Old 2-disc set, 10,000 Maniacs' "Campfire Songs" from 2004, collecting the band's hits and obscure songs. The booklet has Natalie and the surviving Maniacs' thoughts on the band's early days.
Monday, April 09, 2012
Cool Random $#!+ Part Four
Old 2-disc set, 10,000 Maniacs' "Campfire Songs" from 2004, collecting the band's hits and obscure songs. The booklet has Natalie and the surviving Maniacs' thoughts on the band's early days.
Country stardom: 5 foreign films shot in the Philippines
(From the April 1-15 issue of The Fortnightly)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Its many natural and man-made wonders inspiring countless filming possibilities, the Philippines has distinct cityscapes and lush forests already immortalized in over two dozen Hollywood movies. Here’s a short list of the more notable ones:
The Year of Living Dangerously (1982)
Directed by Peter Weir, the acclaimed film about Indonesia ’s tumultuous uprising in 1965 starred Mel Gibson and Sigourney Weaver as an Australian reporter and a British Embassy officer, respectively. It also had appearances by local talents Bembol Roco and Kuh Ledesma as Indonesian characters. The Philippines doubled for Indonesia after the crew was denied permission to shoot in the country. The Banaue Rice Terraces were shown in establishing and background shots, as well.
I Come With the Rain (2009)
Shot in 2007 and released two years later, the thriller that starred Josh Hartnett as a detective investigating the disappearance of a billionaire’s son required the actor to shoot scenes at Mt.Diwalwal in Davao . According to a Philippine Daily Inquirer article, Hartnett described the mining community location as “a gorgeous part of the world.” He also described his security detail on Jimmy Kimmel’s show after shooting: “We had to have the Filipino army with us the whole time… so I had like a little militia around me.”
Apocalypse Now (1979)
The Philippines was chosen to sub for Saigon in 1977. Francis Ford Coppola’s classic war film “Apocalypse Now” was shot in Zambales and Aurora. Martin Sheen, Marlon Brando, Dennis Hopper, and Robert Duvall, among other respected actors, starred in the gritty film, which was troubled by a typhoon and Sheen’s heart attack during production. Sheen’s son Charlie has fond memories of bonding with his recovering dad; they played baseball on the set. Coppola said in a 1994 People interview that his Belize resort and a nearby tropical forest are “a lot like the Philippines .”
Platoon (1986)
Charlie Sheen played the lead role in Oliver Stone’s semi-autobiographical film, back in the country just a few years after dad Martin finished acting duties for that other celebrated Vietnam War project. The actors portraying soldiers were trained intensively in military field operations upon their arrival in the Philippines . “Platoon” was shot in Pagsanjan and Cavite , and eventually won four Academy awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
The Bourne Legacy (2012)
Filming started in January, requiring traffic rerouting schemes at different Manila locations. Scenes were also shot in Makati , Marikina , and Palawan . Some distinguished local theater actors were also tapped for small roles. Jeremy Renner and Rachel Weisz sightings across Metro Manila became quite common during the shooting period. The country is “playing itself” in the fourth installment of the hit series of action films, and is scheduled for an August theatrical release.
Sunday, April 01, 2012
Gellar and Gruffudd star in new TV series
(Published April 1, PDI-Entertainment)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Contributor
“The script I read was fantastic,” said Welsh actor Ioan (yo-wan) Gruffudd, who appears as businessman Andrew Martin on “Ringer.” Andrew is the clueless husband to Sarah Michelle Gellar’s enigmatic character Siobhan.
“It’s not the lead part, but something on the page got me excited,” he told Inquirer in a phone interview. “I had a meeting with Sarah Michelle and the creators (Eric Charmelo and Nicole Snyder), and they told me the idea they had for Andrew and the entire series. It was a very attractive proposition.”
Gruffudd, 38, played the iconic stretchable hero Mr. Fantastic in two “Fantastic Four” films, and had a small role in the comedy “Horrible Bosses.” He savors portraying an entirely different character and staying put in
“I’ve played very earnest, heroic kind of characters; it’s a chance to play somebody ambiguous in a very contemporary context as well,” he said.
Gruffudd’s character Andrew is unaware that his wife Siobhan was replaced by her twin Bridget, a former alcoholic and stripper who relates to his substance-abusing teen daughter Juliet (Zoey Deutch).
“Certainly, I’m putting a lot into playing Andrew,” Gruffudd said. “It’s a lot of fun. He’s a character that deserves all my love and care.”
The actor initially thought the series would appeal predominantly to women, but he is surprised at the number of male fans who approach him to discuss the show. Gruffudd appreciates the various benefits of his current work environment.
“It’s a great family atmosphere that we’ve created—Sarah Michelle has a daughter as well,” he said, adding, “Working with her is just a dream. She’s incredibly experienced, talented, and world-renowned. We have great mutual respect for one another and a lot of intimate scenes together. I’m very proud of our relationship and what we do together on the show.”
Gruffudd acknowledges the difference between working on films and on TV. “We paint bigger tableaus on film, whereas with television you literally shoot a mini-movie every week, which is an incredible feat. It’s very fast. You have to trust your instincts and enjoy the ride!”
Myth-handling
The cosmic beings aren’t all-knowing, and not very sensible: Zeus (Liam Neeson) attempts to reconnect with Hades (Ralph Fiennes), whom he banished to the underworld some time ago. Zeus soon discovers the folly of this plan, and requires the aid of his demigod son Perseus (Sam Worthington), slayer of legendary monsters, and now a widower and father to young Helius (John Bell).
So there’s Perseus’ mission of gathering allies and weapons, which actually doesn’t take very long. There’s Zeus’ gruelling ordeal, which also involves the release of the long-imprisoned Titan, the gigantic Kronos (that messy-looking rock-creature in the trailers). There’s also that cool-looking and shape-shifting labyrinth, which also houses a freaky Minotaur. There are deafening rampages and never-ending shimmery and glowy effects, too.
