Prisoners (2013)

Watching Prisoners is like solving a puzzle and/or answering a riddle that has a mystery answer that you keep on guessing. This is the main strength of the film. Its mystery and thriller theme acts as its grip to the audience to keep them interested and glued to it until the conclusion of its puzzling mystery. Though, some of the scenes with numerous dialogues were quite boring plus it runs more than two hours, I can still say it is entertaining and worth my time. I just feel that the conclusion is so open-ended because the movie left it to the imagination of the audience for the answer. Prisoners is a 2013 thriller film that focuses on abduction of two young girls in Pennsylvania and how far a parent would go just to protect his family.

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns

Poltergeist (2015)

Poltergeist is the 2015 remake of the 1982 original iconic movie of the same title where the story revolves about a family that has just move in a new house in which they do not know is a house of mischievous spirits. Poltergeist has a nice horror story to tell but living under the title of an iconic horror movie, a lot of expectations were expected to this kind of big remake. Though, Kyle Catlett as Griffin Bowen and Kennedi Clements as Madison Bowen charming and effective which compares to the memorable Heather O'Rourke’s Carol Anne Freeling, some of the cast are emotionally distant from their characters thus making then unrelatable characters to the audiences like me. I appreciate the efforts of modernizing the film’s story with the use of modern gadgets like Ipad, drones and GPS in investigating paranormal activity but there are still expectations that did not meet at all. It wasn’t totally a scary or horrific movie at all. Yes, there are creepy scenes, thrill and suspense (the clown toys scared me), but Poltergeist cannot be summed up as a totally horror film because simply it wasn’t totally scary. It took years before this remake was made and I hope will equal or surpass the original one but it seems not. I hope the other sequels of Poltergeist (1986 and 1988) won’t be remade if this will be the same quality like this 2015 remade. 

Going Popcorn Review: 2.5/5 Popcorns

The Breakup Playlist (2015)

The Break up Playlist is a romance-drama film about former ex-lovers musician reunited after an incomplete closure break-up in which they have to face again and force to confront a lot of unanswered questions that led their break up. Both members of a band before, Gino Avila and Trixie David played by Piolo Pascual and Sarah Geronimo respectively love story was presented in an interesting manner of a supposed “playlist of break-up songs” being played that has themes related to their love story. Although, the song choices was relatable and induced last song syndrome to the audiences including its theme song – Paano Ba Ang Magmahal, the film was still lacking depth for it to be a memorable romance and drama movie. I thought The Break-up Playlists will live among the ranks of all-time best Filipino romance movies like The Mistress (2012), One More Try (2007) and Starting Over Again (2014) given a strong lead casts which by the is the main strength of this movie rather than the story it presents. But I was wrong. The story is shallow and the conflict of the story is shallow too – not deep enough to discuss further and solving it doesn’t require a longer period of time. In short, it’s not worthy for a 2-hour run of the story’s conflict. Though, I appreciate the different approach and style via use of music and songs as the theme and they made this film less cutesy and kilig romance flick as it tries to go on serious romance drama genre. Yet, it still failed to deliver what a serious romance drama should be. It’s entertaining but its ending is also one of its downfalls. I find it way too easy to end a conflict just like that making it having a quite uneven conclusion.  

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns

The Lazarus Effect (2015)

A science fiction thriller that lives up to a true thriller themed film but has a mixed feeling ending – either you love it or hate it. A group of researchers discovers a scientific experiment of bringing life from death but in effect has caused an irreversible situation that they might regret in the end. Olivia Wilde was memorable here as the lead character Zoe. While Wilde’s performance and other casts gave a strong performance act to remember it cannot be said to the plot of the story. The Lazarus Effect effectively gives the scares and thrill of a real thriller movie but the story is shallow and leave many loopholes in the story. The cliffhanging ending wasn’t also enough for it earn a higher ranking in movies with this kind of theme as it leave more questions unanswered in the movie. Characterization of the lead characters were also shallow and not in-depth making its characters less interesting and further leaving more unanswered questions.  The Lazarus Effect could have been a remarkable thriller science fiction film if it hadn’t been a film with so many unanswered plots. But it is still worth to watch if you’re into a movie night marathon or weekend movie trip. 

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns

Just the Way You Are (2015)

This is a romance-comedy film with a story of traditional teenage Filipino movie that heavily capitalizes on Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano loveteam.  I feel that the movie is the continuation success of their hit TV series Forevermore. I also feel that this film was made as a way of saying thank you for supporting the TV series and catered to the fans of their loveteam. Just the Way You Are has a nice rom-com story to tell but the problem with this movie is that it has a recycled theme that seems so familiar already in Filipino rom-com movies and yet fails to be different if not memorable from the rest of the numerous rom-com Filipino movies that has been produced in recent years. Every theme of romance is so traditional that when you watch it, you find it overly familiar and recycle. If you are a fan of Gil-Soberano loveteam, go ahead and watch it to feel the traditional “kilig” of Pinoy romance movie. It feels the same old teenage flicks and nothing is unique in its love story. But if you’re looking for a Pinoy romance movie that leads the rest of the pack in this kind of genre films then this is not for you as Just the You Are is not leading the pack.

Going Popcorn Review: 2.5/5 Popcorns

The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

The Fault in our Stars is based on the same title novel written by John Green. It tells a unique romance story between cancer-ill teens Hazel and Augustus who fall in love in despite of their struggling situation. The story is unique as it explores cancer stricken people and their various struggles in life as they battle sickness. I find it slightly predictable in story but still worth to watch since Shailene Woodley is giving us again a strong acting performance. Luara Dern as Frannie Lancaster was surprisingly remarkable as well. While Ansel Elgort as Augustus Waters were captivating and charming and Willem Dafoe as Peter Van Houten was effectively remarkable even in supporting act. The film is also a great travel movie, with half of the film explores the wonders of Amsterdam. The Fault in our Stars may be melodramatic and tearjerker but it is sure a moving and painfully poignant love story movie. And it truly proves that “dying sucks” as it opens our eyes and questions our concepts in death and sickness like how open we are in facing an imminent death, are we ready to accept the irreversible situation and what we can do despite of this situation. The Fault in our Stars makes us think and examine life situations that could affect our concept about life and its importance.

