Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Kitty With Wings
This fur ball in China developed wings after turning a year old. Truth can be stranger than fiction indeed, and with this cat growing wings, strange would be an understatement. Can you believe it? I can't either. There have been various speculations surrounding this very recent and very uncanny piece of news. Is this a form mutation? A type of genetic transition brought about by chemicals inadvertently ingested by the kitty's mother while pregnant? An omen for better or worse days ahead?
In August 2008, some reports had surfaced about cats in the Sichuan province of China developing "wings", courtesy of the U.K. Telegraph. Hmmm. What is it about China and winged furballs?
I hope I can travel to China right this minute and adopt this adorable kitty. Well, not that the owners would let me. Bet this furry Batman is relishing all the excess attention.
In August 2008, some reports had surfaced about cats in the Sichuan province of China developing "wings", courtesy of the U.K. Telegraph. Hmmm. What is it about China and winged furballs?
I hope I can travel to China right this minute and adopt this adorable kitty. Well, not that the owners would let me. Bet this furry Batman is relishing all the excess attention.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
New Moon Set to Open in November
Although I don't fancy Stephenie Meyer's writing, I am still looking forward to the movie adaptation of New Moon, which hits the silver screens sometime in November of this year. Melissa Rosenberg is still at the screenplay helm, but the thing that thrills me the most is that Chris Weitz is currently directing this newest Twilight installment. No, not the boring, highly predictable Catherine Hardwicke who directed Twilight, but the guy who was behind The Golden Compass, which starred Nicole Kidman and the sultry Daniel Craig. I know the Golden Compass did not do well commercially, particularly since the atheistic themes in the film had offended a few secular groups, but quite frankly, I enjoyed it far more than the ridiculous box-office monster which was Twilight.
The werewolves make their first appearance in New Moon, and this is where the excitement really starts, if the entire saga is taken into account. This is also the part where Edward leaves Bella heartbroken and catatonic, soooo I'm really excited. I am more of a Jacob Black fan, and not really an Edward-Bella cheerleader. Well, initially, I had found their romance chilling and interesting, but it wasn't long before the thrill went kaput. The magic dissipated as quickly as it appeared. How hackneyed can Meyer get, really?
I hope Rosenberg does a good job of adapting the lousily-written book into a magical screenplay, and with Weitz at the directorial head, I expect to see none of the ugly vampire lipstick and the slothful movie pacing. In New Moon hopefully, the werewolves will get their fair share of the spotlight and steal the scene from the bloodsuckers, just this once.
The werewolves make their first appearance in New Moon, and this is where the excitement really starts, if the entire saga is taken into account. This is also the part where Edward leaves Bella heartbroken and catatonic, soooo I'm really excited. I am more of a Jacob Black fan, and not really an Edward-Bella cheerleader. Well, initially, I had found their romance chilling and interesting, but it wasn't long before the thrill went kaput. The magic dissipated as quickly as it appeared. How hackneyed can Meyer get, really?
I hope Rosenberg does a good job of adapting the lousily-written book into a magical screenplay, and with Weitz at the directorial head, I expect to see none of the ugly vampire lipstick and the slothful movie pacing. In New Moon hopefully, the werewolves will get their fair share of the spotlight and steal the scene from the bloodsuckers, just this once.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Book Review: The Witch of Portobello
For the past two days, I was reading The Witch of Portobello by Paulo Coelho. I traded books with Shakie, a good friend of mine, last Friday. In exchange for Ian Mc Ewan's Atonement, I got the Coelho book and Sarah Dunant's the Birth of Venus. I was first intrigued by Dunant's novel, but after a while I decided to postpone reading it at a more opportune time. Meanwhile, I picked up Mr. Coellho's new novel and began reading it on Friday evening.
The first page did not grip me in the same way that the first few words of the Alchemist did. Of course, I should be expecting this, after all, I never really liked the last Coelho book I had read years ago, which was By The River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept. However, I wanted to be fair with the guy- many sources refer to him as the most beloved author of our time. So I trudged along and read more.
However, just a few minutes ago, I finally dropped the book out of sheer boredom and complete frustration. To be honest, the book's content does not deserve it's illustrious title- at all. I was expecting to read a well-researched, well-paced story about a witch in the 21st century, and not the soapy tale of an adopted woman who felt herself to be, or whom the author made to be, an authority on so many things.
Clearly, I was not expecting to find rehashed sentences, cliched phrases, and endless references to the mystical and primary emotions, no matter that the novel was merely translated from the Portuguese. Now I understand why Coelho's critics had bravely accused him of grammatical errors and plagiarism.
There was nothing to look forward to in the book, in fact it had felt like I was reading Wikipedia. Besides, in the beginning of the novel, we already know that the witch, referred to as Sherine or Athena, had died. Witches and Death- could anything be more predictable? Well, there is a twist in the end but I don't think it can compensate for the blandness that this novel emanates even from the start.
