tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136915532024-03-08T02:11:14.603+08:00RaRiRuReRoReviews and reviews of anything that the world is fond of. Enjoy your stay. :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger126125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-59703487199048125162012-03-20T23:44:00.000+08:002012-03-20T23:44:06.387+08:00Kid Icarus: Uprising (US) at RM 155!<a href="http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-28-change_language-83-ehop-71-18m-49-en-84-j-70-463d.html" title="">Buy Kid Icarus: Uprising (Nintendo 3DS) at Play-Asia.com</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrlsK2y8mkQop2MCA5tUZhULcfMyBHeoeu9NSWAKsDcM-PFpYuLdwa7WJdTzUMLPuiPuE9KM0FhAOSxxD5eMbeA1-joJX8Ir9Jx8bRKD7lzb7jWu2EOUk1MP8r0fN1r4kqRAb/s1600/61TsXjgIkwL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrlsK2y8mkQop2MCA5tUZhULcfMyBHeoeu9NSWAKsDcM-PFpYuLdwa7WJdTzUMLPuiPuE9KM0FhAOSxxD5eMbeA1-joJX8Ir9Jx8bRKD7lzb7jWu2EOUk1MP8r0fN1r4kqRAb/s320/61TsXjgIkwL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-78081121769922204982012-03-05T14:33:00.000+08:002012-03-05T14:33:12.345+08:00The Help: Movie ReviewThere's something about racism that attracts me. Perhaps I used to be one myself. Or it's also because of how Malaysia is very multi cultured and I'm the offspring of 2 cultures combined. But when it comes to something like The Help, it doesn't only make you question how you treat your fellow brother or sister of another race. In fact, you should even ask of your own too.<br />
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Aibileen (An excellent Viola Davis) is a house maid. Crudely, you'd call her a slave, or another lighter word would be The Help. Being a maid all her life, she is then approached by Skeeter (I expect good things of Emma Stone, after Easy A and now Gwen Stacy) to co write a book to explain the views of the help. Together with another maid Mindy (Very well deserved win for Octavia Spencer) the three co wrote a book that changes the course of how mankind may very well treat colored people.<br />
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You can get this at Unifi's HyppTv pay per view service at RM 8. And by God it is well worth the money you're paying. I could give all praises to how wonderful the actresses, the script, the editing were for the movie, but the real stars to me lie on how thought provoking the movie is. So Tate Taylor deserves this for the praise.<br />
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The scenery feels so vivid that it really is matched to how the struggles of the african americans had to endure against the, hurm, harsh treatment being given by the americans. But truly ask yourself, a house maid is not allowed to use the toilet of the employer's house. What sort of defilement would that have meant? Minny was fantastic at this scene.<br />
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The good parts also came when Minny found a new employer. Someone who desperately needs help because she has no knowledge of how to be a wife. The best part (SPOILER) is when the americans acknowledged someone else's help, even when that very person is an african american. Heck, it was wonderful seeing Celia cook up so much, all from the lesson she got from Minny. And heck, Minny, as the house maid, ends up being the employer for the day. (END SPOILER)<br />
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The human heart has a wonderful story to tell. And by the time you get to end, while it is a sad and tear jerking parting, you will have felt a wonderful feeling that you can accept the world. Even if we are different by color, race and beliefs. Don't miss this piece!<br />
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Kyo's Score: 9.5/10. Bryce can do a lot more than that. That's my real problem and the minused score.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-5557956343887310092011-12-21T00:41:00.000+08:002011-12-21T00:41:36.728+08:00Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows: Exclusive Movie ReviewGuy Ritchie's take on the super sleuth is one to be amazed at. Sure, its not what purists were expecting (Go for your BBC UK's Sherlock please. That's a WHOLE LOT MORE AWESOME), but it still delivered. So a sequel was greenlit, but sadly, it does not give the awe inspiring awesomeness seen in the first.<br />
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Sherlock is back again investigating a case, that does not seem slightly related. As he escorts Dr. Watson to his wedding, he finally gets to confront Professor James Moriarty, arch nemesis and also as brilliant as Sherlock. But what Sherlock has not discovered yet, is he is about to play a very dangerous game, that Moriarty has already seemed to have won. Will he crack the case?<br />
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Its not surprising how the actor's were doing, especially Jared Harris this time. RDJ and Jude Law were their usual selves, but the big inclusion is obviously Moriarty. Now, some may love Jared's rendition, but I have a hunch that some may hate, due to lack of clarity in his stance and motives. But I personally would say that Jared nailed Moriarty as an amoral character who's aim are a lot more devious than one would expect.<br />
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The setpieces and scenes were okay, but closer to ho hum. Even the mental prediction fights were actually tamed (SPOILER: Except for the final one of course) and the action a little less milder. Sure, it felt that Guy Ritchie was doing things bigger. But I'd say that it lacks the flare that was present in the first.<br />
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Dialogue and score delivers. But there's just nothing to be vowed from. Its purely just simple popcorn entertainment that you have free time to spare.<br />
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Should you watch? If you like the first, sure. But don't come expecting to be wowed like before. If you haven't watch it, the good news is that you don't need the first to watch it. You already know who Sherlock is and how he is as told by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. <br />
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Kyo's Score: 7/10. MI 4 was more breath taking, even though I love Sherlock dearly.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-3194508323740515162011-12-19T10:37:00.001+08:002011-12-19T10:38:04.255+08:00Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol: IMAX ReviewThere is something wonderful in this poster. For most, they know its classic fuse being lighten up and is a tradition in Mission Impossible. For some, they'll notice its the Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the World currently. And I think it pays off. And it pays off well.<br />
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Ethan Hunt is back, on a mission that went totally haywire. Without giving too much away, after a mission that went wrong in the Kremlin, the US President initiated Ghost Protocol, with the IMF being disavowed. Without choice, the Secretary of Defense provides them with a potentially final mission to save the world again. With no back up, no extraction, no other support, they have no choice but to end some insane lunatic from ending the world.<br />
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Remember how it felt watching Rambo 2? By all accounts, everyone can agree its a fantastic Rambo movie. The making of an icon. Ethan Hunt is in the same league, although a little scrawnier. But of all the MI movies, this is what basically the Rambo 2 is to the whole series. Well, that is if God willing, there's another one coming up that can best this one.<br />
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The cast selection was good. You've got usual Tom Cruise. But the main stars now seem to be Simon Pegg and Jeremy Renner (Who I now have absolute faith he can pull off Hawkeye). Paula Patton provides eye candy, but sadly has so little powerful moments. Anil Kapoor is a huge waste and his character shouldn't have been so. He may be a playboy, but he really needs some suave. Michael Nyqvist is a good antagonist on my account. I can understand the motivation of his character (even though the world would say his development is unnecessary). Such few lines and I can understand what he meant.<br />
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But the real winner is actually Brad Bird's direction. Class, style and finesse is truly delivered in every shot and every scene. He knew MI was getting too serious (Philip Seymour Hoffman was a big serious problem), and then came Simon Pegg being goofy, with Jeremy Renner complimenting his funny side further (that's not saying Jeremy doesn't have his moments, because his worked as well). We're thrown into Russia, Dubai (Burj Khalifa scene being the best), and Mumbai in the end.<br />
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Each set piece is well executed. And enhanced even better in IMAX. There's no doubt this should be watched in IMAX. The sound, the scenes (FULL WIDESCREEN AWESOMENESS!!!), the feel really gets you jumping. I kept cursing Brad Bird because of the scenes he took in IMAX for the Kremlin, Burj Khalifa, and even in the last scene in Mumbai.<br />
