Once again, I can't believe how fast time flies. My time here is almost over; I'm going home in about a week. That's crazy. But I'm not going to think about how much I'll miss everyone here. At least not now.
So last sunday our team had our presentation in church, which consisted of three songs - 'Beautiful One,' 'Savior King,' and 'Beautiful Things.' It went pretty well, although I was one of the two singers, and it was a little cringe-worthy hearing myself over the microphone, especially when it came time to hit the higher notes. The other two guys shared their testimony and words of wisdom from the Bible.
On Monday, we had our last chance to rehearse for the Christmas program for Sunday service, but things didn't go so well. There's this new bunch of 10-year-old rowdy boys who have been completely disrupting things at youth group - they fight each other all the time, they kick and punch girls, and they scream about everything. So we had to sit and write down rules for youth group, and I could see how upset the original kids of the group were; they really didn't like the newcomers. In fact, I think 'hate' was the word used a lot.
At first I sympathized with the new boys. I mean, they're boys. And you never know what kind of background they come from or what they're going through right now. But I guess that's still no excuse to hit a girl or be completely disrespectful toward everyone. And just seeing how frustrated and upset the other kids were, I kind of agreed with the youth group leader on banning the boys for a week or two. You could sense the huge sighs of relief when the boys finally left.
On Tuesday, we went to Birmingham for a team outing lunch, but we couldn't decide on what to eat. I really don't get why some people always want to eat at Subway. For every meal. Don't they get sick of it?? Finally we settled for German burgers and fried potatoes, which were really good. Then we separated and gave out tracts near the German Christmas market. People were pretty receptive; I talked to this guy who told me about his friend going to Singapore every three months to visit his girlfriend. I also talked to this guy who migrated here from Hong Kong, and he kept telling me to do good to people and life would be alright.
Thursday was my last Prayer Emphasis Day, and it was a day of learning. I learned about the reality of the situation in North Korea, and how the concentration camps there for political prisoners are as bad as Nazi Germany's. It was quite shocking to hear what was actually happening there, and it was an eye-opener. We were told about this Korean American guy who went to North Korea to proclaim the gospel in an outright manner, and he got beaten to an inch of his life. And he still wants to go back to preach to the people, who are starving because the government's first priority is the 'royal family' and the army.
It just made me think. After hearing about all these stories of injustices going on around the world, what can we do about it? What are we supposed to do? Simply pray? Give money? We obviously can't go to every part of the world and help solve every problem there is. That's only up to God.
Saturday we went tracting again, but it wasn't so successful. Maybe because it was evening time, and there were a ton of people there drinking German beer, eating German food, and being merry. We found lots of tracts on the ground, some ripped into pieces, some folded, some crumpled... and it was a little discouraging. So we gave up and went home after an hour. At least it wasn't an all bad day. Before that, we watched the new Narnia movie, which was pretty good. I was a little surprised by how... clear the Christian message came across.
The part about Eustace not being able to turn himself back from a dragon to a human... but he could do it with Aslan's help... and it hurt when he transformed, but it was a good pain... And the part about the children knowing Aslan in the Narnia world so they could know him in their own world... Is it just me, or was that totally Christian? I mean, I know the books are written by a Christian author and they have a Christian message, but I'm just surprised Hollywood allowed the message to be so overt. At least it came across in a good way.
Showing posts with label Movies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Movies. Show all posts
Monday, December 13, 2010
Friday, November 26, 2010
The controversial world of Harry Potter
With the long-awaited last installment of Harry Potter out in cinemas last week, everyone has been buzzing about the movie. I haven't seen it, because I'm not a huge fan. It's visually appealing with an intriguing plot and amazing acting, but I'm not crazy about the scary moments in the film when evil is so... terrifying. So I've seen all previous Harry Potter movies, but that was only because my friends wanted to, there was nothing else worth watching, and I was curious to experience the magic of Harry Potter for myself. Honestly, it's not a big deal to me; it's mere entertainment, just like any other movie.
Last week, we had a morning devotion about the worldwide phenomenon that is Harry Potter, and it made me realize a lot of things. So here is my two cents about the good and evil side of Potter.
Bad
But on the other hand, you can say it's just a movie - mere entertainment - so there's no need to get all huffy about it because as long as we're able to discern what's good and bad (and stay away from the bad), it's fine to watch the movie and read the book.
Also, God calls us to be in the world but not of it. To be able to relate to people, we have to be able to connect with their interests, their pop culture, their likes, and their dislikes. If we draw the line at Harry Potter, what about all the other junk that's out there? Most movies have sex scenes or implications of sex, sleeping around is promoted in most TV shows, there's tons of violence in action and horror movies, popular music has awful lyrics that talk about alcohol, women, money, and sex... the list can go on forever. What makes Harry Potter worse than any of these other things? Is it because the occult is a darker and greater stronghold than perhaps violence or sexual promiscuity?
Are we to hide ourselves away in a cave to run away from this corrupted world so we don't open our minds to such wickedness? I don't think so. If we do that, we'll be unable to reach out to others because they'll think Christians are freaks who don't understand their culture at all. But then, if we do everything the world does and act like everyone else, what sets us apart from nonbelievers?
My mind is filled with questions galore. I'm not entirely sure where I stand on this issue, because I think it's a fine line. I don't think we can draw a line between black and white and say 'this is right' and 'that is wrong,' because there's a heck of a lot of grey areas.
I think it's up to the individual to evaluate and discern for his or herself. If you think doing something will stumble yourself or even your fellow brother or sister, then don't do it. But if you think you're okay with simply watching or listening to something and you won't be affected by it, then go ahead. Although... there is some truth to the fact that everything we expose our minds to has some sort of impact on our subconsciousness.
So... I really don't know.
Because... I love my TV shows, I love my hip hop songs, and I love my celebrity magazines. Yes, I know they all promote sex, drunkenness, promiscuity, unhealthy body image, materialism, and all that. And I admit, I have been influenced by their moral standards. But they're so entertaining, and to some degree, addicting. However, I honestly have connected to people (especially nonbelievers) on some level by talking about our identical interests in these things. Maybe there is a better way to relate to people besides this, or maybe if my walk with God is stronger I will somehow be immune to the corruption of the world... I'm not sure.
This issue is just confusing, and it's one I struggle with a lot. I'm a huge advocate for being up-to-date on popular culture, especially since I have a media communication degree, because even with all the filth and dirt that's in pop culture nowadays, it still has its redeeming qualities. Plus, let's face it - the entire world is consumed and affected by pop culture, and I believe the mass media can be one of the most effective ways to reach out to people.
Last week, we had a morning devotion about the worldwide phenomenon that is Harry Potter, and it made me realize a lot of things. So here is my two cents about the good and evil side of Potter.
Bad
- It portrays the world of magic in a very welcoming, non-threatening, fascinating, and wonderful manner, which is totally unlike the real world of 'magic' - dark, disturbing, and evil.
- Since witchcraft looks so enticing in the movie (and lead characters are people just like you and me), tons of people around the world are attracted to it and have been signing up to become witches and wizards, without realizing what they're getting themselves into.
- This movie is targeted at kids and teens, who are mostly innocent-minded and have no idea how to discern what's right and wrong. They only see the surface of the movie, and they don't realize the implications of getting involved in the occult.
- There's the ripple effect, which we can see by the huge increase in magic books and movies and toys and schools that have popped up all over the world. Magic has become harmless and popular.
