Geng: Pengembaraan Bermula

Geng: Pengembaraan Bermula (Gang/Friends: The Adventure Begins) is Malaysia's 1st locally made full length 3D animation by Les’ Copaque Production Sdn Bhd of Upin & Ipin fame.

It was about 2 friends, city slicker Badrol and Lim visiting the former's hometown- Kampung Durian Runtuh. They met new friends, though reluctantly, the village kids- mischievous twins Upin and Ipin, animal talking Rajoo, and hot-tempered beauty Ros. And also a mysterious critter. Together, they got involved in the recent mising durian mystery and had the biggest adventure of their lifetime. Unless of course, they come back in a bigger sequal *LOL*

For a debut local 3D animation movie, Les’ Copaque' sure have no qualms throwing everthing but the kitchen sink. We have stereotype characters, udder jokes, car chases (of sorts), Disney-like song dance sequence (more Bollywood, me thinks), big fireball explosion, teary moments and monsters fight ala King Kong, all packed into its 90 minutes time frame. While more is good, but it doesnt help if they compromised on the story which was rather straight forward and a bit far fetched. What I really like about the movie was the comedic elements which we Malaysian can truly related to. Not to mention the cute twins which got one of the best laughs out scenes in the movie.

Of course, it's hard not to compare it visually with the likes of Pixar and Dreamworks but hey, this is by the way, Malaysian's 1st and frankly, I think it was a really good start for them :) Saying that, there still a lot to improve in term of animation and some of the characters design especially the cuddly main one ;)

It a shame if most of us shun this feature just because of its "locally made" tag. Sure, Geng is in Bahasa Malaysia (with a nice post production English sub), but it is made by Malaysian for Malaysian and it can be pretty enjoyable for all of us. Do watch it and be proud :)

CJ7 Review

It's hard not to compare Stephen Chow Sing Chi latest movie, CJ7 with his previous blockbuster kungfu flick, Kungfu Hustle. Then again, comparing the two was like comparing an apple with a orange. Unlike all his previous movies, this time Stephen Chow aims not only to make the audience laugh but to cry as well. So expectation for this movie was very high which might not a very good thing.

CJ7 was a heart warming sci-fi comedy about a single father trying to give the best to his son dispite being a hardcore poor. Working as a construction labourer by day and rubbish savanger by night, Ting (Stephen Chow) placed his son, Dicky (Xu Jiao) in the best school, hoping to give him a better future. But Dicky, bullied often by his rich classmates and fed up with his father's moral naggings, wish to be able to compare with his better-off peers. But things changed when, Ti pick something from the rubbish dump and brought it home to Dicky which turn out to be an alien toy-like creature.
In this movie, Stephen Chow took a backseat and let his new child actress to take the limelight. Xu Jiao play the role of the son very well, in both comic and heart-tearing moments. As for Chow, his supporting role of a doting father was a far cry from his previous over-the-top main characters. The usual "mou lei tao" or nonsense have been toned down to make way for Disney-like feeling of this movie. Still, the movie has its geniunely funny moments.
Visually, well, honestly it was not quite on par with the effects you seen on Kungfu Hustle or even Shaolin Soccer. While Kungfu's effect was to enhance its contents to be mind blowing, CJ7's only serve as a essential ingredient to the story such as the alien "dog" which can only to be created via CG. Then again, we already seen a lots of cutesy CG characters running around in live-action movies these days. Then again, the dog, CJ7 hence the title, was made very cute and adorable. I can imagine what kind plush doll to a be hit in this season's Valentine.
Overall, the movie really lacks the fun and the grand feeling of the previous movies. The variety of the weird characters, the pictureque location sets, the "cool" dance moves, real mean villains, mind blowing special effect and action sequence, all seems to be missing in this movie. CJ7 was not bad actually and can really serve as great Father's Day movie. But we want a movie that was damn infection to watch and talk about for a long time over a cup of tea tarik. Still, CJ7 did make many of the audience cry and that's what Stephen Chow wants in this movie. Excuse me, but i think i gonna watch Kungfu Hustle for the upteenth time.