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Script is a winning formula with Simon Pegg helping deliver the laughs. The score is classic and wonderful (I would've preferred the one used in the trailer, due to its slower nature). And I have nothing else to tell you except to GO AND WATCH THE DAMN FILM IN IMAX!!!!<br />
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Kyo's Score: 9.5/10. If only I saw The A-Team in IMAX. :pUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-82303889706665145632011-12-19T10:14:00.001+08:002011-12-19T10:49:09.601+08:00The IMAX Hall at TGV Sunway: Special ReviewSince I wrote a nice piece on this and Blogger decided to become a bitch, here's how I felt in Short.<br />
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Con (The only one)<br />
Its the smallest IMAX theatre TGV could afford. You're not getting the 5 storey screen treatment, but its still IMAX in every way possible.<br />
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THE PROS!!!!<br />
Screen<br />
-You may be able to notice the cropping when its in 35mm and in IMAX. But since the hall was small, the adjustment was barely notable.<br />
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Sound System<br />
-TRULY AMAZING. My heart is pounding at every single IMAX scene that MI4 had. The sound delivers!!!<br />
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The seating<br />
-Comfy and very spacious in terms of leg room.<br />
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The price<br />
-Not bad at RM 22. Was expecting it to be RM 25 to 30. But the price makes it feel affordable and worth it.<br />
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My verdict<br />
-The hall is an affordable Gold Class at GSC, and much better too. You're getting good value still as the screen is really in your face.<br />
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Recommendations<br />
-BIGGER HALL PLEASE! And GSC, you know now what to do. So BRING IT!!!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-9559969262749888152011-11-26T17:13:00.000+08:002011-11-26T17:13:52.047+08:0050/50: Movie ReviewUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-6825203713886900152011-10-12T15:46:00.000+08:002011-10-12T15:46:21.561+08:00Besi Sebenar: Movie Reviews<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://impawards.com/2011/posters/real_steel_ver2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://impawards.com/2011/posters/real_steel_ver2.jpg" width="215" /></a></div><br />
Fun fun fun. If you're reminded of Rebecca Black, stop it. But if you want some real fun, Real Steel. Of course, its not a perfect movie, but it does the job of taking 127 minutes of your life for a fun filled ride.<br />
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Charlie Kenton (Hugh Jackman) is close a title shot in boxing. Too bad however, that the people felt boxing wasn't made for humans anymore. So they invented robot boxing. It left Charlie looking like a horrible gambler. Enter Max Kenton (Dakota Goyo), Charlie's illegitimate son that he has to take care after the mother passed away. A chance encounter Max's very own robot, Atom and these two begin a journey of not only cool hard cash, but cheesy fatherly hood bonding.<br />
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Lets get the weak out. We have a cheesy and corny script. We have an imbalance in pacing. And we have textbook rip offs of other movies like Rocky. And some of the actors are just not meant to be there.<br />
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The good part however, is pretty awesome. You're rewarded with good performances by Hugh and Dakota. The action is top notch, but ends at a sour note when the audience would've expected a more wonderful ending (This you must bear in mind, is coming from the Boxing Consultant, Sugar Ray Leonard). The soundtrack is blasting in your ears and fits. The script while cheesy, is intentionally done so. You can't look away but still laugh at what was being mentioned. Also, nice touches to the sets, the costumes, and even the robot animations too. This I give kudos to.<br />
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This is a movie where you can just lay down and have fun with. Nothing would spoil your mood out of it. And we love a good boxing match really. This serves well. 127 minutes of good fun that you can really enjoy.<br />
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Kyo's Score: 7/10. Some fun movies don't need high scores or mindbending scenes for it to be successful. It just has to be fun. :DUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-7589820058353047352011-10-04T17:23:00.000+08:002011-10-04T17:23:37.333+08:00Warrior: Movie ReviewIn life, we're cast on simple facts of surviving. We go to work daily, try to eat balanced meals, and live for another day again and again. But there are some of us who resort to fighting the demons kept within ourselves and the demons that we face with. That is how Warrior sets itself. And the fights, literally and figuratively, is damn good to boot.<br />
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Warrior centers on 3 people, Paddy Conlon (Nick Nolte), Tommy Rheardon/Conlon (Tom Hardy) and Brandon Conlon (Joel Edgerton). They were all from a broken family with Paddy being drunk most of the time and never really the dad that Tommy and Brandon needed. Fast forward to the future, Brandon seems most successful when he had ran way from the broken family and made on his own as a Physics teacher. Tommy ran away with his mother and ended up as a Marines officer while Paddy sought to stop his drinking problems. But they all had something to fight for.<br />
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Brandon was quickly losing his house, Paddy repented and wanted his sons back, and Tommy's intentions of joining Sparta, a winner takes all fighting tournament remains a mystery (that is until closer to the middle of the story). As Brandon knew fighting was the only to keep things afloat, even he joined Sparta to end his debts. The question is, who emerges as the real winner?<br />
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The story is truly magnificent. I have never seen a fight movie so good since...Fearless. And that was damn good in its action setpiece (but weak in story telling). The story does not make you root for 1 character, because everyone has their good and bads, so you had to choose in a way or just let the wonders of the story unfold. The script benefits a whole lot and helps convey the emotion much more precise.<br />
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But the real winners were the actors. All 3 were spectacular and there was no doubt that they truly can move you. They may not win any Oscars, but damn this movie deserves a nomination for best picture.<br />
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Soundtrack does its job but sincerely you can't care much. There's quite a number of references to certain people in UFC and also the MMA circuits that they all do their jobs in striking fear.<br />
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You may think you're getting a typical ending, but I can say its perfect. Just enough and answers the questions you need and the loose ends wonderfully.<br />
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While this movie may only be available at Mid Valley and Sabah, please do not waste any moments and just watch it. You'll be thrilled, unless you hate long winded dramas like one guy I know who snored at theater. have fun!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-10613988152787752472011-06-03T10:03:00.002+08:002011-06-03T10:54:50.748+08:00X-Men: First Class: Movie Review<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLOny8i3AF1aIDfxMRD0LOfsq2V6m_GRSk8TFNz-8ZQSq5NXtb6TtDnFKaSCD6qxDh-nHyKLXGWkJI02vmO7MwU_2s9yy_iWfH015QpGbg_E7nYuPhp-8eO73dBXA2ubhoFCc/s1600/xmen_first_class_ver6.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 217px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLOny8i3AF1aIDfxMRD0LOfsq2V6m_GRSk8TFNz-8ZQSq5NXtb6TtDnFKaSCD6qxDh-nHyKLXGWkJI02vmO7MwU_2s9yy_iWfH015QpGbg_E7nYuPhp-8eO73dBXA2ubhoFCc/s320/xmen_first_class_ver6.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613808795917252930" /></a><div><br /></div><div>The world greeted a live action movie of the X-Men in the year 2000. Done by Bryan Singer, it was a great start to a franchise, which slowly diverted and became more Hollywood eccentric rather than Comic Lore eccentric (Wolverine having more spotlight than Cyclops. Cyclops is the leader dammit, not some deranged emo idiot). Then came news of the Origin series, and was to be about Wolverine and Magneto, much to fanboy's delight. The Wolverine part did well, although it was not rightly done. The Magneto one, never came to light, but it came in this one done beautifully by Matthew Vaughn of Kick-Ass fame. I choose this poster specifically because I wanted the cast in. Its definitely not all, but a lot of them.