I'm sorry for such a long hiatus.
Been busy and been kind of out of touch for quite some time.
But I'm back in full force, especially since awards season are lurking in the corner now.
And to kick things off:
My official FIRST HALF OF THE YEAR KOSMANZ AWARDS!!!!
(Movies eligible are from March - August 2009)
Some of the US releases are not available yet here in Asia. So I might have missed out better films, but I'm quite happy with the list I have now.
Top 10 Films (in no particular order):
1. "District 9"
2. "Drag Me To Hell"
3. "Adventureland"
4. "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince"
5. "I Love You, Man"
6. "Ponyo"
7. "Public Enemies"
8. "Star Trek"
9. "Up"
10."Watchmen"
Best Picture: "District 9"
Alt: "Up"
Best Director: Neill Blomkamp, "District 9"
Alt: Hayao Miyazaki, "Ponyo"
Best Actor: Sharlto Coplay, "District 9"
Alt: Johnny Depp, "Public Enemies"
Best Actress: Nil
Best Supporting Actor: Jackie Earle Haley, "Watchmen"
Alt: Jim Broadbent, "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince"
Best Supporting Actress: Marion Cotillard, "Public Enemies"
Alt: Nil
Best Original Screenplay: "Up"
Alt: "District 9"
Best Adapted Screenplay: "Watchmen"
Alt: "Public Enemies"
Best Animated Feature: "Up"
Alt: "Ponyo"
Best Cinematography: "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince"
Alt: "Watchmen"
Best Art Direction: "Public Enemies"
Alt: "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince"
Best Editing: "District 9"
Alt: "Public Enemies"
Best Make Up: "Star Trek"
Alt: "District 9"
Best Costume Design: "Watchmen"
Alt: "Public Enemies"
Best Sound Mixing: "Watchmen"
Alt: "Star Trek"
Best Sound Editing: "Up"
Alt: "Star Trek"
Best Original Score: "Public Enemies"
Alt: "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince"
Best Visual Effects: "Watchmen"
Alt: "Star Trek"
Just for the fun of it:
Best Ensemble: "Star Trek"
Alt: "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince"
Breakout star so far: Anton Yelchin, "Star Trek" & "Terminator Salvation"
Alt: Ryan Reynolds, "X-Men Origin: Wolverine" & "The Proposal"
Worst Film: "Echelon Conspiracy"
Alt: "Dragonball Evolution"
Worst Male Performance: Nicholas Cage, "Knowing"
Alt: Ben Stiller, "Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian"
Worst Female Performance: Zhang ZiYi, "Horsemen"
Alt: Beyonce Knowles, "Obsessed"
Worst Waste of talent: Amy Adams, "Night at the Museum 2: The Battle of the Smithsonian"
Alt: Emmy Rossum, "Dragonball Evolution"
Biggest Disappointments so far: "X-Men Origin: Wolverine"
My Top 10 Most-Anticipated Films of 2009:
1. Nine
2. The Lovely Bones
3. Shutter Island
4. Bright Star
5. An Education
6. The Informant
7. Invictus
8. The Hurt Locker
9. (500) Days of Summer
10. Avatar
I'll be coming back soon to give you guys a full list of my Oscar predictions as of now. =)
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
American Idol 8 Grand Finale: We Are the Champions
WOW! WOW! Firstly, Congratulations to Kris Allen for taking the Idol title this season, undoubtedly one of the best seasons ever! Was I surprised that Kris won? Absolutely not! Does he deserves the win? Absolutely! But does he deserve it more than Adam? Taking the whole season into account, I don't think so. But Kris Allen is one talented dude, and between the two, he needed the win more! Nevertheless, I'm hoping great things from him and not fall into obscurity of past winners like Taylor Hicks and Ruben Studdard. I'll have piece on Adam later. Let's take a rundown of the finale show, one of the best in my opinion. So here we go:
The judges' intro were pretty funny. As much as the contestants made the season, but all 3 judges: Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell, have been just as important. They're the voice of Idol and their individual personality has been one of the factors that make Idol a success. First performance comes from the Top 13 singing Pink's "So What". A fun, energetic way to start of the evening.
David Cook takes center stage singing his hauntingly beautiful ballad, "Permanent" (the best song on his album for me). He gives a chilling performance. I'm almost choked with tears. David Cook is the most deserved Idol winners so far and I'm so proud of everything he has achieved. My heart goes to him and his family for the loss of his brother. He sounded awesome tonight and he just seems like an extremely genuine guy.
Then came the first award of the night: "Outstanding Male" which goes to Nick Mitchell/Normal Gentle. I'm not a fan of stand up comedy or anything of that sort, but I'm guessing he could be very successful at that. So moving on, it's Lil Round and Queen Latifah singing "Cue the Rain", nothing spectacular about the song or their singing. Don't get me wrong, they sounded good, just not an extremely exciting performance. However, the dancers were awesome though.
Anoop Desaid and Alexis Grace sang "I'm Yours" and then joined by Jason Mraz (YAY!!) whom I absolutely love. Jason Mraz sounded good and he just comes across as this extremely cool, laid-back person and beyond talented! The rest joins in, but Jason Mraz is rightfully the star!
Then comes Kris Allen's journey! How far has he come! He was practically a no show before the Top 36 and now being the Top 2 and winning the whole thing. He should be extremely proud of himself. Kris sang with Keith Urban. Not my kind of song/performance, but oddly enough, their voices kind of fit and complimented each other. They actually sounded quite alike.
