and my heart cheered for Guan Yu (Basen Zabu). But it was ‘Little Sparrow’ Zhao Wei who stole the show for me. Her minor role as the fierce tomboy Sun Shangxiang had more character and disposition than many of the guys.

Not forgetting John Woo’s signature dove which is symbolically used in all his movies from A Better Tomorrow to Face/Off makes its presence felt at the end.

Red Cliff doesn’t disappoint. After running for more than 2 hours till close midnight, I still wanted more. But the best has yet to come. 4.5*

Shaolin Girl (Film)

2008-06-16T15:44:00.003+08:00

Director: Katsuyuki Motohiro
Cast: Kou Shibasaki, Toru Nakamura, Kitty Zhang, Tin Kai Man, Lam Tze Chung, Takashi Okamura, Yosuke Eguchi
RunTime: 113 mins
Genre: Comedy

This Shaolin Girl is just rubbish.

Produced by Stephen Chow (Shaolin Soccer, CJ7), Shaolin Girl tells the story of a girl by the name of Rin, who is compelled to take over her late grandfather’s kung-fu dojo. She endures 3,000 days of brutal training at the Shaolin Martial Arts School in China before returning to her native Japan. But what awaits her is a dojo that lies in tatters and students who have abandoned the true discipline of Shaolin kung-fu.

Shortly after the dojo incident, Rin joins a university to play Lacrosse (a full contact team sport played with a stick and rubber ball) with a bunch of kawaii girls. There are other subplots such as a university principal with unknown mercenary plans, a kitchen chef who became the Lacrosse coach (suddenly!), his comic Cantonese-Japanese speaking sidekicks, and not to mention a female ‘good’ friend.

This female friend (Kitty Zhang) looks at Rin with a ‘different’ tendency, and speaks bad Japanese. She suddenly gets kidnapped and suddenly appears at the top of the tower in a cheongsam and high heels and suddenly wakes up at the right time.

The film progressed from a kungfu to sports to to a Kill Bill meets Matrix meets some computer game ending. (Give me the Lacrosse girls anytime.) I can really let it go to see a single Japanese girl fight over hundreds of armed men, but the ending was really what-the-heck.

Shaolin Girl – A laughing stock

Accurary of Death 死神の精度 (Film)

2008-05-16T14:39:00.005+08:00

The Grim Reaper seldom comes in the form of a suave and charming Takeshi Kaneshiro. He plays Chiba the 'God of Death’ who observes people for seven days, and his job is to place judgment on whether the person should die.

This symbol of death is effortlessly styled with Gatsby model type hair, dressed in black coat holding an umbrella. His loyal dog unfortunately is the drenched one and speaks in the unspoken Manga language. The story spans from 1985-2000-2028, each with Takeshi with a different look and hair which will thrill his female fans, gasping at how young he still looks.

Story One has the feeling of bitter sweet, when the pessimistic and shy office lady finds hope in life after meeting him. Story Two seems a little out-of-place initially, dealing in gangsterism and brotherly love. My personal favourite is Story Three, with the charming old hairdresser lady showing the Grim Reaper the meaning of life.

Yes, one would expect a movie called ‘Accuracy of Death’ to reflect life.

Indeed, the Japanese are almost perfect in their art of story-telling. It is never obtrusive and not really obvious. You may sit through a huge part of the movie feeling rather it’s rather ordinary. But as the story unfolds, you will realise the beauty is in what is unspoken.

As the old lady brings the Grim Reaper to admire the sky, he gets his answer at the end. So will the audience. That is also a reflection of life. We sometimes wait till the end before we know what life is about. Poignant, and beautiful.

Accuracy of Death - A Beautful Reflection of Life

Speedracer (Film)

2008-05-12T10:27:00.003+08:00

The Wachowski brothers have done it again, bringing yet another out-of-this-world movie. The Matrix trilogy has already showed their talent and craziness as filmmakers, and V for Vendetta blended both political messages and entertainment cleverly.

Enter the future with Speed Racer and his quirky family, which may reminds many of The Jetsons and The Robinsons. All 3 are set in an unknown time beyond where the world is psychedelic with flying vehicles.

The visuals are amazing. Fast speeding vehicles over a retro future setting would remind many of being right in an arcade game. The rapid editing over time frames forward and backward was styled like a manga series.

Critical receptions have been negative though, with reviewers calling it ‘pure cotton candy’, ‘cinematic pile up’, to ‘most headache-inducing’. The avante-garde nature may not appeal to all, but I appreciated its take on just wanting to be very colourful and fun.

But like an oversized lollipop, it may be too much for the people to take. With themes on anti-establishments, family, love, brotherly love, identity and conspiracy, the focus was a little all over the place.

Asian viewers who wants more of Rain may be disappointed to see that his role though considerable, was rather forgettable.

For a movie on speed, the pace could have been a little tighter as it ran over two hours. Perhaps there were too many sub-plots and chimpanzee tricks.

Speed Racer – A Visual Spectacle

Made of Honour (Film)

2008-05-09T14:43:00.006+08:00

(Ashley and Kevin with their Maid of Honour Alvin, the guy on the left.)

Director: Paul Weiland
Cast: Patrick Dempsey, Michelle Monaghan, Kevin McKidd, Kathleen Quinlan, Sydney Pollack

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Rating: PG

Would appeal to: Dating couples

A highly anticipated romantic comedy Made of Honour is yet another paled down version of My Best Friend’s Wedding.

The charming Patrick Dempsey from Grey’s Anatomy plays Tom the best friend who is asked to be the ‘maid’ of honour (MOH) of Hannah (Michelle Monaghan). Little does Hannah know that this playboy has fallen in love with her and wants to stop the wedding.

The story screams nothing original and looks like a jigsaw of several other similar movies. Patrick may be good looking, but he’s no Julia Roberts.

During the media screening, the distributors actually staged an actual wedding ceremony and the MOH Alvin was a male best friend. How many guys would actually do this for their girl friends?

Alvin said that he was doing purely out of friendship, and only after numerous persuasions by the bride. He certainly looked very awkward as he was holding up the bride’s gown.

I had the ‘privilege’ to be in a good friend’s ‘jie mei’ team once. Certainly embarrassing! Especially when we had to be colour coordinated (fortunately not pink). I would not have done it if she hasn’t been a friend since secondary one, and there was another guy in the same fate with me.

Well, the benefit is the bride ‘sisters’ get all the fun, and not do pushups and drink bitter tea. But even as people become more open-minded, a guy standing in the middle of girls during the wedding may get more attention than the whole group of them.

Before you scream “gay”, he is most likely a very good friend of the bride. So ladies, think twice before you ask your best guy friend to be your MOH. He is certainly not the best person to fuss over your makeup, coordinate your China, and adjust your straps, even if the groom doesn’t mind at all.

Made of Honour – Certainly no My Best Friend’s Wedding

Dance of the Dragon (Film)

2008-05-02T14:58:00.002+08:00

Director: John Radel, Max Mannix
Cast: Jang Hyuk, Fann Wong, Jason Scott Lee
RunTime: 111 mins
Genre: Drama
Rating: PG

In case you haven’t read about it, ST Life gave this film a miserable half a star. Why wasn’t I surprised?

I was looking forward to this movie. After all, it is an interesting collaboration with the Koreans, Americans and Singaporeans, and touted to be Jang Hyuk’s big break into Hollywood. Being constantly fascinated by dance forms, films like Strictly Ballroom, Mad Hot Ballroom and Take the Lead were mostly enjoyable.

The film started rather promisingly, with picturesque scenes of a Korean village, and engaging conversations of father-son tensions. But once Korean village boy Tae (Jang Hyuk) received a dance audition letter out of nowhere from a dance school set in washed-out Chinatown Singapore, the movie is on its route to ridiculous mockery.

“Where. Did. You. Learn. That. Dance. From?” as judge/dance teacher Emi (Fann Wong) asked rather awkwardly and slowly. You will also start to realise that this graceful teacher not only dances slowly, but speaks, walks, picks her clothes, looks into the sky at an amazingly dawdling tempo. (It reminds me of dance teachers I know who dances unhurriedly, but scolds students at the top of their voices. Fann, we need some attitude!)

Jason Scott Lee is completely wasted with his only one black-faced ‘you-owe-me-lots-of-money’ look. Fann Wong has that perpetual dazed gaze, and Jang Hyuk’s charm is the saving grace.

The three gets tied in a love triangle. Martial arts principal gets beaten up for $20,000. He then challenges Korean boy to a duel for dancing with his girl. Korean boy learns martial arts from a DVD. Fann Wong joins a dance competition with somebody she never really practiced with. Do we really care?

During the final act, Fann and Jang get into yet another slow tango, dancing to Enrique Iglesias’s fast tempo Hero, while the audience clap constantly at slow-mo. Sigh… The only thing worth watching is perhaps the Francis Cheong diamond studded red dress. Nice.

Dance of the Dragon – This dance is out of the rhythm

Nim's Island (Film)

2008-05-02T14:55:00.003+08:00

Director: Mark Levin, Jennifer Flackett
Cast: Jodie Foster, Abigail Breslin, Gerard Butler
RunTime: 95 mins
Genre: Adventure/Children/Fantasy
Rating: PG

It’s only in a movie like Nim’s Island that the heroine is Little Miss Sunshine Abigail Breslin, with heavy weights Jodie Foster taking a back seat. This young child talent (some say acting prodigy) is the spark in the entire movie.

The story is a children's adventure based on the book Nim's Island by Wendy Orr. A young girl, Nim (Abigail Bresline), seeks help from the author of her favourite adventure series when her scientist father (Gerard Butler) goes missing. The author, Alexandra Rover (Jodie Foster), is an agoraphobic living in San Francisco. Rover overcomes her fears and sets out in search of Nim on an unknown island somewhere in the South Pacific.

Last seen in The Brave One, Jodie Foster so used to the playing strong independent woman does a 180 degree turn in playing this accident prone, perpertually frantic agoraphobic. This is the kind of role that would go well with one of the desperate housewives like Felicity Huffman. Some say it’s rather refresing, while I thought Jodie looks mismatched and embarrasing in this character more concerned with her sanitizers.

Spartan Gerard Bulter, depsite playing two roles in this movie, is rather forgettable. Being caught at in the rain and sea most of the time, his screentime is not as magetic as the girls.

Being both innocent and resourceful, wide-eyed Abigail Breslin is totally likeable. But along with flying pet reptiles and dancing sealions, the cuteness level may be too much for some adults to take.

Nim’s Island – Will please children below 12

Escape from Huang Shi

2008-04-20T23:14:00.001+08:00

原本一个感人的真实故事，感觉上很戏剧般的不真实。

《黄石任务》说的是记者帮助孤苦伶仃孩子的桥段，让有点持怀疑态度的我看成又一部伟大洋人拯救可怜华人的影片。

以看影片的观点欣赏，大起大落的戏剧元素和爱情故事是存在的，被剥削的是细腻的人性刻画和乔治的伟大。

很讽刺，很可惜的是，看完片后所记得的不是《黄石任务》的精神或南京大屠杀的悲惨，而是众演员的口音。 Jonathan Rhys Meyers和Radha Mitchell以中英文交错台词演出，牵强得好笑。发哥自从演南洋海盗后，英语进步神速，咬字故意清晰。

《卧虎藏龙》老搭档杨紫琼又演江湖女子，沦为陪衬的大配角，和影片感觉一样，可有可无。

Escape from Huang Shi - The essence is in the accent

Definitely, Maybe (Film)

2008-04-20T23:11:00.002+08:00

这部爱情喜剧片很不一样。同样的是一个男人和女人从误会，到相识，最终相恋。

不同是手法不一样了，不到最后一分钟，你还不知道谁到底会接受男主角求婚。知道了也不重要。典型的浪漫片是一男一女的情况，而这一男四女（加上了女儿），更反映了现实生活不是童话故事。每一段故事虽感觉平淡如水，真实也应该是如此。

Ryan Reynolds不是好莱坞首选的帅哥，但忠厚老实型和腼腆的笑容必定融化女孩子的芳心。小太阳Abigail Breslin 更是为影片注入了天真的笑意，前途无量。

感觉上，这一部让爱情喜剧片的素质提升了。你不会有所谓的大哭大笑，但会有一点甜蜜的感觉，和些许的感动。能推荐给拍拖的男男女女好好看，好好思考。

我微笑了，爱情的确如此悬疑而完美。

Definitely, Maybe - May be a little draggy, but definitely touching for me

Waroeng Penyet @ Marine Parade (Food)

2008-04-01T22:31:00.010+08:00

Simply said, this is Indonesia’s answer to KFC. While Ayam Penyet (Flattened Fried Chicken) hasn’t exactly taken Singapore by stomp, it has increasingly gained popularity over the last two years.

The word "Waroeng" means a traditional hut in Indonesia that serve reasonably priced food, while "Penyet" means flattened.

You may find this little shop located at Marina Parade Central rather similar to Ayam Penyet Ria at Lucky Plaza. They were previous co-owners, but different directions and targeted markets made the young boss Edy Ongkowijaya venture on his own. While the Lucky Plaza eatery mainly appeals to families, Waroeng Penyet is obviously attracting the younger crowd with its red/green interiors, cutesy chicken logo, colourful menus and young staff.

The Ayam Penyet (S$5.50 with rice not included) served in baskets, has a generous portion of chicken fried in crunchy batter with fried tempe and tofu on the side. The flattening makes the chicken more manageable to eat, and surprisingly dry. The loosen meat from the bones actually makes it a non-oily affair as it becomes possible to eat chicken without using hands.

The highlight is the sambal chili which is available in hot and mild versions. The faint-hearted may just find it too much to handle, while the chilli lover in me has an upsurge of adrenalin after the blast of spice.

They also serve other forms of ‘penyet’ such as Empat (beef), Bawal (pomfret), Udang (fried prawn), Lele (catfish) and Baskso Goreng (fried beef balls) with prices being very affordable at $4.50 to $6.00.

The other yummies served include Ayam Panggang (grilled chicken), Sate Ayam (Chicken Satay), Soto Ayam (Javanese chicken soto) and Gulai Ayam (Infonesian chicken curry).

My personal favourite is the Sate Ayam which has a different texture and peanut paste from the regular satays we are used to. The difference is that the grilled meat sprinkled with fried shallots more succulent and tender, and the sauce smoother and less spiced.

End off your meal with Iced Cendol ($2.50) or Avocado Juice ($3.00), a green, sweet and thick creamy drink which has high nutritional worth due to its rich vitamin 86 and carotene.

The owner Edy has just reached 30, but has 4 shops under his belt since he opened this first branch in 2007. He is full of smiles, life and potential, just like Waroeng Penyet which looks set to expand beyond.

Overall: 4.0/5
Food: 4/5
Ambience: 3/5
Service: 4/5
Value: 5/5

The Orphanage (Film)

2008-03-27T23:38:00.003+08:00

Director: Juan Antonio Bayona
Cast: Belén Rueda, Fernando Cayo, Geraldine Chaplin, Montserrat Carulla, Mabel Rivera, Andrés Gertrúdix
RunTime: 105 mins
Genre: Horror/Thriller (Spanish)
Rating: PG (Some Disturbing Content)

A woman's return to her old orphanage is the start of a creepy and hair-raising thriller. With open air and beautiful beach surroundings, she plans to reopen the orphanage as a centre for sick children. Her son starts talking to imaginary friends, and very soon disappears into an unknown world.

Expectations run high for Guillermo del Toro's The Orphanage, especially after an immensely successful Hellboy and Pan Labyrinth. Again, he uses children to tell a story about adults, and the fact that they are young makes them (and us) feel very vulnerable and helpless.

This isn't your typical Hollywood horror, with loud sound effects and sudden jolts to scare the living daylights. Like a sinister demon, it slowly lures the audience into this old abandoned house full of disturbing secrets, and story with mysteries.

You feel with the anxiety of the mother's search for her lost son, and wait in anticipation as she solves the puzzle part by part. In the process, the cinema does feel chilly and still, my movie partner covering his eyes 10% of the time.

However, Pan Labyrinth was stronger in bringing out a theme, with a greater impact on the audience. While it is more successful in terms of box office, a pity it didn't match up on its magic.

The Orphanage - A chilly change from the typical Hollywood horrors

Meet The Spartans (Film)

2008-03-05T11:27:00.003+08:00

When the gorgeous Wai Han wanted to watch Meet The Spartans as a date movie, I went like, “You really really really are going to watch Meet the Spartans?!” I am sure she regretted her decision.

It also makes me wonder how about the millions of American and Singaporean viewers who supported this film all the way to Box Office Number 1.

Hey, I am not some strict and boring reviewer, and do appreciate some sense of humour as well. I hate to admit this, but I actually enjoyed Scary Movie. At least it was funny, sarcastic and refreshing.

One can send that the producers have run out of their creative juices for their latest spoof. It started all right with the usual puke, armpit hair and s*** stuff, but the battle/dance scenes were just long and repeatative. Quoting Simon Cowell, “It was a-b-s-o-l-u-t-e-l-y dreadful.”

You get your usual doses of Paris Hilton, Ugly Betty, Britney, Lindsay blah blah, but we want more. Enough of gay and black jokes. Next. The best part was the Paula Abdul impersonation which got me to chuckle a little, but that’s it.

Saying so much, I still watched it. Argh!

Meet The Spartans – I want to save you $9:50 and 84 minutes

Juno (Film)

2008-03-03T15:13:00.006+08:00

Juno's a freaking cool movie. There is just so much fairytales out there when movies like this, realistic, quirky, unpredictable and just keeps our foot on the ground.

Juno is one idiosyncratic girl, or just your normal high school student, depending on how you see it. You may not identify with her problem immediately, but the story's all about relationships which can strike a chord.

I hate to use the word, but the parents are very 'cool'. Although disapproving of their daughter's actions, it's the things they say, and the unspoken actions that make them very supportive and thus admirable. Sometimes, 'young' people like us think we know too much, disregarding the fact that our parents have been through a lot more than us.

Ellen Page has already proved she is the next young thing to look out for after a shivering Hard Candy. She may have lost to Marion Cotillard, but her stars will keep shining. First time screen writer and ex-strip dancer Diablo Cody keeps the story authentic, down-to-earth and humorous with that as a reflection of her younger days.

