RacsOview: "Kinatay" (2009)

What do you do when you are in a no win situation? You choose the lesser of two evils. And that was what Peping experienced in "Kinatay". The Brillante Mendoza Cannes entry that won him and Philippine's first Cannes win for best director.

"Kinatay" is an overnight story of Peping. He is an aspiring police man. He is currently studying. But he just got married to a nineteen year old girl whom he has a seven month old child with. One night, he was asked by one of his friend to tagalong in an "operation". To what he thought was official business immediately turned nightmare.
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Brillante Mendoza improved a whole deal lot from his previous work, "Serbis". Unlike his previous Cannes entry, the movie relied more on the central story rather than have multiple small plot points. Also, the symbolism and ironies were second to the film. It's primary goal was to tell a story, a very gritty and gory one.

I loved how the tension was built to the climactic actual butcher-(Kinatay)ing of Madonna. I think that is not a give away. The title says it all. No spoiler I say. Most of the film was spent inside the car going to Bulacan from a trip that started from Manila. It was a long journey, and the movie took quite some time to get there. But the tension was never lost. In fact that it got so heightened that my pulse raised and I feel like I was having those frequent heartburn that usually happen to me. They are going to this sort of abandoned house where they would kill a woman. The actual butchering was shown, but now "Saw" esque. But I kinda got really disturbed by it that I looked away and said "fuck!". Everything was orchestrated well. Even though the butchering was not entirely seen, but the sound spooked the living wits out off me. Shit. I was cursing a whole lot.

The acting in this movie was top notch. Thanks to its always dependable Pinoy Indie prince, now probably king, Coco Martin. I think that three fourths of the movie was the audience time with Peping and how he reacted to what was happening around him. In the earlier parts of the movie you can feel that he was very happy. Especially when he was holding his son. Towards the middle you can see that he got really nervous, manic nervous. Then in the climax he exploded. You can feel multiple emotions. Fear. Disgust. Sympathy. Shock. If Madonna was physically butchered, Peping was in all ways also butchered though, figuratively. His every fiber of being a human, his innocence and all, all butchered.

Coco Martin delivers what could be his best performance to date. The camera is in love with his face, and the movie pretty much relied on that because it spent a whole deal lot looking at him and seeing how he would react. The rest of the cast were also great but this is Martin's show and no one can deny that.

This is the Philippines. The corruption. The violence. The darkness. The superficial joy. The poverty. Mendoza has woven a critical film about the Philippines that begs to be seen by all of us. Truly, a masterpiece. I love it, but my heart won't last an immediate second viewing.

A+

RacsOview: "Away We Go" (2009)

After "American Beauty" I have been waiting for that film from Sam Mendes that would make me believe that he is really a good director. He made "Road to Perdition". I loved that film. He made me believe in that film. But apparently not all. Last year he wowed some with "Revolutionary Road", I was a bit wowed but not much.

So now with "Away We Go", a somewhat love it or hate it film, methinks that Sam Mendes found a new magical spell. It was like what Demme found in "Rachel Getting Married". I know that many people are sided against this movie, but I could not help myself from falling for it. I was away with it, wherever it went, I followed even though I was not aware where the movie is taking me.

"Away We Go" is a road trip dramedy about a quirky couple who are looking for a home and visiting their relatives and friends along the way. The lead couple was oddly paired, but it did work. I even think that they were on top of their game. But what made this movie special was the fact that the supporting cast were all superb. Very very memorable was Maggie Gyllenhaal and her oddity. Ditto Melanie Lynskey's pole dancing. Ditto Catherine O'Hara and Allison Janney.

This is a superb movie. I want to be with them, and meet those people, that was what I wanted and the movie brought me there, I was a tagalong, and I loved every minute of it.

PS. LOVE the soundtrack!
A

What I Liked in "Jennifer's Body" Other Than Needy

Even though Need got fed up with this. I am so sorry girl but this is the best thing about the movie, next to you that is. The soundtrack.

"Ded Na Si Lolo" Philippines Osar Entry

Errr. This is a very weak entry from the Philippines. It was good yes, but this is not the best movie that the Film Academy of the Philippines could send. There are lotsa good movies that came out last year and this year and they could have selected from that. Let me start of with Brillante Mendoza's works. They could have sent "Kinatay" fresh from the Cannes win. Or "Lola" which got featured in Toronto. They could have taken a big second look at "Lola". It got stellar reviews. Why not that?

Let me see. How about Francis Xavier Pasion's "Jay"? It got numerous citation, recognition from local award giving bodies in the Philippines and abroad. And since they are getting on that comedy about death vibe, why not go for "100"?

If they want to go edgy why did they not go for "Engkwentro"? The movie, after all, got raved, hella big time in Toronto. "Melancholia" released last year could get noticed by voters as well, but its running time might get on its way.

This list could go on and on and on. I would even consider choosing "Ded Na Si Lolo" it does even scream Oscar. Don't get me wrong. It is an OK film. But Film Academy should have taken a good look at the movies that gets noticed in the Oscars... But I do hope that Philippines will get their first Oscar nod.

