EXCITING NEW JOURNAL ENTRY!
General | Posted 5 years agoIt's not - I lied! I'm sorry - it's just that it has been like 3 years since my last entry and I thought it was time for a new one~
Anyway, I hope everyone has been keeping well - I'm gonna update my gallery this week, so expect an onslaught of new commission works and gift arts! As always, Twitter is my main space and that's where you'll always find me if you need to reach me, or want someone to chat to. https://twitter.com/wolf_monkey (also there's a picture of my butt there, so there's that). <3
Anyway, I hope everyone has been keeping well - I'm gonna update my gallery this week, so expect an onslaught of new commission works and gift arts! As always, Twitter is my main space and that's where you'll always find me if you need to reach me, or want someone to chat to. https://twitter.com/wolf_monkey (also there's a picture of my butt there, so there's that). <3
I SUCK SO MUCH AT FA
General | Posted 9 years agoSorry guys - I'm not dead and I still love y'all! I just never get any time to spend on FA anymore and so I definitely don't get to read anybody's journals.....I guess I kinda felt like it was a bit egotistical posting my own and expecting anyone to give a shit when I don't make the time myself.
Anyway.....since my last journal 2 years ago (LOL)....let's see - it's been pretty crazy actually. Got made redundant (that means my job was disestablished) in October last year, my beloved wuff Shane passed away on the 01st December last year after a real struggle with arthritis and a kidney tumour we didn't even know he had because he was such a strong little bugger - it was a bitch of an end to the year to be honest, but looking back on it now the timing was great for the loss of job! I got a big payout which I spent a huge chunk of on Shane, and of course I was able to spend every day with him until the end which was a blessing. Can't believe that was over a year ago!
I have been freelancing since April 01st and also took a part-time movie studio job in May - working pretty hard and in October this year I started my own company which officially starts trading on the January 01st. It's named after my wuff Shane, and features a cartoon of him in the logo, so...I guess he's forever immortalised in my company! I'm so busy these days, but doing what I love to do and answering only to myself, so....I guess everything worked out, huh? :D
Still watching heaps of movies as you'd expect, but I don't think I've seen anything you guys won't have seen already (except for the Kiwi stuff) so I can't offer much in the way of reviews! I did see WHY HIM? and was fairly surprised that it's actually quite sweet and funny...I don't think it's a life-changer, but hey. Also saw A MONSTER CALLS which is one of my faves of the year - amazing, haunting, beautiful - hope you guys will go see it.
Ahhhh.....that's it! I'll try to post more and comment more lol - hope you've all been well! <3
Anyway.....since my last journal 2 years ago (LOL)....let's see - it's been pretty crazy actually. Got made redundant (that means my job was disestablished) in October last year, my beloved wuff Shane passed away on the 01st December last year after a real struggle with arthritis and a kidney tumour we didn't even know he had because he was such a strong little bugger - it was a bitch of an end to the year to be honest, but looking back on it now the timing was great for the loss of job! I got a big payout which I spent a huge chunk of on Shane, and of course I was able to spend every day with him until the end which was a blessing. Can't believe that was over a year ago!
I have been freelancing since April 01st and also took a part-time movie studio job in May - working pretty hard and in October this year I started my own company which officially starts trading on the January 01st. It's named after my wuff Shane, and features a cartoon of him in the logo, so...I guess he's forever immortalised in my company! I'm so busy these days, but doing what I love to do and answering only to myself, so....I guess everything worked out, huh? :D
Still watching heaps of movies as you'd expect, but I don't think I've seen anything you guys won't have seen already (except for the Kiwi stuff) so I can't offer much in the way of reviews! I did see WHY HIM? and was fairly surprised that it's actually quite sweet and funny...I don't think it's a life-changer, but hey. Also saw A MONSTER CALLS which is one of my faves of the year - amazing, haunting, beautiful - hope you guys will go see it.
Ahhhh.....that's it! I'll try to post more and comment more lol - hope you've all been well! <3
How to Train Your Dragon 2 review + others
General | Posted 11 years agoFigured I should keep FA updated with all my movie-watching shenanigans, since that's about as creative as I get!
HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2 - this is one of the most visually spectacular films I have ever seen. It has that not-so-obvious cute factor that Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois have bought to all of their creations (like Lilo & Stitch), coupled with depth of character reality in the sense that the world they inhabit is always so rich and busy. The storytelling blew me away - it's dark, it's very adult - sweet, touching, endearing - I'm quite lost for any more words to describe, but then again anyone that enjoyed the first won't require any convincing. The 3D that Dreamworks deploy is worth the extra money - they are masters at the craft.
A MILLION WAYS TO DIE IN THE WEST - some moments of hilarity ensue, but they're mostly extended clips from the redband trailer. It's a fun watch, but it's not great - I would suggest just as good on Bluray or wait for the tickets to be discounted. I do have a soft spot for Seth McFarlane - he's a clever guy, but this one just isn't his best work.
THE FAULT IN OUR STARS - actually a really good teen/young adult film which handles some heavy/dark concepts extremely well and in quite a grown-up way. I really enjoyed this one - it's charming and quite poignant, though obviously a tear-jerker.
And y'all have seen X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST already so I'll just say that Hugh Jackman's ass is a wonderful thing. I think MILLION DOLLAR ARM has pretty much been and gone in the USA, but it is pretty good if you were on the fence - charming, inspiring - probably a Bluray watch though! :)
HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON 2 - this is one of the most visually spectacular films I have ever seen. It has that not-so-obvious cute factor that Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois have bought to all of their creations (like Lilo & Stitch), coupled with depth of character reality in the sense that the world they inhabit is always so rich and busy. The storytelling blew me away - it's dark, it's very adult - sweet, touching, endearing - I'm quite lost for any more words to describe, but then again anyone that enjoyed the first won't require any convincing. The 3D that Dreamworks deploy is worth the extra money - they are masters at the craft.
