Not Showing: Where to Invade Next?

It's been a while that I haven't watched a Michael Moore documentary. I kind of miss this dude. Great thing, he has a new documentary and all I can say was...


It's the lightest documentary he made. His topic for this one was simple. What ideas he can steal from European countries and apply it to the America... It's pretty simple isn't it?


Nope. Anyway, the only thing that bothered me in this documentary was it's fun all throughout. I knew he took a light or fun approach, and I think it's the first time he did it, but I felt something lack after watching 2 hours in a Michael Moore documentary. I mean, most of his films were interesting, shocking, a bit of fun, original and lastly, a sense of urgency. A sense of angst that we should make a move against like greed in Capitalism: A love story. How about we should fight the correct war on Fahrenheit 9/11 as its inner motive.


In this film, although I get his point but that sensibility, it's simply not there. Like for example, Germany did not hide the fact that Nazi's really spread chaos on WWII and they accepted it but made amends. Look at them now. Then point this idea to USA, they won't accept or admit the slavery, discrimination or even slaughter of the first natives. I was surprised that no museum built for these events in their long history. They do have monuments or museums to commemorate 9/11 or heroes of ward, but not their first history. Those points, I mean, US should have done that. No need for this documentary to show it.


Anyway, enough of that one flaw. Two great things I love this documentary! First is Michael Moore, on how he directed this film, I can say despite his kinda frail posture but he had a great time. If I'm in his position, I'll stay or live in the places he went. No need to come back to USA and retire in the Eurozone. hehe You can say he had fun not only going into this places, but his reaction on each great idea that can be applied back in USA. None of those ideas will ever apply in the USA unless there is political will. He enjoyed like the scene he went to Finland about their near perfect education system.
I hope all schools are like that, it just make damn sense. Then Michael went to Norway about the prison system which I called a great rehabilitation center. Wow! I don't want to leave prison if that is the scene and environment you'll leave right? hehe Michael also did a great job in editing, because he did not make it hard for the people to follow in documentary. Its a fun, light and curious documentary indeed.


Lastly, the ideas he got from those visits. It gave me an clear overview why these european countries strive in the governance index. I mean I searched in google about that ranking in governance then long and behold.. Almost all of the countries in the top 10 are in this film. I don't know in Slovenia, but I want to go there due to the free great college education. I don't know if you are a Philippine citizen, you can apply for free college. hehe But gosh, these countries are not only highest in governance but also in happiness and well being index. Decriminalize drugs, proper sex education to youth, muslim women in parliament, a big bank headed by Women.. Labor union has 50% representation in the board of directors.. The list goes on. Wow, some of the countries there not included in EU and still they strived to be the best.


It means, there are societies that living very happy. Not boasting firepower or a lot of reserves or profits. They just want to live simple, happy and respected. This film gave glimpse that countries who can't do changes in their respective systems such as politics, education, or even financial has hope. I know it's not easy but after watching this film, damn it's possible.


It's the only matter of execution and discipline, in the right way. One point of view that changed me was death penalty. I am ok at death penalty if needed at first but after watching this film, especially that scene which prisons in Norway looks like great offices or a resort, they do rehabilitation, not punishment.. I think we can do that here in our country. I suggest, put the criminals not in jail, but the other islands we have, do rehab and they will change. It works.


There were a lot of interesting ideas but I better suggest you watch this film and set back, relax and see what a country should be. Caring for all the people and listening what's the best for all. Not only for the few.


Well, sad to say, USA won't do anything or even copy the systems that this film shows. Geez..


They can't even stop policing around the world. They can't even apply the right law enforcement by themselves.
Now, I'm most inclined that US drops further in my choices of best countries.


I feel I want to put Germany or Norway in my like top 3. hahaha


I hope Michael was able to visit us..


I just don't know what idea he can steal from us..


Maybe balut?

Not Showing: What Happened, Miss Simone?

Ah yes, it's showing in Netflix and good news, since in our country has now netflix.. So you can watch it there. Anyway.. If you asked me, how I end up being a fan of Nina Simone these days? Blame David Lynch. Just kidding.. Anyway, after that one song, and my fave song of hers, which is Sinnerman, I was surprised that she sang I mean from end of 50's till the 70's especially with the civil rights movement.

Anyway, this documentary became an instant classic to me and very good treat to not only to her fans but audiophile or music fans alike. There was only one thing I hope they improved on, I hope they focused a bit more, how she done it, or how she was able to create music even the only training she had was doing classical music. Like how she created Sinnerman or Pirate Jenny? 

