The Truth

Movie Review: Transformers 2

2009-06-30T15:36:00.003+10:00

TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN
Main Players: Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Bumblebee, Optimus Prime, Megatron, et al.
Calling the shots: Michael Bay
What's it about? Decepticon forces return to Earth on a mission to take Sam Witwicky (LaBeouf) prisoner, after the young hero learns the truth about the ancient origins of the Transformers. – from imdb.com

What did I think? ~Transformers, robots in disguise. Transformers, more than meets the eyes!~ C’mon, sing it with me. Who didn’t see the first one? And who wasn’t looking forward to this one?

This second installment is the first’s bigger, dumber and more expensive degenerate brother. It’ll entertain you through out the whole 2 hours and a half. It’s your quintessential Blockbuster movie. It’s everything you’d expect from a big, dumb, Hollywood action movie and it’s great!

It is however not the smartest movie you’ll ever see. I missed the first five or so minutes of, what I’ve later been informed as, jibber-jabber and it pretty much ends in the same manner. It’s almost like Michael Bay decided that scripts weren’t necessary and just used most of the budget on explosions and CG. The final face off between the über amped-up Optimus and The Fallen ends quicker than it took Optimus to amp-up. Though by that stage you’re so over all the explosions and robots fighting, you just want to get out and go to the bathroom.

There’s also the sappy factor that I’m not a big fan of. The whole “Don’t leave me, I need you” thing. As touching as that might have been under “real” circumstances, it feels sooooooo out of place in this movie. Not to mention that it’s not exactly carried out by the most talented actors. In fact, the humans in this film are almost irrelevant and play completely to stereotype. See Tyrese spurting out token black guy lines like “We’re about to get our asses KICKED!” and…“Damn!” (Okay the last one I just threw in, not sure if he actually said it but it wouldn’t surprise me).

Did anyone else think the sound was a little off? The explosions and action scenes should have literally “blown us away” but it didn’t have that “umph” that it should have. Also when that old ass robot started talking, I couldn’t understand half of what was being said (and why did he have an accent?) No? No body else felt that?

It also tried a little too hard to be funny. The robo-twins got annoying, the mum high on “special” brownies, the annoying roommate and the know-it-all from the first one (the one played by John Turturro). Or lines like, “do you need a tighter shirt?” “There isn’t a tighter one, we looked.” Now, some of it was genuinely funny but most got overused.

Other than that it is very entertaining and the seamless integration of humans and robots using CG is something to behold. It is actually quite amazing. It’s the type of movie that movies were invented for; A blockbuster that lets your imaginations appear on screen. Between the robots, explosions and Megan Fox (every girl paints bikes like that, right?): it’ll tickle the little boy in all of us. (That didn’t sound right, and no disrespect to the recently deceased MJ. Rest In Peace.)

65%

Movie Review: The Unborn

2009-03-11T01:26:00.002+11:00

THE UNBORN
Main Players: Odette Yustman, Gary Oldman, Meagan Good, et al.
Calling the shots: David S. Goyer
Running time: 87mins
What's it about? A young woman (Yustman) fights the spirit that is slowly taking possession of her. – from imdb.com

What did I think? Welcome to our generation; a generation where horror movies go for jump scares and creepy/gross images to scare rather than with a spine-tingling plotline or tense set pieces. This movie is another in a long line of horror movies that doesn’t quite get the job done…it probably even goes beyond that, because this, really is not even worth your time and more importantly money.

Horror fans might get a kick out of the latest from Platinum Dunes, company responsible for the recent spat of remakes (such as The Texas Chainsaw Massacre), with their first original effort. Apparently kids are still creep little bastards and it is more important to get you to keep jumping out of your seats with loud, sudden noises/music rather than create a story that has any kind of coherence to it.

It is particularly disappointing given that it’s coming from David S. Goyer, who did a so-so job with some of the Blade series and a excellent job in having a had in the new Batman movies. I guess one thing doesn’t relate to the other because this is complete and utter rubbish. Some of the things are quite laughable. Are we meant to be scared when we see a dog with a mask on? Or a glove on the street?

It’s probably a good thing the cast is mainly no-names and or up-and-comers. Odette Yustman (last seen in Cloverfield) is hot, but really doesn’t need to do much but put on contacts and act scared. You see a veteran like Gary Oldman in there and you can’t help but think that he was just bored and needed his quick buck because it’s not really something you want your name against.

This is a really dumb movie. You are constantly wondering “wtf” and most of the jump scares I mentioned early are so obvious you have to not be paying attention to actually jump. If I sound bitter, it’s because I am. I don’t know what it is about horror movies, but I just like them. I know they are going to be bad, but I can never stay away. Then I wish I’d stayed away…

10%

Movie Review: W.

2009-03-08T11:58:00.003+11:00

W.
Main Players: Josh Brolin, Elizabeth Banks, James Cromwell, et al.
Calling the shots: Oliver Stone
Running time: 129mins
What's it about? A chronicle on the life and presidency of George W. Bush. - from imdb.com

What did I think? What a shame. There are so many things going for this film, it is such a shame that it is what it is. It is the most boring-interesting movie I have seen in a long time. Some of the performances are mighty impressive and other not so. We are all interested in the presidency that was Dubya, but this movie doesn’t do anything to shed any light on it.

First the good parts I suppose. Josh Brolin (possibly one of my fave actors at the moment) is spot on as Dubya. His mannerisms and speech patterns are so perfect, you forget that he’s not really Bush. He essentially looks like him, without looking like him. He is ably supported by an impressive cast, some of whom do better (Cromwell, Burstyn, Glenn, Dreyfuss, Jones, Banks) than others (Newton, Wright, Gruffudd).

The problem lies in the structure and plot. Apparently this movie was churned out really quickly, in time for the US elections last year, and because of that it seems like it came out of the oven too early. Oliver Stone’s movies are often hit and miss, but when it is something about the US, he usually has a lot to say. Not so in this one, we leave the theatre wondering what the point was.

As if to emphasis that point, all of Bush’s Bushisms are in this movie but not at times when he actually said them. We hear the “misunderestimated me” line as well as the “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice…we can’t get fooled again!” line. We also see his pretzel choking incident. But it’s almost like it’s in there for the sake of being in there. Not for the story.

That’s the other issue. We see flashbacks to his earlier days that doesn’t seem to make all that much sense in the scheme of things, except to show that he was essentially a drunken Texan. It would have been better had it come a little later, and if the movie had concentrated more on his presidency. As it is at the moment, it’s rather disappointing.

40%

Movie Review: The Reader

2009-02-27T00:06:00.002+11:00

THE READER
Main Players: Ralph Fiennes, David Kross, Kate Winslet, et al.
Calling the shots: Stephen Daldry
Running time: 124mins
What's it about? Post-WWII Germany: Nearly a decade after his affair with an older woman came to a mysterious end, law student Michael Berg (Kross/Fiennes) re-encounters his former lover as she defends herself in a war-crime trial. - from imdb.com

What did I think? As with anything else that’s overhyped or talked about too much, this movie was a bit of disappointment. So much so that, I’m not even sure that it deserved its Oscar nomination as a Best Picture or Best Director movie. Kate Winslet’s break through win was well deserved but it can also be argued that her role was that of a Supporting Actress not a Leading one.

It’s not that it’s a terrible movie. It’s far from that actually. It’s well directed and the storytelling is done fairly well. The performances or rather “the” performance of Kate Winslet is what might elevate this movie to that higher echelon. The problem is it doesn’t grab your attention like it should. The story is compelling enough; it just takes a long time to get there.

The first half of the movie is extremely draggy. It’s essentially softcore porn and slight romance between the Hanna and Michael which is important in itself, but unnecessarily overly long. It is only when we begin the trial of the war-crimes that she is accused of that it even gets interesting. Even when that arrives though, you are not as emotionally connected to either character because of what’s happened before hand.

You’re more curious about whether she actually did it and whether she is in the wrong or not. Then the movie throws you a major revelation that proves to be the movies “wow” moment. And from there it suddenly picks up steam and becomes increasingly interesting and intriguing, but it all comes too late as before you know it, it’s over.

It’s an extremely interesting subject matter and important in terms of our history, but this movie is too laggy for it to be considered a great film. First half is too slow paced, though it may be important in the scope of things, and because of it, it doesn’t get interesting until well into the second and third act. By that time, you’re pretty much over it and are basically enjoying Kate’s handy work.

50%

Movie Review: He's Just Not That Into You

2009-02-26T06:50:00.003+11:00

HE’S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU
Main Players: Ginnifer Goodwin, Justin Long, Jennifer Aniston, et al.
Calling the shots: Ken Kwapis
Running time: 129mins
What's it about? The Baltimore-set movie of interconnecting story arcs deals with the challenges of reading and misreading human behaviour. - from imdb.com

What did I think? Here’s your first contender for chick flick/romcom/date movie of the year and boy is it drawing the, mostly female, crowd. It’s not really hard to see why. It might not be the most original movie you’ll see, but it has enough moments in this film for you to enjoy; some funny, some cute and some emotional and touching.

Those that know me, know that I’m a bit girly at times and do love my chick flicks; so needless to say I did enjoy this one. The ensemble cast and interconnecting storylines work well for this movie and has a feel like Love Actually. The connections between characters are not all that surprising but the crowd seemed to think it was. They were gasping in unison and there were several “aww”s as well. There are a lot of characters and stories introduced, but it is delivered very well.

The cast is most definitely impressive. And because of the numbers involved, not all of them get their share of screen time. But each of them leave the required impression and you watch each story caring about what happens because of it. I’ve listed Ginnifer Goodwin and Justin Long first because they seemed to have the central story (and because they bothered to visit Australia) but you could argue otherwise.

The stories themselves, as mentioned, aren’t all that new. A naïve girl looking for her true love, married man tempted by a hot new encounter, a world-wise man getting his own, etc. etc. You’ll have your favourite stories and characters and that’s the beauty of this one. All of it is also very “true” apparently and makes it all the more relatable in some aspects.

In the end you might be dragged along by your significant other, or go with a group of friends, or see it because there’s nothing else, you’ll still enjoy it if you take it for what it is. As I said, it’s cute and touching at the end. If you want any more of reason to see it, it made Ben Affleck likeable. I usually hate him in movies but he’s so gosh darn hard to hate.

60%

Movie Review: The International

2009-02-26T06:15:00.003+11:00

THE INTERNATIONAL
Main Players: Clive Owen, Naomi Watts, Armin Mueller-Stahl, et al.
Calling the shots: Tom Tykwer
Running time: 118mins
What's it about? An Interpol agent (Owen) attempts to expose a high-profile financial institution’s role in an international arms dealing ring. - from imdb.com

What did I think? Sigh. This movie is like watching a family member perform in front of everyone and though they may think they are hot shit, they really aren’t. From the outset of this movie, it tries to be a Bond/Bourne type movie with international locations, a kinetic paced and intense music and some decent action but that’s all it does; tries.

The movie starts all of a sudden and at first it’s a little hard to keep track of what exactly is going on. And because it tries to be the said type of movie, it actually deters it from making any sense for a while. When it starts to flatten out become coherent enough, it begins to lag. You really do feel the full blunt of its running time and by the end if its uneventful climax, you are bored out of your mind.

As appealing as Clive Owen seems to be (he was set to be the next Bond at one stage, remember?) he is like you seem him in any other movie; nothing out of the ordinary for him here. And for those who are fans of Naomi Watts, you’ll be disappointed as you’ll have a hard time finding her on screen at all; the least work done by a leading lady and second headline name in a while I reckon.

The rest of the cast are solid without being spectacular. Most I imagine are European actors and I’ve never heard of them, so that helped a little with authenticity factor of the accents and characters.

Tom Tykwer is a very hit and miss director. When he stays within his limits or has decent material to work with (Run Lola Run and Perfume) he is great. This might be borderline; attempts to have the pace that Lola had but like I said it just deters it from the storytelling. It really is a wannabe movie. The music at certain points will remind you of a Bourne movie and they even use the same stretch of Road in Italy, as seen in the opening sequence of Quantum of Solace.

You might be inclined to see it if you are a Clive Owen fan but be warned. If you’ve seen the trailer, not only have you been deceived (because it did look good), you have also pretty much seen the entire movie.

40%

Movie Review: Doubt

2009-02-19T14:40:00.002+11:00

DOUBT
Main Players: Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams, et al.
Calling the shots: John Patrick Shanley
Running time: 104mins
What's it about? Set in 1964, Doubt centres on a nun who confronts a priest after suspecting him of abusing a black student. He denies the charges, and much of the play’s quick-fire dialogue tackles themes of religion, morality and authority. - from imdb.com

What did I think? I’m not sure I like this movie. And that could be because it felt more like a play than a movie. It’s definitely a picture that relies heavily on the performances of its cast, as the interaction between them is what drives this movie. And in that sense this movie has succeeded by casting some fantastic actors.

The movie was written for the screen and directed by the man who wrote the play itself (Shanley). You can’t help but feel that he needed to give the directing duties, at least, to an established director. As I mentioned, it feels very much like a play and it isn’t helped by the direction. Unlike Frost/Nixon which was also based on a play, there is too much emphasis on the dialogue between characters rather than each scene as a whole.

The performances are outstanding, if not all that spectacular, as each play characters that seem to come easy to them. They all definitely deserve their nominations for Oscars but I doubt any of them will win…no puns intended. Streep is in full flight bitch mode and only someone of Hoffman’s caliber can stand toe-to-toe, though at times he is outshone. Amy Adams plays the naïve young nun well and Viola Davis as the conflicted mother.

Without the performances though, the film doesn’t have much to stand on. Once the suspicion is raised, it becomes a battle between a head strong nun and a legitimately caring priest. We never truly find out if he did it or not, but that never is the issue here. The film tries to state the power of having “doubt” about anything you believe in, be that a person, religion, or otherwise.

It’s a message that gets through but you really don’t see the point of it. Appreciate this for what it is. A strong character driven play with some impressive performances and you might enjoy it. Otherwise, there’s not much to take note here. A good piece of work for all involved, but nothing they will be remembered for.

50%

Movie Review: Changeling

2009-02-19T14:15:00.002+11:00

CHANGELING
Main Players: Angelina Jolie, John Malkovich, Michael Kelly, et al.
Calling the shots: Clint Eastwood
Running time: 141mins
What's it about? A mother’s (Jolie) prayer for her kidnapped son to return home is answered, though it doesn’t take long for her to suspect the boy who came back is not hers. – from imdb.com

What did I think? It was very interesting to see two Clint Eastwood directed features so close to each other. They tell a very different tale, at a very different time, yet they both have the same unmistakable feel to them. The grainy, almost colour fade, blue wash screen that you see is almost his trademark as most of his films are about something tragic or emotional.

It is amazing how seamlessly Clint takes you back to the 20s. The decadence feel is definitely there and the backdrop, almost picture-like, is a fine touch to the unique, almost dream like setting we are brought back to.

Getting the best out of his actors is what Clint certainly does in a majority of his films. Hilary Swank, Morgan Freeman and Sean Penn have all benefited from his direction. And in this case, Angelina Jolie is fantastic as the mother who never gives up finding her son, no matter what obstacles she comes across. You can argue that it is most definitely tailor-made for her to succeed. The role is so beefy and emotion charged, it’s what every actor should thrive on.

The other actors do a fine job as well, especially Jason Butler Harner (who plays Northcott) and Jeffrey Donovan (who plays Capt. JJ Jones). These two in particular perform in such a way that it draws out the right kind of emotion from us, the audience. Northcott turns out to be a frighteningly weird character and you literally just want to slap Jones in the face. In contrast, John Malkovich, though important in his role, was completely underutilized and looked like he always wanted more things to do.

As with Clint’s previous features, this leads you in one direction and completely throws you in another with a massive plot development. It is based on a true story, but how much of it really is factual is anyone’s guess.

Regardless, if catches the outrageous 20s well and leaves you with his trademark emotional ending which is neither happy nor sad but hopeful.

60%

Movie Review: Gran Torino

2009-02-19T13:42:00.002+11:00

GRAN TORINO
Main Players: Clint Eastwood, Christopher Carley, Bee Vang, et al.
Calling the shots: Clint Eastwood
Running time: 116mins
What's it about? Disgruntled Korean War veteran Walt Kowalski (Clint Eastwood) sets out to reform his neighbour, a young Hmong teenager, who tried to steal Kowalski’s prized possession: his 1972 Gran Torino. – from imdb.com

What did I think? Leave it to Clint to get the best out of himself. In years gone by most of his films successes have come because he does such a wonderful job in them himself. He is a fantastic director with a certain feel to his movies that is undeniable, but you often forget that he is also a screen veteran with such presence on screen; he is a joy to watch.

Although for most of the film, it seems like he is just angry and growling all the time, you can’t understate that performance. He has the right balance of showing disdain for the world, the world that’s changing all the time around him, and showing his softer side when he takes Thao under his wings. He still yells insults at him, but you know there’s nothing to it.

That’s where the surprising humour of the movie exists as well. Kowalski’s continuous racially charged insults becoming increasingly funny as we know he says them much like mates bad mouthing each other. And Clint does well to deliver these lines and he doesn’t discriminate, he hates everyone.

It’s a shame then that the films weaknesses are its most important parts. The gang in comparison seems very one note and stereotypical. They aren’t Hmong gangs as much as they are Asians-in-black-clothing gangs. The young actors that try to keep up with Clint on screen at times fall terribly with Bee Vang (who played Thao) particularly terrible in one scene.

Regardless, the film is touching and particularly relevant in the multicultural world that we live in, though it might be slightly dated. It would have felt more at home, had it come about ten years earlier.

It is surprising to see that it didn’t garner many, if any, nominations or awards. Clint surely deserved it for his understated direction. As I said he brings a certain feel to it; something almost foreboding. You can definitely feel the emotional end coming but in what way? …you’ll just have to see to find out.

70%

Movie Review: Milk

2009-02-10T15:03:00.001+11:00

MILK
Main Players: Sean Penn, Emile Hirsch, Josh Brolin, et al.
Calling the shots: Gus Van Sant
Running time: 128mins
What's it about? Based on the true story of openly gay politician Harvey Milk; his life, rise in the political world and his tragic end. It’s US in the 1970’s and the discriminations against them are obvious and wide spread. Yet he remains positive and strives to rises up against all odds to stand up for the rights of all.

What did I think? In the movie industry’s silly season, these gems start popping up every where. It’s a shame that the like of this and Frost/Nixon aren’t getting the wide spread releases that they deserve because unlike other these movies are worth your time.

Again it’s based on historical events so seeing it brought to life in such a magnificent fashion adds to the films achievements. The realness we feel due to the direction and performances delivered in this film are second to none and with such an engaging story, for all its money you’d expect to be depressing, is actually uplifting and very enjoyable.

Sean Penn, I must admit, I think often overacts. He is great but sometimes he will just do that little bit too much to draw attention. Not so in this one. The mannerisms and speech patterns are near on perfect and, though I doubt he’ll win an Oscar for it, deserve all the praise. As does the rest of the cast Hirsch, Franco, Brolin all do a fantastic job with only Diego Luna being the weak-link.

Their incredible performances as emphasized at the end of the film when we see snippets of the real people the cast members were portraying and how close they had come to bring them to life. Some of it is just simply uncanny.

It does have its flaws though. They could have explored more about Harvey Milk the person and not the later parts of his career. But that would be considered a minor detail given how well constructed the rest of the film is. It’s also quite funny in some parts showing that lighter side of an otherwise hard life he lived.

Milk is probably not going to win the Oscar this year; because of both its gay-overtones and the quality of the rest of the field. However it is a movie you should definitely see. If nothing else for Sean Penn and the rest of the casts performance but it truly is an enjoyable film. And let’s face it, that’s why we go to the movies right?

80%

Movie Review: Revolutionary Road

2009-02-08T23:36:00.002+11:00

REVOLUTIONARY ROAD
Main Players: Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Michael Shannon, et al.
Calling the shots: Sam Mendes
Running time: 119mins
What's it about? A young couple living in the suburbs ‘seemingly’ living the “All-American dream”, struggle to come to terms with their personal issues and aspirations as they try to raise their family. What follows is a tragic sequence of realizations and events that change their lives forever.

What did I think? You come out of this movie feeling really numb. Not because it’s particularly boring, or bad, or enjoyable. But because it’s a movie that really doesn’t go any where and has a very depressing ending. You come out wondering, “What the fuck…”

It’s certainly a movie that relies heavily on the performances and direction.

You really have to appreciate the performances. Leo is at his dramatic best, literally wearing his emotions on his sleeves, swinging from happy to angry but also still able to be charming. Kate is also at her best, having the more difficult role of the two. She also brings the emotions out, almost underplaying it, keeping you wondering how she is really feeling. Michael Shannon is the surprise performer here, stealing all his scenes playing the ex- mental patient who shatters their world (he is also quite good in “Bug”. Check it out).

The directing is wonderful as well. The flawless execution transport you right back into the States in 50’s (not that I know what that was like). The music is somber yet appropriate for what is going. Mendes uses some lingering shots to emphasis points well and leaves you with some lasting imagines.

The problem with the movie, and a big one at that, is that other than the two leads trading blows in the form of verbal fights they continue to have, the movie does nothing. You literally see them fall in love, fight, make-up, fight, make-up, fight and so on. Then you see the dissatisfaction in their lives and actions they take because of it…it’s just not a fun movie.

I take back what I said; this movie is rather uneventful and is quite boring. Other than appreciate the masters in their craft at their best, it’s a movie you can forget. Some said it’s what would have happened if the two had survived the “Titanic”. If that’s the case, then I’m glad it sank because they would have had depressing lives.

40%

Movie Review: Role Models

2009-01-28T00:24:00.002+11:00

ROLE MODELS
Main Players: Paul Rudd, Seann William Scott, Elizabeth Banks, et al.
Calling the shots: David Wain
Running time: 99mins
What's it about? After getting in trouble with the law following a bad day, instead of serving time in jail, they are sentenced to 150hours of community service. It comes in the form of Sturdy Wings a Big Brother program. Let the fun begin.

What did I think? Absolutely hilarious! This is the stuff comedies should be made of. You get exactly what you paid for in this very formula tic but consistently funny movie.

