Muni-Muni Matapos ang Isang Odontectomy

Isa ito sa mga araw na natatandaan kong wala talaga akong ginawa buong araw kundi magpahinga. I had to visit my dentist (clinic is called “I’m a Dentist”) in the morning. Tinanggal n’ya ‘yung dalawang ngipin ko sa ibaba na impacted. Not sure kung ‘yung mismong wisdom tooth ang tinanngal. Pero based sa x-ray, medyo nakatagalid s’ya at tumatama na sa ibang ngipin. Oks lang naman ‘yung buong process. At least pwede ko nang masabi na I was under a knife once. Ang ayoko lang talaga ay ‘yung maraming dugo. At one point, parang nagga-gargle na ako sa dugo. Well, para rin naman sa health ko ‘to. Sabi ni Dok (his name is Ricky Martin), sasakit din daw ito sooner or later kung hindi bubunutin.

Ito na rin ang pagkakataon ko para mag-flashback sa mga weekends na hindi ko na-blog. Para naman clean slate for 2009. Heto ang mga na-miss kong isulat:

GARY V: LIVE at 25

Medyo last minute na event na ‘to. Naawa lang ako r’un sa kaibigan kong walang pera that time at para lang merong magawa eh nagpasya kaming manood n’ung concert. Before 7pm, bumibili pa yata kami ng ticket sa concert. May bitbit pa akong grocery at dumaan pa ako sa bahay para iwanan ‘yung mga gamit. Then cab to Buendia MRT. Tapos MRT na papuntang Araneta Coliseum. At exactly 9pm, mago-opening number pa lang si Kuya Gary. First time daw na all-Gary V hits ang repertoire. Kakaiba ito para sa isang concert. Baka mahirap i-sustain pero Gary V did it. Partida na ‘yung nauubusan s’ya ng boses. He mentioned that what was happening was a miracle. I couldn’t say more. Maraming number na bago pero meron ding luma na o di masyadong overwhelming. All in all, enjoy naman ‘yung concert.

MGA GERILYA NG POWELL STREET

Ito na siguro ang pinakapaborito kong ginawa ng Tanghalang Pilipino para sa taong ito. Directed by Chris Millado, the play is adapted from a novel written by Benjamin Pimentel. Simple lang ang devise na ginamit. Isang group ng mga gerilya sa LA ang regular na nagkikita. Tumalakay ang dula sa kanilang buhay at kamatayan. Effective ang delivery. Magaling sina Bembol Roco (first time kong mapanood sa stage) at ang kabuuhan kabilang na si Lou Veloso. Nakakaiyak ang ilang eksena. Pinaghahalo kasi nito ang humor at drama. At sa huli’y hindi ka lugi dahil tumalakay ito sa ating ugat bilang mga Pinoy. Para sa akin, ito ang Best Straight Play for 2008.

HAIRSPRAY

Siyempre, ibinaba ko ang expectations ko rito dahil napanood ko na naman ang real thing sa Broadway (walang tono ng pagyayabang, OK?). Hindi naman ako na-disappoint, given na Atlantis Productions s’ya at si Bobby Garcia ang direktor. Made na, sabi nga. Enjoy naman s’ya kahit papaano. It’s just that wala akong ibang nakita sa musical na ‘to na nakita ko na before. Siguro, ‘yung boobs ni Michael de Mesa bilang Edna Turnblad.

1st ACTIVE VISTA FILM FESTIVAL

I’m not really familiar with Tado’s Dakila org but this film festival, a debut, was trailblazed by the said group. It’s a noble attempt, actually. Maganda ‘yung slogan n’ya na parang ‘yung mga selected films ay magpapabago ng tingin mo sa mundo. True enough. Wala ngang rom-com or any Star Cinematic film in sight. Mostly socially relevant ones like Ploning, Orapronobis, Kakabakaba Ka Ba?, Manoro and Bunso. I just watched three films dahil sobrang pangit ng schedule. It’s one of those events na nakatutok sa schedule ng mga estudyante at ‘di masyadong na-consider ang mga hamak na manggagawa na katulad ko (hehehe). Mabuti na lang at libre ‘yung Iskalawag Night nila with performances from Parokya ni Edgar, Radioactivesago Project at The Youth (surprise, surprise, si Tado na ang bokalista ng band). First time kong napanood ‘yung “Bayani” ni Raymond Red na medyo nakakawindang ‘yung narration mula umpisa hanggang matapos. Na-appreciate ko pa naman ‘yung katahimikan n’ung ilang eksena. Tumalakay naman ang “Brutus” (my second Cinemalaya 2008 film) sa ilang environment concerns. Nothing much pero pwede na. Kulang sa Wow Factor siguro (whatever that means). ‘Yung Cinemalaya 2008 Best Picture na “Jay” ay napanood ko rin. Enjoy naman in a sense na nakakaaliw rin ang ilang Star Cinema films. In short, wala talagang kapit ‘yung movie. Natuwa lang ako sa concept at sa ending na pinag-isipan talaga (o napaisip ako).

ATANG

Kung na-appreciate ko ang “Ang Panaginip Kong Fili” ni Floy Quintos for DUP, hindi naman masyadong bumenta sa akin ‘tong straight play na ‘to with music (as exactly described by the program/poster). Sobrang simple ng devise, walang lalim ‘yung material. Pwede na ‘yung glimpse sa personality ni Atang dela Rama (na I swear, hindi ko talaga naabutan) at konting silip sa kanyang discography. Ginampanan ni Frances Makil-Ignacio ang lead at si Ayen Laurel naman ‘yung present day diva. Medyo familiar na ‘yung ilang kundiman katulad ng “Nabasag ang Banga” na merong undertone sa pagkawala ng virginity. Hey, 50’s era pa ‘to ha. In short, ‘di na masyadong original ang mga kanta nina Mystica, Mae Rivera at iba pa.

“PARA KAY B” BOOK LAUNCH

Definitely, it’s the most well attended locally published book launch that I’ve seen. And my first na merong reading ng ilang excerpt. Well, unang nobela lang naman ito ni Ricky Lee. Ito raw ang produkto ng tatlong taong pananamlay sa paggawa ng screenplay (at pangangalawang dito?). Umapaw ang mga celebs sa Bahay ng Alumni sa Peyups. Kaya naman sobrang napuno rin ng autograph ‘yung bookmark ko (Angel Locsin, Cesar Montano, Gloria Romero, Lauren Dyogi, Lorna Tolentino at sangkaterba pang iba). Dinala ko rin ‘yung Tatang book ko na si Ricky Lee rin ang author (pati na rin “Trip to Quiapo”). Ilan sa mga bumasa sina Eugene Domingo, Cesar Montano, LT, Piolo at Chanda Romero. Mabuti na lang at medyo nakasingit agad n’ung pinapila. Isa lang ang masasabi ko sa event na ‘to: overjoyed (by the event and the book itself).

CORY, THE MUSICAL

Another first for me. Fresh from Peyups, dumiretso na ako sa Meralco Theater for “Cory, the Musical” na isinulat at idinirek ni Nestor U. Torre (or simply NUT to industry people). Isa lang naman s’yang multi-Palanca winner at parati akong naagawan ng pagkakataon kapag meron s’yang ongoing na play (andami kong napalampas actually). Medyo ‘sakto lang sa inaasahan ko ang napanood ko. Pang-community theater ang approach sa dula, hindi Broadway, hindi DUP at sigurado akong hindi Rep. Siguro ganito talaga ang estilo ni NUT, ‘yung madali mong matu-tour ‘yung musical kung kinakailangan. Ayokong sabihin na parang trapo ‘yung napanood ko dahil nakakaaliw naman ‘yung mabilis na pagpapalit ng set. Propaganda play rin ito para kay Cory kaya naubos na talaga ang expectations ko. Ironic lang na ang alleged kontrabida sa dula, si Marcos, ay pinamagaling na nagampanan ni Robert Seña. Nilamon n’ya ang buong cast.

4th CINEMA ONE FILM FESTIVAL

Sa pitong kalahok this year, lima lang ang napanood ko (excluding this year’s festival best picture dahil edited ang pinalabas nila sa Indie Sine). “Yanggaw” ang nangibabaw sa limang ito. Aswang movie s’ya pero sobrang maganda ang pagkakagawa. Maluluma ang mga predecessor nito. At mapapahiya sila kung ikukumpara sa pelikulang ito ni Richard Somes. Nakaka-hypnotize naman ang “Alon” pero ‘di masyadong sold sa akin ang resolution n’ya. Crowd pleaser ang “UPCAT” at pa-kontrobersyal naman ang “personal film” ni Sennedy Que na “Dose”. ‘Yung panglima, ‘yung “Motorcycle” ni Jon Red ay naubusan ako ng sasabihin.

QUEZON PLEBISCITE

Isa akong sucker for history kaya pinilit ko talagang umuwi ng Quezon para bumoto last December 13. Ang yes-no question ay kung papayag kang hatiin ang Quezon sa dalawang bahagi: Quezon del Sur (kung saan kasali ‘yung town namin) at Quezon del Norte (the original Quezon). Puwede kong sabihin na I lobbied for “Yes” dahil technically mas pabor sa town namin ang merong mas malapit na capitol. This means faster service and better governance. Pero sabi nga ng aming congressman sa Punto Por Punto segment ng UKG (na tingin ko ay pabor sa “No” base sa conclusion ni Anthony Taberna), it’s not only about leadership. May issue rin talaga sa structure n’ya. Ang nakikita ko lang pogi point sa “No” ay ‘yung di na madadagdagan ang mga corrupt na politiko. It turned out na “No” ang nanalo. ‘Yung town lang daw namin at mga katabi nito ang bumoto ng “Yes”.

MANILA OCEAN PARK

Another last-minute trip. As in zero plan ‘to, out of the blue lang. It was very crowded last December 27. Entrance fee is at P500 including Fish Spa and Glass Bottom Boat Ride (just the Oceanarium costs P100 less). May mga nakita na rin akong similar parks outside the country and wala namang ibang pinakitang kakaiba ang sa atin. Pero fascinating pa rin ‘yung mga species at ‘yung tube lalo na siguro kung first time mong makakapasok sa ganitong lugar. If you’re reading this, I encourage you to visit the place. Na-enjoy ko sobra ‘yung Fish Spa. You have to 20 minutes to dip your feet in the mini-pool. Tapos merong mga fish na magtatanggal ng mga dead skin cells mo. I don’t know if I have to be proud kung sobrang maraming fish ang “kumagat” sa akin as compared sa iba na hindi nilalapitan at all ang mga paa.

METRO MANILA FILM FESTIVAL 2008

Take this: six movies in one day! Yeah, I started at 10:45am then ended up at 12:55am. Trip lang. Just checking kung gaano pa rin ako ka-invincible when it comes to my addiction (movie watching, that is). Sa SM Megamall ko ‘to ginawa kasi killer ‘yung sched ng Ayala Cinemas (though less expensive by 20 bucks). ‘Di naman sumakit ang mga mata ko pero nakaramdam nang konting pagod dahil most of the time ay nakakangawit ng leeg. “Baler” is a fine film (stand-out ang cinematography and production design). Mas klaro sa akin ang ilang detalye at believability compared d’un sa lumang Spanish film na “Last from the Philippines” (Spanish Film Fest 2007). Siguro wala lang masyadong dating ‘yung Echo – Anne na tandem. “One Night Only” ang pinakana-enjoy ko. Na-stir n’ya ang sensibilidad ko na bihirang bihira na nagagawa ng isang MMFF movie. Isa ito sa mga pelikula ni Jose Javier Reyes na puwede akong ma-impress sa pagkakasulat at pagkakadirek. May konting shade ng black comedy. “Magkaibigan” is a “silent” tear jerker. OK rin naman s’ya kaya lang coming from a seasoned director (again, Jose Javier Reyes) na gumagawa ng mga ganitong klase ng tema at delivery, expected na ang perfection. Between “Baler” at “Magkaibigan”, mas gusto ko ang katapangan at risk n’ung former. “Dayo” is a sincere attempt at animation. It’s a decent one but there’s a long way to go for us when it comes to storytelling. “Desperadas 2” is forgettable (and can be avoided) while “Shake, Rattle and Roll 10” is not impressive (though puwede na ‘yung episode nina Kim Chiu na si Toppel Lee ang direktor). Nawala yata ang promise ni Michael Tuviera pagkatapos n’yang gawin ang “The Promise” ng GMA Films dati. Ayos pa naman sana ‘yung LRT episode n’ya last time.

