Movie Buff: Despicable Me

To be (despicable) or not to be, THAT is the question!!

Yellow minions. How cute are they!?

Despicable Me marks my first full-length 3-D movie of all time. Heck, it IS my first! But fancy movie effects aside, how did the despicable baddie measure up to bigger summer blockbusters? Read on to find out...


Steve Carell (of Get Smart fame) voices Gru, who wants to the most villainous villain of all time. When one of the wonders of the world goes missing, and replaced by a pumped-up balloon version of it to boot, all eyes are on Gru. But did he actually commit that crime? Unfortunately NOT! In his mind anyway. And thus he, along with his awesomely cute and funny minions (see yellow squigglies) devise a plan to commit the crime of the century. If you have seen the trailers, or at least seen the posters, you'll know (or guess) that he is out to steal the moon. Yes, The Moon! That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind...THAT MOON!

Armed with a 10 year-old sketched out plan he sets out to get capital to steal said object. And where should he look for it but at the Bank of Evil (I guess criminals aren't allowed to bank at the same well....bank). Funny thing is that this Bank of Evil is located in an *drumroll please* actual bank!

Gru faces competition in the form of the actual Pyramid criminal named Vector (voiced by Jason Segel). Now here's a real bada$$! This guy has sharks, heat-seeking missiles on top of his house, lasers, hammers, rocket launchers, the works! And now they fight for the ultimate prize.

Julie Andrews voices Gru's fussy, hard-to-please mother who never rewarded his efforts. You might say she was the cause of Gru's turning into a criminal. And to think, Julie Andrews has played everything from a nun to a queen (on several occasions) and here she is, a hard-hitting criminal mom.

Russell Brand (the future Mr. Katy Perry) holds his own as the criminal version of James Bond's Q. His unmistakable British accent is very apparent but suitably older. He lends his voice to Dr. Nefario, Gru's biggest support. Every supervillain needs a weapons creator after all. He plays a bigger part towards the end of the movie.

Gru, facing major problems from his biggest rival adopts (takes advantage) of three orphaned girls Margo, Edith, and Agnes (who strangely bears a similar resemblance to Boo from Monsters Inc.). The funniest part is that there is one scene in which will remind Pixar fans of a certain animated movie trilogy, and this movie comes from Illumination Entertainment! I could have sworn that it was a Pixar movie based on those two points. I suppose it was merely my imagination.

Overall a very fun-filled movie. My bunch of movie-goers laughed our hearts out practically the entire film, which says a lot! The only part I wasn't convinced off, coincidentally the main point of the movie, is that the villain was not despicable enough! Imagine that, a villain that isn't bad enough. The yellow minions will have you in stitches even though you won't understand a word that comes out of their mouths.

Apparently, Malaysia is being blessed with a cinema opening even before America's. Despicable Me hits Malaysian cinemas on Thursday, 8th July 2010 and spans approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.


So if you're feeling stressed, or want to escape the footie fever all around, sit yourself down and immerse yourself in the world of the Superbad!

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this review financially or otherwise. Everything mentioned are my own thoughts based on my experience.

Movie Buff: The Prince of Persia Is Finally Here!

A scene from the movie

A buff Jake Gyllenhaal

From one of my favourite, if not the favourite producers, Jerry Bruckheimer, comes Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time. Having brought to the world the likes of Bad Boys, National Treasure, CSI, and Pirates of the Carribean, and many more, I expected A LOT from this one. Don’t you just hate it when the trailer contains all the best parts squeezed into that minute or two? Heck, I know I do! If you thought the trailer was good, you’re in for a surprise. Compared to the actual movie, it stinks! But one never knows how these video game cum movies will do. But this one far exceeded my expectations!

The movie starts with the introduction of a young Dastan and Bis, orphaned best friends trying to get by in life. As fate would have it, King Sharaman of Persia was in town for a little trip and witnessed Dastan’s bravery and smarts and proceeded to adopt him.

