Ghost: An Intergenerational Review

On Hallow's Eve, we decided to watch Ghost, the 1990 smash hit movie that defined my generation. A genXer, I was proud telling my kids about it. How it spawned the pixie haircut among girls my age because Demi Moore looked so androgynously charming. The soundtrack and the movie theme song marked an era too. Even the visual effects and the chemistry of the cast were points I bragged to my kids since it was perfect. 

I punctuated my story boasting of the Oscars that the movie snagged that year -- a Best Supporting Actress trophy for Whoopi Goldberg and a scriptwriting award for Bruce Joel Rubin.

While my children, ages 25 and 21 years old went "awww" and "oooh" at the romantic scenes, cringed at the right parts of the movie and laughed their hearts out at Whoopi Goldberg, the ending left them underwhelmed. 

Here is why.

Nico has this to say about the movie (25 years old). It was pretty good. Though it would have left an impact in me if it ended with an epilogue. Sam got his ending. But I want to know what happened to Molly and Oda Mae. It isn't just Sam's story. He is the "ghost" but, he haunted Molly and Oda Mae. What of Molly's grief and Oda Mae's new found skills?

And to this, Zoe, added. That movie is male-centric. Women characters were seen from the male gaze. Ugh. The gender politics (eyes rolling)! Demi Moore and Whoopi Goldberg are strong actors, visually and talent wise they deserve better than merely foils to Sam's character development. It does mark your generation, mom.

I couldn't agree more. 

Netflix Series Review: Cobra Kai

Netflix Series Review: Cobra Kai
Created by: Josh Heald. Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg
Based on The Karate Kid film series by Robert Mark Kamen

How did I stumble upon Cobra Kai? I think this question is no longer important. I watched seasons 1 and 2 of this Karate Kid reboot and I was glad I gave it try. It is a sweet drive down to memory lane and revisiting this well loved 80s classic made more sense to me now. There is no more Mr. Miyagi which the content creators and producers made use of exceptionally well to dwell on the grey areas that were never explored in the movies.

And so it begins 30 plus years after the fated loss of Johnny Lawrence to Daniel Larusso. Lawrence remained a loser while Larusso is basking on the fruits of fame, success and the life changing influence that Mr. Miyagi made in his life. Needless to say, they lead opposite lives now that they are about to go over the hill. And that is where everything begins, actually.

Lawrence is seeking redemption. Larusso is hanging on to the wisdom of Mr. Miyagi but fails miserably at it when his rival started to set up a dojo. In between their search for meaning and redemption are new Karate Kids to train, mentor and guide. And they make Cobra Kai more exciting, greyer and complicated for their elders - the ones who love the Karate Kid movies and the adults who play their parents and mentors in the series.

Cobra Kai is filled with 80s nostalgia, including a dream sequence that will remind Gen Xers like me of the MTV back then. Clear storytelling, outrageous clothes, teased hair and amazing music. Well loved characters from both sides of the fence made valuable appearances. Even a visit to Mr. Miyagi's resting place was well shot and appropriately placed an one episode in the first series. Miyagi's memory lives but no one can ever take his place. No, not even Daniel-san.

I enjoyed the episodes where there are shots of the beach, Miyagi's house and the training sessions which Larusso and Lawrence had with their students. The later amplifies the different philosophies of both dojos and the principles that each sensei teach their students. This was not further explored nor elaborated on in the movies but in Cobra Kai, I got to ponder more about the value systems we subscribe to and the beliefs that anchor us to lead a life that is not only good but purposeful.

Overall, Cobra Kai is a good watch for those who love the original materials and this generation of viewers who deal with so many grey issues in society. The season 2 finale left me unsettled though. I could not reconcile the artistic liberties that the film makers made with real life events, especially violence in a school. But, this is the America as we know it now where shootings happen in spaces we thought were sanctuaries and issues of racism remains in the collective consciousness despite the integration of different ethnicities in society at large.

Rating - 4/5

Movie Review: The Knight Before Christmas

The Knight Before Christmas (2019)
MPCA Productions
Director: Monika Mitchell
Screenplay:Cara Russell

Vanessa Hudgens plays Brooke who is still on the mend after a break up. She finds joy in teaching, hope in community work and faith in her promising student and adorable niece. A valued member of the community, Brooke continues on the tradition of her parents at Christmas when her family would host a get-together for everyone. It is in the busy-ness of all this preparations when Cole, a knight from the Middle Ages, blasted into Brooke's life.

Cole was sent to the future by some magic as he was in search for a duty that befits a knight of his stature. No problem adjusting in modern day America, Cole's good deeds earned him the admiration and respect of the community. Brooke could not help but fall in love and, as they say, the rest is history.

But Cole remains confused in finding the real meaning of being transported through time. Hesitant to leave Brooke, he goes back to where he came from and discovers the essence of his quest later upon seeing his brother. He foregoes the knighthood ceremony of his brother and went back to the future to be with Brooke.