Movie Digest # 050

CONCERTO
Glorietta 4, Cinema 4, November 24, 5:40pm

This is the first Cinemalaya 2008 film that I have watched. First impression, it’s a bit dragging for me but it’s well made. It tells a story of a family in Davao and how they survived the war (yes, it’s a period film). I was reminded of “Oro, Plata, Mata” but it’s totally different and less ambitious/grand. I wish to have watched the film with dad. We might probably discuss the way the Japanese are portrayed or how the camp looked like then. Acting, the young Aquitanio is definitely a brilliant actor. And so is Meryl Soriano.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who got irritated with Kuh Ledesma’s presence in “Oro, Plata, Mata”.

BURN AFTER READING
Glorietta 4, Cinema 4, November 24, 8:35pm

Fresh from the heavy “No Country for Old Men”, the Coen Brothers are back with an enjoyably engaging film. I can say that it can be categorized as a spy film with a little hint of black comedy. Superb “fun” acting from Brad Pitt, George Clooney and Frances McDormand.

Friends who might appreciate it: officemates.

ONE TRUE LOVE
Glorietta 4, Cinema 4, November 24, 10:30pm

It’s been a long while since I watched a GMA Films production and regrettably, I should not even try. The film has a promising plot: a husband loses his memory, ignores his wife and craves for his ex-gf. Too bad that Mac Alejandre cannot pull off the material. His direction is so hopeless and directionless. I wish that they just come up with a rom-com. What bothers me most is the resolution. The film suggests that women should remain dumb and helpless and just be patient with the turn of events. Acting-wise, it’s just OK. Here’s hoping that GMA Films would provide their talents a fitting project in the future.

Friends who might appreciate it: too stupid to share with friends.

TWILIGHT
Glorietta 4, Cinema 3, November 27, 7:50pm

Contrary to the hype, this is something that I wasn’t really looking forward to see. True to the taste, there’s really nothing to expect with the film. I can say that it’s an average film, filmmaking-wise (CGI, scope, editing, etc.) but I was looking for more substance. Maybe I was just a wrong audience.

Friends who might appreciate it: my landlady’s 12-year old kid.

THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL
Greenbelt 3, Cinema 1, December 11, 9:00pm

OK, I knew that the film is CGI-filled and there’s nothing to root for. I wasn’t aware also of the remake or how beautiful or thought provoking it was. I just watched the film because it was the “movie of the week”. Sad to say, I did not find anything good on the film. CGI, for sure, you’ve seen it. Substance, nothing much. Acting? Well, it’s good to see Keanu Reeves play a role that doesn’t require any acting goodness (read: alien). Kathy Bates was a big disappointment. Jennifer Connelly is Jennifer Connelly.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who hasn’t seen any Keanu Reeves film yet.

BOLT
Greenbelt 3, Cinema 3, December 14, 8:35pm

Not as good as a Pixar film but it isn’t bad. Something feel-good. My first film that has anything Miley Cyrus.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who can make a connection between the film and John Tra-Bolt-a

Ilang Thought mula sa Cinemanila 2008

(Meron lang akong susubukang estilo. Try kong mag-blog sa boses na parang kinakausap ko lang ang aking mga friendly friends. Isang eksperimento, isang challenge.)

‘Di ko na masyadong matandaan ‘yung date kung kelan nag-Cinemanila sa Gateway. Mas memorable pa yata ‘yung incident na nanapak si Tikoy Aguiluz ng isang press bago matapos ang festival. Pero medyo matagal ko na sanang ginawa ‘tong entry na ‘to. Nag-rely lang ako sa mga capsule reviews ni Philbert Ortiz Dy ng clickthecity.com at parang lahat naman ng gustong sabihin ay nasabi na n’ya.

Pero ayaw kong paawat:

NOISE – This sets the mood for the festival. ‘Di s’ya mainstream film at most likely, ‘di s’ya pleaser. Medyo nakakaantok ‘yung film at kailangan ng maraming tiyaga para ma-appreciate. Para kang nanonood ng mga talky part sa pelikula ni Tarantino. Tungkol ito sa isang pulis at isang krimen at kung paano sila pinagtagpo. Sa bigger perspective, tungkol talaga ‘to sa coincidences. Wala namang masyadong pangit sa pelikula maliban sa hindi kontroladong akting n’ung lead actor/character. Mas umaasa ako ng underacting sa mga ganung tema o materyal. ‘Di ko makakalimutan syempre ‘yung huling frame na parang parody yata sa nativity scene (ang finale ay naganap sa Pasko).

I’M A CYBORG BUT IT’S OK – Ikalawang movie ko ‘to for my first day at Cinemanila 2008. I came from an exhausting volunteer activity at La Mesa Ecopark and I kind of chose a second film that will energize me. Plano ko kasing i-push sa limit ang katawan ko and see kung invincible (pa rin) ako pagdating sa movies. So I picked a film na sa tingin ko ay di masyadong heavy. Since Korean film at si Rain ang bida sa film na ‘to, akala ko, usual rom-com. Pero nagkamali ako. ‘Di ko napansin na ang direktor pala ay ‘yung sa “Old Boy” (na nagustuhan ko naman kahit sobrang “creative” ng kuwento). Coming from “Noise”, struggle ‘tong panoorin. Tungkol pala s’ya sa mga pasyente sa isang mental hospital at kung paano posibleng mag-bloom ang love amidst the backdrop. It’s very visual (read: CGI-filled) and, a bit weird (which is good, hehehe) and artsy. If not for the resolution at the ending, baka di ko s’ya magustuhan. Maybe I shouldn’t underestimate Rain next time (and for crying out loud, he was not wearing black in the whole film).

NIGHT BUS – The first film that I found to be a fitting Cinemanila contender. Socially relevant s’ya. Tungkol ito sa isang bus na nagdala ng mga POW sa isang magiyerang bahagi ng Iran. Limited sa oras ang material, halos two days lang ang itinakbo n’ung movie. Which is a good thing dahil medyo “in” ang ganitong devise. Meron naman s’yang na-build up na kwento at suspense at ang last part tungkol sa pag-asa ng isang naghihintay na housewife ay medyo malalim at bittersweet.

SITA SINGS THE BLUES - Nagustuhan ko 'yung pelikula. Fresh kasi at may tama. Pero may nabasa akong review na mukha raw YouTube material lang 'yung film. I couldn't disagree more dahil sa iba't ibang tono n'ung film. Animation kasi 'to. Isa s'yang deconstruction ng pamosong epiko na "Ramayana". Obvious na babae ang sumulat at bumuo ng movie. Tinalakay nito, kung hindi man nagtanong, kung bakit parati na lang naghihintay si Sita sa kanyang Rama. N'ung napanood ko ang pelikulang ito, that's the only time I realize kung gaano ka-sexist 'yung material.

ADELA - The film isn't bad. Hindi s'ya ang pinakabulok sa ginawa ni Adolf Alix (na siguro ay pwede na nating pinaka-prolific na filmmaker sa Pinas sa dami ng kanyang mga ginawa at ginagawa). Anita Linda is also at her best. I particularly like the scene where she's mimicking a radio drama. It's just that hindi ako na-hook n'ung movie. Tungkol ito sa pagtanda nang nag-iisa, which I admit is very familiar to me (hehehe), pero hindi ako napag-isip.

LOVE OF SIAM - Perhaps this is this year's audience's choice as most of the screenings were either jampacked or sold-out. The film can be classified as teenage gay/coming of age movie. Think of "Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros" and the like. It tells a bittersweet story of two teenagers who are in the brink of sexuality, identity and the love that gets along the way. Simple lang actually ang pagkakagawa. At some point ay medyo glossy at melodramatic din (read: Star Cinematic). Pero if we're talking about angst and growing up, "Love of Siam" has all the fangs.

BAND’S VISIT - This year's best film! And I that's pretty much a deserving feat for this film from Israel. Tungkol naman ito sa isang banda from Egypt na magpe-perform sa isang bayan sa Israel. Dahil sa language barrier, naligaw sila at nawala (literally) sa ibang bayan. Dito na umikot ang movie na halos naganap lamang sa loob ng isang gabi. Great acting, stagey and deadpan.

MANORO - It's one of those rare films which I can watch along with my dad. Isa ito sa mga ginawa ni Brillante Mendoza at 'yung sumulat ng "Kubrador". The film tells a story about a day (or two) in the life of an Ita girl. Kung paano sila kumain, makisalamuha, etc. (which will get my dad's interest). It's well directed and not pretentious. Nawala lang ako sa technology na ginamit sa paggawa nito. Sa version na napanood ko sa digital cinema, medyo na-wash out nang masyado 'yung mga images.

TIRADOR - Dito ko na nakumpleto ang filmography ni Brillante Mendoza, again sa panulat ng sumulat ng "Kubrador". Kamukha ng iba pa n'yang pelikula, the film also tackles poverty set in a neighborhood somewhere in Manila. Ginawa 'tong microcosm ng society (ho-hum) pero maraming kick 'yung movie. Maganda 'yung openeing scene. Parang umpisa ng isang Greek play, nakaka-high ng adrenaline 'yung pagpapakilala ng mga tauhan. Walang bida at kontrabida, at mas lalong walang main story. This becomes the weakness of the film as it fails to hold the weight of those intertwining lives.

Movie Digest # 049

BODY OF LIES
Greenbelt 3, Cinema 2, October 12, 8:40pm

Russel Crowe and Leonardo Di Caprio, two of Hollywood’s better actors in one action film directed by Ridley Scott. That’s probably the film’s main come-on. On top of that is the technical part: crisp sound editing and heart-pumping camera work. Sad to say, there’s nothing to root when looking for a storyline. If only the script focuses more on the relationship between the two male chracters, that would be a treat.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who are craving for a truthful film on terrorism.

MAX PAYNE
Glorietta 4, Cinema 3, October 13, 7:30pm

No sarcasm whatsoever but I like the film. Maybe because it was pretty dragging for me for an action film. The dragging half helps the other half to pump my adrenaline. It's very predictable, yes, but the slow-mo and the visual are awesome. It has a "Sin City" feel but not close. I love the part where Max Payne turns into a hero, just like Hulk turning green. It's very campy and i simply love it. Plus of course, it's one of the rare films who subversively (or unintentionally) promotes drugs.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who haven’t played the video game.

TROPIC THUNDER
Glorietta 4, Cinema 2, October 28, 7:50pm

Before watching the film, I had a hint that it would remind me of commando comedy films that Redford White and the like had done. But it’s different. It’s supposed to be a satire to some themes like documentary filmmaking, Hollywood’s fat producers and overrated actors. Boasting of an A-list namely Ben Stiller (as actor/director), Robert Downey Jr. (in a mindblowing Russel Crowe-like character), Jack Black and Tom Cruise (in an unintentionally too serious take of a cameo role as a producer), the film is an enjoyable ride.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who haven’t seen an honest-to-goodness comedy for a while.

QUANTUM OF SOLACE
Greenbelt 3, Cinema 2, November 5, 10:00pm

James Bond is evolving, that’s my impression after watching the film. Thanks to the new era of “Bourne Identity” and “Transporter”. This second Daniel Craig starrer is more of a prolonged introduction of who James Bond is and what makes him as he is. No Q, no gadgets scene, just Daniel Craig’s superb rendition of the dashing British spy. More “pogi” points for the film: a fitting finale with fire (“Casino Royale” has water) and the use of Tosca as a devise to denote murder and running away.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who prefer martini, stirred.