But on the other hand, you can say it's just a movie - mere entertainment - so there's no need to get all huffy about it because as long as we're able to discern what's good and bad (and stay away from the bad), it's fine to watch the movie and read the book.
Also, God calls us to be in the world but not of it. To be able to relate to people, we have to be able to connect with their interests, their pop culture, their likes, and their dislikes. If we draw the line at Harry Potter, what about all the other junk that's out there? Most movies have sex scenes or implications of sex, sleeping around is promoted in most TV shows, there's tons of violence in action and horror movies, popular music has awful lyrics that talk about alcohol, women, money, and sex... the list can go on forever. What makes Harry Potter worse than any of these other things? Is it because the occult is a darker and greater stronghold than perhaps violence or sexual promiscuity?
Are we to hide ourselves away in a cave to run away from this corrupted world so we don't open our minds to such wickedness? I don't think so. If we do that, we'll be unable to reach out to others because they'll think Christians are freaks who don't understand their culture at all. But then, if we do everything the world does and act like everyone else, what sets us apart from nonbelievers?
My mind is filled with questions galore. I'm not entirely sure where I stand on this issue, because I think it's a fine line. I don't think we can draw a line between black and white and say 'this is right' and 'that is wrong,' because there's a heck of a lot of grey areas.
I think it's up to the individual to evaluate and discern for his or herself. If you think doing something will stumble yourself or even your fellow brother or sister, then don't do it. But if you think you're okay with simply watching or listening to something and you won't be affected by it, then go ahead. Although... there is some truth to the fact that everything we expose our minds to has some sort of impact on our subconsciousness.
So... I really don't know.
Because... I love my TV shows, I love my hip hop songs, and I love my celebrity magazines. Yes, I know they all promote sex, drunkenness, promiscuity, unhealthy body image, materialism, and all that. And I admit, I have been influenced by their moral standards. But they're so entertaining, and to some degree, addicting. However, I honestly have connected to people (especially nonbelievers) on some level by talking about our identical interests in these things. Maybe there is a better way to relate to people besides this, or maybe if my walk with God is stronger I will somehow be immune to the corruption of the world... I'm not sure.
This issue is just confusing, and it's one I struggle with a lot. I'm a huge advocate for being up-to-date on popular culture, especially since I have a media communication degree, because even with all the filth and dirt that's in pop culture nowadays, it still has its redeeming qualities. Plus, let's face it - the entire world is consumed and affected by pop culture, and I believe the mass media can be one of the most effective ways to reach out to people.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Time travel
I love movies that revolve around the concept of time, reality, possibilities, alternative futures, imagination... all that crazy stuff.
On one hand, I enjoy watching fluffy movies that don't require any thought whatsoever, but on the other hand, I like the occasional weighty movie that deals with profound and complicated issues and provokes all kinds of discussion.
Hot Tub Time Machine
I wasn't very impressed by the previews or the posters, but it was actually kind of entertaining. And it dealt with the age-old question: Can one little alteration in the past change the entire future?
It also made me wish I could go back in time, do some things differently, maybe win a bet or two and become ridiculously rich.
Mr Nobody
I chanced upon this movie recently, and I was pleasantly surprised by how compelling it was. Director Jaco van Dormael produced this science-fiction/fantasy/drama that was a little confusing at times and very riveting at others. Jared Leto plays 'Mr Nobody,' the last mortal man on earth, and he's reliving all his past experiences, except that he has different memories, and each story he tells has a different ending because of the different decisions he made in his 'alternate' lives. Like I said, baffling.
But it deals with the question of 'What If' - what if we had made a different choice at a particular crossroads... Would our lives be completely different?
At the end, Mr Nobody says of his different stories:
'Each of these lives is the right one. Every path is the right path. Everything could have been anything else and it would have just as much meaning.'
I just thought that was interesting, because I always think about the choices I make, and what kind of path I will go down when I make a particular decision. And sometimes we think we make mistakes, but maybe everything is meant to happen the way it does. Since everything happens for a reason, I guess whatever journey our lives take, it's all meant to be. Every path is worth living... or something like that. I'm getting a headache just trying to process it all.
Equilibrium
Another movie with a crazy idea. It's set in the future, and human emotion has been eradicated because it's supposedly the cause of everything detrimental on earth. Joy, sorrow, wrath, frustration, love... At one point the movie claims 'the disease is human emotion,' which I thought was fascinating. I mean, emotions are what makes us REAL, and to eliminate them completely... It'll be like we're no better than robots.
Society might be safer and cleaner and 'better' without human emotion, but it would also be colder and unfeeling and distant... and we'd lose all the things that make us essentially human.
Yeah, I think about weird things in my head and process them in my writing.
On one hand, I enjoy watching fluffy movies that don't require any thought whatsoever, but on the other hand, I like the occasional weighty movie that deals with profound and complicated issues and provokes all kinds of discussion.
Hot Tub Time Machine
I wasn't very impressed by the previews or the posters, but it was actually kind of entertaining. And it dealt with the age-old question: Can one little alteration in the past change the entire future?
It also made me wish I could go back in time, do some things differently, maybe win a bet or two and become ridiculously rich.
Mr Nobody
I chanced upon this movie recently, and I was pleasantly surprised by how compelling it was. Director Jaco van Dormael produced this science-fiction/fantasy/drama that was a little confusing at times and very riveting at others. Jared Leto plays 'Mr Nobody,' the last mortal man on earth, and he's reliving all his past experiences, except that he has different memories, and each story he tells has a different ending because of the different decisions he made in his 'alternate' lives. Like I said, baffling.
But it deals with the question of 'What If' - what if we had made a different choice at a particular crossroads... Would our lives be completely different?
At the end, Mr Nobody says of his different stories:
'Each of these lives is the right one. Every path is the right path. Everything could have been anything else and it would have just as much meaning.'
I just thought that was interesting, because I always think about the choices I make, and what kind of path I will go down when I make a particular decision. And sometimes we think we make mistakes, but maybe everything is meant to happen the way it does. Since everything happens for a reason, I guess whatever journey our lives take, it's all meant to be. Every path is worth living... or something like that. I'm getting a headache just trying to process it all.
Equilibrium
Another movie with a crazy idea. It's set in the future, and human emotion has been eradicated because it's supposedly the cause of everything detrimental on earth. Joy, sorrow, wrath, frustration, love... At one point the movie claims 'the disease is human emotion,' which I thought was fascinating. I mean, emotions are what makes us REAL, and to eliminate them completely... It'll be like we're no better than robots.
Society might be safer and cleaner and 'better' without human emotion, but it would also be colder and unfeeling and distant... and we'd lose all the things that make us essentially human.
Yeah, I think about weird things in my head and process them in my writing.
Inception = brilliant
I watched Inception this past weekend, and it totally blew my mind away. It was utterly brilliant and definitely lived up to every expectation I had.
Christopher Nolan is one heck of a genius - he directed and wrote The Prestige (one of my favorite magic films of all time), revamped Batman (The Dark Knight was a million times better than any other Batman movie), came up with the compelling and suspenseful mystery that was Memento, and most recently, gave us Inception, his project that supposedly took 8-10 years to produce. That's perseverance and determination right there.
So far there are two directors I really admire and respect - Christopher Nolan and Tim Burton - both very talented and creative in their projects. (I also love how Burton looks every bit like the eccentric and unconventional movies he produces.) Looking at Nolan's track record, he has the uncanny ability to come up original and unique ideas and make them spring to life on the big screen. That's kind of a rare thing, seeing as how almost every movie nowadays is a variation of a predictable equation.