But other than that, it's a fantastic documentary. 3 things I loved in this documentary.. First was the flow of the documentary. I mean, from where she born until the end, no mix or jumping scene except for the first scene. I love the transition they made for her story. As they unravel each important events in her life, there was always an interesting fact about her. I was surprised that she became an activist and one of the reasons, she left US was  not due tax evasion, but she just gave up in the US after all her civil rights friends died one by one. Most surprising of all, no singing training for her. I mean, she just sang because she needed to earn working in a crummy club as she said. Wow, sheer talent and genius. 

Another factor I loved this documentary, was the audio recordings or archival interviews done straight from her. At the course of this docu, with her answers in the interviews, you'll understand her as more of a person. Not the artist or singer but how she lived, thinks and yes, view life. Although it was proven that she lived as Nina Simone 24/7, she still shown as a normal person and worse, a very broken, depressed person. I love the parts which shown her letters and some footages on how she performs. Despite her strict rules and uncontrollable rhythm, her prescence in the stage indeed a worth to see and most importantly, to hear.

Lastly, I loved the interviews done to the people around her. Although I hoped they interviewed more artists, especially those she inspired.. It was very sad yet inspiring. Give credit to Lisa, Nina's only daughter of telling most of the meat of this documentary, even some parts of it she admit, she had bad feelings towards Nina but she still felt proud and love her mom. How about the parts of her ex-husband, her former band mates and some friends who not only close to her but also helped her especially for her second coming. I was very sad at the part where Nina exiled in France with no money and only working for a couple of hundred bucks in a crappy bar.. She was almost done but great thing, she was saved and helped her to cope her mental/psychological illness. That part was also interesting and shocking to me. Great thing, she rised up and you can see at the last part of the film, she was like a goddess that despite she is not that great anymore due to her age, just her name and presence, will flock the venue. The only person I can think who can do that today, Morrissey.. Damn if you also look how she perform with the piano, a living legend. That's what happens if you play the piano since 4 yrs old. Damn..

Well, this year, it was a lot of great music documentaries. Count in Kurt Cobain, then this one and yes, the one I should watch is Amy. All of them, troubled, depressed, fame consumed them type of story.. But Nina stands out not only she was able to handle the demons inside her, but also.. As she says, she feels free when she see a piano in front of her. 

That title above, a very fitting title.. Especially if you are a new fan of hers. 

All of them answered empathically in this documentary. I'll listen more of her songs perhaps.

By the way, I love Sinnerman as the ending song, even it was cut short. =)

 I just hope she did not change her real name, Eunice. Not bad right? 

Not Showing: Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief

Ah I really miss this kind of documentaries.. What's more from Alex Gibney! Anyway, this so called Scientology, I'm quite curious about it. Well, I'm curious why Tom Cruise and John Travolta still have faith in this religion. Why there are some reports of abuses or threats coming from their side of things.. A lot of questions that need more answers. 

Anyway, the film called The Master, which I really did not like not because of the plot itself.. The actors performances were outstanding, but the film especially going through the end, it's like what the hell happened. That feeling, will rise and it will go through out while watching this film.. If you think it's complex, you will be surprised after watching this film. The film was inspired from this religion.
The only flaws I can see after watching this film, first was the response from the Church of Scientology itself or how about their famous members.. It's not Alex's team fault, maybe the church has reasons. Simply as that. Second was I hope, they shown at least other members or let's say offices around the world. Again it might be not Alex's fault, because this church has only 50,000 as of the ending credits.. I don't think somebody in our country is a member of this religion. Anyway, those are the only flaws. But they did not really affect the film.

I love the pace of the documentary, despite it's simple, it was very informative and detailed. From LRH rise, fall and became the head of this church, then his successor continue their doctrines, it's all explaiined in a most simplest manner. Despite, the weirdest sessions or audits that they call, their philosophies, rules and most of all, wow.. That after being clear and going up in their ladder, you'll discover more bizarre ideas or theories! I just can't believe it!!!

Another thing, I love the blow by blow account of the former members. Thanks to the very great editing, there were elements of surprise and euphoria of fun when they describe their experiences. Very notable sharer, Paul Haggis. Wow, I was like, really shocked that he was a member of this Church. 

The mixture of emotions shown in this film. I mean whether in my side or their side, there were genuine mixed emotions showing. Well balanced emotions shown such as what happiness they felt when they entered Church and experienced how powerful when they stayed. The difficult and harrowing experiences they felt, especially when they discovered how they were manipulated and abused. I felt sad especially at the part of their sharing, the time they felt ashamed or even depressed when they were uncover the truth behind of the operations or even the teachings of this Church.