The sentences furthermore, were way too simplistic, as if the audiences would care for nothing beyond the illustrious title and an author who made headlines with the Alchemist. Forgive me Coelho fans, but most of the written phrases in this novel could have easily been written by a high school student.
I know what Mr. Coelho is trying to teach us through his works: that the Divine can be manifested in Nature, that we hold the power in nurturing our dreams, and that we all have Personal Legends. As much as these tenets are inspiring and thought provoking, must he always use these themes for all his works? Of course, all authors tend to veer towards certain themes, but when we read the same sentences, the same thoughts, the same pacing through out all of their works, things could get very nauseous.
Six years ago, I read and loved the Alchemist. Now, I no longer count myself as a Coelho fan. Not until this guy writes another bestseller that's worthy of the acclaim. And the book's title.
So, Sorry Mr. Coelho.
The first page did not grip me in the same way that the first few words of the Alchemist did. Of course, I should be expecting this, after all, I never really liked the last Coelho book I had read years ago, which was By The River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept. However, I wanted to be fair with the guy- many sources refer to him as the most beloved author of our time. So I trudged along and read more.
However, just a few minutes ago, I finally dropped the book out of sheer boredom and complete frustration. To be honest, the book's content does not deserve it's illustrious title- at all. I was expecting to read a well-researched, well-paced story about a witch in the 21st century, and not the soapy tale of an adopted woman who felt herself to be, or whom the author made to be, an authority on so many things.
Clearly, I was not expecting to find rehashed sentences, cliched phrases, and endless references to the mystical and primary emotions, no matter that the novel was merely translated from the Portuguese. Now I understand why Coelho's critics had bravely accused him of grammatical errors and plagiarism.
There was nothing to look forward to in the book, in fact it had felt like I was reading Wikipedia. Besides, in the beginning of the novel, we already know that the witch, referred to as Sherine or Athena, had died. Witches and Death- could anything be more predictable? Well, there is a twist in the end but I don't think it can compensate for the blandness that this novel emanates even from the start.
The sentences furthermore, were way too simplistic, as if the audiences would care for nothing beyond the illustrious title and an author who made headlines with the Alchemist. Forgive me Coelho fans, but most of the written phrases in this novel could have easily been written by a high school student.
I know what Mr. Coelho is trying to teach us through his works: that the Divine can be manifested in Nature, that we hold the power in nurturing our dreams, and that we all have Personal Legends. As much as these tenets are inspiring and thought provoking, must he always use these themes for all his works? Of course, all authors tend to veer towards certain themes, but when we read the same sentences, the same thoughts, the same pacing through out all of their works, things could get very nauseous.
Six years ago, I read and loved the Alchemist. Now, I no longer count myself as a Coelho fan. Not until this guy writes another bestseller that's worthy of the acclaim. And the book's title.
So, Sorry Mr. Coelho.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Fashion Parade at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival
Think red carpet, photographers, and luxurious designer labels. Perhaps one of the highlights of any film festival, apart from the critically-acclaimed movies vying for the top awards, are the designer gowns donned by A-list celebrities in Hollywood-land. Well, the Cannes Festival is no exception, and this year we have quite a number of female luminaries who radiated poise and ageless grace, while a few got lost in yards of silk and sequined bombs. Here are some of my picks.
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Eva Longoria Parker in Atelier Versace
This has got to be one of my favorite looks for this year's Cannes. Despite Eva's diminutive frame, this magnificent gown did a great job of accentuating her curves, especially with the dramatic, layered bottom.
Penelope Cruz in a Marchesa gown
Penelope looks as dreamy as ever, in this lovely lilac creation. Add a winsome smile into the picture and what you get is a Spanish goddess swathed in silky drapes.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in Elie Saab
Sensual. Sophisticated. Sensational.
Hilary Swank in Armani Prive
Hilary has a beautiful, well-toned body, but with with this metallic creation, she looks uncomfortable and yes, a bit boring.
Rachel Weisz in Valentino
Is it just me or does Rachel really look ethereal in this fantastic Valentino ensemble? Her lovely, layered tresses are a great contrast to her simple yet sophisticated green evening gown.
Rosanna Arquette in a sequined dress
Ms. Arquette should get a stylist, ASAP.
Angelina Jolie in Versace and partner Brad Pitt
Angie looks completely divine in this sheer, chiffon gown by Versace. Her wavy do and sexy red lips evoke the style of old Hollywood, and with a partner as hot as Brad, what woman could go wrong?
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Infanticipating 66 Year Old: When Is Old, Too Old?
This bit of news hit me pretty hard on the head: a 66 year old divorcee, who is a resident of Lidgate, Central England, is 8 months pregnant with her first child, made possible through IVF procedures in a fertility clinic in Ukraine. Elizabeth Adeney was able to obtain donor eggs and sperm, allowing her to bear a child biologically. After a successful medical procedure in a Ukrainian clinic, she is now on her last trimester and is expecting to give birth in June, via C-section.
