CASTAWAY ON THE MOON 김씨 표류기

Okay, again I was 'forced' by my brother to watch this one because it starred his favourite Korean actress, Jung Rye Won.

So, I'm not supposed to judge the movie because of the actress. I'm supposed to watch it with an open heart. But actually I watched it because of Jung Rye Won. I want to see what is so special about her. Surprisingly, she's not really that special ;P haha.

But surprisingly, I like this movie. I find it really meaningful in fact.

Korean movies are actually pretty good. When we say Korean dramas, our minds drift to the soft melodies of Winter Sonata, 2 lame lovers in the middle of snow, hugging each other, crying etc etc. That's the stereotype. But when it comes to movies, I find that Korean directors are very creative in terms of movie-making and in movie themes.

Previously, my friend recommended everyone an award-winning film "Old Boy". I think the theme of the movie is very interesting, the storyline brilliant and I'm impressed with the director's creativity with the movie. The cinematography is also BRILLIANT. Personally, I'm disgusted with the theme in "Old Boy" but I can't help but applaud the director's work because really, although I was feeling weird about the theme, I genuinely think it is creative and original and different and that is the kind of movie I love.

Old Boy
An interesting watch but could be too violent & inappropriate for some

"Castaway on the Moon" doesn't share the same brilliant/clever storyline but I love how the director conveys the message of the movie.

MALE KIM saying: "Anyeong Haseyo"

The story is simple. A man decided to commit suicide by jumping down the Han River. He has given up on life - he's in debt, he's lost his girlfriend...basically, everything is wrong with his life.

I love the opening.
We hear a man on the phone stating that the lead actor had borrowed a few thousand dollars; and then after adding the interest, the amount of money owed is hundreds of thousand.

After stating that the operator goes: "Sir, are you clear?"
Lead actor: "Yes. You've made me all the more clear now."; 'clear' as in his decision to jump but not the amount of the debt.

But he survived and landed himself on this island, in the middle of the city...yes, AN ISLAND IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CITY. So the first lesson in the movie, if you really plan to kill yourself, don't jump from that particular bridge in Korea, or you might end up in that island as a castaway.

On the other hand, we have the girl. Her life revolves ONLY around her room. She doesn't go out because of the scar on her face. She does everything according to a strange routine - like, hypnotizing herself to sleep, waking up only to 'work' in front of the computer (she has a fake webpage where she becomes someone else), she gets fresh air from the fan, stuff like that. And her interest? Taking pictures of the moon. She likes to be ALONE...like being on the moon, with zero-gravity.

The movie is about how these unconventional two individuals meet. Male Kim was stranded on the island without anyone knowing EXCEPT the Female Kim (yes, both leads are somehow by the name of Kim). The Female Kim, who constantly LOCKS HERSELF IN HER ROOM (somewhat like my bro) and has never stepped out of it & interact with people for 3 years has been using her telescope to take photographs of the moon...until one day, she say Male Kim, whom she thought is an Alien. Now, people, I'd like to draw your attention here to the disadvantage of facing ONLY 4 Walls instead of getting some sunlight and communication with REAL HUMANS. Your brains will somehow malfunction and you'll misunderstand real human beings as Aliens, like our MISS KIM there who has problems differentiating what is human and what is alien. Back to the movie then. So our MISS KIM there wants to communicate with the alien. And the story goes...

Jung Rye Won as FEMALE KIM What's so hot about this? Nah, she's ok looking. Just scary here.

FEMALE KIM'S WAY OF LIFE (which I'd die living in)

3 years in a room, 3 years worth of rubbish

Exercise by walking on the spot?


This is her idea of "getting some fresh air"

A few meaningful themes:

1. When we are living like we're dying, we are happier.

The lead character, Kim, at first when landed on the island feel frustrated. He tried to find his way out of the island, but then decides, HECK, I'll just build my life here since I have nothing to lose anyway. He doesn't mind eating the wild mushrooms since if he die, he wants to die anyway. So, when we don't care about dying or anything in life, we are problem free and happy.
Very applicable in life, don't you think? Sometimes we overburden ourselves in life because we overthink things. If we just let go, and not worry about consequences we are definitely going to less stressed up and a whole lot cheerier.

Free water

Free mushroom Good life, isn't it?

2. Simplicity is happiness


Kim grew to love his life they on the island - the simple life - where he grew his own crops, builds his own 'nest', hunt his own food...
Sometimes having NOTHING means HAVING EVERYTHING.
The ending was touching. Kim cried, begging for people to not cast him out from the island. The island is his everything. We might think he's an idiot...only trees and the sands. What has he got there? EVERYTHING! Ironically, he has NOTHING in the city, when to us, we feel that our everything is in the city. Different perspective, different needs.

Also I guess sometimes we think we have everything here in the city. But then, maybe we have nothing at all but we just don't know it. I remember this personal experience. It was during my National Service training and I overhead two of my Malay friends chatting. One was a Shah Alam guy and one a pure Kelantan kampong boy. The Kelantan boy talks about his adventures rafting on the rivers and fishing and playing by the countryside. The Shah Alam boy was listening in awe. I, too, were listening. Then I heard the Kelantan boy say, "Best tinggal kat kampong. Seronok tau berakit..." (It's fun living in the village. It's very fun rafting) Then he went on describing his rafting experience. That's when I turn back and smiled at him. I mean, as a city girl and like my Shah Alam friend, the city boy - we've never get to experience all these minor minor things. And dare we say we have EVERYTHING? No, we definitely do not have the privilege to experience that kind of happiness derived from the simplest things.