My favourite quote (though a little cliche): "The best thing you can do is find a person who loves you for exactly what you are. Good mood, bad mood, ugly, pretty, handsome, what have you, the right person will still think the sun shines out your ass." And yes, the one on China and ipods.

It could be a life lesson, or just a weekend movie break, Juno's one girl who will kick some a**.

Juno - An older 'Little Ms Sunshine' which is surprisingly quirky yet sweet

The Eye (Film)

2008-02-29T15:28:00.006+08:00

Director: David Moreau, Xavier Palud
Cast: Jessica Alba, Parker Posey, Alessandro Nivola, Tamlyn Tomita, Chloe Moretz
RunTime: 97 minutes
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Rating: PG

The Eye (Jian Gui) remains as one of my top 3 Asian horror films, alongside with The Ring and Shutter. Strangely, both the directors The Pang Brothers and actress Angelica Lee did not have the same amount of success of following films (and of course Lawrence Chow and Singapore's Pierre Png are conveniently forgotten.)

Taking the elevator alone at night and buying roast pork from that old auntie somehow never felt the same.

We all know how Hollywood remakes of Asian horror are all very disappointing, failing to recreate the same kind of eeriness and back-to-basics shock factors.

I mean, Jessica Alba? Eye candies don't work for The Eye. Sure she is very gorgeous as the blind Sydney Wells, but who can really believe that she is traumatized and disturbed. The picture perfect actress shows that she can drink a Tiger a lot better than act, and her opening line was one of the most unexpressive one in my cinematic experience. The rest of the supporting cast is completely forgettable.

The good news is the Hollywood version is a lot more straightforward and popcorn friendly, but the horror moments almost turned into laughable ones. Some of the climatic moments such as the boy in the raincoat, and woman in the restaurant just throw you into disbelief.

The Eye - Seeing it can be disbelieving

August Rush (Film)

2008-02-29T15:22:00.004+08:00

Director: Kirsten Sheridan
Cast: Freddie Highmore, Keri Russell, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Terrence Howard, Robin Williams
RunTime: 114 minutes
Genre: Drama/Musical
Rating: PG

Just when I thought I had my full blast of sappiness in The Leap Years, Kirsten Sheridan’s August Rush will tip the scales (pun not intended) dramatic corniness and schmaltziness.

It almost seems guaranteed for success of a combination of family drama, romance and music. The star-studded cast include a very likeable Freddie Highmore (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory), Keri Russell (Felicity), Jonathan Rhys Meyers (Match Point) and Robin Williams, who seem to lose his magical touch these days.

This modern day Oliver Twist tells the story of Evan Tyler search for his parents, who firmly believes that music will lead his way. "The music is all around us. All you have to do is listen." Through a series of flashbacks, we learn that he is a result of a one-night stand between two musicians.

The story starts off rather heart-warming and believable, until 101 coincidences pile one and climax at an impossible and implausible ending. But we did see it coming 20 minutes into the movie.

The ‘star’ of the movie is the music, some performed through the husky voice of Jonathan Rhys Meyers. Even though there were some cheesy blends of symphonic pieces and soft rock, I was pleasantly touched with the musical results.

I teared at the end. On one hand, it was the most predictable and ridiculous ending, whille on the other, music (which I lost touch with) does amazing wonders to the heart and soul.

August Rush – The Soul is In the Music (Listen out to the Academy nominated “Raise It Up” which is rather inspirational.)

The Leap Year (Film)

2008-02-20T13:18:00.004+08:00

Director: Jean Yeo
Cast: Wong Li Lin, Ananda Everingham, Joan Chen, Qi Yu Wu, Vernetta Lopez, Nadya Hutagalung
Runtime: 103 mins
Genre: Romance
Rating: PG

Love must be one of the most unexplainable and illogical thing in the world. As told in this love story based on a novel by Dr Catherine Lim, Li-Ann (Wong Li-Lin) embarks on a romantic journey with a man (Shutter’s Ananda Everingham) she only meets during her birthday – 29th of February.

From what I remember, Singapore has its exports of comedies and dramas, but few actually centre on love. The Leap Year is a refreshing piece from our island, though may not be as enticing to those in favour of Korean soaps.

I suspect that critics and audience may pan the movie, especially the irrational behaviour of the two in love. “Why don’t they exchange phone numbers/emails/addresses/facebook/msn?” Argh! “Aiyah, stupid boy/girl…run after him/her! Bodoh!” No, they don’t and end up waiting for 4 years just to meet that once. That’s even worse that that cowherd and maiden story. Either love is blind or toxic.

Wong Li-Lin is well casted as the damsel hopelessly in love with someone whom she met only for a few hours. The other girls fit in nicely fitted in the ensemble as well. Won’t say about the rest though.

For your information, I watched this movie alone, often finding myself chuckling at the silly things the couple do, taking notes of the quotations by Catherine Lim, and almost tearing at Corrine May’s Scars (Really got excited every time I hear Corrine May in a soundtrack). How lovely. But don’t think the rest of the critics share my sentiments.

A modern day fairytale which would frustrate the realists, but hey, we all need some juvenile hope that would keep our dreams alive.

The Leap Year - Be the 'siao' one who still believe in love, ya?

功夫灌篮 Kungfu Slamdunk (Film)

2008-02-05T14:59:00.000+08:00

周董啊，周董！你是天才创作人、歌手、导演和演员，在当今乐坛上算是数一数二的男歌手，拍的影片也都交出漂亮的成绩单，红到让人遥不可及。就算是新年发片撞上星爷的《长江7号》和梁师傅的《老师嫁老大》，也不需担心太多。

《功夫灌篮》由有‘通俗导演’之称的朱延平指导，剧情被批过于老套不求创新，‘功夫’加上‘运动’的情节让人想起《少林足球》和《乒乓特种兵》(Balls of Fury)。重复和抄袭的现象没有大碍，好笑就好。

可能之前周董就是太过帅，这一次以傻傻的蘑菇头和呆呆的样子博取少女的芳心，外表转型成功。

影片胜利在利用年轻偶像(蔡卓妍和陈柏霖)，加上资深搞笑天王(曾志、吴孟达和吴宗宪)吸引全家大小观赏这贺岁片。尽管一些影评看到结构松散和无聊夸张的情节不停摇头，有些观众就是爱看富有娱乐性不需想太多的影片。

这样的电影不会得奖，可是会非常赚钱。

Such a movie combining sports and kungfu (Shaolin soccer and Balls of Fury anyone?) has an extremely predictable storyline, but sometimes what audience want is entertainment.

Jay Chou is extremely 'gong gong' with his mushroom hair, and will still charm young girls. The plot can be way roll-eyes ridiculous, but has its laughable movements.

Keep in mind this is a Chinese New Year movie, it will not win awards or win the critics over, but will hit the tops in the box office.

Kungfu Slamdunk - Jay is a winner again

CJ7 (Film)

2008-02-04T12:03:00.001+08:00

Director: Stephen Chow
Cast: Stephen Chow, Kitty Zhang Yuqi, Xu Jiao
RunTime: 88 minutes
Genre: Sci-Fi/Comedy (Mandarin)
Rating: PG

Stephen Chow’s movie used to be a staple for Chinese New Year, as groups gather together to catch re-runs of ‘God of Gamblers’ and ‘Fight Back to School’ on TV. I can fondly remember ‘Xiao Qiang’ the cockroach, and ‘Qi Meng’ the mole. While it was slapstick and nonsensical, that’s what we probably need for a stressful life. It has been a good 3-4 years since he last directed (Kungfu), and therefore the anticipation of CJ7.

The star of the movie is no longer Stephen Chow, but the very animated and talented son which happens to be acted a girl Xu Jiao. You know those super exaggerated faces you will catch on Japanese manga? Now, that’s what she is quite capable of.

Not forgetting the fuzzy green ball CJ7 whose eyes sparkle with so much delight, and is just way super CUTE. This alien dog reminds me of Doreamon, and I would definitely grab its soft toy if it’s available.

Wont’ say much about Kitty Zhang as she is unfortunately a flower vase with her portrayal of a caring school teacher. How more boring can that role get?

Stephen Chow obviously wants to milk some emotions and feelings with the portrayal of the father-son relationship. The story falls short a little (too predictable, familiar and contrived)P, and we will thoroughly miss what’s he has been good at – slapstick humour.

CJ7 – Extremely CUTE but disappointing with little laughs

Sharkwater (Film)

2008-01-29T21:40:00.000+08:00

Who’s the Predator?

I hate to admit this, but I enjoyed eating shark’s fin soup.

There is a certain expectation for the delicacy to appear in the second dish of every Chinese wedding dinner. As what some of the elders tell me, you judge how ravish a wedding dinner is by the shark’s fin. Many friends have stopped eating fins (which are tasteless on their own anyway), but I took a “If I don’t eat it, it will go to waste anyway” attitude.

Movies featuring sharks are not helping. Almost every shark movie poster portrayed them as ferocious creatures with bleeding sharp teeth.

As a child, watching Jaws 1-4 in the cinemas and national television made me fear going out to the open waters. Looking back at all the shark movies, ranging from Shark Attack, Jaws of Death, Deep Blue Sea, Blue Demon, and Red Water, every shark is a monstrous one that stops at nothing to devour the next harmless bikini babe.

The truth is: sharks rarely attack human. Many shark movies are fictional, using mechanical sharks rather than real ones.

The recent documentary Sharkwater aim to debunk this myth, and results are showing. The filmmakers managed to make the Costa Ricans protest against the shark fin industry. However, it would be a long battle before such movies can affect the Asian countries where sharks are preyed for food and unproven medicinal properties.

As what an interviewee in Sharkwater (who looks like a Singaporean bride) said, “It’s like cutting my ears off, and leaving me to bleed till death in the waters.”

A diver friend who has witnessed the cruel deaths of finless sharks at the bottom of the ocean, ‘battled’ with his mother over what to serve in his wedding dinner. It was a choice between his love for sharks, and the family’s pride. He lost in the end.

The fight will continue. Interestingly, Peter Benchley the author of Jaws spent the last years of his career advocating for shark conservation, saying "Sharks are much more the oppressed than the oppressors."

Linger 蝴蝶飞 (Film)

2008-01-15T21:23:00.000+08:00

片名让我想起了张洪量的歌。。。"你像只蝴蝶在天上飞，飞来飞去飞不到我身边。。。" 感觉有如《粱祝》那对恋人，苦苦相爱却不能在一起。

仔仔的首部影片，杜琪峰再导爱情片，满怀期待，甚至想准备深深地感动。毕竟人鬼练的情节，坎坷的感情路，应该可以博取一些泪水。

结果，影片好象一只不知去向的蝴蝶，谈的是生死之恋、父子恩怨还是未了心愿? 仔仔和冰冰的结合，一个柔一个刚，分不清两人在一起是玩笑，还是冲动。

台湾偶像剧有它的肉麻、韩国爱情片有它的感动、香港片也有它的执着。《蝴蝶飞》充其量只能说轻轻戴过。

Linger - Lingering with no direction

Trade (Film)

2008-01-15T21:21:00.001+08:00

这样的影片不是典型的好莱坞影片，题材也不会吸引太多人去注意。但它象一口窗，尽管话题在敏感，也要看看现今社会的丑陋与凄凉。

天真活泼的孩子，美丽动人的少女，就连纯洁的小男生，也象奴隶一般被贩卖，美好的前途一切毁于一旦。看过后不禁感到心酸。

突然想起数年前有些本地孩子被怀疑被绑架到曼谷当乞丐，从此好无音讯，一切的不可思议，确实是残酷的现实。

影片过于戏剧化，导演在技巧上尚未成熟，观众不能充分感觉到演员的恐惧。原本相当好的题材，却不能引起轩然大波，只能说可惜。

Trade - Controversial subject wasted

Le Grand Chef

2008-01-06T21:59:00.000+08:00

“So who’s going to die this time?”

That is what I would get when I try to get my friend Esther to watch a Korean movie with me. For the last 5 Korean movies we have watched, the protagonists are always dying of something. From cancers, blood disorders, AIDS, cancer, terrible accidents, you name it, you will have it.

The stories are terribly predictable and cheesy. Nevertheless, Esther who prides herself as an intellectual and knowledgeable manager just adores Korean movies despite all her complains. It’s like her saying how Korean barbeque would make her clothes smell, but she still goes back to that same smoky restaurant every other week.

The comedy Le Grand Chef is no exception to the formulaic rule. Well, nobody dies but you would probably predict the ending of this story of two young chefs cooking up a storm in competition to out-cook each other. It does not help that one is good looking, while the other just has that rough bad guy look.

Unlike Hollywood movies where the leads are always suave and charismatic, there is always something very ‘kampung’ about Korean male leads. Call it the ‘curse’ of The Sassy Girlfriend. Lead Kim Kang-woo though not the typical male macho, exudes an earnest and sincere charm that every mother would approve should their daughter bring him home for dinner.

Let’s not forget the two other important people in a Korean movie – the pesky girlfriend and a silly looking sidekick. They are absolutely needed to stir up laughs by being very ridiculous. Perhaps the fierce and shouting girlfriends can always satisfy the inner desires of the traditionally submissive Asian girls.

Movies do not often reflect reality. With no offence to all my Korean friends, Esther was indeed terribly disappointed when she did not find any Rains or Sang Woos in her trip to Seoul. She has to understand that no every Singaporean girl looks like Fann or Fiona either.

My advice to guys would be to bring a packet of tissue if you are bringing your girlfriend to watch a Korean movie. Even if the protagonist does not die of cancer, it would come in handy when the male lead is a lot cuter than you.

2007 Top 10 Movies

2007-12-27T18:49:00.000+08:00

我在2007年最深刻的10部影片，排名不分先后。

1. Ratatouille
蓝色小老鼠，鼠小志气大，和法国厨师的友情和向梦想迈进的毅力，大人小孩都觉得特别温馨。

2. The Bourne Ultimatum
麦戴蒙 (Matt Damon) 成为好莱坞最赚钱的明星，鼎好的票房保证不是乱盖的。精彩的追逐戏，和英雄的智慧为这续集划上美丽的句点。

3. Enchanted
久违的迪斯尼感觉回来了！逗趣的对白、夸张般的表演形式，和主角独特的魅力，让你回味失去的童真。

4. 投名状
金奖大导陈可辛，加上国际级三大男偶像巨星李连杰、刘德华与金城武，从故事、剪辑、美术指导、演技到动作，很实在的《投名状》的确成功地拍出震撼。

5. 881
一人一半，感情不散。。。歌曲红了街头巷尾。陈子谦、杨雁雁、王欣、刘玲玲、伍家辉变得很红，对数年默默耕耘的演员来说算是咸鱼翻身。今年的福建歌和七月歌台更是受人瞩目。

6. Letters from Iwo Jima
名导克林特·伊斯特伍德 (Clint Eastwood)在《父辈的旗帜》(Flags of Our Father)后，拍了一部以日军角度看待战争的挣扎与残酷。简单的信件却刻划出历史的悲惨和意义。

7. Hairspray
舞台剧搬上大荧幕或多或少会失去原有的味道，依然拍出喜感，观众看了手舞足蹈。约翰·特拉沃尔塔(John Travolta)的胖妈角色，米切尔·菲佛尔(Michelle Pfieffer)卷土重来，尼基·布朗斯基(Nikki Blonsky)新人星光闪耀，告诉你胖也是一种美。

８．200 Pound Beauty
另外一部‘胖也是一种美’的影片，韩国票房冠军。虽然没有兄妹情，没有人死于癌症，Hanna 一心想改变生活的意愿，和动人的歌声，牵动人心，女观众依然热泪盈眶。　

９. Pan's Labyrinth
原来童话故事也能够如此恐怖！神奇的迷宫，吃人的恶魔，何更凶残的人类，让看片人走入另外一个世界。这部墨西哥片的确拍出了魔术。

10. The Simpsons Movie
《辛普森一家》是美国电视史上不可忽略的一条长青轴。没有3D动画没关系，无论是政治话题、色情笑话、家庭问题一一无所不谈，只有这样的影片，能够从头笑到尾。

Nanking (Film)

2007-12-12T11:41:00.000+08:00

Director: Bill Guttentag and Dan Sturman
Cast: Hugo Armstrong, Mariel Hemingway, Woody Harrelson, John Getz, Stephen Dorff
RunTime: 90 mins
Genre: Documentary
Rating: NC-16

你很难以平常心看《南京》。它不象其他影片精彩夺目，只是以简单平淡的讲述，叙说这一段不可磨灭的回忆。让你反复思考的真实画面，可能会触动心底最脆弱的那一处。

日军南京大屠杀的事件，我们都有机会在书本或照片中看过，但只是把它当成历史的一部分。过去的真的就过去了吗? 遗留的黑白画面，和生存者的访谈，细细记载了人性最丑恶和脆弱的一面。

被访的日本人抽着烟，淡淡地笑着，似乎没对虐行事件没有太大的愧疚，更让看片的人感到不舒服。

走进戏院之前最好做些心里准备，感觉到戏院很沉重，很沉重。有人屏住呼吸，有人不忍哭泣，而我只能叹气，更珍惜我们现代人所拥有的一切。

" Tonight a truck passed in which there were eight or ten girls, and as it passed they called out Jiu ming! Jiu ming!" ~ Minnie Vautrin

Nanking isn't exactly the choice movie during a festive season, but definitely a necessary one to watch. We have read the stories, seen the pictures, but nothing beats listening and watching it yourself.

Though the skeptics would feel there is some kind of manipulation (using the documentary genre), its strong message would make it a relevant piece for today.