Nothing about this movie is “new” per se. You’ve seen this movie before. So much so that you can easily see the structure of it and where it is ultimately heading. But none of that really matter because they make up for it with great heart and laugh out loud moments over and over again. There is only ever a lull in proceeding due to the expected “turmoil” that always happens but it doesn’t last long.

This mostly in part thanks to the tight plot. With all the talk about bullshit, there really is none. So the pacing of the film is good and as I said the jokes keep on coming.

It also comes in many forms. The two leads, Rudd and Scott, share great chemistry and comedic timing. Their bickering and childish fighting even seems natural and funny. Then you have the two kids, “McLovin” and the black kid, who make you laugh in their own ways (nerdish and swearing kid). You also have great supporting talent, especially in the form of Jane Lynch, as the BS talking former coke addict guidance counselor. She probably takes the cake for the best lines in the movie.

It’s not a “good” movie in the traditional sense, but it is great value for money and one of the better comedies around. If you’re out for a laugh, you won’t be disappointed. It’s like “Superbad”-lite in terms of the humour but no where near as crude…or gross.

A fresh, consistent and incredibly hilarious comedy disguised as a typical run of the mill comedy. Catch it before it finishes…or at least on DVD once it comes out.

80%

Movie Review: Valkyrie

2009-01-27T23:51:00.003+11:00

VALKYRIE
Main Players: Tom Cruise, Kenneth Branagh, Bill Nighy, et al.
Calling the shots: Bryan Singer
Running time: 120mins
What's it about? Not everyone in Germany agreed with Hitler during the Second World War. In fact, there were more than 20 known attempts on his life from within. This is the story about the last attempt. We know what happens, but at least they tried.

What did I think? More than anything else, this is a very interesting movie in terms of its story line. History buffs will lap it up. Unfortunately for the movie, it never out does its subject matter making this movie more intriguing rather than great…or even (barely) good.

I can’t emphasis the story enough. It really is fascinating. We all knew the world hated Hitler, but to know it came so close to ending for him from within is truly amazing. At least not all of Germany agreed with his ways and that’s probably a stereotype and hence why they are so apologetic about the past. It’s a shame then, that this movie didn’t have the feel, the “umph” that films like this should have.

It all comes down to two things: the casting and the directing.

The cast, asides from Tom Cruise, is a powerhouse British cast if ever I saw one. Cruise is in a controlled acting mode here but you can’t help but feel as though he wants to break out, Tom Cruise-Style! He probably couldn’t have a better supporting cast around him, with everyone playing their roles well. But why the British cast playing Germans? They’ve completely ditched the concept of accents, and rather than speaking in a German accent, or even in a neutral one, they speak in a British one. That kind of threw me off. They also start with Cruise speaking in German but quickly ditch it for American English.

As much as I love Bryan Singers work, this isn’t his type of movie. He creates a stylish, well presented Hollywood blockbuster but nothing more. You can’t help but feel that in better hands, we’d be talking about Oscars for this thing. Say…if Spielberg directed it (not that he’d ever direct a movie about the Nazis).

As the movie rolls on, you can forgive the accents and enjoy the tense thriller-aspect of the movie. We all know the outcome, but it doesn’t make it any less compelling. It just won’t leave you as satisfied as it should.

60%

Movie Review: Bride Wars

2009-01-21T18:06:00.001+11:00

BRIDE WARS
Main Players: Kate Hudson, Anne Hathaway, Candice Bergen, et al.
Calling the shots: Gary Winick
Running time: 94mins
What's it about? Two best friends, Liv and Emma, who are both set to get married, book the town’s best wedding planner. Unfortunately, their weddings are booked on the same day, at the same time, at the same place. Neither is willing to sacrifice their day for the other. Let the war begin.

What did I think? Anyone who knows me well knows that I like my fair share of romcoms and chick flicks. I can even take them romantic dramas and tear-jerkers. But this…this is just pure rubbish. And it is somewhat of a shame because both Hudson and Hathaway are appealing in normal circumstances.

Where to start…a movie like this really is made for chicks. Yet in usual chick flick fair, there is at least some appeal for the blokes that get dragged into it. Whether it be: attractive leads (check) or a decent amount of laughs that they can relate to (big fat cross) or is even slightly funny (a bigger fat cross). This has zero appeal and therefore quickly became a very painful experience.

Hudson and Hathaway are as advertised. Both a beautiful and they can both carry a movie. They do the very best that they can with what they have to work with in terms of the plot, because it isn’t very good. Candice Bergen (from TV’s Boston Legal) is on cruise control, doing not much at all. And there’s hardly anyone else in this movie of note.

The other thing is that, all the male characters look the same. And asides from the three main blokes, the others all seemed gay…but that could just be my boredom playing up.

The plot tries to keep it interesting with some plot turns and character developments, which if anything, seem completely out of place and totally misguided. It needed to end somehow and what they came up with is a bit of a muddled mess.

There are a few moments that show some potential but that is very short lived and returns to its true self, a complete dribble. I initially thought this movie would do well, but after having sat through it (I wanted to see Role Models dammit, but I was out voted), I’d be surprised if this even hits the top three range. See it at your own peril.

20%

Movie Review: The Wrestler

2009-01-21T01:33:00.002+11:00

THE WRESTLER
Main Players: Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, Evan Rachel Wood, et al.
Calling the shots: Darren Aronofsky
Running time: 115mins
What's it about? Randy “The Ram” Robinson is washed up. He has passed his “best before” date and wrestles on weekends to (barely) make ends meet. When health issues become a factor, he must choose between making amends with the people in his life and living life, or go for the ultimate glory in one final bout.

What did I think? Please welcome, from the depth of obscurity and time wasted on misguided pursuits, Mickey Rourke! Last seen in “Sin City” (which was good) but pretty much in acting purgatory before that, he has well and truly returned in grand fashion and has a Gold Globe to prove it.

The movie itself is not out of the ordinary. Actually, if anything, it’s a fairly standard drama that is rather depressing if you think about Randy’s missed opportunities and errors of his ways. Just when things start looking good for him, he blows it by falling back into bad habits and then is unable to get out again. You really can’t blame him for the decisions he makes and is all the more sympathetic for it.

Mickey’s performance though will quite literally blow you away. He certainly looks the part (of a wrestler), but it’s the emotion he brings to the screen. He is a beaten down piece of meat and he knows it (he wears hearing aids when he’s not wrestling for Christ sake). When he makes his final speech (apparently self penned) it’s almost like his talking about himself and it is very heartfelt.

The film is also made very stylishly. Almost like a documentary/behind the scenes type effect. It shows complete appreciation for the sport of pro wrestling and any wrestling fan will appreciate the detail and honesty that is brought to the screen (see things like the comradely in the locker room, the blading techniques, etc.) but it never overshadows the movie itself.

The other two actors of note, Tomei and Wood are also quite fantastic. Tomei playing a stripper and possibly he’s only friend, literally bares all and is a constant support. Wood, playing the estranged daughter is equal parts angry and longing for that father figure.

It’s not a happy film. But it’s a film you can most definitely enjoy; from the opening scene to the emotion-filled end. You’ll be in for a ride.

80%

Movie Review: Bedtime Stories

2009-01-15T15:13:00.001+11:00

BEDTIME STORIES
Main Players: Adam Sandler, Keri Russell, Russell Brand, et al.
Calling the shots: Adam Shankman
Running time: 99mins
What's it about? Skeeter’s grown up in the hotel business. He is a maintenance man but dreams of being more. When he has to look after his nephew and niece for the week, he tells them bedtime stories that, as strange as they are, begin coming true. He tries to manipulate the stories to his benefit with funny consequences.

What did I think? He mentioned on Letterman that he wanted to make a film that his children could watch and it’s safe to say Adam Sandler has succeeded in doing that. It’s not going to blow anyone out of the water but it’s a most fun and enjoyable family film.

It has an amazing premise. The stuff you literally dream about as a child. What you make up starts coming true, how awesome is that?! They use that to full effect and the creative juices continue to flow. Mind you, they use every cliché in the book (medieval, cowboy, space) but it will definitely entertain kids and parents a like.

The list of actors is great. Adam Sandler does a toned down version of himself but still feels comfortable enough. Russell Brand is hilarious as his best friend. The random outburst and the general weirdness he has will have you laughing each time he is on screen. Guy Pearce and Lucy Lawless play the villainous roles, and you can’t help but wonder what Pearce is doing in a film like this but he does a decent job. Rob Schneider also makes his usual “you can do it” type-cameo.

It’s also entertaining to see the various actors in the various roles, depending on the fantasy sequence and if they look at all uncomfortable, at least they look like they are having fun doing it.

I’ve grown out of kids/family movies (so I keep telling myself, but not animations. Never animations…) but this is quite fun and entertaining. It’s definitely funny enough and will only slightly bore you. Bugsy summarises the movie well, cute and amusing but by the end you’re glad it’s over.

Mainly for Sandler fans and those kids inside us; it’s not particularly good but not a complete waste either.

60%

Movie Review: Frost/Nixon

2009-01-12T00:30:00.002+11:00

FROST/NIXON
Main Players: Frank Langella, Michael Sheen, Sam Rockwell, et al.
Calling the shots: Ron Howard
Running time: 122mins
What's it about? After the Watergate scandal that forced President Nixon to resign, the whole of America (and the world) was waiting for an explanation; the truth. It never came. British TV presenter, David Frost gets an interview with the former president to see if he can get the answer the people so desperately want.

What did I think? I know the year is still young but here is the first best movie for 2009! I expect this movie to rake in some awards come this award season and it will be worthy of it.

You hear the premise (two guys talking) and it doesn’t seem all that thrilling. Trust me when I tell you, this is so much more than that. Though the inevitable face-off is what you’re waiting to see, everything around the interview (the lead-up, aftermath) plays just a vital and integral part of the film. If you are even slightly interested in one of the biggest events in our history this is a must see.

Mind you, that doesn’t mean you need to know what ‘Watergate’ actually means. There is enough background and you’ll get the gist of the situation.

The movie itself is almost flawless. Top-to-bottom, it is made so well you have to appreciate Ron Howard and the job his done here. Adapted from a stage play, the dialogue and plot is always engaging. There’s also a nice even flow to proceedings meaning it never lags and there is a lot of surprising humour amongst the drama, ensuring you are never bored.

Langella (nominated for a Golden Globe) embodies Nixon completely. Though not looking like him, he definitely plays the part. Sheen, Rockwell, Platt, Bacon, the list of talent roles on. There is no one that lets this film down and it is made all the more impressive with the fact that they are playing real life characters.

The film has almost a “making of” feel to it; with interviews with the characters thrown in to enhance the narrative. As I mentioned earlier though the interview itself is the main event and as it is described in the movie, it’s almost like a boxing match, the two combatants trading blows.

This movie is sure to leave a lasting impression as Nixon’s amazing revelation does. You’ll need to go on a hunt but it’d be a crying shame to miss this movie.

100%

Movie Review: Yes Man

2009-01-11T10:43:00.002+11:00

YES MAN
Main Players: Jim Carrey, Zooey Deschanel, Bradley Cooper, et al.
Calling the shots: Peyton Reed
Running time: 104mins
What's it about? Simple, really. Carl plays life safe by saying “no” to almost every opportunity given to him. He is persuaded to attend an almost cult-like seminar, where saying “yes” is to live your life. He decides to give it a go with some funny outcomes and surprising results but as all comedies go, it starts to bite him back.

What did I think? This is vintage Jim Carrey. It’s almost has a nostalgic feel. His last physical comedy effort came in 05 with “Fun with Dick and Jane”, so it’s been a long time between drinks and it’s good to see a man do what he does best.

Obviously though, there’s a problem that lies there as well. As inspired as the initial idea for the movie is (a no man becomes a yes man) the movie falls back into the trap of becoming a very familiar, a much repeated, formulaic comedy; relying heavily on Carrey’s rubbery face and physical craziness to create the laughs, rather than the funny situations that it starts out with.

Having said that though, there are plenty of laughs to be had and at its very best, it’s absolutely hilarious (Deschanel’s band’s lyrics are hilarious). But the turning point half way through the movie feels very forced and because of that it loses the momentum it had created.

It has a fantastic cast of comedic actors. Rhys Darby steals most of his scenes as his nerdy boss; John Michael Higgins does his usual obsessed/crazed act, “That 70’s Show” alum Danny Masterson essentially plays Hyde. It’s also good to see Bradley Cooper in a non-asshole role and Zooey Deschanel is, as usual, her kooky, adorable self. Terence Stamp is awesome as the cult leader and seems to be having fun playing it manically.

There is a lot going for this movie. And it’s almost a step away from becoming something special. If only the Hollywood honchos weren’t so afraid to let it loose. Instead you get a re-cycled comedy that is, as funny as it is, very tired and very, very safe.

It is worthy of your time if you want to laugh but not much else; enjoyable enough without doing much else for you.

60%

Movie Review: Seven Pounds

2009-01-10T13:24:00.002+11:00

SEVEN POUNDS
Main Players: Will Smith, Rosario Dawson, Woody Harrelson, et al.
Calling the shots: Gabriele Muccino
Running time: 123mins
What's it about? An IRS agent with a tragic past and a fateful secret is on an extraordinary journey of redemption by forever changing the lives seven random strangers, who are all decent people in unfortunate circumstances.

What did I think? To give away any more of the plot will give away the movie so a short and sweet description this time. And much like the trailer, the first half of the movie is just as ambiguous and mysterious as it can get.

This movie is literally like a really good poker player. It plays its cards really close to its chest and you can’t tell what is really going on until it decides to show its hand. The beauty of it though, is that with its performances and direction, the intrigue is definitely there and you may not know what is going on exactly, but you know it’s big and so you’re dying to find out.

Everything leading up to the climax is built up and constructed so well, that once all is finally revealed, it is done so spectacularly well. It is both very touchingly and very satisfyingly.

Hollywood’s ‘Mr. Money-in-the-Bank’ Smith is back on his drama ground here, re-teaming with his “Pursuit of Happyness” director, he at times feels awkward but settles right in as the movie goes on. The supporting cast do a marvelous job also, particularly Rosario Dawson (her second time with Smith), who I’ve never seen in a better role than this. Woody and Barry Pepper also bring some experience and emotion to their roles as required.

Regular movie goers be warned. It’s not your typical movie. As I mentioned, in the first half of the movie not a whole lot is revealed. Like a 5000 piece jigsaw, the picture comes clearer slowly. Stay focused and you’ll enjoy the breakthrough. There is enough intrigue to keep you interested…I hope.

For those playing at home; yes, Will gets topless. Yes, he has a shower scene. And yes, he runs a lot. Three things he seems to always do in his movies lately.

It’s a step in a completely different direction from “Hancock” but it’s a good step. Stick with this movie to the end and it’s sure to reward you. I’m a Will Smith fan (but who isn’t?) so I may be slightly biased but I enjoyed this film.

80%

Movie Review: Marley & Me

2009-01-09T08:08:00.005+11:00

MARLEY & ME

Main Players: Owen Wilson, Jennifer Aniston, Eric Dane, et al.

Calling the shots: David Frankel

Running time: 120mins

What's it about? John and Jen has just gotten married. They've just moved into their first home and both have comfy jobs (if it's not doing exactly what they would like). They are ready for the next step, but before children, they decide to get a pup. Little do they know, they are about to pick up a "clearance puppy" that will change their lives forever. Cue the laughter, love and the inevitable.

What did I think? This one is a little hit and miss for my liking. I've revealed that I'm a big kid at heart. But I also enjoy my fair share of rom-coms and just romantic dribble in general (who didn't ball their eyes out in "The Notebook", c'mon!).

It's a more mature romantic/comedy/drama and it's not funny enough for an Owen Wilson movie and too tear-jerky for a Jennifer Aniston movie. Irony is, as sad as the ending is, you are given plenty of time to prepare for it because you know it's coming.

Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston do share a nice chemistry and it's part of the reason this movie is watchable. Fans of either won't be too disappointed with their efforts unless you are particularly after the stereotypes I mentioned before. They are well supported by some strong actors, non bigger than Alan Arkin who continues his dive into comedies (more or less) with success. Eric Dane is also good as the guy Owen Wilson's character "could have been" and dog trainer Kathleen Turner literally steal the scene with her (now) "plus-size" frame.

But the real stars of the movie are the dogs (I've been told 22 of them) that play the role of Marley. Incredibly adorably cute as a pup, huge and destructive but also caring as a full grown and old and ready to go later on. Marley literally is the heart of the movie and it's often his antics that will make you laugh, smile and cry through out the movie. He literally is the world's worst dog you'll ever love.

The movie does drag in parts. With a massive running time for this kind of movie, it almost out stays it's welcome. But thankfully, for the most part it's well handle by all involved.

#1 with a bullet in the US, it's unlikely it'll repeat that kind of success in Australia but it's a safe movie to take your date to...or your dog.

50%

Movie Review: Bolt

2009-01-07T08:09:00.002+11:00

BOLT
Main Players: (voices of) John Travolta, Miley Cyrus, Susie Essman, et al.
Calling the shots: Byron Howard & Chris Williams
Running time: 96mins
What's it about? Raised on a TV set, Bolt thinks everything he does on TV he can actually do. When his owner Penny is kidnapped on the show, Bolt escapes from the studios to save her. He soon learns the rough ways of the real world and instead learns to be a normal dog. With the help of a streetwise cat and a manic fan hamster, he makes his way home.

What did I think? I’ve said recently that I love my animations, so this one was a no brainer for me to see. Unfortunately I didn’t see it in 3D (I still want to, so let me know if anyone wants to) because in 3D it probably would have been better.

As enjoyable as this was, it was a little disappointing to find that the laughs weren’t as consistent. From the trailers, I expected it to be funny all the way through and though the funny moments are hilarious, they were too far in between for my liking. It instead settled comfortably into the usual family-oriented entertainment that Disney can now produce with their eyes closed.

Having said that, it starts with a BANG! The opening sequence of the actual show within-the-movie is incredibly exciting. It’d be a show I’d definitely watch. So compared to this explosive start, the rest of the movie feels a little slower but as I mentioned before is a well told story much in the vain of ‘The Incredibles’.

They have also perfected the art of cuteness. Little Bolt is absolutely adorable and when he learns to be a dog by doing the “puppy-dog eyes” it is cute and funny at the same time. The animation itself is incredible and attention to detail is insane. See the way the pigeons talk and move; it’s spotless.

John Travolta does well as the voice of Bolt as does the rest of the cast, who are all cast perfectly. Though Miley is probably a little underutilized, except for the obvious song that she is probably forced to sing for the soundtrack. The hamster probably steals most of the movie, though most of his funny lines are given away in the trailer.

It’s a safe crowd pleaser that doesn’t try to do anything it can’t. So as a side effect, it won’t blow you away but will entertain you like only Disney animations can and you will also walk away being a fan of BOLT!

60%

Movie Review: The Day the Earth Stood Still

2008-12-30T03:27:00.005+11:00

THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL
Main Players: Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Connelly, Kathy Bates, et al.
Calling the shots: Scott Derrickson
Running time: 103mins
What's it about? An alien in the form of Keanu Reeves arrives on Earth with a robot named G.O.R.T. Is this an invasion or a warning of some kind? It becomes apparent that he is here to exterminate us for the way we treat the Earth. Enter scientist Jennifer Connelly to try and convince him that “we can change”. Blah!

What did I think? Okay, okay, so even the plot sounds terrible. But the trailer looked good, alright? Oh how terribly misguiding it was as; ladies and gentlemen! Here lies quite possible the worst movie you are ever likely to see.

Where to start; asides from the flimsy plot, the flow of the film is completely non-existent. Usually films will have its ups and downs. A big action scene might bring the excitement. Then it might tail off and be lifted again when the emotions run high with a dramatic scene. This has none of that! It’s the most monotone film you will see. It’s like a car that’s never able to get out of first gear. It feels like the film ends with out anything REALLY happening. Sure there are things on the screen, but there’s no emotion.

The performances are just as bland. Keanu Reeves does his usual expressionless schtick (which the roll probably calls for) but his face literally doesn’t change until he is forced to squint because wind blows in his face. Jaden Smith, who was so adorable and cute in ‘Pursuit of Happyness’ is just completely annoying and Jennifer Connelly phones it in like she’d rather be somewhere else (and who’d blame her?).

The only thing that was mildly amusing was the special effects. Watching a truck and a stadium disintergrate is about all the excitement there is. The rest is essentially dumb characters and worse dialogue; with splatters of unnecessary product placement, pointless biblical references and a “go green” message.

Two things happened that rarely happens to me: a). I almost fell asleep (and it was from fatigue) and b). I was ready to walk out about twenty minutes into the film. If that’s not saying something, I don’t know what is. Seriously, the only things I enjoyed were: my Raspberry choc top (mmmmmm) and when the lights came on. Avoid this like the plague! (And THAT is not a biblical reference!)

5% (it gets credit for even making it to the big screen)

Movie Review: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

2008-12-30T02:56:00.002+11:00

THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON
Main Players: Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Taraji P. Henson, et al.
Calling the shots: David Fincher
Running time: 159mins
What's it about? Born as an 80 year-old baby, Benjamin is abandoned on the doorsteps of a nursing home in the heart of New Orleans. However, to everyone’s surprise, as he ages, he in fact grows more youthful. We follow his most unusual and extraordinary journey of life, love and loss, and learn that’s it’s “the moments” that count.

What did I think? So much buzz and so much hype about this movie as the award season officially rolls in. Nominated for 5 Golden Globe awards (including best picture, director and actor), Benjamin Button is a flawed but overall amazing film.

This movie is just simply put, brilliantly made. David Fincher needs to be commended. The tone is already set even before the title comes up. The effects in this film are incredible. Making days gone by seem natural but at the same time bringing that nostalgic feel to it. The imagery is incredible. As is the make up used to age (or de-age) the characters are almost flawless (though Brad Pitt does a little “plastic” at one stage).

The performances are also impressive. Led by an always underrated Pitt (working with Fincher for the third time) and the super reliable Blanchett, they seem to share great chemistry which elevate their performances that much further. Didn’t think Pitt deserved a nomination, but if he deserved one, so did Blanchett. The supporting cast is just as impressive as they bring the required emotion to each and every scene.

In comparison its flaws will seem like an after thought. The film does at times feel overly long and draggy. Benjamin’s “curious case” is never REALLY explained (asides from a connection to a clock that ticks backwards) and seems to just be “accepted” by everyone he meets. As in what’s happening to him IS INCREDIBLE! But nobody cares.

