This is how it should be. I applaud Manny Pangilinan for this (although PLDT still sucks ass.) he did right by the film and made sure that he had the correct and justified budget for production, styling, costumes, set and props. AYELAVIT!!! I will most definitely watch it.

My daughter came home yesterday and showed me her report card and I was very impressed by her grades so I asked her what she wanted as a reward. She said she wanted to watch "Despicable Me" with me and her pops. Being a pushover with my kids, I immediately said yes, called up Dave and asked to meet him at the mall - dysmenorrhea be damned.

So off we went and we were a bit early so we went in to watch the previews. When we finally settled in our seats, I was so appalled by the previews that they were showing! Take note that this is supposed to be a film for the entire family but the primary market for the movie are kids. Children. As in small humans who are supposed to be sheltered from the harshness of life for at least 13 years of their lives. What were they showing as previews? Graphic horror movies. I strongly emphasize GRAPHIC. Like blood, gore, slashing, cutting, exploding flesh and other gross stuff.

I mean come on!! Sure, it's was a weekday when we watched but that doesn't give you the right to show those kinds of film previews to a crowd made up of children!! I had to cover my daughter's eyes and told her to cover her ears! Those images are enough to give adults nightmares for weeks! What do you think this would do to a child?

Paging the manager and Operations director of SM Southmall Cinemas, please make sure you review EVERYTHING! Oh, and the film kept on jumping, the sound was terrible and scratchy. It would've been better watching it at home with a DVD. I mean, this is the reason why people buy pirated DVDs! It's cheaper and sometimes, the quality is better!!

Now, I have to make up for that terrible movie experience as well. Thanks SM Cinema. Good job. That was sarcastic by the way.

On my Filipino movie marathon, I've chosen "Ded na si Lolo" (Grampa is dead) for my comedy fill. It's a digital movie written and directed by Soxie Topacio - the legendary theater, TV and film icon.

Initially, I found it to have had a lackluster opening. It was pretty boring and precipitously loud. then again, I had to take into consideration that the entire setting and the families were living in Gagalangin, Tondo. Naturally, noise would be synonymous to the residents and the area.

The plot revolves around the death of the family's patriarch. On his death, the family had to come together and unearth family secrets and grievances - each secret, though ugly, had to brought out and be given a resolution and closure to.

The movie also acts like a foreigner's primer on Filipino superstition. Though it seems hilarious (especially when you're watching it from the sidelines), these traditions and beliefs are deeply rooted and are hard to get rid of. As Dick Israel's character said "Wala naman masama kung sumunod" (No harm in doing it)

Manilyn Reynes shows her effectivity as an actress with the way she has brought to life her character, Charing - a mother of two trying to make ends meet for her family while trying to instill correct values to her children. I found her daughter to be a little off in her acting as a "sosyalera" and instead it came out like she was trying to be gay.

Elizabeth Oropesa shows fine acting skills as the sister that everybody loves to hate (You'll see the twist sometime at the end of the movie). All in all, the acting was impeccable.

The movie is not just a comedy. It's full of layers upon layers of Filipino complexity - family, obligation, secrets and truths. But what got to me was the ending of the film. Through a child's eyes, death can be the most horrific and traumatic thing or it could just be a matter of fact. Either way, their lives are going to be changed forever.

Ded na si Lolo stars Roderick Paulate, Manilyn Reynes, Elizabeth Oropesa, Dick Israel and Gina Alajar.

I'm starting to see what most young pinoys think of the Philippine cinema. I made a post on my facebook account about how I was able to buy two classic Vilma Santos films and someone laughed about it.

Granted there are some films that are just pure crap but there are a lot of classic Filipino films that should be a must for every Filipino to watch. This blog/guy made a comprehensive list of 100 best Filipino Films and I think he was spot on. After reading his post, I made a decision to start collecting DVDs of these films to add to my film collection.

These are the films I grew up on - films whose stories were thought of and not just haphazardly put together for the latest network love team. They were experimental and thought provoking and the actors in them were just brilliant. the directors are calculating, creative and yet, precise. This is Philippine cinema at its best. We're talking about Mario O'Hara, Danny Zialcita, Lino Broka, Ishmael Bernal and Nick Deocampo.

