Haha (Got this from Mei Mei, thanks a lot ya) lemme share here...

Ten Traits of GF revisited

10 Traits of a Great Girlfriend

10.  she's independent.

no one wants a girlfriend they have to baby-sit.  once in a while, like if she had a rough day at work, it's great to be her shoulder to cry on, but if she can't seem to function without you and is constantly after you, she will eventually make you feel like you're suffocating, which is a surefire way to get you running out the nearest exit.  on the other hand, if she has her very own personality and opinions, can stand on her own two feet, both financially and emotionally, and is able to enjoy time away from you - while still missing you, of course - then she must be a great girlfriend.

9.  she's intelligent.

i hate to be the one to tell you this, but the bimbo routine gets real old, real fast.  instead of being the one in total control, you'll find yourself tryinig to figure out what she's really thinking behind those glazed eyes of hers - or if she's actually thinking at all.  an intelligent woman will constantly surprise you and keep you on your toes.  she won't let you get bored of her.  besides, it's nice to have something to talk about between all the chandelier-hanging sex.

8.  she's sexual.

while we're on the topic, a great girlfriend has to be sexually compatible with you.  for instance, if you're into S&M and she's more the "fluffy lingerie" type, that's a problem.  the two of you have to be on the same page - or, at least, she has to be willing to wear leather and use a whip from time to time.  of course, this doesn't imply that she has to know all the right moves right away; it simply means that you and she have an undeniable attraction towards each other, and are able to communicate your desires verbally (or with physical cues).  it is important that you please each other in the bedroom, or on top of the dryer - whatever the case may be.

7.  she's beautiful.

i know, this one is kind of obvious, but important nonetheless.  a great girlfriend will not only want to look good for you, but also for herself.  she should always look her best and be well put together - matching lingerie is a definite plus.  you have to be proud to have her on your arm and enjoy the sight of her in any light.  and this doesn't mean that she has to be a heidi klum clone.  remember that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so if you think her full bottom or uncontrollable curls are beautiful, you're allowed.

6.  she respects you.

this is a biggie.  your woman must respect you.  this means that she listens to you, even if she doesn't necessarily agree with what you're saying.  and, of course, she never tries to demean or belittle you in any way, shape or form.  a great girlfriend won't ever cause scenes in public or in front of your friends and family, and will always wait to discuss matters with you in private.  if she respects you, chances are that she will behave in a tactful and diplomatic manner in most situations, which is definitely a good thing.

5.  she lets you be a man.

do not - i repeat - do not get involved with a woman who tries to get you to eat cottage chceese and fruit for breakfast and insists that you give up poker night with the guys.  you will end up resenting her more than you can imagine.  a good girlfriend lets you be a guy in all your glory, poker night and all.  if she's a great girlfriend, she'll even bring you and your buddies a couple of beers and make you some of her famous sandwiches.  she has to understand that men and women are different and should allow you to be yourself.  just like you wouldn't deprive her of going shopping with her best girlfriend, she shouldn't expect you to give up the guys for her.

4.  she's nagless.

there's nothing worse than a nag!  a great girlfriend knows this and chooses her battles wisely.  she knows when to speak up and when to let it slide.  you don't want a girlfriend who will give you hell for leaving a couple of dishes in the sink occasionally.  however, if you live together and you stay out all night without calling her, and she lets you have it, then you're setting yourself up for disaster.  this is a situation that nobody would let slide - not even a great girlfriend.

3.  she gets along with friends and family.

a great girlfriend will not only help your mom out in the kitchen, listen to your dad's stories and hang out with your friends, but she will enjoy it.  she'll make a real effort to get to know and love the most important people in your life.  and she won't try to get you to ditch your best buds.  she'll actually empathize with your brother's getting dumped and suggest that you guys take him out to cheer him up.  not only that, but your friends won't roll their eyes and moan when you mention that she'll be joining you guys when she gets off work (yes, women like this do exist).

2.  she loves you.

if you have found a woman who loves you for who you really are and not who you pretend or try to be sometimes, you should definitely hang on to her.  a woman who doesn't try to change you is hard to find.  of course, all women have their slightly annoying habits that their mate has to contend with, but if she really loves you, she will be able to cope with these.  another way to know if she really loves you is by observing the way she looks at you and treats you on an everyday basis.  if the sight of you doesn't seem to faze her either way, and she doesn't really seem to care about what you have to say, she's either playing very hard to get, or sees you as just some guy.  but if a surprise visit or phone call from you makes her light up, there's no denying that she loves you.

