HANGING OUT WITH A BUNCH OF JEANS GIRLS

These few days had been a movie marathon - it's like I'm gulping down countless movies in a day. It's a great thing that I get to catch up on my movies but then again, my movie expectations are actually kinda hiked up. It's hard to feel the satisfaction after watching those movies. Most of the times, I either feel disappointed or I feel that I've just watched another movie that has no impact at all.

It's really been a long time since I enjoyed a heart-felt movie so much.

Tonight is my lucky night.

I was scrolling through my hard-drive and I decided on a chick-flick. I stumbled across a movie that starred 4 hot ladies that have been trying to vie for my attention since ages ago. Tonight, I paid the sudden attention that they so deserve.

So if you are thinking it is "Sex and The City the movie"...you are so far from being right.

"The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2" is to me, a really nice movie. Ultimately, I guess I kinda like movies like these you know, movies that highlights life in general - where you can really just chill watching. No pressure, no expectations - a combination of family, love, friendship....and just, being girls haha. It's the kinda movie that you, or rather I can to a certain extend relate to.

"The movie brings back the charming fresh comedy, drama, romance, and adventure with a powerful message about coming of age and friendship." - SmartCine.com

The sad thing is, I did not watch the first movie, I practically jumped to the sequel...but no fret, I'm trying to get hold of the first one though. But here's what I gather from watching the sequel; Basically the story follows the life of 4 best friends, who are bonded together by a pair of blue jeans that fitted the four of them, despite their different shapes and sizes.

Nonetheless, after graduation, they had to part ways and they decided to secure their bond by passing on the jeans in rotation.

The second movie continues to follow the four different girls with basically four different characteristics and interests and backgrounds through their life journey.

First there is Lena, played by Alexis Bledel.

Greek Goddess

She is the Greek girly girl, sweet and pretty girl who is into art. She is struggling to heal from her heartbreak from her boyfriend, Kostos, whom after she broke-up with due to a family feud - something like Romeo and Juliet that sorta thing. But then she realized that she can't let go of her feelings from him but sadly he is married to another girl who claims to have Kostos's baby.

Hot man hot!!

Nude model vs. Greek God

So she pursue her love for art in by taking art lessons and met nude model, Leo, whom she nearly had a romantic inkling to. I think in Leo she found the cure to the pain of her broken heart...but then realized that her one true love is still Kostos.

Then there's Tibby, played by Amber Tamblyn who is the kinda insecure cum a bit emo cum a bit troubled with life but darn funny one.

I think she's really hot. Love her in the movie. 

Tibby...

Emo chick

She is the kinda rock-star slash punk type of girl in the movie. She has a boyfriend who loves her to the max but she is so insecure that she feels that she is not deserving of love. So whenever she gets emotionally close to someone, she feels the need to avoid it and move away.

Tibby's boyfriend, Brian

After having sex with her boyfriend, Brian, they realized that they had a sex malfunction. It scared me...like..."YOU CAN ACTUALLY HAVE A SEX MALFUNCTION? What is that?"
Oh well, it's just that the condom broke. And well, I know about practicing safe sex and all but Tibby doesn't want to have a baby to the extend that she went into an emotional shut down.
Can't blame her I guess. Different people faces different worries in life. Not that I would actually have sex before marriage but if the condom broke, I think it wouldn't be as bad for me as it would be for Tibby. I think in many ways Tibby is not just worried about having her baby, but she's worried that the people she love, like Brian would leave her, and she'll be left alone.

Next is Bridget played by Blake Lively.

The familiar face of Gossip Girl, Blake Lively plays Bridget - the sporty girl

 

Bridget is trying to recover from her mother's death, thinking that her mother left her because she doesn't love her anymore. Bridget was all this while trying to escape the truth of her past, but after an archeology assignment in Turkey, she learns from a wonderful professor, Nasrin that sometimes, it is what's left of the past that is fascinating - like the bones of the ancient people that are left behind tells fascinating tales and stories about people's traditions and cultures. Bridget then went to visit her grandmother  to face her past and rekindled with her dad.

The last member of the sisterhood is Carmen or Nena, who is starred by America Ferrera.

Now I think one thing that this movie has proved, it is that America Ferrara can act beyond her alter-ego Ugly Betty. In many ways I really enjoy watching America here.

 

The drama princess

I love this love~

 How can one not fall in love with this?

 

In this movie, America's character, Carmen is also a bit insecure, feeling that she is losing her friends since they don't hang out often anymore; it's like she's missing out on a lot of their activities and updates. Also she feels drifted from her mum, now that she has a new man in her life and a new baby on the way.

That summer, Carmen plans to spend her summer with her friends and pregnant mum but she discovered that all of them have plans of their own. She was kinda angry with them all for neglecting her and feels that they are not treasuring their friendship anymore.

To sort of distract herself, she followed her friend Julia (who is the lead actress in a play in Yale) to Vermont where she intend to help out backstage as a crew. However, she met lead actor, Ian, who practically made her audition. Though she thought it was just a fake audition  for her in which she shall just play along, not-to-be-taken seriously, she ended up with the lead role, Perdita, much to Julia's envy.

