Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Romantic, Humurous, and Cinematic All At Once: Hello, Love, Goodbye

Romantic, Humorous, and Cinematic All At Once A FILM REVIEW ON ‘’HELLO, LOVE, GOODBYE’

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(courtesy of Star Cinema)
Meanne M. Mijares
“Love between man and woman cannot be built without sacrifices and self-denial.”
– Pope John Paul II, Love and Responsibility
Cast
Kathryn Bernardo as Joy
Alden Richards as Ethan
Jameson Blake as Edward
Maymay Entrata as Mary Dale
Kakai Bautista as Sally
Joross Gamboa as Jhim
Lovely Abella as Gina
Jeffrey Tam as Carlo
Maxine Medina as Tanya
Jerome Ponce as JM
Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan as Lita
William Lorenzo as Celso
Lito Pimentel as Mario
Director Cathy Garcia-Molina
Screenplay Carmi S. Raymundo and Cathy Garcia-Molina
Distributed by Star Cinema
Rating PG
STORY
I describe it as a heartwarming story that pays tribute to our Overseas Filipino Workers’ (OFW) kababayans and the featured characters here are millennial.
Diligent and selfless Joy works as a Hong Kong domestic helper (DH). To add up to her earnings, she also actively involved in her buy-and-sell business every Sunday at the Central, and even takes on a second job at night as a waitress. She hustles day in and out just to provide for her family back in the Philippines.
She needs funds not only to send back home, but also to finance her dream of flying off to Canada to practice nursing, her original course.
When she met and fell in love with free-spirited Ethan, an enigmatic bartender, she was faced with a dilemma whether to stay for love, or leave to follow her dreams of a much better life and future for her family. As a bartender, Ethan prepares drinks and juggles women with hardly any regard for making deeper connections.
Because of her intense dedication to her family, she becomes a miserable person solely focused on fulfilling her dreams of putting her family back together again. Even if she was in the company of her eccentric fellow DH friends, Joy barely smiled as a no-nonsense workaholic where she valued every second of the day was spent in the quest of earning her keep.
Alden as Ethan was actually deglamorized in such a way he did not exactly look like the Alden of Aldub fame. Even then, though, the camera adores his face to the point that there was hardly any angle to him no matter how simple his clothes look or how desolate his hair is. Though unexpected, the team-up delivered with a rom-com that has just the right slice of life on top. Kathryn’s serious side is just the right foil to Alden’s cheeky behavior, and this push and pull makes for great banter and participating discourse.
Because Kathryn was always in serious heavy drama mode practically all throughout the film, it was up to Alden to stir up the romance part of the reckoning. This movie was actually more of a vehicle for Alden to showcase his flexibility in acting to a new set of Kapamilya supporters who were not quite too familiar with him and his body of work before. He was really the one who lightened up the mood of the heavy scenes with his comic jaunts. On the other end, he was also very in force in those touching heavy dramatic scenes with his family, as well as those scenes where Ethan was trying to convince Joy to stay with him in Hong Kong.
This movie has a beautiful cinematography, indeed! As with other Filipino rom-coms, the romantic musical soundtrack also set the proper mood of their scenes. Director Cathy Garcia-Molina is really a certified expert on how to produce romantic quivers and trembles between her actors. No matter how tawdry the lines may seem on paper, when you hear them spoken in the actual scene, they work so marvelously!
The title of the film itself already pretty much gave us an essence of the story, but we keep on to enjoy the chemistry of Kathryn and Alden as a new love team,  as well as to find out what Joy’s final decision was going to be concerning her dilemma.
The story also brought to life the various real problems that our OFWs experience in Hong Kong, especially with regards to sacrificing family unity and jeopardizing illegal activities for their dreams of acquiring material wealth. This is a movie that tells us that there are tough choices we need to make, and these choices need to be respected in the name of love.
Hello, Love, Goodbye didn’t have any scene that was unnecessary or unwarranted. As I write this review, I see myself remembering the standout scenes and how each one made me feel. It’s truly a blessing when a film has that effect on its viewers, I must say.
This film made me feel a gamut of emotions that after watching it, I find it quite hard to process my own feelings. In fact, I tried to recall my favorite scenes—and there are too many to count!
It reminds me of another great film about OFWs that came out two decades ago—Anak, which starred Vilma Santos, Carlo Aquino and Claudine Barretto. Like Anak, Hello, Love, Goodbye depicts the plight of our Filipino migrant workers—the troubles they encounter, the sadness of being away from family, the sacrifices they have to make to be able to give their families back home a better life, and the anxiety it puts on their families. This film is lighter focusing more on the love blossoming between Joy and Ethan.
Also, the story was brilliant. There are so many quotable quotes from this movie! Here are some that I would like to share:
“And for a while, time just stops.”
“Hindi kita gusto, eh. I love you.”
“Pero gusto kita, eh. So sorry, I don’t love you.”
“Hindi pwede magkaroon ng ‘us’. May hinahabol pa akong future para sa pamilya ko.”