Nanking - Go prepared, for a heavy heart, for teary eyes

Warlords (Film)

2007-12-04T00:10:00.000+08:00

Director: Peter Chan
Starring: Jet Li, Andy Lau, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Xu Jinglei
RunTime: 2 hrs 5 mins
Genre: Period Drama

感觉上近期的古装片可以用‘大’来形容: 大导演、大卡式和大场面，却不能获得影评的赏识。《黄金甲》、《夜宴》和《无极》个个大制作，场景华丽炫目，故事内容却平平，只能称得上是照顾到西方市场的影片。

陈可辛大导演几乎每一部作品都是品质保证。《投名状》没有《甜蜜蜜》、《金枝玉叶》和《如果爱》细腻的感情戏，却多了一份很‘真’，很‘实’的武打场面和兄弟情。

一开始的两军相战就能看到很精彩的千人战争场面，声势浩大，却不失扎实的武打。全片画面修理从开始的灰暗到后半步的辉煌颜色，就能带出电影要表达各期间的感觉。

导演说李连杰的千万天价片酬是物超所值的。可是我们也不能忘记刘德华和金城武有血有泪的演出。从雄壮的武打到情感的拿捏，能见识到两人的进步。

"天大地大，兄弟最大" ，港片似乎离不开兄弟情。可能角色刻画稍微薄弱，女主角徐静蕾太平凡，观众似乎感觉不到他们的浓厚的情感。毕竟要在武戏和文戏之间取得平衡非易事，过人之处在于导演两者间，处理得很微妙。

陈可辛对票房过3亿很有信心。从故事、剪辑、美术指导、演技到动作，《投名状》的确成功地拍出震撼。

The Warlords - No play of colours, no ample bosoms, no flying dragons... It's realness makes it the best Chinese period drama in recent times

Hero (Film)

2007-12-04T00:07:00.001+08:00

(Special thanks to Patrick for your contribution again!)

Being a fan of SMAP’s Takuya Kimura since the early years, it’s definitely great to see the actor taking on the lead role once again in a feature film (since Kimura has contributed more to dramas than to films in his acting career).

“Hero” indeed brings back the good, old days, where Takuya has ruled the J-pop drama scene with titles such as “Love Generation” [1997] and “Long Vacation” [1996]. Although the actor never leaves the drama scene (think Hero [2001]“, Pride” [2004], “Engine”[2005] etc. in recent years), it’s classics like “Love Generation” that shot him to fame. And I figure he will always be the idol in the hearts of his fans because of this. But this is just one of the reasons why you should watch this film.

A better reason will be the pairing up of Takuya Kimura with Takako Matsu. For long-time fans of Japanese dramas such as myself, it will definitely evoke a sense of nostalgia when the fans see the on-screen couple once again (Takuya Kimura and Takako Matsu are an onscreen couple in “Love Generation”).

Takako Matsu is also in “Long Vacation” starring opposite Takuya Kimura but for this drama, it’s actress Yamaguchi Tomoko who stands out. Nevertheless, it’s always good to see the two leads together once again. Both have aged quite a bit since then (well, it’s been a decade) but their on-screen chemistry and charismatic antics are still there after all these years. There’s one thing to note though. Fans of Korean heartthrob Lee Byung-Hun will be terribly disappointed since he has only about 5-15 minutes of screen time.

“Hero” is a film on legal tussles. Director Masayuki Suzuki’s concoction of legal suspense and humour is strategically balanced and the film is on the whole, well-paced. The story is linear and humour is nicely embedded in the witty dialogues of the cast. Especially noteworthy is the director’s artistic cinematography, often using direct and straight shots for most scenes. While the shots are conventional, they are appropriate since it suits the confrontational approach in the film, symbolic of lawyers enmeshed in legal battles.

Repeated overhead shots of the legal office to induce humour are also insightful and interesting. More prominently shown are the repeated shots of the statue of justice, somewhat metaphoric with his eyes blindfolded and his hands holding a balanced scale, as if to signify that nothing is what it seems on the surface.

All in all, watch “Hero” for its message of impartially pursuing the truth at all costs.

And of course, the pairing of Takuya Kimura and Takako Matsu is remarkable. Their onscreen chemistry still sizzles after all these years.

Beowulf (Film)

2007-11-26T20:42:00.000+08:00

Director: Robert Zemeckis
Cast : Ray Winstone, Anthony Hopkins, Angelina Jolie, John Malkovich, Brendan Gleeson, Dominic Keating, Alison Lohman, Robin Wright Penn
RunTime: 110 mins
Genre: Animation
Rating: NC-16 (Violence and Some Nudity)

Virtual imitates life as the sexy one emerges all of water saying, “Beowulf... Stay with me. Give me a son, and I shall make you the greatest king that ever lived. This... I swear...” She wears nothing but gold paint covering over her ample bosoms, all thick lips and hair extended to a lizard’s tail.

Her name is Angelina Jolie, playing the role of monster Grendel’s mother, a seductive create known to bed Kings in this animated epic Beowulf. The role of the third party shouldn’t be anything new to her. She refuses to let her children watch Beowulf, and we wonder why. (“Mummy, why are you stealing husbands?” )

The film is directed by Robert Zemeckis and was created through motion capture, a technique similar to that used by Zemeckis in The Polar Express. The rest of the cast includes heavyweights Ray Winstone, Anthony Hopkins, Robin Wright Penn, Dominic Keating, Alison Lohman, and John Malkovich.

People watch Beowulf for two reasons: For its impressive animated motion capture, or for Mrs Pitt coming out of the water. As male audiences breathe in deeply, that is what I call ‘stop motion’. Ray Winstone was equally impressive as well, though his Austin Power moments in this animation got either blushes or chuckles chucker from shy girls.

Adapted from an old English heroic poem about a battle hero overcoming monsters, the movie brings epic animations to new grounds. Like adrenalin pumping computer games, it is littered with intense fights and sexual allusion (nudity expected). Some things are still missing (other than clothes), and perhaps it’s the emotional depth that only the human eye can portray.

Beowulf – Be seduced

30 Days of Night (Film)

2007-11-21T23:59:00.000+08:00

Director: David Slade
Cast: Josh Hartnett, Melissa George, Danny Huston, Ben Foster, Mark Boone Junior
RunTime: 113 mins
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Rating: M18 (Violence & Gore)

What’s the difference between 30 Days of Night and 28 Days Later? Not two days I suppose.

Based on the graphic novel by Steve Niles and Ben Templesmith, 30 Days of Night works overtime to pump fresh life into the vampire genre, but somehow resonates for another similar film on Zombies by Danny Boyle.
Located in the northernmost part of Alaska, the town of Barrow experiences a complete lack of sunshine for an entire month once a year. As darkness descends, vampires arrive infecting everyone in the town. For Sheriff Eben (Josh Hartnett) and a few others, it would mean hiding for their lives until they see light.

Other than some cheap scares and sound effects, this film is more action packed than horrific. The whole mood and pacing was appropriate and you never quite felt the days went pass too slowly. The predictable storyline doesn’t really dump down the whole excitement of humans vs vampires.

At the end of the day, you just know that you have seen all this before, and in fact something slightly better.

30 Days of Night – If Only It Came Earlier

Enchanted (Film)

2007-11-21T23:45:00.000+08:00

Director: Kevin Lima
Cast: Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden, Timothy Spall, Idina Menzel, Rachel Covey, Susan Sarandon
RunTime: 107 mins
Genre: Comedy/Fantasy/Musical
Rating: PG

Call me the man who doesn’t grow up, but we can never get too much of Disney, can we?

Enchanted is in every way… enchanting. In this part-animation, part-action comedy, we follow the fairytale of princess Giselle (Amy Adams) from the land of Andalsia who is thrust into present-day by the step mother (Susan Sarandon) of her Prince Charming Edward (James Marsden). Giselle meets a jaded lawyer (Patrick Dempsey), and changes his life. So would it be Prince Charming or Mr Handsome lawyer for a life happily ever after?

My first impression from the trailer was too sweet, too childish, and too foolish. In a way, being overly sweet, childish and foolish is the whole appeal of the movie. Right from the start, the superbly diabetic song and dance sequences and merry making with animals and birds were wicked and charming humour which pays homage to all the Disney classics.

Enchancted is Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Beauty and the Beast, and Pocahontas all rolled in one, bringing out the sense of nostalgia, but likely to turn away grumpy realists.

Even if you do not like princess and poison apples, the very cute squirrel and film score from Alan Menken should save the day.

Enchanted - Success for this Disney flick wouldn’t be a fairytale.

December Boys (Film)

2007-11-19T22:48:00.000+08:00

(Special Thanks to Patrick who just knows I am too busy to write anything these few weeks.)

December boys is a film on teenage angst and adolescents' search for love. Filmed with much passion, the film centres on four orphans, whose hopes for adoption diminished by the day as they age. The film allows the audience to see the world through the eyes of the orphans and depicts their lives as one of a transient nature. While the orphans have always tried to find a fatherly figure to look up to, they often also relish in the delight of sheer independence away from domestic rules and family discipline, finding true joy in the wonders of nature.

It's fortunate that Daniel Radcliffe (aka Harry Potter) took on the role as Maps since it fits him perfectly. As the eldest of the four orphans, he has almost lost all hopes of being adopted. While he doesn't indulge in the idea of adoption, he is still looking for love. And his search for love has resulted in the friendship forged between himself and Lucy (Teresa Palmer), the daughter of a parent who wants to adopt a boy for their family, which goes deeper as the days pass. Soon, they were in love, before a drastic change in Lucy's life forced Maps to confront the actual situation in his life. While this is unfolding, the other three orphans are also vying for adoption by Lucy's parents.

As the film progresses, the conflict occuring among and within the orphans began to intensify. And soon, all four orphans are forced to face their destinies in life. Torn between their longing for doting parents and their friendship to one another, the orphans have to make a decisive choice. This is where the film becomes interesting as their friendships are tested.

While the audience might expect Daniel Radcliffe to be in the limelight, it's encouraging to see other young actors sharing the limelight as well. Especially noteworthy is Lee Cormie as Misty, one of the orphans whose acting prowess far surpasses Daniel Radcliffe at times. He is indeed one potential young actor whom we might be seeing more of. Hopefully, he will be able to receive the same recognition as child actor Dakota Fanning ("Man on Fire", "War of the World", "I am Sam") in the years ahead.

In a light-hearted manner, December boys reminds us of our teenage days gone by, of our need to belong and the anticipation of romance. It also speaks of deep friendships forged between close friends and how sometimes, this friendship is worth retaining and fighting for. In a world where technology has, at times, made things impersonal and cold, December Boys will provide a comforting touch as a reminder that in the absence of technology, when we are bathed in the embrace of nature, love can still be found in friendships and when one is one with nature.

December Boys - A Comforting Touch

Halloween (Film)

2007-11-03T22:50:00.000+08:00

Director: Rob Zombie
Cast: Malcolm McDowell, Sheri Moon Zombie, Tyler Mane, Scout Taylor Compton, Brad Dourif, Danielle Harris
RunTime: 110 mins
Genre: Horror
Rating: M18 (Violence and Sexual Scene)

In 1978, the movie Halloween produced on a low budget, became one of the most profitable films ever made. The story of Mike Myers who killed his whole family and others, lead its way to other slasher flicks. Not forgetting its signature Halloween tune and the star which was created in Jamie Lee Curtis.

Fast forward 29 years later, Halloween is remade and screened at a very apt timing of end October. This remade showed a lot more on the childhood of Myers, and perhaps shed light into why’s he’s so psycho.

Otherwise, it is still the same - blood, gore, killings and that signature tune. The family gets killed, policemen gets killed and every sexually promiscuous high school b*** gets killed. Guys scream, and more girls scream. Next!

Hopefully, this movie can teach the youth be more conservative and parents to take care of their kids before they turn crazy. Nah!

Other than more brutal killings, this Halloween has no treats or tricks. If you still enjoy this kind of stuff, and like some cheap thrills, then just go for it. If not, rent the original DVD.

Halloween – Just another scary remake

Bee Movie (Film)

2007-11-03T21:58:00.000+08:00

Director: Simon J. Smith, Steve Hickner
Cast (Voices): Jerry Seinfeld, Renée Zellweger, Matthew Broderick, John Goodman, Chris Rock, Kathy Bates, Alan Arkin, Patrick Warburton
Runtime: 90 mins
Genre: CG Animation
Rating: PG

Bee Movie is a B-grade animation. *why*

Not that there is anything very wrong about this odd-ball animation by comedy man Jerry Seinfeld, the movie just leaves you feeling rather unsettling and disturbed. *okay*

Barry Benson the Bee finds himself disillusioned having to work in the same job for the rest of his life, decides to break out his bee society and finds himself freedom and love. *gulps*

It has its laughable moments, on its satire on politics and pop culture. Expect several ‘cameos’ from Larry King, Sting from Police, Vincent the Bear from Over the Hedge, ‘Winnie the Pooh’ and Chris Rock as the blood sucking male mosquito. *haha*

If that troubled you (male mosquitoes don’t suck blood), the other scientific inaccuracies about bee will probably irritate you. Kids may walk out of the cinema with the impression that bees talk and build knitted families. Not that it matters, but give the writers an encyclopedia on the nature of male and female insects. *hmmm*

What really destabilized me was bees fighting a case in court with humans, and falling in love with a human. Now imagine Ms Bridget Jones kissing an insect. *eeekk*

Like other animations, there are moral lessons to be learnt, like we should look for our freedom than to confirm to societal norms. But the ending tells otherwise – contradictory. Quirkiness may not work on everyone. *hmmm*

Bee Movie – All that buzz may sting

Stardust (Film)

2007-11-03T21:51:00.001+08:00

Director: Matthew Vaughn
Cast: Claire Danes, Charlie Cox, Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sienna Miller, Ian McKellen, Ricky Gervais, Jason Flemyng, Peter O'Toole
RunTime: 128 mins
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: PG

What does a village boy searching for love, 3 heirs to a throne, a 400-year old witch, and a cross dressing pirate have in common?

They are after shooting star in human form Yvaine (Claire Danes) who can give them a chance for love, power and external youth. All have their reasons for capturing the fallen one, and this original novel by Neil Gaiman promises a sequence - which is all heart warming, exciting, and delightfully funny.

The stories seem similar to the fairytales we are so familiar with – handsome princes after stars, witches after beauty, and the evil ones after power. The difference is they put everything together. In the chase sequences, the juxtaposition of the stories keeps the momentum running.

And of course the quirky characters, from the very queer Captain Shakespeare (Robert de Niro in some kind of a breakthrough), and the gorgeous Michelle Pfeiffer as Lamia the witch, so wickedly funny with her dropping breasts and self-depreciating humour. We think that she secretly enjoys thoroughly playing such bitchy roles after her 5-year MIA.

The weaker links are perhaps the lead roles of newcomer Charlie Cox in a very bland role, and a forgettable Claire Danes who doesn’t shine as much as the star would.

Otherwise, Stardust is like a ride to Disneyland – You know what to expect, but all the fun and buzz brings out the child in you.

Stardust - Fairytales can be so fun!

Resident Evil: Extinction (Film)

2007-10-14T23:12:00.000+08:00

Director: Russell Mulcahy
Cast : Milla Jovovich, Ali Larter, Ashanti, Chris Egan, Iain Glen, Jason O'Mara, Mike Epps, Oded Fehr, Spencer Locke
RunTime: 95 mins
Genre: Action
Rating: NC-16

I know of people watching Resident Evil just because they want to catch Milla Jovovich. She still looks good, whether in her red slinky dress, sahara outfit, or in just almost nothing. When her hands are not cupping the essential parts, the long legs look ready to kill at anytime.

Never mind if you did not watch the previous two parts, but rest assured this has been called the best of the three. It’s just a story about Alice the super human saving the planet of zombies. You know you can’t expect anything much when you are watching something like this right?

Lousy story – checked. Cheesy dialogues –checked. So so effect – checked. Actress wearing nothing – checked. Brainless entertainment – checked.

If there are two things I remember from the movie, it’s Milla’s airbrushed face when zoomed in (and normal when out), and the super loud sound effects that would make the Oxide brothers’ horror movies pale in decibels.

Whether it is Fifth Element, Ultraviolet, or Resident Evil, Milla’s various venture in these B grade sci-fi genre movies, is evidence she can make any bad movie look good.

Resident Evil: The Extinction: 3 wrongs don't make 1 right

The Brave One (Film)

2007-10-14T23:05:00.000+08:00

Director: Neil Jordan

Cast: Jodie Foster, Terrence Howard, Naveen Andrews, Mary Steenburgen

RunTime: 1 hr 59 mins

Rating: NC-16 (Violence)

Genre: Drama/Thriller

Academy Award-winning actress Jodie Foster always seems to play the ‘trapped’ woman. From the trapped victim (The Accused), trapped FBI Agent hounded by the man-eater (Silence of the Lambs) to being trapped in spaces (Panic Room) and planes (Flightplan).

This time she plays a radio talk show host trapped in her wounds and fear after her finance was violently killed in a random attack. The fearful and vulnerable woman recuperates from her physical injuries and becomes a fearless shoot, never to recover from her emotional hurt. She gets a gun, and shows gangsters and thugs she is not one to be trifled with.

Once again, Jodie Foster scores as the woman with a grudge, with Terence Howard making a convincing part as the police officer. Look at the scores of actresses, and nobody can really play her role with that much intense and emotional depth at the same time.

You will enjoy the film’s quiet moments, when Jodie Foster reads lines of her programme, or listen to Sarah MaLachlan’s Answer. The movie’s most silent parts, is the most affecting and thought-provoking parts.

Towards the end, it becomes a “Bang! Bang! Bang!” affair. Part insanity, part Kill Bill humour and part Hollywood. As Jodie Foster goes, “I want my dog” and “Bang! Bang!”, you laugh at how something serious can end so conveniently. Yes, even her movies can be trapped in the commercial cycle.

The Brace One - How many wrongs can make it right? None.

Balls of Fury (Film)

2007-09-26T17:09:00.001+08:00

Director: Ben Garant
Cast: Christopher Walken, Dan Fogler, George Lopez, Maggie Q, Robert Patrick, Thomas Lennon
RunTime: 90 mins
Genre: Action/Comedy
Rating: PG (Some Coarse Humour)

What it sounds like: Privates of angry wrestlers

What it actually is: Comedy about a former child star ping-pong player Randy Daytona who goes undercover to smoke out a notorious ping-pong master Feng. He falls in love with his kung-fu fighting teacher Maggie (Maggie Q).

What it really, really is: A ridiculous pales down version of Dodgeball who makes fun of Chinese, kuai lohs (caucasians) fat slobs, FBI agents, and whores.