Lastly, I was shocked at the part where Tom Cruise's part of this church was really immense. I mean I won't spoil about his story, it's just I hope Tom will open his eyes and heart about this religion or I mean, it's shouldn't be religion.. Geez. Anyway, I love Tom as an actor but he just needs to wake up. However, if I'm him, I don't need to work anymore, especially how he is treated here? Damn.. hehe
I was planning to just watch the first 15-30 mins of the film but I ended up, again finishing it straight! That's the magic of Alex Gibney's docs, you can't pause or stop for a moment because he always give one important info in every scene. I was so satisfied after watching this doc. I definitely recommend it and yeah, all I can say, just keep the faith you have!

By the way, give kudos to L Ron Hubbard, he just made a great theory not only how to avoid taxes or get rich but also how to..

Manipulate.

Not Showing: Hafu

I haven't watched a documentary for some time due to difficult changes and events happened to me. However, I doesn't mean I'll forget to watch one, what more watching of movies. I'm trying to make up for it and now, I accidentally watched this interesting documentary. 

Hafu is a word in japanese meaning the half/mixed raced individual living in Japan. The documentary has a simple premise, just recording the lives of these Hafu's living in Japan. They tell their stories, effects of being a hafu and their plead of staying in Japan as normal. The only opportunity I could say about this film, I hoped they interviewed a Japinoy! I suggested that notion because not only many Filipinos living in Japan but also very many Japinoys living there! I mean Fil-Japanese people already living there in the same way other Hafu's are living. Difficult yet happy.. Especially, statistics shows that I think it's in the top 5 list that Philippine with Japanese blood are included besides well, american and brazilian. I hope they include just one Japinoy profile. 

Anyway, what really surprised me in this film were the profiles they showed were striking foreigners but when they speak, it's like perfect japanese! I can't remove in my mind that these people are well, given the constitution right are Japanese. One great example, well that African dude. Sorry, I forgot their names! Forgive me. hehe 

The African guy who really like well, you thought a typical african male, speaks fluent and acts like Japanese! Wow.. He also admit that despite living in Japan for decades, he needs to explain himself everytime a person look up or asking to him. Then the other profiles came in, the Australian lady, then the Venezuelan guy who has little resemblance of being south american. A family of mixed heritage and having difficulties of raising a kid from public school, transferring to private school. Another one, that I thought she is Japanese, but well, she's Korean. A lot of different races and great stories to listen and watch.

I love in this movie that parts of them explaining the great difficulty of living in Japan because of their race. Of course, if you don't really look like Japanese, their Gaijin mantra will impose to that person, which is kinda bad. I was sad in that part of the kid's story of being bullied in elementary school because he can't speak Japanese well.. Not only that, he can't even make friends in that school. So, well the kid transferred to an international school and flourished. 

They were parts of their own story that made me sad, especially their confusion stages. As they were growing older, they thought of going back in their respective countries but because of preferences and love for Japan, it holds that idea of going back. They want to stay in Japan despite very not favorable treatment. This happens to the African guy despite already a japanese citizen, he's still well, having a hard time. How about that Venezuelan dude who should be already a citizen but still he needs to update his visa. Darn, the dude already married in Japan! Japan immigration laws are quite, or lets say very strict. 

I understand the Australian lady who really had a hard time living in Japan because it's the first time she went there and trying to fit in with the relatives of her Japanese side. However, since she lived more in Australia than in Japan, I felt for her that she's confused and might live in Australia for now than living in Japan. 

For the Korean lady, she's kinda lucky to be a Japanese citizen because of the secret of her mother. However, it some what gave her a backlash of the situation. Meaning her own identity was questioned and she felt not accepted for some years. But look at her now, she really fit in Japan.
Lastly, I loved how most of these people making an effort to help others with the same situation. They have a community helping other people who has the same dilemma and giving them great support. The African guy has a big dream that I can't believe he's doing it even he did not live long at his home country, putting up schools.. Simply yet very courageous.

After watching this film, well, that Gaijin mantra of the japanese people, althought it's still evident, I felt it's slowly decreasing. That discrimination or prejudice is still present, no doubt as I read in the news or blogs but it's slowly going away. I hope their government are doing concrete actions to ease their immigration laws, not their tourist/business visas. It should be immigrations laws! Another thing,  I can sense they are accepting Hafu in their society, look at their entertainment industy, I was surprised that there are idols, actress, models who are Japinoys. They look hot. hahaha Kidding but yeah, how about Rola? Geez, I was suprised she's Hafu. Or the most intriguing of all, their Miss Japan, despite opposition, looks like Rihanna. But when she speaks, I know why they are sending her in Miss Universe pageant, she's really Japanese. 