Well, naturally, Carmen had a crush on the lead actor, Ian, who's superbly GORGEOUS and British some more,..ah....with his accent and all, what is not to love, right?
Anyway, Carmen realized that her insecurities were ungrounded and that in the end, who her real true friends are.

When Effie (Lena's sister) lost their pair of jeans, the four of them were brought together again to discuss. They realized that instead of bringing them closer, the jeans had made them argue even more, and is tearing them apart. Lena decided that she should be in charged of looking for the jeans in Greece, since her sister lost it.

Little did she know, her whole bunch of friends went to Greece on a mission to get her and Kostos back together.

In the end, Carmen narrated that maybe the jeans got lost for a purpose.
To bring them back together again...
I guess sometimes, some things need to happen before we start learning to treasure the  things we have or sometimes, some things have to happen so that friendship can be built and retained.

In many ways I envy the four girls.

They have that bond that I so wish I had between few best friends...or maybe I do have that in some ways, with some of my friends. It's just that, I never felt what they girls had in a gang. But nonetheless, ALL MY FRIENDS ARE THE BEST. Many times, they've helped me go through the hardest times. I think they are one of the reason I consider myself truly blessed.

In some ways I feel like Carmen with my friends.
Sometimes, I just feel that they are slipping away.
I guess in many ways, leaving and departing is part and parcel of life. We have to part some day somehow, but the most important thing is to just be there for one another when your friends need you. To try to sustain a friendship is just by being there. Maybe we don't need to be around each other physically, I guess it's the love that lives on ya.

The bunch that I just love to hang out with and hope can hang out with forever

Such a feel good movie. Brilliant for a chill out session with friends.
Not sure there'll be another sequel but if there is, I'll be the first to line up for it.


TC-My Rating:







With LotSa Lurve,
TammyC

HOSTAGES ON CHRISTMAS

5 of us on a mission.

Go to GSC Midvalley - secure tickets to Avatar 3D on Christmas.

Should have known better.

No bookings prior to the movie.

2 hours before the 9PM show. We're kinda nuts to believe that we can actually get tickets to the movie ya.

Hey we are believers! But that doesn't mean we get the tickets lar.

So instead of flying through Pandora (the planet of the Omaticaya tribe in Avatar), we sort of ended up in Sg. Long (my cousins' house) watching DVDs.

Truth be told, I've already watch the 2D version of Avatar. It was awesome. I'm still working on the review for it. So much to talk about when it comes to that movie man! I guess I will watch the 3D version first before writing about the movie. I have a feeling writing about Avatar is gonna be another page of grandmother story from me.

Anyway...

So we were in Sg. Long, finally decided on watching "Hostage" starring Bruce Willis.

It's a movie in which I wanted to watch once upon a time but never really got a chance to. I heard it was a great movie and kinda scary.

Well, it wasn't really a psycho-analytical movie, if that's what you expect. I thought it's gonna be gory and bloody and all but really, it wasn't that bad. It might scare a few kids but if you are used to extremely violent scenes and all...(I'm not bragging ahem...) this is really nothing. Haha.

'Hostage' is about Bruce Willis, once a successful negotiator but after a failed mission blamed himself for the death of a woman and her son.  One year after the incident, he retired from his negotiating days, though still part of the police force.

The title of the movie is apt. I think there is nothing better to describe the movie than the word "Hostage".

However he was kinda forced back into the job when his family was held hostage by a bunch of people doing illegal business. In order to save his family, he has to redeem a CD from an accountant (and his family), who is held hostage by 3 teenage boys.

So basically, Bruce Willis has to juggle the responsibility of saving 2 families.

Though I feel that the storyline is not super engaging or super interesting, there were moments that kept you so suspense that you might grip on to whatever you have around you...your pillow, the mattress or maybe your hair...

Well, the few of us were hanging on to the edges of our seats, guessing the fate of the little son of the accountant. No spoilers here on whether he survived or not.

If the movie is actually supposed to be a freaky psycho-thriller, it definitely didn't blew me away. The only scary, but actually, not exactly that scary character is Mars. But I guess it is not a psycho-thriller lar because it really didn't work for me there.

Overall, it really isn't one of the best action-thriller movies I've watched. The storyline is quite normal, no twists that awed me. At points, I just wished that there were more things that would unfold but there wasn't any. I think in some ways, it is somewhat predictable.

It wasn't bad but it is just another movie.

If you are into action and all, watch this to get a medium high boost of adrenaline running. The good thing is, due to certain kinda suspense scenes, the movie wasn't draggy - the movie is pretty face paced, so it won't bore you to death.

TC-My Rating:

TammyC

NOT TOO LATE FOR A CHRISTMAS CAROL

I wanted to watch "The Box" last few week with my cousins but the timing was just not right.

I am so sad that I didn't get a chance to watch it. I know it's wrong but I do have some sort of expectation for the movie.

So the cuzzies gang then settled for another movie instead.

I wasn't planning to watch this highly acclaimed movie at first but since there weren't much choice left (please don't tell me to watch Astro Boy) and so I find myself booking 6 tickets to the movie "A Christmas Carol" starring Jim Carrey.

This is a movie blog post I owe myself because I've been neglecting it until now.

This movie is an adaptation Charles Dickens' book with the same title as the story. Jim Carrey takes on not only the lead character, Ebenezer Scrooge, but he also plays the 3 ghosts who haunted Scrooge. 