Yesterday I was able to buy two DVDs (technically, three but the other one was for Del - which I'm so pleased he liked). I got two Vilma Santos starrers: Imortal (with Christopher De Leon and Sinasamba Kita with Lorna Tolentino). I was very pleased. I still want to get more and I've been searching online where I can buy some. I'm hoping I can pass these films on to my kids and let them appreciate Filipino cinema.

I think we should start appreciating what we've got and stop copying other people's work. We have a lot of talent and a lot of ideas that we're just not paying attention to because maybe they just don't bring in the cash. (Ay, it's not mainstream/hindi maiintindihan ng masa yan/Masyadong experimental)

So, if any of you can kindly point me at the right direction where I can get these movies, I'd very much appreciate it.

I saw this trailer for the first time yesterday, as my teenage daughter and I were waiting for the screening of Harry Potter 6. I was immediately enthralled! Of course, it helps that Robert Downey Jr is looking as fine as hell (and cut like freaking bricks on a house) and his number two is equally as hot (Jude Law and his receding hairline is still Jude Law, nonetheless)

But what stuck, what maintained my enthusiasm was how Guy Ritchie was able to create the possibility of "what is and how it should be" of those days. We have always had the impression that Sherlock Holmes, just because he's English and was living in an earlier time, possesses the mark and actions of a gentleman - genteel, if you may. I've always thought that image of him was incorrect. Historically, it was more violent during those days and Holmes, as a character, must be a little bit more uncouth than a couple of erring sarcastic intellectual remarks.

Anyhoo, I am putting this movie on my list of "Must Watch this year, by hook or by crook"

I'm probably the last person in the world to have seen this movie. Thanks to Aya, I finally saw it yesterday and I've got to tell you, I was a little skeptical about it because the reviews were mostly stating its mediocrity and the weren't very positive.

I have to say, it really is an action packed film. The computer generated images and effects were astounding and it's very impressive to see how convincing the actors were in co-existing with the CGI robots. I admit, there were times that I almost fell off the edge of my seat when I was watching the fight scenes. They were freaking awesome!

I have to give credit to the writers as well. I love the comedy they've infused the movie with - they've managed to make it very light, very entertaining and also very bad ass cool (I love the twins!) So, by the time they've made it to Petra, I was wondering what the whole fuss was about. For me, at that time, it was a fairly interesting and entertaining movie...then it came...

Now, my current situation should not have any bearing on how I'm reacting to this movie. Granted, I may have certain emotional baggage that may or may not be corollary to what I'm about to critique but dude...seriously? Major Cheese.

The whole "romance" thingee with the "saying I love you first" drama/sub-plot was mainly fodder. The movie would've been better if they didn't have to squeeze that in. It's like they put it there so the tweeners and the teenagers would have something to squee about; after all the men get Megan Fox to masturbate to so why not put a sappy schmoopy love angle for the younger ladies. Well, that love angle made the older ladies and other people gag into their mouths, this writer included. It was just...bad.

It kinda ruined the entire movie, at least for me.

Let's hope Harry Potter makes it better for me.

I've been meaning to watch this movie for the longest time. Back in 2007, I told myself I'll see it in the theater but somehow I had other things to do so I forgot. Fast forward two years later, I remembered that I told myself I had to watch this. Thank the powers that be for Star Movies.

I love and hate this movie with equal intensity. I love how it tackles such a deep and painful subject in a light and happy way. Of course, the fact that Jeffrey Dean Morgan is in the movie makes it more lovable! (With an Irish accent, no less. Can someone wipe the drool off my face?)

I hate how it made me cry buckets. It was cathartic in a way but still, I hate crying.

Y'all should watch this movie. I can't even review it properly without having lumps in my throat.

I love this movie!! Ultimate Pinoy Camp!

I spent a lot of money this weekend, purchasing great Filipino Film Classics. Back in the days, we had to go to CCP or to Mowelfund to be able to watch these films. The picture wasn't that good and the sound was a little loopy due to the bad storing practices. They did the best they could and it was alright.