Going Popcorn Review: 3.5/5 Popcorns

The Age of Adaline (2015)

What if in a struck of an unexplainable phenomenon you suddenly become ageless? What if you live through ages and century without getting old but at the expense of not finding the life you want and the love of your life? The Age of Adaline tackles those themes of immortality, death and life in general. The movie is an epic-romance fantasy film that centers mainly to Adaline Bowman played by Blake Lively who was subjected to a slow aging process after an extraordinary phenomenon accident. At first, I thought it was a science documentary film but it wasn’t, as The Age of Adaline delivers “something new” to the table of immortality and ageless themed movies. It has the same theme as The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008) but with a different and modern twist. While this one has more inclination to the side of romance, it didn’t lose the story as a whole. There may be loopholes in the story but the great performances of Blake Lively (Adaline Bowman), Harrison Ford (William Jones) and Michiel Huisman (Ellis Jones) made it bearable to watch. They gave strong performances in my opinion. Actually Lively, reminds me of Gwyneth Paltrow a lot here and her performance here is enough to be notice and praise. This is also what kind of break movie she needed in Hollywood – something light but with serious drama and touch of romance. The Age of Adaline may seem not compelling for some but the theme surely made the watchers open the minds about the concept of aging and immortality and its consequences in real life. For me, this film can pass both as chick flick and romance fantasy film for a movie marathon night. 

Going Popcorn Review: 4/5 Popcorn

You're My Boss (2015)

A romance-comedy movie by Antoinette Jadaone of the famed That Thing Called Tadhana, this movie will surely give you a lot relationship reminisces and familiarity as it is easily appreciated for its light-hearted tones and wonderful story. And since That Thing Called Tadhana has been famous because of quotable love lines, expect You’re My Boss to do the same. But the difference is that You’re My Boss tackles the issue of career over love life that uses the corporate extensively to illustrate the theme it wants to deliver. The story may not be an amazing as other romance Filipino movie but it surely not a disastrous or mediocre one. The use of modern social web application within the movie gives it a familiarity to its modern audiences. And I’m sure a lot of us can relate this – Instagram, Instant messaging, Facebook. Plus this movie is also a travel movie which is becoming a typical trend nowadays in rom-com flicks as it heavily promotes Batanes as a travel destination to visit by halfway of the movie. Batanes is truly a stunning destination and it was used wisely as great backdrop for the movie scenes. Toni Gonzaga and Coco Martin tandem seems forced and less chemistry between the two as lovers but they surely deliver the best performance needed for their act. Their tandem may seem less sugary sweet but their act was superb and very effective when it comes to comedic scene.  You’re My Boss may used the issue of a tried-and-tested romance movie formula of how to move on from past love but it appropriately delivers it effectively. And the end of the film, don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to book the cheapest flight to Batanes right away! 

  
Going Popcorn Reveiw: 3.5/5 Popcorns

Red Eye (2005)

One of the best suspense/action movie I've watched! I like the way the movie was made in centralizing on the two main characters of Rachel McAdams and Cillian Murphy who were both excellent in delivering their characters and made this movie interesting. Plus the film has a real tension, suspense and thrill that will really make you jump on your seats and makes you scare on what will happen next to the lead. The first half of the film is a slow build of the story, suspense and tension and the next half was a full blown gripping suspense action mode which for sure the audience will really like. It was well thought out, great direction; great act by the leads, nice musical background and it has thrill and suspense that will really hang to its watchers. Though the movie is short and plot is simple, the airplane/airport setting is unique and the story is interesting with enough thrill, suspense and tension that is very effective and easily made it to my favorite movie of all time. I highly recommend this best suspense and thriller movie!

Going Popcorn Review: 5/5 Popcorns

The Longest Ride (2015)

Another novel of Nicolas Sparks turned movie which I expected to follow the trend of his novels themes but surprisingly it turned out a feel good movie. The Longest Ride tackles two story of romance – one in the past and one in the present that both discusses the issue of being with your special love versus your career. The “longest ride” here is perhaps the long narration of both love stories which has theme parallels to both story and affected the characters to the present one way or another. The love story is like the “longest ride” that goes on a journey but deserves to end beautifully. Nicolas Sparks novel-turned-movies still never fails to show gorgeous and stunning sceneries as its backgrounds - this time the beautiful farm settings of Wilmington, North Carolina. This has been a trend in Sparks movies and I won’t be surprise in upcoming The Choice (2016).  

Though, the past love story is stronger versus the story of Luke Collins and Sophia Danko, their love story posed a premise on choices between love and career. It tells how much sacrifice is essential for relationships to work. Well, at some point one maybe bored with this romance film since most of the time this type of films by Nicolas Sparks novels involves a lot of dialogues and speeches rather than action. But I’m sure the bull-riding cowboy part of the film won’t surely bore you as this was quite thrilling. The Longest Ride taught us love requires sacrifice, which is also its famous line throughout the movie. The phrase is self-explanatory enough for The Longest Ride to be one of the memorable romantic films that come around.  

Going Popcorn Review: 4/5 Popcorns

Crazy Beautiful You (2015)

Crazy Beautiful You is a coming-of-age film about finding oneself, longing from family love and discovering romance along the journey. Though, I’m not a big fan Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo love theme, I commend their decent acting performance from the movie which has a nice story about family rather than romance story which I find it shallow and unremarkable. The family drama was a stand-out element of the movie. I find it heartfelt despite of inserted cheesy moments of Padilla and Bernardo for the theme of romance movie. I enjoyed much on the part where the scenes were taken in Mount Pinatubo volcano crater. It created beautiful sceneries for this film and making it a good and highly recommended travel movie. It has a memorable theme song – Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us – a hit song of Starship. I think it was a good and wise choice of theme song since it has a high recall and familiar mostly to all ages. Good thing they didn’t have it covered by any local artists when it was used in the film. I hope a next romance film for Padilla and Bernardo would have more serious tones and drama than this film so we could see if they can do more than just the sweet romance and chick flick type of movies.

         
Going Popcorn Review: 3.5/5 Popcorns

Insidious Chapter 3 (2015)

The scariest chapter goes back to the beginning of Insidious saga which focused on a prequel story – years before Chapter 1 and 2. And it turned out to be the most terrifying Insidious sequel in my opinion. Story-wise, it has a good narrative and I say a clever writing again courtesy of its original screenwriter, Leigh Whannell who is also directing and acting in this film. There is a story behind this prequel film and a good twist on this Insidious installment. Second, it’s a screamfest movie! It has lots of scares, tension and suspense moment than the previous sequels in my opinion. I didn’t just jump on my seat in the scares but I screamed to the loudest I could ever do and not to mention the expressions I uttered as an aftershock scream. 