Going into this movie, I was worried about how they end it. I am happy to report that it does reach a very worthy, heartfelt and somewhat sad ending that wraps the film up very well. It’s not something that will blow your mind, but it is filmmaking at its best and one to keep an eye out for come Oscar time.

70%

Movie Review: Slumdog Millionaire

2008-12-23T21:26:00.002+11:00

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE
Main Players: Dev Patel, Freida Pinto, Anil Kapoor, et al.
Calling the shots: Danny Boyle (with co-director: India) Loveleen Tandan
Running time: 120mins
What's it about? Jamal is on the brink of a fairytale. He is on the last question of India’s version of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire”. When the show wraps for the night, he is kidnapped and interrogated on suspicion of cheating. As the questioning begins it slowly becomes apparent that this boy from the slums might be destined to win it all.

What did I think? Such a pity that films like this will never get the recognition that it requires. Well, maybe except during award season but it won’t make much at the box office. But it’s not all about the money…right?

The film is masterfully crafted (feels like I use that phrase a lot). The look of the movie is fantastic and it flows well. In lesser hands, the jumping timeline could have become a confusing and muddled mess, but under the guidance of Danny Boyle there’s no such issue. It is quite different from his other works (‘28 Days Later…’, ‘Trainspotting’) in theme but definitely the same style.

The relative unknown cast (correct me if I’m wrong, they are unknowns to me), do a marvelous job. They make complex characters seem everyday and somewhat relatable. You want him to win in the end because, gosh darn it, he deserves it.

It’s not completely without its flaws. The movie lacks a real “wow” moment. Even in its climatic moments, it lacks a certain “snap” and it’s almost rather confusing and pointless. The soundtrack also as good as it is, at times feels inappropriate and rather random. They also completely overplay the “fate/destiny” hand, so if that type of things doesn’t tickle your fancy, it might rub you the wrong way (that whole sentence sounded wrong).

It’s an enjoyable arthouse film. One of those movies you are unlikely to see again but it’s definitely worth your time. It’s thought provoking and makes you want to believe in destiny and fate. A hidden gem; in amongst the rubbish that gets released these days.

70%

Movie Review: Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa

2008-12-16T00:02:00.002+11:00

MADAGASCAR: ESCAPE 2 AFRICA
Main Players: Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, Jada Pinkett Smith, et al.
Calling the shots: Eric Darnell & Tom McGrath
Running time: 89mins
What's it about? Picking up pretty much right off from the original, our favourite castaways are about to make their way home; by sling-shot plane. As the title suggests they don’t quite make it back to their home, by they do crash land in their “home”...if you catch my drift. Let the laughter and discovery of their roots and friendships begin.

What did I think? I love my animations. Call me a big kid, but I always look forward to them. I am therefore vindicated when they turn out to be as good as this and it’s rare for a film these days, but I think it out does its predecessor.

Two major things work for this film. The entire original cast is back. Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, Jada Pinkett Smith and David Schwimmer all reprise their roles and that kind of thing is always a blessing for a sequel. With the addition of some other strong voice talents (Alec Baldwin and the late Bernie Mac) it brings a certain fun to the film.

The second is the fact that not all the jokes are lame or rely completely on slap-stick as most “family” films tend to do. A lot of the jokes are actually quite mature/smart and it gets just as much airtime as the, afore mentioned, slap-stick humour. So it satisfies both adults and kids alike and it’s probably fair to say, my friends and I laughed the loudest in the cinema.

There is literally so much to enjoy in this film. The penguins, the monkeys, the shark, Mort and King Julian constantly provide the laughs. It sounds like I’m running of a list of animals but they are much funnier than the main characters. The annoying characters are actually the humans in the film, particular the old-lady who kind of out stays her welcome.

As enjoyable as the original was, this one improves on it by leaps and bounds. Better animation, better characters, better everything! So take your kids, cousins, nieces, nephews, friends or whoever you need to take. It’ll definitely be worth it.

70%

Movie Review: Four Holidays

2008-12-12T21:42:00.002+11:00

FOUR CHRISTMASES (FOUR HOLIDAYS)
Main Players: Vince Vaughan, Reese Witherspoon, Robert Duvall, et al.
Calling the shots: Seth Gordon
Running time: 88mins
What's it about? A very dysfunctional couple, who've been avoiding seeing their families on Christmas get caught on camera, stranded at the airport. In comes the phone calls and before you know it, they agree to spend Christmas with their families. ALL FOUR OF THEM. Cue the laughs and the discovery of the strength of their relationship. And blah, blah, blah...

What did I think? As you can probably tell already by my tone (or not) this movie is very very average. Nothing about it is all that new and because of that, it fails to really leave an impression. One thing that really makes you wonder is why they even bothered to change the title for the Australian release...

Another problem is that it is absolutely predictable. The visits to the individual families are funny in parts but with each visit, it becomes less and less funny and by the end of it, it's almost like the filmmakers had lost interest as well; with the last visit not even raising a laugh. Along the way it gets distracted by a stock-standard plot turn about: what do they really know about each other? Is there a future? etc. etc. The usual stuff.

Thankfully, because of it running out of gas it has a mercifully short running time. The other impressive aspect is it's incredible supporting cast. The parents are literally played by who's who of veteran actors. Robert Duvall, Mary Steenburgen, Sissy Spacek and Jon Voight; all take turns in trying to make us laugh. Though like I said, by the time Jon Voight shows up it's not very funny.

Vince Vaughan tries to do his usual schtick, and for a while it works. But then it seems like he just talks and talks and becomes quite annoying. Reese is quite enjoyable because she's done so many of these but together, they seem to lack a certain chemistry.

This movie does have a very "holiday" feel to it and it's no wonder it's out-done Twilight, Quantum, Australia and HSM3 in the states. With the stars involved it has wide appeal. It's a pity it doesn't have much else.

30%

Movie Review: Australia

2008-12-06T20:43:00.003+11:00

AUSTRALIA
Main Players: Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman, David Wenham, et al.
Calling the shots: Baz Luhrmann
Running time: 165mins
What's it about? In the Northern Territory just as WW2 had begun, Lady Ashley arrives from England to take over her husband’s cattle property. With the help of the Drover and a half-caste boy, she soon falls for the way of the Australian life and brings the property back to prosperity. Drama and tragedy promises to follow.

What did I think? Can I just say that my arse is fine and I didn’t even take a toilet break. That’s for those naysayers who say the movie is too long etc, etc. It is a long movie, but it is made so well you can overlook it.

It is better though if you can appreciate the “over-the-top”-ness and the melodrama involved rather than laugh or mock it. The acting is often borderline corny and a lot of the lines delivered with exaggerated accents (Aussie or otherwise). The lavish background looks majestic but definitely computerized and the set pieces are often dramatized for full effect (see the Kangaroo and Stampede scenes). The result is a fantastic combination of drama, comedy, love, tragedy and emotion.

There is a certain grandness to proceedings. And as I mentioned early the story will grab your attention and the time will pass quicker than you think. Luhrmann also handles every aspect of it with respect and shows love for his home country.

It literally stars a who’s who of Aussie male actors. They are all cast pretty well. Hugh Jackman earns his sexiest men alive tag in this film and it is quite possibly Nicole Kidman’s best role. Brandon Walters who plays Nullah, the half-caste boy, is wonderful and his is quite adorable as well. David Wenham plays against type and does it well.

This movie has completely bombed in the states and it’s not hard to see why. It hasn’t got the wide spreading appeal that will attract audiences. Instead it’s more like a beautiful and wonderfully crafted tribute to the country will all call home. Australia.

70%

Movie Review: Quarantine

2008-12-04T08:26:00.005+11:00

QUARANTINE

Main Players: Jennifer Carpenter, Steve Harris, Jay Hernandez, et al.

Calling the shots: John Erick Dowdle

Running time: 89mins

What's it about? A TV crew following the night shift of a couple of Fire Fighters get when they bargained for when they follow the duo to a call. Without warning they are trapped within the building from the outside by government officials and are confronted with a building full of residents on edge and a mysterious symptom that begins to spread.

What did I think? The format of the film; first person, shaky camera, home-video style, that we've already seen this year in 'Cloverfield' works much better for a horror movie like this and it shows why. You feel the panic, the helpless-ness and it's bloody full on.

The plot is nothing new, a virus that spreads making people into aggressive zombie-like creatures. But it's still one of the better horror movies out there. I guess that's not much of a consolation with the junk out there nowadays. Still it is very watchable and it's intense. The start drags a little, the happening at the fire station is rather boring and you with they'd just get on with it. It does build the characters well though and the fact that they've no idea about the night they are about to have.

The relative unknown cast work for this. If you see a Zac Ehron or a Jessica Alba on screen you'd almost groan. They beautiful people to look at, maybe, but it would take the effect out from the whole movie. But digress. Following 'Hostel', I guess Jay Hernandez has a taste for horrors. He does his usual shtick. Everyone else is good because they don't stand out in anyway, they just play their roles. Jennifer Carpenter though, gets on your nerves. You almost hope a character slaps some sense into her. Though given the situation the hysteria is justified.

I heard the chatter during the film and people were complaining about the movie being in-and-out of focus and the shaky-ness. Dude, I guess you guys just missed the point of the movie. The climactic "night-vision" scene is very tense, harks back to 'The Silence of the Lambs'.

Incidentally, this is apparently a carbon-copy remake of the Spanish horror movie '[REC]'. Haven't seen it yet but I'm curious to find out why they bothered.

So, check it out if you're a horror fan but if you're not and you hated the likes of 'Cloverfield' or 'Blair Witch...' or anything zombie related, stay away.

60%

Movie Review: Sex Drive

2008-11-27T20:30:00.003+11:00

SEX DRIVE
Main Players: Josh Zuckerman, Amanda Crew, Clark Duke, et al.
Calling the shots: Sean Anders
Running time: 109mins
What's it about? A teenager meets a chick online. He is promised his wildest desires if he can drive cross country and reach her in time. So, with his two best friends in tow, he steals his jerk of a brother's car and sets out on his journey to lose his virginity, once and for all. Que the hilarious escapades of a horny teenager.

What did I think? It's a big welcome back to the days of 'American Pie'. What was once a dead genre, replaced nowadays by more smarter, mature comedies (such as 'Superbad', etc.), is back in full force with this one.

If you're anything like me or aged anywhere close to me you'll be groaning through out this film. It literally makes you feel "too old for this shit". That's not to say, it's a total lost cause. There are moments of hilarity but it seems a lot less mature and you're almost embarassed for laughing along with it. The more subtle scenes are absolutely funny (see the Armish folk, led by Seth Green).

The mostly unknown cast do a decent job with the material but then again, it wouldn't have been that hard. James Marsden plays against type as the jerk/jock brother and he is actually pretty funny. Seth Green as I mentioned before is great with his sarcasm/non-sarcasm act, you can never really tell with what his saying. There are some other veteran actors lending a hand and probably making it more watchable.

It's a completely dumb movie. But that's what it's meant to be. It does pretty well on the laughter factor, but it is clearly targeted at a particular age group and it shows it.

40%

Movie Review: Quantum of Solace

2008-11-26T08:30:00.003+11:00

QUANTUM OF SOLACE
Main Players: Daniel Craig, Olga Kurylenko, Mathieu Amalric, et al.
Calling the shots: Marc Forster
Running time: 106mins
What's it about? James Bond is back! Picking up right where it left off in ‘Casino Royale’, a grief-stricken and vengeful Bond is on the hunt for the organization behind the death of his love. The man to catch Bond’s attention is Dominic Greene, an environmentalist with sinister plans to take control of a country’s water supply.

What did I think? Before anything happens in this movie, the hype (and how much you care) will determine how much you enjoy this movie. Having said that; my first reaction coming out was one of disappointment. But then you let it sink in and you can really appreciate the movie for what it is.

Gone are the days of previous Bond films when it seemed to take the piss and it was more or less a fun vanity movie. Ever since Daniel Craig has taken over in ‘Casino Royale’, it has become more serious and “real”, so to speak. This one is no different. It might not be quite as action-packed as the first, but it is definitely more brutal and intense. It reminded me of “Bourne Ultimatum” in terms of its feel and action.

There are some dramatic scenes that are handled well and therefore doesn’t at all feel out of place. The credit has to go the director, who’s most recent movie before this was ‘The Kite Runner’.

After being voted the best Bond ever, Daniel Craig plays Bond like the gritty action hero that he should be. Olga Kurylenko, not your typical Bond girl, brings a strong fiery presence to the screen. What’s better is that both are hot! Mathieu Amalric, plays the villain as best he can with what he is given (which is not much, possibly the most unremarkable villain ever).

It has points taken off for not including the famous “Bond, James Bond” line and the gun shot to the screen sequence which is relegated to the end. For Bond fans it’s a must, but for those that aren’t it’s still a very good action movie.

80%

Movie Review: Mirrors

2008-11-19T09:50:00.003+11:00

MIRRORS
Main Players: Kiefer Sutherland, Paula Patton, Amy Smart, et al.
Calling the shots: Alexandre Aja
Running time: 110mins
What's it about? A cop forced into retirement after a mishap, takes a job as a night watchman at an abandoned and burned down department store. He soon realizes that the mirrors in the department store aren’t what they seem and his predecessors have all died because of them. Can he reveal the true behind the mirrors before it’s too late for him and his family?

What did I think? Hollywood has a habit of churning out Asian horror remakes and often not very good ones. Having said that, this remake of a Korean horror movie is not bad, if not particularly good either.

I suppose that’s not saying much because personally, I haven’t seen the original so I have nothing to base my opinions. But with Alexandre Aja (‘The Hills Have Eyes’, ‘High Tension’) behind the lens you are at least guaranteed some horror violence, and in that regard he won’t disappoint. It’s not as violent as his previous films, but the violence is definitely there. Turn away if you’re squeamish in the opening scene and Amy Smart’s bathroom scene (sounds like a contradiction but trust me).

The other surprising aspect of this is that the reason behind the happening is not like your usual Asian horror (a bit vague, but don’t want to give it away). It also has some decent chills and might make you think twice before staring too long into a mirror again. It does become a bit of an action movie in the final act, but it is handled fairly well.

It’s hard to see Kiefer Sutherland out of his “Jack Bauer” character but he does just what he needs to, as does the rest of the cast, and the child actors proving to be the creepiest as always.

The ending you’ll see coming but it isn’t any less creepy and it is well executed that you’ll probably appreciate it. Not the best horror but for a remake it’s passable.

50%

Movie Review: Lemon Tree

2008-11-14T14:03:00.002+11:00

ETZ LIMON (LEMON TREE)
Main players: Hiam Abbass, Ali Suliman, Rona Lipaz-Michael, et al.
Calling the shots: Eran Riklis
Running time: 106mins
What's it about? When the defence minister moves in next door and is advised that the lemon grove owed by a widow is a security risk, she must do what ever it takes to protect the lemon grove, that has been in her family for generations, from being chopped down. With the help of a local lawyer she goes up against the government to stand up for her rights and her lemon grove.

What did I think? Based on a true story, this has more of a political agenda then I would have liked, but it still is a well made drama. The emotion of the situation is present through out the film and it also touches on other issues, such as the forbidden love-relationship between the widow and her lawyer, and the overall pointless-ness of it all.

There is also an unspoken bond between the two female leads. The widow and the defence minister's wife (who sympathises with her). They never have a conversation in the movie, but the connection is as strong as anything else and the credit there has to go to the actors. They all seem to invest emotionally into their roles and it shows with each performance as great as the next.

Story wise, it moves along quite smoothly. No particular peaks or troughs. Some of the subplots are well handled (the love-relationship) but at certain points poorly handled. The light that shines on them as they share a forbidden kiss is all too tacky. The message would have been loud and clear with out it.

It's not a great film but it is good. The ending is rather sad and finishes with a lingering image that speaks volumes about the real life situation in that area.

60%

Movie Review: The Grocer's Son

2008-11-14T07:25:00.002+11:00

LE FILS DE L'ÉPICIER (THE GROCER'S SON)

Main Players: Nicolas Cazalé, Clotilde Hesme, Daniel Duval, et al

Calling the shots: Eric Guirado

Running time: 96mins

What's it about? A thirty-something son of a grocer, struggling with life and stuck in a dead-end job, reluctantly returns to his home-country town to help run his parents' Grocery store after his father has a heart attack. With his friend (and potential love-interest) in tow, the town he left becomes his oasis and he rediscovers what life should be about.

What did I think? Trust the French. A lot of French made films have a certain charm, a certain magic to it that is undeniable. This one is no different and it has a very calming effect. You watch and you let it just take you away, it really is pure magic.

The cast of characters that appear in the film are all wonderful, if somewhat cliched, but you don't really care. Think about all the eldery people you can think that might live in a sleepy little country town and they will appear. The grumpy, the deaf, the senial. It's done so beautifully you are enchanted by everyone. The lead characters do a good job as well. The character of Claire is central to the whole change that is brought upon the movie and Antoine goes from an arse to a likeable young man.

The other major star of this film is the picture-esque scenery. It is always present but never overshot. Combined with the soundtrack it has that soothing/calming effect I was referring to earlier. And because the film doesn't rely too heavily on it, it works well each time their is a long take.

As with any film though, something needs to happen and the issues that lay beneath the characters are very real and well handled. The broken family, unacquainted love, a marriage falling apart. It detracts from the charm of the film, but all play a vital role in making the movie what it is.

It's a wonderful movie to just watch and relax. If anything else, it will make you think about life and what you should be doing with it. And for a movie to do that, it take something special.

70%

Movie Review: Traitor

2008-11-13T02:06:00.004+11:00

TRAITOR
Main Players: Don Cheadle, Guy Pearce, Saïd Taghmaoui, et al.
Calling the shots: Jeffrey Nachmanoff
Running time: 114mins
What's it about? Samir Horn (Cheadle) is a Sudan-raised American. He’s just been imprisoned for selling illegal weapons to suspected terrorists. The FBI is curious about him, but when he and a group of terrorists escape and start to plot their next attack, they go into overdrive. But nothing is what it seems…which side is he really on?

What did I think? So soon after ‘Body of Lies’ comes another “anti-terrorism” movie. This one is different, in that we see the set up from both sides of the field, FBI and the terrorists, as we struggle to figure out which side Horn really is on. This absolutely works for the film. From the trailers it is indicated that he is on the FBI side, but as the story unfolds you question that at certain junctures and the intrigue rolls on.

It is masterfully handled by the director, but unfortunate as it is, the pace of the film has been sacrificed for good story telling as the film tends to feel overly long and fairly slow at certain points.

In comes Don Cheadle to save the day really. He’s performance is terrific and everything the film promises to deliver is essentially conveyed through him. Indeed “the truth is complicated” and it’s his performance that keeps us guessing. Guy Pearce is back from oblivion and as good as he is; he is completely overshadowed by Cheadle and to that extent, seemed very much underutilized. Jeff Daniels, more known for his comedic roles, has an important but short lived role that doesn’t even get a chance to flourish.

It’s definitely not the best in it’s genre but it is solid. The intrigue is there and it will keep you interested through out. But it’s slow pace can potentially undo all the hard work. The ending is well handled and staged, and would have had a “wow” effect to it, had it not been for the unintentional laughter it raised in the theatre.

60%

Movie Review: RocknRolla

2008-11-05T00:44:00.001+11:00

ROCKNROLLA
Main Players: Gerard Butler, Mark Strong, Tom Wilkinson, et al.
Calling the shots: Guy Ritchie
Running time: 114mins
What's it about? Theirs are a few storylines here, but all you need to know is there’s a loan shark, his most loyal henchman, bunch of “touch guys”, an always drugged up rocker, some badass Russian and a “lucky painting”. Oh and an accountant. Yep it’s your regular Guy Ritchie British comedy/crime romp.

What did I think? Fans of Guy Ritchie rejoice! After blowing you away with ‘Lock Stock…’ and ‘Snatch’ and stinking up the cinemas with ‘Swept Away’ (starring his, now, ex-wife Madonna) and ‘Revolver’ (unreleased in Australia), his back to form with RocknRolla.

It definitely has his personal touch to it, especially in terms of the story and how it is constructed. There are so many characters and side-plots introduced that it almost becomes overload. But in true Guy Ritchie style, it all somehow comes together and makes sense, giving us an enjoyable ride in the process. It’s a double-edged sword because they could have made separate movies involving each character.

There’s a cool visual style to it as well. The grainy feel to it and the camera work during the chase scene between One-Two (the name of one of the characters) and the Russians are unique and all together exciting (and funny).

The actors in this are fantastic as well. Every character is well cast in their roles and do terrific jobs bring them to life. Mark Strong as Archie is awesome and so it Toby Kebbell as Johnny Quid. Even the token Americans (Jeremy Piven and Ludacris) play a vital part in it all.

It’s somewhere between both his two first movies; the feel and crime aspect of ‘Lock Stock…’ and the funny, mass character involvement of ‘Snatch’. It’s not as high paced as I’d hoped but still definitely a fun ride to be had. It stalled slightly towards the end but not enough for you to care because of what’s come before.

70%

Movie Review: Saw V

2008-10-31T01:33:00.002+11:00

SAW V
Main Players: Tobin Bell, Costas Mandylor, Scott Patterson, et al.
Calling the shots: David Hackl
Running time: 92mins
What's it about? The fifth installment of the “Saw” franchise sees the handy works of Jigsaw continue, despite the fact that he’s been dead for the last two films. Nevertheless with only two agents left, who were connected to the original Jigsaw case, who is the next victim and who is continuing the legacy?

What did I think? Another year, another ‘Saw’ movie. It doesn’t feel all that long since two RMIT graduates introduced the world to ‘Saw’ but it has most definitely been five years now. And believe it or not, I'm a fan!

With the franchise having lost it’s “zang” since it’s first installment, the ‘Saw’ series has becomes more or less about seeing what kind of sadistic traps they’ll come up with this time and trying to pick the plot twists that always inevitably comes at the end. In that regard, the film doesn’t let you down.

It is a ‘Saw’ movie, and if you’ve seen the rest of them, you pretty much know what to expect. That’s also its problem. The formula has almost become like clockwork, so unless you’ve seen the rest of it or know about it, you’ll completely be lost in the plot. The movies doesn’t even try to win over new fans (okay, it sort of does with unnecessary flashbacks), but the plot leaves it up to the memories of the views to know what’s going on.