Flashforward 15 years, and Prince Dastan is now a dashingly handsome young man (Jake Gyllenhaal anyone!!) A total opposite from his two older royal-blooded brothers, his approach to life is a brasher, unbiased one. This can be seen in how he storms the gates of Alamut. This you must watch! As usual with Jerry Bruckheimer movies, stunts are original and very well-choreographed. Architecture is also emphasized with spectacularly designed sets and backdrops.

Inside the palace we see Princess Tamina, brought to life in the form of Gemma Arterton. When I first found out she would be in this film, my thoughts were “Uh oh…” especially after the “acting” she delivered in Clash of the Titans. But alas, there is nothing to fear. I thought she did well this time. Granted, she has a major role this time and has moved up from a Bond Girl cum Sorceress to a Princess of a sacred city. She is also the protector of the dagger at the centre of the whole movie/game.

When Dastan is believed to have murdered his father, the King, he is forced to flee, taking Tamina with him. Now he has to figure out who framed him, clear his name, restore peace to his family and country, and get married. What ensues is an incredible adventure filled with cool parkour stunts, and great special-effects! I am wondering why THIS movie wasn’t made into a 3D one. From what I saw, this would have been the only movie besides Avatar that I’d have bothered watching in 3D.

Alfred Molina lends his acting chops as a hilarious Sheik Amar who has an affinity with ostriches. Of all animals, they picked ostriches! Ben Kingsley plays Nizam, uncle to the three princes. There are some very funny characters in this one, and some real bad-asses with vile creatures used to take down the poor good guys. Unlike the Gladiator and Robin Hood movies, the fighting scenes, even though fast-paced, don’t zip by so fast you don’t know what is going on.

Okay, I will admit that part of why I was so looking forward to this movie was to watch Jake Gyllenhaal all buffed up and looking sultry, let’s just say, he didn’t disappoint! Part-way through the movie I even noticed that I wasn’t even looking at his chest. I was too enraptured by his lovely blue oases. Hear me when I say there were some protests when the kissing scene came about. I was silently one of them.

As I was writing this post, the trailer played at least 4 times! No surprise as this is the run-up to the movie’s official opening date. All in all, a MUST-WATCH to me. Even my movie date, who is easily bored and loves to fill those moments by eating popcorn was glued to the screen, quite a feat I tell you!

I will go out and say that this might just be the Summer Blockbuster of 2010!

Prince of Persia: Sands of Time opens in Malaysian cinemas May 27. Go on, I dare you not to watch it!!

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this review financially or otherwise. Everything mentioned are my own thoughts based on my experience.

Movie Buff: Clash of the Titans? More like The Titanic...Sinking

It is with a heavy heart that I must say that this movie disappointed me on quite a few levels. I had such hopes for this one. Especially with Sam Worthington no longer decked out in his career-boosting shade of blue, but as a real man or should I say Demi-God?

So, what is good about this movie? Besides the delish Sam Worthington? For me it was the mythological aspect of the film. Being quite the fan I am, I expected some cool mythological characters. There were a few of course, with Zeus, Hades, Pegasus, Medusa playing pretty big roles. What I didn’t expect was the Kraken, of which most of us have come to know as being from Pirates of the Caribbean. That, unfortunately, was practically all I liked about this movie.

But what was bad about it? For one thing, the space gaps! And boy were they big. Jumping through the ages as we follow Perseus’ (Sam Worthington) character growing up, jumping from one scene to a totally different one, I almost couldn’t keep up.

The fight scenes were really shaky to the point you couldn’t tell who was where and what they were doing. I even found some of the characters’ outfits weren’t done so well, to the point where you couldn’t really see the character clearly. Worse if you aren’t sitting in the top half of the screening hall!

And how in the world can they NOT have Sam Worthington with his pecs! That is such a loss. Or perhaps I am getting too excited over the upcoming Prince of Persia with the hunky Jake Gyllenhaal in full pec mode.

AND, THE ENDING! Meh at the most. Anti-climax I say. Although I won’t say how it happened but you all know how it really ends anyway. Nothing to shout about, more like to scream about in upset.