And lastly, the casts delivered what they have to. I commend Lin Shaye for not only the only character to be on all Insidious movie but also for showing the best acting she could for the role of Elise. She was phenomenal here as an actress just like the other sequels of this movie. There’s also a right amount comedy again courtesy by the duo of Angus Sampson and Leigh Whannell as Tucker and Specks. For me, Insidious Chapter 3 is a worthy sequel for the Insidious saga. It is a great horror, suspense and thriller movie that is worthy for a Chapter 4! I would say that with this newest installment of the movie, it made Insidious cemented as one of the best horror movie of all-time.    

Going Popcorn review: 4/5 Popcorns

Pitch Perfect 2 (2015)

A worthy sequel of the hit comedy musical of 2012’s Pitch Perfect, the pitch bellas are back for world domination of their a cappella singing. The story starts 3 years after the first movie timeline and though with some changes I’m glad the movie tried to bring back all the leads and majority of the casts from the first movie. But what makes this sequel of Pitch Perfect standout is the story and twist in it where the leads were also given ample characterization of their background character which gave them enough and equal limelight in the movie. Plus the movie has more memorable comedies this time and songs that would really lead you to last song syndrome especially Flashlight sung by Jessie J for this movie.

It is said that no sequel can equal the first sequel movie and one can’t help but to compare the sequel to the original. Yes it is true with Pitch Perfect but this sequel is worthy for its story, songs, and characters on its own. It may not equal the first one but it was surely a great sequel to watch and worth to wait. The story has more twist time and the main leads were given equal weight in the plot. It is sure that the movie is making Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson and Brittany Snow as the leads but I wish they make it a quad-lead by inserting more of Anna Camp. The songs used this time were new and most were emotional theme making it quite an emotional movie especially the ending which I didn’t expect and caught me off-guard. While Pitch Perfect 2 struggles to match its predecessor, it can stand alone in this movie with its new songs, real funny comedies and beautiful plot. But beyond the story of chick flick, girl group and pretty girls, Pitch Perfect 2 is a lovable story about bonded friendship, importance of beautiful memories and deep meaning of siblinghood. The final Bella performance may not be as great as the first sequel final performance but it is definitely one of the best scenes of the movie that made me almost cry in emotion. This is highly recommended!

Going Popcorn Review: 4.5/5 Popcorns

Gone Girl (2014)

Gone Girl is one of the types of movies that really interest me a lot because the theme is about mystery and psychological thriller - the type of movies that made me analyzes the situation of the characters, puzzles me about the story and makes me curious about the mystery that surrounds the plot. And this is the type of movie that I like. Gone Girl made me analyze its story, character and plot from a closer look to an in-depth analysis. This is a highly recommended psychological themed movie. Aside from the theme, Gone Girl has a very catchy story that is worth to watch and would really get your interests - a missing America's famed sweetheart writer with an angle of mystery murder and unanswered clues that leads to a shocking revelation? Who wouldn't be enticed to watch this thriller and mystery film? And I mention that there are tension moments and suspense themes in the film that would really excite your watch of the film? The film also get the best of acting of Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike whom I feel a little miscast for the role of Amy Dunne but nonetheless she was stellar here that it earned her a 2014 Oscar Best Actress nomination for portraying a sweet but psycho wife. Gone Girl runs too long (2 hours running) but it’s interesting mystery story about marriage gone mad and unnerving ruin of one's personality due to failures in relationship was worth to watch and spend your movie night with.

Going Popcorn Review: 4/5 Popcorns

The Harvest (2013)

A thriller and mystery film, The Harvest is sure to glue you until the end with its witty mystery and suspense themed scenes. And what makes this movie a one-of-a-kind suspense film is that the lead characters of the story are kids and not adults. So think of tense moments and thriller scenes were children are involved. Sounds, interesting right? The Harvest makes use of the leads to convey a real thrill and suspense moments by exposing them to those scenes intentionally. It also doesn’t need dark backgrounds or scary places to make it a solid thriller movie. An appropriate music background and enough mysterious plots are all The Harvest needed to play a good thriller movie. Maryann’s character as a very curious young girl may seem unreal but in real life, there some kids that are smart and very curious about things that happens like Maryann, right? Kids are different nowadays and Maryann exemplifies that modern children. The Harvest starts with Maryann (Natasha Calis) moving into her grandparents house after being an orphan. Trying to look for a friend, she founds a bed-ridden boy Andy (Charlie Tahan) in their neighbourhood. But Andy’s parents disapproves their friendship especially their attempts to play outside their house. Something that Maryann is puzzling about and that is the time she’s started to be curious to discover a horrific truth about Andy’s family.

  
Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns

Notes on a Scandal (2006)

Notes on a Scandal is strong drama thriller lead by strong performances of outstanding actresses – Judi Dench and Cate Blanchett. Based on a novel of the same title, Notes on a Scandal has a scandalous story to tell. A new teacher in a public school gets into an illicit relationship with her pupil and the only one witness to this affair was her friend co-teacher that a secret motive of using the scandal to her personal use while writing it on her diary. The story is psychological-thriller drama with enough mystery to be curious of. I was hooked to the story because the story has many scandalous secret being kept that only the audience knows and I’m curious by how the characters are handling to keep it a secret up to the moment it of its revelation. The movie also shares that over protecting friendship can destroy the friendship itself. Dench and Blanchett gave strong performances that you’ll be confusing which of which delivered the best. It’s hard to pick the best as the two are outstanding actresses especially in this movie but I can say Dench is the lead because of her character and Blanchett is secondary. Both receive nominations at the 2007 Oscars as Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress respectively.

Going Popcorn Review: 3.5/5 Popcorns

The Wolverine (2013)

I have yet to watch X-Men Origins: Wolverine, but this film about one of Marvel's famous franchise character is a good stand-alone film about Wolverine. The plot of the movie basically follows what happen to Wolverine after the end of X-Men 3: The Last Stand film which gave not just a story of what happens-next-after-the-end but also a chance to show a deeper story about Wolverine. The story showed an in-dept personality of the Marvel hero and chooses a great setting about Japan that runs smoothly as a background in the entire film. I'm satisfied with the story and action-packed sequences as I myself is a fan of the X-Men franchise. And I'm sure watchers will surely like it as well with its tension-binding and suspense action sequences. Plus the 4 women character leads were well played and well notable in their movie moments. Hugh Jackman largely deliver the goods in the movie for portraying Wolverine. He was simply fit for the role and he made the movie entertaining, alive and crave fans for more.

