"On the seventh day of Christmas,
my true love sent to me
Seven swans a-swimming,
Six geese a-laying,
Five golden rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree."
Huge blister.
More sleep.
Less internet.
More hospital.
Less productive.
No power supply for laptop.
Just psp.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
6th Day of Christmas
"On the sixth day of Christmas,
my true love sent to me
Six geese a-laying,
Five golden rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree."
Taxis are expensive.
HSBC Treetop walk is short.
Walking is a good form of exercise.
Socks need to be thicker!
Blisters are irritating.
Overnight guard duty.
my true love sent to me
Six geese a-laying,
Five golden rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree."
Taxis are expensive.
HSBC Treetop walk is short.
Walking is a good form of exercise.
Socks need to be thicker!
Blisters are irritating.
Overnight guard duty.
Monday, December 29, 2008
5th Day of Christmas
"On the fifth day of Christmas,
my true love sent to me
Five golden rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree."
Swimming is fun.
Hellooo Judy!
New goggles.
Hospital again.
Pray pray.
my true love sent to me
Five golden rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree."
Swimming is fun.
Hellooo Judy!
New goggles.
Hospital again.
Pray pray.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
4th Day of Christmas
"On the fourth day of Christmas,
my true love sent to me
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree."
I hope you like the storage space, Imouto!
Please take care of your doggie!
Hospital visits are becoming the norm.
Time is money.
my true love sent to me
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree."
I hope you like the storage space, Imouto!
Please take care of your doggie!
Hospital visits are becoming the norm.
Time is money.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
3rd Day of Christmas
"On the third day of Christmas,
my true love sent to me
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree."
Thank you Xiaomei for the wonderful lunch and Swensen's Ice-cream!
Thank you for the wonderful concert/service, girls.
Thank you Mr Lee for the transport.
my true love sent to me
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree."
Thank you Xiaomei for the wonderful lunch and Swensen's Ice-cream!
Thank you for the wonderful concert/service, girls.
Thank you Mr Lee for the transport.
Friday, December 26, 2008
2nd Day of Christmas
"On the second day of Christmas,
my true love sent to me
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree."
Happy Birthday Xiaomei!
Get well soon, Mama!
my true love sent to me
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree."
Happy Birthday Xiaomei!
Get well soon, Mama!
Thursday, December 25, 2008
1st Day of Christmas
"On the first day of Christmas,
my true love sent to me
A partridge in a pear tree."
Merry Christmas!
my true love sent to me
A partridge in a pear tree."
Merry Christmas!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Roar!
Ever had one of those days when your handphone, psp and pocket pc ran out of battery all at the same time?
Well, this was one of those days. Perhaps i have left my pocket pc music running the whole night only to discover that the damned thing would not switch on after i had left the house. So i spent the entire journey to the massage parlour in silence, playing sudoku. Speaking of which, my timing slackened with each game that i play. Maybe a sign of old age.
And PFFFT! Singapore didn't capitalise on their many many opportunities. All it took was Vietnam's single attack and the Lions were down and out for the count.
Despair.
Well, this was one of those days. Perhaps i have left my pocket pc music running the whole night only to discover that the damned thing would not switch on after i had left the house. So i spent the entire journey to the massage parlour in silence, playing sudoku. Speaking of which, my timing slackened with each game that i play. Maybe a sign of old age.
And PFFFT! Singapore didn't capitalise on their many many opportunities. All it took was Vietnam's single attack and the Lions were down and out for the count.
Despair.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
She said...
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
And knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
For through me your days will be many,
And years will be added to your life."
-Proverbs 9:10-11
And knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
For through me your days will be many,
And years will be added to your life."
-Proverbs 9:10-11
Friday, December 19, 2008
Night of many familiar faces
It all began with me, meeting my God-sis for supper. Punggol Nasi Lemak! Banana leaf otah, curry cabbage, fish fillet, egg and rice! $3.80. Lotsa chilli!
Hello Miss Liang! Always bump into you there when I eat there.
Adjourned to Selegie Tau Huey across the street. Nice n smooth tau huey.
Hello Mr Wu from 4S1 2000. It's been almost 10 years! =)
Hello Miss Liang! Always bump into you there when I eat there.
Adjourned to Selegie Tau Huey across the street. Nice n smooth tau huey.
Hello Mr Wu from 4S1 2000. It's been almost 10 years! =)
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Movie Reviews: Quarantine, Twilight, Seven Pounds
Quarantine
The pseudo-documentary horror movie, with its hand-held trembly-cam and tipsy point of view, is enjoying a resurgence almost a decade after the advent of “The Blair Witch Project.” In a little more than a year we’ve seen “Cloverfield” and the low-budget non-charmer “The Signal.” Now “Quarantine” wants to remind us that the most terrifying threat we face could be brewing not in the Middle East but in the apartment next door.
Most of the audience stumbling into "Quarantine" will have no idea it's a remake of a 2007 Spanish horror film titled "Rec." I can't blame anyone for their ignorance, since the original picture never broke through to America due to distribution disinterest, and that's a crying shame.
"Rec" was a beautiful chiller, constructed with resourcefulness and genre filmmaking wizardry that instilled a modest concept with the right amount of armrest-ripping content to fuel nightmares for weeks. "Quarantine" is the unavoidable American replica, only this version has ingested a bottle of idiot pills and washed it all down with a full glass of directorial incompetence.
Hollywood has drained the tension away, replacing Spanish innovation with American stupidity. Very claustrophobic, very bloody, very nauseating. Makes you scared of old women, animals and little children.