Cloverfield Review

It can be said as the first most anticipated blockbuster movie of the year 2008. Cloverfield started out a year ago a secretive movie project, codenamed "01.18.08." by the director, Matt Reeves -fueled by a rather smart online marketing ploy involving a soft drink and "leaked" info and pics. Even though hardly anything know about this movie apart from the official poster, trailer and casting, the movie was hyped to the stratosphere by the movie fans online.

So how was the movie fare to the audience when it was finally released a few days ago. For me, this monster movie really doesnt deserved the hype it created. No, it not a bad movie, just it can be better especially the storyline. More on that later.

Cloverfield was shown like viewing though a hand held video camera. It's about a group of friends in Manhattan, New York, planning and video taping a surprise farewell party for Rob Hawkins, who was going to Japan to hold a high ranking job. This previously upset his girlfriend Beth McIntyre , who did show up in the party but in the end left after a argument with Rob. It beginning to feel almost like a romantic comedy scenario when suddenly things gone very bad. A Godzilla-sized monster appeared and went on a unstoppable rampage through Manhattan. Worried about Beth's safely, Rob, along with a couple of close friends, set out to her apartment miles away to rescue her.

Technically, the movie really shine here. The "Blair Witch Project" camera view throughout the movie really get u into the action. You almost feel you were there with the characters, living through their most intense and dangerous moments of their lives. Still, the jerking and spinning around of the view can really put off some people. While people like me, who clocked hundreds of hours playing first person view video games (Half-Life, Quake, Halo etc) can truly enjoy the experience.

The SFX department really work hard to bring the monster to live and create the destruction it brought. The creature was far more intimating and invincible than the Hollywood version of Godzilla. And those little things it spawn really reminded me of Starcraft's zerdlings. How cool is that.

Still, great SFX doesnt make great movie and storywise, there a lot of work to be done. While the flow of plot was rather good, there a lot of loose ends. The whole plot was too generic if u ask me- boy and friends find girl, one by one friend drop death, boy finally found girl, tragic twist in the end etc etc.

By the end of the movie, it may leave you feeling unsatisfied which many of the audiences did. I got the feeling this movie act like a introduction to a sequel. Well, that's what i think. It a decent movie and one of the best monster ride out there nonetheless.

Ratatouille

There is a saying- "Better late than never". Months after the movie, Ratatouille released locally, much to my relief and excitement, I finally able watch the Animation Movie of The Year which was still playing in the cineplex. Yeah!

Pixar did it again! After a rather generic but visually shining "Cars", my initial feeling about this movie was not very encouraging. I was thinking the story was a bit like "City rat and country mouse" or something like that after watching the 1st trailer. Not really fancy that kind of story plot. Soon i heard its developing story which turn out to be something else. Still I didnt get my hope up. When i finally watch the movie, i never expect i was thrown a curve ball by Pixar. And i love it.

Remy was no ordinary rat. He was born able to taste, smell and appreciate fine food- something that his family, brother Emile and father Djangon finds it odd. Guided by Remy's imaginary mentor, the recently deceased legendary chef, Auguste Gusteau, he aims to live a life of gourmet. But in the world where rats are considered as the much feared dirty food stealing pests, it was an impossible dream. Remy's life set to change, when he was accidentally separated from his rat colony and ends up in Gusteau's restaurant in "Paree" (Paris). And his chance came when a new garbage boy, Alfredo Linguini "cooks" up an incident that form a partnership between the rat and the hopeless as a cook boy.

Like the finest food, the movie was served with the best of both world- storyline and visual, all mixed so perfectly. Director, Brad Bird was truly a genius at storytelling combining with the great wizards at Pixar making this movie not only a visual feast but an endearing fun story for the whole family.

True to Pixar's standard, the animation in the movie was truly breathtaking. Paris was rendered in its most beautiful best on the big screen. Food so real you can almost taste and smell it. And characters animated so believable you just wanna hug them (or slap them silly depending on who). Some details were so fine you have to pause the movie to take a better look (one reason to buy the DVD).

The idea of Remy's voice narrating his story through the movie was with all the pausing effect, the talking illustration of Gusteau, the cooking training of Linguini, the rat's prepective of Paris urban life, the visualizing of taste and the trigger-happy grandma was really fun to watch. Any movie-goer whom missed this should have a rat put under his or her shirt.

