Breaking Dawn: Illustrations of Bella Swan's Wedding Dress And As A Vampire

Out of all the Twilight Saga books by Stephenie Meyer, Breaking Dawn has got to be the most interesting one for me. The story is rich, the characters are cooler and it's such a superb ending for the saga about Bella and the Cullens. I came across this blog regarding Bella as a Vampire and her wedding dress. Both are illustrations that will appear on the The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide. As Twilight fans, we all know how Bella will have this extravagant wedding and her Vampire transformation would be a very interesting one since it would also be the time that she would give birth to her half human, half vampire daughter with Edward. Oops! Spoiler much?? Anyhoo, here are the illustrations courtesy of http://shelf-life.ew.com

What do you think?

The History Maker: The Femme Fatale Britney Spears

I'm so proud that Pop Queen Britney Spears has proven once again that she's one of the most powerful and legendary acts in the music industry in all of history by securing her sixth number one album through the critically acclaimed FEMME FATALE. This made Spears the only female artist in history to have six albums debuts at number one! Now that's what you call a LEGEND.

Out of all her albums, this one would challenge the BLACKOUT album as one of her best to date -- record-wise.

My favorite tracks off the album are:

How I Roll - This is my number 1 favorite. It kinda reminds me of Brave New Girl but way better! I love how you can dance with it and do the dougie! LOL

Till The World Ends - The video was just released today and I uber loved it. It's basically I'm A Slave 4 U 2.0 but the beat of this song is just crazy!!! Thank you Ke$ha for writing this for the Queen.

Big Fat Bass - This party perfection beat penned and produced by Will.I.Am has got to come out as a single. It's techno-electropop vibe is too addictive, you should all listen to it!

Hold It Against Me - I love that she chose this as her first single. When I first listened to it, I'm like --oh my, watch out wannabes' Britney is coming after you.

Criminal - This song kinda brings me back to the past. I love its lyrics and how sexy the sound is. "Mama I'm inlove with a criminal" -- how can you go wrong with this line??

Overall, I just have to paraphrase what Britney said about this album --it's definitely her best album to date!!!!

I posted like a week ago about the Grand Album Launch that we'll ba having here in Manila for the FEMME FATALE Album. I just haven't collected all the pictures but I will be posting it late this month. Better late than never right?

Anyhoo, let me promote the Pinoys Heart Britney Page guys. If you're a Pinoy Britney Fan or a simply a Britney Fan, like our page on Facebook. Pinoys Heart Britney and follow us on Twitter here PHB

I'm hoping against hope that Britney will include Manila on her tour!!! Pleaseeee!!!!

-paddylast

Hop Film Review

I was able to catch the advance screening of HOP last night in Glorietta 4 Cinema 3 with my friend D courtesy of pinoyexchange where I wrote a review of the film. Here's what I thought of it --this review was first posted on the official PEx Movie Review thread.

The film focuses on E.B.--son of the Easter Bunny--who dreams of becoming a drummer instead of taking over his father’s job, and Fred, a happy go lucky human who accidentally injures E.B. and eventually helps him overcome the evil plan of the Easter chick Carlos to destroy Easter.

This film does not really require a great deal of dissection. We could easily relate with E.B’s character, someone who dreams big but is caught in an inevitable obligation; while Fred is someone who’s always yearning for something else in life without actually having any clue on what that is.

I thought the whole film was a bit slow, though it is highly entertaining especially to the kids who truly enjoy the antics of the very cute E.B. as well as the chicks’ characters. It is incomparable to Toy Story or Shrek or even the most recent film Rango, but it has the elements of a good film.

Its trailer alone is fun to watch but after watching the whole film, you’ll see that the story lacks depth. But hey! Who needs depth if you can just laugh along with the kids in the cinema?

I’m giving it a 7.5/10 rating.

Visit PinoyExchange Movie Review for more Film Reviews

-paddylast

I Am Number Four Film Review

Director: D.J Caruso

On DVD

Starring: Alex Pettyfer, Dianna Agron, Timothy Olyphant, Callan McAullife

Watching this film is like watching an episode of TV series’ Roswell meets DarkAngel. John was from planet Lorien along with his guardian and is being hunted by the Mogadorians who are killing the remaining nine “special Loriens” in chronological order. They’ve already killed Number 1, 2 and 3 and John’s next. Now, he needs to change his identity (for the nth time) and try not to be killed.

I was quite impressed by the film’s premise but thought that the acting of its actors are very weak specially Dianna Agron’s character who played John / Number 4’ s love interest. It was a bit Glee-ish and disconnected. Alex Pettyfer playing the title role was very enigmatic on screen but needs more depth. There are unnecessary and prolonged scenes that I find distracting. I love that they showed Number Six, though, and I’m hoping that the producers aren’t going to kill her for the upcoming ‘I Am Number…” franchise (if there’ll be any.)

