DVD 3 - Superman Returns

I know it is a bit old but I wanted to watch the said DVD again since I remembered that I haven't watched the features. When I was watching it I realized, that I was correct. I have not watched it (or probably my mind blocked it off). If my memory serve me right the DVD costs around PHP600. It was expensive based on the living conditions of our country and it ways not definitely worth it.

Who should buy it:

1. Those who loves Superman to the tee.

2. Those who enjoys watching Documentaries on how a movie is made. A Documentary that sounds like egotistical tripping. (No wonder the movie was such a mush, they concentrated on creating the documentary. The documentary I believe would have run for 60 minutes but on 40 I was snoring.)

3. Men who loves Kate Bosworth. No need to watch her act, just stare at her.

4. Women who likes to ogle at Brandon Routh. Just ogle at him (I mean there was no acting to watch anyway, all posturing). I will be honest, though, his resemblance to Christopher Reeve made great impact to moviegoers. I had the same inkling since he really has a resemblance.

5. People who love features no matter what they are and how they are made.

Who should not buy it:

The rest of you who haven't purchased it. Do not let the moronic me stop you though. I you want to check it out, borrow it from a friend. Borrow mine (1 day rental costs PHP15, late return fine costs PHP100), and yes I charge so I can recoup the money lost on purchasing it in the first place.

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Bite Me

Note: If you read the first three books and have not read the fourth book, there are spoilers on this post.

My first experience with vampire stories was with the movie Interview with the Vampire. I borrowed the Vampire Chronicles of Anne Rice to complete the series (with the exception of The Body Thief). From there, I always have had fascination with vampires. I loved how their stories are told and the different ways to defeat them. From how to defeat them, the different sets of vampire mythology opened the fantasy, what If I become one. How will live a life of immortality? Stephanie Meyer opened a new set of mythology regarding vampires. This particular twist made the readers hang to every thread of her Twilight series.

What is this mythology?

1. Vampires do not die using stakes, garlic, and sunlight.

This particular mythology was used for most vampire stories. The removal of this particular hindrance to their immortality gave freedom on their capacity to learn and adapt well with the mortals. It opens the door for romantic liaisons.

2. Vampires glisten like diamonds when the sun hits their pale skin.

Ah, a romantic scenario is born because it will surely fascinate humans. Aside from the immense attraction their persona exudes, this mythology becomes another romantic interlude.

3. Not all vampires have special abilities.

This makes a very good indication that vampires can be separated in terms of hierarchy. Though old vampires have the necessary experience, these extra abilities allow them to have a fighting chance (if it is an offensive or defensive ability). It also makes a good distinction because it is not the same for all vampires. These special abilities create an illusion of hierarchy which is also good for a romantic novel.

4. Men can procreate while women cannot.

I am sure that some feminists might puke about this particular mythology. Men vampires can sire children with mortal women. Though they explained it using other mythologies like the incubus and succubus (more of mentioned than explain), I think it would not be enough. Since the books’ general audience is “mortal” women, this particular mythology can be a nice addition. It creates opportunity for those who want to “sleep” with vampires.

5. There are no coffins.

This particular mythology is the one I love best. It removes the creep factor. I do not like coffins. For me, it is the creepiest portion of the vampire mythology. I always asked why can’t they just hide inside and decorate it with drapes to hide them from the sun. At least, it still feels normal and adaptation would be better. I mean if you enter their house and due to curiosity you see this particular “furniture”. What would you say? At least, if you enter a house and you do not see a bed, you will just wonder. They can explain they use sofa beds.

For the fanatics out there, I am sure they can think of other mythologies of this series.

The change in mythology is the main reason I read this vampire series. The bigger question now is why did I stay with this series? I know for a fact it would be a romance novel and it is not your “normal” fantasy series. It was geared for the young adults so it would tend to go mushy. I stayed, aside from the mythology, because it would be a good topic within the confines of our workplace. I have 4 co-workers who are into vampires (most would like to become one too). Another reason is the movie. I want to read the book before the movie comes out.

After reading the books (I actually borrowed), here I am declaring what I liked best and least among the series. I will also provide my own insight if it is better to buy the book or just borrow it.

