{
[Sei] "Waste of time" movie
}
What A Girl WantsThe film I believe I had wasted a lot of time watching was entitled 'What A Girl Wants' starring Amanda Bynes. Now I don't really now what had gotten into me when I saw that title and thought,
hey, I should pop this into the DVD player and watch this! Up to now, it still baffles me. And it makes me laugh as well.
I watched the film a long time ago and I never really bothered thinking about it again, naturally. The movie is basically about a girl who wants freedom. And instant gratification. And indeed, freedom and instant gratification are what she gets! And I remember vividly, a scathing review written on the back of the pirated DVD case-- "A perfect movie for the 'instant gratification' generation," and boy, was that one of the most accurate pirated one-line reviews I have ever read. Though I was quite irked by the term given to OUR generation. I don't think it's
that bad, in fairness...
Other than the almost 'no value' storyline about having to get what you want, like "freedom," at all costs, the acting was also very, shall we say, bleh. I never really admired the hollywood "starlets" like Bynes, Lohan, Duff... they just don't bring in a lot of value to their movies (that usually need
a lot of value!) 'Parent Trap' starring Lohan may be an exception, but she was still young, cute and sane then... but that's another story. To top it off, their acting skills don't really cut the mustard for me. Very typical. I always feel like I'm watching, for example Hilary Duff being so-and-so, and not THE character she's playing. Same goes with Amanda Bynes and the rest of the crew.
The story didn't work for me. The acting didn't work for me. And that spelled out "blacklisted," on my movie list, so to speak.
Just so you know, I've managed to conveniently "misplace" the DVD. And if ever I do get to see it lying around again, I sure won't commit the same mistake twice.
[CINQUE] -- Favorite Film - Moulin Rouge
Moulin Rouge
After much deliberation, I have decided that my favorite movie of all time is indeed Moulin Rouge.
I don't know where to begin. I first watched it with my sister in the cinemas. Honestly, I didn't really know what I was getting myself into. I wasn't even aware of the actors, plot, directors, and even the fact that it was a musical.
At the opening sequence, I thought the movie was anything but thrilling. I thought it weird, gaudy and dizzying. I hadn't watched a movie musical in years. I simply did not expect it, and the music had come in full force, arresting my senses and making me blink several times, while thinking, What the heck is going on here?
My sister seemed fine, though. So I didn't complain. I decided to stay seated and take in all the wackiness that was so thoroughly being served up on the screen.
Finally, it was then that I recognized Ewan McGregor (shame, I know.) and wow was I surprised with his voice! I never even thought of actors who knew how to sing. It simply never crossed my mind. Same goes with Nicole Kidman. I had forgotten about her. But then she showed up on that swing and started singing. The whole audience was captivated--she was like a new beautiful face, a breakthrough actress that was truly a great find, only she wasn't new. And what a comeback it was for her--dancing and singing all the way.
Another thing that surprised me about the film was how "blunt" it was with touchy subjects like sex, etc. I was 12 years old, then, but quite mature, so I was able to handle the issues being portrayed pretty well. Thus, I was able to get over the uncomfortable things and just enjoy the movie and its REAL themes.
But enough of the talk on how I was uncomfortable with the movie! Time to tell you why I LOVED it.
The moment Satine (Kidman) and Christian (McGregor) started singing the part, 'And I will always love you...', that's when I started grinning. My eyes began to twinkle, so to speak. I was falling in love with the well-crafted medleys and the great-looking actors and the spectacular dances and flashes of color. I was enthralled. The movie was so fresh and unique and nothing like the movies I had been seeing as of late during that time.
Nevermind the fact that the movie was about a courtesan, that one of the main points of the movie was seduction and greed and lust, that it focused on the "underworld"--the dark part of revolutionary Paris that was in fact, giving the 'life' to the 'night'.
It was, as all cliches are in fact true, all about Love. And the overwhelming power of it. So overwhelming in fact that it could not be manifested and felt just through simple words, but through dancing and song! I believe the movie so perfectly captured the joys and pains of love, making it universal, though the setting is confined to a time and place simply engraved now in history. The themes are indeed timeless. The message rang loud and true, even after the haunting melody (which remains to be one of my favorites until now) of the ending credits had finished: love lives on.
After the movie (and much crying), my sister and I discussed, first of all, the movie's many triumphs: its near-perfection (impeded by the fact that the tragic ending was a tragic one), the gorgeous music and visuals, and its ability to artfully and creatively blend drama and comedy-- something not a lot of movies manage to pull off without being too much of a downer (or an upper) or something lackluster and in between.
