tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70001835297002535912024-03-05T00:23:50.420-08:00Gab RagesUnofficially a movie blog. Mostly the inner turmoil and serenity of my itchy boob, named Shelly. Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-78048313597440988372013-07-15T03:02:00.000-07:002013-07-15T03:02:08.267-07:00The Sessions (2012)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReFE9_6GOWYDpni9czeRLtnviu7SyVFqgTAxDe52jw62OckDy79iP4Ky7_e027jXx5JqD-KNeWlFbrIHVWlBsicgoxxniAYgQ6OFgxj7i5mujPHwJTYebk_Yaaa4VLc_TJB9_5Dieow/s1600/The+Sessions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReFE9_6GOWYDpni9czeRLtnviu7SyVFqgTAxDe52jw62OckDy79iP4Ky7_e027jXx5JqD-KNeWlFbrIHVWlBsicgoxxniAYgQ6OFgxj7i5mujPHwJTYebk_Yaaa4VLc_TJB9_5Dieow/s320/The+Sessions.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is a story about a man named Mark who has had polio since his early childhood. He survives on his trusty iron lung that helps him keep breathing for a long period of time. He early explains that his disability does not mean that he cannot feel anything. You see, he is not paralyzed, his muscles just don't work well. And of course, he is a virgin. So imagine a man having a raging erection without being able to masturbate. In his late thirties, his only wish is relief. To leave the world as an experienced man, so to speak. With the help of a Catholic priest and a therapist, he seeks sexual satisfaction from a professional sex surrogate. So how does that work? They will have a total of six sessions in which each session's goal is to let Mark experience a full on, true blue sexual intercourse complete with body exercises and all that. Foreplay, really. Are you not interested yet?<br />
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What makes this movie brilliant is the hope and humor it brings to the screen. Mark is not the perfect person, or the perfect man for that matter. He can be annoying, self-centered and a general pain in the ass sometimes. But this does not stop him from being lovable and charming. I admire him for not wallowing in self-pity and depression that many others in his case would usually succumb into. Although all that admirable traits are true for him, it does not come easily. You can see that it is sometimes a struggle to keep his sanity in check, to be funny, to be nonchalant, to be logical, and to dial the damn phone all at the same time. John Hawkes in the leading role is all that his character is. Funny, charming, awkward and a poet through and through. It is a marvel to watch him, specially after Winter's Bone and Martha Marcy May Marlene (both movies are damn good, btw). Helen Hunt as the sexual surrogate is a commanding presence throughout the movie. She was nominated in the Oscars last year for this role. I know that is not a proof of her talent, but it is an acknowledgement that her role in this movie is simply wonderful. I assure you that you will easily put yourselves in her shoes and just feel everything. I also like William H. Tracy as the confused but well-meaning priest. If only all priests were like him. I never knew that this would be a feel good movie. I was surprised by this fact and I love it.Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-20383575272411335322013-07-15T00:29:00.000-07:002013-07-15T00:30:22.200-07:00Films Watched - 2013<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_yzTYJh33Z-v9Ezha4hNuUntq1677Pg1D3V5YS4ZhnU9CTO-bca_bsyJpra4bLU8XZuCC-XcVMc-nQaFvRhEPwGS3Go5qeuzWu_1twr0kNlgGLLf8IyackLZA6dLpx8XepeyM12Fnw/s1600/iron+throne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_yzTYJh33Z-v9Ezha4hNuUntq1677Pg1D3V5YS4ZhnU9CTO-bca_bsyJpra4bLU8XZuCC-XcVMc-nQaFvRhEPwGS3Go5qeuzWu_1twr0kNlgGLLf8IyackLZA6dLpx8XepeyM12Fnw/s400/iron+throne.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just because I'm an obsessed fan of both A Song of Ice and Fire and the HBO series.<br />Trivia: This is how GRRMartin imagined the Iron Throne to be. </td></tr>
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Enough about my sick obsession. As I've said before, I wouldn't dare watch 365 movies in a year. However, I won't just give up watching films altogether. Just like what I did last year, I'm going to list all the movies I've seen (from start to finish) and review some of them. I'm putting some annoying side comments alongside the titles. Bear with me. </div>
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This is the start of nothing new:</div>
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<b>1. Snow White and the Huntsman</b><br />
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- I'm not proud that this is the first movie I saw this year. I don't remember if this was a good or a bad movie either. It just didn't make any impact on me whatsoever. Although, I vaguely remember Charlize Theron being ridiculously beautiful. Stewart as Snow White was a big mistake, I think? I don't remember. </div>
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<b>2. Taken 2</b></div>
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<b> </b>- Yes, Liam Neeson kicks ass. Yes, Taken was awesome. No, the sequel did not measure up.<br />
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<b>3. Django Unchained</b></div>
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<b> </b>- I still stand by my opinion that Leonardo DiCaprio should've won both the Golden Globe and the Oscar. Also, Samuel L. Jackson was definitely overlooked for his brilliant performance. Inglorious Basterds is still my ultimate Tarantino movie, but this one is a close second.<br />
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<b>4. Young Adult</b><br />
<b> </b>- I love how Charlize Theron's character can be unlikable, bitchy and downright unstable, but still manage to be funny and sometimes enlightening. There's nothing new to her mid-life crisis, but it is still hilarious and even scandalous.<br />
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<b>5. Tower Heist </b><br />
- Relatively funny. Not entirely refreshing, but definitely an easy watch.<br />
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<b>6. Seven Psychopaths</b><br />
<b> </b>- I recommend this movie. How much trouble can you get into only because of a lost shih tzu? It seems gimmick-y, but trust me Woody Harrelson is simply hilarious and anything with Christopher Walken is a must watch.<br />
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<b>7. The Skin I Live In</b><br />
<b> </b>- HOLY SHIT THIS MOVIE. I don't think I have ever been flabbergasted, disgusted and amazed by a plot twist all at the same time. This may seem like a spoiler and I'm sorry for that, but I dare you to watch this and not agree. I've never liked Antonio Banderas (yes, even during his Zorro days) but I have to admit that in this movie, his acting is impeccable. Kudos to the rest of the cast as well.<br />
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<b>8. Rust and Bone</b><br />
- Marion Cotillard is an absolute wonder to watch. Such grace, beauty and talent. I have loved her since Jeux d'enfants and she has been my favorite ever since. French cinema can be melancholic and very poignant, and this movie is the best of both.<br />
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<b>9. Silver Linings Playbook</b><br />
<b> </b>- Fact: All four major actors in the cast were highly acclaimed in this movie. Why? Because it's a great one. No doubt this was a darling to the movie world. JLaw can now attach "Oscar winner" to her resume and wait for the successful years to come. She will be Meryl Streep ver. 2, I swear. Also, I loved, loved the movie. It was even better than the book and I think that's reason enough to watch.<br />
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<b>10. Damsels in Distress</b><br />
<b> </b>- The girls in this movie are not wild. They are feminists in the most hilarious sense of the word. They are a delight to watch as they fight their way to the top -- preferably with males as their pedestal.<br />
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<b>11. Les Miserables</b><br />
<b> </b>- The film version of this well-loved musical (but is actually a novel) is not a disappointment. If you've seen the musical (I recommend "Les Miserables in Concert - The 25th Anniversary"), then you're in for a treat. The actors are more than capable. Both Amanda Seyfried and Redmayne are a surprise. Hugh Jackman as the infamous Jean Valjean was great and much like JLaw, Anne Hathaway can finally call herself an Oscar winner.<br />
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<b>12. The Man in the Iron Mask</b><br />
<b> </b>- As a Leo fan, I have no idea why I have never bothered to see this movie. This and The Gangs of New York. In my opinion, he is always better when he shies away from the sweetheart and leading man roles (ahem, Titanic and Romeo+Juliet). Nothing much in this movie and I only watched this for Leo, but I was not disappointed.<br />
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<b>13. Reprise</b><br />
<b> </b>- A story about literary rivalry between best of friends. It's not groundbreaking. The acting is just okay. I say it could've been better. Better luck next time, Norway.<br />
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<b>14. Anna Karenina</b><br />
<b> </b>- I've read comments regarding this movie. A lot said that it's style over substance. I disagree. I think the style complimented the content of the movie and vice versa. One should not be sacrificed in the expense of the other. Not a Keira fan (not even after Pride & Prejudice and A Dangerous Method), but again credit should be given where it is due and Keira Knightley is one hell of an actress.<br />
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<b>15. Zero Dark Thirty</b><br />
- I will sound lame and unimaginative, but what a cool movie. I didn't think it was boring or slow-paced at all. The hunt for the al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden after the 9/11 incident was brilliantly orchestrated. The movie itself is superior and Jessica Chastain deserved the Oscar Best Actress award. JLaw is still my girl-crush, but it seemed that her award was a bit early, unlike Jessica's which I think is long overdue. Your time will come, Ms. Chastain. I have faith in you. </div>