RacsOview: "Jennifer's Body" (2009)

I think I am right to say and to think and to feel that "Juno" was overwrought. Everybody was talking in metaphors. But that said. I do think that it was good. I just think that there was balance. It was like the dialogue was from "Gilmore Girls" only on steroids. So I am a bit (a little little bit) excited to see what Diablo Cody has to offer next.

"Jennifer's Body" is about Jennifer and her body. It was obsessing over Megan Fox's curvy curvaciousness. Nah. It was not really about her. It was more of a story of Needy, her girlfriend and how her best friend Jennifer ruins everything for her. Heck. Jennifer even killed her boy friend. How that happened was that there was this evil band who sacrificed Jennifer in a ritual or something that turned her to a guy eating whatever that was.

One thing could be said about it. It was original. But it was not good original. It was originally absurd and blah. But sometimes absurd can be good. But it did not do this movie any good. The acting. Hmmm. Amanda Seyfried was good. The rest was ho hum. Megan Fox has got to be the weakest. With the possible exception of Needy's boy friend. There was even a point that it go so weird it was messy. And the writing got sooo full of itself.

It was a bloody mess. But thank God for Seyfried.

D

RacsOview: "A Prophet" (2009)

I remember predicting this movie to win the Cannes Palme D'Or and it ended up winning the Grand Prix instead so it must have meant that the movie was somewhat good. It was not just good. It was great. But not over the top great. Just plain great.

"A Prophet" was about this young French Arab guy dude and his six years stay inside the prison. A lot of things happened to him. But it was not "Prison Break" nor was it a (overrated) "Shawshank Redemption". However what sets it apart was that it was unique and grittier. The story was something you expected from a prison movie but the story was tweaked to make it look original.

There is no doubt about it being very well made. Thus I can understand people hailing it all over and going crazy about it calling it one of the best prison drama ever. I agree it is. The acting was top notch. All across the board. Even the smallest of roles have bite.

But I feel something missing in it. I felt a little disconnected. I can not pin point the reason. I have to see it again.

A-/B+/B????

You Make My Dreams

Since I am still in the "Summer" mood. I would like to share this segment of the movie. LOVE IT. Enjoy!

RacsOview: "(500) Days of Summer" (2009)

I have been gone for a very long time. Days. Fuck. I miss writing here. I am not a good writer or anything, I just love to write. Anyway. For the past few days that I have been out. I was a hardworking fucking model employee. I forgot to blog. But I did not forget to watch movies. And did some catching up on "Mad Men". One of the movies that I have seen is "(500) Days of Summer". I have been wanting to see this movie for ages and when I got some free time on my hands I decided to go out and see it.

"(500) Days of Summer" was 500 days with Summer. It was about a Tom Hansen, looking for the right one, thought he found the one for him. But was not. Summer Finn was your "typical" girl next door, catch is, she does not believe in love. Tom falls for Summer. Summer did not. But they sorta did had a relationship.

I pity myself for not having had the time to see this and now that I had the time. Fuck yeah. This movie was notches about anything crap you have seen in the summer. It was not also your typical romantic comedy movie. I could not even say that it is a perfect date movie. It was sad, yet enjoyable at the same time. Real, original and heart tugging.

This would not have worked if it were not exceptionally acted. Thanks to its lead, Joseph Gordon Levitt (who looks like someone I know) and Zooey Deschanel. I know that Levitt could act. He is a great actor in fact, he showcased that in "Brick" and in "Mysterious Skin". And he was surprisingly at his best in this movie. You just felt his emotion. When he's happy, you are happy. When he's sad, you are sad.

Zooey Deschanel on the other hand was surprisingly great. I never thought that she could act. I though she was good in "All the Real Girls" but after that her career in movies was bonkers. Anyway. This was one of those performance that would make you go, "I never would have imagined that she had it in her". She was that good.

"(500) Days of Summer" may not be a perfect movie but it hits in all right places. It hits all right notes. Something that would make you forget all the flaws. It was a unique treat. Highly Recommended and one of the year's bests.

A

Emmy 2009 Live Blogging

I have been lost for days now. And now I am back. Finally. Got so messed up the past few days finally got it all together. SO now on to the show.

I love me some Neil Patrick Harris. He was perfection in "Dr Horrible's Sing-Along Blog", now an Emmy winner, and I hope he wins something this year.

SUPPORTING ACTRESS in a Comedy/Musical. KRISTEN CHENOWETH. OH my fuck fuck fuck. I love her to bits. I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE. She finally won. If the Emmy voters do pay attention and vote for the best, Chenoweth should have two Emmies. Anyway. I love what she said about the show not being on TV today. In just two seasons, I can easily place "Pushing Daisies" in the ranks of best comedic shows ever.

