GOING THE DISTANCE (2010)

Drew Barrymore, Justin Long, Christina Applegate, Charlie Day

"A comedy about meeting each other halfway"

I believe given that Justin Long and Drew Barrymore have an on and off again romance in real life contributed to their great chemistry on screen.

In this film, they play Erin and Garrett, a couple who are compatible in every way yet they live in different states. They try their best to make their long distance relationship work despite the time difference by maintaining an open line of communication. In this day and age, it is quite easy. One is only a phone call, a text message or chat away. In fact there is no reason not to keep in touch.

Yet as most LDRs go, jealousy, paranoia and the longing to be physically together starts to creep in and takes its toll on the relationship. In that aspect, both Long and Barrymore managed to portray these 'cons', realistically.

The supporting cast mostly provided the comedic lines in the film. Although there were some scenes which I didn't find funny and even found them to be offensive, raunchy and not politically correct. On the other hand, Christina Applegate as Erin's older sister was a riot even though it was such a short role.

For someone who has had LDRs in my distant past, I know how difficult and tough it is to maintain and sustain these type of romantic involvements. So in that regard, the film did pretty well and I like the way it ended. It wasn't really concretely conclusive, but we can draw up our own conclusions. And for me, Erin and Garrett do belong with each other.

COCO AVANT CHANEL

Audrey Tautou, Benoit Poelvoorde, Emmanuelle Devos

"Before she was France's famous mademoiselle ..."

When one reads the name "Chanel", we immediately think about the elegant brand of haute couture which gave us fashionable clothes and accessories. Yet way before she became a fashion icon, she went by the name Gabrielle Chanel and used the nickname "Coco" from the song she sang with her sister Adrienne in a vaudeville act.

This biopic takes off after they are abandoned by their father in an orphanage. The two Chanel sisters make ends meet by being seamstress of the performers in a little bar where they perform as well. It also focuses on her liaison with a certain Baron Balsan and briefly presents her love affair with an English merchant named Arthur "Boy" Capel. Capel is said to be 'the love of her life'.

The authentic set design and the picturesque cinematography of the verdant French countryside merely serves as an attractive backdrop to this rather lightweight biography. Unlike the hugely melodramatic yet very meaty biopic about the life of Edith Piaf ("La Vie en Rose"), Coco Avant Chanel focused on a dull and boring stage in the style guru's life. Audrey Tautou with her pixie hairstyle and doe eyed wonder is quite charming but it isn't enough to salvage a poorly detailed plot.

Since it is about Chanel before she became famous, the film ends with a little fashion show where she presents her first collection of hats to the Parisian society. A little note before the end credits gave the viewers a short idea about how she spent the rest of her life on earth. I didn't really have the faintest idea about Coco Chanel's life before, during and after her fashion brand gained fame, so I figure this film was tolerable in the sense that I did learn a tiny bit about her humble beginnings.

COME UNDONE

Alba Rohrwacher, Pierfranceso Favino

This tale of infidelity unfurls in Milan, Italy. Anna (Alba Rohrwacher) is an accountant for an insurance company. She lives with Alessio, a rotund and kind hearted handyman. They are a childless couple who seem to have a comfortable life and as far as the viewers are concerned they look like any happy couple. That's before she meets Domenico (Pierfrancesco Favino). He was the caterer/waiter hired by her company for the retirement party of Anna's colleague. Soon enough after a couple of misgivings and false starts, Anna and Domenico begin their passionate affair.

The film chronicles the powerful emotions involved in an adulterous relationship. The web of lies and excuses they concoct to cover up their affair seemed valid. Yet in the same breath, the film also measures the day-by-day emotional cost of the affair: not only to Anna and Domenico, who are increasingly guilt-ridden and prickly with each other, but also to family, friends and business associates.

"Come Undone" is solidly grounded in mundane reality. The somber hesitations, the fiery nature of their passionate affair, the craziness of lying - it all boils down to a brief passage in the central characters' lives when they purposefully make the wrong decisions about sex, love, and physicality just because it feels right.

As most adulterous affairs go, eventually Anna wonders and begins to question the validity of their affair. Lying in Domenico's arms after one of their trysts, she prods him whether they have a future together. Domenico, in turn asks Anna, "Can't you just live in the moment?" The fact that she can't fully answer the question speaks to the film's ability to transcend its often trite material with complex characterizations.

That in my opinion was the defining moment in this anatomy of an adulterous affair. I was somewhat puzzled as throughout the movie, Domenico was the first one to say the "L" word to Anna. Yet when she quizzes him about whether the affair had any merits, he is unable to 'commit'. So I guess due to that little twist, the final scene at the airport was firmly conclusive - both for the affair as well as the movie itself.

GREENBERG

Ben Stiller, Greta Gerwig, Rhys Ifans

"He's got a lot on his mind"

Noam Baumbach, the director of "The Squid and the Whale" pegs this indie film. The story follows Roger Greenberg (Ben Stiller) who returns to L.A. (from New York) in order to house-sit for his brother. Greenberg is forty years old and extremely neurotic. He no longer possesses a driver’s license, was hospitalized for depression and is content with doing absolutely nothing. Although he is a carpenter, by occupation. He seems comfortable with the idea of continuing with a lackluster existence. He spends his days writing complaint letters to the editor and walking Mahler, the German shepherd.

He meets his brother's assistant, Florence (Greta Gerwig). Florence is a whimsical young adult struggling to find her place in the post-academic world, overwhelmed by thoughts of how to bring meaning to her life. She’s a likable character who tries to see the best in Greenberg – in spite of his routine temper tantrums, awkward demeanor, and disregard for the feelings of others.

I found Gerwig's easygoing performance entirely authentic and unaffected. Although sometimes I thought that Florence deserved a lot better in life than she gives herself credit for.

As for Stiller well frankly I never found his brand of comedy, funny. My first impressions of him were perfectly captured by his character in "Reality Bites". His first directorial film starring Winona Ryder and Ethan Hawke.

As Greenberg, Ben Stiller has the gaunt and haunted look of a self-involved character who is suddenly confronted with the shocking realization that he has nothing concrete to show for at your age yet doesn't make any valid effort to correct his past mistakes. It was really sad and tragic. But a small part of me was telling myself, Greenberg deserves his sorry fate because truthfully he was one of the most unlikeable characters I've seen on the big screen.

To conclude, I think they were all generic indie characters who never seemed to have any internal motivation. Everyone seemed to behave like they simply have to accept their uninspiring existence which in essence can only work in an indie film.

THE YOUNG VICTORIA

Emily Blunt, Rupert Friend, Paul Bettany,
MIranda Richardson, Mark Strong

"Her Country. Her Heart. Her Majesty."

Star Movies

This period piece looks at the early days of Queen Victoria. As portrayed by Emily Blunt, the film presents her life from a pampered princess, to her romance with her first cousin, Prince Albert (Rupert Friend) to her eventual ascension to the throne upon the death of her uncle, King William.

Amidst the various royal intrigue and political machinations reminiscent of those turbulent years in England's rich history, the film also gives way to a sweet romantic tale between Victoria and her suitor the German Prince Albert.

Blunt’s performance is restrained and fiery, yet her character doesn't really evolve much. She goes from a strong, determined young woman to a strong, determined young queen, but she undergoes little significant growth.