Rating: 2/10
Twilight
Here, as in Stephenie Meyer's 2005 novel, Edward (Robert Pattinson) is Romeo, Heathcliff, James Dean, and Brad Pitt all rolled into one: a scruffy-gorgeous bloodsucker pinup who is really an angelic protector. When Bella (Kristen Stewart), who has come to Forks, Wash., to live with her police-chief dad, sits next to Edward in biology class, he acts like he's suffering a seizure (or an attack of bad Mexican food). But it's only because he can barely control himself around her. It's no surprise that Bella tunes out the other kids, even as they try to befriend her. They don't make her tingle with the fear of her own desire. Edward, like any good vampire, has a predatory glamour. As Bella gets to know him, what's irresistible to her is that he promises not a blood consummation but its very opposite: a refusal to give in to the hunger that tempts him most.
For girls, the intense, ego-stroking appeal of Meyer's novel was the way that Bella becomes this undead Byronic stud's soul mate without quite knowing why she's worthy. She's a Kewl Generation damsel waiting to be rescued from her jaded heart.
"Twilight" can be rather cheesy in certain scenes. Other than that, it could have more action. The romance in the movie is just too overwhelming for me to swallow.
Rating: 7/10
Seven Pounds
“Seven Pounds” is an endlessly sentimental fable about sacrifice and redemption that aims only at the heart at the expense of the head. Intricately constructed so as to infuriate anyone predominantly guided by rationality and intellect, this re-teaming of star Will Smith and director Gabriele Muccino after their surprisingly effective “The Pursuit of Happyness” is off-putting for its manifest manipulations, as well as its pretentiousness and self-importance.
Ben appears anxious to please, his directness and soft-spoken urgency betokening a genuineness of intent. Before long, an appealing tenderness enters into his relationship with Emily that ultimately blossoms into a full-blown love story, something that fills out a great chunk of the running time.
This is something different from the recent super-hero-like "I Am Legend" and "Hancock". If "Seven Pounds" does not grip your heart and make you shed a tear of empathy, then maybe you just aren't human.
Bottom Line: Spiritual redemption is not a typical Hollywood theme, but this Will Smith movie shows it can be done.
Rating: 8/10
The pseudo-documentary horror movie, with its hand-held trembly-cam and tipsy point of view, is enjoying a resurgence almost a decade after the advent of “The Blair Witch Project.” In a little more than a year we’ve seen “Cloverfield” and the low-budget non-charmer “The Signal.” Now “Quarantine” wants to remind us that the most terrifying threat we face could be brewing not in the Middle East but in the apartment next door.
Most of the audience stumbling into "Quarantine" will have no idea it's a remake of a 2007 Spanish horror film titled "Rec." I can't blame anyone for their ignorance, since the original picture never broke through to America due to distribution disinterest, and that's a crying shame.
"Rec" was a beautiful chiller, constructed with resourcefulness and genre filmmaking wizardry that instilled a modest concept with the right amount of armrest-ripping content to fuel nightmares for weeks. "Quarantine" is the unavoidable American replica, only this version has ingested a bottle of idiot pills and washed it all down with a full glass of directorial incompetence.
Hollywood has drained the tension away, replacing Spanish innovation with American stupidity. Very claustrophobic, very bloody, very nauseating. Makes you scared of old women, animals and little children.
Rating: 2/10
Twilight
Here, as in Stephenie Meyer's 2005 novel, Edward (Robert Pattinson) is Romeo, Heathcliff, James Dean, and Brad Pitt all rolled into one: a scruffy-gorgeous bloodsucker pinup who is really an angelic protector. When Bella (Kristen Stewart), who has come to Forks, Wash., to live with her police-chief dad, sits next to Edward in biology class, he acts like he's suffering a seizure (or an attack of bad Mexican food). But it's only because he can barely control himself around her. It's no surprise that Bella tunes out the other kids, even as they try to befriend her. They don't make her tingle with the fear of her own desire. Edward, like any good vampire, has a predatory glamour. As Bella gets to know him, what's irresistible to her is that he promises not a blood consummation but its very opposite: a refusal to give in to the hunger that tempts him most.
For girls, the intense, ego-stroking appeal of Meyer's novel was the way that Bella becomes this undead Byronic stud's soul mate without quite knowing why she's worthy. She's a Kewl Generation damsel waiting to be rescued from her jaded heart.
"Twilight" can be rather cheesy in certain scenes. Other than that, it could have more action. The romance in the movie is just too overwhelming for me to swallow.
Rating: 7/10
Seven Pounds
“Seven Pounds” is an endlessly sentimental fable about sacrifice and redemption that aims only at the heart at the expense of the head. Intricately constructed so as to infuriate anyone predominantly guided by rationality and intellect, this re-teaming of star Will Smith and director Gabriele Muccino after their surprisingly effective “The Pursuit of Happyness” is off-putting for its manifest manipulations, as well as its pretentiousness and self-importance.
Ben appears anxious to please, his directness and soft-spoken urgency betokening a genuineness of intent. Before long, an appealing tenderness enters into his relationship with Emily that ultimately blossoms into a full-blown love story, something that fills out a great chunk of the running time.
This is something different from the recent super-hero-like "I Am Legend" and "Hancock". If "Seven Pounds" does not grip your heart and make you shed a tear of empathy, then maybe you just aren't human.
Bottom Line: Spiritual redemption is not a typical Hollywood theme, but this Will Smith movie shows it can be done.
Rating: 8/10
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
Many happenings
Started the day early, really early, earlier than normal, 8am. Went for my aunt's father-in-law's funeral. He lived a long life of 91 years. Was healthy, always exercise at the park downstairs. Till a week ago when he had to install a pacemaker, for reasons I don't really know. Went to ICU, became super critical, went home to the Lord in his sleep. God bless his soul.