Horror movies = the more blood and gore, the better.
Romantic comedies = boy meets girl, fall in love, separated by some obstacle, overcome it, live happily ever after.
Action movies = everything gets blown up and the hero never dies, no matter how many times he or she is shot or thrown off the top of a building.
So yeah. I was very much pleasantly surprised by the ingenuity behind Inception. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. And I loved the concept of dreams within dreams and the (un)certainty of reality. It's movies like Inception and A Beautiful Mind that sometimes make me wonder if everything I'm experiencing is true reality and not some vision from my imagination. Kind of ludicrous, I know, but interesting to mull over.
Anyway, I read somewhere about the similarities between Inception and Lost, best TV show ever. I still can't believe it's over; it's like a little part of me has died. I mean, Lost has been part of my life (and part of many bonding activities in college) for the past 4 years.
But anyway, both involve the characters flying from Sydney to LAX, both make the audience question their perspective of reality, both keep the audience second-guessing the entire time, and both have non-cliched endings that aren't predictable and yet satisfying. That, and some other stuff.
Sometimes I wish I could pick the brains of these directors and writers. The kind of stuff they come up with... it's unbelievable.
Christopher Nolan is one heck of a genius - he directed and wrote The Prestige (one of my favorite magic films of all time), revamped Batman (The Dark Knight was a million times better than any other Batman movie), came up with the compelling and suspenseful mystery that was Memento, and most recently, gave us Inception, his project that supposedly took 8-10 years to produce. That's perseverance and determination right there.
So far there are two directors I really admire and respect - Christopher Nolan and Tim Burton - both very talented and creative in their projects. (I also love how Burton looks every bit like the eccentric and unconventional movies he produces.) Looking at Nolan's track record, he has the uncanny ability to come up original and unique ideas and make them spring to life on the big screen. That's kind of a rare thing, seeing as how almost every movie nowadays is a variation of a predictable equation.
Horror movies = the more blood and gore, the better.
Romantic comedies = boy meets girl, fall in love, separated by some obstacle, overcome it, live happily ever after.
Action movies = everything gets blown up and the hero never dies, no matter how many times he or she is shot or thrown off the top of a building.
So yeah. I was very much pleasantly surprised by the ingenuity behind Inception. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. And I loved the concept of dreams within dreams and the (un)certainty of reality. It's movies like Inception and A Beautiful Mind that sometimes make me wonder if everything I'm experiencing is true reality and not some vision from my imagination. Kind of ludicrous, I know, but interesting to mull over.
Anyway, I read somewhere about the similarities between Inception and Lost, best TV show ever. I still can't believe it's over; it's like a little part of me has died. I mean, Lost has been part of my life (and part of many bonding activities in college) for the past 4 years.
But anyway, both involve the characters flying from Sydney to LAX, both make the audience question their perspective of reality, both keep the audience second-guessing the entire time, and both have non-cliched endings that aren't predictable and yet satisfying. That, and some other stuff.
Sometimes I wish I could pick the brains of these directors and writers. The kind of stuff they come up with... it's unbelievable.
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Movies, sequels, and... threequels?
Some movies should be left alone, because their sequels and those that follow after just do not live up to the original film's greatness. Case in point: Bring It On. The first movie was great in its time - funny, original, and interesting - but the follow-ups don't make the cut at all.
There's Bring it on - Again, Bring it on - All or nothing, Bring it on - In it to win it, Bring it on - Fight to the finish... It's like a never ending stream of mediocre wannabes, all featuring the same plot, just different actors. I'm not unashamed to admit that I own probably 3/4 of the above movies, but hey, they make pretty good background noise when working on class assignments.
I really don't know why Hayden Panettiere agreed to do the movie. Watching her dance and cheer was a bit awkward, but I guess that's why the film pretty much went straight to DVD.
There's also the Shrek movies, all four of them, which progressively get worse. I don't know why they didn't stop at magic number 3.
I remember being pleasantly entertained by the first one, with its unexpected hero, somewhat disappointed with the second one, with the annoying Prince Charming and the Fairy Godmother, completely umimpressed with the third one, so much so that I don't even remember what it was about... And the latest one totally lost my attention about 15 minutes into the movie.
More honorable mentions include Legally Blonde 2: Red, White, and Blonde (which just about killed the legacy of the first one). But I still love Reese Witherspoon. She's gorgeous and absolutely talented.
Despite these failures, great movie sequels do exist. Like the Toy Story trilogy, the amazing X-Men trilogy (which opened my eyes to the sensational world of X-Men comics), and Spiderman 1 & 2 (the third one is excluded because it was downright awful).
I also liked Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights, and I actually thought it was better than the first one. Maybe it was because I saw the second one first and the first one probably appealed more to the generation before me. Or maybe it was because the lead guy, Diego Luna, looks like this.
I mean, who wouldn't want to watch a movie starring him??
Anyway, all this was inspired by my viewing of Twilight: Eclipse today. I read all four Twilight books a while ago, so I didn't remember a thing about the third book, but I was super duper excited about the latest movie. It just brought back awesome memories of last year, when I saw the entire cast at the Twilight: New Moon premiere in LA. Good times.
The movie was actually pretty good. An improvement from the second one, which was an improvement from the first one. Plus I totally think Bella is stupid to go for the cold, soulless vampire when she has the hot (in every sense of the word) werewolf right in front of her. So I was glad to see Jacob finally getting some action, even though I know the ending isn't great for him.
*spoilers ahead*
The fourth book was a total disappointment, what with its weird half-vampy baby, Jacob's pedophile behavior, and the horribly anti-climactic Volturi retreat, but... I'm excited to see how this much-anticipated series will end on the big screen.
And on another movie-related note, since I have all this free time now, I recently watched:
There's Bring it on - Again, Bring it on - All or nothing, Bring it on - In it to win it, Bring it on - Fight to the finish... It's like a never ending stream of mediocre wannabes, all featuring the same plot, just different actors. I'm not unashamed to admit that I own probably 3/4 of the above movies, but hey, they make pretty good background noise when working on class assignments.
I really don't know why Hayden Panettiere agreed to do the movie. Watching her dance and cheer was a bit awkward, but I guess that's why the film pretty much went straight to DVD.
There's also the Shrek movies, all four of them, which progressively get worse. I don't know why they didn't stop at magic number 3.
I remember being pleasantly entertained by the first one, with its unexpected hero, somewhat disappointed with the second one, with the annoying Prince Charming and the Fairy Godmother, completely umimpressed with the third one, so much so that I don't even remember what it was about... And the latest one totally lost my attention about 15 minutes into the movie.
More honorable mentions include Legally Blonde 2: Red, White, and Blonde (which just about killed the legacy of the first one). But I still love Reese Witherspoon. She's gorgeous and absolutely talented.
Despite these failures, great movie sequels do exist. Like the Toy Story trilogy, the amazing X-Men trilogy (which opened my eyes to the sensational world of X-Men comics), and Spiderman 1 & 2 (the third one is excluded because it was downright awful).
I also liked Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights, and I actually thought it was better than the first one. Maybe it was because I saw the second one first and the first one probably appealed more to the generation before me. Or maybe it was because the lead guy, Diego Luna, looks like this.
I mean, who wouldn't want to watch a movie starring him??
Anyway, all this was inspired by my viewing of Twilight: Eclipse today. I read all four Twilight books a while ago, so I didn't remember a thing about the third book, but I was super duper excited about the latest movie. It just brought back awesome memories of last year, when I saw the entire cast at the Twilight: New Moon premiere in LA. Good times.