All the actors did an amazing job in portraying their characters, in making them real people--so real in fact that I often catch myself wondering, was this a true story? Was it possible that in that year right before the beginning of the new century, there were indeed two lovers doomed by death? Indeed, the actors were so amazing, in fact, that for me, the next couple of months were devoted to looking for and watching movies starring them. Even those behind the scenes made an excellent job. Kudos to the director, Baz Luhrmann whose creativity still makes me envious of him (I know I must admit it).
I must say, I would feel sorry for those who have not watched Moulin Rouge. It's not just a movie, it's an experience that everyone ought to have.
The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.
{
[Quattro] Farewell Letter
}
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm going to die. Nothing much I can do.
So I'll tell all of you whom I love what I most wanted to say, but I feel that I'll fail even at that. It's all apologies, because I feel that there is no use in trying to hold on to the pain. There's no use in trying to tell you what you did wrong, how I dislike you, how you've hurt me.
To Mom and Dad - I love both of you so much and I could never have done it without you. I'm sorry for all the trouble I've caused, for all my faults. I haven't been the perfect daughter, far from it. But please know that I've realized that I believe what you said, that my family will always be there, ALWAYS. You've taught me so much, given me so much that I feel words typed or written won't be able to express my gratitude. I can't be silly, I can't try to be funny. I'm sorry. I love both of you infinitely. Please remember the good times. Please. Dad, mom, I can't say it enough: I love you. For everything you've said and done for me.
To kuya - We haven't talked in a while. I haven't seen you in the longest time. For most of my life, you weren't around. I admit that often, I've forgotten that I have a brother. But each time you call and ask me how I am, I'm happy. I love you and ate Kay. And Isabel and Nathan. I hope they grow up to be fine-looking people with equally beautiful hearts.
To ate - Ate, anong masasabi ko? Maraming salamat. Thank you so much, Thank you. You've been like a mother to me. I know you've always thought of me, you only think of what's good for me. So thank you. I appreciate it. I love you so much.
To Carlie - You're the little sister I should have had. Once again, I feel horrible that I am at a loss for words. I'm grappling, thinking of what I can say, in hopes that I won't repeat myself. But you already know how I feel. I love you, friend. You're going to be great someday, because you're the kind of person who deserves only the best of everything, because you're the best friend I only regret to leave. I'll be right there if you need a friend. I promise.
To Maw - I feel truly sorry that it had to turn out the way it did. I still consider you one of the best friends I have ever had. No matter what, that won't change. I really do love you, and I hate it that you doubt that. One day, you're going to be onstage, being what you most wanted to be. I wish I could crack a joke, or talk about fond memories, but I'm losing them fast. All I can say is, you'll make it. You will. And I'm leaving without any anger towards you, no matter what you feel about me now. I apologize for being weak and for being unable to think of what I was doing. I apologize. One day, maybe I can say sorry to you in person and then we can have on of those great conversations, just like before. I loved every moment we hung out. Each and every moment. Thank you for that.
To Nina - I wish I could stick around to see you become successful and everything you dreamed to be. How I wish. You're one of those rare gems that I happened to just find out of pure luck. And I will never let go. Once again, I love you, dear. You've been there for me no matter what. Our friendship is beautiful, and it won't end. I apologize for being such a burden sometimes, I didn't want to be that to you, never. I'll be giving you a warm embrace when you feel down. But don't ever ever give up.
To Mayenne - Just the thought of leaving you makes me even more sad than I already am. Go get them, Mai. You can do it. I am also unable to express my gratitude properly, but no matter what, you'll be the kind of friend I'll never forget. We've known each other for quite a long time, and you never fail to amaze me with how kind you are. Please don't change. I love you. Take care.
To Magoo - Hello, there. What can I say? It's my time to go. Please pray for me, please pray that I get there. I'll be praying for you. I am most certain that you'll become one of the greatest people the world will ever know. Never stop believing, never stop trying, never stop proving them wrong. I'll be there evry step of the way. Please hold on when things get tough. I'll see you soon, my good friend.
To Tina - You're someone I never thought I'd be friends with. Such a pleasant surprise, you are. But please, move on after this. You're one of those people who should never be broken. You're one of the kindest souls I've ever met, and I love you truly for that. I'll be giving you big hugs when you're down, and I'll be around, I assure you. Now, go and become a writer, anything you want to be. And I'll be there, cheering you on.
To Krizia - We both made mistakes. But we need to move forward. I thank you now for the good times we had, no matter how far away they are now. I'll still remember you as that friend who was generous and patient and honest. Please go on and become what you want to be, become the person you know you can become. I know you can do it.
To The Gang - Hey, guys. Well, this is it! Wish me luck. Thank you for being such a blast. The first group of friends I've ever had. You never judged, you were never mean. At all. I will miss you all thoroughly. I love you all and wish you all the best.