Outstanding Writing (Comedy/Musical): 30 Rock. I mean duh. "30 Rock" hogged the whole category. 4 out of 5. I love this show but I'd like to see some lovin' for other shows, say "Pushing Daisies"

Best Supporting Actor (Comedy/Musical): That guy from "Two and a Half Men". I do not watch that show. I tried watching it but it is not at least two and a half funny.

Best Actress (Comedy/Musical): Toni Collette in "United States of Tara". Errrr.... I do not know. I would like to watch the show. But I have not got the chance. Anyway.

Best Director (Comedy/Musical): Jeffrey Blitz. is the show gonna bag the Emmy for best comedic show. "30 Rock" seems to be losing fire.

Best Actor (Comedy/Musical): Alec Baldwin in "30 Rock". No brainer and well deserved.

Best Reality Show Host: Jeff Probst in "Survivor". boring.

Best Reailty Show: "The Amazing Race". As if this show changes its format every year. Boring.

Best Supporting Actress (Miniseries/TV Movie): Shohreh Agdashloo (House of Sadam). I love her voice. I love her in "House of Sand and Fog". I love her. She is stunning.

Best Supporting Actor (Miniseries/TV Movie): Ken Howard (Grey Gardens). I very much liked Grey "Gardens" and he was good in the movie. Nice speech. GO Grey Gardens!

Best Actor (Miniseries/ TV Movie): Brendan Gleeson (Into the Storm). Wow. I habe not seen this but I do enjoy his work in the big screen.

Best Writing (Miniseries/ TV Movie): Andrew Davies (Little Dorritt)

Best Director (Miniseries/ TV Movie): Deearblah Walsh (Little Dorritt). Bad bad bad for "Grey Gardens". I think I should go see this. I am a sucker for period costume drama.

That Dr Horrible bit is hella funny! Congrats on a well deserved win.

Best Actress (Miniseries/ TV Movie): Jessica Lange (Grey Gardens). As much as I love her, Drew Barrymore deserves this more. So a silent boo for my part.

Best TV Movie: Grey Gardens. Oooooohhh Yay!

Best Miniseries: Little Dorritt. I have got to see this.

... Daily Show won, Oscar song writers, blah blah. Ricky Gervais is funny ditto Jimmy Fallon and that weird techno voice.

Best Supporting Actor (Drama): Michael Emerson (Lost). I was so rooting for John Slattery or Aaron Paul. I stopped watching "Lost". I got lost and bored. Should I watch it again?

Best Supporting Acress (Drama): Cherry Jones (24). What? How about Davis and Wiest?

Best Director (Drama): Guy (ER). I did not get his name....

Best Writing (Drama): MAD MEN. Well deserved. Well well well well deserved. I LOVE THIS SHOW. Like the best drama on TV right now. (Since Battlestar is out)

Best Actress (Drama): Glenn Close (Damages). I was rooting for Elisabeth Moss, though I think that January Jones should be here. Mary McDonnell should be here and should win, if she was nominated. I was bored with "Damages", but I watch it, but not that much.

Best Actor (Drama): Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad). As much as I love his work in "Breaking Bad" and he deserved last year, but John Hamm was leaps and bound superb this year.

Best Comedic/Musical Series: 30 Rock . Duh! Well Duh since "Pushing Daisies" is not here. I think that this is a no brainer.

Best Drama Series: MAD MEN. YEAH FUCK YEAH!!!! YEAH FUCK YEAHHHHHH!!!! FUCK YEAHHHH!!!!!! God I love this show. Best show nominated. Battlestar *cough* Friday Night Lights *cough*....

666 Posts!

I just realized that my profession of love to Beyonce is my 666th post. Yehey. Such a magical number. Anyway here is a screenshot.


And I am so loving Beyonce even more after her performance in the recently concluded VMA's. Major love.

Beyonce, I Love You

Dear Beyonce,
I love you. That was a class act, what you did. And I love you for that.

Douglas.

Kanye, You're an Ass

Dear Kanye,
Let Taylor Swift have her moment to shine. I do not listen to Taylor Swift and though I agree with you that "Single Ladies" was perfection, I would not even say that to Taylor Swift while she is receiving her award. That was beyond below the belt and you sunk yourself beyond the lowest of low. That was so un-gentleman of you.

Douglas.

Early Emmy Winners

Emmy Early Winners

Here are the winners of the Emmy awards for technical achievements and guest stars in a series. What I love about this is that they give some love to those show that I actually watch! Surprise! I love the multiple wins for the late "Pushing Daisies". One of the bests ever even though it was cut short. "Legend of the Seeker" got some lovin as well. Ditto "Project Runway", "Mad Men", "Battlestar Galactica" and the spoof of a lifetime by Tina Fey.

Congratulations!

RacsOview: "Aurora" (2009)

I decided that since I doubt that it will get that much commercial release, I will be reviewing Adolfo Alix's "Aurora". But I just can't simply get why the Philippine's MTRCB rated the movie with "X". Which in Philippines mean that the movie would not get that much release apart from select occasions and invitation-only screenings. Sometimes I feel so suck-y when I feel like a nobody. I just could not get in those frack important invitation-only screenings!