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Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-85545447778309694142013-07-08T01:24:00.000-07:002013-07-08T01:24:03.778-07:00STOP AND STARE: Amy Adams<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5YwA8fUh4qRTU7yiHq-51nxpFdV8pd6mxswY_7dGAhSnse2zrPhOMGhMdqGvcjpRYB5nXLU8clXU44EH0QhCccu2ePVMIPo_FhwHu_dT3JSUQGDNffeXSd3gsuiYIOc9v50Ha3N7Hw/s1600/Amy+Adams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5YwA8fUh4qRTU7yiHq-51nxpFdV8pd6mxswY_7dGAhSnse2zrPhOMGhMdqGvcjpRYB5nXLU8clXU44EH0QhCccu2ePVMIPo_FhwHu_dT3JSUQGDNffeXSd3gsuiYIOc9v50Ha3N7Hw/s320/Amy+Adams.jpg" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not shown in photo: red hair. </td></tr>
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I never really thought of Amy Adams as the hot one. Maybe that's because she always exudes elegance and a general wholesomeness. Blame it on most of her movies wherein she usually portrays a naive sweetheart. Case in point: Junebug (this is where I first saw her), Catch Me If You Can and her all-time chick flick, Enchanted.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrKPawDNh9tAJFlguVRbIjar50yy9RMztsZZGJ4JHr2f530ceLdu8uUT63DrG7Raqti7qWl124VyNiq363CoTEGMn2v4PKVDcdV7J6d1O6jQ_AC3JlMZVLq7KAdfoyQRst2RJe5bk5Kw/s490/amy+adams+enchanted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrKPawDNh9tAJFlguVRbIjar50yy9RMztsZZGJ4JHr2f530ceLdu8uUT63DrG7Raqti7qWl124VyNiq363CoTEGMn2v4PKVDcdV7J6d1O6jQ_AC3JlMZVLq7KAdfoyQRst2RJe5bk5Kw/s320/amy+adams+enchanted.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I mean, look at how ridiculously wholesome she looks. </td></tr>
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I am definitely not complaining on her choice of roles since all of it fits her like a glove. In fact, she has four Oscar nominations already. That is no small feat for an actor and I think she is one of the best there is. However, I always wanted to see her wild side, or just the less tame one. Then I saw Doubt. She was a nun in that movie. I undoubtedly loved that movie, but not exactly wild. Then I watched The Fighter. After that, I have never doubted her talent and beauty.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7wcHTd-pKBJIkBObSjfCEKXg0f5jmuWQmPXOAKkWDTAMEaqQ3xa0bMFpRjLRoud0KXE5v7wGYHUCb8d-XqSVJAPfoj7ZQGCoA1naqDsik-CWD6OIm4w2wlQWvzs-Qq2KW6IgXCS0f_A/s997/Amy+Adams+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7wcHTd-pKBJIkBObSjfCEKXg0f5jmuWQmPXOAKkWDTAMEaqQ3xa0bMFpRjLRoud0KXE5v7wGYHUCb8d-XqSVJAPfoj7ZQGCoA1naqDsik-CWD6OIm4w2wlQWvzs-Qq2KW6IgXCS0f_A/s320/Amy+Adams+2.jpg" width="234" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No doubt.</td></tr>
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<i>Taking a cue from Ms. Maryann Johanson, my favorite movie critic, I will post some actors and actresses worth gazing and admiring at. A person should be seen and liked because of his/her character and all that inner beauty thing, but you see, we like to look and by god, we love to admire. Let's not a make a big deal out of this and enjoy the moment wherein we stop, stare and sigh. </i>Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-24331459891059294712013-07-02T22:12:00.003-07:002013-07-02T22:15:39.398-07:00Spring Breakers (2012)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFsHLqpqsGu_lUd7A5th5RHDUBP_KuofLdk0pkNMtK4Rekjsi6qiI0xDq0Bmtdxh0NS5imQSVNpoP1GqiVV0pz5sKZ7Ekq1O59MJZssoVmS8005nS0zDQkxqKKb9kF0GxHzUEa4o1vA/s1312/Spring+Breakers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFsHLqpqsGu_lUd7A5th5RHDUBP_KuofLdk0pkNMtK4Rekjsi6qiI0xDq0Bmtdxh0NS5imQSVNpoP1GqiVV0pz5sKZ7Ekq1O59MJZssoVmS8005nS0zDQkxqKKb9kF0GxHzUEa4o1vA/s320/Spring+Breakers.jpg" width="309" /></a></div>
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If there's one thing that this movie did to me is that it made me forget that James Franco was a total snoozefest as an Oscar host. As a white thug named Alien, Franco is the only thing worth watching. In this movie, four girlfriends are trying so hard to make their spring break epic. To make their vacation so outrageous and ridiculous. It did happen, but not exactly everything that they had expected and hoped for. Instead, they met Alien the drug dealer, who by the way has Scarface on loop (I find this hilarious), and in one way or another became his bitches. For some girls, this fact even makes their vacay more memorable. But for some, ehem Faith (Gomez), this is just too much. But no matter, the party goes on. They went through partying, sex, violence and then back. The whole thing was bizarre and reminded me of Blow and Requiem for a Dream, just the party version.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPhwW46bjIZJr6FQ0xfeBYOAKWsraq191FBH22bRY0rXrAlouMU0Bg1NmEfv4n5v1OP-T7fjwgM2ZKC7wW1PKeUNUR3TIQXMjmqL1W8w4_p4ksuhy9aIa3iJAltK4s1HMovZaDlR7Ung/s600/Spring+Breakers+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPhwW46bjIZJr6FQ0xfeBYOAKWsraq191FBH22bRY0rXrAlouMU0Bg1NmEfv4n5v1OP-T7fjwgM2ZKC7wW1PKeUNUR3TIQXMjmqL1W8w4_p4ksuhy9aIa3iJAltK4s1HMovZaDlR7Ung/s320/Spring+Breakers+2.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pineapple Express is still my favorite, though. </td></tr>
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As much as I enjoyed Franco's performance, whether he's saying ridiculous shit like: They should call me Money! or singing to Britney Spears' Everytime, all the others fell short for me. The girls are bordering on boring despite the situation they are in. Hudgens was painful to look at as she tries hard to be bad and sultry (stop it Gabriella). I do like her and all the other girls, in fact, but it is clear that they are not cut out for this. Better luck next time, girls.Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-78628703804327341852013-06-26T22:49:00.001-07:002013-07-02T22:14:59.204-07:00Update: 365 Movie Challenge <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhgV7p7k_0dfm61iNu1H70c5AlGFTQIrt_vmUS1CmbCr1Bk4yp1jgtLYSQMzrTsKrEiSdSLHc1v3Dil7dE01j06TiUX7CB3d8YcTM4fZZx_Zt0qvdTc3WqYM1rQlNYHXckEhT0o_egQ/s1600/sad+puppy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhgV7p7k_0dfm61iNu1H70c5AlGFTQIrt_vmUS1CmbCr1Bk4yp1jgtLYSQMzrTsKrEiSdSLHc1v3Dil7dE01j06TiUX7CB3d8YcTM4fZZx_Zt0qvdTc3WqYM1rQlNYHXckEhT0o_egQ/s400/sad+puppy.jpg" width="337" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's how I feel. Really. </td></tr>
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I failed. Failed to watch 365 movies in a year. Failed to review films. Failed to update my blog. Never mind, failure is temporary. This year, I'm going to take it slow. I won't be challenging myself to watch hundreds of films. But I'll try to watch a lot and review some of them. Before moving on to the list of the films that I have watched this 2013, this is the continuation and final list of 2012:<br />
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I'm not giving up that easily.<br />
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<b>68. I Am Number Four </b><br />
<b>69. Scusa Ma Ti Chiamo Amore</b><br />
<b>70. Kokowaah</b><br />
<b>71. Before Sunset</b><br />
<b>72. Watchmen</b><br />
<b>73. Texas Chainsaw Massacre</b><br />
<b>74. Scusa Ma Ti Voglio</b><br />
<b>75. Precious</b><br />
<b>76. The Raspberry Reich</b><br />
<b>77. Shame</b><br />
<b>78. Room in Rome</b><br />
<b>79. What's Your Number?</b><br />
<b>80. The Avengers</b><br />
<b>81. Trust</b><br />
<b>82. Stand By Me</b><br />
<b>83. The Losers</b><br />
<b>84. We Bought A Zoo</b><br />
<b>85. M</b><br />
<b>86. Clueless</b><br />
<b>87. Minority Report</b><br />
<b>88. Morning Glory</b><br />
<b>89. J. Edgar</b><br />
<b>90. Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank</b><br />
<b>91. Ligo Na U Lapit Na Me</b><br />
<b>92. American Reunion</b><br />
<b>93. The Royal Tenenbaums</b><br />
<b>94. Beetlejuice</b><br />
<b>95. The Eye</b><br />
<b>96. Dazed and Confused</b><br />
<b>97. Tiny Furniture</b><br />
<b>98. 21 Jump Street</b><br />
<b>99. Friends With Kids</b><br />
<b>100. Top Gun</b><br />
<b>101. The Breakfast Club</b><br />
<b>102. We Need to Talk About Kevin</b><br />
<b>103. The Amazing Spider Man</b><br />
<b>104. God Bless America</b><br />
<b>105. Se7en</b><br />
<b>106. Star Wars IV: A New Hope</b><br />
<b>107. Star Wars V: Empire Strikes Back</b><br />
<b>108. Star Wars VI: Return of the Jedi</b><br />
<b>109. Star Wars I: Phantom Menace</b><br />
<b>110. Star Wars II: Attack of the Clones</b><br />
<b>111. The Dark Knight Rises</b><br />
<b>112. Girl, Interrupted</b><br />
<b>113. Project X</b><br />
<b>114. The Dictator</b><br />
<b>115. The Cabin in the Woods</b><br />
<b>116. The Little Rascals</b><br />
<b>117. The Town</b><br />
<b>118. The Tale of Two Sisters</b><br />
<b>119. Charlie Bartlett</b><br />
<b>120. Silk</b><br />
<b>121. Five Year Engagement</b><br />
<b>122. Dark Shadows</b><br />
<b>123. Mentras Duermes</b><br />
<b>124. Perks of Being A Wallflower</b><br />
<b>125. Chicago</b><br />
<b>126. Magic Mike</b><br />
<b>127. Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter</b><br />
<b>128. Der Krieger und Die Kaiserin</b><br />
<b>129. Zodiac</b><br />
<b>130. Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Hollywood version)</b><br />
<b>131. Perfect Sense</b><br />
<b>132. Cape Fear</b><br />
<b>133. Like Stars on Earth</b><br />
<b>134. Argo</b><br />
<b>135. Paris, je t'aime</b><br />
<b>136. Ted</b><br />
<b>137. Thelma & Louise</b><br />
<b>138. Groundhog Day</b><br />
<b>139. Mr. & Mrs. Smith</b><br />
<b>140. Total Recall</b><br />
<b>141. Brave</b><br />
<b>142. Bachelorette</b><br />
<b>143. That's My Boy</b><br />
<b>144. Looper</b><br />
<b>145. Ruby Sparks</b><br />
<b>146. RocknRolla</b><br />
<b>147. The Campaign</b><br />
<b>148. The Painted Veil</b><br />
<b>149. The Big Lebowski</b><br />
<b>150. Boral</b><br />
<b>151. House at the End of the Street</b><br />
<b>152. Pitch Perfect</b><br />
<b>153. Fargo</b><br />
<b>154. Moonrise Kingdom</b><br />
<b>155. The Truman Show</b><br />
<b>156. Burlesque</b><br />
<b>157. The Hobbit</b><br />
<b>158. Junebug</b><br />
<b>159. Exam </b><br />