Rating/Recommendation: Just right to while away the time in traffic or long lines at the mall

Movie Review: The Family Stone

The Family Stone (2005)
Family Drama, Comedy
Direction and Screenplay by Thomas Bezucha

The first time I saw The Family Stone on cable TV, I was floored by the sheer fun of watching Sarah Jessica Parker falter and fall. A decade or more after, her character remains the same. She is that sister-in-law you always wondered why she ended up with your brother who deserves better. She is the new family member who annoys you to pieces but redeems herself in the end simply because, uptight and lacking of empathy most of the time, she is just being herself. And no one can fault a person for being so.

This is what makes The Family Stone an endearing movie to watch during the holidays. The characters are who they are, faults and all. It is through these imperfections that each of the characters rise above their own personal struggles and challenges. The unfolding is subtle and quiet until, some slapstick has to be done for the viewer to laugh it off with the family. Underneath all the family drama is a deeper pain and a greater loss that each of the members of the Stone family foresee. But, they go on as Christmas goes on until the year after when each of them has seemed to made peace with themselves.

Lastly, the casting is amazing and so is the acting.

Rating/Recommendation: Highly recommended

Movie Review: The Two Popes

The Two Popes (2019)
Netflix
Director: Fernando Meirelles
Screenplay: Anthony McCarten

Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce play Pope Benedict and Pope Francis respectively and with such conviction that I had to remind myself very so often that this is a Netflix movie is written by Anthony McCarten. Make no mistake, it is a good thing as McCarten wrote Bohemian Rhapsody and Darkest Hour. Both are Oscar winning movies that elevated Freddie Mercury into the status deserving of a god and Gary Oldman as a tough but endearing Winston Churchill. Both actors in the said movie won an Oscar too.

I digress. Needless to say, I did enjoy the movie as it is done so well I won't be surprised if it gets several Oscar nods this year.

But what engaged me in the movie is the depiction of man's relationship with God. It is an endless journey of seeking and journeying that in the end, all that matters is faith. Even that is a tenuous thing when, even the strongest among us must choose between principle and the common good. One pope represents change and reforms. The other is a standard bearer of tradition and compromises. Such contradictions exist in the Vatican and permeates to the entire Catholic congregation.

So, we end up with two popes instead of one.

The more things change, the more they remain the same.

Rating/Recommendation: Go stream it!

Movie Review: A Christmas Prince

Of the five Netflix original movies I have in my To Watch list this month, I have successfully seen two, so far. I am putting a check on Klaus (2019) and A Christmas Prince (2017). Here is my review of A Christmas Prince.

A Christmas Prince
Motion Picture Corporation of America (MPCA)
Directed by Alex Zamm

One of two romcoms I have in my list, A Christmas Prince contains all the recipes of a Hallmark movie. The characters are pretty much what you would expect from a trope that uses mistaken identity and clean-up-your-mess-to-be-redeemed ending with a kiss in the middle of a snow covered street. There is the scheming and conniving ex-girlfriend, the ambitious royal cousin, the endearing and imperfect princess that acted as the female lead's bestie and fairy god mother. Yes, Cinderella lives!

I did find Rose McIver endearing and Ben Lamb as the titular Christmas Prince is charming. However, sparks were low between the two actors. While I did root for them, their chemistry lacked the fire that says, "We are a sexy pair, so we deserve to be together" at the end of it all. But, the movie has two sequels up in Netflix. But. I am skipping it.

I am moving on to A Knight Before Christmas where Vanessa Hudgens is the female lead. I want to give myself a chance on her again as I loved her in the first High School Musical.

Rating / Recommendation: 3 of 5
Stream it if you are a fan of romcoms :-)

Librarians, Netflix and the Guernsey Potato Peel Pie Society

When I posted a SOS for viewing of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society in Netflix, I got several replies to access the movie from friends, mostly librarians. The sources they recommended and the ways on how to access the movie were varied! 

I wonder if they have read The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. How relevant it is in this day and age. If I were a Library and Information Science (LIS) professor, the book version, though a work of fiction, would be one of my required readings. There are plenty of LIS insights we can get from the movie, as well as the book, that can bridge the concepts we learn in the practice of the profession. Well, in the first place, the author, Mary Ann Shaffer, was a librarian.

The war we are up against is as menacing as WWII. I hope we all know the significant role of librarians, writers, book makers, publishers, readers and book lovers in the revival of hope and in the restoration of a damaged humanity. Books have the power to bring people together. And reading, for all its worth, can heal us from our hurts and woundedness. Stories amplify the very reason we are alive!

Mike Newell, the director of the movie, did an amazing job at putting together a cast of characters whose stories filled the gaps in Juliet's life. Lily James as Juliet is arresting and charming at the same time. And Matthew Goode, who looks and sounds like a young Jeremy Irons, is the perfect loyal gay friend we all have! If you haven’t seen the movie yet, go watch! 

Movie Review: Spiderman Into the Spiderverse

I learn many things from my children. One of them is listening to their advise when making decisions on what movie to watch. Because they are both Marvel fans, they recommend I watch Spiderman Into the Spiderverse. So, I did.

Now I wish the cinemas get to show the animated movie after the Metro Manila Film Festival. I wish to see it one more time.

Here are five reasons why.

1. Peter Parker remains an endearing character even after all these years. In this filmic interpretation, he is a mentor and a guide to Miles Morales. He is not the perfect teacher but his heroics, almost messianic turn as hero, is kept intact. However, the Peter Parkers in this movie is more aware now of the cost and the risk of being a super hero. At the end ofthe  day, the hero is your average guy who couldn’t save everyone, especially people he loves.