But the story’s too simple. It’s a visual showcase, but even then, the conflicts and the designs aren’t that impressive (save for the two-torsoed beings and giant cyclops). The hero’s fight scenes lack appeal, as well. Also, one god’s epiphany just isn’t convincing; the subsequent team-up lacks energy and crucial impact. Say what you will about “The Immortals,” but at least that had a climactic battle sequence that looked and felt mythic.
Favorable odds, destructive appetite
Benefiting immensely from a capable cast, the film is based on the successful series of books by Suzanne Collins. Brave and unassuming Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) and longtime admirer Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) represent District 12, pitted against other young rivals who have no compunctions with killing their fellow competitors.
New film heroine Katniss has a timeless appeal; it’s assured that you’ll root for her early on. She proves her selflessness by replacing her younger sister and “sacrificing” herself during the selection process. Faced with imminent death and hesitant at playing along to satiate the masses’ (and the organizers’) thirst for blood, she nevertheless manages to display her humanity and defiance during the televised survival match.
It’s a safe bet that “Hunger Games” sequels will just be as well-received. Some violent situations may be too disturbing for much younger viewers, and even some adults. It’s a mite long, but it mostly does a good job of introducing a world where questionable “entertainment” is being used to distract and subjugate its denizens. It also introduces some appealing new heroes, rare figures in such a horribly twisted system.
Cool Random $#!+ Part Three
"Ben Grimm! What's up? High five!"
"I wanna be in the Avengers movie!"
Can OPM be saved?
(Published April 1, Sunday Inquirer Magazine)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Photo by Alanah Torralba
“I wouldn’t suggest my career path to anyone, because you have to have a certain kind of patience to do what I do,” says singer-songwriter-comedian Ogie Alcasid. “To be honest, the only ingredient is fun. I love what I do. Because I’m a naturally crazy person, I see the humor in many things. It worked for me; I don’t know if it’ll work for anyone else.”
“Alcasid, now 44, started out as a pop singer in 1988. His ballad “Nandito Ako,” from his self-titled debut album, became a chart-topping single the following year. Eventually, he jumped at opportunities to expose his wackier side.”
“Comedy is more fun because there aren’t many rules,” he says. “I’m also very blessed because I work with people who genuinely share the same gift, like Bitoy (Michael V), Janno (Gibbs) and Uge (Domingo).”
Alcasid regularly appears on the enduring, 16-year-old GMA 7 gag show “Bubble Gang.” He continues to observe the changing tastes of Pinoy viewers, humor-wise. “We’re doing ‘Boy Pick-Up’ now, my hip-hop parody character, because for some reason it clicked among the young.” Alcasid adds that he will be appearing in “Boy Pick-Up the Movie,” from GMA and Regal Films.
Now a father to new baby Nathaniel James, Alcasid says that he and wife Regine Velasquez are really “in a happy place” at the moment. “Regine is a doting mother; she’s very excited about her new role, and I’ve never seen her happier,” Alcasid reveals, giggling.
While his other kids with Australian beauty queen Michelle van Eimeren—Leila and Sarah—have yet to meet Nathaniel, Alcasid says that they’ll have a reunion within the year. Alcasid is thankful that he’s able to converse with his older kids “all the time.”
Alcasid and Velasquez became friends back in the late ’80s, and even went on a date once, but didn’t foresee themselves ending up with each other decades later. Now that they’re spouses, Alcasid appreciates her unconditional support. “I think she’s amazing. She seems to be proud of everything I do, which I think is important for a husband, because many times, I doubt myself.”
Grateful for his continued TV presence and accomplishments, Alcasid says he’s all about “giving back” at this point: “That’s why I have so many advocacies,” he enthuses. “I’m the commissioner for the Edsa People Power Commission, and spokesperson for Sagip, which helps patients from Philippine General Hospital. I’m also helping Childhope Asia, a foundation that helps street children and street educators. Regine and I have Ogie and Regine Ukay-Ukay, which raises funds for the building and rehabilitation of public schools, in cooperation with the Kapuso Foundation. We collect items from celebrities, and every quarter we sell them at the bazaars. And of course there’s OPM.”
Alcasid is president of OPM, the Organisasyon ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit. The acronym also refers to Original Pilipino Music, which Alcasid believes is currently experiencing a tough period due to piracy and other factors.
“Can OPM be saved?—I will always say yes,” he says, adding, “Because it’s worth saving. Piracy is an old problem. I think most music societies around the world have learned to live with it. The only thing that you can do, really, is to ask your own government to have better laws that will protect the artists and prevent piracy, and perhaps impose a stiffer penalty (on violators). Having said that, the real problem right now is that we are in a transition period from CDs to MP3s; the CD market is slowly dying. Fewer people buy CDs and so the move to MP3 downloading has to be established.”
One concrete way of addressing the issue, according to Alcasid, is by establishing an online store, OPM2go (www.opm2go.com). It was launched last December as part of OPM’s relief efforts for the victims of typhoon Sendong. Alcasid composed “Kaya Natin Ito,” sung by Sharon Cuneta, Jose Mari Chan, Charice Pempengco, Lea Salonga and Martin Nievera, among many others. The song’s proceeds went to the Philippine Red Cross.
“We feature strictly OPM member musicians,” says Alcasid. “We’re on soft beta launch. We showcase independent musicians, because they don’t have labels, or the means to produce an entire album. So what we’re trying to espouse here is a culture of releasing single songs.”
The site is selling music at P10 per song by indie artists, and P15 each for label artists. Songs are downloadable through various payment options. “When I became president of OPM, I started talking to our members about getting a health card, and about members being able to fix their own taxes. I wasn’t able to relate when the musicians started asking different questions. ‘We want our music to be heard-can you give us gigs?’ or ’Can we be seen on TV?’ At that moment, I felt that those were the issues that needed to be addressed.
