Burlesque

Pic source: click here.

I watched this movie this afternoon with my little sister (and I think I'm going to watch it again tomorrow with my friends) and today is actually the opening day for Indonesia. I thought the seats in Blitzmegaplex were going to be filled, but the cinema was in fact, almost empty. Too bad, because IT. WAS. AWESOME.

I just love musicals. This is what this movie is all about. Music and dancing. And I loooveeee Christina Aguilera's voice - I'm actually a fan. She's so petite (she's my height!! *beams*) and yet she has such a big voice. Her acting is also delightful.

This movie also introduces Cher to me. Being born in the 1990s, I don't know much about Cher. She's absolutely famous for the generation before me, I think. Don't get me wrong - I do know about Cher and I do hear that she's a diva. I just never bothered to look up her song and listen to it. And now I have heard her singing. And I'm in love.

Before I start gushing out more compliments (and opinions, of course), here are some info. Taken from imdb, as usual:

Director: Steve Antin

Writer: Steve Antin

Genre: Drama | Musical | Romance

Casts: Cher (Tess), Christina Aguilera (Ali), Kristen Bell (Nikki), Cam Gigandet (Jack), Eric Dane (Marcus), Peter Gallagher (Vince), Stanley Tucci (Sean), and others. Click here for the complete set of casts.

Summary:

The Burlesque Lounge has its best days behind it. Tess, a retired dancer and owner of the venue, struggles to keep the aging theater alive, facing all kinds of financial and artistic challenges. With the Lounge's troupe members becoming increasingly distracted by personal problems and a threat coming from a wealthy businessman's quest to buy the spot from Tess, the good fortune seems to have abandoned the club altogether. Meanwhile, the life of Ali, a small-town girl from Iowa, is about to change dramatically. Hired by Tess as a waitress at the Lounge, Ali escapes a hollow past and quickly falls in love with the art of burlesque. Backed by newfound friends amongst the theater's crew, she manages to fulfill her dreams of being on stage herself. Things take a dramatic turn though when Ali's big voice makes her become the main attraction of the revue. (from imdb)

It takes a LEGEND... to make a STAR.

Jack (Cam Gigandet). Pic source: click here.

I honestly think this movie totally lacks in the plot department. However, whatever it lacks, it makes up by delivering awesome choreography and phenomenal song performances.

Why you should watch this movie:

The MUSICALS. This is one and the only reason I watch Burlesque. I don't expect the singers to act awesomely but if they do it's a bonus. Don't judge this movie based on the plot or the acting either because the main attraction, once again, is the musicals. The song 'You Haven't Seen The Last of Me', performed by Cher, won Best Original Song in the Golden Globe Award a few days ago. The song 'Bound To You', sung by Christina was also nominated for the same category.

Why this movie might not be suitable for you:

If you don't like 119 minutes of musical awesomeness. Period.

To my surprise, even though the title is Burlesque, and the dance routines totally suggest sexual content, there was no excessive kissing scenes nor sex scene in the movie. It's been a while since a movie is like that. OR the Indonesia's censor department got rid of them, I don't know. Lol.

Anyway, I rate this movie 7.5 out of 10. I thoroughly enjoyed watching this and I couldn't take my eyes off the screen (I hate the fact that I had to go to the restroom in the middle of the movie so I missed like, 5 minutes of the movie). 

Toodle-o,

Maria

Faster

Faster movie poster. Pic source: click here.

Aurel and I, plus a couple of friends watched this movie this afternoon. We had to choose between another movie and this. Our reason of choosing this movie was Dwayne Johnson and the cool movie poster. Shallow, right? But that's why the producers create cool movie posters and hire well-known actors.

So anyway, the movie turns out quite nicely. One thing for sure, it's unpredictable. Another notable thing is it starts a bit slow at the beginning but the pace goes up right around the middle.

Oh and, lack of actual names.

Some info, as usual.

Director: George Tillman Jr.

Writers: Tony Gayton, Joe Gayton

Genre: Action | Crime | Drama | Thriller

Casts: Dwayne Johnson (Driver), Billy Bob Thornton (Cop), Oliver Jackson-Cohen (Killer), Maggie Grace (Lily), and others. Click here to see the complete set of casts.

Summary:

An ex-con sets out to avenge his brother's death after they were double-crossed during a heist years ago. During his campaign, however, he's tracked by a veteran cop and an egocentric hit man.

