Change Your Image
laviskrg
Music is essential in my life as well, and where would I be without my beloved computer, with all its wonderful games and chats?
I'm a good swimmer and I spend considerable time going to the cinema with my friends.
Phantom of the Opera did something to me. I read the book before seeing the film, and I was already in love with the character and with the idea itself.
The 2004 movie broke a wall in my heart, and ever since the day I saw the movie, there hasn't been one hour in which I haven't though about this.
Reviews
Basilisk: Kôga ninpô chô (2005)
Sublime....
This is definitely one of the best animes ever created! Beautiful, heart-breaking, expertly drawn, enrapturing and magnificent in all aspects, it is definitely worth seeing. First of all, it is a blend of so many myths and stories, of both historical and fictional origin. It is more than a love story, and more than a war story. It is the cruel, painful, yet epic tale of warriors, god-like and feared, yet vulnerable before fate, which in this case is decided by the unyielding regime of a country torn apart by war, and vulnerable before their own hearts. It contains numerous love stories that intertwine and evolve, and during its 24 episodes, the viewer learns immense quantities of information about each character, about their pasts, their dreams and aspirations, and when, in the end, all those dreams are broken and shattered, the viewer suffers along with the bleeding ninjas. Not one episode is unworthy, and not one will leave you unsatisfied, and yet, hopeful, until the very end. The end is bitter, that I have to say, and it may seem utterly unfair, but it is justified by more than a political choice. The battles are breath-taking. Some of the characters are freakish and rather unappealing, but their roles are deeply rooted and in the end, they truly matter and, one can observe, the exterior aspect will not be a mirror of the soul, in this anime. Each and every ninja is endowed with powers that amaze with their originality, inspire with their depth and frighten with their capacity. Each duel is more than a battle, it is more than a test, and the tension can be overwhelming. It is wonderful to see an anime with understandable violence, with battles fought both physically and mentally. Beside the perfect graphics, one shall not be able to ignore the blood-boiling music, marvelous and worthy of such an epic. The ending will cause pain, as will the entire series, but it will also offer some closure, as will the few but well-placed scenes of tenderness and mercy. I adore this anime and plan to watch it again some time. Knowing the ending does not spoil the journey, for there are many journeys the viewer can choose, ten for the Kouga Ninjas and another ten for the Iga Ninjas. Enjoy....
Shinobi (2005)
No, no no no no...
I gave this movie a 5 out of pure pity. My intention is not to burst anyone's bubble, because I've seen, as I've skimmed through other comments, that this movie is quite appreciated by many. Well, it is not worth any praises, and I say this because I've seen the original anime, Basilisk, and this movie shames it deeply. Perhaps if you see Shinobi alone, you could like it. It is enjoyable due to the well-choreographed battles, based on fantasy more than on martial arts, and I agree that their beauty is deeply enhanced. But the story is nothing like the original one. Now, I understand that when one transforms an anime/manga into a movie, one must make certain changes. I was not expecting to see the freakish characters from the anime, although they have a well-established role, and some are truly profound and well-designed. But I certainly did not expect to see immense and wrongly-placed changes, that basically ruin the entire story. Characters who are dramatically and unethically mutilated, transformed in something the public might love more, perhaps. For instance, Oboro, who, in the anime is a sweet, innocent girl, completely and utterly in love with Gennosuke, becomes a vengeful clan leader in the movie. I liked the fact that the woman becomes strong and evades the limitations imposed on her by the era (we are talking about Japan, 17th century), but her mood changes are unbelievable and badly written. Hotarubi, which is one of my favourite characters in the film, but who is not known for her childish and sensitive nature, becomes a pathetic little girl who is not only not madly in love like in the anime, but is more or less worthless in the plot. I could go on and on, like how they made Tenzen, the worst and most dangerous character in the anime, exceptionally weak and unattractive, or how Gennosuke, the leading character seems completely misplaced and confused, not to mention, again WEAK. The music is beautiful and the image is astounding, which was expected of a Japanese movie, and I appreciate it for that. But do not watch this if you've seen and enjoyed Basilisk, because it is just hopeless. Basilisk, although based on fantasy, with elements of horror and largely exaggerated is splendid and has so much more depth in its characters, storyline, historical value and it is, may I say, heartbreaking. Shinobi was a waste of time and I could not believe it kept on going after what was supposed to be the climax. Alas, it pains me deeply to judge a movie so harshly, but I advise you against it. Please, watch the anime, or at least watch the movie first and then repair your image of what Basilisk really is by watching the anime. Otherwise you will have a seizure when you realize how they've massacred it.