A MILLION WAYS TO DIE IN THE WEST - some moments of hilarity ensue, but they're mostly extended clips from the redband trailer. It's a fun watch, but it's not great - I would suggest just as good on Bluray or wait for the tickets to be discounted. I do have a soft spot for Seth McFarlane - he's a clever guy, but this one just isn't his best work.
THE FAULT IN OUR STARS - actually a really good teen/young adult film which handles some heavy/dark concepts extremely well and in quite a grown-up way. I really enjoyed this one - it's charming and quite poignant, though obviously a tear-jerker.
And y'all have seen X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST already so I'll just say that Hugh Jackman's ass is a wonderful thing. I think MILLION DOLLAR ARM has pretty much been and gone in the USA, but it is pretty good if you were on the fence - charming, inspiring - probably a Bluray watch though! :)
EDGE OF TOMORROW - go see it!
General | Posted 11 years agoGonna make a habit out of new journals haha - might as well let you know when I see something great! EDGE OF TOMORROW has quickly become one of my very favourite films so far this year - I cannot rave enough about how good it is. Emily Blunt is AMAZING - Tom Cruise is actually really good in this also (probably my fave performance of his).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmhNG2DS3kE
Can't wait for y'all to see it - please let me know what you think, when you do. ;)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmhNG2DS3kE
Can't wait for y'all to see it - please let me know what you think, when you do. ;)
GODZILLA was f**king amazing.
General | Posted 11 years agoJust saying - it was like a wet dream for me - I loved every minute of it.
Thought I should post something since I forgot how to journal. How are y'all doing?
Thought I should post something since I forgot how to journal. How are y'all doing?
Merry Christmas yes? Anyone? Everyone? Yes.
General | Posted 12 years agoIt's Christmas mostly right around the world right now - mine is nearly over & I'm lying naked in bed writing to y'all with one hand (other arm propping me up - don't be dirty).
Merry Christmas everyone - stay safe & treat each other well. Much love! <3
Merry Christmas everyone - stay safe & treat each other well. Much love! <3
Cookies and cream.....
General | Posted 12 years agoIt's a shit flavour - BELIEVE.
Hey y'all - I'm still alive! (and some movie reviews) 8D
General | Posted 12 years agoI really feel bad writing journals because I never get to read any of yours - I'm not egotistical enough to imagine you have any interest in mine haha! Just thought I should say hello and get rid of the "merry Christmas" journal that's been up 6 months - I wouldn't want anyone to think I'd perished.
I keep saying I'll be around more and do movie reviews and stuff, then I end up prioritising other things so....not gonna say it this time! I sincerely hope everyone is doing well - has anything interesting been happening with any of you, that I don't know about from Twitter? :D
Movies - most of what I've seen is out in the US now, but just in case it sways anyone.....
THE LONE RANGER - I love Gore Verbinski to bits, but honestly - what a fucking boring film this was. Depp played awkward weird guy, Armie Hammer was typical American kind-hearted good guy saves the day, the film is 145 minutes long and just......eh.
THE WAY WAY BACK - really sweet film in the vein of THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER - I really enjoyed this one and recommend it. Not as strong as JUNO or LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE, and aimed at people late 20's - early 30's like me. ;)
ONLY GOD FORGIVES - what a dreadful, violent piece of shit film.
EPIC - great 3D, beautiful looking picture - but basically AVATAR/DELGO/FERNGULLY, etc. Very derivative, unoriginal story with some great casting, and some poorly miscast roles (like Aziz Ansari).
THIS IS THE END - actually an incredibly entertaining vulgar romp!
MONSTERS UNIVERSITY - given that the first film MONSTERS INC. is in my top 3 films of all time, this was always going to be a challenge for Pixar to impress me here. They did. It's very funny, superbly animated and very worthy of the franchise. <3
WORLD WAR Z - I can't recommend this enough - such a great action film that harks back to the days of old (GOOD) action films. Brad still has it!
MAN OF STEEL - I really loved this film - as with WWZ it's just such a good action flick, with characters I give a shit about - it's got style and it's frankly just really damn good.
DESPICABLE ME 2 - exactly the same as the first - highly entertaining and sweet, but just not all that adult. It's just.....missing something for me.
THE HEAT - highly derivative and formulaic, but entertaining none the less. Fun to see Sandra Bullock swearing for a change, though frankly could have been anyone in these 2 lead roles. Melissa McCarthy played....Melissa McCarthy again. It's like a sequel to MISS IDENTITY THIEF CONGENIALITY.
Okay so actually these aren't really movie reviews so much as recommendations - what are ya gonna do? :P
I keep saying I'll be around more and do movie reviews and stuff, then I end up prioritising other things so....not gonna say it this time! I sincerely hope everyone is doing well - has anything interesting been happening with any of you, that I don't know about from Twitter? :D
Movies - most of what I've seen is out in the US now, but just in case it sways anyone.....
THE LONE RANGER - I love Gore Verbinski to bits, but honestly - what a fucking boring film this was. Depp played awkward weird guy, Armie Hammer was typical American kind-hearted good guy saves the day, the film is 145 minutes long and just......eh.
THE WAY WAY BACK - really sweet film in the vein of THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER - I really enjoyed this one and recommend it. Not as strong as JUNO or LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE, and aimed at people late 20's - early 30's like me. ;)
ONLY GOD FORGIVES - what a dreadful, violent piece of shit film.
EPIC - great 3D, beautiful looking picture - but basically AVATAR/DELGO/FERNGULLY, etc. Very derivative, unoriginal story with some great casting, and some poorly miscast roles (like Aziz Ansari).