But the organization is also spearheading efforts for its members’ long-term benefits. “We’re teaching them about the importance of having health insurance. And we’re trying to talk to the established bars to (establish) some standardization of rates. If the musicians are OPM members, the bars can be assured of professionalism. Another thing that we offer our members is legal help, because some have been having problems with managers; they haven’t been paid, and so on.”
Alcasid considers the music industry “very different” from the one he joined over two decades ago, but is proud that artists always have new things to sing about. “That’s one thing that I’m very confident about. The industry is bustling with creativity, especially now, because it’s the ‘hunger’ years. The musicians are hungry for recognition and that’s when music is really alive. The independent music scene is thriving. So what we need is to make more people know about it. OPM isn’t just the mainstream!”
He dispels some people’s notion that visiting foreign acts are a threat to local artists. “They’re a big act for a reason; they’re accepted worldwide. The multitude appreciates their music. But there is a section of our society that likes to listen to local bands, local jazz, local ballads. I believe that if we bring back the glory days of OPM, when everybody starts to appreciate our local acts, then there’s going to be an implosion. Our country just might be the next Korea
Despite his hectic schedule this year, Alcasid is also helping out with the PhilPop Music Festival, another project meant to support the resuscitation of OPM. His movie, “I Do Bidoo Bidoo,” tentatively slated for a July release, will contribute a lot as well to the awareness of OPM, he says. “That’s our generation’s music, so we might as well immortalize it further in film. I hope it gets younger people to listen to the music of the APO
For all the challenges posed by piracy and other ills, Alcasid is elated at some positive developments in the local music scene. “What I like is the fact that we’re already starting to follow international standards, most especially when it comes to publishing and royalty payments. Gone are the days when musicians are paid a pittance!”
With a new baby, civic involvement and OPM projects, Alcasid sees himself going full speed ahead. “I see myself doing more movies in the near future. I will still be creating music but I want to help more musicians. I’m toying around with new ideas for TV, too. So TV, movies, and music—that’s a lot!”
Friday, March 23, 2012
Siege Fantabulous
AvX! Sort of. New drawings of old fave Marvel rosters.
Uncanny X-Men, 1989
Psylocke, Storm, Colossus, Rogue, Havok, Longshot, Wolverine, Dazzler.
The “Legends” team faked their deaths to become more proactive and to secretly deal with serious threats to mutantkind like the Marauders and Mr. Sinister. The heroes actually died during Fall of the Mutants, but were resurrected by the goddess Roma. I like this focused, Australia-based team; they went after their targets, couldn’t be detected by mechanical sensors, and even made Christmas better for the Reavers’ theft victims.
West Coast Avengers, 1989
Human Torch (Jim Hammond), Wonder Man, Vision, Iron Man, Scarlet Witch, Wasp, Dr. Pym , US
John Byrne really shook things up during his run; Wanda Maximoff lost her husband (the android Vision) and fake children (Billy and Tommy). Wonder Man refused to share his brain patterns after the Vision was rebuilt (these gave him a personality the first time), because Wondy’s in love with Wanda. She became furious with her “ineffectual human” teammates, snapped, and became a super-villainess for a time. Good times.Hunting for talent in Manila
(Published Mar. 24, PDI-Super)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Contributor
“What we’re looking for is original, something we haven’t seen before,” said Marvel Comics’ C.B.Cebulski, senior vice president of the company’s Creator and Content Development, during his recent visit to Manila.
Cebulski was in the country for the “Next Comic Marvel” event and talent search, organized by National Bookstore. The call for art submissions yielded a total of 244 entries, which the talent scout and “Loners” writer went through and shortlisted to 35 hopefuls shortly after his arrival last week.
“There are about four people who are definitely ready to take the step to working professionally at Marvel or the
Cebulski added that his first visit has been “extremely fruitful,” elated at seeing a number of promising talents. “I am über-impressed. I go to any country and my goal is to find one artist. If I can find one artist to bring back to Marvel, then my trip has been a success. Usually, it’s hit or miss. The place I had the most success with was Italy Philippines
He expounded on his admiration for established Filipino comic book artists from previous decades. “What’s unique about the Filipino artists in particular is that there is a ‘giving back’ in the artistic community here that I don’t see anywhere else.
“Going back to the ’70s, Filipinos artists, once they made it, they didn’t just rest on their laurels. They turned around and started studios. They wanted to train the next generation, to take their knowledge and their experience and the connections that they’d established, and give it back.”
The talent scout, author of the “100 percent autobiographical” Image title “Wonderlost,” has gotten used to immediately identifying aspiring artists’ influences, and is determined to keep looking for more “original” art styles.
“Basically what I’m looking for is something unique,” he said. “It’s okay for artists to take inspiration from other artists. Everyone is influenced by someone. The trick is to walk the line between inspiration and originality. You have to cross over to originality sooner than later in your career.”
Marvel continues to accept online submissions for penciling jobs. Writers, however, may have a harder time breaking in, according to Cebulski. “It’s almost a Catch-22. To break into Marvel, writers have to have been published somewhere else first. You have to break into the comic industry. But it’s easier than ever before with the Internet, doing web comics, doing self-publishing, selling your work on your own website or blog.”
He also disclosed that inkers won’t be rendered obsolete any time soon. “That’s a myth I’m happy to dispel,” Cebulski said. “The art of inking is invaluable. Digital inking is being phased out, in a way. It’s hard for a computer to understand linework. Inking is not just filling in the black line. It’s embellishing; it’s enhancing. Inking is fixing the flaws of the penciler. A computer can’t do that.”
Cebulski foresees the continued branching out of American comic books to different media, and more people buying collected editions. “I think we’re going to see more TV shows, definitely more movies,” he said. “The trade paperback market is still continually growing, which is a great sign for us. The future of comics right now is figuring out exactly what digital is.”
He added that despite the advent of the digital format, fans and collectors will always support the more established monthlies. “Print will never go away,” Cebulski enthused. “As much as comics is a reading experience, that’s just 50 percent of the whole experience.