</div><div><br /></div><div>And clearly, they and the movie do not disappoint.</div><div><br /></div><div>First Class is basically the origins of Magneto and Professor X. In fact, to do these 2 justice, would be to call them Erik Lensherr and Charles Francis Xavier. Wonderfully done and executed by Michael Fassbender (His proficiency in language is FANTASTIC) and James McAvoy (Who knew this talented young chap of Wanted fame can pull of a super charming Xavier?), the two met under circumstances of knowing that a new evolution in human mutation has begun. One is capable of manipulation of magnetism while the other a telepath, began their friendship hunting for one common enemy, Sebastian Shaw (Its Kevin Bacon. KEVIN BACON), who intends to ignite World War III. And who knew that Raven Darkholme /Mystique was actually the adopted sister to Charles? Together, Erik and Charles recruit the earliest of mutants in the world and began a war that will be ensued between mutants, forever.</div><div><br /></div><div>So I made my points clear, James McAvoy, Erik Lensherr, Kevin Bacon, the cast are all good and wonderfully done, except for January Jones. Then again, I can live with her since she's mainly there for eye candy. The script is brilliantly written and you'll know its Matthew Vaughn's writing when you get to the scenes (he loves to make you question yourself, A WHOLE LOT). The shots were even nicely done. Amazed that its not Bill Pope doing it (my fave Director of Photography). The score is wonderfully matched. Perhaps the only minor gripe I have in seeking this movie's perfection is that it should have ended with the X-men cartoon theme song. haha.</div><div><br /></div><div>But the most surprising part, was actually the story itself. We all know where this is going. We all knew what would happen and we all knew what would be the start of the first X-Men story. And still its good. It is still wonderfully told. But perhaps the real highlight is how fun it is to see Charles and Erik come together as friends. And they are truly friends who stood by each other's side. But as we all know, the choice that both of them made, will be bitter to each other. In fact, it is actually to place pain in one another. Both were in actuality seeking to unite the mutant faction, and to be capable of living in peace, Neandarthals (The only reason I'm calling us humans this is only because we are incapable of accepting Mutants living among us) and humans. But Magneto realizes that humans will never be capable of accepting mutants alike, thus a new war is waged.</div><div><br /></div><div>Perhaps what we have loved so much is to see our beloved X-men come into action, but the morality questions eludes us. Magneto doesn't want this war. He just wants to be accepted as another person, even if he's a mutant, while Xavier has always sought for mutants to accept humanity, a mistake which he could not teach Magneto soon enough.</div><div><br /></div><div>The real weakest point I believe, in this whole movie, is that it will be made into sequels, whether or not Matt Vaughn will be apart of it. How I see it, it should just stay as it is. But I may be proven wrong, as how The Dark Knight was made.</div><div><br /></div><div>You'll laugh, and maybe cry, but truly you would be leaving the cinema smiling. Having Hugh and Rebecca even gives an extra edge to the whole movie. Truly, this was a delight.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kyo's Score: 9.5/10.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-55116114418814100522011-03-23T16:52:00.002+08:002011-03-23T17:07:44.770+08:00Rango: Movie Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUlHHsKdXYfnjYIhBwSvTKBjVRaF0LeIAXOC8RDuVe8Lnnb-Zlqpr0eVrZh7xOEeNIJm2UXw1xRRmosplip3CHzTIfRSu2hpX1MFfb8nEir_jX2GD9QIAJzlVrneThWDEJeNw/s1600/rango_ver3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUlHHsKdXYfnjYIhBwSvTKBjVRaF0LeIAXOC8RDuVe8Lnnb-Zlqpr0eVrZh7xOEeNIJm2UXw1xRRmosplip3CHzTIfRSu2hpX1MFfb8nEir_jX2GD9QIAJzlVrneThWDEJeNw/s320/rango_ver3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587195677186805698" /></a><br /><div>This is one awesome little lizard. When wanting to die he cheated death. When trying to be an actor, he ends up being something bigger and larger than life. That's the story of the lizard who calls himself... Rango...</div><div><br /></div><div>Rango is a pet lizard who, sadly, after a car had ran over a tenggiling (i can't remember the english name. :P) was cast out in the dessert which the location I shall not name. After the tenggiling asked it to go to Dirt, a town for animals. Ok correction, a Western town, he ends up being the local sheriff, not knowing any clue whatsoever to be one. He is however, an actor, and believes he can be anything. But there is a conspiracy going on, and our hero is about to get more than he just bargained for.</div><div><br /></div><div>Being voiced by Johnny Depp, Rango hits the right places everywhere. Not too cocky and not too shabby either, Depp does wonders for Rango. Sadly though, there are just moments when I think Depp isn't doing enough. The rest cast however did just ok though.</div><div><br /></div><div>But the real charm is not the VAs. Rather, its the direction and the story that was beautifully told. Perhaps at some points its cliched and the movie was meant for kids (It came from Nicklodeon). But all that Gore Verbinski did was none of that. It felt quite matured even. The values and the morals to be taught to all of us, and not just kids. Kids wouldn't get bored because of its fast pace and people would be thrilled and cheering for Rango.</div><div><br /></div><div>So from a passable script to a wonderful direction, don't give this a miss. The score plays out well and you would feel satisfied of the story. But it might be a shame if the movie wants to have a sequel later, since it is done just fine.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kyo's Score: 8.5/10. A surprising fun time. It really was.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-88070716346728812822011-03-23T16:36:00.003+08:002011-03-23T16:52:13.130+08:00True Grit: Movie Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmN8jv5cZluvXKa4LScRgEUDCGRN4LAE11fh2YEzh06tOLn_gXMd_niuVY8ExxPhyphenhyphenAiLyOP-Uop29inPRpAnk4vJs8umyR4hdDuWWvZ1LssDjhsqSgjSRJcs6Szpy8AUguWfdU/s1600/true_grit.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmN8jv5cZluvXKa4LScRgEUDCGRN4LAE11fh2YEzh06tOLn_gXMd_niuVY8ExxPhyphenhyphenAiLyOP-Uop29inPRpAnk4vJs8umyR4hdDuWWvZ1LssDjhsqSgjSRJcs6Szpy8AUguWfdU/s320/true_grit.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587193065971174162" /></a>I like the gunshot on the poster. It somehow looks cool and fitting to the poster. Its more like a throwback to the old days where Western posters would just be something so simple. And wanted posters are even worst. But regardless of the posters you see, True Grit is something you must see. Especially with its breathtaking shots.<div><br /></div><div>The story begins with Mattie Ross (An amazing Hailee Steinfeld) handling the funeral of his father. Knowing the murderer, she goes to Marshall Rooster Cogburn (A well done Jeff Bridges) in search of Tom Chaney (Totally underutilized Josh Brolin). Along the way, they were met with a Texas Ranger of Lebouf (Matt Damon) and the three set to find a little girl's revenge.</div><div><br /></div><div>Does the story sound basic to you? Cliche? Well, it could be since its a remake of the original True Grit also of the same story. But is it satisfying? Thanks to the Jeff and Hailee, hell yes. Hailee steals every scene available and you will marvel at her with the fact that she's so young and so matured for her role (She's 14 when she shot the movie).</div><div><br /></div><div>The script and the shots were even something that I couldn't expect to be such a miracle either. Witty and beautiful, great combo. Score wasn't that mesmerizing or memorable sadly.</div><div><br /></div><div>But the lowest point is seeing how Matt Damon came out as average and Josh Brolin was totally underutilized for his role. Its like he could have done something else better instead though.</div><div><br /></div><div>I think I would have said as much as I need already. Stop my reading and go!