Anyway. SOOOO lucky me this movie was shown in the Philippines, when I was there, in Cinemalaya. And I got the chance to talk to Adolf Alix. You all know I love his work. I really do. I think that it was very evident in this blog.

"Aurora" is about Aurora, duh. She was held captive by an unnamed Muslim terrorist group. That was pretty much a given because in the Philippines, them terrorist group is all over the news, all the time. She managed to escape but then she got caught again. She escaped again. Then got caught again. Then escape again then got shot in the end. I know. I told the whole story. The movie was pretty much centered on her and her failed escape.

Many are waiting for the return of Rossana Roces. And I think she did made a comeback in this movie. The movie relied so much on her. If it not for her superb performance the movie would not have worked. She was bravely desperate wanting to get out of them endless trees. I have got to give kudos to Sid Lucero as well. e was very believable. You hardly recognized it was him because he really was in character. The voice, the look, the everything.

I think what ticked MTRCB was that it has a rape scene and Roces' bosom was shown in all its glory. If the SEX scene was their issue then why did they allow Joel Lamangan's "Walang Kawala" and "Heavenly Touch" get commercial release? Them two films features hardened shlungs dangling all over the place. Not only that, there are lotsa gay sex films getting shown every week. Then an elongated rape scene ticked them off?

Another reason that I can think of was that it tackled a very delicate topic in the Philippines. Cause it is pretty much something that really happens. MTRCB got all touchy and decided not to show it. But if it was just a mere representation of what is happening then why not show it?

Anyway. I got carried away. "Aurora" was a brave-ish effort by Alix. It was a story of a woman's survival. Beautiful, serene and real. The movie was sort of trying to tell what the movie was facing, it was "Aurora" surviving to be seen.

A-

"Engkwentro" Wows Venice

OK so since "Lola" went home empty handed but has bucket loads of fans, let us turn the light on the Cinemalaya special citation-ed movie "Engkwentro" which was directed by Pepe Diokno. The movie has won two major awards in the Orrizonti section of the Venice Film Fest while "Lola" was in the main competition. It won best feature and best first feature.

While I really admire the movie a lot, for its brave efforts. It was impeccably made and has multiple story lines that were built very well. If it were not for me feeling that it was a little too much of "Irreversible" I would love it so much, and also if the fighting scene not feel so staged. OK. If "Irreversible" was not made I would give it a deserved A-. I guess I have to see it again to conclude my feelings on the film.

But my feelings and viewpoint set aside, THIS IS a great feat for Filipinos. Enough of that pug faced boxer who is now a celebrity. Pepe Diokno made us well known to people and Venice. Something that Lav Diaz has proven a year ago and it seems as though nothing had happened. We should all welcome back Diokno here in the Philippines as if he is a celebrity or something, I would. He deserves it.

"Lola" Getting Raves in Venice

Oooh this is an exciting year for Brillante Mendoza. First that Cannes win and now he got invited in competition as the surprise film in Venice film fest. You all know that already if you have been reading my blog. Anyway. I was looking around for reviews of his Venice entry "Lola" and so far have found these...

From InContetion

As the intense financial strains of a funeral and a court case weigh on both women, Mendoza constructs an incisive critique of local bureaucrats and the criminal justice system around their parallel struggles, which gradually build to a common, if compromised, resolution. It’s also a devastating portrait of the challenges and occasional indignities of old age, beautifully played by its two leads, Anita Linda and Rustica Carpio. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Mendoza in the winner’s circle once more.

From ABS CBN News

Critics in Venice praised "Lola," with Italian daily Corriere della Sera calling the performance of the two lead actresses -- Anita Linda and Rustica Carpio, aged 84 and 79 -- "extraordinary."

I have not seen "Kinatay" yet and now I am over excited to see his second film this year. I will be keeping you guys posted with the reviews for "Lola".

RacsOview: "Fuschia" (2009)

Gloria Romero seems to be having a great year. First off she was great in the not so good movie "Kamoteng Kahoy". And then she had awards recognition for her other film this year "Fuschia". She deserves everything that is coming her way. Even though she is old, she seems to be getting meatier roles.

"Fuschia" is about Mameng. Mameng is a hip grandmother. She is now married to Gener, her longtime chum. But her longtime lover Mars, now bestfriend, went home to see them because he is dying. Mars bought a house and the three of them lived there.

I wanted so much for the movie to have stayed with the love story of old men angle. But then they had to swerve and put in political shit in it. Which made the story bogged down and rather commonplace. But despite the weak building of story, from love to political, the movie still boasts superb acting from its veteran filled ensemble. Gloria Romero was superb in her role and she looks like she was having fun. I have got to give kudos to Celia Rodriguez for a very comical turn as Priscilla. She was very very fun and she sizzled in all scenes she was in.