Having said done, I also believe her portrayal of the young Queen Victoria propels her to a new level. Emily Blunt proves herself versatile and capable of carrying an entire film by transforming a beloved monarch from a page in history to someone who is, well, human just like the rest of us.

The rest of the cast is ably supported by talented British actors like Jim Broadbent, Mark Strong and Paul Bettany as the scheming Lord Melbourne - they all give convincing performances.

The storyline is strong and I like how it didn't delve too much into the intriguing political machinations which can be a tad boring, if you ask me. The costumes were spectacularly authentic and the cinematography was vibrant.

Oh I also like to give praise to Star Movies for including subtitles to some of their main features. It does help a lot for us viewers to have a firmer grasp on the dialogue. Well done!

LOVE HAPPENS

Jennifer Aniston, Aaron Eckhart
Judy Greer, Dan Fogler

"Sometimes when you least expect it"

HBO

Burke Ryan (Aaron Eckhart) is a widower on a seminar tour of his best selling self help book called "A-Okay". It is a program which helps people cope with the loss of loved ones. His workshop brings him to Seattle where he is billeted at the Hyatt hotel. In the city of the Space Needle, he literally bumps into Eloise (Jennifer Aniston) a local florist who does flower arrangements for the hotel.

Then boy tries to woo girl but it seems that girl is a bit eccentric so his pursuit of her initially meets with resistance. Although the film is categorized as a romantic comedy, I'd say there is nothing funny about the grief and anguish people experience after losing a loved one. So in that sense, the film did tread carefully and didn't trivialize the sensitive matter. As for the romantic aspect well there were no visible sparks between Burke and Eloise from the get go. Yet somehow love does happen even if it unravels some bumps along the way.

Aniston’s performance is unremarkable while Eckhart as Burke is still an intriguing enough character vis a vis on how he deals with his success in the wake of his wife’s death. I believe that Aaron Eckhard despite lacking your average heartthrob looks is very charismatic in a non intrusive way. This works to his advantage as he projects well on screen.

The good thing about the movie despite its predictable plot is its setting. It highlighted some spots and made Seattle seem like an appealing city to visit. Plus I learned what the words "quidnunc" and "poppysimc" means. Thanks to Eloise who does quirky things like write random words on the walls behind paintings.

IL Y A LONGTEMPS QUE JE T'AIME(I'VE LOVED YOU SO LONG)

Kristin Scott Thomas, Elsa Zylberstein

À la claire fontaine,
M'en allant promener
J'ai trouvé l'eau si belle
Que je m'y suis baigné

Refrain :
Il y a longtemps que je t'aime
Jamais je ne t'oublierai

I actually remember singing this song when I was a child in the mid 1980s growing up in Brussels, Belgium. The title of this French movie comes from a traditional folk song called "A La Claire Fontaine".

"I've Loved You So Long" is a tale of two sisters who are reunited after a long period of time. Juliette (Kristin Scott Thomas) has just been released from prison after a 15 year sentence for killing her son. Her younger sister, Lea a university professor picks her up from some terminal and drives her to her house. A spacious bungalow type where she lives with her husband, her father in law and her two adopted daughters who are of Vietnamese descent.

The enigmatic portrayal of Kristin Scott Thomas as the mysterious Juliette takes center stage in this slow revealing and dramatic story. Devoid of any make-up and adapting a morose demeanor, she speaks French fluently, we tend to forget she is British, after all. Her character Juliette wears a permanent look of glum resignation throughout the movie.

The quiet work between Thomas and Elsa Zylberstein, as Lea, is stunning to watch. Their quick glances, their awkward embrace, their entire body language informs viewers that while these sisters love one another, they don't know how to behave towards and with each other. As periods of incarceration and estrangement have separated the women for many years.

The movie tracks Juliette's tentative, almost unwilling progress back into society. As well as her coming to terms with her 'crime'. A very painful past which isn't revealed until the very end where she has a breakdown of sorts. A revealing moment that honestly took its time to be exposed to the viewers. Yet somehow when it is finally out in the open, you almost feel like you walked in on a secret that was never meant to be discovered.

Brilliant subtle acting from Kristin Scott Thomas salvages this French film from completely being a bore due to its slow pacing and depressing tones.

12th CineManila Film Festival

It used to be held in Makati, then it moved to the Gateway Cinemas in Cubao in 2007 and 2008, then to Market! Market! in Taguig last year.

This year, all roads lead to Robinsons Movieworld at Robinsons Galleria in Quezon City for the annual showcase of some of the best of Philippine and world cinema in the Cinemanila International Film Festival from December 1 - 5,2010!

Now on its 12th year, the five-day festival screens about 50 international and local films -- from the current toasts of the local independent cinema scene, to award winners and favorites at prestigious festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, Rotterdam, Sundance and Pusan.

For the complete list of the featured movies and the schedule of screenings, visit the official website of CineManila at http://www.cinemanila. org.ph

The Good Life with LG

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of LG. All opinions are 100% mine.

I admit that when it comes to cellphones. I go more for function than design. I only use it to make phone calls and send/receive text messages.

But as I was browsing through the latest editions of smartphones now available in the market, one brand rose above the rest.

The LG brand  has always been synonymous with good quality when it comes to electronic gadgets.  Their latest cellphone, the LG Optimus 7 has quite a number of attractive features that will guarantee you complete satisfaction.

The device functions with the latest Microsoft Operating System Windows® Phone 7 so browsing the Internet will be quite easy and convenient.

It also allows you to store hundreds of mp3, videos and  other applications like high resolution photos because it has an extensive and power 16GB memory.

Another interesting feature is their voice to text  that will allow users to talk and communicate, hands free.

Taking pictures is hassle free as its 5MP camera has simple and basic settings which will be nicely displayed through a 3.8 inch LCD screen.

So the next time I find myself in need of a new cellphone, I just might consider purchasing a LG Optimus 7- the ultimate multimedia entertainment device that fits in your palm.

BABIES

This documentary by Thomas Balmes features a year in the lives of 4 babies who are located in different locations. The children are, respectively, in order of on-screen introduction: Ponijao, who lives with her family near Opuwo, Namibia. Bayar, who resides with his family in Mongolia. Little Mari in Tokyo, Japan and Hattie who is in San Francisco, USA.

There is no script, no dialogue except for candid footage of the 4 babies in various states of cuteness, tantrums et al. The documentary realistically captures on film the earliest stages of the journey from birth until they take their first step, a year later.

It also shows how one's environment can be the guiding force in the upbringing of a child. The sparse and dare I say squalid surroundings of a poor village in Africa, the barren snow capped mountains of Mongolia to the cosmopolitan metropolis of Tokyo and suburban America - they all provide excellent backdrop for the film.

Strangely enough I found myself more interested in the lives of Bayar and Ponijao because their lives provided a good glimpse into how babies born in impoverished nations 'amuse' themselves without the help of fancy toys and electrical gadgets. Crying, crawling and playing under the harsh sun and among cattle and just being their cute little selves despite their spartan environment was interesting to watch.

Some documentaries tend to drag on for hours and then end with some relevant social commentary on an important issue but this film gets a thumbs up even though it didn't convey any message. Because after all babies in any race, size, shape and form will always elicit a positive response!

8th Australian Film Festival

The Australian Embassy presents the 8th Australian Film Festival featuring critically-acclaimed feature and short animated films from Nov. 26 to Nov. 28, 2010 at Cinema 4, Glorietta 4 Cinemas.