On The One Hand...
Of course, like the Nadya Suleman hubbub early of this year, many have found the Adeney issue quite controversial, with some groups calling the 66-year old single mother selfish and her decisions to be totally out of character. When the child turns ten, Adeney will be 77, and when the child reaches adolescence, she will be well unto her 80th year. Some medical experts in Britain fear the psychological repercussions such a decision may have on the child, especially if the child loses his/her mother at an early age. Professor Severino Antironi, a respected medical expert in Britain, even calls the act as medically criminal.
And On the Other
Elizabeth Adeney currently manages a plastics and textiles business, and is still working 5 days per week, despite her condition and her age. Ms. Adeney prefers to keep the entire thing private, stating that she is a very private person, and that her decision to bear a child at this point in her life is a personal one. According to http://news.com, she filed for divorce in 1990 and has no connections in the UK. Adeney asserts that she is healthy and that her body is fit for pregnancy and child birth.
Doctors however have grim warnings, saying that there are huge health risks stemming from late pregnancies. The health complications often range from blood clot formations to eclampsia.
Indeed, with the medical advancements made possible by technology and research nowadays, when is old too old for pregnancy and child bearing?
Discuss.
On The One Hand...
Of course, like the Nadya Suleman hubbub early of this year, many have found the Adeney issue quite controversial, with some groups calling the 66-year old single mother selfish and her decisions to be totally out of character. When the child turns ten, Adeney will be 77, and when the child reaches adolescence, she will be well unto her 80th year. Some medical experts in Britain fear the psychological repercussions such a decision may have on the child, especially if the child loses his/her mother at an early age. Professor Severino Antironi, a respected medical expert in Britain, even calls the act as medically criminal.
And On the Other
Elizabeth Adeney currently manages a plastics and textiles business, and is still working 5 days per week, despite her condition and her age. Ms. Adeney prefers to keep the entire thing private, stating that she is a very private person, and that her decision to bear a child at this point in her life is a personal one. According to http://news.com, she filed for divorce in 1990 and has no connections in the UK. Adeney asserts that she is healthy and that her body is fit for pregnancy and child birth.
Doctors however have grim warnings, saying that there are huge health risks stemming from late pregnancies. The health complications often range from blood clot formations to eclampsia.
Indeed, with the medical advancements made possible by technology and research nowadays, when is old too old for pregnancy and child bearing?
Discuss.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
The Bitter Truth: He's Just Not That Into You
Out of boredom, I was egged on by my sister to watch He's Just Not That Into You on DVD one Sunday evening. Knowing that Scar Jo and the ever-cool Jennifer Aniston were in the film, I jumped right in and enjoyed almost two hours of light romance, comedy, drama, and a subdued cinematic pleasure that served the perfect ending to my weekend.
Well, the movie centered around the dating scene, and the common issues prevalent in most relationships: fidelity, temptation, commitment, marriage, and yes, heartbreaks. He's Just Not That Into You dissects every issue confronting both daters and committed couples, and tries to present the often-conflicting perceptions of men and women when it comes to dating, love, and marriage.
While it can be relatively easy reading into the actions of someone after a date or two, or even after having spent seven years of committed relationship with them, the striking truth remains the same: people either grow together or drift apart, and while love is a universal language, it means different things to most folks.
A marriage proposal can mean love in one perception, but a lifetime of servitude in another. A casual phone call could mean something else. And if a girl/guy kisses you and sleeps with you, but doesn't want to commit, you know you're well worth more than that.
Girlfriend, if a guy you went out on a date with acts like he does not give a sh*t, he really does not give a sh*t. Not that he's too busy with paper works or gym classes, so he can't call you after a night or two.
He's Just Not That Into You.
Well, the movie centered around the dating scene, and the common issues prevalent in most relationships: fidelity, temptation, commitment, marriage, and yes, heartbreaks. He's Just Not That Into You dissects every issue confronting both daters and committed couples, and tries to present the often-conflicting perceptions of men and women when it comes to dating, love, and marriage.
While it can be relatively easy reading into the actions of someone after a date or two, or even after having spent seven years of committed relationship with them, the striking truth remains the same: people either grow together or drift apart, and while love is a universal language, it means different things to most folks.
A marriage proposal can mean love in one perception, but a lifetime of servitude in another. A casual phone call could mean something else. And if a girl/guy kisses you and sleeps with you, but doesn't want to commit, you know you're well worth more than that.
Girlfriend, if a guy you went out on a date with acts like he does not give a sh*t, he really does not give a sh*t. Not that he's too busy with paper works or gym classes, so he can't call you after a night or two.
He's Just Not That Into You.
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