Suddenly, it all became too nostalgic for me to handle. Tears filled my eyes, but refused to flow out. Chills went down my spine as I thought of what would happen next, my grandma. The final grandparent I have left. Been spending a lot of time with her recently. She's eating well, and a lot too. Enjoying every moment of it. The bad part of all this is that she's got diabetes, and her legs have gangrene. There's no known cure for it. If it spreads upwards to the rest of the leg, which it will, doctors have suggested amputation. But she, being 82, I fear would not pull through the operation.
Such a familiar feeling, walking into the viewing room of Mandai Crematorium, seeing people in traditional black and white, teary-eyed, red-nosed, crying out loud. Just cannot help but to breakdown into tears too. That's just human, I guess. Life goes on. Dust to dust, ashes to ashes.
Feeling powerless, literally, cos the electricians were repairing some power line at my flat, I decided to head out of the house to my cousin's place to check out what's on MIO tv. Not bad actually, there's like free movies on demand, for a month for new subscribers. But it's nothing that I've not seen. Ended up playing ps2 with my cousin. Torres was victorious again! Yes, winning eleven. Changed from bashing up baddies in Warriors Orochi 2, something like Dynasty Warriors.
Here I am, ending the day by hanging up my Singapore Flag at my window, after bringing it back from Australia. Time to hit the sack. Till next time...
Suddenly, it all became too nostalgic for me to handle. Tears filled my eyes, but refused to flow out. Chills went down my spine as I thought of what would happen next, my grandma. The final grandparent I have left. Been spending a lot of time with her recently. She's eating well, and a lot too. Enjoying every moment of it. The bad part of all this is that she's got diabetes, and her legs have gangrene. There's no known cure for it. If it spreads upwards to the rest of the leg, which it will, doctors have suggested amputation. But she, being 82, I fear would not pull through the operation.
Such a familiar feeling, walking into the viewing room of Mandai Crematorium, seeing people in traditional black and white, teary-eyed, red-nosed, crying out loud. Just cannot help but to breakdown into tears too. That's just human, I guess. Life goes on. Dust to dust, ashes to ashes.
Feeling powerless, literally, cos the electricians were repairing some power line at my flat, I decided to head out of the house to my cousin's place to check out what's on MIO tv. Not bad actually, there's like free movies on demand, for a month for new subscribers. But it's nothing that I've not seen. Ended up playing ps2 with my cousin. Torres was victorious again! Yes, winning eleven. Changed from bashing up baddies in Warriors Orochi 2, something like Dynasty Warriors.
Here I am, ending the day by hanging up my Singapore Flag at my window, after bringing it back from Australia. Time to hit the sack. Till next time...
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Movie Review: The Women, Wild Child
The Women
The acting was often forced and overblown. The characters were caricatures; they lacked depth.
(Spoilers ahead)
.
.
.
.
.
There are only 3 highlights that I can salvage from my memory. First was the fashion show (probably because there was no dialogue). Beautiful clothes made for a great visual experience. Second was Bette Midler. Even though her cameo came from out of no where (the scene seemed unnaturally inserted into the second half of the movie so that her name could be added to the credits), she was charming as usual. Third is the last scene in the hospital. It was chaotic (and yes overblown, again) but fun. The exaggeration in this scene is acceptable because it was slapstick. Therefore, by definition it was supposed to be overdone (unlike the rest of the movie). Though I must say, the Blair Witch Project-style camera work (you know, the kind that makes you a bit queasy) was a bit much.
Don’t get me wrong, these women have got style (we’ve seen them shine in other films), but you don’t see the sparkle in this movie.
Rating: 2/10
Wild Child
People like Lindsay Lohan have done it. So does Amanda Bynes, Brittany Snow and Hilary Duff among many others. Thus even you have one of Tinseltown’s hottest actress as your aunt, you still need to pay your dues.
In "Wild Child", Emma Roberts (niece of Julia Roberts and daughter of sometimes actor, Eric Roberts) plays Poppy Moore, a totally spoiled California girl who is being shipped off to a boarding school in the UK by his father for her increasing rebellious behaviour. The rules of staying in a boarding school means Poppy’s Jimmy Choo (heels), Louis Vuitton (bags), iPhone and her internet access have to make way for prim & proper school uniform, school rules and the school bully aka headgirl, Harriet.
There’s the lovable Nick Frost (the chubby half from Hot Fuzz) who turns up as a sissy hairdresser and a bunch of supporting comical characters that makes "Wild Child" a joy to sit through.
If you love the Harry Potter series where the average age of the leading cast members is below the legal age of 21 or any of those early Lindsay Lohan’s girly flicks, you should have no problem lapping up this unpretentious and light-heartened teen comedy.
Rating: 6/10
Bad Movie, Great Cast
I mean, come on: Annette Bening, Meg Ryan, Jada Pinkett Smith, Debra Messing, Eva Mendes, and Bette Midler, for crying out loud! This should have been 114 minutes of chic flick bliss. Instead, it was hugely disappointing.The acting was often forced and overblown. The characters were caricatures; they lacked depth.
(Spoilers ahead)
.
.
.
.
.
There are only 3 highlights that I can salvage from my memory. First was the fashion show (probably because there was no dialogue). Beautiful clothes made for a great visual experience. Second was Bette Midler. Even though her cameo came from out of no where (the scene seemed unnaturally inserted into the second half of the movie so that her name could be added to the credits), she was charming as usual. Third is the last scene in the hospital. It was chaotic (and yes overblown, again) but fun. The exaggeration in this scene is acceptable because it was slapstick. Therefore, by definition it was supposed to be overdone (unlike the rest of the movie). Though I must say, the Blair Witch Project-style camera work (you know, the kind that makes you a bit queasy) was a bit much.