THIS IS THE END - actually an incredibly entertaining vulgar romp!
MONSTERS UNIVERSITY - given that the first film MONSTERS INC. is in my top 3 films of all time, this was always going to be a challenge for Pixar to impress me here. They did. It's very funny, superbly animated and very worthy of the franchise. <3
WORLD WAR Z - I can't recommend this enough - such a great action film that harks back to the days of old (GOOD) action films. Brad still has it!
MAN OF STEEL - I really loved this film - as with WWZ it's just such a good action flick, with characters I give a shit about - it's got style and it's frankly just really damn good.
DESPICABLE ME 2 - exactly the same as the first - highly entertaining and sweet, but just not all that adult. It's just.....missing something for me.
THE HEAT - highly derivative and formulaic, but entertaining none the less. Fun to see Sandra Bullock swearing for a change, though frankly could have been anyone in these 2 lead roles. Melissa McCarthy played....Melissa McCarthy again. It's like a sequel to MISS IDENTITY THIEF CONGENIALITY.
Okay so actually these aren't really movie reviews so much as recommendations - what are ya gonna do? :P
Only an hour & 6 minutes left of mine, but- merry Christmas!
General | Posted 13 years agoI like to wait until it must be Christmas in every country around the world, which means of course mine is just over an hour from being finished for another year! I know there are eleventy billion journals about it, but hey- it's about me putting good things out, & you can choose to receive or not, so- merry Christmas all- be good! <3
Review- THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY
General | Posted 13 years agoSo... I'm not really supposed to talk about it yet, but fuck it- I didn't have to sign a non-disclosure agreement so....
I have more than a little bias toward this one, but from both a positive & a negative spin, so it kinda balances out a bit. On a positive note, I visited the set earlier in the year & met PJ, Joe Letteri, Andy Serkis, etc- one of the sets I went on featured in this first film & that was pretty cool to see the part we watched being filmed. It was also the World Premiere at which I watched the film, so I got to do the red carpet & all the trimmings- was pretty cool, once in a lifetime kinda stuff. Plus I'm Kiwi. Plus it's one of my babies (theatres) that the premiere was at, so yeah- bias lol.
The negative bias comes from the fact that this film has caused me more arguments & stress than anything else all year long, & it was pretty close to being all over with The Hobbit as far as I was concerned- I got pretty filthy about it the last few weeks.
Anyway- the film itself- High Frame Rate (HFR) is not going to be for everyone. Personally I love new things- new technology, exciting advancements- it keeps things fresh & interesting. The 3D is very deep, & carries with it the mark of an excellent 3D usage- you forget about it after about an hour. As with Avatar, it's so incredibly immersive (especially in HFR), that it eventually just becomes your world, your vision for the almost 3 hour running time. I was lucky enough to see it in HFR 3D on one of only two commercial screens in the world using the dual-stack 6K Christie digital technology- it was like staring into a holographic projection you could have fallen into. Also the only Dolby Atmos ("3D sound") in the Southern Hemisphere, so it was quite a surreal experience all around.
It's consistent with the LOTR trilogy despite advancements in technology- similar colour pallet & character design. Any fan of the LOTR trilogy will instantly be a fan of The Hobbit, or so I believe. :) There is substantially less interest for females in this one I noted- Cate Blanchett appears on screen in the first film for about 5 minutes total, & she would be the only female in sight. No Viggo, no Orlando- so there's not really the same "hot guy" thing going on for chicks either- I would suppose that all the medieval chicks are gonna dig it no matter what, cos... they're prolly more manly than me anyway. :P
It's fun, it's funny, cheesy, self-indulgent, looks fantastic for the most part, incredibly long but still completely enjoyable- AND you get new technology, great 3D, great sound (even without Dolby Atmos it would still be pretty incredible)! Also there's this big white orc thing that those of you who know the story will know about- holy fuck he's so damn hot, he's practically on fire! I'd take that home with me any day- he's so angry but he just needs some loving. Oops- just let my inner-furry out....
I have more than a little bias toward this one, but from both a positive & a negative spin, so it kinda balances out a bit. On a positive note, I visited the set earlier in the year & met PJ, Joe Letteri, Andy Serkis, etc- one of the sets I went on featured in this first film & that was pretty cool to see the part we watched being filmed. It was also the World Premiere at which I watched the film, so I got to do the red carpet & all the trimmings- was pretty cool, once in a lifetime kinda stuff. Plus I'm Kiwi. Plus it's one of my babies (theatres) that the premiere was at, so yeah- bias lol.
The negative bias comes from the fact that this film has caused me more arguments & stress than anything else all year long, & it was pretty close to being all over with The Hobbit as far as I was concerned- I got pretty filthy about it the last few weeks.
Anyway- the film itself- High Frame Rate (HFR) is not going to be for everyone. Personally I love new things- new technology, exciting advancements- it keeps things fresh & interesting. The 3D is very deep, & carries with it the mark of an excellent 3D usage- you forget about it after about an hour. As with Avatar, it's so incredibly immersive (especially in HFR), that it eventually just becomes your world, your vision for the almost 3 hour running time. I was lucky enough to see it in HFR 3D on one of only two commercial screens in the world using the dual-stack 6K Christie digital technology- it was like staring into a holographic projection you could have fallen into. Also the only Dolby Atmos ("3D sound") in the Southern Hemisphere, so it was quite a surreal experience all around.
