'ATONE' WITH ATONEMENT

The first 1 hour of “Atonement” was BORING-G-G-G. It wasn’t that interesting at all for me. In fact, there were moments where I was so lost and had no idea what was going on, or rather, I know what’s going on but I just wouldn’t believe that the storyline is actually that simple. I wanted something more complicated I guess.


So, “Atonement” is a love story between 2 souls – Cecilia and Robbie. However, due to naivety and jealousy, Cecilia’s sister, Briony, told a lie about a crime that Robbie did not commit, which caused Robbie to be sent to jail.

Briony had a crush on Robbie. She was 13 when she saw her sister and Robbie had sex in the library. She thought that he was a sex maniac. I guess she doesn’t understand what was going on and she was also partly angry that Robbie chose her sister instead of her. So, later when her cousin was raped, Briony, who was coincidentally the witness, had pointed the finger at Robbie.

Briony grew up to understand the consequences of her lies. She had prevented the happiness that her sister, Cecilia and Robbie had supposedly deserved. She wanted to atone' for her mistakes, her lie, her sin, but it was too late.

The movie is pretty good if you actually struggle through the first hour. After the first hour, towards the end, things become clearer and you’ll understand why the movie is in chunks – flashback here and there. Sometimes, certain scenes are slotted in, and you just have no idea why the scene suddenly appears at the moment.

At the end, you’ll understand that the movie is actually a true story told by Briony Tallis in her final book – Atonement. The last scene sees Briony in an interview, talking about the book.

In the book, she wrote about her regrets of what she had done to her sister and Robbie. The couple didn’t get the happiness that they dreamed of – both died early and separately. Briony basically had lived her whole life in misery because she knew, she caused the pain and the separation of a couple that is in love.

Therefore, in her book, she gave both of them a happy ending - she said - the happiness that they deserved. That’s how she tries to compensate.

Briony's quote from the movie, which I loved so much:

“What sense of hope or satisfaction could the readers derived from an (sad) ending like that? So in the book, I wanted to give Robbie and Cecilia what they lose out on… I like to think this isn’t weakness or evasion…but a fine act of kindness…I gave them their happiness….”

Briony Tallies

By the end of the movie, you’ll know which part of the movie are fiction, made-believe by the author and the parts that actually happened – the truth. So, it sort of unraveled the “frizzles” I had in my head regarding the storyline.

My favourite part of the movie:
The few minutes at the end of the movie, during the interview with the old Briony.

The old lady who played Briony is fantastic. Brilliant acting for that part. When she speaks, her blue eyes reflects the sadness and remorse. It’s so expressive that just hearing her talk and say those beautiful words makes one feel her pain.

Yes, she may not be an angel because of what she did, but then again, everyone makes mistakes and everyone had lied before for their own interest. I’ll be the first to raise my hand in admittance that I, too, had told lies due to my own selfishness.

Of course her lie is more serious but she did bear the consequences of living a life so agonizing. The guilt that she felt, I guess was some sort of punishment.

It's sad to live life in such deep regret. I guess, in the end, we just have to stay true to ourselves and not ruin others' happiness for the sake of our own selfishness.

TC-My Rating:

P/S: The ending saved the movie

With LotSa Lurve,
TammyC

LIFE IS LIKE A BOX OF CHOCOLATES

When you hear this:
My momma always said, "Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get."
You'll think of Forrest Gump...



“Forrest Gump” opens with its signture score, so beautiful and lovely to the ears.

I find myself constantly repeating the opening of the movie – not to see the feather fly but rather, to hear the music. Anyway, yes, it’s the end of 2008 and only now did I watch this infamous movie.

Well, sorry all “Forrest Gump” fans, but, I didn't like really LOVE it. I mean it's good, but not exceptional. Haha... I guess I expected too much from it and so, after watching it, I wouldn’t say it is as brilliant as it was known to be.