Well, with easing their immigration thing, it will also solve not really a one great solution, but definitely it will help their prevailing problem... Population. For the 14th straight year, they are decreasing or the birth rate is not enough to compensate the decreasing population. I know there are a lot of factors why this happen, but one concrete solution they can do, is to ease their immigration. Not really open immigration, still strict but they should ease some provisions. Also, please they should ease the citizenship of these people who have outright proof they are Japanese and still can't be a citizen. 

Anyway, if I'm one of them, hypothetically, I'll stay in Japan. Never going back. hahaha Kidding! I'll go back of course in my home country. 

But definitely, I'll stay in Japan. 

What will I look like if I'm mixed with Japanese blood?

Not Showing: Life Itself

After the death of Roger Ebert, I was surprised to hear a news about his documentary. I mean, it still fresh and I don’t know what parts of his life were covered.  Well, after watching it, I am very well surprised and pleased with it! Every movie fan, critic or well, anybody who loves movies should see this documentary.  It’s short yet very special and inspiring.

The only flaw I can see in this film, is well, not really a flaw but I’m more interested seeing it. How he was able to do his style of critic. I mean sure you can read his reviews or watch it as well but in the film, due to its narrative pace, it did not dwell on that. He has some inspirations shown there and how he dealt even his own works, but how he was able to do it. I hope it devoted some time at that part, but it was less discussed or shown for this film.

However, that did not dampen really my likeness into this film. I mean despite it could go long, but the director was able to get the important parts and works of Robert and fit it in just the right amount of time. I love the interviews done throughout the industry, such as Martin Scorsese, and the other stars, movie critics who not only his rival but also inspired from him. The other movie directors who were lighten up because of his harsh or constructive criticism or even slightest of praise or even that simple two thumbs up label. I love the scenes showing his TV show with Siskel, darn I hope it had reruns or I hope somebody could do that again. But I saw it already, actually many of them in youtube. But that old time, it’s quite ahead.

I’m also became very educated while watching this film, especially that he actually made a film as a screenwriter. Even written for just one film, that's an achievement. I feel I could do that as well, writing a screenplay in the future. hehe The one scene that I felt sympathy with him is the death of his rival/best friend Siskel. I mean you can feel from the narration of his friends and family that he quite got depressed when Siskel passed away. I mean, after working from ups and downs with someone and all of a sudden, took away. It's very sad. Another very sad moment, Roger's condition before he passed away. It's fun that despite his condition, he wrote until his final breath. it's sad that he got that disease and you saw in the film how he was coping hard on it. But the great thing is he never gave up writing and continue doing it and loving it! 

For me, he is the perfect movie critic. I mean I may get a lot of flak but a critic who not only came close with almost all the stars in hollywood is not a bad job. It's a great job and he never stopped and actually I hope he wrote more screenplays. Perfect critic I mean, he pulled no punches because what he felt. I mean some films he gave poor reviews but others gave it great, I still give him credit because that's what he felt. It's not others who like gave me impression, it's what he feels. That is what I did in some films I reviewed. Others views great or bad, for me sometimes it's opposite. 

I think every critic should do that. Besides, criticism has its own right, I mean the writer's rights. It's no standard for everybody else unless you have poor eyesight or hearing when watching a film. hehe But definitely, I was inspired by Roger Ebert and he's a legend in a simple work naming movie critic. I'm surprised this film was not nominated at least for best documentary though. Darn.. I still give it,

Two thumbs up!

classics: Hoop Dreams

I written before that I do have like a dream of being a basketball player. Unfortunately, I was not able to harness or develop my talent.  I end up just watching basketball games in TV or net, or sometimes betting through odds. I simply ended up a die hard basketball fan.

I also end up watching this great documentary because I’m curious with its rave reviews. I need to find it out. After almost 3 hours of footage, I can say, it’s one of the best documentaries ever! It’s also well one of the best or I can say the best basketball documentary! The documentary has a simple plot, it’s about 2 promising basketball players pursuing their dreams of being pro through going well NCAA division 1 school. It starts from freshman until they graduated high school. The two prospects namely William Gates and Arthur Agee. William is already a star point guard of St. Joseph’s high school, while Arthur is just entering St. Joseph’s as a freshman and making tryouts to be included at the varsity team. 
The story goes from there and for 3 hours, it gave a real picture on how basketball recruitment works from HS to college. It also show the real stories behind these process and how it affects their families and friends.