Slow justice is no justice.

Lily and Killer. Pic source: click here.

I've got to say the main characters are quite interesting here. Killer is a neurotic, Cop uses drugs, and Driver is as focused as a laser beam. (Honestly the only 'beautiful' person here from a girl's perspective is perhaps Killer.)

The storyline is basically very straight to the point, but still the end is pretty unpredictable. There are also a couple of dizzying scenes where the cameraman moves so much I simply had to turn away to avoid a headache. And as far as I counted (not sure of the accuracy, though), there are three bathroom scenes. What's up with bathrooms?

Reasons you should watch this movie:

1. If you're a fan of car-chase scenes, this movie is just one step behind Fast and Furious. Don't forget that it also delivers full on action and actually some stories to tell!

2. That unpredictable ending? It's so rare to see a movie that can still throw you back.

3. Nicely done depth of characters. Really love the fact that Killer is British. For being the only good-looking (my taste anyway) guy in the movie, he really is enough. I also like that Driver is not a one-dimensional character; he has motive, history, and character growth throughout the movie. 

4. Great music! The sound effects are simply amazing.

5. The moral dilemma you'll have!

Reasons you should not watch this movie:

1. The pace sometimes gets too slow. For a fast-paced movie fan like me this is annoying, but everything else makes up for it.

2. This is not a movie for people with weak stomachs. Some scenes are just downright gory.

All in all I rate this movie 7 out of 10. I thoroughly enjoyed watching this movie.

Toodle-o,

Maria

As usual, all info was taken from imdb.

Toy Story 3

Pic source: click here.

Toy Story 3 is by far the most hilarious animation movie I have ever watched. I laughed like crazy throughout the film. I've also watched this about three or five times now. I know, crazy right? Anyway, here's some info as usual.

Director: Lee Unkrich

Writers: John Lasseter (story), Andrew Stanton (story), Lee Unkrich (story), and Michael Arndt (screenplay)

Genre: Animation | Adventure | Comedy | Family | Fantasy

Casts (voice): Tom Hanks (Woody), Woody Allen (Buzz Lightyear), Joan Cusack (Jessie), and others. For the full credits on casts, click here.

Summary:

Woody, Buzz and the whole gang are back. As their owner Andy prepares to depart for college, his loyal toys find themselves in daycare where untamed tots with their sticky little fingers do not play nice. So, it's all for one and one for all as they join Barbie's counterpart Ken, a thespian hedgehog named Mr. Pricklepants and a pink, strawberry-scented teddy bear called Lots-o'-Huggin' Bear to plan their great escape. (From imdb)

You'd also want to check out the goofs and trivia. They're awesome! :D As always, watch out for spoilers if you haven't watched the movie yet. 

Ooh! A logical explanation for one of the goofs:

The laptop in Andy's room was open when he came in because Hamm and Rex was looking for how much they were worth on e-bay, and they didn't have the time to close it! (I figured this out the third time I watched the movie, lol.)

The great escape.

Reasons to love this movie:

1. Absolutely inspiring family story. There are tons of things you can learn from this movie.

2. A balance of everything. Adventure, comedy, togetherness... you will get sucked into this movie until the very end, and you may not want to get out. :)

3. Amazing plot. The plot can sometimes be unpredictable. It also tells a bunch of stories without anything being nonsense. Every part of the story is important to uncover the plot, and every part is a beauty and excitement.

Reasons to not like this movie:

None. For me. 

All in all, I think this movie deserves 10 out of 10 stars. This is actually the first time I've given a perfect score review for a movie and I don't think I'll regret this. A definite must watch - even though you're an adult or a grandpa, this movie will touch you.

Toy Story 3 is also one of the sequels that actually works. It's rare and ought to be appreciated.

Video trailer:

Toodle-o,

Maria

The Tourist

We apologize for the long absence in blogging. This is due to the business of college life. Please understand. :)

Adi and I watched The Tourist today at Gandaria City. The cinema there, XXI, costs only IDR 25,000 to enter on weekends, while The Premiere charges IDR 50,000 per seat. Which was insanely cheap. Adi also lost the ticket minutes before the movie start, but thanks to a mishap earlier, the woman behind the counter remembered us and we didn't have to buy another ticket. The security officer was also very friendly. I can't help but comment on the cinema itself, because it's almost as important as the movie. So Gandaria City Mall XXI? A great choice.

Picture source: click here.

