Reviews

this was bitter sweet - really really wish there was more, cause this was Really good. 1st off the actress playing Hikari is just beautiful - not in the conventional way, cause her looks r totally androgynous, from head to toe and that's what makes her unique - the more i looked at her, the beautifuller she became. heck felt i could look at her for hrs. she did a great job (looks aside).

from the start, the tactlessness of people was disturbing, considering how aware we all r of the different/diverse people existing on this planet. and the fact that, cause someone is not a carbon-copy of u, doesn't make them "less" or abnormal. so an innocent trivial request to use the restroom, shouldn't make people uneasy and yet it does. always reminding her that she isn't seen as "normal". and as this is the start, the tone is set and thus i goes from one moronic encounter to the next. where curiosity get's the better of a customer asking if she really is a man "...cause she got big hands." (like seriously). but Hikari keeps rising above. so little wonder the only place she really is comfortable in her own skin, is around other trans women and "their" pub.

as the plot is Hikari reuniting with old classmate Takashi an unrequited love from high school. business takes her to her hometown and as she feels ready to face him and "come out". she decides to agree to a meet-up, ironically the one to get the surprise is Hikari. as Takashi might have made the date, but the moron invites the whole class and u can only guess at how tactless that group of moron's was (considering it was an all boy's school). and again Hikari sufferers in silence, the tactless jokes and rude remarks, always smiling and ignoring - rising above...

so i needed a 'happily ever after' for Hikari. but i guess her walking tall, not letting small minded moron's get to her, is a positive end - loved this (yet need more) for sure a rewatch.

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Short follow up to The Novelist

Overall: This is an 11 minute continuation of the story from The Novelist (aka Pornographer). Watched on Viki.

Content Warnings: none

What I Liked: (very minor spoilers)
- some sweet moments like the head on the shoulder at the end
- communication about the letters
- that kiss is no dead fish lip press haha
- the car seemed to match the pale pink of the cherry blossoms
- the ending song
- (neutral) they used the same music that is in The Novelist which is either a nice call back or recycling to save money...

Room For Improvement:
- the kick from the sister was unnecessary
- the intro music doesn't match the vibe of the show

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Beautiful and un-cliche

It's been a long time since I enjoyed a serious movie this much; going into this I had been worried that it would be pretentious and boring, but that wasn't the case at all.

In fact, I felt like the plot never stopped moving, the story's pacing was great, and the movie actually took me by surprise in many scenes. I thought that something was going to happen and the movie was going to go the cliche route, but they didn't and instead I watched something that felt much more realistic and emotionally-charged, rather than needlessly dramatic.

We're given just enough information about every character and situation to make us emotionally invested — it really feels like we're given a intimate peek into the tensions between family members.

Cinematography was beautiful as well; overall, the tone of this movie is so nostalgic and warm. I was surprised that there were some parts that were truly funny, albeit a little bittersweet. I won't lie — it stressed me out a lot in many places, but that was partly due to my misplaced expectations. Go into this without any preconceived notions and you'll find yourself in love with it, I promise.

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Slow burn, different

So this one was so different from the rest of the other Rurouni Kenshin movies; it was much more of a slow burn and less of an action flick, but it still fit perfectly into the franchise.

It was kind of odd watching this and already knowing everything because I had watched The Final before, but that didn't stop this from being any less enjoyable. I'm a sucker for these sort of tragic origin story romances, and this movie was no different.

I loved the chemistry between the two leads, and I loved how the plot played out with its small nuances and future references. There were a little less action scenes than I had wished for (the first two movies had the best fight scenes I'd ever scene) but I understand that that wasn't the focus of the movie.

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Remarkable future Classic

This is a remarkable true story of a singer who had dedicated her life in bringing happiness to others through music. Her story was sad but very touching. The cinematography brought back nostalgic moments in HK and the reproduction of ambience within the concert hall packed with fans was very realistic. One could even feel one’s heart beating when she slowly appeared on stage as the fans cheered her on. Of course, credit must be given to the young actress Louise Wong who took on this complex role . She was brilliant as Anita. Apart from having almost identical look to Anita, she was able to bring Anita’s larger than life character back to life. Every word, every tear came from her soul and touched the deepest part of the audience. Even thinking about some of her scenes in the movie will bring back misty eyes. Such a powerful remarkable movie. Should be a contender for the best actress, best movie, best production and best cinematography awards.