Thank god for digital remastery and businesses hoping to preserve art (and earn a few bucks in between)

***

Kaleldo is practically an independent film disguised in a semi full length quasi commercial film. It's a story about three sisters and how they are each trying to escape their prisons and demons. The patriarch of the family (Johnny Delgado) rules the land with an iron first that he does not hesitate to weild upon his daughters.

Grace, the youngest, escapes her life by marrying a seemingly wealthy boy. Her escape plan didn't seem to be all that great after a few years: a husband who can't satisfy her, monsters in law and her own insecurities and baggage with her own family.

Lourdes, the middle sister is clearly the father's favorite. She's stuck in a love less marriage to an inept man who has a violent kink. She has an affair and was discovered, causing mayhem to follow.

Jess, the oldest and homosexual sister tries to cope with sexual disparagy coming from her own father. Yet, even with all the taunts and outward abuse, she remains dedicated and caring to her family.

Like most indie films, it carries so much emotion that it hits you with such a velocity that you can't express yourself using words. It's a good investment to add to your collection.

***

Of course, Ishmael Bernal's Himala should be a staple. I think a lot of little girls got names Elsa when this film came out.


One of the most pirvotal roles played by Dolphy. Lino Broka's Ang Tatay kong Nanay is a wonderful showcase of Doplhy's comedic and dramatic talent. Love Nino Mulach, pre-drugs and pre-weirdoness.


Insiang's opening scene has made me swear off pork for life.

I haven't finished watching it as you know how Filipino films are - they're like Crispy Pata and Lechon - you can't have too much otherwise you'd get hypertention or at least indigestion.

***

Please support our local entertainment industry and purchase these classics legally. It's a great way to imbibe culture into ourselves and to make sure that the future generations understand what Filipino art is.

You can procure these original DVDs from any Odyssey store.

Okay, initially I didn't understand the whole fascination about this movie. I kinda wanted to read the book first before anything. (Looks like I'm buying new books this week. Hah! Add that to my to do list then. Damnit!)

Then I saw the trailers. It piqued my interest (And yes, you idiotic creatures out there, it's piqued and not peeked nor is it peaked.) Although teenybopper-ish, it's quite interesting.





***

This one is just cute. I mean I love anything with Dustin Hoffman in it. I love anything Emma Thompson is in. Then put the two together, put them in London and I'm so there.



***

Jim Carrey is back with Yes Man. I think I can relate to this one, especially the Red Bull part. I was so wired then too! Yes is the new No. Making that my new tagline for this week.



***

And finally, something for the kids to watch...or maybe not since Adam Sandler is in it...

Supernatural here in the Philippines is still running (Season 3) Of course, having DVDs help speed the process. I'd have to say that initially the writers weren't that great. Some of the episodes (like the ones with the multitudes of insects) I felt were written haphazardly.

I'd have to say though that Season 3 showed a lot of promise. It became more sinister, delving into the possibilities of good (Sam) becoming evil, and how evil (Ruby) wants to be quasi good. The inner struggle of Dean and his sacrifice was fleshed out and was done with such sass that only Dean Winchester can have.

However, the conflicting character personification of Dean has me frustrated and confused. Is he a sex starved idiotic glutton or is he smart enough to make sure that he whacks out all the creatures that give the heebie jeebies when all seems lost? We all know how much of a responsible big brother he is, but can we put a little more depth into his character and not just fear of going to hell? I mean, he already is in hell. Plus, can we lay off the gay jokes? We already know that the Winchester boys are Men's men. The jokes cheapen them.

Supernatural Season 3 gets three red shoes out of five.

Season 4 starts Sept. 18, 9PM on the CW in the US.
God knows when it'll be here in the Philippines.

I like Adam Sandler, I really do. I think he's really funny and is such a sweetie but his latest movie isn't giving me anything. Let's start with the good points: It's Adam Sandler. They have Rob Schneider ( A fellow Filipino and that's always good). The girl was cute. There were moments of hilarity. The bad points? There were moments of hilarity. If a comedy movie has moments of reality, then you'd better be afraid.