“It’s about a culture, about community, about collecting. And you have all those people who have been reading Spider-Man since ‘Amazing Fantasy,’ or reading ‘Fantastic Four’ since the beginning; they go to the shop every month and get every issue, and they’re completists. So we can’t just stop publishing ‘Fantastic Four’ as print. There are those people out there who are hardcore enough, and I’m one of them, who want every single issue in that long box!”
(Photo by Oliver M. Pulumbarit)
Bullet Thoughts
Some of my status updates, compiled.
I never imagined that the future would involve a lot of shameless pimping, self-promotion, and open thinking in a floating dimension. I love it.
The oddest, and probably the saddest thing I’ve seen at a nearby bookstore: a kid playing with a gadget game, ignoring dozens of books beside him.
Blank bristol
Seriously. People should stop brandishing their ancient “holy” books like loaded weapons. Gay people get hurt.
Sometimes, I wish the schools I went to taught us how to deal with anger issues, heartaches, and mental fatigue. I wish they also warned me that the future would involve a lot of humoring other people, and dealing with unworthy and dubious characters. Still, I’d say that I’m stronger for learning and surviving real life’s crappy lessons firsthand.
Crime-solving for real
(Published Mar. 23, PDI-Entertainment)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Contributor
Hit crime shows “CSI ” and “Dexter” emphasize the importance of DNA evidence found at crime scenes. Identifying the genetic codes left by culprits is crucial to solving mysterious or complicated cases—a meticulous process that the Philippines’ top DNA analyst, Dr. Maria Corazon de Ungria, considers imperative if one must prove or disprove a suspect’s presumed guilt.
De Ungria will appear in the fifth episode of the C&I (Crime & Investigation Network) series, “Partners in Crime,” which features real cases from different Asian countries. “I was contacted by the producers in late September 2011 via e-mail and phone to participate,” De Ungria said in an e-mail interview with Inquirer.
“They filmed overtime one weekend before I left for a conference in
In the episode, the scientist relates how DNA testing was done in a case involving an elderly man accused of abuse. She also talked about a separate case, a grisly crime committed in another part of the country.
De Ungria told Inquirer: “TV is a very important medium that reaches a wider public without the limitation of physical location, cultures and beliefs. I needed to select the vehicle that could carry this message… without sensationalizing or distorting. The producers of ‘Partners in Crime’ convinced me of their professionalism, so I agreed to be part of the series.”
In the Philippines DNA evidence for crime cases was allowed by the Supreme Court in the late 1990s. De Ungria suggested that strict training in the gathering of such irrefutable evidence be prioritized. She elaborated: “I recommend focusing on the training of individuals who collect samples from crime scenes, [such as] scene-of-the-crime officers, investigators, and allied medical professionals [including] pathologists, nurses, medical technologists and dentists.”
De Ungria continued: “Given the development in DNA technology, the training should include precautionary guidelines in the collection of samples that may be useful sources of DNA . [These] would help in the reconstruction of the series of events leading to the crime.”
As head of the DNA Analysis Laboratory of the NSRI based in UP Diliman, De Ungria manages research projects and services performed in the laboratory. “Our greatest achievement to date is our active involvement in initiatives that promote the use of science for the protection of human rights,” she said. “From 2001-2006, we worked with the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG ) on the anti-death penalty campaign because of a number of wrongful convictions that were discovered upon closer study of the cases …”
(“Partners in Crime” airs Mondays, 10:30 p.m. on C&I. Dr. De Ungria’s episode airs on April 2.)
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Fab and furious: 10 film females fight back
(From the March 1-15 issue of The Fortnightly)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Girl power! There are many different film roles for women, but the ones that usually stand out are those that portray them as capable and competent, even dangerous. To commemorate International Women’s Month, here’s our rundown of empowering action heroines and tough gals from different genres. There are many unforgettable ones, but let’s narrow it down to ten:
Ellen Ripley (Alien 1-4)
Surviving horrific encounters with monstrous extraterrestrials, Ripley became knowledgeable in dealing with them, fending off attacks on fellow humans and sacrificing herself to get rid of the creature incubating in her. She revived in another body after two centuries, stronger than ever.
Beatrix Kiddo (Kill Bill Vol. I, II)
Katana-wielding Beatrix, a.k.a. The Bride, tracks down her former assassin colleagues who attacked her and left her for dead years ago. Trained in strict fighting disciplines and driven by revenge, she separately stalks, confronts, and trounces her formidable and ruthless targets.
Selene (Underworld 1, 2, 4)
Changed into a vampire centuries ago, Selene became a pistol-toting “Death Dealer,” destroying both werewolf and vampire enemies alike. She later pursued her own path, eventually forming a relationship with a vamp-wolf hybrid and becoming a protective mother to their child.
Sarah Connor (Terminator 1, 2)
She was a clueless waitress in the first movie but transformed into a toughened warrior in the sequel. Sarah Connor survived a harrowing Terminator attack, and was determined to teach her son about fighting the onslaught of intelligent machines.
Princess Leia Organa (Star Wars - Episode IV-VI)
When future Jedi champion Luke Skywalker was still a farmer, his long-lost twin Leia was already busy fighting the Empire’s despotic rule as part of the Rebel Alliance. She eventually slew crimelord Jabba the Hutt while she was his captive, and later helped in major liberation efforts.
Hit-Girl (Kick-Ass)
Fascinated with butterfly knives and other weaponry, 11-year-old Mindy Macready was trained in various martial arts and combat techniques by her mentor Big Daddy. The vigilante sidekick almost single-handedly defeated armed goons while rescuing newbie superhero Kick-Ass on separate occasions. After Big Daddy met his untimely end, she attacked the bad guys’ headquarters, decimating their forces with ease.
Evelyn Salt (Salt)
Resourceful CIA agent Evelyn Salt, accused of being a Russian spy, flees to find her missing husband. She’s actually a double agent who defies her programming; she soon goes after her would-be spy allies, foiling their scheme and dealing with them efficiently.