3. No one is really useless; you could be an inspiration to someone else and you do not know it

Kim sees himself as useless and a failure and in fact, many other people would perceive him that way too. That's probably why he decided to end his own life. But female Kim (yes, the lead actress name is also Kim) sees Male Kim from a different perspective - another side of him that most people don't see, and perhaps, he himself doesn't know off until he was stranded on the island. Female Kim, who is a loner, who doesn't face the world, had changed her attitude towards interaction with people. Because of Male Kim, she forces herself to get out into the world...something that she has not done in many years. She lacks self-esteem and confidence but Male Kim, although technically has no relation WHAT-SO-EVER with Female Kim, has indirectly changed and inspired Female Kim. So you see, sometimes, we might regard ourselves as useless, but there could be somebody out there secretly admiring you without you knowing it.

Female Kim blasting off to 'the moon'.. Her signature outfit when delivering her letters to Male Kim Method of delivery? Throw the bottle containing the message onto the island


Male Kim's way of responding

I truly believe that everyone is here for a reason, though sometimes we doubt our existence. Like sometimes, I still have no idea why I'm here. I guess there are times when we are so down that we just can't see our own values and that's when we have others' to open our eyes.

For me I really think that all my friends are valuables. Everyone of them are inspiration and some of them just do not know their worth to me.


4. Everyone is special and has talents, we just might not know it

The movie also highlights that people have hidden talents and potential that they don't know of and all they have to do is think and work on it, and they will achieve excellence - just like how Male Kim had achieved so much on the island. I mean all this while, he had been stuck in the city and since he has no accomplishments there, he felt useless. The people around him also made him feel useless. Sometimes, when there is so much negativity around you, you tend to think negatively. If everyone tells you how you suck all the time, you tend to believe that too.

But being on the island made Male Kim realize his own abilities - the strength he has to keep fighting to stay alive, because of 'desire' he think about stuff, he got creative. Through perseverance he built his home, a shelter and he grew his own crops and made his own Black Bean Noodles. He made noodles from the corn flour he made himself. Ain't that cool?

"The duck 'nestles' me..."
The duck became Male Kim's sanctuary, his shelter - his home.



At the climax, during the storm, he fought hard to keep the duck, a metaphor for the island, his home.


He then lost grip of the 'home'. This scene of the duck indicates that he is going to lose his home soon. And sure enough, he was found and was forced to evacuate the island. There was also a scene in the movie Closing up the duck's face before Male Kim had lost his hold on the duck. It's like the duck is telling him that everything will be alright. You do not need me anymore. The duck is like the mother who now feel is time to let the duckling go out there and be independent.

The most most touching part of the movie that moved me to tears was the scene wear Male Kim eats his own HAND-MADE Black Bean noodles. The director takes his time when focusing on the scene - showing the emotions of Male Kim for a quite some time just to stir that particular emotion into us. If one had felt the happiness of accomplishing something that makes you, yourself proud, you'd know exactly how great that feeling is, and how that feeling of pride and happiness could actually water your eyes. For me, I won't cry if I'm happy haha...but I'm touched when I see people achieve something after their hard work. I felt that way about Male Kim, and during my lecturer's last speech to us in UK, talking about how everyone has accomplish a lot in the 3 months and that we should all be proud of ourselves, I was also teary.

HOW TO MAKE BLACK BEAN NOODLES THE KIM STYLE?

Step 1:

Talk to your duck for inspiration

Step 2:

Scrap bird poo off your duck (to get seeds)

Step 3:
Do your planting

Step 4: Savour your meal

The most touching scene in the movie. Excellent emotional delivery by the actor. Well at least he made me cry for a few seconds.

Some of the director's techniques of presenting the story is also interesting. For example, the flashback of Male Kim's life was done in this swimming pool scene. The scene shows Male Kim drowning in the sea, then we see Male Kim's head, he's grappling in the middle of the swimming pool, being criticized by his father who is by the pool side. Then Male Kim sunk in the waters again, then he manage to put his head up, grappling in the swimming pool again. This time, his girlfriend is by the pool, again short-changing him. This parts highlights his past life, the reason why he wants to kill himself in the first place and maybe this part highlights how the waters will wash away the past.

Interesting way of introducing a flashback. First showing how he is drowning, then we see a pool, with his father criticizing him for not knowing how to swim. Then show his career failure, where he was interviewed by a few executives. Then we see in the picture, his ex-girlfriend (standing in front of a few Hawaiian girls) telling him off.
All these were his past-stories.

The way the characters were brought together is also very interesting. I mean, okay, maybe it is a bit ridiculous for such thing to happen, but hell, this world is full of crap anyway right?

Overall, really not a bad movie. I really kind of like the lead actor. He's really hilarious and comical. At first he looks so old and weird but later...really, I think he is fit for the role.

Jeong Jae-Yeong as MALE KIM Real funny dude in the movie

Really not a bad movie.

TC-My Rating:





Love,
TammyC

ARE YOU SMART ENOUGH FOR SMART PEOPLE?