Bleach: Memories Of Nobody

After waiting for almost 1/2 a year for a subbed version, I finally got my eyes on the 1st full-length Bleach movie- The Memories of Nobody. After much hoohaa in the fandom, is this movie worth the wait? Well, I 'll get on to that soon. Before that a little intro 'bout the movie.

The movie took place after the Soul Society arc of the main storyline, maybe in the middle of the filler story of the anime series ( Those whom are new to the series, better watch or read it to better understand the movie). It was the autumn holiday ( i think it was), Ichigo and Rukia were busy doing the best thing they do- slaying Hollows and giving soul burial. Suddenly they encounter a large group of strange red-headed souls- the Blanks. With communication to the Soul Society strangely cut off, Ichigo and Rukia were at wits in what to do when a female Shinigami suddenly appeared and destroy all the Blanks there. Baffled at the event, Rukia went back to Soul Society to check things out while Ichigo was ordered to look after the playfully childish shinigami, Senna. Soon things turned more grim as a dimension- The Valley of Scream, was manipulated by a group of rogue shinigami oucasts, threaten to destroy both the real world and Soul Society. And what is the connection between the event, Senna and something called the Memory Rosary?

Ok, The movie was not as great as i thought it would be. Seriously, the plot was simple and kinda predictable. It would be better if they just focus on either the storyline or the fight scene rather than crammed a lot of things into it. Some characters were pretty irrelevant to the storyline. Guess they were showed up just to please their respective fans... And as for the fight scene, well- those in the anime series are much better. Though some of the sinkais seems pretty cool to watch here.

As usual, with bigger budget brings better animation. Karakura Town was never been so populated and alive before. The beautiful background cityscape really suit the romantic like atmosphere which were aplenty in this movie (hint hint). Sword fights are more flashy but as I mentioned,unmemorable which was a real pity considering its big screen status and its target audiences. Next time hire a good martial art choreographer. As for the new characters, I really like Seena, a frail, confused girl hidden by her happy face and playfulness. Too bad she got too little fight scene. The mention of her so called lost legendary sword seems pointless. And the head villian hardly makes the impact. Pretty generic too.

Well, this movie has it all- action, comedy, friendship, sacrifice etc but it could be better. It had its touching moments though. I really like its ending song- Sen no Yoru wo Koete from Aqua Timez. And do watch till the credit ends for a little epilogue.

Harry Potter And the Order Of The Phoenix

By this time, everyone seems to go Pottermania ever since this movie was going to be released and the soon to be available final book of Harry Potter tomorrow. As for me, I might or might not get the book. But not until I know whats going on with Harry Potter and The Half-Blood Prince :) Anyone might wanna lent me a copy?

So this movie was about Harry's fifth year at Hogwarts and this time things going against the young wizard. Tormented emotionally by the return of Lord Voldemort and the disbelieving Minister of Magic, Harry became darker and full of hate. Face the immediate threat of his arch-nemesis and his growing army of evil, Harry must confront his own darkness while preparing his army of his own with his circle of friends. In the sametime rebeling against the meddling ignorance of Ministry of Magic's Dolores Umbridge who replaced Dumbledore as the headmaster. Storywise, well, since it was adapted from the novel, i must say it was very well written. As for the movie, to fit the entire novel into the 2 hours screen time was impossible, so rather it focus on Harry's fight against Lord Voldemort and the rebellion of course. I never read any of the novels, so i say the plot and the pace of the movie was great and engaging to watch. Miss the Quidditch match which was actually omited in this movie.

Visually, well, I have a liking to fantasy movie due to fasinating sets, explosive magical spells and great creature designs. And all Harry Potter's films tend to be great visually. Magical world, stunning fight scenes especially at the climax of the film when Dumbledore takes on Lord Voldemort one on one. Beats any real life firework shows. And not forget the other highlight of the movie- the kissing scene between Harry and Cho which last longer than i thought it would be, much to the chagrin of any Harry female fans *snigger*
Well, compare to Cho and the new character of the movie, Luna, i prefer the later's optimistic personally anytime. As for the movie, it a great watch but doesnt warrant a second. Better spent the money on the novels, i think. Or wait for the dvd. Or boths :)

Transformers

Ever since i was a child, i'll always fantasized with robots, especially those robots anime from Japan. Robotech, Gundam, Voltron and even Transformers. Well, actually Transformer were originated from Japanese toys which the Americans thinks it was cool to promote it as a cartoon series during the 1980s. And i pretty much enjoyed the whole Transformer cartoon series since transforming from vehicles to robots was really cool those days and even now. Fast forward to the present day, and now there's a life-action movie based on the cartoon classic and it was even produced by my favourite director, Steven Spielberg. How cool was that.