MADAGASCAR 2
Glorietta 4, Cinema 1, November 6, 8:20pm

I haven’t seen an animated film for a long time and I can say that “Madagascar 2” did not disappoint me. It’s witty and decent for an eye-candy film. The only unappealing for me is the “Lion King”-ish subplot.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who like to move it, move it.

MY ONLY U
Glorietta 1, Cinema 4, November 8, 2:30pm

I like the film and I wouldn't mind recommending it to friends. It's very rare to see a Pinoy black comedy and "My Only U" is definitely a guilty pleasure. If this is an attempt for Star Cinema to show something new (for a mainstream film, that is), then the film is a success. Comparing this film to Bb. Joyce Bernal's "For the First Time" (or even Cathy Garcia-Molina's "A Very Special Love" or the Toni-Sam film ages ago), I would always prefer “My Only U". Toni's take of a Koreanovela female character is awesome. Scenes with her shedding of tears are necessary but not overwhelming. Vhong Navarro, on the other hand, is effective on his underacting. I can say that "My Only U" is the funniest mainstream film I've seen so far for this year.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who wish to see Ronnie Magsanoc in a cameo (and a funny outtake).

Weekend Kong Mahal

Bale itinuloy ko lang ‘yung paggising nang maaga n’ung Biyernes kinabukasan. Mas maaga pa nga nang konti dahil kinakailangang nasa harap na ako ng Net Square ng mga 6:30am. Dinibdib ko yata masyado ang pagiging bus marshal sa aming Global Volunteer Days program sa opisina. Tulad ng inaasahan, wala pang masyadong tao n’ung dumating ako. Pero di na rin naman kinailangang maghintay nang matagal at kahit pakonti-konti ay nagsulputan na ang mga volunteers. Sa La Mesa Ecopark kami pumunta para sa tree planting activity r’un.

Medyo madugo ang unang bahagi ng araw. Merong Ecorace na base sa pamosong Amazing Race. Sampung team ang binuo na merong average na sampung miyembro. Nakakulong ang buong team sa loob ng garter habang fini-figure out ang susunod na pit stop. Sa bawat hinto ay merong puzzle piece na kailangang ipunin matapos isagawa ang isang challenge. Nangatog ang tuhod ko sa karera na ‘yan, salamat sa kawalan ng ehersisyo. Mabuti na lang at mas magaan ang pagpupunla n’ung hapon (naglagay ng lupa sa itim na plastic at nagtanim ng halaman dito).

Pasadong ika-3 na ng hapon nang matapos ang activity. Masarap pa sanang matulog sa bus pauwi pero tinatawag na ako ng Cinemanila sa Gateway. Kailangan ko pang bunuin ang tatlong sine na hindi ko dapat mapalampas. Para na rin masagad ko ang aking sarili. Sa awa ng Diyos, napanood ko ang “Noise”, “I’m a Cyborg but it’s OK” and “Night Bus”. Nag-taxi na ako pabalik ng Makati.

Linggo. Maaga rin akong gumising para naman habulin ang misa ng 9am. Mula St. Andrew ay nag-jeep na ako papuntang Glorietta para sa isang pares ng itim na maong at para magpagupit kay Andy sa LuFu Salon sa Goldcrest. Inasikaso ko na rin ang Britney Spears perfume na pina-DHL ni kuya sa isang inaanak sa Ternate, Cavite. Nag-MRT na ako papuntang Gateway para ituloy ang pagsi-Cinemanila ko (“Sita Sings the Blues” at “Adela”). Umalis ako ng cinema area matapos makasalamuha sina Adolf Alix, Maxie Evangelista at ang aktor na si Joem Bascon. MRT ulit pabalik ng Glorietta.

Isang oras bago mag-umpisa ang “Music and Movement” (pictures dito) na free concert nina Billy Crawford, Joanna Ampil at Rowena Villar sa Activity Center ng Glorietta ay nakahanap na ako ng puwesto. Dahil mukhang maghihintay ako nang mas matagal, minabuti kong bumili muna ng Go Nuts Donuts (pastillas de leche siyempre) at back issue ng Esquire na si Mike Myers ang nasa cover para palipasin ang oras.

Masaya ‘yung buong show. Pinagsama ba naman ang tatlong world-class talent. Si Billy Crawford, kung hindi ako nagkakamali ay nag-guest sa isang morning TV show sa Paris n’ung nakadestino ako r’un circa 2003. Si Rowena Villar naman ay nakasama na si Hugh Jackman sa isang musical sa Australia. S’ya rin ang dinamita ng kakatapos lamang na “West Side Story” sa Meralco Theater. Si Joanna Ampil naman ay nakasalamuha ko na sa West End matapos ang isang pagtatanghal ng Les Miz. Nakuha ko na noon pa ang autograph n’ya. Sa ganitong klase ng kumbinasyon umandar ang “Music and “Movement” na ang repertoire ay mula kay Neyo hanggang sa Pussycat Dolls at Mariah Carey. Totoo na “the best things in life are free”.

Tinapos ko ang weekend sa isang oras at kalahati na foot at Swedish massage sa Nuat Thai sa Makati Ave.

How to Stop my World from Turning

I miss my “pamangkins”. Last Friday, I sent them to the airport. I had to leave the office at 4pm (yes, I was already working at 7am, beat that) to catch the guys at Perla Mansion in Palanca St. where my brother’s family was billeted. I rang a cab at 12 noon just to be sure that I will be in the said service apartment by 4:30pm. As expected, they were still doing some last minute shopping in Glorietta so I had to walk from Palanca to G1.

I caught my “pamangkins” and ate Bing at Time Zone in the open space leading to SM Makati. Kuya was in Goldcrest buying celfone units that time for their SIM cards in roaming (plural as in one each for Globe and Smart). I never imagined before that I would play dad to kids in the mini rides on that particular section of the mall where I usually pass by from work. It was fun.

Two weeks of blog silence means great family time. From the minute I met them at the airport last October 3 to Krista’s kiddie party (and a birthday cake surprise for kuya that left us both teary-eyed) in Shakey’s – Morato and another in Payatas, watching PETA’s “Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang” plus my three-day stay in Lopez with the whole bunch and pushing stroller and making a wish in High Street, my world simply stopped. There’s nothing more worthy of smiling than hearing my “pamangkins” laugh and cry and laugh again.

I had a grand time bonding with both Krista and Franco. I just have to single out though the moments I had with Franco. Last time I saw him was when he was still a baby. He likes Disney’s “Cars” a lot (while Krista knows the princesses by heart). Before their trip here (a surprise one), I sent them two lunch boxes (Wall-E and Cars), two pairs of Spongbob (Franco cannot pronounce the “S” yet so it’s just “Pongebob”) and shirts (Hannah Montana for Krista and Cars again for Franco) through DHL. Those made Franco look forward on seeing me in person (he’s too smart for a boy turning two this coming January). Of course, I had to keep that impression unfailing. I bought him a gift (Lightning McQueen toy car) that he opened the minute we arrived in the hotel. His reaction: priceless!

That probably sealed the best friendship between Franco and me. When we were in Lopez, the first thing he loved doing was to go to me and have morning chitchat (not about Anne Hathaway…yet but on toys, what else). We also had this little game wherein I have to call him something and he has to counter it with anything on the same category. I always start with “Franco, you’re a water”. Then he will reply with his favorite, “You’re a juice.” That goes on until I run out of a “drink”. Then we will do animals then house appliances and cartoon characters. Leaving Lopez one Wednesday was difficult for both of us. Kuya texted me one time that Franco cried while looking for me after having his daily siesta.

At the airport, we had a group hug. Franco was still holding my hand when he got in the entrance. He was actually pulling me. Kuya had to remind him that I couldn’t come with them. And he let go. I ended up waving them goodbye from a far. I was of course daydreaming that time that they’d return the next day. Until manong guard uttered something familiar. “Sir, bawal pong tumambay rito.”

Pics of Krista and Franco's trip to the Philippines here.

Movie Digest # 048

HELLBOY 2: THE GOLDEN ARMY
Greenbelt 3, Cinema 2, September 10, 9:05pm

Visually engaging. I was reminded of the good stuff from the old days (read: “Never Ending Story”) when CGI was not introduced yet. Story-wise, there’s nothing much to expect (read: “Fantastic Four”).

Friends who might appreciate it: an officemate named Josh Canlas.

RIGHTEOUS KILL
Glorietta 4, Cinema 3, September 12, 10:30pm

Call this my birthday film as I spent midnight inside the cinema. Well, the film is an honest-to-goodness cop story, complete with a twist that was revealed 10 minutes before the film ends. Nothing memorable except for the fact that the spotlight is shared, for the third time, by Hollywood’s two best actors, De Niro and Pacino.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who have seen “Heat”.

SERBIS
UP Diliman, UP Cine Adarna, October 1, 2:00pm

I missed this year’s Cinemalaya and given that, there are only two outstanding Pinoy films so far: “Ploning” and “Serbis”. The film is a dirty, noisy and dark story told in your face about a day in the life of a dysfunctional family and their moviehouse business. There are too many stories to tell, actually, but I won’t dissect everything. Most of the scenes are screaming filth: tight shot of a boil being squeezed, a toilet swamped with urine, clogged sink, plus the not so obvious ones like prostitution, lose of innocence and injustice. The film was made to be hated but the filmmaking is meant to be appreciated, to share pathos and release guilt.

Friends who might appreciate it: film lovers, period.

THREE KINGDOMS: RESSURECTION OF THE DRAGON
Glorietta 4, Cinema 5, October 1, 6:10pm

I can say that it’s not your usual “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” type of Chinese film. Not a Zhang Yimou either. It’s a big budgeted (bloody) film, adapted from a Chinese epic novel and stars Hongkong superstar Andy Lau (one of the Heavenly Kings, hehehe) and Sammo Hung. Nothing much, story-wise or style-wise, but I enjoyed the film the way I enjoyed any Jet Li film.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who prefer to avoid “Disaster Movie”.

MATAKOT KA SA… KULAM
Glorietta 4, Cinema 2, October 1, 8:30pm

I had high expectations for the film for the following reasons: Jun Lana’s “Roxxxanne” is impressive, Juday is a fine actress and it’s Regal’s 38th anniversary presentation. Sad to say, everything is not falling into place. There are consistency problems here and there, some executions are off and flat, excessive production design (yeah, “kulam” scene is still surrounded with candles and the works), CGI is distracting and acting is so-so. On the plus side, the twist is cool. The concept of the film being a “kulam” film is also good. It doesn’t conform to the usual and predictable plot of love, revenge and redemption.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who wish to see Juday essay a dual role.

EAGLE EYE
Glorietta 1, Cinema 2, October 2, 9:30pm

Nothing new or memorable, just a plain action film (less the wit) from Dreamworks, in the mold of “The Net” and the like.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who are waiting for the “Transformers” sequel.

Laughter is not Always the Best Medicine

Monday morning, I was attacked by a sore, sore throat (thanks to three servings of ice-cold Cerveza Negra from Akafellas night). I wasn’t feeling well the whole day. I even begged off not to join the lunchmates gimmick for that day but was discarded.

At 7pm past, Hubes and I were already leaving for Greenbelt 2’s Spicy Fingers. We met Anne, Hubes’ housewife, at National Bookstore in Greenbelt 1 and secured our reserved table in the restaurant. It was a Comedy Cartel night, a brand of stand-up comedy that showcases mostly on observational humor (well, anything that is not your usual The Library/Punchline type of kick). The rest of the guys, Pipe, Iam and Ge came right before the act began. It was a nice jumpstart when Hubes and Anne shared the good news that they are going to have a baby. I remember Hubes loving the scene from “Meet the Fockers” about the baby’s first word: a**hole.