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The End. There were more good films than crappy ones, so I guess that's something. I want to review all of them, but I don't want to. Huh?<br />
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<i>Sometimes I don't get myself. </i>Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-37954867261161677282013-06-25T20:55:00.000-07:002013-06-29T00:08:26.336-07:00Man of Steel (2013)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmrPHwzhEOPYqh1co-qG0Fh_FnldYmHK_wEMXNSHuFSSgIrHJU4nvSBYF-WwRQC6tmhw9PDu0vBszutjKoWnNxrBZpxAApTuVak-8fbN8rkC5AmaKpgsGecEveTMDM1Y7g8zEia1g7Q/s1600/Man+of+steel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmrPHwzhEOPYqh1co-qG0Fh_FnldYmHK_wEMXNSHuFSSgIrHJU4nvSBYF-WwRQC6tmhw9PDu0vBszutjKoWnNxrBZpxAApTuVak-8fbN8rkC5AmaKpgsGecEveTMDM1Y7g8zEia1g7Q/s320/Man+of+steel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I waited for almost two weeks to post my review of this film because I wanted to be well informed on some of my favorite (and even the not so favorite) movie critics' reviews. I noticed that the ratings of this movie is well-balanced (an average rating of 5-6 out of 10). Not because the reception of the critics is lukewarm, but because some of them rated very low with intensely negative comments and them some rated extremely high with glowing reviews. I think it's because the critics are divided. On one side are the fanatics of Richard Donner's classic Superman (1978). This movie set the bar for all the Superman movies. And the bar is so high that no other version of the DC comic book could ever compare. On the other side, are the ones who are ready to give another version a chance. A chance to shine without its predecessor's shadow looming over. I am one of the latter side.<br />
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I gave this movie a chance. I have seen Superman (1978) and I did love it. I loved the humor, the warmth and the good feels. I thought that everything was well executed, from the effects to the storyline down to the acting. However, that movie is not for my generation. It did not speak to me in ways I could not describe. I was not immersed in the movie from start to finish. I did not have goosebumps. Sure, Richard Donner's movie is a classic. But Zack Snyder's Man of Steel is epic.<br />
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This is an origin story. It is all about how Clark Kent came to be. Sticking to the comic book story, it started with the near extinction of the planet Krypton. This triggers the scientist Jor-El to send his natural born son (which never happens to this planet) to planet Earth. He is found by the kind and nurturing Kents. He becomes Clark Kent. He knows he's different from everyone else. This makes his father wary of his identity and role in the society. This fact alienated Clark from everyone else and as such makes him a studly loner. Then came the fascist General Zod to find Kal-El (that's Clark's real name, btw) and to take over Earth as their new home. And all hell breaks loose.<br />
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Zack Snyder's take on this movie is so much different than what the fans were used to. Superman here is not clumsy as a human being, but larger than life as the superhero. Superman here does not separate his Clark from Kal. He is the same person whether he is hiding from his family and trying to work like the rest of the humankind or just plain saving people from dying. He is the same person when he comes home to her mother and when he first experienced flying (one of my favorite scenes). He is still the same goody two shoes superhero from the DC Universe, albeit with an identity crisis. Trust David S. Goyer (writer) and Christopher Nolan (one of the producers) to make the extraterrestrial perfection that is Superman to a flawed character with an existential dilemma. It is all about nature versus nurture. He wants to have both, but knows that he can't. It is absolutely wonderful to see Henry Cavill struggle and triumph simultaneously. I love you, Christopher Reeve. But H. Cavill is my new Superman. Every nuance he captured, every flinch and every emotion. His biological father, Russell Crowe is great as well. Although, I must admit that I cannot see Russell and not imagine Javert. The adoptive parents, played by Kevin Costner and Diane Lane, are completely perfect. I have no complaints on the casting of Lois Lane either. Amy Adams, with her redhead beauty which is definitely not what Lois Lane really looks like, is more than adequate. An actress of her caliber need not change her appearance to convey the character. Last, but not the least, Michael Shannon as General Zod is powerful, full of purpose and just ready for anything. He is the human equivalent of a flared nose and bulging eyes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP6L5M0qP7UyimnLS1f0OClpshMK_4E1wqlZ37HgdyQeSlW4Ut_aTt8_BswZQAQfLbeqlv6upqTomxo-WuLK6yqmuvB2-2j7ZC0Int3jfl-Q3kZUORGi9-BHN4sUvzhP_o34tY1EQeQQ/s1600/Man+of+steel+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP6L5M0qP7UyimnLS1f0OClpshMK_4E1wqlZ37HgdyQeSlW4Ut_aTt8_BswZQAQfLbeqlv6upqTomxo-WuLK6yqmuvB2-2j7ZC0Int3jfl-Q3kZUORGi9-BHN4sUvzhP_o34tY1EQeQQ/s320/Man+of+steel+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Added bonus: He finally learns to wear underwear the right way.</td></tr>
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I see this movie as the counterpart of Batman Begins. Like the first movie of the Dark Knight trilogy, Man of Steel isn't adored and loved dearly. But it will be a gateway movie to an even bigger, better and epic-er sequel. And personally, I can't wait for the dark and dangerous DC to compete with the light and humorous Marvel. I'll be watching. Popcorn in hand, of course.<br />
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<br />Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-7413466780157353842013-06-24T03:46:00.001-07:002013-06-25T20:57:51.595-07:00Stoker (2013)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPYrPhGUXGczW8v9RaxMTbsvfCBlJkuS0x9M9VNmkhLfVIOQcWu58e8yDc7oL72ZbTuOmgqnA-w0CVpp_hOz_DSnej6Icm-iCVdoCLdjMOtaLk-Y98Qe2GtaFGPkeZFCCGn9R-HA4miw/s1600/Stoker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPYrPhGUXGczW8v9RaxMTbsvfCBlJkuS0x9M9VNmkhLfVIOQcWu58e8yDc7oL72ZbTuOmgqnA-w0CVpp_hOz_DSnej6Icm-iCVdoCLdjMOtaLk-Y98Qe2GtaFGPkeZFCCGn9R-HA4miw/s400/Stoker.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Assuming that actual human beings visit this blog of mine, I apologize for not being able come through and for being the lazy ass that I honestly am. Moving on. For my first review of the year, I chose Stoker. Why? Because it's a goddamn amazing movie that's why.<br />
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This marks as the first non-Korean movie of the great director, Chan-wook Park. I suggest watching his previous films like Oldboy and Lady Vengeance to further understand his style, camera work and story-telling signature. Credit should also be given to Wentworth Miller who wrote the incredibly refreshing script. Stoker starts with the almost indifferent and unaffected girl named India Stoker, played by the ever dependent and wildly entertaining Mia Wasikowska, in her own world. We see through her eyes the events that took place after the death of her father. She meets her Uncle Charlie Stoker whom, together with her flighty and unsteady mother (Nicole Kidman at her best), she never knew existed. This is where the story starts. The uncle, played by Matthew Goode who banked gold in this role, is mysterious, magnetic, eerily charming and freakishly unaffected by his brother's death. India is drawn to him. Her mother is definitely attracted to him. But what are his motives? Why is he still in their house? Do they really want him to leave? These are only few of the questions that will arise throughout the movie. You will understand once you watch this film. You will see the palpable tension that the director effectively captures. You will feel the erotic connection that builds up and threatens to consume.<br />
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The movie is picturesque. Almost as if every second of the film can be framed and interpreted in different ways. It is full of exquisite things that are not what is supposed to be -- a spider in the leg, a pair of high-heeled stilettos, flowers stained with blood. It delves into the idea of the bad blood. Of the responsibility of nature and/or nurture. A movie so compelling and just plain beautiful that even I do not know what to do with it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7moGAp_gPD1-RlGvGYgTODYmvzKKNwwpv4kMdaXvWXJwI7YlkDTBjZc3Fh-lWR4iYPyK1RSQWrH6E6m46mmMceuu1UiQVP8AsxbBUy8aIfhiqUCpzaCVnoXftPccawmTu2wwPGpsyVg/s1600/Stoker+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7moGAp_gPD1-RlGvGYgTODYmvzKKNwwpv4kMdaXvWXJwI7YlkDTBjZc3Fh-lWR4iYPyK1RSQWrH6E6m46mmMceuu1UiQVP8AsxbBUy8aIfhiqUCpzaCVnoXftPccawmTu2wwPGpsyVg/s400/Stoker+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Just get to this scene and tell me I'm wrong.<br />
<br />Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-48945928000037022362012-04-02T23:40:00.000-07:002013-06-29T00:12:43.501-07:00STOP AND STARE: Robert Downey, Jr.This man, this beautiful man, is what I call a movie star <i>and</i> an actor. He is the perfect mix of talent, arrogance, wit and bullshit. The critics love him. The media certainly adores him. And it doesn't hurt that he enjoys the attention. By the way, he looks like this:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS7aMuO8_CBfvxJ2kxyOocKJKb88gHwzyQ8C1XTUS9g6Hz7VBkQTJoUrpzIJ9s5tPil1bLxy5VD8mkNfAUoGIjzxy-hXVouAcGyp5u2AUCYoVyDokF1icXSk5V8jMNXrfkn7RzKh4f3g/s1600/Robert-Downey,-Jr.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS7aMuO8_CBfvxJ2kxyOocKJKb88gHwzyQ8C1XTUS9g6Hz7VBkQTJoUrpzIJ9s5tPil1bLxy5VD8mkNfAUoGIjzxy-hXVouAcGyp5u2AUCYoVyDokF1icXSk5V8jMNXrfkn7RzKh4f3g/s400/Robert-Downey,-Jr.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He is judging you.</td></tr>