2. Miles Morales is the Spiderman worth rooting for! He keeps making mistakes and never gives up until he finds his footing. This is the same trait I see in Tom Holland’s rendition of Spidey so, thanks to the creators of the movie for staying true to this story arc.

3. The art! Oh, the art! 

4. The soundtrack! I am a gen Xer, but damn — I enjoyed the music, especially Sunflower.

5. Like the comic books, this movie provides a satisfying end to Miles Morales’ journey and origin story but the what ifs are uneding! 

My rating: 4 stars out of 5. 

Movie Review: Five Things I Love About Ang Larawan

Ang Larawan
Produced by Culturtain and Musicat
Direction by Loy Arcenas
Libretto by Rolando Tinio
Music by Ryan Cayabyab
From the original three act play of Nick Joaquin

I will try to keep this sweet and short since the movie, Ang Larawan, won Best Picture in the 2017 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal already. What is another rave review when all that is amazing and awe inspiring things have been said about the movie? But I want to put this on record. It was the ONLY movie I intended to watch in the MMFF this season.

I have had my fill of romcoms every MMFF. Vic Sotto and Vice Ganda are on TV five days of the week and social media is littered with news and features of young stars from GMA and ABS-CBN. I decided to be good to may heart and to take extra care for my soul. It had to be Nick Joaquin, Rolando Tinio, Ryan Cayabuab and Celeste Legaspi. When can I get this once in a lifetime chance of engaging with these artists in the most accessible art form but during the MMFF?

So, here are five things I love about Ang Larawan.

1. Bagay na bagay ang mga awitin sa bawat characters ng pelikula. I don't know which came first. Selecting the cast and giving them songs that fit their range and personalities, or arranging the songs for each actor's range and style? Pinag-isipan talaga! The production team obviously love their actors and Mr. C has great respect for all of them to be given such challenging and meaningful songs to sing.

2. The cast gave polished performances! There was no upstaging of actor 1 and actor 2. Each had their shinning moment. Rayver Cruz was not OP. Keribels ni Paulo Avelino ang song and dance number! Nag-enjoy ako sa cameo ni Ogie Alcasid. He looked very serious as a policeman, but his presence was comic relief, at least to me, in that particular scene where Candida is about to have her epic breakdown. Finally, nakapanood rin ako ng Pinoy movie na may ensemble cast na nag-gel lahat ng energies, dynamics, talents and artistic skills.

3. Ang ganda ng libretto ni Rolando Tinio. My favorite part was Don Perico's where he sang about life, like art, is intricate. Ang ganda sa Tagalog!

Hindi simple ang buhay katulad ng sining. 

May puwersang humuhubog sa ating landasin. 

Hindi tayo’ng may hawak sa kinabukasan. 

Nagmimiron ka lamang sa ‘yong kapalaran.”

4. The close up shots of each character were all very intriguing. Looking at the portrait that was never fully shown but was described differently by the one viewing it suggest mystery, and for the audience, voyeurism!

Needless to say, one's interpretation of art differs from another.

5. The film stayed true to the original material and although Tinio's translation have lost some of Joaquin's meaning and poetry in the process, Ang Larawan moved me to look inward and discover new insights about myself and the world.

I read the play in college and identified more with Candida. I saw the play on stage in the early 90s (at the International School Manila, of all places!) and I was disturbed by the nostalgia, especially the melancholic narration of Bitoy Camacho. Twenty and three years after, Paula sings about making decisions. Emancipation. Detachment. I know what she means. I understand it too well. I feel it too!

CONTRA MUNDUM!

Photo source: https://www.facebook.com/AngLarawanTheMovie/photos/a.375625539260180.1073741828.374860422670025/924657541023641/?type=3&theater

Movie Review: 10 Things I Love About Coco

Coco

Direction: Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina

Screenplay: Lee Unkrich, Adrian Molina, Jason Katz and Matthew Aldrich

Disney-Pixar, 2017

We were able to catch Coco in the cinema this holiday season. We laughed and cried in all the right places. I love it and here are ten reasons why.

1. The music is a focal point connecting Miguel to his past, present and future. The fambam loves music. We all use and play our respective instruments. We know where Miguel is coming from.

2. Remember Me is beautiful but I had the most fun watching Miguel and Hector sing Un Poco Loco.

3. The Mariachi! It is music I rarely hear or listen to but when I do, I love it. To my ears, it sounds so romantic.

4. The Mexican folklore, legends, customs, superstitions, myths and belief system that make up the movie’s platform for storytelling fascinated me. The Day of the Dead, for one, is a celebration of life. It is a time to remember the lives of loved ones that have moved on. In more ways than one, they still affect the lives of the ones they left behind. This is a tradition where significant human experiences abound and the film made use of it really well. The ofrenda, where the photos of the dearly departed was an important storytelling element emphasizing the role of memory. How petals of marigolds, orange and golden, can bridge the dearly departed to their living loved ones. The animal spirit guides that cross over like their departed humans on the Day of the Dead is a scene I found endearing. They too have their own stories to tell! 