I really think this movie was made purely for the 3D effect, something I am starting to tire from due to the mass bombardment of 3D movies recently. In truth, I only saw the 2D version but it sure isn’t good enough to make me want to sit through it again.

If you’d rather save the tenner you’d have to spend on this movie, all you have to do is watch the Disney version of Hercules The Movie and you pretty much know what happens in this one.

This movie ain’t fooling no-one!

Till next time movie-lovers

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this review financially or otherwise. Everything mentioned are my own thoughts based on my experience.

Movie Buff: Alice In Wonderland

Today I got the chance to watch one of the most anticipated movies of the month, Alice in Underland. Oops, Wonderland! Haha… see how different people have different takes on things.


I saw the 2D version, probably not as fun as the 3D ought to be but you skip the supposed massive headache that follows so that was a good thing.

This version by Tim Burton is different from the original Disney picture. Think of this as the live action sequel to its predecessors animated movie glory. The movie started of well, with lots of 3D bits, which of course I didn’t get the full effect of.

Alice is now grown up, a 19 year old embarking on the next phase of her life, marriage. Or so it should have been. But you know that isn’t how the story goes. From the trailer we see her plunging into that little rabbit hole like the first time and encountering the same few characters who become friends. But this time there are quite a few extra characters if I remember correctly. Some scarier creatures haunt the screen but no worries, as good usually prevails at the end.

The ending is as expected. Let’s face it, most of the time you know how a movie will end just by reading a summary or watching a trailer. But it is the inserts that count and make a movie stand out. And this time, I didn’t know what to expect with all the new characters.

Commendable performances courtesy of Captain Jack ( Johnny Depp aka The Mad Hatter) yet again. Check out that makeup! And how gaunt his face looks. Sadly Anne Hathaway’s (The White Queen) part was rather small, she is one of my favourite actresses. I personally thought the pale white skin didn’t match that shade of lipstick, but that is just me. It looked the shade of a bruised plum!

Helena Bonham Carter brought a very believable and horrible Red Queen. I dare you all to recognize Absolem’s voice actor. How fun! And wise he sounded. The Cheshire Cat was a little out of character based on the original, but everyone has a little good in them.

There are quite a few funny moments. Even during the very beginning so try not to get stuck at the concessions counter like I was. Goodness, who knew they only opened at 10:30 a.m. on a weekend nonetheless! And the movie was scheduled to start at exactly that time too. I watched this at GSC’s Mid Valley branch where a lot of people were spotted queuing for free tickets.

As for the movie, the humour was there, the characters loveable and colourful. Yet, I felt that the movie lacked the life-like effect during the nature scenes. I think it would have been more fun, especially for 3D goers, should there have been more going on. But all in all, a good, fun way to spend close to 2 hours.

P.S. Look out for the Mad Hatter's very cute antic at the end of the movie. You won’t want to miss it!

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this review financially or otherwise. Everything mentioned are my own thoughts based on my experience.

Movie Buff: A New Moon Has Risen

I just returned from yet another movie premiere a few hours ago. If you haven't guessed, it was for the much-anticipated sequel to Twilight, entitled New Moon. New Moon has been gaining a lot of buzz the past week but does it live up to the hype?

Now I won't bore you by going into a summary of the movie. You, like a lot of other people, have probably already read one, watched the trailer on TV, on the Internet, or even seen movie posters. In a nutshell, this movie is a detailed introduction to Jacob Black, Bella Swan's (Kristen Stewart) good family friend who has had a crush on her since the first movie(of course). Don't we all love a good love triangle.

Consisting mostly of Jacob's (Taylor Lautner) story, there isn't much eye candy in the form of the lusted-over Edward Cullen, played by the mysterious Robert Pattinson (love!!). This is one of the gripes I have with this movie. But it does go according to the book so those who have read it will be able to follow the movie easily. The same can be said for the rest of the Cullen clan, who don't have very long scenes. Their normally good looks were also played down this time to help the new "pack" of characters stand out.