With this movie, Director Robert Zemeckis has applied the technique of performance capture, which is the similar technique he has used in his films The Polar Express and Beowulf. I remember enjoying The Polar Express a lot last time when I watched it with my best friends in Ipoh. I find this technique impressive but I still don't get the point of doing it though.

I find "A Christmas Carol" not bad at all. Maybe because I again didn't expect a lot from it. I don't even know the story prior to watching it. It was really a 'surprise' me with what you've got, that kinda thing. I believe that the movie would be even more interesting, fun (and scarier) if you watch the 3-D effects. The director, in my opinion, has successfully manage to scare the crap out of us because all the unexpected items and ugly faces and sound effects all pop out at unpredictable parts of the movie.

I still do not understand how this movie can actually be targeted to children. I mean seriously, I think it will be pretty scary from a child's point of view. Even my tall masculine 12-year-old cousin bro admitted that he is scared. I bet most children after watching this movie will have nightmares of Scrooge's face popping in and out of the cloud generated in their sleep.

There's no doubt that the story is meaningful.

It teaches us to be nice to everyone; to not be calculative and greedy. We should always help the poor and the needy.

However, I find some parts of the movie disconnected. There were certain scenes that really lost me. The dialogues don't make real sense. I mean, you get the overall idea but some lines were a bit hard to decipher, especially during the "Ghost of the Present" part.

I think Jim Carrey's had in many ways contributed to the popularity of this  new version of the movie. The whole hype of the movie is not really about how great the story is but rather to see Jim Carrey do his magic with the various characters he is playing. Besides, a movie on "The Christmas Carol" had been made before, previously starring Patrick Stewart. Not only that, "The Christmas Carol" is in fact a popular play in the U.S.

But overall, it is no doubt a heart-warming movie, just what one needs to get themselves in the true spirit of Christmas - the season of love and giving from the heart. So remember,  no matter how cliche this sounds, Christmas is not about the presents, but about the spreading and giving of love. So let's make this year's Christmas a heart-felt one and spread the joy and love to the people around us. 


TC- My Rating:

TammyC
ps: Counting down to Christmas...lolx. 9 Days more!

DEFINITELY WORTH MORE THAN 7 POUNDS

My laptop speakers made watching movies a pain in the you-know-where. I practically hear nothing and the fact that the movies have no subtitles doesn't really work towards my advantage.

Thanks to the recent PC fair, in which I bought myself a cute RM 10 speaker, I can now say that I can really enjoy movies at the comforts of home again without the need to strain my ears and 'open' my earlobes for better signal receptions. 

Anyway so basically due to the terrible sound effects, I didn't enjoy "7 Pounds" the first time I watch it. But well, I've heard some really positive comments about the movie so it was a matter of time before I gave it a second chance.

The story is simple.

It's about Will Smith's character, Ben, who felt guilty after killing 7 in a car crash due to his own negligence. Thus he plans to redeem himself by donating parts of his body (organs) and his house to 7 different people who are in desperate need of his help.

It's a touching story really. The movie portrays the pain and guilt that one felt after accidentally causing the lives of so many people. It's not easy living through guilt. It really stings. 

In many ways I do not get Will Smith's character, Ben, but I guess that's just because I am fortunate enough to not have to live through so much guilt. I don't know how it's like to wish you were the one dead instead of the people you've indirectly killed. And I hope I'll never have to feel that. 

But I guess the fact that Ben actually took the initiative to help to many people and even at the expense of killing himself is a very noble thing. I think in many ways, his kindness towards people has already redeemed him his sins, if he had any. Sometimes, things happens and we blame ourselves when maybe we shouldn't have. It's hard to not feel guilty I guess. There's always the burden but if it were me, I don't think I'd have even 1 % of Ben's courage to do the things he did.

"7 Pounds" is not told in chronological order.

There were flashbacks inserted here and there. Sometimes you might not get what Ben is doing until you've watched further. It's hard to understand his character at times but ultimately, you'll know that all he wanted to do is to make sure that the people he help is deserving of his gift.

The most touching part is seeing his heart transplanted into his new found love, Emily who suffers from a heart disease. It's like he is living inside her now; she has his heart with her, though he's not living in the world anymore. It was a beautiful ending really...

And unbelievably, one of my favourite part in this movie is the love-making scene. DON'T GET ME WRONG. I'm not a pervert. If I were, I'd recommend porno instead. But the love-making scene in 7 Pound is unlike the other arousing, racy and sexual scenes in other movies. To me, this scene embodies their love for each other. When I watch this scene, I felt their love for each other, and not their lust. It's the first time watching a sex scene and not think dirty but of a love that is pure and beautiful. When Will Smith kissed Emily's scar on her chest, you'll feel that at that moment, she will feel all her pain and sickness disappear.

The other part that I love was when Will Smith tells the blind guy, Ezra (whom he was going to donate his eyes to) to go for the waitress. I love Ezra. I really love the dude. He's such a sweetheart and in many ways, I pity him for having low-self confidence due to blindness.