5. The visual storytelling is amazing! The colors of the animal spirit guides were as lumunous as the personalities of their human counterparts. The paper cut outs that served as a prologue was effectively used. The skeleton shaped guitars suggest Miguel’s entrance to the realm of the dead. And the marigolds! I will nevet get over those orange flowers!

6. Miguel is a charming character and so is Hector. The former is looking for his niche in world. The later simply wants to be remembered. But the way they fought for their hearts’ desires make them heroes in their own right.

7. The plot twist is done pretty well!

8. Ernesto de la Cruz’s character is a tale of his own, and a cautionary one. 

9. Frida Kahlo

10. Gael Garcia Bernal

Should cinemas in your area bring back screenings of Coco after the Metro Manila Filmfest, go see it! 

Review: 4.5 / 5

Photo source: 

https://style.disney.com/living/2017/11/06/lihat-lebih-dekat-dunia-coco-dengan-wallpaper-menakjubkan-berikut/amp/

Movie Review: Smaller and Smaller Circles

I am writing this from memory as I have seen Smaller and Smaller Circles in a special preview last February 25, 2017 in Cinema 76. The movie is still showing in selected theatres in the metro and in one movie house in Albay. Visit the movie's Facebook Page where you will find bonus scenes, previews, trivia and more reviews by film critics and experts. Copy-paste this link and you are on your way - https://www.facebook.com/smallerandsmallercircles/

As a school librarian, a member of the education sector, here are my three thoughts on the movie, plus one - a personal comment which I hope to see happening sooner or later.

Thought #1 - Sid Lucero and Nonie Buencamino deliver compelling performances as Jesuits battling forces bigger than themselves. Buencamino is very convincing as a Jesuit. Smart. Sarcastic. Unafraid. Lucero essays the role with an intrinsic wonder and curiosity. There are moments in the film where he appears to be simply an observer but his presence as friend and ally to Buencamino's character never fades.

I am still hoping he gets to play a lead role in a romcom. He is too good looking to wear that clerical collar.

Thought #2 - This movie is based on a book by FH Batacan. There is a short story version, correct me if I am wrong. I remember, vaguely though, having discussed this story in one of the reading and critiquing group I used to attend a long, long time ago. Then there came the novella published by UP Press. And then, the novel was published. And now, the movie.

This goes to show how good the story is. So, please. Go watch it while it is still being screened in select movie houses!

Thouught #3 - The movie is set in the 90s so it offers the viewer the socio-cultural and political milieu of the decade. Not so much has changed. The same questions on faith, justice and God's presence permeate and remain unanswered. Well, at least to me, since I often grapple with these universal truths. In the midst of all these questions, the movie shows the woundedness of humanity and how much in need we all are of kindness and love.

Which brings me to my plus one. There are a lot of things and themes to unpack in the movie. It is intelligently made and the production value is of quality. I hope the producers could find ways to arrange a screening of the movie to high schools both in the public and private sectors. I hope parishes and communities are able to see the movie with Filipino subtitling. I hope school libraries can acquire DVDs of the film. Why not partner with public libraries like the newly built Quezon City Public Library, or the Ortigas Foundation Library and the Ayala Museum for public screenings? Today's libraries and museums have engaging and interactive programs for the community.

Perhaps it is time to involve the library and museum sectors in the distribution of relevant Filipino movies.

12 Days of Christmas Movie Review: Saving Sally

Saving Sally
Director: Avid Liongoren
Rocketsheep Studio, 2016

When I first saw the movie teaser for Saving Sally over on Facebook, I immediately tagged my teen aged kids. They were excited to watch the movie. They have been planning on spending their Christmas money to watch it weeks before the Metro Manila Film Fest. On December 25th, we were lining up for tickets.

This very simple love story is so charming and pure that, I am recommending this for families with teenagers to watch and see together despite the phallic symbols that represent one of the characters. Spewing a few more of it when he speaks. This was done in context and one that my teen aged kids fully understood both as cinematic interpretation as well as a metaphor for people who are so full of themselves. Don't we meet those kind in real life? Like Marty, we see them as monsters and, yes, dickheads.

Which brings me now to enumerate what I enjoyed about the movie.

It doesn't lie. Totoo siya. Its agenda is not to offer amusement, shallow humor or an escapist joy. Funny because, the movie is a combination of animation and live action and yet, it shows how things really are. It is overflowing with monsters, fictional characters from comic books, robots from a long gone TV show of my childhood but its speaks of truths that are lasting. Good is good. Bad is bad. And then, there are the gray areas in between that we all need to deal with at some point in our lives.

Marty struggles to find a voice for his feelings for Sally.  His mom tells him that such issues can't be forced. Marty's dad lent advice and support at an arm's length. No wonder Marty turned out the way he is, the nice geeky guy whom you can always count on. Apparently, Marty needed a lot of growing up to do and in its wake, is heartbreak and a lot of adulting. Sally, for all her smarts and intrepid inventions, could not break free from the confines and cruelty of her surrogate parents. A victim of circumstance, she fell prey into the hands of Nick, the dickhead boyfriend, who took advantage of her vulnerability. See how valuable is the role of family in shaping one's identity? 