It's consistent with the LOTR trilogy despite advancements in technology- similar colour pallet & character design. Any fan of the LOTR trilogy will instantly be a fan of The Hobbit, or so I believe. :) There is substantially less interest for females in this one I noted- Cate Blanchett appears on screen in the first film for about 5 minutes total, & she would be the only female in sight. No Viggo, no Orlando- so there's not really the same "hot guy" thing going on for chicks either- I would suppose that all the medieval chicks are gonna dig it no matter what, cos... they're prolly more manly than me anyway. :P
It's fun, it's funny, cheesy, self-indulgent, looks fantastic for the most part, incredibly long but still completely enjoyable- AND you get new technology, great 3D, great sound (even without Dolby Atmos it would still be pretty incredible)! Also there's this big white orc thing that those of you who know the story will know about- holy fuck he's so damn hot, he's practically on fire! I'd take that home with me any day- he's so angry but he just needs some loving. Oops- just let my inner-furry out....
Making an effort.... (+ movie reviews)
General | Posted 13 years agoTrying to clear through FA messages and interact a little more on here- going soft on Twitter for a bit for various reasons (but better than deleting my account which I was considering). Anyway- hope y'all have been doing well- sorry for not being around much. If I owe you a response to anything you've asked previously- let me know- fell off the bandwagon a bit!
I have zero commissions in the works, so prolly nothing new for a bit- open to suggestions if anyone has 'em. :)
Movie reviews if you give a shit- here's what I've seen recently:
MT ZION- a Kiwi film so don't worry about it lol. For the fellow New Zealanders out there- February next year, and it's pretty damn good. Stan Walker, Temuera Morrison. Kind of like a Kiwi The Sapphires in a manner of speaking. Plus Bob Marley!
WELCOME TO THE PUNCH- a pretty good British crime thriller. Doesn't stack up to The Sweeney, but James McAvoy is hot and it's quite stylised & dark. Good music.
FLIGHT- not what I was expecting from either Denzel or Robert Zemeckis, but I really liked it. Very much a drama, that just happens to have a really intense plane crash at the start. Denzel is always amazing of course.
LINCOLN- I was truly astounded by this film- it's so f**king good. Daniel Day-Lewis will take the Oscar, no doubts. A masterpiece of cinema. Learned a lot also, being a non-American.
LIFE OF PI- saw this in IMAX 3D (although it's only digital IMAX so not as impressive as other things I've seen recently). What the f**k, man? How is that such a popular book?! It's visually pretty stunning, and the 3D is original and entertaining. I don't know about the story though, but I guess if you love the book, you'll love the film too? Or something. Worth a watch for wow-factor though.
SKYFALL- this is old now, for most of you. Seriously worth a trip to your local IMAX theatre to see it in a special ratio edited by the director Sam Mendes. Looks and sounds stunning, plus, you know- the film is actually great as well- bonus! :D
SAVE YOUR LEGS- an Australian film, so again don't worry about it! For you Aussies? No. Unless you loved The Cup. Or are 60 years old.
RISE OF THE GUARDIANS- already wrote about this one, but go see it and have pervy thoughts about Bunnymund and then draw them for me please. Incredible 3D by the way.
BREAKING DAWN PART 2- eh, who cares? Best of the bunch- bar wasn't set very high. :\
THE TALL MAN- a French-Canadian thriller starring Jessica Biel. I don't know what's happening with the US release for this one- prolly VOD with a limited theatrical run. I got sent my really f**king secure VOD link direct from the studio with my name plastered all over the film in case I pirated it lol. It's okayish- I'd be pissed if I paid for it. No idea what's going on for most of the film, and frankly I didn't care. Thought about it quite a bit after watching though- sometimes people are sold on the afterthoughts, so there you have it.
HITCHCOCK- Sir Anthony Hopkins' best performance to date. Such a great film- it's really funny and fascinating, especially if you love film and anything Alfred Hitchcock ever created. Lots to learn here! Dame Helen Mirren was amazing as his wife. Thoroughly recommend seeing this film!
HANSEL & GRETEL: WITCHHUNTERS- Lol! It's actually kinda fun I have to say. Very funny, way over the top blood & guts, offensive language, etc. I rather enjoyed it, despite expecting not to. Fun use of 3D. Cheesy, silly, predictable- but cute.
THE IMPOSSIBLE- based on the true story of the 2004 tsunami that wiped out parts of Thailand, and one British family caught in the middle of it. Actually one of the most stunning films of the year- it's something you shouldn't miss. I have no idea how they filmed the disaster sequences, but f**k! Really devastating and emotional, but incredible. Ewan McGregor & Naomi Watts will prolly end up with award nominations I'd wager.
WRECK-IT RALPH- eh, you've all seen it and know how amazing it is- go again! And again! Loved the 3D in this one also.
PUSHER- British remake of the old Swedish film by Nicolas Winding-Refn. Nothing special- seen it all before (Human Traffic, etc). Ultra-violent and graphic drug use. Great music by Orbital though, and I dug the style.
Errrr.... I think that's about it! Will try and review every other week so it's not like, BOOM- a million reviews up in your face. Thanks for getting to this point of the journal, if indeed you did! :)
I have zero commissions in the works, so prolly nothing new for a bit- open to suggestions if anyone has 'em. :)
Movie reviews if you give a shit- here's what I've seen recently:
MT ZION- a Kiwi film so don't worry about it lol. For the fellow New Zealanders out there- February next year, and it's pretty damn good. Stan Walker, Temuera Morrison. Kind of like a Kiwi The Sapphires in a manner of speaking. Plus Bob Marley!
WELCOME TO THE PUNCH- a pretty good British crime thriller. Doesn't stack up to The Sweeney, but James McAvoy is hot and it's quite stylised & dark. Good music.
FLIGHT- not what I was expecting from either Denzel or Robert Zemeckis, but I really liked it. Very much a drama, that just happens to have a really intense plane crash at the start. Denzel is always amazing of course.
LINCOLN- I was truly astounded by this film- it's so f**king good. Daniel Day-Lewis will take the Oscar, no doubts. A masterpiece of cinema. Learned a lot also, being a non-American.