Among the four books, I liked Eclipse the best.

1. There is a battle. It is not just your ordinary battle but a battle between vampires and the vampire-wolf collaboration. (Note: Jacob and his pack are not werewolves but shape shifters.)

2. Exposition of narratives is fast-paced without sacrificing the romantic moments (mushy it is but you can skim past it without losing the main thought of each chapter).

3. It provides insight on how the series will end. For those after the romance, you would glimpse that there would be a wedding, sex, and more mushy scenes on the next book. You can also deduce that there is a possibility of a child.

4. The internal conflict of the love triangle between Jacob, Bella, and Edward is engaging. The line where Jacob says that he cannot fight an eclipse despite being Bella’s sun sums up that it is Bella and Edward till the end. This conflict opens another question what happens to Jacob.

5. Jacob not imprinting at this stage opens the possibility that Jacob will not be Bella’s “boy-toy” is a good sign of things to come.

6. Overall, this is the most riveting of the four books. Even after three re-reads, it still has the same hold for me.

If I liked Eclipse the best, I liked New Moon the least.

1. Dragging is the word that will sum it all. Redemption of this book is the necessity of it to be published.

2. Another redeeming quality, it needs to expose Jacob’s identity as a werewolf (into Bella and Jacob’s eyes but shape-shifter is the correct term).

3. Since this is a romance novel geared for young adults, the necessity to let the reader feel Bella’s pain and her hallucinations is necessary. However, it could have been written better. I did not feel Bella’s pain but my head was pained from reading it all over again. Half of the book is devoted to this cyclical spin-off of a Philippine Drama Show in a novel. It was too tiring to read.

Tip: If you get bored with this half, go to the latter pages and check if Edward will return. I forgot; he left after Chapter 3 for some supposedly “heroic” sacrifice. It was definitely for Bella’s sake (geez, no wonder the book got boring).

4. Another good thing for the book is the introduction and meeting of the Volturi. Another mythology was explained, la tua cantata (or something like that). Bella is a blood singer that excites Edward (another “censored” connotation).

As for Twilight, it was a very good opening book. It was fast paced, it was exhilarating to read, and it was really cool. Even if there was a fight scene, nothing beats a battle.

As for Breaking Dawn, some portions were rehash of New Moon. Read Jacob’s Book and you would see that the stuff that Bella did in New Moon were the same as that of Jacob’s supposed pain. It was done using the male psyche’s point of view. Another thing, there was no battle not even a fight scene. How disappointing? The redeeming quality of Breaking Dawn for me was the memorable scenes.

1. Jacob turning into a wolf in front of Charlie
2. Edward asking Jacob to kill him if Bella dies
3. Edward accepting Jacob as his brother, friend and son.
4. Nessie’s cool talent
5. Bella saving the day (imagine her powers saved them big time but there was no freaking battle)
6. Honeymoon scenes (ripped pillows, ripped headboard)
7. Seth Clearwater’s bouncy attitude – his character is fun to read (I mean a Quilleute idolizing a vampire – read Eclipse for the reason)
8. Jacob finally assuming the Alpha role
9. The redeeming factor on Jacob’s book – despite wanting to kill Bellla’s daughter – he wasn’t able to do so
10. My favorite scene of all – Bella trying to kill (vampire kill) Jacob because he imprinted on Renesmee.

Overall, Breaking Dawn is such a cool book because of many memorable scenes. It landed in the middle of because of one reason for me, there was no battle. However, keeping things into perspective, it is an excellent follow-up for the Eclipse. The tension was there. The storytelling was there. The romantic elements are there. Most questions are answered. It also ended where a next book can still come out and it opened new avenues for future stories.

The books if you purchase them, it would cost around PHP1300. It is definitely cheaper than the Harry Potter series (which I have). It is still a good addition to your collection. If you buy one, I suggest buy them all. However, you can still borrow from good old friends. Will this be a classic? It will stay long until a better vampire romance novel comes along. Better yet, if another vampire story comes along (for me anyway). Will I buy the books, I think I will.