This only goes to show that Saving Sally has a lot to offer. Love takes time and if it is real, it finds a way. Courage is found in the depths of our fears. Redemption begins from a desire to save one's self. In the end, the geek gets the girl. Then again, in the beginning of the movie, it was the smart, artistic and weird girl who saved the geek. YAY!

How Marty saved Sally is a feast for the senses. The visual metaphors are brilliantly done. I liked the floating sketches surrounding Marty and Sally. It pushed the plot forward. Their relationship is in suspended animation. They are neither friends nor lovers. The colors and lighting looked old, a lot of sepia and shades of brown in the back ground but this added texture  and a warmth enunciating the themes of the movie. Monsters drawn in black, white and graying hues emphasizing Marty's perspective and world view.The robots that Sally created and the city where she and Marty lives in are rendered in steampunk. This makes me want to give steampunk another try.

Watch out for the easter eggs. If you're from UP Diliman, you will appreciate and understand Zorro's appearance. There are designs of buildings that are reminiscent of old haunts in the campus. I have my comic book faves and it is such a delight to see its covers in the movie too. The names and labels of stores, commercial establishments and places in the city are identified with Pinoy wit and humor. Even the sound track is cool and tender, comforting and heart wrenching the next.

I hope the movie gets an extended run and distributed in more movie houses. With eight wonderful films this season of the Metro Manila Film Festival, we all need to pick the ones we want to watch and the ones we need to give a chance. This year, it is worth to spend 200 - 300 pesos for three to five movies in the roster. But if you can afford it, go watch all!

12 Days of Christmas Movie Review: It's A Wonderful Life

60th Anniversary version available in Amazon

It's A Wonderful Life
Director: Frank Capra
1946

James Stewart is George Bailey, a businessman of Bedford Falls, who lends money to the middle working class of the community. When his Uncle Billy lost a hefty amount to keep the business going, George fell into despair and contemplated on committing suicide. Through his guardian angel, Clarence, George realized that suicide is not a solution to his problem. His is a wonderful life, indeed!

What worked

I love James Stewart. He is perfect for this role as he represents the working class of his time and age. While this kind of character has dated the film, James Stewart's acting and his rendition of the role do not. Every man is given a moment: a fall from grace; hitting rock bottom; committing an epic failure in life. Stewart's George Bailey is dignified, a man of integrity who draws respect from his peers and members of the community. When he met a dead end on his business, Stewart's George Bailey transformed into someone else. Where is the man who needs to be brave? I wanted to yank him away from the ledge in the bridge when he was thinking of ending his life.

Enter George's guardian angel, Clarence, who at the start of the movie was called on by God to intervene. I also liked this part because I do believe in angels. God's love is indeed eternal.

Clarence showed George past events of his life: how he has helped many people build lives through his buisness; what brought his hearing impairment that disqualified him from fighting in the war; and how much he is loved by his wife and children. One's course of action do affect and effect the lives of many.

I first saw this movie when I was in my tweens and I have felt good inside after seeing it. Through the years, I would watch the movie with friends and family and I would get the same feel good effect. These year, at Christmas time, watching it again affirms the magnificence and magnanimity of God's love for us. Like George Bailey, we are given the freedom to make a choice: to do good or bad; to be brave or to be a coward; to fight for our values or to run away from them. Like George Bailey, we are constantly guided by our angels. God does not control our every actions, but He is ever present in our lives.

This Christmas, I recommend this movie to be seen at home with family and friends. The world is so much in need of hope. I think we all need to be reminded how, in these dark and difficult times, God is with us. Sometimes we know and feel how he works in our lives and sometimes, we do not feel Him at all. But He sends angels, in one form or another, so that we realize that life is wonderful indeed!

Rating: 5

Source of image: https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/518356GQPGL.jpg

12 Days of Christmas Movie Review: Rogue One

Of course, we jumped in the Rogue One bandwagon.

We are fans of Donnie Yen so the hubby and our kids were all excited to see him in a Star Wars movie. Diego Luna plays a lead character and that doubled my joy. We aren't die hard fans of the Star Wars soap opera, but we pretty much know its canon and we all have our favorite characters, big or small, in the saga. Besides, the entire franchise bridged our generation with our children's which makes watching Rogue One a family experience.

So, my review.

What worked

The romantic angle between Cassian Andor and Jyn Erso that was not fully explained nor articulated is evident from their first meeting till their tight embrace at the beach. It left me with a big WHY. Why didn't they live happily ever after? A classic love story that pales in comparison to Ankin and Amidala of the prequels. No, they do not need words to cement their feelings for one another. It is enough that their trust for each other finally came through when Jyn told Cassian that she is not used to having a person stay with her. Then he replied, "Welcome home". It trumps Han and Leia's I Love You/I know exchange in Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.

Cassian, as portrayed by Diego Luna may not be the alpha male in Rogue One, but his eyes, oh, his eyes when he looks at her speak voluminously of his commitment to the rebellion and his awe to have found her at a time when his life seemed nothing but a series of cat and mouse chases. The way Cassian looks at her, especially during that elevator ride, is full of tenderness, admiration and wonder. There is also a glimpse of sadness and regret when they shared that moment of silence in the elevator, just looking at each other. It was a fleeting moment of intimacy. In a movie where so many things are happening at the same time, this quiet space between the two leads is a beautifully captured scene.

