Sanjaya's Swan Song

For some eccentric reason, I found myself on the verge of tearing up when Seacrest announced Sanjaya's departure from American Idol Wednesday night. Especially with that montage that seemed to have been extracted from this week's SNL. That kid was just... um, special? So special he merited a rare standing ovation from Simon Cowell! I repeat, from Simon Cowell!! I can only count with my five fingers how many contestants got that from him. Seriously. This kid's really something else! I mean, in all of six seasons that I've watched this show, no other popstar wannabe achieved the fame that was amassed by alternating hairstyles. Not discounting the teenage-factor and minority vote. 14-year-olds are crazy about him, proven here, which is somewhat confusing because I've always thought of the kid as a pending closet queen. Not to be sexist or anything, God knows how I LOVE gay people. But you know what I'm saying. Little girls can't be that dumb, worshiping a cute guy (in their eyes, and theirs alone) with exorbitant femininity. But he's gone, and shall never be back. Which caters the golden opportunity for the remaining contestants to play tug-of-war for the fame fondue Sanjaya left over. I mean, seriously. Besides Doolittle, Sanjaya was the only memorable thing from this season. Trust me. Our lives are forever scarred by him, his creepy little grin and that inescapable image of him hula dancing.

Movie Meme

Before I proceed, I just want to explain where the heck my header came from. It's simply a manifestation of my pop culture junkie-ness. A hodgepodge of some of my favorite movies and TV shows, from Santino Rice to Vincent Vega. I really, really wanted to add more but I had to stop myself from transforming it into a 3rd grader art homework. I actually thought I've overdone it, but heck, with all the misfortunes we experience in the world right now, I guess it's only fitting that we see colorful stuff around, including pathetic attempts in photoshop.

Snagged from Alternati. I'm a self-confessed movie buff, so in order to restrain myself by going too hyper about the survey, I'll limit myself to one answer per question. Although that's pain. :( But I won't put you through the spontaneous-blabbing-torture. Here we go...

1. Name a movie that you have seen more than 10 times.
Legally Blonde (2001) - This movie is a comedic display of false stereotypes in the society. When you're blonde, you're presumably dumb. Not in the case of Elle Woods, a perennial valley girl, who pursues Harvard Law School to prove something to her ex-boyfriend. Her mantra may have been far off from the general goal of law students, but ultimately, Elle proves that all Cosmo girls are much smarter than what people think of them. Am I right, ladies? ;)

2. Name a movie that you have seen multiple times in the theater.
Bring It On (2000) - A movie about cheerleading, with all its cattiness, isn't necessarily interesting, but I was a sophomore then, and I was with Michelle (my super girly-girl friend), and theatres in the Philippines allowed us to stay there the whole day. I watched it so many times that I've got the lines jampacked in my head. Until now. Seriously. Quiz me.

3. Name an actor that would make you more inclined to see a movie.
Leonardo DiCarpio. DUH?

4. Name an actor that would make you less likely to see a movie.
Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, and Jessica Simpson. Just stick to junk-exhibitionism, girls.

5. Name a movie that you can and do quote from.

"There's this passage I got memorized. Ezekiel 25:17. 'The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the iniquities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men. Blessed is he who, in the name of charity and good will, shepherds the weak through the valley of the darkness. For he is truly his brother's keeper and the finder of lost children. And I will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who attempt to poison and destroy my brothers. And you will know my name is The Lord when I lay my vengeance upon thee.' I been sayin' that shit for years. And if you heard it, that meant your ass." - Jules, Pulp Fiction, at the diner during robbery session.

6. Name a movie musical that you know all the lyrics to all of the songs.
I'm not a musical geek. I enjoyed Chicago and Dreamgirls, but that's about how far my interest goes. Does Music & Lyrics count though? "I said I wasn't gonna lose my head, but then POP goes my heart... *higher pitch* POP goes my heart..." There y'go.

7. Name a movie that you have been known to sing along with.
Err, I'll just go with A Walk To Remember. They loved Switchfoot there. Quite awesome.

8. Name a movie that you would recommend everyone to see.
Unlike Alternati, I'm going to try to be nice. Watch Wild Hogs! It's freakin' genius!

9. Name a movie that you own.
I think we're stacked. But I have a special documentary film on VHS tape of the Backstreet Boys' world tour in the late 90s. Um, just thought I'd mention it. Potential eBay best-seller in the future.

10. Name an actor that launched his/her entertainment career in another medium but who has surprised you with his/her acting chops.
Ok, I'll diminish the one-answer-only rule on this one, because one spot isn't fair enough... First of all, Tina Fey is an expert at her craft but her acting was positively surprising. I really liked her character in -- not to mention, her masterpiece -- Mean Girls, where she played a newly-divorced Algebra professor. It's one of those unpredictable roles in a film that suddenly bursts as an important piece of the denouement. And yes, gotta love the habitual sarcasm. Secondly, Ludacris's acting in Crash was the most surprising. It was very natural, and so believable that I instantly forgot that he was that rapper second-voicing Usher's "Yeah." And lastly, (and I'm echoing Alternati on this one) Jennifer Hudson. She won an Oscar, duh?