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If you still don't know who he is then maybe you've seen him in this little movie called Iron Man. He plays a little role in there called Tony Stark. If you don't know who Tony is then why are you still here? This is probably his biggest role and people recognize him because of this role.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9j7N3T4cIW94hqv6qs_4z5gY7GfUcmhW6PEwBq6GiP_ia4ZVODrAExId7Mt0zZtuTLGfmeEjrl_Ap2QgeNRlcxbR9oC7z-TcD0q26xzaVEizSGO9SqbKd6U0SiULP4G4Wa4zeMZEn7g/s1600/Robert_Downey_Jr._in_Iron_Man_Wallpaper_1_800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9j7N3T4cIW94hqv6qs_4z5gY7GfUcmhW6PEwBq6GiP_ia4ZVODrAExId7Mt0zZtuTLGfmeEjrl_Ap2QgeNRlcxbR9oC7z-TcD0q26xzaVEizSGO9SqbKd6U0SiULP4G4Wa4zeMZEn7g/s400/Robert_Downey_Jr._in_Iron_Man_Wallpaper_1_800.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whatever it is he's looking at is now writhing with pain.</td></tr>
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But his movie that I really love, not only his character but the story as well, is <i>Less Than Zero</i>. It really made an impression on me and that is where I took him seriously as an actor. Oh, and I love his accent in Sherlock Holmes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAFtZH3zTNYa2JaEmKsEY7ZQjaplrlFBofeymJflUGISKMIYsKDgTIDfXOO8U3CPdr6-XH33b0GfVoxOl5aSnmo260Zu5LV4oy7frPkSJos-NoAIyvSPqsJtJBuyjdvBXFHC5a-ZoQg/s1600/tumblr_l68t7cqlzy1qa2cjdo1_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAFtZH3zTNYa2JaEmKsEY7ZQjaplrlFBofeymJflUGISKMIYsKDgTIDfXOO8U3CPdr6-XH33b0GfVoxOl5aSnmo260Zu5LV4oy7frPkSJos-NoAIyvSPqsJtJBuyjdvBXFHC5a-ZoQg/s400/tumblr_l68t7cqlzy1qa2cjdo1_400.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eeep! I'll be in my bunk. </td></tr>
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<i>Taking a cue from Ms. Maryann Johanson, my favorite movie critic, I will post some actors and actresses worth gazing and admiring at. A person should be seen and liked because of his/her character and all that inner beauty thing, but you see, we like to look and by god, we love to admire. Let's not a make a big deal out of this and enjoy the moment where in we stop, stare and sigh. </i>Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-90386023791535970912012-03-31T04:50:00.000-07:002013-06-25T00:16:17.002-07:00Song of the Week: Stay Too Long<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>by: Plan B</b></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><i>This song (music video, actually) entry would be posted every week-ish to lighten up everyone's day. What's life without music, anyway? Enjoy!</i></span></span><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></i>Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-51613529997066926952012-03-31T04:32:00.000-07:002013-06-25T00:17:02.406-07:00Update: 365 Movie Challenge<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LzfpbmvSrZQjvOWQ1Z7w8s1PmOB_2_ZNL1PFlp6PVWtcT3oBk4KJsrCcZBiS3pbhXJbt2_oXYDpiyim4FdDcxR32pxS1NC4TNpmLMIBlx7VU117X-GH29M5ed-jH0ySIoIHO1SGduA/s1600/baby+pandas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LzfpbmvSrZQjvOWQ1Z7w8s1PmOB_2_ZNL1PFlp6PVWtcT3oBk4KJsrCcZBiS3pbhXJbt2_oXYDpiyim4FdDcxR32pxS1NC4TNpmLMIBlx7VU117X-GH29M5ed-jH0ySIoIHO1SGduA/s400/baby+pandas.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Believe me when I say that fat pandas make me cry. </td></tr>
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It has been almost two weeks since I've updated my 365 Movie Challenge. So far, the good films outweigh the blah ones, so I guess that's a good sign. I've been meaning to review some tv shows that I recently watched because come to think of it, when I don't watch movies, I watch tv shows. Oh, and don't they look adorable? The pandas, I mean. :)<br />
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My progress thus far:<br />
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<b>57. Taken</b><br />
- I ought to be shot for watching this only now. I am deeply sorry Liam Neeson for not watching every single movie of yours. I swear from now on, I will. I don't even know how Liam manages to kick ass now that he's getting old.<br />
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<b>58. Boogie Nights<br /> </b>- Two words. Mark Wahlberg. Forget the always awesome Don Cheadle. Forget Julian Moore's raw sexuality coupled with her amazing talent. Forget that Burt freaking Reynolds was there. Why? Because it's all about Mark Wahlberg. This is where he proves the world that he's not some jackass of a rapper, but a genuine actor.<br />
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<b>59. Green Mile</b><br />
<b> </b>- I've seen some films based on Stephen King's novels--notably the movie "It" because it scared the life out of me--but damn this movie. This movie had me bawling like a banshee. I warned you.<br />
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<b>60. No Country for Old Men</b><br />
<b> </b>- There are a lot of European actors who are always the antagonists in Hollywood films. That's because they are good at it. Javier Bardem is very effective. He reminded me of Heath Ledger in The Dark Knight. He would've been a capable Joker.<br />
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<b>61. Bridget Jones' Diary</b><br />
<b> </b>- I was just curious why people said that Renee Zellweger looked much better in this movie. Now I know why and I agree with them. She looks like a real woman and much prettier, even. And I confess, I don't get Hugh Grant's charm. I just don't.<br />
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<b>62. The Hunger Games</b><br />
<b> </b>- see blog post. :)<br />
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<b>63. Confessions of a Dangerous Mind</b><br />
<b> </b>- Sam Rockwell and Drew Barrymore. I didn't see the chemistry. Then again, it's not a love story. Good movie and actors, as well. Forgettable, though.<br />
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<b>64. Virgin Suicides</b><br />
<b> </b>- I wanna rant about this movie. So, see future blog post.<br />
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<b>65. Les Poupees Russes (Russian Dolls)</b><br />
<b> </b>- Just friends reunited after getting together in Barcelona. It has an indie feel to it, but not really that substantial and relevant. For me, at least.<br />
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<b>66. Nang Nak</b><br />
<b> </b>- Believe me when I say that Thai horror movies are the best. They make the characters so real you would think it could happen to you. The twists in the plot deserve to be called twists. Their horror movies ought to be their main export.<br />
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<b>67. The Orphanage</b><br />
<b> </b>- Loved it. See future blog post. :)<br />
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<i>298 movies to go. Einmal ist keinmal. </i>Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-22247065389809782102012-03-24T03:54:00.001-07:002013-06-25T00:17:56.189-07:00This Means War (2012)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's funny how women are depicted these days: pretty and dumb. Can't she be pretty, but with much more sense between her ears? Or even wealthy and witty? I long for something more different but much more real women to be in the front-runner in the movies. I want a female lead who can hold her own even if the male lead is bursting with testosterone. Not some ditzy and silly girl that can pass as cute at the most, but shallow when it really matters. Lo and behold, the girl in the movie believes everything the guy says. Of course, she doesn't see past through the disgustingly cheesy moves (I'm talking about the Mr. Sensitive Guy and/or Mr. Smooth Guy, *cue eye-roll*). Of course, showing her that he knows absolutely everything about her is sweet, stalker mode be damned. </div>
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These are the things that came across my mind while watching Lauren played by Reese Witherspoon whom I pretty much hate after watching this, gone were the days when her choice of roles were impeccable. Case in point: Cruel Intentions and Election. Lauren, the luckiest girl in the world, met two guys almost at the same time during the time in her life when she's looking for the "real thing". The twist: the two guys are BFFs and they are willing to forget everything they've been through for a super-duper special girl. More twist: they are spies, they use their profession to know everything about Lauren. That is just so sweet and reassuring. The creativity is killing me. No, really. Sidenote: I apologize for the sarcasm, it just brims over. However, despite my general loathing, the bromance between FDR (played by Chris Pine, oh you gorgeous man) and Tuck (played by Tom Hardy who is a disappointment, but I love this man) was cute in a haha-they're-both-so-pathetic-but-screw-it-they're-still-handsome sort of way. I even wished that they just end up together to just get it over and done with. </div>
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Minus points for Hollywood, again. The amount of shitty movies they produce compare to the good ones is staggering. I guess, that's the beauty of cinema. You swim through a pile of rubbish until you find that treasure. If this is what it takes to watch good movies, then I take it as a worthy challenge. Cheerios!</div>
Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-27572123328807914422012-03-22T08:57:00.001-07:002013-06-25T00:18:58.259-07:00The Hunger Games (2012)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhncBIRz_VR7q868QCT1lCPs_aLXc3OnOnBf8nsEdMqrgPtYPt0WcIk_RHZMcYKaPxPA0LB1N1-YhOq1q_dgr8UHqI4kkyXJL7uZgfK-RcQ0DObEVydT5o7OEgweTv3AdTujCw0BsMjag/s1600/the-hunger-games-01-500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhncBIRz_VR7q868QCT1lCPs_aLXc3OnOnBf8nsEdMqrgPtYPt0WcIk_RHZMcYKaPxPA0LB1N1-YhOq1q_dgr8UHqI4kkyXJL7uZgfK-RcQ0DObEVydT5o7OEgweTv3AdTujCw0BsMjag/s400/the-hunger-games-01-500.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Okay, this is supposedly the moment wherein I gush about this movie because as I recall, I couldn't <i>wait</i> to watch it. However, (wait, don't think of the worst) I don't think I should feel that way. It would definitely cloud my judgement in assessing the movie. Or maybe it's just an excuse for not being satisfied by the entirety of the movie. Or maybe I'm too nervous to love this movie, because let's face it, I freaking love this movie, for fear of disappointment for the remaining two installments. Don't get me wrong, compared to other teen-oriented film franchises--ehem, <i>Twilight</i>--this is absolutely much better and dare I say, more relevant. It's based on Suzanne Collins' widely popular The Hunger Games trilogy novel and directed by Gary Ross. For those who haven't read the books, here's the gist: North America was destroyed and was replaced by Panem, wherein The Capitol serves as the "capital city" which is the powerhouse all over the nation. There are 12 Districts that surrounds it and they rebelled once. They weren't successful. So as a sign of punishment and ultimate power, The Capitol hosts an annual event called the Hunger Games wherein one boy and one girl (called Tributes) would represent each of the 12 Districts. They then have to kill each other in an arena until a lone winner emerges. The winner will be awarded with richness together with the district he or she is representing.<br />