1.  she makes you want to be a better man.

stop making that face... any man who has a great girlfriend or wife will tell you that she makes him want to be a better man.  she doesn't have to say or do anything; it just is that way.  if you suddenly feel bad about how you treated your sister or find yourself trying to get your finances in order, you might want to think about your motivation for doing so.  it could be love.

10 Traits of a Great BF revisited

10 Traits Of A Great Boyfriend

A successful romance can be quite formulaic, for there are certain elements of dating that guys should never overlook. And with all the women out there who complain that their boyfriends are not satisfying them one way or another, one has to wonder: Do guys really know how to be good boyfriends or is it just impossible to satisfy women? With that, here are 10 positive traits of attached men. And if you possess just about all of the following, then perhaps the problems in the relationship don't lie with you.
Number 10: You listen When words come out of her mouth, do you actually pay attention to what is being said, or does your brain just process mumbling sounds while you stare at her chest? A good boyfriend is an active listener, meaning he asks questions and doesn't just sit there, waiting for his turn to speak. Showing her that you have a genuine interest in what she has to say means, among other things, that you respect her opinions and find her interesting; two things that will meet any woman's criteria.
Number 9: You're spontaneous A great relationship is one that never feels stale. So to avoid having your flames of desire burn out, you have to be unpredictable and mysterious in order to keep her guessing (and on her toes). Whether you whisk her away to a Mexican resort at the last minute or show up, for no apparent reason, with Chinese takeout, wine and a pair of handcuffs, spontaneity can add some real excitement to the romance, and intrigue her all the more. Women love to be swept away in as many different ways as possible; it's up to you to come up with as many ideas as you can.
Number 8: You satisfy her bedroom desires Saying that sex is important would be a gross understatement. A good boyfriend must satisfy his woman's every romantic need (and yes, she should reciprocate). There's a difference between making love just for the sake of it, and being passionate about it. That means never skipping foreplay, sending her soothing messages during the act (Note: it's okay to ask her, point-blank, what she likes), and not falling asleep the minute you're done.
Number 7: You're not whipped She may feel more empowered by it in the beginning, but in the long run, no woman wants a passive, submissive man who completely compromises his personality to make her happy. Retain your personality, stand by your opinions, and don't give in too easily. Show her that you are strong, confident, and have a spine.
Number 6: You notice the small stuff Did she suddenly get highlights in her hair, shed a few pounds, or buy a new dress? These are all things you need to take note of; most women instinctively flock to guys with keen eyes. It shows that you are attentive and don't skim over life's more subtle details.
Number 5: You give her space Trust is the foundation of any good relationship. Part of that entails giving her the freedom to have a life separate from yours without asking 20 questions or having jealous fits, and knowing that she's not taking your trust for granted. Keep things in perspective; would you like a girlfriend who kept tabs on every move you made? Probably not, and the same goes for her. And always look for a silver lining; in this case, you'll have time to hang out with your buddies, and have something to talk to her about the next time you see her.
Number 4: You respect her (and her family) It's important to avoid letting your ego get the best of you, so if your mentality is stuck in the '50s, you must adjust to changing times. You have to understand that she's an equal part of the relationship, so appreciate her company. Likewise, try to embrace her family early on. In addition to scoring precious points, being kind and courteous toward her parents is a good way to show that you're serious about the relationship. This includes, but is not limited to, bringing the parents thoughtful little gifts every so often, and planning activities that include her whole family, like a picnic. Of course, I'm assuming that you've already survived that dreadful first meeting.
Number 3: You better yourself Demonstrating what a positive effect your woman has had on you is a fantastic way of gaining leverage. Whether you're getting yourself back into shape, improving your vocabulary, or forgetting about the television long enough to take dance lessons with her, it doesn't matter. Improving yourself is a great way of letting her know she deserves the best, and she'll be flattered that she was the inspiration behind your desire to aim higher.
Number 2: You challenge her to be better Likewise, your role in her life should be just as beneficial. You should inspire her to make changes that reflect the positive effect you've had on her. If, for example, you see her letting a great talent go to waste, encourage her; maybe that's all she needs. Don't be afraid to sign her up for an art class, or push her to pursue a career you know she'd be good at. The fact that you care that much about her well-being will make her want to keep you around longer.
Number 1: You make her feel beautiful Reminding her how beautiful she is comes with making her feel good, and makes you a poster boyfriend. Best of all: simplicity and honesty are all you need. Buy her, say, a card that expresses your appreciation, compliment her at odd times, and if you feel that she's the most gorgeous creature you've ever laid eyes on, be sure to let her know. Women want to look good for their men, and proving to her that you only have eyes for her will be a validation of that.