The movie was actually pretty good. An improvement from the second one, which was an improvement from the first one. Plus I totally think Bella is stupid to go for the cold, soulless vampire when she has the hot (in every sense of the word) werewolf right in front of her. So I was glad to see Jacob finally getting some action, even though I know the ending isn't great for him.
*spoilers ahead*
The fourth book was a total disappointment, what with its weird half-vampy baby, Jacob's pedophile behavior, and the horribly anti-climactic Volturi retreat, but... I'm excited to see how this much-anticipated series will end on the big screen.
And on another movie-related note, since I have all this free time now, I recently watched:
- Hot Rod
Another one of those idiotic comedies my brothers love. It was mildly entertaining, seeing this grown man acting like a kid, attempting all those stunts, failing miserably, and still thinking he's all that.
- When in Rome
I thought the premise was kind of cute, but those stereotypical guys who chased after her were kind of predictable and boring. It could've been better.
- The Other Boleyn Girl
This was, hands down, the MOST fascinating movie I've seen in a while. Sometimes I get distracted while watching a movie, and I go on facebook or chat with friends or do something on the side... But during this movie, I was completely captivated. It was just absolutely compelling. The storyline, the acting, everything was brilliant. Great story about ambition, greed, innocence, temptation... all set in ancient times. I was so caught up in the entire thing that I even googled the story after the movie ended, and I found out it was loosely based on a true story. What can I say, I'm a sucker for true stories.
- Leap Year
Remember how I just said I usually get distracted while watching movies? Well, I was totally distracted when watching this. It wasn't very interesting at all. Very predictable and monotonous. I already forgot most of it, and I literally just watched it.
- Remember Me
Okay, so, I'm not a huge fan of R.Pat, so I was a little reluctant to watch this. But I'd heard good things about it, so I decided to put aside my prejudice and take a chance. And although R.Pat was his usual Twilight self, all mysterious and brooding, the storyline was actually rather riveting. And the ending just blew me away. I literally had goosebumps on my skin.
- Kick Ass
This was another one of my brother's favorite, i.e., stupid movie. Violent, horrific, and downright dumb. I don't know who produces these movies, really.
Sunday, July 04, 2010
Sunday escapades
I love Sundays.
Because...
1. It's a day off from work.
2. I get to explore Perth and discover all it has to offer
And so I found out not all of Perth looks like this...
The first Sunday it was just mom and me at church, and afterwards we got lost in the city (even with the help of a GPS).
But we ended up a quaint little area in the city called Subiaco, explored the markets, and then went to Harbortown, an outlet mall. We tried some Japanese ramen, which was really salty and just overall bad. And I got a pair of black heeled boots :)
The second Sunday it was still mom and me, and this time the legendary Pastor Benny Ho preached; he was pretty funny. Afterwards we went to the Fremantle markets and had Japanese ramen again, this time it was delicious. We also tried a spinach-mushroom-tomato-cheese crepe - BEST tasting crepe I have ever had! It marked the start of mom's obsession with making crepes and perfecting them. We've been having crepes a lot for breakfast - with nutella, chocolate, bananas, even tuna.
This Sunday all of us went to church, brother and cousins included. We had a picnic lunch at a lake with mom's cell group afterwards. Hamburgers, hot dogs, satay, subway sandwiches, homemade sandwiches, carbonara, bee hoon, pasta, fruit salad... It was a feast.
And the lake was so pretty; it was filled with adorable little ducks and the sky was so blue it looked like it was photoshopped.
We went to the movies later and watched Toy Story 3! It was excellent, just like every other Disney/Pixar movie.
Seriously, I have yet to find any horribly bad movie by Pixar or Disney. Films like Monsters Inc., Finding Nemo, and Up were pretty much awesome. Except maybe Wall-E, which was a tad too boring for me, with its lack of dialogue in the first half. Although... even though everyone else said they cried, I didn't. I was waiting, and waiting, and waiting for the part where I was supposed to cry, but it never came. The last part was a little nostalgic, but not really terribly sad. Overall, a great movie though.
During the ride back, a huge truck packed to the brim with sheep passed us by. I was very much amused, for some reason. Those poor little squashed sheep.
And then... home sweet home.
Because...
1. It's a day off from work.
2. I get to explore Perth and discover all it has to offer
And so I found out not all of Perth looks like this...
The first Sunday it was just mom and me at church, and afterwards we got lost in the city (even with the help of a GPS).
But we ended up a quaint little area in the city called Subiaco, explored the markets, and then went to Harbortown, an outlet mall. We tried some Japanese ramen, which was really salty and just overall bad. And I got a pair of black heeled boots :)
The second Sunday it was still mom and me, and this time the legendary Pastor Benny Ho preached; he was pretty funny. Afterwards we went to the Fremantle markets and had Japanese ramen again, this time it was delicious. We also tried a spinach-mushroom-tomato-cheese crepe - BEST tasting crepe I have ever had! It marked the start of mom's obsession with making crepes and perfecting them. We've been having crepes a lot for breakfast - with nutella, chocolate, bananas, even tuna.
This Sunday all of us went to church, brother and cousins included. We had a picnic lunch at a lake with mom's cell group afterwards. Hamburgers, hot dogs, satay, subway sandwiches, homemade sandwiches, carbonara, bee hoon, pasta, fruit salad... It was a feast.
And the lake was so pretty; it was filled with adorable little ducks and the sky was so blue it looked like it was photoshopped.
We went to the movies later and watched Toy Story 3! It was excellent, just like every other Disney/Pixar movie.
Seriously, I have yet to find any horribly bad movie by Pixar or Disney. Films like Monsters Inc., Finding Nemo, and Up were pretty much awesome. Except maybe Wall-E, which was a tad too boring for me, with its lack of dialogue in the first half. Although... even though everyone else said they cried, I didn't. I was waiting, and waiting, and waiting for the part where I was supposed to cry, but it never came. The last part was a little nostalgic, but not really terribly sad. Overall, a great movie though.
During the ride back, a huge truck packed to the brim with sheep passed us by. I was very much amused, for some reason. Those poor little squashed sheep.
And then... home sweet home.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
A turning point in life?
This past week, I watched the movie "From Paris With Love" with my brother, and it was rather mediocre, as far as action movies go. The plot was predictable, the acting was uninspiring, and the dialogue left much to be desired. But I was still entertained, even if it was because of John Travolta's bold and brazen character. I don't think I've ever seen him in a role quite like that before, because his most memorable roles (to me, at least) were the dancing dude from Grease and the man-turned-woman on Hairspray, and so to watch him act all arrogant and unrefined was pretty amusing.
Anyway, movie aside, the reason I mentioned the film was because there was a particular scene in which Jonathan Rhys Meyers’ girlfriend-turned-spy/suicidal-terrorist reveals her motives for joining the dark side. She tells him that all her life she never knew what her ultimate purpose was, and she never had some sort of final goal she wanted to achieve during her time on earth. But one day, she met this religious guy, and it was right at that moment that she knew. She understood her life’s calling. She claimed that was the turning point in her life where everything in the past didn’t matter, because she acknowledged, without a doubt, her purpose in life. And from then on she worked toward fulfilling the reason she was put on this earth.
That pretty much blew my mind. It was incredible. Intense and thought provoking. I might be the only person who appreciated that scene, but hey, it somewhat redeemed an otherwise C-grade movie for me.