On to the movie. As usual, some details:

Director: Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck

Writer(s): Florian Henckel von Donnersmarc (screenplay), Christopher McQuarrie (screenplay), Julian Fellowes(screenplay), and Jérôme Salle (motion picture "Anthony Zimmer").

Genre: Action | Drama | Thriller

Casts: Johnny Depp (Frank Tupelo), Angelina Jolie (Elise Clifton-Ward), and others. Click here to see the complete casts.

Summary:

Elise (Angelina Jolie) sits next to an American tourist, Frank (Johnny Depp), on a train going to Venice. She has chosen him as a decoy, making believe that he is her lover who is wanted for police. Not only will they need to evade the police, but also the mobster whose money her lover stole. (From imdb)

The perfect trip. 

The perfect trap.

Reasons to love this movie:

1. The settings are in Paris and Venice. Two of the most beautiful cities in the world, in my opinion.

2. Angelina Jolie is a delight on screen. Her make up and clothing are just divine. The clothes she wears in the movie are so elegant and charming I simply have to include it here.

Reasons to not-like this movie:

1. Action? Meh. Thriller? Double meh. Drama? Err. The movie is too light. Nothing is over the top or exceeding expectation. Frank (Johnny Depp) throws out several dry jokes and there are several cute coincidences and the laughs ended.

2. Simple plot. Too simple, actually. Quite a twist at the end, but nevertheless, still predictable.

3. Too little conversations. I hate when the movie revolves around conversations, but too little conversations can also be annoying.

4. Angelina Jolie. This is my personal opinion but I never like any movie Angelina Jolie stars in. 

All in all, in my humble opinion this movie deserves 4 out of 10 stars. It only provides eye candy and nothing else. Don't get me wrong, I quite enjoy this movie, but I don't think I'll watch it again.

Video trailer:

Toodle-o,

Maria

Info: all from imdb.

STREET DANCE 3D (2010)

I have to admit this mix of the somewhat raw energy of streetdance and the controlled grace of ballet is enjoyable. So is this new three dimensional format any good for this genre? There are a few moments and scenes here specifically crafted with 3D in mind, such as the tossing of items toward the screen, from hats to a busy food fight in a school canteen. There's also some jarringly added bullet-time choreography during one of the street dance battles in a club, but the real treat here is for that depth of field when we sit around and admire the precision-timed and energetic dance choreography from procedural balletic moves to raw, improvisational street dancing. But this film does go the distance to explain and show the basics 101 of street dance, since it has characters from different camps put together to try and influence one another, and from their initial adversity come craft something unique from its diversity.

TWO WORLDS. ONE DREAM.

Director : Max Giwa and Dania Pasquini
Writer : Jane English (Writer)
Release Date : 19 May 2010 (France)
Genre : Drama | Dance
Cast :

Nichola Burley

...

Carly

George Sampson

...

Eddie

Tameka Empson	...	Sharonda
Sianad Gregory	...	Chloe
Ukweli Roach	...	Jay
Diversity	...	Dance Crew
Sacha Chang	...	Aimee
Flawless	...	Dance Crew

Plot: In order to win the Street Dance Championships, a dance crew is forced to work with ballet dancers from the Royal Dance School in exchange for rehearsal space.

Moving, enjoyable and satisfying film that challenges more traditional concepts of dance
From a storytelling point of view I went to see Street Dance curious as to what kind of narrative could possibly be made out of such an unlikely premise - ie the combining of two such dissimilar dance styles as street dance and ballet. The story that emerges here (out of the protagonists initial reluctance to co-operate with each other) I found to be original, had plenty of interesting dialogue and built up to a very satisfying and exhilarating finish. Several of the film's characters are portrayed in sufficient depth that I could feel significant empathy for them and their aspirations. The numerous conflicts, which arise at intervals right up to the film's closing minutes, (together with the manner of their resolution) kept my interest at a high level. All the actors and actresses give believable performances for their respective roles. It was also good to see a number of faces I hadn't seen before. The cinematography I thought was excellent. I also noticed effective use being made of quite shallow depth of field - in which the subject is in sharp focus while nearer or more distant objects weren't. Finally I think this film has some of the most natural (and therefore most satisfying) 3D effect I have seen - which is apparent as much in the ordinary interior and exterior scenes as in dancing parts. All in all I think this is a very enjoyable film that might very well give you a whole new perspective on what the basic concept of dance ought to be.