The festival will open with a special screening of the “claymated” feature film Mary and Max by Academy Award-winning director Adam Elliot. The film’s set construction manager, Shaun Patten, will be in Manila to open the festival and to conduct masterclasses on “The Art of Mary and Max” at the University of the Philippines Film Institute and De La Salle University-College of Saint Benilde School of Design and Arts.

Also featured are The Magic Pudding, a film based on an Australian children's classic and the mixed animation and live action film, Look Both Ways. Elliot's Oscar-winning Harvie Krumpet leads this year's selection of short films which also includes Footnote, The Projectionist, Mother Tongue, Mozzie and the Oscar-nominated shorts The Mysterious Geographic Explorations of Jasper Morello, Ward 13 and Birthday Boy.

Schedule:
Short film suite 1 - November 26 - 4:00pm and 6:00pm
Look Both Ways - November 26 - 8:00pm
The Magic Pudding - November 27 - 4:00 PM
Short film Suite 3 - November 27 - 6:00 PM
Mary and Max - November 27 - 8:00 PM
The Magic Pudding - November 28 - 4:00 PM
Mary and Max - November 28 - 6:00 PM
Look Both Ways - November 28 - 8:00 PM

6th Cinema One Originals Digital Film Festival

Cinema One Originals Movie Schedule 2010
Cinema 4, Shang Cineplex
EDSA Shangri-la Plaza Mall
Ticket: P150.00

10 November, 2010 (Wednesday)
12:00 - Wanted:Border
02:00 - Paano Ko Sasabihin
04:00 - The Cinema of Celso Ad Castillo
07:00 - Confessional
09:00 - Ishmael

11 November, 2010 (Thursday)
12:00 - Ishmael
02:00 - The Cinema of Celso Ad Castillo
04:00 - Yanggaw
07:00 - Third World Happy
09:00 - Dagim

12 November, 2010 (Friday)
12:00 - Third World Happy
02:00 - Dagim
04:00 - Ishmael
07:00 - Astro Mayabang
09:00 - Tsardyer

13 November, 2010 (Saturday)
12:00 - Astro Mayabang
02:00 - Tsardyer
04:00 - Ishmael
06:00 - Third World Happy
08:00 - Layang Bilanggo
10:00 - Ang Damgo

14 November, 2010 (Sunday)
11:30 - Layang Bilanggo
01:30 - Ang Damgo
03:30 - Third World Happy
05:30 - Astro Mayabang
07:30 - Tsardyer
09:30 - Dagim

15 November, 2010 (Monday)
11:30 - Astro Mayabang
01:30 - Dagim
03:30 - Layang Bilanggo
05:30 - Ang Damgo
07:30 - Tsardyer
09:30 - Ishmael

16 November, 2010 (Tuesday)
12:00 - Layang Bilanggo
02:00 - Ang Damgo
04:00 - Third World Happy
06:00 - Tsardyer
08:00 - Dagim
10:00 - Astro Mayabang

Designer Bathroom Suites

One of the things I cherish most when I stay at hotels are their luxurious bathrooms. It has always been my dream to own a house where the bathroom will be as grand as the ones I've seen at 5 star hotels. It should be both functional and ultra modern with a chic ambiance. A sanctuary where I can soak in a bath tub at the end of a very long day. Or dash in for a quick shower when I am in a hurry. A place where clean towels are nicely hanged in shiny metal racks. Pristine bathroom tiles adorn the floor. And, of course the ubiquitous ceramic toilet that is the center piece of any bathroom.

All these items are readily available for your perusal at a great website that specializes in bathroom suites. At betterbathrooms.com they cater to all your bathroom needs. The neatly organized website is easily navigable with different product categories. It is worthwhile to check out each and every category before you make your choice. Their jacuzzi section just stirred up my visions of a very relaxing and quite enjoyable activity. Better Bathrooms has just launched a new range of value bathroom suites which are available at affordable prices!

KOREAN HORROR FILM FESTIVAL

The Shangri-La Plaza hosts the Korean Film Festival from October 27 to 31 and November 2 to 4 at Shang Cineplex Cinema 4.

The event is a partnership between the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, The Korea-Philippine Cultural Foundation, Inc. and The Shangri-la Plaza.

It will showcase Korean cinema with an exciting line-up of widely acclaimed horror and thriller films.

Screening Schedule

October 26, Tuesday
Epitaph (By Invitation Only)

October 27, Wednesday
2 PM Arang
5 PM The Red Shoes
8 PM M

October 28, Thursday
2 PM Hansel and Gretel
5 PM Ghost
8 PM Paradise Murdered

October 29, Friday
2 PM Ghost
5 PM Arang
8 PM Epitaph

October 30, Saturday
2 PM The Red Shoes
5 PM Paradise Murdered
8 PM Hansel and Gretel

October 31, Sunday
2 PM M
5 PM Epitaph
8 PM Arang

November 2, Tuesday
2 PM Hansel and Gretel
5 PM M
8 PM Ghost

November 3, Wednesday
2 PM Paradise Murdered
5 PM Arang
8 PM The Red Shoes

November 4, Thurdsay
2 PM Epitaph
5 PM M
8 PM Paradise Murdered

Admission is FREE. For inquiries please contact 633-7851 loc.113 or log on to www.shangrila-plaza.com for more details.

RIPRENDIMI (GOOD MORNING HEARTACHE)

9th Italian Film Festival
Cinema 4, Shang Cineplex

"Riprendimi" is a dramedy (drama and comedy) about Lucia and Giovanni. On the eve of their anniversary, Lucia (a film maker) recorded a DVD showing a montage of their entire relationship and married life. It is her anniversary gift. When Giovanni (a bit actor) comes home he announces over their romantic dinner that he is leaving Lucia and their baby son Paulino. Lucia is heartbroken. While Giovanni moves on pretty quickly and finds love in the arms of Michaela, a doctor.

It sounds like a pretty ordinary premise for a movie. Except that their lives are being filmed for a documentary. The main focus is to present the lives of temporary actors. Yet as the documentary progresses, all the nitty gritty details of the couple's breakup is recorded for posterity. As they follow the separated couple around, though, both Giorgio and Eros (the film makers) find themselves increasingly drawn into the emotional drama being played out before them.

So there is a film within a film aspect going on. The concept is pretty current as reality shows are the norm, nowadays. Most of the film revolves around people talking directly into the cameras as they (friends of the couple) are interviewed and asked to comment on the ongoing separation.

Although this is a story about a broken relationship, there's as much comedy as tragedy in the tale. Much of the film is very funny yet sad as well. It is a bit difficult to watch as we bear witness to Lucia's anguish over the break up of her marriage. But overall it is a good case study into the break up of a marriage.

9th ITALIAN FILM FESTIVAL

9th Italian Film Festival
Oct. 22 to 26, 2010
Cinema 4, Shang Cineplex,
Shangri-La Plaza Mall,
Free Admission

Schedule:

Oct. 22, Friday

* Si puo fare (We Can Do That), 1:30 p.m.

* Dillo con parole mie (Ginger and Cinnamon), 4 p.m.

* Diverso da chi? (Different from Whom?), 6:30 p.m.

* Tenebrae (Unsane), 9 p.m.

Oct. 23, Saturday

* Chiedemi se sono felice (Ask Me if I’m Happy), 4 p.m.