The set for the night consisted of around seven acts from different Comedy Cartel members, both amateur and veteran. Some punchlines were good but I don’t remember everything. But surely they made me laugh. Tim Tayag, probably the most popular among the lot, delivered some “tabo” (dipper) stories and the different “psst” moments. Food was also good.

After the show, one of the members, Stanley Chi made some kind of a small talk with our group. We ended up having his calling card and a short “okray” moment for all the Fil-Chi (particularly Hubes). Photo session was called for the situation.

I reached home at around 10:30pm, not feeling any better. Maybe I should have followed my instinct on having rest instead. The rest of the night was a major bout on slight fever. I almost skipped work the next day. Thanks to my previous company’s jacket (more comfortable than the one provided by my current employer) and some fruit diet the following night, I managed to survive tonsilitis.

Birdwatching 101

Last Sunday, I jumped out of my comfort zone and joined a group of sosy peeps from Wild Bird Club of the Philippines. I got the email invite from Robert Alejandro (of Probe) through The Philippine Cinema Yahoogroup. Since I got nothing to do on that sleepy Sunday, so I gave it a go.

The group (plus the newbies) met at Chowking in Petron Station along Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard near SM Mall of Asia. We were roughly 50 – 60 all in all. At 4:30pm, we were already heading to a site near the tollgate to Cavite (just after Uniwide). It was a long rough road heading to a construction area and swamped by two lagoons. According to Mike Lu, the leader of the pack, the place is now declared by the government as a bird sanctuary and is therefore protected. That’s where the big telescopes were put up while listening to some birdwatching facts. Binoculars were rented for P50 each pair.

Nothing eventful on the occasion as I found it too time-consuming. Or maybe, that’s the joy of birdwatching wherein you can just while the day away watching for the birds to come and go. It could be an alternative way of relaxing and appreciating small things.

More pics here.

Triple Dare

Saturday, September 27, was a jampacked day.

First, got to visit Shakey’s in Tomas Morato to pay half of my pamangkin’s post-birthday party on October 4. Since Omakase is just adjacent to the pizza parlor, I had my lunch there with yummy makis.

Secondly, I had to go to UP for DUP’s “Ang Panaginip kong Fili” which was a sold-out show. Lots of students, mostly female species, were cheering on one of the actors named JC Santos who played Basilio (paging talent managers!). It was a nice experience watching a Floy Quintos play (and a Franco Laurel musical) for the first time. The opening sequence wherein all the characters of “El Filibusterismo” visited Jose Rizal in a dream was very haunting.

Third stop was a jologs fix. I watched “Triple Dare” (concert, charity and fun, as the ticket mentions) at the Music Museum, as suggested by the show’s director who happens to be a “kakilala”. It was Ronnie Liang’s concert with special guests Yeng Constantino, a certain Consuelo (a semi-finalist for PDA Season 2), Bodie Cruz and Nel Rapiz of PBB Season 2, Iya Ginez and Geoff Taylor of PDA Season 1 and Rox Puno (Rico J’s son and more). It was an evening of, err, entertainment and surprisingly good music. Highlights were Rox’s medley of his dad’s hit songs, Ronnie and Yeng’s duet and Geoff Taylor’s rendition of “Always be my Baby”.

More pics here.

A.K.A. Akafellas

Last September 26, I braved the rainy Friday night going back to the apartment. My plan was to change my shirt and head off to my usual solo flight. My landlady, ate Nadine, all by her lonesome, was about to leave the apartment to visit a mall. She said that her son’s at Star City with his cousins and the rest of the boarders were out. I invited her to Ricco Renzo to catch Akafellas perform live.

A backstory: Roughly four or five years ago, I was at Rockwell Tent when Stephen Speaks had a concert there. Akafellas along with Nina (a newcomer then) opened the show. It was just a set of two or three songs from the all-male a capella group but I got hooked. Since then, I was making it a point to catch them live but to no avail. Either gig bars are not biting their repertoire or just a bad schedule. Or art centers like CCP might be too formal for them.

Another backstory: I won a gift certificate from Ricco Renzo during a Reposo art fair two or three years ago. It was a whopping P400-worth of good food. I think I was with my apartment peeps then when I spent it. The owner of the restaurant even toured us to the second floor where most of the paintings were displayed (some were still under “construction”).

From the apartment, we took a tricycle to the restaurant (categorically Italian). Ate Nadine even made a skit by acting as if we’re rich kids and she was telling manong driver to hurry up ‘cause we’re getting late for the event. It was funny. From the ground floor, we got our tickets for P250 each and went straight to the second floor. It was now filled with mini-tables (as high as the knees) and paintings on superheroes were put up in an all-white wall. Lighting was perfect and the ambiance, fantastic (an accidental dating place, indeed). The show was already starting.

Akafellas, I just realized from the gig, is composed of mostly Atenistas. UAAP 2008 fever was still high then so imagine the guys singing their alma mater hymn after kicking out the lone La Sallista (poor guy, he’s outnumbered) and another from UP. They said that they were incomplete though they already looked crowded in the stage. I can say that most of the songs are a highlight to me but I particularly love their rendition of Blackstreet’s “No Diggity”, Stevie Wonder’s “Overjoyed”, Ne-yo’s “So Sick”, a Dingdong Avanzado song which I forgot the title and a medley of VST songs. Aside from singing, the guys were also good at "hiritan". They have nice rapport and the jokes were funny. At one point, they even said "We're not Chicosci".

I enjoyed the night. Good food, nice paintings and nice bonding moment with ate Nadine (who was doing “okray” to the rich-looking crowd). I celebrated my 32nd birthday last September 13 but it was only that night that I felt it. Got no cake from my lunchmates, massive greeting through email didn’t pick up and my birthday itself was stressful. Who says happiness can’t be delayed?

More pics here.

Six Films from Cine Europa 2008

Shangri-la Cineplexes does it again! Aside from the fact they hosted the event, the annoying procedure was still there. You can only queue for a film two hours before the screening. If you’re into film marathon, that means you’re still inside the cinema. The sick part, of course, is when a cinema crew suggests that you can just get out of the cinema to queue and just go back to continue the film. I wish they knew what they were saying. I have two suggestions here: (1) release the tickets when there’s no ongoing film screening and (2) limit the films that are being shown so that movie buffs (especially those who have 8-to-5 jobs) can enjoy the whole set.

Vitus - Switzerland

I made an effort to catch this film because a friend mentioned that there are only two films that he is going to watch in this year’s Cine Europa: “Vitus” and Denmark’s “After the Wedding”. The film tells a story of a child prodigy and how his parents (and a grandfather played by Bruno Ganz) raise him up. Nothing memorable or fresh about the plot but the script is well written and very visual.

And when was the Last Time you Saw your Father – United Kingdom

The film stars British actors Jim Broadbent and Collin Firth. It’s a true-to-life memoir of Blake Morrison, particularly about how he grew up with his father. As a memoir, it’s very effective. Thanks to the film’s fine editing and melodramatic approach. A tearjerker.

Children of the Moon - Germany

This well-made film tackles the relationship between two children. One is a teenager and an elder sister to her ailing brother who is suffering from “moon disease”, a rare condition wherein sunlight should be strictly avoided. I did not catch the first 15 minutes of the film, as I needed to queue for the next film that is “After the Wedding”.

After the Wedding - Denmark

This is probably the festival’s “star” film because it garnered an Oscar nomination for Best Foreign Language Film last year (lost to Germany’s “Lives of Others”). It’s a plot-driven film, something that a lot of moviegoers would say with “it has a story”. Come to think of it, the film doesn’t have much social relevance. It’s more of an honest-to-goodness novel-like material, complete with crying scenes and twists. But it’s effective. It got me glued to root for the next turn of events. Others might find the plot (specifically with regard to one of the lead character’s over “generosity”) too good to be true but that’s acceptable for me. It’s also well acted (Mads Mikkelsen of “Casino Royale” fame essays one of the lead characters).

One Franc, 14 Pesetas - Spain

Perhaps, this is the closest to our OFW films (sans the romantic angle, of course). Two friends from Spain, circa 1950’s, tried their luck in Switzerland and succeeded. The price of it all is the challenge to keep their family in tact. The film is too mainstream and too glossy except for the last five minutes when the family decides whether to go back to Switzerland or not.

Chemical Hunger - Italy

This is my second favorite after “After the Wedding”. The devise used in this film is the “a day in the life of”-type of storytelling, similar to our very own award-winning films like “Kubrador”, “Foster Child” and just recently, “Serbis”. Subject in focus is a small community in rural Milan, nested by drug addicts, prostitutes and what-have-yous. A rapper will just pop out of the scene, delivering a phrase or two. A bit dragging but I love the style used.

Isang Open-Letter para kay G. Quark Henares

Dearest Direk Quark,

Unang-una at malayong-malayo sa gusto kong ikuwento talaga sa ‘yo, babatiin muna kita ng isang malutong na congratulations para sa panganganak ng pinaka-cool na teleserye sa buong mundo, ang “Rakista” ng TV5. Dahil dito ay na-refresh ang aking TV viewing habit. Maraming salamat sa inyo ni Diego Castro sa pagkakaroon ng ganitong palabas.

Noong nakaraang Miyerkules, September 17, nanood ako ng una kong Cine Europa para sa 2008. Ito ‘yung “Vitus” ng Switzerland na tumalakay sa isang child prodigy. Hindi ako sigurado kung papatok sa ‘yo ang tema at filmmaking nito, pero hindi naman ‘yan ang sadya ng open-letter ko. Pagkatapos kong manood ng sine, kinakailangan kong i-taxi ang Phi Bar sa Metrowalk para ma-rekindle ang buhay-gimikero ko kasama ang Cueshé. Bad trip ako noong araw na ‘yun kaya di na masamang mabisita man lang ang banda (na ang alam kong parating may space sa puso mo, hehehe).

Second set na ang naabutan ko. Pagkaupo na pagkaupo ko sa puwesto ng mga roadies na sina Nonoy at Brian, napansin na agad ng banda ang presence ko. Sa ikatlong kanta (at ikalawang bote ng San Mig Light) nila kinanta ang paborito kong i-request na “The Remedy” ni Jason Mraz. Alam kong walang masyadong ikakabuti ‘yung cover nila n’ung number na ‘yun (imagine, medyo kailangang mag-rap ni Jay) pero guilty pleasure lang sa part ko. Masarap kasing marinig ‘yung kanta kapag problemado ka at gusto mong pumunta sa buwan kahit sandali lang. Kumbaga sa inuman ay isang masarap na pulutan ang “The Remedy”. Bago ito inawit ay casual na dinedicate ni Jay ang kanta sa akin. “Para sa isang taong nand’yan parati, kay Manny. Ayun s’ya, nakaputi na parang pari.”

Bago pa ang dedication portion na ‘yan ay kakuntsaba ko na si Mike na sa second set pa nila kakantahin ang request ko. Alam nilang manonood pa ako ng sine. At alam nilang alam kong hindi ako mapapahiya sa request na ‘yun dahil ilang ulit na rin nila akong natanggihan.

Pero merong masayang nangyari sa set na ‘yun. Nanibago ako n’ung una pero naaliw na rin. Ibang iba na ang kilala kong Cueshé. Nawala ang focus sa perfection at napaka-informal ng pagkanta at pakiki-interact. Ngayon ko lang sila nakitang ganun ka-relax kumausap sa tao. Maging ang mga kanta ay bago rin. Mas mukhang trip-trip lang ‘to, mas bangag (o mas baboy) pa sa mga gig sa Saguijo. May ilang kanta na hindi natatapos, may ilan namang nadudugtungan ng kakulitan. Pati ang areglo ng mga orig nilang kanta ay bago ang timpla. Isa rito ‘yung “Stay” nila na may tunog “Elisi” na ng Rivermaya. Nag-evolve.