</div><div><br /></div><div>Kyo's Score: 9/10. Good old Westerns always excite me. :D</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-10643936893766702052011-03-01T17:25:00.002+08:002011-03-01T17:40:22.711+08:00The King's Speech: Movie Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikoEMcb7Qo4q43A0Fc-r_9vM2i8LqEL0tRWQHAd7EQeGzgzy6324amgKy04k1w-G2mfVqAeUZfHhhpf78EnGrjAD_aLraEka0sEOyqqwWYFJDSVXsM2hxOstJLZTc-SDZzuyul/s1600/kings_speech_ver3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikoEMcb7Qo4q43A0Fc-r_9vM2i8LqEL0tRWQHAd7EQeGzgzy6324amgKy04k1w-G2mfVqAeUZfHhhpf78EnGrjAD_aLraEka0sEOyqqwWYFJDSVXsM2hxOstJLZTc-SDZzuyul/s320/kings_speech_ver3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579040565936725986" /></a><br /><div>Ah... What a great feeling to know The King's Speech is totally uncensored and totally given a chance to be aired in Malaysia. And even better to know it won the Oscar for Best Picture. That's certainly something. And nonetheless, the award is deserving. :D</div><div><br /></div><div>Before he was King George 6th (A well deserved win for Colin Firth), he was the Duke of York. Before he even was the Duke of York, he was, a stammer. A very bad stammer. And imagine the fact that a King would stammer when giving his speech. Actually, I'm even surprised he has a wife (A very lovely Helena Bonham Carter). But due to this, he went into so much of professional help, but to no avail, until, came Lionel Logue (A wonderfully constructed Captain Barbossa and totally mesmerizing. Its Geoffrey Rush lah). Not only did Logue managed to make Bertie (King George's real name of Albert) to forget he had stammer problems, Logue was even knighted for his help to the King. This, is his journey to the speech he will deliver during the War against Hitler.</div><div><br /></div><div>And what a wonderful journey it is. Delivered in such finesse (I still think Darren should win best Director though) and charm that makes you feel at home. The moment you see the Duke of York stammer you can understand that it felt so real, everyone was not confident of him at all. All thanks to the marvelous Colin Firth portraying how stammering is such an issue, not only to a king, but even to a common man.</div><div><br /></div><div>The script is so witty that it is really on par with The Social Network. So both won no doubt. The cinematography is at times however, hit and miss. The reason being that most shots want you to know that the characters are thinking of something (Placed on far left or right), but some are ruined by over close up.</div><div><br /></div><div>And I think that's the only flaw of the whole movie. Not only does it presents a witty script, it is accompanied by a simple yet truly lovely score that warms your heart. Everyone played a lovely role and it makes for a fitting place for every character to be. The questions and ethical issues posed are even wonderful enough that it gives you moments to think. And I just really love the script. You'll find yourself loving that cursing is a wonderful way of curing stammers. but i 'll leave the rest of the movie for your viewing.</div><div><br /></div><div>Enough of my chitchat. If you hate movies with long talks, give this a miss. But if you want your heart to soar high, give it a go.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kyo's Score: 9.5/10. WOOT!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-51320104545881307012011-02-28T10:30:00.002+08:002011-02-28T11:03:29.182+08:00Black Swan: Movie Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP2iv1xnAxXter3GFbYH-BBg1O0e2aQGz3U1prf1cMKpBBYrBb4wgcj_87zN08f43bd823zPei-gVx0WdiHG49AqVmOU373ETeq70XxUtkssKbMABnQbvB1arUXf4AM-ggtsmk/s1600/black_swan_ver6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP2iv1xnAxXter3GFbYH-BBg1O0e2aQGz3U1prf1cMKpBBYrBb4wgcj_87zN08f43bd823zPei-gVx0WdiHG49AqVmOU373ETeq70XxUtkssKbMABnQbvB1arUXf4AM-ggtsmk/s320/black_swan_ver6.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578562969130519890" /></a><br /><div>Creepy, Brutal, Honest, and most of all, REAL. This is Black Swan. Humanity's most depressing and most utterly real depiction of insanity and how far the human capacity can take you. And for such a dark, depressing, horrifyingly splendid story to be told by Natalie Portman under the helm of Darren Aronofsky (I thank you sir for giving me The Wrestler. Truly I do), this is not something you want to miss.</div><div><br /></div><div>Nina Sayers is proficient in ballet. She works in a theatrical company that gave her a shot as the Swan Queen of a play called Swan Lake. But the story is a dark one. A princess was cursed into a White Swan and only true love's kiss can break the spell. However, her identical twin Black Swan seduces the prince who will never be with her anymore. And so, she kills herself. While that is the play, Nina's story is somewhat more, psychotic and truly gripping. This is the story of one who strives for perfection, and at the worst part, gets it.</div><div><br /></div><div>I think Darren has really done, again, another fantastic job. Hot of the heels from the Wrestler and backed by an awesome Mickey Rourke, its a like a guy project that now turns into a girl project, and with such finesse displayed. Shots are amazing, creepy, haunting, and wonderful while the script is so simple that it does not need any convolution inside.</div><div><br /></div><div>And I think Natalie Portman's performance has been spoken to death. But if you were to ask me, something does not feel right. Perhaps its a little feeling that I wanted more out of her (Like Nicole Kidman for Rabbit Hole instead) but this is still an Oscar worthy nominee performance. Truly something you do not want to miss.</div><div><br /></div><div>Aside from how I wanted Natalie to do a lot more in this movie, it seems to be my only gripe. Much of Nina's relationship with her mother is not fully explained but if you were to take it plainly, there's much to expand. There's a lot more that could be told.</div><div><br /></div><div>And now, to the SPOILERS PART.</div><div><br /></div><div>Truly, this is how we all strive to be in our perfectionist mode. And it does not help when you have a psychotic tendency to meddle yourself in schizophrenia. But everything about the movie has been explained since the beginning: In order to be perfect, you must let yourself go. Which is why exactly it was correct for her to want the part of White and Black Swan together that she ended, by stabbing herself. Only when she realized who she had stabbed in the first place that she decided (yes, DECIDED) to bleed. The human brain is much powerful than you can expect for sure.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now through the journey you will be greeted by how evil we all are. In order to gain something, we lose something. The best part was how Thomas displayed such a wonderful display of wanting Nina that bad but he was actually trying to make Nina lose herself. That was wonderful. Such trickery that the audience wants to know what have they been lied to. I hate to say it, but this is really where sex played such a huge role, that it worked. And I oppose having sex scenes in movies since they can always find another way to do this.</div><div><br /></div><div>To me, I laughed because I understood. And that's creepy. Because how far we are willing to go for human perfection without even being called or labelled as evil to others is what all of us has inside. the idea has always been to acknowledge that we are our own worst enemy. And it is something neither of us are willing to change with.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kyo's Score: 9.5/10. When bars are raised, so is the score. This would've been perfect if it was me reviewing a few years back though.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-10562979961758083982011-02-24T12:34:00.005+08:002011-02-24T13:01:16.515+08:00Marvel vs Capcom 3: PS3 Game Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzkyyS5Qa_0KaL-s89weC-xwo4s0yovbRLhrak-BLLMEWn4-z_1sTdtrIV_L809OTEZccVleQOLXKCV7jjXJ8nBhqDQozmJAu90FPY9haCTHF3WG5Oy-IKXrJ1JYsplBAuj_T/s1600/0b2c19aeeed3aca37a108cb14883b9a6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 276px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzkyyS5Qa_0KaL-s89weC-xwo4s0yovbRLhrak-BLLMEWn4-z_1sTdtrIV_L809OTEZccVleQOLXKCV7jjXJ8nBhqDQozmJAu90FPY9haCTHF3WG5Oy-IKXrJ1JYsplBAuj_T/s320/0b2c19aeeed3aca37a108cb14883b9a6.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577110731564113570" /></a><br /><div>Above is the cover for the Japanese version, and its much better than the US version. Lucky for R3 buyers, they get double cover. So we won in that respect. For the game however, its sort of a hit and miss.</div><div><br /></div><div>Marvel Clashes Again With Capcom. This was a long time coming since fans have waited for 10 years for this to come out. Was done as an April Fool Joke also before. So when last year it was announced, everyone in the fighting community shat bricks.</div><div><br /></div><div>What's good is that this game has 2 modes, offline and online. Offline having a few extras like arcade which gives you an ending, depending on which character you use to beat Galactus as the final boss. Mission mode where you get to practice combos and learn some new combos even. Training mode is, as it is. And versus for offline multiplayer.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm not sure where to start, so lets go with the players first. The fighters are all... ok. Some feel overpowered but its not a feeling of broken. You have guys like Thor being slow but supremely powerful, or even Dante and Wesker as S tiered characters. 36 of them (4 needs to be unlocked) are available in disc, but I can't help but feel that its just too low, considering how Capcom is intending to release more DLCs of characters soon. I always believed that if you want to make a game right, give us the full thing.