“Kung mahal mo ako, bakit hindi ako yung piliin mo, Joy?”
“Kung mahal mo ako, bakit pinapapili mo ako?”
To be honest, I was pleasantly surprised at the unique chemistry between Kathryn and Alden. I already saw it in the film’s trailer, but seeing the entire film made me conclude that they are indeed proof that two people don’t actually have to be in a relationship to create that special kind of magic onscreen!  Unexpectedly, the team-up delivered with a rom-com that has just the right slice of life on top. Kathryn’s serious side is just the right foil to Alden’s cheeky demeanor, and this push and pull makes for great banter and engaging dialogue.
This film makes viewers see Kathryn in a new light. She proves yet again that she is a credible and competent actress. Kathryn can truly shine on her own. She was believable and real as Joy. She didn’t just portray Joy. She WAS Joy. She will always be remembered as Joy.
Alden is a good actor who takes his work very seriously. He proves that yet again in this movie. I love how he can so gracefully switch between comedy and drama. Like Kathryn, he completely personified his role as Ethan. His acting was subtle. I could feel his every emotion just by watching him—his playful interactions with Joy, how his love for Joy grew, his gnawing frustration at the things he could do nothing about, his patience every time things didn’t go his way. The two actors are known for their lighthearted romances, but they handled this one with such a degree of maturity and dedication, and it matches them very well.
CONCLUSION
The film Hello Love Goodbye examines the trials and sacrifices of Overseas Filipino Workers in foreign lands. It shows how responsibilities and commitments can bring two people together, but it can also drive them apart. What I love in this movie is that no one overacted here. It made it so easy for the viewers to just follow the story without disruptions. It is also very touching and inspiring as well.
The film also casts light on many things you might not expect to learn from a rom-com. Here are life lessons that are worth sharing:
There’s something more about Hong Kong
In between the shiny glass and steel beams and fascinating skyscrapers, is a Hong Kong scene that’s very much alive, filled with pockets of people hard at work carrying the city’s burden on their shoulders. It’s not as classy or as lustrous, but this humane side of Hong Kong shows the city from a whole new standpoint.
The saying When in Rome, do as the Romans do apply here.
In the film, we see Filipinos adjusting to a way of life that’s very different from what they’re used to back home. For most Filipino staff and domestic helpers, it means learning a new language just to communicate and getting breaks only on Sundays. They also have to learn the names of new streets and plot a course of the landscape of an unknown city. It also adds a certain degree of maturity in their character development.
The OFWs struggles are real!
There are no words to properly capture how difficult it really is to be an OFW, and a domestic helper in this film to be clear. Joy, along with her fellow Filipino workers, often gets into fights with her foreign employers and is only permitted breaks on Sundays. She’s not allowed to do freelancing work outside of being a domestic helper and she has been separated from her family for years, without any tinge of appreciation and understanding given in exchange for all the sacrifices she has made just to provide for them.
There are some people worth the risk.
You meet someone in your life and you’ve given it all only to get your heart broken and battered. It only makes sense for you to be fearful of giving love another shot, going as far as to say you’ll never fall in love again, but then all of a sudden you meet someone totally fascinating and captivating and for a moment, you consider giving them a chance. Hurt and clutter from past relationships can weigh anyone down, but closing doors on possibilities is even woeful and might cause regret later on.
It’s never too late to turn things around.
Ethan and Joy were baffled for a point in time until they finally decided to do what they have always wanted to do. Changing habits is a difficult path to plod, but both of them do realize that if they really want to get somewhere, they have to change their mindsets and get to the bottom of things.
Career over Love
I am not saying choosing one over the other is always right, but as Kathryn asked in the film, “Kung mahal mo ko, bakit pinapapili mo ‘ko?” There are points in your life you might not be able to get everything you want, but it’s all a matter of carefully evaluating your options and going for whichever your heart desires.
Clarity and communication is important in relationships
Every relationship needs an adjustment, especially when it comes to communicating. Otherwise, there would be a meltdown! And no matter how clear you think you are, there are times when you might need to be even more up-front —as our protagonists Ethan and Joy learn the hard way.
Choosing yourself is not always selfish.
Times can get tough and for some, they hold it out for their loved ones or other important people to them. In the case of Joy, there was hardly a day in her life when she thought of herself. There’s this investment in being selfless to a fault but it prompts the question, “When do you choose yourself?” It can be easy to get used to give precedence to other people, but it’s not bad at all to, for once, think about what you want, what you truly deserve and what you see for yourself.
Overall, I give the film a perfect score of 5 stars!