UPDATE: I DID NOT BUY IT.

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DVD 2 - Juno

It is time for another round of popcorn. This time grab your friends and yes, you can turn off the lights. In addition, brace yourself for a laughing trip. Imagine, there is no need for those pills to get you laughing.

The first time I heard about this movie I was intrigued. I am always intrigued by those indie films that do well at the box office (American). I was intrigued with the story that I cannot wait to see it locally but guess what I did not even remember when it was shown here or did not even heard it was shown. Time flew by and I was scanning for new DVDs (though it was released here earlier), I saw it and it was pegged at PHP375. I thought that the money I will use was transportation money for three days and it is a bit expensive (1 disc only). I told you, or telling again, that I buy DVDs because of the special features. You want to get inside the head of the film-makers. The special features will give you that.

Without further digressing, my thoughts exactly were, is this worth it? Am I really that intrigued? Would it be worth the PHP375. What the heck? Regrest comes after the purchase. As I popped it to the player, five minutes into the movie, I knew that what I have was a keeper. Unlike the Silence of the Lambs, this DVD is more about the movie than the features. What the heck do you expect, it doesn't have those cool visual effects. What the movie has was heart, lots of it. Include there the funny and witty remarks, the sarcasm that (if you understand) will make you laugh your ass out (though I am not saying I understood all). I knew; I was laughing hard.

If I were you, buy this DVD and see for your self. Here are some of the reasons why this is worth every penny:

1. Ellen Page as Juno is very good. She was the centerpiece of the movie and she carried it well.
2. Diablo Cody's dialogues are very funny and can be used as witty remarks. A fine example: I still have your underwear. I still have your virginity!
3. The cast interview provides very good insight why they were drawn to the movie.
4. The cast ensemble was very good. Imagine, Jennifer Garner learned to act on this one.
5. The soundtrack is amazing. The lyrics are quite catchy:

And in the sea there is a fish,

A fish that has a secret wish,

A wish to be a big cactus

With a pink flower on it.

And in the sea there is a fish,

A fish that has a secret wish,

A wish to be a big cactus

With a pink flower on it.

6. You can watch the movie several times and you will find something beautifully different with it.

Now, you are so eager to grab the movie and watch it, better be prepared. Prepare the following:

1. A large bowl of popcorn or bowls of popcorn (make sure to clean up afterward)
2. Drinks for the whole group (make sure those watching have a sense of humor and can understand sarcasm)
3. If you do not have sarcasm or does not understand witty (dark) comedies, get friends who does.

Note: Do not interrupt them every witty scene. Grab a pen and paper and write what you don't understand. It is always good to discuss a movie after it ended while not it is playing.

I know you have a big question now, what is the movie all about? The movie is about Juno (a teenager) and how witty and intelligent she is despite all the grown-up problems she is experiencing. Put into contrast a grown-up man who cannot and does not will to become a father because he wants to be the next Kurt Cobain.

Does it sum to the movie? No, I wouldn't spoil the whole story to you. I gave you something to think about though since it was one of the themes of the movie, growing up. So, grow-up and Google the synopsis if you want but I suggest that you just watch the movie. You will have a laughing good time

Our final question, is it worth it? This is definitely a keeper, a possible classic in the near future. Stock up before supplies run out. This is another worthy member of your DVD collection

Quote from the movie: "As far as boyfriends go, Paulie Bleeker is totally boss. He is the cheese to my macaroni. And, I know that people are supposed to fall in love before they reproduce, but... I guess normalcy isn't really our style." - Juno MacGuff, http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0467406/quotes
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One Month Down, Another to Go

I am moronic. I swear. Due to stress levels hitting the roof, I forgot about this blog. Well, it was supposed to be a stress reliever. Now, it was an afterthought.

Things I should have wrote and I will write about:

1. Picnic Experience - prior getting buzzed - This is another rant article about me ranting. I love ranting. It is such a stress reliever.

2. July - Work, Work, Work - what can I say July was the Month of the Year

3. Stupid Things I've Done - mostly being forgetful about many things, essentially stupid --- these are booboos --- I hope I remember them.

sign and image courtesy of: http://www.pisspeopleoff.com/

Note: You can actually click the image.