11. Have you ever seen a movie in a drive-in? If so, what?
I would love to, but I don't think they still have those stuff in the metropolitan.

12. Ever made out inside a theater?

13. Name a movie that you keep meaning to see but just haven't gotten around to it.
For now, there's just one... Blades of Glory. Please come out on DVD already!! :P

14. Ever walked out of a movie?
Yeah. It was that one with Jennifer Lopez. No, not Gigli. The less apalling one. Um, yeah, I think it was Angel Eyes. I believe I walked out forcibly because my friend's boyfriend was already pooping in boredom on the pool table. But that doesn't mean I wanted to stay put either.

15. Name a movie that made you cry in a theater.
The Notebook? Err, so given. Um, United 93? Same thing. How about "Labs Kita, Ok Lang?" Dare tell me you don't know this. Gee, that movie was such a tear-jerker! I can still remember Royce's abrupt clutch to my arm when Jolina's character, Bugoy, was already confessing her feelings for Marvin's Ned on a cold Baguio night. Haaay. Sixth grade memories.

16. What's the last movie you saw in the theater.
Music and Lyrics. Man, I haven't seen a new movie in two months! This is war!

17. What's your favorite/preferred genre of movies.
Comedy, I guess. I dig serious stuff too, as long as they have wit all over them.

18. What's the first movie you remember seeing in the theater.
I was around 6-8 and it was in a movie theater in Cubao. I have vague memories of what exactly the movie was but I'm sure it had Ogie Alcasid and Michael V. in it. :))

19. What movie do you wish you had never seen.
American Dreamz and Wild Hogs.

20. What is the weirdest movie you enjoyed.
Lost In Translation (2003) - Watch this. It's so weird and hilarious, it's almost unforgettable.

21. What is the scariest movie you've seen?
The Eye, bar none. And The Descent was pretty good too.

22. What is the funniest movie you've seen?
I'm not the most sophisticated movie goer, so I'm definitely giving this to the satirical smarts of Borat.

DONE. Relaying this to anyone who have plans of bumming out over the weekend. Enjoy! :-D

As predicted...

Jackpot! Well, almost. But 7 out of 8? (Counting my also correct predictions for the other two biggies) That's some redemption! My Auring skills are back! Thank God. I can make a living out of this. No, seriously.

The Hostess, Ellen DeGeneres
I'm a huuuge fan, but I'll keep it unbiased. Ok, not really, 'coz I love Ellen to death and I will samurai anyone who will say she didn't do a good job. She might have been short of racy jokes, but that's Ellen, and that's what her daily viewers like about her. She can produce funny moments without being as extreme as Chris Rock, and without totally choking up after the monologue like Jon Stewart. She was awesome, and again, I will elbow-drop the fuck out of anybody who disagrees. Make me.

Best Picture, "The Departed"
Minus the fact that it holds the most attractive ensemble of the nominees, this movie just had it. It was barbaric, sadistic, surprisingly witty, and overwhelmingly sexy. Recipe for success!


George Lucas must be having the worst time ever.
Best Director, Martin Scorsese, "The Departed"
FI-NAL-LY! Ok, I don't really have the right to celebrate because I barely have seen any other of his work. (I always find myself snorring while attempting to finish The Aviator and Gangs of New York, and I have never seen Good Fellas - boo me!) But I just can't help but exclaim "YES!" when he won, especially when I know that Clint Eastwood is as sneaky as a TacoBell rodent. Ha, he could have snagged that one too! But it's for Scorsese to keep, at last. And it's about time he looks for a new leading lady down here in Texas. (ahem!) It's been a long time coming!

Best Actor, Forest Whitaker, "The Last King of Scotland"
Although he was a condiment to my almost perfect predictions, I will admit that I was still crossing my fingers, until the very last nano second, that the envelope would finally have Leonardo DiCaprio's name on it. But it didn't, and Forest took it. (With thankfully, a non-shaking and totally-made-sense speech this time.) Don't get me wrong, I like Forest Whitaker. He's my homeboy! I might have skipped his film, but not his wit and musical skills... which I adore. But as for Leo, my love? He's gorgeous and all, and I'm afraid he's on track to a Scorsese curse.

Best Actress, Dame Helen Mirren, "The Queen"
I have seen this film, and I tell you, it's creepy how her portrayal is spot on. Enough said.