"Sometimes smart people have the most to learn"

This tagline attracted me really.

My brother pestered me into watching this movie.

Do I love it? - Nah, not really.

How was it then?
Seriously, it was normal.

I mean, I don't exactly LOVE IT. I won't say I like it either. It is just another movie.
But I guess the message of this movie is good though.

The selling point of this movie is no doubt Ellen Page (at least for me it is). Now if you DON'T know who Ellen Page is, well, I'll first knock your head 10 times and then tell you that she is only one of the best actress around. Her most memorable character? - JUNO! How can one not know Juno right? Well, if again, you don't know Juno...I'm sorry but you are really missing out on one of the best movies ever. I did a review on it previously...erm...if you are interested, you know...you can...you know...CLICK HERE

Well some of you might like Sarah Jessica Parker, and yes, she is in the movie. I'm never really a SJP fan so...not that into her character here either. I still don't get what's the hype about her but well, let's not get there.

I think when watching this movie, you have to study the characters. The characters are the main story I guess, since IT IS about smart people. Basically, it is about an intelligent lecturer (played by Dennis Quaid) who is trying to get his life back together after his wife's death. So, he is the kinda guy who doesn't really care about getting to know people...basically just living his normal days as someone who doesn't really care about anything, except being smart.

Ellen Page plays his daughter, and basically, all she cares about is also 'being smart'. Her dad is her role model.

Now there is seriously nothing wrong with being smart or clever and all but then when some people get too smart, they become pompous and indirectly obnoxious. I mean, I'm sure most of us hates the 'know-it-all's right? The one who tend to KNOW EVERYTHING AND THEN INTIMIDATE you for your 'lack of knowledge'. Fortunately, I've never really had a friend who is like that, but I'm guessing we all know how it feels to be intimidated by someone - makes you feel stupid.

Ellen Page's character is the 'know-it-all' and the thing is, she doesn't know why people don't like her. She knows that a lot of people doesn't like her and even though she acts and talks as if she doesn't care, but we shall see that she in fact cares a lot about the fact that she is hated. She likes her uncle, who seems to like her and so she had indirectly sort of 'fell' in love with her uncle - maybe because that's like the only guy whom she actually feel like her. You know that feeling? Like if all your life you have not experience anyone who have 'love' you before, you might have the tendency to misunderstood the care of a person and then falls in love with that person. Well, I just find it disgusting that Ellen Page fell for his 40-something uncle...but that's not the point.

Ellen Page and the love of her life?
Kidding me!

Anyway, so Ellen Page's character is one that I feel so sorry for actually. Her dad underappreciates her; I mean seriously, she's beyond clever and she does all the housework and all, but her dad just doesn't give her enough credit and attention...in fact, it is her "scum" uncle who cares for her, and pointed out to her father her worth. She is scared that no one loves her, but she hides that fear. She asked her uncle "Do you hate me?" at the end of the movie. I guess that shows her insecurity. She is sad that she doesn't click with the other people, because she is 'SMARTER', MORE INTELLIGENT... And because other people doesn't like her, her defense mechanism is to hate others back, making her a 'hater'. Of course in the end, her dad talked to her and I believe she changed?

Dennis Quaid's character is plain stupid, though he is supposed to be smart. But I feel that SJP's character is even WORST and I'm assuming that she is supposed to be smart also since she's a doctor in the movie.

I mean seriously, I don't understand what is wrong with Dennis Quiad's. character I think his character is not well-developed. I mean, first of all, he is supposed to love his wife so so much, right? And all of a sudden, like out of no where, he's in love with SJP? Just after one date or 2? Then him and his book...what is that all about? I guess what the writer wants to show is how he had changed from someone who cares so much about his dignity and people respecting his knowledge and about BEING RIGHT all the time, to someone who takes it easier in life - like one who would let people criticize and laugh about his book. If his 'love' story is poorly written, I think the part about his family relationship is even worst. I mean, at the end, I was hoping for a touching, inspirational ending between him and his son and daughter (whom he doesn't really get along with) but all they show were just pictures of him and his 2 new twins. I guess it showed a happy family, but then ...that's just it? No beautiful words exchanged?

"I guess I'm not that SMART after all"
The Quaid??

SJP is like worst. She's like the woman with all the mood-swings and personally, I don't know if that is how most women are, but certainly, the 'women' that I hang out with aren't really like that. Her character, besides being the one who had 'changed' Dennis, is pointless in the whole movie I think. There were moments in the film where I completely fail to understand what she's thinking, what she's doing and why she's doing it. If anyone can personally enlighten me on her character, feel free to share because honestly, with that kind of attitude, I really don't know how Dennis Quaid is able to fall so DEEPLY in love just after 2 dates. Okay, if I were to give ANY JUSTICE at all to SJP's character, I'd say that the writer wants to highlight the fact that smart doctors like SJP in the film also has flaws, HENCE ---> the mood swings and being ridiculously temperamental.

Of so many female actresses who can play the lead, SJP? Why???


Words can't express how odd I feel about this pairing

Even though I love Dennis Quaid in "The Parent Trap" (which is BRILLIANT by the way), I think the point of this movie is Ellen Page. Without HER playing the character Vanessa, seriously, this movie will be beyond repair.