Don’t get me wrong, these women have got style (we’ve seen them shine in other films), but you don’t see the sparkle in this movie.
Rating: 2/10
Wild Child
People like Lindsay Lohan have done it. So does Amanda Bynes, Brittany Snow and Hilary Duff among many others. Thus even you have one of Tinseltown’s hottest actress as your aunt, you still need to pay your dues.
In "Wild Child", Emma Roberts (niece of Julia Roberts and daughter of sometimes actor, Eric Roberts) plays Poppy Moore, a totally spoiled California girl who is being shipped off to a boarding school in the UK by his father for her increasing rebellious behaviour. The rules of staying in a boarding school means Poppy’s Jimmy Choo (heels), Louis Vuitton (bags), iPhone and her internet access have to make way for prim & proper school uniform, school rules and the school bully aka headgirl, Harriet.
There’s the lovable Nick Frost (the chubby half from Hot Fuzz) who turns up as a sissy hairdresser and a bunch of supporting comical characters that makes "Wild Child" a joy to sit through.
If you love the Harry Potter series where the average age of the leading cast members is below the legal age of 21 or any of those early Lindsay Lohan’s girly flicks, you should have no problem lapping up this unpretentious and light-heartened teen comedy.
Rating: 6/10
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Movie Reviews: Transporter 3, Resident Evil Degeneration, Bolt
Transporter 3
I thought Transporter 2 could have been better, but I think 3 was the final nail in the Transporter Coffin. Transporter 3 just killed the character development that Transporter and Transporter 2 made. The fight scenes were cheesy as hell. (Spoilers ahead)
.
.
.
.
.
I mean, throwing a rose into a defeated enemy's hole in the floor with the opera music? Give me a break. Frank Martin falling in LOVE?!? That was as cheesy as anything!
The story moved too fast. The car scenes were horrible especially when Frank was driving on two wheels. The whole movie just was awful. I came out of the theaters utterly pissed off. I was HIGHLY anticipating this release since last August and it was a total let down. I have lost a ton of respect for Jason Statham after making this pathetic piece of crap and the Crank movies. Just awful. I don't recommend this movie to anybody.
Rating: 2/10
Resident Evil: Degeneration
The first full-length feature in the franchise to be created via CG, is also the first one to stay true to its video-game roots. Unlike the three live-action movies that came before it, DEGENERATION moves the game’s plot forward and takes place after the zombie outbreak in Raccoon City and the fall of the Umbrella Corporation.
There’s plenty here for RESIDENT EVIL fans to enjoy, though, despite the slow pace between certain scenes. DEGENERATION captures the true essence of the games, complete with intriguing dialogue, and in a welcome move, it has even cast the lead voice talent (Alyson Court and Paul Mercier) from its interactive predecessors. The CGI is excellent, though more care should have been given to lip-synching the actors’ voices to their digital alter egos.
It’s no surprise that DEGENERATION’s conclusion leaves the door open for another chapter in the series. Interestingly enough, it doesn’t appear that the film’s scenario ties in to that of the forthcoming RESIDENT EVIL 5 game—but I guess we’ll all have to wait until next spring to find out for sure.
Rating: 8/10
Bolt
Story:
Bolt is the world's greatest super-dog. He is incredibly fast, is super strong, has heat vision, and has a super bark. He uses his powers to save the world from the evil Dr. Calico. Bolt is also ever vigilant and protects his owner, Penny, from the forces of evil.
Too bad Bolt doesn't realize he's on a TV show and none of it is real.
When Bolt is accidentally separated from Penny, he's forced to make a cross-country journey to save his owner. The catch is he still thinks he has super powers. Bolt captures a cat prisoner named Mittens and forces her to lead him to where Penny is being held. Despite her protests, Mittens can't convince Bolt that he's just the star of a TV show. Matters aren't helped when a Bolt super-fanboy (and hamster in a ball) named Rhino joins them and further reinforces Bolt's delusions.
What Worked:
The supporting cast is so strong that Bolt is almost relegated to the role of straight man. John Travolta does a fine job as Bolt and gives the character a sympathetic and earnest tone. Miley Cyrus is also good as Penny, but she's not in the movie all that much. Where the two really shine is in the song they sing together in the closing credits.
I was impressed how practically every new character that was introduced along the way brought an entertaining piece to the story. A couple of cats (one voiced by Diedrich Bader) amusingly harass Bolt in his trailer. In New York, Bolt encounters a funny group of pigeons that are perfectly animated like real world pigeons. When we meet Mittens, her exasperation and dismay at Bolt's high levels of crazy brings a lot of laughs. But the real show stealer is the hamster Rhino who is voiced by Mark Walton. He brings the house down and the character's introduction alone takes the movie to another level. Rhino's uber-fanboy persona and can-do attitude is hilarious. How can you not crack up when a hamster in a ball does a maniacal laugh or offers to snap a man's neck? Rhino might be able to carry a movie on his own.
The animators do a really great job with the performances of the CG characters. A standout scene is when Mittens is teaching Bolt how to beg for food. By giving him little instructions here and there ("Ears down! Head tilted!"), Bolt goes from a neutral facial expression to an all out "I'm cute, feed me" look right before your eyes. That scene should be required viewing for any aspiring animator. The subtle touches with body motions and facial expressions are apparent through the rest of the film.
The Bottom Line:
"Bolt" was a fun film. I'd recommend it not just for families but anyone that enjoys comedies or animation. This is not just a kid's movie.
Rating: 7/10
I thought Transporter 2 could have been better, but I think 3 was the final nail in the Transporter Coffin. Transporter 3 just killed the character development that Transporter and Transporter 2 made. The fight scenes were cheesy as hell. (Spoilers ahead)
.