* La sindrome di Stendhal (The Stendhal Syndrome), 6:30 p.m.

* Cosi e la vita (Such is Life), 9 p.m.

Oct. 24, Sunday

* Notte prime degli esami (Night before the Exams), 1:30 p.m.

* Tenebrae (Unsane), 4 p.m.

* Dillo con parole mie (Ginger and Cinnamon), 6:30 p.m.

* Tre uomi euna gamba (Three Men and a Leg), 9 p.m.

Oct. 25, Monday

* Riprendimi (Good Morning Heartache), 1:30 p.m.

* La sindrome di Stendhal (The Stendhal Syndrome), 4 p.m.

* Se fossi in te (If I were You), 6:30 p.m.

* Chiedemi se sono felice (Ask Me if I’m Happy), 9 p.m.

Oct. 26, Tuesday

* La ragazza del lago (The Girl by the Lake), 1:30 p.m.

* L’abbuffata (The Feast), 4 p.m.

* Cosi e la vita (Such is Life), 6:30 p.m.

* Almost Blue, 9 p.m.

Schedules are subject to change without prior notice. For film schedules and other inquiries, contact 633-7851 loc. 113 or log on to www.shangrila-plaza.com. Seats are on a first-come, first-served basis.

THE TOWN

Ben Affleck, Jeremy Renner, Rebecca Hall, John Hamm

"Welcome to the bank robbery capital of the world"

Cinema 3, Shang Cineplex

After a slew of Spanish films overload, I was really looking forward to some mindless entertainment c/o Hollywood. But I guess I picked the wrong film since "The Town" hardly qualifies as "mindless". And that is a good thing because frankly it has been a (long) while since I've watched an 'intelligent' film.

A well crafted heist movie that had all the key elements of a blockbuster yet at the same time, it had some soulful depth and edgy vibe to make it highly entertaining. It unfolds in the bank robbery capital of the world, a town named Charleston in Boston. A suspenseful bank robbery in progress marks the scene where we are introduced to the ensemble cast. Multidimensional characters composed of bank robbers, FBI agents, bank manager, junkie siblings and a host of other bit players in supporting roles. There are dramatic elements, thrilling action sequences, romantic entanglements and even a tinge of redemption - which are all mixed and well blended together under the able direction of Ben Affleck.

I'd have to say that Ben Affleck unfortunately doesn't know how to act. So it is really great that he found his niche behind the cameras. He can pat himself over the shoulder for a well done job in his second directorial work.

TRES DIAS CON LA FAMILIA(THREE DAYS WITH THE FAMILY)

9th Spanish Film Festival
Cinema 1, Greenbelt 3

The film unfolds through the eyes of Lea, a student in Toulouse who goes back to Girona, Spain to attend the funeral of her grandfather. It turns into a reunion of sorts as family members gather for the wake and funeral. A nostalgic time as uncles, aunts and cousins reminisce as they grieve together. Yet at the same time, they still maintain a certain degree of aloofness. A careful attempt to avoid intimacy in order to keep up a good appearance.

Based on the numerous family reunions I've attended, I notice there is a guarded tendency for us to merely share news we think are worth sharing. This same premise is explored in the film as we only get bits and pieces of information about each character. There is no pressing need for the audience to be spoon fed every single detail of their lives.

And surprisingly, I find that technique quite acceptable. Not because I didn't care about the characters, I did. The director or scriptwriter felt it was up to the viewer to form their own conclusions.

The movie is inundated with long yet soulful scenes of pure silence and quiet solitude. Prodding much contemplation for the characters who pretend that all is well on the outside. Yet deep inside, they are deeply troubled with sentiments like loneliness, break ups and a general sense of a vague uncertainty. Fears and apprehensions which afflict most if not all of us, naturally!

LA TETA ASUSTADA (THE MILK OF SORROW)

9th Spanish Film Festival
Cinema 1, Greenbelt 3

This Peruvian film focuses on Fausta who suffers from "la teta asustada" which literally translates to 'frightened breast'. It is said to be a condition that afflicts the children of women who were raped or abused during Peru's years of terrorism.

Fausta is inherently a timid and innocent girl who certainly seems harmless. Yet she feels the need to torture herself emotionally and physically as a result of her 'situation'. She is constantly terrified, especially of men, and goes to extreme lengths to protect herself against a largely non-existent threat of rape.

The film which is set in a dusty and arid Peruvian town draws much inspiration from its authentic location. Giving us a glimpse into the daily existence of its inhabitants who are mostly poor yet are also enriched by their religious beliefs, local folklore and ancient traditions.

For instance, they kept showing numerous wedding ceremonies. These include odd pairings, absurd photo moments and celebratory dancing. The brides are always content in their wedding gowns and the gathered observers are always euphoric despite the fact that the impoverished backdrop is bleak, hopeless and foreboding.

What's even more remarkable is that these moments of happiness are depicted as not only a result of the bad times, but as an inherent and inevitable consequence of suffering.

Shot with a mix of carefully framed long shots and mobile close-ups, this is certainly one of the strangest films I've watched in my viewing history. I can't say that it was eccentric nor was it quaint, I figure that unique would be the correct word!

EL CIELO ABIERTO(10 DAYS WITHOUT LOVE)

9th Spanish Film Festival
Cinema 1, Greenbelt 3

"El cielo abierto" is a romantic comedy about finding love when you least expect it.

Miguel has it really bad. His doctor wife Sara has just left him for his father. Yes you read that right. Sara ran off with her father in law, Miguel's father. His mother in law Elvira (Sara's mother) shows up in town for her medical check up. She is totally clueless about the troubles in the marriage. Naturally and falsely accuses Miguel of ruining the marriage.

Then his wallet gets stolen by one of his mentally challenged patients. Because you see, Miguel is a doctor too, he is a psychiatrist. Although at first glance, he hardly looked like a medical practitioner. But things aren't so hopeless as a stolen wallet leads him to Jasmina, the thief's (his patient) loquacious sister.

It seems pretty complicated but in essence it is quite simple. It is a refreshing take on a boy meets girl (albeit under unusual circumstances) factor. They fall in love and live happily ever after. Except it is devoid of cliches, strives on an unusual plot, has endearing characters and tinged with bits and pieces of funny situational comedy. All the essential ingredients needed to make a movie that is both enjoyable and quite a delight to watch.

EAT, PRAY, LOVE

Julia Roberts, James Franco, Javier Bardem, Richard Jenkins

Cinema 4, SM Megamall

I bought Elizabeth Gilbert's memoir/book in the hopes of finishing it before the film was shown. I still had a few pages to go but decided 'what the heck' I'll watch it anyway. I was curious about the novel as it is described as "One woman's search for everything across Italy, India and Indonesia." Places which I've had the chance to visit and explore to my heart's content. In fact, I called India or specifically New Delhi home for about 4 years way back in the late 1970s.

I actually loved the book for its humorous prose. Liz's witty exuberance was infectious as she took us on a pilgrimage of self discovery. As for the movie with Julia Roberts in the lead role, I believe it was a pretty much fair adaptation of the book. Although in the film, she did come across as being too flippant for walking out of her marriage. Viewers who haven't read the book need to understand that there were various and in my opinion quite valid reasons for her to end her marriage. She didn't simply give up because she was too self absorbed and/or unhappy.