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Thursday, August 1, 2019

Surrendering to God through Decluttering

http://www.filcatholic.org/decluttering-your-homes-ignacios-way-de-cluttering-means-surrendering-reducing-our-possessions-and-simplifying-our-lives/
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Wednesday, June 26, 2019

MAKE HER KNOWN CELEBRATING THE FEAST OF OUR MOTHER OF PERPETUAL HELP

MAKE HER KNOWN CELEBRATING THE FEAST OF OUR MOTHER OF PERPETUAL HELP ICON OF LOVE

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By Meanne M. Mijares
Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Baclaran houses the famous and biggest shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help in the world and its revered icon. It is one of the most popular and phenomenal Catholic devotions in the country, next to Jesus, the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila and aside from the Holy Rosary. The church is filled to the brim with so many people hearing mass at every hour, attending the weekly Wednesday novena, lighting assorted candles at the candle chapel, praying in quiet corners holding their rosaries, novenas and stampitas, crying while others are walking towards the main altar using their knees withstanding the pain through it all not to mention touching the tabernacle. I have seen devotees, rich and poor, famous celebrities and ordinary folk, board exam takers, writing their petitions and dropping them off in a big box while some are putting letters of thanksgiving in another box as well. This scene would always come to mind as I recall visiting the shrine with my family in 2002.
It is the only shrine in Metro Manila that is open 24/7/365 or 366 to its fervent devotees, including its Adoration Chapel. In most Catholic churches and homes, there is an image of the Mother of Perpetual Help and copies of novenas which are being held every Wednesday.
The faith of the devotees is amazingly strong indeed. People within or outside Metro Manila come in droves for their panata or vow to visit the shrine every Wednesday or any other day to express their thanksgiving for the answered prayers they have received while others are confident that their requests (spiritual and temporal) will be granted by Our Lord through His Mother’s intercession. The Shine receives 1,432 petition letters and 232 thanksgiving letters on a monthly basis. The number of devotees visiting the shine kept on increasing by the day, even reaching up to 500,000!
I remember my late grandmother taught me to pray this novena and practice this devotion while growing up, which I still do even to this day. What piqued my curiosity is the icon. I was strongly drawn to it. The story behind the miraculous image is very fascinating. I kept on bugging my Lola Meding (Remedios) about it. But she kept on telling me to have recourse to our Lady in all our needs. Before she passed away in June 23, 1988, she gave me a copy of the novena which I will always cherish though I have purchased a new copy. Our Lady was kind enough to help me find out to know the back story and the description of the icon which I now share it with you.
A merchant from the island of Crete got the picture of the Blessed Mother from one of the churches there and hid it among his personal belongings and embarked on a sailing vessel. During the voyage, a terrible storm arose and raged so fiercely that the ship was in danger. The sailors, unaware that the miraculous picture was on board, prayed to God and the Blessed Mother to save them. Their prayers were answered and the boat safely reached the port.
Devotees of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Baclaran Church, Paranaque City
A year later, the merchant went to Rome with the picture. He suddenly became very ill and asked his Roman friend who hosted him for a final request. He told him about the picture that he had taken from a certain church. The merchant explained where he had hidden the picture and instructed the Roman host to place it in a church so it could be venerated. After the merchant’s death, the Roman got the picture and took it home. His wife saw the painting and told him not to part with it. He placed it in their bedroom where it remained for almost a year. The Blessed Virgin appeared to him twice and asked him to bring the image to a more honorable place but failed to address Her request. For the third time, She appeared to the Roman and asked him the same thing and warned him that if he did not take heed to Her request, he will die. The man got frightened. He told his wife about the vision and begged her to take the picture to a church. But his wife refused and allowed his wife to have her way. For the fourth time, Our Lady appeared to the Roman and told him that since he has preferred to obey his wife