Lisbeth Salander (The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo)
Highly skilled investigator and techie Lisbeth doesn’t conform to most social norms. A complex and strategic thinker, she once savagely exacted revenge on a man who assaulted her, and blackmailed him into doing her bidding. She also helped solve a decades-old case with a journalist she previously investigated.
Hermione Granger (Harry Potter 1-8)
Hermione was one of the most driven Hogwarts students, well-read on documented spells and related matters. As Harry Potter’s trusted ally, the teen witch became crucial to many missions, bravely risking her life and confronting powerful adversaries repeatedly.
Eowyn (The Lord of the Rings 2, 3)
Disguising herself in armor, noblewoman Eowyn joined the big fight, eventually defending her injured uncle from a Nazgul. She beheaded the winged steed, but was nearly strangled by the rider, who taunted, “No man can kill me.” She did kill him, of course, but not before declaring, “I am no man!”Scout's Honor
He mentioned the company’s big event, Avengers Vs. X-Men. For those who have yet to read Avengers: Children’s Crusade, some spoilers ahead. Won’t be including this in my article, so I’m sharing it here:
Me: Was it really planned to have Dr. Doom as the mastermind behind the (mutant) decimation?
CB: Alan Heinberg has had that kind of plan in his head the entire time. This isn’t a retcon. This is something that… Alan is an amazing thinker. For not being as involved in the Marvel Universe as some of the other writers like Bendis and Brubaker, who’ve been helping us plot the course of all this for ten years, even with the limited things he’s written and the contact he’s had, he’s still tight with all those guys. He presented this plan years and years ago, and everyone kind of worked around it to give Alan the leeway to tell his story.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Intimate Enmity
New drawings. Love and war.
Lobo Vs. Logan
“You’re dead, bub!”
Bounty hunter Lobo and mutant hero Wolverine fought in the 1996 crossover series DC Vs. Marvel. Wolverine won that fight, I’m assuming because he was overwhelmingly popular, and readers got to vote for their favorite characters in five main bouts including that one. Anyway, I still believe that Lobo would’ve won against “bone claws” Wolvie in a fair (or poll-less) fight; he’d have delivered a fatal strike as soon as the opportunity presented itself. Adamantium-laced Logan
Zaturnnah, Naloka
I’m intrigued by Ginoong Lakas; I’m guessing he’s secretly one of the characters introduced in the first issue. But we’ll see. He might really be a girl with a gender-bending meteorite, for all we know. Antagal ng next issue!
Zombie apocalypse, now
(Published March 12, PDI-Entertainment)
Not surprisingly, the gripping horror-drama series “The
Walking Dead” has become one of the most-watched shows on cable. Its weekly
chronicling of zombie apocalypse survivors’ activities continues to win new
viewers from across the globe.
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Contributor
Not surprisingly, the gripping horror-drama series “The
Walking Dead” has become one of the most-watched shows on cable. Its weekly
chronicling of zombie apocalypse survivors’ activities continues to win new
viewers from across the globe.
Currently on its second season, “The Walking Dead” was
developed for TV by former showrunner Frank Darabont, who recently exited and
was replaced by writer Glen Mazzara. Robert Kirkman, who created and continues
to pen the source comic book, is still heavily involved with the show as
executive producer and writer, helping conjure up a familiar yet altogether
unpredictable reality.
The previous season ended with the uneasy group of survivors
leaving the destroyed Center for Disease Control facility. Season two starts
with the convoy stopping behind a lane filled with abandoned vehicles; the
survivors soon cross paths with a horde of zombies, which separates Sophia
(Madison Lintz) from the group. Former cop Rick Grimes (Andrew
Lincoln) and the others look for her, but after Grimes’ son
Carl (Chandler Riggs) is injured in a hunting accident, they end up in the farm
of elderly veterinarian Hershel (Scott Wilson).
Pairings and concepts from the seminal comics nicely make it
to the show. There’s tension between Rick, his wife, Lori (Sarah Wayne
Callies), and her former lover Shane (Jon Bernthal). Also translating well is
the developing relationship between Glenn (Steven Yeun) and Hershel’s daughter
Maggie (Lauren Cohan).
The once-grieving Andrea (Laurie Holden from “X-Files”) is
evolving into a confident, competent markswoman. The farm is a sanctuary that’s
familiar to readers of the comic book, but some things turn out differently.
Characters that didn’t debut in the comics help contribute
to the series’ unpredictability. Some that appeared regularly in the monthly
title undergo new traumas or are killed off, reminding viewers that most of
these survivors aren’t safe.
Still intriguing with its adept handling of human behavior
within an apocalyptic setting, “The Walking Dead” regularly delivers the scares
as well with swarms of aptly horrific and deftly choreographed undead. And the
conflicts will escalate; it was recently announced that the Governor, an
important character from the comics, will be played by Brit actor David
Morrissey in season three.
“The Walking Dead” airs Sundays, 8 p.m. on Fox.
Rainbow reconnection
Yes, “The Muppet Show” had a bizarre, mostly era-reflecting group of puppets, led by the familiar Kermit the Frog, who also appeared on the more educational “Sesame Street
Walter is a misfit among regular humans, and is the puppet sibling of kind and loyal Gary (Jason Segel). The brothers, together with Gary
Often hilariously nonsensical, the film co-written by Segel and “Forgetting Sarah Marshall’s” Nicholas Stoller nonetheless manages to tell different characters’ tales cohesively, and quite imaginatively. We see how changed the characters are post-stardom, working hard to find some renewed relevance in a radically changed world.
It’s hard not to get giggly at the disco era- and ‘80s pop culture references, lively music numbers, and the rekindled inter-species attraction between Kermit and the ever-feisty Miss Piggy. It’s also star-studded; there are precious cameos by Dave Grohl, Leslie Feist, Zach Galifianakis, Sarah Silverman, Neil Patrick Harris, and Emily Blunt, among many others. A new, updated version of Kermit’s beloved classic “Rainbow Connection” is also performed, bringing back memories of the characters’ first film, “The Muppet Movie,” released back in their heyday.