Going Popcorn Review: 3.5/5 Popcorns

Midnight in Paris (2011)

I don’t see Midnight in Paris as romantic movie, maybe comedy but as a travel movie and you love Paris, then this film fits to my eye. I don’t see it as a romantic film though the movie synopsis says it is because there’s no chemistry between Owen Wilson and Rachel McAdams. There’s nothing wrong in their act, it’s just that, the two don’t work in romantic themes of the movie.  McAdams was good here by playing semi-antagonist Inez. I think should blame the story and their characterization since their characters seems to be north and south pole type. But if you love Paris, then this movie is for you! Director, Woody Allen made sure that you won’t just see, feel and live in Paris for this movie but love Paris in this movie. Every scene and places, the setting was made sure capture best places of interests of the city. Even the raining scenes was beautifully captured that you want to hop on the plane going to Paris. Aside from the beautiful shot of Paris, the film shows us a story of a man’s love of living in a different era and thinking that is better to live in those era than the present to which his sanity is being questioned. But I think the movie is trying to show us the writer’s side of Woody Allen and his adoration for the great writers like Ernest Hemingway and Scott Fitzgerald. 

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns

The DUFF (2015)

A teenage movie about coping up being a “DUFF” – designated ugly fat friend in circle of friends and teen community but ends up as a feel good movie. A good ensemble of upcoming Hollywood actors in the lead and some supporting acts but Mae Whitman carried to movie notch higher with her crazy and funny antics. I enjoyed this film as it is entertaining and funny. The comic side made me stick to watching it. It could have been better and the story is already a recycled theme movie about teen movies but The DUFF offers a modern twist on preaching teenagers dilemma about character labeling which anyone could relate to. Aside from its attractive casts, wonderful story and hooking comedy what I like in this film is that it teaches us not to be under or always look on the labels of other people because each of us has our own definition of who we are and we should learn to embrace and love it. The DUFF is a feel good-movie. 

Going Popcorn Reviews: 3.5/5 Popcorns

X-Men: Days of Furture Past (2014)

This one of the best X-Men movies I saw to date! All-star casts, action-packed movie and great story from Marvel - What could you ask for X-Men: Days of the Future Past? It’s a complete action-superhero movie! The film’s story starts years after the story of X-Men: The Last Stand (2006) where the X-men heroes must teleport back in the past to change an event that would destroy the whole mutant community in the future. Hugh Jackman was the main lead here as his character Wolverine is the lead in the story too. Too bad, Halle Berry’s role as Storm was limited due to her pregnancy but nonetheless she exuded a great performance as Storm again and I’m delighted to see her again reprising the role. Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart were a sure delight to return to their original roles and meeting their younger self roles James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender, both of which delivered great acts again. And Jennifer Lawrence as Mystique has her role expanded fully and gave more importance again but nonetheless Lawrence shown her acting prowess in both action and drama. I’m also delighted to see original X-men original actors and actresses reprising their original roles from first X-men movies like Famke Janssen, Shawn Ashmore, Anna Paquin and James Marsden. 

Aside from having an all-star casts, what makes this X-Men movie successful is the great story detail put on it and how it put together the past film’s story into a good continuity. There’s also a good balance in the story and between the characters that’s why it didn’t suffer over characterization even though it has an ensemble cast. This film is highly recommended not just X-Men fans but to every superhero movie fans.

Going Popcorn Review: 4.5/5 Popcorns

Halik Sa Hangin (2015)

Halik sa Hangin is a romance thriller that deals with psychological and supernatural themes but lacks consistency and drops a lot of its potentials to be a memorable romance thriller film. A movie of should-have-been and could-have been, Halik sa Hangin has so many potentials of both drama, thriller and psychological theme with little support for a romance theme. It has good background already, actually, a good story too in the premise. Baguio is a perfect setting and was beautifully displayed and used throughout the film given its theme. But it was wasted when the film’s story turned itself into confused plot loopholes and fails to use extensively those turning point plots within the film like the psychological and family issue. Halik Sa Hangin could have been better if it is re-written to focus on those themes instead on the romance angle of the story that wasn’t solidly establish by visuals and rely only on romantic dialogues. It could have reminisce the memorable Nasaan Ka Man (2005) with romance and supernatural theme but Halik Sa Hangin lacks in consistency and solid establishments like its characters and plots.

When it comes to performance, Julia Montes and Gerald Anderson have screen chemistry and potentials even with JC de Vera at the love triangle theme. All delivered a decent act but I feel it was wasted because of the story which has a lot of potentials if fully explored but left us wishing for more. A decent set of supporting casts along with Ina Raymundo’s return to movies after years but I feel too many casts for this movie but maybe because they have a bigger budget. I think Halik Sa Hangin will flourish as a good movie and better movie if it is explored more on its psychological theme and if it didn’t end just a simple horror flick but with a little romantic theme to make it appealing. The last ending scene was unnecessary.

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns

In Secret (2013)

In Secret is a period drama and thriller movie based on Emile Zola’s novel Therese Raquin. The story of an illicit affair, obsession love and revenge is interesting yet some of the scenes were boring to watch because of the slow pacing of the film and sometimes used of gloomy background colors and scenes. The wardrobe and costumes used were beautiful and appropriate since this is a period movie set in 1860’s Paris. But the ending of the story feels weak. It could have been better rather than leaving it with a feel of escaping and running on a dead end with no choice but commit suicide. Still, In Secret is worth to watch as it is entertaining with its story of period drama about adultery and murder. One of the best acts from the movie comes from 2-time Oscar winner Jessica Lange who provided a notable and solid portrayal of Therese Raquin.
 

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns

The Help (2011)

The Help is an inspiring period movie about life struggles, friendship and gaining dignity. I was touched by the drama of the story and for some it may shed tears. Yet, The Help also tries to be light and comic like the funny dialogues and scenes with Minny and Celia which was unforgettable. The ensemble casts provided strong performances that made this movie truly remarkable. Octavia Spencer’s performance as Minny Jackson is great enough to earn her an Oscar Best Supporting Actress. Jessica Chastain’s performance as funny crazy and care-free Celia Foote was so remarkable that her support role gain her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress! I didn’t even realize Chastain was in this movie because her character is eccentric and offbeat. Viola Davis is notable too especially for heavy drama but Emma Stone who seems to be the lead seems her act is limiting. Bryce Dallas Howard’s character as Hilly Holbrook was really an effective antagonist that you’re going to hate after watching this film. Yet the inspiring story of the film is what makes The Help a great movie to watch even though the ending is quite disappointing for some. But it does end in a good way.