instead of Her, he shall die, that She may find a more honorable place. With this warning, the Roman suddenly fell very ill and died after a short while. The Blessed Virgin then appeared to the six-year old daughter of the couple and told her, “Go to your mother and grandmother and say to them, the Holy Mary of Perpetual Help bids you to take Her from your home, otherwise you will both die suddenly.” The child’s mother got frightened when she heard this message and since she had a similar vision, she realized that she had been the cause of her husband’s death. A neighbor, who saw her weeping because of her disobedience to the Holy Mother of God told her that it was foolish to believe in such things and advised her to burn the picture. That same evening, the neighbor upon returning home was suddenly attacked by a strange malady but because he repented, she was cured immediately.
For the second time, the Blessed Virgin appeared to the little girl and told her to tell her mother to put the picture to St. Mary Major and St. John Lateran in the one dedicated to St. Matthew the Apostle. Now finally convinced, the widow saw the miracles she had seen brought the picture to the said church and was taken care of by the Augustinian friars.
The day happen to fall on a Holy Wednesday-a day which special indulgence could be gained by visiting the church, so many people were present to see the holy image brought to the shrine chosen by the Blessed Virgin Herself. On that very same day, a man whose right arm was paralyzed touched this same day, was instantly cured. With this miracle, confidence in the Mother of Perpetual Help was immediately inspired.
Since then, on a daily basis, large crowds flock to the Church on the Esquiline Hill and there a tablet beside the miraculous picture they read how the Blessed Virgin Mary Herself had chosen the sanctuary of Her shrine and gave Herself the title of Holy Mary of Perpetual Help. Nobody knows what the title of Miraculous Picture of the Mother of Perpetual Help.
The name of the image has spread throughout the entire Christian world. Practically unknown in the 1800’s today it is seen and loved and venerated everywhere and in our days have been granted by Our Lady when invoked under this title.
When the Redemptorist Fathers came to the Philippines in 1906, they put up Her shrine in Baclaran, Manila. Here, they have an authentic copy of the miraculous picture in Rome.
The Baclaran Church which houses the shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Paranaque City
DESCRIPTION OF THE ICON
The original picture of Our Mother of Perpetual Help is painted on a gold background. It is very impressive and must have been the work of a devout and skillful artist. The style, which is Grecian or Byzantine proves that it must have come from the East. Experts agree that it must have been painted in the 13th or 14th century. The painting shows our Blessed Mother in a half figure holding Her Divine Son with Her left arm and drawing Him closer to Her to assure Him of Her protection. Our Lord Jesus, in full figure, is afraid and tightly holds her right hand with His two little hands. Our Blessed Mother’s eyes are gazing upon the devotees with a loving but earnest expression and seems to express her soul’s anguish at the suffering of Her Son, Jesus. Inscriptions are written on either side of her head. There are four Greek letters which are the first and last letters of the Greek words, Mother of God. Our Lord Jesus as an Infant has one of His sandals on while the other hangs loose. Over His left shoulders are seen the letters ICXC the first and last letters for two Greek words means Jesus Christ. Two angels bearing the instruments has the initial letters in Greek which means Michael the Archangel, presents the lance, reed and sponge to the Holy Child which signals His future passion and death on the Cross, while the one on the left holds up before His gaze, four nails and a Cross, with two beams as well as the tablet of the inscription; above him are the initials in Greek which stands for Gabriel the Archangel.    
Loving Mother, help us and pray for us!
References:
To know more about the history of the miraculous icon, you may check out this link:
Here are lists of to-do’s for the devotees while they are visiting the shrine:
Here is some trivia to add a little flavorful spice to the Baclaran phenomenon:
Here are some of the testimonials gathered from the devotees that are truly worth sharing:
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Monday, June 10, 2019

5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS IN THE MONTH OF JUNE

http://www.filcatholic.org/5-ways-to-celebrate-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus-in-the-month-of-june/
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Monday, June 3, 2019