Let’s go what I did not like or some flaws of the film. Actually, I can’t think of any. That’s how great of this film, but maybe one. Hmmm it’s maybe the unknown leads. I mean unknown HS basketball players lead this film. It’s not really a flaw but if you are only a simple basketball fan and looking for known star, you won’t find in this film. You’ll find great cameos but not really a known HS player at that time. That’s all I can think of.

First great thing about this film is the sheer realism of basketball story. I mean not only you’ll see a lot of basketball footages such as practices, and real games summary but also the process of recruiting, the family background of the players and of course, how basketball really embodied in the lives of the players. Real competitors and they risk everything just to play ball. There are scenes that you can’t believe they really prioritize basketball above family events or simple get together. How about even they are injured, they don’t think of rest but still want to play. Absurd but well, it’s the truth.

Another great factor in this film, is the drama showing in the film. Intense drama all through out. One scene there was the practice of William’s team. That coach is going nuts in just one mistake. Geez, how are you going to be motivated by that. Actually all the practices showing there is kinda intense and thought provoking. I’m thinking, I do have a lot of patience but when you have that kind of rigid practice, my patience will run out. Soon. I am sad with Arthur’s side of story,  I mean, her Mom doing everything to survive with her kids, raising them alone at one point. Then, it shows how Arthur got affected from his dropping out from St. Joseph plus the suddenly arrest and separation of his dad, whom the one taught him basketball. It’s really a grim feeling at that point of the film. At William’s side, well, kinda sad that he went through 2 knee surgeries that kinda lower his game, especially as the movie comes along. But great thing, he’s lucky and still played going through pain and high pressure as he is a star player.

What surprised me in this film was the cameos. Michigan’s fab five was here, Bobby Knight, Coach K of Duke, then Isiah Thomas because of William’s coach. The summer camp part, and the NCAA recruitment process as well. I’m thinking that those things show, it really gave you a glimpse of how basketball players work up to being great recruit in college then going pro. I love the part when the coach of Marquette is explaining the player how the system works, plus his future goals such as if not NBA, the player might end up playing in Europe. It’s realistic and optimistic at the same time. I still love that summer camp which all the players staying at one room and it’s like camp. You go up early, warm up and play ball. Show the best what you got especially coaches from different universities are scouting for you. How lucky is William? Darn, every big NCAA college division 1 has sent him tryout, letters just to come to them. Wow.. That happened before he got injured.
What I really love in this film is the flow of it. I mean, this film was able to deliver great flow despite 2 main characters were moving at the same time. One was on the rise, then another falls first but redeemed at the end. One indeed was on the rise, fallen due to injuries but well, he still got the same result. I really love Arthur’s story as despite dropping out then father left him but returned, it was difficult for him. That also affects his playing ball, but great thing, through adversity, his team was not good.. But in the latter part, they became strong, underdogs and played great in their state championship. Despite losing in the final game, they played great. They won hearts of many as underdogs and unranked in their state.

Don’t forget the jazz musical score used in the film. I mean, it’s weird right? Basketball usually has hip hop/rap musical score but in this film, it’s sax and jazz. It worked actually. Great score.
Despite it ran for 3 hours, I wanted for more because you want to know their stories in college but with the effective epilogue, that’s fine. Enough fitting for an ending.

You see as you going through the film, no question, William has talent but his development was not right for him. I could say, I’ll blame the coach as he tried to pattern his star point guard to Isiah Thomas which I don’t think its right. William’s skill looks like he’s more of a SG, than PG. Arthur’s game was better, I mean despite little development, he never stopped improving and playing as a leader in both ends of the court which made him better in the end. He has also not only became better, but also stronger because he endured a lot while playing. Great thing, he was not injured.

Unfortunately, when you searched in wiki, both of them did not make it to NBA, even in Europe. But both of them became stars because of this documentary, and became successful in different endeavors. William became a pastor in his church but also graduated college. Arthur despite better chance of going pro, he became a successful businessman and motivational speaker now.

There were other stars of the film, simply the family members/friends shown in the film. William’s side has more upbringing and calm. Arthur side is more fun yet serious, well especially they were on the other side of financial slide. Film shows the diversity, in everything such as race, social and even schools.

Anyway, I want to watch this again sometime in the future. It gives you really thinking that all the basketball players on how they grow. Come to think of it, with a lot of players coming the NBA and NCAA not making it big or all star, what went wrong to them? Or what they do when dreams not reach or worse fade.. What is life after not reaching the dream?

In reaching hoop dreams, it’s not only talent/skill but also how to deal, working in a team and yes..
A bit of luck. 