LIFE OF PI- saw this in IMAX 3D (although it's only digital IMAX so not as impressive as other things I've seen recently). What the f**k, man? How is that such a popular book?! It's visually pretty stunning, and the 3D is original and entertaining. I don't know about the story though, but I guess if you love the book, you'll love the film too? Or something. Worth a watch for wow-factor though.
SKYFALL- this is old now, for most of you. Seriously worth a trip to your local IMAX theatre to see it in a special ratio edited by the director Sam Mendes. Looks and sounds stunning, plus, you know- the film is actually great as well- bonus! :D
SAVE YOUR LEGS- an Australian film, so again don't worry about it! For you Aussies? No. Unless you loved The Cup. Or are 60 years old.
RISE OF THE GUARDIANS- already wrote about this one, but go see it and have pervy thoughts about Bunnymund and then draw them for me please. Incredible 3D by the way.
BREAKING DAWN PART 2- eh, who cares? Best of the bunch- bar wasn't set very high. :\
THE TALL MAN- a French-Canadian thriller starring Jessica Biel. I don't know what's happening with the US release for this one- prolly VOD with a limited theatrical run. I got sent my really f**king secure VOD link direct from the studio with my name plastered all over the film in case I pirated it lol. It's okayish- I'd be pissed if I paid for it. No idea what's going on for most of the film, and frankly I didn't care. Thought about it quite a bit after watching though- sometimes people are sold on the afterthoughts, so there you have it.
HITCHCOCK- Sir Anthony Hopkins' best performance to date. Such a great film- it's really funny and fascinating, especially if you love film and anything Alfred Hitchcock ever created. Lots to learn here! Dame Helen Mirren was amazing as his wife. Thoroughly recommend seeing this film!
HANSEL & GRETEL: WITCHHUNTERS- Lol! It's actually kinda fun I have to say. Very funny, way over the top blood & guts, offensive language, etc. I rather enjoyed it, despite expecting not to. Fun use of 3D. Cheesy, silly, predictable- but cute.
THE IMPOSSIBLE- based on the true story of the 2004 tsunami that wiped out parts of Thailand, and one British family caught in the middle of it. Actually one of the most stunning films of the year- it's something you shouldn't miss. I have no idea how they filmed the disaster sequences, but f**k! Really devastating and emotional, but incredible. Ewan McGregor & Naomi Watts will prolly end up with award nominations I'd wager.
WRECK-IT RALPH- eh, you've all seen it and know how amazing it is- go again! And again! Loved the 3D in this one also.
PUSHER- British remake of the old Swedish film by Nicolas Winding-Refn. Nothing special- seen it all before (Human Traffic, etc). Ultra-violent and graphic drug use. Great music by Orbital though, and I dug the style.
Errrr.... I think that's about it! Will try and review every other week so it's not like, BOOM- a million reviews up in your face. Thanks for getting to this point of the journal, if indeed you did! :)
Rise of the Guardians
General | Posted 13 years agoI am so furry right now. I enjoyed the film very, very much in terms of the animation which was GORGEOUS- the story is not entirely original (is anything these days?), but it's dark enough and emotional enough to be engaging, whilst being entirely charismatic and the sense of humour is similar to other Dreamworks features (which in my opinion is superior to the Disney stable).
The 3D is nothing short of STUNNING, and that's coming from a guy who sees everything- both Kung FU Panda 2 and now this have had amazing use of the technology which I think rivals AVATAR quite frankly.
I am crushing so hard right now on Bunnymund- I won't tell you what I was thinking (quiet
), but needless to say it wasn't PG. SO HOT RIGHT NOW. <3
Oh, and yeah- still alive! Will post some more reviews maybe later today, but thought this one was relevant. ;)
The 3D is nothing short of STUNNING, and that's coming from a guy who sees everything- both Kung FU Panda 2 and now this have had amazing use of the technology which I think rivals AVATAR quite frankly.
I am crushing so hard right now on Bunnymund- I won't tell you what I was thinking (quiet
), but needless to say it wasn't PG. SO HOT RIGHT NOW. <3Oh, and yeah- still alive! Will post some more reviews maybe later today, but thought this one was relevant. ;)
More movie reviews!
General | Posted 13 years agoI might just keep posting these in case anyone wants to read, if not- MY TEXT IS ALL WASTED AND SHIT! D: Saw a bunch more films this week- some of them been and gone from American theatres, some may never see theatrical release lol-
CHIMPANZEE- this Disneynature documentary is leagues ahead of AFRICAN CATS- tighter running time and better narration (even though it was Tim Allen). Really fascinating look at the world of chimpanzees and absolutely gorgeously shot film- really recommend checking it out actually.
THE RAVEN- John Cusack is Edgar Allan Poe in this gothic period thriller. But I wouldn't care if I were you. It's disjointed and messy, and suffers from missing any kind of audience connection. If you enjoyed FROM HELL (Johnny Depp), you *may* like this- it's not as good, and I didn't think FROM HELL was all that good in the first instance lol.
BAIT 3D- an Australian creature-feature. Great white sharks trapped in a supermarket full of people, after an earthquake and tsunami has wiped out the beach-front population (seriously). It's ummm.... actually heaps of fun- I hope it gets an American release. Terrible acting and way over-convoluted plot given the very silly premise. Apparently partially grounded in reality as sharks are often seen on shore after tsunamis, picking off pets and stock and unfortunate people that have been swept into the waters. Snakes on a Plane? No. Sharks in a Supermarket.
THE EXPATRIATE- a thriller starring Aaron Eckhart. A little bit TAKEN, a little bit BOURNE IDENTITY. Nowhere near as good as either film unfortunately. Set in Belgium which is nice and refreshing- some nice action sequences, but probably not enough of them to be interesting. It's an okay film- just not very original. I do like Aaron though- he's pretty awesome. No ide of a release date for you guys- prolly August/September.