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Pretty simple, huh? In fact, if you've seen Japan's version of this called Battle Royale, then you know almost everything. So what's so different about The Hunger Games? Well, not much really. Both embody modern-day gladiators. Both show the great influence of media in the lives of people. Both acknowledge the urgency of one's survival when faced with scarcity and fear. Most especially, both show violence. Maybe the most important difference is the protagonist, Katniss Everdeen, who volunteered to be a Tribute as a replacement for her much younger sister, Primrose. She is the ultimate underdog, coming from District 12, one of the poorest Districts. Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss is perfect. She embodies Katniss who is brave, resolute, easy to provoke and by all means, imperfect. She compliments her counterpart, Peeta Mellark, the boy representing District 12. He is sweet, hopeless but surprisingly crafty. I thank Suzanne Collins for choosing Josh Hutcherson. He is as charming and as commanding as what the books describe Peeta to be. Other characters were excellent choices such as Stanley Tucci as Caesar Flickerman, Wes Bentley as the game master Seneca Crane, Lenny Kravitz as Katniss' stylist, Cinna who eventually became a good friend of hers, and Elizabeth Banks as the extravagant Effie Trinket. <br />
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Unlike in the books wherein the story is told through Katniss' point of view, the movie shows us what's going on outside the arena. This is a good idea as being faithful with the books would limit us, the audience, from what we like most, which is the thrill of the action. At the arena, we clearly see that the fittest does not always survive and sometimes, it requires a little bit of luck and a clear reason to live. As a nation, we see that Panem may be ruled by tyranny, but oppression makes people angry and when pushed, people may act. And act some more. We will be seeing more of that in the succeeding sequels. I do not agree with those who say that the movie did not give justice to the book. It did give justice and in fact, we should not compare the entirety of both the movie and the book with each other. The story was intact, the characters were given life by more than adequate actors, the places were embodied perfectly and the social issues tackled in the book were present in the movie. I say I was pretty happy and contented upon exiting the movie theater. Cheerios!Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-7071003696882445262012-03-19T07:18:00.000-07:002013-06-25T00:19:52.841-07:00Fan Craze Mode: The Dark Knight Rises<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMR-h7V1QdwdsqaJeIMPnq_5b4dj0QVyEIn_vQTs8t5z4Xw9DRH1_neSyn-ovULafHjjMklZd6pUK4uj2Vv4dx91Sdds-gJhje1w44XWzqJsPGCywFTAdl_KjpGHjV1UbeBTzZfF3IwQ/s1600/The+Dark+Knight+Rises.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMR-h7V1QdwdsqaJeIMPnq_5b4dj0QVyEIn_vQTs8t5z4Xw9DRH1_neSyn-ovULafHjjMklZd6pUK4uj2Vv4dx91Sdds-gJhje1w44XWzqJsPGCywFTAdl_KjpGHjV1UbeBTzZfF3IwQ/s400/The+Dark+Knight+Rises.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gotham City may not need him anymore. </td></tr>
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Honestly, I have never read one of the Batman comic books and I swear that I will, but I assure you that I've watched almost all of the movies (never bothered watching Adam West's version) and I've loved the films, especially the Bale-era. It's not a question that Christian Bale as the Dark Knight easily makes me whimper more that <i>Clooney-the-nipple</i>, <i>Keaton-the-obviously-anorexic-Wayne</i> and the <i>almost-awesome-Batman-Kilmer</i>. With the astounding success of the Nolan directed Batman films, Batman Begins and The Dark Knight, it's not a surprise that the producers want to revel in the success more. So, it is only logical--for both producers and fans--to have a third and final film. And now one of the most anticipated movies this year, The Dark Knight Rises! I try not to use a lot of exclamation points to show my excitement. I'm awesome like that.<br />
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But seriously, I hate waiting for this movie to come out. I hate speculating what the big plot Christopher "the God" Nolan has made for the final installation of the Batman franchise. I hate knowing that the movie will be infinitely more awesome than I imagine it to be. I hate the cast because really, who loves Morgan Freeman and Michael Caine? I hate it that Tom Hardy will be Bane and that I know that he will absolutely nail it. I hate Marion Cotillard and Anne Hathaway because they're so perfect and talented that it makes me sick. Most of all, I hate Christian Bale for being the most ass-kicking, poignant and ass-kicking (again, once is not enough) Batman <i>ever</i>. Some pictures while I die of excitement:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxbr_TCMoWSICyXSzBuFgXVfS2tZP1Z-j3g-URDJNnMPSW85P2_nNbhtWirCUzWD46fuJXLslVo5TGt76-oPsJqiz7A1XlfSnUmfDr7y3879yfJqC6G0Go3znyGpbg6Bp6YA9AK0JkPw/s1600/Bane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxbr_TCMoWSICyXSzBuFgXVfS2tZP1Z-j3g-URDJNnMPSW85P2_nNbhtWirCUzWD46fuJXLslVo5TGt76-oPsJqiz7A1XlfSnUmfDr7y3879yfJqC6G0Go3znyGpbg6Bp6YA9AK0JkPw/s400/Bane.jpg" width="366" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom Hardy as Bane. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq3WSDmPPzWbavJnXaasV1ES2Gn7bLlbB6FsDOCL7noF41D8ujmYyFXOl60DuE0zMCH0yoLLI3OxlcJdqo6mHTTcrGTgOYIiehW4-Pq2Zy_UITsQvSBJ_-lUvshyphenhypheneM9Ic3XXq81EhZkw/s1600/Catwoman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq3WSDmPPzWbavJnXaasV1ES2Gn7bLlbB6FsDOCL7noF41D8ujmYyFXOl60DuE0zMCH0yoLLI3OxlcJdqo6mHTTcrGTgOYIiehW4-Pq2Zy_UITsQvSBJ_-lUvshyphenhypheneM9Ic3XXq81EhZkw/s400/Catwoman.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anne Hathaway as Catwoman.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GcmPgDRctb-VeU-C_5JtAs1Q1pCuK07vQQLS_xvFXzhr0L81GWU_kZQOBPUsP8icIOLGinkyWZ_xuytqkicX3dP4CLCnQtaAW1uoTDuPf1alElQoPs-KQYiP4VPChC6FtllahYfKRw/s1600/lucius+fox+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GcmPgDRctb-VeU-C_5JtAs1Q1pCuK07vQQLS_xvFXzhr0L81GWU_kZQOBPUsP8icIOLGinkyWZ_xuytqkicX3dP4CLCnQtaAW1uoTDuPf1alElQoPs-KQYiP4VPChC6FtllahYfKRw/s400/lucius+fox+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">God as Lucius Fox. Or Lucius Fox as God. Whatever.</td></tr>
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Allow me to share my speculations/expectations. First, it is known that the third sequel of an awesome franchise has some major bad luck going on. For instance, Spider-Man and The Godfather Trilogy. However, I have absolute faith in Nolan that he will continue satisfying and will definitely not disappoint fans around the world. Second, these kinds of movies have a pattern. The first movie would be the hero's acceptance of his superhuman powers. The second would be where he proves his worth as a superhero. The third one should NOT continue the plot of the second movie, but should have a resolution on the problem. I'm now talking about the Batman movies in particular. It would be much, much awesome if in the end, Bruce Wayne would just be Bruce Wayne and not Batman. There is only so much a vigilante can do and to continue being one is not an option. I don't know how Nolan would do it, but it would just be great to see an end to the superhero's existence. Lastly, if my expectation would not be shown in the movie, I still trust that whatever is shown would be acceptable and still perfect, as always. Remnants of my excitement:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcinPzp0QUJyHH8wKgp8MnofhtlL-Njq_zScGPEqSTxaz6c0nqmh_SOp3eqfddp1OmRkd5Z8XQPPCbpZkp6xz8_F0l5s_EAKQb_db3s8pwfRj9RaXAKxZCT984fAaEyI_SS9E9IGhMg/s1600/Bane+vs+Batman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcinPzp0QUJyHH8wKgp8MnofhtlL-Njq_zScGPEqSTxaz6c0nqmh_SOp3eqfddp1OmRkd5Z8XQPPCbpZkp6xz8_F0l5s_EAKQb_db3s8pwfRj9RaXAKxZCT984fAaEyI_SS9E9IGhMg/s400/Bane+vs+Batman.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can't even.. *tears*</td></tr>
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<i>So I guess I'll see you fans out there on July 20th! Cheerios. </i>Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-42813616784391748822012-03-17T11:08:00.000-07:002013-06-25T00:20:27.858-07:0050/50 (2011)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Izix0vRzpgnr41V3Qo7jMH7x5l6Mf4diqB2kQ-UTSxIBnszDTRo5NlbtRlVrA-5yBtUAwWAoN0DKzBZPetRUS4QbQV-fVcQf34U48ESryZJK-32s58ewjd7VmIAzdmwB68XJvHpfGQ/s1600/50.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Izix0vRzpgnr41V3Qo7jMH7x5l6Mf4diqB2kQ-UTSxIBnszDTRo5NlbtRlVrA-5yBtUAwWAoN0DKzBZPetRUS4QbQV-fVcQf34U48ESryZJK-32s58ewjd7VmIAzdmwB68XJvHpfGQ/s400/50.50.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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God, how great it is to have someone by your side knowing that he/she would be there for you whenever the going gets tough. And how greater it is knowing that that someone is your best friend whom you've shared laughs and farts with. This movie is a constant reminder that being alone may not be a bad thing, but having a friend is a hell lot more fun and definitely less boring. Especially when you have cancer. I thought that this movie would be depressing and would make me cry and it did, but that's not all. It made me laugh, it made me wanna call my parents, it made me wanna go out and just <i>do</i> something. I can't imagine what kind of life people suffering with cancer must have, but I'm sure that it's not a walk in the damn park. I'm sure that there are several people who have cancer handle their situation differently and I'm also sure that for every cancer patient, there is a different story behind it. This movie takes us into that moment wherein a man's life changes and how he handles that change.<br />