</div><div><br /></div><div>But the main issue is how battles are fought. You have 6 buttons. Light, Medium, Strong attacks, Specials to launch enemies for air combos, and partner 1 and 2 for assist. And it is WAY too easy to execute combos. Frankly, even Tatsunoko Vs Capcom is much harder than this. So its very easy to pick up and play, but mastering it may be a different question. But that being said, after playing this for a while you just know that you can master it in a short duration of time. Gone are the days where executing combos would be magnificent (MvC. No. Not even MvC 2.).</div><div><br /></div><div>Also, my other gripe is the fact that the health bar feels too low for medium. MvC2 used to be much much longer. yeah, you can change, but it still does not take away the fact that the fights with your fave characters ends in 15 seconds if you're that good in exploiting.</div><div><br />Graphics are ok if you ask me. Nothing mesmerizing though. Music... is a hit and miss. While I love remixes from the characters (Iron Man and Cap America still reigns), the character select song left much to be desired. I think Capcom forgot this is not Street Fighter 4, but rather is MvC. Those 2 are very different where this is all about good fun.</div><div><br /></div><div>But its not saying that this game is not fun. it just feels, cheap. Thank God for the low price of RM 130 though. If not, I may be screaming.</div><div><br /></div><div>Good to have story endings where MvC2 lacked. but hated the fact that I know this game can pack a lot more stuffings, but Capcom decides not to.</div><div><br /></div><div>Online is a problem. Some games just feels horribly laggy. The best part though, is that if you're having a laggy connection, you can train your input settings in Training mode. Quite nifty, but wait til you get a disconnect and then you're screwed.</div><div><br /></div><div>Verdict:</div><div>It is a fun game, nonetheless. but there is much left to be desired. I feel like i have the same problem when i played KOF XII on PS3. There's just so much to be desired to put it on par with other older fighting games. Long time fans may find a bit of good time to be had, but new players may turn them off.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kyo's Score: 7.5/10. This is what you get when you don't release a full game when it should be. There's just too much left to that you know Capcom is going to steal your money.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; "><div>Graphics: Nothing extraordinary.</div><div>Story: There's an ending for every character. So beat them to know their story.</div><div>Gameplay: Leaves much to be desired although you can still have a good time with the normal fighting.</div><div>Replay value: 360 missions to complete, online fights, constant update of character DLCs, if you love this then you'll be here for a long... time. :D</div></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-89506651653890760832011-02-23T17:52:00.002+08:002011-02-23T18:09:05.956+08:00I am Number Four: Exclusive Movie Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2lxo4-EbHUBt8_15fF6d5b0pxEK5eZXsdtAv_4QT3ZUzY4Ie6gaaFDfi05WvfXgKLqqxsGIqiN_E7RVIvwh2ZWIbud6PX8WvOQjZJpbWNw2VdOhT2LvYO719TgBYEjSpiHIFI/s1600/i_am_number_four_ver5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 226px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2lxo4-EbHUBt8_15fF6d5b0pxEK5eZXsdtAv_4QT3ZUzY4Ie6gaaFDfi05WvfXgKLqqxsGIqiN_E7RVIvwh2ZWIbud6PX8WvOQjZJpbWNw2VdOhT2LvYO719TgBYEjSpiHIFI/s320/i_am_number_four_ver5.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576821232413439746" /></a>After winning free movie tickets (Credits to Afdzal for giving me the opt. :D) to this movie, I was quite excited. Buzzes in the country were illuminated (pun intended) because of the special mention of Malaysia. But to tell you the truth, the Malaysia part was not even shown, just written. But back to the movie, this is not that bad of an attempt nor effort. Its quite good, even if you have to ponder certain things in this soon to be franchise movie. I hope.<div><br /></div><div>Four is an alien from another planet. And the bad guys are chasing after him. There's 9 of them on Earth, and the Mogs are chasing them one by one. Weirdly, in order. Why? Don't ask because I have no idea. So with 3 dead, Four is now the focus. As he runs from... where did he run again from to Paradise, Ohio, he's constantly being hunted. Protected by his guardian Henri (Cool Timothy Olyphant), witnessed by unlikely friends Sarah (Quinn from Glee) and Sam (Dad went missing because of aliens), they are now on the run hoping to beat the Mogs out of Earth and further save their lives.</div><div><br /></div><div>The movie is quite promising, and its not that bad of an effort. nitty gritty details can make you feel that its trying so hard to be a detailed movie (MJ's song that he watches you is the ringtone from Henri's calls), it leaves a lot to be answered. So you'd feel bad if you watched the movie for a story. Just grasp for a simpler premise of what is being established and you should be fine.</div><div><br /></div><div>Shots were so so. Nothing astounding. Seems also to be borrowed by Assassin's Creed (I know how to "blend in". Puts up hoodie. and Leap of Faith). And other teenager elements that is really hit and miss. Nice job on photography segment, but still does not make you feel connected to the movie.</div><div><br /></div><div>Score is so so also. So not much to hope for.</div><div><br /></div><div>What bugs me is that the script is weak, the action choice is hampering (Super powered people against plasma guns. The heck?), the actors and actresses were not that inspiring (Sarah did not even have any interest in Four, AT ALL), writers did Smallville (Superman elements entirely visible), and questions did not answer that much. There's just so much left to for you to wonder that if you really did go in with high hopes, you may be horribly disappointed.</div><div><br /></div><div>So leave your brains at the door and hope for the sequel to come. Or at least sleep in the first few bits and only wake up until the last bits. Your call.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kyo's Score: 6.5/10. THANKING GOD IT IS FREE. :D</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-83521345395365056322011-02-14T11:30:00.002+08:002011-02-14T11:43:19.152+08:00Black Eyed Peas' The Beginning: Music Album Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbQzBHQuKSTmZXWgNyGvTyBVZe4P3bd8PUaYxiHThVU6Zl_nm7OURFFk9yUMBEfLxpb225f2ydJl6e5x7tAZPcjnINmvnuXWgRiH8PDS1mXDFimkOEhrBsu5CGaXSBQ04DF0yH/s1600/AllCDCovers_the_black_eyed_peas_the_beginning_2010_retail_cd-front2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbQzBHQuKSTmZXWgNyGvTyBVZe4P3bd8PUaYxiHThVU6Zl_nm7OURFFk9yUMBEfLxpb225f2ydJl6e5x7tAZPcjnINmvnuXWgRiH8PDS1mXDFimkOEhrBsu5CGaXSBQ04DF0yH/s320/AllCDCovers_the_black_eyed_peas_the_beginning_2010_retail_cd-front2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573382876903775874" /></a><br /><div>Motivations to get this album is really about The Time (Dirty Bit). Reason is that it brings to you the song Time of My Life which will remain as an all time classic (also thanks to Dirty Dancing which I still want to watch. Patrick Swayze...). But a closer look into the album and you might find something you like.</div><div><br /></div><div>Its start with The Time. And progresses to bring you some older tunes. Its like using older songs as base and remixed into a newer generation. So there's still a feel of the 80s and 70s in the tracks. And it progresses to make you go "Hey I know that tune!". To some, it may be a cheap technique and I would agree too. Because it feels that its not an original album. But looking at the title of the album, perhaps these songs are influences to BEP. And they're looking to pay tribute to such.</div><div><br /></div><div>However, much can be said that its not that catchy as previous renditions of BEP. Nonetheless its fun and captures the BEP essence, but not as good as Elephunk (which is still the best). So if you're looking to chill with the album, you may just want to have the Time only.</div><div><br /></div><div>Some personal recommendations of mine include: The Time (Dirty Bit), Love You Long Time, Someday, Do It Like This. That should be it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Recomendation: If you love taking a stroll down memory lane in a Hipper beat, this might be the album for you. If not, save the classics as it is.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-67931004312097659732011-02-14T10:45:00.003+08:002011-02-14T11:29:50.569+08:00No Strings Attached: Movie Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjip4vZ89ftoMukmd510qa-ecvyMBBtLv9508yKXrivkl2aaZrz7iHzPs3lhB14cKeQOOYYlnm-xoujywbUWAwVFb5oQleLkB3lbczHd8h1LAushDgoVYl09ONAWI8jXbxhghA/s1600/no_strings_attached_ver2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 226px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjip4vZ89ftoMukmd510qa-ecvyMBBtLv9508yKXrivkl2aaZrz7iHzPs3lhB14cKeQOOYYlnm-xoujywbUWAwVFb5oQleLkB3lbczHd8h1LAushDgoVYl09ONAWI8jXbxhghA/s320/no_strings_attached_ver2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573378357721729746" /></a>Friends with Benefits. That's a much milder term. Did you know such a thing happens also in Malaysia? Well, it does and it is a little creepier. Then again, blame the Malays for being rude and thinking free sex is a good idea. Both men and women. But going back to the movie, it does not really do a good job.