Without you, I'd kill my bro for making me watch this movie.
Thanks for saving the movie (and my bro's life), Vanessa.

I think overall, one may say that the main message being conveyed through this 90-minute worth of film is that brains is really NOT EVERYTHING. In fact, if you are not brainy but you have good people skills, you can survive anywhere. Being intelligent alone in fact don' t get one anywhere. Plus, if we notice, the movie in fact shows us how a 'scum' (Dennis Quaid's brother a.k.a. Ellen Page's uncle) actually managed to inspire and change the so-called 'smart people'. So really, what exactly does 'smart' means ya. I guess you can also be street-smart.

Personally, I always believe that success is not just the string of As, but also the communication and interpersonal skills and character. I think my dad and mum taught me well, I really do. My parents are great parents, with the right attitude to success. Though I might not always agree with what they say, and is reluctant to do what they tell me to, I believe that somehow, there are a lot of truth in their words. I'm really not there yet, but I believe that my parents had so far led me well. I mean, at least I'm here and not doing drugs or anything bad, well, except maybe tell a few lies ;P.

Well, anyway, that's just me relating myself to the movie "Smart People". Am I smart? Nah...seriously no. I mean, I am a good student because I used to be a nerd who MEMORIZE WELL, that's all. I hate to admit it due to my inflated ego, but really, I consider myself pretty dumb and stupid. Not exactly BOOK SMART but definitely NOT STREET SMART. But then again, we all are 'smart' to a certain extent. Different people are smart in different ways. Sometimes, we get inspired and taught lessons by those everyone refers to as 'dumb'. Seriously, think about it...

Less than inspiring though the intention is there


TC-My Ratings:





ps: one star is dedicated to Ellen Page - I'm biased I know ;P

SPIELBERG IN MUNICH

I notice something about Steven Spielberg. Maybe because of his Jewish descent, Spielberg had in recent years always brought in themes about 'Jews' into his movies.

"Saving Private Ryan", "The Band of Brotherhood" and "Schindler's List" are a few of Spielberg's work in which I find themes about the Jews. Personally, I love watching movies with a touch of history in it. I find these movies very interesting actually, especially those which touches on Nazism and the Jews. History is very interesting, but not when we need to memorize them for exams, NO IT ISN'T INTERESTING THAT WAY. Spielberg also tend to make movies with themes of violence - involving a lot of gun shooting, blood and killings of people.



So "Munich" is another Steven Spielberg's work with themes of Jews and violence in it. This movie is inspired by a real event that happened in Munich in 1972, which revolves around the Black September Organization and the secret retaliation of the Israeli government after the incident. The movie begins with footages of the Black September Organization's kidnap and murder of eleven Israeli athletes and officials during the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, Germany. Subsequently, the film proceed to depict the story of a team of assassins (led by former Mossad agent, Avner), hunting down and killing a list of Black September members claimed responsible for the Israeli athletes' murder.

Interestingly, this movie is based on a secret Israeli mission but I guess now the secret mission is not so secret anymore. According to Wikipedia (our most trusted source ;P), the film is based on the book Vengeance: The True Story of an Israeli Counter-Terrorist Team by Canadian journalist George Jonas, which in turn was based on the story of Yuval Aviv, who claims to have been a Mossad agent. In the book, Aviv's story is told through a protagonist called 'Avner'.

Anyway, I've heard many great comments about this movie. Typically, when you hear great things about a movie, you tend to have high expectations. And as usually it's not good to have high expectations. It's not a bad movie, but sadly, it's not one that I will be etched into my heart - in other words, quite forgettable. But I do understand why it has been nominated for so many awards. I salute the directing. I mean, of course! This is Spielberg we are talking about. But no seriously, for a person like me who doesn't know much about cinematography (though I'm supposed to know since I'm a broadcast student), I too am impressed with certain scenes in the movie. The overall cinematic delivery is impressive.

Avner's meeting place with his information provider, Louis. This beautiful kitchen is, I believe, an indication of the dream home he wants. It is something that he looks through the glass, something that he can see but can't reach yet. I believe when he looks into this place, looking at his reflection on the glass, gives him a certain motivation to move on with his mission too.


The end scene, Avner is standing on a playground, and the background is the skyscrapers of New York city. Slowly, we see the camera pans across the playground and focus on New York city, indicating the fact that Avner has decided to leave the place where he has been raised (the playground, symbolizing childhood), and turning over a new leaf with his family in Brooklyn, New York.

'Munich' stars Eric Bana who plays the lead former Mossad agent, Avner. Bana is an actor I came to like after watching 'Troy' mainly because I love the character he played, Prince Hector. Personally, in Munich, Eric Bana's performance was not as memorable as his in Troy. I guess it is because I prefer Prince Hector's character more than Avner. No doubt, Avner is a tough man. I mean, if I were Avner, I'm not sure if I would join the secret mission, especially when my wife is about to give birth to a baby.

The movie highlights again the irrationality of world conflicts - the killings of one another which will never stop. I mean it is true isn't it? I mean, first the Palestinians kill the Israelis...then the Israelis seek revenge, killing again a few Arabs, then the Arabs seek revenge again...this goes on and on. When will it stop?