Why it is worth $9:50: Its cast! Dang Fogler playing Randy Daytona is a fatter but more endearing Jack Black; Maggie Q adds to the sizzle factor; James Hong playing Master Wong sprouting Cantonese insults is just a classic act. Look out for Jason Scott Lee who is unrecognizable as the brawny but brainless player. If you don’t really care about all this, then wait for its cable telecast 3 years later.

Quote of the Day: It is better to die like a tiger, than to live like a pussy.

Balls of Fury - Funny lah! But that's about it.

Planet Terror (Film)

2007-09-26T17:00:00.000+08:00

Director: Robert Rodriguez
Cast: Rose McGowan, Freddy Rodriguez, Josh Brolin, Michael Biehn, Naveen Andrews, Electra Avellan, Elise Avellan
RunTime: 104 mins
Genre: Sci-Fi/Thriller
Rating: R21

What it sounds like: Earth when it is full of screaming children

What it actually is: A rural town in Texas starts going amok when a deadly biochemical agent turns everyone into zombies. Those who will save the town include a go-go dancer, deranged lesbian anesthesiologist and the killer of Osama Bin Laden. (Oh common, you can't take this movie too seriously!)

What it really, really is: Robert Rodriguez’s collaboration with Quentin Tarantino to pay tribute to all the “B movies” in the world. The movie is so bad; it’s very, very good.

Why it is worth $9:50: Rose McGowen (from Charmed) who plays the go-go dancer which will give a new meaning to sexy and ‘kick a leg’. The best part of the movie is the first five minutes, so don’t miss it!

Quotes of the Day: I'm gonna eat your brains and gain your knowledge.

Planet Terror – ‘Terrifying’ fun!

Me... Myself (Film)

2007-09-26T16:53:00.001+08:00

Director: Pongpat Wachirabunjong
Cast: Ananda Everingham, Chayanan Manomaisnatiphap
Genre: Drama
Rating: M18 (Mature Content)

What it sounds like: A prequel to Jim Carrey’s comedy.

What it actually is: A Thai romantic film staring Ananda Everingham (of Shutter fame) who plays a male dancer in a transvestite cabaret. After suffering from amnesia from a car accident, he falls in love with a free-spirited creative director, who whines a lot more than him.

What it really, really is: A ‘Korean type’ love story that has a lead actress that looks every bit Korean, and with acting skills that would make Fiona Xie's and Dawn Yeoh's award-winning. Ladies often hold their breath looking at the male lead, a cross between Tony Leung and Pierre Png. Slow walks, lost memories, ill-fated lovers, enchanting music and tears-inducing scenes – The Thais can do it as well as the Koreans.

Why it is worth $9.50: Pronounce with me…. Ananda Everingham. With it’s sensitive take on gender issues, Thailand is probably the only country who can film a movie of such context.

Lesson of the day: Before you mock people who are different at Changi Village, they can be just the same as you and I.

Me... Myself - Part soap, part hope

I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry (Film)

2007-09-18T13:22:00.000+08:00

Director: Dennis Dugan
Cast : Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Jessica Biel
RunTime: 115 mins
Released By: UIP
Genre: Comedy
Rating: M18 (Some Homosexual Content)

I always wonder which would be funnier: Straight men acting gay or gay men acting straight. Wait! The first has become a comedy, while the latter is reality!

Yet another gay comedy has arrived to our shores, rated just M18 and a only 25 minutes censored. We should be thankful for this, otherwise it’s would be just a prolonged movie of more queer jokes.

Adam Sandler and Kevin James are Chuck and Larry, two straight firefighters who pretend to be homosexuals and applied for domestic partnership, so that one can be the beneficiary of some insurance policies. Not a very believable excuse for anybody to marry their best friend. Let’s not bother too much about logic in an Adam Sandler’s movie.

Yes, there were some laughter and shrieks in the cinema, while I was shaking my head in disbelief. This comedy has become America’s number 1 movie, which shows cheap entertainment has its appeal. Perhaps crude humour, crass language, stereotypical portrayals, big male buttocks and sexual personification of women is just not my cup of tea.

Actually, I have full respect for the cast such as Adam Sandler and ever sexy Jessica Biel, for the kind of charisma they strangely have. Perhaps they can pick better scripts the next time.

This movie attempts to dispel all stereotypes and tell us that gay people are can be very nice and become good friends, ironically just reinforces on all the other negativity.

I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry – Laughable and forgettable

Sicko (Film)

2007-09-18T12:39:00.001+08:00

Director: Michael Moore
Cast: Michael Moore
Runtime: 2 hrs
Genre: Documentary
Rating: PG

I often hear some old people say they would rather die than get sick. Not because they cannot take the sufferings, but due to the escalating medical bills. It can be rather devastating to have a life time of savings wiped out due to an illness or major operation.

Imagine this: After losing two of your fingers in a work accident, you would have thought your health insurance could have covered something. One finger cost US$60,000, and the other US$12,000, which finger would you save? One? Both? Or cannot afford any?

One of America’s most daring filmmakers Michael Moore went from gun violence (Bowling for Columbine) to President George W. Bush (Fahrenheit 9/11) to criticize the health care system in this documentary Sicko. In the light of escalating medical cost, exploiting pharmaceutical companies, and unethical insurance companies, this movie is timely in sounding out what the Americas want to vent.

How would you feel when you saw a baby girl die and a family broken up because the different hospitals refused to accept her mother’s health insurance? The result was a mixture of sadness, desperation, anger and empathy.

Although criticized to be unrealistic and inaccurate, this controversial piece was necessary to tell the stories of the common people. Whether to believe it or not is up to the discerning audience.

I suspect that Sicko would not appeal too much to Singaporeans, because these are stories we may not relate to, we have an acceptable healthcare system, or that we are just too 'well' to care much for the sick.

Sicko – Controversial but necessary

The Magic Gourd 宝葫芦的秘密 (Film)

2007-09-04T22:55:00.000+08:00

Director: John Chu & Frankie Chung
Cast : Zhu Qilong, Gigi Leung
RunTime: 85 mins
Genre: Children
Rating: G

Big brother China is the next big movie market to look out for, as they venture into their first partnering film between Chinese Film Group with Walt Disney Studios. And as most of the other Chinese cartoons we watch, this is based on a children literature, by the late Zhang Tianyi.

The story may remind you of the other Japanese cartoon, Doraemon. Like its protagonist Da Xiong, this film revolves around the lazy Wang Bao, who always gets the lowest grades in school, who fortunately has supportive friends. He finds a Magic Gourd, a talking brown gourd which grants him every thing that he wishes for. Yes, no restriction to three wishes.

Wang Bao makes you of his gourd to get out of troubles including pleasing his Mathematics teacher amusingly and too decently played by Gigi Leung, completing his mechanical robot school project, swimming for the school team, and even getting his nails cut.

The story is typically predictable with the moral of “All children will learn from their mistakes”. I suspect that the children nowadays (especially Singaporean kids spoilt by Hollywood movies) are too sophisticated to buy into this story literally. With these differences in culture, the moral may be too preachy for their liking.

Although Disney has a hand in the animation, do not expect Pixar quality stuff. Though you do emphasize and adore with the Magic Gourd at certain parts, you may not care less about the lazy kid, and his perfect bespectacled teacher.

For this report card, it scores high on effort, but lower on delivery. For children seven and below. For those above, they are too spoilt for choices.

The Magic Gourd - Suitable for children seven and below

1408 (Film)

2007-08-30T21:43:00.000+08:00

Director: Mikael Håfström
Cast: John Cusack, Samuel L. Jackson, Mary McCormack, Tony Shalhoub
RunTime: 94 mins
Genre: Horror
Rating: PG

One haunted hotel room. One paranormal story author. Death in under One hour. Four numbers 1408 which add up to 13.

Based on Stephen King’s short story, John Cusack plays author Mike Enslin who has visited more spooky hotels and graveyards than anybody, but firmly does not believe in supernatural beings. That is before he was handed the 1408's key over by Dolphin hotel’s manager Gerald Olin (Samuel L Jackson), who warns him of the ‘evil f***ing room’. The hotel has no level 13, and that room of on the 14th level has claimed 56 lives.

The starting was extremely promising, as most of us who stayed in hotels would have imagined some of the spooks, and wondered who was the last person who used the bed sheets. A slamming window, imaginary shadows, unstoppable taps, a clock radio which plays the Carpenters’s "We’ve only just begun"… Unfortunately, while the fear has just begun, it was starting to end.

When a horror movie lands on Hollywood’s hands, somehow CGI and special effects of blazing fires and falling snow do not work well in hotel rooms. Stranger things happen to Mike who turns hysterical, while the audience starts to feel bewildered.

1408 plays both a horror and psychological game, characteristic of Stephen King’s works. With John Cusack trying his best to act crazy, and Samuel L Jackson in just another disappointing supporting role, this is potential thriller turning into another mediocre horror. Once again, they fail to understand less is more.

1408 – You won’t want to stay in this room for too long.

Hairspray (Film)

2007-08-30T11:30:00.000+08:00

Director: Adam Shankman
Cast : John Travolta, Nikki Blonsky, Elijah Kelley, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, James Marsden, Queen Latifah, Brittany Snow, Allison Janney, Taylor Parks
RunTime: 97 mins
Genre: Musical
Rating: PG

Welcome to Baltimore! This is the town where dreams can come true.

First meet Tracy Turnblad (newcomer Nikki Blonski), a big big girl,with a bigger ambition – to be part of the popular Corny Collins Show as a dancer. On this black and white song and dance variety, there is the suave host Corny Collins (X-Men Cyclops James Marsden) with his pearly shines, and his other dancers including bitchy Amber (Brittany Snow) and endearing Link (High School Musical Zac Efron).

There are two women who tries to stop Tracy’s dreams from coming true: Edna her mother (delightfully dragged by John Travolta) wants to protect her plus-sized daughter from being ridiculed in the cruel show business. Velma (Michelle Pfeiffer returning back to film after a 5 year break) the racist and plastic beauty queen, who is just pure cold and cool. I like.

A film which embraces being talented and different, and not just blonde and beautiful, it will resonate a bell with everyone of us who feels small within.

The soul of Hairspray is in its music. Oh, how wonderful it is! Is there a better one to use? It makes every grumpy soul out there smile and add a snap to the beat. Like a breeze of wind on a bright summer afternoon, it will make you go ‘side step, cha cha cha.’

In Baltimore, you can fall in love with the music, the dance, the floral dresses, the sweet Tracy, her fat drag mama, or the ice queen Velma, and the fun spirit it embraces. Throw your worries away and join in the boogie. You can’t stop the beat.

Welcome to the 60’s!

Hairspray – No amount of hairspray can make me this happy!

Evan Almighty (Film)

2007-08-28T14:52:00.001+08:00

Director: Tom Shadyac
Cast: Steve Carell, Morgan Freeman, Wanda Sykes, Lauren Graham, Jimmy Bennett, John Goodman, Steve Oedekerk, John Michael Higgins, Molly Shannon, Jonah Hill, Ed Helms
RunTime: 95 mins
Genre: Family Comedy
Rating: PG

Genesis 6:14 “So make yourself an ark of cypress wood; make rooms in it and coat it with pitch inside and out.”

The story of Noah’s Ark should be familiar to many young children attending bible school, where Noah built an ark to save his family and pairs of every animal to survive the great flood under God’s command.

A sequel to Jim Carrey’s hit Bruce Almighty, the premises of Evan Almighty is based on this biblical story. 40-year-old virgin Steve Carell plays Evan Baxter, a newly elected congress man who prays for a better family life and a mission to change the word. God appears in the shape of Morgan Freeman and told him to build an ark which was the ridicule of many.

With the same old story in a modern day setting, this movie would thrill little children with the animals and visual effects, probably attracting those who like Night at the Museum and Jumanji as well.

Steve Carell is less dumb and dumber than Jim Carey, and with the right kind of comic timing and humour, he was probably the only human in the movie who single-handedly saved it. Definitely your next best comedian to look out for. Wanda Skyes provides the one-liners, but unfortunately they are only just ‘straight in your face’ one-liners.

Do not watch it with an adult’s mindset, and you may just enjoy this like an entertaining trip to the zoo. Unfortunately, unlike Noah’s ark, this most expensive comedy (US$200 million) in history drowned under disapproval of the critics and poor box office takings. This ‘paper-thin alleged comedy’ could only pray that it is not bitten by that blue rat in Singapore’s box office.

Evan Almighty – Thin family entertainment (Watch with a child's mindset!)

Jesus Camp (Film)

2007-08-28T14:47:00.000+08:00

Director: Heidi Ewing & Rachel Grady
Starring: Becky Fischer, Mike Papantonio, Levi, Rachael, Tory
RunTime: 85 mins
Genre: Documentary
Rating: M18 (Mature Theme With Religious Content)

Campus Superstar (TV)

2007-08-27T11:39:00.000+08:00

许政宁- 歌唱原本不被看好，可是舞台的自信，和散发的明星特质是有目共睹。在赛后应该会有最多表演机会的参赛者。在舞台下，看那平时嘻嘻哈哈的她，流下感动之泪，看到了她的成长。

KEELY - 总是以哈哈轻轻带过问题。演唱“人质”时，力不从心，可以听到，她累了。感觉上，还是位贪玩的小女生，所以唱歌会少了感情。

BEN - 当晚，真的被他的37-20-1吓到了。虽然所还有点僵硬，不过他的努力，大家都看的到。唱得最好，却最快被淘汰掉。外表冷静，不擅长说话，内心的失望，完全些在脸上。没关系，你是很多人，包括我心目中的冠军。

SHAWN - 很多人说他唱歌没感情，没节奏，当晚确实他的神情不在，精神恍惚，可是不要忘了，就如水上飘说，他才十三岁。十三岁你在做什么？社会和时间是残酷的。要加油阿！

Fido (Film)

2007-08-24T13:06:00.000+08:00

Director: Andrew Currie
Cast: Henry Czerny, Carrie-Anne Moss, Tim Blake Nelson, Billy Connolly, Dylan Baker
RunTime: 1 hr 31 min
Genre: Horror Comedy
Rating: NC-16 (Some gory scenes)

It is somewhat hard to pinpoint exactly what a film like Fido is all about, what it hopes to achieve, or what type of cinema goers it will attract.

A movie on zombie which is not scary, a comedy not exactly very funny, and satire which is not palpable, Fido may just attract those who wants to give this movie a try, or have nothing other to watch during the weekends.

Set in the 1950s Pleasantville-type era and space, zombies have been tamed by the company ZomCon to play the role of servants. Zombie deliver milks, try cars, do household chores, walk the door, and occasionally play companion to the bored human beings. So which becomes scarier at the end: the zombie or homo sapiens?

Carrie-Anne Moss plays Helen a desperate housewife who buys a zombie because it is a ‘must-have’ in the neighborhood. Fido the zombie becomes a family friend, and a potential love thread to the housewife. One can only imagine what happens when he runs amok.

With a brilliant mise en scene reminiscent of old American dishwasher advertisements, the picket fences and floral dresses create a vibrant and colourful mood to the movie.

Fifo provides an occasional laugh, and a satirical tone with dead people and broken limbs. But it can certainly push the buttons much more on its undertones and societal critic on racism and elitism. Pity pity.

Fido – A quite funny, not scary horror-comedy

Dead Silence (Film)

2007-08-24T12:51:00.000+08:00

Director: James Wan
Cast: Ryan Kwanten, Amber Valletta, Donnie Wahlberg, Bob Gunton
RunTime: 90 mins
Genre: Horror
Rating: PG (Some disturbing scenes)

Beware the stare of Mary Shaw
She had no children, only dolls
And if you see her in your dreams
Be sure you never, ever scream

From the makers of Saw comes this horror story about a ventriloquist who wants to make a perfect doll. Set in a creepy little town, murderous dolls and dummies somehow have the ability to make audience scream. Think Chucky.

Ironically, the cinema was as what the movie suggests, in dead silence. About a newly wed whose blissful married life ended when a ventriloquist’s dummy silenced the wife dead, the rest of the story falls into a bottomless pit of loopholes.

The husband brings the eerie dummy his hometown to find out about the mystery about his wife’s brutal death. (Now, how, how silly can this get? I would have burnt it.) Her death is somehow linked to an old childhood poem, a burnt down theatre house, and his deranged father. With more sophisticated audience, the whole premise feels like it’s ‘been-there-done-that’.

Without gory scenes, this movie attempts to return to the basics with old-fashioned scare tactics. It does manage to create the creepy mood and dated look rather well. However, many times audience was expecting something to happen, which did not quite realise.

Sex symbol Ryan Kwanten keeps his shirt, but wife loses her tongue, and police detective Donnie Wahlberg (yes, his brother is Mark) loses credibility, their bland performances seems slightly better than the doll’s. With an interesting twist at the bad, the story unfortunately ends in a dead fashion.

Dead Silence – In Dead Fashion

If There're Seasons (Musical)

2007-08-21T22:55:00.000+08:00

The Theatre Practice’s latest offering is an ambitious one – to create a musical based on Liang Wen Fook’s music. For those unfamiliar with his music, he has written more than 200 songs and is considered the pioneer of ‘xinyao’, having won the title of the “Person Who Best Represents the Xinyao Spirit”. ‘Xinyao’ is a distinct brand of ‘Singaporean music’ characterized with simple melodies and poetic lyrics about this homeland and lives.

“If there’re seasons” is the brain child of Liang, and several other big names such as award-winning playwright Raymond, and director Kuo Jian Hong, with cast members George Chan, Joanna Dong, Sebastian Tan and Magdalene See.

The story revolves around Ah Le, Ah Qiang and Rose, who meet up in New York, all searching for their dreams and nursing a wound from their previous lost love. This group of young friends share their love for music, and battle with reclaiming their old loves.

Fans of Liang’s music will enter a nostalgic pathway, reclaiming memories of songs they used to be familiar with. There is a total of 40 songs used, from the theme song “If there’re seasons” (Tian Leng Jiu Hui Lai), to “Anchored Love” (Lian Zhi Qi), “Worry” (Dan Xin) and “Let’s Watch the Sunrise Together” (Pei Wo Kan Ri Chu), popularized by locals artistes Kit Chan and Joi Chua.