<div><br /></div><div>There's Emma (Natalie Portman) and Adam (Ashton Kutcher with a young chick. :P). Two friends. Who Adam has basically tried to finger and get in a date with for... I think its 14 years. Well, after his ex girlfriend is now with... his dad, he runs into a drunk rampage, goes of passing out in front of Emma and ends up sleeping with her. And that happened after he woke up. Which is awkward. So the two agree to be sex buddies without emotional attachment. But seriously, that does not happen. And so was its typical ending.</div><div><br /></div><div>Much about the movie is all about exploring weird ideas. Like, playing 99 Problems from Jay-Z into Country music. Or Don't Cha in some El Mariachi Mexico trumpet style. Or carrots instead of flowers for a date. Shaved carrots. Yeah. I know.</div><div><br /></div><div>The script is bland though. Music is awkward. haha. Shots is typical. But you ask yourself certain questions that you don't want to face. In the end, the idea is to ask yourself " Do you want to get hurt in a relationship or not?". And that's it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Not good. But if you're watching for Ashton, then maybe its ok lah. Not that bad.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kyo's Score: 3/10.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-77871907830984609022011-02-14T10:17:00.002+08:002011-02-14T10:40:07.219+08:00Mr. And Mrs. Incredible: Movie Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAs84KqTpO9_lxJPruUXNEqFVbn-b8NmC-ESNuIfbOHYduqRKKFNNhVpnOyMsiX_hB3FKa2er_hQ2dja26LtHLGypPmQnNL514i2zF_vh40YNkAs1gw_lEuZXx-OaCEyk4NuSt/s1600/mr.and.mrs.incredible.movie.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 228px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAs84KqTpO9_lxJPruUXNEqFVbn-b8NmC-ESNuIfbOHYduqRKKFNNhVpnOyMsiX_hB3FKa2er_hQ2dja26LtHLGypPmQnNL514i2zF_vh40YNkAs1gw_lEuZXx-OaCEyk4NuSt/s320/mr.and.mrs.incredible.movie.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573363935261132802" /></a>Been a while since I wanted to do a review. But at least this one deserves it. Filled with so nice moments and a very lovely and compatible on screen chemistry between Louis Koo and Sandra Ng, this movie totally gave me a nice moment. Its like watching The Incredibles, but without the kids. But sadly, the ending was not really up to the momentum built since the beginning.<div><br /></div><div>You have Aroma Woman (Sandra Ng, actually the direct translation is Red something, but beats me on why its called Aroma Woman) and Gazer Warrior (Louis Koo) retiring in a peaceful village 10 years ago. They were 2 of the best superheros protecting China from domestic threats (Gazer Warrior at least. Aroma Woman was hell bent on protecting women around the world. haha). Until the whole of China developed into 2 factions and wanted the both of them to fight to see who's the best. They instead escaped, got married and here they are. Happy. But when an official wants to hold a tournament to unify the sects and disciplines of Martial arts, they become suspicious of the event. The two are forced out of retirement to fight against a bigger threat.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now what made this movie truly lovable, was actually Louis Koo and Sandra Ng. Two superheroes, but facing problems as humans. But make no mistake, they are happy with each other. And never have they fought one another. Both understanding and communicating. Perhaps it sounds too unrealistic for a couple to be as such, but you could really sense their happiness. At least that's what I saw. Sandra Ng was being her usual confident borderlining confident female character she always has and I can't imagine another woman being able to take her role. Louis Koo was charming as usual so there's no complaint with that.</div><div><br /></div><div>The movie touches on many of the parts of the perfect married life. And how double teaming with your partners brings the best result. OF course there's conflict from everyone around you, but hey, as long you have your partner, all is good.</div><div><br /></div><div>The other lovable thing were the parody of crimes done. Bank robbery with a modern steel vault in historic China. It makes you wonder who stole who's idea at times. Also, remember how you signal for Batman in Gotham? Well, in China, they do it with lanterns. Yup. Lanterns. The ones where you write wishes on. Even haggling for a house is very entertaining.</div><div><br /></div><div>The script does a wonderful job to pull the two together. The shots were done nice. Occasional CG was used to make it feel like its a comic superhero thingy going on, but does its job.</div><div><br /></div><div>The only hampering part was that the ending was a little of a letdown. Its typical, but it does not give a feeling and a sense of satisfaction seeing as the pieces that fall into the plot is a little uneven.</div><div><br /></div><div>Its a weird choice of a movie for Valentine's, but I highly recommend it if you want to see how lovable the two can be. But that would be your only focus for the movie. Everything else, meh.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kyo's Score: 7/10. Thank God a good Chinese movie. FINALLY.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-35540192251082888832010-11-21T19:59:00.003+08:002010-11-21T20:18:49.626+08:00Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit: PS3 Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU-y8L6XDLDxOn9Cq5mnL5ULUq2NHL0nrTQ77TVipTusabbRN-UbRw2MsagZkI17K_5vL6b9Hcu01T_5YmoOSlTtDRmigPD0vU3ebqhkQuWk36UeB8By83YkGP5-LmXA8P4K-c/s1600/51nRdgODRKL._AA300_.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU-y8L6XDLDxOn9Cq5mnL5ULUq2NHL0nrTQ77TVipTusabbRN-UbRw2MsagZkI17K_5vL6b9Hcu01T_5YmoOSlTtDRmigPD0vU3ebqhkQuWk36UeB8By83YkGP5-LmXA8P4K-c/s320/51nRdgODRKL._AA300_.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541972288957813842" /></a><br /><div>If you think this is a reboot of the classic hot pursuit released in the old days, then you would be almost right. But this is actually a full reboot of the NFS series. After so many disappointing sequels (except for Shift, though by that time, people were really down and out), EA knew they need to do something, and so Criterion Games was called and now we get this. Thankfully, this is truly a wonderful experience!</div><div><br /></div><div>Lets start with the game. There is no story. But don't get disappointed since you don't really need one. You can choose to be a Racer or a Cop, each progressing through levels, unlocking more races, cars, equipment, leveling up equipments until you get to rank 20. And that's about it. What makes this fun is the sheer collection of supremely awesome cars you can only imagine of owning. Lambos, Maserati's, Paganis, McLaren and so many more grace the title with pure awesomeness. Some people may complaint of not having Ferrari's and even Toyota in the game, but its still fine really.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're a racer, you can partake in race events or preview events of hot cars blazing through tracks in a time trial thingy. There will also be events where you need to dodge cops and win the race. That's a little bit more trickier, but truly very fun.</div><div><br /></div><div>As a cop, you can also partake in preview events, go on a one on one high speed car chase (You always loved watching it, now go do it!), or take down multiple racers at any given time.</div><div><br /></div><div>And then there's multiplayer. Bring your race event, one on one (called Interceptor) or Hot Pursuit events into the foray. The connection can be good, but best played close with everyone around your area. You may get jumping or blinking cars if you do choose to play with people further than you.</div><div><br /></div><div>And then, there's Autolog.</div><div><br /></div><div>have you ever noticed how Leaderboards are always so hard to tackle? Well, why no tackle one among your friends? The best part here is that Autolog even tells you if you're beaten by one of your friends. keep track of your time, post on the Wall (Somewhat like a Wall on facebook) and even add your friends who are playing the game. Autolog makes this game so addictive that it is so amazing to even be playing it with your friends. the downside is that, if you don't have friends, you won't have people to fight with. But still, Autolog is so central to the experience that nothing else matters.</div><div><br /></div><div>I could use a better soundtrack, since I only like 2 songs in the whole game. The graphics are neat and it really feels great to be racing in the outdoors. No modern shit coming around you, and that's really fine. The roads were meant to be trashed anyways.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Closing Comments</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>If you have always loved racers and don't spending some money over Gt5, get this. It will be so worth your time because its so damn fun.