It got me thinking: Is there such a thing as a turning point in life?
A clearly defined moment where we turn our backs on our past and look forward to the future with a new and heightened sense of purpose? An instance of absolute significance that undermines everything we ever believed in and gives us a distinct zeal for life?
A clearly defined moment where we turn our backs on our past and look forward to the future with a new and heightened sense of purpose? An instance of absolute significance that undermines everything we ever believed in and gives us a distinct zeal for life?
I have no idea. Maybe it’s one definite moment, maybe it’s a process, maybe it’s a lifelong journey toward discovering our life’s calling. But whatever it is, I sure would like to determine mine, because I’ve been feeling rather aimless lately, seeing as how I am a fresh graduate and my first 'job' right out of college is working in a pizza place in Perth, Australia, voted one of the most boring places on the face of the earth (by me).
I just think there's got to be more to life than simply settling for whatever career you fall into. And yes, I think my generation and my parents' generation are worlds apart. Their mindset is to work to earn money and provide for their family -- very practical. Our mindset is to find a career we are passionate about and love doing, no matter how low the salary is or how bad the working conditions are -- very idealistic. But I don't mind being idealistic, because I'd rather live my life with purpose. I'd rather live in a cardboard box and do something I absolutely love everyday than settle into a cubicle and waste my life away earning big bucks but not enjoying any moment of it.
So yes, my goal right now is to find a goal for my life. Because you know what they say, a person without purpose is like a log of wood drifting into the vastness of the ocean until it is completely lost and overwhelmed by the water.
I just think there's got to be more to life than simply settling for whatever career you fall into. And yes, I think my generation and my parents' generation are worlds apart. Their mindset is to work to earn money and provide for their family -- very practical. Our mindset is to find a career we are passionate about and love doing, no matter how low the salary is or how bad the working conditions are -- very idealistic. But I don't mind being idealistic, because I'd rather live my life with purpose. I'd rather live in a cardboard box and do something I absolutely love everyday than settle into a cubicle and waste my life away earning big bucks but not enjoying any moment of it.
So yes, my goal right now is to find a goal for my life. Because you know what they say, a person without purpose is like a log of wood drifting into the vastness of the ocean until it is completely lost and overwhelmed by the water.
Okay, no one really says that. I just made it up. But you know what I mean. I just want to unearth my purpose in life, if that’s not too much to ask for.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Random movie quotes
Americans love to quote movies. Sometimes I wish I were as good as them at memorizing all these classic movie lines. It's like they can watch a movie a few times and start quoting it every chance they get. Me, I don't even remember a line from any of my favorite movies. Well, I guess I know Forrest Gump's "Life is like a box of chocolates - you never know what you're gonna get," and Star Wars' "May the force be with you," but everyone who's ever watched a movie knows that.
So anyway, even though I don't memorize movie quotes word for word, there are several movie quotes that kind of stuck out to me over the years...
The Devil Wears Prada
LOVE this film. I'd say it was Anne Hathaway's breakthrough from being typecast as 'the girl from The Princess Diaries.' Although it intimidates me a little, thinking about how cutthroat the magazine industry is.
So there's this scene where Miranda's assistant talks about her obsession with her body image, and she goes, "I'm on this new diet, it's very effective. I don't eat anything, and when I feel like I'm about to faint, I eat a cube of cheese... I'm one stomach flu away from reaching my goal weight."
Painfully true reflection of society today.
When Harry Met Sally
Classic friends-turned-to-lovers story. I liked the part when Harry turned up at the party in the end and told Sally, after years of friendship and on-off relationships, "I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible."
Hitch
One of the better romantic comedies - original and not as cheesy as other films. And you can tell that I'm somewhat of a romantic, because I liked when Hitch said, "So how does it happen, great love? Nobody knows... But what I can tell you is that it happens in the blink of an eye. One moment you're enjoying your life, and the next you're wondering how you ever lived without them."
Mean Girls
I don't know what it is about this movie, but it's owned by practically every girl on campus at Taylor. I guess it's a pretty true and ironic portrayal of girls and high school. So there's this part where Cady gets a revelation after doing a complete 180 and realizing she was becoming 'plastic,' and she says, "Calling somebody else fat won't make you any skinnier. Calling someone stupid doesn't make you any smarter."
Totally agree. Whoever said sticks and stones will break your bones, but words won't hurt, was completely lying.
500 Days of Summer
I just watched this movie again, and I love everything about it. The cinematography, the music, the actors and the acting, the plot, and the wicked dialogue. Although I kind of disagreed with what the narrator said at the end, "Most days of the year are unremarkable. They begin and they end with no lasting memory made in between. Most days have no impact on the course of a life."
I think everything we do has an impact - on our lives and on others'. Even the smallest, most insignificant things. So although sometimes we go through days that feel mundane and monotonous, I think they still have some sort of impact, because I believe everything happens for a reason, and it's that sort of mindset that helps you through the ups and downs of life. I mean, if you didn't believe things had an ultimate purpose or goal, then really what's the point of life at all?
Never Been Kissed
Okay I realized all my movies on this list are somewhat romantic comedies, but so what. They have good value too, especially when geeky Josie Geller tells her co-workers about how she's waiting for the right guy to come along and sweep her off her feet, and she says, "That thing, that moment, when you kiss someone and everything around becomes hazy and the only thing in focus is you and this person and you realize that that person is the only person that you're supposed to kiss for the rest of your life, and for one moment you get this amazing gift and you want to laugh and you want to cry because you feel so lucky that you found it and so scared that that it will go away all at the same time."
I used to think she was such an idealist and a dreamer, but now I think the world could use more people like that.
I also liked what she said at prom, when she declared to the high school kids that "There is a big world out there... bigger than prom, bigger than high school, and it won't matter if you were the prom queen, the quarterback of the football team, or the biggest nerd in school. Find out who you are and try not to be afraid of it."
So true. School totally doesn't matter. Who you were in high school or college doesn't matter, because you can totally reinvent yourself when you step out into 'the real world.'
Spiderman 3
Not the best Spiderman movie, but it had a crazy interesting quote. I think it was when Spidey was attacked by the black venom and went bad, and he said something like, "If you want forgiveness, get a religion."
Um, pretty sure I don't agree with that. Forgiveness is universal; we forgive each other, and God forgives us. It's not some rule within some religion. But then again, he said it when he was 'evil,' so I guess it makes sense that it would be controversial.
Zoolander
Ben Stiller cracks me up here. He's so incredibly stupid, it's actually funny. Like when he sees the model version of a center he's building, and he exclaims in genuine indignation, "What is this?? A center for ants? How can we be expected to teach children to learn how to read... if they can't even fit inside the building??"
His innocence/ignorance is hilarious.
Dumb and Dumber
Classic idiotic comedy, but oh so funny. Jim Carrey at his finest, channeling the stupidity of Lloyd. Like when he tries to hit on Mary.
Lloyd: What do you think the chances are of a guy like you and a girl like me... ending up together?
Mary: Well, Lloyd, that's difficult to say. I mean, we don't really...
Lloyd: Hit me with it! Just give it to me straight! I came a long way just to see you, Mary. The least you can do is level with me. What are my chances?
Mary: Not good.
Lloyd: You mean, not good like one out of a hundred?
Mary: I'd say more like one out of a million.
(pause)
Lloyd: So you're telling me there's a chance??? YEAH!
And when Harry tries to read the map to tell Lloyd where to go, he says, "According to the map, we've only gone 4 inches."
