FILM: Whip It

WHIP IT Ellen Page and the Directorial Debut of Drew Barrymore

I didn't really do this movie justice when I first reviewed it, so I think it's best if I re-do the post now.

Whip It is my first official favourite movie and it's knocked The Little Mermaid off it's pedestal. Why? Because it is the perfect combination of wit, humour and down right attitude. If you thought Ellen Page was great in Juno, you will absolutely fall in love with her again in this film.

I really loved the fact that the storyline went beyond a girl finding her own way in life or a girl trying to show her mum that she can't live her life through her daughter or the obvious "find your destiny". It was a story about family - not a family, but a different kind of family: a family made up of friends.

Kudos to Drew Barrymore on her Directorial Debut. She was absolutely hilarious in the movie too. She did a great job with telling a story and making it believable. The cast had the dry humour that I loved, but at the same time, they gelled so well together because they had the same energy. You could see that they loved working on this film.

I will make this one confession: I was smitten over Ellen Page's love interest, Landon Pigg (yes, that is his last name). For those of you who know him, how amazing is his voice? So diverse, for those of you who don't, I leave you with:

New part to my film reviews: TOKEN LINE.

TOKEN LINE: I’m an athlete!

STAR RATING: 5 Stars

Next on sL: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Part I) and Robin Hood (BBC)

NEW ALBUM: Taylor Swift - Speak Now

With her Grammy Awards stored away in a safe place and her Song Writer’s award ready at hand for inspiration, Taylor Swift has launched her third album: SPEAK NOW in stores worldwide.

Nothing short of classy, the new album is still full of Swift’s creative stories, apologies and warnings. With lyrics that bite the souls of those who have wronged her and calms those who relate, Speak Now is another album that speaks to the generation of today. Releasing both the standard album and its deluxe edition simultaneously, fans will be happy to know that Taylor retains hidden messages for her fans to find in each of the lyrics of her songs.

Let’s go find them shall we…(yes, I actually decoded the lyrics, and NO I did not use Google.)

1) Mine – First single released from the album.

Hidden message: “Toby”

Well, there’s no reason why the hidden message would be a guy’s name - actually, another no brainer, a famous guy’s name – Toby Hemmingway (Black Swan). Famous British actor found himself on the set of Swift’s Mine video clip after well, even he didn’t know! Nevertheless, the song is not actually about Toby and Taylor – oh, sorry Taylor fans, the video is not actually real. Actually, it’s about a girl’s who doesn’t believe in love and to find that it does exist regardless of the circumstances of life.

I like this song. I'm one of those strongly guarded girls and so it’s great to have an anthem that doesn’t scream the Hollywood chant of, “You belong with mee-ee!” – oh woops! That’s a Taylor Swifts song. :P

2) Sparks Fly

Hidden Message: “Portland Oregon”

I am assuming that this is a special place to Taylor, don’t really know, where google map at? Pitty LOL…anyway…it’s another love song if you didn’t get it from the title. Not too sure if I like just yet, I’ll let you know.

3) Back To December

Hidden Message: “Tay”

Gasp!!! Yes, it’s a reference to Twilight’s Taylor Lautner. I mean come on, the song says, “I miss you tan skin…” and we’ve all seen that whenever we watch another installment of the Saga. Against all media speculation, I actually do like this song. It’s about saying sorry and understanding that sometimes a second chance is inevitable, regardless of wanting to try. Sometimes, some scars are just easier to watch heal than to continually rip open – but don’t take my word for it! I don’t know if that applies to the two Taylors!

4) Speak Now

Hidden Message: “You always regret what you don’t say.”

Without a doubt – considering this song is about barging into an ex’s wedding to tell him that you’re still in love with him. That would suck! I would to hate to be the dude the end of that straw. Imagine being ready to commit your life to the woman in front of you and then suddenly some ex-girlfriend jumps up and says, “On by the way, in our last conversation I forgot to mention, I love you.” I mean come on!

I don’t hate this song, I think it’s a funny concept (regardless if it happens in real life – like I said it would suck if it happened to me on my wedding day, but you got to admit, it’s pretty funny) but I just think it’s time people dealt with their feelings. Especially if you’re the one they protesting for, don’t even hesitate! You’ve decided to fork out the cash for that diamond, got down on your knee and considered all the options! There is no way you would hesitate on your wedding day! Seriously! If you do it, either you never really loved the person in front of you or you think you’re settling for second best. Your call.