The friendship and brotherhood of Chirrut Imwe and Baze Malbus is one for the books. No Jedi in this Star Wars movie, but the heart and spirituality of the Force were made stronger through Donnie Yen's warrior monk and Jiang Wen's gun trotting non-believer.

K-2SO is the best droid, so far. His dry humor and candor matches the dark themes and the character's complicated turn from misfits to heroes.

What did not

Indeed, the characters in Rogue One are heroes worth rooting for despite their flaws. Even the villains are layered with emotional baggage to portray their inner most desires and motives. However, I felt that they were all used as pawns to the original trilogy's purpose for being. Sayang. Rogue One provided the context for Episodes 4, 5 and 6 reminding us that lives were sacrificed to achieve freedom from the Galactic Empire. I did like the movie's texture and editing, the play of lights and shadows, as well as the rendition of the lead characters' deaths. But, heroic the end may be, I ask myself to this day, is Rogue One necessary to expand the Star Wars universe in the first place?

Rating: 3.5

12 Days of Christmas Movie Review: #WalangForever

Because the Metro Manila Film Fest will soon commence and I am keeping a blog tradition, I begin my 12 Days of Christmas Book and Movie Reviews.

Here is the first one, a retrospective. Re-posting for December 2016 as written for the blog last January 3, 2016.

#WalangForever
Director: Dan Villegas
Producers: Quantum Films, MJM Productions, Tuko Films, Buchi Boy Films

Our film of choice this Metro Manila Film Festival season is #WalangForever. It is too bad we didn't catch Honor They Father, but, who knows. I am hopeful to see the movie before the season officially ends. Now, for my review.

With celebs: Gab Valenciano, Dr. Fely Pado and Jericho Rosales

#WalangForever is a story of love lost and found. Mia, played by Jennylyn Mercado, and Ethan, portrayed by Jericho Rosales, are former lovers once engaged. Personal problems, priorities in life and career put their relationship to the test. It was one test they both failed. Thus, the experience made them bitter, jaded and scorned. Mia, a successful screenwriter coasts through life penning the greatest love of her life into her movies while Ethan, manages a thriving business, until a life changing event made him decide to leave the country and live with his mother abroad. Thanks to friends, a timely barkada reunion put them back together again.

Love is lovelier the second time around? Not really.

What worked

When Mia and Ethan were back in each others' arms, it was not the sweet moment of love's second chance. After all, a painful break up would elicit more complications. With Ethan's diminishing health, Mia made the choice to love again. Despite the past and the pain of loss, Mia went after her man and took the risk of being hurt all over again.

For what? And why? Well, to love. Forever.

This is where the conceit of forever comes in. It is in fact the questions, may forever ba? Ano nga ba ang forever? which the movie presented at the beginning by showing people and couples defining what forever is, is the whole point of the movie. It is a philosophical challenge, actually, but, with humor and comedic touches by Dan Villegas' direction, this idea of infinity and the struggle to establish the constants in our lives make the journey of finding a forever lighthearted at the same time, life affirming. In the end, the movie audience is made to find his or her own forever and its relative, if not elusive, definition. #WalangForever does not only make you laugh or cry, it makes you think of the what is and the now.

I find the script and storytelling smart and sensitive. I particularly loved the quiet, awkward moments and the hidden contexts between characters like Ethan and Aldus, Tita Betchay and Tonipet, Ethan's mom and her foreigner husband. The ensemble cast of supporting actors are a delight to watch. They are given enough back story to represent who they are in the lives of Mia and Ethan and the relevant roles they push the plot forward toward a happy ever after. Their roles, though small for some, like Sasha, Ethan's kinakapatid, emphasize the yearning or desire of this constant, this idea of forever. Despite Ethan's death, everyone remains hopeful. Life goes on. Love endures. The ending where Mia's latest film about her life and Ethan's is lived out for all to see and witness. Such is the story of love, where one's immense pain is a source of great joy.

Using film to amplify this concept and to tell a story in this medium is reflective of the passion and dedication that Villegas and the rest of the production team have on their craft. They make movies yes, but they also love. They love their art. They love their craft. They love to share a good story.

Hurrah to Jennylyn Mercado and Jericho Rosales. Their chemistry is amazing. Jennylyn Mercado's star quality never dims. Her light shines in the movie from start to finish. Jericho Rosales is still Mr. Pogi and though the lines on his forehead reveal that he is not as young as he used to be, he remains the dramatic actor I loved watching in Pangako Sayo (yes, I used to watch teleseryes).

What didn't work

Sid Lucero. That cameo. It is so small for his acting chops. Can someone please give him a lead role in a romcom?!

Rating: 3.5 / 5

Movie Review: Kung Fu Panda 3

My family and I are fans of Jack Black. We love kung fu movies as well. Jack Black and kung fu make us fans of Kung Fu Panda, the animated movie. We enjoyed KFP 1 and KFP 2 so imagine our excitement when we heard of a third movie. Having watched the third and final installment was like going full circle and ending a journey.

The gang is back and so is Oogway. The old master, now residing in the spirit realm, apparently earned an enemy while he was battling evil conquerors and warriors during his time on earth. This enemy, Kai, a kung fu master himself succeeded in trapping Oogway's chi into a disk made of jade. Kai got back to earth to fulfill his dreams of world domination. It is now Po's role and duty to stop Kai.

