Off-topic: I'm Not Usually This Vocal But...

I posted this in my personal blog. I thought of posting it here to be some sort of warning to people who would get calls from Prudential Life Plans...
***

Representatives from Prudential Life Plans have been calling me for 3-4 months now. They have told me to pick up the "free" insurance plan that they would give me in their office. Because I don't usually go (and don't feel like going) to Makati, I wasn't able to drop by their office. Until a few days ago, a representative told me that the insurance plan was in Ortigas already. Feeling quite bad about not getting it-- you know, I felt that I should at least be grateful that I'd be given an insurance plan for free, I decided to go and get it.

When I entered their office, there were lots of people "claiming" their "free" insurance plan. There were also noises coming from the other rooms where people were talking. Because of that, I felt anxious about the whole thing. Did I make the right choice? A guy (whom I forgot the name) came to me and said that he would be assisting me. Assist me with what?! Can I just get the insurance and leave?

So I was taken in a room where three other groups were talking. From the moment I sat on the chair, the guy began explaining about their saving/pension plan. Uh-oh, I told myself! I think I knew what was about to happen. He talked about savings, death, emergency, and the works! The usual speech of someone selling an "insurance". I listened to him attentively yet not really absorbing what he is saying. At the back of my mind, I felt that I was about to get duped.

After all the talk, he mentioned about my credit card being the one responsible for the payment of my so-called savings. That was the time when I knew that I had to speak up. He asked me for my credit card but I refused. I asked him, "So it would mean that I have to pay for this savings along with my purchases? E de lalaki ang gastusin ko niyan imbes na makatipid?" Of course, he then proceeded with his recorded speech.

"Sir, savings nga po ito. At least may makukuha kayo 'pag nangailangan kayo..." His words are to that effect.

"Oo nga. Still, kailangan ko ring bayaran yan. Sa'n naman ako kukuha ng pambayad niyan? Poproblemahin ko pa yan!"

"Pwede n'yo naman po i-terminate. Saka kung ano lang ang kaya ng budget nyo."

"Ayoko pa rin..."

"Try lang po natin. Tutal for approval pa lang ito. At least na-try n'yo. Ngayon lang po namin ito ino-offer..."

"E kapag na-approve, ano na gagawin ko?"

"E sir..."

This time, I felt that I need to stand my ground. "Look, I appreciate and understand your explanation. The thing is, wala akong ipambabayad diyan. Wala nga akong trabaho, e. Iintindihin ko muna 'yung gastos ko sa ngayon kaysa sa susunod pa."

He again talked about having financial problems in the future. I know that my reasoning about not thinking about the future is wrong but hey, I have to get my point across to this man! So I further added, "Ganito kasi 'yun. I went here cuz you have been calling me several times. I felt that I should be at least be grateful to what you're giving me. But I was told that it was free..."

"Free nga po itong insurance. Pero kasama po kasi sa package 'yung savings plan..."

"E de ganun din? Hindi pa rin free! Isa pa, you're telling me that you are offering this today." Actually, may sinabi pa siyang 1 minute lang ang ibibigay sa 'kin. After that, the offer is no longer available, parang ganun. "You are not giving me enough time to think. You are putting me on the spot. At hindi tama 'yun! To add to that, you're pressuring me..."

"Sir, kailangan po kasi ng pressure dahil nagyon lang 'to..."

"'Yun nga 'yung ayoko, e! I don't want to be pressured with these kind of stuffs!"

Medyo natahimik na siya. "Okay, sir. Pirmahan n'yo na lang po itong free insurance plan."

"And then what?"

"Wala po. Free 'yan. No obligations."

So I did. Afterwards, I fill out the raffle coupon. Then I left...

Before I left, though, I heard the agent saying to his co-agents, "Di ako nagwagi." Pasensya ka! Ako napunta sa 'yo, e!

I don't usually talk like that to "strangers". But I felt that I was deceived and I didn't like it. Ako pa ang lolokohin nila? I know how their speech works! I was trained in a computer-selling company for a week after I graduate. I was also deceived then. I thought that I was getting a job, 'yun pala pagbebentahin ako along with some other duped people. (Ang siste, they would tell that if you buy the computer on that day, free printer will be given! Only for that day kasi last day. So the customers are forced to make a decision. When in reality, you are paying for the printer, as well! Kasama sa presyo 'yun! Because I don't like pressuring people to buy stuffs from me, I left the so-called job as soon as the training was over.) Aside from that, I know how the pressure tactics work! I won't be put in agreeing with a situation that I would regret afterwards! I'm not that stupid!

Here my other thoughts re what happened. How could I buy from an agent who is younger than me? How could he made me believe that he was already saving for his future? Yeah, right! Aside from that, how could I be convinced by someone who spells "transfer" as "transper" and "lump sum" as "lumsum"?!

If the insurance was really "free" from anything, why couldn't they send it at home directly? At least, they wouldn't be hassled to call us every now and then. Palibhasa may hidden agenda! They want to bring people in their territory and pressure them from giving what they want!

Isa pa, how would I know the offer was legit? May magagawa pa ba ako kung hindi?!

The moment I felt anxious, I thought of "Family First" immediately! My advice, never ever receive free movie tickets from "Family First" representatives! Because once you do, they'd ask you for your name and number. They'd call you and ask you to come to their office. Before you know it, sinisipsip na ng mga linta ang dugo mo!

Credit card companies should be reported to the proper authorities! They shouldn't be giving names and contact numbers of their account holders. This is definitely an act of violation! Savings nga pero talong-talo ka naman sa interest na babayaran mo! Iisahan n'yo pa kami! Utot nyo!

There is nothing wrong about insurance plans as long as you get them from legitimate sources or referrals from people you know. Maybe PLP is legit but the way they do their business is wrong!

Lastly, I guess, there is really no such thing as "free" in this world!

Sigaw AKA The Echo

Sigaw was well-received in Hollywood. In fact, its director, Yam Laranas, was asked to be part of ICM (International Creative Management), Inc. which would represent him in Hollywood.

The movie will have it's North America premiere via Screamfest LA International Horror Film Festival. It will be shown along with The Grudge (I dunno if it's the Hollywood version or the Japanese one) and A Tale of Two Sisters (Korea).

Isang mahalagang balita ang inihayag ng Regal Entertainment sa movie press nu’ng Miyerkules nang gabi sa Café Imperial.

Ang pelikulang Sigaw (The Echo ang international title) na pinagbibidahan nina Richard Gutierrez, Angel Locsin, Iza Calzado at Jomari Yllana ay opisyal na napili upang maging kalahok sa Screamfest LA International Horror Film Festival na gaganapin sa Loews Universal Studios Cinemas sa may Universal City Walk sa Oktubre 14-23.

Bukod doon ay meron pang isang malaking announcement ang direktor ng pelikula na si Direk Yam Laranas.

Ani Direk Yam, "I wanna sit beside Mother Lily (Monteverde). I wanna hold her hand and say, ‘Thank you, Mother, for giving me Sigaw. Because of you, because of Regal, here we are…’

"I just want to hold her hand when I announce it. Kasi, she doesn’t know. It’s my late birthday gift to Mother. Tinagu-tago namin sa kanya ito ni Roselle (Monteverde-Teo) until everything is on paper.

"Now, I am so proud to announce that I am very lucky to be handled by the International Creative Management, Inc. or the ICM which handles the careers of Julia Roberts, Renee Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Mel Gibson, Richard Gere, etc.

"Its roster of directors includes Peter Jackson of Lord of the Rings, P.T. Anderson (Magnolia), Hector Babenco (Kiss of the Spider Woman), Robert Altman (Gosford Park), Sidney Lumet (Dog Day Afternoon) and many others.

"It was thru my friend Roy Lee, he’s the Korean-American executive producer of The Ring, The Ring 2, The Grudge and Dark Water remakes in Hollywood. He has become my confidante and friend.

"Nabasa niya ‘yung article ni Tessa Jazmines, our local correspondent sa Variety magazine. Tessa wrote an article about the last Metro Manila Film Festival, how varied the movies are and then at the same time, Manila is now producing horror films…

"Like the blockbuster Feng Shui and everybody liked the movie. And on Christmas time, we produced new horror films like Spirit of the Glass and Sigaw. Something like that. And I had a quote there kasi, I said something like, ‘My objective in Sigaw is for the audience to bring home the fear.’

"Naintriga ru’n si Roy Lee. Hinanap niya si Tessa, in-email niya si Tessa, hinanap ako ni Tessa, nag-email-an kami ni Roy Lee. He was so intrigued with Sigaw and humingi siya ng copy sa akin tapos, pinadalhan namin siya.

"Roy gave the DVD to Screamfest. It’s a big filmfest in LA, it’s the biggest genre festival. For horror films lang ‘yon, so kumbaga, hindi saturated na ang dami mong kasama na ibang pelikula. Ito, isang genre lang.

"I’m not so sure this year kung ilang films ang kasali, but last year, I think there were like 30 to 50 films. What they do is they will ask for a DVD of your movie and then they will view it. If they like it, they’ll invite you to the festival.

"They’re supposed to announce it pa on Sept. 1. Kaya lang, the organizer was so excited, she said nag-violate siya ng rule niya dahil gusto na niya agad sabihin sa akin. In-email niya agad sa akin na kasali na ang Sigaw sa Screamfest.

"Part of the advisory board aside from Roy Lee was Wes Craven and other masters of the horror genre and the art of special visual effects. Official na ang invitation na ‘yon. That gave me the visa sa US embassy," masayang salaysay ni Direk Yam.

Sa Oktubre 12 o 13 ang alis ni direk at umaasa siya na makakasama niya ang ilang stars ng Sigaw sa nasabing event sa Amerika.

"Mga 3 weeks ako doon to a month because aside from the festival itself, my agent will set up a lot of things for me. They call the Screamfest event as ‘honoring the masters but opening new blood.’ Gusto nila itong i-open sa mga new directors.

"The festival organizer, Rachel Belofsky, is a famous marketing agent for Cannes films. So, we have the advantage of distribution also.

"In fact, there are offers already but nothing in black and white pa. Kami kasi ni Roselle, wait and see muna until after the Screamfest kung sino ang mag-o-offer ng maganda. Hopefully, ma-distribute din ang The Echo sa Europe."

Si Cesar Montano ang naunang napabalita na pipirma umano sa isa sa malalaking talent agencies sa Amerika, pero naunahan pa ito ni Direk Yam.

"I signed up last Saturday lang. We call it a ‘handshake deal’. It’s when you say yes and it’s yes! Verbal lang siya but a lot of their stars actually do the handshake deal because if you break the handshake deal, they will break you.

"Kumbaga, ICM is the biggest and most powerful talent agency in Hollywood or even the whole world. So, you don’t break an agreement with them.

"We’ll be signing a contract but according to my agent, ‘It’s not important because we’ve already listed you as part of our roster of talents and that’s all you need’.

"They email me, they call me up, we always talk. Kaya ako napupuyat ngayon, kasi bukod sa nagtitimpla ako ng gatas para sa baby ko (10 month-old boy), eh, gumigising ako nang alas-dos nang madaling-araw at nagtetelepono!"

***

Hindi raw ibig sabihin nito ay sa Amerika na magbabase si Direk Yam. Katunayan ay may bagong horror flick siyang gagawin dito pagbalik niya mula sa Screamfest.

"I wanna take it one little step at a time. Take it slow and let’s see what happens next. I don’t want to jump too much too soon. I’ll just wait for my agent to tell me what to do.

"I’m not gonna stay there. It’s a per project thing. Kung may project doon, which definitely will gonna happen next year, I’ll go there. Marami namang international directors na gano’n, eh. Like sina Ang Lee or John Woo, even Jackie Chan.

"Aside from directing, we’re also thinking of doing commercials or advertising in the States, also music videos. Nakagawa na ako rito ng music videos pero mostly movie tie-ins lang, like ‘yung kay Regine Velasquez.

"I’m more attached sa advertising. The latest commercial I did was Drew Arellano’s McDo. I’m now writing the story of my next project with my wife Gin de Mesa (ng ABS-CBN) and Roy Iglesias. It’s really super-super-scary! Parang it will make Sigaw a walk in the park!

"The guys in the States are waiting for it already. Some are asking me nga na, ‘Why don’t you just sell us the script and do it here?’ I said, ‘No, I wanna do it with Mother Lily. I wanna do it with Regal. I wanna do it in Manila.’

"We’re still casting, and the first one to be in is Iza Calzado. But she’s not playing ghost here. Her partner will be Dennis Trillo. Ang tentative title is Kapitbahay (The Neighbor)."

Ano raw ba ang ikinaiba ng Sigaw sa sangkaterbang horror flicks na naglipana ngayon?

"They always say it’s the atmosphere, na ‘yung horror daw, ‘yung takot ng Sigaw, pumapasok sa buto mo. And sabi nila, ‘You guys did so good in sound’. Tuwang-tuwa ako because that only means na meron tayong technology to do it. Hindi tayo third world when it comes to moviemaking!

"Sabi ni Roy Lee, napatalon daw siya nang mapanood niya ang pelikula. Kaya sana, everyone will do and come up with quality films not just for the consumption of the local market but also for international release.

"Alam mo, next year, I believe that it will be the start of the year of the Filipino films. Finally! It’s not just me, maybe in some other competition or maybe in some other ways," pakli pa ng mapalad na direktor.

It's a very good news, indeed, to direk Yam and for us, Filipinos. At least now, we could show the world that we as good as our Asian neighbors. When I saw Sigaw last year, I know that it is at par with the rest of the Asian horror flicks. Whatever it lacks in story telling, it makes up for it technically. It had a dark and eerie feeling to the whole film which made it effective as a horror film.

As what I've read in one of the foreign reviews about it, it says:

"Sigaw, despite its oppressive use of drab olive greens and dreary sepia browns, is a beautifully shot film with some truly interesting camera angles and clever use of negative space. The moody musical score adds to the feelings of foreboding and danger, and the ambience of knocking, crying, and clanking are stealthily woven in to create a creepy cloak of sound. Each of the actors does a believable job of conveying a real sense of dread. While the solving of the mystery comes as no surprise and some questions are left hanging, the writer (Roy C. Iglesias) and director do a nice job of making the audience care what happens to the characters anyway."

It further adds, "Slowly drowning in a netherworld of torment and loneliness, Sigaw is not a feel-good horror movie. It’s not even particularly scary or thought-provoking, but there is something oddly compelling about it."

The Echo will also be screened in Cine Asia International Film Festival in Cologne, Germany on December 2005.

So, should I say, "Hollywood, here we come?"

***

Credits: PEx Post
Visit: The Echo
Related Post: Sigaw Review

Oh, Jennifer...

My favorite Friends star, Jennifer Aniston, finally breaks her silence in the recent issue of Vanity Fair.

The tears, the shock and, now, even more bombshells are being revealed by JENNIFER ANISTON. The heartbroken actress isn't holding back about her feelings for soon to be ex, BRAD PITT, in the new issue of Vanity Fair magazine on newsstands Tuesday, August 9.

In her first official interview since splitting from the 'Troy' boy, you've heard her talk openly -- and emotionally -- about their breakup, her devastation over seeing his W magazine photo shoot with ANGELINA JOLIE, and the false reports that he left because she didn't want to start a family.

"I've never in my life said I didn't want to have children. I did and I do and I will!"

Now, VF contributing editor LESLIE BENNETTS reveals that Brad became "unavailable" to his wife during "Friends"' final season, that he confessed his feelings for Angelina to his wife, and that Jen met with the 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider' vixen face to face!

"People that are close to them feel that he basically checked out of the marriage emotionally, the minute he started working with Angelina," Leslie says. "It was a very difficult time period for Jennifer because she had just finished 10 years on 'Friends.' This was her life, this was her career, this was her community. She turned to her husband and she said, 'He just wasn't there.'"

Jennifer is Vanity Fair's September cover girl and appears on the front of the new issue wearing little more than an unbuttoned, oversized white men's shirt and a big smile. Inside are more provocative photos, showing her topless torso and bikini-ed bottom.

The VF editor visited the famous "Friends" beauty at the Malibu beach bungalow where she's been cocooned since her breakup. In the article, Leslie writes that the fragile Jennifer answers the door with a "radiant smile" and then "bursts into tears."

After confessing that she will "love him for the rest of her life," Jennifer talks about how she and her husband became estranged during the final season of "Friends" when she says she needed him most.

"That was really painful," the daughter of divorced parents says. "It was a family, and I don't do great with families splitting up."

Brad was off shooting 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith,' which Jen was initially thrilled about. She even went out of her way to introduce herself to his co-star, Angelina.

"I was on the lot of 'Friends,'' TV's Rachel Green tells the mag. "I pulled over and introduced myself. I said, 'Brad is so excited about working with you. I hope you guys have a really good time.'"

Months later, "Team Aniston" would reportedly be shocked when Brad grew more and more distant with his wife of four and a half years.

"I think he was attracted to her," Jennifer supporter COURTENEY COX says of Angelina. "There was a connection and he was honest about that. It was an attraction that he fought for a long period of time."

Before they separated in January of this year, Brad denied that he had been unfaithful with his bewitching co-star, but photographs of the two taken around the world since then seem to suggest otherwise.

"At this point, I wouldn't be surprised by anything, but I would much rather choose to believe him," Jennifer says.

Today, she says the two are completely out of touch and she is looking forward to a new future with a new man -- and, no, it's not her co-star in the upcoming comedy 'The Break-Up.'

"I adore VINCE VAUGHN but I'm not going out with Vince Vaughn," she says. "This was a seven-year relationship that was very dear, very complicated, very special. I need to honor it."

In addition to that, being her Rachel self, she this to say regarding the Brad blonde look through Yahoo! news:

"Billy Idol called he wants his look back."

Oh, Jennifer... That is all I could say at the moment. Till now, the divorce seemed so surreal to me. I told myself, though, that 'till she can't bounce back ala Nicole Kidman, I wouldn't forgive Brad for doing what he did! Hahaha! As if Brad cares! :p

RP's Movie Release Dates (Aug.24 - Dec. 25)

I received this line-up of release dates through e-mail from a friend who works for an ad firm. It's time now to save money for the upcoming blockbuster films!
***
Aug. 24-30
• The Longest Yard
• Valiant
• The Sisterhood of Traveling Pants
• The Truth About Love

Aug. 31-Sept. 6
• The Dukes of Hazzard
• The Cave
• Sky High
• Pasaway (Bonel Balingit)

Sept. 7-13
• Red Eye
• The Brothers Grimm
• My Sassy Girl (Tagalized Version)
• The Champ: Kamao (Manny Pacquiao)

Sept. 14-20
• Cinderella Man
• A Sound of Thunder
• The Crow 4: Wicked Prayer
• Lovestruck (GMA Films)

Sept. 21-27
• Dark Water
• Fever Pitch
• Constant Gardener
• Land of the Dead

Sept. 28-Oct. 4
• Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo
• Transporter 2
• A History of Violence
• Perfect Man
• Dubai (Star Cinema)
• I Will Always Love You (GMA Films)

Oct. 5-11
• Into the Blue (US Simultaneous Release)
• Flight Plan
• The Adventures of Sharkboy & Lava Girl 3D

Oct. 12-18
• Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride
• Lord of War
• Ispiritista

Oct. 19-25
• Doom
• Underclass Man

Note: Play dates are subject to change

Other Movies with tentative play date
• The Legend of Zorro – Oct. 26
• Sukob (Kris Aquino) – Oct. 26
• V for Vendetta – Nov. 2
• The Reaper – Nov. 2
• The Fog – Nov. 9
• Beautiful Boxer (Thailand) – Nov. 9
• Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire – Nov. 16
• Waiting – Nov. 16
• An Unfinished Life – Nov. 16
• Four Brothers – Nov. 23
• Dungeons & Dragons – Nov. 23
• The Myth – Nov. 30
• Just Like Heaven – Nov. 30
• The Family Stone – Nov. 30
• Chicken Little – Nov. 30
• Before Midnight (Piolo/Judy Ann) – Nov. 30
• Proof – Dec. 7
• Underworld: Evolution – Dec. 7
• Class Action – Dec. 7
• King Kong – Dec. 14

MMFF 2005 – Dec. 25
• Ako, Legal Wife
• Enteng Kabisote 2
• Mulawin The Movie
• Exodus: Tale of the Enchanted Kingdom
• Nasaan Ka Ng Kailangan Kita
• Shake, Rattle, & Roll
• Kutob

-end of list-

Nakakahiya!

I'm used to ordering DVDs online from Amazon. Not only that their prices are discounted, they also have great service! Once, they send me a DVD copy of Saving Private Ryan by mistake. Afraid that they might have billed me for it, I told them about the incident. I asked them whether I should send it back. Because it would cost me a lot if I'd send it back, they just gave it to me for free! Of course, I wasn't billed for it. It was their mistake, they said. Then, I ordered The Pillow Book from them but it didn't arrive soon (mostly a month or less after shipping) as expected. I became worried and asked them about it. They immediately shipped another copy that reached me about a week after I have asked them. For which I was taxed heavily because they have used 2-3 days delivery option via UPS. But they also paid for it when I made a complain. After a few days or so, the first shipped Pillow arrived at my doorstep! There was a delay in the delivery process, I guess. (Eventually, I sold both Pillow to Pinoy buyers because I needed the money.)

Anyway, I found a site which sells DVDs for less than what Amazon sells! A DVD that costs $24 originally may sell in Amazon at $19 while this site would sell it at $11 or so! Imagine the difference?! So I immediately made my first order. They sent me a confirmation e-mail then informed me about the shipping that would take place soon. But after a few days, I didn't get any e-mails from them. When I went to check the status of my order in their site, it was CANCELLED! I didn't understand because I did not make any cancellations. Was there a problem with my credit card or something like that? I asked them why. Here is what they have to say:

Order # 24459919 was cancelled due to the high volume of unauthorized purchase claims from your country. We understand that you may not fall into this category and apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused you. We regret that we cannot fulfill your request for orders that are to be billed or shipped to your address. Your credit card has not been charged.

OMG! Sobrang nakakahiya na tayo! It is bad enough that the customs officials tax us wrongly. (Either they tax too high or they reduce it and keep the payment to themselves!) What's worst is that they steal the items which now banned us from ordering (in some sites) abroad! Sobrang basang-basa na ang papel natin sa ibang bansa! Eventhough I am proud to be Pinoy, I just can't help but be embarrased sometimes. These people give Pinoy a bad reputation!

Must Love Dogs

This summer (US, that is!), Hollywood have us bombarded mostly by comic super heroes. Amongst the action and the special effects comes this rare of a gem called Must Love Dogs.

Sarah (Diane Lane) has been divorced for eight months already. Her family is starting to feel anxious and bothered about her lack of relationship. They feel bad for her especially that all of them are either (happily) married or in a committed relationship. Of course, they have this itch to pair her up with all the possible men they know.

Sarah's sister, Carol (Elizabeth Perkins), decided to post an ad about her on the internet with the description that goes "Must Love Dogs". Through the calls and messages she received, she decided to meet the guys that appeal to her. But the dates ended all in disasters.

Meanwhile, Jake (John Cusack) is a recent divorcee. He has been wallowing in sadness eversince his marriage collapsed and focused himself into making boats and watching Dr. Zhivago. Seeing Sarah's ad on the net, his friend decided to answer it.

Sarah and Jake went on date in the park. There was chemistry between them but it was awkwardness that ruled. Will they listen to what their hearts tell them or decide to go on a different path? (Should I really be asking this?!)

Oh, it has been awhile eversince Hollywood gave us a feel-good romantic comedy that truly worked! Must Love Dogs stands-out among the likes of The Wedding Date disasters.

Diane Lane may not have the quirkiness of Julia Roberts or the cuteness of Meg Ryan but she has the sophistication and charm of a woman. In the movie world, it is the like of her that couldn't get dates! Can you imagine that? Her team-up with John Cusack is simply amazing! A bread to a butter! A pen to a paper! (Oh, I can't come up with good analogies! Dammit!) Also, the whole cast ensemble just worked really well to come up with a good comedy with a heart!

The movie will work for any kind of audience. It is a perfectly date-movie for lovers of all ages. It is for single people who may feel bad or blessed about their status. It is for the hopefuls, who despite all their heartaches, are still looking forward to the day that they will find the one who must love them truly.

James Bone 007 Is Back!!!

No, there wasn't any mis-typing on my part. James Bone 007 is truly back! Alive and kicking once more on widescreen! Oh, it really brings back the good days of the 80's... *grin*

Who is James Bone you asked? Well, no other than the sexiest man in Philippine cinema (and probably would take on Arnold Schwarzenegger anywhere and anytime to a duel)! Do you have an idea who he is now? He is Palito!!!!

OMG, the moment I saw the poster of Enterpool: CSIA (Central Service [?] In Action) in SM Megamall, my jaw literally dropped! Will this be the one that'd take Philippine cinema in its wings and bring her to the top? And imagine how blessed I feel when I was given the chance to see its full trailer!!!! *wow*

Dig this: from the moment the trailer had started until the time it ended, people were laughing their asses off! It was even carried over to the next trailer shown!

Enterpool has all the ingredients of a blockbuster! Of course, who would miss out on Palito who went on hiatus for a long time? Co-starring with him is Mhykel Chan who is dubbed as the "Jackie Chan of the Philippines!" (They even share the same surname!) As for the love angle, there's what's-her-name who became the champion in taekwondo several times. As if they are not enough, screen legends like Tony Ferrer and Ramon Zamora even joined the cast! My oh my! An all-star cast! *siyet!*

Enterpool is a combination of action, comedy, and romance. Who knows, there might even be a drama underneath all the laughs. Where can you find a movie where you see all the ropes used to lift actors on air or the steel bars lifting the cars? Which movie have you seen where the stunt double appears right before your eyes while suddenly changing back into the actor himself? (The movie has magic and sorcery, as well!) Most of all, where can you see Tony Falcon (Ferrer), Bruce Lee (Zamora), and James Bone (Palito) together in one movie? Only in Enterpool! Not to mention that it is the initial offering of "Starbone Presentation (?)"! This is already classic!

Who would imagine that in this day and age, such film would still exist? Truly, a must-see in the Philippine cinema! This is the kind of film where you could say, "Trailer pa lang, ulam na!" *grabe!*

Anong sinabi ng Dubai nina Claudine Barretto at Aga Muhlach at Lovestruck ng GMA Films?! Enterpool, pamatay!!!!!

P.S. 1 I'd like to put a poster here but I can't find any on the net. I guess you'd have to go to the theaters to see what a collectible it is! *bwahahaha*

2 This posting isn't meant to degrade, humiliate or make fun of Palito. I'm glad that he is working again.

Ouch!

Roger Ebert, after reviewing "Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo", had this to say about Rob Schneider:

The movie created a spot of controversy last February. According to a story by Larry Carroll of MTV News, Rob Schneider took offense when Patrick Goldstein of the Los Angeles Times listed this year's Best Picture Nominees and wrote that they were "ignored, unloved and turned down flat by most of the same studios that ... bankroll hundreds of sequels, including a follow-up to 'Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo,' a film that was sadly overlooked at Oscar time because apparently nobody had the foresight to invent a category for Best Running Penis Joke Delivered by a Third-Rate Comic."

Schneider retaliated by attacking Goldstein in full-page ads in Daily Variety and the Hollywood Reporter. In an open letter to Goldstein, Schneider wrote: "Well, Mr. Goldstein, I decided to do some research to find out what awards you have won. I went online and found that you have won nothing. Absolutely nothing. No journalistic awards of any kind ... Maybe you didn't win a Pulitzer Prize because they haven't invented a category for Best Third-Rate, Unfunny Pompous Reporter Who's Never Been Acknowledged by His Peers."

Reading this, I was about to observe that Schneider can dish it out but he can't take it. Then I found he's not so good at dishing it out, either. I went online and found that Patrick Goldstein has won a National Headliner Award, a Los Angeles Press Club Award, a RockCritics.com award, and the Publicists' Guild award for lifetime achievement.

Schneider was nominated for a 2000 Razzie Award for Worst Supporting Actor, but lost to Jar-Jar Binks.

But Schneider is correct, and Patrick Goldstein has not yet won a Pulitzer Prize. Therefore, Goldstein is not qualified to complain that Columbia financed "Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo" while passing on the opportunity to participate in "Million Dollar Baby," "Ray," "The Aviator," "Sideways" and "Finding Neverland." As chance would have it, I have won the Pulitzer Prize, and so I am qualified. Speaking in my official capacity as a Pulitzer Prize winner, Mr. Schneider, your movie sucks.

Ouch! That would hurt definitely! However, I'm still looking forward to this film! I even have it my Must-Sees 2005 links! We can't watch the likes of "Million Dollar Baby" all the time, right? We'll go insane!

Anyway, these comments came from one of the critics who lambasted "Titanic" during its initial release. Then, suddenly took back what they said after it received a numerous nominations during the '97 Oscars!

Source: The Movie Blog

Steven Seagal The Singer

Speaking of wannabe-singers, get a load of this! Steven Seagal has an album now! I've learned it from DJ Kel's posting. I searched for it tonight and whoa! There's even a music page dedicated to it!

Here's the introduction (including some of my notes):

"Origins: born in 1951 in Lansing (Michigan), Steven Seagal was the first Westerner to open a school of martial arts in Japan. (Is this a success? Who needs to learn martial arts from a Westerner when they have the experts themselves?!) The general public knew through his many films of action but it is another facet of his personality which emerges in 2004! (Did I read that right? Another facet of his personality?) This enthusiastic follower of Buddhism (He actually believes that he is Buddha reincarnated, right?) delivers an awesome album (Wow! Awesome daw!) already bubbling on the charts in France! (Is France now the music capital of the world? That we get to buy whatever is "hot-selling" there?) The "Songs From The Crystal Cave CD will be available for purchase on this website soon! Ingredients (Ingredients talaga?!): Steven Seagal delivers titles to the American ultra consonances (blues, folk) but also of more directed songs world (ragga, Arab musics). (Galing! Different genres!) Surrounded by prestigious guests (B.B. King, Stevie Wonder...), the actor adds a new cord to his arc! To note: the presence of a poster dedicated inside the small pocket for all his fans! (That is a great treat for fans! A poster!) Click on album photo above to go to the free MP3 page! (Hmm.. Nah. I'd buy the album!)

At least, dito sa 'tin, actors get to release an album while they are still on top of their careers. They don't do it to revive their dying career.

P.S. Who the f*ck wrote that introduction, anyway?!

Vilma, An Audio CD

Passed by Tower Records, Makati today before the premiere. This is the CD that caught my attention immediately. One of the new releases from Vicor Records as part of their 40th Anniversary. Vilma, a remastered version of her 60's album! I know that it existed but of course, it was such a surprise seeing a hard copy of it! Much so, in CDs today! Pamatay talaga!

I thought of buying a copy for my mom for her birthday. She is truly a Vilmanian (na namana ko!).

The selections in the album can be found here. It includes the infamous, "Kissing in the park..." But mind you, online it costs $11.99! Dito sa Pinas, a mere PhP125.00! Laki ng difference, no? Talong-talo ang mga Vilmanian abroad who want to get a copy.

Anyway, when will we get to see Aga Muhlach's 80's single on CD? I don't know the title but it was from Octo Arts? Or a remastered version of Gelli de Belen's album from Viva Records? Hahaha! Pag sikat ka noon, you get to record your own album! Kahit pa di kagalingan ang boses mo!

Vicor also released remastered editions of 70's-90's albums and singles. Hay, I miss the days when OPM is truly OPM! Original works and not rehashed versions of whatever yesterhits!

Feature Presentation

Finally saw the trailer that Rocketboy has been raving about! It started out as boy meets girl then ended as a suspense. It's kind of interesting to know that Wes Craven directed this film. Wes mostly directs horror movies. This one, though, is a suspense thriller. How will he do this time?

Get to see the trailer of Land of the Dead on the big screen! I am soooo excited about this film! I'm such a zombie freak! No matter how much their story lines suck, they still creep me out!

For the feature presentation, saw The Skeleton Key's advance screening in G4. It is courtesy of DJ Kel from Wave 89.1. Thank's, Kel! Should I make a review? Nah! Don't feel like it at the moment. Maybe next time. Maybe...

Pusang Gala!

Sorry, guys! Dito na naman ako para patakamin kayo at paglawayin!

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Be warn, though, that the following collectibles might give you a heart attack! Take your medicine now before proceeding.

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Some of these are not exactly the best movies but they sure are things of beauties! Anong sinabi ng mga Ms. Universe winners? Hehehe...

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Apocalyse Now Redux

Where exactly have you seen such beauty? Very original!

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The Jack Ryan Collection

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The Godfather Trilogy

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Buffy the Vampire Slayer Collection

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Hero Ultimate Edition

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The Lord of the Rings Trilogy Extended Edition Box

I have the trilogy's EE but bought them separately. :-(

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Roman Holiday 50th Anniversary Edition

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Batman Collection

Simplend astig!

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A "close" look at the X-Files Cabinet Collection Gift Set

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Spider-Man 1 Limited Edition

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Ring Trilogy Japan

Hanep! Ang galing nito!

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Old Boy Ultimate Edition

Para sa 'yo, Rocketboy! c",)

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Saw (1) Collector's Edition

Gotta have this! Includes both the theatrical version and director's cut of the movie!

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Hellboy Collector's Edition

This one goes to Marcelle! c",)

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2046 Wong Kar-Wai Special Collection

Would this so for you, Radioactive Adobo? c",)

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Para sa 'yo, April... The hunks of Troy! c",)

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In memory of Brandon Lee

Comes with The Crow Collector's Edition

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Minority Report

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Kill Bill Volume 1

I have asked a friend from Japan to buy me the Japanese version of this film because it is in its full color! No black and whites!

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Lastly, the 20th Century Fox Collection in a Brazilian Bag!

Includes Titanic

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Most of these collectibles are from Europe and Japan. American distributors have issues with rights and distributions so they can't easily make such collectibles. Even putting special features in DVDs can cause problems for them so R2-R4 are sometimes at better than R1 DVDs!

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Source: Pinoy DVD Forums

Related Posts: 'Pag Yumaman Ako!

An SATC Must-Have

Titanic SE Updates

Pag Yumaman Ako!

DVD Collectibles!I don't intend to buy them but wouldn't it be nice to have them in your collection?From Pinoy DVD forums

Fuck! This one's sooooo nice!

The Matrix follow-ups pretty much sucked but this collection doesn't! Ang ganda!

Who wouldn't want their Friends around?


I'm not a Bond fan but this one is a cool collector's edition!



I admit! I am an X-Philer! It would be awesome to have this Collector's Cabinet Edition!

I'll post more collectibles soon! I just need to wipe my drool first! :p

An SATC Must-Have!

R1 Collector's Edition Release

HBO has released information on the contents of the 20th disc in their massive Sex and the City DVD collection, due to hit stores on November 1, as well as packaging shots.

Extras will include:
• Sex Essentials - a video jukebox for advice, quips and quotes on dating, sex, fashion and more.
• Location, Location, Location - a guide to the restaurants, clubs and boutiques frequented by Carrie and friends.
• Naughty or Nice? - the ultimate test to find out which character from the series you are most like.
• You Can Quote Me On It - a "finish that phrase" game that tests your knowledge of the show.
• En-SEX-lopedia - an all encompassing guide that takes a look back at the defining moments in dating, fashion, friendship and relationships.

R2 Shoe Box Edition

Siyet! If only I am rich! *grrr*

Mga Pusang Gala Trailer

I saw the trailer for Mga Pusang Gala today. And my oh my! It was such a disappointment! It was dark and the parts weren't put together well. The background music have overpowered the dialogues in the movie which were the selling point of the film. It did not do justice to the film. As a long time moviegoer, I could easily detect good films from its trailer. Usually, I'm right. But with this one, I would hate for people to think that it is bad (and not see it at all) just because of the poorly done trailer.

I immediately sent Direk Ellen an SMS and told her about my reactions re the trailer. Apparently, she was very disappointed herself when she first saw it. She couldn't do anything about it anymore because LVN Studios, which has been doing good trailers, has been closed ever since it went bankrupt. If she would wait for its opening, it might be too late for its opening on August 17.

She asked me if it's better to pull the trailer out and just rely on the great reviews it has been receiving. "Sayang naman," I said. "Pinagkagastusan na 'yun, e." Imagine, 100k for it?!

Anyway, the best thing we could do to help is spread the good word. Aside from that, tell people to not judge the movie by its trailer. Yes, it was crap and we can't do anything about it. Good thing that the movie isn't!

Related Posts: Mga Pusang Gala Review / Si Ellen At Ang Mga Pusang Gala

The Eye 10 (Hong Kong)

The Eye 10 delivers an unexpected turn in the horror genre. It has mixed good comedy with horror. Seldom do those two combined well together without overshadowing each other or one of the two turning "corny".

The Eye 10 isn't the 10th part of the movie The Eye which thrilled us back in 2003. Actually, this was just the third part following the disappointing sequel in 2004. The number 10 in the title simply means that this movie is about the 10 ways to see ghosts.

The movie started with four friends who visited a common friend in Thailand. During their first night, they started sharing ghost stories until Chongkwai (their friend from Thailand) showed them the book called "The Ten Encounters". They decided to play a game and do them one at a time to check whether they are true or not. From then on, Chongkwai, Teddy, April, Kofei, and May have experienced the scariest night of their lives that went to haunt them for eternity!

The movie made references to the first two parts of the movie enumerating them as two of the ten ways. The group did not do the mentioned two but they tried the rest. They were Peek-a-Stoop, Spirit of the Glass, Late Night Snack, Combing Hair in Front of the Mirror, Forbidden Shade (opening an umbrella indoors), Hide-and-Seek with a Black Cat, Dig the Grave, and Play Dead.

The movie may border on sillyness and the comedic acts may sometimes go over the top but it still works as a horror/comedy movie, in my opinion. I guess, it would really depend on what your expectations would be when you see it. If you won't get scared, then laugh your ass off! If you won't find it funny, then scare yourself shitless! But why not do laugh and get scared at the same time? Nothing wrong with that, right?

Should you see this? Yes, do so! Just don't expect that it'd be better than the first Eye! Nothing beats its creepiness! It is downright scary and until now, I still have flashes of it on my mind. I hope, though, that this would be the last of the series.

Note 1: You may wonder, why "The Eye 10" for its title? Aside from the aforementioned reason, the title "The Eye 3 to 9" has been used as porn titles! Hahaha!

Note 2: As I go through the movie's other reviews, many have been disappointed about this. Hmmm... Well, not me! Obviously, me likey likey! *wink wink*