Then the 5 girls of the season sang Fergie's "Glamarous" looking all glam and awesome. Megan and Jasmine had their solo bits, then Fergie joins in singing "Big Girl Don't Cry". Fergie sounded good, but looks scary with that black long hair. When she stares right onto the camera, I feel as though she could eat me alive. After that, the rest of the guys from BEP joins in and perform their super energetic and irritating "Boom Boom Pow". It was extremely manic and well "choreographed" and high performance. But I hate it when they use Allison Iraheta to introduce both Fergie and BEP! Couldn't they just come out without being introduced?
Then another award for "Best Attitude" which goes to Katrina Darrell, who appeared on stage with that same two piece bikini but with new friends. She obviously had a boob job. Simon, Randy and Ryan all "gagged" and the crowd "cheered"! Then she sang a horrendous sounding "Vision of Love" and joined by Kara Dioguardi who sounded only decent. Kara seems devoid of personality and character, which is why she was never a recording artist!
I see Lil' David Archuleta in the crowd, looking a little scared, lost and confused! Lol. Allison had a duet with Cindy Lauper singing "Time AFter Time". It is an absolutely wrong song Allison to sing. The performance is just dreary! Although Allison still rocked it out with her vocal but this collaboration is just weird. but I LOVE Allison Iraheta and I hope she'll have a great career. Danny Gokey then sang "Hello"! He sounded awesome, I really do love his voice. And then he's joined by Lionel Ritchie whom I couldn't care for. SO next!
Then comes Adam Lambert's journey. Adam is obviously the star of the season! He may not win the competition, but he will have an exciting and great career ahead of him and I can't wait for what's in stores from him. Adam then sang "Beth" and sounded AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He introduces KISS And joined them rocking the whole damn place! BEST PERFORMANCE OF THE NIGHT, so far!!!!! I feel like a fanboy jumping around, banging my head.
Next guest performer is Santana! Not my kind of artiste and Matt's solo sounded off, I still like him though. Then the rest came out singing "Smooth", which is pretty good. The lil dance Kris attempted during his solo bit is cute and drew awesome cheers from the crowd. Then Megan Joy and Michael Sarver get to perform Steve Martin's self-penned tune! Michael sounded good, but Megan is at her best! I ABSOLUTELY adore this girl. I hope she could come out with an album of such songs!
Then the 8 guys of the season sang a group number, don't know the title. It was okay performance and then they introduce Rod Stewart whom I'm not really a fan of. So next! The last award of the night is for "Outstanding Female" and the winner is Tatiana Del Toro who was told to sit down and will give her the award after the break, but she insists on receiving it now and ran to the stage and sang "Saving All My Love For You". Poor Ruben studdard, thinking it was all "real". Lol.
Kris Allen and Adam Lambert duet: "We Are the Champions"! And I'm just leaping with excitement! They both sounded awesome! Then they were joined by Queen and the moment they walked onto stage, I had goosebumps all over! They should be extremely proud of themselves. THIS WAS THE BEST PERFORMANCE OF THE ENTIRE NIGHT! I got chills all over.. WOW!
Then the moment of crowing this year's American idol is here and as you know Kris Allen won! He was extremely surprised and even goes on to say Adam deserves it! Anyway, he had to reprise "No BOundaries" which I hate, but he was a whole lot better than last night. After the song ended, his wife ran to him and they hugged! Although it was one of the sweetest moment, I don't know why his wife seems more like his sister to me. Anyway, What a year for American Idol! I'm thoroughly entertained!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'll have my say on Adam Lambert soon! He deserved the win, but it doesn't matter. he's going to be a HUGE star! He is such a nice, genuine dude. My favorite Idol contestant ever, right up there with Kelly Clarkson.
The judges' intro were pretty funny. As much as the contestants made the season, but all 3 judges: Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell, have been just as important. They're the voice of Idol and their individual personality has been one of the factors that make Idol a success. First performance comes from the Top 13 singing Pink's "So What". A fun, energetic way to start of the evening.
David Cook takes center stage singing his hauntingly beautiful ballad, "Permanent" (the best song on his album for me). He gives a chilling performance. I'm almost choked with tears. David Cook is the most deserved Idol winners so far and I'm so proud of everything he has achieved. My heart goes to him and his family for the loss of his brother. He sounded awesome tonight and he just seems like an extremely genuine guy.
Then came the first award of the night: "Outstanding Male" which goes to Nick Mitchell/Normal Gentle. I'm not a fan of stand up comedy or anything of that sort, but I'm guessing he could be very successful at that. So moving on, it's Lil Round and Queen Latifah singing "Cue the Rain", nothing spectacular about the song or their singing. Don't get me wrong, they sounded good, just not an extremely exciting performance. However, the dancers were awesome though.
Anoop Desaid and Alexis Grace sang "I'm Yours" and then joined by Jason Mraz (YAY!!) whom I absolutely love. Jason Mraz sounded good and he just comes across as this extremely cool, laid-back person and beyond talented! The rest joins in, but Jason Mraz is rightfully the star!
Then comes Kris Allen's journey! How far has he come! He was practically a no show before the Top 36 and now being the Top 2 and winning the whole thing. He should be extremely proud of himself. Kris sang with Keith Urban. Not my kind of song/performance, but oddly enough, their voices kind of fit and complimented each other. They actually sounded quite alike.