CELEBRATING FRIENDSHIPS WITH MAN'S BEST FRIEND ANEW WITH A DOG'S JOURNEY

A TEAR-JERKING SEQUEL ON EMPATHY AND PERSEVERANCE FILM REVIEW ON A DOG’S JOURNEY

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Meanne M. Mijares
Cast
Marg Helgenberger as Hannah
Betty Gilpin as Gloria
Henry Lau as Trent
Kathryn Prescott as CJ
Dennis Quaid as Ethan
Josh Gad as Bailey, Molly, Big Dog and Max
Directed by  Gail Mancuso 
Screenplay by W. Bruce Cameron & Cathryn Michon and Maya Forbes & Wally Wolodarsky 
Based on the novel by W. Bruce Cameron 
Distributed by Universal Pictures/ Entertainment One Films
Rating PG
Story
A Dog’s Journey is the sequel to 2017’s sentimental A Dog’s Purpose (which I have also reviewed for FilCatholic also in the same year), both of which are based on W. Bruce Cameron’s best-selling books about a dog that has come back to life over and over again with the purpose of finding a particular human being to defend and unconditionally love. This time around, Ethan encourages his beloved dying dog, Bailey to return to find his granddaughter, Clarity June (CJ).  I am happy to report that there is less violence in this film, but there is still an alcoholic, neglectful parent (this time a mother) and an abusive boyfriend who literally crashes intentionally into his ex-girlfriend on. Another boyfriend is verbally belittling and seizes his girlfriend. And yes, of course the central dog dies – about four times (an elderly St. Bernard/Australian shepherd mix, a female beagle, a mastiff,   a Yorkshire terrier)because of sickness, old age, and accidents. But here, couples don’t do much more than hug and kiss, and language is passive (“idiot,” “stupid”). As in the first movie, there are strong messages about compassion and friendship, as well as the power of having a pet with whom we, humans share unconditional love.
Positive Messages
There are strong messages about the life-changing bond, unconditional love, and connection between dogs and their humans. It reminded me again of Cookie, her daughter Chloe, her sister Miranda, her grandchildren Hugo and Heidi, then Samantha, her mother Gay, our rescued dog Tyra, our first family dog, Boogie, Boldie, Janjan and Gabon how much I love and cherish them so as I am  increasingly enjoying the bond I have now with Gabriel and King (a parvovirus survivor). The film upholds the thought that people aren’t meant to go through life all by themselves and that they’re even happier and more fulfilled with both human partners and animal friends.
Positive Role Models
Ethan and Hannah are truly wonderful role models: kind, helpful, disciplined, loving as they both were in the first movie, “A Dog’s Purpose”. They both take good care of Bailey and CJ. Bailey, who gets reincarnated as Molly, Big Dog and Max always believes his/her purpose is to defend, protect, and love his/her human companions, never ceases looking for or protecting his/her human. CJ is lonely at times but loves her dog and her best friend, Trent, who’s supportive, generous and very encouraging. Gloria is an intoxicating and neglectful mother but eventually comes into her senses then takes charge and asks for pardon.
Violence
On various occasions, a dog passes on. In one particularly painful scene, which is quite heartbreaking for me, is when Bailey dies in Ethan’s arms receiving a euthanizing shot. Another version of Bailey as Molly dies in an accident while others die of old age. An abusive boyfriend deliberately smashes into his ex-girlfriend’s car. Another boyfriend is verbally condescending, snatches his girlfriend. An older adult dies hemmed in by people (and pet) he loves. A boozy mom is negligent, leaving her daughter to fend for herself most of the time. A girl is terrified of a storm, distressed that her mother isn’t around to comfort her.
Sex
A married couple embraces each other, dances and briefly kisses which is normal. What I find intolerable and distasteful is that teens make out in a car. From Bailey’s viewpoint, a young couple “licks each other’s faces” — like Ethan and Hannah used to when they were younger. At one point, Bailey relates, “They look like they want to lick each other.”
Language
Intermittent language includes a few uses of “idiot,” “dumb,” and “stupid.” Gloria tosses the word “chubby” like an insult. “Oh my God” is used as an expletive.  
Drinking & Drugs
There is the presence of Gloria, who’s nearly most of the time shown in the movie holding a glass of wine or a cocktail in her hand. She’s clearly an alcoholic and is often blitzed. Shane is evidently a drug dealer — he trades cash for small packets at a party!
CONCLUSION
This sentimental sequel is a fitting homage to the durable bond between dogs and their human best friends. Veteran TV director Gail Mancuso continues Lasse Hallstrom’s emotional touch with the story, which shifts from focusing on Ethan to CJ. The CJ plot is less violent than younger Ethan’s, but it’s still filled with heartbreak, a parent’s substance exploitation, grief, and seclusion (save for all-time friend Trent). Betty Gilpin, I must say, is well cast as a selfish, disinterested mother Gloria who cares more about warning her daughter about the dangers of getting “chubby” than actually parenting her. Kathryn Prescott is credible as a vulnerable, unfulfilled young woman whose utmost comfort has always come from her beloved dog. And Henry Lau is almost too good to be true as the heartfelt adult version of Trent. Josh Gad’s voice is eager and steadfast as the many personifications of Bailey, and, unlike in the first film, A Dog’s Journey, movie goers stay with the same family of dog owners throughout the story (with the exception of one fast detour, though). This movie absolutely and efficiently tugs right at the heartstrings, so pet lovers in particular should expect a lot of tears to flow at the numerous fond and sensitive moments between CJ and Ethan and their dogs. There’s even a subplot about one of the dogs being able to reveal cancer by scent alone, an aptitude a dog can also later show — with life-saving outcomes. For dog lovers, this is a movie that avows the connection between humans and dogs; for others, it’s a saccharine take on some grave matters. 
Overall, I give a rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars. Or should I say paws.