Sa nasabing set din nalasing si Fritz. Hindi ko alam kung ilan na ang nainom n’yang alkohol pero nakilala naman n’ya ako mula sa crowd. Isang beses ay sumugod s’ya sa mic at minura ang kanilang dating manager (na bading). Masaya ang ad lib na ginawa ni Mike. Mula sa drums ay tila inawat n’ya si Fritz at nag-apologize sa tao. Kasunod ay isang mas masidhing pagmumura. “Oo nga, p***ng inang baklang ‘yun!” Nagtatawanan lang ang mga nakakaalam ng buong kuwento. Higit dito, nand’yang humiga si Fritz sa sahig, sumuray at nanatiling naggigitara habang nakangiti lang na kinokonsinte ng mga kabanda n’ya. Kapansin-pansin ng gabing ‘yun ang mas tight na rapport ng banda. Hindi sila dating ganito ka-fluid.

Direk, gusto lang sabihin nitong open-letter ko na sana ay nasaksihan mo ang gig na ‘yun (their best gig EVER!). Na sana ay nakitawa at nakisabay ka rin sa trip nilang ‘yun. Kahit papaano, magandang entry rin ito sa “Truly, Madly, Craziiiiiiily” mo sa isang magazine. Mas dadami siguro ang kaaway mo kapag nand’un ka dahil tiyak na mare-realize mo na kahit gapatak ay may dugong rakista sila. Nalango ang banda n’un. At sa pagkalangong ito sila gumagapang pabalik sa kanilang crib. Isa itong magandang entry sa discriminating na history ng Pinoy rock scene.

Buweno, hindi ko na masyadong sasayangin ang oras mo. Alam kong busy ka sa maraming raket (kabilang na ang “Rakista”). Sana’y makarating sa ‘yo ang open-letter na ‘to dahil pihadong merong mabubuksan sa ‘yo at sa ibang tao.

Maraming salamat at hanggang sa muli.

Gumagalang,
Manny

KNGP: Kapatiran Ng Gumagalang Postcard

Noong kalagitnaan ng Hulyo, napag-usapan namin ng mga dating katrabaho sa kliyente sa Netherlands ang pagsasabuhay ng postcard sending. Nabuksan ang usapin nang mabanggit ko na kahit noong nasa Belfast pa ako, circa 2005, ay nagpapadala na ako ng postcard sa ilang kaibigan at kamag-anak (sa ngayon ay meron akong 20 na regular na pinapadalhan). Nakuha ko naman ang ideya sa aking kapatid sa New Zealand, na sa tuwing may bagong “buwan” s’yang nadadaungan ay hindi mawawala ang isang postcard sa aming pintuan.

Sa itinagal ng diskusyon, merong isang nagmungkahi na masaya sigurong ibalik ‘yung pakiramdam na makakatanggap ka ng isang postcard na merong selyo at pinaglaanan ng oras at pursige para maipadala ito. ‘Yung darating ka sa iyong apartment na merong naghihintay na maliit na parihabang piraso na nakapangalan sa iyo. Isa ito sigurong pamatid-uhaw sa nakakalason na kawalan ng komunikasyon sa kabila ng nag-uusbungang celfone network tower at 3G technology.

Dito dumating ang ilang kamalayan: baka bilang tao ay meron tayong kailangang balikan para maituwid ang anumang semantic noice pollution meron ang mundong ito. Di ba’t ganun ‘yun kapag naligaw ka? Kinakailangan mong balikan ‘yung isang kanto kung saan ka nagkamali at subukang tahakin ang ibang daan para sa kaalwanan.

Ang Kapatiran Ng Gumagalang Postcard o KNGP ang ilan sa mga subok sa pagbalik na ito. Isang postcard ng monumento ni Rizal sa Luneta ang napagdiskitahan naming gamitin para mamasyal sa kung nasaan man ang apat na kasapi ng KNGP (kabilang na ako). Ilalagay namin sa likod ng postcard ang lugar na kanyang narating, kung kelan at isang salita na nais mong sabihin. Ilalakip ito sa isang sobre kasama ng isa pang postcard na personal mong gustong ipadala sa papadalhan. Sa sandali na ito’y matanggap, maaari mong itago ang ikalawang postcard at ang sobre nito na nagtataglay ng selyo.

Idinagdag ko na lang ang pagkuha ng larawan kasama si “Rizal” sa kung saan ko isinulat ang log entry at ang pagbati sa ikalawang postcard. Sa kaso ko, ako ang ikalawang nakatanggap at natanggap ko ang sobre habang ako ay nasa Frankfort, Kentucky. Wala nang hihigit pa sa pagkakataon na makuhaan ng larawan si Rizal katabi ng State Capitol ng Kentucky. Sa kasalukuyan ay nakarating na sa Netherlands si Rizal, tumambay sa San Francisco, California at tila naglalakbay na ngayon patungong Barcelona at sa kalaunan ay sa South Australia naman. Maabutan n’ya kaya rito sina Piolo at Angel?

Nawa’y mas malayo at mas malawak pa ang marating ni Rizal. Sana’y malayo at malawak din ang marating ng karanasang ito. Kung papalarin, maging bukas sana ang pagkakataong ito sa kung sinumang nais merong marating.

Dambana

Stitched unedited celfone pics, 1.3 megapixels.

Hindi naging pino ang mga nakalipas na araw. Siguro ay may hinahanap ako at nanatiling wala. Hindi nakatulong ang birthday pero nalunod naman ako sa mga nakaalala. Masikip mismo ang kaarawan. Hindi mainam ang gising para habulin ang anticipated mass. Merong sunog sa The Fort. Merong cheesecake. Merong concert ticket. Walang masyadong matunghayan kundi ang dambana mula sa aking pinagkakaupuan.

Isang Ma-Kapamilyang Pananaw sa “Survivor Philippines” ng GMA-7

For the record, ang unang pagsasaere ng “Survivor Philippines” ng GMA-7 ang unang Kapusong palabas ang natapos at pinanood ko mula umpisa (maliban siyempre sa mga piling episodes ng “That’s Entertainment” noong araw). Unang una, masugid akong taga-hanga ng “Survivor” ng USA. Mula sa season nila sa Africa, jingle na lang yata ang pahinga kapag nanonood ako ng mga episodes nito. Maging ang aking tatay ay kinunstsaba kong magrekord ng ilang palabas kapag ako’y walang panahon para maabutan ito sa Studio 23 or RPN-9. Ang kauna-unahang “Survivor” ay mapalad ko ring napanood sa isang marathon show. Ang outback season na lang nila ang hindi ko pa nasasaksihan (at ang mga sumunod matapos ang kontrobersyal na “Survivor” na tumalakay sa race o kulay). Siyanga pala, si Lex ang paborito kong “Survivor” dahil napaka-sensible ng kangyang mga binibitawang salita.

Nang dalhin ng Studio 23 sa Pilipinas sina Ethan (“Survivor Africa”), Jenna M (“Survivor Amazon”) at Shi-ann (nakalimutan ko na kung saan pero kasali rin si Rob sa season na ‘yan), hindi ko pinalampas ang pagkakataon na makita sila sa Capones. Ang kaibigan ko noon na nagtatrabaho sa ABS-CBN ay nagpaunlak pa ng isang phone conversation kay Shi-ann.

Minsan din ay nagpabili ako ng “Survivor” t-shirt sa isang kaopisa na nasa kliyente sa USA.

Malaking bahagi ng natutunan ko sa buhay ay napulot ko sa “Survivor”. Sabi nga, “outwit, outplay, outlast”. Di ba’t ‘yan lang naman ang mga mahahalagang gabay sa buhay?

Ikalawa at huling dahilan na lang siguro ang curiosity kung bakit ko pinatulan ang franchise na ito ng GMA-7. Ito’y sa kabila ng pagkakataong mapanood ang premiere episode ng “Kahit Isang Saglit” nina Echo at Carmen Soo (fine, pinanood ko pa rin kapag commercial sa kabila).

Heto ang aking masasabi:

1. Kamukha ng kanyang mga pinaggayahan, nakuha ng GMA-7 ang “feel” ng “Survivor”. Mula sa chant, hanggang sa ilang camera gimmick at ang set-up para sa challenges. Pilit na pilit man ang ilang snapshots, pangit ang quality ng “interview” portion (mas klaro pa ang live coverage ng TV Patrol World sa mga rural area) at maging ang OBB ay hindi kasing exciting ng orihinal pero hindi na masama;

2. Kung ang Pinoy Big Brother ay tinutuya dahil mukhang artistahin ang mga kasali, hinding hindi ito masasabi sa “Survivor Philippines”. Ngayon pa lang, masasabi ko nang walang sisikat sa mga kalahok nito (kung naisin man nilang mag-artista). Kung ganito rin lang, sana ay sinagad na nila sa paglalagay ng medyo “odd-looking” (sangkaterba ang ganito sa orihinal na “Survivor”). Sa kabila nito, isa itong welcome treat para sa mga Kapuso. Kahit papaano, meron na silang babantayan at poprotektahan na reality show sa mga forum at kung ano pa mang online discussion. Isa rin itong buhay na kontradiksyon sa binitiwang salita ni Ms. Wilma Galvante na hindi nila kailangan ng franchise dahil meron na silang “Starstruck”;

3. Nakakairita ang mga side comments ni Paolo Bediones. Minsan, kailangan pa n’yang ulitin ang kung anong pinapakita na sa TV (“hinihingal si ganito, dumating na si ganito, nasa web pa rin si ganito”). Sana’y hayaan na lang ang camera mismo ang magsalita sa mga eksena. Maaari itong magbigay ng maling impresyon kung ang nais nating palabasin sa isang reality show ay tila panonood ng mga isda sa loob ng aquarium. Ang mga comments ni Mr. Bediones ay parang nagsa-suggest ng anggulo na hindi nakikita ng mga manonood. Isa itong malaking pagkakamali;

4. Walang pinapakitang “scoreboard” ang “Survivor Philippines” habang nagaganap ang challenge. Makakatulong ito upang madaling mabantayan ng mga manonood ang performance ng bawat grupo. Sa halip, sinasabi na lang ni Mr. Bediones kung ilan na ang puntos ng kung magkabilang grupo. Hindi ganito ang estilo ng orihinal na “Survivor”;

5. Nagulat ako na itutuloy pala bukas ang susunod na episode. Ibang iba ito sa nakasanayan nang weekly show sa US kung saan hitik na hitik sa excitement at twist ang bawat minuto ng isang oras na episode. Merong konting socio-politics, konting drama at bago ka pa maumay, heto at sasabak naman sila sa reward o immunity challenge. Sa unang episode pa lang ng “Survivor Philippines”, alam ko na ang pagbababad sa socio-politics at drama ang gagawin nila sa mga darating pa. Bago matapos ang palabas, merong ilang minutong itinalaga sa mga kaawa-awang manlalaro habang natutulog sa buhangin habang nagna-narrate si Mr. Bediones ng kanilang kalagayan (“heto ang kanilang unang survival night….”). Kung ito ang pagbabasehan, wala na akong ganang manood pa ng mga darating na episode;

6. Masyado yatang hyper si Mr. Bediones sa pagho-host. Sana ay masabayan man lang ng mga kalahok ang kanyang energy. Wala rin naman akong maisip sa ngayon na puwedeng gumawa ng trabaho n’ya (hmm, si Richard Gomez kaya o si Marc Nelson?). Makakatulong din kung mapapadalas ang kanyang pangungumusta sa mga kalahok bago o matapos ang isang challenge (madalas itong gawin ni Jeff Probst);

7. Hindi naging kapana-panabik ang premiere episode. Siguro ay magpi-pick up ito kapag meron nang immunity challenge at kailangan nang magharap sa tribal council. Nagdududa rin ako na baka hindi makatulong ang pagiging kimi nating mga Pinoy. Sa orihinal na palabas, hindi mapagkakaila na expressive talaga ang mga Kano. Sinasabi nila ang anumang nasa loob ng utak nila. Dito minsan nabubuhay ang adrenalin ko kapag nanonood ako ng “Survivor”;

8. Hinati sa dalawang tribu ang mga kalahok ayon sa kanilang kasarian (as in boys versus girls). Una itong ginawa sa “Survivor Amazon” dahil na rin siguro sa konteksto ng lugar. Sa “Survivor Philippines”, hindi ko ito masyadong maintindihan dahil sa tingin ko ay hindi naman mataas ang gender discrimination sa atin. Mas nanaisin ko pang hinati ang mga players ayon sa kanilang trabaho o socio-economic status. Mas masaya siguro ang rich versus poor na konsepto at mas swak ito sa ating atmospera;

I’m-Glad-I’m-Here-in-the-Philippines List of Must-Do Things

Below is a crazy set of things I have accomplished since I got back from the US. Or better yet, the things that are worth missing when you’re outside the country (hehehe). Sorry, Jaejay and Vianney.