Then the 5 girls of the season sang Fergie's "Glamarous" looking all glam and awesome. Megan and Jasmine had their solo bits, then Fergie joins in singing "Big Girl Don't Cry". Fergie sounded good, but looks scary with that black long hair. When she stares right onto the camera, I feel as though she could eat me alive. After that, the rest of the guys from BEP joins in and perform their super energetic and irritating "Boom Boom Pow". It was extremely manic and well "choreographed" and high performance. But I hate it when they use Allison Iraheta to introduce both Fergie and BEP! Couldn't they just come out without being introduced?
Then another award for "Best Attitude" which goes to Katrina Darrell, who appeared on stage with that same two piece bikini but with new friends. She obviously had a boob job. Simon, Randy and Ryan all "gagged" and the crowd "cheered"! Then she sang a horrendous sounding "Vision of Love" and joined by Kara Dioguardi who sounded only decent. Kara seems devoid of personality and character, which is why she was never a recording artist!
I see Lil' David Archuleta in the crowd, looking a little scared, lost and confused! Lol. Allison had a duet with Cindy Lauper singing "Time AFter Time". It is an absolutely wrong song Allison to sing. The performance is just dreary! Although Allison still rocked it out with her vocal but this collaboration is just weird. but I LOVE Allison Iraheta and I hope she'll have a great career. Danny Gokey then sang "Hello"! He sounded awesome, I really do love his voice. And then he's joined by Lionel Ritchie whom I couldn't care for. SO next!
Then comes Adam Lambert's journey. Adam is obviously the star of the season! He may not win the competition, but he will have an exciting and great career ahead of him and I can't wait for what's in stores from him. Adam then sang "Beth" and sounded AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He introduces KISS And joined them rocking the whole damn place! BEST PERFORMANCE OF THE NIGHT, so far!!!!! I feel like a fanboy jumping around, banging my head.
Next guest performer is Santana! Not my kind of artiste and Matt's solo sounded off, I still like him though. Then the rest came out singing "Smooth", which is pretty good. The lil dance Kris attempted during his solo bit is cute and drew awesome cheers from the crowd. Then Megan Joy and Michael Sarver get to perform Steve Martin's self-penned tune! Michael sounded good, but Megan is at her best! I ABSOLUTELY adore this girl. I hope she could come out with an album of such songs!
Then the 8 guys of the season sang a group number, don't know the title. It was okay performance and then they introduce Rod Stewart whom I'm not really a fan of. So next! The last award of the night is for "Outstanding Female" and the winner is Tatiana Del Toro who was told to sit down and will give her the award after the break, but she insists on receiving it now and ran to the stage and sang "Saving All My Love For You". Poor Ruben studdard, thinking it was all "real". Lol.
Kris Allen and Adam Lambert duet: "We Are the Champions"! And I'm just leaping with excitement! They both sounded awesome! Then they were joined by Queen and the moment they walked onto stage, I had goosebumps all over! They should be extremely proud of themselves. THIS WAS THE BEST PERFORMANCE OF THE ENTIRE NIGHT! I got chills all over.. WOW!
Then the moment of crowing this year's American idol is here and as you know Kris Allen won! He was extremely surprised and even goes on to say Adam deserves it! Anyway, he had to reprise "No BOundaries" which I hate, but he was a whole lot better than last night. After the song ended, his wife ran to him and they hugged! Although it was one of the sweetest moment, I don't know why his wife seems more like his sister to me. Anyway, What a year for American Idol! I'm thoroughly entertained!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'll have my say on Adam Lambert soon! He deserved the win, but it doesn't matter. he's going to be a HUGE star! He is such a nice, genuine dude. My favorite Idol contestant ever, right up there with Kelly Clarkson.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
American Idol Finale: Top 2
Before the show, I thought this could be the best Top 2 on American Idol history ever, although I don't have my favorite 2 in the finals. But Adam Lambert is the star of this season and deservedly here tonight in the Top 2 and may very well win it next week and extremely deserving and likely. Kris Allen is amazingly talented and likeable, come to think of it, he definitely deserves the Top 2 spot more than Danny Gokey or heck even Allison Iraheta (despite her being my second favorite the whole season).
Adam Lambert
1) "Mad World"
I'm extremely excited with him reprising this song because this is by far my favorite performance from him and possibly one of my favorite performances all 8 seasons. He still sings the heck out of this song, but I agreed with Simon that this performance feels a little too theatrical for my taste and thus lose the initial intimacy and vulnerability of his first performance which I totally LOVE initially. Nevertheless, an amazing song coupled with amazing vocal from Adam. A rock solid performance. 9.5
2) "A Change Is Gonna Come"
This is more like it. This is ADAM LAMBERT! Again and again, I keep saying how crazily amazing his vocal/range is. His voice in this song is out of this world, I don't how else I could use to describe it except for the fact that Adam Lambert is one of a kind, and definitely the BEST VOCALIST of any American Idol contestants, IMO! His range, the intensity, the power is INSANE!!!!! This is one of his best performances ever! 10
3) "No Boundaries"
The song stinks! I will talk more about the song and Kara later. Anyway, Adam did his best with such a song. He tries to throw in notes that could excite and booze the song up and he tries to make the song his own. Not his best performance, actually this might be his worst performance of the whole season, but still a whole lot better than most of the performances of the season. Not the most exciting performance definitely, but Adam is such a great vocalist and although I for once agreed with Randy that he was a little pitchy on the song, still he's INSANELY good vocalist. 8 (Just basing on the vocals!)