LE CHEF (COMME UN CHEF)- a fun French farce- it's kind of borderline slapstick honestly, and gets a little silly. Very little emotional engagement with the characters, but it's still a fun watch and Jean Reno was really good. Other guy in the film looks like a small Liev Schreiber.
THE SAPPHIRES- another Australian film, based on a true story of four Aboriginal women that toured Vietnam singing for the American troops. Easily my favourite of the week- this film is amazing and should be seen by all! Chris O'Dowd (BRIDESMAIDS) was fantastic as the band manager- this film is *very* funny, with a good emotional balance. Will be *huge* in Australia and New Zealand. Watch out for it!
...and that was all I had time for this week- next week I'm checking out AMAZING SPIDER-MAN again in IMAX, finally getting to see IRON SKY to see if I want to release it here, the Cannes Jury Prizewinner THE ANGELS' SHARE, ABRAHAM LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER 3D, and then I have two spots left on Friday to fill! :D
CHIMPANZEE- this Disneynature documentary is leagues ahead of AFRICAN CATS- tighter running time and better narration (even though it was Tim Allen). Really fascinating look at the world of chimpanzees and absolutely gorgeously shot film- really recommend checking it out actually.
THE RAVEN- John Cusack is Edgar Allan Poe in this gothic period thriller. But I wouldn't care if I were you. It's disjointed and messy, and suffers from missing any kind of audience connection. If you enjoyed FROM HELL (Johnny Depp), you *may* like this- it's not as good, and I didn't think FROM HELL was all that good in the first instance lol.
BAIT 3D- an Australian creature-feature. Great white sharks trapped in a supermarket full of people, after an earthquake and tsunami has wiped out the beach-front population (seriously). It's ummm.... actually heaps of fun- I hope it gets an American release. Terrible acting and way over-convoluted plot given the very silly premise. Apparently partially grounded in reality as sharks are often seen on shore after tsunamis, picking off pets and stock and unfortunate people that have been swept into the waters. Snakes on a Plane? No. Sharks in a Supermarket.
THE EXPATRIATE- a thriller starring Aaron Eckhart. A little bit TAKEN, a little bit BOURNE IDENTITY. Nowhere near as good as either film unfortunately. Set in Belgium which is nice and refreshing- some nice action sequences, but probably not enough of them to be interesting. It's an okay film- just not very original. I do like Aaron though- he's pretty awesome. No ide of a release date for you guys- prolly August/September.
LE CHEF (COMME UN CHEF)- a fun French farce- it's kind of borderline slapstick honestly, and gets a little silly. Very little emotional engagement with the characters, but it's still a fun watch and Jean Reno was really good. Other guy in the film looks like a small Liev Schreiber.
THE SAPPHIRES- another Australian film, based on a true story of four Aboriginal women that toured Vietnam singing for the American troops. Easily my favourite of the week- this film is amazing and should be seen by all! Chris O'Dowd (BRIDESMAIDS) was fantastic as the band manager- this film is *very* funny, with a good emotional balance. Will be *huge* in Australia and New Zealand. Watch out for it!
...and that was all I had time for this week- next week I'm checking out AMAZING SPIDER-MAN again in IMAX, finally getting to see IRON SKY to see if I want to release it here, the Cannes Jury Prizewinner THE ANGELS' SHARE, ABRAHAM LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER 3D, and then I have two spots left on Friday to fill! :D
Some reviews- Amazing Spidey, TED, etc
General | Posted 13 years agoOkay so as promised I can now tell you a few things- follow my movie-going advice if you dare! :D
HYSTERIA- really sweet little period comedy drama based on a true story about the invention of the vibrator- yes, it's true! Considering the topic, it was relatively tasteful- if you enjoy period comedies like Mansfield Park or even just sophisticated comedies grounded in reality like Marigold Hotel, worth checking this one out.
SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED- loved this film- it's Donnie Darko if it were a comedy (although DD is very funny in places). Very sharp, witty dialogue and a fun story with quirky characters. Check the trailer out! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73jSnAs7mq8
THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN- wow- this is EXACTLY how the franchise should have kicked off in the first place! I thought it was pretty incredible- Andrew Garfield is just so much more charismatic and confident, whilst still remaining completely geeky and believable. Emma Stone was great, Rhys Ifans was great- sexy, sexy big Lizard that I HAVE to see again on the IMAX screen next time! Great 3D, though not really necessary I would assume (haven't seen the 2D version though). Thoroughly recommend giving it a shot even if you think you're bored of Spider-Man. Sexy Lizard, take me now. <3 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpKPiHYJc54
TED- hahahaha- Seth McFarlane is a genius! :D Hilarious film that doesn't give away all the funny bits in the trailer- I would say thins is a more amusing watch than The Hangover to be honest. Funny as hell, racist, sexist, completely offensive in every way, cocaine, booze, language, fluffy sex- it's all in here. Mark Wahlberg is FANTASTIC in this film- such a great role for him. Gets a tad sentimental which is okay, but holds it for too long- they could have shaved 10 minutes off the runtime. Pretty damn funny film though, and well worth the watch. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5AJtjJebDes&feature=related
MOONRISE KINGDOM- way more charismatic than previous Wes Anderson pics (although y'all prolly like Fantastic Mr Fox 'cos you're furries), but still a great big bunch of self indulgent what the fuck. Meticulous attention to detail and pretty stunningly shot- but that's as kind as I can be to Wes. Really despise his films lol.