I just wish that more and more movies will be made about old people. They have great stories to tell, we just do not tap into their lives that much. "Fuschia" may not be that great but it is an OK addition to a short list of stories about old people. At the very least, Gloria Romero was superb.

C+

Brillante Mendoza's "Lola" Going to Venice

Brillante Mendoza is one of my all time favorite directors even though he has not made that much film yet. But his portfolio as of the moment is superb and he now has the Cannes best director win to boot. The story is: I was googling him over the internet and I just found out that he was selected by the Venice Film Festival organizers to appear in the fest as the second surprise film. Wow. Yowza. The first surprise film came from Warner Herzog.

His new film is entitled "Lola" which translates to Grandmother. It is a story of a grandma and her grandsons who were caught in a crime, one a victim the other a suspect. It stars film veteran actress Anita Linda. I love her. She is superb regardless of age. The thing of it is, the movie was not done yet when the organizers called Mendoza and they had to rush things up just to get it done on time. Luckily they were able to do it and now they are going for Venice. I have gotta say. I am mighty impressed with Mendoza. He is having one blast of a year. His controversial film "Kinatay" won at Cannes and this time in Venice, the oldest film festival. Congrats to him.

Oh and before I forget. Pepe Diokno, fresh from his debut in Cinemalaya is aslo in competition in Venice. His movie "Engkwentro", a movie that I have mixed feeling with, follows up Lav Diaz's "Melancholia" which won in Venice Horizons category. I am starting to feel for "Engkwentro". I had issues with it back then but the more I think of it, the more I am starting to warm to it. Anyway. I wish our Filipino directors all the best.

Creepy Stuff

I got so hooked looking for something that would make me scared because "Grace" failed to do so. I stumbled upon this video in youtube, it is fucking scary. I do not know if it is true or not but whatever, this shit is fucking creepy. Check it out



Either this is true or the editing of this video is really good. I don't care. It scared the living shit out of me.

LSS: "You Make My Dreams"

LSS stands for "Last Song Syndrome". Since I sing a lot. Wherever I go. Whatever I do. I sing. That is why I get this a lot. The last song you heard gets stuck in your head.

I recently purchased the "(500) Days of Summer" soundtrack and thinks that it is awesome. It is indie pop, alternative confection. And me loves it a whole deal. But one song is on heavy iPod rotation right now. It is Hall and Oates' single "You Make My Dreams". It is damn catchy and I feel like I am groovin' even when I am walking on the streets just listening to this song. Anyways I hope this song gets stuck in your head too. Enjoy!

Jumping with "Glee"

I think I have not yet said this before but I really love the premiere of the new Fox series "Glee". I am a big big big fan of musicals, and if I were to make my first feature film, it would be a musical. So to see a musical on TV is quite refreshing since they decided to shut down "Pushing Daisies" which was giving me a dose of musical every once in a while.

The first episode of "Glee" for me was an indication of a great great future. I just wish that the quirkiness does not die down. The bar is set, they should just keep outdoing themselves. They should! I also wish that they guest star Kristen Chenoweth, which is also being rumored already to appear on the show. I love me some Chenoweth. I miss her a whole deal. I am still mourning over "Pushing Daisies". I want to see the cast again. Please.

Anyway. Back to "Glee". I can't wait for it already. May the second episode be superb. It should be. IT SHOULD!

10 Songs

1. These are My Twister Words - Radiohead
2. Relator - Pete Yorn and Scarlett Johansson
3. A Choppy Yet Sincere Apology - The Riverboat Gamblers
4. Notion - Kings of Leon
5. Awake and Alive - Skillet
6. My Girls - Taken by Trees
7. Want - Adam Lambert
8. My Girls - Taken by Trees
9. Ignorance - Paramorex
10. Califone - Funeral Singers
    

RacsOview: "Grace" (2009)

I have got to say this first before anything more is said. What is it with horror/gore movies and flies? Are flies the new symbol for horror? And them, flies love going inside head holes such as nose or mouth. That fly bugged the hell out of Christine in "Drag Me To Hell" and now the flies are back disturbing another woman, and daughter this time in the movie "Grace".

"Grace" is about Madeline and her sort of carnivorous kid Grace. Madeline sort of almost lost her son in an accident. Her husband died and so did the kid. Or so it appeared. Several days later she went to labor, the baby came out dead but several minutes later the baby miraculously came back to life. But is not a normal baby. The baby sucks her momma dry until blood comes out of her teats. And that sorta was everything about the movie.

There was really nothing new about this movie. I got to the point that I was very bored with it. I was not even scared. It did not even haunt my sleep. It was not effective at all. It was just blah. I admit though there were moments that I winced because of all the blood and skin that were torn, but nothing really shocking. "Passion of the Christ" was far meatier in terms of blood and skin loss.

A common place blah blah blah movie that was not scary at all. That was it.