4. Picnic Pictures - yes, I still have several slide shows - I am addicted to slide shows

5. My First Bora Experience - come to think about it, we still do not have a place to stay - tell about being stupid

6. August - After July, comes August. This month will compete with July for the Month of the Year.

7. The Twilight Saga - I do not have the books. It is sold out everywhere and I did not have time to visit any bookstore (see number 2). However, I read all four of them courtesy of a co-worker. Nope, there was no printed book either.

8. My Juno DVD - This movie tore me up to pieces laughing and crying. I am emotional (did not I tell you that).

9. Crying in Public - This is stellar. Another stupid thing to do. At least, it was calming.

Now, I have to go back to reality and face the fact that I worked two straight shifts (18 hours). Told you, August is fast becoming the month of the year.

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DVD 1 - Silence of the Lambs

As mentioned on my previous posts, I will discuss DVDs on this blog. For my first DVD, I selected Silence of the Lambs. I purchased it while waiting for the screening of The Dark Knight. Luckily, the store I purchased it from was on sale. They have this Buy One, Take One promo so I got this one and another DVD which I did not dare finish because I felt weak and nauseous (which is for another post - if I finish it). Total cost for two DVDs, PHP350. Is it indeed a great buy?What's on the DVD? It is a two-disc special feature DVD.

Disc 1 contains the movie and several previews with a few features. The Disc 2 contains a documentary about the film, behind the scenes feature and many featurettes discussing the roles of Clarice, Hannibal, and other characters. It also contains deleted scenes in its raw film version. The features alone would satisfy a couch potato because it lasts around 3 hours. Include the 3 hour Disc 1 and you have a 6-hour worth of amazing storytelling. In addition to the great features on Disc 2 (mind you the features are classic because they were created around 18 years ago where DVD is still in the planning stages), the raw deleted scenes provides you an amazing experience because you learn to appreciate the re-mastered movie.

I have never watched Silence of the Lambs on a movie screen. I have watched a cut version on TV and a VCD version but this DVD is worth buying for the following reason:

1. Hannibal Lecter will frighten the hell out of you. His voice sounds creepier from the raw version.
2. Clarice's nuances as she fights to save her one little lamb will excite your senses and you will empathize with her.
3. The phone call with Hannibal Lecter is creepy (you got to try this one)
4. This psycho-thriller will make you sit still as it redefines suspense movies. It won the Academy Awards despite being a psycho thriller. You will keep riveting on your seat.
5. The documentary about how the film was made which was years after the film was extraordinary. You will see Dr. Hahn (Grey's Anatomy fans out there) by the way. It gives many interesting information from Gene Hackman supposedly directing the film and Jodie Foster's insistence on playing the role of Clarice Starling (mind you she was not the first choice).
6. The raw deleted scenes are fun to watch.
7. The making/behind the scenes feature was also great to see.

Since you are planning to watch it now, better be prepared. Prepare the following:

1. A large bowl of popcorn, this is definitely one of those popcorn movies using your couch/bed (whichever you prefer).
2. If you are easily scared, grab a companion or companions (so you can scare one another out).

Note: This is a thriller-suspense-psycho movie so there are no dead people rising or vampires gliding. Just your friendly neighborhood serial killer and our resident psychiatrist, who is also a serial killer (imprisoned in a mental institution though).

3. If you are alone and easily scared, open the lights.
4. If you are not easily scared, then buy the DVD and see for yourself. Let us see if you would not be disturbed at all. If you are still not disturbed, I suggest you keep yourself in check. You just might be one of them.

If you are asking what the synopsis of the movie is, hmmm..., just Google it. I do not want to spoil it for you.

Now, was the DVD worth it; if you consider the promo, it costs PHP175. Of course, it was worth that amount of money. I was even planning to buy it at PHP350. For PHP350, it is definitely worth keeping. This is something worthy to add to your DVD collection.

Quote from the movie: "Brave Clarice. You will let me know when those lambs stop screaming, won't you?" - Dr. Hannibal Lecter, http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102926/quotes

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