Best Supporting Actor, Alan Arkin, "Little Miss Sunshine"
I was really pleased to see Alan Arkin up on stage. (Despite being the cost of my 87% prediction results, and putting the trophy ON THE FLOOR upon receiving it - haha, grandas.) But I was just kind of shocked. I mean, his presence on the movie wasn't in its entirety, yet he gets nominated over the more peculiar role given to Steve Carell, (totally not throwing tantrums here, because as you know, I love love love Steve Carell, but just saying...) and beats out early favorite Eddie Murphy (who, unfortunately, tested the Academy's decorum by the early release of '08 Razzie frontrunner, Norbit). But it's Alan Arkin. And he's 73. And his role was a heroin-snorting, foul-mouthed, energetic grandpa that we all wish we had. Of course, he's going to win.


They look like they just came from a wedding. So cute!
Best Supporting Actress, Jennifer Hudson, "Dreamgirls"
Among all winners, this and Best Actress were probably the most predictable of all. If all the other awards (there's a ton) aren't any indication that she had this in the bag, then I don't know what is. It was like watching a Mavericks game. There's a slim to none chance of losing at all. And while Fantasia (the bitch who beat her out on Idol) will forever be introduced as the "America Idol winner" (fine... or "Grammy nominee," let's give her that) J-Hud will now have the "Academy Award winning actress" tag eternally attached to her name. Ha, eat yo' heart out, 'Tasia! Ok, I'm just being mean. Nothing against Fantasia and her duck voice.

Best Adapted Screenplay, William Monahan, "The Departed"
While I also slamdunked on this one, I can't help but notice William Monahan's Forest Whitaker moment in the middle of the speech. I mean, you wrote for Martin Scorsese, your film was nominated a bunch of times, and you appear to have not expected the win? Come on, Willy, who are you kidding?

Best Original Screenplay, Michael Ardnt "Little Miss Sunshine"
I really thought it was a photo finish between this and The Departed for Best Picture. But the consolation prize isn't bad, it got what it truly deserved, a nod for originality and fearless forecast of a real domestic chaos. That's why I consider this my favorite of 2006. Yes, even surpassing the stunning cast (worth twice the mention) and brilliance of Scorsese's Academy Award winning craft. I mean, honestly. I'm a 20-something yuppie. I can't relate my life relations to those of mafia themed movies, although they're sexy (thrice) and enjoyable. Whereas in movies like this, there's this sense of realism that makes viewers feel comfortable of what seems to be abnormal in their own environment. So kudos to the Academy for favoring Little Miss Sunshine over Borat's courageous (and naked) hysterical expose'.

And can I just say...

• Ellen was awesome, awesome, awesome. Can't say that enough. Awesome. She seriously needs to repeat. Awesome.
• Nice choice of winners, (I could care less about the others but still) I commend The Academy for rockin' the votes.
• I so wanted to be Al Gore last night. Besides the multiple wins... Hand in hand with Leo? Ugh, he's overly blessed.
• Speaking of his gorgeousness, look at him with Kate Winslet! (my favorite British person) So pretty. And can you believe it? It's been exactly 10 years since Titanic won for Best Picture! And was it just a coincidence that Celine Dion was also present? Hahaha. You're totally singing that freakin' song in your head right now. We'll stay forevah this wayyyy.....
• And lastly, Best Supporting Actress nominee, Rinko Kukuchi. Our Asian cousin (with couture Chanel) redeems herself from that horrifying Golden Globes freakgown. Good job, san!

Alright. Awards season is over. Back to work for them, back to reality for me. I have SIX chapter tests this week and I've morphed into a bookworm. Yikes, very geeky. If you didn't see the Oscars, and are completely clueless of what I just talked about, I'm sorry. That was just me, enlarging my already bootylicious butt, doing some observations on TV, and gushing over Leonardo DiCaprio's Italian charm. Come back next time, I'm giving out Target giftcards, you don't want to miss that.

And I am telling you...

I'm not going... Ok, that was cheesy. HAHA! Well, I certainly have no plans of extending this mini-hiatus, so please, just embrace me back.

I'm not that all about school actually, there's just been a lot of papers, chapter tests and disconcerting algebraic expressions to get over and done with before hopping back to the usual blogging habit...well, at least temporarily. So let's see... I guess I haven't been missing a lot. I did see The Queen and Dreamgirls over the weekend, I've already seen all the Best Picture contenders but Babel, which I don't have any interest in seeing anyway, and I'm presently counting down to the Oscars. Reviews are over at my Mulitply, so I'm not gonna expand opinions here anymore. But can I just say... if Jennifer Hudson doesn't win an Academy Award, I'll watoosee the Kodak Theatre til it burns down the whole Hollywood Blvd in ashes. Um, seriously!


See what I'm talking about?
Oscar Predictions:
Best Actress: Helen Mirren, "The Queen"
Best Actor: Forest Whitaker, "The Last King of Scotland"
Best Supporting Actress: Jennifer Hudson, "Dreamgirls"
Best Supporting Actor: Eddie Murphy, "Dreamgirls"
Best Director: Martin Scorsese, "The Departed"
Best Picture: "The Departed"

I don't really have a good reputation when it comes to predicting things, but I took this guessing game from Yahoo!, and got everything I answered right [but Best Actor]! But hey, that's some improvement!

Oh gosh, can't tell you enough how excited I am for J-Hud! Who would have thought that an Idol reject, who didn't even make the top 5, would be nominated for an Academy Award? Pretty surreal, right? Speaking of Idol, I haven't been monitoring the auditions like I used to in past seasons, but I've seen some good stuff here and there. So far, I like the attractive 16-yr old from New York, the hair-headed dude from Memphis, and that humorous afroboy from 'Bama. I'll be surprised if these three don't make it to the finals, or at least the Top 24. That's how good I think my taste is, hahaha!


Better-er


Also vigorously followed the two-week broadcast of the Australian Open, not to mention, in hopes of seeing another guy win it all besides Roger Federer. I mean, we all know the guy is unbelievably masterful, but every tournament he enters always seems to be the Federer invitational. That's how ridicolously perfect he is! Damn it. But at least, women's tennis brought some juice over the 2-week tourney. If Serena Williams mercilessly annihilating Sharapova in the finals wasn't exhilarating enough then I don't know what is. Told you, the junk is back!!!

Alright, that's about it. My own comeback is done. School's been refraining me to finish the ironing job and I've been stacked with clothes for almost 2 weeks now. Boy do I miss my yaya. So anyway, gotta get to this. See you later!

Fat Like Me

By accident, I tuned into Lifetime channel Monday night, a channel by the way that I never even notice. But as I was about to switch back to USA (for RAW), this movie's prologue started to roll, then I realized that it was Kaley Cuoco's docu-drama, the one she promoted on The View just earlier that day. The morning show's obstreperous quartet was discussing obesity and its cons for the whole day, thanks to Trumpo's childish remarks. But anyway, Kaley was there for the obvious reason, and then I was instantly intrigued by the premise. And since RAW's normally being recorded weekly, I've decided to sit through the whole movie instead.


Kaley Cuoco as Aly in Lifetime TV's "To Be Fat Like Me"
It's about Aly, a popular high school jock who missed an opportunity for an athletic scholarship for college because of an untimely injury. Desperate of making it to college, she looked for countless ways to make it, including begging her coach for another chance (to no avail), until a friend suggested that they enter a contest of film documentary. Getting the idea from others who disguised themselves as other sexes and races, Aly eventually agreed to document a life of a teenage fat girl. With the help of her cosmetic specialist neighbor, she easily looked the part in a fat suit, and soon after finalizing the look, she enrolled to a new high school and began the experiment. Aly's disguise was capitalized by her delightful personality which she believed would never affect her physical appearance. She was wrong. Because no matter how friendly she was to fellow teenagers, it didn't help her gain the popularity she has when she's being her normal tiny self. If anything, it only provoked narrow-minded people to poke fun at her even more. In her own little ways though, she tried to make it all different, starting with a new friend who also happens to be fat. She'd always relay words of comfort and courage, but at the end of the day, her opinion isn't what matters the most, because she's still not like one of us. She ultimately has no idea what we see, feel and go through every single day.


While watching the thing, I was saying to myself, "God, isn't that you?". I mean, I know I'm naturally big and all, and it's not because I wear a fat suit daily. It's just that, I've always been Ms. Personality, amidst cholesterol levels. I just don't and will never crucify myself by NOT liking what I see in the mirror. It's not that I'm entirely contented with this, but unlike Aly, I never give up. I will always refuse to think that my physical appearance should hinder harmonious relationships with people I get to be with every single day. But regardless of my positive outlook in life, I still recognize the fact that being fat has its fair share of discrimination, just like say, being the only Mexican person in Park City. Just like racism, bigotry towards fat people DOES exist, and despite being extra assertive about it, it will never go away. And I'm also aware that there are quite a number of girls my age who are embarrassed and aggravated with themselves, especially when that favorite pair of jeans doesn't fit anymore. But even if that has to be the repercussion of being fat, I don't even feel any remorse about being the way I am today, physically. I may be hurt at times but I avoid looking back and drowning myself in neverending shouldawouldacouldas. And what the freakin' hell?!! I'm enjoying my life right now --nevermind the waistline-- and I'm surrounded by awesome people who love, respect and accept me for who I am, inside and out. And trust me, I am doing something about it.

What's up, vanilla face?