.
.
.
.
I mean, throwing a rose into a defeated enemy's hole in the floor with the opera music? Give me a break. Frank Martin falling in LOVE?!? That was as cheesy as anything!
The story moved too fast. The car scenes were horrible especially when Frank was driving on two wheels. The whole movie just was awful. I came out of the theaters utterly pissed off. I was HIGHLY anticipating this release since last August and it was a total let down. I have lost a ton of respect for Jason Statham after making this pathetic piece of crap and the Crank movies. Just awful. I don't recommend this movie to anybody.
Rating: 2/10
Resident Evil: Degeneration
The first full-length feature in the franchise to be created via CG, is also the first one to stay true to its video-game roots. Unlike the three live-action movies that came before it, DEGENERATION moves the game’s plot forward and takes place after the zombie outbreak in Raccoon City and the fall of the Umbrella Corporation.
There’s plenty here for RESIDENT EVIL fans to enjoy, though, despite the slow pace between certain scenes. DEGENERATION captures the true essence of the games, complete with intriguing dialogue, and in a welcome move, it has even cast the lead voice talent (Alyson Court and Paul Mercier) from its interactive predecessors. The CGI is excellent, though more care should have been given to lip-synching the actors’ voices to their digital alter egos.
It’s no surprise that DEGENERATION’s conclusion leaves the door open for another chapter in the series. Interestingly enough, it doesn’t appear that the film’s scenario ties in to that of the forthcoming RESIDENT EVIL 5 game—but I guess we’ll all have to wait until next spring to find out for sure.
Rating: 8/10
Bolt
Story:
Bolt is the world's greatest super-dog. He is incredibly fast, is super strong, has heat vision, and has a super bark. He uses his powers to save the world from the evil Dr. Calico. Bolt is also ever vigilant and protects his owner, Penny, from the forces of evil.
Too bad Bolt doesn't realize he's on a TV show and none of it is real.
When Bolt is accidentally separated from Penny, he's forced to make a cross-country journey to save his owner. The catch is he still thinks he has super powers. Bolt captures a cat prisoner named Mittens and forces her to lead him to where Penny is being held. Despite her protests, Mittens can't convince Bolt that he's just the star of a TV show. Matters aren't helped when a Bolt super-fanboy (and hamster in a ball) named Rhino joins them and further reinforces Bolt's delusions.
What Worked:
The supporting cast is so strong that Bolt is almost relegated to the role of straight man. John Travolta does a fine job as Bolt and gives the character a sympathetic and earnest tone. Miley Cyrus is also good as Penny, but she's not in the movie all that much. Where the two really shine is in the song they sing together in the closing credits.
I was impressed how practically every new character that was introduced along the way brought an entertaining piece to the story. A couple of cats (one voiced by Diedrich Bader) amusingly harass Bolt in his trailer. In New York, Bolt encounters a funny group of pigeons that are perfectly animated like real world pigeons. When we meet Mittens, her exasperation and dismay at Bolt's high levels of crazy brings a lot of laughs. But the real show stealer is the hamster Rhino who is voiced by Mark Walton. He brings the house down and the character's introduction alone takes the movie to another level. Rhino's uber-fanboy persona and can-do attitude is hilarious. How can you not crack up when a hamster in a ball does a maniacal laugh or offers to snap a man's neck? Rhino might be able to carry a movie on his own.
The animators do a really great job with the performances of the CG characters. A standout scene is when Mittens is teaching Bolt how to beg for food. By giving him little instructions here and there ("Ears down! Head tilted!"), Bolt goes from a neutral facial expression to an all out "I'm cute, feed me" look right before your eyes. That scene should be required viewing for any aspiring animator. The subtle touches with body motions and facial expressions are apparent through the rest of the film.
The Bottom Line:
"Bolt" was a fun film. I'd recommend it not just for families but anyone that enjoys comedies or animation. This is not just a kid's movie.
Rating: 7/10
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Qantas Saga
Previously on The Qantas Saga... Click HERE for a recap.
Present Day:
"The captain of a Qantas Airbus A330 carrying 168 passengers to Singapore had to shut down an engine and turn back to Perth after an oil warning light flashed, the airline said Saturday."
"The incident was the latest in a series of problems suffered by Australia's troubled national airline in recent months.
Last week two Qantas jumbos were damaged when they collided on the ground at a maintenance base.
In October, a computer glitch caused a Qantas plane to do a 200-metre mid-air nosedive, injuring more than 70 people, with some suffering broken bones.
In July, a Qantas Boeing 747-400 made an emergency landing in Manila after a mid-air blast caused by an exploding oxygen bottle punched a hole in the fuselage during a flight from Hong Kong to Melbourne."
Click HERE for full article.
Present Day:
"The captain of a Qantas Airbus A330 carrying 168 passengers to Singapore had to shut down an engine and turn back to Perth after an oil warning light flashed, the airline said Saturday."
"The incident was the latest in a series of problems suffered by Australia's troubled national airline in recent months.
Last week two Qantas jumbos were damaged when they collided on the ground at a maintenance base.
In October, a computer glitch caused a Qantas plane to do a 200-metre mid-air nosedive, injuring more than 70 people, with some suffering broken bones.
In July, a Qantas Boeing 747-400 made an emergency landing in Manila after a mid-air blast caused by an exploding oxygen bottle punched a hole in the fuselage during a flight from Hong Kong to Melbourne."
Click HERE for full article.
In Memoriam
Click HERE for full article.
Ms. Lo Hwei Yen may you rest in peace.