Hahaha.
I don't know how scriptwriters think of such great funny stuff.
So anyway, even though I don't memorize movie quotes word for word, there are several movie quotes that kind of stuck out to me over the years...
The Devil Wears Prada
LOVE this film. I'd say it was Anne Hathaway's breakthrough from being typecast as 'the girl from The Princess Diaries.' Although it intimidates me a little, thinking about how cutthroat the magazine industry is.
So there's this scene where Miranda's assistant talks about her obsession with her body image, and she goes, "I'm on this new diet, it's very effective. I don't eat anything, and when I feel like I'm about to faint, I eat a cube of cheese... I'm one stomach flu away from reaching my goal weight."
Painfully true reflection of society today.
When Harry Met Sally
Classic friends-turned-to-lovers story. I liked the part when Harry turned up at the party in the end and told Sally, after years of friendship and on-off relationships, "I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible."
Hitch
One of the better romantic comedies - original and not as cheesy as other films. And you can tell that I'm somewhat of a romantic, because I liked when Hitch said, "So how does it happen, great love? Nobody knows... But what I can tell you is that it happens in the blink of an eye. One moment you're enjoying your life, and the next you're wondering how you ever lived without them."
Mean Girls
I don't know what it is about this movie, but it's owned by practically every girl on campus at Taylor. I guess it's a pretty true and ironic portrayal of girls and high school. So there's this part where Cady gets a revelation after doing a complete 180 and realizing she was becoming 'plastic,' and she says, "Calling somebody else fat won't make you any skinnier. Calling someone stupid doesn't make you any smarter."
Totally agree. Whoever said sticks and stones will break your bones, but words won't hurt, was completely lying.
500 Days of Summer
I just watched this movie again, and I love everything about it. The cinematography, the music, the actors and the acting, the plot, and the wicked dialogue. Although I kind of disagreed with what the narrator said at the end, "Most days of the year are unremarkable. They begin and they end with no lasting memory made in between. Most days have no impact on the course of a life."
I think everything we do has an impact - on our lives and on others'. Even the smallest, most insignificant things. So although sometimes we go through days that feel mundane and monotonous, I think they still have some sort of impact, because I believe everything happens for a reason, and it's that sort of mindset that helps you through the ups and downs of life. I mean, if you didn't believe things had an ultimate purpose or goal, then really what's the point of life at all?
Never Been Kissed
Okay I realized all my movies on this list are somewhat romantic comedies, but so what. They have good value too, especially when geeky Josie Geller tells her co-workers about how she's waiting for the right guy to come along and sweep her off her feet, and she says, "That thing, that moment, when you kiss someone and everything around becomes hazy and the only thing in focus is you and this person and you realize that that person is the only person that you're supposed to kiss for the rest of your life, and for one moment you get this amazing gift and you want to laugh and you want to cry because you feel so lucky that you found it and so scared that that it will go away all at the same time."
I used to think she was such an idealist and a dreamer, but now I think the world could use more people like that.
I also liked what she said at prom, when she declared to the high school kids that "There is a big world out there... bigger than prom, bigger than high school, and it won't matter if you were the prom queen, the quarterback of the football team, or the biggest nerd in school. Find out who you are and try not to be afraid of it."
So true. School totally doesn't matter. Who you were in high school or college doesn't matter, because you can totally reinvent yourself when you step out into 'the real world.'
Spiderman 3
Not the best Spiderman movie, but it had a crazy interesting quote. I think it was when Spidey was attacked by the black venom and went bad, and he said something like, "If you want forgiveness, get a religion."
Um, pretty sure I don't agree with that. Forgiveness is universal; we forgive each other, and God forgives us. It's not some rule within some religion. But then again, he said it when he was 'evil,' so I guess it makes sense that it would be controversial.
Zoolander
Ben Stiller cracks me up here. He's so incredibly stupid, it's actually funny. Like when he sees the model version of a center he's building, and he exclaims in genuine indignation, "What is this?? A center for ants? How can we be expected to teach children to learn how to read... if they can't even fit inside the building??"
His innocence/ignorance is hilarious.
Dumb and Dumber
Classic idiotic comedy, but oh so funny. Jim Carrey at his finest, channeling the stupidity of Lloyd. Like when he tries to hit on Mary.
Lloyd: What do you think the chances are of a guy like you and a girl like me... ending up together?
Mary: Well, Lloyd, that's difficult to say. I mean, we don't really...
Lloyd: Hit me with it! Just give it to me straight! I came a long way just to see you, Mary. The least you can do is level with me. What are my chances?
Mary: Not good.
Lloyd: You mean, not good like one out of a hundred?
Mary: I'd say more like one out of a million.
(pause)
Lloyd: So you're telling me there's a chance??? YEAH!
And when Harry tries to read the map to tell Lloyd where to go, he says, "According to the map, we've only gone 4 inches."
Hahaha.
I don't know how scriptwriters think of such great funny stuff.
Friday, May 07, 2010
Cinco de mayo
This week has been awesome so far. And the weekend's not even here yet.
Monday we watched 'Valentine's Day,' from a friend's downloaded copy of the movie, which was stupid, because it cut off before the ending so I guess I'll never get to see what happened in the end, even though my friend conveyed it to me. Somehow it's just different hearing about it and actually watching it. But it was pretty good, as far as romantic comedies go.
Tuesday we watched 'Blood Diamond,' for a friend's sociology project that I'm helping him with because I don't have homework and everyone else is swamped. Well actually I do have homework, I just don't particularly care about it. So I'm helping other people with theirs. haha.
Wednesday was CINCO DE MAYO!!!!! I've always wanted to go out and party during this Mexican holiday, but never got the chance to... until now! Usually the guys from Penthouse come around to the different dorms and do a keg stand (filled with root beer of course, no beer here at Taylor), which is pretty entertaining because they dress up in ridiculous outfits involving tight shorts, spandex, and lots of skin showing. And they yell and do crazy chants and dances. But three years of the same thing is boring.
So this year a bunch of us went to Indianapolis... and got crazy. Too much fun. Good thing I didn't have classes today because I wouldn't have made it to any of them. But yeah... I don't think I have much self-control when intoxicated. But then again, I do actually have a lot of self-control, compared to others. It's a weird mix. I think I might have broken one of the cardinal rules of friendship about guys, so... don't really know what to do about that. Blame it on the alcohol, I guess. At least we made some random friends and got free drinks. I feel kind of mean saying this, but, Indiana might possibly be the ugliest state in America, in every sense of the word. Not like I've been to every state, but just compared to the ones I've been to.
Tomorrow's the weekend, which means... more partying!! I've made so many more friends who like to party too, but I feel like I've also pissed off friends who don't condone this type of lifestyle. Oh well. Can't please everyone.
Monday we watched 'Valentine's Day,' from a friend's downloaded copy of the movie, which was stupid, because it cut off before the ending so I guess I'll never get to see what happened in the end, even though my friend conveyed it to me. Somehow it's just different hearing about it and actually watching it. But it was pretty good, as far as romantic comedies go.
Tuesday we watched 'Blood Diamond,' for a friend's sociology project that I'm helping him with because I don't have homework and everyone else is swamped. Well actually I do have homework, I just don't particularly care about it. So I'm helping other people with theirs. haha.