Maybe in terms of cinematography, it’s brilliant. But the story is just, hmmm….simple but I guess inspiring to those who feel different, like Forrest. Besides, the theme of LOVE and FAITH is also very touching. The ending, which highlights Forrest and his son, is really beautiful.

I must also give credit to certain scenes though. The sceneries in the movie are breathtaking. The most memorable one would be the beautifully captured reflections of the mountains in the lake while Forrest was running. Also, the techniques used to combine the current Tom Hanks with those former US Presidents and John Lennon were really interesting.

Lennon & Gump...Unbelievable

So, now I know that one should watch a movie with no expectations. When you have no expectations, you will tend to enjoy it more haha. Whatever it is, I have no regrets watching "Forrest Gump".

My favourite part & quote in the movie is:
Forrest Gump to Lieutenant Dan: "Lieutenant Dan. Ice-cream."

I can't wait to watch "Mamma Mia". I love musicals and this is one I know I have to watch. Thanks so much Lydia for lending me her DVD...

Til next time ya...

TC-My Rating:

With LotSa Lurve,
TammyC

KITE RUNNER - I'D WATCH IT "A THOUSAND TIMES OVER "

I’ve watched like a few movies these few days but so little time to write about them.

Don’t ask me about the progress of my thesis because it is not in progress, that’s why I have time for movies still. Sigh. I know…I’m sorry for being lazy but i still can’t do anything about it.

But this is important. The most recent one that I love most is “Kite Runner”.

“Kite Runner” is a movie set in Kabul, Afghanistan and parts of it, in America. So, the film is in 2 languages.

The movie opens in San Fransisco, California, with kites in the skies. Then, we see our lead, Amir, who finds a box in front of his apartment. Inside the box is his masterpiece – his stories, his book. Amir then receives a phone call from Rahim Khan.

The film suddenly enters a flashback…with kites again in the sky. We see a few kids playing with the kites. The flashbacks were Amir as a young boy, with his best friend Hassan. Hassan was Amir’s family servant’s son, and also his best friend. However, they have different status.

Nevertheless, Amir’s father loves Hassan and Hassan’s father, Ali, a lot. In fact, even more than Amir because he felt that Amir was too timid. However, Amir is more educated and loves to write stories, which to his father, is a total waste of time. The only one who enjoys his story and supports him was his father’s best friend, Rahim Khan. (The caller at the beginning of the film)

Amir always reads his stories to Hassan. That’s what they both enjoy doing together.

Hassan & Amir reading together

This is one film in which you really dislike the lead actor. Amir is really a character that I dislike, for his cowardice. Hassan, on the other hand, is what I call a man’s man. Hassan stood up for Amir every single time and he would do whatever for Amir. Amir, however, is always too afraid to stand up for anything, or anyone. He usually just runs away when he face trouble.

So, apparently kite competitions were very popular in Afghanistan. They have this competition in which you fly your kites in the sky and you cut down as many kites as you can with your kite's string. If you are the last kite standing, you win. Hassan was the best kite runner and together, he helped Amir won the competition. After you cut the last kite in the sky, the kite runner would run and catch the falling kite and then pass it to the kite 'flyer' as souvenir, I guess.

Hassan, after getting the kite, was blocked by the village big bully and the bully ordered Hassan to give him the kite. Hassan was beaten up and also sodomised for not handing over the kite to them. Amir, who saw everything just stood there and watch. And said nothing! His friend was attacked and he just watched there….and even ran away. I mean, at least go get some help!

Hassan had always stood up for Amir when the bully tried to hurt Amir but this Amir did not do the same for his friend. After that incident, Amir didn’t mention anything to his father, and neither did Hassan. Hassan just became quieter and though Amir knew the reason and truth, Amir told no one about it. In fact, he wanted to get rid of Hassan. He tried many ways to kicked Hassan out of his house. He accused Hassan of stealing his watch. And because Hassan knew that Amir wanted him out, he admitted. Though Amir’s father forgave Hassan and asked them to stay, Hassan’s father, Ali said they are embarrassed to stay. From that day on, Amir never saw his friend again.