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Enter Adam, who is played by a very convincing and adorable Joseph Gordon-Levitt, an average guy who works "in the radio". He's dating a sweet and pretty girl and has a douchebag for a best friend. Then of course the seemingly harmless pain in his back part that turned out to be cancer (it's so hard to pronounce that I didn't even bother checking it out, sorry). Who's there for him? Both the girlfriend and the best friend, for sure. Enter into the picture another sweet and pretty girl which is his therapist (played by Anna Kendrick whom I don't love, I don't know why). Upon seeing her, I immediately know that Adam's girl (played by Bryce Dallas Howard, who is exceptionally better at being a bitch and I love her for that) would be a goner. Anyhoo, a lot of things happen to Adam, but the most important thing here was his relationship with his friend Kyle, who is portrayed by Seth Rogen (very funny, this guy), and his mother (Anjelica Houston). Of course my favorite parts were the ones with Adam and Kyle as they really did embody friendship and how sometimes, it's hard to show what you really mean and to say what you really think.<br />
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This movie is also based on true events that happened to Will Reiser and Seth Rogen. What they've been through must be an inspiration to a lot of people with or without cancer. It's disconcerting to know that you don't really realize that life is temporary until something drastic happens to you. So let's celebrate life because we don't know when the fun stops.<br />
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<br />Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-70460253337096853322012-03-17T10:06:00.000-07:002013-06-25T00:20:51.204-07:00Update: 365 Movie Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpYp13_APhasSkf3Bm1TLkqAl45zeWsneaCAJkXCoYAZDr_Xj_LHk4fGUUIvwA3nGqyWwP1zWK_R2UFa7z-IogU29gdNCS8EcGqL7DMZlQanRMgQuAihp0CUnnGs3wLCUiOKaft7C4A/s1600/south-park-584-getty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpYp13_APhasSkf3Bm1TLkqAl45zeWsneaCAJkXCoYAZDr_Xj_LHk4fGUUIvwA3nGqyWwP1zWK_R2UFa7z-IogU29gdNCS8EcGqL7DMZlQanRMgQuAihp0CUnnGs3wLCUiOKaft7C4A/s400/south-park-584-getty.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just because I love South Park, that's why. </td></tr>
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I swear that there will be a weekend wherein I just stay in my room and watch shitload of movies, order take out and not come out until I reach my 80th movie. It has come to my attention that I can't watch one movie a day so I'll do my watching during the weekends or whenever I'm free. Sounds like a plan, yes?<br />
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Until that plan comes into fruition, here's my progress so far:<br />
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<b>50. The Adventures of Tintin</b><br />
- Great cinematography, but I did not find it engaging or inspirational.<br />
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<b>51. The Basketball Diaries</b><br />
- Leonardo DiCaprio being an actor's actor, as usual. However, I say that Mark Wahlberg steals the spotlight. I've never been impressed by his acting chops and charisma until this movie. (I just remembered, I loved him in The Other Guys as well.)<br />
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<b>52. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close</b><br />
- You know the feeling when you try to love something just because everyone does but just can't get to? This is the way I feel about this movie. Sure, it's about the horrors of 9/11 and how it greatly affected many people, but I just can't connect with the boy.<br />
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<b>53. This Means War</b><br />
- Pathetic excuse to see Tom Hardy and Chris Pine, of course. Stupid, but cute.<br />
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<b>54. Good Will Hunting</b><br />
- Ah, it's like seeing A Beautiful Mind with one of my favorite actors, Matt Damon. He and Ben Affleck does deserve props for this original screenplay.<br />
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<b>55. 50/50</b><br />
- I have too much to say regarding this movie. So.. see future blog post, I guess? :)<br />
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<b>56. The Rules of Attraction</b><br />
- Based on a novel by Bret Easton Ellis, the author of American Psycho. Turns out, the guy from Rules is supposedly Partick Bateman's younger brother. Not as awesome (and sick) as his older brother, I must say.<br />
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<i>Although I have added some 'remarks' on few other movies, it doesn't mean I won't make a blog post about it. I may post some later. Much, much later. :) 309 movies to go. </i><br />
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<i>I will be watching Hunger Games this Thursday! </i>Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-75416216810258942662012-03-12T23:56:00.000-07:002013-06-25T00:21:17.228-07:00Song of the Week: Good Girls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Trebuchet,Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">by: Cris Cab </span></b><i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></i></div>
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Trebuchet,Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">This
song (music video, actually) entry would be every week-ish to lighten
up everyone's day. What's life without music, anyway? Enjoy!</i>Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-62250847441721178032012-03-10T02:21:00.001-08:002013-06-24T04:15:27.248-07:00STOP AND STARE: Sofia VergaraI don't think a person who's ever seen Modern Family would not notice Sofia Vergara. Aside from the fact that she's one of the main characters, of course, she also looks like this. <div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_WOUxp3w7aJnz9_jajUSDymykb1abCK5iilgBLE25jaBupv7548jvx69I5yZGhiRaVDUn9Q-ZwwwbLaZj6r1Q7jkjeN_a3RcOF3mctbO3Hpl8ZtHIHhM3IEmV50N1tUMr4JzXQAthNw/s1600/Sofia-Vergara-120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_WOUxp3w7aJnz9_jajUSDymykb1abCK5iilgBLE25jaBupv7548jvx69I5yZGhiRaVDUn9Q-ZwwwbLaZj6r1Q7jkjeN_a3RcOF3mctbO3Hpl8ZtHIHhM3IEmV50N1tUMr4JzXQAthNw/s400/Sofia-Vergara-120.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I know she's known for her smashing body, but she's got a real pretty face too, you know. </td></tr>
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This Colombian hottie has already been nominated in the Golden Globes and Emmys for her portrayal of Gloria in the highly-acclaimed series, Modern Family. And can you believe that she has a 20-year old son? I certainly want whatever she's drinking. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnDeT53HCl0vfn9XPgWr8GQgr4IABVu6Aggwq6I04kjQPhat0Bow5EN4DWp3VkIiHyqhiCJWnzFTcC3qVrzS9cDjiS9ma0H9VyOAtmvxCpscyJpm3XLPEvyYDWRh7wH4nlaO2hmXe6gA/s1600/tumblr_m0mtwkU9Qr1rq9dywo1_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnDeT53HCl0vfn9XPgWr8GQgr4IABVu6Aggwq6I04kjQPhat0Bow5EN4DWp3VkIiHyqhiCJWnzFTcC3qVrzS9cDjiS9ma0H9VyOAtmvxCpscyJpm3XLPEvyYDWRh7wH4nlaO2hmXe6gA/s320/tumblr_m0mtwkU9Qr1rq9dywo1_400.jpg" width="234" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Imagine how eager her son's friends are to visit their house. </td></tr>
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Once again, watch her loveliness and great acting -- I swear she's funny as hell-- in Modern Family. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYPxxcLN_ZIGAp3yNjn-_T4pyUOugp9i1Zof9E3iLNiLBWPvKOWNf0PtwMQaCAMJglDL7zyHi09wJWOfUEq3F-DbKmvGsLpaVEMGjXDK9nMxuXEnJHvET7DZWAIlcZhKK3ymiY8z2vrg/s1600/tumblr_m0jcrs1s0y1r7l3k1o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYPxxcLN_ZIGAp3yNjn-_T4pyUOugp9i1Zof9E3iLNiLBWPvKOWNf0PtwMQaCAMJglDL7zyHi09wJWOfUEq3F-DbKmvGsLpaVEMGjXDK9nMxuXEnJHvET7DZWAIlcZhKK3ymiY8z2vrg/s400/tumblr_m0jcrs1s0y1r7l3k1o1_500.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sexy and funny. Deadly combination. </td></tr>
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<i>Taking a cue from Ms. Maryann Johanson, my favorite movie critique, I will post some actors and actresses worth gazing and admiring at. A person should be seen and liked because of his/her character and all that inner beauty thing, but you see, we like to look and by god, we love to admire. Let's not a make a big deal out of this and enjoy the moment where in we stop, stare and sigh. </i><br />
</div>Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-40691607874276806632012-03-10T01:45:00.002-08:002013-06-25T00:22:26.619-07:00Hugo (2011)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXCdehuBwjVK4dWKzs8ajVkbbXfN_VL9XnwoszllofasgxGdyybGS-TEY6ckWUBcJXyW1pwZm6UaFVE09-_P18tHbZPD-NYhOB03MC_KDMbL3Th-8_8XxBCQ4alyuQncJJNqOiqXkcA/s1600/HUGO_movie_photo_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXCdehuBwjVK4dWKzs8ajVkbbXfN_VL9XnwoszllofasgxGdyybGS-TEY6ckWUBcJXyW1pwZm6UaFVE09-_P18tHbZPD-NYhOB03MC_KDMbL3Th-8_8XxBCQ4alyuQncJJNqOiqXkcA/s400/HUGO_movie_photo_4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This movie reminded me of the movie <i>Midnight in Paris</i> (written and directed by Woody Allen) --not because of their similarity, but of their startling contrast-- wherein the city was depicted as romantic, quaint and quite personal. Of all the movies that I saw featuring Paris, one of the most beautiful cities in the world, this is the first time I see the city as majestic, commanding and a real work of art. Based on the children's novel, <i>The Invention of Hugo Cabret</i>, this movie was directed by the Hollywood heavyweight, Martin Scorsese. I was actually surprised to know that Scorsese directed this. Based on his great films like<i> The Departed</i> and<i> Goodfellas</i>, it seemed that this movie is not his cup of tea, or so I thought. He took me to Paris like no one ever did. Set in a Paris station in 1931, it all became a vivid adventure for Hugo and for me.<br />