“The Muppets” opens March 21 in Metro Manila.
Cool Random $#!+ Part Two
Seussical tree-hugging
We’re introduced to the inimitable Seussical realm of Thneed-Ville, distinct because of its lack of actual trees and its various uses for the profitable invention “thneed.” It’s also a place where fresh air is sold in plastic bottles, its citizens noticing nothing amiss about the strange tradition.
Change comes when young Ted (voiced by Zac Efron) tries to impress the tree-dreaming Audrey (Taylor Swift) by looking for a real plant. He finds the Once-ler (Ed Helms), whose tale reveals the secret behind the extinction of trees, and the existence of a forest “guardian” called the Lorax (Danny DeVito).
“The Lorax” very easily absorbs viewers into its swirl of eye-pleasing oddities, the animation very busy especially when it comes to depicting its characters doing seemingly trivial things in the background or in the periphery. The Seussan denizens here are just as unique and interesting, and probably as naive as most of those from the parallel worlds of “Horton Hears a Who” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Their challenges are likewise unique, the environmental awareness points reminding young and adult viewers of real-life responsibilities.
Some points are creatively made via catchy, music video-esque numbers, but one would wish that it also had more complicated challenges for the protagonist and a more detailed origin for the villain O’Hare (Rob Riggle). But it’s still pretty solid and absorbing, obvious imperfections aside.
Summer loving, bittersweet reunions
(From the Mar. 16-31 issue of The Fortnightly)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
If cooling down at a nearby cinema is your way of beating the early summer heat, grab some popcorn and catch these surprisingly breezy offerings.
Sleeper hit “The Vow” has been around for weeks, successfully attracting curious moviegoers and exhibiting its post-“love month” longevity with ease. Interestingly, it’s not the usual feelgood date movie, in that it centers on a young couple whose happy marriage is marred by an accident that causes one spouse to suffer partial amnesia.
Rachel McAdams’ Paige is the sculptress wife who wakes up from a coma and fails to recognize her devoted hubby Leo, played by Channing Tatum. Paige only remembers details from her younger years, unsure of her relationship with Leo because he’s not in her resurfacing memories.
“The Vow” ably mines that intriguing conceit, which was inspired by actual events. Paige attempts to retrace her last steps, but only finds emotional connections with her estranged parents (Sam Neill and Jessica Lange), and her ex-fiance (Scott Speedman). The quietly suffering Leo remains supportive, although seeing her regressing to an immature and naïve version of the woman he loves does test his patience.
McAdams typically imbues the role with believable dimension. Tatum is a bit uneven; he’s often surprisingly subtle here, but sometimes, his imprecise emotive outbursts uncomfortably jolt.
“The Vow’s” reality-inspired and periodically weepy situations do pose challenging questions about the nature of love and chemistry. And while it doesn’t always answer them creatively, it nonetheless connects with its emotionally charged scenarios.
The Steven Spielberg-directed drama “War Horse,” meanwhile, starts as a seemingly regular pet movie, but eventually evolves into a sweeping epic. The titular beast is a colt named Joey, trained by its young owner Albert Narracott (newcomer Jeremy Irvine) in plowing the family’s field. Sold to the army against Albert’s wishes, Joey becomes an active part of war efforts, a silent witness to human hostility.
Much like the musical instrument in 1998’s “The Red Violin,” the horse changes ownership in a span of years, becoming integral to some people’s plans and activities. The strange farm animal becomes one of many horses used in a cavalry’s daring attack on German forces during World War I, and subsequently figures in its different owners’ tales.
“War Horse’s” lush and transporting visuals complement its solid cast of brilliant actors. Irvine
Running at almost two and a half hours, “War Horse” manages to expound on several characters’ tragic stories, unified by their connection to the majestic animal. This fine film is heartbreaking at certain junctures, but is also heartwarming when one least expects it.
Friday, March 09, 2012
Martian mystique
Edgar Rice Burroughs’ 1912 sci-fi novel hero is reinterpreted a hundred years later in Disney’s “John Carter,” about an American ex-soldier who finds himself instantly transported to Mars (or Barsoom, as its inhabitants call it).
The characters have gotten various comic book reboots and translations through the decades; some of the most striking re-imaginings are illustrator Frank Frazetta’s sexier versions. Populated by different sentient races, Mars has cultures with earth-like characteristics, as seen in its ongoing war and gladiatorial duels. The main character’s basically the quintessential fish out of water, its inspiration felt in subsequent DC comic characters Travis Morgan and Adam Strange.
The film’s John Carter (Taylor Kitsch from “Wolverine”) is a former soldier who refuses to choose sides, but after fleeing warring forces on Earth, the natural fighter and swordsman discovers an object that teleports him (or more specifically, his essence) to Mars. Gaining exceptional physical prowess on the planet, he picks a side in a war orchestrated by enigmatic beings. He allies himself with the wise princess Deja Thoris (Lynn Collins, also from “Wolverine”) and some warriors from the multi-armed Thark people.
Barsoom’s various terrains look heavily inspired by “Star Wars,” which isn’t exactly a bad thing, but more imaginative imagery could've been utilized. Still, the effects are spectacular and the visuals impress, although there are creature and costume designs that are pretty uninspired.
Kitsch as Carter is just adequate; you’d ultimately wish the actor had a wider range. Collins as Deja Thoris is good, but her character’s quite typical; it’s funny that she was rescued by Carter three times, and has to overcompensate by showing off her swordfighting skills almost immediately after.
Despite the flaws and repetitiveness, it’s still a pretty watchable and effects-heavy sci-fi epic, and an interesting iteration of the iconic fantasy hero.
“John Carter” opens today, March 9, in Metro Manila.