The series has also used pretty much no names since the first installment and that doesn’t change here. It’s full of those “oh-I-know-that-person-from-that-show” actors, but none that you’ll likely to remember. Which probably serves the movie well, given it’s pretty terrible script.

As with the others in the series, it’s not for the weak of heart. Well, in that case it’s not FOR anybody. But if you’re a fan of the series it is a must, because they are all connected and lets just say, it FINALLY feels like it’s going to end…though I’ve heard stories that they plan to make up to Saw VIII!

40%

Movie Review: How to Lose Friends & Alienate People

2008-10-28T00:43:00.002+11:00

HOW TO LOSE FRIENDS & ALIENATE PEOPLE
Main Players: Simon Pegg, Kirsten Dunst, Jeff Bridges, et al.
Calling the shots: Robert B. Weide
Running time: 110mins
What's it about? A British journo gets an opportunity of a life time to cross the pond to New York City to work for a trendy magazine. He soon learns that in order to move up in this world he needs to break out of his carefree, tell it like is ways. But are the opportunities that lie ahead enough to go against his beliefs? Oh, there’s a rom-com element in there too…

What did I think? Based on the memoirs of a real life British Journo who made the trek back in the 1990s, at its best it is absolutely hilarious. But down to the very core, it’s a stock standard romantic comedy with a script that is not sharp enough and a plot that is too predictable to hold its ends up.

Sidney Young (Pegg) is a doofus or a twat (as the Brits would say). The things he does and continues to get away with is baffling; although it is pretty funny. He should be a character that is easily unlikeable but the fish out of water element and Pegg’s performance makes him hard to hate. He has a charismatic touch that is undeniable, which helps the movie.

The rest of the cast are cast fairly well. Kirsten Dunst is in cruise control as the love interest, never stepping out of her comfort zone. Jeff Bridges is an enigmatic figure, Gillian Anderson and Danny Huston are great as well. Megan Fox, last seen in ‘Transformers’, is smokin’ hot! Nuff Said there.

The story is laggy. You know what’s going to happen, so you almost want it to get there already. There are numerous funny moments but they are spaced out too much. While the romantic comedy side of things isn’t terrible, it almost feels like it takes away from what it wants to be.

This movie apparently bombed in the US and I don’t think it’s hard to see why. It has a lot of potential but doesn’t seem to deliever. Good for a few laughs and definitely a step up from Pegg’s last Hollywood(-ish) effort (‘Run Fatboy, Run’) but fans of his earlier stuff (‘Shaun of the Dead’, ‘Hot Fuzz’) will be disappointed.

2.5 out of 5.

Movie Review: Burn After Reading

2008-10-22T03:01:00.005+11:00

BURN AFTER READING
Main Players: George Clooney, Frances McDormand, John Malkovich, et al.
Calling the shots: Ethan & Joel Coen
Running time: 96mins
What's it about? Recently discharged CIA man Osbourne Cox (Malkovich) begins to write his memoirs only to have it fall into the hands of two simple-minded gym employees (McDormand & Pitt) who starts a chain of events that ends up in one big mess. Welcome to our pointless world of infidelity, superficiality and stupidity.

What did I think? It’s vintage Coen’s. After (finally) winning an Oscar for “No Country For Old Men”, the Coens’ were on top of the world. It seemed they could do no wrong. And they simply haven’t put a foot wrong here giving us the same style of film, just a hell of a lot funnier.

There also lies its biggest weakness. If you don’t enjoy the Coens’ style of films then you’re probably not going to like this one. It is like an acquired taste after all. But if you do, this is a joy to watch. With precision directing and a very quirky, a very witty script which is performed by a fantastic cast of actors, it just makes this movie work. Deliberate in its pace, to allow for the story telling to take place, and laugh out loud funny, in certain memorable scenes. The CIA big heads and his “invention” come to mind.

The case I mentioned earlier is just terrific. Clooney, in his nth time working with the Coens, is great as always, as is McDormand, Jenkins and Swinton. But the standouts here are clearly: John Malkovich, who has his insane/angry face on and you just can’t help but laugh at his rage, and a scene stealing turn from Brad Pitt, who has never been funnier, more likeable than this.

The story is developed so well that you can’t help but sympathise with each of the characters (in one way or another) no matter how dumb they are in their actions.

You’ll really need to go into this movie with an open mind or at least an understanding of what the Coen Brothers’ films are like to appreciate this. Otherwise you might find yourself walking out of this film not knowing what the hell just hit you.

3.5 out of 5.

Movie Review: Max Payne

2008-10-22T02:25:00.004+11:00

MAX PAYNE
Main Players: Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Beau Bridges, et al
Calling the shots: John Moore
Running time: 100mins
What's it about? Detective Max Payne (Wahlberg) is a shell of a man. Still unable to get closure on the seemingly random killings of his wife and child, he has buried himself deep within the Cold Case unit to uncover the truth and serve vengeance. When he gets wind of a possible connection between a current case and his, he will stop at nothing to find the truth.

What did I think? Here comes another one. Video game adaptations have been notoriously bad. This one had potential though. The trailers looked cool and it stars one of the most popular actors today. Get ready to be disappointed.

Visually, this movie is super-cool. Stylish and colour-faded to give it that unique look, it’s a work of art. Billed as “this year’s Sin City”, it’s not quite that, giving you more of a “300” or “30 Days of Nights” feel but like I said it looks cool. The action sequences aren’t too bad either. They’ve unnecessarily overloaded it with bullet-time scenes but apparently that’s what the game is known for.

That’s where the praises end.

The plot line is complete rubbish. It’s not developed very well either. A lot of shit seems to happen without much explanation, confusing you when you don’t need to be and moves along so slowly it’s sleep inducing. If that’s not enough it has the most predictable and obvious conclusion you will find. Trust me; you’ll see it coming a mile away.

As much as I like Mark Wahlberg, I’m not sure if he can carry a movie on his own. He seemed very monotone and almost as if he just phoned it in. Mila Kunis (known for her role in “That 70’s Show”) is seriously miss-cast as the assassin chick and as is Ludacris, as the IA cop. Look out though, for Olga Kurylenko (the new Bond Girl) and Chris O’Donnell, who have short but important and impressive roles.Only thing that can be praised here is how it looks. Even that isn’t enough to keep you interested the whole way. Only check it out if you’re a fan, curious or bored.

2 out of 5.

Movie Review: Body of Lies

2008-10-14T18:51:00.003+11:00

BODY OF LIES
Main Players: Leonardo DiCaprio, Russell Crowe, et al.
Calling the shots: Ridley Scott
Running time: 128mins
What's it about? CIA operative Roger Ferris (DiCaprio) is the man on the ground. He is essentially undercover making friends and enemies a like while trying to take down terrorists in the Middle East. Ed Hoffman (Crowe) is the man back in Washington giving all the orders, without emotion or consideration, for the "greater good". When they get close to a big name they've been after they need to figure out a way to trust each other and others involved to take him down.

What did I think? There has been a lot of movies about terrorism in the Middle East. So much so that "in'shallah" and "halal ahkbah" (apologies for the spelling) are so commonly used. The thing that sets this movie apart is the actors and directors.

Say what you will about Ridley Scott. He is a masterful storyteller. The plot is fairly complex and in the wrong hands it could have been a muddled mess. Scott handles it very well making it rather easy to follow. He carries on the same style from 'American Gangster', almost having the same feel just VERY different subject matters. That would also contribute to how much you like this film; Cops and criminals or Terrorists in the Middle East.

Russell Crowe, who gained a lot of weight to play this role, is solid as always. He and Scott have worked together so many times, I'm sure it's almost like second nature. Leonardo DiCaprio, continues his trend of mature roles and is as reliable as ever. I did however feel as though Crowe was a little underutilised and DiCaprio has been better. Mark Strong, who plays Hani, played it by the numbers.

For you action seekers though, there aren't enough set pieces to keep you entertained. The action sequences that it does have is incredible. It's a very solid espionage thriller and so watch it like one.

It's an enjoyable movie but it never reaches a peak that you expect it to reach and is just consistent through out.

3.5 out of 5.

Movie Review: Choke

2008-10-12T21:23:00.004+11:00

CHOKE
Main Players: Sam Rockwell, Anjelica Huston, Kelly Macdonald, et al.
Calling the shots: Clark Gregg
What's it about? Victor is a sex addict. And like most addicts, he's struggling to get over the said addiction. He's stuck on step 4. What ever step 4 is. To make things worse he's a tour guide (though he denies that) at a Colonial America themed park and he's mother is in the hospital with dementia. He also begins a bizarre relationship with his mothers doctor. All the while trying to come to terms with the terrible child life he had. He even "pretends" to choke at restaurants to be rescued and feel "loved". Yeah...weird.

What did I think? Well...much like my summery of the plot, I found it a little weird. It wasn't very well made is the problem. And though I haven't read the book, surely it's much better than this.

Given that the book which the film is based on is written by Chuck Palahniuk, the man behind 'Fight Club', I expected a whole lot more. But than again that's probably unfair to do. Like I mentioned before, the directing wasn't exactly great. It was competent enough but there wasn't anything significant about it. The movie felt like it was in first gear all the way through and just got stuck on the clutch. Perhaps having first time director and many times TV star Clark Gregg behind the lens didn't do the book justice. At times it did have a TV feel to the film.

The actors though did a fantastic job. Sam Rockwell is a totally underrated actor who always performs strongly and is no different here. He pulls off a very difficult role rather convincingly for what it is. Anjelica Huston, now well and truly a screen veteran, is also as solid as ever. The supporting actors do just enough as well.

It's a very hard movie to enjoy. It has a few funny moments but it's mostly snickers or the "OMG I can't believe they..." types. The story as you can tell is very weird and strange and is not delivered cohesively enough.

All in all disappointing for the potential it had and the performance delivered.

2 out of 5.

Movie Review: Babylon A.D.

2008-10-08T21:45:00.003+11:00

BABYLON A.D.
Main Players: Vin Diesel, Michelle Yeoh, Mélanie Thierry, et al.
Calling the shots: Mathieu Kassovitz
What's it about? In the not too distant future, Toorop (Diesel) a Mercenary is hired to transport a "package" to New York. This "package" turns out to be a girl (Thierry), who is completely shurrounded in mystery and seems definite that is more than she seems. But what is her secret and what is in New York?

What do I think? I suppose a big "welcome back" is in order for the once all macho Vin Diesel. The last movie I can recall he was in is 'The Pacifier' and we all know how THAT turned out. lol.

Having said that though, this isn't exactly a triumph. Yes it's an action and yes it's Diesel at his best, but the movie is a little shoddy. The action set pieces are pretty good, but some of the camera work is so bad that it'll make you more dizzy than excited. It's not all together original either. The not-too-distant future here is a place you've seen before. Not all that different, a lot rundown, with some technological advances.

The storyline is pretty shocking as well. There doesn't seem to be much character development at all, leaving the the three leads fending for themselves and it ends as if they'd just gotten tired of making this film. I mean what the hell happened to the organisation that was led by Charlotte Rampling. Did they just give up?

Vin Diesel is in his element here. And he does just what he needs too. Michelle Yeoh though seemed like an odd choice and doesn't really bring anything of significance to the table. It stars some veterans of the screen. Charlotte Ramploing I mentioned before but also Gérard Depardieu. They must be wondering why the hell they got involved in this in the first place.

It's a stock standard sci-fi action that'll probably bore you, more than excite you. See it, if you must.

2 out of 5.

Movie Review: WALL-E

2008-10-08T21:08:00.004+11:00

WALL-E
Main players: WALL-E, E.V.E, M.O.P, et al (lol. :P)
Calling the shots: Andrew Stanton
What's it about? It's the very distant future and Earth has become inhabitable. Left with heaps and heaps of trash, the WALL-E robot is designed to clean Earth up. Along comes E.V.E. a robot sent by human's to see if Earth is at all habitable again. Sparks literally fly when these two drones meet and it might just be up to these two to save the day.

What do I think? I love Wall-E! And so should all of you! It's another Pixar masterpiece, and it might just be the best one yet. It definitely replaces Monsters Inc. as my favourite pixar.

The animation is just stunning. From it's early days in Toy Story, it has always been the benchmark in CGI and animation technology but it's almost as though they've found another level here. Sure the human's look a little unrealistic here but it's no different then The Incredibles and it's also probably the point. How much we've evolved (devolved) in this future. It's also amazing how much emotion they can show on a robot. They never say more than one word at a time, yet we know how each is feeling.

The story is also simple yet somewhat relevant and relatable. The love between Wall-E and EVE, is well drawn and just like any other romance on screen. The fight to save Earth and humanity is relevant as ever. It does scream "Go Green!" and "Comsumerism" a little bit, but not enough, as other have suggested, to call it preachy.

If that isn't enough to entice you to see it, WALL-E is just so gosh darn cute. lol. :P Also the animation short that accompanies this is funny and highly enjoyable. All in all, you'll just have a blast watching it! So do it!

5 out of 5!

Movie Review: The Bank Job

2008-10-04T00:08:00.003+10:00

The Bank Job

Main players: Jason Statham, Saffron Burrows, et al

Calling the shots: Roger Donaldson

What's it about? A gang of local "villains" are recruited to pull off a bank heist by an old friend. It seemed simple enough, get in, take what you can, get out. But in this based on a true story tale, nothing goes smoothly and anything and everything that can go wrong does...

What do I think? Can I just say, I love the "old school" feel of the poster I found for this (see right). It's great. ANYway...

There are so many of these British crime-capers and they all seem to star Jason Statham. :P That's not a bad thing though mind you, they are always loads of fun and this one is no different.

Humourous at times and necessarily violent and harsh when it needs to be, it has a great balance and is blessed with good direction and an enjoyable script. The cast is also believable and they have the right chemistry to make it work. The fact that this film is based on a true story makes this film all the more intriguing, just because of the "strange-but-true" circumstances that befall our protagonists.

Jason Statham (in need of a shave here) plays his usual charming lead man well and Saffron Burrows brings a femme fatalé-mysterious character to life. The supporting cast is typically British and they are wonderful.

If you've seen the likes of "Snatch" and "Lock Stock..." and similar British capers, you know what you're in for and as always, it's an enjoyable ride.

4 out of 5.

Greatest movie character of all time...

2008-09-29T02:53:00.003+10:00

In the November issue of EMPIRE magazine, a list of the 100 Greatest Movie Characters of All Time (as voted by the readers) were revealed. You really couldn't argue with the top 10:

1. Indiana Jones (pictured, left) - Indiana Jones series, played by Harrison Ford
2. The Joker - Batman (Jack Nicholson), The Dark Knight (Heath Ledger)
3. Darth Vader - Star Wars eps 3-6 (David Prowse, voiced by James Earl Jones)
4. Jack Sparrow - Pirates 1-3 (Johnny Depp)
Hannibal Lector - Lector trilogy (Anthony Hopkins)
James Bond - 007 series (Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, Daniel Craig)
Tyler Durden - Fight Club (Brad Pitt)
Han Solo - Star Wars eps 4-6 (Harrison Ford)
Forrest Gump - Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks)
The Terminator - Terminator series (Arnold Schwarzenegger)

Only one that raised my eyebrow in the top 10 was Tyler Durden. But there's no doubt he is a truly memorable character. Agree, disagree with the list?

Interesting to note was of the 100 characters only 12 were female. And the first female character does not appear until no.18 with Dorothy Gale from The Wizard of Oz. Proving that there are no real "strong" female roles in Hollywood or else where these days. It's a shame because there are so many talented actresses.

cíao,

Ippei

Movie Review: Eagle Eye

2008-09-29T02:32:00.003+10:00

EAGLE EYE
Main players: Shia LaBeouf, Michelle Monaghan, Billy Bob Thornton, et al.
Calling the shots: D.J. Caruso
What’s it about? Two everyday people; slacker Jerry (LaBeouf) and single mum Rachel (Monaghan), are seemingly selected at random to complete dangerous tasks by a mysterious female voice over the phone. Why were they chosen and why are they made to do these things? And with several government officials chasing them, can they survive and clear their name at the same time?

What do I think? Without giving away too much of the plot, it’s probably easiest to describe it as “I, Robot” minus the robots…if that makes any sense to you. Lol.

The first half hour or so is surprisingly slow and boring. It feels like a lot of random things happen without explanation.

The action literally picks up as soon as the phone calls start and at its best, it’s an exciting action-thriller. The car chase involving the wrecking yard is particularly memorable; as is the chase in the baggage claim at the airport. But its intrigue quickly wears off and becomes a mish-mash of several other movies.

It is also let down by a poor and clichéd ending which feels VERY Hollywood.

The movie plays on our reliance on technology and our fear that we might always be under surveillance. I mean think about it, this shit could really happen to you! :P

Hollywood’s current “it” boy, LaBeouf, continues his good work from his previous films (though they all seem very similar) playing the lead as a relatable everyday Joe. Monaghan is also good as the single mum who’d do anything for her son. Thornton plays his agent role by the numbers and Rosario Dawson brings a touch of ‘sexy’ to the cast. Fans of TV’s “The Shield” will be happy to see Michael Chiklis on screen, though he is completely underutilized.

“Eagle Eye” has its flaws but if you like your action and the whole cyber-warfare trend, it’s definitely worth a look. Just don’t expect to be “wow”-ed, like the trailers might have.

3 out of 5

South American dreaming...

2008-09-22T00:39:00.004+10:00

Coming off of a lengthy lay off, I need a holiday. Not the stay at home, do nothing kind. But a real getaway kind. Go somewhere I've never been (or at least haven't been for a while), experience a different culture even if for a little while.

It was all planned out mind you. I was to take a trip to Shanghai, Hong Kong and Taipei with Toby, Yi, Emma, Makka and Oendrila early next year. But because of my time away from work, I'll need to build back up my leave again. Bummer.

So, this supposed "getaway" won't happen in the near future but when it does, I know where I wanna go. I don't even know where the inspiration (or rather the fascination) came from. I guess thinking about all the places i hadn't and wanted to go, it just stood out.

I even went as far as to buy a Lonely Planet's Guide on the continent. "South America on a shoe string". ha! Impulse buy? Maybe (it had a little to do with Borders having a sale and Bri's suggesting). But the motivation to one day head there is real.

The Amazon. Easter Island. Machu Picchu. The Galápagos. Carnivalé. It is such a interesting place with vast cultures, yet similar in someways.

Now I'm a terrible reader, so I'm only up to Argentina in the book (the countries are listed alphabetically. :P ) but it already sounds amazing. Perhaps to follow the road the Ché travelled or to visit where Evita left her mark. The options are limitless.

Talking to Heidi about her trip to Brazil recently has also been good, though I'll need to talk more in depth with her about it.

Spanish is something I need to learn, I figure. Maria has offered to teach me some, but perhaps proper classes are in order as well (last check $250 for a 10-week course) but not so cheap. It's okay though; i have time. And now that I'm working, I'll HAVE money. Not now but eventually. :P

cíao (if only I had learned Spanish in school and not Italian...not that i had a choice or cared back then),
Ippei K.

So, that's what it means...

2008-09-14T10:34:00.003+10:00

Ever had a day when you woke up and something wasn't quite right?

And not because you have the serious case of the hangovers or jet lag, but just feel...different?

I apologise for the cryptic-ness, but I recently found out what it is like to "get up on the wrong side of the bed". And it isn't exactly pleasant to say the least.

You wake up and the first thing you realise is you don't feel like yourself. Nothing looks different, but something's definitely a skew. You try to get on with the day just like any other; Have a shower. Change into your clothes for the day. Pack a bag for the gym. Go downstairs to get something to eat. Yet you find yourself not moving at all. You realise you're still in your pajama pants and with the remains of your hair product still there.

And then as the time ticks over you feel less and less like doing anything you had planned for the day. Maybe it's too early. You try to sleep it off, forgoing your morning, only to wake up with day half over and still feeling no better.

It was a weird feeling. Not least of all because I'd never felt like that before but actually quite scary because you can't figure out why you were feeling that way. And i still don't know. All I can say is I rolled off the wrong side of my bed and into bizzaro-world. Funny, because there is only one way to roll off my bed. lol.

Never the less, that was a one day thing and I've been fine since. Here's to hoping it doesn't happen again anytime soon, or at least when it does I can figure it out.

cíao,
Ippei K.

On rehab...(no, no, no)

2008-09-07T21:15:00.004+10:00

Didn't realise it'd been this long since the last post.

I've moved right along with my knee. Now walking limp-free...kinda. But the discomfort in the knee still remains. The flexibility isn't quite there yet and can't bend as deep as my left.

The picture to the left (or above, if you're reading this in Facebook) is the scars left from my surgery. It's not as bad as I initially thought it'd look. It's almost like someone was trying to play naughts and crosses on my knee but just couldn't figure out how.

If you feel where the long scar is, you can definitely feel some metal under there. Which, of course, is supposed to be the case as I have two screws in my knee now (awesome!). I can feel it moving around sometimes when I bend, which I'm actually not sure if that's a good thing or not. I wonder if I'll beep at the airport. hmm...

As you can also see, they shaved my knee for the surgery so it looked quite hideous for a while. Think Steve Carrell's chest in "The 40 Year Old Virgin" and you'll get the picture. It's almost back to normal now so it's all good.

They've told me that the knee is actually doing well, and look strong. The physio exercises (as boring as they are) seem to be working. I've started going back to the gym and started swimming lately to help the healing. I got myself a Wii as well, which has kept me entertained the past week (Mario Kart Wii is awesome!).

I've also been out and about, watching as many movies as possible and hanging out with friends which is nice.

I have been given a return date to playing basketball again. April 2009. Damn. It's so close yet so very very far. I intend to be in the best shape of my life by that time so here's to hoping. lol. I'm also headed back to work soon. Which is great, because I'll actually have something to do. Plus I miss everyone at work. The week of the 18th people. soon. soon.

In the meantime, it's a great feeling to finally have my life returning to normal (or at least what feels like).

Peace,

Ippei K.

On recovery...

2008-07-30T18:37:00.005+10:00

God I hate stairs. I never had an issue with them before but then you introduce a crippling situation into the relationship and man, can they be a bitch. As friends who have visited me can attest too, I take forever to get up and down the stairs and it frustrates me to no end. And this is after over two weeks of recovery time...