Overall, this is yet another very meaningful movie by Will Smith. The story is good, acting is good, nicely done movie. However, there were times where I just don't get Emily' and Ben's character. They are like together and not together...well it's complicated at first until the later part. I wish they were more straightforward but really, what is straightforward in life huh...Emily is a bit too aggressive at times, which totally doesn't work for me. I guess maybe I'm just not that aggressive when it comes to love, which make me a sucker but that's another story lar haha. So, I don't get Emily and the things she do really. Well, I won't dare to do half the things she does for sure.

 Kisses heals

Anyway if you haven't watch this one yet, make sure you find time for it. There were also some people who commented it as a bore but then again, it's a matter of what's your cup of tea. Is "7 pounds" worth 7 pounds? I'd say more worthy than "Final Destination 4" which I paid 7 pounds for in Liverpool.

TC-My Rating:

Three stars because even though the storyline was good and there were moments of great cinematographic effects, I don't think I'd watch it again. Plus, I do believe that there would be some who would find the movie a bore because there were a tad more focus on the love story between Emily and Ben, rather than Ben really helping people.

TammyC

I'M IN TEAM JACOB SO I'M HOT!

After the second time I watch Twilight, I kinda swore that I won't watch the sequel. But when I saw Jacob and his oh-so-gorgeous looks and body....*gulp*, I lost my integrity to a set of sexy biceps and hot looks.

 

The cold version

 

The warmer version

There are basically a few reasons why people watch the Twilight Saga.

The most obvious reason is the 2 hot dudes. I mean, seriously, it's either Edward or Jacob. It's obvious that the producers used the dudes as selling point. For Twilight, they publicized Edward's hotness (and make Jacob look weird), building up Team Edward. In New Moon, the focus was solely on Jacob, literally rebranding him into something too hot to handle and soliciting new members for Team Jacob. Honestly, I've noticed Jacob's hotness in Twilight. My cousins laughed. Now you see. His heat doubled to boiling temperature. He's sizzling in this installment.

Anyway, 3 types of dudes would watch it. One, the ones who want to show the romantic side to girls they wanna woo. Two, the ones who were forced by their girlfriends or wives who wants to churn out their romantic side. Third - Gay.

But then with the amount of publicity dedicated to it, I bet a lot watch it out of curiousity. You know, to see how sucky it is and to have a good laugh...haha.

But seriously, if you are a person who doesn't get super emo romantic stories, save your cash, do some investment or donate it to charity. RM 7 is a lot of money haha. I mean, inclusive of pop-corns and drinks, that'll be like more than RM 10 spent on New Moon.

Although directed by another director, this movie didn't fail to carry on the slow and draggy style. Bella & Edward still share this awkward love and eye-contact. The lamest scene?

Bella: "It's still my birthday.....bla bla bla...kiss me"

My GOD! Act like a normal couple lar please. Seriously...I thought bf are supposed to kiss their gf on their birthdays. Maybe in that context Bella felt that Edward is not gonna kiss her and so she asked. But it was really lame. Why can't they be more natural with each other? Everytime both of them share the screen, they don't look like they love each other, they look like they are not comfortable with each other. What's a romance story with such weird chemistry? Bad romance? Like I say, I really don't know if it's Kirsten Stewart and Robert Pattinson's bad acting or are they really that good that they can portray such stiff and wooden characters. If it's the characters, then I really don't get the 2 lead characters.

Even the poster carries a super emo theme

I get it. The title of the movie is New Moon, supposedly the darkest period of something. So basically, in this movie, it is Bella's journey through her darkest moments, hence her emo-ness and the never ending screams. Maybe I'm too 'gay' for such context so I don't get it. That's why the movie has to be so 'gothic' style. 

But putting myself in the shoes of a common & normal day-to-day person who is not the emo type, Jacob is the saviour of the movie. Watching him is the only thing that made the movie bearable. I mean, Jacob has better chemistry with Bella. At least Jacob's character makes things normal. Although he's a werewolf, he's not like Edward. He really make you feel 'warmer'.

You see, in the movie, vampires are cold-blooded while werewolves are hot (and they are! haha) My favourite part in the movie (yes, I actually have one) is when Jacob say to Bella who's freezing: "It's a hundred and eight degrees over here" and then Bella hugs him to warm up. Awww....I actually felt the warmth myself too...cinemas nowadays are really cold too see. I wish Jacob was next to me haha..okaylar back to reality.

HOT-BLOODED

VERSUS

COLD-BLOODED

I mean, isn't it obvious which pack I'm in? 

The pack of werewolves haha...

I usually prefer warmth, sorry Emmett & Carlisle. You guys are hot but the wolves are hotter! haha

Anyway like I say - dragggggy stoooryyllllinee....mainly because the dialogues exchange were kinda stupid. Hearing Edward and Bella communicating with each other makes me feel like  I'm back in the 15 hundreds only more pathetic. I wanna slap both of them and asking to hurry up with their speech which actually means nothing but one thing - they love each other, WE GET IT though I personally don't see it! I mean, you don't have to deliver love lines like that slow and making it sound like so...fake. I mean, I don't see Jacob taking 10 hours to express his love for Bella.

 

I'm officially in love with a baby! ;P

I'm not into younger guys but this is Taylor Lautner! 

He's really kinda ..beautiful lolx

But nevermind...