Keep being a playa!

Bully

Sorry Solar International, I watched it first here. =)

I was drawn right away with the title itself. I, admit that I was bullied way back HS years. As much I want to forget it, but well I can't. But it doesn't mean I did not forgive or had much hatred who done it, but I forgave them, even one of them is now my best friend. 

I just can't believe after watching it, for those 90 mins of such heavy heart seeing those kids getting bullied all the time but never give up of making a stand against it.

The documentary evolves around 5 kids who experience this kind of bullying. One is bullied because of his appearance and some they call "weird". One is bullied way down south because of her sexual orientation and preference. One is bullied because of her appearance plus she threat them by pointing a gun to them, then she was under probation due to her acts.

Another two separate stories of bullying due to their appearance and lack of esteem, unfortunately, because of it, they took their own lives. They can't take it anymore of it.

These are some of the many, or a lot stories evolves around bullying which affects a child's life. It is, not only physically but also more damage done emotionally.

There are 2 factors that which kinda did not help the documentary. One is the style of documentary is not that informative, or narrative. I mean the stories of these kids are great, but the style of narrative I hope they do it in a manner that builds interest or flow of the story. They only done that at the end.

Second factor which it's not the films or even the production crew's fault. It's the lack of action of government, even schools. The one who can really control this behavior or incidents are schools itself. I hate that one scene that the assistant principal done nothing about the incident of a kid, who is not only got bullied but also got stab by a pencil or physically hurt, and the kid is having like physical disability because of his condition. I mean, as much they scolded the kids for doing that but they will come back and do it again not only to that same kid, but others..

Of course, it's not only happening in the US, but all around the world. Here, it's a culture already. Geez.. I hope teachers, admin, faculty do their outmost authority not really punish for those who done it, but at least penalize or reprimand, or zero tolerance maybe for bullying. I know it's not easy but with will and authority, kids, children will follow. Not to mention the police who should also take part of it, which in the movie, they don't care even. 

I love those stories shared by those kids, but the one that strike me most was the girl who is smart showing off a gun to threat those kids. I mean it's bad, real bad but great thing the gun is not loaded but she's quite smart enough to face it and she has the guts to really show those suckers.. In the footage, those bullies where not even get close to her. Geez, bullies have one thing in common, they are strong if they are in an advantage, but very weak if they know they'll lose, they'll run away first. 

Another story strike me was that kid which is a miracle baby but as he grew older, getting picked day in and out. I feel sorry for that kid, almost like me, they just curse me or sometimes hurt but do nothing about it, good thing that kid done. Not fighting back.

What's alarming is bullying causes deaths of innocent children, I won't be surprised that this happen in Japan or other parts of the world. Such act can really damage such child's emotions or confident, then mentally as well.. I don't why they taught of it but well... It can.

Me, as a HS kid, I admit I did not go to school not because what I said I'm sick, had a flu or what. It's just I'm tired going to school because of those bullies.. I just want to get away from them for just a day or so. It is true. Sorry Ate for lying, and making those letters that I'm sick. =) But yeah, I endure it and finished school until college. Some of the bullies I confront, I finished college ahead of them. Poor them. hehe Yeah, some of them are happy or so, but well.. It's fate or Karma perhaps. 

What I can advise to those kids is quite simple... Don't fight back and continue to love life, if they don't love you who you are.. Then love the people around you, like first, family.. Family has the big part of overcoming fear of the child or be confident as long there is love and support from family. Close friends, or simply have friends. It doesn't mean you're alone in this earth, you have friends that you can keep or guide you. Great thing I have friends in HS before that despite my being a weirdo or sorts being bullied, I have friends who are in the same state yet not fighting back but we enjoyed company. 

Lastly, if you can, which I already did.. Be friend or nice to those bullies, I mean in the end, the bully became my friends. Ask Rheg for that. But yeah, most of the bullies, I've become friends with.. I forgave them and yeah leave them alone, besides, you'll not be schoolmates forever except if they said sorry and let's be friends.. Which, they graciously did.. That's why now, indeed, I don't have any hatred towards them. I just laugh when I remember those days. 

Oh don't forget, yeah pray to God that despite you get bullied everyday.. His love will cover your imperfections and enjoy your day as normal. Forgive as well. 

I was a bully too to Algerro but oh well, it's not the best thing to do.. I got beaten up. =)

It's not jolly to be a bully perhaps. 

Not Showing: Side by Side

As look into the poster, you might be is this a joke? Or how did it happen that almost all the best movie directors will be in one documentary?

It's already here.