TRAILER


DANCE CREW









NOTE: Click on the picture for further information about the dance crew. ^^

Soundtrack Listing

1. Tinie Tempah - Pass Out
2. N-Dubz feat. Bodyrox - We Dance On
3. Lightbulb Thieves - Work It Out
4. Ironik - Tiny Dancer (Hold Me Closer)
5. N-Dubz - Strong Again
6. Pixie Lott - Live for the Moment
7. Aggro Santos feat. Kimberly Wyatt - Candy
8. Cheryl Cole - Fight for This Love (Crazy Cousinz Remix)
9. Lethal Bizzle - Going Out Tonight
10. Sugababes - Get Sexy
11. LP & JC - The Humblest Start
12. Wiley - Cash In My Pocket
13. Madcon - Beggin'
14. LP & JC feat. Skibadee, Mc Det, Chrome & Blemish - Club Battle
15. Fatboy Slim - Champion Sound
16. Vega4 - Life Is Beautiful
17. McLean - Broken
18. Swiss feat. Music Kidz - One In a Million

-auReL-

THE EXPENDABLES (2010)

The expectation for this film is obviously very high with one of the best action hero line ups (if not the best) in cinematic history. I can honestly say that I was not disappointed. This was a high octane, unbelievably explosive, funny, blood thirsty, proper action movie! This film would not have been out of place in the 80s, but manages to fit into the market of today's cinematic action experience. It is easily much more graphic and gory than most modern day action films, but this adds to the film and creates a degree of realism. Let's face it; if you go around killing people it isn't going to be pretty! This film did what it needed to do, it wasn't afraid to contain blood, guts and violence for the sake of an age restriction but also wasn't overly ridiculous.

CHOOSE YOUR WEAPON

Director : Sylvester Stallone
Writers : Dave Callaham (Screenplay and Story) and Sylvester Stallone (Screenplay)

Release Date : 13 August 2010 (Indonesia)

Genre : Action | Adventure | Thriller
Cast :

	Sylvester Stallone	...	Barney Ross
	Jason Statham	...	Lee Christmas
	Jet Li	...	Ying Yang

	Dolph Lundgren	...	Gunner Jensen
	Eric Roberts	...	James Munroe
	Randy Couture	...	Toll Road
	Steve Austin	...	Paine

	Arnold Schwarzenegger	...	Trench
	Bruce Willis	...	Mr. Church

Plot : Barney Ross leads the "Expendables", a band of highly skilled mercenaries including knife enthusiast Lee Christmas, martial arts expert Yin Yang, heavy weapons specialist Hale Caesar, demolitionist Toll Road and loose-cannon sniper Gunner Jensen. When the group is commissioned by the mysterious Mr. Church to assassinate the merciless dictator of a small South American island, Barney and Lee head to the remote locale to scout out their opposition. Once there, they meet with local rebel Sandra and discover the true nature of the conflict engulfing the city. When they escape the island and Sandra stays behind, Ross must choose to either walk away and save his own life - or attempt a suicidal rescue mission that might just save his soul.

HEROES TODAY. LEGEND FOREVER

What I think about this movie :
1. The plot is not that original, but it doesn't need to be, nor was it expected to be. The cast, goes without saying, was fantastic. What could have been a disaster of conflicting egos ended up being a believable team of mercenaries where banter is rife and keeping each other alive is their number one priority. Stallone can give himself a big pat on the back for getting so many iconic actors onto the screen together and actually making it work. Though the much hyped cameo of two particular people was short lived, it was hilarious and I think a great moment in cinema.

2. This was a great film that keeps you glued to your seat, constantly makes you gasp and laugh out loud and leaves you pumping with adrenaline. It was ridiculous and wonderful all at the same time, with more bullets and bombs than Rambo and more fighting than Rocky. This is a must see film for any movie buff or action hero wannabe. It is certainly not for the faint hearted, or for kids, but for any true action movie lover this is the ultimate manly film.
3. The only negative: Some of the blood and explosions looked digital. Wish it could have been just a bit more authentic. Sometimes, there was a tad too many closeups during the fight scenes. With so many people fighting at the same time, sometimes I couldn't tell who was punching who. It didn't happen very often, but how cool would it be just for one moment to see three simultaneous fights from a super wide master shot?

TRAILER

We are the shadow, the smoke in your eyes, the ghosts that hide in the night.