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Don't get me wrong, the movie was not about Paris, although it was all I could think about. It's about the life of Hugo (played by Asa Butterfield who was a revelation), an orphan who lives at the station. He does his uncles job of setting the big ol' clock into motion every morning. This is how we know that he is good with machines and alas, he gets a challenge in a form of a non-functioning mechanical toy-person. His passion to fix this toy takes him to Isabelle (played by the cool Chloë Grace Moretz) who is well-versed and eager for an adventure. They both embark to a journey they will never forget. Also in the cast is the always great Ben Kingsley as Georges Méliès, a toy booth owner whose role is much more important than I expected; and the funny Sasha Baron Cohen as the station inspector who never failed to let me hate him and love him at the same time. </div>
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It's Scorsese's love letter to the movies. It's his way of showing the viewers that his prowess does not only lie on the mean streets and the world of gangsters. He definitely showed me how much he loves the art of cinema and he made me love this art even more. With the risk of giving out spoilers, I wanna add that my favorite part was when Méliès' former life was revealed, that he wasn't always a toy booth owner, but one of the great filmmakers and actors of all time. With the movie's entirety, it does not only make me wanna see Paris, but it makes me wanna see Paris during 1931. :)</div>
Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-10278795907942704902012-03-06T22:57:00.000-08:002013-06-25T00:22:50.639-07:00Update: 365 Movie Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmzF1UtBYZTlstVLD_ADEYZoGScLTFdX3cCaVqW88JsRaW7__I-63ehp3bJ1bli2-D-cVZENcMBSsQ8cJKiYV8GfdgjJL8ukOFcUB-mJM3uRhWtgDW_9EsZhcPPkARCxa9n-wD8bJFQ/s1600/couch+potato.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmzF1UtBYZTlstVLD_ADEYZoGScLTFdX3cCaVqW88JsRaW7__I-63ehp3bJ1bli2-D-cVZENcMBSsQ8cJKiYV8GfdgjJL8ukOFcUB-mJM3uRhWtgDW_9EsZhcPPkARCxa9n-wD8bJFQ/s400/couch+potato.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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So I haven't watched a lot of movies since I last posted. No excuses! Okay, maybe there is an excuse. I was busy watching some tv shows, Suits and Downton Abbey, both of which are good. (school is not an excuse, btw) Maybe I'll post a review on one of the shows. </div>
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My progress:<br />
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<b>42. Who Framed Roger Rabbit</b><br />
- I was so young when I first watched this so I decided to watch it again. For full enlightenment. I now understand why boys loved Jessica Rabbit.<br />
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<b>43. Hugo</b><br />
- See future blog post.<br />
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<b>44. Fast and Furious 5</b><br />
- At last, Dwayne Johnson (aka The Rock) found his niche in the movie business. I hope he accepts more roles like this. More sweating and cursing, less tutu.<br />
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<b>45. Puss in Boots</b><br />
- Lesser version of Shrek, but admirable attempt though.<br />
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<b>46. My Week with Marilyn</b><br />
- See future blog post. Side note: Michelle Williams is a great Monroe. Good thing they didn't go for Scarlett Johansson.<br />
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<b>47. Primal Fear</b><br />
- This is why I love Edward Norton. Well, there's American History X, but this is one of his best performances ever.<br />
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<b>48. The Woman in Black</b><br />
- It wasn't what I expected it to be. I was hoping it would be very scary, but it was mostly just bleak and dark. Plus, I couldn't get over the fact that Harry Potter didn't have his wand.<br />
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<b>49. Take Me Home Tonight</b><br />
- Waste. Of. Time. I ought to make a blog post about this one, just so I review a bad movie. But, I just can't. Oh, Topher, I had high hopes for you and your adorableness. Btw, the leading lady looks like Scarlett Johansson and Kristen Stewart: just smaller boobs and more expression.<br />
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<i>316 movies to go. </i><br />
<i>Have you tried a cheesecake flavored sundae? Just asking. </i><br />
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<br />Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-74365915720601121412012-03-06T21:27:00.000-08:002013-06-25T00:23:31.695-07:00The Artist (2011)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYgu7beKIIghTwNK7zAsjeCNLlM6r_aUfDbbF1URd_gAuH8qFOi8eSEUh88vGK2pIL0wNT_uD6PtB0GMlACGcbzDDVz43nyVuCHjRB6VDGnmZqGSF8j3mOvzAwa6SZf3whd-pIJAU7zQ/s400/The+Artist.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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I<span style="font-family: inherit;"> have something to confess: I've never watched a silent film before. Not because I found it very boring, but bec</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">ause I never knew it would affect me or speak to me on so many levels and ways. I was so enamored with the movies (and even tv shows) nowadays that I never bothered to watch </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">one</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> silent movie. Well, now that I have, I don't know what to feel. I am sure that watching this would coax me into watching even more silent films. And I'm afraid that I would feel torn apart. See, I love The Artist and watching more silent films would either disappoint me because this movie has set a high standard for me, or it may make me think less of this movie, in case the other silent films would prove to be superior. But one thing's for sure, I had one hell of a time watching this. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Jean Dujardin plays the silent film actor and charmer George Valentin who has a hard time transitioning to the 'Talkies'. He believes that he won't shine in that kind of film, he reckons he would still have his ever loyal fans even if all the other actors conform to the Talkies. This vanity of his (quote: I'm the one people come to see. They never needed to hear me.) will prove to be his downfall. I have no qualms in saying that Dujardin deserved the Oscar. He is so irresistible and magnetic that only Uggie--his devoted dog-- could steal his thunder. I have seen him in a French movie called 99 Francs; it was not a great movie but I'm thankful that I watched it because it only showed his versatility and even his comedic timing. As for Miss Berenice Bejo, I only have high praises for her portrayal of the fast rising starlet, Peppy Miller. Her chemistry with Dujardin is palpabale with just the right amount of tenderness. Their dance sequence at the end was refreshing and highly entertaining even though you absolutely know that both Bejo and Dujardin worked hard to get the steps right. Other characters such as John Goodman who plays Al, the studio chief, and James Cromwell who plays Valentin's driver are effective accessories to the already wonderful ensemble. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">This exact kind of movie makes it okay for me to watch every goddamn movie and sort out all the horrible ones because I know that there will be one among many that inspires, shines and proves to be so much better than the rest. This movie that touched me without even so much as a phrase. This movie that inspired me with only a simple glance, a genuine smile, and really cute dog. :)</span></div>
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Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-22869861556611347122012-03-03T00:52:00.000-08:002013-06-25T00:25:30.339-07:00Song of the Week: We Are Young<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Trebuchet,Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">by: <b>Fun feat. Janelle Monae</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><i>This song (music video, actually) entry would be posted every week-ish to lighten up everyone's day. What's life without music, anyway? Enjoy!</i></span></span>Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-35802287519936424682012-02-29T01:44:00.000-08:002013-06-25T00:27:34.820-07:00Little Manhattan (2005)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1bqahRNIC7IWzOMFjzaTDY4Z1ETKF81sbCHnJxGEipP1n2PvUp7ZuMGuigeTuH1gbC0zguG7_RjsoWY-zZ7ivcM2PjjSriblO1zazn0UY0qxDD25RIcWbw1iRchocddpiAwL_hFC7w/s1600/Little+Manhattan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1bqahRNIC7IWzOMFjzaTDY4Z1ETKF81sbCHnJxGEipP1n2PvUp7ZuMGuigeTuH1gbC0zguG7_RjsoWY-zZ7ivcM2PjjSriblO1zazn0UY0qxDD25RIcWbw1iRchocddpiAwL_hFC7w/s400/Little+Manhattan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ah...love. Is there any more beautiful than love itself? Any more complicated and frustrating and exciting? Answers may vary, but it is a fact that the mention of love will elicit such passionate arguments that could go on forever. However, this movie is not about the complexity of love. It's about its simplicity. It's the moment where you get butterflies in the pit of your stomach just because the "love of your life" smiled at you. The moment you bury your head in the pillow of paranoia because you just don't know what to do with those goddamn butterflies. Come to think of it, how did love get so freaking morbid and dark to the point of madness? Why don't we take a step back and admire the perfection of love.<br />