The film which spanned on for 2 hours and 20 or so minutes was a bit long to be fully appreciated. It took liberties in changing certain aspects of Liz's life to make it more appealing to the female crowd. It also banked on the unwavering charisma of Javier Bardem to boost the romantic love interest factor. Even though in the book, Felipe is supposed to be a much older Brazilian man. So it was difficult to reconcile the initial hesitation and qualms that Liz had in plunging into a new relationship.

In conclusion, I think it came across as being too much of a travelogue about a fanciful woman who had to venture into foreign shores to find happiness. For me, I would have appreciated it more if it was a thought provoking and insightful film about soul searching and self discovery. But that's just me!

LOS CONDENADOS(THE DAMNED)

9th Spanish Film Festival
Cinema 1, Greenbelt 3

The first thing I noticed about this film is how quiet it was. You could hear the creaking sound of the seats of the other viewers who were probably restless. Not restless out of despair because it had some compelling moments which kept you glued to the screen. But probably from a sense of unease over the buried secrets which threaten to unravel. Yet at the same time you develop a feeling that those secrets are probably best kept hidden. As it would only invoke old tensions and wounds which have festered for over 30 years.

Martin, a former revolutionary in Argentina who has been living in exile in Spain for more than 30 years receives a phone call. Raul, a former comrade invites him to participate in an excavation in a deeply forested area. Their aim is to search for the remains of their companion, Ezequiel who disappeared after a skirmish with the army.

During the day, they dig at the site. While at night, they spend their time looking at old pictures and reliving their memories. Individually and together they relive their experiences in an effort to come to terms with the past.

There are no flashback scenes to re-enact their 'armed struggle'. Nothing much is revealed about their missing companion nor any information shared about what they have been up to in their respective lives since the liberation. For some, their way of understanding the world has changed greatly over the years while others seem to remain frozen in time.

Yet silence speaks louder than words in this hushed and intense film. It unfolds at a slow pace with silent musings and extreme close up on the characters' faces whose mere expressions can evoke a thousand stories. Lovingly framed long takes are the norm, though the slowness rarely devolves into mere dullness.

"The Damned" is a painful journey into the past as the search for traces of a dead man are revealed through intriguing secrets, glances and resentments of characters that have been hurt by the history of their country.

BOLIVIA

9th Spanish Film Festival
Cinema 1, Greenbelt 3

At first, I thought that this film was a documentary because it commenced with film clips of scenes with background noise and voices of people conversing with each other. Shot entirely in black and white, "Bolivia" is a stark glimpse into the life of Freddy, a Bolivian immigrant who works as a cook in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The only indication of the time frame of the movie is shown through a boxing match aired live on TV - the Mike Tyson vs Evander Holyfield fight.

It sparingly presents the discrimination he faces from his boss and the customers of the diner as well as the hardships he endures as an undocumented low wage earner in a foreign land. The setting is mostly in the small restaurant where a small group of regular clientele converge for their meals. A venue where they also usually discuss about their grievances. They talk about their miseries, woes, the growing number of immigrants and well basically anything under the sun.

The film is basically simple without any major conflicts to jar our minds. Yet the minimalist approach doesn't belittle the various adversities that immigrants (all over the world) face and are facing daily in their new 'home'.

EL SECRETO DE SUS OJOS (THE SECRET IN THEIR EYES) Repost

9th Spanish Film Festival
Cinema 1, Greenbelt 3

*** This is a repost of my previous review of this film. It is included in the current line up of films showing at the Spanish film festival. ***

This Argentinian film won in the best foreign language film category at the 2010 Oscars.

The setting is present day and it focuses on Benjamin Esposito, (Ricardo Darin) a retired criminal court investigator who is trying to write a novel about an unsolved homicide case that has haunted him for 25 years. After visiting his ex-superior Irene (Soledad Villamil), who's now a high court judge, Benjamin decides to re-investigate the case and we flash back to the crime scene circa 1970s where a beautiful young woman was raped and murdered.

As Benjamin attempts to recall the details of the case, various events unfold from the questioning of the victim's troubled husband, to the discovery and arrest of a probable suspect. The title is never fully explained but I figure it refers to a particular photograph that reveals the true identity of the killer/suspect.

The film is beautifully shot with inventive and authentic cinematography. The plot unfolds like a traditional detective story with a powerful story of unrequited love bubbling away at the sidelines. The story unravels through flashbacks but since they use the same actors (just alter their hairstyles to fit the period) the scenes swift by effortlessly. There are also some terrific scenes (a chilling elevator shot and a chase through a soccer stadium) along the way and a powerful and shocking ending that can be a bit alarming.

Even though it stretches to 2 hours, it is a compelling thriller with the right blend of drama, romance and social awareness. It's the kind of film that lingers in your mind long after the end credits have rolled by.

QUE SE MUERAN LOS FEOS(TO HELL WITH THE UGLY)

9th Spanish Film Festival
Cinema 1, Greenbelt 3

This comedy presents the story of Eliseo and Nati. Both of them dealing with some unfortunate mishaps in their respective lives. They are also a bit lacking in the attractive department so it makes it doubly hard for them to succeed in their endeavors.

Eliseo walks with a limp, has a bad comb over and has had his heart broken several times. Nati, on the other hand is old, has lost a breast to cancer and her husband leaves her for a younger woman. Oh and they happen to be 'related' as she is married to Eliseo's brother. A death in the family brings them together.

The movie is entertaining because it has much humor, funny situations and the camaraderie among the merry bunch of characters is infectious. It is further buoyed by a good soundtrack with the cheesy yet immortal song "Eres Tu" getting a lot of exposure as it plays a significant impact on the love story. A romance that slowly develops amidst a crisp cinematography of a picturesque rural Aragon town surrounded by mountains.

This light hearted romantic comedy will pull at your heart strings with its endearing characters and quirky storyline. You will find yourself smiling as you leave the cinema carried by the thought that even 'ugly' (but I certainly didn't find them ugly at all) people do get their happy endings, after all!

Pelicula: 9th Spanish Film Festival

Instituto Cervantes de Manila, the cultural arm of the Spanish Embassy, is bringing back the Película Spanish Film Festival now in its ninth edition.

Film aficionados will once again enjoy another brilliant line-up of 23 exceptional and awarded films carefully selected from Spain and Latin America. The Película film festival is now the biggest presentation of Spanish cinema in Asia and the Pacific.

“Due to the successes of the first eight seasons, we are especially proud of the reputation the Película film festival has developed over the years as a great local venue to feature and premier award-winning Spanish films,” says Instituto Cervantes director Jose Rodriguez. “We believe Película has the potential to foster incredible growth in arts and entertainment and attract the best of the best-acclaimed Spanish and Latin American filmmakers to this area.”

2 Weeks. 23 Films.

Location: Greenbelt 3 Cinemas

Ticket Price: P65.00

Official Website: Pelicula.ph

For more details, call the Instituto Cervantes de Manila at 526-1482.

Instituto Cervantes de Manila is at 855 T.M. Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila.

1st Taiwan Film Festival

From Sept. 24-28, 2010 seven Taiwanese films will be screened for FREE at the Cinema 4 of the Shangri-La Plaza’s Shang Cineplex in Mandaluyong.

The impressive lineup of must-see Taiwanese films is headed by "Cape No. 7". It is a moving love story that touches on Taiwan’s history and way of life through the story of young man named Aga (Van Fan). After failing to find success in Taipei, Aga returns to his town where, together with other musicians in Hengchun, he becomes part of a band that eventually becomes an incredible musical sensation.