Track listing

All songs written and composed by Brian Tyler.

The Expendables: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
No.	Title	Length
1.	"The Expendables"	3:22
2.	"Aerial"	2:58
3.	"Ravens And Skulls"	4:49
4.	"Lee And Lacy"	2:15
5.	"Massive"	3:24
6.	"The Gulf Of Aden"	6:56
7.	"Lifeline"	4:29
8.	"Confession"	2:56
9.	"Royal Rumble"	3:41
10.	"Scanning The Enemy"	3:47
11.	"The Contact"	1:31
12.	"Surveillance"	3:27
13.	"Warriors"	3:49
14.	"Trinity"	4:19
15.	"Waterboard"	3:01
16.	"Losing His Mind"	2:37
17.	"Take Your Money"	2:41
18.	"Giant With A Shotgun"	3:57
19.	"Time To Leave"	1:55
20.	"Mayhem And Finale"	5:47

-auReL-

KILLERS (2010)

Let's start of with saying that Robert Luketic knows howto direct, the pace in the movie is good, he never takes this film to serious and he know how to film a couple of good scenes. Funny. Enjoyable. That's what I thought about this movie. Actually, I just like drama movies like this. Make the audience relax, laugh all the time. Beware if you're looking for a romantic comedy or a quick action flick. Watch it only if you are willing to stand an hour of nothing to finally get to a fun, ridiculous, sexy, and funny light-weight action film. xP

MARRIAGE.. GIVE IT YOUR BEST SHOT

Director : Robert Luketic
Writers : Bob DeRosa & Ted Griffin (Screenplay)
Release Date : 4 June 2010 (USA)
Genre : Action | Comedy | Romance | Thriller
Cast :

	Ashton Kutcher	...	Spencer Aimes
	Katherine Heigl	...	Jen Kornfeldt
	Tom Selleck	...	Mr. Kornfeldt
	Catherine O'Hara	...	Mrs. Kornfeldt

Plot : Spencer Aimes (Ashton Kutcher) is just your average, undercover, government-hired super-assassin accustomed to a life of exotic European locales, flashy sports cars and even flashier women. But when he meets Jen Kornfeldt (Katherine Heighl) , a beautiful, fun-loving computer tech recovering from a bad break-up, he finds true love and happily trades international intrigue for domestic bliss. Three years later, Spencer and Jen are still enjoying a picture-perfect marriage - that is, until the morning after Spencer's 30th birthday. That's when Spencer and Jen learn he's the target of a multi-million dollar hit. Even worse, the hired killers have been stalking the happy couple for years, and could be anyone: friends, neighbors, the grocery store clerk, even that crabby old guy shuffling across the street. Now Spencer and Jen are on the run for their lives. As their suburban paradise turns into a paranoid game of dodge-the-bullet, they must find out who wants Spencer dead and why, all the while trying to save their marriage, manage his in-laws, keep up neighborly appearances ... and just plain survive.

What I think about this movie :
1. The movie is not in a hurry to tell its story, mostly due to the fact there is none. The couple gets married, move together and three years later (and half way through the film) his old boss calls him again, 'you're ain't going out that easy' he promises, and he's right on the money. All hell breaks lose, and almost everyone who gets introduced during the first half turns out to be a gunman hired to kill Spencer. The trailer practically tells the whole story and shows some of the best bits of the film. But the pace is good, sometimes it's funny and the action was good. But it has all been done before and in better films.

2. Kutcher is detail-oriented twitterer, and as an actor, his goofiness is unmatched. (BUT I really am going to tell you that actually he is cute.. xP) Up until the end, Kutcher monotone performance came across as lack of talent. But after the surreal note the film ended on, it made perfect sense. Him and Heigl have the best anti-chemistry, and casting them together was an unintentional stroke of genius; He's the Laurel to her Hardy.
3. Katherine Heigl plays the romantic comedy lead, she got the sexy part and at least tried on the funny part, but she was a very disjointed character that at times was really hard to care for or relate to. Ashton Kutcher played the action lead, and he got the sexy part but was very awkward when he tried to play the romantic comedy lead.

One Day Is Enough For You!