</div><div><br /></div><div>Graphics: Neat and crisp. there are some jaggies, but I can live with that.</div><div>Story: None. But who cares.</div><div>Gameplay: Just enough variety to keep you satisfied.</div><div>Replay value: Autolog will keep your blood boiling and make sure that you want to beat your friend, no matter how many times you have to take.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kyo's Score: 9/10.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-13662053063199997972010-10-18T12:28:00.004+08:002010-10-18T15:00:08.364+08:00Buried: Movie Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBHBUUu0jaPwACkJSkJcJIbOXPEnqpzB2iSzCxn3hLFo3LNf22wjiRvoaEQ-Un46vO8DA_dZm0ub6S_56HTmJ3vgOqo_fbFF_55hVOWHER52G2-EgTzHJDa_nJ9JkmJFETHg_R/s1600/buried_ver3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBHBUUu0jaPwACkJSkJcJIbOXPEnqpzB2iSzCxn3hLFo3LNf22wjiRvoaEQ-Un46vO8DA_dZm0ub6S_56HTmJ3vgOqo_fbFF_55hVOWHER52G2-EgTzHJDa_nJ9JkmJFETHg_R/s320/buried_ver3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529239613661572018" border="0" /></a><br />Since I like using other posters, I used this instead. And WOW. What a wonderful experience for me. Very haunting too. Since this movie can go 2 ways (you either love it or hate it), I suggest that if you don't want to see a guy stuck in a coffin for 94 minutes and just that only, don't watch it. But if you want to see how does it feel to be stuck in a coffin for that long of a time, read on.<br /><br />Paul Conroy (Ryan Reynolds) is an American truck driver working in Iraq. He and his crew was ambushed by Iraqis and now, he's stuck 6 feet, or maybe even lower under and he has to cough up 5 million dollars as ransom so that he can escape. But from the time that he has (Movie time began at 6.05PM) to 9PM to pay up, can he survive?<br /><br />The director was really having fun with the movie and its audience. Ryan probably felt it was a very good script and we all have to agree. Being stuck in a coffin for 94 minutes is no joke. I think its hard. But frankly, I somehow felt that Ryan did not fully deliver his A Game. Somehow, something was a miss. But I couldn't pinpoint it.<br /><br />The script was also a genius. Truly awesome. Reason being you can see how they bring in so many issues being spoken off that truly makes the movie so believable that it goes higher with each note possible. The situation became so tensed that it really drives you at the edge of your seat wondering how Paul would make it out alive, or not.<br /><br />I left the cinema hall with this very closed feeling. Like my whole mind was in a coffin. The dark theatre hall gave me a very horrible glimpse of how it feels to be really stuck in that coffin and to place yourself there. I was so quiet that i was holding the bar of a railing at The Curve after I left the movie. Got scolded by my GF but its alright, she didn't know what I went through. It all felt real. It was creepy.<br /><br />I have to give kudos to the camera work. Very well done. All the while the movie can feel so closed. heck, it could even just be in a small studio and it would've been cool enough. The time lapse also was very accurate in the beginning. But somehow, it was not towards the end of the movie. (The time began at 6.05Pm to 6.35PM and a little bit. It did make up 30 minutes of the time. And then he woke up after sleeping a bit around 7PM. And then 8.15PM onwards). These little details were really awesome.<br /><br />And the ending, well, thank God it wasn't typical, but definitely left a WTF moment for the hall I was in. Even the last line in the whole film shows that the director was really having fun with its audience. Its really a piece of work.<br /><br />Sadly, the movie would only work once. That's it. Its not enough for repeated viewings. Once you know what happens, you're ok already. Perhaps one of the weakest points, but still shouldn't stop you from doing all of this.<br /><br />Kyo's Score: 9/10. One of the best movies I had this year left feeling creeped out and smiling a little bit once it ended. I really had good fun. Even if it took a lot out of me to get out of that spooky feeling. hehe.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-35231070588426164472010-10-18T12:17:00.002+08:002010-10-18T12:27:44.080+08:00The Other Guys: Movie Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIrmbx2D-fNRSeobnpjGwvQzQOUZQp7WiWHtU35UHXklBakQTROxjUdfYs3_N3qju_ACFE-RoqsLlSjX6tnj49D97UKD9nLBjHLOjyUvdAM34F4Wr1ma8HBDhwH4XdRkGGipO/s1600/other_guys.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIrmbx2D-fNRSeobnpjGwvQzQOUZQp7WiWHtU35UHXklBakQTROxjUdfYs3_N3qju_ACFE-RoqsLlSjX6tnj49D97UKD9nLBjHLOjyUvdAM34F4Wr1ma8HBDhwH4XdRkGGipO/s320/other_guys.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529235640055416498" border="0" /></a>Ever wondered why you were always the sidekick and never the hero? (Life situation applies entirely) Well, meet the other guys. That's you right there jumping with guns toting at shooting at bad guys. Well, before this you always had to sit on a desk doing paperwork. Feels shitty don't it? Well, that's also the movie in some ways. How it started was so nice that it was badly done in the end.<br /><br />The Other Guys comprise of Detective Allen Gamble (Will Ferrell) and Detective Terry Hoitz (Mark Wahlberg. WOOT!). 1 loves his desk pushing papers and developing Iphone apps (Faceback. Seriously. Cool) and the other, well, a disgraced detective who shot some baseball players knee and cost him his job. Owh, and he learned dancing, sarcastically to mock people. And he's fantastic at it too. That's a laugh out loud riot.<br /><br />The story comes when 2 of the best police officers took a leap of faith into their deaths. IDIOTS. Well, that's Samuel L Jackson and Dwayne Johnson right there. When they died, the other guys gotta get up. So, they tried, and ended up uncovering something much bigger than they did expect.<br /><br />What I loved about this movie? Its jokes are nice. (Wooden gun!) Michael Keaton was AWESOME, then again as always. And having Dwayne and Sam at the beginning was really cool and fun to watch. Marky Mark may have found his muse as a tough guy in a comedy. No kidding, ever since Date Night he was still in awesome mode. I don't know how the Fighter is going to look like but hey who knows?<br /><br />However... the real problem was how sour the editing was done. Seriously, it was so horrible that it did not work well in so many ways. You get high moments, and then uber low. It was utter rubbish. It completely marred the whole movie experience. I'm gonna agree with another that Hot Fuzz would be the best choice.<br /><br />So if you still wanna watch it, go for the early part, leave in the half way. The Good GUys win. Done. No need to spend more time on this.<br /><br />Kyo's score: 6/10. If it weren't for the characters who worked their asses off, I would've left.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-53926311060646305422010-10-18T12:06:00.003+08:002010-10-18T12:14:47.687+08:00Devil: Movie Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvSwRmG1sbfKYccbo7V1ju-pR0ZL7CMenlebeNKGNz-f0OzXOt6cI61ILC9hL14C-SZu4fMgLULINUXFMbGcOKsj7lJ0izwtVgaAgZGGHaqm_dwcfKJGuQavk2LEQPgsnPR_iW/s1600/devil_ver2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvSwRmG1sbfKYccbo7V1ju-pR0ZL7CMenlebeNKGNz-f0OzXOt6cI61ILC9hL14C-SZu4fMgLULINUXFMbGcOKsj7lJ0izwtVgaAgZGGHaqm_dwcfKJGuQavk2LEQPgsnPR_iW/s320/devil_ver2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529232653320432114" border="0" /></a><br />As a Muslim, I believe in the existence of many things. Satan, Jin, Ghosts, and so on of other worldly things. So I'm not surprised with the movie Devil really. The Devil can be anything or anyone. And the Devil will always be there to mislead. So when it comes to this movie, why the Devil choose an elevator to trap 5 strangers and execute them one at a time?<br /><br />The story is basically the Devil taking 5 wretched souls to hell. The best part, among the 5, one of them is the Devil itself. Can you trust the person next to you then?<br /><br />When it comes to the story, i would M Night deserves a "boleh tahan lah" rating. Its quite an old story of perhaps good vs evil, and why mankind should also do good and abstain from evil. But I can't help but feel that all this feels a little too cheesy. but perhaps that's just me. Though, that's not really my main gripe considering how M Night has been pure shit the past few movies.<br /><br />My main gripe however was the dialogue. The script all felt cheesy. Its not charming in its own entirety. In fact, the only time I remembered the dialogue was fantastic was when the Devil revealed itself as... one of the members in the lift. I won't tell you who, but I love the quote that the Devil said. In fact, the Devil would probably be the only smartest being in the whole movie. Everyone else including the detective didn't do much to convince that everyone is to be judged.<br /><br />So, for an average story and bad scripting issues, I can give this a pass. I have hated horror movies for quite a while now. But this does feel like the same ranks as other crappy Malay Horror movies I've seen (Then again, like there was any good Malay horror film made so far.).