Two weeks ago, as I was leaving the hospital the physiotherapist came in to "teach" me how to use the crutches. I remember getting out of bed for the first time after surgery because it hurt like hell. I had the splint on (pictured) and my leg felt heavy. Then as you stand and rest it down, because you can't put any weight on it, the blood just rushes straight down and cause a throbbing sensation. It does pass, but initially, you don't even want to move.

Getting back home and straight up the stairs i went. 1 step at a time, literally. Hardly moved since.

I was prescribed four types of painkillers so i had dad go out and get them as soon as possible. Panadol and Nurofen, boring but effective. Zydol and Endone. The latter I've not tried...scratch that, needed.

Zydol is awesome. IF you take it properly. You take it, it completely gets rid of the pain. Wonderful stuff. One morning though, I woke up to intense pain. The worst I'd had, almost to the point of unbearable. Now to this point I'd had dad bring me food, so I had nothing to eat around me. I knew it probably wasn't the best thing to do but I just needed the fix. lol.

Bad move.

The whole day I felt like shit. It's one those nauseating feelings. You just sit up and you feel like throwing up. I stayed lying down the whole day unable to even lift my head without feeling dizzy. Listening to the footy on the radio didn't help either because Carlton lost to Sydney.

I learnt my lesson though. I've stopped taking them. Instead I've shifted my focus to my liquor wall. I've been taking "shots" of whisky for the pain. First Glenny, now Johnnie Black. I don't know why I didn't do that from the beginning. Not only does it make the pain go away (admittedly not completely), it also makes me happy and it tastes good. And NO. I'm not becoming an alcoholic. lol.

The splint is also off now. It got so itchy I couldn't wear it anymore. I do put it back on before going to sleep, just in case I have one of my many dreams about becoming a kung-fu master. :P (well, not really but y'know.)

So what have I been doing? Mostly on my arse, watching TV, DVD or playing PS2. I'm not much of a reader so no books.

I've been letting my beard grow and after two weeks I can safely say I've never looked dirtier. Add to the fact I've hardly showered, making the grouse-ness factor ten fold. I have washed my hair a few times now, and it took all the creativity I had in me.

Towel around my waist so the bandages don't get wet. Leaning into the shower just to wash my hair. I tell you, after the first time (which was incidentally after over a WEEK of not washing) it felt so good, it was almost orgasmic. :P

Now tomorrow, I go back into the hospital to get my wound checked out. See how it's healing and all. And to also start on my physio. I'll be walking in there like 'House'. Just needing a cane and avoiding all the stairs. ha.

Peace,

Ippei K.

On surgery...

2008-07-23T17:55:00.004+10:00

9 days...

That's how long it's been since the surgery. And as much as I've complained, bitched and moaned it's gone by fairly quickly. But Fuck I'm bored.

I hoped that at least I'd come out of it with an impressive story to tell. Not the case unfortunately. I didn't even get to do the whole "count backwards from ten" thing as they put me under the anaesthesia. It was more like, 'fade to black aaaaaand we're back'.

I did wake up with an oxygen mask, an blood pressure belt, finger pulse-thingy AND most importantly the morphine button. Although they called it something else...hmmm...

Anyway, the button. As soon as they handed me the button, I kept pressing it like crazy. Mind you, I was "in pain" but probably not enough to warrant the amount of times I pressed it. But unbeknownst to me (at the time and found out later), the button had a light. And unless it was lit up, it didn't allow any "morphine" into my system. I have no idea how long it took to re-light so I probably had enough for the night because I didn't need to use the button the rest of my stay.

The rest of the stay was rather uneventful. But you people have no idea how hard it is to pee in a bottle. Let me explain. Every time I needed to pee (and ironically it happened a lot), I had to ask for a "bottle". I offered to go to the toilet but nurses weren't comfortable about getting out of bed. So they got me the said bottle. Now I was curtained off from everyone (thank god), but it is still incredible difficult to go. And who knows how loud the, lets just say, "discharge" sounded.

Other than that, the food was bad but that was to be expected and they kicked me out of the hospital after a night's stay. Now I've been home on my arse, presumably getting fat from the lack of exercise. I still haven't showered since which I HATE. And I've also let my beard grow out.

Today, I decided to throw on a hat because the hair was so itchy now I look like someone trying to be incognito. If only I was going somewhere...

Peace,
Ippei K.

Not long now...

2008-07-03T08:06:00.003+10:00

For those uninitiated, I have a torn ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament). *psst! That's in the knee!* It happened over a year ago. Only now am I scheduled in for surgery. It's kinda frustrating but it's exciting at the same time.

14th of July is the date. So if you're planning to have any events from that date and onwards for about a month, don't expect me to attend (not that you'd want me there anyway. :P) Unless that is, of course, you would like a one legged man getting drunk and doing a one-legged jig (assuming it IS that type of event). Actually, that sounds hilarious. I'm in. Just don't YouTube me. :P

About a month ago, I went into the Royal Melbourne for a "check up", I guess you'd call it. It was nothing more than 3 meetings (one with the anesthesia doc, the nurse and the surgeon) that lasted a total of about 30minutes. It doesn't sound too bad, had I not been at the hospital for 5-freakin'-HOURS!

Anyway, they explained to me that I'll only be in the hospital for two days. Woot. I hoped it'd be longer, as my house is not exactly suited for recovering from leg injuries. Anyone who's been here before will know what I'm talking about. The stairs alone will be a bitch.

They are going to give me both general and local anesthesia. Which means I'll off in la-la land while they fix my knee and when I wake up, i won't be able to feel my leg. Once the pain does kick in, they'll have a morphine drip ready for me to go. Can't wait for that part. I think it'll be amusing to visit me in hospital when I'm goofed up on morphine. hahaha. The random spaced out looks, speech slurs and uncontrollable laughter. "I loooooooooooooooove youuuuuuuuu!"

Recovery time is going to be long and slow. But with any hope, I'll be able to at least "limp-walk" after a month. It'll be a while still before I'll be able to play basketball again, but I can taste it already. Anticipation is killing me actually. I really can't wait. Some friends and I have talking about starting a team, so it's exciting times a head.

With any hope though, I'll be recovered enough by my birthday to "do" something this year. But knowing me, I probably won't. I'm turning double-dozen and I'll have nothing to show for it but a scar on my knee.

Ippei.

"S" for...

2008-05-27T01:26:00.004+10:00

Superman!

...nah, I only wish that...though the Kryptonite thing is a bitch...

Anyway, what the "S" really is for is my new clothes size. Yes, I know. WHAT?! I hear you. I never thought I'd see the day either. Not that I feel any smaller, or look it...probably.

A few people recently have been telling me that I've lost weight. I'm always like "pfft, whatever." But when your dad, someone that sees you all the time, says it. It must be true, right?

My clothes have seemed a lot looser on me lately. But then again, I always where baggy clothes. Having to wear my suit to work, it's become blatantly obvious that my suit is waaay to big for me. It has been three years since i bought it, so that shows how much i've changed. I guess. Let's see how long I can keep this up. I reckon the winter days might do more harm to me though. hahaha. We'll see.

For now, I'll be calling on my fashion consultants (ie. Sabrina and Heidi) for further clothing advice when I feel like another retail therapy session. The most recent last Friday. Due to a combination of a shitty day at work and sales going on in a lot of stores. I came out the other end (ooo, that doesn't sound right) with three spiffy business shirts, a military-inspired wash shirt, a cardigan and a new suit...which I still need to pick up. mmmm...I should probably get on to that...

Now...to hit the gym more often so I can "look" more like Superman...hahahaha, and I almost said that with a straight face. hahahahaha.

peace,

Ippei.

Spending Spree!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-10T00:06:00.003+10:00

Money. I never really had any in the past to use. That never stop me from use it though. Credit cards, what a thing of beauty they are. When I first got them, I always paid the balance on time. Sound impressive? Not really. Because it was petty amounts anyway. But I haven't seen a zero balance in a looooooong while. That's not about to change.

In the span of a week, I've spent close to 2 grand. 2 GRAND! In years gone by, that amount of spend would have been unheard of for me. Right now, it seems reasonable. Gosh, I sound obnoxious. hahaha.

On Sunday, as the Country Road voucher was expiring, I went to by some clothing items. New shirt, new top and new t-shirt. Then I figured, since I was out, I might as well get shoes. Aquila outlet, two pairs, second pair half price. Boxset of DVDs. A wireless router. Cough Syrup. Value, 700-ish.

I'm loving the shoes, except one of 'em is giving me blisters. I leave the house in pain but I get used to it during the day, then come home and take them of it's like a release.

The following Saturday, I decided to go and get myself a TV and DVD player. Panasonic Viera 26-inch, wide screen LCD. The DVD player is awesome too. I've been watching DVDs on my laptop, so now it's a joy just watching TV. I leave it on for the hell of it when I'm in the room because it's so clear! Value, 1.2K-ish.

So there you have it my little splurge session. I hadn't had one in a while, so it was great. You think I'm spending too much? Probably, but meh. What's money for if you don't spend it?

Relax and treat yourself...

2008-04-08T08:10:00.004+10:00

One more thing I want to mention about Japan before I forget are the Onsen.

Onsen are the bath houses in Japan. Think "Spirited Away" but not as grand, depending on which one you go to. But they all have their charm and the basics remain the same.

Now, for you westerners it maybe a shock to the system but you must enter them starkers. You get to carry in a hand towel, but that's about it. Out of respect for the other you cover yourself as you walk around...or not, if you are so inclined.

The great thing about the Onsen is the variety. They is the aroma bath. Each time you go in it's a different scented bath ranging from Peppermint to Lemon. There are your jet-powered Jaccuzi style bath. And also outdoor bath, which is great in Winter. And what surprised me was the electro-bath. They are little currents running in the bath. It's not dangerous mind, if you sit between the sides, it just feels like you're having never-ending pins and needles. lol. There is also the pure cold water bath, if you feel a little too over cooked or brave enough to jump straight in.

Asides from the bath themselves, they also have Saunas. They are awesome. If you can stay in there longer then about 15 minutes, big ups to you.

After taking a dip, the saunas and anything else you decide to get (messages, Korean-style rub downs, etc.) what awaits you is after bath beer and food!

It might not sound all that interesting, but it's a big part of Japanese culture and history, if you ask me. So if you do ever go to Japan, do not miss out on the Onsen experience. You'll never be more satisfied to see so many of the same sex naked. :P

Ippei.

The food, the food. All the glorious food!

2008-03-21T11:59:00.002+11:00

If there ever was a reason to go back to Japan for me (y'know, besides seeing family and visiting "home" and what not), is all the food. I cannot tell you in my limited vocabulary how GOOD the food is back there. And cheap too! ...if you know where to look.

Being back there for only a week this time 'round, I didn't get the chance to have "everything" I wanted. But I made damn sure I had what I really wanted.

Ramen - You cannot go to Japan without having some ramen noodles. Depending on which area of Japan you go to, you'll get different flavours of it. But being a Kyushu-boy, the Kyushu-style pork-stock flavoured "Tonkotsu" ramen is the best there is.

Now this one place that my uncle to me to, they had the tasty ramen EVER! When it was served it wasn't steaming at all. I'm like what the hell? But the bowl was certainly hot. I soon discovered that there was a layer of oil on top of the soup, which kept the temperature entrapped. So no matter how long it took you to touch the damn thing (but why delay), it was as hot as it could ever be. It was damn large bowl too. All for just 500yen ($5AUD more or less).

Yakitori - It translate literally to grilled chicken. But it's so much more. Everything will come on skewers and cooked right in front of you. Every part of the chicken is available, the skin, liver, wings, breast, you name it. And all grilled to perfection. But you can also have your choice of other meets including but not limited to pork shank and pork ribs, etc. They are sooooo good and go for about 70-100yen per skewer (70cents - $1AUD).

Okonomiyaki and yakisoba - Now the best of these can be found it's origin of the Kansai area. But where ever you get it in Japan (mostly) it's sure as hell beats anything you get in Australia. Again cooked right in front of you with your choice of toppings, usually a selection or all of pork, squid, lettuce, egg, etc. The Okonomiyaki is a glorified pancake. Topped with some mayo, sauce, green seaweed and fish shavings. Eat it while it's hot! Yakisoba is fried noodles, essentially cooked on the same pan as the Okonomiyaki, adding that extra flavour to it. It comes wrapped in an omelet. Depending on what you have 500-900yen ($5 -$9AUD)

Ah, crap I'm getting hungry typing this. I'll finish with one more...

Sushi - Now, this is the only thing that wasn't "cheap". It goes for a decent price, BUT it's worth every penny/cent/yen/dollar/all the currency in the world! Now you would expect raw fish to taste all that different right? WRONG! OMG how wrong we can be. The Toro (the fattiest part of the tuna, almost light pink-ish in colour), is THE BEST sushi/sashimi you can have. It quite simply melts in your mouth! And it's so full of flavour, every time I ate it, it made me smile (but I'm weird like that). 5,000yen - 10,000yen ($50 - $100AUD) for a platter depending on what you order.

And there you have it. It's quite a misconception that Japan is expensive. With the dollar as strong as it is now, Japan is relatively cheaper...well, at least in terms of food and groceries. You could live of about $15 dollars a day on food I reckon, if you don't need to eat large. You can get really good lunch boxes at 7-Eleven or similar convenience stores (of all places) for about $5. And trust me when I say, they are REALLY good.

Anyway, I reckon I gained about 10kgs whilst on my trip. A kilo a day, that's not bad, eh?

Anyone wanna come with me on my next trip back? ...when ever that'll be... :P

Peace,
Ippei.

It's all in the family!

2008-03-09T13:02:00.005+11:00

Argh, my lazy bones have attacked me again...

Before I post any more about my latest Japan-trip, (already over two week ago!) I thought I might post the photo above.

It's of the Kadota and Nakamura cousins (only missing the Fukushima cousins, from mum's side of the family). It's quite possibly my favourite photo of the moment. :)

It's especially great because I don't know when the next time I'll get to see them will be (hopefully sooner rather than later). But also the joy of seeing them everytime is encaptured in this photo. It was so touching that when I mentioned I was only there for a week, there's response was "Why?!" lol. All of them also, either saw me off, early on a Sunday morning, at the house or the airport. It's a great feeling. I definitely felt the love. Thanks guys! (Not that you'll ever read this. :P)

Peace,
Ippei.

27...30...3...?

2008-02-28T00:13:00.003+11:00

I'm back! ...not that I was gone for all that long, but still!

I was going to blog during my trip, but the combination of eating, meeting up with people, and cold-ness...well, you know the same old story. A week was hardly enough, so I really had no time blogging whilst I was there!

Anyways, the first thing that hit was the change in temperature. It was expected but, it was much more drastic than I had imagined. As the title suggests:

27 degrees. The temperature in Melbourne when I left. It had been rather cold-ish (at least for Melbourne at this time of year) the past few days, so mother nature of Melbourne was giving me a nice warm send off, with the return of the uncompromising sun glare.

30 degrees. It was slightly hotter when I landed in Singapore. The bad thing is that it stayed that temperature (or there abouts) for most of the night and following day. It was that kind of mucky, humid weather. You just start sweating, standing there.

3 degrees?! Bloody hell! As soon as I landed, on went a sweater, a big wintry jacket, beanie and scarf. It was literally like that scene from "Cool Runnings". It was just cold, the wind chill was nasty! It cut through your clothes and to your bones!

So there I was traveling from a place where:
if you wore thongs, you'd get sunburned (and I have my foot to prove that!) to a place where,
if you wore thongs, you'd sweat like you've been working out to a place where,
if you wore thongs, you'd get frostbite and your toes would fall off!

Really made me appreciate how BIG, our small world really is...

peace,
Ippei.

Tattoo me up!

2008-02-08T02:53:00.000+11:00

ah, the consequences of sleeping all day...now it's almost 3am and you're in your PJs and still wide awake, blogging away...

Tattoos.

They have always been something I was interested in, but for whatever reason (be it time, guts or money) I never got around to getting one. Well, I guess it's time to change that now. After all, it is the year of the rat! (I know that has nothing to do with anything, but give me a break. lol)

Now, I've gotten the okay from pops. Ma, I'm sure wouldn't mind but her being in Japan probably helps things. Other than that, it's just me I have to get okay from and hell, I think I've waited long enough.

Grandparents are another story though. I think they would absolutely freak! (I've probably mentioned this before somewhere, but they are traditionalist Japanese.) So my plan now is to get it after I return from my short trip to Japan in a week's time. Then at least they won't know about it for another while. :P

Another problem is that they may not let me into the hot springs (known as the Onsen) in Japan. They tend to ban people with tattoos. But I've been told that that is because in Japan, people with tattoos are a part of the Yakuza (Japanese mafia). Apparently no body gets them as a fashion statement. So it'll be interesting to see how they treat me after I return with one. And NO, I don't look like a Yakuza! lol. :P

As for where on my body, I've narrowed that down too. I'm thinking two at the moment. Well, I'll start with one and see how I feel/how much it costs/how much it hurts, before getting another.

One on my right shoulder/back. Essentially on my shoulder blade. The second just on my left upper arm. The traditional place.

As for the design...well, that's where I'm stuck at the moment.

My dad, the joker that he is, suggested that for my shoulder, I get his label (if you've ever been to dad's restaurant, you'll know what I'm talking about. If not, it's essentially a caraicture of him with the words "dontac" under it) done.

I asked him, "Why?"

And he replies, "Well, I'll always be watching over you..."

Which I thought was kinda sweet. Then he says, "...and eventually I'll become a burden and be a load on your shoulders!"

Funny man, my pops. LOL.

I was thinking about getting a guardian angel/dragon/phoenix type design there anyway. I came across this, which I thought didn't look too bad...

But as for the second on my left upper arm...I've got no idea at the moment. I'll keep searching I suppose. I'm open to any suggestions too. lol. (But please, no Chinese/Japanese charaters.) Something small and meaningful...well, it doesn't have to be tiny but definitely meaningful!

I've already acquired a location to have the tattoos done (friends and facebook are extremely useful in these situations). And as I mentioned, as soon as I return from my trip, I'll go about getting it done.

I'll post up pictures when I do.

Peace,

Ippei.

A year on...

2008-01-30T02:24:00.000+11:00

hmmm, a some what familiar title...but oh well. :P The swinging pendulum that is my mind, I'm sure I've repeated myself countless times without even knowing. Glancing through my old posts, it's interesting to realise how much your mindset changes depending on certain situations. It's incredible. But that's how it should be.

Right now I'm in a good place. At least I think so. From the outside perspective it might not look it, but I'm enjoying life. Working hard, sleeping lots, seeing friends, watching movies, eating (very) well. Not much to complain about.

Looking back on some photos I have, it's strange. Not one to carry around a camera myself, though i have a very good one, I can't be picky about the collection. I do have many great photos. What's strange is that I don't have many with the people I'm closest with or care about the most. That not to say i don't care about people who I've photos with (I love you all, you know that. :P).

Me thinks this needs to change. Pity then that, they are also the people I don't get to see that often, for a number of reasons. Some I might not be able to see for a long time.

I digress...

This post was meant to be about my (now annual, for now. :P) trip back to Japan.

As was the case last year, I'll be stopping over in Singapore for a few days (hopefully). Then it's back to good ol'Fukuoka for a week. No frills this time. It's only going to be a ten day trip. Mostly to visit people, so it's not too long or too short. It's weird to call it "going home" but that's what it is. Technically. :P

It'll almost be to the day a year ago that I got back from the trip, when I leave. I'm fairly excited about it. But the excitment purely comes from seeing the people again; Aaron (and maybe Shez) in Singapore, relatives in Japan, friends of family, etc. etc. Not to mention my sister who I haven't seeing since I was last there. That might not sound like anything, but that's the longest period I haven't seen her, since she was born! lol.

I finish this post with a photo...

...only two weeks-ish to go...(would have also been a photo with Aaron and with Shez, except I don't have one! :S)

peace,

Ippei.

Welcome to Post #1

2008-01-13T09:58:00.001+11:00

Well, actually, it should have been Post #29 a LONG time ago, but shit happens and you get lazy. :P

For those that I haven't seen or talked in a while, Happy New year! A big hug and a kiss for 2008. (C'mon, you know you love it.)

I probably had better things to blog about in this, the first post of 08, but I thought I'd do a random update of my blog and figured I might as well do a post.

I figured the picture to be appropriate as we look forward to a new year. It's open see and vast horizons ahead as we wait and see what this year will bring. 2007 seemed like a year wasted to me. Didn't get a whole lot done (except the whole graduating thing, but that's overrated. :P) 2008 already feels good. This is continuing on from the great finalé I had towards the end of 07.

Plus it's our year fellow Rats (people born in 96, 84, 72, etc.)! Let's make something happen. lol.

Peace out for now and not forever...hopefully,

Ippei.

bringing out emtions that you never knew you had...

2007-10-26T00:50:00.000+10:00

I've been meaning to post this for some time now. Well, at least ever since I got back from Japan which was way back in Feb. I've talked to some people about it, other will be hearing this for the first time...

Being born in Japan but raised here, I'd never previously had the opportunity to visit Hiroshima. Now that I had a railway pass (ulimated travel on the Shinkansen-system) I wasn't about to pass up this chance. I was hoping that either my sis or ma would come with (they had been there before) but both refused. It was probably for the best.

Let me set the mood. It was a cloudy and dreary day. There was no sky to be seen, just an endless stretch of grey and misty rain falling non stop. It was a very somber atmosphere. It suited the site I was to visit on this day.

It was the Peace and Memorial Garden/Park (I'm annoyed I don't remember the exact name of this place). As soon as you get off the light rail the imagine below hits you...

That's the Atomic Bomb dome. It what remains from the building that was pretty much directly below where the bomb exploded. Imagine it though surrounded in mist and it coming clearer as you got closer. It was that type of weather.

As you work your way around this park, you encounter the Peace Bell, the countless tributes, the memorials and it concludes with the mueseum. I'm not a shamed to admit that I had saltwater well up in my eyes several times as I spent a good 2-3 hours here. I think the weather might have contributed to that though. :P

What suprised me the most is how emotional I got. It was kinda shocking but also inspiring at the same time. It's something that's affected a lot of people in Japan, and even probably the world. I guess thinking of it that way, it's no wonder I was. lol.