Then, suddenly Afghanistan was at war and Amir’s father, together with Amir fled to America. 20 years passed, and we see a grown-up Amir. He got married and his dad passed away. The story then continues from where the flashback began – when Amir was on the phone with Rahim Khan.

Rahim Khan told Amir about the death of Hassan and his wife. They had refuse to listen to the militant’s order. Hassan had a son, who is now in Kabul, Afghanistan. Rahim also told Amir a secret about Hassan. Let’s keep the secret a secret. Maybe you should watch the movie to find out.

Amir was at first, AGAIN, afraid to go to Afghanistan because of the Talibans. But after he read a touching letter written by Hassan to him (Hassan had learnt how to write for him)…he changed his mind. And for the first time, you see a little courage from this Amir. At least he went all out for his best friend’s boy this time.

In the end he managed to bring the boy to America, and give him a good life.

The most touching part in the movie? When Hassan told Amir, “Do you want me to run the kite for you? For you, a thousand times over…”

and, what's beautiful is, at the end of the movie, which once again tear me up….

When Amir repeated it to Hassan’s son…”Do you want me to run the kite for you? For you, a thousand times over…”

THEMES:

Hassan - If you ask me, the “Kite Runner” isn’t about Amir, it’s about Hassan. It’s about a friend who stood up for another friend. It’s about bravery and integrity. Hassan is the character that carries the movie forward. His character develops Amir’s character and inspires us. I might be critical of Amir, but I mean, maybe I’m as timid as Amir, who knows? When face with war and inhuman militants, how many of us would actually dare to stand in front of a gun just to stand up for righteousness? I think most of us would prefer to save our butts haha. But whatever it is, I know one thing, if my best friend were beaten up or bullied, I won’t just sit there and watch okay. Even if I can’t fight the bullies myself, I’ll get help.

Muslim culture - The film also gives us an insight of the Muslim culture in Afghanistan and the Taliban laws, which can be ridiculous.


Anyway, “Kite Runner” is of course based on a very popular novel, of the same title. I’ve heard of the book before and I know it is a great book. Then I found out about the movie and I know it’s a must watch.

I haven’t managed to get hold of the book but Thank God my friend Szetoo has the film. It’s a fantastic, beyond brilliant movie. One I shall never forget. Now, I’ll try to find the book in the library. I’m sure it’s gonna be even better.

TC-My Rating:





(Wished there were more STARS)



P/S: Since I’m talking about my favourite things this week…haha…I actually wrote a list of my favourite things:

(In no particular order)
1. My Bed & my home
2. My Music
3. My movies
4. My Bolster
5. My laptop
6. My Friends
7. My Family
8. KL View
9. The Beach
10. The Stars
11. The Television

Anywayz til next time ya.

With LotSa Lurve,

TammyC

THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION

Recently I had a chance to watch “The Shawshank Redemption” (credits to JT), starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman.

The movie is basically about the lives of the prisoners in Shawshank prison. I noticed one thing about prison movies – they always portray inmates as nice and good people, usually treated unfairly by the prison guards.

Recently also watched a documentary on an American Prison (I forgot which one) and apparently, the most ruthless and dangerous criminals inhabit that place. I guess everyone knows that prison isn’t what you call a fancy place. You get beaten up just like that if you are in the wrong place, wrong time or just because you’re in the wrong gang.

According to the documentary, the inmates all say that it is important to have a gang, so that your B-U-T-T is protected. Also, it's important to do whatever the gang leader tells you to, if not you’re dead. So basically, if your gang leader asked you to beat someone up, you have to, even though you risk being caught and then be sentence to a few more years in prison. In prison, you have to get your hands dirty for survival.

Also, there are transparent lines in the fields of the prison. According to the prisoners, each gang has their own areas, and they have to stick to their own areas. If they cross the invisible border, they will get beaten up, and that’s when fights among tribes happen. For example, the basketball court belongs to the African-American, the baseball to the Latinos etc.