The movie "Chocolate Rap" centers on the tough world of break dancing as seen through the eyes of dancer Choco (Hsin-Hung Chen), who single-handedly outperforms six breakdancers and is taken under the wing of renowned manager and rap artist Pachinko (Po-Ching Huang).


Three young friends take the spotlight in the 2005 drama "Fishing Luck", directed by Wen-Chen Tseng. One summer day, their lives are changed by the arrival of a woman -- bursting through the tranquility that had so peacefully once ruled their lives.


Basketball takes center stage in the 2008 movie "Kung Fu Dunk", a film that follows the story of youngster Shi-Jie who possesses impressive skills both in kung fu and basketball. Kung Fu Dunk is reminiscent of Hong Kong movies like Shaolin Soccer.

The 2008 movie "Orz Boyz!" chronicles the story of two young pranksters who plan the trick of their lives. However, things change when this childhood pact is threatened by a betrayal.

Meanwhile, the 2009 drama-fantasy movie "Our Island Our Dreams" is a story about a girl and two boys who grew together in Kinmen, a small island near mainland China, but is under the control of Taiwan. Their relationship changes when a soldier arrives from Taiwan and develops an attraction for the girl, despite the fact that it is forbidden for soldiers stationed in the island in the 1970s to date locals.

Finally, the 2009 musical drama "Yang Yang" follows the journey of Eurasian Yang-Yang (Sandrine Pinna), who has always longed for a family and appears to have gotten her wish with her mother’s remarriage.


Screenings schedule

Sept. 24, Friday
2 p.m. - Orz Boyz!
5 p.m. - Yang Yang
8 p.m. - Our Island, Our Dreams

Sept. 25, Saturday
2 p.m. - Chocolate Rap
5 p.m. - Cape No. 7
8 p.m. - Kung Fu Dunk

Sept. 26, Sunday
2 p.m. - Yang Yang
5 p.m. - Our Island Our Dreams
8 p.m. - Fishing Luck

Sept. 27, Monday
2 p.m. - Kung Fu Dunk
5 p.m. - Chocolate Rap
8 p.m. - Orz Boyz!

Sept. 28, Tuesday
2 p.m. - Our Island Our Dreams
5 p.m. - Orz Boyz!
8 p.m. - Yang Yang

VRATNE LAHVE(EMPTIES)

Cine Europa 13
Cinema 2, Shang Cineplex

This Czech film is from the father-son duo who graced us with the Oscar award winning film "Kolya".

In "Empties", Jan Sverak again directs his father, the venerated screenwriter/actor Zdenek Sverak in a realistic role about the life of a former high school teacher Josef Tkaloun who has to deal with "forced" retirement. Not one to sit on his laurels, he promptly finds a new job. A sharp contrast to his old work, he gets hired at a supermarket as a bottle sorter. The title "Empties" refers to the empty glass bottles which the customers return to the grocery for disposal.

This film is funny and poignant as well. It explores several aspects into the main character's life (aside from his dealings with the customers of the supermarket) like his marriage which is falling apart, his relationship with his troubled daughter as well as his need to still be useful and fruitful at his age.

These issues were tackled seriously but presented with an armful of wonderful humor. The scenes are funny because they are so realistically human and presents a good perspective on aging and everything it entails. It also has great scenery shots of the Czech countryside as well as the bustling city of Prague. This heart warming film is entirely in Czech (with a sputtering of German) with English subtitles.

TOUT EST PARDONNE(ALL IS FORGIVEN)

Cine Europa 13
Cinema 2, Shang Cineplex

This French film starts in the mid 1990s. Victor, a French writer lives with his Austrian wife Annette and their daughter Pamela in Vienna. But all is not well in the marriage as Victor is primarily a bum who spends his days and nights out to escape the doldrums. Two years later back in Paris much to his wife's chagrin Victor continues his fancy free days and has turned into a drug addict.

Annette who is fed up with his bad habits leaves him and disappears with Pamela. Eleven years later, Pamela is now seventeen years old and lives in Paris with her mother and her new family. One day she learns through her aunt that Victor is still in Paris so she decides to see him once again.

The film moves at a painstakingly slow pace with characters who are hardly vibrant nor endearing to watch. The dysfunctional family is briefly explored but never given much depth. Most of the time, you feel like slapping Victor out of his stupor and give him a tough tongue lashing for wasting his life away. Other than that, nothing much happens.
Even after a span of 11 years, the characters hardly age at all so it wasn't credible at all.

To add insult to injury, the film abruptly ends mid scene and the end credits suddenly scroll by with the audience not getting any closure from the bland reunion between an estranged father and his teenage daughter.

Honestly, I didn't really find myself invested in any of the characters so perhaps it was for the best that it got cut off without much warning because at the point, I frankly couldn't really care less how it ends!

SVETAT E GOLYAM I SPASENIE DEBNE OTVSYAKADE(THE WORLD IS BIG & SALVATION LURKS AROUND THE CORNER)

Cine Europa 13
Cinema 2, Shang Cineplex

This 2008 Bulgarian film has a very long title yet has a poignant story attached to it. I figure it is a popular saying in their language that perhaps got lost in its English translation so it sounds a bit strange. It is based on the autobiographic novel by Bulgarian-German writer Ilija Trojanow.

The film starts with an animated narration by a young man named Alexander who is nicknamed Sashko. It begins in the 1980s in Communist occupied Bulgaria in a small provincial town. We are introduced to his parents and his grandparents. Bai Dan, his grandfather is the local king of Backgammon, a board game. His father who works in a factory is hounded by the local Communist comrade to spy on the supposedly subversive activities of his father-in-law.

Cue in to Germany in the year 2006. Sashko and his parents are on their way to Bulgaria. But they figure in a horrific car accident where both his parents perish. He is confined in a hospital and suffers from amnesia. Bai Dan decides to go to Germany to help Sashko restore his past. They soon embark on a long journey back home on a tandem bicycle.

It is during the journey where through flashbacks, we are given glimpses into Sashko's life. This movie effectively explores the political situation in Communist Bulgaria as well as the problems faced by immigrants in their struggle to have better lives. Backgammon is given a lot of emphasis as the game plays an important role in every aspect of Alex's life. It also delves into poignant bonding moments between a grandfather and his grandson who learns about his parents numerous sacrifices to give him a stable future.

The film is entirely in Bulgarian along with German and Italian dialogue but has English subtitles.

THE AMERICAN

George Clooney, Johan Leysen, Thekla Reuten, Violante Placido

Cinema 4, Greenbelt 3

"The American" is devoid of any computer generated special effects, loud car chases and fast paced action scenes yet it still manages to reel you into its character driven approach of telling a story.

Most of the movie is spent on the most mundane of tasks, the main character "Jack" (George Clooney) who is a weapons expert/hired assassin goes about the details of his business with meticulous attention. Much of it is carried out in complete silence amidst the serenity of a very picturesque Italian town where he hides as he waits for his next assignment. He connects with an intuitive local priest, as well as a beautiful young prostitute named Carla. As he goes about his work, he contemplates on his existence and decides to retire from the assassination industry. But in a business dominated with violence and ruthless people, retirement isn't really an option.