If you ever get the opportunity to go to Japan. Please visit it. It might not effect you in the way it did me. But I'm pretty sure it's an important part of world history and something that we all need to learn from.

Peace,

iP.

Long road back...

2007-10-19T16:32:00.001+10:00

Results are in. But it's not anything I wasn't already expecting...

I have a full tear in my ACL in my right knee. But you couldn't tell by just looking at me. lol. I feel fit as a fiddle, just can't play any sport that involves turning, twisting and the like. I'm kinda like Zoolander now...except I can't turn right either. I'm walking in a straight line~~~! :P

Anyway, so what's the next step you may ask?

According to the physio (yes, the same hot one. :P), I'll definitely need surgery to get my knee good enough to play again. I can opt not to have surgery but apparently it'll never heal on its own. Dang. It doesn't look like I have much of a choice do I? I guess the only thing that would REALLY stop me from getting surgery is the cost. As in whether I can afford it or not.

The other thing is, even with the surgery, my knee will never be 100% again. 80-90% at best. But like I said, strong enough to allow me to play sports again. Also apparently there will be a 12 month rehab process. Double dang. Is it really going to be worth it? It's not like I play sports professionally.

Either way, I'm meeting the Orthopaedic Surgeon on Tuesday week (30th). He'll be able to tell me more and discuss it in more detail before I make my decision. Either way, it's a long wait and road back, it seems...

As for now, I'm concentrating on strengthening the muscles around the knee. Especially my quad. It won't help with the healing, but it'll help with the support. It's the only thing I can do at the moment...

Just on an end note though, it's kinda ridiculous how long this process is taking. The lag is the worst. Good thing I don't have a life threatening illness. I'd probably be dead by now.

peace out,
Ip.

all gone?

2007-10-05T01:26:00.000+10:00

Hmmm. So much for the "walk it off" attitude that most us, males, have. :P

Visited the physio on Wednesday, to check out my troublesome knee. Turns out it could potentially be a lot worse than I had expected. Afterall, I can walk, jog, jump, step and hop like I could before. All I can't do is play high impact sports. lol.

After testing out my knee until I cried out in pain, the physio (who was hot, might I add) concluded that I may have a torn ACL. That's the Anterior Cruicate Ligament to those playing at home. At least she told me I showed positive signs of it. What ever that means...

So the next step is to get an MRI scan done to confirm this. It's all speculative at the moment but I'm bracing for the worst. And the worst case scenerio is that I need to have knee surgery to repair it, especially if I want to be playing basketball again anytime soon. Bummer. :S Of course, I could choose NOT to have surgery but the rehab and healing process will keep me off the courts for longer, I would suspect.

But I'm getting ahead of myself. First thing is first. The MRI.

I was given a list of places I can go to get it done. The closest was Albert Park (the next suburb over). I was like "sweet". I call them up. "Yes, I'd like to get a MRI done on my knee." "Sorry, we don't have a MRI machine here. Only the Malvern branch has it" Bullshit. I thought to myself. I call up the Melbourne branch. They tell me the same thing. Dang. What's worse, the earliest date is NEXT Thursday at 9.30am. This is so shit...

So now I wait, with uncertainty on my mind. But with a hint of... excitement? hmmm, that's not the right word. I MIGHT be getting knee surgery man! It's like I'm a big name sports star. lol. Yay-yeah! :P

much love,

Ip.

Fade out?

2007-10-01T17:02:00.000+10:00

Gosh, I'm lazy. I used to be pretty good with my blogging...at least i think. Facebook has taken most of my time whilst online i think. It's pure evil. But I can't get enough.

First thing is first I suppose.

My recent interview and application with NOVA Group (the teach in Japan company) was good. Interview went well and I was given a preliminary offer. By in large that meant I was accepted, all I had to do was hand in the paper work and it was confirmed for early 2008.

If only it was that easy...

Only two days before the paperwork was due. As I sat on the tram, actually contemplating what my life back in my homeland would be like, getting excited about the prospect and having already talked to a few friends about getting them to come visit me, I received a phone call.

In short, NOVA Group is in financial strife and cannot guarantee me a position at the moment. They told me to wait a few weeks whilst a few things get sorted and they hear more about it. It'll be two weeks tomorrow since being suspend in time. That's what it felt like anyway. It was like yay! ...aww.

---
Getting back on a basketball court was something I was looking forward to and something that was meant to be a happy return. It was three months since last playing and spraining my knee. I had been stepping up my cardio training in particular to strengthening my knee and I jog without a problem.

The movements in basketball are so not like jogging. lol.

I nervously got back on the court warming up and stretching out to minimise impact and maximise mobility. Jump shot. Way short. But that's how I always start anyway. Once I got back into the rhythm, jumping up and down and chasing down the ball was not a problem. I was happy. I was back!

Some randoms came over to challenge us in a little three-on-three. I could barely hide my excitement...and that's as far as it went. Moving in straight lines is easy. I couldn't slide to the side, change direction or put absolute power in my knee without pain.

It was frustrating because the pain didn't last. It was in those short sharp pains when I needed to move. I gave up. Being the fittest I've been in ages, yet I can't make a sudden turn. :(

I need to rehab my knee. Schedule in an appointment with physio next door. I can't wait for my knee to be fully right again. Kick some ass on the court.

much love,
Ip.

The old man in the red coat...

2007-09-07T01:55:00.001+10:00

Before you all start thinking it's a little too early to start thinking "Christmas", though it is only about three months away (OMG! by the way), this post isn't about Christmas or the Santa Man.

I recently found out something really interesting.

Have you ever wonder why Santa wears red? Of course not. Because the way Santa is presented (see above) is the universally accepted, friendly old man that brings joy to us all!

BUT did you know, prior to (I think) 1937, Santa was never dressed in red? Every country had a Santa, but none wore red. They general wore different outfits. Usually suiting the culture of the country.

So how did we come to have the Santa we all know and love?

The year (I'm pretty sure) was 1937 and the clue is in the picture above. Have you gotten the answer yet? Yup. Believe it or not, it was apparently a Coca-Cola campaign during Christmas that gave Santa his colours. The campaign and the colour was so successful that it has stuck ever since.

Kind of an iffy story, I know. And I've done absolutely no research on this. But it's actually not that hard to believe, if you think about. Coke is the only company/organisation/entity to have successfully conquered the world!

much love,
Ipz.

Year 24 begins...

2007-09-02T02:53:00.000+10:00

Before you correct me, yes I know. I'm 23. Just recently in fact, but so hence I'm in my 24th year of exisitence. Or whatever you might like to call it.

(mmm...I like clothes straight from the drier. So warm...)

I went through a few phases last week. Triggered, of course, by the date that is recognises as my own. The 21st of August. I still struggle with the fact that it's winter over here. Funny, given that it's been 17 years since I moved here. But I guess something in my bones, my blood, lets me know that I'm a summer boy. Albeit with a winter body. :P

As all my friends will no doubt know. I don't celebrate my birthday. At least not in the traditional sense. No parties, no presents. Barely even a recognition. But that's the way I like. I don't like making a fuss about a day that lets me know I'm one year older. It happens every year and everyday for someone else. No big deal.

Thank you to those that sent me txt, emails, messages on Facebook or gave me a call though. Don't think I don't appreciate it because I do...a lot! :)

The week was unusually busy. At work I mean. I had more shifts and there was a sudden abundance of customers. It was the best it's been in years, dad tells me. Which is terrific. Perhaps it's good karma finally paying off. lol. No coincidence it was in the week of my birthday then, eh?

It was all capped off with a little splurging. C'mon you have to right? :P

Then you hit the relfective phase. You've been on this earth for 23 freakin' years. What the hell have you achieved? mmm, good question. I'd say a lot but nothing at all. Nothing I can hang my hat on I suppose. But that's okay. Or rather I don't care.

People have always told me, I should go out more often, or get a girlfriend already, or have more fun, or get a job, or whatever. And I'd at times felt as though I was obliged to do so. And felt like an incredible loner if I didn't go out partying every night. But I realise now, and should have always known, that it doesn't matter what people say. I'm living my life the way I want, and hey, I'm enjoying it! There are things I'm sure that would make my life even more great but "good things come to those who wait" or so I've heard. :P

I've got Friends. Great friends in fact. Some I should call more often and some I wish I knew better.
I've got my health. Except my freakin' dodgey knee. Probably overweight in most categories but I don't feel it. lol. I'm healthy enough to donate blood (or from now on Plasma).
I've got money. Not excessive amounts, but enough to get me by. Even enough to satisfy my spending spree moments.
So what if I over indulge in movies? That's what I love. So what if I don't have a girlfriend? I've still got a lot of friends. So what if I don't have a job? That's only a matter of time. I should have more fun? How do you know I'm already not?

...argh, I hate reflective moments. It always comes out in a jumbled mess. blah!

So as I continue with my journey in life, one major path may soon reveal itself. I have an interview with the "Teach in Japan" people this coming Tuesday. If all goes smoothly, I might be out of here sooner than I realised. All those wondering about my AIESEC exchange, the process is taking too long. SRB is in late sep or early oct. Don't like the wait.

My path may yet continue back in my homeland. And as I said, I might be there quicker than i had previously anticipated. Beyond that though, I can't tell you. I can tell you I don't see myself "living" in Japan permanently. Yet I might end up there for a while. Who knows? I'm just a little bit excited at the prospect. But I've learned not to count my chickens before they hatch. All will be more clearer come this tuesday.

One thing is for sure though. I need out of Australia for a while. Be it a week, a month, a year, a decade. I hate leaving behind everything I have here, but it's a change I might need. Or at least want.

much love,
Ipz.

The weird, the strange, the unique, the good...the MIFF!

2007-08-26T00:36:00.000+10:00

Okay, so it's been a good two weeks since it ended. I have nothing to do most the time, yet I have no time to do anything. Go figure that one out. lol.

The MIFF (Melbourne International Film Festival, for those of you playing at home), was something I talked about going to every year. It was always, "Oh the festival is happening. I have to go check it out." Then the festival goes as quickly as it came.

But this year was different. I took a stand (...against myself?) and decided to go. I bought me a mini pass. This entitled me to any ten movies (excluding the opening and closing nights, which cost like $25 a ticket or something ridiculous like that) and three free 'day' sessions. So if utilised effectively, that's 13 movies for the handsome price of $110 (conc.)

Not too shabby.

Only catch though is that most of the movies (at least) I'd never heard of, so a lot of my choices were made at random. This could be good and bad. You go in not expecting anything at all, on some occasions not even knowing the plot. The strike rate, I'd say was about 50/50. But hey! When else am I gonna get the opportunity to see 13 (mostly) random movies, right?

The line-up included: 5 US films, 3 Korean, 1 Japanese, Russian, Danish, Romanian and UK. US heavy, I know. I couldn't be as adventurous as I had hoped. In my defence though, most of the US films, I had already heard about and wanted to see.

The movies were as follows (look these up on imdb.com, if you want more info):

My Friend and His Wife (Korean) - Confusing. In a sense that, the actions taken by the characters are very hard to fathom. It's out of the norm and you ordinarily wouldn't expect people to act that way. I don't know if it's whether I missed something, or the Koreans have whacked sense of morality or what. It was weird.
The Mourning Forest (Japan) - Festival-ly. Apparently it had rave reviews at the Cannes film festival and it's THAT type of movie. Slow paced, drawn out and hard to tell what it's trying to say.
Bug (US) - Trippy. The most whacked out, tripped out, crazy ass thing I've seen. It's about paranoid schizophrenia. And it's so crazy it's almost humorous. But there was something so believable about it. Had decent actors.
Black Snake Moan (US) - Gritty. One of my favourites from the line-up. Terrific performances and awesome soundtrack. More commercial for a festival film though.
Rescue Dawn (US) - Duplicated. Had not soooo many movies like this been made, this would be awesome. However it's not original or creative enough to lift it above the other prisoner-of-war movies.
Day Watch (Russia) - Fun. Completely enjoyable. It the 2nd installment of a trilogy. The fun part about this was the fact that the subtitles were almost "part" of the movie, so it was a bore having to read them.
Woman on the Beach (Korean) - Random. In the same vein as the first Korean film. It's about love and relationships and all that, but it's totally random. Things happen but not much of it made sense.
Fay Grim (US) - Mish-mesh. Comedy/espionage movie. The audience apparently found it hilarious. I didn't get it. Sure it was funny, but THAT funny? Had one of my favourite actors, Parker Posey, in it.
The Boss of it All (Denmark) - LOL. This was so funny. Even with subtitles. Now that's rare. Being an European film, it doesn't have a what-you-would-expect ending.
Interview (US) - Copycat. Another film that is similar to previous movies that you wonder why they bothered. Having said that though, this was made very well and actually pretty good. Just nothing new.
Breath (Korean) - Finally. Third time lucky for the Korean pictures. lol. This was still very artsy and heavy on the 'deeper meaning' aspect, but it was quite well made and fairly enjoyable.
Mister Lonely (UK) - Zzzzz. I don't know if the movie was shit or I was just tired, but I actually fell asleep in this one. I'll have to see it again to give it a proper judgement, but initial signs don't look good. lol.
4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days (Romania) - Brilliant. It's film making at it's best, particularly with a very difficult subject matter of illegal abortions in the '87 communist ruled Romania. It's the type of film that would garner awards.

As you can see, I was quite a busy boy. But it was so much fun. I'm ready to do it all again next year...provided I'm in the country, that is. :P

Much love,

Ipz.

options open...excitment fills the air...

2007-08-05T01:42:00.000+10:00

ワクワクしてきたぜ...

It's the moment you start to realise there actually might be a light at the end of the tunnel, you feel...good. It's more than that. It's sense of joy. It's a cocktail of emotions (as a friend would put it). Excitement, anxiousness, etc, etc....God, I can talk shit when I want to. hahaha.

Reason for this post is that things have become clearer in my mind. The way I see it, I have three options from here on out.

Teach conversational English in Japan - this idea died after I was discouraged to go by my mum (the company I was going to go through were in the news in Japan apparently). But by chance (actually, I was dragged to an AIESEC stall) I went to the 'Work abroad' expo at RMIT and talked to the recruiters and it re-ignited my desire. And talking to people who've already done it has further emphased this.
AIESEC exchange - call me a hypocrite. I don't care. After promoting it and helping people actually do it, I figure I should experience this myself. More so than that, I want an international experience through AIESEC. No better way than through exchange.
Work in Australia - I haven't applied for anything so in actuality this is probably the least likely of the three. But a friend says she might be able to hook me up with a job next year. If that happens, I'll be into full time work here. Not a bad prospect in itself.

I guess I could do all three. It's just a matter of what order and what comes up first. It's good to have options. And all viable options too. I best not count my chickens before they hatch however, I still need to apply and pass the procedures for all three of those things. lol.

----

As an end note.

The count down has began for my year of the Jordan (ie. my 23rd). God damn, that was fast. It's so true that time goes by quicker as you get older. There are so many thing I want to achieve and time keeps ticking away for me to achieve them. Ah well. It'll happen eventually, I'm sure.

As for the massive birthday celebration i've been promising everyone...it's not going to happen this year. Still can't afford it. When I can though, I'll invite everyone to a "Ippei's Better Late Than Never Birthday Bash!"...I suggest you don't hold you breathe though...

----

much love,

A plasma...donation?

2007-08-03T02:14:00.000+10:00

Yes, sorry to disappoint. I'm not donating plasma TVs now. Apparently it's something in your blood. Yes, I know! Go figure right? Or am I the only one that didn't know already?

I'd been donating blood for about a year now. As impressive as that may sound, that's only really three or four donations. :P They only allow you to donate once every three months, you see. Well, apparently since I'm such a special Australian (Japanese), I can donate Plasma as well.

They told me the procedure. Apparently they take my blood as with a usual donation. Then they distill/filter my blood and effectively take the plasma out of it. Then what they do is pump the blood back into me. :S Yeah...that's the look I had too. It sounds kinda scary. But I'm sure they have advanced machinary to make sure it's done safely.

...I just hope it's advanced further than the technology in the picture above. lol. Now to find out what the hell Plasma exactly is. Wikipedia, here I come! (I just found out about the amazing-ness of this kind.) lol.

much love,

71...

2007-07-13T17:12:00.000+10:00

アカン！　今日、１３日の金曜日やんけ。

Spontaneous 'kansai-ben' Japanese aside, it's been a while since I last posted and blardy hell it's Friday the 13th. :P Not that I'm superstitious or anything, but I like to expect the unexpected. lol.

Anyway, the title is "71" I figured that that was an appropriate number to focus on.

71, was the score I got for my final subject in uni, Ethical Issues in Accountancy. So that's a Distinction for those playing at home. Not a bad mark, but I don't think I've ever been disappointed in getting a D before. lol. Figuring since it was the second time 'round HD would have been on the cards, but barely even got a D...Which on hindsight is fair enough given the amount of time given to the subject. So I ain't complaining.

It brings an end to an era. The end of my educational-life...at least for now. Good bye and good riddance to study. Now I can be a master procrastinator, procrastinating from...well, nothing. hehehe. Here's to a good 16 years of education! Cheers! Now down to the pub! :P

...waiting half a year til the 'actual' graduation ceremony is going to be a bi-Atch though... :S

71% is how my knee is feeling at the moment. It's been almost three weeks. Visited the GP yesterday, told me I shouldn't haven gotten back on my feet so quickly. But man, I'm getting a little ancy. I want to get back out there runnin', playing basketball and more importantly hittin' the gym. Feel so heavy right now. lol. I've gotten some anti-imflammatories now, so should be 100% soon enough.

Going away from the number, I feel so out of touch with the AIESEC crowd. Attended a conference party and never felt more out of place at one. meh, I think it might be time to call an end to that short chapter as well...Many fond memories though...

I digress...but don't we all?

much love, I.

Not what I knee-ded...

2007-06-27T01:21:00.000+10:00

Excuse the stupid pun. I'm a little annoyed. Mainly with myself. I've gone done it again...

Same leg. Doing the same thing. 'Cept this time it's my knee.

I hurt it, once again, playing the game I love. Basketball. But the pain I felt when I initially did it was hella crazy. Funny thing though. After the initial pain, for the rest of the day it didn't hurt. AT ALL. It was a very WTF moment.

On Sunday. I remember studder-faking to the right. Jumping up for a shot. And then the snapping feeling as I landed (it didn't turn out bad, but it sounded and felt like it was). I immediately knew my knee was fucked.

Friends helped me to the bench. And oddly enough I felt no pain. Bend. Nothing. Stretch. Nothing. I told them to go back to playing. I sat on the bench massaging it, bending and stretching. I felt good enough to get up. Good. No pain so far. Bend the knees. Good. Feels fine. I take a step with my left then a step with my right and BAM! It felt like my knees were either locking up or buckling. Then the shot of pain again.

I hopped back to the bench massage again...and the pain disappears. W.T.F.

Spending 4+hrs in the Alfred hospital was, oh! so much fun (please feel sarcasm here). And after all the checks and x-rays, they ruled it a sprained knee. But the fact that I felt no pain was apparently an 'unusual presentation'. No shit! After spending all the much time, all I got was a pair of crutches.

Monday was bad. The pain began in the wee hours of the morning. It started to throb. Then swell up. Then pain! I could no longer bend nor stretch and definitely still couldn't walk. Much of Monday was spent rubbing ointment and taking painkillers (Panadol).

Now it's the end of Tuesday and knee's feeling fine. It feels a little tight and hurt when I bend it, but other than that I can limp-walk, so it's all good. I should be fine by the end of the week...I hope.

And hey. I made the shot. :P

much love, I.

Impactful movies? ...Part II

2007-06-18T22:52:00.000+10:00

It'd be about a month ago now...I was posed a question. "What movie has made the most impact on you?" My first answer was King Kong. Now I've another.

The movie is...Dogville. And this for entirely different reasons to King Kong.

I don't know if any of you have seen it. The entire film is shot on a sound stage. Meaning that there is very limited props and basically chork lines for buildings. It's like watching a stage show. It's an innovative idea, but one that fails miserably in terms of the "feel" of the movie. This isn't why it had an impact.

The impact comes in the story. It explores the ugly side of humans. And what could be interpreted as "human arrogance". I digress. Let me explain.

The movie is about Grace, who wonders into a small village called Dogville. A place with a popluation of 15. She is on the run. The villagers vote to let her stay, in exchange she does chores for them. It begins all rosy, but as soon as it becomes apparent that Grace is more than she seems, the attitudes of the villagers begin to change and they "bare their teeth".

It's the second half that's very impactful. Grace becomes a victim. She gets raped, abused, belittled and basically emotionally attacked. The villagers know about it but they don't care, they in fact act as if it's normal. This is the ugly side of humans I was talking about. The once cheerful and friendly villagers, who are for all intents and purposes "social hermits", become very bitter and vengeful as soon as they discover the danger in keeping Grace around. The turn is quite horrific and hard to watch (not visually, but it's just hard to bare). You get so frustrated and angry, you want to yell or throw something at the screen.

Then there's the other side. Grace's side. She accepts this abuse. Granted, she is in hiding, she doesn't necessarily have to stay in this village but elects to. It eventually gets to a point when she can't leave (they chain her by her neck to a heavy metal wheel so she cannot move freely), but that's later. And you realise why at the end and the key here is "arrogance".

The film explains that she allows all this to happen to her because she is arrogant. You might be thinking "huh?" but hear me out. It explains that she is so arrogant, that she puts herself on such a high peddistal. A peddistal to which she believes no body else can ever reach her level. So in her mind, if people like the villages who don't know any better and are trying their best to survive but do something bad, it's not their fault because that is what they know. That's their best.

It was a very "wow" moment after hearing that speech (delievered by James Caan's character). I probably didn't explain it very well. If you are at all intrigued, I suggest you check it out. Or ask me, I've got a copy of it. :P

By the way, this movie has a very satisfying ending. But it's by no means a happy one. It's not a movie you watch and you get the great feeling after. You've been warned.

much love, I.

A great passion?

2007-06-05T01:43:00.000+10:00

What is passion really?

I think this word is thrown out there willy-nilly, like the word 'love', and the meaning of the word is starting to get lost. It's a really strong feeling/emotion for/or about something right? So I think in that case I've got two definite ones at the moment.

One goes without saying. The other...basketball...