Wednesday was CINCO DE MAYO!!!!! I've always wanted to go out and party during this Mexican holiday, but never got the chance to... until now! Usually the guys from Penthouse come around to the different dorms and do a keg stand (filled with root beer of course, no beer here at Taylor), which is pretty entertaining because they dress up in ridiculous outfits involving tight shorts, spandex, and lots of skin showing. And they yell and do crazy chants and dances. But three years of the same thing is boring.
So this year a bunch of us went to Indianapolis... and got crazy. Too much fun. Good thing I didn't have classes today because I wouldn't have made it to any of them. But yeah... I don't think I have much self-control when intoxicated. But then again, I do actually have a lot of self-control, compared to others. It's a weird mix. I think I might have broken one of the cardinal rules of friendship about guys, so... don't really know what to do about that. Blame it on the alcohol, I guess. At least we made some random friends and got free drinks. I feel kind of mean saying this, but, Indiana might possibly be the ugliest state in America, in every sense of the word. Not like I've been to every state, but just compared to the ones I've been to.
Tomorrow's the weekend, which means... more partying!! I've made so many more friends who like to party too, but I feel like I've also pissed off friends who don't condone this type of lifestyle. Oh well. Can't please everyone.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Best vs. worst movies
I have decided that, since I want to be some kind of lifestyle writer when I grow up, I will have to start now (I know, it's kind of late. Oh to be 16 again) and practice writing everyday about topics that interest me.
So this is Day 1. Here goes.
Movies are like food for my soul. They used to be a form of escapism for me; I absolutely LOVED going to the theaters because two hours of sitting in the dark on a comfortable chair were a welcome distraction from the problems of life. As soon as the opening credits started rolling, I was whisked off my feet and immersed in a new world where I could live vicariously through the lives of the characters. And boy, did they lead interesting lives (as compared to mine). In those two hours, I was carefree. A weight had been lifted off my shoulders, and I was thoroughly entertained, completely engaged, and blissfully happy all at once. But then life would slap me in the face once the lights came on again.
That doesn't happen so much anymore. I don't think it was very healthy to begin with. I feel that movies can provide some sort of escapism from our dull, awful, problematic lives, but they're also a form of entertainment and art. Now I see them as pieces of work, delicately crafted together by talented people who have a story to tell and a unique style in which they communicate their message to the world.
I love movies that speak a beautiful message; I love movies that create a whole new world where the possibilities are endless; I love movies that bring a smile to my face and tears to my eyes; I love movies that are thought-provoking and inspiring; Sometimes I love movies that are just plain fun and goofy.
So I have compiled a list of, in my humble opinion, the best and worst movies I've seen (in no particular order). Enjoy.
Best films
1. Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Beautifully written, with amazing performances by Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins, and an inspiring storyline that maps out the road to redemption with interjections of hope, spirit, and determination.
2. The Dark Knight (2008)
Christopher Nolan is an absolute genius. Heath Ledger's psychotic smile sent shivers down my spine. Add Christian Bale, Aaron Eckhart and Michael Caine to the mix, and you've got a smash hit at the box office.
3. Fight Club (1999)
At first glance, the film revolves around a loser-ish insomniac who meets a conniving soap salesman that seems to be the total opposite of him. Lots of fighting and confusion ensue between Edward Norton and Brad Pitt. But the twist at the end? Absolutely brilliant and downright mind-blowing.
4. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
Funnyman Jim Carrey gets serious in this intriguing drama with Kate Winslet about dealing with heartache in a new way - erasing all memories of your former flame to escape from the pain. Don't tell me you've never thought of erasing an agonizing memory before.
5. Beauty and the Beast (1991)
A classic tale of inner beauty and a love that conquers all. Plus incredible songs to sing along with, talking objects, and my favorite princess Belle. What's not to like?
6. Elf (2003)
I love Christmas-related films, and I'm not ashamed to say I like Will Ferrell, so yes, this movie is one of my favorites. Watching Buddy the Elf explore New York City with child-like enthusiasm, eat spaghetti with syrup and candy, and instill the Christmas spirit in everyone is just the perfect movie to snuggle up on the couch with a mug of hot chocolate on Christmas Eve. Plus everyone loves Zooey Deschanel.
7. The Prestige (2006)
Again, Christopher Nolan with Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman equals to an amazing movie that kept me riveted for the entire duration. Magic, intrigue, deceit, and a jaw-dropping twist. Need I say more?
8. Love Actually (2003)
Being a big fan of rom-coms, this is definitely one of my favorites. Several stories chronicle different aspects of love in a magical and wonderful way. Plus it's during Christmas. Many 'awwwww' moments prove that love is actually all around indeed.
9. Up (2009)
To me, Pixar can do no wrong. From Toy Story to Finding Nemo to Monsters Inc., they've never failed to amaze me, and 'Up' is no exception. I laughed, I cried, I re-lived my childhood dreams... I enjoyed the entire movie immensely.
10. 500 Days of Summer (2009)
This oddball rom-com is a whirlwind of fresh air in the world of cliched love stories. It tells the story of a boy who is head over heels in love, and a quirky girl who turns his world upside down. The film goes back and forth in time constantly, and still manages to deliver all the pieces of the story beautifully.
11. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)
An ambitious journalist, a writer with a sense of humor, a bet, and a unique love story makes up one of the most quotable movies of all time (for girls). "Benny boo boo," "Our love fern, you let it die!" "Princess Sophia"
Worst Films
1. The Princess and the Frog (2009)
Disney doesn't usually disappoint, but with its newest offering, I have to say there's a first time for everything. Its modern day version of the classic Frog Prince story fails to muster up the enchanting delight of previous Disney films, and the whole voodoo thing just creeps me out. What happened to innocence and charm?
2. Sin City (2005)
Dark. Violent. Gruesome. Repulsive. It's enough to turn you off in the first five minutes of the film. Although it does attempt to be stylistic, what with the black and white scenes and the yellow blood, the entire plot and concept is overwhelmingly revolting and horrific. It makes me shudder just thinking of it.
3. Napoleon Dynamite (2004)
Americans love this movie. I detest it. It was plotless, meaningless and pure boredom, and the only reason I sat through the entire thing, torturous as it may be, was because I thought it would somehow get better. It didn't.
4. 300 (2006)
Boys love this movie; I have no idea why. It blends violence, gore, hideous scenes of carnage, and weird mythical creatures. My hands were covering my eyes more than half the time. And no, the painted-on abs didn't help.
5. Over Her Dead Body (2008)
You know we've become a completely superficial society when a movie fails because the lead actress (Lake Bell) isn't attractive. Not only that, the storyline falters and flounders like a fish out of water. All in all, a very painful 95 minutes to sit through.
6. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)
I've never been a fan of the Indiana Jones series, and this certainly doesn't change my mind. To blame the entire adventure and mystery on aliens is such a cop-out and a disappointment. It's like they didn't know how to end the story, so they just opted for the easy way out.
7. You Don't Mess with the Zohan (2008)
This was a disaster in so many ways. I love Adam Sandler's movies, don't get me wrong. Big Daddy, The Wedding Singer, and The Longest Yard were hilarious. But this is just too crude and slapstick for my liking.
8. Dragonball Evolution (2009)
Asians love Dragonball, right? Yes, that used to be the case, until Hollywood ruined it for us by casting a Caucasian male as the lead Asian dude. He looks nothing like the cartoon character we all grew up with and love! Are Asians not good enough to carry the movie as the lead?? Plus the entire film was just a joke all around.
9. Superbad (2007)
'Superbad' is super bad, indeed. Three teenage boys answer to the call of their hormones; all they can think about is drinking, partying, and getting laid. Such a typical guy movie.
