11.16.2002
Epic Action Thriller |
The Brotherhood of the Wolf
Starring: Samuel Le Bihan, Mark Dacascos, Émilie Dequenne and Monica Belluci Available in English Dubbed DVD/VHS and in its original French language with English subtitles Personally Viewed from Pay-Per-View TV Originally entitled, "Le Pacte des Loups", its pop status in France triggered cult following needing an English translation and even an English dubbed version of the film. The film was based on an 18th century urban legend of the mysterious "Beast of Gevaudan" that left a trail of mutilated victims (mostly women and children) and spread massive terror among the peasant dwellers in southeast France. But the epic storyline becomes boring and allows your mind to stray and maybe wait for Monica Belluci to undress (as she never did in "Malena" and in "Under Suspicion".) The film was a visual feast to be devoured by people who like great shots. Stay glued on the first 10 minutes and you'll see what cinematography is all about. A scene where Monica's breasts were ready to be exposed morphing seamlessly into a wave of snow. Wow, bitin! And yes, the martial arts - comparable to "Crouching Tiger" and more astounding than "Matrix". Well even without Belluci, this film rates high. With her, this film should be a cinch. Rent it, even if you're not into this kind of flicks, its indeed worth your Blockbuster money. |
23:11
Courtesy of Star Cinema |
Kailangan Kita
Starring: Aga Muhlach and Claudine Barretto Director: Rory Quintos Inspired most probably by non-Hollywood food fest flicks such as "Babette's Feast", "Like Water For Chocolate" and "Eat Drink Man Woman", "Kailangan Kita" has its focal ingredient served and that is - "food". Other inspiration for this film could be Hollywood flicks such as "Forces of Nature" or "Serendipity", where love stories like these speak lowly of the kind of love one would have. Personally, even after meeting a future sister-in-law and on the verge of marriage, a guy should always take stock of his real feelings. In this film, after 17 years in the US, NYC Chef, Carl Diesta (Muhlach) is coming home to marry his supermodel Bicolana fiancee, Chrissy Duran. As the plot thickens and the stew getting awry, Lena, played by Claudine enters the picture as the sister of Chrissy. At this point, despite all the wedding insinuations, Lena can still prove to be the better woman for Carl - probably using the old adage, "the way to a man's heart is through his stomach". And laing (instead of Lechon Kawali and Tuna for me) was the culprit. Just to add some worth to Lena, she becomes the reason why Carl found his identity and of course- his real love. Ewan! At least this is a far cry from the usual face-slapping, hair-pulling drama we've known for, or for the song-and-dance numbers interspersed in Filipino films. Cinematography and direction - excellent. Acting - passable. Claudine's jugs - very annoying. |