Sensual spectacle an ‘experiment’
(Published March 9, PDI-Entertainment)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Contributor
During their 25-minute technical rehearsal, the agile female performers of “Fuerza Bruta” presented a sultry number in a transparent pool, suspended several feet above the floor.
The scantily-clad quartet moved around in a tight choreograph, splashing to the meshed beats of tribal music and electronica, smiling underwater at their captive audience just a few feet below the gradually lowering pool.
The sensual spectacle is a popular part of “Fuerza Bruta’s” one-hour, stunt-dance show, according to artistic director assistant and performer Juan Martin Fernandez-Ozan.
The show debuted in Buenos Aires , Argentina Portugal England United States Germany Mexico Spain Brazil
“All the cast members are from
He described the show as a “unique experiment … new theater mixed with real catharsis. It’s an experience that people feel in their body … When the audience leaves after the show, they feel the adrenaline.”
One of the six female cast members is Jimena Abente, who’s appreciative of the ongoing “Fuerza” tour, and the chance to perform energetic numbers nightly. “Every show is different because people [are different],” she enthused. “The energy of the audience keeps us up. We don’t feel tired; we just enjoy it.”
A few weeks after its Philippine debut, “Fuerza Bruta” still drew a huge, eclectic crowd to the Manila Hotel Tent. Promptly starting at 8 p.m. , the show immediately introduced its audience to its interactive nature. There were no seats because the various stages and set pieces moved around the area, pushed and pulled around by its crew members.
A male “Fuerza” performer dressed in office clothes jogged on an elevated treadmill. The machine was moved across the room, the running man’s number accompanied by dimming lights, sprays of water, and a loud “gunshot” which “wounds” him.
Attention shifted to a wall, where two cable-suspended women twirled amid bright pink lights and pulsating music. The numbers seamlessly blended; eventually, “treadmill guy” was joined by other performers, who ran and burst through “walls” with him.
Another highlight was a number where five dynamic “Fuerza” actors danced on another elevated stage. They soon joined the audience on the floor, picking spectators game enough to dance with them or be hit on the head with small Styrofoam blocks with confetti.
And, of course, there was the jaw-dropping pool sequence, which made some guests fumble for their cameras.
The hour-long “unique experiment” left many in the audience visibly giddy, stepping on confetti-filled puddles and half-dancing to pounding beats as they stepped out of the venue.
(Photo by Oliver Pulumbarit)
Deafening rumination
Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock portray loving spouses Thomas and Linda Schell, proud parents of unusually intelligent Oskar, played by Thomas Horn. After his father’s death, Oskar and Linda grieve differently, and slowly begin drifting apart. The kid hopes to solve one last puzzle that his father left him, which requires identifying the owner of a key and what it opens.
“Extremely Loud…” spends most of its time detailing the boy’s quest; he tries to find answers from disparate places and people, and the film is told from his less-than-perfect perspective. It seems like a perfect fit for Daldry, though, who directed “Billy Elliott.” But this film’s child actor isn’t always effective. Now, Horn is pretty good in some scenes, but can be quite annoying in others where he’s not required to be. Still, the kid shows promise and can improve.
And yes, the Oskar character gets unsympathetic. He’s condescending and disrespectful sometimes, which makes rooting for him difficult. Like the characters he approaches, though, you’ll find yourself humoring him, just to get things over with.
While not always around, Linda is still a sweet and reassuring presence even when Oskar doesn’t see her as such. Bullock’s performance is likewise reassuring, providing the film with some of its most dramatic, tearduct-loosening moments.
Musings, Minutiae
Just some status updates from elsewhere. Encapsulated blogging in one entry.
Left brain, right brain. Busy day.
Damn, Glee. Karofsky storyline made me sob. Excellent job!
Man, Beauty and the Beast is 20 years old. I still like it, Belle’s Stockholm Syndrome notwithstanding.
Must work, but been missing a lot of things from the weekend, like swimming (or what passes for it) and the food from that awesome buffet breakfast.
What has life taught me, so far? Friendships can be fleeting; love is true if you’re lucky enough to find and recognize it; I can’t believe in a God touted by other people. I don’t know everything, but learning never stops.
Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Dream team, dramatic data
The accessible biopic/sports drama “Moneyball” provides an
extensive look at the business of baseball, getting behind the scenes and
dissecting the mechanics of assembling a functional team. It’s also based on the
fascinating true story of an underdog figure whose maverick efforts challenged
conventional thinking.
Brad Pitt surprises with his inspired portrayal of Billy
Beane, a promising baseball player who didn’t quite achieve his dreams. Shifting
to scouting and management, Billy eventually tries a new gambit after his
team’s resounding defeat: he hires oddball analyst Peter Brand (Jonah Hill),
who helps him revamp the Oakland
“Moneyball” manages to make the sport and its complicated
team-shaping practices interesting and comprehensible to non-baseball fans.
There’s a lively synergy between the parlance and the imagery, partly making the drama
intriguing. But it’s Billy Beane’s tale that actually hooks; there are times
when the viewer will question his perfectionist and idealist traits, and admire
his morale-boosting tactics and no-nonsense attitude.
Directed by Bennett Miller (“Capote”), the film immensely
benefits from the deft portrayals of Pitt and Hill, the latter effectively
subtle as the brains behind the more adventurous player suggestions.
“Moneyball” opens today, March 7.
Cool Random $#!+ Part One
Old stuff, new-ish pics. Geeky fun.
Saturday, March 03, 2012
Phoners and Actors
(Blast from the past! This is an article I wrote for the Inquirer back in October of 2006. I was able to interview actors Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale through separate and exclusive phoners arranged by Warner Bros.)
From dark avengers to feuding tricksters
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Magic face-off!
Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman play warring magicians, an obsessed pair locked in a cycle of envy and revenge in “The Prestige.” As Alfred Borden and Robert Angier, respectively, the actors effortlessly slip into contrasting personalities with similarly sinister objectives. Ditching their costumed screen identities of Batman and Wolverine temporarily, Bale and Jackman join director Christopher Nolan (“Batman Begins,” “Memento”) and actors Michael Caine, Scarlett Johansson, Andy Serkis and David Bowie in the dark, complex Victorian-era thriller.