The Jews have been hated for centuries. There is a part where one of the assassin, Robert (the explosive expert) questioned their mission, whether or not killing the members of the Black September is the right thing to do. "Being a Jew is about being righteous...that's what I've been taught."

Righteousness? What does that even mean? I guess sometimes that's the reason why I love movies with themes like these. It makes you question life and the not-so-straightforward things in life. Different people have different opinions and perceptions and principles about righteousness. So if the Jews have been stereotyped, bullied, murdered throughout centuries, is righteousness standing up and fight back by killing the 'enemies' or is righteousness waiting for 'justice' to happen? I guess everyone have their own answer as to which is the best approach...different people have different thoughts and I guess again, the best solution is still an arguable solution.

"There's no peace at the end of this no matter what you believe, you know this is true" - Avner
Some people think that we can seek peace by destroying those who created conflicts. But then again, Avner is right. By destroying these people, we are ourselves contributing to chaos.

In the end, only 2 of the 5 members in the original assassin squad headed by Avner survived. I guess towards the end, Avner himself realize the irrationality of these killings. In the end, Avner was dispirited and disillusioned by the death of his friends and later was paranoid because of his fear about his family's safety. I mean, after killing other people, it is only 'rational' that people will hunt you down and kill you or your family. I guess that's the mental torture that an assassin has to face.

I find Steven Spielberg's movie very surreal. The killings, the victims...everything are done in perfection - they are believing and excruciatingly violent to a point where I really can't stand the scenes. I mean, films like "Final Destination" are supposed to make me squint but then there's always this feeling of 'fakeness' in Final Destination. Steven Spielberg had cooked his films into perfection most of the times. The victims' injuries look real, the way the assassins kill people are believable and genuinely scary....

One of the scariest murder was the one they killed a naked girl by shooting bullets through her throat. I don't know why but it is hauntingly violent to me. I guess that's because that even though the girl was a murderer herself, just seeing a girl being overpowered by a bunch of males is scary.

One of the most touching moment in the movie would be the part where Avner hears his little girl's voice over the phone for the first time. Eric Bana delivered a magnificent performance in this scene.

Touching expression from Bana

I think Avner's wife is also a darn strong women. I mean, she is so so so supportive of her husband and she has to be alone all the time, trusting and believing that her husband is safe wherever he is. It's not easy to have a husband working as a secret agent because you will be always dreading the day when the news of your husband's death is delivered to your doorstep.

Overall, Munich requires a lot of attention and concentration. If you are not in a mood for movies, try not to watch it because then you might not understand the movie and might have problem enjoying it. If you are into historical films, do watch this one because it is really interesting. Besides, it's an award-winning Spielberg masterpiece.


TC-My Rating:

YOU INTO MUSIC OR LYRICS?

I don't know why I'm suddenly in this lovey dovey mood...and since I'm feeling all mushy and romantic, I thought I should write about one of my all-time favourite romantic comedies. Seriously, I can't believe that I actually haven't written about this movie.

Now I never like romantic comedies really. I mean, I watch a lot of them, no doubt ,but they are never really my favourite genre of movies. Most of them are predictable and boring, and I usually watch these movies when I just need to watch something light to release stress. And really, sometimes, I'd prefer comedies rather than romantic/love comedies. Hmm...I guess I'm a romantic person, but as I grow older, I think I am in some ways tired of fantasizing about fairy tales and all those 'true love lasts forever' kinda story. Romantic comedies are all about that, aren't they? The hero and heroine always ends up happily together...I guess one reason I can't stand romantic comedies (or rom-com as they now call it) is because I do not want to let myself believe in happily ever after anymore because I know in real life there is really no such thing. I admit though deep down I am still a dreamer and a huge part of me still hungers for such a romantic fairy tale ending.

Anyway where am I going with this? Right! My favourite romantic movie. I'll tell you why I love it.

Normally, I would really hate lame love stories but "Music & Lyrics" is different. Although to a certain extent predictable (well we all know Drew Barrymore & Hugh Grant will end up together at the end NO MATTER WHAT), what is beautiful about this movie is that it is really simple but very touching at the same time. Plus, it is wittily hilarious, with some extraordinarily brilliant music & song lyrics. I think the script and lyrics in the movie are brilliant.

If only everything can be that beautifully written...

The story is simple really. An ex-pop band star, Alex, who, in order to rebuild his career needs to write a song in order to collaborate with popular teen star, Cora. Problem is, he doesn't write songs and he need to find a lyricist. He met Sophie, who came to water his plants and happens to be great with rhythmic writing. So, developed a 'relationship' and some beautiful words and songs were 'generated'.

The theme song of the movie is one of my all time favourite and I'm sure many of you would know this song "Way Back Into Love". I love how the lyrics to this song are illustrative of the lead characters' progression in the movie. It tells their story - their past and their present, what they want and feel. Some Chinese singers had cover this track and I think it's so sad that although many know this song, they don't know from which movie this song originated from. I think if you understand where this song is coming from, you'll actually appreciate the meaning more. I don't know...I never really like those Chinese singers' version of this song. No offense...
Using the lyrics, I'm going to talk about the movie.

"I've been living with a shadow overhead,
I've been sleeping with a cloud above my bed..."