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Good depiction of second-chance love

This is the move version of Gu Man's book "Silent Separation".

Well acted, and well-depicted. The flashbacks to the original misunderstandings were clear and concise. The current-time situation was presented well, and ML did an outstanding job of portraying his frustration / desperation. I liked the love-rival side characters too -- both were realistic, and also stepped back when they realized they had no chance.

The movie is true to the original story (likely because Gu Man was also the screenwriter for the movie), and the movie is MUCH better than the 32-episode drama "My Sunshine" (2015). The drama was tedious, especially the over-long flashbacks, and changed important details.

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So bad it's funny

The movie starts with a Chinese guy in black face... so badly done his chin falls off (yes, you read that right). During the movie, they manage to offend literally every demographic I can think of. Lots of scenes reminiscent of Looney Tunes. You have to pay attention because they skip forward frequently, and you're the one who has to work to figure out what the context is. ML did a good job with lots of surprise twists, and all the other characters fit 1D stereotypes so no surprises from them (they could have been Looney Tunes characters). You're never quite sure what's real, or what's going to come next. I enjoyed it, but likely won't rewatch unless I'm in the mood for something this crazy again.

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Waste of a good concept

This movie suffers from the typical modern Chinese movie affliction : it lets the CGI take centre stage and ultimately the story suffers for it.

While the CGI is good, it has no story to tell. It is just eye candy and nothing more. What is more disheartening is that this movie had a great story concept. It would have been better to let the story lead and decide where and when CGI is needed to enhance the tale. As it is, the movie felt like a collection of scenes that showcases CGI magic that does little to better the story.

Without revealing too much detail and risking a spoiler, this movie is a re-imagining of the classic Chinese ghost story of Nie Xiaoqian and Ning Chaichen. However, I felt that it spent too much time with Po Songling (Jackie Chan) rather than to develop the relationship between Xiaoqian and Chaichen. The first third of the movie can be shortened as it spent too much time introducing Po Songling and Yan Fei; who is totally unnecessary as a character here.

Time would have been better spent to tell us more about the backstory of Xiaoqian and Chaichen which was reduced to an animated flashback segment lasting about 3 minutes.

The acting in the movie was so-so. Jackie Chan didn't look like he was giving his best. The rest of the cast were decent but the lead roles deserved so much more. Sad to say more time were dedicated to bringing in CGI characters like the pig demon and the thousand-hand demon than to develop the chemistry and/or conflict between Xiaoqian and Chaichen.

One can't help but to wonder how much better this movie could have been if enough care was given to tell a story rather than to showcase some CGI imagery.

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A Mediocre Imitation of Something Greater

The potentially interesting (although not entirely original) premise for this movie is not done many favors by the actual content. The often impressive action and hints of the character development and progression of a better movie are muddled into mediocrity by confused writing, unlikeable protagonists, and a cliché villain plot with few tangible stakes. And that's not even mentioning the usually abhorrent visual effects. I'm not usually one to dock a show for it's cgi, but it really trivializes the content, even more than it already is.

And really, that's one of the biggest flaws with this movie. One of the core concepts of the premise is that the "Seven Masters" have obtained many mystical abilities through their mastery of martial arts, and that these abilities can be taught to those with enough Qi. But from the beginning, the tone is confused. Initially, the concept and abilities are trivialized, used nonchalantly and played off for comedy. But later on, they are glorified and something to be used with great caution and responsibility. The Seven Masters (although there are only five, somewhat funnily) are viewed as both stereotypical bickering old people and also martial arts masters worthy of great respect. Having this sort of duality is something that can be pulled off, but it's not done effectively here, and the two sides only seem to detract from the other.

By far the biggest asset to the movie is the action: as it should be, for a martial arts movie. The choreography and stunts are for the most part very well done and extremely dynamic. The only problem is the story that contains them. Having great actions scenes is good, but to make them really impactful, you need tangible stakes, rising tension, and emotional investment from the characters. These things are all attempted by the story, but each falls flat in its own way. The stakes are far too grandiose and unexplored to be meaningful to the audience, the tension is messed with when the comic relief starts to detract from the main story, and our characters are too numerous and too unexplored to develop much attachment from the viewer. Even between the two protagonists (in what was likely supposed to be a romance subplot) there is pretty much no chemistry, meaning no investment when fighting for the other.