Stardust (2007)
Words cannot describe sheer perfection, but I'll give it a try...
Another fantasy movie! Or should I say, another fantastic movie! This was on my movie "hit list" ever since I saw the trailer. Another sweet old fantasy, with elite actors, amongst which the unmistakable, immortal Robert De Niro. But no, this is so much more. I can't believe that such a movie could be concocted in our present time, and what's more unbelievable is the fact that the story is in itself a masterpiece, the special effects are refreshing and used to wrap said story in a veil of immaculate detail and beauty, they are not just used to fill in the blanks. Strong female characters bring an extra sparkle to the plot, as one is a radiant beauty, confronted with the reality of a world she has always spied on, but never lived in, and the other is at the opposite side of the specter, being one of the most well-designed villains I've seen in the past few years. I haven't laughed so much in quite a significant amount of time. It was probably the scene that took place on Captain Shakespeare's ship, in the glorious rhythm of the French Can-Can, or maybe the constantly present, and forever enlarging audience of ghosts, watching the spectacle and adding tiny, but well-felt comments to the tale. The dialog was so alive, the characters moved their lips and spoke with a clear purpose, that of telling their own stories, of helping you see and feel everything a little better. This movie will make you laugh, but it will also make you cry, and learn. It contains one of the most significant monologues regarding love, and the numerous symbols used to portray this immensely crucial, but nowadays under-appreciated power have managed to bring me to tears. Watch this movie, and understand it. A metaphor for the meaning of life, and a reason to actually come down from the skies in which we all wonder sometimes, and live, and it is all disguised in a modern-day children's film. Everything, starting from the perfect image, stunning landscapes, tangible, inspiring characters, well-thought and chiseled story, to the music, plot and moral-filled ending, will make you shine all throughout this great work of art!
Rome (2005)
Nothing less than the absolute best!
Personally, I've always been a fan of the Roman culture, of history, great battles, great rulers, dramatic wars, rises and falls of an empire. The crude realities of our society have not really changed throughout the ages. This ample subject has been the core of many movies and TV series, many of those successful and grand. But ROME, in my opinion is utterly flawless, and possibly, the best. The first aspect one observes is its impeccable originality. The main focus of this remarkable series is the lives of two Roman soldiers, their families, their dramas and joys. Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo have actually existed in real life. I was impressed by the thorough research that created the basis for the story. But what really strikes the viewer is the perfect story line, that stays loyal to historical reality, and the capacity to engulf these two, seemingly common soldiers, into events of epic proportions. Each episode is basically a story on its own, and they all chain together to paint the violent and bloody picture of a town, an empire, its people. Rome is shown in all its vibrant beauty, with its arrogant, majestic side, but also with its dark, cruel, and evil face, the two being in constant conflict, and yet, bound together be the need of survival. Blood flows through the streets of Rome, whether in the markets, brothels and sewers, or in the richly decorated villas of the nobles or the great Senate. And as this two-faced city, the series' two seasons complete each other. There is nothing lost in the second season, the drama intensifies to painful levels, as all the remaining characters grow spiritually and head for their destinies. A marvelous delight for the senses, for the spirit. An epic work of art, blessed with sublime images, enrapturing music, strong messages and ideas. The great battles, although not the main focus, are of course present, artistically crafted, but with no less realism than the original. You will be transported, and you will participate in those battles, with your own sword and shield, with the gorgeous armor and helmets, or with your soul, it is entirely up to you. The characters are powerful figures, but humans, nonetheless. Humans with qualities and faults. Humans who cannot survive alone in a sea of blood and violence, much like today. There is nothing missing from ROME: friendship, love, drama, the path to maturity, the excruciating sacrifices that have to be made for honor and the ascent to greatness, loyalty, betrayal, hatred, suffering, and yet, the message that even in the darkest hours, one must turn to their friends and loved ones, and one must fight for the right cause, or for the cause in which he believes in. In conclusion, this is a series you must not miss for the world. HBO really proved their worth with this one, creating new standards in this ever-expanding business. So embrace this immense show of life, and enjoy! SALVE!