Alex has always been living under the shadow of his band mate, Colin, who is more successful than him. In trying to escape his 'failure', Alex lives in the past, satisfied with his fan base, consisting of women who once adore him during the 1980s. Sophie has been under a shadow of, I'd say, herself. I think in some ways, she keeps running away from certain things because she is afraid and insecure. To a certain extent, I can relate to how the characters feel. I mean, I believe that everyone has their own 'shadow' overhead...something in the past that belittles them, a fear of something that stop them from doing something. It could be because of insecurity or a bad experience. Personally, I do have this cloud or shadow above my head, I think more because of insecurities, that kept me from doing a lot of things I guess.

"I've been hiding all my hopes & dreams away, Just in case I ever need them again someday, I've been setting aside time, To clear a little space in the corners of my mind"

Alex is hiding his dreams and hopes after being able to compete with Colin's success. He gives himself an excuse to live in the past...

"I've been watching but the stars refuse to shine, I've been searching but I just don't see the signs, I know that it's out there, There's got to be something for my soul somewhere'

This verse I relate to the most when it comes to my personal love relationship. Like I always say, I'm a really idealistic person and I'm always wanted that someone to be the only one. At some point in life, like the lyrics go, I just don't see the signs of that someone anymore, even though sometimes I choose to believe that there is someone out there for me. I think why I have been always single, because I'm afraid of getting hurt and taking that step forward. I keep waiting and waiting for the ONE person that I think is the right one and maybe there isn't a right one. I don't want to accept someone and then find that we have to break up. People tell me if you don't try you don't know, but I just can't...I don't know.I don't need him to be perfect, but just someone that just fit me...Is it wrong to dream? But this verse keeps me believing =D

"I've been looking for someone to shed some light Not somebody just to get me through the night I could use some directions And I'm open to your suggestions"

Exactly what I need (in fact I think everyone would want) in a relationship - someone that helps us improve as a person, someone who accepts us for our weaknesses but then drives us to improve...not just someone you go to bed with at night (or conduct other night activities with for that matter). I think a good partner doesn't intimidate us; he completes you and tells you things you don't know about yourself - good or bad, giving you the confidence you need, and making you a better person. Again...how idealistic. Alex & Sophie in the movie had gave each other directions, helping each other become the better person that they could be.

Of course, if we look at the song overall, it is basically about love...like how our past relationship kept us from proceeding and accepting new love. But what is wonderful is, the lyrics are also indirectly telling us the story of its characters, Alex & Sophie. The song and the movie tells of how two people help each other move on in life and not dwell in the past. Alex had always been stuck in believing that he is just an ex-pop star and not worthy of a new music career; while Sophie is intimidated by her mean lecturer, whom she loved but had used her as 'material' for his book. Because of what her lecturer had wrote about her, she always feel insecure about herself, believing that she is nobody. In the end, both of them had stepped out from their 'shadows' and found a way back into love..=D

I love music and the fact that this movie is a combination of movie & music makes me love it even more. The songs in the movie are fantastic. Besides "Way Back into Love" there are other great tunes in the movie by Haley Bennett such as "Buddha Delight" and "Entering Bootytown" which are more fun. Hugh Grant also sang another 2 beautiful and meaningful songs in the movie, "Love Autopsy" and "Don't Write Me Off Just Yet" (Do check it out).

Oh and just so you guys know, one of my favourite lines from the movie is (and one quote I believe in til now ;P):

"A melody is like seeing someone for the first time, the physical attraction, sex...but then, as you get to know the person, that's the lyrics, they're story, who they are underneath. It's the combination of the two that makes it magic" - Sophie

If only I could write like Sophie

I think this line is basically the essence of the whole movie and one that is so true, isn't it? Sophie & Alex are each representation of one element and together, they are magic. "Way Back into Love" has a beautiful melody (everyone I know love this song) and its lyrics is also beautiful...that makes it 'THE' SONG!

"Music & Lyrics" do not depend on lame disgusting jokes. Its humour is witty, so if you like those crazy goofy jokes, don't expect any in this one really. Overall, it is really a simple love comedy, but somehow, it managed to capture my heart. I've watched it many times and I still love it every time I watch it. However, some of my friends, sadly do not share the same feelings when watching it. My best friend fell asleep every time she watch it, maybe because there are no subtitles and even if there are subtitles, I don't think the subtitles can capture the beautiful meaning behind the script and lyrics. Till today, that friend of mine still haven't manage to completely watch "Music & Lyrics". Another best buddy of mine, who loved the song, said that it was good but not exceptionally great, like she expected (I think I sold the movie too much and thus she had extremely high expectations, only to be let down).

Guys...I DON'T EXPECT YOU TO LIKE 'MUSIC & LYRICS' really, unless you are those really soft-hearted, sweet dudes who actually enjoy romantic comedy (like my bro - I don't know if it is a good or bad thing really). But for the sake of 'teman-ing' (accompanying) your girlfriends, this movie is really not bad.

To me, this movie is like a classic...it's so underrated in my opinion. Personally, I think this movie could be at the "Titanic" status - you know, a movie that one shall remember for that sort of thing. No doubt my all time favourite romantic comedy.


TC-My Rating:

YES MAN! YES!

'Yes Man' is a movie I'll recommend to all those pessimists or those who tends to constrain themselves within the four walls of their room or house.

I think this is a better poster, don't to think?
More vibrant and fun!