The Help is an American period drama film directed and written by Tate Taylor, and adapted from Kathryn Stockett's 2009 novel of the same name. The Help is about a young white woman, Eugenia "Skeeter" Phelan, and her relationship with two black maids, Aibileen Clark and Minny Jackson, during the Civil Rights era in 1963 Jackson, Mississippi. Skeeter is a journalist who decides to write a book from the point of view of the maids (referred to as "the help"), exposing the racism they are faced with as they work for white families.

Going Popcorn Review: 4.5/5 Popcorns

Boy Next Door (2015)

A psychological thriller movie that stars Jennifer Lopez as a Claire Peterson who gets tangled in obsession of her neighbour next door Noah Sandborn played by Ryan Guzman. It has the right amount of suspense and tense moments to make it an effective thriller movie but its story is kinda predictable already with themes of obsession and stalking. I don’t see any wrong acting to Jennifer Lopez here or to Ryan Guzman to have this movie panned by other critics. But I think the story is kinda not new in Hollywood movies and many find it rehash story about stalking and obsession. Some parts of the stories are said to be stupid like forgetting to put password on computer to protect sex tape files and no early involvement of police in the story, yet I just find them shallow parts of the story. Boy Next Door may have not achieve what it should and appears to be - a smart thriller and serious movie but I find it an entertaining film to watch.  

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns

Dallas Buyers Club (2013)

One of the best Hollywood biographical movie stories that I’ve watched! Dallas Buyers Club is based on a true story of Ron Woodroof who has been seeking a drug to cure AIDS being infected he himself with the illness. It was good drama movie about life and friendship but the most important of all is the stigma of being an AIDS/HIV infected person. Actually this movie is quite moving that it raises awareness on AIDS and HIV and how people infected with it deals with as an everyday struggle of their lives. The movie does not only shares the drama of being an AIDS/HIV infected person but the drama behind on how to live their daily life in facing the illness that has no cure until now and the trauma of knowing that you’ll die on a certain time. This movie also has a nice story about friendship and life challenges that boost one’s morale and confidence. Matthew McConaughey was phenomenal in acting in this movie! Jared Leto as transgender Rayon is so memorable and remarkable! Both got a 2014 Oscar awards for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor respectively. Jennifer Garner played Dr. Eve Saks gave a decent act but she her character limited to supporting cast only that’s why her shining moment to act is limited only. Dallas Buyers Club is an inspiring movie about acceptance, human spirit and resilience. This is highly recommended.

Going Popcorn Review: 4/5 Popcorns

Dementia (2014)

Dementia is a horror movie and a psychological movie at the same time but is also a travel movie. Mara Fabre played by superstar Nora Aunor (first time I saw her played in a horror movie) was diagnosed with dementia and to help her recover, her closest kin Elaine (Bing Loyzaga) along with her husband Rommel (Yul Servo) and daughter Rachel (Jasmine Curtis-Smith) relocated to their ancestral house in a remote place of Batanes where an evil apparition starts and secret mystery is unlock that eventually plays and confuses Mara’s recollection between memories, illusions and realities. I didn’t know that Nora Aunor can also be good in a horror movie as we all know she is a great drama actress. But in Dementia, Aunor’s acting is reveting, powerful and superb! Even with few words to utter because of the nature of her character, Aunor delivered a stellar performance a dementia patient. And those dramatic beholding eyes of her were used effectively to convey drama and emotion particularly in face close-up scene that proves that Aunor is really one great actress. Among the supporting cast, Chynna Ortaleza and Bing Loyzaga were memorable. While Jasmine Curtis-Smith needs a few more polishes but she decently delivered her act well. 

Dementia rely its horror effects on reality effects rather using computer-generated effects to convey an effective horror film is which is good since it gave the movie a reality grip. But the most effective element used to give it a real horror theme was the place locations of Batanes. The vast spaces and lonely sceneries of Batanes gives a feel of isolation and fear of what one might see from beyond the vast spaces of a place. Even the house used to be the set of the ancestral house was creepy and dark enough to give scares and tension. Batanes was used immensely as a backdrop to create horror, fear and mystery to Dementia. But I cannot also help but admire the beauty of Batanes which makes Dementia a subtly travel movie. But for some, Dementia might not be enough to be a scream-fest flick or horror movie to fear which I think the reason might be mysterious story of the film which overshadows the horror theme. Yet Dementia for me is successful for being a psychological movie because it makes me think and analyze the mystery that it presented throughout the film even after the credits rolled out.

Going Popcorn Review: 4/5 Popcorns

Careful What You Wish For (2015)

A thriller and suspense movie about Summer vacation of teenager Dough (Nick Jonas) who got involve in an adulterous affair with their neighbor’s alluring wife that gone murder and dangerous. The story is quite predictable but an enjoyable drama thriller movie to watch. There is adult content love scene to generate more fans but the story as a whole was simple, shallow and predictable. It has the right amount of thrill and suspense to make an entertaining thriller movie but not enough to be best remembered. Perhaps the story could have been better if it has re-written. Fans of Nick Jonas will surely enjoy this movie as he got a decent act played here unlike Isabel Lucas whose emotionless face expression and stiff acting may deemed her not fit for acting but just on runways. – has a more promise in acting and I hope to see her in other projects. Careful What You Wish For is an enjoyable movie even though I find the ending unsatisfying and don’t take it seriously.  

Going Popcorn Review: 2.5/5 Popcorns

X-Men: First Class (2011)

I just recently watched this movie. I actually watched its sequel X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) first before this film which is its prequel movie. And I did not expect that X-Men: First Class would be a superb prequel movie for the X-Men movie series! I love the story of the beginning and how X-Men were born. The movie answered a lot of questions in the past stories of X-Men series. It was well-written scripts and the story was interesting especially for X-Men fans like me. I actually feel it as a good compensation movie after X-Men: The Last Stand (2006) which is a disappointing X-Men movie in the first trilogy. Cast were superb too! James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender were totally mind-blowing in acting the younger versions of Professor X and Magneto! And Jennifer Lawrence as Mystique, she was good but I feel her character was expanded and gave importance due to Lawrence's popularity. But I do not discredit her good portrayal of Mystique. Lawrence was still notable here. X-Men: First Class has superb performances, strong script, beautiful direction and action-packed movie that truly appropriate for grand comic saga like X-Men.