D+

RacsOview: "Broken Embraces" (2009)

I swear if Penelope Cruz had not won last year, which she deserves, I would say that this would be her year. I know she will get media attention for the far famous "Nine", and she is already getting some lovin' for that, but I have got to say that I love her deeply in "Broken Embraces" as supporting. Contrary to what everyone is saying that she is lead.

"Broken Embraces" is about Mateo also known as 'Harry Caine', a now blind movie screenplay writer. One day he was visited by a rather lamely named 'Ray X' who wants to hire Mateo to write a script for him. The script was too personal and reminiscent of his past and he turned it down. He then later realized that the lamely named 'Ray X' was the son of a rich dirty old man Ernesto Martel whom he had a history with, something I do not wish to get too deep into because that will ruin things for you. Anyway.

Back in 1994, Ernesto fell obsessively in love with Lena (Penelope Cruz) who was then Ernesto's secretary. Lena's father got ill and she had no one to lean to. She turned to her boss for help which eventually lead to them having a Hugh Hefner relationship. Lena, wanted so much to become an actress so she auditioned to Mateo Blanco who was at that time auditioning for a comedic role in his breakout from drama comedy film. And so on and so forth.

It has all the elements of your typical Pedro Almodovar movie. Gay. Sex. Red. Movies. Women. Love. Forbidden Love. They were all intertwined together to form a cohesive story. It was not your typical story, in fact. It was only a story that Almodovar could think of. It felt a little like "Moulin Rouge!" where the girl, not a courtesan though, needs to be with a rich old dude but loves another. And like "Moulin Rouge!", the 'red' in the movie was prominent, eye catching and popping. I loved seeing it. It was beautiful. I also loved how it reminded me of "Volver" and "Women on the Verge of Nervous Breakdown"

Penelope Cruz was superb as always when he is in the hands of Pedro Almodovar. As Lena, Penelope was dashingly beautiful, romantic, desperate and torn. Like I said awhile ago, if it was not for her Oscar win last year, people would be screaming Oscar again for her role in this movie. She was just marvelous. And stunningly yummy at that.

Lluis Homar, playing the "Moulin Rouge" Christian role was hopelessly in a love that should never had been. Despite the fact that at times I doubt that he is blind because he pretty much moves like a normal person, never mind that glitch, Homar was great in his role as well. Ditto Blanca Portillo as the jealous production manager.

Many would say that this is not a par Almodovar's greatest, but I beg to differ. Almodovar for me has improved with age. He has recaptured that flare that he had in the beginning of his portfolio. I am not saying that he lost it, no he did not, but he lost 'some' or a little of it. It all came back when he made "Talk to Her" and has not lost it up to now.

A
LAMB Rating:

RacsOview: "Cheri" (2009)

I know everyone is expecting that Michelle Pfeiffer will give a sort of comeback performance. I know. I am expecting it too. But I think that the comeback has to wait for another year. "Cheri" is an entertaining (ugh) movie but I think that it will not be Pfeiffer's comeback vehicle.

Cheri is about Lea de Lonval, a high class hoe. Well sort of a very rich one. She fell in love with Cheri, a very young gorgeous boy. But then Cheri's mom already set an arranged marriage for him so that leaves their secret love affair to the dung. Then they got reunited but then... OK enough story.

The majority of the film was spent on both of them longing for each other but they can not be together. Even when one is fucking someone, say Cheri for example when he was fucking his wife, he was imagining his nights with Lea also known as his Noo-Noo. Ditto Noo-Noo thinking of her Cheri in the same setting. But as the longing gets long, it gets tiring. And often times overbearing. I can not help but feel that the movie was patched up with cutesy cutesiness to pay off for the lack of plot.

Then things started to pick up. And that was the last scene. I loved the ending. This is the Pfeiffer that I was looking for. Not the Pfeiffer that was running on for more than hour of the movie.

Sadly though, I really did not like it at all. Well there were some redeeming moments in it. The beginning and the end were good, in fact great. The acting was so so and did not pick up towards the end. As for Kathy Bates, this feels like a "Titanic" reprisal of Molly Brown, I think that was the character. Anyway.

I am a sucker for this kind of film but I really did not get it at all. It just feels lost.

C-
Lamb Rating:

RacsOview: "Lorna's Silence" (2009)

Based from the title, I was assuming that this movie is going to be silent. I mean duh! "Lorna's Silence" is the title after all. I was expecting it to be like "Elephant" -esque where there are long serene walks and the movie relies on facial reactions. But it was more than that. Though, some parts of it were silent, as expected.

"Lorna's Silence" is about Lorna and how she got tangled in a mob deal. First she married this junkie named Claudy. Lorna was Albanian and she needs Belgian citizenship so they set up a sham marriage to Claudy. Then Lorna has to marry a Russian mob boss, but then before they could marry they had to kill Claudy, and they did. Lorna only wanted to have a snack bar or mini resto and the deal will earn her lotsa moolah, but things went bonkers when she decided to not be (that) silent anymore. She sensed that they are going to kill her in the end, and she managed to escape. Spoiler.