Well, yeah it won't show here unless it is shown in film fests or SM has extra cash to waste at intellectual documentaries like this.


Side by side tackles about the evolving means of cinema. I thought looking at the title itself, sounds like hmmmmm history of movies, or perhaps movie evolution from writing or directing because the commentaries came from directors, or simply about movies.

Indeed it tackled about movies but it's about a specific element in film that is immersely discussed. Evolution of film itself, how you will make a film without the film itself? The film that we use before in household cameras, VHS, Betamax or even the first camcorder, or the old times, the stock film.

It compares with the new kind of film recording today which is Digital, and explains how this new kind of process helps film industry or really will film be out for this process.

There were cons in this film, as usual. But not that big or really affects my interest in this documentary.

One is Steven Spielberg, one of the best movie directors around, made such great movies, was not there, surprisingly. I don't know why but I'm surprised. Also, I hoped that the pace of the documentary was like a story. Although I'm fine with the interview pace thing in this one, but for me, it will be better that it has a plot or in a story pace since Keannu I heard is also making his directorial debut.

Yes, the film was hosted by Keannu Reeves and yeah he was able to interview almost all the great movie directors, editors, photographers and technical crew you can think of.

After that around 90 mins of interest watching the film, there were 3 points that strike me most for the comparison of photochemical film and digital. Great thing that photochemical film was explained into a simplest and graphic manner.

First it was talked about is quality. As much it is very hard to shoot on film, with it's painstaking process and a lot of effort needs to work for it, well film has limitations, although all great flicks from the past were done in this tedious way. Even movie editors still like the old school process but they had no choice but to move forward with digital.

Digital as they said, is a lot easier to work with, especially these present times, less effort to be made but the problem lies at the first phase of digital film making which I do agree. I doesn't have that deep detail which film has before. That was changed after a decade passed but still film makers can do film or this way. As I viewed it, it's a tie battle between film and digital.

Second they discussed was technology. Film has already reached it's potential when Star Wars or Sci Fi came to place. I can't imagine that Star Wars will be filmed in a draconian way without the help of VFX or sorts. hehe No way! So, George Lucas and others thought of making or have the assistance of computer to make movies.

Film indeed not a priority especially when those films that needed more than technique to show great effects or visuals. Digital came in and magically not only improve film making but also inspire others to jump in and make films. I was suprised that films that I love like Sin City, impossible to be shot on film because of the demand of the source's vision. Yeah, I mean Sin City is beautiful and perfect in that noir style, they will have a problem if that can be done in film.

Digital also continuing to evolve like with the rise of state of the art cameras like what David Cameron used in Avatar, then David Fincher, Peter Jackson, with that Red Camera which is revolutionary even it's heating up. hehe So, very interesting part especially on how it helps in other aspects in film making such as editing, photography and direction. Definitely more effective, it can be fast paced, no more breaks unlike film but actors sometimes hate it because it may not stop. hehe

This part goes to digital.

Last point is which really lights me up was archiving. It is true, simply that even in digital, it's cost effective to ship these films, show in public or sometimes in the net but what if, a HDD broke down and you do have a copy but it's not working. Simple logic but it's quite a threat. Meaning, you will need to have a copy of the film you have in digital for every 5 or 10 years tops because HDD crashes in a time you don't expect. I experienced that or even computer enthuisiast. CD's or DVD's will get moist or have mold even it's kept in a container or case. One of my saved movies in a DVD already acting up so I need to have another copy. hehe So, yeah it's very hard for digital to keep it in the future unless they invent something indestructible HDD or digital storage. hehe

In films, I'm surprised that a scene there, a century old flick still runs as it was played before. Although having a film library or archiving center cost more but well, as long they have the tools, and right equipment, environment and people, films are always new. There will be scratches or other effects but it keeps running and digital can always help to restore. I'll go for Film this one. hehe

I love the directors, crew, editors, and other men and women who were interviewed by Keannu.. They were passionate of giving insights about their takes of making a film in film strip or digital. Their experiences of each medium and how they love making films in whatever way. George Lucas really pushing for digital as James Cameron agrees, or my recent fave David Lynch also going for digital as present in Inland Empire.

Others were embraced as well, like David Fincher, Robert Rodriguez, Martin Scorsese, Steven Soderburgh and others.. Editors, and photographers as well.. Lars Von Trier! hehe Who is like the pioneer with his group of using DV in film making.

For me, if you're in film school and want to know deeper about film making, I definitely encourage you to see this. For me as a movie fan, I love this documentary, a glimpse on how the movie works from past, until present..