I don't know why I'm giving you tips on prison life. Haha...really hope you guys don't need to use them. *touch wood*

Basically, when I watch “The Shawshank Redemption”, it does give a similar depiction of what a real prison is like, except that in the documentary, the warden is kind but in the movie, the warden is evil. Well, usually in all prison movies, the warden is the villain. Remember “The Longest Yard” and “The Last Castle”?

But at least justice is served at the end of “The Shawshank Redemption”. Yes, although we all know that in reality, sometimes, there is no such thing. People with power and the $ usually control the weak and the poor. If injustice is really happening in those prison, who knows right?

In the movies, yes, the lead actor manages to escape from prison, with a new identity and a luxurious life in some beautiful island. Well, we still watch shows like this to feel better about life, to give ourselves hope.

In fact, the most memorable line from the movie:- The lead character saying to Morgan Freeman “Hope is a good thing.”

THEMES:
Hope - Believe or not, I really in believe "HOPES". Even though sometimes, when hopes get to high, you’ll get hurt deeper. But sometimes, when we wish or hope, we might just get what we want. Sometimes I guess, we should never stop believing.

Black or White?











I really like prison movies. It shows us that there’s a thin line between evil and good. You think that the cops are good people? Well, they can be as merciful or even worst than the criminals.

2nd Chances - People make mistakes and I guess that these movies also remind us to understand these inmates. They, too, are normal human beings, and sometimes, they deserve a second chance.

Intelligence & Patience - I truly admire Tim Robbin's character is in the movie. His perseverance, wisdom and intelligence - that’s what got him out of jail. He might be the mysterious, quiet type, who doesn’t know how to express himself, but deep down, he is a darn intelligent man. And to think that he was in jail for a crime he did not commit, that’s just so unfair.

Is there such a thing as justice served? - Sometimes, you watch crime & justice shows and it really makes you laugh. They create the stories as though justice is served every time. The characters talked as if they would do their best to find the truth and evidence. I’m so sorry but the truth is, sometimes, you just get tortured during investigation and you have to admit it just because you can’t take it. Or worst, you are just freakin’ unlucky and all evidence just happens to point at you. Whatever it is, I just pray that I don’t have to land myself into these situations. I’ve heard stories about lock-up. Cops ain’t friends.

Friendships - “The Shawshank Redemption” is also about friendship. Let’s just say that, I think that some of the best friends are made with those who had actually gone through hard times with you. And true friends are also those who don’t run away when you are in trouble. I think that I’m lucky enough to have a few of these really good friends.

Friendship...Sweet...

The part which made me cry like hell (excuse me for being such a loser, but I can’t stand watching old people sad) was the part when one inmate, Brooks, who was release on parole, committed suicide. He was old and he just ain’t used to the life outside of prison. I guess I can totally understand that. He has to try to fit into society that is new to him, he goes home to a lonely four-walled bedroom, lonely and I think also missing all his friends in prison.

Plus it is true when they say, in prison, he is a librarian, but outside, he is really nobody, or worst, perceived as an ex-convict. Even for me, fitting in a new place and being lonely is hard to bear, let alone an old man, like him. I can totally relate to Brooks though I am maybe multiple years younger than him. Let’s just say for me, loneliness is my biggest fear haha.

But Thank God Morgan Freeman didn’t kill himself like Brooks.

Do I even have to rate this? One of the BEST movies EVER!! Not watching it means losing out on a classic...

TC-My Rating:





With LotSa Lurve,
TammyC

HAVE A PREMONITION TO WATCH 'PREMONITION'??

Over the weekend, I also had a chance to watch "Premonition" on Astro.

"Premonition" stars Sandra Bullock & Julian McMahon. I actually like that movie a lot, and I was shocked to read all the negative comments on the movie. It was rated very low on RottenTomatoes, and Rebecca Murray wrote about it negatively in her movie review in About.com. It really wasn't tat bad. I mean, ya, it's not like fantastically written or has brilliant cinematography but it has quite a nice twist. I like TWISTS, remember?