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Sunday, May 26, 2019

YOUR WISH IS MY COMMAND! A FILM REVIEW ON ALADDIN 2019

A MAGICAL STORY OF COURAGE AND INTEGRITY FILM REVIEW ON ALADDIN

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Meanne M. Mijares
“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”
 Proverbs 11:3 (NIV)
“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:32 (NIV)
Directed by      Guy Ritchie
Produced by    Dan Lin/Jonathan Eirich
Screenplay by   John August/Guy Ritchie
Based on Disney’s Aladdin by Ron Clements, John Musker, Ted Elliott, Terry Rossio
Aladdin and the Magic Lamp from One Thousand and One Nights
Starring           
Will Smith (Genie)
Mena Massoud (Aladdin)
Naomi Scott (Princess Jasmine)
Marwan Kenzari (Jafar)
Navid Negahban (The Sultan)
Nasim Pedrad (Dalia)
Billy Magnussen (Prince Anders)
Music by Alan Menken
Cinematography Alan Stewart
Edited by James Herbert
Production company Walt Disney Pictures
Distributed by Walt Disney Studios
Rating: PG
Aladdin is Disney’s live-action remake of the 1992 animated classic. As with previous adaptations like Dumbo, Jungle Book, and Beauty and the Beast, there are many computer-generated special effects, including the creepy Cave of Wonders and co-stars Will Smith as the huge, comedic, blue-ish magical Genie. The effects and the live-action factor comprise perilous scenes feel more more intense than ever than it was in the cartoon. There are chases, falls, and near death experiences, as well as one confirmed fatality when the villain Jafar pushes a man down to a dark well. The cave falls to pieces and vomits lava, a giant bird chases the characters, guards are armed with weapons, and there are references to dead parents. Language is very mild, with just a few insults along the lines of “street rat”; characters seduce and kiss, and Genie throws back a couple of martinis. What I like about the new stars Mena Massoud (Aladdin) and Naomi Scott (Jasmine) is that they were able to keep the spirit of the original animated feature and has a touch of female liberation and equality to sending appropriate messages about friendship, courage, integrity, and honesty.
THE STORY
ALADDIN is about the mischievous street rascal Aladdin (Mena Massoud) and his adventures or misadventures. On the busy streets of Agrabah, Aladdin meets a beautiful young woman who says she’s a royal dama but in truth the kingdom’s cloistered Princess Jasmine (Naomi Scott). Meanwhile, the sultan’s megalomaniac vizier, Jafar (Marwan Kenzari), finds someone worthy to enter the legendary Cave of Wonders to dig up a special lamp that’s hidden inside. When Aladdin and his companion monkey, Abu, snitch into the palace grounds to find their new friend, Jafar captures Aladdin, reveals that the “handmaiden” is none other than the princess, and orders the younger man to get the lamp. What Jafar doesn’t count on is Aladdin himself unbridling the lamp’s power: a big blue genie (Will Smith), who’s guaranteed to accord him three wishes. With the Genie’s aid, Aladdin becomes “Prince Ali of Ababwa” to pursue the lovely Princess Jasmine.
EDUCATIONAL VALUE
Kids acquainted with the animated version will learn about editions and the influence of live-action stories against the animated ones. They’ll also learn about the importance of being honest with themselves and of women’s worth as leaders and prime movers.
POSITIVE MESSAGES
The film is about looking beneath the surface (social class, rank, etc.) to truly know who people are inside. Other positive messages include the idea that women — not just men — can be great, formidable and inspiring leaders and that real connection and love exceeds shallow differences. Aladdin upholds the value of revealing the truth, valuing honor, friendship, putting others’ welfare above our own, and the ability to break free from obsolete traditions.
POSITIVE ROLE MODELS & REPRESENTATIONS