10. Fighting (2009)
Channing Tatum once again assumes the role of a down-and-out guy who gets discovered because of his talent (in fighting). This slow-paced, utterly predictable, and cliched story is a total yawnfest; even Tatum in all his hotness failed to save it.
11. Gamer (2009)
I admit I haven't actually seen this. The trailers looked semi-interesting, and probably attracted avid gamers, but from what I've heard, this is one of the most brutal, grisly, and savage movie there is. Most people who watched it in theaters walked out after 10 minutes of agony.
So there you have it. 11 of my most favorite and least favorite films of all time.
So this is Day 1. Here goes.
Movies are like food for my soul. They used to be a form of escapism for me; I absolutely LOVED going to the theaters because two hours of sitting in the dark on a comfortable chair were a welcome distraction from the problems of life. As soon as the opening credits started rolling, I was whisked off my feet and immersed in a new world where I could live vicariously through the lives of the characters. And boy, did they lead interesting lives (as compared to mine). In those two hours, I was carefree. A weight had been lifted off my shoulders, and I was thoroughly entertained, completely engaged, and blissfully happy all at once. But then life would slap me in the face once the lights came on again.
That doesn't happen so much anymore. I don't think it was very healthy to begin with. I feel that movies can provide some sort of escapism from our dull, awful, problematic lives, but they're also a form of entertainment and art. Now I see them as pieces of work, delicately crafted together by talented people who have a story to tell and a unique style in which they communicate their message to the world.
I love movies that speak a beautiful message; I love movies that create a whole new world where the possibilities are endless; I love movies that bring a smile to my face and tears to my eyes; I love movies that are thought-provoking and inspiring; Sometimes I love movies that are just plain fun and goofy.
So I have compiled a list of, in my humble opinion, the best and worst movies I've seen (in no particular order). Enjoy.
Best films
1. Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Beautifully written, with amazing performances by Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins, and an inspiring storyline that maps out the road to redemption with interjections of hope, spirit, and determination.
2. The Dark Knight (2008)
Christopher Nolan is an absolute genius. Heath Ledger's psychotic smile sent shivers down my spine. Add Christian Bale, Aaron Eckhart and Michael Caine to the mix, and you've got a smash hit at the box office.
3. Fight Club (1999)
At first glance, the film revolves around a loser-ish insomniac who meets a conniving soap salesman that seems to be the total opposite of him. Lots of fighting and confusion ensue between Edward Norton and Brad Pitt. But the twist at the end? Absolutely brilliant and downright mind-blowing.
4. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
Funnyman Jim Carrey gets serious in this intriguing drama with Kate Winslet about dealing with heartache in a new way - erasing all memories of your former flame to escape from the pain. Don't tell me you've never thought of erasing an agonizing memory before.
5. Beauty and the Beast (1991)
A classic tale of inner beauty and a love that conquers all. Plus incredible songs to sing along with, talking objects, and my favorite princess Belle. What's not to like?
6. Elf (2003)
I love Christmas-related films, and I'm not ashamed to say I like Will Ferrell, so yes, this movie is one of my favorites. Watching Buddy the Elf explore New York City with child-like enthusiasm, eat spaghetti with syrup and candy, and instill the Christmas spirit in everyone is just the perfect movie to snuggle up on the couch with a mug of hot chocolate on Christmas Eve. Plus everyone loves Zooey Deschanel.
7. The Prestige (2006)
Again, Christopher Nolan with Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman equals to an amazing movie that kept me riveted for the entire duration. Magic, intrigue, deceit, and a jaw-dropping twist. Need I say more?
8. Love Actually (2003)
Being a big fan of rom-coms, this is definitely one of my favorites. Several stories chronicle different aspects of love in a magical and wonderful way. Plus it's during Christmas. Many 'awwwww' moments prove that love is actually all around indeed.
9. Up (2009)
To me, Pixar can do no wrong. From Toy Story to Finding Nemo to Monsters Inc., they've never failed to amaze me, and 'Up' is no exception. I laughed, I cried, I re-lived my childhood dreams... I enjoyed the entire movie immensely.
10. 500 Days of Summer (2009)
This oddball rom-com is a whirlwind of fresh air in the world of cliched love stories. It tells the story of a boy who is head over heels in love, and a quirky girl who turns his world upside down. The film goes back and forth in time constantly, and still manages to deliver all the pieces of the story beautifully.
11. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)
An ambitious journalist, a writer with a sense of humor, a bet, and a unique love story makes up one of the most quotable movies of all time (for girls). "Benny boo boo," "Our love fern, you let it die!" "Princess Sophia"
Worst Films
1. The Princess and the Frog (2009)
Disney doesn't usually disappoint, but with its newest offering, I have to say there's a first time for everything. Its modern day version of the classic Frog Prince story fails to muster up the enchanting delight of previous Disney films, and the whole voodoo thing just creeps me out. What happened to innocence and charm?
2. Sin City (2005)
Dark. Violent. Gruesome. Repulsive. It's enough to turn you off in the first five minutes of the film. Although it does attempt to be stylistic, what with the black and white scenes and the yellow blood, the entire plot and concept is overwhelmingly revolting and horrific. It makes me shudder just thinking of it.
3. Napoleon Dynamite (2004)
Americans love this movie. I detest it. It was plotless, meaningless and pure boredom, and the only reason I sat through the entire thing, torturous as it may be, was because I thought it would somehow get better. It didn't.
4. 300 (2006)
Boys love this movie; I have no idea why. It blends violence, gore, hideous scenes of carnage, and weird mythical creatures. My hands were covering my eyes more than half the time. And no, the painted-on abs didn't help.
5. Over Her Dead Body (2008)
You know we've become a completely superficial society when a movie fails because the lead actress (Lake Bell) isn't attractive. Not only that, the storyline falters and flounders like a fish out of water. All in all, a very painful 95 minutes to sit through.
6. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)
I've never been a fan of the Indiana Jones series, and this certainly doesn't change my mind. To blame the entire adventure and mystery on aliens is such a cop-out and a disappointment. It's like they didn't know how to end the story, so they just opted for the easy way out.
7. You Don't Mess with the Zohan (2008)
This was a disaster in so many ways. I love Adam Sandler's movies, don't get me wrong. Big Daddy, The Wedding Singer, and The Longest Yard were hilarious. But this is just too crude and slapstick for my liking.
8. Dragonball Evolution (2009)
Asians love Dragonball, right? Yes, that used to be the case, until Hollywood ruined it for us by casting a Caucasian male as the lead Asian dude. He looks nothing like the cartoon character we all grew up with and love! Are Asians not good enough to carry the movie as the lead?? Plus the entire film was just a joke all around.
9. Superbad (2007)
'Superbad' is super bad, indeed. Three teenage boys answer to the call of their hormones; all they can think about is drinking, partying, and getting laid. Such a typical guy movie.
10. Fighting (2009)
Channing Tatum once again assumes the role of a down-and-out guy who gets discovered because of his talent (in fighting). This slow-paced, utterly predictable, and cliched story is a total yawnfest; even Tatum in all his hotness failed to save it.
11. Gamer (2009)
I admit I haven't actually seen this. The trailers looked semi-interesting, and probably attracted avid gamers, but from what I've heard, this is one of the most brutal, grisly, and savage movie there is. Most people who watched it in theaters walked out after 10 minutes of agony.
So there you have it. 11 of my most favorite and least favorite films of all time.
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