5) Dear John

Hidden Message: “Loved you from the very first day.”

This song is said to be about John Mayer, but I struggle to see the connection with the musician. Sure she features in his latest album, Battle Studies, but I seriously don’t think that this song is about John. Unless Swift and Mayer are really good at hiding from the paparazzi and the journalist of gossip magazines, then I think it could be.

The thing I like about this song is that it has the theme of White Horse running through it. Talking about looking back at past mistakes and being a little bit wiser, realising that maybe there are things that need to be left there; moving on is better, regardless of the pain and regrets.

6) Mean

Hidden Message: “Thought you got me.”

A song about being bullied and put down, it’s the anthem of anyone’s who’s ever been taunted and teased. I like it because everyone’s had a moment in their life where someone’s brought them down because they’ve been hurt before.

It’s an underdog’s song.

7) The Story of Us

Hidden Message: “CMT Awards”

According to my sister, it’s about Joe Jonas – personally I could care less about the feud between these two stars. I just like the song because of the beat not really the Story part. I just think it’s got a great dance beat – I know! Who knew Taylor Swift could make dance sound decent?! Ok, so not exactly dance more electro pop, but same-same. It’s one those songs you dance to when you’re alone in your room or a GNO!

8) Never Grow Up

Hidden Message: “Moved out in July.”

Since Miss Swift left her nest in July, this song is appropriate. Much like The Best Day in her Fearless album, it talks about growing up and realising the importance of family. I like it because it’s so calming and sweet. This will be my anthem when I move out of home! It’s the perfect acoustic track that has the hint of a lullaby.

9) Enchanted

Hidden Message: “Adam”

Another guy’s name, not another shocker. I actually don’t know who this “Adam” person is, but according to Google it refers to Adam Young of Owl City. According to the video bellow, Young wants to collaborate with Swift on a new track, no word yet though on whether the collaboration is happening.

It’s a song about a star-struck moment. I don’t really like this song, I think it’s haunting, although at the same time it puts you to sleep. Not that I don’t like Owl City – not true I love their stuff – I just personally do not like the melody of this song – no offence Taylor!

10) Better than Revenge

Hidden Message: “You thought I would forget.”

I really like this song! Don’t let the title throw you off, the first half of the sentence is actually, “There’s nothing I do better than revenge.” If any girl out there has ever been cheated on then THIS is YOUR ANTHEM. It’s got Avril’s Girlfriend touch of attitude and Pink’s U + Ur Hand message. That’s right, Taylor lets loose and rocks it out. Who loves rock ‘n’ roll? Taylor Swift does and so do we.

11) Innocent

Hidden Message: “Life is full of little interruptions.”

http://www.kewego.fr/video/iLyROoaf8lom.html - MTV VMA’s Performance.

Sorry, I couldn’t find a YouTube video. But obviously, it’s about Kanye West and how he interrupted her speech. It’s her way of saying she forgives him, which I think is amazing. I do like this song, not just because it’s about forgiveness, but it has a powerful message. “Who you are, is not what you did...Every one of us has messed up to.” It’s the bigger-person song, and there should be one of those inside of all of us.

12) Haunted

Hidden Message: “Still to this day.”

Probably referring to a lingering feeling towards someone she had been in love with. It’s actually good song. I love that ballad-like sounds of all the string instruments and Taylor’s declarative singing. It’s like Kelly Clarkson’s Because of You, it’s just full on with music and vocals that it’s in your face – love it! But whenever I listen to it, I see another Clarkson song, Behind these Hazel Eyes. It’s just a great song.

13) Last Kiss

Hidden Message: “Forever and Always”

Remind of something? Yes, the hidden message is a track on the Fearless album, but it troubles me because that song is said to be about Joe Jonas. Is anyone else sick of Joe Jonas? I am! But when you put two and two together it doesn’t make sense! Last KISS – really? It’s like come on! Do you hate him or love him! Personally I don’t really like this song, even if it’s not about Joe; I personally think it’s just too slow, eh.

14) Long Live

Hidden Message: “For you”

It’s got Change written all over it. It’s that song that everyone loves because it’s not really about love and it’s not really about growing up; it’s about breaking through because you did something together. No connotation there, I mean it’s like fighting a war and gaining the victory in the end. It’s a community song really, lol, I don’t know why songs like this make me think of that, but they do. :D

***

Bonus Disc – Deluxe

Unfortunately, no hidden messages here, but just three extra tracks that show case the brilliance of this twenty year-old.

