Movie Review: A Dog's Way Home

  Today I have watched another film based on W.Bruce Cameron novel, entitled "A Dog's Way Home." The cinema tickets now are expensive. This is another "dog" story. It is about a pitbull Bella, and her long journey way back home. I have read a lot of negative comments with regards to this movie. One article I've read is from the organization PETA. My personal opinion. I don't think that the movie gives out bad messages. Actually, there's a lot of good lessons from the movie that some don't see. In the movie pitbulls should not be seen outside or they will be captured, and sent straight to the pound. There's a part wherein Bella was surrounded by a pack of wolves. I think that animals really do clash, or just don't get along. Its not the intention of the writers of the movie to portray wolves as savages. Its just the same like the snakes. They are often portrayed as dangerous in some movies and where are the critics here? I don't think this movie is sending out negative messages. I also like that they used a pitbull in the movie. There's a wrong impression that pitbulls are deadly, fierce and ferocious. In the movie Bella is a loving, and obedient dog, and she is also shown as a therapy dog in the movie.

If you have loved the first movie of W.Bruce Cameron, "A Dog's Purpose," I'm sure you will also love this movie. This is a family friendly film. There is also a book/novel by W. Bruce Cameron with the same title. If you want to see a light, and heartwarming movie, then this one's for you. A very beautiful message echoes in this film, that no matter how far you are to your loved ones, love will always find a way! I am excited for prequel of "A Dog's Purpose," and that's "A Dog's Journey."  I also have a copy of this book. Finally, a film that has no sex, and violence. So if you're free during this weekend head on to the nearest cinema and watch it together with the whole family.

Stardust by Neil Gaiman

  I just watched Stardust again. I mean, I re-watched it again. I was able to see this movie a year or two before but I was not that interested, at first I found the movie to be really long (2 hours to be exact), and it bore me. But then again, I bought the book yesterday. So I decided to watch it again. All I can say is I was impressed!

It felt like watching, the classic movie, 'The Princess Bride,' with a 'Wizard of Oz' twist. I just love the characters in the movie, and I like the build-up. This is not my first-time to watch a Gaiman's film. I have watched Gaiman's, 'Coraline,' and it sure is creepy. Just like what dreams are made of. Sweet dreams at first, and then in an instant it becomes a nightmare. No doubt Gaiman is a good storyteller. Everything that you're looking for is in this movie. A magical fantasy, wicked witches, flying pirates, and falling star. (Just like what the caption in the movie poster says).

There were also unforgettable lines from the movie. One short, but meaningful quote that I remember is, "No star can shine with a brokenheart." Also, with all the chaos, lies, bad happenings in this world. Love makes life worth living for, it makes life more meaningful. Without love, I'm sure this world would be zillion times chaotic. There's also a lot of lessons in this movie. (Spoilers ahead!). Some of us think that the person we like, or the one that we pine for is really the one meant for us. But the truth is that there is someone more worthy of our feelings/affection. Someone who will love us back, wherein we don't need to go to great lengths to impress that person, to prove our love is true, or to make that person fall for us. You don't need to wear a mask, or pretend in front of that person, because he or she accepts you just the way you are. He or she is someone who brings out the best in you. Another good lesson learned in the movie, is that family is important. Riches, and inheritance can really be a problem, but what is more important is your respect, and love for one another.

If you haven't seen this movie, or if you still have not read the book. I suggest you grab a copy now. Also, this movie is available on Netflix.

Isn't it nice to think that there's a star watching over us. A star that's shining down on us every night. More than just a stardust.

In My Screening Room: Miss Potter

   This movie review has been long delayed. If I'm not mistaken, I have seen this movie 2 or 3 years ago. I thought I made a movie review about this. Anyway, going on, as I mentioned before, and as stated in a social networking page, I love arts and crafts. I do miniature polymer clay art, paper cut and art, drawing (traditional and graphic). Still, I regret not pursuing a course in Fine Arts during my college days, because I chose a Science course over it. So, here I am doing what I love, and what I enjoy the most. Drawing!

The movie is entitled Miss Potter. (Sorry, Potter fans! This is not related to Harry Potter he!he!). The main actress of the movie, is Renee Zellweger (I love her Bridget Jones movie). This movie is about Beatrix Potter. If you are familiar with the chilldren's story, 'The Tale of Peter Rabbit', then you may have heard of her. She is the creator of it. Beatrix Potter is not the usual English lady in her time. While other ladies are busy socializing, and doing just about a normal thing a lady does during her time, she is not. She's a woman who's drawn into arts. She draws, and paints. In the movie she is portrayed past the usual marrying age, so she considers herself a spinster. (In this case we are in a similar state he!he!he!). I won't spoil the movie for you. I really enjoyed watching this movie. I like how they execute, and inserted the beautifully made illustration in this movie. There's also a bit of drama on the story line. I also like the lesson in the movie, just follow your dreams. Also, if there's a single person who believes in what you do, that really makes a difference. Be not afraid, and continue reaching for the stars.