Total: 27.5
Kris Allen
1) "Ain't No Sunshine"
I would have preferred him reprising "Falling Slowly" instead, but I think he made the right choice to do "Ain't No Sunshine" because this performance, like the first, is intimate and "vulnerable" and it connects really well to the audience, which is lacking with Adam's "Mad World" tonight. His best performance to date, even better than the first time he did this. He's mellow, interesting, likeable, talented and a true artist. Kris Allen deserves the Top 2 spot. 10
2) "What's Going On"
I love the producer's pick tonight. "What's Going On" is a Kris Allen song and it has a great message, so it's definitely a good song choice for Kris for the finale. So I don't see why both Randy and Simon thinks that this song is too "light" for tonight. I totally love the beginning of this performance, but once the song kicks in, his vocal is kind of a mess and all over the place. He sounded overly nasal on the song and went off pitch a couple of times at the ending. But this is the kind of artiste Kris Allen should be and I would definitely buy his record if he sticks to such songs. Still, I think this is a nice/good performance. 8
3)"No Boundaries"
Urgh!!! I really really hate this song. The song is definitely too high for Kris, his voice is extremely strained throughout the performance. He seems like he's struggling throughout the performance, which he probably is. This clearly shows Adam has a far greater range than Kris, which everyone knows, but where I don't see Adam singing such songs, I can actually see Kris singing this kind of song, just not this song because this song is plain awful. 7
Total: 25
Firstly, the coronation song - "No Boundaries". It could possibly be the worst of such Idol coronation song and there have been many AWFUL, so this one has got to goddamnawful. No other word could describe it best. And the fact that Kara Diaguardi wrote it makes me want to puke. All season, she keeps saying about artistry and blah blah blah, and being a judge, she would have knows the contestants a lot better. So how could she wrote such a tepid song that clearly doesn't suit both Adam and Kris or any of this season's contestants for that matter. If I have a choice, I will get rid of Kara next season. She brings nothing to the show, the judging panel, the viewers and the contestants.
Secondly, more Kara Dioguardi hate. On the last performance, she said she wanted the audeince to vote for Kris basing on the season, but it was clear that this season IS Adam Lambert, so that comment really doesn't make sense at all. Just like every other comments she has made throughout this season.
Thirdly, this is definitely one of the best and most exciting Top 2 performances of any seasons, although I do not have my favorite 2 in the final unlike last season's David vs David still. The only real stinker of this great night is that coronation song! Urgh.... I totally totally HATE it.
Fourthly, I don't think it's appropriate to have Carrie Underwood "closing" the show, since tonight should be about Adam Lambert and Kris Allen.
Lastly, I don't really know how this will go down tomorrow. But in my opinion, with the performances ranking, Adam Lambert should be the next American Idol tomorrow night because he is the "best" vocalist/contestant of this season and has delivered nothing short of spectacular performances week after week and one of the most, if not the most charismatic and interesting contestant Idol has ever have. But even if Kris Allen wins, I wouldn't be mad and I don't think it will take anything away from Adam, because I could so forsee great things from him and Kris too.
So let's witness the crowning of the 8th American Idol tomorrow. See you guys again!! =)
Adam Lambert
1) "Mad World"
I'm extremely excited with him reprising this song because this is by far my favorite performance from him and possibly one of my favorite performances all 8 seasons. He still sings the heck out of this song, but I agreed with Simon that this performance feels a little too theatrical for my taste and thus lose the initial intimacy and vulnerability of his first performance which I totally LOVE initially. Nevertheless, an amazing song coupled with amazing vocal from Adam. A rock solid performance. 9.5
2) "A Change Is Gonna Come"
This is more like it. This is ADAM LAMBERT! Again and again, I keep saying how crazily amazing his vocal/range is. His voice in this song is out of this world, I don't how else I could use to describe it except for the fact that Adam Lambert is one of a kind, and definitely the BEST VOCALIST of any American Idol contestants, IMO! His range, the intensity, the power is INSANE!!!!! This is one of his best performances ever! 10
3) "No Boundaries"
The song stinks! I will talk more about the song and Kara later. Anyway, Adam did his best with such a song. He tries to throw in notes that could excite and booze the song up and he tries to make the song his own. Not his best performance, actually this might be his worst performance of the whole season, but still a whole lot better than most of the performances of the season. Not the most exciting performance definitely, but Adam is such a great vocalist and although I for once agreed with Randy that he was a little pitchy on the song, still he's INSANELY good vocalist. 8 (Just basing on the vocals!)
Total: 27.5
Kris Allen
1) "Ain't No Sunshine"
I would have preferred him reprising "Falling Slowly" instead, but I think he made the right choice to do "Ain't No Sunshine" because this performance, like the first, is intimate and "vulnerable" and it connects really well to the audience, which is lacking with Adam's "Mad World" tonight. His best performance to date, even better than the first time he did this. He's mellow, interesting, likeable, talented and a true artist. Kris Allen deserves the Top 2 spot. 10
2) "What's Going On"
I love the producer's pick tonight. "What's Going On" is a Kris Allen song and it has a great message, so it's definitely a good song choice for Kris for the finale. So I don't see why both Randy and Simon thinks that this song is too "light" for tonight. I totally love the beginning of this performance, but once the song kicks in, his vocal is kind of a mess and all over the place. He sounded overly nasal on the song and went off pitch a couple of times at the ending. But this is the kind of artiste Kris Allen should be and I would definitely buy his record if he sticks to such songs. Still, I think this is a nice/good performance. 8
3)"No Boundaries"
Urgh!!! I really really hate this song. The song is definitely too high for Kris, his voice is extremely strained throughout the performance. He seems like he's struggling throughout the performance, which he probably is. This clearly shows Adam has a far greater range than Kris, which everyone knows, but where I don't see Adam singing such songs, I can actually see Kris singing this kind of song, just not this song because this song is plain awful. 7
Total: 25
Firstly, the coronation song - "No Boundaries". It could possibly be the worst of such Idol coronation song and there have been many AWFUL, so this one has got to goddamnawful. No other word could describe it best. And the fact that Kara Diaguardi wrote it makes me want to puke. All season, she keeps saying about artistry and blah blah blah, and being a judge, she would have knows the contestants a lot better. So how could she wrote such a tepid song that clearly doesn't suit both Adam and Kris or any of this season's contestants for that matter. If I have a choice, I will get rid of Kara next season. She brings nothing to the show, the judging panel, the viewers and the contestants.