And to everyone else who mean so much to me: All my relatives and friends, thank you. I can never repay all of you. In some way, each of you has had a hand in the way I have become the person that I am today. To all whom I've done much wrong: I am sorry. I never meant the harsh words, the moments of dreaded silence, the misunderstandings, the betrayals, the distance, the alienation. All that, I truly regret. Know that they make me sad, and I wish only that you all forgive me.
I kindly request that I may be cremated. To whomever will end up with my ashes: Please throw them to the ocean. Please keep my papers, my poetry. That's all. Thank you. So, I'll be seeing all of you again soon.
Goodbye,
Danix
{
[Tre] Questions
}
IF YOU COULD ASK GOD JUST ONE QUESTION, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
I would ask him: Why did you not kill Lucifer?
Hehe.
IF YOU COULD ASK A QUESTION TO ANYONE, DEAD OR ALIVE, WHAT WOULD THE QUESTION BE AND WHO WOULD YOU ASK?
1. I would ask Dante (haha. i'm such a geek...):
How the heck did you come up with THAT?!
I don't know... it's just... amazing. I'm jealous of the fact that he came up with such a brilliant idea AND he was able to execute it so well. *sigh*
2. And I'll ask Hitler: Did you ever have a Jewish friend?
:D
{
Hum Hum!
}
Strange. My results from the "full test" are different. Oh well! I can see I kinda am a Type 6 and a Type 5 Personality :P They were of 'equal' rating.
free enneagram test
free enneagram test
Thanks to Mon and her tita for this XD
I sent my mom an email with the interview questions. This is because my parents are usually very tired when they get home from work. And well, I have a feeling I'll forget to interview them. Hehe.
So, here's my mom's response to my email :)
Hi Mom, Dad,
This is a homework for my composition class. Can you please answer them and email it back to me? :)
Thank you!
danix
1. What was the funniest thing I did when I was a baby?
2. What was my first word?
3. What was my first food/favorite food?
4. What was the craziest thing you did when you were a student?
5. How did you and dad/mom meet? (if it's too awkward to ask, you're excused)
6. If you could do anything other than what you are doing now, what would it be?
7. Tell me a secret you kept from your parents.
8. Tell me something about you that I still don't know.
{}
RE: [Italicized are my commentaries, yes ;)]
Dearest Danix:
Sorry I only got my computer back working today. Hope this is not too late for your homework. Why did you not ask me when I came in last night? Anyway, here goes:
1. Funniest thing you did when you were a baby:
You would cry but the moment you heard popular music on the radio, you would stop and start dancing.
[ACTUALLY, there's another (funnier) story... it's embarrassing for me, but I guess it's pretty funny for others. I won't tell you voluntarily though... ;)]
2. First word:
'Da da' referring to Daddy.
3. First favorite food:
Vanilla Ice Cream; Chicken Nuggets from McDo with barbecue sauce.
[I have always been unhealthy, I guess. Haha.]
4. Craziest thing you did as a student :
You sent home your tutor and told her never to come back again (Teacher Grace).
[That tutor never taught me anything good. Instead of doing homework, she would teach me how to weave things using coconut leaves...]
5. Where Dad and Mom met:
In a funeral parlor in Cebu at a wake of a relative and I was asked by your dad how many children I already had.
[I'm sure my dad has a totally different story ;)]
6. What I could be right now:
I would have wanted to be a doctor since I love prescribing medicines to anyone who would care to listen.
[Yes, she always prescribes things! The only thing that stopped her from taking Med was when my lola warned her that it would take very looong to finish.]
7. A secret of mine:
I wrote to my favorite movie actor and asked him to visit the Philippines if he went this way. Turned out to be gay pala.
[Hahahahahaha!!! IDOL!]
8. Something you do not know about me:
When I was four or five, I wanted to be the angel they hoisted down from above for the 'salubong' during the Holy Week. I also am a frustrated ballet dancer.
[And she won a 'Healthy Baby' Award--she was in Seventh Grade...]
There you go.
Mom
{
The Truth of Slumber
}
The Truth of Slumber
i watch them, leaning against leathered red,
breathing slow and eyelids fluttering.
oh what great ones, what great souls,
hidden behind the closed eyes, glassy intellect,
strong will capable of another's death.
hearts beating in precise rhythms
may be black and scorched, stony or soft,
yet what difference does it make,
when the passive state has its way?
the fingers still and the arms heavy,
no guarded expression carves the once perfect
and unwavering.
there is peace that shelters the turbulent mind,
the violent emotion,
all seemingly pacified if for one moment
of restful recline.
unimaginable it is,
the price of consciousness of the secret spectators' bliss,
the pleasure of sighting the absence of defense
in one whose every waking hour is spent on non-recompense.
unimaginable the consequence, the beautiful effect
of facades falling and becoming derelict.
blame the natural cause, blame the uncontrollable instinct,
blame the human defect
oh, blame the notion of rest!
for revealing the ertswhile ill truth
and glorious reality:
all are equal in the grasp of dreams!