Terrorists/freedom-fighters may you rest in pieces. =)
Ms. Lo Hwei Yen may you rest in peace.
Terrorists/freedom-fighters may you rest in pieces. =)
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Friday, November 28, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Tommy Thursday
As you might have guessed from the title, I'd spent most of my day in Tommy, again. Haha! Had lunch at student cafe before going down to school to collect Qin's essay from A. Prof Walker's office. The receptionist was rather friendly. Oh well, mission accomplished, as mentioned in the previous post. =)
Popped by Tommy for free internet again. Brought my wireless router too, so everyone was happy! =)
Came back for a delicious dinner cooked by Skye and Joanne. Thanks. Ate yesterday's leftover Tiramisu. Bummed around more. Went to visit Jacq and the rest of the Tommy people staying here in Perth. Chatted under the stars for awhile before returning to the comfort of home.
The highlight of the day was waiting 30min on the telephone for a damned SIA customer service operator to pick up the damned phone. Changed my flight to 1st Dec 2008, so I'll be seeing you soon.
P. S. Praisey has been well-behaved. Gonna give her a wash and a good drink of cheap fuel before I return. =)
Popped by Tommy for free internet again. Brought my wireless router too, so everyone was happy! =)
Came back for a delicious dinner cooked by Skye and Joanne. Thanks. Ate yesterday's leftover Tiramisu. Bummed around more. Went to visit Jacq and the rest of the Tommy people staying here in Perth. Chatted under the stars for awhile before returning to the comfort of home.
The highlight of the day was waiting 30min on the telephone for a damned SIA customer service operator to pick up the damned phone. Changed my flight to 1st Dec 2008, so I'll be seeing you soon.
P. S. Praisey has been well-behaved. Gonna give her a wash and a good drink of cheap fuel before I return. =)
Mission Accomplished
Qin! I collected your essay already. The receptionist said that your letter of approval was cute. Hah! =) =)
See you soon. Stay smiley!!
See you soon. Stay smiley!!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Ciao Italia
Alright, I met Nick for lunch at Broadway, and he's been complaining that there is absolutely nothing to do in Perth. I strongly agree. Just please stop going to the casino k?
Spoke to my supervisor online on msn, and he told me to go back to Singapore to have fun and enjoy myself. But there was a catch, I had to show him some progress for my fyp in Feb. Time to starting improving the fyp, I guess. Hope he has a fun trip to Hong Kong! =)
Went to school again on a hunt for A. Prof Walker, who's not around, again. Went to the English Dept. office, but it so happened to be their lunch time! Grrr.. Guess, I'll be going to school again tomorrow. Getting used to the presence of the peacocks.
Spent some time in Tommy again, leeching off the free internet! And well, watched a few rounds of Mr Yang play NFS: Undercover. Nice Evo X btw. But cannot beat my GTR34. LOL!
Chilled abit with Nick, then headed back to Tommy to meet up with Fabs and the rest for Ciao Italia! Wish you were here. The food was great! Had super a lot of seafood dishes, chilli mussells too. Not to mention my favourite, Tiramisu! It was definitely worth the A$40 I paid. =\
Good news is that I'll be leaving next week, since I've got the green light to go back to SG to continue the project and enjoy my summer holidays. I'll be seeing you soon. =)
Another lazy night passing by...
Spoke to my supervisor online on msn, and he told me to go back to Singapore to have fun and enjoy myself. But there was a catch, I had to show him some progress for my fyp in Feb. Time to starting improving the fyp, I guess. Hope he has a fun trip to Hong Kong! =)
Went to school again on a hunt for A. Prof Walker, who's not around, again. Went to the English Dept. office, but it so happened to be their lunch time! Grrr.. Guess, I'll be going to school again tomorrow. Getting used to the presence of the peacocks.
Spent some time in Tommy again, leeching off the free internet! And well, watched a few rounds of Mr Yang play NFS: Undercover. Nice Evo X btw. But cannot beat my GTR34. LOL!
Chilled abit with Nick, then headed back to Tommy to meet up with Fabs and the rest for Ciao Italia! Wish you were here. The food was great! Had super a lot of seafood dishes, chilli mussells too. Not to mention my favourite, Tiramisu! It was definitely worth the A$40 I paid. =\
Good news is that I'll be leaving next week, since I've got the green light to go back to SG to continue the project and enjoy my summer holidays. I'll be seeing you soon. =)
Another lazy night passing by...
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Here and There
Went to look for Dr Herbert in the morning and then went to look for Assoc. Prof Walker. Both were no where to be found! So I adjourned to Tommy to look for free internet connection, thanks Mr Yang! =) I hope you enjoy the tv shows.
Duty tutors are mean. They tried to chase me off the premises just because I was not staying there for the summer break. C'mon... Give me a break, I'll be coming back to college anyway next sem. Oh well.
Took Dan's car out for a spin, acceleration still as slow as crawling. LOL! Cleared the back garden of leaves and did some laundry.
Ended the day with a trip to Mr Burger's place for a choir bbq. Yes, traditional wood-fire bbq with drain-covers as the grill. Had chicken wings, drumsticks, hotdogs, steak and apple crumble with cookies & cream ice-cream! So filling.
Till tomorrow's adventure then... Signing off.
Duty tutors are mean. They tried to chase me off the premises just because I was not staying there for the summer break. C'mon... Give me a break, I'll be coming back to college anyway next sem. Oh well.
Took Dan's car out for a spin, acceleration still as slow as crawling. LOL! Cleared the back garden of leaves and did some laundry.
Ended the day with a trip to Mr Burger's place for a choir bbq. Yes, traditional wood-fire bbq with drain-covers as the grill. Had chicken wings, drumsticks, hotdogs, steak and apple crumble with cookies & cream ice-cream! So filling.