The racist jokes were fine, I mean it wouldn't be Adam Sandler if he didn't do that. But it was just too much. The fake accent with the r/w confusion just didn't appeal to me. And by George, there are just too many crotch shots!! The senior citizens were turned into raving nymphomaniacs ready for abuse.

The Zohan gets one red shoe out of five.

Harry Potter and the half blood prince is almost done with shooting. The movie is supposed to be out on December 15, 2008.

Draco will get more screen time here as he is being prepped to help out Potter in defeating the Dark Lord. God, can he get any cuter???

Nice shot of Harry. I think this movie should showcase the emotional turmoil Harry goes through. My expectations are, it should be darker, more emotional, more adult than anything.

I just wanted to post a picture of Luna Lovegood here. I think this girl has wicked fashion sense!

I've recently come across a DVD. Apparently it's a TV Movie about the Fallen and the Nephilim destined to be the redeemer.

I actually like the story line simply because I'm a sick nutcase, but other than that, my interest in Theology and the Occult leads me to further research about the subject.



The movie starts with Aaron Corbett's 18th birthday. Everything seems to be in order until he gets this killer headache and suddenly develop the ability to speak every other language including those that we only know of as "Bark, Arf, Tweet and Hiss"

It is revealed that he is a Nephilim - part angel and part human. (And ten thousand points for you if you figure out who is dad is) However, things get more complicated when they figure out that he is the prophesied Nephilim Redeemer.



ABC Family did good with this one, however I felt that the story could've used more or if not, better writing. There seems to be so much more room for sub plots. Plus, they could have turned this into a series. It would have made them more money too.

I'm not a Ruffa fan, ever - EVER. I think she's Eddie Guttierez in drag. However, I found myself laughing to this trailer, which in all fairness is really funny. Ruffa may be an annoying socialite wannabe but she has improved her acting chops. She should stick to comedies rather than try too hard with "serious" acting. Puede pa siyang mag Cameron Diaz.

Some notables in this trailer:

Ruffa: Do you know Esmeralda Fajardow? (ipilit ang slang...)

**

Anabelle: Are you da bebigurl?
Ruffa: Are you my mother?

**

Ruffa: I think I made a huge big mistake. (How repetitively redundant. Wrong double superlative usage)

**

Ruffa: (Super OA) REeeeaaallllyyy??
Eugene: Oh yes, REEAALLYYY

(In fairness na kahit walang in fairness, ang mukap ng lola Eugene mo ha? Winner!)

**

Anabelle: Wag ka nang sumagot, babaragin kita ng briyante ko!

*******

If anything, it could be a hilarious movie or something we could laugh at or make jokes with, of course at Ruffa's expense.

Transformers 2 have begun shooting in Bethlehem, PA, specifically at Lehigh Valley. My cousin lives there!! Damn! I'd give anything to go there right now and see the shoot. The working title is Transformers 2: Revenge of the fallen.

A lot of rumors are going around about the 20 new robots they've put in the film. Apparently, all they had to do was prove that the first film could earn a gazillion dollars. Well, they have and it did so here come the new robots. Megatron is going to be revived through the Matrix, Hot Rod (Rodimus Prime to the die hard fans) makes an appearance and The twins have also made their appearance. Rumors abound that the Contructicons are coming too.

Personally, I'm excited to see Arcee, and no, not because I'm a girl but because I'd like to see their explanation on why there's a female robot in their midst. Of course, I'm also excited to see Ravage and Laserbeak. Some of the other robots though, I could care less. But I'm pretty sure people will enjoy this second film.

We took Little chick to her first ever movie - Kung Fu Panda. The child wasn't disappointed. It's amazing to see how she could laugh on cue (sometimes before everyone else gets the joke) and how she was well behaved inside the movie house.

The movie was very well written and the fight scenes were just amazing! The people over at Dreamworks have blurred the lines between voice actor and actor. The panda was conveying mannerisms and actuations that only Jack Black could make. Dustin Hoffman was very convincing as a jaded uber master Shi Fu.

I thought they could've utilized Jackie Chan some more (he was the monkey), but then again, this movie was about Jack Black and Po the Panda.