What I hoped would be the saving grace, was the protagonists. My initial impression was a guy with little skill but a good heart and unshakable morals. However this notion is contradicted time and again as he whines about training, disrespects his teachers and the privacy of others, and even considers fleeing at crucial plot points. It feels like a weak imitation of Karate Kid in a place where there shouldn't be one (keep in mind we're talking about a karate *kid*, who complained once and was done, versus our adult protagonist who never shut up). In fact, the whole training montage was done poorly in my opinion. What's more, there's very little character development, and perhaps he even gets worse from where he starts as the movie progresses. Towards the beginning of the movie, he is obsessed with learning the "Palm Blast" move so he can get stronger. Of course, we expect that by the end that he'll learn that martial isn't about just being strong. Instead, he just learns the Palm Blast move and that's that. Cool...

In summary, let me say this. My drive to continue and complete this movie was singular: the catharsis of a previously weak (but likeable) protagonist learning to be strong and proving his enemies wrong. If you're looking for that, turn back now. If you're looking for a good story, turn back now. If your looking for good characters, turn back now. If you're looking for comedy, you might be satisfied initially, but the story gets more serious very quickly, so I'd say turn back now. And finally, if you're looking for some solid actions scenes... well, I mean, you'll get those, you'd just probably be better off finding them in a better movie. So with that, overall, I will recommend against watching this movie.

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In Pursuit of Dreams

Asakusa Kid is not so much about the whole career of Takeshi Kitano, but rather it focuses on the legend’s humble beginnings. It is a touching story centering on a relationship between a mentor and his student. We see how “Take” learns tap dancing, performance wit, and comedic timing. Eventually, he becomes “Beat” Takeshi we all know and love, but this kind of transformation comes with a price.

If I were to make a cheesy cinematic comparison, I would say that Asakusa Kid is a heartbreaking callback to Rocky V (1990), but the difference is that the movie we discuss is based on real events. Consequently, we are given an insight not only into Takeshi Kitano’s trials and tribulations as a young comedian, but also into the world of Japanese stage comedy of the 1970s. From erotic cabarets to manzai skits, the realm of entertainment outside of Television (which was a groundbreaking novelty at that time) feels stale and outdated. This stark contrast marks a conflict between Master Fukami who clings to the traditional stage and Take who desires to make a name for himself.

I really have to give a shout out to top notch production design. Just as with The Naked Director drama, the viewers are transported back in time to Japan of pre-Bubble era. Interestingly, apart from a closing song by Soul Cobra Twist, we can also hear Takeshi Kitano himself singing the Asakusa Kid song. The music from the master himself really enhances the film’s finale.

With regard to performances, Yo Oizumi really steals the movie with his wonderful portrayal of Senzaburo Fukami. You can’t help but feel the character’s pain, especially in the second half of the story. Additionally, Yuya Yagira is amazing as young (and old) Takeshi Kitano. He got all the tics and mannerisms right. Additional praise goes to supporting actresses, in particular, Mugi Kadowaki as Chiharu and Honami Suzuki as Mari.

All things considered, Asakusa Kid is not about gore, violence, and exploitation, which were so popular in the 1970s. It is a delicate coming-of-age tale about a student who feels indebted to his wonderful teacher. By knowing Kitano’s beginnings, you become more appreciative of his cinematic endeavours. This movie is definitely worth a try.

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Needs an experienced director.

Story: Has potential

Special effects: Good

Execution: This is where it was lacking. I want to say that they should've turned this into a TV series but as the movie progressed, it would be scary to see it in this medium if done by the same director.

Acting: They can do it but it seems the director did not pushed them. The actors weren't newbies in acting, yet it doesn't seem their hearts are into this project.

Again, the story has potential. The universe can be developed further. It's just the execution of the project which pulled this film down. With that said: 6 out of 10 stars only.

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Controversial, Bloodthirsty Yet Classic…

Filmed by the late and venerable director Kinji Fukasaku ‘ Battle Royale’ sadly marked the director’s final film before his death but is unsurprisingly highly-regarded as Fukasaku’s magnum opus.