I liked how the movie was not forced and it was like something unfolding in front of my eyes. It did not felt staged or far fetched. It was not something that could happen in real life but how it was written, it felt so real. I loved it. But this would not have worked well if not for Arta Dobroshi who played Lorna. Her performance was so natural, it was as though we are just chronicling her life a la "Truman Show". But it was not just her who was great. I loved Jeremie Renier's performance as well. He was the reforming junkie. In the end, you just feel sorry for him, and touched.

Stunning, minimalist, engaging and beautiful. I am just in awe.

A
LAMB Rating:

RacsOview: "Lymilife" (2009)

Errr. I really don't know where to begin. I was not impressed with the movie to begin with. But don't get me wrong. I do enjoy watching them dysfunctional family stuff. Only if they are exceptionally well made. And this movie is not that well made. Well, it is OK-ly made.

"Lymlife" is about a twofer of dysfunctional families and the dangers of the so-called "American Dream". The story centers on Scott, and his humiliations, hidden desire, anguish and angst. He kinda is a wimp and needs his brother to beat up some guy for him. His brother, who pretends that he enjoy working in the army only to not be at home where he feels more fucked up. Scott does this weird Dirk Diggler actions in front of the mirror, and that is the only time where he can muster up all his courage. Scott's mother is a lonely depressed woman because she does not feel the love of his husband anymore and she feels rather detached from the family. Scott's father is fucking his crush's mother. A literal motherfucker. And Scott's crush has the hots for another guy.

So that's about it. But I was kinda expecting that it would not have that weak an ending. It was sort of the easy way out ending. Things patched up though some issues are left hanging. It felt long also despite the rather short running time. I really can't explain why I felt that it was long and boring. Some scenes also felt underdeveloped, when it can be pivotal and moving.

But set the monotony aside, the movie was well acted. The Culkin brothers (Rory and Kieran) seem to be growing as good actors. Alec Baldwin was his usual scum. Cynthia Nixon was overbearing. And the rest of the cast did a decent job.

"Lymelife" pushes to becoming original and just did not quite get there and ended up being common.

C+
LAMB Rating:

RacsOview: "The Damned United" (2009)

Michael Sheen has been constantly giving us great performance after another. It all started with "The Queen". Then onto "Frost/Nixon". The common denominator here is that both films are penned by Peter Morgan. So their latest offering "The Damned United" was no exception. The movie was sort of a dud but Sheen was great as always.

"The Damned United" was about this arrogant prick manager named Brian Clough and his friendship with his best friend and assistant manager, Peter Taylor a.k.a. Scabbers. Brian started from humble beginnings but even from the start he already was foul mouthed. And as his success grew, as his career improves, his prickiness and arrogance grew all the more. Which caused to his performance withering because he was not after winning anymore. Money. His relationship with his chum deteriorated as well. But they had a happy ending. Yehey!

This movie is formulaic sports film. There was nothing new about it. It is not that interesting at all. Well, maybe if you know Clough and you follow football, which I don't so go figure. But I managed to see it still. I was a little disappointed though because of all the collaborations of Morgan and Sheen, this is the weakest movie of em all. There were times when it felt too monotonous and repetitive.

But all bad notes said, there were moments in it that I kinda did enjoy. But not too many. I enjoyed Sheen's performance. He was superb. It was not his best, but he was nevertheless, perfect for the role as Clough.

Without the OK to great performance, this movie will be a dud. It is boring as it is. There are no spins, twists, or anything new to deliver. It was a generic sports film, trying to be inspirational but will just leave you hanging.

C
LAMB Rating:

Trailer: "Trucker"

The trailer sucks ass. But this is those types of movies that would make people say "Wow! I did not know she had it in her". Michelle Monaghan had a breakthrough in "Kiss Kiss Bang Bang" and if played well this could make her a star.

Prediction Updates as of September 4 2009: Best Actress

Looks like Meryl Streep is on her way to getting her third Oscar after all after failing to nab the win last year. There hardly was anyone who had nothing but high praises for her role as Julia Child. She is long overdue for that win.

Gabourey Sibide for me is a close second for her role in "Precious". The movie after all is about her and if she had not given a good performance then the movie would not be as liked as it is today. Let us also not count Hilary Swank out, in "Amelia". She seems like a shoo in already but I think that the movie will tank. I think that she too young but Carey Mulligan in "An Education" poses as a big threat as well. She was raved frantically. Michelle Pfeiffer will get her turn though but I think that the nomination is not that far off. I just wish that the fire for the movie "Cheri" will ignite again.

I am keeping Saoirse Ronan out of the top five since there is a high possibility that she will go supporting though the movie was all hers. But I still think that wherever she is placed, she will get noticed provided that the movie is a success. Michelle Monaghan and Abbie Cornish could land their very first nominations this year. Natalie Portman could get in if ever the movie is any good, well, it should because the original was good.

