Tuesday 22 December 2009

Avatar


Went to see James Cameron's Avatar the other day, and I must say, it was one of the better movies released this year.

***SLIGHT SPOILER WARNING***

The film, like many box-office releases of late, is heavy on CGI and special effects. Unlike some Michael Bay films though, the whole storyline and plot was not overwhelmed by the insane effects.

The film itself was rife with undertones, most noticeably its political and environmental ones. I love the idea of two differing people ultimately having the same end-goal, and finding that love is indeed color-blind. The rather anti-war and anti-violence themes in the film was barely concealed as well, with many of the human leaders reminding me of early Bush Administration tactics. As for the environmental undertones, it was a little exaggerated at some parts (think Pocahontas) but it was sensitively done in my opinion. I like the overall 'green' mentality of the aliens ("blue monkeys", in the words of the human military leader). It's a fresh perspective at a time when most films concentrate on the 'flash-bang-gore' experience for the viewers.

This has to be Sam Worthington's best film yet, much better than his performance in Terminator. A lot of the cast were unknown to me, but I think they did an awesome job, especially the one who played the alien princess.

All in all, great story, greater undertones, impressive performance, and very nice battle scenes. My only regret was that I did not go to the loo before watching it; it turned out to be over two and a half hours long. :P

8/10


Jay~

Saturday 19 December 2009

The Term

Sorry for the inactivity, readers. I just finished the toughest term of my life here in De La Salle University.

First of all, I had a hard time in my subject KASPIL1. It's the history of the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal and his life, work, and philosophies. I had a rough time, mostly because I had no background in it. No excuse, I know. The thing was, my group mates really let me down and I received an initial grade of 1.0. :( Good thing I appealed and showed my personal work and scores to my lecturer and she approved my appeal! I managed to salvage it to 2.5, God bless her kind soul.

As for my other hard subject, International Law, my paper scores weren't too grand (8.8/10.0), but thank goodness I managed to survive it. The reading materials literally could drown a human being. Final grade isn't out yet, as I did another extra paper for it in hopes of getting a higher grade.

Other subjects are alright, and I'm going to miss American Cinema class. Thank you for introducing me to the art of films, and I will never critique the same again. :)

Secondly, I have decided to not continue anymore as a cheerleader in the Animo Squad, and instead refocus my abilities and skills with my crew, Skittlez. Being the daddy of the crew this year and next, I want to make sure the new guys are taken care of just like how the crew took care of me for 3 years. We WILL be back in the top spot in the Lasallian dance scene, just you wait. ;)

However, I love the squad, and I am proud to say that I am now the official student manager of the Animo Squad. :) Much thanks to the Office of Sports Development for having faith and trust in my abilities.

Thirdly, long story. :(

Fourthly, it's going to be Christmas in a few days. :)

More updates soon!


Jay~