It is not technically good but it was a very enjoyable film because it has the story to keep you curious and wait for the next one. For this alone, I’ll be giving the film a 6.5/10 ratings.

-paddylast

Britney Spears' Femme Fatale Grand Launching In Manila!

Calling all my fellow Britney Spears fans to join us celebrate the grand launching of the 7th Studio Album of Pop Royalty Miss Britney Spears entitled "FEMME FATALE"

The grand launching will take place at the SM Megamall Event Center on the 2nd of April, 4PM.

Please confirm your attendance thru this Facebook Page:

http://on.fb.me/hR5haN

Let's all make this album her 6th number one album!!!!

See you there!!!

-paddylast

Rango Film Review

Eastwood Mall, Cinema 6

March 11, 2011

P180.00

Director: Gore Verbinski

Starring

Johnny Depp, Isla Fisher, Abigail Breslin

Alfred Molina, Bill Nighy, Harry Dean Stanton, Ray Winstone, Timothy Olyphant

I've been dying to watch this film since I saw it's funny trailer last year and I'm so glad that this Johnny Depp led animated film didn't disappoint.

Rango was initially an unnamed chameleon who's got no friends but some toys and a dead cricket. He got stranded in a Nevada dessert where he met the female lizard named Beans who took him to the Dirt Town populated by desert animals .

Here, Rango presented himself as a tough drifter who killed several "drifters" with one bullet and eventually killing the feared hawk accidentally who tried to prey him earlier in the film. Because of this, the town mayor appoints him to be the town's sheriff.

Meanwhile, the water reserved of the town are dangerously low and has been robbed mysteriously. Rango stepped up to find the robbers and came to a conclusion that it could be the mayor who's actually behind the robbery recalling the mayor's words that whoever controls the water, controls everything. With this, he devices a plan to confront the mayor but was confronted by the rattlesnake through the sly mayor's command and made him admit all his lies. Rango was asked to leave the town but came back after realizing that he needs to help the town's inhabitants.

I totally love this film, the music and the graphics are impeccable. Rango is such an adorable chameleon, watching him reminds me of Colin Firth in A Single Man for some reasons. The whole thing about the "water" issue was the main focal point of the film; though I find it a bit prolonged (not draggy) , it was still good, I mean the scenes are perfectly narrowed into a cohesive yet dynamic collection of dialogues, music and animation.

The social relevance of it was subtly presented in such a way that you can laugh about it but it'd also make you think deeper on what the "issue" is about. Is it about Oil? Money? Naturally, whoever control these stuffs controls everything. It has this powerful message that politically slap everyone's consciousness that YOU HAVE TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.

So there, this film is not only for kids and kids alike but for everyone who's looking for a good laugh and some good insights about life, friendship and corny as it may sound, the society.

I'd give this a 9.5 ratings.

-paddylast

Red Riding Hood Film Review

Trinoma Mall, Cinema 1
Press Screening, 03.08.2010

Last night, I was able to catch the press screening of the Red Riding Hood starring Amanda Seyfried, Billy Burke and more... I will be re-posting the Pinoy Exchange review once they posted it.

Red Riding Hood is the tale of a young lady named Valerie (Amanda Seyfried) who is in love with the woodcutter Peter (Shiloh Fernandez) but was arranged to marry the wealthy Henry (Played by Max Irons). Unwilling to marry Henry, Valerie and Peter plan to runaway just when her sister was found slaughtered by the wolf that has been lurking around their village for years. With this, famed wolf hunter Father Solomon (Gary Oldman) was asked to kill the beast.

As the death toll rises, Father Solomon warns the villagers that the beast maybe one of them. Valerie then discovers that she has a special connection with the wolf, suspecting that the creature could be someone she loves.

The start was very fast-paced. From the moment that they found out that Valerie’s sister was slaughtered, the villagers plotted to kill the wolf themselves but were unsuccessful that it even causes more deaths. With Father Solomon’s arrival, which kind of gave me that “Van Helsing Just Arrived” vibes, it was apparent that he’ll be the one to actually create havoc in the village rather than the wolf itself. I just don’t get his character. Why is he bossing around people in the village when in fact it is obvious that it was not the majorities who called for him to be summoned and kill the beast?

When the wolf arrived and cornered Valerie and talked to her, the guessing game furiously started as everybody she loves was a suspect. That guessing part was almost good and suspenseful; I just wish that there’s more action to the narrative rather than just a plain explanation because it kind of lacks the connection. The big reveal was almost anti-climactic but it was still good given that it was not too much of a giveaway.

In conclusion, I think the film was trying too hard to be darker than what it shows in its trailer and was not very successful. It was still a good two hours guessing who the werewolf is and lamenting how some scenes could’ve been executed better.