Personally, I found the movie too short in the sense that a lot of scenes were cut from the movie. Also, I think the makeup artists OD-ed on the white powder, especially on Edward's body in the scene where he exposes himself to the whole of Volterra! I love pale skin but he looked whiter than those masked faces in Chinese operas, which is saying quite a bit.

On the plus side, Team Jacob fans will get to see a LOT of flesh! And what nice flesh that was! He does get more dominant screen time in this one and proves to be able to stand his own against Edward. His secret is larger than life too if you know what I mean.

For Team Edward supporters, do not despair as Edward looks exceptionally exquisite in his scenes if I may say so myself. He looks flawless as ever, complete with nicely curled lashes! See if you can spot them! His scenes are dark and intense, sure to claim squeals of pleasure from the female audience, as it did in the hall I was in.

The Volturi, the "royals" of the vampire world, are scary at first glance, due to their blood-red eyes. Jane, played by Dakota Fanning, was very strong, her eyes terrifying. The trio were fun to watch. Especially Aro with his eye-popping eyes and fun demeanor. Volterra is beautiful sight, having been filmed in Italy. Sadly those scenes are rather short, I longed for more!

New Moon blows hot and cold, but in a good way. Jacob is the hot to Edward's cold. The sight were lovely, the music very suitable. Honestly, I prefer Twilight over this one. Mostly due to the fact that I am a huge Team Edward supporter but Jacob is starting to grow on me, thanks to that buff bod of his. One scene is especially hot, you'll know it when you see it! Am now looking forward to Eclipse, the third of the four part saga. I know for a fact that there will be a more equal amount of Edward and Jacob!

As this review was written solely on my own experience and point-of-view, I say go watch it yourself and create your own opinions! And do share them with me! I'd love to hear your thoughts on the movie.


Disclosure: I was not compensated for this review financially or otherwise. Everything mentioned are my own thoughts based on my experience.

Movie Buff: This Is It...A Tribute to the King of Pop

Besides food, skincare, bodycare, and recently makeup, my other passion is entertainment. And especially in the form of movies. I haven’t had the time to go to the cinemas despite all the great new movies that are out. My last was Transformers 2!! Tonight (or Wednesday 28/10/09) however, I was given the privilege to watch a special screening of a particular movie. I just couldn’t pass on this one.

It was entitled, This Is It. for those of you who don’t already know what it’s about, well…someone has been hiding out somewhere I guess. This is the Michael Jackson movie that has been much anticipated and talked about worldwide. And I can see why after watching it.

It isn’t a biopic, nor a documentary. What it is, is an up close and personal concert of sorts. In a nutshell, and without spoiling too much, it is the practice sessions MJ went through while preparing for his tour. You go behind the scenes, watch the rigorous audition process, the colourful and realistic setups, the videos shot just for the tour, as well as witness the genius that is Michael Jackson.

This movie, all 1 hour 40ish minutes of it, was thrilling to say the least. Watching the King of Pop belt out his most famous hits while performing his dance routines, complete with backup dancers and props, what excitement! He sang, he danced, he directed. If you ask me, I’d have thought those legs of his had never stopped dancing for a day! The voice, still the same, still enthralling.

There are a few humorous bits which are sure to make you laugh. Or make your sides hurt. I really liked one prop in particular; a really cool one used in some of the first few performances. Look out for that one! The costumes where so realistic! Especially for the Thriller performance! Didn’t think they’d skip that one did you?

If you like instrumental music, look out for the uber brilliant female guitarist! Awesome I truly must say! A real rocker chick! Without the goth makeup. See it to believe it!

All in all, a MUST watch. Whether or not you are an MJ fan, if only to understand what the hype is all about. I only regret it ended so early. A crash course for the non-MJ fan and a masterpiece for fans. I hope you booked early, I hear those tickets are flying fast!

Watch it and let me know what you thought about it. I just hope you find it as amazing as I did. Public screening starts today (Thursday 29/10/09)!

Well, what are you waiting for!! THIS IS IT!!

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this review financially or otherwise. Everything mentioned are my own thoughts based on my experience.