The thing is, people think that it was a time-wasting movie. The movie is about Sandra Bullock having a premonition about her husband's death. The movie is interestingly arranged in a very confusing time-line.

The movie starts with Wednesday.
Sandra found out about her husband's death. She went to bed that night and when she woke up the next day, she finds her husband alive. It's Monday.












Monday: Sandra goes on with her day...then she sleeps...she wakes up...she found that it's Thursday. Her husband is dead. Her mum was there to console her.

Thursday: She sleeps and woke up again it's Monday. Monday night, she sleeps, and when she wakes up, comes Friday.

Friday: Her husband's funeral. She sleeps and then wakes up again and it was Saturday.

Saturday: She was sent to the asylum because her mum feels that she is insane due to the stress of her husband's death.

Basically the whole story happens in a stretch of one week...Sunday to Saturday. Sandra Bullock has no idea of what she is going through until Saturday, after being sedated in the asylum.

She then wakes up & found out that it's Tuesday.

Tuesday: She get organized & arranged all the events that happened according to the days. Soon, she realized that Wednesday is the day her husband died. She can stop it. But because she found out about her husband's affair, she was in a dilemma of whether or not to save her husband.

Sunday came along and she tried to make amends with her husband & their relationship which was falling apart.

Sunday night, she sleeps & wakes up to the real Wednesday. She decided to save her husband. She calls her husband while her husband was traveling on the road he was supposed to die. Whether or not he survived, you might have to watch.

But from the reviews, maybe you have an idea already. In the end, most people find it time wasting. I find it quite interesting because the arrangement of the time & space is quite different from other movies. You really have to be attentive to understand the story.

However, most people feel that the movie failed to bring out enough anxiety to the mystery elements of the story. I have no idea why because I was basically jumping off my chair in the last scene - over-excited on whether or not her husband will make it in the end. Maybe it's just me haha.

TC-My Rating:





P/S: I managed to secure a few movies from my friend, Szetoo. I can't wait to lay my eyes on them. Next time, I shall talk about "The Shawshank Redemption" - a fantastic movie. Thanks to J.T. Til next time ya.


With LotSa Lurve,
TammyC

A BLAST WITH TROPIC THUNDER!

MOVIES - another one of my passion in life besides music.

I went to the movies yesterday with YY, YY's other half -Eugene and Lydia. I chose to watch "Tropic Thunder" over "Highschool Musical 3: Senior Year" for 2 reasons.

One - to give YY & Eugene some alone time (I'm very considerate, see); Two - because I think that "Tropic Thunder" is more worth the money hahah...it's star-studded!

Any regrets watching "Tropic Thunder" - No!

Would I watch it again? Yes!
Would I encourage you to watch it in the cinemas? - NO, why?

My advice is just get the DVD. (I'm not mentioning whether it should be pirated, downloaded or original, you figure out yourself). The DVD is good enough. It's not one of those action or horror movies that you need to spend money on in the cinemas for the sound effects etc. But overall, it is an entertaining watch. It's hilarious, but kinda lame hilarious. The jokes & humor are not distasteful, though, which I like.

Plus, it starred Ben Stiller & Jack Black - 2 of my favourite comedians, besides Adam Sandler. They were saying that the movie has some subtle meaning or lessons in it. I, however, have yet to understand the hidden meaning in it.

If you ask me, what I understand is that one should not try to hard to be someone they are not. Be happy with who you are. Maybe a second watch shall enlighten me more. One of the most memorable scene was the ending where Tom Cruise dances haha!

Overall, I think the most entertaining character is Ben Stiller's. Jack Black used too many fart jokes - not so funny anymore. The ending is unpredictable, which is a plus. I like movies with twists. A good movie if you want a good laugh.


TC-My Rating:

With Lotsa Lurve,
TammyC