But Cath says: Why bother too much? Just do your best, be sincere in relationship, some of the traits here are too perfect, and no one is perfect in this world, for me, Mei, I simply don't expect too much, but it doesn't mean I should not strive for the best for him to love me, some of the traits here are worth cultivating. It's true that love can fade off if not nurtured, and therefore, reasonable endeavors are always propitious and encouraged. I love being who I am and I will love a man for wanting me for who I am, no matter how simple I am. Love, relationship, it's all about mutualism, no pain no gain value is attached there too. :P  Love ain't an obsession, there's a clear line there for me. Thanks for this lovely sharing...

Anyone is welcome for the comments too!

Last, this is one of the image I want to put here, I think it's so cute.

 

The Countess (2009)

Europe, early 17th century. Hungarian Countess Erzebet Bathory (Julie Delpy) is a strong-willed and vain, the most powerful and also the most feared in her country. She is beautiful, intelligent and unwilling to accept that men make and break the rules as they please.

Then, one day, She meets the much younger Istvan (Daniel Brühl) and they immediately fall for each other and start a passionate affair.A late husband, a lesbian lover (Anamaria Marinca) and a Sadomasochistic enthusiast (Sebastian Blomberg) have all been received between her bed sheets with little passion. Only Estavan Thurzo/ Istvan, a much younger man of much lower rank, lights her fire. Being warned of her love, she reasons "Love isn't a sign of weakness, rather the most noble feeling human can show". But their bliss is short-lived. Istvan’s father Count Thurzo (deliciously cold: William Hurt) forces his son to marry another woman and initiates a scheme to bring down the commanding Countess.

Erzebet however is convinced that Istvan left her because of her fading beauty. Intensely, obsessively in love, the countess believes she has been deceived and betrayed when the young man disappears. She doesn't realize that his father, Count Thurzo has conspired to marry him into a financially attractive family. Instead, she sees this as a younger man's rejection based on age differences.Slowly going mad, she starts to believe that the blood of virgins, extracted by a brutal metal cage will preserve her youthful visage. She embarks on a murderous undertaking, risking everything: her reputation, her wealth, her standing, her life. Erzebet quickly develops a fixation on bathing in female virgin blood to improve her complexion. At first a few drops from a tiny cut will do. All too soon she must wring each girl dry.

Her lesbian lover has warned her about the love and how wrong she has been misled by her obsession and that her bloodbath did not do anything to her look, which this is denied completely by the Countess.

A metal cage with sharp, slicing knives drains away the blood, which gravitation pulls down into her chamber for long, leisurely baths. Before long, girls all over the area are disappearing. As rumors reach Count Thurzo, he realizes he has the means to seize Erzebet's family lands.

Disturbingly, the movie is based on an actual person and actor/writer/director Delpy meshes legend and fact: The real Countess Barthory (1560-1614) is possibly the most prolific female serial killer in history, convicted on 80 counts, with one witness attributing more than 600 deaths to her. In actuality she was never tried in court and the legendary bloodbaths were never verified. Yet she is remembered as the “Blood Countess” or “Countess Dracula”.

All of this being said, this is definitely not a splatter movie! It is disturbing, but not on a “slasher” level. There is structure and unruliness. Lesbianism, Bloodthirst and romance, oh and also sadomasochism. Vanity and power struggles. It’s not exactly horror, more like psychological gothic movie.