I wouldn't say I'm a pessimist; If I had to choose, I'd say that I'm more an optimist in certain ways since I'm a dreamer. Dreamers or idealists always tend to have a way of being so imaginative that they only see things wonderfully. Personally, I hate being an idealist, or rather, I'm sick of being an idealist, maybe because I'm tired of being let down so often.

Anyway, back to 'Yes Man' then. I guess the movie is in some ways 'summoning' us to say 'Yes'...to be positive and embrace every opportunity bestowed upon us. Jim Carrey's character, Carl started out as someone who says 'No' to almost EVERYTHING by giving excuses and neglecting the people around him who wants a chance to spend time with him. Because of the negativity, he denied himself the opportunity to live life to the max. After an awakening, Carl went to this "Yes" seminar thingy and made a 'covenant' to say Yes to everything. If not, something bad will happen to him. Of course in the end we learn that there is in fact no covenant made, it was only something to get him to say 'yes' and all those bad stuff that happened to him were just psychological effects...like how when you are negative, you generate negative stuff, that sort of thing. I think in the end we learn that, while it is always good to say "Yes", it is also very important to weigh every pros and cons before making a choice as to whether your answer is 'Yes' or 'No' - like what a normal human would do right?

I think it's good to say 'Yes' but sometimes I think one must also learn to say 'No'. I think although saying 'Yes' is good, I think for me sometimes the problem is learning to say 'No' to things that I don't want to do. Although there are some people who have a tendency to say 'No' to everything, there are also people who subdue to everything by saying 'Yes' all the time, even though they do not want to do it. I mean, I'm sure there are some of you really kind-hearted folks out there who would do everything for your friends or anyone for that matter even if it is at your inconvenience. I have friends who are like that - they are that kind and sometimes, I wonder why I can't be as kind as them. I think as I grow older, I've becoming harsher in a way that I do am able to say 'No' to certain people, but then after I deny the help, I feel so guilty for not helping. I sometimes wonder, do we have the rights to say no or are we supposed to help? If I don't want to help, but force myself to help...is that supposed to be? If not, then why do I feel so guilty and bad after rejecting to help?

Bringing in a little "Harry Potter" into the movie...interesting~

I think 'Yes Man' is a good movie, but it doesn't keep you guessing what is going to happen next. So basically, you are just going with the flow, watching a movie that is not exactly climatic. I kept wondering what would the climax be since after watching around 1 hour or more, everything in the movie still seem rosy. The movie wasn't bad but it wasn't exceptional. It is just another movie that top ups Jim Carrey's acting career in comedies. There are certain parts that were funny, but wasn't extremely hilarious. If you want to laugh your butt off or roll down a fleet of stairs watching this one, I don't think so. I think in some ways this movie would be loved by many though. There is a strong message behind this movie, there's no doubt about it. Thus, I believe that there would be certain people that would love this simple yet entertaining movie. I mean sometimes in life, what better than to have a simple and relaxing, yet inspiring movie to make our day right?

Jim Carrey did a rendition of one of my favourite Third Eye Blind song "Jumper" in the movie to convince a 'jumper' to not jump

I'll recommend this movie to everyone because everyone could use a little boost of positivity in life. Plus, like I say, it is really not that bad considering that this is a very light movie that doesn't strain your brain much and to a certain extent will tickle one's funny bone. If you like hot guys, you can always check out Bradley Cooper, who plays Carl's best friend. Overall, not a bad movie for a relaxing Saturday night ;P


TC-My Rating:






With Lotsa Lurve,
TammyC

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM ON MY NIGHT ON THE PLANE

That night, while I was on my flight back to Malaysia, missing Liverpool, I had a chance to browse through the array of movies available on Etihad Airways. It is so cool that we can now watch movies on aeroplanes, right?

Anyway, since I always have problems sleeping at night (but no problem feeling sleepy throughout the afternoons though), I had to watch something or do something in order to get over my missing Liverpool. So, "Night at the Museum 2" is PERFECT!



I love "Night at the Museum 1" and I wanted to watch "Night at the Museum 2" once I heard about its release. Nonetheless, I never got a chance since I was busy with my trip to Liverpool and the 15 assessments that the University had put me through. Thank God that finally, I have got the privilege to enjoy this movie, even though it is on a plane.

Was I disappointed?
NO, NOT AT ALL! It is a great movie!
Although there were parts which doesn't make any sense logically, I still love the movie.

Why?
I mean, I love the fact that "Night at the Museum 2" is set in a bigger museum, with more characters. I love how the director include so many different elements into it - the space section, the little Einsteins, the Egyptian history...and still maintain some of the old casts. Basically, I'd say it's a great combination. And also, not forgetting, the 3 little cupids played by The Jonas Brothers.

The storyline is not exceptionally brilliant. It is really like those normal adventure comedy storyline but fantastic, I think, is how the different characters are brought in together. Music is also brilliant - thanks to The Cupids (I never like The Jonas Brothers but I love them in this movie). I like Amy Adams as well in this movie. She's a confident woman who is not afraid to express her love - something we can all admire; Ben Stiller is not as useless as he was in the first movie; Owen Wilson is still hilarious in some ways...