The musical arrangement of Bang Wenfu breathes new life to these otherwise familiar tunes. And with the characters singing them in their own styles and stories, they bring a different interpretation which would still move the audience.

The lead actor George Chan (better known to local audience as The Dance Floor’s judge) does an amazing job in delivering the songs in his unique baritone voice and clear enunciation to many audiences’s surprise. Personally, I felt he could balance between retaining the original ‘xinyao’ flavour and adding his own emotions to the music. His duet with Sebastian Sim “If You Should Think Of Me” (Ru Guo Ni Bu Xiao Xin Xiang Qi Wo) was easily the most memorable and touching piece of the night.

While the musical’s strength is in its music, it could very well be its weakest link as well. Perhaps there were too many songs used, there wasn’t a clear identity or theme song unifying the whole musical. If you try to recall, there aren’t that many pieces that could emote fully but seem to be there to fill up space.

Because these songs are originally written as ‘xinyao’ or pop, the fit into the story appeared like a messy patchwork at times. While most of the ensemble pieces are entertaining and fun, there are too many solos which dragged the storyline. Somewhat forced and unnatural, the removal of some songs may actually do better good to the entire musical.

The beauty of Liang’s lyrics lies in its poetic nature, and the English translation may not bring out the full flavour of its original intention. Audience who do not understand Chinese may just see many words like ‘flowers’, ‘sun’, ‘moon’, and ‘sky’ used, and may be lost in deciphering the hidden metaphors.

While this journey is without its flaws, it would still appeal to those who grew up with the songs. “If there’re seasons” is like autumn. At times while it feels cold and draggy, the songs would still strike a chord, and bring you memories and feelings of warmth that you may have left behind.

If There're Seasons - Strikes A Chord

Original review found here:

http://www.fifo.sg/post/show/75

If There're Seasons (Musical)

2007-08-21T22:51:00.000+08:00

BanBan speaks to actress Magdalene, last seen in Theatre Practice's musical Lao Jiu and the television series House Mates. She will next act and sing in “If There’re Seasons”, the highly anticipated musical penned by Hong Kong playwright Raymond To, and inspired by local songwriter Liang Wern Fook.

The musical revolves around a group of young friends who learn that some things are worth holding on to, no matter what lies ahead.

Tell us about If There're Seasons.
It's a moving story that centers around the themes of love and dreams. I believe that everyone who comes to watch it will identify with at least one character or one moment in the musical because the emotional journey that each character goes through is similar to what all of us experience in the different situations life throws at us.

What is the best season which describes you?
It will definitely the warmest one. Summer! Winter is too cold, Autumn is too depressing and Spring is sweet but too romantic. Summer is warm, bustling with energy and full of joy!

What is the biggest pressure faced in acting in this musical?
Currently, the thing that stresses me out the most is singing. The songs written for my character (Xiao Jing) are pitched quite high. So it's a challenge to act, emote, move and sing while not going off-pitch.

How about being compared to an accomplished singer, say Kit Chan who originally sang the songs used in the musical?
I'll be singing Kit Chan songs like ‘Dan Xin’ (Worry) and ‘Xi Huan Ni’ (Like You). Well the thought of being compared to Kit has definitely crossed my mind more than once!

But I know I'm never going to sound like her so I'm not even going to try to imitate her. A musical is not a concert. The songs in a musical are the means by which a character expresses his/her thoughts and feelings. So this is the way I approach it: I sing it in the way my character would sing it and express her thoughts and emotions through the lyrics and song. And that takes off the stress of "do I sound as good as Kit Chan?"

The songs in the musical have become more than her songs, the songs now belong to the character.

What makes you swing back and forth TV and the stage?
Well, I have lots to learn in both areas and I learn different things in each. However, it's interesting that though the two different disciplines exert different requirements on the actor, I find that doing one helps me improve in the other. Also, the industry in Singapore is really small, so we can't really afford to be choosy. The truth is, doing a theatre production is my input channel where I learn and learn while TV is the output channel that raises my profile.

Do you prefer to be involved in a TV or Stage Production?
It's hard to say. There are things I love and dislike about each. I like the kick of acting in front of a live audience, with no NGs and hence continuity of emotions. But rehearsals are very tiring and demanding. I like the subtlety of TV and the magic of editing but I dislike the waiting and the fact that sometimes actors can get away with "empty" acting.

Full interview available at:
http://www.fifo.sg/post/show/64

The Invisible City (Film)

2007-08-20T13:47:00.000+08:00

The Invisible City is directed by Tan Pin Pin, one of Singapore’s best known filmmakers. I first met Pin Pin during the screening of her 2003 documentary 80kmh, a continuous single take of the drive from Tuas to Changi along PIE, lasting 38 minutes.

Fresh from having directed the critically and commercially acclaimed Singapore GaGa as well as the multiple award-winning Moving House, she now turns her camera to the subject of memory in her latest film.From an avid amateur film director trying to preserve his decaying trove of Singapore footage to an intrepid Japanese journalist hunting down Singaporean war veterans, Tan Pin Pin draws out doubts, hopes and the ordinary moments of these protagonists who attempt immortality. Through their footage and photos rarely seen until now, we begin to perceive faint silhouettes of a City that could have been.

Alas, she is a woman of few words, and prefers to let her films do the talking. She talks about her love for capturing moments on film and how she did not want to make Invisible City the way it was. After she filmed a huge portion of it, looked at the footage and edited together no less than 10 different versions.

1. Invisible City chronicles the ways people attempt to leave a mark before they and their histories disappear. Who has left the deepest mark in your life that made you who you are?

My parents.

2, What do you see as the biggest change in this city you are living in?

There are more interesting things to see and do here than before. We are more confident of ourselves. We no longer keep looking out.

3. Give us 3 reasons why we should watch the Invisible City.

Reason 1: We get to see footages of Singapore you have never seen before, and of a Singapore that doesn't exist anymore either.

Reason 2: You will meet interesting people who live in your midst that you'd never other wise meet, for example an archaeologist!

Reason 3: How about feeling the collective heartbeat, thump thump thump?

Would Tan Pin Pin go commercial one day?

Of course, I make lots of TV (commercials) and will continue to do so!

Full interview available at FIFO:

http://www.fifo.sg/post/show/71

Ratatouille (Film)

2007-08-17T00:13:00.000+08:00

Director: Brad Bird
Cast (Voices): Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm, Lou Romano, Brian Dennehy, Peter Sohn, Peter O'Toole, Brad Garrett, Janeane Garofalo, Will Arnett, Julius Callahan, James Remar, John Ratzenberger, Teddy Newton, Tony Fucile, Jake Steinfeld, Brad Bird, Laurent Spelvogel (narrator)
RunTime: 112 mins
Genre: Animation
Rating: G

This little blue rat named Remy, though not at all yummy, is probably this year’s most anticipated animation creature, and will join Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Nemo as one of Disney Pixar’s most celebrated popular characters.

Ratatouille is a delicious tale about the friendship between Remy the rat who wants to be a chef in Paris, and Alfredo Linguini (though not Italian) as the garbage boy who cannot cook to save his life. They form an unusual companionship and working relationship as Remy controls Linguini’s movements and cooking abilities by pulling on his hair.

Pixar has reached another peak in its animation, with Remy and his family with hair 'drawn' all so detailed, and eyes so expressive. It has the right mixture of ingredients of fun action, ‘awww factor’, intelligent quotes, and moral for children (and critics!) at the end of the day.

There is also an important lesson of “Anybody can cook”, with the belief of dreams can come true. This delectable tale would appeal to adults and children alike, making it an enjoyable outing for the whole family.

While you may have tasted samples of it through the numerous trailers played, its cuteness factor continues to make it an appetizing processes of humour and little pleasures. Perhaps there was too much action, and less time spent on building on friendships and relationships. Thus, it was an entertaining but not so much of an emotional meal out.

Ratatouille is also the name of a French stewed vegetable dish, usually served as a side dish. This movie is an appealing dish, attractive to the look, sufficient as a tasty and sweet side dish. It will keep you warm in the tummy, but leaves you hungry for more sentiments.

Ratatouille - With all the right ingredients to make it a delectable meal

The Bourne Ultimatum (Film)

2007-08-16T23:05:00.001+08:00

Director: Paul Greengrass
Cast: Matt Damon, Julia Stiles, Joan Allen, David Strathairn, Paddy Considine
RunTime: 112 mins
Genre: Thriller/Action
Rating: PG (Some Violence)

Hollywood’s most bankable star Matt Damon returns to play Jason Bourne, the trained assassin who loses his memory. The amnesiac Bourne was last since in The Bourne Identity and The Bourne Supremacy, with the 3rd of the series continuously being based on Robert Ludlum’s novel.

Bourne is hunted down by everybody, from cops, federal officers to Interpol agents, when all he wanted to do is to remember the past he has left behind, and the self he is starting to remember.

After watching this movie, you may be convinced that you are being ‘watched’ all the time, as the CIA keeps all phone calls, movements, and past records closely under surveillance. There is no privacy!

There is never one boring or dull moment in the whole of 112 minutes, as Bourne plays the escaping game and psychological warfare with those who have made him forgotten who he is. There is a good mix of chase scenes, clever lines, and manipulative cat and mouse games. A well crafted masterpiece of intelligence and action, it does not require sex to sell unlike most other thrillers.

Paul Greengrass, who last directed United 93, makes this a never-ending adrenalin pumping piece. Bourne Ultimatum is easily the best of the three, with wide critical acclaim and sounding box office returns. If you wonder if you are able to understand the movie without watching the first two, yes you can.

Matt Damon keeps his shirt on, and has proven to Hollywood that he can be the next action hero with brawns, brain and charisma. More superior than Supremacy, this Bourne is THE Bourne.

The Bourne Ultimatum - This Bourne is THE Bourne

Poltergay (Film)

2007-08-15T23:36:00.000+08:00

Director: Eric Lavaine
Cast: Clovis Cornillac, Julie Depardieu, Lionel Abelanski, Gilles Gaston-Dreyfus, Jean-Michel Lahmi, Philippe Duquesne, Georges Gay, Alain Fromager, Anne Caillon
RunTime: 92 mins
Genre: Comedy (French)
Rating: M18 (Sexual Scenes)

The last you want to get about a gay movie is that gays go dancing around in discos, does housework better than girls, and behaves in that ‘oh, I am so pretty’ way, twitching butts as they sashay down the walkway.

About a newly weds Marc and Emma who move into a haunted house stayed by 5 gay ghosts, Marc’s extra vision makes him wonder if he is turning queer. His photos get taken when he is showering, clothes are pressed, and pictures of huge penises appear throughout the house.

Well, Poltergay is campy and colourful and at the same time lame and lackluster. Yes, it could have been an intelligent spoof of the classic Poltergeist but it wasn’t. Yes, it could have more substance and plot, but it didn’t. No, it did not help that the 5 ghosts are just cardboard stereotypical views of gays.

With an original storyline like this, the movie had the potential to do a lot more than just more gay and heterosexual jokes and disco music. 5 ghosts caught at the basement for 20 years could definitely pack more emotion and laughs with the right balance.

Like a party, you just go and have fun and leave for home forgetting all about it the next day.

Poltergay – Happy movie, and that’s about it

Brave Story (Film)

2007-08-15T23:06:00.000+08:00

Director: Koichi Chigira
Cast (Voice): Yo Oizumi, Eilji Wentz
Runtime: 112 mins
Genre: Japanese Animation
Rating: PG

Wataru doesn’t have an easy childhood. At eleven, his father walked out of his family and mother committed suicide. This would probably be the end of his world, until he found a magic gateway where dreams can come true.

Even as adults, we would want something that could change our lives. Like Wataru, if it was possible to make one dream come true by going through a fantasy adventure of collecting 5 gems, we would go for it as well.

He meets demons, flying dragons, wizards, talking animal and a ‘Hello Kitty’ with a mouth who falls in love with him. Going through enchanting castles, sloping mountains, lush forests, and tower of fortune, this is an adventure that would leave audience awed with the amazing animation.

In fact, it’s too much of castles and explosions, that returning to basics may just be the way. The story drags a little too much, and may sound preachy to kids who may just be clueless with the deeper issues involved.

It can be an animation for adults, to indulge in the colourful world of magic and imagination that we have left behind, and for as to learn a simple lesson and morals that we have forgotten in our busy lives.

Brave Story - Simple story with an important moral

881 (Film)

2007-08-13T11:59:00.000+08:00

Director: Royston Tan
Cast: Mindee Ong, Yeo Yann Yann, Qi Yu Wu, Liu Ling Ling, May and Choy
RunTime: 110 mins
Genre: Musical
Rating: PG

Singapore’s 'bad boy' filmmaker Royston Tan just loves number, from 15, 4:30 and now the Getai (Chinese 7th month stage show) inspired 881.

Here are 8 reasons to watch and 1 reason not to watch 881:
1. 1st musical movie from Singapore, filmed on a $1 million dollar budget with $100,000 spent on its elaborate costumes inspired from Japanese geishas to Thai princesses.
2. Two Singaporean (by right, one Malaysian) Papayas Yeo Yann Yann and Mindee Ong, very underrated by local audience, but able to act, dance, sing and cry like a turn of a tap.
3. Third full length feature by talented Royston Tan. We should support local talents, right?
4. Four other cast including Getai veteran Liu Ling Ling, the very silent Qi Yu Wu (the male version of a vase)and VJs May and Choy who brings the most laughs with their ridiculous pronunciation of ang-moh accented Mandarin and Hokkien. Nothing can be funnier than their tribute to Madonna, durian-boobs style.
5. Five star rating from several film critics like First magazine. They can’t be wrong, can they?
6. Sixth family member which is Qi Yu Wu’s cock. Don’t think dirty! Everybody appreciates a little bit of Hokkien cock jokes.
7. Seventh month getai razzle-dazzle of entertainment, song and dance.
8. You will get more than 8 songs from familiar Hokkien tunes, to new compositions by Eric Huang and Xiao Han. The tune of “One Man One Half” has been in my head ever since.

And that 1 reason would be the lack of emotional depth. The film somewhat reminded me of Royston’s Cut, full of dance sequences, crowd, costume changes, and funny music which is more stylish than intense.

881 - 一人一半, 感情不散

Sho-U Clarke Quay (Food)

2007-08-13T01:08:00.000+08:00

Having a dining experience at the much talked about Sho-U restaurant is where going there is no longer just about eating anymore. The words ‘aesthetics’, ‘arty’, and ‘pretty’ can be used to describe every aspect of this modern Japanese dining restaurant found in Central Mall, Clarke Quay.

The rose red exterior, along with pink sakura flowers on the wall, could very well be a piece of installation art itself. As you walk further in, the red is divided into black and white compartments which made you feel you were entering a masterpiece of interior design, inspired by a Japanese kabuki theatre. Taking a seat at the white ‘lover’s cove’, the view of Clarke Quay by the night is magical, suitable for that special moment.

Even the uniforms of the serving staff are designed by an award winning designer. The attire, also in full black or white, was probably a combination of Japanese-meets-Chinese, traditional-meets-contemporary get-up. The staff were extremely polite, to the point of being too careful. Empty plates were cleared and cups of green tea were refilled almost immediately. Can I say that most of the waitresses (and even waiters) are very pretty as well?

Without a doubt, every food item served was also aesthetically pleasing.

The food itself is not your typical Japanese fare of dons and ramen, but a fusion of several tastes. To prove my point , some of their specialties include the Chawanmushi Trio ($15) – Steamed egg custard with 3 kinds of ingredients served in shot glasses, Ika Onsen Tempura ($12) – Squid rings stuffed with a delicate half boiled egg and seafood fried with tempura flour, Unagi Tofu Steak ($16) – Combination of river eel and silken tofu in teriyaki sauce with grated yam, and Parmesan Baked Hotate ($12).

I ordered the Kinoko Tsukemen ($12) – Green tea noodles in a hot and thick mushroom broth, and Golden Pillow ($12) – sweet beancurd stuffed with noodles, mushroom and fish cake, and some sushi and fried tofu.

Perhaps it was my liking for food with strong taste, but most of the dishes here can be too light for your preference. Nothing was too sweet, salty or spicy. Therefore, the savour was more like a ‘touch and go’ and did not leave too much of an impression or a kick. However, it would please those who enjoy a healthy (light) and attractive treat.

For a final touch, you can opt for the Chef Plate of Specialty Desserts ($15), a combination of three desserts which differ from time to time. The pudding, tofu cheese cake and ice cream infused with alcohol were a treat for both the eyes and the tongue. The texture was soft which trickle down your throat, and taste delightfully delicate.

From the colours of the wall, flowers that decorate the interior, uniforms of the serving staff, menu design, to the food served, it stays true to the Japanese art of understated perfection and beauty.

Food: 4/5
Ambiance: 5/5
Service: 4/5
Value: 3/5
Overall: 4.25/5

Thai Express Plaza Singapura (Food)

2007-08-13T01:01:00.000+08:00

I personally have a love-hate relationship with Thai Express. It is one of the first dining places in Singapore which offers affordable Thai food in a contemporary setting. Therefore, we do not have to hunt down Golden Mile for a taste of Thai. However, due to franchising and the quick expansion, there has been general consensus that there is a drop in food quality.

With its brightly coloured orange walls and adapted menus to suit the less intrepid to Thai food, it is an popular choice for small groups of friends to hang out together in a lively mood, without burning a hole in the pockets. However, let me emphasize that every Thai Express differs from the next, even though they serve more or less the same menu.

Some of the customers’ preferred choices include Tom Yum Talay ($6.90) - Tom Yum Soup with Seafood, Kaeng Khiew Wan Gai ($8.90) - Thai green curry with chicken, Khamon Chine Nam Ya Pla ($9.90) - “King of Thai laska” with golden minced fish gravy, and Poo Phat Pung Kari ($9.90) curried soft shell crab with eggs and onions served with rice.

One of my favourite Bangkok hawker fare is the Phat Thai, a dish of stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, fish sauce, and a combination of crunchy bean sprouts, tofu, prawns or other meat. The light and tasty noodles have an added bite when sprinked with crushed peanuts all over it. Unfortunately, the Phat Thai Neua ($9.90) that I tried had beef that was over-cooked and tough. The only consolation was that the noodles were not too oily.