Erufen rîto (2004)
the best, most beautiful anime ever created
I've seen Elfen Lied in 3 days. At first I wanted to organize a marathon, but in the end, I am glad I chose to see it in 3 separate days, it helps the information sink in. This is, in my opinion, the best anime ever created. It is an enchanting mixture of drama, comedy, horror, SF and of course, everything is embraced by a wonderful, but heart-breaking love story. The characters are so complex and so powerful, that after a few episodes, you abandon your true persona and start living as they do, start feeling as they do, and their burdens and joys make your heart pulse. Lucy/Nyu is the mainspring of this glorious story, her anger and her strength make her a true goddess, but her feeling and inner burden still classifies her as human. I loved her ever-changing personality, and the outcome of it all. She is accompanied by Nana(who shares a similar secret), Kouta, Yuka and Mayu, and other equally important characters, either masterminds, or puppets, or victims of fate. All these masterfully-created people make this story splendid. As for physical aspects, all the characters are very beautiful, the graphic is excellent, and the color-light effects are well-thought. The music caught my attention from the very beginning, when the opening lighted up the screen. The main theme "Lilium" is repeated throughout the series, and this particular song has been blessed with notable importance in the story line. Despite the fact that it is a sublime, gorgeous story, it is also sad, heart-wrecking, and unfair. But in the end, the feeling within is still warm, and the tears that you might shed are both sad and happy. I wish you all a great time viewing this marvel of an anime. O castitatis lilium!
Ultraviolet (2006)
great effects, great actress, horrible movie
I am a huge fan of SF, action, kick-ass, martial arts, futuristic movies. But this was a disgrace. It was a disgrace to the genre, it was a black point for Milla who is a fantastic actress with great physique and style. What struck me was that this movie tried to make a combination of Equilibrium, Matrix, Aeon Flux and Elektra. But these 4 movies are works of art, they are artistic, well-thought, genius movies. This one, on the other hand is pathetic. The effects were cool, I loved them, but a movie is not all about the effects. The storyline was zero, it barely had a subject, and the plot was poor. All the characters lacked depth, their histories were shadowed, their inner feelings, personalities and souls were ignored completely. The film doesn't explain much at all. You see some people interacting with each other and that's it. You take that and leave the cinema disappointed. But these are only half of the problems. I love movies with tough heroes, cool bad guys, obsessed villains, rough criminals, etc. I adore them. But I also like to see and feel these characters. And I want them believable and human. Milla's character lacked any human quality. And the speech she had about her being a titan, bla bla bla, that was so out of place, and it really made her look stupid. One moment she kills everyone, than the second moment she is all maternal and peaceful, or she wants to kill herself. It may seem okay, but if you consider things closely as you watch the movie, it proves to be a huge inaccuracy in the normal way of things. Also, warriors exist, and warriors in movies are always cool. But no one is that perfect, that fast, that resourceful, that damn good. No flaw, no nothing. This was what took credibility from the movie. The dialog is much too poor. It felt as if those lines were just thrown around, without much sense. The battles, I guess were better, but they were fake. Martial arts? No. Cos in martial arts, you get to see and understand the movements. The weapons were cool, very futuristic, but of course, only Milla's. Because all the others couldn't stand a bloody chance. Sword fights should look like art, they should be beautiful first of all. Of course, the purpose of one is to defend yourself and kill the opponent, but this is the outcome, not the entire battle. When I saw Violet standing completely surrounded by soldiers and then, the next second they were all dead, I knew I couldn't expect anything serious. Well, there will be some who will enjoy this film. As I said, the effects are awesome, but a movie also need plot, characters and storyline. Anyone could have made this film if they had enough cash to cover all the blue screens and the tech guys who make the effects. And anyone could have played in it also, cos anyone can look tough and say a few tough lines. But not everyone can make you feel the movie, make you live it.
Siu Lam juk kau (2001)
a fantastic movie!
WOW! That was all I could say after I saw it. Stephen Chow is truly a splendid director, and an awesome actor as well. Not to mention of course, that his martial arts style is unique and special. When the movie started, I didn't know what to think. I had heard it was a comedy, but the beginning doesn't suggest it at all. However, after the dramatic opening, comes the real beginning, the start of the adventure. The story is well designed, believable and convincing and the characters will prove to be very complex. I loved the way comedy combined with drama and action. But what truly amazed me were the stunts and the martial arts. The special effects make the already impressive and beautiful art of Kung Fu look even more awe-inducing and fantastic. The ending was good and sweet, but also extremely artistic. Overall, I would say this is a fantastic movie, and I recommend it to both sports and kung fu lovers alike. This movie will make you happy, sad at some parts, but it will also make you understand. At the end, I am sure you will bear a big smile.