Going Popcorn Review: 4/5 Popcorns

The Taking of Deborah Logan (2014)

A horror thriller movie shot in a found footage style similar to the likes of Paranormal Activity and Blair Witch Project. So ready yourself for a shaky viewing of this movie about a thesis project gone to devil possession investigation with a very shocking climax. Mia, Gavin and Luis went to Virgina and makes a film about Alzheimer's patient for their thesis but they discover otherwise evil entity that is disturbing their subject. And they are drawn to it until finding real sinister behind the paranormal behaviour of Deborah Logan. Although the theme tries to copy the themes of other found footage/documentary movies, it never failed to surprise watchers from having the suspense moment; scream-inducing scenes and surprise horror tension that horror movie fans were looking for.  I find the story interesting and very hooking to watch until the end but I won’t deny the fact that demonic possession theme is already saturated and rehash in this kind of films which could either turn-off movie watchers or expect more from this movie. Unfortunately, The Taking of Deborah Logan has nothing fresh to offer for this type of film but of reuse of an already use theme in this kind of found-footage film except that it took a different circumstances and angle in its story. It is still worth to watch if you’re looking for decent horror movie.  

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns

Blue Jasmine (2014)

This the second movie of Woody Allen that I’ve watched and it keep me interested in watching more because of its interesting stories. Blue Jasmine tells a New York socialite and ex-housewife Jasmine’s struggles through a life crisis after losing all the comforts and fortunes of her life and resolves to move to her middle class sister until she makes amends for her new life. Cate Blanchett just owns this movie. She was remarkable and unforgettable as Jasmine. And it is no wonder why she won the 2013 Oscar Best Actress for this movie because this is one of her best acting portrayals that I saw. Even Sally Hawkins as Ginger, Jasmine sister was also superb in supporting act but had shining moments of her own in the film.  This is a dark-comedy and drama film written and directed by Woody Allen. Yet I like the comedy injected in the scenes that makes Jasmine’s character a truly unforgettable one over the drama she had in her life. I find Blue Jasmine a good balance between comedy and drama film. The story is interesting and hooking to discover more of its seemingly light but serious conflicts. But the characters gave life to the story! Each character has an important contribution to Blue Jasmine that made it light yet dark humor and funnier comic flick with drama story. At the end of the film, Blue Jasmine perhaps teaches us not to be over-confident on things that we achieve in life because it can ruin our lives and do not underestimate and forsake our loved ones because in the end our family is our last resort for comfort.

Going Popcorn Review: 4/5 Popcorns

The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug (2013)

The adventure of Hobbits continues on this installment of book-turned-movie fantasy series. The film motions for a third movie installment and I can’t wait to watch it. The adventure quest of the movie are exciting and thrilling that you won’t get bored in watching it making it better than its predecessor film – The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. The production is grand as the film was invested with a bigger budget. And a lot of popular actors and actresses on cameo roles for the characters they portrayed in the cross story novel and movie, Lord of the Rings were on this movie.  Unfortunately, it ended on cliff-hanger mode and it just hungers you to watch the next chapter movie. Amazing effects for amazing action sequences and the story gets me hooked even though I’m not a super fan of this movie series. I will definitely watch The Battle of The Five Armies!

Going Popcorn Review: 3.5/5 Popcorns

Addicted (2014)

Addicted is a drama film about marriage, infidelity and addiction to sex. The first half of the movie is has a good potential for a memorable drama movie aligned with flashbacks and happy family story. But the second half of the movie where the climax is revealed, Addicted slowly slopes down because of its ridiculous turn of plot revelation and shallow ending. Yet it is a highly recommended psychological movie where one can do analysis on its psychological themes about addiction and marriage and family counselling. It further shows the struggles of Sharon Leal as Zoe Reynard as a sex addict and its negative implications on her life. This movie could help someone who shares the same problem but the scripts could have been better if it will be re-write again.

Going Popcorn Review: 2.5/5 Popcorns

In Your Eyes (2014)

In Your Eyes is a paranormal romance movie where lead characters Rebecca and Dylan have been oddly psysically connected though being separated on a different place but later falls in love with each other. The movie explores the theme of how one falls in love without using modern technology of social websites or communication devices but of psychic connections only. I find it a fresh take on romance movies and I find it hooking on the story, yet I have hesitancy on explanations regarding the mystery connection between the two lead characters. It was appropriately acted by the casts and the loophole I see in this movie is the action-packed and adrenaline chasing-to-running ending which I think would have been better if it is not resolve that way.  I just wish that the movie explains this phenomenon on the lead characters by the end of the film and provide answers on how it will be deal or how the story goes now with two mysteriously psychic connected person reunited. But maybe director Brin Hill and writer Joss Whedon wants us to learn from this movie that there are certain distant soulmates that we have in life and we can find them.

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorn

Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008)

A story of two friends who each have their own story to tell got a chance to explore Spain and meets unexpected self-discovery and truths in life while on adventure. This comedy and travel movie will surely delight you with its twist and turns. Barcelona was beautifully depicted in this movie that you would want to visit it after watching this movie. This is a highly recommended travel movie for travel-lover. While the story has genres of romance, it was injected with comedy and life lessons. If I summarize this movie, it’s about going someplace to discover yourself and finding your own path in life. Javier Bardem was good in this movie but Penelope Cruz’s portrayal of crazy Maria Elena was so remarkable that she garnered a 2008 Oscar Best Supporting Actress for this movie. Scarlett Johansson could have a notable character but her portrayal wasn’t memorable, whereas Rebecca Hall as is more notable than her in this movie based on performance. It’s my first time to watch a Woody Allen directed film and I say this film has a surprising plot and he gave it a good artistic touch.

Going Popcorn Review: 3.5/5 Popcorns

The Best of Me (2014)

A Nicolas Sparks’ novel-turned-movie, The Best of Me tells a story of a past love that has a bitter ending but been given a second chance. A beautiful romance movie though with few loopholes in the story conflict it presented yet it is still likable. The love story may seem typical on the start but it has a different twist yet still with Sparks’ formula of romantic movies. While some may find it boring or predictable because Spark’s formulaic love story, I still say that The Best of Me is still worth the watch because it has a beautiful love story to tell and unfortunately a sad mixed with a happy ending. It is melodramatic and tear-jerker flick just like previous Sparks movies but the ending this time is mixed emotion. I find the ending that despite of pain and heartaches, you can still find happiness and optimism. I think this is the movie that is trying to tell us. Yes, it is a love story but it also taught us to give the best of us in love so we won’t regret in the end. 