Trailer :


"Killers" Soundtrack Tracklisting

1. Beauty in the World – Macy Gray
2. Under the Sun – Salvador Santana
3. Cat and Mouse – Nikki & Rich
4. Ooh La La – Faces
5. A Moment – Bitter: Sweet
6. I Don’t Believe – Rox
7. Bon Bon Bon – Vanessa Contenay-Quinones
8. Montego Sunset – Menahan Street Band
9. I'm Gonna Kill Him – Rolfe Kent
10. Even The UPS Guy – Rolfe Kent
11. Arriving In Nice – Rolfe Kent
12. Falling In Bed – Rolfe Kent
13. Elevator Attraction – Rolfe Kent
14. New Home Office – Rolfe Kent
15. Killers Suite – Rolfe Kent

enjoy ^^

-auReL-

SALT (2010)

UNPREDICTABLE and DIE HARD. That's the two impression which I got after watching this movie. 'Salt' is a surprisingly well-made, enthralling, thriller of a movie. The film has so many good twists and turns, it's hard not to be excited about anything that happens in the film.

I suggest to anyone who plans on seeing 'Salt' to throw away any knowledge they thought they knew about the film before seeing it. If you think you know everything about 'Salt' from the trailers and commercials and whatnot, think again. The plot from the trailers was really interesting, and good enough to get a lot of people to go see the film. HOWEVER, the genius part is whenever these people actually go and view the movie, 'Salt' delivers exactly what everyone expects from it… but just in its first 20 to 30 minutes. The majority of the film, the 70 minutes after that, is what 'Salt' is truly about!!

WHO IS SALT?

Director : Philip Novce
Writer : Kurt Wimmer
Release Date : 28 July 2010 (Indonesia)
Genre :Action | Thriller
Cast :

Angelina Jolie	...	Evelyn Salt
Liev Schreiber	...	Ted Winter
Chiwetel Ejiofor	...	Peabody
Daniel Olbrychski	...	Vassily Orlov
August Diehl	...	Mike Krause

Plot :

As a CIA officer, Evelyn Salt swore an oath to duty, honor and country. Her loyalty will be tested when a defector accuses her of being a Russian spy. Salt goes on the run, using all her skills and years of experience as a covert operative to elude capture. Salt's efforts to prove her innocence only serve to cast doubt on her motives, as the hunt to uncover the truth behind her identity continues and the question remains: "Who is Salt?"

The reasons why I like this movie :

1. The story is unpredictable. That's for sure. At first, I really thought that this movie was just like an ordinary "spy" movie. You become a spy, get caught then run and a happy ending as usual. BUT, "salt" is really make me say "wow"! The majority of the film is amazing simply because you never know what's going to happen. The parts about Evelyn Salt being framed as a Russian sleeper agent, on the run from the government, trying to clear her name and find her husband, are practically all thrown away after the first 20 to 30 minutes – they're no longer important. During the duration of the film, we continuously run into a multitude of plot twists, and each one leads the main character onto her next destination. All of these plot twists are amazing and shocking in the right way; they're not badly thought-out twists. Each twist makes us ask a new question, most of which are never really answered by the end of the film.

2. ANGELINA JOLIE as the main character. She's really great as an action actress. She kept changing her appearance so that she could finish her mission :

THE TRAILER :



enjoy the movie ^^

-auReL-

INCEPTION (2010)

At first I wasn't interested at all to watch this movie. Because one, I've never seen its trailer; and two, some of Leonardo DiCaprio's movies are a bit too heavy (at least that's what I think).

I was wrong. It's not too heavy or complicated; it's challenging. Which is good.

Info!

Director: Christopher Nolan

Writer: Christopher Nolan

Genre: Drama | Mystery | Sci-fi | Thriller

Casts: Leonardo DiCaprio (Dominic "Dom" Cobb), Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Arthur), Ellen Page (Ariadne), Tom Hardy (Eames), Ken Watanabe (Saito), Dileep Rao (Yusuf), Cillian Murphy (Robert Fischer, Jr.), Tom Berenger (Browning), Marion Cotillard (Mal), Pete Postlethwaite (Maurice Fischer), and others. Click here for complete list of the casts.

Summary:

Dom Cobb is a skilled thief, the absolute best in the dangerous art of extraction, stealing valuable secrets from deep within the subconscious during the dream state, when the mind is at its most vulnerable. Cobb's rare ability has made him a coveted player in this treacherous new world of corporate espionage, but it has also made him an international fugitive and cost him everything he has ever loved. Now Cobb is being offered a chance at redemption. One last job could give him his life back but only if he can accomplish the impossible-inception. Instead of the perfect heist, Cobb and his team of specialists have to pull off the reverse: their task is not to steal an idea but to plant one. If they succeed, it could be the perfect crime. But no amount of careful planning or expertise can prepare the team for the dangerous enemy that seems to predict their every move. An enemy that only Cobb could have seen coming. Written by Warner Bros. Pictures

Your mind is the scene of the crime.