This film is notable for how little it explains. You won't find any tell all revelations nor any shocking twist towards the end that will make you go "ahhhh ok now I get it!" We are only given glimpses of how Jack operates in his temporary home. We do not know, for example, who is going to be killed by the gun he is constructing, or why that person is being killed. We do not know much about the people chasing Jack, other than their nationality. Everything is cloaked with an air of mystery and ambiguous intrigue.

I believe the film succeeds mainly due to George Clooney's subtle performance of a mysterious and complex character. A lesser actor might have balked at the ambiguity of this character, but Clooney revels in it. He plays up the mystery and his disconnection from the rest of society is notably visible. Even in the most mundane of scenes, Clooney looks haunted, indicating a history that we otherwise will never know.

"The American" is an unconventional thriller. A clever showcase of character driven technique sans the typical ear piercing action sequences of modern thrillers. Even though very little of the plot is actually revealed and the violent and haunted past of the character is never truly fleshed out for our viewing discretion, it is still a compelling film to watch!

MARCELLO, MARCELLO

Cine Europa 13
Cinema 2, Shang Cineplex

The main premise of this Italian movie hinges on an unusual custom. It is 1956 and in a small picturesque island during the 18th birthday of every lass, all her potential suitors in town line up to present gifts to her father. He then determines (based on the gift) who will date his daughter on her natal day.

Marcello is the son of a fisherman who initially scoffs at the tradition until he lays eyes on the daughter of the Mayor who returns home after her studies. He has the perfect gift in mind but before he can acquire it, he must barter with nearly everyone in the village, and it seems that each resident has a different request.

The pursuit of each item to be traded takes him all over town where we are presented to an array of colorful characters. Some are mysterious, others are secretive but each of them with their distinct eccentricities which give the village much of its local flare. Marcello's 'task' also exposes the pitfalls of the age old tradition which seems to have caused so much woes to the residents of this sleepy little town.

The scenery alone makes this a film worth watching - a quaint little coastal town surrounded by a sparkling sea, this whimsical comedy with delightful characters is entirely in Italian with English subtitles.

LOS ABRAZOS ROTOS (BROKEN EMBRACES)

Penelope Cruz, Lluis Homar, Blanca Portillo

This Pedro Almodovar film opens with the reels of a film being shot. Then it flips to a blind person who recounts to a complete stranger that he used to be known as the director Mateo Blanco but now simply exists as Harry Caine (Lluis Homar), a screenwriter.

It is only much later when we learn of the events which led him to permanently use his pseudonym. A love story which commenced in 1992 with an enigmatic woman named Magdalena (Penelope Cruz) or Lena for short. A secretary who becomes the mistress of a wealthy businessman named Ernesto Martel. She ends up having a passionate affair with Mateo Blanco who was directing her in a film called "Chicas y Malletas".

The heart of the film lies on Almodovar's great muse, the enduring Penelope Cruz. Even though the role is not as meaty as her character in "Volver", she managed to mesmerize the entire audience with her stunning presence. Her portrayal of a mistress to an obsessive business tycoon is credible. And we see a complete change of character when she is in the throes of an illicit affair with Mateo.

The plot is complex with many side plots all coming to the fore. It unfolds with the use of flashbacks as Harry Caine recounts their tragic romance. Character development is extensive as each of the roles are well fleshed out for our viewing pleasure. You even have a lip reader thrown into the mix but strangely enough it blends perfectly well in an Almodovar flick.

A smorgasbord of drama, mystery, romance and a dash of comedy all mix well in this Spanish languaged movie with English subtitles. Although it reasonably pales in comparison to his previous movies like "Habla con Ella" and "Todo sobre mi Madre" it is still worth seeing!

Cine Europa 13

The much anticipated Cine Europa which is now on its 13th year opens on September 10 and runs until September 19, 2010 at the Shang Cineplex Cinema 2.



This year features over 20 European films from Austria, Belgium, Italy, France, Netherlands, Finland, Bulgaria, Denmark, Greece, Germany, Romania, Spain, Czech Republic, Slovakia and the United Kingdom.

Click here for the complete schedule and synopsis of the films:



Admission is free. Seats are on a first come, first served basis.

4th International SIlent Film Festival

The 4th International Silent Film Festival Manila, a joint project of the Goethe-Institut, Instituto Cervantes, Japan Foundation and the Embassy of Italy, will be held at the Shang Cineplex Cinema 2, Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong.

As in previous festivals, the silent movie classics will be accompanied by live performances, this time by Caliph8, the Radioactive Sago Project, Tanglaw and Out of Body Special.

Italy will present Assunta Spina (1914) by Francesca Bertini and Gustavo Serena, an operatic tale of love and sacrifice. Music will be provided by Caliph8. Screening is on Aug. 28, 6:30 p.m.

Japan will present Kid Commotion (Kodakara Sodo), a 1935 film by Torajiro Saito. This slapstick comedy focuses on a desperate man whose wife is about to have their seventh child. Music will be provided by the Radioactive Sago Project. Screening is on Aug. 28, 8:30 p.m.

Spain will present Wine Cellars (La Bodega), a 1929 film by Benito Perojo, about a doomed love affair. Tanglaw will provide the music. Screening will be on Aug. 29, 3 p.m.

Germany will present Berlin, Symphony of a Great City (Die Sinfonie der Grosstadt), a 1927 film by Walter Ruttman. This semidocumentary takes a look at the "new" Berlin of the late 1920s. The music will be performed by Out of Body Special. Screening will be on Aug. 29, 5 p.m.

Entrance is free.

THE REBOUND

Catherine Zeta Jones, Justin Bartha

"She's still got it. He's still getting it."

I don't know why but I had a big smile pasted on my face throughout the entire film. Probably because they are such endearing characters, it made for a pleasant viewing. It is the story of Sandy (Catherine Zeta Jones) a recent divorcee who moves to the city with her two kids to start anew. She gets a lucrative job at a sports channel, moves into a nice loft and hires Aram (Justin Bartha) to look after her kids while she works, goes out on dates etc. As most romantic comedies go, they end up being a couple despite their gaping age difference. As predicted, issues soon crop up and they ... well just watch the film to find out.

It's also a film that reminds us how likeable an actress Zeta-Jones is. Her beautifully expressive face adds credibility to her role and we find Sandy someone we genuinely care about.

Justin Bartha gets to be a romantic lead after supporting roles in "National Treasure" and "The Hangover". His Aram character is such a harmlessly nice guy, you can't help but go 'awww' every time he does something sweet for the kids and Sandy. They do have a fairly good chemistry together in an awkward sort of way.

There are some funny dialogue mostly courtesy of her smart alecky kids and their wise cracking comments. Do watch out for Art Garfunkel as Aram's father. I was notably surprised at how genuine he was despite his very brief role.

The movie as a whole plods along pleasantly enough, delivering smiles aplenty as this unlikely couple deal with each other and the travails of a May December romance.

(500) DAYS OF SUMMER

Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Zooey Deschanel

"Boy meet Girl. Boy falls in Love.
Girl Doesn't."

We are warned early on in this film that this is not a love story. Fair enough but I figure it can still qualify as a romantic comedy in an unconventional way.

This is the story of Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) who falls head over heels for Summer (Zooey Deschanel), a young woman who doesn't believe in true love. We are presented to the different facets of their relationship in a non chronological time frame. Each scene is preceded by a beautiful artwork depicting the day in the 500 days that Summer was in Tom's life. As the film progresses along, we begin to feel invested in their lives as the characters are quite endearing. Both individually and as a couple on the throes of a new and fresh romance, we find ourselves rooting wholeheartedly for them.