The movie starts off with a structured stab at a behavioral explanation. I think that Delpy tried to explore the main character in a very honest and exploratory fashion without excusing anything. Little Erzebet is exposed to cruelty and insensitiveness from childhood. Delpy employs two crucial childhood experiences and a merciless disposition to round out the character profile. Mixed in unrequited love, madness and high social ranking and power and what do you get? Bloodbaths galore.

I have got to applaud writer/director Julie Delpy for a cunning psychogram of a very complex woman that was part victim and part perpetrator simultaneously, she is trying to explore the facets of an inherently cruel, sangfroid and narcissistic character that falls for a much younger man. It is immensely difficult to chronicle the demise of a lover turning into a quenchless murderess, much less portray it. Delpy does a great job with the acting, The question arises how cruel anyone could become if they had the freedom to be. The Countess viewed herself as a devout Protestant and hardship and cruelty were a sign of the times then. But the quote “Time has no respect for beauty” is one that could be uttered by anyone in Hollywood today. Still,  it is a long way to dead virgins lining the woods.

I like the psychology behind “The Countess” and that Delpy isn’t afraid to explore the wrath of a woman scorned in all its splendor. She isn’t afraid to portray herself as ugly or “old” (though I am sure 39 looked different in 1610). However, combining fact and fiction, the movie turns out so captivating!

I am a fan of Delpy’s work. This movie has a distinct, dark style. Still, it demands an acquired taste for the genre and human contradictions.

Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.

I SAY, WATCH IT! 80% FRESH for this movie!

Up in the Air (2009)

Rated R [See Full Rating] for language and some sexual content.

First, let's talk about Jason Reitman, the writer. This script is, by far, the best script of the year. Reitman stated earlier in the year that this is his most personal effort, and it totally bleeds through onto the final product. There is never a time where you are pulled out of the film. It keeps you engaged all the way through. Whether it is hiring twenty two people that have actually been recently laid off to be the people fired, or writing the script specifically for the actors he knew, their is never a continuity issue of the viewer getting pulled out of the film for just a split second, and not believing it. Another huge point for this script is the fact that right when you think you've got this thing figure out, it takes a big turn. You think it is going to take a cliched path a few times, and then you are stunned and challenged to continue on with it. He gives these characters such texture, that people will praise these actors, and although they do a good job, the characters they are given are amazing.

Next, Reitman, the director. Jason Reitman proves with this movie that he is going to be around for a long time, providing us quality film that will be viewed for many, many years to come. The biggest compliment for Up in the Air is it's not looking back on this era of insanity. Instead, this magnificent film has captured, with definitive emotion, our times while they're actually happening. It handles it's timely message with such grace, that it is hard not to praise. The movie provides some subtle humor, that at times, is laugh out loud funny. Up in the Air is no comedy though. It is a movie that asks questions, and gets you thinking about your life. It brings up the questions, "Where am I going", and "What am I doing with my life?" Jason Reitman captures this timeless message, and provides a movie that is perfect for its era. It can relate to anyone, anywhere, and it does not matter if you like romantic musicals or strictly science fiction, you will like this movie.

Now, the acting. George Clooney, to me, has been one of the more over rated actors of our generation. Sure, he is a charming guy. Really though, think of all the great movies he has been in. For me, that is kind of difficult. Sure, he has had some good roles. His role in this movie, must have really hit home for him, because he nails this one. His performance is excellent, and I think he deserves an Oscar nomination. He provides a character with rich substance, that on the surface, seems like a bad guy, but really is genuinely human and a good guy. He makes many mistakes, as everyone does, but his character is a good person. He provides an intricate character, but ultimately won the whole audience will be able to relate to. Clooney also masters the physical aspect of acting as his dance scenes are hilarious, his emotional scenes are perfect (i.e. his verge of tears look before the wedding and on the subway), and added together with his typical witty, rather sarcastic charm and he easily wins over the audience.

 

Vera Farmiga and Anna Kendrick are excellent as well, and Kendrick is just AMAZING! When her character is finally put one-on-one via web cam with the 57-year old man...her body acting/expressions/overall visage is simply flawless and she was just a joy to watch on-screen. Reitman specifically wrote these roles for all of them, and you can tell in the final performances. Each of their personalities in real life is reflected right onto their characters.