What worked

Po is the classic hero. The one who brought balance to the universe. The panda who lived. He is the dragon warrior. The Avatar. He has a host of friends and family who catapulted him into hero status. His enemy is a fitting nemesis to his endearing character. It is easy to fall in love with Po because, his journey towards becoming a hero is something he earned. He is aware of his shortcomings and flaws, and with the help of his friends and mentors, he always rises to the occasion and never lets them down. He figures things out, works hard for it and saves the day in the end.

Po's characterization has been very consistent since the first movie. In KFP 3, Po's role as the dragon warrior is sealed, signed and delivered. He is indeed the chosen one and yet, he remains to be your average guy. How can you not love a hero like that?

What didn't work

The whole tapestry of the KFP world is rich and colorful. There are still some holes and gaps I want to be filled. But, with so much going in the life of Po and his new challenges, cuts must be made. Besides, you can only do so much in 90 minutes.

What saved the entire film is the storytelling and how it was rendered in the visuals and through the narratives of key characters. The 2D manga style animation is impressive. It was like watching a graphic novel come alive.

Overall, we enjoyed it for what it is. It is a feel good family movie that I am happy to see with hubby and our two young adults.

Rating: 3.5 popcorn bags

12 Days of Christmas Movie Review: Star Wars: The Force Awakens

SPOILER ALERT


Star Wars: The Force Awakens, 2015
JJ Abrams, Director
Lawrence Kasdan and JJ Abrams, Writers

With renewed hope, my family and I watched Star Wars: The Force Awakens. We were not disappointed. We enjoyed the movie because, really, who cares about Anakin Skywalker's ascent to Jedi-hood and his descent to Darth-ness? Well, OK... I sound cocky. But really, a better script could have done the prequels justice. So, when the Force awakens, 30 years after Return of the Jedi my husband and I are more interested to know where Luke, Leia and Han left off. We know there were books, comics and online games on the saga, but, the movie experience is a stand alone entertainmnet fare we both looked forward to.

I like Rey, because, finally, a girl Jedi coming into terms with herself and her powers. This one is for my daughter. I like Finn, because, I have always wondered what goes on in those storm troopers' mind. I like BB-8 because he is fast. Maz Kanata is the closest thing I can attach my Yoda fascination to and it seems she holds the secret to why the Luke's light saber was in her care, in the first place.

I love how TFA paid homage to the Millenium Falcon, to Han and Leia, to Chewie, to C3PO and R2D2, coming back to life. The force is so strong it can resurrect dormant droids! I thank JJ Abrams for restoring my childhood. Though, Han Solo died at the end of this episode, I look forward to many things: how evil is Kylo Ren going to be since his act of murder is beyond redemption; the potential of Rey's friendship with Finn; the secrets that Maz Kanata will reveal; and Luke, oh Luke. You better make up for Han's demise!

And so, as we dread the coming Metro Manila Film Festival, Star Wars: The Force Awakens has given me a good amount of cinematic happiness despite the death of my childhood crush. Such is life that joy and sorrow live side by side.

12 Days of Christmas Movie Review: Rise of the Guardians

Re-posting this, because we love it! Sharing the love!

Rise of the Guardians, 2012
Peter Ramsey, Director
David Lindsay Abaire, Screenplay / William Joyce,  Author

What do Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, the Sandman and the Easter Bunny have in common? They're all guardians. Guardians of children from all over the world. It's a conceit too big to make it believable. The magical visuals and metaphors used in the story helped me suspend my disbelief.

What worked

Thanks to high tech CGI animation, the film's ambition to make magic worked wonders. What appeared real to me: the golden strands of the Sandman weaving dreams on top of sleeping heads of children; Jack Frost producing ice and icicles on everything he touches and breathes on; the Boogeyman's sinister shadow that casts doubt and fear; the black mares with gleaming eyes depicted as nightmares that snuff out dreams of gold. DreamWorks did its homework so, as far as animation is concerned, they got the prize in the bag.

 I've nothing much to say about the script as I find the sub-plots cluttered and a few bits misplaced. For example, the elves and the yetis. They're all adorable but too much of them were used as comic relief. Perhaps, this was an attempt to lighten a story that's too philosophical for kids in the preschool age?

The movie is really meant for adults, like me, who've had their share of lemons thrown at them by life. Childhood is magical and wonderful. Growing up breaks the magic and wonderment. Children are trusting and honest. Grown ups operate on deceit to get what they want and are more fearful of their evil, if not, imperfect selves showing out for others to see. Such contradictions were made palpable through the use of childhood folk lore and images that we're familiar with - Jack Frost, Santa, Tooth Fairy, Easter Bunny, the Sandman. Each represent a virtue or an aspect of childhood: play, wonder, memories, hope and dreams. Stuff that children believe in. Stuff that adults find once again in the children they care for and love.

What did not work

Apart from the cluttered script, the movie left me with a big lacuna on the Man on the Moon. I'd be looking up on William Joyce's novel from which the movie was based on. And this is actually a good thing, thinking about it.

Rise of the Guardians is a feel good movie. I'm glad I'm a parent and that I work with children and teens. If not, I'd have chucked the movie out the window as an attempt to water down Gaiman's conceit in American Gods.