Akira (1988)
this is a brilliant movie, a Japanese work of art
It would be futile to say that I loved Akira. The term "love" is far below what I felt when I first saw this magnificent Japanese manga. It happened when I was 8 years old. I had rented it, and the tape was black and white and in French. I knew a little French, but still... I rented that movie for two weeks, and during those 2 weeks, Akira was the only thing I watched. I watched it over and over, non stop, that means, I rewound it over and over again. What can I say, I became addicted to that movie. Now, I finally got it in English, and I have to say everything has enlightened. Akira is a very special film. Yes, it is full of blood, and yes, it may appeal mostly to gore addicts, but do not misunderstand. Akira is full of philosophy, drama and action. It is an excellent display of human emotion. However, it's depth will be observed and understood if the person watching knows how to relate to the facts and the characters, and also has patience to see the whole film and then mix it around in his head. This film is extremely appealing and it will intrigue you. The music is great, the rhythms and the occasional "bangs" will help you feel everything better. The characters are complex and do not be fooled by the similarity to regular teenagers. They are human beings capable of many deeds. Finally, this film excels as a Science-fiction thriller, and its story is not as far-fetched as it may seem at the beginning. I recommend this manga to all manga/anime fans, but also to anyone who wants to experience something between "an already used idea" and "a unique film creation".
Ying xiong (2002)
the movie that made my life complete
It is a very uncommon thing for me to be rendered speechless. But this spectacular Chinese masterpiece has certainly succeeded. It is the kind of movie that keeps you breathless until the end and afterwards, it makes you a part of the story, it shows you a totally different world, and you immediately see yourself out there, on the endless plains of China, or on the mirror-like lake, defying gravity and fighting a mystical battle, full of lust and technique. The story is over-whelming, it consists out of many unpredictable twists and turns, it gives the viewer a different perspective of life and its meanings. The plot, I believe, is very complex, and therefore, it can be slightly confusing, but, it remains breath-taking and magical. You will notice the "Story in a story " effect, as historical reality mixes with mystical fiction and with a heart-braking love story. The characters are magnificently build, extremely complex and very human, despite the almost unearthly battles they live. You will notice the depth of Jet Li's character, and the young Zhang Ziyi, although not in the center of attention, gives her character a touch of passion. The martial arts featured in this film are an entity. They live through the characters, and they transmit a unique message. There are some elements from "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", but this movie is superior in any way possible. The effects used are ground-shaking. Try to imagine a sky filled with raging arrows, or a battle through falling leaves, that engulf the fighters like a tornado. Pay special attention to the philosophy, for if this film were a book, the philosophical meanings would be waiting on every single page. Many Chinese ideas and traditions are shown here, in a unique manor. Finally, the music is perfect for portraying all of the above. It flows through your mind and body while you see this film, and you can envisage every note, every sound, while focusing on the many jumps, attacks and counter-attacks. I recommend this work of art to all martial arts-action-drama lovers, but I think its message will strike deep in everybody's hearts, no matter the preferences, age or general views.
The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
perfection
The Phantom of the Opera(2004) is one of the greatest movies ever made. Actually, its predecessors have been good too, but the newest, in my opinion, reaches perfection. Gerry Butler is, indeed, a magnificent Phantom, and Emmy Rossum, although very young, excels as Christine Daae. This movie made me cry, it impressed me beyond words, and the music still floats inside my soul. Although different than the book, and perhaps the original play, this film keeps the essence, the beautiful love story, and the musical motives. Gerard Butler is such an awesome presence on the screen, that you feel him right there, beside you. The music, and the way it is sung by these talented actors, manages to absorb you, and, somehow, change the very fabric of your soul. Maybe this happens because it describes a Gothic love story, that combines fiction with our own little reality. In my opinion, this is the most important musical ever made, a sublime work of art, proving that art and love won't ever perish. I recommend it to all, and I hope everyone will love this story forever.
Angels in America (2003)
angels in America - work of art
Of course I liked Angels in America. I absolutely loved it! It has definitely become my favorite TV miniseries. Being a great fan of Al Pacino, I was expecting something big. And I was 100% right. But this time, all the actors made a great difference with their roles. Why did I like it so much? First of all, the story is great. It's unique. I don't want to spoil anything for those who haven't seen this series, so I won't insist on it. From my point of view, the most impressive thing is the coexistence of philosophy, politics and religion. Together, they make one great whole, and this is Angels in America, and its purpose. Al Pacino can be seen in one of his greatest roles ever, the well known lawyer Roy Cohn. He could be called, in a way, a "devil's advocate". I loved the Angel played by Emma Thompson. She can be confused, angry, demanding, extrovert, or even peaceful and gentile. This film made me realize that, perhaps, all is not as it seems, neither in Heaven, nor on Earth. Last, but not least, I would like to say that the music is fantastic, and it can be heard throughout the episodes, especially at the most tensioned moments. Maybe my comments aren't that professional, but all I can say is that "Angels in America", a real TV play deserves respect and love.