Reviews

"Lost in Perfection" (2023) starts with promise but ultimately disappoints, failing to fulfil its potential as a compelling thriller. Rushing through its plot without building suspense or developing characters, the film leaves viewers feeling underwhelmed and disconnected. Despite an intriguing premise surrounding a "Poisonous Widow" and a web of deceit, the execution falls flat, lacking the expected depth and tension. Even the central antagonist, Lan, fails to evoke the sinister aura required of her character. As the narrative progresses, anticipated twists fail to materialize, resulting in a lackluster climax and unresolved plotlines. While the film does boast visually appealing moments and a charismatic performance by Rhydian Vaughan as the prosecutor, these elements are overshadowed by its overall shortcomings. "Lost in Perfection" may offer surface-level entertainment, but it fails to deliver the gripping thriller experience viewers anticipated.

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Still, very still

Still + Life, very still life a moment in time captured on film that gives it the feeling of watching a Documentary without the narrating voice that often follows + some fantasy shots here and there to make sure we know it is a movie and not a Documentary.

About 50% of the film is a bunch of half naked working men, eating noodles and singing... concrete surrounded by beautiful views, more concreete and demolishen work spraying even more concrete around.

Not a lot of dialog, not really sure what actually happened as it was really boring... and though there are some powerful scenes here and there they are clouded by the dust from all the demolition work...

The quality of the filming has a nostaligic feel to it that had me thinking it was shot in the 70s and not end of the 1990s-2006...

But it is indeed a still life film

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Just a simple but beautiful love story

This is a simple, beautiful love story between two mature adults. When the final credits come on-screen, it leaves me with a warm, cosy feeling in my heart.

The pace of the film is good – the awkward initial meetings, growing closer, and the build-up to the twist at 2/3 mark of the film. This leaves the audience with a short period of uncertainty on the direction that the story will take, before the unravelling of the puzzle. Even after that, audience is kept wondering on how the love story will end until the last 15 minutes of the film.

I particularly like the camera work. Many scenes look v picturesque and well-composed. With beautiful background soundtracks, the whole film feels arty but without any pretentious vibes.

The acting is good. Both MC and ML characters shine through without feeling forced.

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Ma Dong Seok is a big giant, i sooo love him.

I super love this action crime film it gives me a Hollywood vibes type of film. Ma Dong Seok never disappoint me he really nailed being the leader of the gangster he gave us his hoodlum and action star look. He really possess the action vibes in the action scenes, his very gullible his like a human teady bear. Partnered wilh oppa Kim Mu Yeal is the perfect combination, one over confident gangster paired wit a hot tampered cop is a perfect mixture to capture the serial killer. Although they have different motives in capturing him they still helo each other just to arrest the suspect .
Although oppa Kim Mu Yeol looks dirty in this movie he is still hot 🤭.
This movie has satisfying ending, you will never get bored because you will enjoy watching its jam packed action scenes. It has the Hollywood action vibes level. You will see how the gangster and the cop help each other to capture the suspect.

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The American Dream but not really...

A decent chinese movie about family connections of two siblings from different mothers that takes place in the US.

The movie portrayed the multicultural identity of the States and the majority of the actors did a decent job, despite the fact that the sctipt was mainly in English, which wasn't their native language.

The character of the female lead was very well written and realistic, something that was also true for her little brother that acted exactly like kids do (annoying me at times).

The story had some emotional moments and touching elements and it did try to be realistic, however many times it failed, with things happening out of nowhere and people acting in a quite improbable way. Even the main reason why the little kid went to the US felt a bit far-fetched. Lastly, at times, it was like the movie was glamorizing -at least to a certain extent- the life in the States.

All in all, it is a decent film that is very easy to watch and it does have its moments.

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Growing pains

Teen years are probably the sweetest and the most difficult years in anyone's life. If you are an arts student, looking into your own memories should be enough to find inspiration. I would not be surprised to discover that it is the case here: this being an university project!

The story about burgeoning feelings between two teen boys is told with sensitivity and beauty by someone who knows what he's talking about! Two boys' friendship and certainly more, is ruined by the lack of courage and the fear of how other people perceive them.

The actors skilfully conveyed the feelings of loss, love, desperation and disappointment: their eyes seriously tugged at my heartstrings. The cinematography is lovely and the sets tell a lot about the boys feelings of confusion, loneliness and yearning for happiness, understanding and love. Unfortunately, the society, the misconceptions, the lack of acceptance, scare one of the boys who ends up running away from the promise of a different but right kind of happiness for him.

I wish this were longer and that the ending did not give us a forshadowing of not nice things to come for one of the boys. As the title puts it, one boy managed to ground the other one, stop him from flying away. But now that he is scared, he abandons the other boy not grounding him, holding him down anymore....Sad and tragic? Or hopeful that he will find the strength to go on?