Even with my current head-cold, I decided to brave the cold. Strap on my black and yellow sneakers. Pull on my elbow supporter. Grab that round leathery ball and head out for some shoot around. It's a 'kid friendly' park across the street. The ring lower than I remember. The weather cold as hell. The sun slowly fading.

I've just been craving to play. Dribbling. Shooting. Laying up. Wishing I could dunk. =P

Surprisingly, I hadn't lost any of my skills (at least of what I had. =P) but had lost all of my fitness. But I guess it's like the whole 'once you know, you know forever' kinda thing. Like riding a bike. Except I can't ride a bike...lol.

It was just me and the ball. 'Playing' basketball for the first time in who knows how long and as tired as I was getting, I felt so relaxed. So free. It was fun. Maybe because I was craving it so much. Maybe not.

It also reminded me of a lot of the past experiences I've had...

Watching the NBA on TV with dad. Playing basketball every lunch time and after school during primary and high schools. Rolling my ankle three times. Winning the 'B Grade' championship way back in 96. Crying because the training session was so tough. Getting our ass handed to us by a team at least twice our size but in the same age group. Countless jump shots I've made. Even more that I've missed. Always wishing I was taller, more athletic. Trash talking. Remembering when I used to be soft. Nailing a winning basket. Missing potential game winning free throws. Missing our finals because of sickness in 05. The days when a great friend and I played one-on-one for as long as both of us could see...

The funny thing is I don't even know when my love of this game started. But I guess that's what a 'great passion' is. Something you know that is important and means a lot to you, and it's been there since you can remember...

How many of these are you allowed to have?

much love, I.

What's in a name?

2007-05-28T02:46:00.000+10:00

チュース！

I don't know what it is. I get inspired to blog about something, then get distracted completely and then forget what I wanted to post about. Then I come up with another idea and soon forget, because I remember what I wanted to blog about but get distracted again...It's a vicious cycle...

Having recently being lured into another internet-based-meet-your-friends-give-out-info-create-your-own-stalker-site known as Facebook, I'm yet to be convinced that it's as addictive as people claim it to be. But then again, I've never really been "into" these types of sites.

What I did find though, was an amusing time-filler on Brenna's page (see her blog to the right).

What you do is use the list below to see what statements correspond with the letters in your name. The statements are meant to describe the type of person you are. It's quite funny. =P

A : You like to drink.
B : You like people.
C: You are great in bed.
D : You like to drink.
E: You are easy to fall in love with.
F : You are dead sexy.
G : You never let people tell you what to do.
H : You have very good personality and good looks.
I : You are great in bed.
J : People adore you.
K : You're wild and crazy.
L: Everyone loves you.
M : Best kisser ever.
N : You like to drink.
O: You are an awesome kisser.
P : You are popular with all types of people.
Q : You are a hypocrite.
R : You are easy to fall in love with.
S : Fuckin crazy.
T : You're loyal to those you love.
U : You really like to chill.
V : You are not judgemental.
W : You are very broad minded.
X : You never let people tell you what to do.
Y: Best friend anyone could ask for.
Z : Always ready.

Incidently, I'm great in bed and am popluar with all types of people. I am popular with all types of people and I'm easy to fall in love with. Oh by the way, did I mention I'm great in bed? =P

It's an fun little procastination tool. Give it a go. What does your name say about you?

またな。
I.

Humour inside...

2007-05-23T12:54:00.001+10:00

Another random/bored post...

I don't know how many of you have seen 'Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back' (see the link to the right), but it's one of my favourite "funny" movies. There are a lot reasons but the main one is that there are a lot cameos, and they all make fun of each other and/or their past work.

Which you have to admire.

From Jason Biggs complaining about how he's only known for his 'dick in a pie moment', to Shannen Doherty reacting with a stern "Dick!" after being called "Brenda". Both play themselves in the movie.

These are all inside jokes, mind you. If you don't know what they are talking about, it's probably not funny or sound totally random. (For those that don't know, Jason Biggs is the star of the first three 'American Pie' movies and Shannen Doherty was the star of the cheesy 90s soap-drama 'Beverely Hills 90210' in which she played a character called 'Brenda')

But the cake goes to the two lovebirds, Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. They are in one of the funniest scenes of the movie, again playing themselves.

The scene is set, on the set, of a sequal to Good Will Hunting (yes, WTF? lol). There are few things that occur that are funny but the funniest is this exchange of dialogue...

Matt Damon: Just take it from "It's a good course."

Ben Affleck: Oh, now you're the director.

Matt Damon: Hey shove it, Bounce-boy. Let's remember who talked who into doing this shit in the first place. Talking me into Dogma was one thing, but this...

Ben Affleck: Hey look, I'm sorry I dragged you away from whatever-gay-serial-killers-who-ride-horses-and-like-to-play-golf-touchy-feely-picture you're supposed to be doing this week.

Matt Damon: I take it you haven't seen Forces of Nature?

Ben Affleck: You're like a child. What've I been telling you? You gotta do the safe picture. Then you can do the art picture. But then sometimes you gotta do the payback picture because your friend says you owe him. [They both take a beat and look at the camera]

Ben Affleck: And sometimes, you have to go back to the well.

Matt Damon: And sometimes, you do Reindeer Games.

Ben Affleck: See, that's just mean.

It's basically the two dissing each other over notoriously bad (critically) flops that each of them have made previous to this one. It's hilarious! And you gotta respect them for doing that.

(note: I still don't like Affleck, but no longer hate him...)

much love, I.

Back in the ring for Round 2...

2007-05-18T11:12:00.000+10:00

(cue the Rocky theme music...)

(the room is darkened, and mist appears at the entrance way. The spotlight beams down and a lone figure can be seen...)

...

Clearly, I used to watch too much wrestling. =P

Putting the stupid "boxing/wrestling/whatever" analagy to the side. It is almost time for my final exam in the cra...I mean the "great" institution known as RMIT.

The date is June 14th. Location, MSAC (table tennis courts). 9.15-12.30.

I have already accumulated 31 of a possible 35 marks. All I need is to pass the exam (that's get 32.5 of 65) And I'd still pass with a credit level. Having failed by just two marks, I told myself I wouldn't be satisfied unless I got a HD. But meh to that. I'm gonna go for it, but the greatest reward will be being done with uni.

The hard part is after that...

But as I dust of the gloves in preparation for the exam in about a months time, first things first.

Wish me luck? =P

much love, I.

Money...or Prestige?

2007-05-15T02:36:00.000+10:00

Taking a break from hurting my brain to remember what I did last summer, and before I get to the post, a few minor changes/insertions to my blog.

As you can see, along the right, I now have a many a links, mostly concerned with movies. You know I love talking about them, so leave me a comment regarding anything and I'll post back.

Agree? Disagree with any of it?

The visual DNA thingy is quite interesting. Give it a go yourselves and compare.

If I've got any of your locations wrong, please let me know. I'm only going by "last known location".

I've also finally gotten a hold of some pics from my travels to Japan. Check them through my Flickr.

Now, onto the post...

This came on the back of reading an article in Empire Magazine (not so much an article, but a section. and YES, it's a movie mag. =P). It was comparing two actors. Both talented in their own right, both are big earners and both are black.

Denzel Washington. Will Smith.

Now, it's not a matter of who's better (we'd all have our opinions on that) or who's made better films (same thing again). The comparison outlined their CVs, so to speak. And it made me think...who would you rather be? Or rather, in which situation would you rather yourself in?

Denzel has had only 2 movies that have raked in $100Million+ at the box office (The Pelican Brief(really?) and Remember the Titans). But from 5 Oscar nominations, has won 2 (Glory, Best supporting actor, and Training Day, Best Actor). He's probably the most critically acclaimed black (African-American) actor in history.

Will on the other hand has had 10 (!) movies that have raked in $100Million+ (Independence Day, Enemy of the State, Wild Wild West, Men in Black 1 & 2, Bad Boys 2, I, Robot, Shark Tale, Hitch and The Pursuit of Happyness). His had 2 Oscar nominations, but has failed to win one as yet. He's probably one of the most likable/charismatic guys ever. Can also rap...well, kinda. =P

Now in the modern era, when Box Office returns count for sooooo much. Hypothetically, who's shoes would you rather be in? The money and "big star" status that Will Smith has? Or the prestige and accolades of being recognised as one of the modern eras greatest actors?

It's food for thought...

And I know you might think, "doesn't being an Oscar-winner make you a big star?" Well yes and no. Best case example would probably be the lovable Tom Hanks. He's won at least 2 Oscars, yet is lucky enough to continue to be able to churn out Blockbusters. Then on the other end of the scale, you have Adrien Brody. Adrien who?...you may ask. Well, that's my point. (He's the dude that smooched Halle Berry when we won and got away with it.) A fine actor in his own right, but what has he done lately? There's also Johnny Depp, but he's an anomaly. =P

I also know that actors don't usually get to choose. Or rather most aren't even lucky enough to get to this point. That's why it's a hypothetical.

In my humble opinion, I would take the prestige. Being recognised as the best at what you do, I think is the highest honour that anyone could have. You might be out shined or over shadowed by the more "flasher" stars, but knowing you are the best (or one of the) in the game is something that's going to be priceless.

I guess, it would also depend on why your in the game in the first place. The fame and fortune or the art?

much love, I.

Whirlwind stop over...

2007-05-14T00:34:00.000+10:00

It's been a long time coming...and lets see if I can remember...

On my way to, and from, Japan, I had a 5+ hour transit at Singapore's MASSIVE Changhi airport. Now, it used to be that I would happily spend that time in the airport, making use of:

the sleeping area: with our luggage held tight, in a bear-like grip.
the free net: on annoying 15minute intervals, but they didn't have this five years ago.
the endless shopping: had I had more cash, probably would have come away with more than what I did (Chivas, cologne, cookies)
the food: it's not a matter of trying something 'different' because they also have the stock standard.
the TV/lounge area: usually often packed. And TV playing irrelevant sports...argh...

But this time it was different. I decided to spend almost two days, on the way, and the transit hours, on the way back, there. All thanks to a great friend being able to show me around.

I arrived in Sing-sing at about 8pm? I think. Went my separate ways with my mum and sister, who were spending the transition hours at the airport, before heading straight to Japan. I went through customs and had a random convo with the officer about my cap (Nike tracker LBJ cap) and how he couldn't find one like it in Singapore. I was like WTF? but okay...

Aaron WAS meant to meet me at the arrival lounge but, surprise, surprise, he was no where to be found. I took a wonder around, exchanged a few Aussie dollars for Sing dollars (go the exchange rate!) and waited. Eventually he showed up with his cheeky smile... AND I brought him some goodies as well (2kg worth of NUTS and Johnny Black).

Let's see, what did I do...

Had Asahi black! It's just stout beer I think. But it was pretty good.
Had a Singapore Sling! I really can't remember how it tasted...
Had SOOOOOOOOO much to eat, it wasn't funny...it seemed like every place we went, I was eating something. But it was sooooo cheap and it was all good.
Met a few AIESECers. Didn't really talk to them though...
Bought a phone! Which I will no longer use, because I don't need it. lol. EBay anyone?
Got caught in the infamous Singapore tropical down pours! It came from no where and we were eating kakigouri (Japanese-style, ice shavings with syrup, mmmm) at the time. Lucky I didn't catch a cold.
Had really good Arabian food (I think that's what it was). Unique but it was fantastic. Found the place randomly as well.
Went to a really cool bar in the style of a villa. The atmosphere was awesome, but I remember it closing early...
Met up briefly with Heidi for lunch.
Wondered randomly in the streets, through markets or something...
Had tea and sheesha on Baghdad street (see picture above).

That was about it. Quite a random collection of memories, scatter-brain that it is...

Oh, oh. One thing I can't forget is the Singapore taxis. Each time I saw one, I thought that was a real person and freaked me out (see below). lol. Never got used to that and still amuses me to this day. =P

Much love, I.

"What movie has had the most impact on you?"

2007-05-07T14:00:00.000+10:00

I was recently asked this question and it kind of took me off guard...

I love my movies. I appreciate the art behind it, the skills involved and foremost the escape that it can offer.

To date, I've seen countless movies. Quite literally, I've seen so many movies sometimes I get plot lines confused. I wouldn't call myself a movie buff, I simply got into it too late to be a full fledged one, but I like to think I know a thing or two.

But this question, made me think...I've seen a lot, but have any of it really made an impact on me? Be it negative or positive? The others quickly mentioned the movies that have had negative impact; Closer (for its up front dialogue and general theme of relationships), Irreversible (for its shocking violence and rape scene) and Trainspotting (for its...well, general disturbing-ness).

The only movie that really came to mind was King Kong.

Now, before you laugh your heads off, hear me out.

As I told the others, as an "aspiring" film person (director/producer/the whole sch-bang), the 2005 version of King Kong was...magical.

I had just seen the original King Kong, before seeing the new, which probably helped a lot. In the new King Kong, you can see the little touches that Peter Jackson (the director) has added in reference/honour of the original. Be it a line of meanless dialogue, some set pieces clearly inspired by the original or amped up sequences of the original. And further more, technology has allowed Jackson to tell a better story as you can really see the emtion coming from Kong himself and the actors. (In the original it was made in the 20s or 30s, so the only emtion from Kong was a raise of the eyebrow, in which we are lead to believe "love conquered him". What love are they talking about?)

I guess as a stand alone movie, it's not as great as I claim it to be...

And maybe I'm the only one that feels this way...

It doesn't really matter. But THAT question... I'm still thinking it over...

much love, I.

Words of wisdom at 2 am...

2007-04-18T01:53:00.000+10:00

What's crackin' y'all? It's 5 mins to 2 in the AM and I am still up, yet again. Although my eye lids are finally getting heavy.

I promised to bring you tales from my travel in Japan and it has literally been two month since I got back. My old age, combined with my increasing senile-ness is making me forget them. I'll start posting about them, whether I get the photos from my sis or not, very soon...

Whilst I was there though, I heard some very good quotes/philosophies that particularly stuck with me and wrote them down at the back of my diary and I recently found them whilst attaching my Country Road voucher to my diary. I thought I'll share some of them with you guys.

The basis for these were that they were quotes/sayings from a grandmother of a very poor peasant boy during the war-era in Japan. With both parents dead, he was leaving with his grandmother. They didn't have much money, but definitely ALOT of heart.

"Even if there are 2, 3 people that hate you, just turn around and there are a million people."
"Don't money this, money that! Even if you have a million dollars, you can't make a fish."
"Kindness, is when the person receiving it doesn't even realise it."
"Smart people, dumb people. Rich people, poor people. After 50 years, they all turn 50."
"Have a dream until you die. If it doesn't come true, it's just a dream."
"If you have the courage to die. I want you to live."

You have to read deeper into the meanings of them but something about them stuck with me. There were about 12-15 of these.

There's one other quote I like, I don't know where I heard it or got it from. I had it as my MSN nickname for a while, and I really find it to be very accurate. I'll leave you guys on that note.

much love, I.

"Loving what you find is easy. Finding what you love is infinitely harder."

Transformation, complete.

2007-04-11T03:15:00.000+10:00

herro,

it's 3.15 in the AM and I'm still up...mind you not aimlessly. Talking to a friend on MSN, watching G.T.O. and "trying" to work on an essay that's due in about 48 hours. =P Finally figuring out how to upload photos from my new digital camera. Looking at my bottle of Turkey on the wall wondering, 'should I or shouldn't I' at such a gastly hour. lol.

The point of my post was that I have big news!

(cue the drum roll)

I have transformed. =P

No, I'm not really a robot in disguse. Just my appearance. I have gone and gotten my head shaved. lol. It feels nice. It's fun to rub it now. I could do it for ages. hehehe.

I thought I might celebrate this by posting my chameleon like changes in the past year. Enjoy!

PS. You don't have to tell me how self-indulgent and egotistical this post is, I already know! But meh, it's my blog. =P

Back in business...

2007-04-08T00:44:00.000+10:00

Hey y'all, what's the happy-hap?

It's almost been two month since my return and finally, FINALLY, I have an internet connection at home. Que the marching band and the pyro techniques...throw in a few party poppers while we're at it. *sniff, sniff* Thank you, thank you *teary eyed*. =P

All joking aside, now you'll see me more regularly on MSN and be more prompt at answering emails and hopefully posting here more...of course that's all contingent on my 'めんどくさい' (can't be bothered) level. Which tends to be quite high on a regular basis. haha.

I've become a social hermit the past few weeks...Me don't like it. But I can't help it. Hopefully it a temporary thing. At least until I finish uni. I'm not sure how that helps but you know...Actually what would help most is if dad found someone to fill in for me at the restaurant. THAT would help me out a lot actually. But let's keep that on the down-low. Haha. The fact is, I love working at dad's shop. And you know me, family matters.

...I don't know what the point of this post was...Oh yeah! It was about the internet...but that's kinda anti-climactic now...damn it...

I.

Woooooork!

2007-03-08T14:37:00.000+11:00

Herro people!

Before we I get started. Sorry, no photo's yet...as always blame my sis. =P If I don't get them soon I might start forgetting what an awesome time I had. But I'm sure the photos would bring all those memories back. Like a weird thought of Deja Vu. lol. =P

Anyway, the purpose of this post is because I got a job! lol. There goes the-formerly-known-as-a-bum, Ippei. haha. And would you believe it? It's in sales! haha. Never picked me for that did ya? I started this week and I've only had one day of actual field work, but I'm having an awesome time.

It's such a friendly atomsphere, where we have leaders, but they are more your colleagues. We have training and meetings and random chanting and music in the office...sound familiar, people? lol. I love it! Plus this company has offices in over 20 countries and obviously all over Australia, and there is ample opportunities to move up and travel around. So the similarities go on, eh? The hours are a bit long, but they go by so quickly. Did I forget to mention a half-yearly convention? lol. =P

You might ask why? Why did I choose this line of work? It's simple really. I just wanted to expand myself. Build confidence. Be able to talk to all kinds of people. Because I love talking to people as it is, I just want to continue to improve and this job is giving me the opportunity to do that. So if I'm not readily available, I apologise, but know, that I'm becoming a new and (hopefully) improved me! =P World watch out! lol. WHO-RAH!

No net at home yet though...lol. But call/sms/email me. I miss y'all. lol.

much luv,
I.

The new!

2007-02-27T14:38:00.000+11:00

...Okay, that's a bit of an exaggeration, as I haven't changed physically (ie. still fat) or mentally (ie. still...me. lol).

The title should actually really read something like 'Welcome to my NEW life', because I feel like I'm living one that is totally different from the one before I left for Japan. (Still no photos unfortunately...Sis if you're reading this, send them to me NOW! =P)

'The Upstairs' is half settled in. I say "half" because MY room is all done. The big (dad's) room, is not. He has until the end of March to completely move in, so he has plenty of time...I suppose. It also means though, that I still won't have net access until around that time. =( But hey! No net, is part of the reason my life is so different now.

Without the net, I don't chat (which I must admit, that I miss) and therefore I get to bed a lot earlier. This means I also wake up earlier (duh). So each day starts at around 7am. (Yes I know it's early. lol) I go downstairs to grab the paper and spend about an hour reading it cover to cover. The only downside is that it's the Herald Sun. lol. I also start my day with a glass of Milk and a bottle of Yakult (a habit I picked up in Japan). I also eat a bunch of fruit, which makes up my breakfast. This keeps me fairly energised for the rest of the day.

Then depending on what I have to do that day, I do it...(hmmm, I'm not sure what I was trying to say there...pretty obvious eh? lol.) I have committed myself to 'walk' everywhere, as much as I can. You're not going to catch me walking to Doncaster or Glenny, but the city and Carlton I can do. From my place it takes around 40~50minutes to the city, depending on how fast you walk. I walk slow, so I take 50~60mins. lol. But I so enjoy it. I never noticed how nice the Crown riverside is. Previously it's always been just a shortcut to Village cinemas, but now I enjoy the view as I walk. =)

Why the commitment to walk? Two reasons. The first is that I'm cheap and I can't (or rather don't want to) pay for public transport. Which by the way, seems to be increasing in price every time I look. The other is because I want to live healthier and do my part for the environment. Hmmm, I know that's not exactly true, but I want to think of it that way...So I guess that's three reasons. lol.

My room is bigger than expected which I'm very happy about. It could easily fit two people on the floor, so if you ever need to crash near the city, you know who to call. =P I also have a fridge (which is suprisingly just filled with fruits and yougurt) and a new LCD TV with digital. I also have a little corner with three bean bags, which I REALLY like. lol. Come check it out, there's nothing to do there, but we can all enjoy our company in the confinds of a stuffy upstairs room. lol.

The other major thing I've been doing is catching up on a lot of movies. Especially with the Oscars just been held last night, I had too. I have to say I was ecstatic when Martin Scorsese picked up best director and even more so when 'The Departed' won best picture! =D I was so awe-struck when Francis Ford Coppola, George Lucas and Steven Spielberg came out to present the award to Scorsese. It was like seeing four legends of the industry together! (Okay, so maybe George Lucas, isn't all that great, but meh, I'll include him this time.) Forest Whitaker's speech was great and the live performances were awesome. I loved Will Ferrell, Jack Black and John C. Reilly's comedic performance. lol.

Movies I have watched include: Volver, Flags of Our Fathers, The Guardian, Black Dahlia, Marie Antoinette, Flushed Away, Stranger Than Fiction, Babel, Dreamgirls, The Host, Letters From Iwo Jima and The Last Kind of Scotland. (The first few were on the plane. I'll write short reviews on them if I can be bothered and when i have more time, and not waiting for a class. =P)

So a lot has changed in my life, but not all that much if you really look at it. lol. Whatever the case, I'm really enjoying life at the moment. I'm missing 'that person' to share it with I suppose, but I can't worry about that. lol.

Oh and finally, my goatee is gone! Haha, it's on a long-term hiatus. It's return has yet to be scheduled. lol. =P

Much Luuuuuve,
I.

Ta-da!

2007-02-19T14:57:00.000+11:00

Well...I'm back...at least physically...=P

I have some what settled into my new pad, 'The Upstairs'. But I have no net access and won't like to get it for about a month...but we'll see. Currently having to deal with using the net at uni.

I'll start fully blogging again once I get that back, for the moment, it's just back to life.

I took many photos but it's all on my sis' camera, so until she sends them to me I have none.

Look forward to catching up with all of you.

...hmmm, I think I'll walk home now...

much love,
I.

