Saturday, January 23, 2010
Okay so here's my top 10 favourite movies of all time, up till now. I can't really remember everything that went on in each and every movie I'm about to post, but the listing is based on how long it has lingered and played with my fancies haha.
In short, everything's IMHO, Merci beau coup.
10. The Matrix (1999)
The reason why this is only no.10 is because the other 2 films were a let down to me, although the storylines (like Reloaded's The Architect's explaination of a cyclical universe of balance and Revolution's Agent Smith as a killer virus in reality and cyberspace) were really good and original. Nothing beats the first film of a trilogy because it's fresh.
This show (IMHO) propelled slow-mo action sequences to mainstream "must-haves" for any high budgeted action films. Spoofs aside, the acting was decent and despite overt dramatizing of the line " You are The One " it was an enjoyable experience and a thrilling ride. You can't argue that the notion of a simulated reality is pretty creepy... and the most cool thing from the movie is that you could download information into your head in just 5 seconds, dodge dog poo in slow motion, jump over aunties to get into MRTs all with that gelled up hair..... Dodge this.
9. Infernal Affairs (2002)
I always have a soft spot for Hong Kong films, maybe it's because I love the desserts and the milk tea there, or the cheap Esprit jeans I bought there. But the show's just awesome, thrilling and smart, the two veterans (arguably most popular as well) of Hong Kong cinema swap places constantly, the movie kept me guessing and choosing sides. Cantonese or in Mandarin, the show's dialogue is witty and engaging.
This is show is exemplary of how Asian films can match Hollywood with mere scripts, storylines and directing. None of that James Cameroon Hocus Pocus is needed sometimes (keyword: Sometimes), and Infernal Affairs 1 delivers an edge that will leave you wanting more, although the sequels 2 & 3 were not as good, but was a good watch nonetheless, for the right reasons of cause.
8. 300 (2006)
Yes yes, the pinnacle of Male stupidity and muscle brained brawn, in absolute goriness; all summed up into Zack Synder's poetic justification. Spoofs aside, the show is immense in its entertainment and eye candy moments, with gorgeous colours and well crafted action sequences. While the critic sings a chorus of racism, fascism, xenophobia and insensitivity to the current political climate, the Spartans deliver inspiration and satisfaction for action fans as well as CG enthusiasts. Cheesy lines and dramatization seem like flaws for this film, but hey, its from a comic book. You're meant to sit back and relax dude for this show. Anyway if the Athenians and Greeks and Spartans didn't push back the Persians in reality, our lives would be much much more different, that's for sure.
THIS ... IS .. SPARTA!
7. Memento (2000)
Few have heard of this Christopher Nolan (BATMAN) show, even few have heard of retrograde amnesia. While not exactly the medical show, Memento for me did it in terms of directing, and I can't tell you much on this one if you haven't watched it. Guy Pierce delivers a convincing and thrilling performance and this show has innovation written all over it. Moral of this story: Memory can be treacherous.
6. JinRoh: The Wolf Brigade (1998)
Animes don't get this real and depressing, as well as abstract with constant gruesome reiterations of the original tale of Red Riding Hood. Set in an alternative universe where Japan won the World War, its essentially a tragedy encased in political drama. Good watch and memorable, although a tad sad I feel.
The musical scores are chilling and the artwork is superb, the colours for me are just nice in all its semi-noir feel. Realistic characters and adult overtures ring from time to time. The animation is realistic, so fans of cutesy anime won't really feel welcome here. Well some moments boarder on poseur philosophical high artsy-themes, this anime movie is most definitely a masterclass in its own right.
5. Braveheart (1995)
Mel Gibson's stellar inspirational roles, the best and most well remembered line would be " They may take our lives, but they'll never take our freedom!". This show might appeal largely to action fans once again, yes I am quite the sucker for good war shows. Set in a hostile English monarchy, it shows the spirit of the Scottish people lead by William Wallace, whom is quite the legendary historical figure, although the film strays a lot from history. With the usual themes of never ending brotherhood, sacrifice, noble chivalry and medieval ho ha, definitely my pick if shown again on cable.
4. The Blind Swordsman: Zaitochi (2003)
And here's a Japanese pick from the Hollywood bunch. A recreation/retelling of a Japanese classic, this tale is about a blind swordsman/ronin that well, is pretty much unstoppable. The imagery and cinematography is awesome, every scene feels well crafted, with the traditional orchestral overtures leading us on. I can't pinpoint this show into any category because action doesn't seem to cut it for this movie, there's a little romance and awesomeness intertwined. A must watch, especially if you love samurais... which leads to another of my favourite movies.
3. Kakushi ken oni no tsume [The Hidden Blade] (2004)
Yes another Japanese film, you gotta love Japanese era films. This is set in 1860s of the Tokugawa administration, where samurais are a dying caste. While we can catch glimpses of the social and political changes going on at that time in Japan, this show isn't really about action. There's alot of tragedy and romance issues, as well as ideals between warriors and man vs. woman. Engaging, albeit slightly depressing show, but worth a watch. This show is truly the real Last Samurai show, which does away with flamboyance and in doing that, preserves a rustic, mellow and lasting charm. Great show.
2. Fight Club (1999)
Nuff said about this show. I feel my words can't do justice to this masterpiece. Brad Pitt and Edward Norton, arguably one of the better actors in Hollywood, drives this movie into overtures with themes on reality, consumerism and is downright visually intriguing. The ending is surely the highlight of the show, and I won't want to spoil it for those whom haven't caught this. Go read up on the novel too!
1.Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Okay this takes the cake. 3hrs+ EPIC journey. Homosexual tendencies. All out action. Self Sacrifice. Love&Romance. Elves. Rings. Must be the best... This show still lingers in my memory..."YOU SHALL NOT PASSSSSSS!"
Well, this is list is always bound to change, but I think I'll rewatch these films anyday.
Whew, pretty exhaustive post. There you have it!
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Alright I'm back!
The New York Expedition that passed too fast. This is just a quarter of photos by the way.
Despite grueling temperatures most of the time [read: max -12°C with 30kph winds], it was very much a warm, enriching fun enjoyable (okay the list can go on and on).
My first White Christmas and New Year abroad, managed to catch the new year countdown and see 1/4 of the Times square Fireworks in its explosive glory.
Highlights of the trip has to be the Food, lack of Sweat and big, extensive and quaint Museums. Shopping bordered on hysteria and craziness at times, but the deals for the Christmas and New Year sales were worth the mayhem to a certain degree. Walking and Subway-ing were made interesting many times due to being shut out by speedy train doors and multiple exits.
People wise, besides the unsettling fact that I am continuously mistaken for an ah tiong (or a Japanese which is Great) via penetrating stares or foreign greetings, tend to be schizophrenic. One moment I get racist treatment, and another a friendly soul would light the way. But judging just via Tourist Lenses, it ain't all that friendly dude.
So new year, New Beginnings. A new semester ahead, and many more days of sweatiness to endure ugh.
Have a good 2010 everyone!