Till tomorrow's adventure then... Signing off.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Lazy Monday
HELLO MONDAY!! Couldn't wake up on time to go to school to meet my supervisor. =( Oh well, there's always tomorrow. He's always in school anyway. =)
Went back to Tommy to help Gen shift remaining stuff to the store, went marketing, bought food to cook for tonight as I am the Duty Chef for the night in my household. =)
Decided to cook "Black Sauce Meat with Potatoes and Onions" and "Cabbage with Abalone" and "ABC soup". And my favourite is still "Black Sauce Meat with Potatoes and Onions". Not as saltish as I had expected it to be. Guess my dad had taught me how to cook well. =)
Nothing beats a home-cooked meal. Really. And no, I do not have any intentions of shifting out from Tommy.
So far so good. Heroes tomorrow!! =)
Here's me, signing off and going to take a shower on a cold and rainy Monday night in Perth.
Thinking of all the people in Singapore.
Went back to Tommy to help Gen shift remaining stuff to the store, went marketing, bought food to cook for tonight as I am the Duty Chef for the night in my household. =)
Decided to cook "Black Sauce Meat with Potatoes and Onions" and "Cabbage with Abalone" and "ABC soup". And my favourite is still "Black Sauce Meat with Potatoes and Onions". Not as saltish as I had expected it to be. Guess my dad had taught me how to cook well. =)
Nothing beats a home-cooked meal. Really. And no, I do not have any intentions of shifting out from Tommy.
So far so good. Heroes tomorrow!! =)
Here's me, signing off and going to take a shower on a cold and rainy Monday night in Perth.
Thinking of all the people in Singapore.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
The thing about Abalones
The thing about abalones is that they suck hard onto the reef. Woke up at 5am in the morning, went to North Beach again (same place we had recce-ed yesterday) to fish for abalones! It was my first time fishing for abalones and it was fun!
Fully equipped with my goggles, snorkel, 3mm diving vest with hood, new surf shorts, gloves, diving boots, screwdriver and my measuring gauge. I braved the strong currents on knee-high water levels. Sounds simple enough. There were a lot of 6cm or more sized abalones along the reef. I saw a couple of star fish too! Brown ones n oranges ones! So pretty! Next time, I'll get a water-proof camera to take pictures of them. Caught 10 of them.
Ran into Jeannie & Kristi at Subi on the way back home. Didn't have the time to chat as they were crossing the road and I was in the car.
Happy Birthday Gen! Dim Sum lunch and birthday cheesecake was GREAT! We ate at this restaurant left of the Easy-way CPP. Was super crowded though. Food was worth the wait.
Church as per normal, and my last ever dinner at Tommy for this sem was the worst ever! Burnt Lamb Chops. Sigh.
Kill abalone and clean dead abalone time! All white and ready for storage/cook! =)
Finally shifted all my stuff to Dan's place and sent him off to the airport in the middle of the night. Scary to drive back from the airport all alone. But don't worry, I'm back safe and sound.
Fully equipped with my goggles, snorkel, 3mm diving vest with hood, new surf shorts, gloves, diving boots, screwdriver and my measuring gauge. I braved the strong currents on knee-high water levels. Sounds simple enough. There were a lot of 6cm or more sized abalones along the reef. I saw a couple of star fish too! Brown ones n oranges ones! So pretty! Next time, I'll get a water-proof camera to take pictures of them. Caught 10 of them.
Ran into Jeannie & Kristi at Subi on the way back home. Didn't have the time to chat as they were crossing the road and I was in the car.
Happy Birthday Gen! Dim Sum lunch and birthday cheesecake was GREAT! We ate at this restaurant left of the Easy-way CPP. Was super crowded though. Food was worth the wait.
Church as per normal, and my last ever dinner at Tommy for this sem was the worst ever! Burnt Lamb Chops. Sigh.
Kill abalone and clean dead abalone time! All white and ready for storage/cook! =)
Finally shifted all my stuff to Dan's place and sent him off to the airport in the middle of the night. Scary to drive back from the airport all alone. But don't worry, I'm back safe and sound.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Snorkelin'
So, it was a bright and sunny day and my new housemates and I decided to go snorkeling at North Beach. The waves were stronger than expected but we managed to live through the currents.
I saw this huge, fat fish that was minding its own business near the reef. Along with it were lots and lots of abalone! Not to mention, tonnes of seaweed.
Some of the corals were so pretty too. A really nice sight. You should see it one day.
After snorkeling, there was a sale at Osbourne Park, apparels and surf-wear were like 50% off! And well, I bought this RED quiksilver surf-shorts in anticipation for abalone fishing tomorrow! Need to wake up at 5am in the morning though.
I borrowed some car polish from a friend and got rid of the blue stain on Praisey's butt!! She's all clean and white again. Speaking of clean, I gave her a rinse too. She's one happy car! =)
Since I need to wake up early tomorrow, so here's good night.
I saw this huge, fat fish that was minding its own business near the reef. Along with it were lots and lots of abalone! Not to mention, tonnes of seaweed.
Some of the corals were so pretty too. A really nice sight. You should see it one day.
After snorkeling, there was a sale at Osbourne Park, apparels and surf-wear were like 50% off! And well, I bought this RED quiksilver surf-shorts in anticipation for abalone fishing tomorrow! Need to wake up at 5am in the morning though.
I borrowed some car polish from a friend and got rid of the blue stain on Praisey's butt!! She's all clean and white again. Speaking of clean, I gave her a rinse too. She's one happy car! =)
Since I need to wake up early tomorrow, so here's good night.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Friday, November 14, 2008
Now and then
"Now and then when I see her face
She takes me away to that special place
And if I'd stare too long
I'd probably break down and cry" -G & R
She takes me away to that special place
And if I'd stare too long
I'd probably break down and cry" -G & R
Thursday, November 13, 2008
White Tigers
Click HERE for full article.