Hubby and I will have to watch it again without the little chick, just so we can laugh out loud without looking like humiliating idiots to our kid.

Rating: Five red shoes out of five

***


The second installment to Narnia's chronicles have a darker, more sinister feel to it. For one, the kids have grown up, and the war has taken its toll on them.

Peter, Edmund, Susan and Lucy have left Narnia (albeit unknowingly) and it has been a year for them but 13oo years for Narnia. They're dealing with all the different changes in their lives: puberty, confusion, loss, anger, frustration and more importantly, faith.

The actors were well chosen, especially the evil uncle Miraz. His eyes scared the bejesus out of me. Even the CGI actors were translating every fiber of their character beautifully on screen.

For the young ones, they'll like Prince Caspian because it provides them with a continuation of their previous adventure. The older ones may have to explain that brutal scene in the castle though - about choices, death and loss. (That was one powerful and emotional scene)

Rating: Five red shoes out of five

Last night I finally was able to watch Meet Joe Black. I've initially veered away from it thinking that it was some stupid love movie but it actually was tolerable.

Death wanted to feel what life was all about - which I thought was very poetic in an ironic and tragic way. While watching the movie, it made me realize and appreciate my own mortality.

Of course, Anthony Hopkins is an amazing actor. He still manages to make me swoon for him with his words and the way he delivers his lines. I guess it proves that I'm a sucker for words and voices. He portrayed the character very well, down to the internal battle between his love for his two daughters. Every parent does have a favorite - it can't be helped and it shouldn't be taken against them.

Brad Pitt was just too beautiful to be Death. If death looked this good, damn it then I'd like for him to take me! With a schythe or a knife or a rope or any blunt object. Was I the only one who felt immensely turned on when he was licking that spoon full of peanut butter?

All in all, the movie was well written. The dialogues were witty and the actors were well chosen. I give this movie four red shoes out of five.

Went to watch Iron Man two days ago. I think the anticipation and hype this movie had attached to it, created a massive turnout of watchers.

It was amazing to see the comic book followers watching the film. They actually clapped when the opening credits rolled - talk about nerds and geeks!

Robert Downey Jr. portrayed Tony Stark to the T! He got the attitude and bullishness that has always been attached to the character. He even looked like him - well, as close as can be.

The story was as close to the comic book as possible, gaining thumbs up to the loyal fans of the comic book. The effects were very convincing and realistic, giving the movie more credibility than what was initially expected.

The producers and director made the movie very apropos for adults and kids. (Although there is one part there where it had a gulat factor so prepare the kids) But what stole the entire movie was this robotic arm that was tasked to be the fire marshall. Who would've thought comedy can be delivered by a motorized gadget on wheels?

All in all, it's a great movie. One tip though, stay until the end of the credits. There's an extra clip that we didn't get to watch and had to hear about from others.

So I guess, I'll be watching this again. (And getting the DVD too)

Most people would say they didn't like The Forbidden Kingdom. They stated that it lacked a plot, the men wore make up and the kid couldn't have learned Kung Fu that quickly.




The movie, is actually another version of the book "Journey to West". It is an old Chinese novel that tells the legend of the Monkey King. If you aren't familiar with the story, you'll really think that the entire film didn't have a plot. Although, the film makers sort of made that assumption that everyone already knows of the Monkey King's tale.



Men at that time needed to look menacing and they weren't exactly averse to the idea of vanity. Men actually had beauty boxes in ancient times - Dude, Egyptians can wear eyeliner but Chinese can't? You gotta be diverse here.

It's a Jackie Chan movie - expect it to be jumping time lines and be funny. This movie is for kids. Sorry people out there thought it was a waste of money but you should've researched first.

The Other Boleyn Girl - I love this! I'm currently obsessed with period films. I just finished watching Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility and Vanity Fair.



Made of Honor is a must see film because it has McDreamy. I find this hilarious because this was my exact role for my best friend's wedding - I was the best man! Love the last scene!



Now, I've always been a Dr. Seuss fan. By that merit, I highly suggest you watch this.