Cinderella
CCP Main Theater – August 15

This Broadway calibre show was definitely this year’s banner event as we tried to forget for a while that we’re a third-world country. Boasting of none other than our very own Tony-decorated performer, Miss Lea Salonga as the lead, with a big-budgeted production of a Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, “Cinderella” was on the right cue. The show was amazing (except for the program having limited copies). I’m glad that Manilans had the chance to peek at the musical before it tours to other Asian cities until April next year. I was late for 15 minutes because of the heavy rain that night (I left the office one hour and 30 minutes before the show and syndicated a cab for a P100 more just to be on time). I think I missed the overture and the opening number from the fairy godmother. I’m just thankful that I stayed for 30 minutes more because if not, I wouldn’t be catching Lea’s third autograph after sharing a nice chitchat (a la “The Buzz”) with her driver and after KC Concepcion passed by. I even had a small talk with Lea and mentioned to her that maybe next time, she can write about fans on Backstory (her column in PDI). I’m just curious how her fan club fares. It makes me wonder that among our female divas/performers, only Lea doesn’t have any impersonator. She replied with something like “That’s a good one.”

The Golden Child
CCP Little Theater – August 16

July is normally the month where most of the play season (in Filipino, it’s called “tagdula”) in Metro Manila starts. For Tanghalang Pilipino’s part, they unofficially started their season with this year’s Virgin Lab Fest (which I missed), Cinemalaya’s equivalent for stage plays. Officially, their season opener is David Henry Hwang’s “The Golden Child”. It’s some sort of a memoir of Mr. Hwang’s Philippine-based grandmother, a Chinese, living with her husband’s other wives. Mr. Hwang, by the way, recreated Puccini’s “Madame Butterfly” into a twisted tale of a French diplomat and a male Chinese opera singer (“M. Butterfly” with the film version starring Jeremy Irons and John Lone). Loy Arcenas, who is connected to US-based Ma-yi Theater (I like their “Flipside”!), directs the play. The material can be mixed up with our “Mano Po” film series except, of course, the play is more authentic and unpretentious. Cast includes the great Irma Adlawan who delivers the most “natural” Chinese accent among the three wives. I don’t see anything bad about the production. It’s just that I’m missing the days when Nonon Padilla (another great) sits as TP’s Artistic Director.

Noli at Fili Dos Mil
PETA Phinma Center – August 17

I don’t know but there’s really something about PETA. They don’t just sit on their laurel as a premire theater group, they keep on getting better and better. Their season opener is a retelling of Jose Rizal’s “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo”, told in a telenovela fashion in a contemporary setting, addressing a contemporary issue (it may sound cheesy but the play’s “cancer” is rooted from illegal logging). Crisostomo Ibarra is now a town mayor, engaged to Maria Clara. Padre Salvi is now General Salvi who has the hots for Maria Clara and the one responsible for illegal logging. No more Sisa this time but Basilio is still there and the rest of the gang. Soxy Topacio’s execution is very smooth. I am pretty sure that the students in the crowd absorb the essence of Rizal’s novels, as the theme remains relevant (corrupt politicians, graft, church meddling, etc.). Bonus is kuya Bodgie playing Bishop Damaso (with Bembol Roco as alternate).

Karl Joaquin’s Christening
Mt. Carmel Church – August 17

From PETA Phinma Center, I took a cab to Mt. Carmel Church near Eat Bulaga’s Broadway Centrum. It’s Karl’s Christening and Nicole’s 7th birthday, a double celebration organized by their parents (my kumareng Jas, an officemate, and kumpareng Mark). It was my first time to godfather an officemate’s child and I’m getting the hang of it. It’s also good to see some old peeps and get in touch with them even just for a while. Mt. Carmel Church, by the way, is one of the biggest churches in Metro Manila. Some of my girl friends dream of having a wedding there because of the long aisle. My inaanak didn’t seem to care. For his baptism, only a small portion of the church was used. It was very organized as the parish office already prepared a laminated guide on the ritual and the schedule was solely alloted to Karl. In the adjacent center, Nicole’s Disney princess-themed birthday party was held. The place was garnished with pink balloons, surround-sounded by party music and kids were everywhere. Best part of the party perhaps was the kiddie cotillon, something that I had watched (and enjoyed!) for the first time.

Otelo: Ang Moro ng Venecia
Rizal Mini-Theater (Ateneo) – August 21

The play gave me a big gush of adrenaline as three of the highly respected stage performers shared one arena for the first time. Neil Ryan Sese as Cassio, Irma Adlawan as Desdemona and Nonie Buencamino as Othello. What more can I ask for? I left the office at 5pm, took a cab (again, syndicated with P100 extra) and braved the traffic (or the absence of it). I was already at the grounds of Ateneo’s Xavier Building at 5:45pm, trying to locate Rizal Mini-Theater (which happened to be just a few meters away from Gonzaga Hall where I first watch my very first play inside ADMU). I was too early for a 7pm-ish staging. I decided then to get dinner at Gonzaga (a serving of herbed chicken from Healthy Options-like stall) while enjoying the cheers from students rallying over a UAAP game on TV. Minutes later, I was already back at the theater’s entrance. I saw the play’s director, Mr. Ricky Abad (now he’s forgiven for snoring at Rep’s “Hamlet”), and Neil Ryan Sese still wearing a prisoner’s garb (maybe he’s doing a lagari of teleserye shows as he hurried back to his car right after the curtain call). The play was supposedly Tanghalang Ateneo’s season opener for their 30th year in the business but most of the leads came from Dulaang UP. It just so happened that the production was satisfying, from Salvador Bernal’s set (I kinda miss his sets for TP) to Irma’s virginal character and Nonie’s strong presence. The thing with TA is that I started to enjoy the school production feel and that the whole idea was not for the profit but for the love of Shakespeare.

Best of Basil and Kuh
Captain’s Bar at the Mandarin Oriental – August 22

The situation was this: I haven’t seen Basil Valdes perform live and I haven’t been to a hotel just to watch a lounge show. Thanks to a surprise bonus (from Santa), I got the chance (and the money) to experience these firsts. Straight from the office, I took a bus and a jeep on my way to Mandarin Oriental. I was sweating when I reached Captain’s Bar (my first tete-a-tete with the place was during one of the company’s Christmas parties). I didn’t mind the stares that I was alone in the concert. The usherette even repeated her question on how many tickets will I be purchasing. Everything just dawned on me when I went to the “balcony” area where some small round tables were installed: I had to share a table with a bunch of people! My Mentos moments prodded me to stay in the sofas near the tables and just got back to my seat when the lights went off. Basil’s repertoire that night comprised of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) compositions in Filipino, since it was “Linggo ng Wika”, he said. He only broke this promise when he sang “Lift Up” as encore song. Kuh’s repertoire was crazier and more varied. Best part of the show was a duet of two “Kailangan Kita” songs, originally sung by Leah Navarro and Gary V/Piolo Pascual. If people are wondering if it’s true that Basil’s voice has a healing power, the answer is “I don’t know”. But surely, I felt better after the concert.

Chicosci Victory Party
Elbow Room – August 29

I somewhat organized the office delegation to share Joel Salvador’s swan song as Chicosci’s drummer before he went to Dublin for a long term work assignment. I just confirmed with “idol” that the band’s victory party (after bagging MTV Philippines’ Favorite Artist) was also his “last gig” then in a jiffy, I was already sending an email to peeps. The turnout was incredible as different rakistas from the office made their way to Elbow Room in Metrowalk along Julia Vargas Avenue in Ortigas. We even made a mock-up banner that read “ofcem8 ko si kuya joel” to Joel’s horror, of course (hehehe). Three bands opened the gig at 11pm-ish. Joel’s set came after with three songs (which “idol” commented with “hindi ko na uulitin”), as in he did both the vocals and guitars, acoustic-type. Chicosci’s set at past midnight with Joel back to percussions. They did some signature songs plus two Eraserheads tracks. The highlight perhaps was the part where the guys traded places, putting Miggy on drums, Joel on guitars, Mong on vocals, etc. It was fun (even if I only finished two bottles of San Mig Light). The picture taking session (was it another mock-up?) was the icing on the cake. I guess I was too pumped up then for the next day’s “concert of all concerts”.

More pics here.

Tosca
PETA Phinma Center – August 30

The project is a collaboration of Black Theater of Japan, Nottle Theater of Korea and PETA. Basically, it’s the same “Tosca” by Giacomo Puccini but this time, three theater groups interpret it. They just polished it to show cohesion of classical opera, dance and Pinoy humor. It may sound preposterous at first but the outcome is effective (thanks to its director, Soxy Topacio). They managed to retell a story of a woman torn between love and duties, making the theme remain relevant and important. It was amusing to note that the audience, comprised mostly of young college students, was silent (read: sleepy) in the first part (arias and dances) and damn right laughing in the last part (the PETA part). I walked out of the theater totally refreshed and uplifted.

The Eraserheads Reunion Concert
The Fort Open Field – August 30

This tops my list of must-do things. To put it more appropriately, list of do-or-die things. Flashback, two years ago when the tribute album was launched at UP Theater and I had to grab 20 tickets at an FM station booth. That was during a lunch break (cab from RCBC Plaza to Ortigas area and back, all within an hour). It was put in vain as only Buddy, Raimund and Marcus showed up. First week of August 2008, I was registering at the Marlboro Red List, robbing truth that I’m a true-blooeded chain-smoker, only to find out again that it has been put in vain. August 30, at 5:30pm, I was already at Glorietta 4’s Breadtalk waiting for Ben and his sister. We stopped by at Mc Kinley to fetch Matt and off we went to Taguig Open Field for the Eraserheads Reunion Concert. Before the long queue, we dropped by at Italianni’s to meet William and Ruth. Inside the venue, we joined a group of peers from the office and waited for the concert like crazy. At 8:05pm, a ten-minute countdown was set, triggering more cheers and fanning more excitement. The first song was “Alapaap”. It filled the venue with love (year, baby) in a nice acoustic and a topnothch stage set-up (video wall, lights and everything). Cutting the concert short due to Ely’s condition happened but I felt sanctified already right after the first song. With the rest of the songs for the set, the crowd singing every anthem and the spirit that was just nostalgically marvelous, I can’t expect for more.

Visit the National Museum Culture Tour with Mr. John Silva
Museum of the Filipino People and National Museum – September 6

For more details on Mr. Silva's tour (and thoughts), just visit his blog.

Why I did this trip was because I felt bad that I haven’t seen our own museums here (except Ayala Museum which I have visited when I was in college and proudly not because my college asked me to). It’s been a while since I’ve been receiving this guided tour invite from Mr. John Silva. I initially doubted if my P700 is worth it even if I know in the back of my head that a chunk of the fee proceeds to Mr. Silva’s “I Love Museum” program (which promises to bring public school teachers to our musuems). I decided to risk money and time, plus of course I ran out of things to do on a weekend. I left my place at 9am and took a cab. It was drizzling that morning and commuting could lead me to eternity. Manong driver wasn’t really familiar of the building and I myself was surprised that we located the museum just in time. Museum of the Filipino People resides in the old Finance Building near Luneta. On the opposite is another beaux art building called Tourism Building that was originally leased to Agriculture Building. The circle in the middle (part of Luneta) is called Agrifina Circle (Agriculture + Finance, got it?).