I have also posted the trailer below for you to be able to preview the movie. And yes! I have a copy of this movie! (Pls. see the photo taken from my fb page).

In My Screening Room: Walt Before Mickey

   "Dreams don't come true without a lot of failure and hope." - Walt Disney

I just finished the movie today. I chanced upon this movie while browsing at Netflix. When I saw this I knew that I should watch this. Movies about animators and cartoonists really fascinates me. I enjoyed watching my favorite cartoonist Charles M. Schulz documentary before, so I'm sure that I'll enjoy watching this movie too! I was right! This movie is about the life of Walt Disney. I know I need not elaborate who the man is for every child and grown-ups know who he is. We grew up watching his films. Every girl's dream is to be a princess like Cinderella, Snow-White, or if you're an independent, strong-willed woman, why not be Mulan! Every child wishes to go and visit Disneyland someday.

 My sibling and I grew up watching Mickey Mouse, and Looney Tunes. I didn't know that it has a connection with Walt Disney. I included in the photo that I posted here some of our prized children's books, by Walt Disney. We have Alice in Wonderland (I like it so much that I cosplayed before wearing her popular nanny like blue dress at work), Snow White, Pinocchio, Dumbo, and Peter Pan. We still have the book after all these years. I am also a fan of Mickey Mouse. I own a Mickey Mouse watch, I bought it when I was still teaching in a language school. Until now I still have it. You can read the story about it from my previous post. Walt Disney gave a new life to these classic fairy tales that I have mentioned. These are the stories that gave us hope and inspiration. Stories that became our very own world when we're still a child, and the story that we come back to as grown-ups. It's like home, so familiar to all of us. I also included in the photo below my drawing of Mickey Mouse! 

I will not be a spoiler. This is a good family movie. It teaches lots of values too! I like how it shows the importance of helping one another as a family, and having friends, people you can trust around you. It also shows that not everyone will support you, and what you believe. When everything else fails, just don't stop dreaming and believing in yourself. Like a line from one of the Disney movies, Cinderella, which has also a live action movie, quoting, "No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing. A dream that you wish will come true!"

I am also including here a music video from the said movie, sung by Jaden Chase (a song that fits the life of Walt Disney perfectly). I also posted the lyrics below. So if you haven't watched this movie, I suggest you watch it now. I rate it Two thumbs up! 

I

I've Got A Dream

It's gonna be one of those times, when your minds gonna give out your hearts gonna lay out. reaching every era colors, theres fire in the eyes, of those you inspire. It's gonna be one of those times, when they tell you to give up, but you know that you can't stop. reaching every step of the climb, when your much closer to what you desire. You don't need to for no gold, you just watch it all unfold. But you've got a passion, make it a vision, turn it into your own. But you've got a feeling, make it a blessing, turn it into your gold. I found the stength inside a sea, found the better part of me. and i'll never let it go, I've got a dream. It's gonna be one of those times, when your hands gonna give out, your hearts gonna take out. reaching every one your your steps, beating you to the magic, back at it so quick. It's gonna be one of those times, when your eye's gonna give out, your soul's gonna lay out. Reaching every one of your dreams, putting them on the table, and know that your able. You don't need to for no gold, you just watch it all unfold. But you've got a passion, make it a vision. Turn it into your own. But you've got a feeling, make it a blessing, turn it into your goal. Found the strength inside a sea, found the better part of me. and i'll never it it go, I've got a dream. I've got a dream that i'll make it, I've got a dream that I'll reach it. With my head held up high. I've got a dream that i'll make it, I've got a dream that I'll reach it. With my head held up high. But you've got a passion, make it a vision. Turn it into your own. But you've got a feeling, make it a belssing, turn it into your goal. Found the strength inside a sea, Found the better part of me. and I'll never let it go, I've got a dream.

Peanuts Movie, A Reply and My Snoopy Watch

  As promised here's an update! I have seen the Peanuts movie just last week. I bought my own dvd copy, since my workmates have deleted a copy of this movie from their files. Anyway, its good that I have my own copy since, I'm a Peanuts fan! I rarely watch movies on cinemas now because they are a bit expensive, and you get to watch them only once. If you have your own copy, you can watch it comfortably in your own space.

This movie was released on 2015. It is not the same as with the Peanuts animation shown before on tv. This one is a 3d version. This is a new story, and while this is a new story, it remains faithful to the strips of its creator the late Charles M. Schulz. His son Craig and Bryan, his grandson co-wrote the story for this movie. What I like about the movie is that they remain faithful to the old animation. The elders and the teacher in the movie, never spoke a word but only that famous sound, like a garbled, blowing of a light-horn. The voice actors was also done superbly! Kudos to the talented child voice actors chosen for this film. The dvd, comes with additional bonuses, it also included Meghan Trainor's music video and behind the scenes, for the OST 'When I'm Dancing'. In the music video Meghan's family was also included. Just like this Peanuts animation, a family affair! Bonus clips from the movie is also included in the dvd, as well as my favorite part. How to draw a few Peanuts characters!

Last Thursday, after searching for any Schulz family on the social media. I just wanted to tell them about me as a fan of their father and his works. I have found the social media of the eldest son, Sir Monte Schulz. I know that he's a writer. From one of the member's of our fb group page (a Charles Schulz,and  Peanuts fan page), I was told that he was one of America's best pilots. The Red Baron and Snoopy thing, his father got that idea from him. I wrote a message telling him that I'm one of the billion of Peanuts fans, and I posted a photo of few of my related Peanuts memorabilia. Like my Vans Peanuts sneakers, comic books, apparels, and dvd. I received a reply yesterday morning, a short thank you. Well, that reply was enough for me. To be able to communicate with any of Schulz's son is an honor. Thanks to the wonders of  the internet.

Yesterday, I also received my Snoopy watch. It was shipped from overseas. It is a China made watch. Everything is China made these days, since labor is cheaper there. Anyway, the distributor of that watch is from a company in China. They have a website, just click on this: Floraltime. The watch came in sort of metal box with a Snoopy design, and a Chinese character. There is also an imprint of Peanuts Worldwide. It comes with a price tag it is 208 RMB, equivalent to a thousand bucks here. There is also a seal of authenticity, and a brochure but its written in Chinese. The watch dial is not that large, and the strap is thin, leatherlike, with a Charlie Brown and Snoopy comic strips dialogue design. I posted it in our fb group, and a member 'liked' the photo it asking me where did I buy it.

It has been a great week. Whenever I feel blue, Peanuts is one of the things that lifts me up. I like my Peanuts toy figures, I often look at them. They are so cute! Like a line from a song says, "Happiness is anyone, and anything at all. That's loved by you!"... - (You're A Good Man Charlie Brown)

Song of the Moment: 爱一点 (Ai Yi Dian) Love A Little OST "You Are My Lucky Star"

       I just finished watching. "You Are My Lucky Star" movie. The film is about a comics artist or cartoonist Sophie, and about a secret agent named David/William. It stars, Chinese superstar Zhang Ziyi and Mr. Musicman, Wang Lee Hom. I watched the Chinese version since I can't find an English subbed, anyway the movie is funny so I enjoyed watching it while I'm on a 'sick leave' from work.

      This movie is a prequel to "Sophie's Revenge", starring Zhang Ziyi again. I recommend this film also. I think I both like the film, and each is a favorite of mine, in the same level.

      I like the OST of the movie which is sung by the lead actor and actress. The meaning and melody is also good so it's a thumbs up for me.

     I really don't encourage you people to love a little, because when you love you should not be selfish. Just love away! I included the English translation of the song. Enjoy!

Love A Little

 The wind blew and moved the windows, as well as the leaves sounding the surrounding,
As people’s dreams are loitering, into a farther and farther place.
The moon in the sky exposed half of its legs,
Looking to the ground and seeing that there are those who aren’t able to sleep,

 The clouds cover the light, extending the night,
as the winds gently blew pass your hair.
The night shut both of its eyes to be silent without a word,
And I know that you are listening to my thoughts,

 I wanted to say that I will love you, a little bit more,
Always right next to your ear,
trusting that you love me too, though it may be little.
Yet, it is only you who never realized this.

 I wanted to say that I will love you, a little bit more,
always right next to your ear.
In this I also trust that I will love you forever without change,
and I know that you surely will end up realizing it.

 The wind blew and moved the windows, as well as the leaves sounding the surrounding,
As people’s dreams are loitering, into a farther and farther place.
The moon in the sky exposed half of its legs,
Looking to the ground and seeing that there are those who aren’t able to sleep,

The clouds covered the light extending the night (the night becomes extended)
The wind gently passes through your hair (your hair)
The night shut both its eyes and remained silent.

You know that I am listening to what you’re saying,
I want to say that I will love you, a little bit more,
Always right next to your ear,
While believing that you love me too, even if it is little;
It is probably because you never detected this. discovered/found/realized/detected.

 I wanted to say that I will love you, a little bit more,
always right next to your ear.
In this I also trust that I will love you forever without change,
and I know that you surely will end up realizing it.

Movie: Safety Not Guaranteed

    I have seen a lot of good movies recently through the recommendation of Mr. Kartoonista. From classics like the 1980's movie - Aeroplane, to Shakespeare's period (Shakespeare in Love), Pride and Prejudice and contemporary -- we both like You've Got Mail.  (Trivia: Pride and Prejudice was Kathleen's (Meg Ryan) favorite book here). In one of our conversations (online). He mentioned this movie to me. At first I was not really impressed with the trailer, its like my mind can't connect with what's being shown. But then again that night, since he wants to 'get' that movie, I became curious. So, I watched it online. Even if it was quite late, I was really hooked and I didn't fell asleep. The movie gave me goosebumps and it gave me a 'nice' feeling. I just love it! Well, maybe I'm just reminded of the lead female character of myself. There are times when you feel like you just don't belong to a certain crowd, but you try to be and then you find someone who's 'interesting' and somehow you connect with each other. It's like a 'soul mate' sorta' thing. It's like you 'clicked' with someone.

       Have you ever experienced something like that? Like  you've felt a connection with a certain person? Someone whom you feel comfortable with and you can talk for hours about anything under the sun, and never get tired of it? I somehow can relate to this movie again. (Talk about 'feelings' as a dominant part of my personality, thanks to my favorite psychologist of all time, Dr. Carl Jung for making me know myself more). I have seen some comments in youtube and like the people who posted their comments there. We all really liked this movie. I also like the lead actress in the movie, Aubrey Plaza in real life (I've seen her interviews online) she's kinda awkward, 'spaced-out' sometimes and at the same time frank, and funny. I like her personality. Anyway here's the synopsis of the movie.

"From the producers of Little Miss Sunshine - When an unusual classified ad inspires three cynical Seattle magazine employees to look for the story behind it, they discover a mysterious eccentric named Kenneth, a likable but paranoid supermarket clerk, who believes he's solved the riddle of time travel and intends to depart again soon. Together, they embark on a hilarious, smart, and unexpectedly heartfelt journey that reveals how far believing can take you."

     I also love the song from this movie. This is an 'all in one' movie, bit of drama, comedy and romance! Just perfect! If there's one movie who's made an impression on me this year this would be it. Believing in someone really makes a difference. 

This is one of my fave quotes from the movie:

Kenneth: To go alone or to go with a partner? When you choose a partner, you have to have compromises and sacrifices, but it's a price you pay. Do I want to follow my every whim and desire as I make my way through time and space? Absolutely. But at the end of the day, do I need someone when I'm doubting myself and I'm insecure and MY heart fails me? Do I need someone, who when the heat gets hot, has my back?

Darius: Sooo... Do you? 

Kenneth: I do.

 

Big Machine

Stand straight fall back in line
Comb your hair get to work on time
Everyone in the big machine
Tries to break your heart and pull you underneath

Maybe I’m wrong and all that you get is what you see
But maybe I’m right and there’s something out there to believe
Everybody’s talking in their sleep
They push a lot of air around but don’t say much of anything
Except when they're laughin' like some ghosts under a sheet
Everybody’s talking in their sleep

Watch out get back in line
They trip you up it happens every time
Weighed down it's just a big machine
That could break apart like anything

Movie: Bright Star

       I wanted to post something new, something 'brilliant'! Something like a 'bright star.!' After a long hiatus (almost 2 years) of not updating this blog. (due to personal reasons). Aside from the fact that a lot of things had happened in those 2 years, I am posting another entry. Surprising?! 

          I found this movie while I was searching for a free online streaming movie website. Based from the plot of the movie, I find it interesting. Why? Because, ever since I have somewhat enjoyed watching classic movies from Shirley Temple's, "Heidi" and "A Little Princess", Ingrid Bergman's, "Anastasia" and to Peter's Finch's, "Lost Horizon" movie among many others, so this movie seemed okay for me. True enough, I wasn't disappointed. Since, there's also a 'poet' hidden inside of me so that's why I've also liked the story.

         The movie is about the English romantic poet John Keats and his short lived romance with Fanny

Brawne. I will not tell anything more about John Keats life story because I want you, dear readers of this blog of mine to watch the movie for yourselves. I also shared this movie to that special someone in my life now. (okay! okay! this is no time for me to be mushy). Anyway, if you want a classic movie, with poetry, drama and romance, then you better check-out this film!