This is what we call window shopping

 

And Jacob has a way of making such a fantasy-like movie somewhat relatable. I love the way he and Bella spent time together fixing the motorbikes and hang out at movies. It's like what normal friends would do. He's like the guy friend you would enjoy hanging out with. Plus he's hot...but that's another story haha.

But at least compared to Twilight, Bella and Edward have more chemistry. Nevertheless, this sequel lacks the excitement in Twilight. We also don't get to see the whole Cullen family in action together. Last time, my favourite scene was the baseball scene in Twilight because I felt the sense of family unity. With this one, I was waiting and waiting for it but my thirst was not quench. So no family kicking butts but there were lots of vampire-eating werewolves.

The movie also fails to spice up the history between the werewolves and vampires as well as the Volturi. I think it would be interesting to continue enhancing that legend as it would definitely carry the Twilight saga forward, in terms of better storylines, instead of just so love oriented.

Well to be fair, I guess everyone who enter the cinema for a taste of New Moon should expect it to be about romance. It'll be again stupid to expect something else. I mean, to be fair, if you go to a Korean restaurant, of course you'll get Korean food right? Same as New Moon. You can only expect 'emo' scenes and nothing much. Maybe a bit of action and humour here and there.

If it's your sort of thing - you know, like the super emo kinda love story, I think you will like it. I mean, I was about to leave the cinema when I heard 3 Caucasian girls complimenting the movie. Well....good to know. In the end, I went in for Jacob and for a good laugh. I got both so though the storyline wasn't action-packed and exciting, I got what I went in for.

But one thing is for sure. Girls, making your bf watch New Moon with you would be one of the BEST punishment if they ever offend you. haha...

ANother lame Bella-logue (bla bla-logue really) before I end:

Bella to Jacob: "I love you, but don't make me choose because it'll be him (Edward). It has always been him".

My GOD! Bella, please don't simply say I love you. Do you even know what it means and what context to use it in. The word selfish is not even enough to describe Bella seriously. It's like she's using Jacob as what? On the surface, what she say is like such 'kind' words but seriously, it's the most hurtful words ever...Don't make me choose? She already is choosing. Thank God in real life Jacob is not in love with her man.

TC-My Rating:

Ps: One star is SOLELY FOR JACOB. The movie itself is only worth 2 1/2 to me haha.

TammyC

UP, UP & ABOVE STANDARDS

Took some time out to really enjoy a movie.

I've been wanting to watch this one quite some time ago but never really had the chance to. Finally, thanks to technology and YouTube, I got a chance to watch it in HD version! I'm super happy. Oh I forgot to update you guys that I actually bought a new speaker and so now, my movie moments are enhanced by super cool average-but-loud acoustic system haha.

Anywayz...back to the movie.

Okay...I heard this one is really good and natural my expectations were high. This is the first time since a long time that I have high expectations and wasn't let down. "Up" is fantastic! Never underestimate what kiddy animation can do.

 First of all, the animated characters in "Up" are super adorable. So cuteeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee! (plz say it in a draggy mushy tone). My favourite character has got to be Russell, the cute chubby little boy. I seriously don't know why I have also a liking for chubbiness. Maybe because I am chubby myself haha. Nah but seriously, Russell is super adorable.

Way cuter than Russell Peters muahaha

I think the whole story is out of the world. It is super creative though some might argue that there were a lot of parts that doesn't make any sense. I mean, forget the fact that the house can actually fly and float in the sky with the help of balloons (I don't know much about science but maybe there's a possibility out there I am not aware of), but how can Russell's shoe size be smaller than Carl's mouth? There are a lot more illogical occurrences in the movie but heck, it was such a fun movie, everything else doesn't seem to matter.

The main theme that builds the movie is just one simple word - FRIENDSHIP.

It's finding friendship through adventures and helping each other in the face of adversities.

Friendship is not defined by age, gender, race or anything physical for that matter.

It's all above love.

I guess sometimes we just don't realized it but are true friends are always there for us.

In the beginning, we see Carl meeting Ellie and soon, both of them became best friends, married each other and became life-long partners. I find the music background in the movie super effective in tearing me up. My GOD! This is practically the first cartoon-like movie that managed to make me cry just like 15 minutes into the movie, beating Lion King (the first cartoon/movie that made me cry).  When Ellie died and left Carl lonely, I just couldn't hold back the tears that had been threatening to roll down. I've always have a soft spot for old folks. Plus, I'm so touched by the love they share for one another. If I could propose my love story, I'd want exactly a relationship like that - a lifetime spent with my bestest buddy/husband, just like Ellie and Carl.

 

I love their custom-made postbox. Such a simple but wonderful thing a couple can share.

I feel sad seeing Carl hanging on to the box after Ellie had died but honestly, if I were him, I think I'll probably hang on the same.

 

What more can I say...awww...

Anyway we see Carl devastated after Ellie's death but Carl continue to pursue both their dreams - which is to build their house on Paradise Land. He wanted to do this for Ellie and so he decided to fly with his house all the way to Paradise Land. He then crossed path with little boy Russell, who Carl later shared an adventure with.

 

A flying house with multi-coloured balloons? COOL~!

Through their adventures together, Carl learned about moving on and letting go of Ellie. One of the most touching part in the movie for me is seeing Carl looking through Ellie's adventure book and he was flipping through their pictures together - both happily together. The end Ellie scribbled something like "Thanks for our adventure together and now go find some new adventures".