I praised Michelle Monaghan and James Marsden for giving a best portrayal of Amanda and Dawson as lead of the story. Their acting made it a heart-warming movie. This is another Nicolas Sparks film that has been filmed in beautiful locales thus giving a stunning backgrounds and scenic backdrops. This time the film is shot in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Going Popcorn Review: 4/5 Popcorns

The Gifted (2014)

A Filipino comedy film about friendship and betrayal, The Gifted stars Anne Curtis and Cristine Reyes as super genius friends Zoe Tuazon and Aica Tabayoyong with Sam Milby as the lead male character of Mark Ferrer. The movie explores the story of academic world and experiments on how character clashes in a world where intellect is valuable than heart. The lead casts were so effective for their roles even though they are on prosthetics and not the usual beautiful face and body we always see – fat and obese Anne Curtis and pimpled and tidy Cristine Reyes. It is not romance movie where love triangle is involve that we usually see in films but an unusual comedy movie that has humor and fun. And this fun and humor is centered on its two lead quirky characters. This is the 2nd tandem movie of Curtis and Reyes after a serious drama of No Other Woman (2011) but this time we see comedic side of their acting. Reyes has her own shining moment in The Gifted but Anne Curtis’ act is memorable as a villain from obese teenager to a sexy vixen. A great film from Chris Martinez which was truly entertaining! While I enjoy the comedic moments that truly made me laugh, I also enjoy the film’s imparting the lesson of forgiving and valuing friendship because this is what The Gifted is wholly about.

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns

Sanctum (2011)

Sanctum is a thriller adventure and survival movie about a group of explorers who goes to Papua New Guinea to discover unexplored cave systems and then an accident happens. This movie will surely made you ask about choices and judgement that is between hanging life and death. It will ask your morals on which is to choose and which is not. Actually, Sanctum, the title itself means free from intrusion. In this movie, Sanctum feels like how to be free from guilt of one’s judgement and choices. I wish this movie would have a more resolve ending. It ended with an emotional drama because of tragedy yet it failed to be a compelling movie. It also didn’t show a climax that will be memorable like putting a solution to the problems that occurred or do a rescue mission to have it ended with a good story. Yet it just simply ended plainly as a one-man survival movie.   

Going Popcorn Review: 2.5/5 Popcorns

47 Ronin (2013)

This fantasy and epic movie depicts a fictional account and loose basis about the 47 Ronin, a real-life group of masterless samurai in 18th-century Japan who avenged the death of their lord, in the style of Chūshingura. This is a kind of movie that would intrigue you about Japanese history and culture as it somewhat motivates watchers like me to be more curious about Japan’s history and beliefs about self-respect and honor which was shown in this film. The action, adventure and effects were admirable and thrilling in sequence but the story was lacking in excitement and few originalities. Though, it has an ensemble cast with Keannu Reeves on the lead, it did not help the movie from having a higher grade for its story is slow paced and long character establishment plus it has a long range run of the film that you would find it too long to be stretch out. 

Going Popcorn Reviews: 3/5 Popcorns

Trophy Wife (2014)

Trophy Wife is a suspense drama thriller with an intriguing story about trophy wife and neglected past relationships hunting the present life. I can’t help but notice the stellar performance of Cristine Reyes in this movie as Lani. Reyes was notable here for her shape-shifting act like from good to bad and from kind to evil. I think this is one of her best acting performance since No Other Woman (2011). John Estrada is also memorable in this film and showed his true prowess in acting. The story was not just intriguing but the twist was interesting. It’s not just an ordinary drama about mistresses theme that we were used to be in the past which was the trend of Filipino drama movies in the past 2 years. This time, Viva Films shifts the story of marriage in connection to past relationships and how revenge will affect the present life of marriage.  While some clamor in the issue of continuity in the sequences of the story and teleserye-type of line banter of the film, I find only the climax not much resolve enough for a happy ending. The movie ended forgetting to address the main issues of the story and effectively establish a memorable ending. Thanks to the casts, it save it from having another less popcorn in my rating. 

This is the 4th adult drama film of Viva Films after No Other Woman (2011), A Secret Affair (2012), and When the Love is Gone (2013).

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorn

That Thing Called Tadhana (2015)

This is one of the best independent Filipino movies that I’ve watch! Why? It’s a simple romance movie but with a brilliant concept, script, acting and story that you don’t need to be in Rome or Netherlands to prove that this movie big enough for mainstream. Don’t expect too much in it in terms of casts and background. Remember, this is an indie film - minimal casts and production but rich in story and concept. The story is unique and differs from the usual mainstream romance movie that we have watched before. It’s like reading a life lesson book about pains of broken heart, moving on and letting go. Many of the scenes were symbolic in connection about the story of the arrow and the heart being told in the movie which a lot of us will surely pick a lot of lessons in love life.

Angelica Panganiban and JM de Guzman were brilliant as the main casts of the movie. The throw of lines is very reality based (including no holds barred bad words!) and the acting is superbly realistic as if it happens in real life! They don’t only have a good on-screen chemistry but they have good jive of romance act as well as comic act which was convincing and made me laugh. Seeing them again in a movie together will be much waited especially if it has this kind of great story movie project.

That Thing Called Tadhana has a wonderful story that’s why it was a hit to the public even though it was an indie film. I hope more valuable film like this will be produce in the future. But surely this film will be forever memorable because it has taught us lessons that love shouldn’t be hope for a gust of a wind like destiny, if you love someone, do an action, and go for it. 

 Going Popcorn Review: 5/5 Popcorns

The Trial (2014)

Contrary to the circulating news that The Trial copies the storyline of a Korean tearjerker film, Miracle in Cell No.7, I dare them to watch this movie first before judging because neither storyline nor characters was copied by this movie. The Trial runs on its own class of among drama films and shows a different and interesting story that before you know, it is better than the Korean movie it was alleged copied to. What stands-out in The Trial is the storyline it presents to the watchers. It goes on a different twist of dramatic revelations with a court trial setting while at the same time it never fails to show the painful situation and emotion of the characters involve in the conflict of the story. And that pulls the grip on the drama theme of the movie. Some watchers may find it annoying the running course of the movie because it often jumps back and forth on flashbacks scenes against the current scenes. Each actors and actresses, major or supporting have their shinning own moment in the movie. Each of them was given enough sequences to fully explain and act their characters. John Lloyd Cruz, Gretchen Barretto Sylvia Sanchez and Vivian Velez were unforgettable in this movie. The Trial is an emotionally compelling family drama movie and it imparts a lesson about the important roles of family in our lives.  