And those who think the the Pirates of the Caribbean finale was the movie of the summer, think again. The movie really packed enough firepower to sink even the Flying Duchman. *snigger*

The movie was about 2 group of Transformers, the good Autobots and the evil Decepticons battling each other for the all powerful artifact- the All Spark which was discovered on Earth. And sure enough, thrown in a midst of this intergalactic war, a human teenagar, Sam Witwicky who holds the key to the location of the artifact.

Okay, to those whose are blown away by the visual of pirate movie or even 300's dancing of death, prepare to be blast supernova by the visual effect of this movie. When i laid eyes on the first transformation in the opening scene, my jaw totally dropped and my eyes freeze fixed on the screen. Yeah, it was that good. The robots, the transformation, the big slug fest- everything was done perfectly to applease the the types like myself. Never on any medium, i have witnessed robots laying the smack down on each other like they did on Transformers. It almost a childhood dream came true. *grin*

As for the plot and the story, well, i hoped better. The thing about this movie like any other big sci-fi movies, it emphasized more on the visual aspect of the movie. Still, it did better than other. Plot wise, it went quite well making the story engaging to the end but a bit predictable if you asked me. And there are some things in the movie that doesnt really make sense to me, especially at the end. It's a lame excuse to bring death and destruction in middle of a crowded city.

Anyway, the way i see it, the robots were the true star of the movie, not try-too-hard-to-get-a-girl and occasionally emotional Sam (Shia LaBeouf) or the body-licious Mikaela (Megan Fox). It was the trusty Bumblebee, good-old Optimus Prime and the funny riot Frenzy that will definitely get my second viewing or even a third. Get the dvd too.

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

The 1st time i saw the movie poster in a local (Singapore) newspaper, i notice somewhat particular about the picture. At 1st i thought it resembles to Hayao Miyazaki's style. But further research on the net, the character was designed by the same guy who create Rei Ayanami and Evagelion mechas, Yoshiyuki Sadamoto. Wow~ Then i found out this movie won the hearts of critics and some awards in film fest from France to Germany. Ok, a must watch anime of 2006/7.

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo) was directed by Mamoru Hosoda and produced by Madhouse Studio, famous for anime flicks like Death Note and NANA. It was based on a manga of a same name and apparently there's a life-action movie version had been made in 1980s. LOL

The story is about a tomboyish high school girl, Makoto Konno accidentally discover that she have the ability to time leap which, she used extravagantly to avoid being late in school and score a prefect mark in exam. Able to go back in time to redo the stuff she like and fixing past mistakes, little does she realise that in doing so may hurt the others around her. And the more she undid the time, the worst it gets.

The animation was top notch as expected from a big shot studio. The town and backdrop city was rendered beautifully with great detail and nice feel to it. Some scene really capture the impact as the main character fall and roll around. Really like the scene between time and space, and also when time freeze up in the movie.

The storyline was fantastic and may be on par with the movies from Studio Ghibli. The plot, while some scene was a bit slow, was really engaging with all the time travel around. It may sound complicated but the storyline was pretty easy to follow. Watching Mokoto's antics while she undid past was really enjoyable. There was twist and turn and heartaching moments that keep the story more interesting than other time-travel inspired animes.

Still, some of the dialogue was rather strange to accept like the Mokoto's aunt told her that, "time leap was normal among teenager her age but rare", with a nonchalant tone. Go figure. Anyway, the movie is one of the best anime i watch in recent years and worth going out and get the DVD. And do prepare urself emotionly. The scene when Mokoto cries loudly really can make you wanna reach out to console her. I did.

Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer

Just came back from watching this family friendly superhero movie and well, it just entertain enough with some interesting plot and action. So, the first superhero family are back to the big screen and this time they brought along another superhero to share their screen time- the ultra cool Silver Surfer.
The story began in the mist of the wedding of the century- the fantastic couple Reed Richards aka Mr Fantastic and Susan Storm aka Invisible Woman. But the family affair is soon interrupted by a cosmic anomaly that soon escalated into something more grim. And in between they have to deal with the bossy government military and their old nemesis, Victor Von Doom aka Dr Doom at the same time. Story wise, it alot lighter than most of recent superhero movie out there (Spider-Man, Batman Returns etc) and about the same level of kid friendly as the other superhero family- The Incredibles. Anyway the plots keeps you interesting enough to ignore the rather predictable storyline. But considering its target audience, it's understandable.
Compare to their first movie, this one seems to offer a lot more. Action, location, characters and visual effects which not a bad thing at all. The action takes you from New York to German and to China. Super powers flying around with lots of explosive destruction for the action fans and some comedy moments to laugh at. Though it's strange that the movie did an anime like fan-service at one scene. Go figure. There's enough eye candies to go by in the movie like postergirl Jessica Alba in tights and the six-pack hunk Silver Surfer who to me like a visualy upgraded metalic T-1000 (Terminator 2 anyone?)
While it pales to the likes of Spider-Man3 and Pirates of Carribean, Fantastic Four 2 do holds its ground as an enjoyable fun family or friends outing. And for those who rather spent money on the other up-coming good vs evil visual effect loaded movie (hint hint), there's always the special edition DVD release.

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End

Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum.
So another trilogy ended this summer... and what an ending. Depending on people, it can be a good one or a bad one but most likely it will be bitter sweet.

The movie begin straight after the cliffhanger ending of The Dead Man's Chest, where Will Turner, Elizabeth and Captain Barbossa and crew in Singapore to get a puzzle map from the Chinese pirate lord, Captain Sao Feng. In doing so, they will able to find and resurrect/rescue Captain Jack Sparrow who end up trapped in Davy Jones's Locker. At at the meantime, time is running up for the pirates all over the world as The Flying Dutchman and Davy Jones, under the control of the East India Trading Company, eradicating pirates or anyone who related here and there.

The movie upped the ante in the visual department this time with lavish sets, mind boggling special effect and great camera shots with action aplenty. No movie yet can compare the great variety of sword fight scenes, auto fast cannon naval battle, shrapels and bullets flying around and a swarming of stone crabs (huh?). An throw in a whirlpool in the middle. Get the idea?

Story wise, it seems a little pale in comparison to its previous movie. Sure, there's a lot of twist and turn and twist again but at times the plot is a little too complicated for the viewer to catch and enjoy. Anyway, it fun to see everybody stab each other's back at every turn while maintaining their side to each other.. We get to see some love triangle of sorts between Jack, Turner and Elizabeth while fighting the EITC cronies.

Still, some action sequences are a bit too ridiculous at the end (monkey fired with a cannonball, anyone?) And the other pirate lords' armada is just for show and helpless in the climax. Weaklings...

Anyway, the movie is worth every cent of the admission price where ever you watch it (I watch it in Singapore ) Hey, it one of the great summer blockbuster after all. And watching Jack interacting with his multi-personality self even worth a second watch :)

Spider-Man 3 Review

"How the movie?" I asked my bro?

"Okay, i guess. But, Spider-man 2 was better..."

"Oh?"

"Watching Fantastic Four (the 1st movie) was better too", he said.

I shrugged.
Well, the thing with Spider-man movies are that they ain't like all those super heroes action movies we accustomed to in recent years. Spider-man's stories are not about the superhero fighting evil but the fragile human inside the superhero trying to make sense of things. Thus they are about as drama as they can get. And I know my bro doesnt like to watch "slow-paced boring" drama genre movies without much things get blown up every 5 minutes. Heck.

Anyway, I got a chance to watch Spider-man 3 yesterday.. while i was job hunting in KLCC lol. Yeah, as a fan i shud have watch it a week ago while it was just opened. And i bet there are thousands of reviews out there by now. Better late than never.