The Tom Yum Soup that I ordered was ironically not hot. Yes, it may be spicy to the taste, but it was more cold than warm. What is Tom Yum soup when it is not piping hot? The drinks seldom disappoint, but the pricey Thai Iced Tea and Avocado Milk Shake was diluted and lacked that punch to perk me up.

For plus points however, the Plaza Singapura branch first strikes me as the branch with better service and friendlier staff. The assistance at some of the other branches can be dismal with clueless staff. While the waiters at the Plaza Singapura branch are generally informed, as well as friendly and courteous, they get short-handed at times which prevents them from being prompt.

So back to my love-hate relationship: Thai Express is still one of my first choices over other similar entities if I want to indulge in my Thai food cravings. The food and service is just so inconsistent that you never know what you are going to get. If you want a well-savoured food experience, the probability I would say is only half-half.

Food: 2/5
Ambiance: 3/5
Service: 3/5
Value: 3/5
Overall: 2.75/5

Flashpoint 导火线 (Film)

2007-08-09T22:25:00.000+08:00

Director: Wilson Yip
Cast: Donnie Yen, Louis Koo, Collin Chou, Fan Bing Bing, Lui Leung-Wai, Ben Lam, Kent Cheng RunTime: 90 mins
Genre: Action
Rating: NC-16

Hong Kong thriller movies never seem to deter much from the same mould – Police fights triad, undercover in the gang, and the police leader always end up being killed.

This is no Infernal Affairs in terms of brain, but a lot more in terms of brawn. Come to think of it, I do miss movies like this where you just enter the cinema and watch men fight it out.

Definitely a brainless but entertaining and power-packed piece. Pau Pau Punch! Louis Koo is stlll funny as the undercover mould, Fan Bing Bing as the token vase, but it’s Donnie Yen the big chested men that brings the house down. Give the man a beer!

Flashpoint - Packs a Punch!

Hostel II (Film)

2007-08-09T22:06:00.001+08:00

Director: Eli Roth
Cast: Lauren German, Heather Matarazzo, Bijou Phillips, Roger Bart
RunTime: 94 mins
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Rating: R21 (Violence And Gore)

BanBan, the bespectacled, polite and quiet person, actually secretly loves to watch slasher flicks from Nightmare on Elm Street to Saw. *Gulps*

Starting from where Hostel ended, Hostel II continues the story with 3 girls. They arrive at the same Slovakia hostel, gets gagged the same way, and tortured in every gory way you can imagine. For those who have watched Hostel 1, it’s a lot the same, but a less gory, horrifying and paled-down version. Perhaps they find it easier to torture guys than girls.

If you fancy watching severed heads, slashed bodies, and er… decapitated privates, then go watch it with your best guy friends, but never your timid girlfriend. She will hate you for the rest of the life, or even break up with you. Not unless she enjoys torture. Err….

Nothing too impressionable about Hostel II. No more surprises, and no more hanging eyeballs.

Hostel II – Bloodier, but not always better

The Simpsons (Film)

2007-08-09T21:42:00.000+08:00

Director: David Silverman
Cast (Voices): Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria, Harry Shearer, Tom Hanks, Greenday
RunTime: 97 mins
Genre: Animation
Rating: PG (Some coarse humour)

Why watch something in the movies when you can get it free on TV? Because it’s The Simpsons.

It is probably the funniest, most politically incorrect, sexist, racist, anti-religion, ridiculous, violent (opps, Hostel comes first), unsympathetic, rude, offensive, heartfelt, clever, humorous, satirical film around.

Only complain is: I want more Itchy and Scratch. And I probably can watch it free on TV sometime later. But once is never enough!

The Simpsons – D’oh! You mean you still haven’t watched it yet!?

Secret (Film)

2007-08-09T21:13:00.000+08:00

Director: Jay Chou
Cast: Jay Chou, Kwai Lun-Mei, Anthony Wong
RunTime: 110 mins
Genre: Drama (Chinese)
Rating: PG

周董。歌手、创作人、才子、演员、导演。周杰伦要证明些什么? 或者他和爱情生活一样，喜欢尝试新的东西。

小伦和小雨的爱情故事，没有大起大落，简简单单的共谱恋曲。台式的校园爱情有什么不同? 他们爱得简单。。。骑脚车，吃雪糕，听音乐，看夕阳。。。腼腆的笑容，坚定的眼神，和紧握的小手，让人羡慕更让人回味。

两人的爱情却像跌入迷宫，有许多解决不了的猜疑。观众不管，只要他们能有情人忠诚眷属。

不可思议的转折让人想起某部韩片。优美钢琴声，和小雨落泪的情节，心随着小伦而紧张。不合逻辑? 没有新意? 无所谓。

有所谓的是小伦为情点的这颗心，为爱弹的那钢琴。

很个人的一部影片。我感动了，忍住眼泪。到底发生了些什么事? 不能说的，秘密。

不能说的秘密 - 不能说的感动

Xin Wang Hong Kong Cafe Cineleisure (Food)

2007-08-06T10:35:00.000+08:00

This Hong Kong Café has named itself quite aptly “Xin Wang”, which means ‘new’ and ‘prosperity’ when you look at the two words separately. Indeed, when you are forced to walk past level 2 of Cineleisure, you would almost notice queues every weekend.

They know who their target crowd is. You often see young executives or students hanging out with their friends for light supper or leisure tea and desserts after a movie upstairs. The environment is very conducive for youths to chit chat till wee hours of the night. They have big red circular booths suitable for small groups from four to six, and cushioned seats which are cozy comfort for their customers.

With over 200 items on the menu, their four main sellers include the Cheese Baked Dishes, French toast, Snow Ice Series and ‘Hong Kong-Style’ Western food. My friends and I ordered a Fried noodles ‘Macau style’ ($6.90), Pork Chop Cheese Baked Spaghetti ($8.90), Fried noodles with Black Pepper beef ($7.90). Ham and Egg (originally $5.90 but came as a $1 promotion), and some appetizers.

Since I am very particular about Hong Kong tea, let’s start with the tea. Some may describe it to be an innovative attempt of selling tea in army-like metal mugs, while others would call it army-style tea-flavoured water. I swear that the three-in-ones taste better.

The Fried Wantons we had were sadly over-fried and shriveled. The interesting thing was the waitress came over and pointed out that their wantons were… 'different' the moment she served it. She was friendly enough to replace them with another plate, less burnt but equally shrunk.

If you are wondering what ‘Macau style’ noodles are, let me enlighten you that it is the same version of what you will get by frying instant noodles with cai xin, mixed peas, carrot and corn, two deep fried luncheon meat and ketchup-like sauce. The point is: I can also fry this at home.

The Pork Chop is extremely Hard with a capital ‘H’ and be ready to make full use of your utensils. The fried beef noodles were the best choice that night, tasty but just a tad too oily.

Although there has been general complains that the service staff who come from China has to be better informed of their menus, brush up their English, and smile a lot more, the waitress who served us was quite prompt and courteous. If anybody do not understand your orders, use numbers or just point!

Despite all I have said, I am still a frequent customer of Xin Wang because of the convenience and environment it provides. Their target market which are the youths hanging out at Cineleisure probably do not mind the quality of the food that much as well. With more branches opening, this new kid in the block can only get more prosperous.

Food: 2/5

Ambiance: 3/5

Service: 2/5

Value for Money: 2/5

Overall: 2.25/5

Causeway Bay Cafe (Food)

2007-08-03T19:59:00.000+08:00

The best way for me to test the authenticity and taste of a Hong Kong Café is the tea they serve. It is somehwat of a ‘litmus test’ my friends and I have devised to distinguish the many shops due to the flourishing ‘Cha Can Teng’ emergence in Singapore over the past two years.

Hong Kong-style milk, also known as ‘silk stocking milk tea’ is known for its darker brown colour, and thus a very slight bitter aftertaste. It also has a thickness in the texture which I would find similar to the ‘teh tarik’.

Liang Seah Street opposite Bugis junction is a haven of restaurants, cafes and coffee shops of all kinds, each with its own unique selling point. On this night when my friends and I wanted to settle for supper, we came to Causeway Bay Café due to our craving in Hong Kong food and it was not as crowded as the other shops. I should have known better as to why it was seemingly a lot emptier.

Before we ordered the food, we had our ‘tea test’. The cold Hong Kong tea came in little cute air tight containers that we would keep our tidbits, and the hot version in colourful stripped cups. Before we even started drinking, we spotted this slight layer of oil (I certainly hope it is just oil) on the top. We gave it the benefit of the doubt. Then, we noticed that the sugar and the milk were not even properly stirred. The tea while still having a slight authentic taste, was unfortunately too sweet for my liking. Yes, the café failed our ‘tea test’.

We went on to order some food nevertheless. The waitresses were somehow more distracted with their chatting and the television. They told us to fill up the order form ourselves when we took orders. To me, it would be a pleasant gesture if the waitress had taken the initiative to fill it for us since she has already heard our order. But never mind about that.

We requested for a claypot noodles without seafood and with chicken instead. “Fill it up yourself there!”, the waitress spoke in accented Mandarin and once again pointed to the blue order form. The claypot noodles came without chicken and another waitress said “No chicken!”, rolled her eyes and walked away. It was okay if the serving staff could not speak English or understand our orders (even though we spoke in proper Mandarin), but they should have basic courtesy to their customers, no?

The claypot ‘chicken’ noodles that did come was too salty, and the sauce too watery. The thick sauce which would simmer in the noodles was essentially the essence of claypot noodles. The supposedly braised tofu was just the fried version of round tofu found in the local supermarket. Did I mention that I noticed they do not use serving trays? I would leave it to up to your imagination how they served their drinks and desserts.

It is not hard to see that the eating experience here was unpleasant. But aside from mediocre food and prices that are rather on the high side, the serving staff must know how to spell the word 'S-E-R-V-I-C-E' without having customers do it for them.

Food: 2
Ambiance: 2
Service: 1
Value for Money: 2
Overall: 1.75

La Vie En Rose (Film)

2007-08-01T23:07:00.000+08:00

Director: Olivier Dahan
Cast: Marion Cotillard, Sylvie Testud, Gerard Depardieu, Jean Paul Rouve, Emmanuelle Seigner
RunTime: 140 mins
Genre: Music/Drama
Rating: NC-16 (Brief nudity and some drug references)

There are many reasons why you would fall in love with this movie. The music such as Non, je ne regrette rien, the dramatic life of Édith Piaf, or the unique directing style of Olivier Dahan.

After many American musical biographies from Ray, Johnny Cash to Bobby Darin, the shift to the equally, if not more erratic life of French singer Édith Piaf has its own touch of tenderness and charm.

Most of the songs in the movie are original recordings of Édith Piaf herself. No re-singing, just the authentic emotional depth that were in the songs.

Marion Cotillard’s portrayal of the emotional but lonely singer is nothing short of spectacular. From the sweet twenties to the idiosyncratic prime to the needy aged, she brings out the depth of the character, yet not overplaying it. At times, you feel scared by just looking at her. But there is this particular scene when she lost her loved one and portrayed her fragility like a rose. Bravo.

Many may complain about the non-linear, non-chronological method of story telling. It can be confusing the time shifts back and fourth and requires much concentration. But it shows how one part of her life can affect the other so strongly, and how the movie can be as unpredictable as her life.

A masterpiece with tears, laughter, and music. What more can I ask for?

La Vie En Rose - Très bon. Très bon

Library @ Orchard (Life)

2007-07-31T16:49:00.000+08:00

To be frank, I am not a frequent borrower of books, and would rather buy so that I can spend my own sweet time to read and reread something. The last few times to this library was not to borrow books as well: to watch a photographic exhibition, attend a talk, hang out with friends to chat at Cafe Gallilee. This is what this library is all about, it is more than a library.

When I interviewed librarians and the public for their views, most expressed their loss and disappointment. Although there will be two new libraries at Orchard, the feeling will never be the same again. Where will the books go? Where will the exhibitions goes? Where will we go in these 3 years?

Will the library be replaced by little fashion shops (that are already everywhere), or more artas high end shop (that we do not really care about?). Profits versus reality. When the library first started at a mall like Ngee Ann City, perhaps it should have anticipated its future. Everything enbloc, even the library can enbloc.

Must all old things make way for the new? Some things can just never be replaced.

Something Inspiring... (Life)

2007-07-29T21:42:00.000+08:00

A listener smsed this to me when I was DJing this evening. Was quite touched and decided to share with all of you.

爱的开始，
总是在一开始时甜蜜，
总觉得多了一个人陪，
多了一个人帮你分担，
你终于不在孤独了，
因为至少有一个人想着你、
恋着你，
不论做什么事情，
只要能在一起就是好的…

但是慢慢的，随着认识的加深，
你开始发现对方的缺点，
于是问题一个接一个出现，
你开始烦、
累、
甚至想要逃避…

爱一个人，
要了解也要开解，
要道歉也要道谢，
要认错也要改错，
要体贴也要体谅，
是接受而不是忍受，
是宽容而不是纵容，
是支持而不是支配，
是慰问而不是质问，
是倾诉而不是控诉，
是难忘而不是遗忘，
是彼此交流而不是凡事交代，
是为对方默默祈求而不是向对方诸多要求…

可以浪漫，但不要浪费，
爱就是不要随便牵手，更不要随便放手…

Gone Shopping (Film)

2007-07-28T00:44:00.000+08:00

Director: Wee Li Lin
Cast: Kym Ng, Aaron Kao, Sonya Nair, Adrian Pang
RunTime: 100 mins
Genre: Drama
Rating: NC-16

Clara’s (Kym Ng) one desperate housewife. Like Mary Alice Young in Desperate Housewives, she starts the movie with in a low and monotonous voiceover, recollecting her past and wondering if her shopping items would love her.

She is mistress of a Taiwanese business after she decided SIA is a great way to fly, but not enough to buy. She is just a lonely tai tai who spends her time hanging out at hair salons and in and out of shops in Marina Square and CK Tang. Yes, she is desperate for love and attention.

This is intercrossed with two weaker stories. A man craving for manhood, and makes out with his best friend’s cosplaying sister in a park at Shaw Towers. The other is a feisty 8-year-old girl, lost in Mustafa Centre, in need of her parents love. This is a story about three desperate people.

Wee Li-Lin’s one of Singapore’s undiscovered directors, and her short film Autograph Book captivated me with its simplicity and sweetness. Gone Shopping has definitely the potential, but it lacks that one punch. Perhaps it was the two weak links. Perhaps it was trying to hard to balance commercial and art house qualities. Perhaps the intersection is more forced than natural. Perhaps it could not bring out the loneliness of shoppers. I am one who shops when I am lonely, so I know.

Kym Ng is one credible comedian, and her first cinematic breakthrough as a mature and lonesome shopper though nothing surprising, is at least satisfactory. But yes, she is one very gorgeous housewife that every man would like to have at home.

Gone Shopping - An empty shopping bag

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Film)

2007-07-26T23:05:00.000+08:00

Director: David Yates
Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltrane, Ralph Fiennes, Michael Gambon, Richard Griffiths, Jason Isaacs, Gary Oldman, Alan Rickman, Fiona Shaw, Maggie Smith, Timothy Spall, Imelda Staunton, David Thewlis, Emma Thompson, Julie Walters
RunTime: 138 mins
Genre: Fantasy/Adventure
Rating: PG

This month is all about Harry Potter, isn’t it? Sorry for the late write-up. I suppose all is said, has been said. So I will dedicate this blog posting about three characters.

Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) – He has grown up to be a fine young chap, and as the series move forward, the maturity and character development that he portrays is indeed charming and respectable. At certain times, I would like to place his emotional depth at the same league as Anakin Skywalker and Peter Parker, but decided to wait to the final two to place my judgment. His first kissing scene as somewhat awkward, and not very sweet unfortunately. Better things will come.

Luna Lovegood (Evanna Lynch) – Move aside Hermione (SORRY!). Luna has replaced you to be my favourite character from Harry Potter. Somewhat quirky, somewhat loony, somewhat honest, somewhat dreamy, Luna may not be an instant likeable character, but she adds a breath of freshness to the dark piece. Rowling has often said that Luna is the "anti-Hermion”.

Dolores Jane Umbridge (Imelda Staunton) – In her fluttery voice, girlish pink outfit, and repulsive laughter “hem hem”, she is someone everybody hates to love, and loves to hate. This installment is not about Voldemort, or Bellatrix, or Snape, McGonagall or even Dumbledore, it’s all about her sinister smile. She stole this show hands down. Shall look forward to more of her.

Though most would say The Order of Phoenix lacks action and fantasy and is all talk, it is a necessary transition movie for better things to come.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix - Not the best, but will leave you wanting for more

Alone (Film)

2007-07-26T22:33:00.000+08:00

Director: Banjong Pisanthanakun, Parkpoom Wongpoom
Cast: Masha Wattanapanich, Ratchanoo Bunchootwong, Vittaya Wasukraipaisan
RunTime: 95 mins
Genre: Horror (Thai)
Rating: PG (Some disturbing scenes)

Admit it. Nobody does horror movies like what the Asians can. Although Hollywood has churned out successful horror thrillers like Poltergeist and Sixth Sense, the really scary ones are few and far in between. Even Hollywood remakes of the Ring and Ju-On are at most, laughable.

Banjong Pisanthanakun and Parkpoom Wongpooms' last film Shutter was a box-office smash everywhere, and still stands as one of my favourite horror pieces. Alone is about conjoined twins Pim and Ploy, and one dies at the end of a separate operation. However, the memories and presence of the dead sister still continues to haunt the living one.

Acted by Thai-German pop singer Marsha Wattanapanich (who just came to Singapore) in her first film role in 15 years, she is a drop dead gorgeous and had an Angelica Lee vibe.

Alone survives by its typical stare tactics: loud, shocking noises, sound effects and distorted faces while the lead is in the midst of sleeping, walking in the dark, showering, or just alone in the big mansion. If you are a horror fanatic, then this is probably nothing new to you, except the walking scene at the beach.

I won’t say anymore because this movie is meant to surprise. If you want to run the ‘fun’ of watching this movie, go read some spoilers. Though not as well plotted as Shutter, it is actually a horror movie with a storyline!