Jason Reitman captures a timeless message in his masterpiece, Up in the Air. It is the timeliest movie of the year, as it expertly portrays the human emotions that everyone is facing in today's economy and social structure, referring to America recession. It is amazing how well Reitman blends humor, love, and drama all into one movie so perfectly. Overall, this picture is excellent and one of the best of the year in my eyes.

I give 80% fresh for this movie. Highly recommended! ^_^

Love is...

love is a dream
that does not stop
when you awaken
but constantly surprises
no strong emotions
stirring up dust
and clouding your vision
 
love is more than it seems
and has a purpose
you cannot see
and yet
cannot hide from
 
love is an inescapable reality
that knocks you
senseless
takes your breath away
and leaves no heart beating
but its own

District 9 (2009)

Rated R(restricted) for bloody violence and pervasive language

This movie is about a huge alien ship which has hovered over the skies of Johannesburg, South Africa, for two decades. Its inhabitants - scaly, ugly aliens which look like prawns were evacuated, and then locked away inside District 9, a huge slum, separated from the human population. Humans helped them to eat cos they seemed malnourished. There are around 1,8 million of them.

Then, people in Johannesburg started to feel annoyed by their existence, riots happen, forcing the government to evict them from Johannesburg. And there the story turns more and more absorbing from there.

Even from the beginning of the movie, I could sense this movie is gonna be great, without being affected at all from all the high ratings I saw from the community for this movie. It's just, the documentary view, seems so live, as if i were there with them. Producer Peter Jackson and Director Neill Blomkamp really rock! First and foremost, Neil Blomkamp, the director, I do not think anyone has heard of him.The way he directed District 9 is simply intelligent and amazing, different from other alien movies I have ever watched! ^_^ I think he is going to have a huge future ahead of him and is the most promising director of the year. He employs a documentary, hand held, cinema style that is used to perfection in District 9. The chaos in District 9 is covered but does not make you sick. He places you in the action and makes you feel like your the one that has been put in District 9. He does everything a director needs to do. The script is excellent. Their is so much creativity put into it and it translates masterfully to the stage. Their is never a dull moment while you are captivated in the story of District 9. Some of the scenes he films are so unique and ground breaking that I am still thinking about them now.

The acting is amazing as well. Their is really only one actor. That actor is Sharlto Copley. The usage of little known actors is smart, as it was in The Hurt Locker. His conflict is breath taking. I think it is more the character he plays that makes him look so good. He is so developed and their is so much emotion he puts on screen, that it is hard to ever turn away. He puts his heart into his performance and it makes the movie very enjoyable.

District 9 is the movie that will put science fiction back on the map. It has rejuvenated the genre and put some interest into people. The story is not overly complex but interesting to follow, just what most people need. Their is gut wrenching action that keeps your heart pumping and blood broiling all the way to that touching end. As I said at the beginning, their is never a dull moment where you stop to check what time it is. It also expertly mixes emotions into the mix. The conflict is intriguing and that last scene kind of makes you say, Oh my god. That is not too say that the explosions and visuals are not spectacular. They beat out the movies this year because they feel more real like they are there. Maybe that is just because that is how the movie feels. Everything is go gritty, in your face, and real that you feel as if you are in a different country watching as Johannesburg is being shaken.

To wrap this up, District 9 features great directing, emotionally wrenching acting, amazing visuals, blood broiling acting, but still focuses a lot of its energy on an eye opening amazing plot that makes everything you experience for that 112 minutes real and gritty.

I rate 90% fresh for this movie! Highly recommended!

Why are teachers so stressed?

I received this email long ago, but this never ceases to make me laugh out loud...So, I think about sharing here.

When in School we always wondered why teachers always seemed so mad
Now we know the reason….Hahahaha

And stupidity continues...

And this is the one that makes me burst out in laughter the most!! Hahaha...

What a day of blood!

What a day of bleeding... It was a perfect Saturday for me till I got my nose-bleeding attacks again, blood rushed out like hell...and when it just got better, I took a nap around 2 hours and then my pillow was again stained with blood... Gosh!! But now, I am enjoying tea in cafe.