Twenty minutes before the tour, there was a blackout that threatened the whole trip. The lady from the museum office informed us that Meralco promised to resume electric power by 10am-ish. So we waited. And waited fruitfully. We were met by Mr. John Silva, had a brief introduction and gathered the whole bunch of eight or ten intrigued museum goers. We started at the grounds of then walked to the upper level galleries where most of the relics and antiquities that define us Pinoys were displayed. Some of the exhibit rooms still need some retouches but what’s already in there is impressive. Mr. Silva’s familiarity (and sincerity) with the items is equally thrilling. I love the way he injects trivia and humor. He really knows what he is doing and I definitely envy his passion.

After touring the building for two hours, we had a 15-minute break (with on-the-house bottle of mineral water) and off we went to another building across. From the old Finance Building, we crossed the street and entered the old Congress Building where ou National Museum is housed. There aren’t many galleries in there. Yet. But what’s already put up is a wide array of paintings from our national artists including our national pride called “Spoliarium” by Juan Luna. In front of the giant oil paiting are three rows of monoblocs. Mr. Silva made it a point to let us immerse with the importance of the piece by explaining how “Spoliarium” made a connection to our independence in 1898. Briefly, he noted that the painting made our national hero Jose Rizal remarked in the middle of alta-sosyedad crowd how we can get even with the Spaniards politically. This led to some commotion, and pushed Rizal to write Noli Me Tangere. Rizal was then shot at Luneta, an incident that led Andres Bonifacio to stage a revolt that paved our way to freedom.

National Museum, on top of “Spoliarium” boasts of other works by Luna and Felix Resureccion Hidalgo, down to Fernando Amorsolo and Arturo Luz. The tour ended in the section where some paintings about Japanese invasion were installed (two of the paintings had semi-nudity). Capping the whole trip was a sculpture done by Rizal while in Dapitan about a puppy being bitten by a crocodile that is being bitten by the mommy dog ontop.

More pics here.

Mark Anthony Guallar, Jr.’s Christening
Cardona Parish Church – September 7

In the afternoon, off I went to Cardona, Rizal to visit my kumpareng Tonyo. It was already 10 in the evening when I reached his (and his wife Journey’s) place. Everybody was busy doing a chore or two while a little nipa hut just a few meters away, which houses a videoke machine, was occupied by belters. I remember somebody singing “Bleeding Love”. I opted to watch a crazy MMK episode inside the house with kumareng Journey, Tonyo’s brother Ron-ron and Journey’s brother Dhel sharing some shots of Red Horse. It was cold and drizzling then, setting the mood for a nice evening of intoxication. The morning after was rather a busier morning as people started to come and go inside the house. I had breakfast, took a bath and, with kumareng Journey, off we went to the parish church of Cardona (which awkwardly built face-to-face with the municipal building). I assumed of the role of a godfather as I helped out kumareng Journey on registration. Beside us was a mom enlisting her son named “Slash”. The whole baptism didn’t take long. There was the usual seminar about the importance of being a Christian and an overview on what’a about to unfold. The priest then came later doing the “bathing” and the blessing. What followed was an eat-and-run back at the house, cutting some conversation short with old friends and familiar faces.

West Side Story
Meralco Theater – September 7

Pardon the pun but it’s the most beautiful locally done Broadway musical I have seen so far. It has over-the-top dances, credible singing, big sets and a satisfying rendition of one of the well-loved musical ditties. I was awestruck. It was that good. I don’t mind inviting friends and officemates, as this staging by Stages is truly a must-see. Never mind the irony of having a Kapamilya (Christian Bautista) and a Kapuso (Karylle) lock licks and sing stunning duets. I would prefer to see Joanna Ampil as Maria but the production doesn’t divulge who’s playing when. Karylle’s singing was a surprise anyway (and I’ve seen Ms. Ampil in West End’s “Les Miz” two years ago). Another bonus on the show was having Australia-based Rowena Villar as Anita. She’s just a scene-stealer. If I have extra bucks, I would love to see this musical again.

Movie Digest # 047

X-FILES: I WANT TO BELIEVE
Chakeres Franklin Cinema 6 ( Frankfort , Kentucky ), Cinema 3, July 26, 9:30pm

Remember the series, forget the sequel. As much as possible, avoid this film. One of the bad films for 2008. I don’t know why it was even made. The truth is indeed out there.

Friends who might appreciate it: X-Philes!

HUBAD
Cultural Center of the Philippines , Tanghalang Manuel Conde, August 9, 7:00pm

This is the first Filipino film I have seen after the US assignment. And what a treat! It stars my favorite stage actress, Irma Adlawan-Marasigan, in a tale about the lives of theater artists and the boundary they set between what’s real and what’s for a show. Another plus point is that the film is an adaptation of a stage play (shown at Virgin Labfest 2, if I’m not mistaken), which is very much different from its film equivalent. The celluloid version has a twisted take on the lives of two stage artists who lead the cast of a stage play called “Hubad”. They even put real life husband of Irma (Dennis Marasigan) and wife of Nonie Buencamino (Shamaine Centenera) as the character’s better half. For somebody who loves Philippine theater so much, the concept of making it real works. It posted the question: “What if the actors crossed the border?”. All in all, the film is finely crafted. The only drawback for me is Irma’s character. I found it flawed. I don’t understand her being naïve the first time the director mentioned the word “crotch”. If the film is trying to portray the real Irma, then that’s a problem for the Irma I know has been to different stage plays, of different forms and sizes, has her boobs mashed by a fellow actor, has been exposed to thousand nudity and so on.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who haven’t seen the stage version.

DOBOL TROBOL
Power Plant, Cinema 1, August 10, 7:50pm

Slapstick, period. There’s nothing much to expect with this film (aside of course from minding if Pidol and Bosing Vic click on screen). There’s only one scene that made me laugh. It’s the presence of Fritz Ynfante who is supposedly a sosy chef named Packo (a spoof of Wolfgang Puck?). He came to a scene where he is supposed to supervise Bosing Vic and company. Then Jose came uttering “Chief!”. Fritz responded with “Chef, hindi chief. Hindi ako pulis ‘no!”. Jose: “Eh bakit may tsapa kayo?”. Fritz: “Tanga, brooge ‘yan!”.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who have extra bonus money to watch films.

YOU DON’T MESS WITH A ZOHAN
Trinoma, Cinema 2, August 11, 3:00pm

The film is rude and brutal and insensitive. But that’s the selling point of the film. The thing is, it doesn’t explain how and why or even apologize. It just brings you to a world that it tries to create (many films are trying to achieve this but to no avail). And that makes the film watchable. To top it all, the film is not that senseless. There’s wisdom somewhere when the lead character’s ultra masculinist personification tries hairdressing for a change to achieve a peace within.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who wish to see a different Adam Sandler.

WALL-E
Trinoma, Cinema 7, August 11, 5:20pm

I can say that it’s one of the better films I have seen from Hollywood this year and perhaps one of the best animated films for all time. First, the message. It could disguise as propaganda to help save the planet but it’s more than that. It’s effective but not preachy. The film could be comparable to “An Inconvenient Truth” when it comes to significance (especially if the target crowd is the kids). Secondly, most of the scenes do not have any speaking lines from the cute characters. This is animation at its finest. Thirdly, it’s a guilty pleasure. The visuals are both brilliant and fresh, something that could appeal to adults like me. If this is the look of future Disney movies, it must be something to look forward to.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who love both the films and the planet.

A VERY SPECIAL LOVE
Trinoma, Cinema 5, August 11, 7:45pm

It’s a rom-com, period. And it’s from Star Cinema. I couldn’t agree more that there’s nothing special with the film except, of course, for the audience’s reaction on the kilig scenes. Maybe because it has John Lloyd Cruz who took the role seriously and his take on the snobbish and tortured character works. Sarah’s character is generic and can be given to other stars like Maja Salvador or even Bea Alonzo. The direction is not worthy of applause but it’s not bad.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who haven’t seen a Star Cinema film for a year.

TOROTOT
Glorietta 1, Cinema 1, August 20, 8:40pm

I appreciate the film not because it's megged by the great Mario J. Delos Reyes (who started to be "born again" after doing "Magnifico") but because Jun Lana's story and script is good. It's one of those projects that the story/script alone salvages the whole film. The film tackles extra marital affairs and how two victims, who happen to be best of friends, react to it. Talking about impact analysis (hehehe). Acting-wise, there's nothing more to expect from the girls (Maui Taylor and Precious Adona) but I am not sure if most of the moviegoers on the same cinema care for that. Yul Servo, one of Philippine showbiz' natural actors, can't pull off his sosy character but it's good to see him once in a while. Baron Geisler is Baron Geisler.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who believe that Baron Geisler is one damn good actor.

FOR THE FIRST TIME
Greenbelt 3, Cinema 2, August 28, 8:40pm

For the first time from Star Cinema, a total disappointment. Don't blame it yet to Richard "Can't Act" Gutierrez but the fault, I believe, originates from the editing. Was it rushed? That's my observation, considering that its director, Bb. Joyce Bernal started as an editor. Some of the scenes don't just connect if not simply dumb. And Richard's acting doesn't help. Maybe he needs to experience more problems in life so that he can pull a string when it comes to exhibiting some dramatic chops (where is Jericho Rosales where you need him?). "For the First Time" is KC's movie. She's got the talent and I must agree that at her age, she's far better than her mom. One of the highlights is a scene where she begs for Richard not to leave. That's acting! If the film is supposed to be an eclipse of two stars from rival networks, then it's pretty obvious who has the eye for talents.

Friends who might appreciate it: those who wish to see Richard Gutierrez falter for the nth time.

B-Lag File # 03: That Ate Sol Week in Los Angeles

B-Lag as in Blog + Lag.

Roughly 26 years ago, ate Sol, a first cousin on my mom’s side and my kuya’s contemporary, visited our house in Lopez. She was already in college then and she just came from a five-hour trip from Manila . As an ate to a six-year old me, she taught me how to draw a bahay-kubo on my pad. I can still remember that it was at night (or was it just a brown-out?). She also did something that I would cherish for the rest of my life: she told me the tale of Spielberg’s “ET” as if she’s telling a bedtime story. I finally caught the film maybe ten years after that (and the digitally remastered one for another ten years perhaps). I can say that it opened doors for me on film appreciation.

Ate Sol is now living her OFW life in LA. She lives in my uncle’s house in North Hills along with my other cousin Babeth (who is now called “Vinnie”). Ate Sol’s younger sister, Marla, is also in LA. Ates Sol, Marla and Babeth are my first cousins on my mom's side.

Few days before I flew back to Manila (August 4 – 8), I paid a visit to my cousins and took my first VLs for this fiscal year. From Vegas, I took a Greyhound bus to LA, passing through some arid landscapes. Considering the driver from hell as the whole trip’s terminator, the bus ride alone was an experience on its own. It just didn’t give us an extension of two hours’ trip but he made it a point that his in-house rules were properly heard and implemented, including a no noisy texting policy and limited talk time. At one stop, he told everyone that he was so annoyed by the low-batt sound. It felt good though that there were three (senior) Filipinos seated near my slot. We managed to make a conversation through whispers and demure laughs until we reached the San Fernando Greyhound station where my cousins picked me up.

My very first morning in California was spent with a nice breakfast prepared by my dear ate Sol. She took a four-day leave from work and that was something I truly appreciated. There were tall tales before that America transfoms a person’s motivation to be workaholic and depressed. Ate Sol disproves that (except of course of some depressing times when she misses her family).