In summary, man cleans tiger enclosure, tigers not happy, tigers attack man, man dies, police close tiger exhibit for further investigation. All in the Singapore Zoo.
In summary, man cleans tiger enclosure, tigers not happy, tigers attack man, man dies, police close tiger exhibit for further investigation. All in the Singapore Zoo.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Monday, November 10, 2008
You can stand on my feet.
Acts 26:16
But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee.
But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Sleep when tired
Some of these studies may have real implications for students. One researcher claims that it would be better for students to review information until they were tired, then slept, as opposed to pulling an all-nighter [source: BBC].
Monday, November 3, 2008
I Hate This Part Right Here
"I can't take it any longer
Thought that we were stronger
All we do is linger
Slipping through our fingers
I don't wanna try now
All that's left is good-bye
To find a way that I can tell you"
-PCD
Thought that we were stronger
All we do is linger
Slipping through our fingers
I don't wanna try now
All that's left is good-bye
To find a way that I can tell you"
-PCD
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Friday, October 31, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Science - Religion
October 21st, 2008 | 17:44
"WILL SCIENCE EVER LEARN TO STAY AWAY FROM RELIGION…NOPE BECAUSE IT’S THE DEVILS WAY TO TRY TO CONVINCE THERE IS NO GOD"
-anonymous
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Friday, October 17, 2008
Something for January
Psalms 37:7
"Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when men succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes."
Haven't thought of a nickname for you yet, I'm working on it.
"Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when men succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes."
Haven't thought of a nickname for you yet, I'm working on it.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Monday, October 13, 2008
Sunday, October 12, 2008
And in the news
First off, I would like to say that the World is in crisis.
"Intensifying solvency concerns about a number of the largest US-based and European financial institutions have pushed the global financial system to the brink of systemic meltdown." - Mr Strauss-Kahn
Click HERE for full story.
Secondly, on a lighter note. Fear it or not to fear it?
"The loneliest living species known to science was found inside a gold mine."
"Because it gets by without oxygen, it could offer clues as to whether life exists on other planets."
Click HERE for full story.
Lastly, "Yes, the blind can drive, but under supervision and instruction".
"Mr Costermans topped 308.78km/h (192 mph) while driving a Lamborghini Gallardo supercar at Istres, near Marseille, in southern France."
"Mr Costermans took the record from Briton Mike Newman, whose BMW M5 reached 268km/h three years ago."
Click HERE for full story.
"Intensifying solvency concerns about a number of the largest US-based and European financial institutions have pushed the global financial system to the brink of systemic meltdown." - Mr Strauss-Kahn
Click HERE for full story.
Secondly, on a lighter note. Fear it or not to fear it?
"The loneliest living species known to science was found inside a gold mine."
"Because it gets by without oxygen, it could offer clues as to whether life exists on other planets."
Click HERE for full story.
Lastly, "Yes, the blind can drive, but under supervision and instruction".
"Mr Costermans topped 308.78km/h (192 mph) while driving a Lamborghini Gallardo supercar at Istres, near Marseille, in southern France."
"Mr Costermans took the record from Briton Mike Newman, whose BMW M5 reached 268km/h three years ago."
Click HERE for full story.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
An Exchange of Epic Proportions
Rates courtesy of DBS Bank Ltd. Chart courtesy of Yahoo! Finance.
Click HERE for current rates.
In the midst of this current recession, this is what Finance Minister has to say...
"We should not assume that the worst is over and we continue to be watchful and prudent in our assessment of the economic risks and in our investments." - Dr Tony Tan
"We always look at the risk first," Tan said in January. "Our philosophy is if you look after the downside, the upside will look after itself." - Dr Tony Tan
Click HERE for full article.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Something to actually blog about
Taken with courtesy of Channel News Asia.com
"The incident is the fourth involving Qantas planes in just two-and-a-half months and comes as a survey published late Tuesday showed that 63 percent of Australians believe the safety standards of their flag carrier have slipped.
The poll of 1,000 people was conducted by UMR Omnibus, one of the country's leading research and polling companies, two weeks ago.
On July 25, an exploding oxygen bottle punched a huge hole in the side of a Qantas Boeing 747-400 during a flight from Hong Kong to Melbourne, forcing an emergency landing in the Philippines. No one was injured in the mid-air drama.
Just three days later, a Qantas Boeing 737-800 returned to Adelaide after a landing gear door failed to retract. And in early August a Boeing 767 bound for Manila turned back to Sydney after developing a hydraulic fluid leak." -- AFP/yb --CNA
Click HERE for full story.
"The incident is the fourth involving Qantas planes in just two-and-a-half months and comes as a survey published late Tuesday showed that 63 percent of Australians believe the safety standards of their flag carrier have slipped.
The poll of 1,000 people was conducted by UMR Omnibus, one of the country's leading research and polling companies, two weeks ago.
On July 25, an exploding oxygen bottle punched a huge hole in the side of a Qantas Boeing 747-400 during a flight from Hong Kong to Melbourne, forcing an emergency landing in the Philippines. No one was injured in the mid-air drama.
Just three days later, a Qantas Boeing 737-800 returned to Adelaide after a landing gear door failed to retract. And in early August a Boeing 767 bound for Manila turned back to Sydney after developing a hydraulic fluid leak." -- AFP/yb --CNA
Click HERE for full story.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Do with others, not for others
"its not what you do for others that matters, it is what you do with them that truly matters." -brobro.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
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