Alone - Scary, but still can watch alone lah!

Paprika (Film)

2007-07-26T22:15:00.000+08:00

Director: Satoshi Kon
Cast: Megumi Hayashibara, Tôru Furuya, Kôichi Yamadera, Katsunosuke Hori
RunTime: 1 hr 30 mins
Genre: Anime
Rating: NC-16 (Some Nudity)

This is an animation not meant for kids. Although rated NC16 for nudity, do not expect some porn Jap anime flick. If you intend to leave your brain outside the cinema for a relaxing time, then don’t bother.

This is a movie about brains, and will engage your brain both in its visual kaleidoscope and mental challenge. Paprika is about the invention of a device called the "DC Mini," which enables researchers to enter the dreams of a subject and explore matters of the unconscious mind.

What is dream, and what is reality? Be ready for the visual explosion of pinned butterflies, singing dolls, jumping frogs, man-faced robots, lucky cats and every sort of fantasy creative moving in tune like a marching band. Many times the schizophrenic nature will drive you nuts, or allow you to indulge in that wild-like fantasy.

Although confusing at the start, the pieces place together appropriately towards the end. Once again, you admire the Japanese for their dedication to their piece of art (even though it is 2D), and brilliant way of thought-provoking story telling.

Paprika – Not for the faint brained

Ah Chew Desserts (Food)

2007-07-23T21:29:00.000+08:00

Situated inconspicuously along Liang Seah Street (opposite Bugis Junction), this shop hidden among a row of eateries is a gem. To locate it, just look out for the never-ending queue of people eagerly waiting to have their sugar fix. With yellow menu tags hanging behind the counter, hard ebony wood furniture, and Chinese paintings adorning the store's walls, the décor goes well with the offerings and would remind many of dessert stores found in Hong Kong and Taipei. But the desserts have a local touch, with many of the desserts modified with ice cream or flavours to suit local taste buds.

I would broadly divide the desserts to three main types: the best sellers - Mango Sago and Pomelo; the healthy choices - Hashma boiled in Red Dates Soup, Ginko Barley and Bean Curd Skin which has ‘beautifying qualitites’; and local favourites - Black Sesame Paste, Peanut Paste and Pulot Hitam.

Some of the recommendations include: Rock sugar white fungus with papaya ($2.50), Red bean paste with Lily Bulb ($1.80), Mango Sago and Pomelo ($3.80), Yam with Sago ($2.00), and Fresh Milk Steam Egg with Red Bean ($3.00). Rest assured that the Mango Sago and Pomelo is made of fresh fruits as I have seen the staff cutting the ingredients on the spot. In this variation, a touch of coconut cream is added on top of the usual evaporated milk, giving it fragrance and extra texture. The sweetness of the ripe, juicy mango chunks is complimented by the refreshing, citrus Pomelo pulps that bursts and crunch at every mouthful! It reminded me of the version similar to Hong Kong’s ‘Hui Lau Shan’.

The Fresh Milk Steam Egg is so smooth that it trickles down your throat. You have the option of having it coffee-flavoured, or red bean-flavoured which would give it some bite. Eat it with your eyes closed and let your taste buds do the work.

For local favourites, the Yam and Sago was inspired by the owner after a trip to China. If you can forget about your calorie count, the yam is velvety and tasty, and the coconut milk does not have a sour aftertaste. Pure indulgence.

On the flipside, the very cramped space of the shop itself and the hard furniture can make eating a little comfortable, especially on a hot afternoon. There are also many people waiting for seats, and you feel bad sitting there a while more to savour that last drop of sweetness.

There are few credible dessert stores in Singapore to satisfy sweet cravings. Many provided at foodcourts or places which do not specialize in desserts, often leave you ending up with less than satisfactory experiences - they are either too sweet or do not taste fresh. At Ah Chew, you can be assured of quality desserts you which can match up to counterparts found in China, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Food: 5/5
Ambiance: 3/5
Service: 3/5
Value: 5/5
Overall: 4.0/5

Campus Relay Run (Life)

2007-07-20T23:29:00.000+08:00

These are happy moments that I share with my colleagues off work. In the past, I used to hate running (and would skip every cross country during Hwa Chong days). Never woud I expect myself to organise a group in school for such a run.

Our main purpose was to have fun, and to win something. We didn't win the running awards, but hey... we got in FIRST... for best dressed team. :) Feel really blessed to find great colleagues to laugh and run.

Oh yes, I came in with a 'bad' timing of 6 min 20 sec for 1.5 km. Was hoping to hit below 6min, but my thighs were hurting after 2 days of running and step earlier on.

It was a tiring but enjoyable experience. The next step is the StanChart Marathon. I am in a dillemma. Should it be the 21 km or 42 km? Hmmm.....

Out of the Pan (Food)

2007-07-20T23:17:00.000+08:00

It’s hard to miss Out of the Pan if you are a frequent shopper at Raffles City Shopping Centre. Located at basement one surrounding the central fountain, it serves a variety of unique crepes (pronounced ‘krep’) and sinful desserts, suitable for those seeking a light meal.

Although the concept is open air, the dining area does not feel crowded or noisy, offering customers a chance to people-watch, or to be people-watched. With its warm lighting and contemporary décor, small groups of friends will find it enjoyable to share crepes or waffles right next to the water feature.

My choice was the ‘Mega Menu’ which included a salad, savoury crepes, and a beverage ($20.00++). Crepes originate from France, but the menu here is modified to with international and local flavours which would appeal to those who love variety.

Some of the recommended crepes include Yum Yum Mushroom ($12.50) filled with sautéed shiitake, straw and oyster mushroom, Fish Masala ($15.50) inspired from Indian spices, Seafood Jungle ($15.50) packed with crabmeat, prawns and citrus fruits, Korean BBQ Pork ($12.50), and Beef and Bell Peppers ($13.50).

One of the best sellers is Peking Duck Crepe ($14.50) with thin whole wheat crepe wrapping around roasted duck with sambal olek, lychees and plum sauce. The result is an interesting union of dark salty-sweet sauce and roasted duck which is not too fatty. The lychees provide extra sweetness and juice to the combination, but are too few to make a significant difference.

The Green Garden Salad is a standard starter of seasonal greens with balsamic and olive oil. The Iced Tea is a surprisingly refreshing beverage which has a light fragrance and is not too sweet.

There are only two versions of the sweet crepes when compared to the savory choices. Opt for the Chocolate Mania ($11.50) of glazed banana wrapped in chocolate crepe with dark chocolate ice cream or the Strawberry Cream ($11.50) toped up with custard cream and vanilla ice cream.

The succulent strawberries and light custard are sinfully unforgettable.

My main gripe about the food was that the portions are too small for the price to pay. Unless there is a promotion, the individual items added up will cost quite a bit up to $30 per person. Also, while it is enough for an after-meal dessert, customers who want a full meal may go hungry. While the waiters serve with a smile at times, there are too few of them to go around. During peak hours, they are almost too busy to notice your requests.

The experience may be nothing divine, but Out of the Pan’s versions of crepes can be said to be creative and out of the box.

Food - 2

Ambiance - 2

Service - 2

Value - 3

Overall - 2.75

Vacancy (Film)

2007-07-16T21:06:00.000+08:00

Director: Nimrod Antal
Cast: Kate Beckinsale, Luke Wilson
RunTime: 85 mins
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Rating: NC-16 (Brief Nudity and Coarse Language)

Dear David and Amy,

Both of you probably haven’t watched any horror movies in your life. You need to watch more slasher flicks together, rather than bickering and quarreling which led to your divorce.

Lesson Number 1: Never, never ever take the short cut when you are traveling on a dark lonely lane. Not when you can't read maps.

Lesson Number 2: DON’T stay in a low-budget motel when you are the only visitors there, especially when creepy manager has screams coming out from his room.

Lesson Number 2: What i***ts! When the phone is ringing at the middle of the night, don’t pick it up! Huh? If the door next door is banging hard, you do not go and say “Hello?!” What is wrong with the both of you?

It took you so long to realize that the snuff film in your hotel room is filmed in your various own room. If cockroaches do not scare you, blood and gore will. Argh! Run, quick, run! Don’t hide in your room!

I wish you all the luck. Hopefully you can escape your ‘vacant’ hotel room.

Vacancy – A suspenseful B-grade horror with a A- cast and B grade

Jacky Cheung World Concert 2007 (Concert)

2007-07-16T10:44:00.000+08:00

原本没报着什么期待去看，只因为如果这次不去，就要等很久很久。

没后悔。歌神就是歌神。听的不只是个演唱会，而是一段回忆的旅程。我不识广东话，却能跟着哼哼唱唱。。。只想一生跟你走，每天爱你多一些，李香兰, 讲你知。。。

尽管歌神有些破音，观众依然给与鼓励的掌声。

更喜欢后半部，我真的受伤了，以及很久没听到的心如刀割和想和你去吹吹风。这些歌伴这我走过读书的生涯。也因为电台和MP3少播了，这些歌就隐藏在心里的某一处。好象翻开收藏已久的旧书一样。

如果爱。。。让我想起我们看的那部电影。回忆还在，人却不再。我闭上双眼，只为了不让眼泪流下来。。。

他来听我的演唱会，荧幕播着双双对对的观众，情侣们有些尴尬，却充满温馨与感动。许了个愿，也希望有一天能和心爱的人分享这一刻。

张学友很NICE，说不停，也唱不停。唱着祝福后，有些不舍得，一生回忆更是一闪而过。这是充满许多记忆，许多欢笑，和许多感动的演唱旅程。

只想一生跟你走，能跟谁走呢？

Manhattan Fish Market

2007-07-11T23:58:00.000+08:00

With their signature fish and chip served in shallow metal pans with three types of sauces, Manhattan Fish Market is often seen as the closest rival of Fish and Co. Their similarities are uncanny, from the menu, décor to price. Both also had their first flagship store at Plaza Singapura.

A little on the background: Manhattan Fish Market’s director was a former operations manager in Fish & Co and started out an outlet at Malaysia during 2002, and subsequently in Singapore. After being sued and lost to Fish and Co during a court case last year, Manhattan had changed their serving pans and modified their ingredients as directed.

Despite the changes, this popular store continues to generate long queues. Expect to wait from 15 minutes to half an hour during peak hours. The guys at Manhattan also knew than other than your tummy, they could work on your smiles. Service was prompt and the waiters were quick to serve and refill water. Although they seemed somewhere nervous at times, the young crew was generally friendly and took initiative despite the heavy traffic.

Manhattan Fish and Chips ($9.90), Alaskan Pollock and Chips ($10.90), Grilled Norwegian King Salmon Fillet ($15.90), and Almond Fried Shrimps ($10.90) are some of their signature dishes. Unfortunately, they do not have the Baked Fish in Garden Herbs, and Barramundi topped with Sambal Sauce which are served in their Malaysian branches.

For a safe choice, opt for The Manhattan Fish and Chips with fish which is freshly fried in light batter, and do not have a strong fish smell. The straight fries, which are not too fat and thick, stay crispy for a long time.

The Manhattan Seafood Platter for Two ($29.90) is an all-time favourite for customers who want value for money. The portion is huge which includes one piece of battered fish, 4 flammed prawns, fried calamari, fried oysters, chips and garlic rice. Overall, the quality is comparable or even better than the Fish and Co version. The weakest link is the garlic rice which is slightly dry and unsavory.

One major selling point of Manhattan is a gimmicky ‘flaming’ of the grilled and seasoned prawns, done right in front of your very eyes. This ‘flaming’ made sweet mayonnaise-like sauce melts over the prawns and the rice and also brought out the fragrance of the buttery platter. This unique process made the prawns very juicy on the inside, and crispy with a touch of soot on the shells.

While many copycats are often inferior to the original, the American-styled Manhattan Fish Market proves that they have the potential to better their predecessor. As consumers, we welcome the additional competition.

Overall: 3.75/5
Food: 4/5
Ambiance: 3/5
Service: 4/5
Value: 4/5

Quote of the Day: "Imitation is the best form of Flattery."

Honour and Passion

2007-07-11T22:52:00.000+08:00

First non-movie related post. Was asked to cover a press conference for my attachment. Honour and Passion is yet another army related drama series. As I interviewed some of the cast, I was suddenly reminded that Xin Bing Xiao Zhuan is actually first broadcast 25 years ago!

Some of my initial impressions:

Wen Yong Da-Ge: There is a reason why he is there today. An amiable personality who is really chatty.

Tay Ping Hui: Was rather cold and aloof, and 'joked' that the series is nothing good. Maybe he meant it. Was very eloquent in both languages. A breeze with the interview.

Nat: Led a big sign of relief when I told him I was helping Channel News Asia to cover. Wish him luck for his maiden attempt, and hope he doesn't do a 'Pierre Png'.

Felicia: The only person who offered to shake my hand, and mentioned that I was very effectively billingual. Is this PR or her true nature? Hard to say, but I would like to think it's the later. Nevertheless to say, impression of her was very good.

Quote of the Day:
Felicia Chin: "Any woman will look good in a uniform."

The Ex

2007-07-08T22:57:00.000+08:00

Director: Jesse Peretz
Cast: Zach Braff, Amanda Peet, Jason Bateman, Charles Grodin, Mia Farrow, Donal Logue, Amy Poehler, Amy Adams
RunTime: 92 mins
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Rating: M18 (Sexual References)

Although this movie is called The Ex, it has nothing to do with an ex-boyfriend or girlfriend. It was originally called Fast Track in the US, and the change of name was in hope to bring better box office in other markets.

If a movie cannot even decide what title and kind of identity it wants to be, then it is in serious trouble.

The story centers around househusband Tom Reilly (Zach Braff) and his lawyer wife Sofia (Amanda Peet), who face financial difficulty when they have a newborn.

When Tom decides to work as an 'Assistant Associate Creative', his boss Chip (Jason Bateman) happens to be his wife's 'ex', or should more appropriately put a one-night stand. When the handicapped boss on a wheelchair is interested in an employee’s wife, male ego clashes with male ego. Expect nothing else but immature men with hurt egos playing dirty tricks and little sabotages.

While the movie does provide occasional laughs with exaggerated antics more than clever lines, you will walk out of the cinema not remembering much and unclear about the purpose of the story. Although it is termed as a romantic comedy, there is less romantic than being mean spirited (towards the handicapped) and superficial.

Chicken Little's Zach Braff has been in 'neither here nor there' kind of movies such as The Last Kiss, and Garden State. The Ex will just add on to this list.

The Ex - Time to Move On

The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros

2007-07-08T00:12:00.000+08:00

Director: Auraeus Solito
Cast: Nathan Lopez, JR Valentin
RunTime: 103 mins
Genre: Drama
Rating: NC-16

Meet Maximo Oliveros, a 12-year old Filipino boy who prances around the gritty back lanes of the outskirts of Manila. He is a huge contrast with the surrounding. Dressed in tight yellow tee, a pink headband and a flower at the corner of his head, he radiates gayness and happiness. The place he stays in, dirty slums with sounds of buzzing hawkers, surrounded by burly guys with nothing better to do.

He is like the daughter, or even the mother of the household of thieves. He fusses over his father for dinner, and washes his brothers’ dirty clothes.

Just as he was indulging in his world of love movies and Ms Universe competitions, he is brought back reality. The man of his dreams, come face off with his family who could be involved in a murder.

This is not a typical gay film, but one which deals with the coming of age of a teen still finding his life, identity and belonging. Like a flower which has yet bloomed, you can feel with his heart beating as young Maximo can only watch his hero from afar, and attempts to plan a peck on the cheek.

Such innocence. Some simplicity. The fact that the setting is the harsh but real world of Philippines, allows us to see the world of a young growing boy and the world of a old growing nation.

However, the film does feel very unpolished and draggy throughout, with noises of the streets juxtaposed with random guitar playing.

Perhaps this film is about contrast. When the older Maximo meets the straight-looking (but may not be straight) police officer once again, the honesty of its portrayal tells us about the pain of growing up.

The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros – Has potential to blossom, but the pacing slows it down

My Wife is a Gangster 3

2007-07-03T13:12:00.001+08:00

Director: Jo Jin-gyu
Cast: Shu Qi, Lee Beom-soo, Hyeon Young, Oh Ji-ho, Jo Hi-bong
RunTime: 115 mins
Genre: Action/Comedy (Korean/ Cantonese)
Rating: PG

If you expect Shu Qi to speak some Annyong ha shimnikka in her first Korean outing, then you will be disappointed.

The story is kind of confusing. A-ryong (Shu Qi, a Taiwanese starlet who made big in Hong Kong category 3 movies) is a daughter of a Hong Kong triad head (Ti Lung) and a Korean mum. She has offended some rival gangs and goes to seek refute in Korea.

She hires an incompetent translator who speaks weird Mandarin, and stays with 3 Korean gang members who loves toilet and sexual jokes. Despite conversing in Cantonese, translating to Korean, and back to Mandarin, she falls in love with a muddle headed and useless Korean man. Ah huh.

This tight-lipped (silent) and thick-lipped (sexy) girl does a ‘kill-bill’ to protect her man from dangers, showing her prowess by beating 20 other hot-blooded Korean men with her sword fighting and punches.

I still do not understand why you would fall in love with that Korean nitwit. The audience also do not understand the many languages in a single movie. But who cares. Way to go girl!

My Wife is a Gangster 3 – Lost in Translation

Transformers

2007-07-03T12:29:00.000+08:00

Director: Michael Bay
Starring: Shia LaBeouf, Tyrese Gibson, Josh Duhamel, Anthony Anderson, Rachael Taylor, Megan Fox, John Turturro, Jon Voight
RunTime: 144 mins
Genre: Action/Adventure
Rating: PG

This is truly a long wait. More than a decade for young boys who let their imagination run wild with their toys and a year after the space Beagle 2 trailer.