Mariah Loves Herself Too Much

I was once again browsing video stuff over at youtube. Then I stumbled over Mariah Carey's new single "Obsessed". The video was about this dude uber obsessed about Mariah. The dude is played by Mariah herself. So it is Mariah obsessing over Mariah. Got me thinking about this post's title.

I am starting to hare her again after her great comeback with her Emancipating Mimis.

Anyway. If you want to check it out, here's the youtube video. Embedding was disabled.

Prediction Updates as of September 3, 2009: Best Picture

With "Shutter Island" and several other movies being pushed to 2009, the category widens up some more. "The Lovely Bones" looks like a shoo-in. It has all the right elements in it for it to become best picture. Tragic and family drama is kinda their thing. But I do not think that whimsical and fantasy is their thing, but heck, don't they love Peter Jackson?

"Invictus" is those type of film that I am very judgmental about. I have not seen it yet, who has? But I have the gut feeling that I will not like it. I am not a sucker for Eastwood or biopics. But this poses as a great threat that could make the awards show ho-hum. But I am ready to be proven wrong.

I picked "The Hurt Locker", "Nine" and "Precious" to complete the top five. Locker is the type of film that they usually go for. It is a war movie after all, and they used to go nuts over them. The only thing that is in its way is that it was directed by a woman.

They usually have a lone spot for comedy or musical, and this year's big musical "Nine" could sneak in given that it is "Chicago" esque. But it could easily tank a la "Dreamgirls". "Precious" I really have doubts with. I know it is lauded and all but based on the trailer, the trailer is ugly, I just see acting noms for it. I might be wrong. But that "Oprah Winfrey" promotion there seems to be doing it a whole lot of favor.


Completing my top ten of predicitons are:
"An Education" - could be too simple for them. But it is so star studded and raved that it could not go unseen.
"Bright Star" - Jane Campion's comeback. Another woman helmed film.
"Up" - Strong reviews, Critical darling, but it is animated. Wall-E is angry that they did not decide to pick ten best picture nominees last year.
"The Road" - stunning book. Did the push from last year to this year and the tweaks that they made, make this movie a contender?
"Where the Wild Things Are" - wishful thinking. But who knows?!

Trailer: "The Lovely Bones"

I have been pretty mum about this movie for quite some time now. I am reading it as of the moment and quite frankly I am enjoying myself. It is no "Catcher in the Rye" but is well written. Anyway. This trailer got me. Though I have a bad feeling that it could be the year's "Big Fish", but it could also prove as once and for all that Peter Jackson is a master class director, whose scope goes beyond limits.

Is this Susan Sarandon's much needed and long awaited comeback? Is this another of those movies where Wahlberg is good? Hi Rachel Weisz? Youngest best actress ever? Or will Saoirse go supporting?

It is just sooo damn pretty....

RacsOview: "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf" (1967)

This is the second entry in my ongoing quest to watch more classic movies. First, this is the first time that I am going to see a movie that Elizabeth Taylor is nominated. Plus I am quite excited because this is a Mike Nichols' movie after all. I love his work. I really do. For me he is a master in verbal judo and acrobatics mix with theatrics and cursing. So that me really going. It got me going really good.

"Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf" is about an middle aged couple, a professor and a rather frumpy heffalump wife. Professor is smart. Duh. Too smart I think. He knows several languages. Wife is a nagger. That is her superpower. She could get you lost in translation and she could belittle you that could make you sink on your seat. So the two, the two-some gruesome, invited over a stud friend and his naivette wife for drink. They were not aware that they are going to get caught in the middle of a verbal battle ground. The movie will get you to think where a couple of drink, well, a lot of drink-sss could take you.

Quite frankly my dear-sss, I got lost towards the middle of it. When they were yapping about some certain stuff about their lives and specially the one I missed was about their son. I had to rewind to the middle of story and start again from there. And this time I was attentive as hell.

The story was so intelligent and darkly comic. You have to think a whole lot just to get how sick their jokes were, sick but funny. This is also a movie that you would not want your children to see, just wait for them to become tweens before you show it to them.

For a freshman effort by Mike Nichols, this is a stunning feat. This movie was based from a stage play or something, but it hardly felt staged at all. You just feel like this are a buncha sick but smart adults talking, liquor driven talking in fact. He brought the best out of his four-some, all nominated for their roles. In fact, I did a research on this, and this is the only movie in the Academy Awards history that got nominated in all possible categories. Sadly it did not bag the top prize. But it got the win for Elizabeth Taylor. Stunning performance. She was mad! She was scary! Which made the ending all the more effective. Quite frankly, this is one of the best performances ever. The same goes for Richard Burton. He was all aces in her role and quite proportionate to Taylor.

This is a timeless classic, not for all ages though. But it sure is a good movie to start a discussion on. This is one of all the all time bests. Truly a work of a true master.

A+
LAMB Rating:

Economist VS. President 's Son

Oh My God. Fuck. This is just iconic. I do not want to say much. I might get killed or something. I will just let you guys decide on your own what the frack happened.