Secondly, more Kara Dioguardi hate. On the last performance, she said she wanted the audeince to vote for Kris basing on the season, but it was clear that this season IS Adam Lambert, so that comment really doesn't make sense at all. Just like every other comments she has made throughout this season.
Thirdly, this is definitely one of the best and most exciting Top 2 performances of any seasons, although I do not have my favorite 2 in the final unlike last season's David vs David still. The only real stinker of this great night is that coronation song! Urgh.... I totally totally HATE it.
Fourthly, I don't think it's appropriate to have Carrie Underwood "closing" the show, since tonight should be about Adam Lambert and Kris Allen.
Lastly, I don't really know how this will go down tomorrow. But in my opinion, with the performances ranking, Adam Lambert should be the next American Idol tomorrow night because he is the "best" vocalist/contestant of this season and has delivered nothing short of spectacular performances week after week and one of the most, if not the most charismatic and interesting contestant Idol has ever have. But even if Kris Allen wins, I wouldn't be mad and I don't think it will take anything away from Adam, because I could so forsee great things from him and Kris too.
So let's witness the crowning of the 8th American Idol tomorrow. See you guys again!! =)
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Post American Idol 8 Finale Thoughts
Adam Lambert V.S Kris Allen
Never would I have thought Kris would ever make it into the finals. Did he not deserve it? I don't think so. Kris is one of the few contestants that brings excitement this season, and delivered a few memorable performances as well. Kris is a talented guy, he's a little too understated and "quiet", but I think he works his ass of to get where he is, so he definitely deserves to be in the final. As for Adam, he deserves the top 2 spot right from the start, just basing from his enormous talent. Adam Lambert defines Season 8, to not have him in the finals is a travesty. Kris is growing on me and some of his performances this year are among my favorites, and as much as I think this is not a one-man race like many thought it would be, I still think Adam should win and deserves it a little more than Kris. Adam & Allison finale would be perfect for me, but an Adam & Kris finale is definitely a lot more interesting than a Danny finale.
This season is among my favorites. I still think Season 5 is an overall more enjoyable season and have more contestants that I love and root for, but season 8 has 2 of possibly my favorite contestants so far on Idol. It has been a great season and I'm definitely looking forward for the next one. And am looking forward to what some of this season's contestants will bring into the music world after the show is over, especially Allison Iraheta and Adam Lambert and maybe Kris Allen, Megan Joy and Matt Giraud. I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'll be back tomorrow to rate the final showdown and I will do a major charts wrapping up American Idol from season 1 all the way to Season 8. It'll be fun. =)
Never would I have thought Kris would ever make it into the finals. Did he not deserve it? I don't think so. Kris is one of the few contestants that brings excitement this season, and delivered a few memorable performances as well. Kris is a talented guy, he's a little too understated and "quiet", but I think he works his ass of to get where he is, so he definitely deserves to be in the final. As for Adam, he deserves the top 2 spot right from the start, just basing from his enormous talent. Adam Lambert defines Season 8, to not have him in the finals is a travesty. Kris is growing on me and some of his performances this year are among my favorites, and as much as I think this is not a one-man race like many thought it would be, I still think Adam should win and deserves it a little more than Kris. Adam & Allison finale would be perfect for me, but an Adam & Kris finale is definitely a lot more interesting than a Danny finale.
This season is among my favorites. I still think Season 5 is an overall more enjoyable season and have more contestants that I love and root for, but season 8 has 2 of possibly my favorite contestants so far on Idol. It has been a great season and I'm definitely looking forward for the next one. And am looking forward to what some of this season's contestants will bring into the music world after the show is over, especially Allison Iraheta and Adam Lambert and maybe Kris Allen, Megan Joy and Matt Giraud. I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'll be back tomorrow to rate the final showdown and I will do a major charts wrapping up American Idol from season 1 all the way to Season 8. It'll be fun. =)
Monday, May 11, 2009
Quick Reviews: "X-Men Origins: Wolverine", "Horsemen" & "The International"
I was so certain than this film will kick ass. However, after watching the film, how greatly disappointed I was. “Wolverine” has so much potential, yet it seems like nobody quite understands what the film tries to achieve. Wolverine is one of the “darkest” and most interesting characters in the Marvel Universe, yet this film brings nothing of that. Wolverine has been described as a part animal and human, although it was suggested lots of time throughout the film, but there was nothing that makes me as an audience thinks that. The director obviously is taking the easy way of assuming that everyone who watches the film know who Wolverine was without putting much effort to explain how/why he became who he is – well, the film did try and it did went to his past, but it all seem a little too superficial, even know he got the name “Wolverine” seems like a joke.
This film seems like a life story of any normal human being, and not one of the greatest and most beloved superhero characters. And the action set-up seems so forced that I just assumed they were there simply because they needed to be included for all those special effects action sequences. This is definitely the worst of all the X-Men films released so far, at least the giant mess of the third installment is still enjoyable to watch. This is simply too bland, too boring, too understated (which is a low blow since Wolverine is nowhere near an understated character)
Rating: 2 1/2 out of 5
"Horsemen" is a pretty okay thriller that takes itself too seriously mid-way through the film. It has a pretty nice set-up, but like I said, mid-way through, it seems like the filmmaker doesn't quite know how to go from there. The murder scenes appear repetitive; the symbolism to the bible seems a little too farfetched and appears trying-to-hard to make the film darker and more important than it should be. The acting was far from ok. Patrick Fugit's character seems to be the most interesting of all the characters in the film, it's a shame that he only appears for 2 scenes which is way too short. As for Lou Taylor Pucci's character seems most promosing, but the ending just killed it for me. It was just too pretentious. The characters were bland all around with not a single character that you can grab onto; they were simply just there to drag along with the plot, nothing more to them.
The people behind "Horsemen" obviously trying to bank on the success of "Se7en" and "Zodiac", but this film turns out to be another rehash of such genre that bring nothing new.
Rating: 2 1/2 out of 5
A great action political thriller film, if only the subject matter was a little less confusing. I found myself enjoying pretty much everything about the film. The acting was excellent - Clive Owen is broodingly menacing as an agent with a dark past, while Naomi Watts is a damsel in distress with intellect and courage. The action sequences were amazing, the direction was good and the pacing was tight. As much as the film draws me in, I’m still left wondering what the characters were babbling about most of the time, trying my bestest to make sense of everything. I understand the gist of it that make me enjoy the film, but it also left me wondering isn't it all too serious? All these conspiracies? Isn't this a little too farfetched or over the top?
Although there may be some truth to it or a lot of truth to it and that financial debt is a definitely a trap, it is a little to "up there" for someone like me to grasp. Nevertheless, an intriguing film.
Rating: 3 1/2 out of 5
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
American Idol Top 4 (Rock & Roll): Review
I love rock music, so this week is definitely tailored made just for me and others who dig rock as well. And I love both Adam and Allison and there's no doubt in my mind that they will both rock the stage tonight and they did both individually and with the duet. And tonight validated my point that Adam and Allison deserve to be the last two standing, not just because this week's theme is right up their comfort zone, simply because they're the two BEST contestants left in the competition. I'm dying for Adam and Allison finale and I just wish Simon don't jinxed it for me. Anyway, I'm going to rank both the solo and duet performances together. So here we go:
6. Danny Gokey, "Dream On"
WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT LAST NOTE??? Just for that, he has no room to be placed any higher than any of the performances tonight. That was plain bad to the point like it seems as though it was all a joke. I used to like the raspiness to Danny's voice, but not this week, because he just seemed to force it out too much to get that rock-edged vocal for this performance. This was the WORST performance he has ever done and may be the WORST performance at this stage of the competition. Sorry. I still can't seem to let go of that last note fiasco. That was absurdity with a capital A. OMFG! What were you thinking Danny? Rating: D-
5. Kris Allen, "Come Together"
This is the typical guitar-Kris' performance. It is music louge-ish. And his voice is all over the place tonight. He just can't seem to hold onto his key throughout the performance. Again, one of the WORST performance he's done and definitely one of the WORST performance at this point of the competition. Kris has run out of depth in the competition. He's a one trick pony very much like Jason Castro last season. He doesn't bring anything else to this competition. As much as I think Danny deserve to leave based on this week's performances, but I still think Danny has more to offer than Kris, at least for another week. I don't think Kris will do any 'damage' in the Top 3 if he stays on. Rating: C-
4. Danny Gokey & Kris Allen, "Renegade"
Again, the solo sounded pretty bad - both just as bad. They seemed totally out of depth this week and they actually sounded extremely bored. I couldn't sense any 'fighting' power in them at all throughout the performance - it was an extremely lazy performance. Although when they sang together, they harmonize pretty well. That was the only redeeming quality about their performance. They both lacked the chemistry. It seems like the two of them had a row during rehearsal and didn't try to blend in together. Rating: C
3. Allison Iraheta, "Cry Baby"
It was unfortunate to follow after Adam's crazily fantastic performance, but if anyone could do it, it's Allison. She definitely held her own being the resident rock diva in the competition. She sounded terrific tonight, although it seemed a little repetitive once the second chorus comes on, still one of her better performances. This was another rock solid performance. I LOVE LOVE LOVE her! Final please. Vote for her.... Rating: A
2. Adam Lambert, "Whole Lotta Love"
This would have been #1 this week, but then a dream duet of Allison and Adam just seem to BIG to be ignored of the top spot. Nevertheless, this is a rock solid performance from the always amazing Adam Lambert. I don't know what else to say about Adam - I've said everything I could have said. If he doesn't win this competition, it would be a travesty. I can't seem to know anyone else in the competition that has as much talent and as much a deserving winner than Adam Lambert - maybe Kelly Clarkson but Adam is at a totally different level altogether. This was THE rock & roll performance of American Idol - no Chris Daughtry, no Bo Bice, no David Cook, no Michael Johns could come anywhere near him. Rating: A+
1. Adam Lambert & Allison Iraheta, "Slow Ride"
OMG! OMG! OMG! My Top 2 contestants singing a rock duet - a genre both are extremely comfortable with and the result is AHHHHHMMMMMMMAAAAAZZZZZIIIINNNNGGGGGGGG! They sounded so good together. They complemented each other so well. They worked the stage. They had fun. It was far and away BETTER than the the other duet, it just seemed like I'm watching a totally different show altogether. They are the resident rock god and goddess and their duet got me sooooo excited I could hardly breathe. FINAL FINAL FINAL FINAL!!!!!! I would die if either of them didn't make it to the finale. And I certainly hope that Simon's comment on Allison might be safe another week won't jinx her chances of staying. This is AWEEESOMMMEE!!! Rating: A+
Predicted Bottom 2: Danny Gokey & Kris Allen (although Allison is always in danger, but I certainly hoped she doesn't need to face the brink of elimination)
Predicted Elimination: Kris Allen (I'm guessing Danny's fanbase is a lot stronger than Kris' and furthermore Danny's horrendous this week and all the more reasons his fans will call in like crazy to keep him safe, so bye Kris.)
Although I think Danny should go basing on this week, but Kris is definitely the weakest contestant left in the competition. I think he brings nothing exciting to the table left even if he stays on for another week. So I won't be mad if he leaves and Top 4 is quite an achievement in itself and he definitely deserves to be there.
6. Danny Gokey, "Dream On"
WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT LAST NOTE??? Just for that, he has no room to be placed any higher than any of the performances tonight. That was plain bad to the point like it seems as though it was all a joke. I used to like the raspiness to Danny's voice, but not this week, because he just seemed to force it out too much to get that rock-edged vocal for this performance. This was the WORST performance he has ever done and may be the WORST performance at this stage of the competition. Sorry. I still can't seem to let go of that last note fiasco. That was absurdity with a capital A. OMFG! What were you thinking Danny? Rating: D-
5. Kris Allen, "Come Together"
This is the typical guitar-Kris' performance. It is music louge-ish. And his voice is all over the place tonight. He just can't seem to hold onto his key throughout the performance. Again, one of the WORST performance he's done and definitely one of the WORST performance at this point of the competition. Kris has run out of depth in the competition. He's a one trick pony very much like Jason Castro last season. He doesn't bring anything else to this competition. As much as I think Danny deserve to leave based on this week's performances, but I still think Danny has more to offer than Kris, at least for another week. I don't think Kris will do any 'damage' in the Top 3 if he stays on. Rating: C-
4. Danny Gokey & Kris Allen, "Renegade"
Again, the solo sounded pretty bad - both just as bad. They seemed totally out of depth this week and they actually sounded extremely bored. I couldn't sense any 'fighting' power in them at all throughout the performance - it was an extremely lazy performance. Although when they sang together, they harmonize pretty well. That was the only redeeming quality about their performance. They both lacked the chemistry. It seems like the two of them had a row during rehearsal and didn't try to blend in together. Rating: C
3. Allison Iraheta, "Cry Baby"
It was unfortunate to follow after Adam's crazily fantastic performance, but if anyone could do it, it's Allison. She definitely held her own being the resident rock diva in the competition. She sounded terrific tonight, although it seemed a little repetitive once the second chorus comes on, still one of her better performances. This was another rock solid performance. I LOVE LOVE LOVE her! Final please. Vote for her.... Rating: A
2. Adam Lambert, "Whole Lotta Love"
This would have been #1 this week, but then a dream duet of Allison and Adam just seem to BIG to be ignored of the top spot. Nevertheless, this is a rock solid performance from the always amazing Adam Lambert. I don't know what else to say about Adam - I've said everything I could have said. If he doesn't win this competition, it would be a travesty. I can't seem to know anyone else in the competition that has as much talent and as much a deserving winner than Adam Lambert - maybe Kelly Clarkson but Adam is at a totally different level altogether. This was THE rock & roll performance of American Idol - no Chris Daughtry, no Bo Bice, no David Cook, no Michael Johns could come anywhere near him. Rating: A+
1. Adam Lambert & Allison Iraheta, "Slow Ride"
OMG! OMG! OMG! My Top 2 contestants singing a rock duet - a genre both are extremely comfortable with and the result is AHHHHHMMMMMMMAAAAAZZZZZIIIINNNNGGGGGGGG! They sounded so good together. They complemented each other so well. They worked the stage. They had fun. It was far and away BETTER than the the other duet, it just seemed like I'm watching a totally different show altogether. They are the resident rock god and goddess and their duet got me sooooo excited I could hardly breathe. FINAL FINAL FINAL FINAL!!!!!! I would die if either of them didn't make it to the finale. And I certainly hope that Simon's comment on Allison might be safe another week won't jinx her chances of staying. This is AWEEESOMMMEE!!! Rating: A+
Predicted Bottom 2: Danny Gokey & Kris Allen (although Allison is always in danger, but I certainly hoped she doesn't need to face the brink of elimination)
Predicted Elimination: Kris Allen (I'm guessing Danny's fanbase is a lot stronger than Kris' and furthermore Danny's horrendous this week and all the more reasons his fans will call in like crazy to keep him safe, so bye Kris.)
Although I think Danny should go basing on this week, but Kris is definitely the weakest contestant left in the competition. I think he brings nothing exciting to the table left even if he stays on for another week. So I won't be mad if he leaves and Top 4 is quite an achievement in itself and he definitely deserves to be there.