That's it! Up this week is THE RAVEN, CHIMPANZEE, BAIT 3D (Australian creature feature with sharks!), THE EXPATRIATE, LE CHEF, THE SAPPHIRES- a few of these have already been release in the USA and others you may not give a shit about- I'll let ya know if there's anything to watch out for! ^^
HYSTERIA- really sweet little period comedy drama based on a true story about the invention of the vibrator- yes, it's true! Considering the topic, it was relatively tasteful- if you enjoy period comedies like Mansfield Park or even just sophisticated comedies grounded in reality like Marigold Hotel, worth checking this one out.
SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED- loved this film- it's Donnie Darko if it were a comedy (although DD is very funny in places). Very sharp, witty dialogue and a fun story with quirky characters. Check the trailer out! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73jSnAs7mq8
THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN- wow- this is EXACTLY how the franchise should have kicked off in the first place! I thought it was pretty incredible- Andrew Garfield is just so much more charismatic and confident, whilst still remaining completely geeky and believable. Emma Stone was great, Rhys Ifans was great- sexy, sexy big Lizard that I HAVE to see again on the IMAX screen next time! Great 3D, though not really necessary I would assume (haven't seen the 2D version though). Thoroughly recommend giving it a shot even if you think you're bored of Spider-Man. Sexy Lizard, take me now. <3 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpKPiHYJc54
TED- hahahaha- Seth McFarlane is a genius! :D Hilarious film that doesn't give away all the funny bits in the trailer- I would say thins is a more amusing watch than The Hangover to be honest. Funny as hell, racist, sexist, completely offensive in every way, cocaine, booze, language, fluffy sex- it's all in here. Mark Wahlberg is FANTASTIC in this film- such a great role for him. Gets a tad sentimental which is okay, but holds it for too long- they could have shaved 10 minutes off the runtime. Pretty damn funny film though, and well worth the watch. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5AJtjJebDes&feature=related
MOONRISE KINGDOM- way more charismatic than previous Wes Anderson pics (although y'all prolly like Fantastic Mr Fox 'cos you're furries), but still a great big bunch of self indulgent what the fuck. Meticulous attention to detail and pretty stunningly shot- but that's as kind as I can be to Wes. Really despise his films lol.
That's it! Up this week is THE RAVEN, CHIMPANZEE, BAIT 3D (Australian creature feature with sharks!), THE EXPATRIATE, LE CHEF, THE SAPPHIRES- a few of these have already been release in the USA and others you may not give a shit about- I'll let ya know if there's anything to watch out for! ^^
Pixar's BRAVE
General | Posted 13 years agoJust a quick note to say WOW- as mentioned I had a screening of BRAVE scheduled and it is ASTOUNDING. Beautiful backdrops and gorgeous expressions, action sequences animated with all the passion and force we've come to expect from Pixar. That's where the similarities to prior Pixar films ends though- it's VERY Disney-esque, although dark and contained within are quite a number of adult themes. It's uncannily similar to BROTHER BEAR which I thought was an amazing film- however this one is a masterpiece by comparison.
Anyway- go see it! I didn't see the 3D version as it wasn't quite ready, but I imagine it will be very stunning.
Also- saw MADAGASCAR 3 last week- the 3D in that film is astonishing, and the film was fun- very much like the first 2 except *slightly* sillier and with a touch more adult humour. Thoroughly enjoyed it. If you hated the first 2 films, don't bother! :P
That's it from me- TED & THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN next week- will let you know. ^^
Anyway- go see it! I didn't see the 3D version as it wasn't quite ready, but I imagine it will be very stunning.
Also- saw MADAGASCAR 3 last week- the 3D in that film is astonishing, and the film was fun- very much like the first 2 except *slightly* sillier and with a touch more adult humour. Thoroughly enjoyed it. If you hated the first 2 films, don't bother! :P
That's it from me- TED & THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN next week- will let you know. ^^
Only because it's been so long...
General | Posted 13 years agoI haven't written a journal for ages, since, well- I don't really have time to read journals myself, so- figured why should y'all care to read mine?! :P But,
MADE ME do it, so here you go haha.
No, not dead- hopefully the
I just posted is evidence of this- but just making sure you know. More art coming at some stage- been in the works for over a year now so who knows when. I'm about ready to grab a couple more pieces, so let me know if you have any ideas for me! :D
Been really busy of late- had a big movie convention and had to give a speech, present an award in front of 200 people- fun. :\ Flying out to Sydney on Wednesday this week to go to a presentation of ABE LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER footage (just show me the damn movie already!! D: )- it's going to be presented by the director I think, so that should be cool. No sleep for me that day, as the flights/timezones would have it.
Watching BRAVE on Friday, and THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN next week, so I'll let you know how those are. I'm a bit late for SNOW WHITE & THE HUNTSMAN now that it's out, but- it's actually really good- very entertaining film I must say. Looks superb. A little flat toward the ending given how good the rest of the film is, but it's not bad. Maybe a little long would be about the worst I could say of it.
Heaps of other films to catch up on- no time! D: Missed the ROCK OF AGES screening whilst I was away in Queenstown on vacation (only 3 days lol), plus we've got PREMIUM RUSH (awesome looking Joseph Gordon-Levitt thriller) and MADAGASCAR 3 sitting here waiting to watch. Going down to Wellington for work next week as well, so- busy busy.
Will try and be around more, commenting and stuff- I really AM trying! :P
Hope you're all well?
MADE ME do it, so here you go haha.No, not dead- hopefully the
I just posted is evidence of this- but just making sure you know. More art coming at some stage- been in the works for over a year now so who knows when. I'm about ready to grab a couple more pieces, so let me know if you have any ideas for me! :DBeen really busy of late- had a big movie convention and had to give a speech, present an award in front of 200 people- fun. :\ Flying out to Sydney on Wednesday this week to go to a presentation of ABE LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER footage (just show me the damn movie already!! D: )- it's going to be presented by the director I think, so that should be cool. No sleep for me that day, as the flights/timezones would have it.