The “ fight-for-survival” genre in films and productions has long been held accountable through the success in Western literature and media. However ‘ Battle Royale’ has long been held accountable amongst Asian-movie enthusiasts as a classic modern game-changer to the genre and whilst often lesser-known against more recent productions, the drama’s legacy has notably lived on across popular culture as an ultra-violent social and sardonic satire upon teens, Japanese society and the widening romantic ideologies of violence in popular culture.

The movie imagines an alternate-future where Japan’s judicial system and government have broken down and delinquency amongst youths runs rampant. In an attempt to pass Draconian judgement upon the new generation the Japanese government puts into law the Battle Royale Act : a piece of legislation which means that a nominated group of young people are forcibly marooned together on an island, and forced to kill each other until one survivor is left.

In the current events of the movie reoccurring main lead bitter and spiteful teacher Kitano ( Beat Takeshi) nominates his class for their acts of disobedience by skipping lessons- explaining the rules and sending the bewildered teens out into the wild of the island as he watches gleefully from afar as the teens begin to grow nastily animalistic as cliches fall apart and distrust runs rife.

The bloodthirsty violence of the movie had admittedly remained a great divide for viewers with some perturbed by the explicit scenes of massacres and blood amongst a main cast of predominantly teenagers ( sans Takeshi and
Ando Masanobu) whilst others may note a form of wry satire by the director against his own personal experiences during childhood as well as intertwined with masterfully-stunning scenes and shots.

There’s a wide range of different characters in addition to Kitano throughout the film; our reoccurring main lead
Shuya Nanahara ( Tatsuya Fujiwara) who remains strongly morally-guided throughout the movie by promising to protect his deceased friend Yoshitoki crush and his classmate Noriko Nakagawa ( Aki Maeda) ; a reserved and good student who was often a prime victim of bullying in her class, Shogo Kawada ( Taro Yamamoto) - the ragtag and gruff transfer student alongside the antagonistic drive of sociopath Kazuo Kiriyama ( Masanobu Ando) and dysfunctional classmate Mitsuko Souma( Ko Shibasaki) play pivotal roles throughout the storyline.


Admittedly whilst the opening brought a proficient introduction to our main players and the world-building of the series where delirium and fear plague the teens during their descent into moral decadence, the main- climax of the movie could often lack proficiency. Whilst the duration length and pacy storyline had to maintain more subtle backstories and revelations the movie could often lead some key characters towards feeling less-developed than others and sometimes less engaged at times in the tales of friendships, betrayals, attractions, crushes and unrequited loved which emerge in the blood battle.

However the entirety of the movie can be often to be cited as not merely just a satire but a metaphor toward the painful and anguished experiences of youth which is brilliantly brought to life by the spine-tingling soundtrack of the series ( which is most notably reciprocated in recent films and productions as a homage to the film.) The ending of the movie is initially divisive but does offer contemplation for viewers. Overall a classic movie which whilst not for the faint hearted is powerful.

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The movie from the beginning was dark, it was unpredictable as it went on.. I don't know why I chose to watch this movie but now, I'm glad I did. The title was kinda misleading though, or maybe I assumed it the wrong way. I assumed the movie to be about a plan, like a robbery. Poor me, I didn't know what it was all about!
The movie may look as if it was poorly taken, but trust me you won't be disappointed in the end. I kept on asking myself how this is gonna end because you won't know where the story is going. The acting was really good and expressive!
This is a story about three orphan friends who were happy but things got worse due to a particular incident and how they overcome it in the future.
As for me, the ending was satisfying.
Watch it and you won't regret.

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Surprisingly beautifully filmed!

Obsessed is a 2014 South Korean erotic romance film about an affair between two married individuals, set in a military camp in 1969.

I'd first like to say that I love the chemistry between the two leads; you can feel the intense emotions Song Seungheon has for Lim Jiyeon (and even the lack of feelings he has for his wife). Even the shy, demure looks Jiyeon gives Seungheon was beautifully incorporated in the feverish, passionate forbidden love between the two. I'm not sure if the costumes/sets in the film were historically accurate, but they added a nice touch to the mood, from the hair salon frequented by the commissioned officers' wives, to the steamy scene in the Jeep(?). I would also like to add that the music complemented the film very well, which is a first for me because I usually never pay attention to the scores used in dramas/films.

And yes, I believe that "Obsessed" has a high rewatch value, simply from how well the romance was filmed (.. and not just the sexy time scenes lol).

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