Overall, I’d give it a 6/10 rating.

-this is an excerpt of my review courtesy of PinoyExchange Official Movie Reviews. -please visit link for a more detailed review and join in the community as well.

-paddylast

The Adjustment Bureau Film Review

03.05.2011 1:15Am

Gateway Cineplex

P180 LFS w/D

Director: George Nolfi

Starring: Matt Damon and Emily Blunt

I've been waiting for this film for like forever since I saw it's trailer last year. With it's interesting premise and the amazing duo of Matt Damon and Emily Blunt, I am more than excited to see it!

The Adjustment Bureau was based on the short story written by Philip K. Dick entitled, "The Adjustment Team." It's a romance / mystery film that tackles the choices that we make in life. The Adjustment Bureau pertains to a group of men wearing hats who introduces themselves as the watchdog of every people's plan or destiny. Making sure that what is written in the "book" of their life happened as it is. David Norris played by Matt Damon is running for the United States senate. He loses and met the girl who changed the rest of his life. Both fell for each other but the Adjustment Bureau told Matt that meeting Elyse again(Emily Blunt) is not part of his plan. A plan made and written by whom they call the "Chairman."

With David not agreeing at all to let go of Elyse, he devices a plot to change that plan by the help of Harry who is a part of the Adjustment Bureau who feels responsible for what has happened to David, unable to intercept the meeting of David and Elyse for the second time which is not supposed to happen in the first place. David decided to tell Elyse everything and run for their life in hopes of being together notwithstanding what has been planned for them.

It was truly an interesting premise but it just didn't live up to it's promise. It is not "Inception-mind boggling" but it is more of a version of "Inception minus the dreams." In short, it lacks narrative which is supposed to carry on the whole film. I have to admit though, that Matt Damon and Emily Blunt's chemistry was undeniable that you can truly feel their love and the intensity of their emotion.

Analyzing the film now, I was thinking that it may pertain to different aspects of life such as freewill, choices, destiny, faith, fate. The film was like telling us "You cannot control your destiny because It's already been written but it also delivers the message that you're the one who's making all the choices regarding your destiny thus you're really the one controlling it." Absolutely crazy right? I mean, it's up to one's belief of destiny or life as it is, whichever you'd take.

I thought the whole first and second half of the film was a tad bit draggy. It's a bit long to be honest and I only enjoyed the first ten and the last 20 minutes of the film. I would still recommend it though, it's still a good film to lounge over for a couple of hours.

I'll give it a 6.5/10 ratings.

-paddylast

My 2011 Oscar Predictions

The Academy Awards also known as the Oscar is the last but the most prestigious award giving bodies that every movie fans like me are excited about during the award season in the US. So for this post, I'll be making my predictions and some commentaries about my choices for the 83rd Academy Awards --whom I think will win and whom I want to win.

(Selected Awards only)

Best Picture

Think and Want: The King's Speech - I was initially skeptical with this film winning the Oscar's after The Social Network had the industry buzzing about its front runner status in the said category but after SAG and BAFTA declaring it their best film, that status shifted positively to this British film. It's definitely my favorite! Colin Firth's stutter and Helena's accent got me!

Best Director

Think: David Fincher -Golden Globes, BAFTA and SAG said so

Want: Tom Hooper - I, most of the time believe that if a movie won the Best Picture -the director should get 60% of the credits and since my best picture is The King's Speech, my winner is from this film as well --atleast, that's what I want to happen. haha

Best Actress

Think: Natalie Portman - As much as I like (LOVE!) her, I think Annette should get this but apparently, Natalie's time has arrived. Sometimes, timing plays a very important part on choosing who's going to win. Look at Sandra winning last year over Meryl Streep.

Want: Annette Bening - She just can't get a break. First, losing to Hilary Swank and this. I'd be so damn happy if she'd get her first Oscar-- please Academy, give where the credit is due!

Best Actor

Think and Want: Colin Firth - please, give it to Colin this time. He was so robbed last year and his performance was way above his competition!

Best Supporting Actor

Think and Want: Christian Bale - he's superb in The Fighter and he should get that statuette on February 27!!

Best Supporting Actress

Think: Melissa Leo -Like Natalie Portman, her moment has arrived. I do think though that she "kinda" deserved this award after losing quite a number of times. Haha

Want: Helena Bonham Carter - she's just my sentimental favorite!!

Best Animated Film

Think: Toy Story 3 - this is stupid, you'd nominate an animated film in the Best Picture Category and Best Animated Film at the same time? They should just give the award right away to this film for the Animated Film Category, like seriously???

Want: As much as I was touched by Toy Story 3, my favorite would have to be How To Train Your Dragon which was the first film I've given a 10/10 ratings.