I was really impressed by Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s performance in “Inception” and in this film he is an equally likable chap. Not overtly handsome yet charming in an innocent, boyish way. His characterization of Tom was sympathetic and naive. In fact, I’d say it is quite a reversal of gender personification. Usually it is the female who is the hopeless romantic, the one who pines for true love and the one who wants to immediately label a relationship.

On the other hand, Zooey Deschanel as Summer had a vacant look pasted on her face throughout the entire movie. But in this case, it was befitting of a complex character who was insouciant, indifferent and carefree yet strangely enough she also believed in coincidences and chance encounters.

The film was peppered with a good blend of songs which really help boost the cutesy factor. Tom writes greeting cards for a living that in itself is the cutest thing ever. Bouyed by a wry narration reminiscent of “Amelie”, it is a quirky story of an off beat romance about love and heartbreaks and everything else in between. So it will surely pull at your heartstrings.

The narrator said: "Most days of the year are unremarkable. They begin and they end with no lasting memory made in between. Most days have no impact on the course of a life." I couldn't agree more!

FRIENDS WITH MONEY

Jennifer Aniston, Frances McDormand, Joan Cusack, Catherine Keener
Scott Caan, Jason Isaacs, Simon McBurney, Greg Germann

The central character in this film would be Olivia (Jennifer Aniston). After all she is the one who has friends with money. She is the only one single and isn’t exactly faring well in life. She earns her keep by cleaning houses, hooks up with really pathetic guys and goes around department stores asking for free sample of expensive creams. I strike her as a pretty lonely character but one who doesn’t really care about what other people think or say about her.

Her married friends on the other hand have pretty cushy lives in terms of material possessions but there are cracks in their personal relationships. Christine (Catherine Keener) and David (Jason Isaacs) write screenplays together and bicker constantly. Jane (Frances McDormand) is pre-menopausal so she is angry all the time while her husband Aaron (Simon McBurney) is a metrosexual yet strikes everyone as gay. While Franny (Joan Cusack)and Matt (Greg Germann) are very well off but have opposing views on parenting.

Eventually this story of four best friends whose lives are thrown off balance as the realities of early middle age set in doesn't really resolve anything. It just presents a glimpse into the lifestyle of well off people and their gamut of hang ups and insecurities. But it has a nice balance of comedy and drama as essayed by the good acting skills of its talented ensemble cast notably Jennifer Aniston and Frances McDormand who shine in their roles.

CHLOE

Amanda Seyfried, Julianne Moore, Liam Neeson

"If the one you love was lying to you,
how far would you go to find out the truth?"

Cinema 7, SM Megamall

Catherine (Julianne Moore), a gynecologist sets up a surprise birthday party for her husband David (Liam Neeson), a professor who commutes regularly between New York and Toronto. When David misses his flight home to Toronto, Catherine suspects that he is having an affair with one of his students. So she hires an 'escort' named Chloe (Amanda Seyfried) to seduce her husband and report back if he takes the 'bait'. Soon enough, a simple business transaction develops into a sordid affair tinged with betrayal, deceit and sexual tension.

An upscale part of Toronto sets the tone for this erotic thriller. It is exemplified by the beautifully adorned house and the tony private clinic. A glimpse into the lifestyle of the upper class who are materially secure yet they are also mostly lonely, confused and fraught with insecurities just like the rest of us.

Atom Egoyan, the Canadian director of Turkish descent tried to feed a sense of suspense by peppering the film with ominous music which tend to startle you out of your stupor. A stupor brought about by the electrifying screen presence of Julianne Moore and Amanda Seyfried. Her role as Chloe is a total contrast to her usually wholesome roles. Here she is mature, seductive and cunning yet she still maintained a youthful, playful demeanor. Liam Nesson on the other was undercast and not really utilized well even though he was the catalyst that got the plot into motion.

The story develops at a mostly steady pace with the occasional suspenseful twist(s) thrown in for good measure. I admit I was totally clueless about the twists and actually had to replay back some scenes in my mind to get the 'hints'. I also found the ending to be pretty 'convenient' and frankly that is quite unfortunate.

SALT

Angelina Jolie, Liev Schreiber, Chiwetel Ejiofor

"Who is Salt?"

Cinema 4, SM Megamall

Since the trailer practically reveals that Evelyn Salt (Angelina Jolie) is a Russian spy working at the CIA, you would think there isn't much left to decipher. But you are wrong because the film delivers with a powerful punch as there are alot more to discover about Salt's true identity. Numerous action filled sequences, death defying stunts (mostly from its lead star), as well as various twists and turns abound in this complex spy thriller adventure.

The film succeeds in capturing our undivided attention because we are awed by the mesmerizing screen presence of Angelina Jolie. Her chiseled features, her flexible and well toned body even the way she delivers her dialogue is captivating. So much so that we simply realize just how preposterous the entire plot truly is as the end credits roll by. Come on, covert Russian spies trained during their childhood who are suddenly activated to wreak havoc on America is a far fetched premise, don't you think so?

Yet it is well executed and well paced with many action sequences and just the right amount of drama to make it a good entertainment piece. The support cast who are mostly male are believable and don't overshadow its main star.

The entire film hangs on Angelina Jolie literally and figuratively and she succeeds brilliantly. Not afraid to do her own stunts like leaping from one moving vehicle to another. And also not consciously minding her looks, she played the 'double' agent, realistically. A spy of many disguises, a master tactician and highly skilled in defensive training, she was fearless and quite fierce.

Ok, I will stop gushing over Angelina Jolie and conclude by saying that she triumphs in a genre that is mostly dominated by action stars without losing her femininity.

Film Cycle "Madrid: Una Ciudad de Cine"

Instituto Cervantes de Manila, the cultural arm of the Spanish Embassy, explores film gems set in Spain’s historical capital of Madrid as it presents Madrid: Una Ciudad de Cine this whole month of August, every Saturday, 6 p.m. at Instituto Cervantes’ Salon de Actos.


Admission to all the screenings is FREE on a FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED basis.

Goya award winner "Tiovivo c. 1950" will be shown on August 7. The film, directed by José Luis Garci, offers a nostalgic vision of several people in Madrid all managing to survive in the face of post-war era.

Showing on August 14 is Manuel Gómez Pereira’s Spanish romantic- comedy flick "El amor perjudica seriamente la salud" (Love Can Seriously Damage Your Health) which narrates a long-time on-again-off again love affair between two characters (played by Pénelope Cruz and Gabino Diego) when the Beatles arrived in Madrid in 1965.

Screening on August 21 is "Mujeres al borde de un atague de nervios" (Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown), a Spanish comedy film that brought Almodóvar to international attention having been nominated for the 1989 Academy Awards and winning five Goya Awards in Spain, including Best Film.

Alejandro Amenábar’s "Abre los ojos" (Open Your Eyes) will be screened on August 28. This film depicts the story of a former womanizer (Eduardo Noriega), disfigured in a car crash who has trouble distinguishing dreams from reality. American Director Cameron Crowe remade this film as Vanilla Sky in 2001, with Tom Cruise in the lead role and Penélope Cruz reprising her role as Sofia.

For more information, please call 5261482 or visit http://manila.cervantes.es Instituto Cervantes de Manila is at 855 T.M. Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila.