peepspersonalperspective

[peepspersonalperspective]

Aespa: Black Mamba

SM’s new, much anticipated rookie group Aespa just dropped their first music video. And I’m kinda torn.

THINGS I LIKED:

1. Visuals (Artists)

The girls look great, they seem confident, they’re hot, their outfits, makeup & hair, everything on point. I would like to point out though that Karina and NingNing were the only ones who left a distinct impression on me. I don’t know if it was screen time, line distribution or something else, but they definitely had a stronger impact on me. Also, Ningning is the only one who seemed to have a little different style from the rest - hers being more street, while others were more shapely.

2. Concept/Visuals (MV)

SM definitely spent money on this MV, that one can tell. The graphics, editing, set design are all pretty top notch. The “black mamba” especially was carefully animated, and I was most impressed by the detailing on it’s skin. The part where the snake passes by the train, creating the illusion that the train was moving was pretty darn cool. 

The camera work was also quite awesome, especially with the low angle shots during the choreography, adding a visual impact to the routine, without putting the girls in an unflattering light. There was one angle, though, that felt weird, and I was grateful that they were wearing tights. 

I also loved the part where Karina is devoured by a red cloud while she was sitting on a throne. Very cinematic. 

THINGS I DIDN’T LIKED:

1. The Song

This is supposed to be the hero of the entire thing, and I was unfortunately disappointed. Perhaps the hype built up unwarranted expectations, but after one listen, I wasn’t hooked nor inclined to listen again. The melody is ok I guess, but it wasn’t like a ear worm or anything.

So many comparisons to Blackpink, but their debut song, Boombayah is still catchy! And every member’s distinct vocals were highlighted, starting from Lisa and Jennie’s rap to Jisoo’s “Oppa!” and Rose’s sweet voice in the pre-chorus. 

Here there’s so much going on visually and sonically, that I didn’t register their voices at all. This is not to say the girls are not talented, they really are, I just wish their voices shined brighter than the VFX. I mean, Ningning’s teaser did more justice to her voice than the whole music video.

The song messaging/lyrics....I can’t even. I get it Aespa is supposed to be like the future of music consumption with their virtual alter egos and stuff, but debuting a song about it? I don’t know. Is that what the group stands for? Battling with their virtual egos? What? 

I’m addicted endlessly talking to me, my Aespa

How is anyone supposed to relate to that? What is anybody’s incentive to follow Aespa? This song felt like self promotion, and that is counterintuitive if the consumer doesn’t know what exactly you’re selling. 

2. Choreography

To be honest I was going back and forth on this. I wasn’t sure if I liked it or not. Did it showcase Aespa’s skills? Personally I don’t think so. There were some stand out steps like the Black Mamba hook step, which I feel, more credit should go to the DOP than the choreographer. And the part where they go “Ay ay ay ay” was quite disruptive and eye catching. Again, more justice was done to Karina’s dancing skills in her teaser than in the music video.

In conclusion, I think the publicity and controversies that surrounded Aespa prior to it’s debut did more harm than good, because the debut single failed to deliver on it. I think the group should focus on their own authentic selves, who they are and what they stand for, before projecting that onto their ae-selves. I welcome innovation, but not at the cost of the core essence of music, dance, entertainment and most of all talent. That being said, I think Aespa has the potential to do great things in the future, and perhaps their music can prove to be a slow burn, that’ll hit me tomorrow. But just not today.

[peepspersonalperspective]

DASH & LILY: A Dash of Warmth with the onset of Winter

4/5

Dash and Lily is the latest Netflix mini-series, that has accomplished the feat of giving me the warm fuzzies in a span of 8 episodes. Now, I’m not usually a fan of christmas themed content (except Love Actually) because they’re usually quite standardized; most of them excessively emphasizing and exploiting the miracle of Christmas and what not. I’m a romantic but even those are too much for me.

However, that’s not the case with Dash & Lily. I was intrigued by the premise but I went into it with lukewarm expectations. Perhaps because I kinda feel guilty for still gobbling up YA shit like a giddy high school girl. Nevertheless, I’m glad I gave Dash & Lily a chance.

So Lily is a homebody who immerses herself in books and believes the world is all rainbows and roses, including the magic of christmas. Dash is well, reserved, often described as “finicky”, overcoming heartbreak, with a disdain for the holiday season. I know this is pretty much the set up for most christmas movie protagonists, but stay with me here. Lily very soon realizes that reality is not as lovely as fiction, when her family disperses for their own christmas endeavours, leaving a disappointed Lily to spend her first christmas by herself. That’s when her brother and his boyfriend come up with this crazy idea of indulging her faith in romance, by orchestrating a bookstore treasure hunt with a diary. They call it “real-life tinder.” Hence, Lily hides the diary next to her favourite book at the Strand, hoping that some decent teenage boy would take the bait. Lo and behold, Dash does. And so their pen-friendship begins, as they exchange messages through the diary, without physically interacting with one another. 

Now, my first thought was obviously “Stranger danger!” but when you see it, it’s all explained, and supervised. ;-)

You’d think that Lily would go onto convince Dash that Christmas is stupendo-fantabulous-fantasmagorically-magical like them good old christmas movies, but it’s really not like that. This is not a show about restoring faith in christmas. It’s more about restoring faith in oneself, learning to overcome inhibitions, taking risks, and finding comfort in who you are. Dash and Lily help each other through their series of creative dares and it’s actually fun to see them grow as they go through each and every one of them.

More than Dash though, I really have to hand it to Lily’s character. I really liked her. I saw her come out of her shell, accept herself, and own the fact that yeah she’s weird and amazing. She’s like a more rational version of Phoebe. I can’t think of anyone else who would pull off a christmas tree dress with that kinda confidence. Yet she’s not unnaturally incognizant of her surroundings. She does feel awkward at first, and you can see that, but she just decides to accept and move on. I have to mention the slam poetry monologue, which was so genuine. Kudos to the writers, editors and director Fred Savage for not making it gimicky, but really an honest confession, that doesn’t sound like a rehearsed rap, but more like an untethered flow of thoughts vocalized. My favourite quote: 

“I’m tired of boys pulling our pigtails and getting called cute.....I wish I could’ve stood up to all the bullies who made me feel too weird, too different, too Asian...”

For all the merits of the show, there were a few shortcomings. The Cinderella episode made me roll my eyes hard. I’m really tired of Cinderella parallelism in movies and TV. It was great when Hilary Duff and Chad Michael Murray sported that, but five other spiritual sequels later and a million other references, I'm exhausted. I must say the finale was not up to the mark, either. The forceful Jonas Brothers plug in was rather unnecessary I mean I get it Nick Jonas produced and all, but nah. Also it seemed too rushed. And I’m not sure where I stand on the end scene. Cute? Or Cheesy? Well I don’t want to give any spoiler away, but the last scene kinda reminded me of a cheesy moment with one of my exes *shudders* 

Personal Anecdote: So my college boyfriend had mentioned that he’d never kissed before (like Lily lol) and he’d said he’d imagined fireworks when he’d have his first kiss. When we had our first kiss, which was incidentally his first kiss ever, there was a brief awkward moment right after, so I broke the silence by saying “I’m sorry there were no fireworks” and smiled. And he’d said, “There were for me.” *Cringe* Anyway this is not relevant. Sorry.

So, Dash and Lily is a hot cup of coco on a cold winter night. I didn’t think that with such a cheesy premise you could encompass so much more about human sentiments, and within reason. It also displays the true color and diversity of New York without brandishing token representation. 

Austin Abrams and Midori Francis do a great job, as do every other character in this series.Every character is like a misshapen puzzle piece that simply fits into the bigger beautiful picture. It wasn’t difficult to finish this series in one fell swoop.

Also, I loved the rendition of Auld Lang Syne at the end of the movie. Is it just me or am I hearing that song everywhere these days?!

[peepspersonalperspective]

MY PICKS: Top 12 K-Drama OST Songs

Some songs just don’t leave my head even after the episode/show is over. I’ve got one of those on loop on my Spotify even as I write this up. So I thought I’d make a list of my favourites. The order of the songs is irrelevant, because honestly I listen to some more than others according to the mood of the moment. Here goes...

1. Start Up OST - Future - Red Velvet

Remember that song I said I currently had on loop, a few sentences ago? That’s this one. This electro-pop song has the most infectious synth sound as the hook, and it is absolutely befitting to the theme of the show. The sweet voices of Red Velvet have such feel-good vibes. (Oh, if only Irene were as sweet as her voice. Too soon?)

2. Love Alarm OST - Blooming Story - Tearliner ft. Jo Hae Jin

This is one of those underrated songs that really made me feel things while watching the drama, and I couldn’t ignore the impact of the drop on my pulse. The music is truly sensational, that makes you feel sad, yet hopeful. It’s a strange feeling, that also makes you accurately relate to the characters of the show. 

3. It’s Okay Not To Be Okay OST - You’re So Cold - Heize

Oh, Heize, you never disappoint. Right from the start the song grips you and the chorus is compelling enough that it easily gets stuck in your head. But I think the way the melody picks up is what really enticed me. Special Mentions: In Silence - Janet Suhh

4. Guardian OST - ALL

Will you judge me if I say that I pretty much stayed long enough to watch the entire show because it’s the music that really gripped me, more than the story? Can you blame me though? Right from Round & Round by Heize in the opening credits, to Stay With Me by Chanyeol and Punch in the end credits, and even the music of Winter is Coming by Han Suji is just so fantasmagorically magical, that you can’t not love it. 

5. Itaewon OST - Start Over - Gaho & Sweet Night - V

I think it’s safe to say, these were pretty much the K-drama songs of the year. Breaking records in so many countries, and still so relevant. Everytime i listen to Start Over, I just wanna start running down the streets of Itaewon. Such a great workout song. It pumps you up so well. I think what makes both these songs so great, is that they’re not overproduced. Their beauty lies in their simplicity. In March, the world may have stopped and the show may have ended, but these songs continue to shine on. 

6. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo OST - Dream - Han Hee Jung

This song is just timeless. It’s so soft, sweet and simple, that you can’t help but feel the bliss in your heart, spread your arms wide and soak in life. It’s still such a popular song that if you really pay attention you can hear it play in the background of so many movies and tv- shows, even to this day. The music really gives me Vanessa Carlton and Michelle Branch vibes, that strikes a chord with me somewhere. 

7. Crash Landing On You OST - Sigriswil - Kim Kyoung Hee

This song is everything. It’s such a surprise, starting someplace and just going to a whole other scale halfway into the song. The pick up is like a dream. I know this was the opening credit, but I only really appreciated the song after listening to it in totality, at the very end of the show. Perhaps the picturization also helped, but the song itself, also makes you feel like the drone that flew high around Yoon Seri and Ri Jeong Hyuk.

8. 30 But 17 OST - Seventeen - Every Single Day & Just Stay - Hyolyn

These songs are pretty much the quintessential romantic comedy sounds. Yet the upbeat Seventeen is a song you can easily bop to or wanna wake up to in the morning. Just Stay has a melody you can’t really forget, and it’s the type of song that makes you relive sweeter moments of a relationship. 

9. Descendendants of the Sun OST - Everytime - Chen & Talk Love - K. Will

Oh I want these songs to be the soundtrack to my love life. The music, the lyrics, the voices and the visuals all come together just perfectly, wanting you to be a part of the romance. Everytime Talk Love (haha pun intended), began playing in the show, my heart skipped a beat, and I just had to whistle along. These songs, you won’t be able to shake off, even when you’re old. They are the definition of evergreen. 

10. Extraordinary You OST - My Beauty - VeriVery 

This song is such a earworm, that you’ll find yourself grooving to this track, even after the song is over. It’s got a great energy and a catchy hook. Positive vibes only. Gripping from the very first notes, the song also captures everything about being young and having a crush.

11. Memories of Alhambra OST - Star (Little Prince) - Loco, U Sung Eun

This song is surprisingly a whole different vibe from the show, and yet somehow, fits. The beats are sick! And the rap verses really uplift the vocal parts. The drops are quite unforgettable, and as you listen, the song just gets better and better, never being quite as repetitive as it may seem. 

12. My ID is Gangnam Beauty OST - D-Day - Junggigo

This song is so catchy that it doesn’t leave your head for a while. It’s feel good, with pleasant summer electronic vibes that gets you grooving from the get go. I mean, it’s not easy to find a song that attracts your attention over Cha Eun Woo’s face, and this is one of them.

These are just a few songs off the top of my head that I continue to listen to and love; but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some great soundtracks out there. There are some great sounds in Hotel Del Luna, and Hospital Playlist and what not. Why don’t you recommend a few? Maybe I’ll start loving those too <3

[peepspersonalperspective]

I love your writings and reviews!! May I ask, what shows are you currently watching? (Kdrama or otherwise). Also, are you indian?

Haha, thank you! Yes I am Indian. I’m currently watching Start-up (Nam Joo Hyuk and Bae Suzy), Record of Youth (Park Bo Gum and Park So Dam) and Dr. Romantic 2 (Ahn Hyo-Seop and Lee Sung Kyung) just came out on Netflix! So I’m excited to start that because I’ve been waiting for a long time. How about you?

[peepspersonalperspective]

Blackpink: Light Up The Sky

3/5

I’m a Blink, or at least I believe I am. I love the power in their music, in their choreography, their attitude and their fashion, all of it ...full love!

So I’m one of those people who had to watch their documentary the moment it was realeased in the middle of a working day (Kind of grateful for WFH right now)

I wanted to get to know them more. I see their variety episodes on Youtube, and it’s fun and stuff, being mostly a setup or a game or specific activity, but I also kind of want to relate and enter their real, natural world, which so far I’ve always felt shut out from. Like there’s a glass wall between us, I can feel the vibrations of their sound, I can see them lit in all their vibrance, but I can’t reach them. Now, I don’t know if it’s because of YG restrictions or what, but yeah that’s just my feeling, especially as an international fan, not locally based in South Korea, having as much exposure as a Korean resident Blink probably would. 

Anyway so I was super excited to check out their documentary, that promised unseen footage from trainee days, and childhood etc. And we got a whole bunch of it, especially in the first half. How they came to be, how they got into the whole ordeal, everything we kind of already knew, but backed up with some footage, and spelled out to us.

JENNIE: 

Jennie says she doesn’t like talking about herself, and I guess she lives up to her word. We do see some unseen footage of her schooling life in New Zealand, which was adorable. The entire time I couldn’t help but wonder how she got a pink cast on her hand, and what’s the story there? Beyond that it was pretty on the surface kind of stuff, and a little anecdote from her Pilates instructor. She did show her consternation about the restrictions on drinking, partying, and losing friends along the way, as trainees kept dropping out of the program, and a very brief moment of reflection on missing out on high school, and all the memories, regular teenagers get to make in their adoloscence. But yeah, was it really new information? 

LISA:

Things I learned about Lisa -

1. She loves vintage clothes, and loves spending on them, a constant concern for her mother who handles her finances.

2. She and Rose confided in each other whenever they felt like outsiders, almost picking up her Australian accent. She also took Jennie’s help a lot who was the only English speaking trainee when she joined.

3. She had the weirdest style and hairdo when she auditioned for YG.

4. She thinks she goes overboard in trying to cheer up her members, but they convince her that her positivity is what they really need.

JISOO:

Jisoo spoke about her family and her upbringing, and her general outlook, which was a new side to see. We also got a little insight about her fondness for writing or art, almost destined for the creative field. We also got to know how ill Jisoo was before the Coachella performance. She also spoke how blessed she was for having had a bit of normal life, school friends et. al, before entering the entertainment industry. That was quite interesting.