I missed it for the world! It could have been my very first giving-away-candies experience for this particular holiday (since kids wouldn't drop by apartments before, sosyal sila e), but I missed it. I was half naked upstairs when I heard the bell ring and the collective excited squee - "twick or tweat!!!" - but obviously, I didn't wanna give them horror at its best by running downstairs with my bouncing watermelons partly covered and pretend that it's just any other ordinary costume. So I just had to pass. And much to my luck, those kids (a group of 10 or so, per my mom) were the first and last group of treat-or-treaters that knocked our door. Well, it's chilly that night so I have to be the mature adult to understand, right? Fine. There's always a next year. I'll get over it, don't worry.

Anyway.

I've been seeing BORAT everywhere! From The Today Show, to Letterman, even at this morning's Kid Kraddick radio show. Seriously, he's frickin' everywhere! Well, can't blame his commodity, his movie's trailer is one of the funniest shit I've seen in years, what more in its entirety. It should be good. Quite depicts yet another pop culture phenomenon, following the carved comedic footsteps of say, Napoleon Dynamite.



Please come see my film. If it not success, I will be execute. HAHAHAHA!

On another random blab.

I'm not sure about this but aren't all wisdom teeth supposed to be already in place once you turn 18? Well, I'm already past that age, obviously, and I still have my lower right struggling to surge out the surface. It did hurt multiple times before, but it'd take a long break once in a while. But it still hurts so fuckin' bad every single time! I can't even eat properly. Is this normal? I think I need help again from my blogging physicians/nurses. Does this problem frequently happen to mankind, or am I the only one? Help! I want to enjoy my food again. :(

By the way, I hope y'all attended mass or at least prayed for your beloved departed ones.

Enjoy Friday, everyone. :)

Being "dysfunctional"

For me, the term 'dysfunctional' is nothing but itself. It's only a word that's often used to describe inexplicably difficult families or those of which you normally see readily bicker over unworthy stuff right on the sacred dinner table. But tell me, aren't all families like that? Not in my 2 decades of existence have I seen a family so perfect. Even our neighbors back in Manila, who I initially thought exhibited such harmony within them, would be heard cursing at each other in Ilocano from time to time. Even my family isn't all that unruffled. Trust me, this house transforms into an African jungle in no time during a wild bitchfest. But eventhough fights like that truly exist, I just can't help but find it oddly cute and funny how family can patch things up quite so easily, even without apologies exchanged. I mean, it's not that easy to be making peace with friends, right? But how come with family it comes organically effortless?

Then insert this movie appealingly titled, Little Miss Sunshine. It has been in my movie queue for the longest time, and at last, I was granted time and a free ticket to see it yesterday. Minus the fact that I'm a big Steve Carell fan, I was more intrigued by the plot's dark yet delightful comedy about the Hoover family and their misfortuned roadtrip to this certain beauty pageant, the titular subject. Olive (Abigail Breslin), an average girl from Albuquerque, has been wanting to enter the said contest for years, and when finally given the chance, her family of misfits decides to accompany her via a cross-country adventure to California, needless to say, with innumerable mishappenings. With her are her father Richard (Greg Kinnear), an unsuccessful motivational speaker who disgusts losers, her heroin-snorting and pageant-coach Grandpa (Alan Arkin), her gay Uncle (Steve Carell) who recently committed suicide, her non-speaking brother Dwayne (Paul Dano) who took a vow of silence before entering flight school, and her mother Sheryl (Toni Collette), who cares about family above anything else. In a rusty aged van which works as flawlessly as their relationships, the trip was anything but pretty as they'd hoped for. But along the way -- although petty fights, and unexpected events have taken place -- they found a way to unite as a family and resolve things, sometimes, without even saying a word.

What I like most about this movie is that it's enjoyably moving without being theatrically dramatic. It will dab your emotions quite strongly but not in the sense that it'd make you cry. If anything, the film's surprisingly undisguised humor is what would definitely drive you to tears in laughter. Acting is equally amazing. I don't think there's a better collected cast than this. Overall, this feature simply exudes everything a moviegoer wants in a satisfying bargain - a clear and unpretentious story-telling and acting without being over the top. I can honestly say that this one's just perfect for my tastebuds. Let alone that it stars one of my favorite actors, and that it conveys a story that's very easy to relate to and a reality check that's comforting to admit.

Literally, the word 'dysfunctional' refers to a subject that can never function, or a frequent failure of its purpose. But to me, the word's use has obviously now morphed into a new synonym of 'normal' whenever pertains to family. I don't want to believe that family can forever be tainted with faults, fury, hatred, and anything else negative. Instead, I embrace family -- although unmanageable at times -- as the only one I have in the world, through prosperous and unhealthy times of life. Therefore, upon seeing this movie, it only reaffirmed one thing. And that's the fact that being a member of a so-called dysfunctional family is actually indeed normal.

The Departed

They only went to grocery shop while I was menacingly dusting off my rifle in anxiety, thinking all along that they left me to watch The Departed. So I hold myself responsible for tainting my dad's and brother's wondrous image, lol. We were supposed to see the movie either Wednesday or Thursday, but things didn't go as planned. But luckily for us, my dad cut off worktime just so we could finally see it. See, got the best father in the world, hehe.