<br /><br />Kyo's Score: 5/10. Honestly, I left the theatre just asking forgiveness from Allah for all that I did. For only He can forgive for all my sins.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-32423917603495290512010-08-20T09:09:00.002+08:002010-08-20T09:16:26.574+08:00When the PS3 gets Hacked: Kyo's ViewWord buzzing around the Internet is that some fellows from OzModChips were successful on hacking the PS3. What does this actually mean?<br /><br />Well, for starter games can now be backed up. That's the polite term. The harsher terms, games can also be downloaded and pirated. Good for those who want to back up their games (although to be frank, I haven't seen my BDs spoilt so far and still see no reason why I should back it up since I believe in it), but maybe bad for developers who built games just to get ripped off by gamers who are cheap. And we know how the whole world is cheap.<br /><br />Good also that it'll lead to homebrew developments. Or even cheats. I'm not sure how, but it sounds and looks like it should work. To a good advantage. Maybe Sony should have done something like Apple and Google by providing a market for micro apps. Who knows eh?<br /><br />What do I think from all this? Personally, after telling myself to quit piracy for so long, I couldn't be bothered. I don't have a problem on where I can get my original games and I don't mind shelling the extra cash to get it. I live in a 2 room house with my parents and sister, so I'm nowhere near rich. And I drive a bike to work, that tells you how cheap I am.<br /><br />But I stand by being responsible. This is my effort on being a civilized man who doesn't need to resort to crime like what I have done before. Its a shameful thing, but i'll leave that as memories.<br /><br />So, regardless of what happens, this is nowhere going to affect me. Besides, my Yakuza 4 is coming anyways. Nowhere near fazed. :PUnknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-34509688377961798042010-08-11T13:25:00.002+08:002010-08-11T13:46:58.094+08:00Scott Pilgrim's Precious Life: Graphic Novel Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpUhKGUcGBCg-YebgZWviSOu9xZLXsFrDkg4z8rYzNJIHQ-ki4JMVxTIS3hq4KPueairqX42EC9i-lnRV0mOY3XEn8ATmqoH-ZSR8hlxqT3HcLO_qhfrbi-_pQeT9Aa5z6kDqJ/s1600/scott_pilgrim_s_precious_little_life.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 215px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpUhKGUcGBCg-YebgZWviSOu9xZLXsFrDkg4z8rYzNJIHQ-ki4JMVxTIS3hq4KPueairqX42EC9i-lnRV0mOY3XEn8ATmqoH-ZSR8hlxqT3HcLO_qhfrbi-_pQeT9Aa5z6kDqJ/s320/scott_pilgrim_s_precious_little_life.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504019659469097202" border="0" /></a><br />For a very long time I have not graced comics or even graphic novels (Graphic novels being never, until Joker and The Killing Joke). But that did change this year, when I started with Joker and The Killing Joke (thanks syefah for the present) and now, its Scott Pilgrim. And I must say, where have I been the past few years to not even notice this?<br /><br />Scott Pilgrim is a Canadian slacker. Plays in a band, has just started dating a highschool girl (Scott is 23 btw), and is enjoying his life. Until, a particular lady has been using his dreams to travel and make deliveries for Amazon Canada. Immediately, he became obsessed, and even worst, the girl is real, and her name is Ramona Flowers. Insisting to go on a date, he orders something and baits her on a date, which she accepts and he had a blast. Well, until, Matthew Patel, the first of Ramona's League of Evil Exes shows up. Now, in order to date Ramona, Scott must defeat Ramona's 7 evil exes. The thing is, did he manage with the first one?<br /><br />The comic got a Harvey award (one of the best acclaimed for comics and graphic novels) and is almost ready to be screened in movie theaters this week. Malaysians definitely have to wait a little longer to get it (November, Dammit). I took notice of this movie and went gaga, because this is not your typical story, this is an action-comedy-romance-musical (As Edgar Wright puts it) stuffed all in one, and it really works.<br /><br />Scott is in someways, very annoying and cocky. However, the first volume of 6 gives you a slight hint of how he is and what he's gone through. The first few pages would make you feel you loathe him, but you want to stick around to find out what really happened to his life, and even Ramona's (which Scott conveniently discloses in the book that it'll be explained in the proceeding volumes, way to go on breaking the fourth wall).<br /><br />The other characters also work to help Scott tell his story. You've got his gay roommate Wallace (which he conveniently sleeps on the same bed with him), and then Ramona (who I actually imagined did sound a little stale like her movie counterpart) with her rollerblades going across Toronto (which the roads are heavily snowed, you figure it out), his part of the band (Kim Pine being a double standard character) and even his girlfriend Knives Chau (who's Chinese mother speaks like a real Chinese. And that's a riot). They all work very well in his life.<br /><br />When it comes to plot, this book has just the right pacing and timing for it. I didn't feel like putting the book down even though I just came through the closing chapter. And the humor bits, are very fun and more conveniently suited to the gaming generation (which happens to be a little weakspot which i'll get later). Heck, Bryan even gave its readers a chance to play a song from Sex Bob-Omb, Stephen Stills' band (which Scott is the bassist). heck, the lyrics are even funny as hell.<br /><br />The art style feels like a crossover of Japanese manga and American drawings. And you get... Somewhere in the middle. Its nothing to shout about, but the style does feel quirky, which probably sets the right tone for me.<br /><br />The weaker part, audiences may not really know the jokes and references the book is trying to make. Well, maybe not all of it since it does include some clever jokes that hit on lots of wonderfully scripted parts. The version I had was probably a bad print (the pages were a little disoriented), so you may wanna be careful.<br /><br />At Rm 40.90 (Borders and Kinokuniya, MPH is RM 45.90), the length of the book is really nice. Its probably just the right amount of time, and you may want to pick up a 2nd reading once you're done running through the whole book. Available in 6 volumes, this is the start of something lovely and I don't think you'd regret getting it. Regardless if you're videogame proficient or not, don't miss out and do check out the movie trailers of Scott Pilgrim vs The World. Its a total blast.<br /><br />Kyo's score: 9/10. Comics/Graphic Novels are always fun in my books. hehe.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13691553.post-56135838313658956032010-08-06T18:30:00.003+08:002010-08-06T19:05:44.890+08:00Batman: City of Scars: Fanmade Film ReviewDear All,<br /><br />GO WATCH BATMAN: CITY OF SCARS. Its worth it. :P<br /><br />To begin, go over to Dailymotion.com. Over there, go ahead and find Batman: City of Scars and you will find a 35 minute video showing the fanmade film. And seriously, it is such a treat.<br /><br />The story goes with Joker escaping from Arkham once more. This time, he successfully killed the parents of another child, leaving him orphaned. Bruce feeling that similar pain confronts and tracks him once more, and to question himself what was he become.<br /><br />Its amazing to know that this is from a fanmade film. It trumps the sequels that was during the Clooney era, stands on par with Kilmer and Keaton, and is so close to Nolan's effort. Its truly outstanding. heck, even the gadgets make the detective look damn rich. And that was actually fun (I want the Batpod!)<br /><br />The script feels fresh and we're mostly treated to a monologue of Batman questioning himself (Not gonna spoil anything). The score is lovely and quite haunting at times. While the shots may be its weakest point sadly. It does feel messy a little but perhaps it works to show the grit of Gotham.<br /><br />The cast did a lovely job. Batman fits (even better than Bale's) and the Joker is nice (Sorry, Heath is still the best in my book when it comes to mischief and haunting). The rest of the case is also good where you have Harley Quinn, The Ventriloquist joining the lovely ensemble.<br /><br />heck, I was even blown away by the stunt and fight scenes. It was really fun to watch.<br /><br />But alas, the real point to bring out is how the story really does, and it fits well. It makes us question yet the answer lies with Batman himself.<br /><br />Overall, i'd recommend 35 minutes of your time for this film. It is truly spectacular and I give kudos to the guys who did this. Congratz, you have made Bob Kane, and his legion of fans proud. :D<br /><br />Kyo's score: 8/10. Truly a wonderful effort. If you're interested with other fan made stuff, go to youtube and find the Joker interrogation scene. The one with 13 million views. You'll know why. :PUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0