ROSE:

I think I enjoyed watching her the most. Her passion for music, her insecurities, her vulnerability, her perseverence, really showed. There was a much too brief a home video of her pajama show, and we also got to see her tinker with the demo for What You Waiting For by Somi. Her personality shined, and I genuinely feel a little closer to Rose, from what she was willing reveal about herself, more than any of the other girls. 

However, my favourite person in this entire documentary is producer Teddy Park, former 1TYM rapper, and just such a chiller. The way he described the girls, the way he interacted with them, their respect for him, and just the overall relationship they share was such a treat to watch! Also, he’s so darn well spoken. 

The girls talk about the future, at dinner, where the poor waiter reminds them and apologizes for not treating them better when they dined there during their traineeship. They talk about kids and getting married, meeting Halsey. And then poof, roll credits. What? That ended so quickly! I thought we were just getting started! That was disappointing, because there’s still so much to learn about the girls. Then again, perhaps that was the idea? To keep us Blinks wanting more!

I must say I was very pleased to see BTS also feature a little when they talk about the rise of K-Pop globally, and I thought to myself, how great it is to see that both groups are able to represent their country, their individual brands, support each other, without the baggage of competition or fan wars.

In closing, I’d like to say, it’s an easy watch, it reminds you why we love Blackpink music, makes you miss concerts, but my only complaint is I want more! I don’t think this documentary even scratched the surface of what the girls are about individually and/or together. Nevertheless, if you’re a new Blink or wanting to learn a little bit more about Hallyu and K-Pop, this could be a good introduction into that world.

[peepspersonalperspective]

SKZ: Back Door

Stray Kids just dropped their new MV for back door, and it’s everything fresh I needed to kick off this work week.

Visuals: 

Bang Chan’s red hair was not my favourite, because it really stuck out like a sore thumb. Maybe it’s too red? But, he looks ripped! So hot. I’ve always liked how full he looks (in a great way) compared to most other idols who seem way too skinny. I was torn, between admiring his body and twitching at the sight of his hair

Felix’s extensions, I’m not feeling it. It’s not my favourite look of his. And I really didn’t like his sleeves. They were loose! It looked very off. I’d have rather have him bare. I don’t understand why the sleeves were important. It’s not like they added volume to his arms.

Hyunjin looks hawt! Superb visuals. Han’s rainbow hair looked pretty cool too.

The overall visuals of the music video were not as exciting as God’s Menu. The scale was much smaller. I’m sure I feel that way because after God’s Menu, you can’t compare the grandeur of a race track to (what I think is) an empty mall. 

The opening was a little dark. When BTS entered the art gallery in Blood, Sweat and Tears, there was grandiose. Here the art wasn’t highlighted, the camera work made it look more fake, and the lever Lee Know pulled seemed more like a cheap prop. Lee Know was highlghted well for sure, but the backround was a bit shabby. Not the best start. Fortunately Hyunjin managed to pump it up in the next frame.

The end with the white hoodie crowd was pretty cool and well contrasted with the idols in the front, and shout out to the great edit, that really vibed with the song. The disappearing act in the end was a nice touch.

Choreography:

I have always loved the hook step of Stray Kids choreography and this one doesn’t disappoint either. 

There are fewer power moves, but I love the way they use their bodies to create the door. The bridge choreography is also pretty neat, and the clock effect in a straight line is just a classic move you can hardly go wrong with.

This time if there’s anyone who killed it with the choreography it was Hyunjin, I couldn’t take my eyes off him. 

This time the choreography doesn’t have the Wow factor that most of them usually do, but then again, the cool hook step makes up for it.

Song:

From “Cooking like a chef” to “You wanna come in” Felix has maintained that oomph, and always impresses with his sexy bass. This time Seungmin’s pre-chorus hit differently. You couldn’t not notice him, it was so good. 

The rap line wasn’t as memorable this time round, but no complains as such.

So since I saw the teaser the motif has been stuck in my head, and it’s a earworm signature SKZ style. The chorus is fun, and the drop is pretty cool too.

Anyway, Stay Safe Stays!

[peepspersonalperspective]

CARGO: Uhhh...

2/5

It’s been a hot minute since it’s release, I know, but that’s because I literally couldn’t finish the movie in one sitting. One hour into the movie, nothing had happened. So, I wasn’t going to spend the rest of my friday night and subsequent weekend waiting for something to happen. 

So here’s the part where I usually give a brief summary of the plot. But a plot usually has a beginning, middle and end. Or if you want to go all technical with Freytag’s pyramid, an exposition, inciting incident, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution, the denouement. 

The plot of this movie, basically doesn’t exist. It’s just a story that’s...there. We’re given context of the setting like a disclaimer in Star Wars, which honestly for me, was a blink and a miss and I only retained that it was the year 2070. Yet aesthetically and even sonically, everything roared 80s. That’s okay though, I think it was a clever way to repurpose a limited budget for a sci-fi indie. 

So yeah, coming to the plot, there’s a spaceship that helps transition human beings post death to their next life - a pathbreaking outcome of a peace treaty between the human race and demons. We’re given a brief introduction about the existence of demons through a power point presentation given by an Indian Steve Jobs, that draws a parallel between demons and Yamraj (The Hindu grim reaper). But before this we’re introduced to a human loneliness detective and his low production advertisement.

After this random commencement, we’re shown Pushpak 634 A, one of the first spaceships that launched from the peace treaty, and its captain, Prahastha (Vikrant Massey). Prahastha goes about his day as he has for the last 70+ years. People come, people go, and he’s left alone every night. His only constant companion is Nritigya Sir, a pencil pushing demon on Earth. This goes on for a bit. And the screenplay is as mundane as Prahastha’s life. 

Then he’s informed that he’ll be getting a new assistant. Ooh inciting incident! I was excited. Yuvishka (Shweta Tripathi) is a topper of demon university (or wherever) with healing powers, and she brings with her all the millennial shit that Prahastha has been kept from over the last many years. But then they went about their day again! What! Where is this story going??

Then a turning point comes and hour into the two hour feature. Yuvishka loses her powers. First of all, the scene should have been a little more enticing, because I didn’t even realise she lost her powers. Yes, the guy was a creep and he kind of tried to attack Yuvishka, she was all frightened, but Prahastha came and saved the day, matter resolved. But how she suddenly lost her powers wasn’t explained. 

Sure, the movie moves along after that a little faster. Prahastha needs to retire, because he’s pretty much re-recycling humans at this point. There is an impending decision to be taken on Yuvishka, as she serves no purpose without her powers. But interestingly, scenes that I believe should’ve been in the beginning of the movie, ended up towards the end. A mad scientist dies trying to time travel, and he tells Yuvishka that he’d heard about such an afterlife transition spaceship because his friend did a PhD on it. He asks her how the system works, she explains. Dude! This interaction was needed in the beginning of the movie! I had no idea what was happening!

Then the mystery of the random “loneliness detective” who dies and comes to Pushpak 634 A. That’s it. He’s just another cargo, and a brief example used by Yuvishka to console Prahastha about loneliness. 

And then Yuvishka finally gets her powers back and Prahastha retires without saying goodbye. No reaction, explanation, nothing. Yuvishka gets a new assistant, and life goes on as usual.

So in all the reviews I’ve seen, everyone has praised the innovation in concept, and rightfully, huge strides taken in Indian cinema for the genre. But beyond that, the movie offers very little. As a fan of sci-fi, and the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, that also uses absurdism, this movie just fails to hit the mark that it so ambitiously tried to venture into. The problem is probably that the focus was so much in the concept that they didn’t invest enough on the story itself. Format cannot drive story. Story is told through the format appropriate for it. 

Even in the concept, there are so many loopholes and questions, that the makers couldn’t even engage the audience in the world they created. Do demons live with humans on Earth? How come of all people who died, only one (towards the end of the movie) bothers to say goodbye to his family? None of the human seem to care that they died. What? 

Everything is explained at the superficial level, yet the themes are of deeper, existentialism, which just doesn’t make any impact. Chemistry between Prahastha and Yuvishka is down right confusing. Is he mentoring her? Are they supporting one another? Very uneven portrayal of their relationship.

In conclusion, this movie just is...A real disappointment, that fails to deliver on the promise of substance. But one aspect that deserves a tip of the hat, is the music score. That was probably the only thing on point.

[peepspersonalperspective]

BTS featured in the second episode of Record of Youth and I’m all for it. Park Bo Gum karaokes to the most beautiful moment of his life and we see the “Run” MV playout in the background. He also talks about how BTS songs motivate him.

I don’t know if it’s just clever marketing or not but the ARMY in me is exploding! 

[peepspersonalperspective]

Playlist of My Life

So I’ve been watching a lot of these Teen Vogue videos on YouTube where artists make a Spotify playlist of their life. And I really wanted to make my own too. I did, obviously, but I also wanted to explain myself like the others did (not that anybody asked, or anybody cares); but every song has a story to tell not just within the song itself but also about the listener. I find that intriguing. I have a whole other soundtrack to my life too (like if my life were to become a motion picture) but that’s a whole other post.

1. Fireflies - Owl City

This song represents so much to me. I was 16 when I heard the song. It was just when I began junior college (junior and senior year of high school/ 11th & 12th grade). It was when I had my first taste of independence. So this song really reminds me of that feeling of freedom.

It also represents youth and first love to me, because I was introduced to it by my crush. I asked him “What’s up” and he said he was listening to ’“fireflies”’ and I totally made an idiot out of myself by saying “the mosquitoes might feel bad”. But then we fell in love, and went through this whole journey together, of many firsts and youthful adventures. We broke up, but this song will always be special to me and I’m never going to get sick of it. I haven’t in a decade, so that’s something.

Favorite lyric:

I’m weird ‘cause I hate goodbyes

That line just gets me

2. I Can Be Somebody - Deorro ft. Erin McCarley

I actually don’t listen to this song as much as I’d like. I heard this song when I was graduating college and moving to New York, and this was just the perfect song for the occasion. It still is. It always gets me pumped up. It’s not a regular party song, nor is it too happy, but it’s perfect for painting the town red all night with someone you love or your friends, and just appreciate life, especially your 20s. Yes, this song is definitely representative of my 20s. I think this song was aptly picturized in “We Are Your Friends”. Heard it before the movie, though.

3. Something New - Axwell /\ Ingrosso

This is definitely one of my all time favourite songs. Also heard it around the same time as I Can Be Somebody. Maybe that was just my EDM phase, come to think of it. I actually heard this song for the first time in the middle of Times Square for a Beats ad. I couldn’t get the rhythm out of my head. I desperately searched for the ad immediately to get the name of the song. The positive vibes of this song are just so infectious. It’s also the perfect airplane take off song. I also imagine this to be the opening credit song for my movie.

4. I Decide - Lindsey Lohan

I’m surprised how much this song impacted me. It wasn’t just because of Princess Diaries, I was going through a Disney phase in general back then, emulating Hilary Duff and Lindsey Lohan and the likes. This song, however, really made me feel empowered. I didn’t know that songs could do that to you till I heard this one. I was a kid, and a good kid at that, just doing what I’m told/ supposed to, and this song (in a very positive way) made me realise that I had a choice to do otherwise, or at the very least have a different opinion. This song gave me a voice I didn’t know I had.

Every lyric in the song is very relatable, but of course the chorus takes the cake.

Favorite Lyric:

I decide how I live, I decide who I love, Choice is mine, and No one gets to make my mind up I decide.

5. The Climb - Miley Cyrus

Another surprisingly impactful song. It’s surprising because, while other Disney songs also seek to inspire, this was quite mature and deep for its audience, and it definitely touched a chord in my heart. I can’t mention I Decide, and not this. Because while, I Decide started this internal revolution, this song exposed my insecurities, better yet, it taught me to embrace them and move on, and really get some perspective in life. It’s not a karaoke song (depends on the mood I guess), but when I’m down, I softly sing this under my breath, to pick myself up, and console myself that it’s going to be ok. This is just a part of a great journey.

Also, this song feels so relatable to me especially the lyric,

There’s always gonna be another mountain, I’m always gonna wanna make it move

I do that all the time! I push and I push and when I fail I feel dejected. This song is a reminder that I shouldn’t feel that way.

Hard to believe this came from the same album as Hoedown Throwdown.

6. How to Save a Life - The Fray

It would be unfair to have a playlist of my life and not have this song. I feel like every kid of my generation has had some connect with this song. For me, it was not only my introduction to the flourishing alternative rock phase of the early 2000s, but also THE best live experience I’ve had. I was fortunate enough to see the Fray live in concert in Cleveland, and I may not be a concert connoisseur, but I don’t think there are very many times when the entire song is sung by the audience, and the band just stays quiet, and plays the instruments. The ENTIRE song.

I hadn’t seen Grey’s Anatomy when I heard this song, but then I did see Grey’s, I couldn’t stop myself from crying when they used this song for Shepherd’s farewell.

7. Over You - Daughtry

This will always be my favourite break up song. Daughtry was my first concert ever and this was the first Daughtry song I’d heard. I remember a friend recommending it. I was instantly hooked. I was 12 when I first heard it, but it’s still so relevant. A lot of break up songs are either sad, or motivational, or angry, or catering to a specific emotion in general. This song actually encompasses all of it. When you break up with someone there’s a tsunami of emotions, this song let’s you be angry, and hopeful for the future, while accepting the past. It’s bloody brilliant.

Favorite lyric:

The day I thought I’d never get through, I got over you.

8. Club Can’t Handle Me - Flo Rida, David Guetta

I grew up as a dancer, and I was a huge fan of the Step Up series growing up. This song really brought the screen and soundtrack alive. It’s been my jam ever since. It’s such a happy song, it’s hard not to jump to it’s beats. This was like the High school Party staple, along with Give Me Everything in 2011.

9. Superbass - Nicki Minaj

Once upon a time there was a lot of buzz about this Nicki Minaj. I watched this bubble gum video called Superbass, and I couldn’t for the life of me understand the appeal of this crazy eyed lady. I absolutely hated the song. Later, Selena Gomez put up a video rapping to this song. I figured, if she can do it so can I. And then I religiously studied Superbass for 3 days. Years later, Nicki Minaj continues to slay, I’ve become a credible rapper in my friend group, and Superbass continues to be my go to karaoke song. I walk in to karaoke bars, rap to Superbass, impress the fuck out of strangers, drop the mic and call it a night. Thank you for this gift, Nicki.

10. Euphoria - BTS

Aah my gateway drug to K-pop. This is very recent, but I know already that I’m not going to be forgetting this song anytime soon. It really reminds me of some of the other songs mentioned above. It’s been a while since I’ve heard such a chill feel good song actually. I’m sure there have been many, but I’ve not come across good electronic rhythms that have pulled me in this way as instantly. Maybe a few Chainsmokers songs. But the reason I mention this one is because it’s opened up a whole new world to me. Not like I was living under a rock or anything, but K-pop and K-drama were not even remotely in my scheme of business, until I randomly came across this song on YouTube. I always knew BTS to be like this colourful, androgynous, dancing, boy band. But this song really broke those prejudices, and opened me up to a plethora of music and entertainment. Now I’m obsessed. I purple this song.

Bah! 10 is not enough!!! There are so many more artists and songs I want to mention that mean a lot to me and have shaped me in one form or another. I can’t believe Taylor Swift, Coldplay, Eminem, Avril Lavigne, Chainsmokers, Little Mix, Backstreet Boys, (ok I could go on) aren’t on the list. But this is quite an eclectic list too no? What’s your top 10 for life (so far)?

[peepspersonalperspective]

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: Record of Youth

I’ve been waiting for this show for quite some time now. I’m really hoping it’ll fill the void in my heart left by It’s Okay Not To Be Okay. With a promising cast like Park Bo Gum (Reply 1988, Love in the Moonlight) and Park So Dam (Parasite) how could you not get excited? 

To be honest, when I first saw the trailer (the very first teaser), I got softer Itaewon Class vibes, because of the visual tone and the whole premise of a man hustling to prove himself. Funnily enough, when the show opened with Janet Suh cooing the opening theme, I flashbacked to It’s Okay... and got slightly worried about what to expect. I really need to learn to control my impulses and stop comparing material to others. 

Ok! So erasing any preconceived notions from past K-Dramas, and the clout around the leads, lets dive into the world Hye Jun and Jung Ha. 

Hye Jun is a model wanting to turn actor, whose popularity is fading and so is his youth (Relatable!). At first when he talks about time running out, I grew curious by what he meant, because he stated it in a very definitive way. (Spoiler Alert!) (Although, is it a spoiler?) We learn eventually that he’s actually of age to be drafted for mandatory military service, and he needs to turn his life around, like, ASAP! 

While Hye Jun’s world has been established well this episode, I haven’t quite figured him (as a character) out yet. And maybe that’s a good thing. I hope we’ll get to peel away the layers of his character as the show progresses. He says something about, not wealth or fame changing people, but age and maturity that come with experiences. So I’m excited to see him grow in this journey.

So far we see him assume different characters before different people in his life, as any person does to a certain degree, I guess. He’s angry at his parents, loving towards his grandfather, loyal to his more successful friend, assertive toward his agent, and ...you get the gist. We do see glimpses of his indignation toward the cut-throat industry, but his perseverence, which I believe will be the primary shade of his personality highlighted in this series. I just hope the makers don’t convolude his character too much.

Now coming to Jung Ha. She is quite relatable as a make-up artist, vlogger and a fan girl. She’s pragmatic and may come across as rigid when she’s anxious, but we also see her vulnerable and self aware. Jung Ha’s adaptation to the different circumstances she’s thrown into is very relatable. Her character has been better defined in the first episode, at least. 

Another key character is that of Hye Jun’s friend, Hae Hyo (Byeon Woo Seok). We don’t see much of him, but you know he’s important to the story. He’s the best friend, but also the more successful one, with a stronger family support (almost too strong). Hae Hyo is seemingly down-to-earth and just as loyal to Hye Jun as he is to him. They have a healthy competition, where they support each other even if it’s for the same role they’re auditioning for. It’ll be interesting to see this dynamic evolve. I, myself, have often wondered how to navigate such friendships, when you want to be happy for your friend, but a part of you is also dejected for not having reached that level even after starting from the same place. 

As for the story, as an individual in her late twenties herself, not having “arrived” as such, I can relate. The hustle, the family balancing act, the struggle for money to survive, the moral quandries, and everything that encompasses our twenties have been beautifully portrayed. I’m sure viewers will enjoy rooting for the characters, and live through them vicariously. I can’t wait to see more.

I usually give K-Dramas three episodes for the story to take off, and to immerse myself in the thrill. But I don’t think this is one of those shows. I could feel, relate and immerse myself in their world from the get go. I don’t need plot twists or such, because just watching them live their youth is a ride worth taking. I mean, I’m finding my own experiences in my late twenties quite interesting. I’m past the naivete and gratuitous enthusiasm, but i’m still hustling, and learning more about myself everyday, as I journey through all the possiblities ahead of me. 

Also don’t miss the appearance by Kim Hye Yoon. I hope she returns.

[peepspersonalperspective]

Chemical Hearts: No Chemistry

2/5

Every action, every thought, every feeling, pain, love, and worse, are all manifested by chemical reactions in our body. What an interesting perspective on hormonally charged teenage-hood. If only the movie had elaborated on this beyond one secondary character making an out of context reference every time she enters the scene.

Disclaimer: I’ve not read the book, so I’m strictly providing my personal perception of the cinema, independent from its source material.

The movie is about a high schooler, eager to find love, and finding it in the mysterious new girl. Like most coming of age movies the movie opens with an existential monologue from our main character, Henry (Austin Abrams). He talks about high school, his picture perfect parents, two best friends, and his infatuation with the concept of love. And that’s that. There’s no further exploration into his world. One of his friends is given a teensy tiny arc of forlorn romance, that is quickly resolved in one mandatory high school party scene. 

Apart from that, he has an older sister, a doctor who constantly, and almost annoyingly, keeps drawing parallels between bio-chemistry and relationships, either her own or her brother’s. I don’t mind the analogy. It was interesting to hear and learn about the first time. But even the second time? Seriously? She hardly has 2-3 scenes in the movie and force feeding the “chemical hearts” concept is anything but subtle. The second time she makes the analogy, even Henry smacks his head and says, “Not again!” and I shared the sentiment watching them. 

Henry practices Kintsugi which is the only character insight I got, i.e. the pleasure he retrieves from fixing broken things. 

That brings us to the broken thing in question, Grace Town (Lili Reinhart). When I watched the trailer, I wasn’t excited by it. What excited me was Lili Reinhart. And that’s why I proceeded to watch the film on Amazon Prime Video. 

The premise is that a strange new girl with secrets moves into town and Henry is intrigued by her, proceeding to fall in love with her. And Lili Reinhart does a great job at projecting the stand-offish personality that is required of the character. Unfortunately, the aura of mystery she created is so strong, that it overshadowed Henry’s intrigue. I never did get to see his excitement or interest for that matter. He’d ask her question, she’d decline, and he’d just shrug his shoulder and move on. I never really did see him fall in love with her, and reading a Pablo Naruda sonnet is not enough to justify his growing feelings for her. I, as a viewer, was more curious about Grace than he appeared to be. 

The bigger problem here, I believe, is the perspective of the narrative. Henry is such a docile character, that as a viewer I never really got to understand or savour the depths of darkness, pain and confusion that Grace was feeling. I could only assume her feelings because I only got to see her through Henry’s eyes. So either Henry needed to be a stronger character to elevate the narrative, or a perspective change was required to shed more light on Grace’s life, who truly was the highlight of the movie, and carried the meat of the story.

In Paper Towns, there was also a mysterious girl and a single perspective narrative, but there was this beautiful journey of self actualization, and fleshed out arcs for all the characters who participated in the journey. In All the Bright Places, we see both perspectives, and hence derive greater empathy for each of the characters. I probably wouldn’t have understood nor appreciated their journey together, if I hadn’t understood them apart. 

However, in Chemical Hearts, we get the worse of both worlds. Grace is this incredibly heavy and exciting character to discover, but completely slighted by dull ol’ Henry. I’m not saying dull people can’t have tumultous/exciting romance or anything, but in that case the narrative style needs to be strategized for the viewer’s satisfaction. 

The movie also barely touches the surface on much deeper concepts of death, frustrations of growing up, or mental health issues stemming from traumatic experiences. Either let’s get into it, or let’s not broach the subject just to tick some boxes of a coming of age film. There’s also a consistent sepia tone brushed over the movie, which honestly gave me the impression that the movie took itself more seriously than they actually delivered on. 

Nevertheless, credit where credit is due, there are some scenes that really engage you, like the unconventional build up to their first kiss, the escalated confrontation between Grace and Henry, or even their awkward first time. It’s in these moments do we catch the essence of the story being told. Watch for these moments or Lili Reinhart’s intensely good performance but also desperate attempt to carry the film. 

[peepspersonalperspective]

MY PICKS: Top 10 K-Dramas

Disclaimer: These are totally subjective choices and I've justified them as per my preferences. Consider them friendly recommendations and let me know if you disagree. Also, I've discovered the wonderful world of K-Dramas over the last couple of years and they've really evolved not just in storytelling but also production value so I personally prefer the more recent ones. So for example I haven't put a very popular pick like My Love from the Star simply because I've seen better stuff since (don't shoot me). Anyway, 가자!

MEMORIES OF ALAHAMBRA

This is my first recommendation for anyone who's just starting out watching Korean television content simply because it's so different from what new viewers expect it to be. It's so gripping and thrilling. I would expect nothing less from Song Jae Jung's writing.

So it's a sci-fi show, set in Spain, about an augmented reality game, that seems to have physical implications in the real world, sending the lead, Hyun Bin on a rollercoaster ride to find answers. Exo's Chanyeol has a recurring role as the game developer, so that's exciting too. I learnt that he was cast because of his love for PubG. Lol.

Every episode will leave you wanting more, and you'll find yourself as desperate to search for answers as Yoo Jin Woo (Hyun Bin).

Granted, mid season, it gets a little complicated, especially with newer nuances of the game unfolding, but fret not because the characters are discovering the secrets of the game with you. So they're as confused as you would be, and that's why this show is so good! More so because the graphics are excellent! You can tell they really spent money on ensuring high quality work. You will really feel like you're part of the game with Yoo Jin Woo.

Anyway, if you are an EXO-L, or you like gaming, sci-fi, thriller and Hyun Bin, this show is great!

2. W - Two Worlds

Another piece of awesome from Song Jae Jung. I would still rank this show a little below Alahambra, because I think the makers made improvements from this sci-fi drama in Alahambra, in the sense of storytelling. Still, W is just as intriguing.

Oh Yeon Joo (Han Hyo Joo) gets sucked into a comic book where she falls in love with the lead character of the comic book, Kang Chul (Lee Jeong Suk). Sounds like a typical romance drama right? Don't be fooled because there are many many twists and turns along the way.

I feel like there is metaphor in there somewhere about existentialism, the creation and destiny. But maybe that's just me reading into things.

Lee Jeong Suk is extremely desirable as Kang Chul, unsuspectingly charming and endearing, and Oh Yeon Joo is an absolutely relatable character, and how she deals as an ordinary girl thrown into extraordinary circumstances is genuine.

I would say this drama is wholesome, with sci-fi, suspense, thriller, action, romance, filial relationships, and more. And while it's usually difficult to jam pack all this into one show without screwing it up, W emerges exceptional.

3. Extraordinary You

This show is so cute! If you want just a light hearted, quirky show, this is the one for you.

It's about characters in a cartoon becoming aware of their existence in a cartoon. But don't worry this is NOTHING like W.

The best part about the show is that it's not about the main characters of the said cartoon. It's the story about the extras finding their way in that world, hence the pun intended in the title. The main characters (of the cartoon) are actually the most dull, because they are bound by the laws of stereotypical high school romance. But the real stuff is happening on the sidelines, with Kim Hye Yoon as Dan Oh and Rowoon as Haru.

Dan Oh is a hilarious character and Kim Hye Yoon does a fantastic job of switching emotions when she's in and out of a scene in the cartoon. One minute she goes into character mode, next minute she's bitching at the sorry fate of her character when she wakes up, to the astonishment of the characters surrounding her (who aren't aware of their reality yet).

Rowoon has a quiet charm about him that perfectly complements Hye Yoon. Check it out for a chuckle and a taste of something different.

4. Crash Landing on You

This show is hard not to like. Apart from the poorly picturized tornado carrying our leading lady over the border to North Korea, this show is a wonderful Netflix and Chill kind of show, I think.

The cultural disparity between the South and North is interesting to watch and also entertaining. Like when they mention buying mobile games at an App store (a literal application store in a Pyongyang market).

Ri Jung Hyuk (Hyun Bin again) and Yoon Seri (Son Yejin) are such a delight in comedic, romantic, and dramatic scenes. But the scene stealer for me was Yang Kyun Won as Pyo Chi Soo, and his unshakeable nationalism that he is ready to set aside for some shampoo and conditioner.

The interesting thing is going into the show, you have an idea of the longevity, so ofcourse, Seri's journey back to the South ain't going to be easy, also her relationship with Ri Jung Hyuk is doomed, and yet you find yourself rooting for them at each step, crying with them during their failures and crying with them even in their triumph. But the most tears were shed for the least expected character, who simply left us all heart broken.

5. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo

In a world where women are expected to behave and look a certain way to be considered attractive by someone they're vying for, here's a food hogging, tomboy, weightlifting champ, with her first crush.

The premise may rope you into the show, but midway you realise that the heart of the show is in its characters, and without realising you become so invested in them that you feel their fears, insecurities, and cherish their victories with them.

This coming of age show really relishes on the quirks of each character, friendship, love and aspirations. It's not a very dramatic story which is probably why it didn't rate very high during its broadcast, but that's part of its charm, and that's why it's been able to gather a significant cult following since.

Lee Sung Kyung and Nam Joo Hyuk portray the most sincere friends and eventual couple. Their relationship blossoms in the most organic manner and it's so heartwarming. They're not cheesy or unrealistic; they even beat each other up! I don't think I've seen that level of comfort portrayed on screen so well before.

Watch out for guest appearances by Ji Soo and Lee Jeong Suk.

6. Strong Girl Do Bong Soon

I'll be honest, this recommendation is mainly for Park Hyung Sik. He's amazing in the show. And there could be no better supernaturally strong petite girl than Park Bo Young, either.

So there are actually a lot of things happening in the show, story wise, but I promise it all comes together in the end. There is quite a build up and I'm happy that it pays off adequately.

This is like a superhero show with all the spices and flavours of a Marvel movie, but K-Drama style. There's an invincible villain, some idiot gangsters for comedic value, romance (a love triangle infact), functional training, a point of lost hope for Bong Soon, and then her resurrection as a superhero.

It's all there, and more.

But Park Hyung Sik.....

7. Itaewon Class

This recommendation is simply for the refreshing change of representation on TV. I know a lot has already been spoken about it already, but I have to admit that that's what sets this revenge drama apart. That, and the music. Dayum, Start by Gaho is so catchy! And let's not forget V's Sweet Night.

This show starts off slow but give it 3 episodes before it gets to the real shit.

Park Saeroyi is almost too good to be true, and in that lies his shortcoming. His character is so strong that while watching him I forgot that Park Seo Joon was acting. And despite some unnerving moments I found myself rooting for him. He has some strong motivational lines too, like about his choice for a better life. His determination is almost unreal, as he goes on to take down his mortal enemy.

Some of the best scenes, though, are of Jo Yi Seo (Kim Dami), a sociopathic enterprising genius. She was the one who actually kept me hooked to the series. She added some much needed flair to the show, and as it appears to Park Saeroyi's establishment.

Actually, every character was strong, every character had a strong backstory and motivation for the action, and most importantly they never broke character.

Watch out for Park Bo Gum's special appearance.

8. Love In The Moonlight

Speaking of Park Bo Gum...

This show is all kinds of weird in the best way! A girl pretends to be a palace eunuch and falls in love with the crown Prince. That is so messed up!

But that's the fun part! And Park Bo Gum and Kim You Jung make it a wonderful ride. Full of quirky romance, political conflicts and hidden identity issues, this show is addictive af!

And even though this wasn't in the show and was just a promo, be sure to watch Park Bo Gum's Bombastic dance. It's adorable!

9. The Third Charm

I'm sure this is my least popular recommendation. But something about watching this show was so cathartic. I highly recommend it for those who may have gone through heartbreak ever in their lives.

This is probably one of those rare times when I was lost in the story instead of Seo Kang Jun's eyes. Hehe. This story is about an on again off again couple and their journey through life together and apart.

This was meant to be a healing drama, and it really does take you through the emotional evolution that comes with growing up. I think it's the perfect medicine for a healing heart.

10. It's Okay Not To Be Okay

This show! This is my current obsession. Kim Soo Hyun's comeback couldn't have been more perfect. Seo Yeji couldn't have been a more perfect casting. And the two leads couldn't have had a better chemistry.

This show is all kinds of whimsical and I love it. Also a healing drama, this show deals with.... Baggage....to put it simply. Some baggage may be bigger than other baggage, some even irrevocable. But seeing all the characters overcome this baggage is so fulfilling.

But the charm of this show is in Ko Moon Young's (Seo Yeji) craziness and the Tim Burton-esque setup, that really makes one perceive fairytales in a whole new way. I mean I always knew that fairytales were sanitized German folklore, but I never thought to find a very different messaging from the material. The parables are ingenious, and it really is a pleasure to watch each and every person on this show.

Special mentions: Goblin, Reply 1988, 30 but 17/ Still 17, My ID is Gangnam Beauty, Hotel Del Luna

[peepspersonalperspective]

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

OLD POST. New Blog. Reorganizing my tumblr. (11-21-16)

3/5

Don’t worry no spoilers.

Why does Eddie Redmayne talk to his shoulder more than the person in front of him for most of his roles? How much did the producers pay Zoe Kravitz for a 2 second shot of her picture? These were the burning questions I left Fantastic Beasts with.

Was it a good movie? Absolutely! It had adventure, humor, action, romance and of course plenty of magic to make it a wholesome movie. If you aren’t a Harry Potter fan you’d be pleased and if you are a Harry Potter fan (books not movies) you’d be absolutely thrilled to find all the easter eggs JK Rowling has sprinkled throughout the movie.

My only concern was Newt, the supposed protagonist. While it was super cool to see a younger version of the famous fictitious author, like seeing your professor in a pub, I’m not entirely sure if he was necessary for the movie at all. I mean, his most productive moment was saying “Revelio” in the very end. To me the main (anti)hero but very important guy was Colin Farrell’s character, Mr. Graves. The main plot line was more about him than anyone else.

Ezra Miller blew me away yet again. He is so underrated and so talented. For a moment though, I thought he might have been Tom Riddle in his orphan days because he gave off those vibes, so maybe his character was a little derivative, but he definitely owned it when the time came. The secondary characters Queenie and Jacob were the right dash of humor required and the appropriate embodiment of a 1920′s New York, “kwafee” drinking babe, and jewish entrepreneur. Tina was ...nice...suitable for her character, and a more sober, brunette Hermione. I don’t think her being any more or less flamboyant would have helped the story.

Eddie Redmayne was charming only because he is Eddie Redmayne. I didn’t see him play anyone different from the character’s I’ve seen before. I did see the socially awkward scientist (magizoologist) in him as Newt...in Theory of Everything. Therefore, I can’t say I was disappointed, but I was definitely expecting more. And his character was only useful in the end, which really made me wonder how important Harry was in his adventures.

In Philosopher’s Stone Ron and Hermione basically did all the groundwork for Harry.

In Chamber of Secrets Fawkes saved Harry’s ass.

In Prisoner of Azakaban ...okay Harry saved Sirius and Buckbeak but with Hermione’s Time Turner...but you see where I’m going with this. Yet somehow, since the story was about Harry and his life, I bought his hero-ness. It was all the more endearing when he was modest about it.

I can’t say the same for Newt Scamander. He didn’t have the same impact for me. Well at least it wasn’t called Newt Scamander and the Fantastic Beasts. It held true to the name and focused on the monster - the Fantastic Beast. So I guess I can’t complain.

Do see the movie to avoid FOMO because it is worthy, and remember this important equation:

Hogwarts > Ilvermony

“Muggle” > “No-Maj”

[peepspersonalperspective]

Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life

THIS IS AN OLD POST (11-26-16)

I’m just reorganizing and I guess I don’t know how to move a blog post to another page...

3.5/5

Don’t worry, no spoilers...the last four words weren’t that shocking anyway. I’ve anticipated this day more than I have my birthdays and I love my birthdays. I didn’t really have the same burning questions that everyone else did though. By the time the series had reached the second half of season 7 my interest had waned. The true essence of Gilmore Girls, for me was right up until season 4. Okay, I’ll be a little generous...season 6.

Lorelai is ...me! I can’t love her more, as she’s one of my all time favorite female characters on television. Just like me, she talks super fast and confuses the person in front of her, she is a coffee addict and estranged from her mother. Yeah that’s right, my mother and I are basically Lorelai and Emily. In fact, when I actually introduced my mother to Gilmore Girls in an attempt to bond with her, she actually said she empathized with Emily, while I rolled my eyes and scoffed on the side. That relationship always struck a chord with me and the Palladinos delivered very generously in that regard, in the new Netflix original.

Lorelai’s love life was never much of a driver for me. In the initial seasons I kind of rooted for Max, just like Lorelai did (in a way) because he was such a nice guy, but the heart wants what it wants, right? So I get it. That chapter had to close. Of course the tension between Luke and Lorelai was palpable, but just as Lorelai, I always felt that somewhere down the line, Christopher might be the one. He was always going to be a part of her life and he knows her inside out. Then again, Luke reconstructed the whole house for Lorelai, he was always there for her when she needed him and he really cared more for Rory than Chris ever did. Both have their own faults though. Christopher was majorly conflict averse while Luke’s April storyline was a little annoying. Anyway, my point is that whomever Lorelai would end up with would be great for her. And Luke is pretty much perfect in his own right so yay for Lorelai.

The real driver of the story for me was Rory’s love life, and I am #TeamJean all the way. Yeah, that’s Jess + Dean. I really tried to choose, but failed. I love the way Dean was so compassionate and integrated into Rory’s life. I love the idea of a boyfriend becoming so comfortable with the rest of the family that the mother can call him to change the water bottle anytime, NBD. On the other hand, Jess was...well Jess. Jess was mysterious and interesting, and boy so much depth to his character. I love how love changed him. Let’s face it, that’s the guy I would go for. He had these dreamy eyes, the way he would look at Rory and in the latest Netflix revival, Milo Ventimiglia revived Jess wonderfully. The way he looked at Rory with the string music in the background was heartbreaking. I was a little disappointed about the brief interaction with Dean, because it was quite brief. It was cute to see Jared Padalecki trying really hard plié while talking to Alexis Bledel. What a perfect place to come face to face with Rory, though - Doose’s, right near the corn starch. Oh I remember the first kiss like it was yesterday. I genuinely felt bad when Dean and Rory were talking about Clara’s new boyfriend and Rory blurted out, “Yeah well your first love doesn’t really....” and Dean softly said, “Yeah...” Ugh in an ideal world I’d want a guy like Jean (Jess + Dean).

But we don’t live in an ideal world. We live in a world of douchebags like Logan Huntzberger who annoyingly popped up more often than the other two. I never liked Logan. His character was so shallow. It was like they forced daddy issues into his life just to give him some edge, but really failed. I never saw the same kind of love in Matt Czuchry’s eyes that I saw in Milo and Jared’s eyes, and I never understood why Rory was with him. Marty was a better match for her, even! I guess, we really do accept the love we think we deserve. So that really knocked off points from the revival series (for me), the never ending douchery of Logan.   