Action movies though don't attract me instantaneously, especially when the trailer only provides one-note brutality instead of variety. But once I'm at it, I'd always find myself cracking my knuckles brought by its intensity as well as laughing bersekly at the feature's sadistic humor. Just like with Pulp Fiction, Kill Bill, these movies which weren't even a part of my movie queue before but grew to be classic favorites the minute I laid my comprehension on it. The Departed, on the other hand, intrigued me not because of its premise rather by its ensemble gorgeousness cast, not to mention, Martin Scorsese's directorial juices. And so, to be in an interested disposition, I placed myself a row below where my dad and brother were seated, so I could feast on the actors' collective hotness, and at the same time thoroughly absorb every ounce of story being told. I actually had the row to myself until a couple of blondies seated by my far left. Not that I was very displeased, but they were a little misbehaved, eating their chips like a starving homeless dude would, and they'd flippantly squee everytime a hunk's on screen. Nevertheless, I wouldn't let them be a significant hindrance to my most awaited viewing pleasure.

Story centers on a couple of South Boston natives, William "Billy" Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon) who both are serving as spies (or 'rats' as what they're being dubbed as) to the Massachusetts State Police Department and to the demonic Irish mafia chief Frank Costello (the brilliant Jack Nicholson), respectively. Sullivan who grew up with the mobster was tossed to the police academy to eventually be in the elite group of officers who are in the mission of pursuing the mafia, particularly his 'dad'. Meanwhile, Costigan, who was a police academy dropout, and also who has real family ties with Costello, was assigned by Oliver Queenan (Martin Sheen) and his hot-headed deputy, Dignam (Mark Wahlberg) to infiltrate the Irish gang. As the two rats' double lives were completely filtered by lies, brutality, and strenuous eagle-eye-ing, both of their camps concurrently figured that they have spies within their teams. And in such an event, both Sullivan and Costigan were appointed to find their own rats in opposing sides.

It's quite a trick though, like both leads were counter-casted, because prior to watching this movie, I expected Matt to be playing the innocent good guy while Leo as the grungy and arrogant one. But unsurprisingly, both executed their characters, Matt as the slick dickwad and Leo as the sacrificial lamb, almost perfectly. These two might have stolen the whole feature with their acting prowess, but Jack Nicholson's effortless satanic expressions as well as Mark Wahlberg's solid jerkbag performance are definitely worth the mention. With that said, I believe that this without a doubt is one of the best films this year. Second best in my book. If you enjoyed films like Pulp Fiction or Goodfellas (a Scorsese classic I have yet to see), then you will most likely want to see this one. It will certainly grind your knee joints in suspense, and potentially crack you up with its comedic panache.

Rainy Days on Mondays

If I may have appeared merciless in the previous post, I apologize. But I believe I have proven a beyond valid point. Nevertheless, I'm in no position to sway my friend's emotions to a certain way that would only feed my concerns. She has complete control of herself, wether she chooses to be assertive or continuously be naive, I shall not care. In line of Vayie's advice, I must ignore her. She's a person of right age, therefore, she should know better. Plus, I'm no spongebob.

Actually, I've pondered about the numbers thing before going to bed last night just to verify what I've said in the previous entry. You know what, I'm absolutely right! Haha, not that it super matters, but it only tells me that I'm theoretically the kind of woman who would dispose a couple of year's worth, or even more, of being with a person who scumbagged me to begin with. It just can never be enough measure of a relationship. I can't deny though that the longevity, with the memories that it hauls, is all that easy to scrap, of course not, but I don't think it's the toughest job to throw everything over your shoulder when the connection doesn't work anymore.

One thing that certainly elevated my view was my parents' situation prior to their marriage. They met through common friends, and after a month of dating, they got married. Yes, that immediate. And just for the record, my mother wasn't pregnant when she got hitched, nor was it fixed. I never seeked for details causing the hastiness because my mom couldn't figure out the perfect way to execute an explanation, hence her timeless joke, "pinikot niya kasi ako!". And since I couldn't get anything from her, I settled on the perceivable fact that it was simply the progeny of their overwhelming love and admiration for each other. I thwarted my opinion on numbers once I've learned about this, and as you can see, my point has been tested and proven.

You also can't blame those who readily, and at certain urgencies, selfishly dissolve an aged relationship because somebody, who they believe is the right one, unanticipatedly comes into the picture. You know, that certain love song, "It's sad to belong to someone else, when the right one comes along", exactly like that. Quite a trap to be in, but yet again, it only tells you that a 2, 5, 10 year old relationship can go down to tubes if and/or when you discover that your behalf is not the destined person for you to spend your whole life with. Um, yes, I'm corny like that. I believe in destiny. I'm a fatalist, just so you know.