1) Ours

It’s a love song that is thick with the country beats. It’s Our Song all over again, so technically she just dropped the “ong” hey? Jokes, jokes…but it’s seriously a fun, chirpy song that you’d listen to on a road trip. I like it.

2) If This Was a Movie

No, it’s not a Hannah Montana cover, although, it might as well be. Is anyone else sick of these, “If life was a movie…” themed songs? What makes me cringe is the fact that even I fall for them. I really do like this song. Sue me. :P

3) Superman

I really don’t know what this song is about. I have a feeling it’s really about Superman, which is probably not surprising. I love it because it reminds me of Since You’ve Been Gone, but without the rock tinge. It’s still very country but it’s got this hint of, HA! in it. I seriously don’t know why I like it, but it would have a really cool video clip!

The second disc also features 5 other songs, but it’s just different versions of: Back to December, Mine, Haunted and The Story of Us. It also includes a few behind the scenes of the Mine video clip.

And unfortunately, YouTube doesn’t have Part 3, sorry. :D

sL Star rating: 5 Stars – which ever version you get it’s worth your money.

Next on sL: Whip It and Wild Child - Newly viewed and Re-viewed.

FILM: The Social Network

The Social Network: Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield and Justin Timberlake

FACEBOOK, everyone knows about it and most people use it. Whether or not you have one, you’re bound to know what it is. But how did ONE social network get so popular? The Social Network works around the two law-suits that Mark Zuckerberg had to face when Facebook became one of the biggest social networks running online. Fighting against the people who claim that Facebook was their idea and his own best friend, who felt he was cheated out of his rights.

THIS IS A MUST SEE! Who knew that the phrase, “Facebook me” would mean so much just seven years after its creation? Who knew that the idea of being “exclusive” would cost 27 billion dollars down the track? But the question is, “Is Facebook just another great idea, or is it the epitome of or social standing today?” That question is what this film is trying to answer. I love it when Mark says, “The (twins) are suing me because for the first time in their lives, things aren’t going their way.” Paying off 65 million dollars for a suggestion that turned into the biggest thing seven years after it was spoken about is one half storyline of this film. The other half is about trust, loyalty and friendship; wrapped in this story of “who’s right” and “who owes who recognition” (and money) is a story about self-definition.

Today, Mark Zuckerberg is known as the youngest billionaire in this world, but this movie traces out the codes that brought life to Facebook. Behind all the attitude and all the computer lingo, Mark was just look for something that would get him in – in with the cool kids, in with the cool parties and in with the right girls. Taking the idea of exclusivity, what Mark was able to re-create was the social structure of universities in the US – only the elite were invited to the most prestigious houses and clubs; only the cool kids got the great recognitions; and all those who could afford were walking targets because they were also walking ATMs. That’s the second half of the storyline, behind the cool new updates and statuses, Facebook is just another way to highlight the haves and the have-nots.

It makes you think huh? Facebook is part of us that we don’t even consider how it began. All we know is that it’s there and it’s useful. Walking out of that movie, it made me think, “What would happen if one by one, people stopped using Facebook and all those other internet sites? What would happen to people like Mark Zuckerberg? What would they do with their billions?” I even seriously thought about deleting my Facebook page (which would probably cut down my internet usage). But that movie really made me think. It’s not about who’s idea it was, which is probably why he was happy to pay the 65 million, because let’s face it, the idea of having social networks to be exclusive is really nothing new; it’s about re­-creating life and halving the unwritten rules of society written. Like the Ericka character said, “Things on the internet aren’t written in the air, they’re written in ink.” – Which probably where the “HIDE” option originated from – but it’s the truth. (I love the fact that every application has a story.) When you watch this film consider these three things:

1. How often do you use Facebook?
2. What do you use it for?
3. Why do you use it in the first place?

sL star rating: 5 stars

Next on sL: Taylor Swift – Speak Now (New Album)

FILM: Eat, Pray Love

Alright, so my mum, my sister, my (friend who entertains the thought that she's my) adopted sister and I went to see the new Julia Roberts film, Eat Pray Love. So obviously from the trailer it's about a woman trying to find something to fulfill her life. This, my friends, is her journey and why the film is called "Eat - Pray - Love".