A couple minutes before I wrote this review, I did my research on the Internet. I basically visited two sites I trust the most when it comes about movie: imdb.com and wikipedia. In which I found out: one, Christopher Nolan was the director and writer, two, Hans Zimmer composed the score. (And the actor who played as handsome Arthur is Joseph Gordon-Levitt... lol.)

These are important because Christopher Nolan was the one who directed Batman Begins and The Dark Knight. I didn't watch those two films but I figure he must be great at his job because those two films are very popular. About Hans Zimmer, well... he helped with Pirates at the Caribbean score, along with Despicable Me.

Things I love about this movie:

1. This movie makes you think. It moves at super-fast pace where you have to concentrate to understand it. The problem it delivers is also an intriguing one, something that will keep you wondering until after you finish watching it.

2. The idea is quite original. Christopher Nolan is the one who came up with the idea of "exploring the idea of people sharing a dream space — entering a dream space and sharing a dream. That gives you the ability to access somebody’s unconscious mind. What would that be used and abused for?" (quoted from Wikipedia). Apparently, Nolan has had this idea since he was 16.

3. Great casts. Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Page, Ken Watanabe, etc... all familiar names (or at least faces). If you remember, Ellen Page is the one who played as the girl who can walk through walls in X-Men: The Last Stand (2006) and she also plays in Whip It! (2009). Leonardo DiCaprio is of course best known as Jack in Titanic, while he also plays in The Aviator (2004), Catch Me If You Can (2002), Shutter Island (2010), etc. Ken Watanabe plays as the Chairman in Memoirs of a Geisha (2005). Plus, Dileep Rao also plays in James Cameron's Avatar (2009) as Dr. Max Patel. You can't go wrong with casts like that! They deliver the characters wonderfully.

What I don't really like:

1. Many people say that you don't really feel the time when you watch this movie. I mean, it runs at 148 minutes, but people say that they didn't feel the 148 minutes while watching this movie. (And by people I saw reviews from the Internet, mostly from imdb). It doesn't work for me... I mean I like the idea of the movie and it's not boring, but I did keep one eye on my watch - up until the 3/4 of the movie.

2. Unestablished ending. Some people might find wondering about what actually happened "tasteful", but I don't. I'm okay with sad endings, but unestablished one? Blegh.

For me, this movie is 7 out of 10 stars. One warning though: I don't think this movie is for everyone.

Trailer:

Toodle-o,

Maria

The Myth TV Series (2010)

Okay, I know this blog's name is AM Movie Mania, but I suppose it's okay to review a TV series once in a while...

This is a Chinese TV series. The entire series is spoken in Mandarin, so prepare for a bafflement if the subtitle suddenly went poof (.. like mine did a couple of times) but if you can speak or read Mandarin fluently then it's no problem. Hahaha.

First thing first: THIS REVIEW CONTAIN SPOILER. And not just any spoiler, the ENDING's spoiler. So. If you want to watch it yourself and not know the ending now... stop reading this review. Right here is the line.

Another warning (yes, even this warning contains spoiler): if you hate sad-but-beautiful-heart-crunching-tear-jerking type of ending, don't watch this TV series. It contains 50 *damn* episodes. Each beautiful except the ending.

WHY WHY WHY WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY -

Ehm.

As usual, some info:

Director: Jeffrey Chiang, Yuen Bun (action director), Stanley Tong (creative director)

Writer: Li Haishu

Genre: Science fiction | Romance | Historical drama | Fantasy

Casts: Hu Ge (Yi Xiao Chuan / Meng Yi), Bai Bing (Princess Yu Shu), Chang Shih (Gao Yao / Zhao Gao), Alina Zhang (Gao Lan / Xiao Yue), Ren Quan (Yi Da Chuan), Xu Di (Yi Mama), Xu Min (Yi Suo Chang), Tan Kai (Xiang Yu), Li Yi Xiang (Liu Bang), Chen Zi Han (Lu Zhi), Jin Sha (Lu Su), Allen Ting (Meng Tian), Yang Shu Tian (Chui Wen Zi), etc.