Aladdin is like Robin Hood, a robber, but he also helps others who are even less fortunate and cares about the people – and most especially, the princess. He’s ingenious, brave, and kind. He is trapped between the advantages of wealth and power but eventually remains true to himself, establishing integrity. Jasmine is intelligent, thoughtful, and compassionate. She grows to love Aladdin for who he is and not his status. The Genie, despite being a slave to his master, is full of good advice for Aladdin, thinking of his welfare. He’s supportive and forthright and imparts to Aladdin about friendship. Jafar is manipulative truly a certified villain. I have observed that the Sultan is a little less clueless here than he was in the previous animated musical.
VIOLENCE & SCARINESS
The Cave of Wonders, I must say, is chilling; when Abu breaks the rules, it smashes and pukes lava, nearly killing Aladdin and Abu. There are falls and perilous climbs, pursues and flights. Jafar thrusts a man to his death in a dark, eerie, spine-chilling dungeon and later uses his powers to vanish people and torment the Sultan; he also tries to kill Aladdin by shoving him, bound, into the water (it’s a tense scene for a few moments while Aladdin is in critical danger of drowning). An enormous bird chases the heroes, causing damage. Jafar is frightening when he employs his jam-packed powers. The Sultan’s armed guards take hold of various people and chase and capture Aladdin. The Genie is forced to make even treacherous wishes come true. There are arguing scenes. There are references to both Jasmine’s mother and Aladdin’s parents being dead. The magic Carpet is broken during an action scene, which could upset some young children.
SEXY ELEMENTS
Flirting, hand-holding, dancing, and a few kisses, here and there. I was quite taken aback when the Genie makes a double-meaning comment about “feeling a little thirsty” after staring at Jasmine’s handmaiden, Dalia; Dalia calls the Genie “incredibly attractive.” I have sensed a possible reference to someone regarded as “hot” (hard to hear). In one song lyric, a woman calls Aladdin “tasty”, which signifies lust.
LANGUAGE
I have heard some insults like “street rat,” “riffraff,” “nothing,” “scoundrel,” “thief,” etc. Woman hater comments like Jasmine should “be seen and not heard,” “be silent,” “hurry up, woman,” etc. I am afraid that children might pick it up and use them to say bad things about their classmates or other people.
DRINKING, DRUGS & SMOKING
The Genie has martinis on a couple of occasions. Not good for the children to see.
CONCLUSION
Good thing, this film bolsters a strong line-up for its casting and a great soundtrack. I must say, Disney’s live-action remake is significantly better than expected, even if Smith’s Genie isn’t as outstanding as the late Robin Williams’ original role. With his curved smile and sober voice, Massoud is flawlessly cast as Aladdin. He has a lovely interaction with Scott’s Jasmine, who’s much more of a women’s libber here than in the animated musical. Naomi also proves to be a fine singer, although Jasmine’s new original song “Speechless” feels somewhat imposed. Aladdin and Jasmine’s duets are well executed, and “A Whole New World” still packs an emotional blow. Kenzari is credibly ruthless as the go-getting, evil Jafar, and Nasim Pedrad is quite good as Dalia, the real — and entertainingly dogmatic — royal handmaiden who captures the Genie’s eye.
As for Smith, whose role has been widely roasted on social media before the film was released in the theaters, let’s just say that he’s much easier to handle in disguise as Prince Ali’s human adviser, rather than as the somewhat repellent blue Genie. And Smith is surely funny, but his presentation of the genie’s signature song, “Friend Like Me,” can’t live up to Williams’ moving, fast-moving delivery. The movie’s got high production values. The action scenes are more of Guy Ritchie’s forte, and he even manages to comprise his special slow-motion shots in a few scenes. Despite the heavy focused promotion on Will Smith here as the Genie, Aladdin ultimately and rightfully so belongs to the new rising stars, Mena and Naomi.
Overall, I rate the film 3.5 out of 5 stars.


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Wednesday, May 8, 2019

Avengers Endgame: Marvelously Grand and Epic!