{
Hello
}
Since I honestly have nothing to write about, I just decided that maybe I can post a poem.. or something. I'm just scared that this blog will die =S I usually write sad or dark poetry, but I guess I have a couple of (relatively) lighter ones :)
This one is a bit old and strange.
The Philosopher
The child's game of Cops and Robbers
turned to that of Fiends and Lovers.
Hurry, smite me with a stone that will crack my skull,
find in all my rarity that the mind is dull.
I placed a hand over my head,
consenting to be condemned.
Behold the new Parthenon of the modern age,
come worship the gods of fallen days,
I preached and earned no reward,
I spoke the truth that sparked up wars
between the right and the rightful.
Does the naked reality scare you?
Am I a force to be destroyed?
I know truths and I know lies,
why beat the grass for turning dry
when it is the sun all scorched up high?
is it that the heavens are too far?
that you drop down on your knees and strike the ground
that you can reach?
I am a mere puppet for the concepts that entangle me
within their web of fascination and mystery.
Do not hunger for my death, I beg you.
Do not wish to make me bleed unto my hands,
my Fate is not with thee.
A timeless spell in this growing world,
where what is sacred is fast forgotten,
what is ancient is fast ignored,
I bear the knowledge of Life and its heroism,
Life and its inconsistencies,
come bear the weight with me,
strike me down and your freedom will not come,
for all this, all that we live for, all that we fear,
all that we do not know,
is far greater than you and me.
{
Tribute
}
I was looking through my school files (now that sounds geeky.) and I came across this. It's something I had written for trying out for the position of Literary Editor in the yearbook. We were assigned to write about someone. I had chosen to write about a very dear friend of mine. And I thought I should share. I'm very proud of it--not in the way you may think, but I am proud of it because of who it talks about.
Carla Alessandra Ana Garcia Dario. Or better yet, Carlie; as most of her friends call her. It is almost unfair to be given only a few sentences to perfectly capture such a wonderful personality, but I will try my best.
Let me start by saying that having Carlie as a friend, classmate or schoolmate is a grand privilege--it guarantees fun talks, sound advice and constant support. With that unquenchable thirst for adventure and that ever-present smile, who can deny any chance of a relationship with her? Indeed, she's become a friend to us all. Based on my experiences, I will tell you that she is one of those people who will give her all in friendships; she aces all standards of being a "friend" and because of this, I consider myself lucky. Her bubbly personality always manages to make even the most serious or down-trodden crack a smile. Because of this, she has all the reasons to be admired and emulated. I am one of many who wish to learn from her and in some way become Carlie-istic--yes, she deserves her own adjective. As one of the youngest people in the batch, she has displayed maturity and level-headedness that both younger and older students find admirable.
Not only does she excel in relations and friendships, she has also achieved much academically because of her ability to emerge from school hurdles certainly not unscathed, but indeed experienced and more determined than the last. She constantly proves herself to her peers and teachers through her dedication to schoolwork and responsibilities. Her ability to juggle family life, school life and social life is one of her strongest points. She also is also blessed with many enviable talents. She is musically-inclined; having a voice that can make hearts swoon. She is artistically-inclined; usually fond of drawing odd (but cute) characters, making new (and even cuter) names for them--displaying a boundless sense of imagination and creativity. She is athletically-inclined; she has won many awards in fencing competitions, as a result of continuous training and dedication. This shows that she is well-rounded and grounded, indeed an achiever in all aspects.
So much can be said, and so much is left to say about Carlie. She's the one with the bright smile and the kind words. She’s the one who manages to face all that Life throws at her and in the end say, 'Touche.'
I was so happy when I found out my dad had subscribed to Reader's Digest. I was looking for something to read just a while ago. I had already sniffed out every Time, The Economist and Fortune magazine in the house. Of course, I had the large amount of In Style magazines my sister owned, but I just wasn't in the mood for that.
So, I had gone into the room and found a May 2006 copy of RD. I finished reading it and something hit me: I have missed this publication so much. I remember my lola had given me a subscription to RD and National Geographic. Yet after she had passed away, naturally, the subscriptions ended as well. I went to my dad and asked if he could start subscribing, and he smiled at me and said, "I already did." So I dashed back into the master's bedroom and found that indeed, he had, and there were many copies in the magazine rack--they had been buried and was concealed from sight, given their size. I gathered all of them up and piled them on my bed. I'm so happy. Now I have something to read. The Word Power section is one of my favorites. Reading nice publications such as these makes me dream about becoming a magazine editor or anything that is connected with mass media, concerning specifically printed press.
And that's my little adventure for the day.