Watching BRAVE on Friday, and THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN next week, so I'll let you know how those are. I'm a bit late for SNOW WHITE & THE HUNTSMAN now that it's out, but- it's actually really good- very entertaining film I must say. Looks superb. A little flat toward the ending given how good the rest of the film is, but it's not bad. Maybe a little long would be about the worst I could say of it.
Heaps of other films to catch up on- no time! D: Missed the ROCK OF AGES screening whilst I was away in Queenstown on vacation (only 3 days lol), plus we've got PREMIUM RUSH (awesome looking Joseph Gordon-Levitt thriller) and MADAGASCAR 3 sitting here waiting to watch. Going down to Wellington for work next week as well, so- busy busy.
Will try and be around more, commenting and stuff- I really AM trying! :P
Hope you're all well?
Going on a set visit for The Hobbit films
General | Posted 14 years agoVery excited! This week I will be off to Wellington to visit Weta Digital and meet Richard Taylor, plus hopefully have a chat with Joe Letteri- visual effects supervisor of Avatar, King Kong, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, TinTin. Going on set of the 2 Hobbit films and watching some filming, plus visiting some other key shooting locations and the sets. Then I believe I also get to go to the post-production facility and watch some of the footage being edited.
All paid for by Warner Bros of course- 5-star accommodation and I've seen some very, very fancy restaurants on the itinerary- yay! :D
Lol- I've been waiting for this for a fair while now- worked my butt off and finally the rewards come. ^^ I'll let y'all know how it goes- obviously I'm not allowed my iPhone there so I can't tweet about it or anything, but I'll update when I get back. ;)
All paid for by Warner Bros of course- 5-star accommodation and I've seen some very, very fancy restaurants on the itinerary- yay! :D
Lol- I've been waiting for this for a fair while now- worked my butt off and finally the rewards come. ^^ I'll let y'all know how it goes- obviously I'm not allowed my iPhone there so I can't tweet about it or anything, but I'll update when I get back. ;)
JOHN CARTER is pretty good....
General | Posted 14 years agoKinda Star Wars nerdy, but I don't think it will have the same cultish appeal that those films generated all that time ago. Looks gorgeous- the IMAX 3D is pretty stunning. Very corny throughout, but eh- it's actually really charismatic and fun. Don't expect a masterpiece, but just sit back and have a little fun- check your brain at the door as they say.
Also... 21 Jump Street. Go see it! :)
Also... 21 Jump Street. Go see it! :)
Fuck yeah! :D
General | Posted 14 years agoI have just spent the last month or so wading through over 6000 submissions, which I had already previously culled through thumbnails into the creme de la creme of that which interested me. That was a mammoth fucking effort- never again shall I let my inbox get so amazingly out of control.
Apologies for all the "fave and runs" folks- I generally love to give feedback but hey- I'm not a magician and time is limited. Journal nuking shall now halt- I might actually be able to start talking to people again!! XD
Hope everyone is well- mostly I just didn't want y'all to think I died. New art coming soon.
Also if you read this far... go see 21 JUMP STREET and THE LORAX. :D
Apologies for all the "fave and runs" folks- I generally love to give feedback but hey- I'm not a magician and time is limited. Journal nuking shall now halt- I might actually be able to start talking to people again!! XD
Hope everyone is well- mostly I just didn't want y'all to think I died. New art coming soon.
Also if you read this far... go see 21 JUMP STREET and THE LORAX. :D
Get your hand up a sheep's ass, mate!
General | Posted 14 years agoHahaha- no wonder y'all think this about us Kiwis. Great video though- have a watch! :)
https://youtu.be/9OVyytL1TQU
Oh and buy Icebreaker- it rocks!
https://youtu.be/9OVyytL1TQU
Oh and buy Icebreaker- it rocks!
In pursuit of happiness
General | Posted 14 years agoFor years now I've fought depression all by myself, but it's only ever allowed me to just "be" as opposed to being truly happy. I don't tell anyone else about it because I shouldn't be anyone else's problem- that's my philosophy. Unfortunately it's gotten to a point now where I simply can't carry on like I have, so.... I'm going to tell my doctor about it, and hopefully get some professional help. I don't want any drugs or anything- that shit's not for me- I just want to change my life by opening up and accepting help- accepting love and all that jazz- I've just been so totally introverted and bottled shit up for so long it literally feels like a cancerous tumor in the pit of my stomach.
So.... I certainly don't want to disturb or upset anyone, and I'm not looking for sympathy at all- just want to explain myself a bit so it doesn't seem like I've gone all distant and don't care anymore. I kinda feel like I obsess over fantastical things because it helps me keep to myself, away from reality so to speak. I want unreachable things, and instead of that making me happy (obviously), it makes me feel even more left out and depressed. Couple that with mild OCD (it's mild *now*, again something I've never asked for help with and have just managed all on my own), and of course it makes me very sensitive- takes me years to actually move on and "get over" stuff. Or deal with the fact that I can't have the one thing I'm obsessing over at the moment.
I'm also a perfectionist- nothing is ever "completed" or "achieved" because it's never perfect. THere's always more that should be done. Another level of degrading oneself or not feeling worthy or valuable. I'm a workaholic because I'm a perfectionist, but also because of the above whereby I have consumed my life with work to escape "reality" of dealing with emotions and family, etc. And now I have very little in the way of human connections, and thus have full circled back to depression.
Ahhh- so I read a thing that says I should just write everything that I'm feeling down, even if it's all mumbo-jumbo shit, and start there. This is my start. On the upside- depression comes from expecting a different result from doing the same thing. So I'm excited that this is the start of something different.
Take care y'all!
FA+