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oh the love of a mother...

the story focuses on the life of carmen and her family after the death of her ex husband.

it's a story about how far a mother is willing to go to fight for her kids and how big a mother's love can be.

the pace of the film was ok. the actors/actresses did well with their respective roles. especially ms. snooki! she was perfect as carmen.

there's not much i can say i disliked about "in the name of the mother" except maybe the ending was kinda predictable but i do have to say i was still a bit shocked as the events leading up to that moment was good at keeping me at the edge of my seat wondering if its gonna end the way i thought it would

but overall, the predictability of the ending was rather underwhelming and wished it had taken a different route. however, i do understand why it had to end like that.

all in all,

in the name of the mother is a relatable story for many moms out there. it was definitely a tear jerker and a rollercoaster of emotions.

please show some love to your mom while you still can 💐 and if you can't here's a reminder that you are eternally loved 💞

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I dig it

In this captivating film, Win Metawin's performance is a revelation, showcasing a depth of emotion that I had not previously seen from him. His portrayal is both raw and nuanced, drawing the audience into the character's inner turmoil with remarkable skill.

One of the most impressive aspects of the film is the seamless way in which both Janella and Win switch between languages. From English to Thai, Filipino, and even some Cantonese, their linguistic dexterity adds a layer of authenticity to their characters, making them feel all the more real and relatable.

Moreover, the film offers a fresh perspective on Hong Kong, showcasing lesser-known spots that highlight the city's unique charm and beauty. As someone who thought they knew Hong Kong well, I was pleasantly surprised by the new discoveries the film had to offer.

The dialogue in the film is another standout element, with well-crafted lines that are both metaphoric and deeply reflective. These moments of contemplation add a profound depth to the film, elevating it beyond a mere narrative and into the realm of existential exploration.

Overall, this film is a triumph on multiple levels. From Win Metawin's captivating performance to the film's rich tapestry of languages and its thoughtful dialogue, every aspect of the film comes together to create a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

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Downright Depressing

"Kalel, 15" - A Thought-Provoking Journey into the Depths of Youth and Stigma

At just fifteen years old, Kalel finds himself grappling with a reality that most teenagers never have to face. As the son of a priest and HIV positive, he navigates life amidst a sea of tensions, secrets, and societal stigmas. "Kalel, 15" is a poignant exploration of the multifaceted issues surrounding HIV, Filipino youth, dysfunctional families, and the complexities of Christian morality.

From the outset, the film captivates with its brilliant storytelling, acting, and cinematography. Within the first five minutes, viewers are drawn into Kalel's world, which feels refreshingly unique and authentic. The decision to film in stark black and white adds a layer of grittiness and darkness that perfectly complements the film's themes.

Yet, amidst the film's visual and narrative prowess lies a stark truth: the lack of dialogue surrounding HIV in the Philippines. Kalel's journey serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of societal silence and stigma. In a Catholic nation where discussions about sex are often taboo, HIV is treated as a dirty secret rather than the urgent epidemic it truly is. The film unapologetically exposes the hypocrisy and shortcomings of a society unwilling to confront uncomfortable truths.

The cinematography further underscores Kalel's isolation and despair. As the film progresses, the frame gradually shrinks, symbolizing the suffocating pressure and confinement of his circumstances. Despite his attempts to find hope in a world devoid of color, Kalel is continuously let down by those around him.

However, amidst the film's palpable anger lies a deeper sense of insight and urgency. "Kalel, 15" channels its rage into a powerful examination of societal neglect and the dire consequences it inflicts upon vulnerable individuals like Kalel. Through his experiences, the film forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about sex, stigma, and the failure of empathy.

In its entirety, "Kalel, 15" is a mind-blowing and thought-provoking cinematic experience. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of open dialogue, empathy, and action in addressing issues like HIV and youth sexuality. This film is not just important; it is essential viewing for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of stigma and the resilience of the human spirit.

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David vs. Goliath

I disliked this short film for the first 10min: it was the usual tale of rich and powerful pushing the "little" people out of the way with their money.

The silly and stupid daughter of a neauveau riche father (complete with a fake fur jacket...on him!!!) gets into a dorm and a scholarship to go to Hawaii while the smart but poor girl keeps being refused access. But the smart girl is smart and she knows how the world works so complaining and making noise is not going to get her anything. She has to deal with them in an intelligent way. And she does!

This turned out to ba a brilliant tale of the underdog coming on top.

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Lockdown to freedom

This is my first lockdown film from Japan. The Philippines have made loads of these but this short film is of a different kind.

The story follows two neighbours as they get to know each other and start dating only to be stopped by the curfews: not allowed to leave their respective apartments, not allowed to meet, not allowed to go out on to the balcony. While one girl religiously follows the rules, the other one is fed up and eventually manages to talk the first one to throw the caution into the wind: they go out for a walk through the empty streets of Tokyo....

Today I remember the lockdowns fondly: what a strange and incredible, never to be repeated experience, that was. We all went through the same feelings as do girls in this film: listen constantly to the news, util you reach the overdose and then rebel, go out and breathe free.

There is not much dialogue, and what is said is mostly just nonsense lost in the news broadcasts. The romance is shown from the beginning and through every stage of development via short scenes. The curfew put strain on it but they decided their love is more important than anything else. So they go out fully masked! The reason for lockdown was never really explicitly said: pandemic or pollution or something else....in the end it is not important!

The music is great. Acting and cinematography top notch. An interesting short film.

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