And in this 3rd installment, we see goody-o-nerd Peter Parker embracing the dark side and hell, it good to be bad. Also, the new Green Goblin took to the sky along with the introduction of the Sandman. And after much speculation on the web about spidey new black suit and its related villain, while the most recent trailer confirmed it, we finally have Venom (imo one of the coolest Marvel characters) in the flesh. Boy, do the trio really wreak Spidey's life.

Okay, now the review.
*Spoilers Alert*
The movie opens with a brilliant summary or snapshots of the last two movies and Peter is at the top of his life. Spidey is loved by New Yorkers, Mary Jane now is his girlfriend and he's a top student at Dr Conners' class. And for a moment, life is good. But all good things will come to an end.

As the fame and power goes into Parker's head, he began to lose sight of what really matters. What worst, an alien stuff (slime?), which suddenly dropped into earth as a meteorite, hitched into Parker and altered his personality. Btw, it really funny to see, being shamelessly bad actually attracted women's attention. Check out Parker bad-ass dance moves in a Jazz club. lol.

The movie revolves around a lots of themes but one truly stand out is forgiveness. Parker's hell bent on Uncle Ben's revenge as in Harry and his father's, only to be forgiven in the end. At times, I find things resolved too quickly, especially Sandman's about-turn after wreaking havoc and trying to hurt or kill MJ. And using his sick daugther as an excuse for pillaging the city. Anyway, it does fits in the movie that shows there's good side in a bad guy and vice versa. So is Venom, comic version that is.

Speaking of Venom, the movie version is one vile monster, more like Carnage imo. Btw, i thought Venom should be a lot bulkier and more teeth. And they ought to find a better voice over for Venom. Then again, a great effort bringing Venom to life, so is the Sandman who have more screen time (aih..).

Action-wise, they managed to cram an awful lot of action scenes in the rather lenghty movie. From Spidey and Goblin dogfight to the climatic tagteam battle between Venom/Sandman and Spider/Harry. Cool action sequences i tell ya'. Check out the towering Sandman (reminds me of the Mummy) and falling car sequence (Jurassic Park, anyone?).

So, was it worth the money? Every hard-earned cents. It's one of the movies only worth watching in a full glory of cinematic greatness. With all the drama and the action in one movie, it obviously better than the last Spider-man movie. And Jonah J. Jamesons' scenes is always a delight to watch. 'Nuff said.

Naruto Movie 3 Review

The Animal Riot of Crescent Moon Island!(Dai Koufun! Mikazuki Jima no Animal Panic Dattebayo!)
It's finally here. My bro managed to get a copy from his streamyx-owning friend the other day and so i able to watch it recently.

This synopsis goes like this:
Uzumaki Naruto, Hatake Kakashi, Haruno Sakura, and Rock Lee are sent to protect a prince during his trip around the world and see that he returns safely to his home in the Moon Country. The Moon Country happens to be really rich and as such the Prince tends to buy anything his heart desires. During his travels the Prince comes across a circus group that features a rare Sabre-toothed tiger that he just has to have, so he purchases the entire group. Suddenly a mission to protect the prince that hardly listens to anything said, turns into a mission to look after animals and a prince that doesn't listen to what they say, and in the end somehow get them all back safely to their home country. All the while there are three mysterious Ninja wielding some frightening jutsu waiting for them.

Two words to describe this- DAMN DISAPPOINTING !!

*Spoilers Alert*
Okay, while the animation and the graphics are top notch, the same cant be said to the storyline and the action scene. In fact it's almost a kiddy fare.

The story starts slowly, only picking up pace halfway into the story. And the real action begins here when the three ninjas show up, hired by the evil minister who wishes to overthrow the kingdom. Well, some action.

Compare to the amazing opening scene of the previous movie (Naruto the Movie 2: The Illusionary Ruins at the Depths of the Earth) this one totally lack the impact and the exotic moves, that totally went as expected ( Naruto went nine-tail berserk and saves everyone). Even the climax sucks (Full powered Kage-Bunshin just to act as a cushion to a falling over-weight prince , a brat and a tiger) and a lame excuse and totally uncool way to use the rasengan as a finisher.