Well, one of the sites says this "Nosebleeds are very common. Most nosebleeds occur because of minor irritations or colds. They can be frightening for some patients, but are rarely life threatening", so I'll not think too much, and still become powerpuff girl / BUTTERCATH!!! Hehe

The messenger (2009)

Rated R(Restricted) [See Full Rating] for language and some sexual content/nudity 

What would have happened if Staff Sergeant William James (Jeremy Renner from The Hurt Locker) died in action? Who would notify the family? Who would have to take the bullet? Who would have to watch a family member of the deceased crumble emotionally as you just starred at them impassively? The Messenger tells us just that--honestly and disturbingly.

The Messenger seemed to remain on the down low for the majority of its theatrical release, which isn't really a surprise. After all, its plot revolved around two military men (not exactly a new topic) and it was only a limited release. However, The Messenger began to gain recognition once its co-star, Woody Harrelson, gained an Oscar nomination for his role. After viewing, I cannot seem to find one reason that I wasn't hearing praises about it from the very beginning.

The Messenger features the story of staff sergeant Will Montgomery (Ben Foster) who, upon returning from war after suffering injuries in an explosion that killed his friend, his soul is clearly tainted with war's destituteness, leaves his enlistment and is assign to join the Casualty Notification Team with Captain Tony Stone (Woody Harrelson - who well-earned his Oscar nomination here). Quite simply, "The Messenger" deals with the grief that comes from the losses suffered and horrors experienced during the war. Will is marked to be a hero by his fellow countrymen and by his military, yet he doesn't see it that way. He sees it that he was the cause of his friend and comrades death. "The Messenger" is solidified on a universally set level ground as the film doesn't try to glorify the soldiers, but rather brings the audience into their world and their own screwed up lives while at the same time paints a depressingly accurate picture of victims' grief. As Will starts to witness the horrible experience of informing family members of their son/daughter/husband/wife's death, he begins to realize that the horrors of war don't end overseas.

Take notice that The Messenger occurs entirely off the battlefield; the only thing we have to fear is fear itself in this film. The aspect of having to tell a family that they will never see their child again. Unlike The Hurt Locker (a superior achievement on war's blatant truths) The Messenger is a much more subtle take on the purpose of war. Woody Harrelson and Ben Foster portray their characters as completely impassive soldiers. They have an emotional soul, but it is burdened under this job they have to take on--being a messenger, or as the receiver would probably claim, the grim reaper. The Messenger works so well in its effortless attempt to sear you emotionally. The Messenger doesn't work so well when it takes on a contrived love story in the second half that makes the experience only marginally worth it.

The characters of Will and Tony are perfect contrasts to one another. Will is presumably shaken from the war and heartbroken over the fact that his girl left him when he was overseas. This plays a large toll on Will as throughout the movie he doesn't hook up with any girls, yet he starts becoming romantically interests in a new widow (one of the women that Will and Tony had to inform about the death of her husband to). While the romantic interest may seem low to some, Will and the widow, Olivia Pitterson (Samantha Morton) are able to connect with one another as both are victims of the war and both are somewhat able to ease each other's pain. Likewise, Will seems to have more of a connection towards the human emotion as he proves when he ignores protocol and makes contact with a husband and wife while consoling them over the news of their son's death.

On the other hand, Tony claims to be all militaristic; however, once the job is over he becomes as human as possible. Since he doesn't have as humanly a connection with others, he starts to rely on Will and a friendship begins to form. For a while, the friendship seems like a one way street as Will always seems to be looking out for Tony (as Tony has a drinking problem and a case of either pent up aggression or anger management issues); however, there is an obvious connection and common understanding between the two by the climax of the film.

Aside from its expressive realism, "The Messenger" features a phenomenally constructed cast and beautiful writing. As the film progresses, the audience becomes aware that "The Messenger" isn't really telling a story or portraying a sequence of events, but rather bringing the viewer into the lives of the two soldiers are the victims that they must inform. The writing is what gives the film its strong sense of Earthliness and profound realism.

The first quarter of the film is a deconstructive depiction of delivering those dreadful KIA letters to the next of kin. A battlefield of emotions perhaps. Each set piece involving the letter is completely different in its emotional portrayal. The reactions are all different. One reacts in denial, the other (played surprisingly brilliant by Steve Buschemi) verbally assaults the two soldiers claiming them of cowardice, and one other shakes their hand understandably of how tough this job must be. And it really is--Stone, when he's not playing messenger, drinks his life away at a bar and solicits hookers. Apparently war gives you demons even when you leave the battlefield.