Overall, I love the way the director maintain certain essence from the first movie and introduces something new to this second movie. He kept some of the hilarious scenes (for eg: the little tiny Roman guy, Octavius, shouting very loudly, declaring his fighting spirit, and the background music heightens the 'war' atmosphere then the director cuts to the real atmosphere - quiet and sound, then the director cuts back to the screaming and then back to the quiet to indicate that the tiny guy's scream has no impact what-so-ever in the real world even though in his tiny world he had screamed his lungs out) - I don't know, I just thought the irony is hilarious, that's all ;P

"Night at the Museum 2" is not a disappointment. Maybe some might say it is not as fantastic as the first, well, I mean, it's always hard to live up to the first one, but then it is still not that bad at all. The first movie always has the advantage of being 'fresh' and 'unexpected', but this second one is in some ways also very creative, while adhering to the movie's original concept while bringing in new fun characters.

I'd say watch it for normal relaxing purposes.



TC-My Rating:





Lotsa Love,
TammyC

MY FINAL DESTINATION IN LIVERPOOL

It's been quite some time since I update this movie blog of mine huh..
Well, been really busy with Uni assignments and well, now that I'm back in Malaysia, I'll have more time for movies before I start work.

That night, after the graduation ball, me and my bunch of friends happened to pass by Odeon cinema in Liverpool city centre. My best friend YY had been telling me how badly she wanted to watch 'Final Destination 4'. Even though I wasn't keen about 'Final Destination' at all, I did ask my friend whether or not she want to watch it then since we won't have any chance of watching any movies again in Liverpool. I planned to watch something else but sadly, there wasn't much choice at that time. So, I was destined to watch 'Final Destination 4' and it was my last movie in Liverpool, on the 1st of September 2009 to be exact.

What I think about the movie?
Well, 'Final Destination' movies are all predictable. It all adheres to a same storyline...nothing special there really. The lead actor/actress gets a premonition, save a bunch of people from an accident and then the people he/she save die tragically, under the weirdest circumstances one by one, according to the sequence of their 'supposed' death in the initial accident that they had been rescued from.




'Final Destination 4' is no different from the first 3 installments. The only thing different is that this movie is in 3D format. This is my first 3D movie and so part of me was really excited. Sadly, the movie was just too fake for my liking. Although the 3D effects were cool, the gory scenes were quite forgettable. I am not sure if I'm immune to violence or what, but then I just feel that these gory scenes just come and goes. There were parts in which I squinted, and almost swear, but I guess after that, it was completely forgotten. It doesn't stick in my mind or have any impact what-so-ever.

I think with Final Destination, the interesting part is really the way these people dies. There always seem to be a series of events leading to the death itself and it is sometimes hard to predict how they actually die. It keep you speculating the way in which these victims will die and usually, they die in the most unexpected way. I remember this victim the most because I find the way she dies most memorable I guess.

First, the mother goes to a saloon to do her hair. The director cleverly featured a few things together. The director draws our attention first to the malfunctioning saloon chair, and then to the barber's scissors - close to the victim's eyes (making us speculate that something will happen to the chair and the scissors will pierce through her eyes any moment), then the director also draws our attention to the ceiling fan, going to fall any moment...basically to different things that would make you think that the lady is going to die under any of these circumstances. Everything then turned out right but as she opened the saloon door after paying, a stone flung towards her eyes and she died on the spot. Freaky that she escaped all the other catastrophes but dies in the simplest ways. Clever the way the director plays with our minds, using editing techniques to create that fear in us.

It seems like there is a scientific explanation to these strange ways that these people dies in. Like, in some ways, it is very mystical and mysterious, but then again there is always scientific explanations for the different ways of dying. Personally, I don't think that all of those methods of dying make sense. I mean, if really things blow off so easily, or heat could have so many effects on things causing explosions and death, then I believe many would have died freaky like that.

Overall, in terms of storyline, I don't think I even need to grade it. It's too predictable and boring. In terms of creativity of death, I think it wasn't really as great as the 3rd one. I can't compare it to the first 2 Final Destination as I didn't watch them, but I do think that the 3rd one is better if compared to the 4th one. Also, the actors and actresses in the 3rd movie are better in terms of acting. I find the actors & actresses in the 4th installment very fake and had failed to deliver the necessary expressions. They are just pretty people delivering lines.

However, after this movie I find myself joking a lot about how we might die abruptly. For example, one of my friend was wearing sneakers and I told her that "do you know that wearing sneakers could get you killed?" (there was a part where the actress nearly got killed because of her shoelace, which I think was stupid); then we were crossing the road and I reminded my friends to be careful not to drop any coins into the drains because that little coin could indirectly cause a person's death...See how nutty I am right? That is the after-effects of 'Final Destination 4'.

I would say then that 'Final Destination' is not worth my 7.50 pounds. I think if you just want to go for a 3D experience (love the 3D glasses by the way, though I recycled instead of kept them), then you might want to watch this one. But then you can always opt for 'G-Force', with little hamsters instead of this movie. Seriously...it really isn't that great. Or if you had been a 'Final Destination' fan all this while, it could be compulsory for you to follow this one too right? If not, you can't be deem a Final Destination fan. If you want something exciting or gory, FORGET THIS MOVIE. If it doesn't even work on me, I doubt it will work on those of you who love gore and excitement.



TC-My Rating:








Love,
TammyC