Going Popcorn Review: 4/5 Popcorns

English Only, Please (2014)

A romance and drama movie that joined in 2014 Metro Manila Film Festival about a Filipino-American guy looking a perfect Filipino translator to deliver a speech to someone he’s being following that cause him a heart break. English Only, Please has a good premise and light comedy to tell but I find it a shallow story and conflict isn’t much of a concern. It tells about tragedy in love life of the two main characters played by Jennylyn Mercado and Derek Ramsay who in their own merits delivered the best performance to justify their roles. I think their notable performance was the main salvation of the film from being panned. The story is being swallowed by the lead actors performance which I think is good but bad for the overall review of the film because it means the story of the movie is forgettable. But despite of hard swallowing of its story, English Only Please deliver a good lesson on knowing the right term of Filipino language and knowing when you are becoming a fool because of love.  

 

Going Popcorn Review: 2.5/5 Popcorns

Big Hero 6 (2014)

I initially have hesitation in watching this animated film about robots because it is an animated superhero cartoon catered to kids. But taking the risk on watching it, I found Big Hero 6 as a feel-good movie with a beautiful story to tell about caring, brotherhood and camaraderie. Baymax was so adorable! He was a very useful robot if he is truly alive. Imagine a robot who can detect your feelings and helps you how to mend it, something that a real robot that we think is not capable of doing since it is a not a human person. I like the adventure-filled action sequences that were exciting and adrenaline inducing sequences. I like the story about brotherhood and giving importance on the value of friendship and camaraderie. So Big Hero 6 is not just for kids at heart but also for adults who can be kids at heart.

Going Popcorn Rating: 3.5/5 Popcorns

Starting Over Again (2014)

Starting Over Again is a heart warming comedy and romance movie about hoping for second chances in relationship and the challenges in moving on from its consequences. It’s also a movie for hopeless romantic person because they can relate a lot to it. Though I don’t like much Toni Gonzaga’s as an actress, her character seems to be perfect for her as a maturing character. Learning and finally accepting the love that has been is already a close chapter of her love life was a mature lesson that her character imparts in this movie. Piolo Pascual is outstanding as usual in his acting craft and Iza Calzado being a secondary cast is so good in her role that she’s so noticeable and unforgettable in this movie. Calzado’s character as Patty de Guia was the mature and the opposite of Toni’s shallow character as Ginny Gonzales. I think her role deserve a larger part in the story. Though, watchers may find it has a shallow love story to tell, Starting Over Again from the title itself teaches us to be mature in love – that is acceptance is one of the keys to move on in life.

Going Popcorn Review: 3.5/5 Popcorn

Antichrist (2009)

One may see it as an art film and the others sees it as one of the most disturbing films of all time. Judgement of what is the purpose of this movie will vary as it caters to specific group of movie watchers, but if you are curious to see this experimental thriller film by Lars Von Trier, I recommend proceeding with caution. Antichrist is a horror thriller film but the horror it has is not about demonic possession or devil entity that will ruin the lives of the protagonist because its title is likely to suggest and connotes a movie about it. But the film rely its horror theme in its tension-filled atmosphere, mysterious story, shocking revelations and dark background settings. You wouldn’t be scared here by a ghost or demon like in exorcist movies but you will be scared on how depression state can affect your psychological being and further lead you to become an “antichrist”. With emotions of grief, pain and despair as implied feelings in the movie, Antichrist is demonstrated in this movie as a feeling of severe depression, severe enough to make you feel the feeling of being an antichrist. If this will be a full psychological movie, then Antichrist is highly recommended to analyze. 

It has scenes that will disturb you, but the curiosity of finding out the revelation and mystery of the movie will keep you glued to watching it. Great performances by the lead actors and actress but I have issues with its ending which is quite hard to understand and the open-ended way may not satisfy the watchers. The film competed in 2009 Cannes Film Festival. 

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns 

Hercules (2014)

Based on the graphic novel Hercules: The Thracian Wars, this film illustrates the adventures of the Greek mythology hero Hercules. Dwayne Johnson has the guts to play the role and the film was highly entertaining. But the entertainment value of the film and Johnson's performance wasn't good enough to save the film from being feel mixed and lukewarm. I find the story deviated from the original epic tale but as I look closely the plot has a fault to it. Yes, the movie changes the way we know Hercules' tale and presented us - what if there's a foul play on his family's murder, what if he has comrades on his adventure and what if there is really no God-father he has and no gods involve in his adventure? This many innovation in the film made Hercules suffers an in-depth characterization. The story also turned a little soap-opera style with too much emotions and drama on revenge-from-the-past theme. 

Hercules is another mythology story turned film that deviates from the original story. Read the original mythology, it's more fascinating and adventurous than this type of movie. I find it quite tiring to see this kind of movie that really doesn't stay faithful to the original. Yet it is understandable since it is based on a novel which I assumed changed parts of the Greek epic story. But this Hercules version seems lacking the charm of an epic story that other films of same type has. Good thing, Dwayne Johnson was playing the titular role and he played it convincingly.

Going Popcorn Review: 2.5/5 Popcorns

Feng Shui 2 (2014)

The much-awaited sequel of the 2004 hit Filipino horror movie comes with a new twist to its plot and story revolving around the curse of Chinese lucky charm – Bagwa. There’s a big difference from the first sequel to this sequel because the story starts exactly 10 years since the first sequel where the elements of the movie is updated to the current year. Since the story will be 10 years after expect to have new characters in Feng Shui universe like Lester Anonuevo (played by Coco Martin) who is current owner of the cursed Bagwa. Martin was particularly stellar in his first horror acting that I saw. I like how Director Chito Rono came with the idea of linking the past with present story in which Joy Ramirez will show rising again from the curse played by Kris Aquino who presented improve acting this time from the first movie. Cherry Pie Piccache reprises her role again as Lily Mendoza adds as a comic relief due to her greedy and vain character but nonetheless she has a notable acting here.

Feng Shui 2 has a nice story but it lacks the originality of the first sequel. The new horror twist makes it an interesting horror movie but it only complicates more the story making it hard to ind the real solution to end the curse. Great story overall, but some loopholes in the plot is dissatisfying especially the congregation of the owners of Bagwa – I find it a strong plot but undeveloped further. I also think they overdone the link of death cause to the birth animal zodiac finding it funny is not appropriate a great horror movie like this plus it becomes silly and corny anymore. Is Feng Shui scary? It is a horror a movie and its scares and tension moment was effective so it is a scary movie. Caution: double scares and suspense this time from the first one and it is open-ended. But the lack of originality and complicating new twists makes it less scary and horrifying from the first Feng Shui. I’m still glad that it stayed faithful to the story of the original film and it effectively interweaved the two stories together. Overall, though I feel mixed and lukewarm about it, this sequel is a worthy sequel of one of the best Filipino horror movie of all time.     

Going Popcorn Review: 3/5 Popcorns