Paul, the forgettable boyfriend was a cool and funny addition but they stretched that joke for too long, in my opinion. I loved the reference to Doctor Who, given that Alex Kingston (River Song) had joined the cast for the revival. But, I cannot emphasize enough how incredibly overwhelmed I was to see the return of a certain someone. Now, I don’t know if this counts as a spoiler because they kind of showed it in the trailer, but given the controversy surrounding it, I guess I should give you fair warning. (Spoiler) Melissa McCarthy came back to reprise the role of Sookie!! I was so euphoric, I almost cried, and she had such a beautiful dialogue with Lauren Graham, where they promised they would be best friends no matter what happened. From there on, it was just an emotional rollercoaster with (aforementioned) Dean and Jess moments. I like Rory, because she embodies the ideal daughter but I’m kind of disappointed in her character arc. I’m not a big fan of the new Rory. She’s ok I suppose, she’s more confident but the beauty of the Lorelai-Lorelai Jr relationship was how similar they were despite being so different. But Rory is no longer the shy, super intelligent, sixteen year old Rory, while Lorelai is the same chatty McGee we knew and loved. So, it’s kind of weird seeing Rory being super chatty now, but good for Alexis Bledel for gaining that confidence. Anyway, all in all the Revival was great and beautiful, full of promising moments and I will continue the anticipation for a season 2. 

[peepspersonalperspective]

Staying FIVE FEET APART is not a fault in our stars

3/5

*CONTAINS SPOILERS* 

(I just couldn’t resist because it’s truly from the heart)

Granted I wanted to watch this movie for Cole Sprouse. Accepted, that I half expected the movie to be a part of the John Green universe. But this movie is so much more than that.

It’s finally on Netflix, and yes, it took me a couple of sittings to finish the movie, because life. That’s the irony. 

This movie is not just about love, sure that’s a part and parcel of any screenplay, or else who would watch/ read a story about a bunch of sick kids, navigating through adolescence? Another, irony; I’m 26 and I still relive my high school days. Because that’s when the magic happens right? The rest of it is just the humdrum of existence. 

Your first love, your first kiss, your first time...That’s when you feel the magic come alive. This movie made me realise, that that’s not true. Magic’s not just in moments, but also living long enough to live through them. We may not have everything we wish for, but what we have is a lot more than a lot of others do. In summary, this movie made me grateful for the life I have. Not necessarily because I’m thinking only of kids with cystic fibrosis but also not so sick people. People with mental health issues, people less fortunate than I. I’m so lucky to have the people around me who love me and care for me and I know this is just a movie hangover that will last a week, but I’ll try, to carpe diem, even if it’s just for a week. Because that’s a lot more than a lot of people get. 

Anyway, epiphany aside, the first half of the movie is average at best, with the same upbeat music at the start of a chick flick, the same arrogance from the male protagonist, a gay best friend to add perspective, dysfunctional parents, etc. It’s in the second half that the story kicks into fast gear. Suddenly everyone is less shallow. I guess that’s what happens in life too, isn’t it. You don’t really know a character till you’ve spent enough time with them. And while I admire Justin Baldoni for making this story come alive and relatable to the common mass despite it being so niche, I really do wish he’d gotten to the point faster. Because the first half doesn’t actually establish the characters as much as the second half. 

Also, would’ve loved to see more Will and Stella moments, that weren’t skimmed over in a supercut. Not because of the want for romance but more so to invest myself in their relationship, the cynic versus the optimist. It’s practically life we’re talking about, and we have two individuals with very contrasting views on it, which is what makes their dynamic so interesting. 

Hayley Lu Richardson (a budget friendly Zoey Deutch) is as charismatic and camera friendly as she was in Edge of Seventeen. She is definitely someone to watch out for. She doesn’t care about being glamorous. Let’s admit it, Shailene Woodley was too beautiful to be dying, that boy-cut fooled no one. Cole Sprouse, man I knew he grew up fine when I saw him on Riverdale, but he out does himself in the acting department on this one. It’s so effortless. He’s just a little less than too much. He’s not overly cynical, not overly brooding, he’s a perfect balance and representation of a normal human being; yet he manages to convince you his admiration for the character Stella, despite her views differing from his.

Special mention is Moises Arias, whom I have personally always found annoying and nasal. I, as a viewer, can’t tell if it was the characterisation, the character or just his portrayal, but damn, I almost cried for Poe. He was earnest and funny as the gay best friend, and now I want him as my own. 

So yeah, when you have a moment, give this movie a chance. Give it 20 minutes before it kickstarts, and I promise, you’ll want to go hug your loved one by the end of it.

SPOILER PS: Cole doesn’t die :/ It’s not all Fault in Our Stars, folks, okay?

[peepspersonalperspective]

Bohemian Rhapsody: Fortune Favours the Bold

5/5

In school, intramural and varsity games were incomplete without the stomp, clap, chants of "We Will Rock You" from the stands. If victorious, the winning team would be cheered by echoes of "We Are the Champions". "Bohemian Rhapsody" became our generation's coming of age song of defiance made (even more) famous by Wayne's World. Unconsciously, Queen has been the soundtrack to our lives, for as long as I can remember.

The anthems of our lives got their origin story in the latest bio pic, Bohemian Rhapsody. It depicted the journey of these songs and the heart and soul behind the legendary music. Most importantly it highlights the ingenuity, eccentricity and boldness of the band's lead singer, Freddie Mercury.

His journey was not easy, and the movie succeeds in humanizing the Rockstar. Rami Malek's portrayal of the man from Farrukh to Freddie makes you feel like you're right there with him, at times wanting to hug him, or other times wanting to slap him. You feel drawn to the character inexplicably and you want to be one of his "darlings". His relationship with Mary Austen is endearing and heartwarming. Who wouldn't want a companion like that?

Much credit goes to the supporting cast and writing which showed depth in every emotion and acknowledged the fans. Especially with Mike Myers saying that Bohemian Rhapsody is not the kind of song one would jam in the car with.

This movie will make bloody sure that you leave the cinema knowing your Rock and roll history with regards to Queen. This is a perfect tribute that neither glorifies nor undermines the man and his band. I saw the movie at 11 in the night, (ending at 2 am) and through the 2 hour run I get neither bored nor sleepy.

Be sure to note that during the Live Aid concert, the screens on the side showcase the actual Freddie Mercury on stage, and seeing Rami Malick impersonate him to perfection is just a testament to the actor's calibre.

[peepspersonalperspective]

Gold: Shona in Bengali

2/5

Why take a real historical moment, with real trials and tribulations, and turn it into this manifestation, astounds me. Fan fiction perhaps?

This is the redemption story of the Indian Hockey Team that fought to play in the 1948 Olympics as a free India, as opposed to playing under British India, as they had in the past. A compelling plot, but that's about it.

Apart from the nationalism angle that motivated the team, the only other time there was a legit conflict in the movie was during the partition, when the team had to split up. Other than that, there was nothing novel about the ego clashes between the forwards, locker room pep talks and last minute game changing moments.

Strikingly though the most cringing aspect of the movie is Akshay Kumar's portrayal of Tapan Das. I have been his fan since I was little, but accents just aren't his thing, Bengali being the least of all. His accent is inconsistent and unconvincing. Why the character trait? I don't understand. Mouni Roy tried to cover up in the Bengali department, but the minute she uttered "meethi Mishti" I gave up. (That's worse than "chai tea")

Now Tapan Das, as I understand, is not even a real person, but inspired by the then captain of the team, Kishan Lal. Now, Kishan Lal was the captain, in the thick of it. Tapan Das is a "Junior Manager" to the team, with alcoholism served on the side of patriotism. A junior manager's involvement in such a historical event, though worthy at the time, I'm sure, didn't seem to warrant such a star cast and 2hr 25 minute narration. In fact the movie seemed as much Tapan's as it did for Samrat (played by Kunal Kapoor) or any other character in the movie. The junior manager seemed to over power the manager, and the team was so fly, they don't need no coach, just a friendly consultant in a former hockey star, i.e. Samrat. Let's just say, this shit would just not fly in FIFA.

Random songs in between just took away from the plot, and seemed to only be there for the benefit of Mouni Roy. There's a song, "Naino ne Baandhi kaisi dOr" and I was asking the same question after watching the movie.