Or maybe future. =)

Not Showing: Jiro Dreams of Sushi

 As I love Japanese Culture, from it's place, weather, language or even their media, and yes, even food. However, it doesn't mean I love all their dishes. I only love, their fried foods, rice, ramen, miso soup and teriyaki or sukiyaki perhaps. But not sushi. Geez, I also eat sushi but in the most rare times. The last time I ate one was 1 year ago and I ate one because it's part of the eat all you can menu. I ate a lot, it felt me full and yeah not really enjoyable.


However, after watching this documentary, damn.. I will eat sushi only in that place. =)

Indeed as Jiro admits, he dreams of making new sushi even in his dreams. Damn, that's how passionate in doing his job, even he's 85 years old. Going 86 perhaps this year. 

The story goes as one famous sushi restaurant in Tokyo headed a shokunin great in making Sushi or great itamae (Sushi Chef). His name is Jiro and it shows how his restaurant works, how his relationship with his 2 sons guiding them of operating his Sushi restaurant and how delicious is his menu of Sushi. The pressure of his 2 sons following their famous Father footsteps and how they will continue his legacy if he's gone. 

 Narrated by Jiro himself and his 2 sons, plus a food writer, they narrated the journey of how Jiro started, then how he works until gain recognition of getting 3 star Michelin rating (yes, the wheel brand for cars) for his restaurant. 

Interestingly, his restaurant is under a subway station and it has only 10 chairs. Plus some tables but it's not really big. However, to eat there, you need to make a reseravation for at least a month (now it became 3 months reservation!). The restaurant has no restroom, because that's how small it is. They don't cater or have other dishes than sushi and yes, no appetizers. No soy sauce in other sushi dishes they offer. 

The only flaw I can see in this film, the lack of foreigner recognition of Jiro's greatness. I mean he was recognized by Michelin but no interview from a foreigner, or at least one great foreigner chef. Although they show some pictures of famous chefs eating there, it's just it will add awe or awesomeness to how great this dude done, just serving sushi. 

The great thing about this documentary is Jiro's family. Don't look for their wives or children which I don't know if they have one, but the passion they put in just making sushi. Jiro secret is simple, just do the same thing everyday and find ways on how to improve your craft. He even said that until now, he haven't reached perfection. Damn, 85 years old, already recognized of the best chef and it's restaurant as well, still admits hasn't reached the peak of his creation. His mindset will really inspire people to do their best in what they do. Whatever you do in life and love what you do as Jiro admits, you will not be tired of doing the same thing and continue to improve and perfect the craft. I thought businessmen or empire holders are the best in this earth because of what they earn or hold, or even inspiring people now like artist, actors, or peformers.. This one is special because of the craft he have, simple craft as it looks, just making Sushi. 

There were many great facts I discovered in this film, like sushi is not only with seaweed wrapper and rice plus meat. The mouthwatering sushi that shows in slow motion on how it's done. How apprenticeship works in Japan and how the sushi business works. There were a lot to really fascinated about watching this documentary and yes, I won't be surprised if you want to go there and spend 30,000 yen for a 19 part sushi course. That's around $375, not bad. =)

The sad part of the film, as they admit.. It's getting hard to service quality sushi if the ingredients were difficult to get. As evident in climate change and yes, over fishing, the vendors or fish suppliers were having a hard time to get the best fish for the best sushi. This was evident in one scene there, the shrimp supplier was not able to give the order asked because they were only 3 kilograms available for the whole fish market! 

They were asking if the government can regulate fishing for young fishes or avoid overfishing. Jiro describes in his old times, great tuna is available right away when the market opens at the morning. Now, it's hard to get one, especially companies making sushi available in every single store in Japan. His sons describe sushi was really expensive going back old days. 

I can say, well.. This documentary is a must for food lovers or even those who are not. It's my first time to watch a japanese documentary but well it's produced and directed by an american company, it is still a good documentary to watch. Although not great because it's a specific topic is discussed, not everybody loves sushi, even me. But definitely, if you're hungry for sushi or a food lover, watch this documentary. It will not fail your taste buds. =)

I pray and hope like his son's wish that Jiro can make sushi forever! But if not, I confidently say, Jiro sons will able to continue his legacy, even if it will be not the same as his father's works.

But simply making good sushi that he father taught them. 

Look at his younger son, same sushi and place, just a different atmosphere but same result. Customers coming in.

He's a 2 star Michelin rating restaurant anyway. Not bad. 

Besides, the inspector who ate at the original restaurant tasted the same good sushi without Jiro serving the patron.

That's legacy perhaps. 

Maybe Jiro can just dream sushi all the time.