Ch-ch-ch-ch-chia! ...I mean change!

2007-01-19T01:46:00.000+11:00

It has finally come. After a crazy fortnight since new years, the first big turning point has happened.

I am writting this as I wait for my flight in transit...I'm at Changi airport in Sing-Sing! lol.

I have now moved out of my Royal Parade apartment and moved even closer to the city (...relatively =P). I have moved to what I affectionately refer to as the 'upstairs'. yah-huh, that's right. I shall be living above my dad's restaurant from now on. I have quickly discovered that there are obviously benefits and pitfalls to the situation.

The major benefit being...the, FOOD! =D It's like having a chef on call. =P Well, technically, it's more like, 'daaaaaaaaddddd. *in childish voice* I'm huuuuuungry.' lol. =P The major pitfall is that it's CRAMPED! and it's stinkin' hot! If we get anymore 40 degree type weather, I'd die. If you visit me, it'd be like comming to see a 'mummified' version of me. lol.

Mum and sis, are already in Japan...and they will stay there indefinitely. As dad would put it, 'three people are going (me, mum, sis). One back after a month (me). One after a year (possibly sis). and one FOREVER!' =P lol. It's just very, very uncertain at this point.

I'm suring I've got more to say...but I'm running out of session time...

Due to popular request, I've decided to no longer bore people with my movie reviews...just quick ratings:

An Inconvenient Truth - 4/5
The Pursuit of Happyness - 3/5
The Queen - 3/5
Scoop - 2/5

Hey! Look at that, it's in decending order! =P

So off to Japan I go, hopefully I'll be able to get access to the net and blog some more. If not, I'll do it upon my return to Melbourne.

Next up: Singapore stop over...

My love to all that I care about,
I.

Celebrating a great man...

2007-01-05T01:47:00.000+11:00

OH, not me. =P

I'm talking about my father, Ichiro Kadota.

On the 3rd we celebrated his 57th birthday. As he was working, the family and a couple of his friends dropped by his restaurant after closing for the celebrations.

Never a man to celebrate birthdays, or any event in any major way, it was...as he would have liked it. With the people that loves him the most, pizza from a shop down the street, and a lot of drinks. Seeing any combination of beer, wine, sake, whisky was not unusual, of course we don't mix the drinks, that's gross.

He recently came back from a one week trip to Japan. He was there because it was the anniversary of his best friends death and they decided to hold a tribute concert. Dad was always the lead vocal of the band, so he was natural asked to sing a few songs. He said that it felt really great being back on stage and singing his heart out for dear, dear friend.

Now at 57, I think he's finally realised that he needs to try to live for himself a little. Which is fantastic, because he's even talking about getting 100% ownership over his shop and perhaps changing things a little. 57 years gone, and still going strong. =)

Happy Birthday dad!

P.S. OMG! OMG! When we picked dad up from the airport on new years day, I saw Megan Gale! She was even more stunning in person. She has such beautiful blue eyes. Piercing. I was too awestruck to approach her, but man! What a way to kick off 2007! =P

Movie Review: Happy Feet

2007-01-04T01:43:00.001+11:00

Happy Feet (2006)

Dir: George Miller

Stars: (voices of) Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, et al.

Plot: Every penguin has a 'heart song'. A song that is unique to them, a song that defines who they are. For Mumble, who is blessed with no singing talent what so ever, but can dance like no penguin, life is difficult. He is seen as an outcast and a reason for why all the fish has been scarce. After being exiled, determined to prove that he is not at fault, he goes in search of the truth, with his misfit posse of 'latino' penguins.

rating: 4.5 out of 5

Throw on your tapping shoes and your singing hats, because you are in for one hell of a fun ride. I literally had a smile on my face through out the whole movie and I just had so much for watching this movie, it's probably not right. First and formost, the penguins are absolutely cute. Not to mention funny. The latino penguins led by a very 'white' Robin Williams almost steal the show. They have the films funniest lines and moments.

The storyline is patchy to say the least. There are more holes in it then Swish cheese. But the end result of the film is so genuinely touching and thoroughly entertaining, that you just don't care. If you like a lot of singing and dancing, this is the animation you've been waiting for. It comes close to replacing 'Monsters, Inc.' as my favourite animation movie. It just misses out because of the said storyline. It's almost as if, the makers realised that it got to 'deep' for kids to understand, so they wrapped it up in a nice package. A cliched ending if you will.

It is absolute fun to watch and I recommend you see it, a fan of animation or not.

Centrelink...is gay...

2006-12-31T02:40:00.000+11:00

Mmm, i hate using that term in a negative way, and I'm trying to stop, but it best describes how I feel about them at the moment...

I do have to be thankful in a way, I am on Newstart, so I do receive payment from them, that I couldn't survive without. But the whole jumping through hoops stuff (come on, everyone who receives payment from them knows, what I'm talking about), can't be any more annoying...

First of all, they sent me out to SUNBURY for a group interview with a recruitment agency. Granted, I am partly to blame for that. See the lady on the phone told me the nearest place was Newmarket. That place was booked, so she told me the next closest was Sunbury. Now, naive little old me had no idea where the hell that was. But oh trust me, I know now. For those that don't know, it's basically whoop-whoop. Pretty much in the country. How she figured that to be the SECOND closest place to my house, I've no idea.

What's worse, I was walking in my neighbourhood they other day (Brunswick), and I walk past a affliate recruitment agency. I mean "What the fuck?!"

Now, to get my payment approved, I had to come into a Centrelink office for an interview. The trick with that was, that I had to come on the day, and book in for an interview later the same day. Which meant that if I wanted an interview, I had to get there at exactly when it opened. 8am. Yes, I know it's not THAT early. But if you know me, trust me, it's early.

So I get there and there's already about 20 people lined up outside the office. I'm like, "MotherFucker!" lol. Excuse my language. The doors open and it's like a freakin' stampede. It's like "Fuck the line, first come first serve". lol. Okay, I exaggerate, but it adds dramatic effect, no?

I managed to finally get to the counter at about 8.20. I then was booked into an interview...at 2.45pm! "For fuck's sake" ...is all that went through my mind at that point. I had four freakin' hours to kill now, AND it made me cancel a rendezvous with a dear friend (sorry again, Suzi =S).

Ah well, it's a bit of bitching that had to be done. Now I pocket $400 a fortnight, as long as I "look for work". Man...I really need to get a job...lol. =P

I.

Movie Review: Night at the Museum

2006-12-28T21:32:00.001+11:00

Night at the Museum (2006)
Dir: Shawn Levy
Stars: Ben Stiller, Carla Gugino, Owen Wilson, et al.
Plot: A down-trodden father, struggling to make anything with his life, takes a job as a night watchman at the museum in New York city. The interview was non-existent, the training rushed, yet he was pretty much given the job without hesitation. Suddenly on his first night, things in the museum start coming to life! As he struggles to come to grips with the amazing occurance, there is something else going on in this fun-filled museum...

rating: 3.5 out of 5

It's has one of those plots, that could work like a gem if played right, or be thrown into the dungeon of B-grade movies if played wrong. I'm happy to report, that it's the former in this case. It's a lot better than one might expect it to be, and it's a hella fun to be had by all.

The plot plays out very slowly, it does take sometime to get to the juicy part (ie. the fun in the museum). You almost wish they would get to the fun straight away. But once the fun begins, it's just fantastic. With all the big name stars along side, Stiller plays his role perfectly. He probably is the perfect person to play this angry, down-trodden guy. He has taken that next step and is now playing a father.

From Owen Wilson, Steve Coogan, Ricky Garvis, Robin Williams, great comedic talents, to Dick Van Dyke and Micky Rooney, to legends in film. There is plenty of laughs to be had and it's great film that can be enjoyed with the whole family.

"Boy, why are you slapping that monkey?"

Movie Review: Open Season

2006-12-26T22:56:00.001+11:00

Open Season (2006)

Dirs: Roger Allers & Jill Culton

Stars: (voices of) Martin Lawrence, Ashton Kutcher, Debra Messing, et al.

Plot: Boog is a bear that grew up in the human world. He performs some shows with the local ranger and lives a happy life. Then, along comes Elliott who turns his life upside down and get him landed in the wild where he'd have to actually act like a 'bear' for once. With the hunting season set to begin, and one particularly nasty hunter on their tails (no puns intended)...It's going to be survival of the fittest...bring it on!

rating: 3 out of 5.

Along comes the holiday period and hear comes another animation, family pleaser. From those that brought us 'Monsters, Inc.' (incedently my favourite animation), no less. So it should be good right? Funny enough to keep the kids entertained and smart enough to keep the accompanying adults interested. It certainly has the voice talents to do it. And at times the animation looks fantastic. But is does it have the overall package? Well, yes it does. But you won't find anything more.

Unfortunately, as funny as this gets at certain points, it has equally very dull moments. And the dull moments do drag on just that bit long enough to lose your interest, but it does wrap it up nicely. It also has a very formulatic narrative. The oh-so-familiar "home or new friends" scenerio (most recently seen in 'Over the Hedge') is played out here again. Having said all that, it does have it's moments, and at times it is very funny and somewhat touching. The voice actors are fantastic, especially Ashton Kutcher, who plays the role of the annoying Elliot...er, annoyingly well.

Not original enough to leave an impression, but certainly enjoyable enough to keep you entertained.

"Rabbit fight!!!!!!"

Time ticks away...

2006-12-24T03:16:00.000+11:00

THE most precious commodity we have is 'time'...I've never felt that to be the truth ever more so than now. As my 'year of change' approaches, it seems like it's approaching so fast, so quickly. What seemed like ages away, is only a mere three weeks or so. It's crazy how time flies. Each day passes, some productive, some lazy as ever, but no doubt ticking away. So many things to do, so little time. Such a big change to be experienced so little time to prepare.

My dad flies out of Australia on Christmas Day for a week trip to Japan. In that time, I need to clean out my room, my house and also at the same time tie up all loose ends and pack my own bags for Japan. As though, I'm only headed to Japan for a month (16 Jan to 16 Feb), once I return, nothing will be the same. I would first and fore most return alone. My mum and sis are staying in Japan, at least for a year, perhaps longer, perhaps shorter. I will also be returning to the small confines of 'the upstairs' of my dad's restaurant.

It might not seem like much, but for a person who pretty much relies on order and the consistency in things, this is a big change. And hence, I need to change. Become more independent and rely on myself a lot more...It sounds so strange just having to say that to myself.

Speaking of change, as the massive cleaning begins so photos from the past have popped up. Below is a picture from my last trip to Japan in 2002...

I'm with my cousins, Ikue (the chick), who's two years older than me and already married (2005) and Keita (the dude), who's a year younger, though he thinks we're the same age. We were at a dinner party for our grandfathers 77th birthday. It's a big deal in Japan.

To end this post, time does indeed fly...below is a photo of yours truly and a friend, I think in about 1992...

More archival photos on my flickr...

Moview Review: The Descent

2006-12-22T01:47:00.001+11:00

The Descent (2005)

Dir: Neil Marshall

Stars: Shauna Macdonald, Natalie Jackson Mendoza, Alex Reid, et al.

Plot: After Sarah (Macdonald) tragically loses her family in a car accident, her extreme-sports friends try to cheer her up by doing what they usually do and that's go for that next adreniline rush. This time they decide to explore a cave that goes seemingly endlessly. After the intial excitement settles and the cave behind them collapse, it becomes a task of survival. Not only from the harsh conditions down below, but from, something or someone that seems to be down here with them...

rating: 3 out of 5.

I don't know why...but I was looking forward to this one. It's not anything groundbreaking, or anything like that, but the it seemed really intense and frightening. Perhaps, for that reason, the movie was a little bit of a let down. It wasn't bad. In fact it was far from that. It's just that it could have been a lot better. Then again, I maybe expecting too much for this type of movie.

The pretty much unknown cast works to perfection, because none of them stand out like they would be the 'hero'. They are flawed characters, and they go in depth enough to let you know, how they may react in the situation, thus making the movie more believeable. At least until the last third of the movie. The survival instincts seem to kick in and one of the characters turns 'medival' on their ass. lol.

But the film is well made, it is in fact very tense and have you grabbing a hold of the person next to you, or at least on the edge of your seat. It is almost suffocating to see the characters squeezing their way deeper and deeper into the cave. It's a horror movie by nature, but an intense thriller at heart...

Things that made me smile...

2006-12-17T23:16:00.000+11:00

The weather was so wonderful today (okay, maybe a little too hot for my liking, but still good), I thought I'd post about a few things that have made me smile in the past few days.

kids...
Some can be so blardy annoying and some oh, so cute.

A family of four recently came to dad's restaurant, two kids, about 8 and 4, I'd imagine. They both had comic books with them. The older one, obviously just learned to read and was heavily concentrating on each word. His younger sister, obviously could not. She was also intently reading the comic. But when I glanced over to their table she had the book upside down. =) I guess it didn't matter to her, it was more of emulating her older brother, kinda thing...

tram driver...
these damn tram rides can be a bore...

Recently whilst on my regular no.19 tram, the tram driver decided to take on the role of tour guide/comedian as well. It wouldn't have been such a pleasent suprise (in fact, could have gotten real annoying), had it not been for the fact that he's tour guide-ness didn't begin until we hit the city. What brought a smile to everyone's face was the fact that the driver kept, switching loud speakers from internal to external and speaking to basically everyone. At one point, a taxi cut him off and he switched to the out side speaks yelled something, which made everyone giggle. It was rude mind you, as there were kids on board. You gotta love people, who love their jobs...=)

ice cream...
here's a tip, to get value for money, go to Brunetti's...

It wasn't exactly 'hot', but it wasn't cold, it was hella windy though. Anyway, I just felt like an ice-cream. I was at Brunetti's with Pete, and figured I'd try the Ice-cream. $4.50 for medium cup. Up to 3 flavours. Okay, so it wasn't exactly cheap. But figured meh. If ever there was a definition of value for money, this was it. I got the three flavours and it bare fit into the cup. It was MASSIVE. It was like having the cup filled with another scoop, about the size of an apple, on top of that. It was worth ever penny (fine...cent) I tell you. Pity it was so windy though...=)

friends...
okay, this wasn't exactly a particular moment, but it's great to see, talk to, chat to, or get SMS/calls from friends. I got alot of love this week from a lot of friends and it's awesome. If you're reading this, you know who you are. =) My life would be sooooooooo different without you guys. =)

I.

Movie Review: Casino Royale

2006-12-17T14:48:00.001+11:00

Casino Royale (2006)

Dir: Martin Campbell

Stars: Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Judi Dench, et al...

Plot: It's the birth of James Bond. Having just met the requirements for promotion into the MI6 and the elite '00' status, his reckless ways get him kicked of the current operation. But that wouldn't stop James Bond from continuing on and everyone knows it. He is eventually entered into a high stakes poker game to prevent a global terrorist from winning back in the Millions of dollars at stake.

rating: 4 out of 5.

For all you doubters and sceptics out there, you have nothing to fear. The blond-haired, blue-eyed, James Bond is here to stay and frankly, I'm glad he's here. Like with any other Bond films, you can't really compare one Bond from the other because they are all different. Ask any one person, and they'll tell you their favourite is a different Bond. So seeing Daniel Craig as Bond, is only a state of mind, if you don't like it.

The best part about this movie is that it bring back the 'old-school' Bond elements. None of the bullshit Pierce Brosnan era, high tech stuff, just the down and dirty, tough, grind it out Bond. He relies heavily on his body as the weapon other than using nifty gadgets. Which is something that got lost among Bond's transition from the original Ian Fleming character. This being the first official Bond story, it has all the elements necessary. The opening animation included. Though it could do with the better theme music and more use of the classic 'Bond' music.

This movie is absolute fun to be had by all. Even if you don't know who James Bond is, or never liked the Bond series in recent times. This will bring you back to the basics, the 'real' Bond, and enjoy the action, humour, and exictement, because it doesn't miss a beat, from the first massive chase seen. It's like...WOW!

"The name's Bond...James Bond."

Floored by an uppercut...

2006-12-10T01:27:00.000+11:00

Okies, it was about time I talked about it so here it is...

So, graduation is happening this Wednesday, but unfortunately I will not be taking part in the festivities. Why? Because I failed ONE subject...=( First time that's happened...like, ever! Please, please hold your applause. =P

To compound the problem, I only failed by two marks (I got a 48). People are telling me to contest it, and I agree that I'm sure I could pick up two marks somewhere, but the thing is I didn't hand in an essay for this subject (Ethical Issues in Accountancy...what ethical issues? Exactly! =P) and so it doesn't exactly give me great 'pull'. So I've sent a few emails, but I've resigned to the fact that I'm going back to uni for one more semester...

The other thing is, it wasn't the subject that I thought I was going to fail. lol. Ironic eh? I passed my supposed 'danger' subject...but barely. I got 49.56 for AFA (Advanced Financial Accounting), which was rounded-up to 50, a pass! I got the result for this subject one day before the rest, so I was absolutely over the moon and was certain I was going to graduate, but alas...

Now, I'm looking at the positive sides of this. I have more opportunity to save some money and to figure out what I wanna do with myself (though, I'm sure that will take longer than half a year). AIESEC is still a viable option for me. I still want to be on the MC, and this could be the opportunity for myself to prepare properly for it. I just hope that my passion and motivations don't wane.

It was kinda weird feeling going to RMIT to return my graduation outfit...stupid RMIT gives them to you before you actually know if you've graduated or not...lol. I should of worn it and taken photos or something. lol. I did put on the mortarboard. I looked so daggy...hehe.

Anyways, so it all means you'll catch me at uni, in Melbourne...at least for the first half of 2007.

signing off...'I'

Moview Review: The Wrong Man

2006-12-04T23:56:00.001+11:00

The Wrong Man (2006)
(Original title: Lucky Number Slevin)
Dir: Paul McGuigan
Stars: Josh Hartnett, Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, Ben Kingsley, Lucy Liu, et al.
Plot: The life of Slevin, just went from bad to worse. Having just landed in New York city, and being immediately mugged and nose broken, he gets involved in a bad case of mistaken identity, with two major crime bosses wanting his 'presence'. What's worse, the most infamous assassin is in town, but for what purpose? As he tries to clear himself, it soon becomes apparent, that all is not what it seems...

rating: 4 out of 5

One of those gems, those unassuming movies, that you either see or you don't. I'm so glad I caught it before it went off the air, so to speak. Regardless of the terrible original title, this movie is absolutely fantastic. With an all-star cast like this, it has such a low-budget independent feel to it. The movie combines seriousness (with some harsh violence) and a humour about it, that makes the movie totally work and a joy to watch.

The affore mentioned all-star cast is just incredible. Josh Hartnett, a very charismatic and totally underrated actor (he deserves much more than the 'heart throb' tag). Bruce Willis, (Sir) Ben Kingsley, Morgan Freeman, veterans in their field playing their roles to a T. Lucy Liu and Stanely Tucci, round out the cast, whom also do a fantastic job. Even the bit plays bring a certain charm to the movie, making it so complete.

It's not a typical film, in that nothing happens as you might expect it to. Something you see, which doesn't quite make sense, but revealing itself later on like chocolate bar with special treat inside. The director handles the task well, and brings some innovation to the screen while paying respects to some previous works.

It's a must see movie. So GO! =P

It's the return of the...

2006-12-01T03:16:00.000+11:00

WHO-rah!

Flights booked and confirmed.

Can't hardly wait...the return is imminent...

16th January to 16 February...excited doesn't start to describe it...

Speaking of things Japanese...check out this clip from youtube. Some people might have seen it, but if you haven't it's absolute gold. Basically, it's a Japanese comedy show, and the participants are involved in a punishment game. The rules are simple, don't laugh, or get your arse beaten by a kendo stick. lol. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4Z185dZD_4

Farewell...hello...and long overdue...

2006-11-27T02:16:00.000+11:00

Aaron departs...
Hmmm...it's been a week, I wonder why it's taken me this long to post this...=P

Last Monday, the 20th, marks a emotional day for myself. Aaron, who has become easily one of my closest friends, left the country for what seems like a global trek. I've only known him for about a year and a half, but bro, I'll miss ya. It was a tearly farewell at the airport (at least for my part) and I'm kicking myself for not bring a camera. lol.

His impressive trip includes stops in: Singapore, India, Buhrma, Singapore and possibly Afghanistan or the South Americas. It's something I admire him about. The courage and the motivation to know what he wants and doing it. His ETA back into Australia is January 08. lol.

But like we said man, "I'll see you somewhere in the world!" =P How cool is it, that we can say that?

Cigars...
Please note...I am not addicted to cigars...I just simply enjoy them that's all.

After promising myself that I would never smoke anything of any kind, I just had to try a cigar during out whisky/cigar/poker night...Call me a hypocrite but I did enjoy it...lol

This comes on the end of Dromana last year, where I refused to try because I was afraid I'd get addicted...lol. I guess I was kinda right. =P I bet you're all laughing at me...scratch that, laughing WITH me. =P

Japan, my mother land...
It's been 1,2,3,4, FIVE years since I last visted my home country. FIVE frickin' years...That's about a quarter of my life or my whole uni life, if you think about it. That's hella crazy...

But never fear, the time has finally come. I will be flying 'home' in January, and I can't tell you how excited I am. =D It's going to be so awesome to see my relatives and friends, the food (Oh my god, the food!), the random TV shows and just smelling that polluted home air, I miss so much. lol.

I hope to go travelling around as well, that would be awesome. Oh the onsen! Dah! just sooooo many things to do...Mental note though; the last time I went back I came back fatter than I'd ever been. DON'T do that again. =P

Random...
How do you know you're injury-prone? Every freakin' time you play basketball, you hurt some part of yourself. In a span of about ten days, I've played twice...totally number of injuries...4!
-swollen pinkie
-burised knee
-bum ankle
-bum thumb (and pinkie, again!)

I was told that I should initiate more conversations (or else, how would I ever pick up?)...I absolutely agree! Do you see why I've never been in a relationship before? =P And everywhere I look, couples, couples and couples...

There are people that have my interest...but until they show interest in me, I'm ain't doin' nothing.

Let the job hunting begin!

Speaking of which, I'm currently heavily involved in the decision making of things at dad's restaurant, and it's kinda fun! Maybe I should consider taking over the business after all. =P

Song of the moment...'My Love' featuring T.I. & Timbaland by Justin Timberlake.

puff...