Photo sources:

http://kidstvmovies.about.com/od/RiseoftheGuardians/ig/Rise-of-the-Guardians---Photos/Sandman.htm

http://www.movieposterdb.com/movie/1446192/Rise-of-the-Guardians.html

12 Days of Christmas Movie Review: The Nightmare Before Christmas

The Nightmare Before Christmas
Tim Burton, Writer 1993
Henry Selick, Director
Touchstone Pictures

Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King and Halloween celebrity had an attack of ennui. In his ruminations, he stumbled upon Christmas town. There he found joy and wonder in the cold winter snow. Bent on understanding this source of happiness, he brought in all the tidings and trimmings of Christmas in Halloween town. So enamored was he, that he even assumed the role of Santa Claus.

This animated movie is one of my favorites to watch with the kids at Christmas. They grew up watching Jack Skellington sing, dance and make himself look foolishly cute in Selick's amazing stop motion animation. We love the music and the soundtrack. Danny Elfman is an amazing musician and his baritone fits Jack Skellington's personality well.  Sally's character is the true hero though. She stands by Jack no matter what and made a great effort to save Santa Claus from the Boogey Man.

In the end, Jack realizes how things are and how they need to be left as they are. Happiness is everywhere. Jack found it after one big blunder. Going back to Halloween town to redeem himself by saving Santa Claus just in time, he got the girl and lived horrifically ever after.

Photo source: http://www.gstatic.com/tv/thumb/movieposters/15096/p15096_p_v7_aa.jpg

12 Days of Christmas Movie Review: English Only Please

Re-posting because, the Metro Manila Film Festival is just around the corner.

English Only, Please
Director: Dan Villegas
Story and Screenplay: Dan Villegas
Antoinette Jafaone and Anjeli Pessumal

Yes. I jumped on the bandwagon and I was not disappointed at all.

What worked

1. Derek Ramsay and Jennylyn Mercado. It was my first time to see a movie starred by these two actors. I confess, I had no idea how good an actor Jennylyn Mercado is. In the movie, she plays a simple girl but her presence screams star appeal. She lights up the screen like a 24 karat diamond ring. No wonder she's the one chosen as the Starstruck grand winner.

Her portrayal of Tere Madlansacay is very accessible. Tere is your everyday girl and Mercado essayed the role effortlessly. She's your BFF and go-to-girl. She's the loyal and hardworking daughter. She gives, so much, until it hurts.  In the end, she looks at herself and decides she has not given enough. This is her only flaw and one that can be easily forgiven, if not, tolerated at least. I find myself rooting for her to end up with that nice Fil-Am guy, Julian Parker.

Derek Ramsay as Julian Parker, the brooding, angry, broken hearted Fil-Am who went out on a limb to avenge his pride is just WOW. For once, Ramasay's character is not bent on seducing a vulnerable woman. His quiet and tempered portrayal of a man who found love in a hopeless place is way sexier. Like Tere, his only fault is to fall in love and have his heart broken all over again. So I wish the same thing for Julian: to find the girl he deserves.

Since this is a romantic comedy, they did find each other and a chance at happily ever after. Together, Derek and Jennylyn make a formidable couple. So charming is their chemistry that I am praying for a sequel.

EOP FP Page: https://www.facebook.com/englishonlypls/photos_stream

2. The script. I like the slow moments in the movie. Goodrom-coms have this element. It allows the viewer to listen to conversations and to look at the non-verbal language that transpire between characters. Luckily, the casting director picked the right actors because, Ramsay and Mercado are opposites who are so good to look at. You put two different characters together and you start to understand what the message of the movie is all about. Language is never a barrier between people who truly love each other. Things may be lost in translation, but it is in speaking the truth from the depths of the heart that we find clarity and freedom. Plus, there is enough external and internal tension between the two that kept me through the finish line. That ending where Julian and Tere jumped into the bus leaving for Manila holds a lot of promise for a part two. How much will they give and go for love? What challenges and conflicts will they face in the next stage of their relationship?

Sadly, one of the producers who happen to be a former co-teacher and FB friend confirmed there won't be any sequel.

3. Love and Language. I enjoyed the movie's play on language and how, in some way, it was like an invisible character that brought Julian and Tere together. The scriptwriters are smart in putting in that vocabulary spiels in between scenes. It was humorous and done with enough wit. No crying spells and dramatics. Humor will always save the day. Just when Cai Cortez was about to cry over Jennilyn's lot, she sucks in juice from her balut and with it is an acceptance of things as they are.

The many forms and ways of loving were also depicted with care and humor. Those numerous "Motmot" scenes, single motherhood, family dynamics are springboard conversations about love, sex and relationships that can be taken up with among young people of today.

What did not work

I just wish there were more scenes that showed Derek Ramsay immersing and appreciating the Filipino culture to fully justify his line: Fil-Am ako (or was it laki ako sa US), pero pusongFilipino.

Overall, English Only, Please is a well thought out film. Its actors were well chosen too. At last, here is a movie in this year's Metro Manila Filmfest that doesn't dumb down its paying audience. Thank you to its producers, scriptwriters and director for empowering us to think, to feel and to laugh with you!