Also it's sad to see Rock Lee so underused here that his presence is almost neglectable. Even his fighting scene (which the best of all in this movie) was rather simple and brief. I really wish he could use Gai-sensei's ultimate move- Morning Peacock, instead a pair of nuchuck.

And what with the wigs the three evil ninjas are wearing. Make them looks like some members of Jiraiya- sama fan club. *sweats* And you really wishes their jutsu is more that. All too familiar. And the leader is such a weaking.

As for the plot, it lacks the depth of the previous movie.. far too simplistic and dull for todays "shonen" to watch. Even kiddy fare like the latest pokemon movie (Lucario and The Legend of Mew) has better plot than this. What a waste.
*Spoilers Ends*

So basically this movie only for rabid naruto fans only. Watch at your own risk. For other, better stick to the weekly manga.

Marching Into 300

So it almost half way into March already.. and i'm still unemployed. I really not sure what job i need to seek actually, kinda picky like one of my friend said earlier. Well, just say the market didnt offer anything i'm interested nowadays. And i not sure wat i can really do in the meantime. Sucks to be clueless and pennyless at the same time *sob*

Anyway it didnt stop me from watching 300 at the cinema yesterday evening. Me and my two brothers went to Midvalley Megamall to catch the newly opened movie. And god, it was so worth the RM11 ticket we spent each.


The movie is based on a graphic novel by Frank Miller whose his other work- Sin City, also made into a live action movie of a same name a couple years back. It tells how King Leonidas, king of the infamous Spartan lead 300 Spartan soldiers to held off an invasion of Greece by the Persian army of incalculable size. While the story itself was rather straight forward, the execution of the story was a nothing short of amazing. The action scenes, the highlight of this movie was totally breath-talking. Even though it's gory but at the same time rather poetic- almost like a graceful dance lol. U gotta see this movie to believe me. As for the girls, 300 perfectly sculpted half naked hunks is enough reason to watch this movie too *winks* What's amazing too was how the local censor treated this movie. Glad they not over-zealous, cutting-happy nowadays though i cant help to be cynical lol. If i'm not short of cash, i go for a second helping. Sigh~

Gempak Manga Review

Yeah~ some books reviews. It's been a long time since. Well, obviously whatever i review are usually either graphic novels, manga, anime or movie.. lol. Okay, here I got 2 new lovely graphic novels done by 2 local-grown talents respectively.

The 1st one up is "The Plague" by Puppeteer. This is his third graphic novel after "Evolusi Identiti" (2003) and "Velositi" (2005). The story sets in a post-aplocalypse city (like most his previous works) which seem to be ruled by military power. A young mechanic, Troy was worried for his girlfriend who works in a air naval base nearby when a plague (hence the title) of winged half-human creatures suddenly appeared and killing cityfolks. As the young man investigate deeper, Troy found out that there's a connection between the creatures and the air naval base where his lover works at.

I can say Puppeteer's artwork has improved greatly especially his coloring skill (used a lot of earth tone) and his mechanical design (though the some aircraft designs looks like ones from Last Exile anime). Storywise, it have lots of action and some gore with a decent plot. Too bad bout its main villian who looks promising at the start. He can be given more depth. Anyway, his great artwork alone is enough reason for you to get The Plague.

To those who are saturated with all the action and gore and in need for something sweet and funny, look no further than "Kaoru's Cake House". With a number of graphic novels under her belt, this Kedah lass is the local Princess of Manga. Like her previous works, her stroke and style is very much like her far-eastern counterpart (even the sound effect is in japanese O.o) but with her very own flavour. Clean, simple and sweet :)

"Kaoru's Cake House" is divided into 2 main parts. One is the story of the title's cake house run by 3 guys and the owner (all are pretty boys) and their funny ways of handling and helping their respective customers' problem with love and hope. And another part is the collection of Kaoru's recent love stories from Gempak comic magazine. All sweet and funny, lol. What's great here is her comic timing and the variety of her love story and the characters within. Nice. I have a good time reading. Too bad in my copy some of the pages are damaged (i think from the printing process) when i brought it a few days ago *cries*

So for those who love comic and manga, i really suggest you buy these two books even though the books only come in Malay language. Nice artwork and good story. What's more reason to support the local comic industry.

P.S. Really wish to replace my copy.. Huhu T.T