Country of origin: China

Language(s): Mandarin

No. of episodes: 50

Summary:

Yi Xiao Chuan finds a tiger pendant by coincidence and the pendant sears a mark onto his chest when he wears it on his neck. Meanwhile, Xiao Chuan's older brother, Yi Da Chuan, discovers a 2000-year-old treasure box at an excavation site. Xiao Chuan unlocks the box using his pendant and opens a time portal by accident. Unknown to everyone else, he is transported back in time to the Qin Dynasty period together with Gao Yao, his girlfriend's brother.

Back in history, Xiao Chuan meets the historical figures Xiang Yu and Liu Bang, and becomes sworn brothers with them. He encounters the Qin general Meng Tian, who mistakes him for his long-lost younger brother Meng Yi, because the mark of the pendant belongs only to members of the Meng clan. Xiao Chuan also meets Princess Yu Shu of Tu'an, who becomes the new love of his life. However, the lovers are unable to be together, as Yu Shu has become the Qin emperor's concubine in exchange for peace between the Qin empire and Tu'an. Xiao Chuan is unwilling to give up and he meets Yu Shu in secret inside the palace.

On the other hand, Gao Yao is separated from Xiao Chuan and sent to the palace, where he is forcefully castrated and becomes a eunuch. After enduring humiliation and bullying, he wins the favour of the emperor through his excellent culinary skills and becomes a high-ranking official. He is renamed to "Zhao Gao" and starts abusing his authority by seeking vengeance on those he perceived to be responsible for his plight. Zhao Gao is gradually corrupted by power and turns against his old buddy, Xiao Chuan, whom he sees as a threat to his plans for dominating the Qin empire.

In the present-day, Da Chuan, Gao Lan (Xiao Chuan's girlfriend), and Da Chuan's parents, work closely together to open the treasure box. Following clues from the box's engravings and a map, they need to embark on a treasure hunt to find the five secret keys to unlock the box. However, a mysterious masked man in black is also after the box's contents and he sends his lackeys to harass them.

This TV series is based on a 2005 movie by the same title. Click here for more info. After reading the synopsis of this movie, I want to watch it. And compared to the TV series, I think it's less heart-crunching because Meng Yi and Jack are two different persons (reincarnation), while in the TV series, Meng Yi and Yi Xiao Chuan are the very same person who waits 2000 years to find his love.

Lists!

Things I love in this TV series:

1. It's a historical drama. I've always loved Chinese historical drama. The Kung Fu, old times of China, emperor thing-y... I love them!

2. Lovely cast of characters. Hu Ge is really into his character (Yi Xiao Chuan). As the main protagonist of the series, the audience must endure his face and acting for approximately 40 hours. He did a wonderful job. From Yi Xiao Chuan who can only play to Yi Xiao Chuan-slash-Meng Yi who knows love and mature. He totally deserves a huge round of applause. 

3. Beautiful setting. Needless to say, most of the scenes are in Qin Dynasty of China, where everything is still ancient... I really, really, really like it! The music, dances, places - everything. Ooo, hopefully none of the horses got hurt during the shooting of the scene!

4. Wonderful lesson to be learned. If House TV series is about truth, then this TV series is about patience. Xiao Chuan has to wait effing 2000 years to meet his love, if he's not patient then I don't know what he is.

One thing I hate in this TV series:

The ENDING. It's not an effing happy ending and I wasted my tears and 40-ish hours of my life watching something that's just so.. so... uuuuggh! I mean, if a movie has a sad ending it's okay because I only traded two hours for a sigh of disappointment. But 40-ish hours?! *sob*

I cried my eyes out (not literally) during the scene where Xiang Yu and Xiao Yue fight for their lives. I don't know why, I think it's the most tear jerking scene for me because Xiang Yu's character really appeals to me. His way to love Xiao Yue is just too sweet. Meng Tian character also appeals to me, mainly because Allen Ting is so handsome. The moustache, beard, and hairdo totally suit him! Hahaha.

Anyway... if you like historical drama or just have nothing to do, you should definitely watch this TV series. It's really, really beautiful... in a heart-crunching way. However, the 50 episodes thing needs a little commitment. 

Unfortunately, I don't find any trailer for this TV series. My rating for this TV series is 8 out of 10 stars. Not 10 out of 10 because of the ending. *sob*

Toodle-o,

Maria