MARVELOUSLY GRAND AND EPIC! A FILM REVIEW ON THE AVENGERS END GAME

on: 

Meanne M. Mijares
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
John 15:13 (NIV)
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)
Starring           
Robert Downey Jr.  as Tony Stark / Iron Man
Chris Evans as Steve Rogers / Captain America
Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner / Hulk
Chris Hemsworth as Thor
Scarlett Johansson as Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow
Jeremy Renner as Clint Barton / Hawkeye
Don Cheadle as James Rhodes / War Machine
Paul Rudd as Scott Lang / Ant-Man
Brie Larson as Carol Danvers / Captain Marvel
Karen Gillan as Nebula
Danai Gurira as Okoye
Bradley Cooper as Rocket (voice)
Josh Brolin        as Thanos
For a complete list of cast members, click: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4154796/fullcredits
Based on          The Avengers by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby
Directed by      Anthony Russo and Joe Russo
Production Company Marvel Studios
Distributed by Walt Disney Studios/Motion Pictures
Rating: PG
The Avengers: Endgame is the last film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s current generation of movies, bringing together many story lines and characters from 21 previous movies, beginning with 2008’s Iron Man. Families with younger kids should know that there’s definitely as much intense violence (decapitation, explosions, stabbings, impalement, crushing, shooting, etc.), and even more pain, trauma, and grief here than there was in Avengers: Infinity War. A couple of beloved characters die, which is particularly upsetting. The language is similar to the previous films, but there’s no romance beyond a few brief embraces and kisses between recognized couples. Thor drinks a lot to deaden his pain. With themes of courage, teamwork, and perseverance, this epic Avengers culmination is the supreme offering to Marvel fans who will laugh, cry, and cheer as their favorite superheroes join forces to save the universe one last time.
POSITIVE MESSAGES
As with many superhero movies, while violence is the main means of conflict resolution, this is primarily a story about courage, self-sacrifice, heroism, and the collective good. Themes also include teamwork, perseverance, and courage. The central characters are willing to sacrifice, die (and kill) to save the universe and rescue the Earth from the grief and trauma they’ve had. The film also shows the major importance of family and friendships, and how the concept of family is more than pure flesh and blood: People can have amazingly strong chosen families, with friends who give unconditional love. ‘Endgame’ strongly emphasizes the idea of being who you are, not who you think you’re “supposed” to be.
POSITIVE INFLUENCES
The Avengers and their friends are all flawed protagonists but unforgettably and undeniably brave. Although they aren’t individually as invincible as Thanos, but together they make the impossible become possible. They make sacrifices, protect one another, and work together to save their loved ones and even strangers alike. The Marvel women once again have an opportunity (albeit a fairly brief one) to bond together, and family men like Scott/Ant Man and Clint/Hawkeye are particularly empowered in doing whatever is necessary to save their loved ones. Captain America and Thor prove themselves truly worthy of their special weapons/powers. The characters make tough life-or-death decisions that put their lives on the line for the greater good. Thanos believes he’s giving salvation to the universe, but his approach — genocide — is on shaky ground and unsustainable.
VIOLENCE
I have seen frequent and intense comic book-style action violence where the characters are killed and severely wounded. Film viewers will see dismemberment, decapitation, stabbing, crushing, shooting, impalement, choking, extremely destructive explosions, self-sacrifice, being tracked down by frightening monsters, and more. There are weapons include guns, swords, axes, hammers, missiles, and a lot more. The violence isn’t especially gruesome, but a couple of injuries or deaths are a bit gory, and accomplishments come at a much greater cost. There is a presence of frequent peril and danger as well as mourning/sadness, arguments/yelling/shouting throughout the film.
SEXUAL SCENES
There are brief kisses/embraces between romantic couples. There are scenes that Thor spends some scenes shirtless.
LANGUAGE
What disappoints me is the occasionally strong language, including “son of a bitch,” “ass,” “s–t,” “bulls–t,” “d–khead,” “pissed,” “damn,” “piss-ant,” “hell,” “crap,” “goddamn,” “Jesus” (as an exclamation), and “oh my God.” (Even Captain America swears!)  and one abuse of Our Lord’s name.  
DRUGS, DRINKING AND SMOKING
There are scenes that Thor drinks too much as a form of self-medication or some way of coping after that great loss. Until a life-changing conversation, he’s often asking for beer, ale, liquor and/or wine, and bottles and the barrels are shown.
CONCLUSION
In summary, “Endgame” gives us all a glimmer of hope despite the bleak and painful experiences that we have gone through . The film says that as long as you are with the right people, every weight gets a little lighter. It adds also that sacrifices has good and long running benefits and that it is better to try rather than not trying anything at all. It is also a film about second chances. These superheroes are no different from us. They experience low points in life, they get broken, argue, bicker and feel despair. Even times of breakdown.  So let us always remember this: “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.  Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Eph. 6:11-17 and “Do not be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good.” Rom. 12:21 and For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7
As for the protagonists, they are not called superheroes for nothing. Yes, they have reached the endgame, as viewers like you and me are just blown away so expect nothing less but the best.
Overall, I rate the film 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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