Montgomery meets a war widow named Emily (Lisa Joyce) and their self-pity develops into intimacy. I get that complex addition but what's the attraction? What pulls them together? There are hundreds of war widows in the U.S. but what draws those two together? This is never really explained and this change in narrative develops into soap opera story on torn people finding each other in hard times. Moverman knows what he is doing here; his dialogue between Emily and Montgomery is tight--bleak, pitying, and tense. Perhaps these two just need each other, their love escapes them from the horrors of reality. But for the audience, they'd rather escape this part of The Messenger.

The last forty minutes will be a tough watch (not in a good way). The film, instead of conveying bleakness, becomes only that. Montgomery incessantly pursues his ex Kelly (Jena Malone) but his drunken quirks pull them apart. His inner demons have taken him down a path that only the hurt can follow.

The Messenger thus is a honest and powerful depiction of the very same name. Expect to see two actors at their best and story dressed in an effortless attempt to tamper with our emotions without ever begging. The Messenger is a film you want to lose yourself into, but once Moverman makes the devastating lapse to incorporate a love story, the film dwells on the edge of melodrama when it really doesn't need to.  A love story has never been so unanticipated and unwelcoming. But heck, when does anyone anticipate the arrival of the messenger?

I SAY-See It--emotionally tenacious but it falters under its own bashfulness.To sum up, "The Messenger" is a film that is worth checking out. It doesn't try to be superficial, glossy, or sugar-coated, but rather keeps all its characters and situations on an equal level; portraying the film as a dive into the lives of actual people rather than a sequence of events that make up just another story from an obviously artificial and fictitious mind state.

I give 60% fresh for this movie.

Gladiator (2000)

Gladiator is a movie for fans of both drama and action films to enjoy. Any action junkie can enjoy the fast paced action that this movie delivers. There are so many great gladiator scenes that have you biting your fingernails, hoping him and his friends will live. They keep you on edge and entertained all the way through. In addition, Ridley Scott puts in a great dramatic plot with back stabbings and betrayals at every turn. Joaquin Phoenix and Russel Crowe's wars between each other have you waiting to see who will die first, and the ending wraps their rivalry up well. Russell Crowe (my favorite actor) gives a magnificent performance as Maximus, a man looking for revenge for the murders of his wife and son, the times of desperation and determination in combat makes his character very gritty, proving that he is one of the most accomplished actors of this era. That explains why he received an Oscar as Best Actor in this movie. Overall, Gladiator meshes drama and action splendidly and is a great epic movie.

The action is one of the best ever in cinematic history. Joaquin Phoenix gives a great performance as Commodus, the man responsible for the deaths of Maximus' family. He's insufficient, yet can be sleazily evil that is most cowardice. The art direction and score is amazing and give you the real feel and power that was the Roman empire. Aside from the action, we're shown the politics of Rome and it's quite intriguing. If you've never seen it, rent it or go buy it now. A definite deserver of the Oscar for Best Picture and one of the best movies of the decade!
I give 100% fresh for Gladiator!

The lovely Bones (2009)

The Lovely Bones is a movie adaptation of Alice Sebold's best seller book. Peter Jackson is great, he manages to make the movie touching, suspenseful enough and catching my attention till the end of the movie,from dealing with teenage romance then a serial killer that kills the girl ruining her life, and her dad becomes obsessed with finding the killer, yet the girl finds another life, in her own box of heaven. The film-making is bold, and not only is the movie emotional but also intellectual in a way. Despite all this, somehow I think some parts of the plot are not that relevant, hard to grasp. The performance of the murderer was excellent leaving the audience with the "that could happen to me" feeling. The depiction of the afterlife was less than perfect and seemed to take away from the plot which drives the movie well enough by itself. But overall a movie worth watching.

I give this movie 60% fresh! So, worth watching anyway!

Yummy kwetiao

Well...I always love seafood... So today I ate my kwetiao with shrimps...So yummy!!!

Random fact: I used to eat all types of meat, tho I don't really consume duck (Chinese consume a lot), but I used to take chicken, beef, pork, and all meat from sea. Nowadays, I try to reduce eating meat, maybe now I limit it to seafood only. Well, let's see...