Ellie's adventure book in which she recorded down her life dreams and the adventures she shared with her beloved husband, Carl

I guess sometimes we hang on to stuff that we love so much that we neglect to see what we have around us. In some ways Carl blames Russell for screwing up his plans of getting the house to Paradise Land that he failed to see Russell as a new found friend.

I really enjoyed the movie. I think in some ways, this simple story has really managed to capture my full concentration. It's witty and some parts really funny. And like I said, I really like Russell.

You don't have to be a kid to watch this one really. Watch this one and relive the kid inside of you, just like Carl. It's a definitely a feel-good movie where you can chill with family and friends. You have got to watch "Up". I know the DVDs are just out in stores so you can definitely get it.

PS: If there's one thing I super like about this movie, it's the multi-coloured balloons.

Really cheered me up. I love colourful things. It heightens happy and make you smile naturally. Look at them!

TC-My Ratings:

TammyC

2012 ON 251109 0 WE WERE WARNED (TO BOOK TICKETS 1st BUT WE DIDN'T)

Whenever I finish watching a movie, I feel obliged to write about it and I have NO IDEA WHY.

I know I'm full of crap but I just need to talk about the movie. However, sometimes, I just dragged on and then later, I lost the urge to actually translate those feelings I feel about the movie into words (of the not-so-wisdom).

So I felt that I need to at least put down a few thousand words on the first movie that I've watched lately - 2012.

2012 - Remember we only have 2 years more to live. Don't say I didn't warn you. "We were warned"

*Grand music*

Poster rising up from the sea waters....

Seriously...I think it deserve this grand opening (not because the movie is good though).

I mean, with the amount of publicity that was given to this movie, no wonder the cinema is flooded with human beings. Kenny Rogers lar...what else...pop corn bags lar...you name it...

End of the world is not caused by the waters that flood Earth but the suffocation due to the lack of oxygen in Kinta City, Ipoh the night we decided to watch the movie.

Me, King Kong & YC planned to watch this movie a few weeks back and this actually lead me to another lame story... Someone pointed out that 'J' seating is too near the screen and so... we found our three butts in another cinema hall watching Phobia 2.,and don't even get me there. Safe it for another day. ANYWAYZ before I drift off, let's get back to 2012.

So after failing to get tickets over and over again for the movie, finally that night, 25102009, we actually managed to watch this blockbuster.

Was I disappointed with the movie?

Surprise surprise...no.

Why?

Because I have zero expectations on the movie, the movie turned out to be not such a painful 2 hours and 45 minutes. I never watch all these 'end of the world' slash 'disaster' movie because seriously, what do you even get out of it besides 'feasting' your eyes on natural disasters that claim the lives of thousands or even millions of fake CGI characters. Like one of my friend say, some people just like the pleasure of watching destruction, FAKE destruction mind you. For me, I'm so NOT INTO THAT.

 

Destruction beyond repair

Nevertheless, with 2012, I silently shared some teary moments with some of the touching scenes though after that King Kong had to made sure she announce it to practically the world. I have no idea why I teared up because I think the movie is in some ways pretty lame and pretty predictable. I'm actually pretty embarrassed. But nevermind, I felt the dude sitting next to me in the cinema sniffling too..hehe...

Back to 2012.

According to many, the CG is brilliantly done but then I'm not the kinda person who go for all these computer animation or graphic thingy so, nothing catchy there.

So you might be wondering why I actually watch 2012 if I had expected it to suck and I am not even the kinda person who is awed by the CG?

Well, you know 2012 is the kinda movie that you have to watch just because you want to go with the hype. At least after watching it you can give a 'critical' and 'analytical' point of view. If I hadn't watch it, it'll really be just like..."Oh I knew it'd suck so I didn't watch it. Full stop"

But now I'll be like...

The movie kinda suck though not completely because I have zero expectations prior to watching it. So I enter, expecting the worst and it turned out okay.

John Cusack's character is supposed to be like the leading character but seriously, I don't see anything in his character. Very weak and I don't understand why HE IS THE ONE GIVEN ALL THE PUBLICITY when I feel that a bit more impressive is the character Dr. Helmsley starred by Chiwetel Ejiofor.

 

Curtis & Helmsley

I mean, yes, John has some heroic moments in the movie (all really near-death but super fake moments) but seriously, towards the end of the movie, I'm like...hmmm...not really touched because I just don't feel the character. I mean, I assume he is a better man at the end of the movie and a better father but still I don't feel the transformation you know. The character is not endearing enough.

The worst part of the movie is that they killed the character Gordon and then that's it? John Cusack's wife is amazing really. Her boyfriend just died, crushed by a machine and a few minutes later she's in the arms of another man... I guess that contribute to the fact why I just don't feel the vibe of this family. The kids are adorable but that's all really. Hmmm....sad but I feel that the Curtis family is not engaging enough in the movie.

Dr. Helmsley is different. I can see him glow towards the end of the movie. Okaylar, he might not be the greatest actor in the world but I like the end part where he took charge of the ship and convincing all the Presidents and Prime Minister to open the gates for everyone. His leadership qualities oozing out. I like how he transformed from a person who decided to close-one-eye to the unfairness of the materialistic world to one who stepped up, took control of the situation and stood up for fairness. That's character though an idealistic representation of things!