Before the Title
So before Liz (Roberts) goes into her big epiphany-spurned adventure, she has to deal with all the clutter of her life. Realising she's not living the life she wanted she make her way out her marriage bed into another man's. But when her divorce is final and the guys she thinks is a good fit for her starts becoming square, she realises that enough is enough. Throwing everything she's ever known away, she buys three tickets and head of for a year...

Eat
Italy: Rome, The Eternal City.

There's nothing like a good bowl of past and a massive serve of pizza on the side, not to mention the number one therapist - wine. Here, Liz discovers the art of doing nothing. She has the freedom to do what she likes and explore the wonders of one of the greatest cities in history. Here, she is able to just be Liz - to attachments, no complications, just Liz and her food.

Pray
India: The Guru's Temple

Switching pesto and dough for spices and a little bit of elbow grease, Liz finds herself in India. Trying to calm her spiritual journey, she commits herself to the hands of an Indian guru. But in the midst of the cleansing, she finds that in order to clear out the clutter, you have to deal with the dirt. Starting with David (James Franco) and eventually Stephen (Billy Crudup) too. In dealing with her clutter, Liz finds her inner peace in wishing her young friend a good and happy marriage.

Love
Bali: Ketut

At the end of the year, Liz has had all the adventure she can take. Settling in a condo and taking her lessons with Ketut, everything is just utter bliss. When it comes time to love again, Liz's heart isn't too sure whether it should remain guarded or let romance take the lead. Has everything boiled down to the point where she can really love again?

***

The thing about this movie is that it shows a really great journey. I knew from the start that it's not about finding God at all, these films are always about finding something new about yourself or re-discovering who you are apart from every body else. Why am I saying this? Well, I walked out pretty pleased with the film, good story great cast, entertaining...etc..

But my mother and "two" sisters started talking about how, "The ethics were wrong" and "She wasn't looking for God in the right way", valid points of course. My sister pointed out that, "she was never really looking for God," which I think is true. She never really found God, or if she did, the "I am" that she did find was the "I am...". What's the difference?

God is undoubtedly the "I Am" - the almighty being and creator of all. The "I am (dot, dot, dot)" is the prefix to a sentence where we describe our wants, needs and feelings. "I am going to buy a new TV", "I am going to get something to eat", "I am sick". It's the definitive "I am...", so when Liz says, "God is in me, as me," she's really saying, "I am god."

Besides that concept, the entire film was great! Leave me a message on what you thought about the film or the concept of "God is in me, as me."

sL star rating: 4.5 stars

Next on sL: TBA (Exams coming up - BUT: Watch this spot!)

FILM: Charlie St. Cloud // Moa's Last Dancer // Diary of a Wimpy Kid

By far, this was the most disappointing movie that I have seen this year - and as you know, I've seen A LOT with you guys this year. But what was so disappointing was that it was just so linear! What I mean was I felt like I was sitting in Amityville Horror back in 2005! I literally could pinpoint what was going to happen as I sat in my seat. It's was so straight forward that I have no shame in telling you the entire story, but I won't because I'm sympathetic to all you "Efrans" - yes that's probably not a new fan name.

But it's not even about bad acting or bad casting or whatever, you can have the best cast and still have a bad movie. I don't know, leave me a comment about a movie you saw that was bad and tell me why it was bad.

sL star rating: 1.5 stars (Sorry Efron fans.)

What was really great about this film was that there was a great balance of politics and ballet - it wasn't one or the other. I really loves the fact that everything happens in two separate spheres - Lee's past life and then he's future - and then how the two spheres are bound by the climax. It was really heart wrenching and it was a movie that kept you interested. If you like Canter Stage and War/ Political films this is for you.

sL star rating: 5 stars

Yes ladies and gentlemen, I have managed to score a ticket to see yet another PG film, but, in my defense, this (after Toy Story 3) is one of the BEST films you will see this year. Believe me! The humour in this film isn't your usual I'll-laugh-because-it's-a-family-movie, but it's genuinely HILARIOUS! The story, characters and cast are just so believable that you sit literally thinking, "That's so true!"

With Kick Ass's Chloe Moretz and rising star, Zachary Gordon. This is one film you can't miss regardless how old you are!

sL star rating: 5 stars

Next on sL: Eat, Pray, Love – the journey of finding God, only to find out you were looking for yourself instead.