+ Plus Points
- Hot Megan Fox and even hotter Autobots (No wonder male prefer cars to women. Opps!)
- Optimus Prime (with the original Peter Cullen voicing it)
- Extended special effects and the transformation from car to robot is just way cool!
- That transformer ‘sound’
- Addition of humour

- Minus Points
- Shia LaBeouf being a rather uncharismatic and not very hot young male lead. (I may take back my words for his other movies, but we’ll see.)
- Bubblebee being a yellow Chevolet Camaro (Hello? Rampant product placement)
- Extended special effect fight sequences
- Bang Bang Bang, and more Bang Bang Bang
- Lack of humanity

Overall, while Transformers is full of fun that will excite that child in you, it was emotionless like cold-blooded robots (Er? Okay. I am corny.). But good news fans, there will be 2 more sequels. Director Michael Bay, after blowing everything in his movie (including Pearl Harbour and Armageddon) MAY not return. That’s better news?

Transformers – Just meets the eye, no more

Ocean's Thirteen

2007-06-28T12:02:00.000+08:00

Director: Steven Soderbergh
Cast: George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Andy Garcia, Don Cheadle, Bernie Mac, Ellen Barkin, Al Pacino, Casey Affleck, Scott Caan, Eddie Jemison, Shaobo Qin, Carl Reiner, Elliot Gould
RunTime: 2 hrs 2 mins
Genre: Thriller / Comedy
Rating: PG

BanBan: Thank you to Mr TS for your review. I personally find 13 a lot more enjoyable and smart than 12. After a whole string of disappointing sequels, this is the one to catch!

Danny Ocean and his posse are back in this third installment! George Clooney and Brad Pitt reprise their roles as leads Danny and Rusty, both dashing and charming as ever, but a tad older and weary.

Ocean’s new target this time, power-crazy casino conglomerate W Banks, played by the devilish Al Pacino. Banks double crosses one of the original Ocean members, Reuben, and Danny and Rusty gather their team to get back at Banks. Their objective simple but ambitious: rig Bank’s Casino to let everyone win BIG time on opening night of his ultra-flashy, ultra-luxe hotel, thereby bankrupting him. The unlikely ally is Thierry (the villain from Ocean’s Twelve, played by Andy Garcia), hence the 13.

The plot is simpler and a lot more coherent than the second offering, and much more fun too, though a tad too exaggerated! I thoroughly enjoyed the various schemes and the length they go too to accomplish the mission, the twists (there a quite a few), and just the fun and easiness the rest of Ocean’s posse bring about! The film is peppered with humorous dialogues and scenes, like Matt Damon’s prosthetic nose, and a couple of scenes involving Oprah Winfrey.

My only grouse is that everything was cramped in 2 hours so it seemed like a blur, and I felt that some parts were a little exaggerated, especially in terms of the amounts of money and the technicalities involving a power drill!

Ocean's Thirteen - You guys broke the sequel curse

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

2007-06-20T13:26:00.001+08:00

Director: Mamorou Hosod
Voices: Riisa Naka, Takuya Ishida, Ayami Kakiuchi, Sachie Hara, Mitsutaka Itakuru
RunTime: 98 mins
Genre: Animation
Rating: PG

In an age where 3D animation is the rage, it is the motivating and simple story that will motivate and inspire. It reminds us of the Japanese's craft in animation and story-telling that have put Howl’s Moving Castle and Spirited Away on the world’s platform.

The winner of Best Animation Film in Japan 2006, this time travel piece reminded me of Run Lola Run, where people have the second chance to change their lives.

Makoto Konno, a teenager that many could identify with, could "leap" backwards through time to improve her falling grades and bad luck. As she started to use this power to shape the future and her relationships with two boys, her final fate may become too hard for her to bear.

It was Makoto's million expressions and simple heart that would draw you into the movie as though you were part of it. Although the ending was a little haphazard, the process of following in her decision making was very thought-provoking.

You might also think about what you would do if you were in her shoes and had that same ability as well. Though I may want to leap back far behind, we must embrace the world we are in. That is sadly, the reality of life.

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time – Hopefully, it can make you treasure your time a lot more

Surf's Up

2007-06-19T13:04:00.000+08:00

Director: Chris Buck and Ashley Brannon
Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Jeff Bridges, Brian Benben, Zooey Deschanel, James Woods, Jane Krakowski, Jon Heder, Mario Cantone, Michael McKean
RunTime: 88 mins
Genre: Animation
Rating: G

Do we really need another movie on penguins? Perhaps yes. While Happy Feet charmed the world with little Mumbles, Surf’s Up is a different ballgame all together. Let’s just say it is not so much a kid’s animation, but more for the older perceptive penguin lovers.

You can probably replace the characters with real human beings and find them all familiar. Cody (Shia LeBeouf from Transformers) the surfer unacceptable by his community, and Chicken Joe (Jon Heder) the weakling best friend, come face-to-face with Geek the big bully in a surf competition. And yes, winning is not everything.

It is the same old moral story of champions and respect, packaged in a more stylistic fashion. An animation mokumentary meets reality tv is indeed a very refreshing take and something you would never really expect.

The jokes and the dig in the genre may be too ‘adult’ for children to take, but there are also cute penguins to delight the young ones.

The story’s predictable but the cool animation and humour ensure you will have splashes of fun.

Surf’s Up - After 5 movies on penguins, this is still able to stand on its own.

Spider Lilies

2007-06-18T00:29:00.001+08:00

Director: Zero Chou
Cast: Isabella Leong, Rainie Yang, Shen Jian-Hung, Kris Shie, Shih Yuen-Chieh
RunTime: 94 mins
Genre: Drama/Romance
Rating: R21 (Some Homosexual Content)

I admit that I had a crush on Rainie Yang when I first saw her as the Xiao You in F4’s Meteor Garden. You can imagine my ecstasy when the first autograph session I hosted was for her (!!). She wasn’t like what she portrayed in television, probably a lot more mature and strong.

Isabella Leong started her career as a schoolgirl who talks to bugs, only getting more recognition with her portrayal in Isabella. Thus, when two supposedly cutesy girls from different countries come together for some lesbian action, it would generate lots of publicity and attention.

While the attention was on their homo-exotic scene and Rainie acting as a webcam showgirl, Spider Lilies was about tattoos, lost memories and longing.

The other Taiwanese gay movie Eternal Summer was tighter in storyline and explored the theme of human relationships a lot further. Spider Lilies probably had too many characters and loose ends. The constant flashbacks slowed the pace a lot and did not elevate the movie further.

There were still touching moments, and with most Taiwanese movies, beautiful scenery and lines which would mean more before translation.

And yes, Rainie Yang and Isabella proved that they are more than just cutie pies, but credible actresses like flowers not fully bloomed.

Spider Lilies – Watch not for the wrong reasons

Fantastic Four: The Rise of The Silver Surfer

2007-06-16T17:00:00.000+08:00

Director: Tim Story
Cast: Ioan Gruffudd, Michael Chiklis, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans, Julian McMahon
RunTime: 92 mins
Genre: Superheroes/Action
Rating: PG

Most people either watch Fantastic Four because it is Marvel, or the very hot Jessica Alba and Chris Evans. Unfortunately, this sequel is not marvelous and would not sizzle the screen.

Invisible Woman can’t wait to get married to Mr Fantastic and get babies, and Human Torch can’t wait to get more babes. Is there more to it? Perhaps a short shirtless scene from Chris Evan would add temperatures. Nah, I think not.

There is a new villain, The Silver Surfer, who destroys Earth (think Independence Day) as he races around on his surfer board. As he crosses from country to country, his one-dimensional character and monotonic voice (oh, it’s Laurence Fishburne) do not add value to the doomed state. (On another hand, I must count the number of times the London Eye is destroyed in disaster movies, and China is portayed as some brightly-lighted slum.)

While there was time for some character development in the first movie, this is a straight forward story telling of heroes meets villain. There’s lots of cheesy lines, half the fun and none of the emotions. More for the young. Next.

The Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer: Fall of a simple sequel

Shrek the Third

2007-06-06T09:30:00.001+08:00

Director: Chris Miller, Raman Hui
Starring: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, Rupert Everett, Justin Timberlake, Julie Andrews
RunTime: 92 mins
Genre: Animation
Rating: PG

While Shrek One and Two were full of heart and simplistic charm, Shrek the Third seems to be a messy fanfare of princesses and silly villains.

One mesmerized the world with its fairytale satire and life of our favourite green ogre. Two paved the way for the wide-eyed innocence of Puss In Boots. Three introduced the angry Princess Squad (Snow White, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty), a whimsy heir Artie voiced by Justin Timberlake, and a forgetful and easily forgotten Merlin.

The jokes just do not work anymore, and it lacks in freshness and smart humour which was present in the last two. Enough of fighting princesses and ugly orge babies. Beyond the razzle dazzle, what we want really is more of the green ogre.

Shrek The Third – Fun, but somewhat disappointing

Infamous

2007-06-06T09:01:00.000+08:00

Director: Douglas McGrath
Starring: Toby Jones, Sandra Bullock, Daniel Craig, Jeff Daniels, Hope Davis, Gwyneth Paltrow, Sigourney Weaver
RunTime: 118 mins
Genre: Drama
Rating: M18 (Some Mature Content)

Sometimes, it’s all about timing.

Released after the Oscar winning Capote where Phillip Seymour Hoffman walked away with the Best Actor, Infamous would always be seen as the second fiddle. Although I personally preferred Hoffman’s performance which was sharper and colder, Toby Jones (last seen in Painted Veil) does a credible job playing the eccentric and effeminate Truman Capote.

Also, Infamous came right smack in the middle of blockbuster sequels, seemed doomed to its fate despite its recognized cast. Among which are Sandra Bullock who plays the his lifelong friend and famous author Nelle Harper Lee (To Kill a Mocking Bird), and Bond Daniel Craig as the torn murderer Perry Smith.

Same two stories. Two different treatments. While Capote was dark and intense, Infamous felt more real with its emotional struggles and documentary styled treatment. The relationship of Truman Capote and Perry Smith became a lot clearer with this movie.

If the witty lines are not enough, you should just watch for the emotional rise and collapse of the author with the highest IQ in America. With thought provoking themes centering around relationship and self, I did walk out of the cinema feeling heavy and disturbed.

Infamous – Different from the last, but just as good, if not better.

Meeting Kelvin Tong

2007-06-02T09:30:00.000+08:00

Meeting Kelvin in person has erased all of preconceptions of this talented local director. There were several questions that came to mind before that. Would he be aloof? Can he even speak Mandarin? I was pleasantly surprised.

I have been quite a fan of Kelvin, ever since Channel U’s The Frontline. He somehow managed to make television and a cheesy script look really good. It also reminded me that I rated The Maid 4 stars, which truly sent shivers down my spine.

He was jovial, sincere, very grounded, and could speak really good Mandarin. We discussed about films and the local film industry. At times, I was a mix between film critic and an excited fan who had watched his films since university days.

My first question, “Why Men In White?” He said that he just wanted to do something different, something illogical. People would expect him to do another horror, but he just wanted a project in between to keep his mind of. That he strike me as somebody true to his feelings, without much consideration of the reviewers or the box office. People who have watched his Love Story would also understand.

Again, he cast a group of first-time movie actors for a feature. It was a risky move, but his willingness to give young talents a window of opportunity was admirable.

When I expressed my worry when he is going for the 'social-commentary comedies' genre, something synonymous with Jack Neo's works. He said “Jack is Jack. I am I.” Indeed, he is someone who does not allow himself to be pigeon holed, and just to try out new things.

He does still look aloof when he doesn't smile. But behind that, I could see this 'boy' in him, true to his passion, with an element of 'fun'. This meeting allowed me to see him and his works in a different light.

Men In White 鬼啊! 鬼啊!

2007-05-31T10:47:00.001+08:00

Director: Kelvin Tong
Starring: Shaun Chen, Ling Lee, Xavier Teo, Ben Yeung, Alice Lim, David Aw, Benjamin Heng
RunTime: 88 mins
Genre: Comedy
Rating: PG

Exactly what was Kelvin Tong thinking when he wrote and directed Men In White.

A 'horror-dy' from one of Singapore’s film director (whose last horror movie had critical acclaim and commercial success), it revolves around five Singaporean ghosts very clueless about their lives (or deaths). The audience is equally clueless as well.

The cast which includes the old Channel U alumnus Shaun Chen, Ben Yeung, Xavier Teo, Benjamin Heng, Singapore Universe’s contestant Ling Lee, Singapore Dreaming’s Alice Lim, and newcomer David Aw, probably did not know what they were in for.

They play a group of ghosts comprising a badminton player, ah lian, housewife, hiphoppers and a frequent kidnapper, constantly grouching about their boring after-lives and tasteless food of oranges and pork bellies. They break out in random dialogues of Singlish, Malaysian-accented Mandarin, American-accented English, Cantonese, Hokkien, and whatsoever song and dance sequences– What diversity Singapore has to offer. But is there a point in any of these?

The best part of the movie is the first 5 minutes, where 933DJ Jiahui showed apt comic timing playing a frightened juvenile. It kind of reminds people of the Scary movie series, though not sure if that’s a good or bad thing. After that, the nonsensical storyline and inability to draw laughs just frustrates. 4D accident jokes, effeminate guy stereotypes and toilet talk - humour or clichés?

Not everybody can do comedies. Sometimes, it should come naturally or it will look like you are trying to hard. A good comedy is class, not crass.

This production would disappoint ardent local movie supporters. But as my friend says, "We need movies like this to allow us to appreciate the other good movies."

Men In White – Barely scary, very dreary

Udon

2007-05-16T23:40:00.000+08:00

Director: Katsuyuki Motohiro
Starring: Yusuke Santamaria, Manami Konishi, Tortoise Matsumoto, Kyoka Suzuki, Takeshi Masu, Jin Katagiri
RunTime: 135 mins
Genre: Comedy (Japanese)
Rating: PG

"Itadakimasu!" I feel like I have eaten two big bowls of Udon.

The first bowl is hot in hot broth – full of comic variety, combination of several tastes which makes it rich and enjoyable. The ‘maker’ is a Japanese comic actor who returns home to his village after he fails to make it big in the Big Apple. He rediscovers his love for udon, and makes the whole world fall in love with this unappreciated noodle dish with his ingenious food hunt magazine. Have a good laugh and a hearty meal.

After more than an hour on the last, you will be served another bowl. This time, it is cold on hot broth. You have to slowly appreciate the Japanese family flavour, slowly crafted to its perfection. It is prepared by both the cold traditional father and the fun loving prodigal son. With simmer heat and the usual father-son tension, it reminds many of their own family culture.

Like the making of Japanese food, it takes its time to indulge in the Japanese culture, which bridges family ties and heal souls. This bowl feels warm in the tummy, and one would appreciate the dedication of the chief chef to its final product. Keep it mind that he has already whipped up dishes such as the popular Bayside Showdown and Space Travelers.

The second bowl would have been just enough to make me feel satisfied. As you struggle to finish it, you realise it may be one bowl too much. I can't finish my udon. *Burp*

Udon – Half of it should be enough

28 Weeks Later

2007-05-16T22:44:00.000+08:00

Director: Juan Carlos Fresnadillo
Cast: Robert Carlyle, Rose Byrne, Harold Perrineau, Catherine McCormack
RunTime: 99 mins
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Rating: M18

In this man-eat-man world, it can be really scary when man really eats other men.

Not for the faint-hearted, this sequel to 28 Days Later exhibits violent, blood and gore. In the future land of London, the ‘zombie’ virus spreads like an epidemic. Father tears the face off mummy dearest, and children infected cannot wait to lay their teeth on human flesh.

The audience who craves for adrenalin pumping action and fast MTV sequences would enjoy this intense piece. This movie is quite a world on its own, when a catastrophic disaster piece meets gory violence. It feels like watching a graphic novel come alive. Beware of the shaky camera though, which may cause headaches other than the blood splatters. Avoid the front row.

With strong cinematic techniques, you will not see London in the same light again. Watch out for the breath taking sequences of lonely skyscrapers, empty lanes and the London eye in monochromic despair.

Some may see it as an empty piece, infected with a lot of movement, but lacking in spirit and soul. After all, the whole city and the human race is one the verge of destruction.

28 Weeks Later - Exciting for most, excruciating for others. Watch out for 28 months later.

Bridge To Terabithia

2007-05-14T22:18:00.000+08:00

If Pan's Labyrinth is fairytale on the dark side, then Bridge to Terabithia is the opposite. Comparing it to The Chronicles of Narnia would be quite unfair too, though it was pitched that way to get publicity.

While I would forsee most with skeptic minds and pampered by Hollywood effects to hate this 'goody-goody' movie, isn't this what we have all lost? A simple and uncomplicated childhood.

The movie would be completely lost on many. It is not a children's movie, but one dealing with themes of love, family, growing up, loss, self worth and religion (Lead Jess doesn't know whether to believe in God.)

I love movies with many quotable quotes. Especially when the unusually strong teacher Mrs Myer breaks down in front of her student "Everybody tells me to cry and then to move on after he left. They don't understand. I can't move on. He is already in my heart."

In this real world, we have lost sight of Terabithia, when fathers force sons to grow up, and reality makes you lose your dreams.

But perhaps Terabithia is somewhere buried in your heart.

Bridge to Terabithia - A bridge to feel your lost childhood

Spiderman 3

2007-05-03T22:26:00.000+08:00

Director: Sam Raimi
Cast: Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, Topher Grace
RunTime: 156 mins
Genre: Action/Adventure
Rating: PG (Action Violence)

Spiderman has become a very busy man.

He has 3 villains to fight (best friend Green Goblin, Sandman and Venom), 3 women to deal with (girlfriend Mary Jane, new babe Gwen Stacy and Aunt May) and 3 of himself (Peter Parker, Red Spidey and Black Spidey). No wonder the movie is that long.

The main hype of Spiderman 3 is about him in the black suit, representing the internal struggle between the good and bad. However, it became just a small part of the story in other big messes Spiderman is embroiled in. As to how he really went to the dark side, we never really know.

Tobey Maguire seems rather clumsy (and fat!) in eyeliner and combed-down fringe, absolutely uncomfortable in playing a baddie role. Kristen Dunst reinforced the fact that she could only do one thing well – scream (and not sing) while hanging from the top. Their good friend James Franco has matured adequately, though only half good-looking. A pity.

This third, and possibly last instalment packs lots of special effects and visual entertainment. However, it lacks the big heart that the first two instalments had.

Too many villains do not make a good Spidey movie.

Spiderman 3 – Lots of action with less heart