Cusack's character Curtis is supposed to be a writer who's supposed to inspire but seriously, all the inspiring lines are from  Helmsley, well, from my personal point of view.

Even Helmsley relationship with his father is touching (though the acting, well a bit not up to my standards haha). By the way this is the first part that had me welled up in my eyes.

My favourite line from the movie (yes, I have one even for this movie) is by the President. First time Black president in the movie I might add. Anyway, the President told his daughter that he will announce the news about the world coming to an end so that everyone will have a chance to hold their loved ones and tell them how much they loved each other. This was the second part of the movie that got to me.

If the world is coming to an end, I would also wished that I had a chance to tell everyone how much I love them. Facing death might not be the hardest or saddest part. At least for now I don't think it is yet. I guess I was really sad watching this part because it reminded me of the deprivation of my chance to tell my grandpa how much I loved him and to be there next to him when he passed on. It is a really sad thing to not have a chance to tell that someone how much you love him or her and so I was really touched by that scene, no matter how bad the rest of the movie might be.

The storyline of 2012 is just like any other disaster movies. I mean, flood or comet invasions whatever it is, the world just get destroyed and the lead actor most likely survives. Seriously, nothing there.

But I kinda like the themes circling the whole storyline. Humanity. Helping others despite of adversities. It makes me wonder myself, if it were the end of the world, would I stay as selfish or would I actually put others before myself.

There were critics on the misrepresentation of the Ancient Mayan's prediction. Sadly, I do not possess enough knowledge on this issue to give a fair and critical comment.

Now after my not-so-professional write-up on 2012, I shall now refer you to my friend, JT and his movie blog.

JT NEVER FAILS to give an impressive account on movie analysis. He knows his stuff. He knows his director and their directing styles. He knows how to compare and contrast. In other words, HE KNOWS HIS MOVIES. And boy was JT critical on 2012 haha. In some ways I agree with JT but seriously, 2012 is not as f***ed up lar. Doesn't deserve the multiple !!! marks haha. Maybe because I really expected it to be worst. It was really long 2 hours and 45 minutes but surprisingly, bearable. Maybe because I was already preparing my sleeping mode when I entered. Then again, I managed to survive the 'ordeal' though by the end of it my eyes were barely open.

I always try to give another side of the story. TRY haha.

Well if you've read JT's blog, you might now feel that the movie REALLY SUCKED. Bare in mind, JT is very professional. A broadcast student with a highly gifted brain for movie reviewing (pay me later JT). So he might have very deep and interesting views on the movie which totally blew me away.

But I shall provide you with another link. I found this dude's blog randomly while searching for pics. Vincent Loy's blog. If you read Vincent's blog, you'll find flowery language used to describe the movie haha.

Whose side are you on? You decide.

Adding a bit of New Moon flavour here. Team JT or Team Vincent.

TC-My Rating:

Not a movie that I'll rewatch but if you like these kinda movies, I think you MIGHT like this one. The publicity is seriously OVERRATED.

WHAT'S WITH HANNAH MONTANA?

You tuck me in turn out the light...

Kept me safe and sound at night

I can almost see it..

That dream I'm dreaming...

Every sky was your own kinda blue,

And I wanted to know, how that would feel....

Pop it, lock it, polka dot it, countrify it, hip hop beat...

These tracks share a similarity. I'm giving you 5 seconds to guess.

1

2

3

4

5

If you guess it right, well done. You belong in this century.

If you have no clue, well, where have you been? But I don't blame you. I understand if you are not a Hannah Montana fan.

I mean, seriously...I really do not get the Miley Cyrus a.k.a. Hannah Montana hype. And I so not get the movie either.

Now I won't be biased just because I'm not a Miley fan. I must admit that the songs are ALL GREAT. Undeniable. Well, if you know me by now, I'm a HUGE HUGE country music fan so I can't help it but actually like Miley's songs (some of them); I mean, since she is a country girl and a country music singer's daughter. I'm a country girl at heart see ;P but not as sweet.

But honestly, Hannah Montana: The Movie is really just riding on the success of the TV show and the Hannah Montana 'brand'. And also, it is basically another way to sell Miley Cyrus's songs. I mean, movies with good soundtrack is basically have an extra avenue to gain extra revenues.

And with Hannah Montana, the movie can suck but they will still make a fortune from it. Imagine - DVDs, Soundtracks, movie sales, merchandises. You can't walk down Liverpool street without not seeing anything that is related to Hannah Montana.  The familiar purple colour backgrounds the blonde star on bags, stickers, shoes - YOU NAME IT. I won't be surprise if someone has Hannah Montana tattooed on their a** or maybe forehead. That's how crazy people are over well, a fake 15-year-old country star who isn't really singing country anymore.

So, where was I? Yes, the movie. So I mean, it is only natural that there is a movie on this and as usual, the storyline is bland. It's like sitting through 1 hour and 40 minutes of nothing.  By the way, I was so bored that I actually watch the second half of the movie on a different day.