As I've mentioned, I'm really looking forward to see The Last Kiss. I think my theories on numbers and destiny are somehow exhibited in this film. Moreso, the quirks of becoming of age. Making choices, having doubts, choosing the right person to be with. Stuff like that.


Go, check it and the effin' awesome soundtrack too!

Look-alike Bandwagon

Of course I'm not gonna let another blog trend pass me by just like Superman did, haha. I also had a picture of mine (actually tons of them, but only one qualified, darn it) evaluated over at My Heritage. But to my dismay, I didn't get Angelina Jolie in there. Why do you all have her and I don't? That's unfair! But I believe my set seems to be quite accurate. At least I think so. d:


Click here to blow this up.

On another story...

I wasted more unwanted time with my new boyfriend again this afternoon, and what better way to bum around than to watch a Filipino movie via it. Actually, I've been wanting to see this movie since the first time I saw its trailer, but since I evidently don't get Filipino movies here, I had to wait for it on the site. Thank God for these generous people who laboriously upload flicks on youtube just so they can share it with centless foreign land residents like myself. Anyway, the feature's trailer is like that of The Lake House's, it captivates the viewers' eyes all by itself, which ideally makes a clever initial impression. And so, I reaffirmed my curiosity over this award winning production and sat through its entirety. The movie doesn't start with a relative haziness - which frequently happens in romantic stories like this - whereas it goes straight to the main storyline... Manuel is looking for Corazon. I eagerly jumped in and journeyed with him in looking for this person, despite my eventual overwhelming bemusement regarding who the real one might and should be. As the movie advances, I get distinctive clues on who the legitimate Corazon we're looking for - there's a torn photograph on one, and a locket (a pendant or something) on the other. Both had been promised to be danced by Manuel in the tune of no less than each's favorite song, Blue Moon. One is the first love, the other one is his uncertain true love, as the argument on which kind of love never dies goes on. Now tell me, how could I possibly be sure, at any point in that film, but the latter part, that I'm thinking of the right Corazon. In fact, I would periodically ask myself, "So she's the real Corazon?" or "Which Corazon was that?" which only signifies that this movie is successful for trapping you in its own psycho bubble. That's the point of the film, to mystify you. I may be a little unimpressed with the acting collectively, but the story, just by itself, totally made up of what it lacked technically. It was original and was suitably romantic. And it's confusing, which added the little kick to it. It barely made me cry though, but I was truly satisfied.

Since we're at it... I'm quite interested in watching The Last Kiss which is an adaptation of this Italian movie. It's a no brainer, I've always been amused by Zach Braff, especially when he got Punk'd. But kidding aside, I think this one's considerably good, and that the plot is more on the realistic side compared to what I've been induced by lately. Plus, it has a kick ass soundtrack too! I actually wanted to talk more about this, but I thought I'll just reserve it for the next entry. For the time being, you bitches have fun this weekend, alright? I'm gonna try to. (:

Instead of a pot session.

Just when I thought I would never get absorbed by this Korean-telenovela-craze, there I was, swimming in tears while ensnaring the romanticism of Winter Sonata on AZN a few months back. Seriously. It's that overwhelming. And so, upon learning my overflowing adoration for this certain drama series, Kuya Richard immediately lent me his season of Endless Love, another Korean chuvaloo. Mama and I sat through it in 3 days, and boy were our eyes brownish swollen like rotten bananas. Hahahaha! My reputation of a toughie is officially ruined. I'm a hopeless romatic after all! *kaching-kaching in my eyes*

Without failure, I have switched back to the dutiful movie-goer that I am. Expensive, but seemingly satisfying. Apart from these, I managed to see a couple more this week (including WTC), and I'm planning on checking out 3 more in the coming days. I'm not doing anything else anyway, and I never plan on munching some weed stuffed brownies just so I won't get bored. Movies, and television, are a good way to go. Besides, they're never boring. Follow my lead! (;

And BTW. It's been three years since my last blunt. I'm such a good girl. Thank you Papa God!

Delinquent Movie-goer

I divulge my being a lazy-assed movie-goer. I missed a damn whole lot, including the much anticipated Superman. Superfreakinman. Yes. I missed it. But in an uncharacteristic behavior, I was inclined to watch three movies this week, four if I get to watch another one tonight. Well, not that I spent a lot...um, at all. Thanks to the folks who sedulously upload movies on youtube. It's just amazing, don't you think? Hehe. I watched 2/3 of my moviefest via it, and it's obviously in my most comfort. Good grace!

First up, on a rainy Monday afternoon, I went to see The Descent. Initially, I didn't really want to go, but with my brother's persistence, I just couldn't withstand. I'm honestly a coward when it comes to supernatural things, let alone monstrous human-eating humanoids, so the movie indeed scared me, and didn't make me feel good about sleeping that same night.

Then we're off to the youtube marathon. Obviously, the idea of sitting on the couch infront of your computer is already tranquilizing, but it's even more than that when you're actually seeing a product of Asian craftsmanship. Dubai was as predictable as can be though, but the actors made up for the lack of creativity in its plot. Watching the trailer was like watching the entire feature itself. I may be a little critical, but that's what I thought of it. However though, the authenticity of events shown in the movie truly reflects the masses, hence it's overpowering success in overseas countries which embody Filipino workers. Having a mother who had gone through the exact same pain and sacrifice, I was genuinely touched by certain dramatic scenes, so it wasn't really that bad after all. Il Mare, on the other hand, is totally the opposite of predictability. The idea of the movie itself is stupefying, and it gets even better as it advances. The acting was not even close to being over-the-top, it was just right on, despite the atypical storyline. I recommend this to people who are suckers for romantic tearjerkers.

If I didn't make sense enough, go HERE to read my extended opinions about these movies.

On another topic... It's no secret that I'm a huge sports junkie, especially of those which comprise a number of papables (as a dear friend calls them). Rogers Cup is currently in progress, and I can't hate myself less for missing Rafael Nadal's first two matches. Gaaaah!

Anyway, I'm off to Frisco in a few hours. At last, I'm going somewhere else, hahaha. Will be back with whatever I can gather for a chika, and a review of what could be the next movie I'm going to see. Have a great weekend, everyone. Be safe!

Chain Yakking

Papa bought me this jar of chocolate filled wafer sticks from the Asian market earlier this week, you know, those which look like champola. It has been hanging around in the kitchen for almost a week, and the subconsciously gluttonous being that I am, munch on it every after meal. I just can't resist! It's been years since the last time I got a grip on those. So yum! And you bet, them wafer sticks are disappearing like leaves on a tree during fall, haha.

Speaking of fall, our backyard seems to be living on a different season. The next one is yet to hit this part of the crust later this month, so the leaves falling this early is quite an annoyance to my sight. Plus, I hate to be cleaning the mess, specially under the gally heat.

Speaking of heat, Dwyane Wade, and the rest of Team USA were victorious in their first dress rehearsal last night for the World Championships. The cohesiveness and dynamism were fantastic. With a core composed by superstars like LeBron, 'Melo, and the finals mvp, you can at least expect a my horse is bigger than yours showdown, but no, they were amazing collectively, and definitely worked as a team. I'm so glad I'll be cheering for a plausible contender this time.

It was reported a couple of days back that Queer Eye's time was up. I was in shock, totally floored. I'm a huge fan of the show and I didn't see a good enough reason for it to be canned. Thankfully, it all turned out to be false. Ugh, I almost scribbled hate mails, haha. Apparently, shortly after the rumor circulated the earth, Bravo hurriedly offered the Fab 5 a new contract. Good move, dumbass! Unless you wanted another gay network to snatch your blockbuster.

Speaking of blockbuster, I haven't really had the urge to watch movies lately. Can you believe I missed Superman? Needless to say, as well as Devil Wears Prada and The Lake House. I know, I should get my ass off the couch. But there's just nothing that inclined me to it. My brother though has been endlessly asking me to see The Descent with him this weekend. I would love to, but the last time I watched a horror flick, I had the weirdest imaginations of Japanese girls. Plus, I don't think I've been convinced enough.d=

K, enough of this chain thing. Got the lame idea from this new game show on GSN. Yes, I watch GSN, there goes a solid indication that I have such a boring life. Anyway, the hair above my eyes are growing yet again, as well as my fem beard. I gotta find the tweezer and clean up. Gee, the cons of a woman. I have to catch up on some wrestling and X games too, so I better get going. Have a great weekend, honeybunnies!

The universe tends to unfold as it should. - Tarik

Harold: So what are you in here for?
Tarik: For being black.
Harold: Seriously.
Tarik: I am serious. You wanna know what happened. I was walking out of a Barnes & Noble, and a cop stops me. Evidently, a black guy robbed a store in Newark. I told him, "I haven't even been to Newark in months." So he starts beating me with his gun, telling me to stop resisting arrest.
Harold: Holy shit! What'd you do?
Tarik: I kept saying, "I understand I'm under arrest. Now please stop beating me."
Harold: I don't understand how you can be so calm about all this.
Tarik: Look at me. I'm fat, black, can't dance, and I have two gay fathers. People have been messing with me my whole life. I learned a long time ago there's no sense getting all riled up every time a bunch of idiots give you a hard time. In the end, the universe tends to unfold as it should. Plus I have a really large penis. That keeps me happy.

Don't you just love it when a movie stuffed with lunacy soaked antics can actually be injected with a mild bit of farsightedness in it? I'm presently overhearing the movie and the scene is now about to shift to the prison where this entertaining and eye-opening exchange of dialogues took place.