Prior to appearing as dueling artisans in “The Prestige,” Bale and Jackman have breathed life into choice roles through the years, so they’re no strangers to different levels of convincing illusory techniques. Chameleon-like actor Bale debuted in Steven Spielberg’s “Empire of the Sun,” and later appeared in films like “Velvet Goldmine,” “American Psycho,” and “The Machinist.” Of course, there’s also last year’s “Batman Begins,” where he’s the latest to don the mask of DC Comics’ caped crusader.
Versatile Aussie thespian Jackman, meanwhile, received a Tony Best Actor award for his portrayal of ‘70s singer-songwriter Peter Allen in the musical “The Boy From Oz.” He appeared in “Kate and Leopold,” and is famous for playing Marvel Comics’ most popular mutant, Wolverine, in three “X-Men” movies.
In separate exclusive phone interviews, Jackman and Bale spoke about a few smoke-and-mirrors secrets behind the new film, as well as some of their future projects, including their eventual return to playing fierce, archetypal superheroes.
- - - -
HUGH JACKMAN
How different is playing this magician role for you?
Chris Nolan is a phenomenal director, and it was an engaging, smart story. The character is different for me; it was very challenging for me because, as you’ve seen, he became quite dark.
Having done a series of action movies, how refreshing was it to do “The Prestige”?
It’s really a surprise for me, to be honest, having a career in action films. I thought I’d do more roles like the one I played in this movie. I find myself pretty much attracted to things that are more challenging. It’s a great opportunity.
Please describe Christopher Nolan’s directing style, and the shooting atmosphere.
Chris Nolan is one of the directors I respect the most. There’s a lot of freedom working with him. Working with him is easy because of the relaxed, low-key set conditions. It’s not complicated; there was no ego, no screaming involved.
Your character and Christian Bale’s had an ongoing bitter rivalry. How was it off-screen? I love Christian Bale. I’ve always been a big fan. He’s very brave, very truthful. He’s really fantastic. We’ve got a rivalry in the movie, but we’re actually good friends. My kids play with his kid.
Do you have plans to appear in movies for children, stuff that you can easily show to your kids?
They’re very young and can’t watch my movies yet but I got to do two movies, “Flushed Away” and “Happy Feet,” that they might enjoy. It’s wonderful, the freedom to switch for four hours (as a voice actor). It’s very different; there’s no makeup!
How tough is doing theater, compared to acting in films?
With theater, the hardest thing to actually do is make them believe while you’re vocalizing, but it’s easy if you get past that hurdle. I enjoy doing both. It’s greedy, but I’d like to open as many doors as I can.
How is the “Wolverine” spinoff doing, and how do you feel about being associated most with the character?
We now have the script. We’re looking for a director. I’m very privileged to play Wolverine. I love it. It’s quite different from real life, because I don’t look like him at all. People don’t always recognize me.
How involved are you with your characters’ stunts?
A lot. They’re very physically challenging. I love them.
How do you unwind?
I love watching movies. I watch DVDs. I watch DVDS of TV shows; sometimes I can’t really watch TV because I have kids. It’s been two months since I watched TV. I have a very, very eclectic range of music in my iPod: heavy metal, R & B, some jazz… I also like listening to soundtracks of movies.
Name some of your old and current acting heroes.
Judi Dench, Ben Kingsley, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Robert De Niro, Jack Nicholson… oh, and Harrison Ford!
Who do you think would win in a fight between Wolverine and Batman?
That’s not a serious question (laughs)! Wolverine, dude!
- - - - -
CHRISTIAN BALE
How comfortable was it to work with Christopher Nolan again?
I would’ve wanted to work with whoever wrote the superb script regardless if it was Chris or not. We have a special working relationship. Chris is a shape-shifter as a director; he did that very well from “Batman Begins” to “The Prestige.” I’m very confident with the way he works. He’s one of the finest.
Speaking of shape-shifters, where do you draw inspiration from to play your obsessive magician character?
It’s easy when you have such a good script and story. It kind of flows; it just happens. It certainly just goes right.
How was Hugh Jackman as a co-star, and an actor?
It was perfect casting. Hugh immediately wanted to play Robert Angier. That really appealed to him. I read the Alfred Borden part and that’s what I wanted to do. You have two opposing philosophies with these two rival magicians. And Hugh’s a good actor, dancer, he’s very comfortable on stage. He was kind of the new boy on the team; most of us worked together before. He’s an easygoing boy. It’s very, very difficult not to get along with Hugh.
What can people expect from the upcoming “Batman” sequel?
We’ve gone over the introduction of our new characterization. People embraced it. People liked it. Chris is such a good filmmaker! I enjoy creating an intimacy about the project. Chris also enjoys that secrecy. You know the feeling about knowing something that others don’t know yet? In due time, he’ll bring me in and start talking about where we’ll be taking the Dark Knight next.
When you’re not acting, what do you enjoy doing?
I’m a father now and I truly like nothing better than that. But I’ve one hobby. I like the dirt bike a great deal. I like the elements and the heat and going where the path takes me. I have phases when I kind of need music, when I’m listening 24/7. But I realize I haven’t picked up my iPod in a while. Same thing with reading, there are times when I soak it in. There’s nothing I have consistently as one interest.
Who are your acting influences?
It’s just people, documentaries… the ones I really love. I look up to people in life. I’m no film buff.
As someone who started out young, did it become easier for you to grow as an actor and to respond to the demands of the business?
I kind of dived into it and dived right out. I lived in an old town in
Who do you think would win in a fight between Batman and Wolverine?
Give it 15 years. My career and Hugh’s career will be dead; we’ll have beer bellies and we’ll decide to make a direct-to-video Batman and Wolverine movie. When we have that complete decline in our careers, we’ll decide who wins!
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