The thing that saved the movie? Besides the fact that I love Lucas Till who is so hot because he is so the country-guy, I think some of the songs in the movie really salvage the plot. Well, maybe in the first place, it is about the music. But in my opinion, if you really want to make a musical, at least make the plot a "hooker." Seriously, if you really despise country music, you'll die a meaningless death watching this movie. For me, it's salvation haha. Most of the songs are country and the great thing is that there are cameos of my favourite country music singers - Rascal Flatts & Taylor Swift.

Basically the story is about Hannah Montana, the teenage superstar who has another identity, another life as a normal teen - Miley Steward. Well this seems like a creative concept for a sitcom but the movie kinda overdid it that it doesn't seem to make sense anymore, well at least for a 'matured' grown-up, it doesn't.

The movie sees Hannah Montana being carried away by fame, forgetting her country roots. So her daddy, Billy Cyrus tries to get her back on track by bringing her back to her hometown. There she rediscover herself.

Seems pretty predictable and the resolution of the climax just doesn't work at all.

There are 2 climatic moments. One where the British reporter is supposed to expose Miley's identity and the second one is where Travis gets angry at Miley for lying (of course we know they get back together duh!). That's basically when Miley realizes how she actually loves where she hails from, her origins.

Normally, I don't blame this teen flicks for being predictable. I mean, one of the features of chick flicks, teen flicks, bimbo flicks (whatever you  call it) is that they are ALL PREDICTABLE. You watch it just to kill time (or to torture your boyfriends ;P)

But being predictable, at least do something to develop the resolution of the climax. I mean the ending was really pure stupid. I don't know but it's not developed enough for me. Like the reporter. He just quit? And his character really isn't developed at all.

Though the ending is a happy ending, it was like eating air...I even skipped the songs at the end because I just want it to end. Not great enough sorry. Don't get it.

Oh and there were some comedic moments in the movie which I seriously DO NOT GET. It was just so lame and not funny. I mean I don't even know who will laugh at that part, well except kids maybe. For example, the scene at the spinning hotel door where a few characters were spinning there. Seriously?? And the havoc during the lunch with the mayor was so unfunny that I could cry.

Okay, now I'm done with the negative. I'll tell you what I like in the movie.

ONE:

There was one scene where Billy Ray Cyrus felt his daughter's pain and he was there for her. That is my favourite scene. I was really touched by what the father did for her daughter. I always feel moved by father-daughter moments, because deep down, these great dads always reminded me of my own daddy, who had always put us first beyond his own needs. I always feel that my dad's sacrifice is the greatest of all. I know it and that's why when I watch that scene, I was actually teary. And when Miley sang one of my favourite songs, "Butterfly Fly Away" I just can't control the waters anymore. I was actually crying. Yes! Darn I actually cried watching Hannah Montana...But I admit it and I'm not proud of it.

Meaningful dad and daughter moment

If I could sing and write, I'd write one for me dad too haha

TWO:

Taylor Swift singing "Crazier" and they were dancing.

The song is just so beautiful I can't help but fall in love with the scene. Taylor looks stunningly gorgeous here. The dancing to the music is so romantic.

I think I'm going to make a 'secret' vow here. I'll seriously consider marrying the guy who actually ask me to dance to this song haha (that is if he wants me of course haha). I mean come on! It is only one of THE GREATEST love song ever. Whenever I hear this song, I can't help but think of 2 things - romantic dance with that special someone and the streets of Liverpool. When I was in Liverpool, this song kept repeating itself on my playlist that the scenery and memories of Liverpool is plastered together with the track.

How can I say no if this dude ask me to dance?

I'm still sane

I'm positive that Lucas Till is checking Taylor Swift out.

He said he has a crush on her.

I like to see both of them. They really look like a fun couple.

THREE:

Rascal Flatts singing "Bless the Broken Road" on the front porch of the house. They sound mesmerizing. I wish they could have sung more.

FOUR:

Life is a climb and the view is beautiful.

I like the simple meetings and chats that Miley has with Travis. To me, that is so cool, just to have like a best friend who you can fall for.

Dates I'd love to have:

 Talking to each other about dreams & passions, about life & inspiring one another in life

Having loads of fun together even though you are doing s***ty work ;P

Horseriding

Or maybe just walking lar..

Not so country haha

 

 Challenging each other to some outdoor activities

Just hanging out doing normal stuff with each other

Well, even if I don't appreciate the movie, one can't deny the fact that Miley Cyrus and Hannah Montana have so many worldwide fans that could just shut me up. Whatever I say don't really matter actually haha because Hannah Montana is a big hit.

Hannah Montana should follow the leads of Spiceworld. In my opinion, Spiceworld is a success seriously. The storyline is good and the jokes are witty. I love it and I don't mind rewatching it again and again. The songs were good, it just compliments the funny storyline. I don't know I just really enjoy Spiceworld.

The reason why I watch Hannah Montana is because of the songs. I want to give the movie a chance since the songs are so nice. Plus I just want to know what is all this Hannah Montana craze all about really. Why do kids like her so much?

Personally, I foresee Miley Cyrus down the 'devil's' path soon, just like Britney Spears. We'll see how long Hannah Montana 'lives'.
I can only see Taylor Swift on the angelic road.

Watch this one if you are crazy of Smiley Miley and country stuff!~  =D

TC-My Rating:

TammyC