Our first stop for the day was Hollywood Boulevard , no less. We reached (Chinese) Mann’s Theater after 45 minutes of three bus rides and one train ride. The street was busy with tourists as expected. We availed StarLine’s tour number 1, which is the most popular among their 15 or more tours. While waiting for our “open-top van”, we explored the area, trying to get a picture of each entry in the Stars Walk of Fame. We were later informed that there are a total of 3,000 stars in the area and at the bend laid two of the biggest stars: that of Elvis’ and the Beatles’.

The “open-top van” was something that I wasn’t expecting. It’s like a jeep with seats positioned just like those in a van and with no roof. For three hours and two sunblock applications, we toured some of the celeb houses (including those of Richard Gere’s the Beckhams’, Nicolas Cage’s, Demi Moore’s, Dr. Phil’s, George Marciano’s and a lot more) and other shooting locations like those used in “Pretty Woman”, “Beverly Hills Cop” and significant spots like the Pollo Loco corner where Brad Pitt used to work as a mascot and the infamous curve where panty-less Britney Spears “said hello” in a different way.

We were then dropped off in front of Kodak Theater where ate Marla and family picked us up and headed back to Rodeo Drive to shop a clutch bag and a pair of shoes from Coach (my biggest spending so far: $700!) for a friend. Minutes later, we were already cruising our ass off to Santa Monica , the home of the original muscle beach.

It was a nice way to end the day with sand and sunset, while walking lazily with cousins along a pier that is highlighted by a giant ferris wheel and some theme park rides. Not to mention that the awesome landscape has already been used in countless movies. Dinner later on was shared at Salo-Salo Restaurant with an overwhelming set of kare-kare (my request), sinigang (ate Marla’s husband’s favorite) and a bilao of grilled meat.

I am not a theme park person but my second day was spent at Universal Studios with ate Sol. We arrived at past 10am and the queue was kilometric as expected. It was also hot and sunblock always comes in handy. I did not bring any sunblock from Manila and I had no choice but to buy Neutrogena Suncare with Helioplex that I don’t mind blogging about. The theme park is not that big as I imagined but there is good stuff definitely. One of it is the newly installed Simpsons Ride, a simulation ride that I really enjoyed. Maybe because the screen was too big, no mental/visual distraction whatsoever was in sight. Then there’s the studio tour, which was too wholesome but still a delight to do (this should be the first “ride” that you should take while in Universal Studios). Plus the equally exciting The Mummy Ride (when they warned you with “high-speed”, they meant it) and Jurassic Park River Ride (which was too fun for me as I got soaked with water in the final drop). We capped the night with a nice dinner with two ex-officemates and a kababayan at Citywalk’s Buca de Beppo.

My last pasyal day in LA was originally allotted for Disneyland Resort but since it was difficult to take a bus and train after the fireworks, we decided to skip it (to my dismay, of course). My only consolation was that Disneyland only landed the ninth spot in my top 10 book so I guess it’ll be OK. To compensate, I decided to visit three top 10 locations namely El Pueblo de los Angeles, Los Angeles County Museum of Arts (LACMA) and The Getty Center.

El Pueblo de los Angeles is like a mini-Mexican historic district complete with tiangge and burrito restaurants. The book mentions this as the first “Los Angeles”. It boasts not only Mexican graffiti but also the oldest living house in the city called Adobe Avila. To reach the place, you have to stop at the Union Station which is LA’s equivalent of Grand Central in New York.

LACMA has a wide range of collection for visual arts and is staffed with the most number of Filipinos. It’s a delight to be guided by a “kababayan” when, for instance, you wish to see some David Hockney paintings. Unfortunately, the sole Edward Hopper they have was not open for public viewing that time though it’s good to appreciate an entry from the Philippines which happens to be a century old “baul”.

Our last stop for the day, The Getty Center, was the only “amazing race” I did for the rest of my stay in LA. Given with only 30 minutes to browse through a dozen of paintings, I had to rely on my walking shoes, my incredible sense of direction and my book’s suggestion of must-see pieces (some of those are Monet paintings). But I did not have to fret as the Getty’s main attraction is a nice building seated on top of a hill that can be reached by taking a pilot-less tram. Overlooking LA is a bonus.

Ate Sol and I planned to cap the night with a movie but Sajo, an officemate way back SPL days gave us a call for a surprise visit on my uncle’s place. We stopped by at a noodle house, had a hearty chicken mami and siomai before heading back to Noble Street (where Sajo and her husband were already waiting). It was a short chitchat and kumustahan. Too bad that I forgot to get us a souvenir photo.

I had a nice finale for my US stay in LA. Disneyland Resort remains to be visited. Nicole Kidman must be waiting for me somewhere.

More pics here.

B-Lag File # 02: That Junel (and Tin-tin) Weekend in Las Vegas

B-Lag as in Blog + Lag.

Leaving Kentucky was a bag of mixed emotions. I can say there’s nothing much in Bluegrass State in touristic aspect but departing from a place that has been a home to me, amidst t-storm warning and surviving depression as if never happened, for two months was another thing. On the other hand, LasVegas was waiting.

Reaching Las Vegas is an experience on its own. The Nevada desert preempted a not so exciting trip. As I looked down from the plane window, I didn’t see anything that was worthy of an andrenalin rush. It was like a wasteland, a Mad Max scene, and a series of sand dunes reminiscent of Panday. I was expecting to have a glimpse at least of the Grand Canyon but no dice. Maybe I was on a different plane route as I saw sand and bald mountains only. When the pilot announced a descend, right after passing a giant mountain, that was the only time I saw an oasis of city houses and establishments. That was out of nowhere! Welcome to Las Vegas.

From the huge airport, with service trains that send you to the baggage area, Junel picked me up. He’s a contemporary in terms of biological age (hehehe) but he joined the company I think a year before me. I have worked with him on at least two projects and it was always a pleasure. Right from the airport, with my luggage at the compartment, we went directly to The Strip (Las Vegas is The Strip, The Strip is Las Vegas). We parked at MGM, had a quick browse of the hotel, crossed the street and had lunch at Hooters. It was my second Hooters (first was at Singapore) but it was my first time to try the famous Buffalo wings (which I can say is the best, seconding Junel’s motion). I had the chance to have a photo taken with a waitress, who happens to be a Filipina with a twang.

From Hooters, we walked to the nearest hotel/casino called Tropicana, getting a nice view of New York, New York and Excalibur. By the way, The Strip (which is Las Vegas Boulevard) is a street packed with gigantic hotels/casinos, with different wit and gimmickry, nothing more and nothing less. It’s just each hotel/casino boasts of an itinerary list on its own. From Tropicana, we took the overpass going to Excalibur, had another Friendster picture and got inside New York, New York (on top was a rollercoaster, take that!). Similar to other hotel/casino, the place was filled with shops, restaurants, betting place, poker area and slot machines. Junel quipped that newer hotels/casinos have higher ceilings and New York, New York is one of it.

We then crossed the street (the heat was energy zapping, by the way, and sunblock should always come in handy) and stopped at M & M Museum (or shop or whatever). Junel suggested watching the 3D presentation of an M & M film. It’s entitled “I Lost my M in Vegas” and it stars the two lead chocolate candys. It was short but fun (especially when you’re in a company of kids). From there, we went back to MGM to get the car with a long pause at the hotel’s Lion Habitat where two lions are kept for public viewing (and amazement).

Next stop was Planet Hollywood, which is located just across Bellagio (where we parked). Junel informed me that the hotel/casino was one of the shooting locations for the film “21” (starring Jim Sturgess and Keving Spacey). We went to the Fat Tuesday daiquiri bar (they’re everywhere in The Strip) and got a tall glass of alcohol (I don’t exactly know what’s in there but Junel highly suggested it). Junel spent most of the time playing at the slot machines as I explored the area with a camera on one hand and the tall glass on the other. I visited the theater entrance for “Stomp Out Loud”. By the way, most hotel/casino have theaters/auditoriums inside the building. Bellagio and two or three others have different Cirque du Soleil shows, others have musicals like Mamma Mia!, Phantom of the Opera, Jersey Boys and “performing arsts” like Showgirls-y type of shows and Chipendales. Our very own Lani Misalucha just wrapped up a series of shows at Flamingo and I was informed that Imelda Papin was having her show somewhere in The Strip as well.

At 6pm-ish and a bit tipsy, we were already in front of Bellagio, waiting for the fountain show. The musical suite we caught was “Singing in the Rain” and the fountain transformed into an attraction as its water sashayed into the groove. It was another fun experience. Not bad from somebody who just came out straight from the airport. We left the area early, as Junel was about to catch Pinoy TV’s showing of “Bubble Gang”. Too bad, the station changed its schedule, making us endure late night news and Regine’s “Songbird” (with songs from all GMA’s tele-fantasya).

After a long break, Junel invited me for a nightcap at Red Rock (another hotel/casino near his apartment). It boasts some hip bars where one of which was used in “21” (I can almost remember the scene where Jim Stugess got drunk). We cut the trip short, as Junel was not feeling well (it was past 12am, by the way). We just had some drive-through goodies from Burger King as midnight snack.

Next day was jampacked. We woke up as early as 9 in the morning and drove for 45 minutes to see Hoover Dam. It was famous because of a genius structure but it was made more famous by the films that were shot there including “Charlie’s Angels” and just recently, “Transformers” (where Megatron was imprisoned). There’s nothing really much in the area. Junel even opined that it was overrated. Just to note though that the boundary of Nevada and Arizona is seated in the middle of the bridge. Junel, as expected, quoted a clip in the film “A Walk to Remember” where you can be in two different places at the same time. To top it all, he asked for a solo picture in the boundary marker.

We then headed back to The Strip, had lunch at the Vietnamese restaurant in Treasure Island called Pho. He left me in there and spent the rest of the day casino/hotel hopping over one hot summer Sunday.

From the hotel/casino, I took a tram (it’s free) going to Mirage. From there, still with enough vigor, explored The Venetian (voted as the best recreation complete with gondolas and “Solo Mio”-singing gondoliers), The Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace (one of the most sosy malls I have seen in my entire life, complete with a spiral escalator), Caesar’s Palace Hotel/Casino (I personally adored its Pussycat Bar, with poker tenders wearing, slightly gyrating and singing a la PSD and its concert stage that was visited by some living legends like Bette Midler, Cher and Elton John), Bellagio (the book “1000 Things to Do Before You Die” enlisted this hotel as a must-visit, which I did including the hotel’s art museum façade and, err, pool area), Excalibur (a rather old building but still an icon), Mandalay (home to Pacquiao’s latest bouts and concerts) and Luxor (the Sphinx, period).

From Mandalay, I was picked up by Junel and Tin-tin (another officemate and a die-hard Kapamilya like me). We went to Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-b-que for dinner. The place was many times recommended so we gave their sampler a try. For dessert, we headed back to The Strip for me to experience it at night. We just cruised along and I took some photos on red light (my very first trip where I completed a 2-gig plus memory card in one day). To cap the night, we went to Fremont District, passing some chapels (including one that offers a drive-through wedding). It was Las Vegas long before The Strip. Some signs claim that poker was born in that area. We parked at one of the old casinos, passing through some old-school slot machines and chain smokers. Similar to The Strip, the district is just one street of colorful of buildings but far shorter. The end of the road has the Golden Nugget (where Martin Nievera used to perform), some photo-op with a showgirl and what-have-yous, a motorcycle show (specifically the Guinees book of world records holder for most bikes inside a round enclosure) and long ceiling made of LG digital screen that transformed into one cinema (it’s the longest I have seen).

I can’t be thankful enough for Junel (and Tin-tin) for the nice experience. Nevada is the sixth US state that I have visited but Las Vegas is definitely a toprater in terms of sights and senses. That makes me wonder why Paris is called the City of Lights while Las Vegas is not claiming anything.

More pics here.