Best Original Song

Think: I See The Light - from Tangled

Want: If I Rise - 127 Hours

Best Make Up

Think: Barney's Version

Want: The Wolfman

Best Art Direction

Think and Want: Inception

Best Costume Design

Think and Want: Alice In Wonderland

Best Adapted Screenplay

Think: The Social Network

Want: 127 Hours

To See The Complete List Of Nominees Check Out: Oscar Nominations

-paddylast

Vanishing On 7th Street Film Review

Gateway Cineplex

P161

Director: Brad Anderson

Starring:
Hayden Christensen
Thandie Newton
John Leguizamo

When checking out what film to watch this weekend I find myself choosing between Unknown and Vanishing on 7th Street. Unknown because of the three stars led by Liam Neeson and Vanishing On The 7th Street by Hayden Christensen. I ended up choosing Hayden's film because of its very interesting premise about people vanishing into thin air because of a mysterious phenomena where light is your only way to fight the "shadows" but then it will also the reason these "shadows" will get you. People on the 7th street started to disappear leaving only the clothes they're wearing and their other belongings. There was no explanation at all why it's happening but you need to keep a light handy or stay in a well-lit place (or wear it for that matter) to survive. Apparently, according to Luke's (Hayden Christensen) flashback, this was a global blackout of some sort.

The film does have a couple of startling scenes and the actors were okay but the whole film just lacks narrative. I am at a loss as to what the story is really about. I do know however, that it's some sort of related to that Roanoke story that the character of John Laguizamo (Paul) was reading before the mysterious event started. It is about the Roanoke Colony who simply vanished either because they abandon the place or die of starvation because there are no supplies to keep them alive.

It is simply mind boggling and draggy at the same time. The characterizations are shallow and non-emphatic from start to finish. The ending is anti-climactic and predictable. I won't recommend this film to anyone at this point. You don't want to waste some valuable time my dear readers...

I'd give it a 3.5 /10 ratings.

-paddylast

My Idol Don McLean To Visit Manila!!!

Growing up as a teenager, I've always been drawn to old songs because it gives me that magical feeling of being transported at another time, another era and another persona. Some of these songs are from Kenny Rogers, John Denver, Porter Wagoner, Ray Price and of course Don McLean.

Don McLean has always been my favorite since I bought his Greatest Hits CD, his songs are my drugs at those times when my family was facing some personal difficulties. It's such a relief hearing his music which gave me more energy and lift my spirit to go on with life.

Some of my favorite songs would have to be his classics If We Try, Castles In The Air and his rendition of Crying. I also love The Birthday Song and Everyday, two particular song of his which makes me very happy every time I listen to them.

It's just last week though that I've heard that he's coming for a concert on March 2 and it got me all excited! I've waited all my life to see him and I'm very excited to sing along with him while watching him perform all the great songs that he has written and remade. I wish I could meet him face to face!!! I wish!

A Starry Starry Night With Don McLean

Date: March 2, 2011, Wednesday 8PM

Venue: Araneta Coliseum

Ticket Prices:

VIP(103&101 ROWS A-J) (Reserved Seating) 4760

PATRON (Reserved Seating) 4230

LOWER BOX (Reserved Seating) 3700

UPPER BOX A (Reserved Seating) 2640

UPPER BOX B 1060

GENERAL ADMISSION 530

Tickets are available in all Ticketnet outlets. Call 911-5555 or visitwww.ticketnet.com.ph for more details.

To Don McLean,

Thank you very much for your music and for the inspiration that you gave me!

-paddylast

The King's Speech Is My Best Picture!

On DVD

Director: Tom Hooper

Starring

Colin Firth

Geoffrey Rush

Helena Bonham Carter

I've seen this film for a couple of times now this year and those times that I've watched it made me like Colin Firth even more. The guy's a genius and deserves all the accolades that he's gotten so far from this film.

The story is basically about King George VI of England (Firth) overcoming his speech impediment (stammer) with the help of his speech therapist Lionel Logue played by Geoffrey Rush. This true story was quite simple to begin with, Tom Hooper who directed the film was able to accomplish that period era vibe and pulled the greatness out of Firth, Rush and Bonham-Carter.

Firth's stutter are very much convincing in every scenes. He's also very much adorable as a very intimidated Duke and a loving father and husband. I love the part when he was telling a story to his kids.

Geoffrey Rush was such a delight to watch all through out the film. He embodies the characteristics of a unconventional therapist/teacher and you will really believe him.

Helena Bonham-Carter played a very refreshing Duchess / Queen as well. I'm not used to seeing her act normal but in this film, she really did pull it off. She's such a darling to watch and very lovable for that matter.

I'm not surprised at all that these three got the nods of the Academy for they all played their role in such a manner that you would want to repeat the film over and over to see them again.

With that being said, I declare this film my Best Picture of 2010 with Firth as my Oscar's Best Actor.

Ratings: 9.5/ 10

-Paddylast