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Gabe is the giddy, hopeless romantic who doesn't seem to know how to handle this new found feeling. Rosemary is The Girl. It's confusing for Gabe to feel this kind of happiness when Rosemary is a girl, for god's sake! Boys aren't supposed to like girls. They're repulsive and they spread cooties, right? Right? Well, it may be true (yeah, right), but that definitely did not stop him from mooning over her. Set in New York City during their pre-teens, it seems the perfect place and time to fall in love. Gabe is played by none other than Josh Hutcherson (Bridge to Terabithia) who narrates his whole experience. It's funny how he can be so determined and nervous at the same time. And it's cute how he describes New York as if he had been living in it for a very long time. Rosemary is played by Charlie Ray. As Gabe thought, she isn't the most beautiful girl in class, but there is something about her. Something that will make you love her, as well.<br />
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It isn't poignant. It isn't Romeo and Juliet. But I dare you to watch it and not love it.Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-11758236589686346352012-02-27T05:20:00.000-08:002013-06-24T04:20:56.306-07:00STOP AND STARE: Andrew GarfieldMoments of silence please for the next Spidey. I know, I know, he isn't Tobey and he may be a disappointment, but trust me when I say that he is a great actor. And let me just say that I have adored him since he suddenly became Hollywood's next big star or whatever you call those artists who are given their big break.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvddwjrV6rCnjTrybaqaTjX3wgUBoSWeVO-mgG1M-lyXgMUEtqTPaN8M4_Hug5xUbb1mwy5MK_-QkutKyi5FcceCZBL6hUK5EF3Z8QWNRK37kU080wi_1JPMYV1P67PZAqnAL9quWzog/s1600/Spidey-+garfiel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvddwjrV6rCnjTrybaqaTjX3wgUBoSWeVO-mgG1M-lyXgMUEtqTPaN8M4_Hug5xUbb1mwy5MK_-QkutKyi5FcceCZBL6hUK5EF3Z8QWNRK37kU080wi_1JPMYV1P67PZAqnAL9quWzog/s400/Spidey-+garfiel.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">His first public photo as Spider-Man.</td></tr>
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Not only does he look adorable, but he acts like nobody else's business as well. Watch him in The Social Network. (He was so much better than Jesse Eisenberg who got an Oscar nomination. Unfair, really.) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwE_ykR18S7XGsYQb7opvtdL2e1wEwZamDnhxjowGWQuS3KMuFAJwVzxEerfAoLWtOSP0P7M_RB1vBxNPuSZdgPYN7KE8BZLaJ_qlmpYYpnVhD-dofyUTs9wq8OcPpBMACbxKOBLwDUQ/s1600/Andrew+-+Socialnetwork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwE_ykR18S7XGsYQb7opvtdL2e1wEwZamDnhxjowGWQuS3KMuFAJwVzxEerfAoLWtOSP0P7M_RB1vBxNPuSZdgPYN7KE8BZLaJ_qlmpYYpnVhD-dofyUTs9wq8OcPpBMACbxKOBLwDUQ/s320/Andrew+-+Socialnetwork.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Following the theme of this post which is the shameless gazing at beautiful people, let us stop and stare. :)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwsDMiqAaUBI0GdX_HDMgvbMnSPc_DnI3nHdRT20PK0twRn_npKcMlBRTFrqBPA6w_cI2lPqV2Qso2Tprm-_hwGm6eAO2Gs4qTlIp66pM-kP-HWaZeZKvo2q3NHXVXwe7d8AtyeYFi8Q/s1600/Andrew+Garfield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwsDMiqAaUBI0GdX_HDMgvbMnSPc_DnI3nHdRT20PK0twRn_npKcMlBRTFrqBPA6w_cI2lPqV2Qso2Tprm-_hwGm6eAO2Gs4qTlIp66pM-kP-HWaZeZKvo2q3NHXVXwe7d8AtyeYFi8Q/s400/Andrew+Garfield.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Imagine him giving you this. *squeals of delight*</td></tr>
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<i>Taking a cue from Ms. Maryann Johanson, my favorite movie critique, I will post some actors and actresses worth gazing and admiring at. A person should be seen and liked because of his/her character and all that inner beauty thing, but you see, we like to look and by god, we love to admire. Let's not a make a big deal out of this and enjoy the moment where in we stop, stare and sigh. </i><br />
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<br />Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-64499900371785065452012-02-27T03:44:00.001-08:002012-03-15T00:53:51.208-07:00Update: 365 Movie ChallengeI have to admit, having this kind of challenge is a bit tiring. Don't get me wrong, I <i>love </i>watching movies, adore it even. But dammit, that's just a lot of movies. Anyhoo, please disregard my whining and my excuses, it was a momentary weakness. Never again. I wish.<br />
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More movies that I watched since the last one I posted.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLAwYgnb9RTG58RJDQyQMycNmGUBQFz28fhyFf7mdZaCeyLmPMDq0MPrvRiV9xIPRG9fBJRaH5EJNnqeyyu0NEUVh4IMHp6e7K9X_BnQr6102a023agDy-0CFxMayjBAMn1Sw2XVmMuw/s1600/30-minutes-or-less.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLAwYgnb9RTG58RJDQyQMycNmGUBQFz28fhyFf7mdZaCeyLmPMDq0MPrvRiV9xIPRG9fBJRaH5EJNnqeyyu0NEUVh4IMHp6e7K9X_BnQr6102a023agDy-0CFxMayjBAMn1Sw2XVmMuw/s400/30-minutes-or-less.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>36. 30 Minutes or Less</b></div>
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<i>(Meh. I've never been a fan of Jesse Eisenberg. I just don't get his charm--or lack thereof.) </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5diaE5EOxZnOe4WB4H6TGN8GGsTmt7eFnfcOsvnQrrD-TUhWHSqzn0uAmFxYEtpw8tWgl3mYUp3wsrgqTOUjBFgOGg8An0rdt0ZzyU6lAW7WIvVNw-sbBa-nYQA9x7cY3swihcPs1w/s1600/Girl+w+the+dragon+tattoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5diaE5EOxZnOe4WB4H6TGN8GGsTmt7eFnfcOsvnQrrD-TUhWHSqzn0uAmFxYEtpw8tWgl3mYUp3wsrgqTOUjBFgOGg8An0rdt0ZzyU6lAW7WIvVNw-sbBa-nYQA9x7cY3swihcPs1w/s400/Girl+w+the+dragon+tattoo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>37. Girl with the Dragon Tattoo</b></div>
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<i>(This is the Swedish and the earlier version.)</i></div>
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<b>38. Ferris Bueller's Day Off</b></div>
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<b>39. The Artist</b></div>
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<i>(Best Picture, Director and Actor in the Academy Awards. Jean Dujardin is so disarmingly adorable.)</i></div>
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<b>40. The Ides of March</b></div>
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<i>(Ryan Gosling once again shines in this movie. Why he isn't nominated is beyond me.)</i></div>
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<b>41. The Descendants</b></div>
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<i>(Nominated for Best Actor in the Academy Awards- George Clooney at his best, no doubt.)</i></div>
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Note that I won't be posting a review on all the movies I'll watch. Maybe I'll post some teeny tiny remarks (sarcastic or otherwise) on most of them. Bear with me. :) 324 movies to go.Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7000183529700253591.post-47912388103149939702012-02-25T04:31:00.001-08:002013-06-25T00:27:58.221-07:00Warrior (2011)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6wvoddwnU27KTxM7xuvozz7WViAvuKG6B9kYeA3dCEJFt3RFihT0ZHKatNhvTZBqJNvB5Kl9pLcQUY91n-PWYtQv1SjnP5Wq296OMs769kxtwnRXrVReG0H3ODEx2XDUzyLPLhdn3g/s1600/Warrior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6wvoddwnU27KTxM7xuvozz7WViAvuKG6B9kYeA3dCEJFt3RFihT0ZHKatNhvTZBqJNvB5Kl9pLcQUY91n-PWYtQv1SjnP5Wq296OMs769kxtwnRXrVReG0H3ODEx2XDUzyLPLhdn3g/s400/Warrior.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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Nobody could have prepared me for this movie. I even remember, at one point, hitting the pause button just because I couldn't take the awesomeness of the scenes. It was that exciting. For me, at least.<br />
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It is about brothers. Brothers who were separated due to an alcoholic and perhaps, abusive father. One brother married a perfect house wife, had children and seemed to live an ordinary life. The younger one, however, became an Iraq War veteran, saw his own mother die and ultimately led a bitter life. They seem to be extremely different, but its about to change when they both joined a mixed martial arts tournament and inevitably fight each other. Nick Nolte plays Paddy Conlon, the former alcoholic father who, upon seeing his youngest son, was determined to earn his forgiveness. I say he deserves to be nominated as Best Supporting Actor in the Oscars. Tom Hardy as Tommy Conlon (younger brother) is extremely exhausting to watch. I don't mean it as a negative retort, but as a compliment. I understand his bitterness and feel his ultimate reluctance to forgive both his father and brother for abandoning him with his mother. There's just an aura in him that suggests that he is still a little boy waiting to be saved by the older men in his family. I swear, his scenes with his father made me sob so bad, I eventually had hiccups in the end. Lastly, Joel Edgerton plays Brendan Conlon, the older one, the one who should have been carrying the burden of their family problems. He will surprise you and you will love him for it. This dysfunctional family will play at your emotions like nothing ever did and will leave you speechless.<br />
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Now that we're done with part where you'll cry, let's move on to the part where you'll cheer and jump up. Or jump up and cheer, whichever order. As I've written before, I hate spoilers and in retrospect, I hate giving them as well. But really, the fight scenes in the arena is heart-stopping especially with Brendan, underdog that he is. The training was grueling and painful to watch, but what's pain when you get to win a shitload of cash? I can't stress this any clearer and harder: The fight scenes will send your blood racing and by the end of the movie, you'll be a fan of the mixed martial arts. For those who adore UFC, then I don't know any other reason not to watch this. If you've seen The Fighter (starring Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale) and liked it, then take a chance on this. You might like it, too.<br />
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Cheerios! :)Gab Rinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09990220221720912050noreply@blogger.com0