Friday, May 1, 2009
American Idol Top 5 Result Show: What a great journey!
Just like many, I'm a little surprised with Adam's Bottom 3 appearance - not saying that he's actually in the Bottom 2, that's pretty insane. But then he was actually in my bottom 3 ranking the previous night too. But this near elimination will only secure one thing - Adam's easy ride to the finale for the next 3 weeks! There's no doubt in my mind that we will have Adam in the finale. His fans will come out in full force for the next few weeks just to get him there - case study: Ruben Studdard. Ruben had a shocking Bottom 3 appearance in Top 5 in Season 2 and since then, he sailed through to the final even with lackluster performances during Top 3 week and gone on to beat the fan-favorite, Clay Aiken, that season. And I'm quite sure that Adam will do the same - gone to the finale, as for winning, we'll just have to wait and see. Enough about Adam, I'm so glad that Allison is safe and I certainly hope her fans will continue supporting her for the next weeks! As for Matt, what an incredible journey has he had. Blunder quarter-final round, came back strong during wildcard, got into the Top 13, impresses the judges, me and America in the process, 2 blunders along the way, got booted during Top 7, got saved, came back pretty strong the next week and voted into Top 5! All of those is nothing but amazing! There's nothing to complain there.
Why Matt Giraud lost?
There really isn't any reason for this. This year's Top 5 is amazingly talented, so anyone could go except for those who have the bigger fanbase - Danny Gokey! Besides Allison, Matt has got to be the 'weakest' link among the Top 5 in terms of popularity and that causes his elimination. And he didn't outperform Allison and he didn't get Simon's reverse psychology "endorsement" like Allison had. This week was either Allison or him going, and Allison had the performance that people are rushing to vote for but Matt's didn't have that same effect on his fans.
Random Notes:
- I'm not surprised with Matt's elimination, as much as I hope it won't happen this week, but eventually it will come. I'm pretty much a mess seeing his journey video. And he really seems like the 'life' of this season's Top 13! He seems genuine, fun and friendly. I'm wishing great things for him.
- This week's Bottom 3 isn't surprising to me at least. Well, I was a little about Adam but I could understand why. He performed great, judges praised him, fans were rejoiced and were confident that he'll be safe, so didn't vote as much for him, thus Bottom 3 appearance. Kris Allen gave the 'weakest' performance last week IMO, so he deserved to be in the Bottom 3. Matt Giraud is fighting for votes with Allison, but Allison came out victorious as she had that "I have to vote for her if not she'll leave" tag, so she stayed out of Bottom 3, and Matt didn't! So nothing surprising there.
- Natalie Cole sounded pretty nice! Jazzy nice. But her neck and head kinda scares me. I don't know how exactly to describe it, but disturbing.
- Taylor Hicks look odd, old and weird, but he sounded pretty good actually. The song he's singing is not my cup of tea and not my kind of singer that I'll support, but am I the only one that actually thinks he's talented and don't actually "hate" him? Season 5 had far better singers, yes! And he wasn't exactly the most deserving winner of that season, but that shouldn't take anything away from his talent. And he may be the least successful American Idol winners or even less successful than some non-winners, but he doesn't deserve all the backlashes that he's been getting. And in all honesty, I'll take most of his performances back in Season 5 over Danny Gokey's this season. And he seems like such a genuine dude.
- Matt's reaction: "Holy shit! I'm standing next to Adam. Let it be a shocking result and he goes home instead." But seriously, Matt knew his doomsday is tonight when he stands next to Adam, I can see it in his eyes.
- Jamie Foxx's performance is mediocre at best! It's pretty annoying actually.
Why Matt Giraud lost?
There really isn't any reason for this. This year's Top 5 is amazingly talented, so anyone could go except for those who have the bigger fanbase - Danny Gokey! Besides Allison, Matt has got to be the 'weakest' link among the Top 5 in terms of popularity and that causes his elimination. And he didn't outperform Allison and he didn't get Simon's reverse psychology "endorsement" like Allison had. This week was either Allison or him going, and Allison had the performance that people are rushing to vote for but Matt's didn't have that same effect on his fans.
Random Notes:
- I'm not surprised with Matt's elimination, as much as I hope it won't happen this week, but eventually it will come. I'm pretty much a mess seeing his journey video. And he really seems like the 'life' of this season's Top 13! He seems genuine, fun and friendly. I'm wishing great things for him.
- This week's Bottom 3 isn't surprising to me at least. Well, I was a little about Adam but I could understand why. He performed great, judges praised him, fans were rejoiced and were confident that he'll be safe, so didn't vote as much for him, thus Bottom 3 appearance. Kris Allen gave the 'weakest' performance last week IMO, so he deserved to be in the Bottom 3. Matt Giraud is fighting for votes with Allison, but Allison came out victorious as she had that "I have to vote for her if not she'll leave" tag, so she stayed out of Bottom 3, and Matt didn't! So nothing surprising there.
- Natalie Cole sounded pretty nice! Jazzy nice. But her neck and head kinda scares me. I don't know how exactly to describe it, but disturbing.
- Taylor Hicks look odd, old and weird, but he sounded pretty good actually. The song he's singing is not my cup of tea and not my kind of singer that I'll support, but am I the only one that actually thinks he's talented and don't actually "hate" him? Season 5 had far better singers, yes! And he wasn't exactly the most deserving winner of that season, but that shouldn't take anything away from his talent. And he may be the least successful American Idol winners or even less successful than some non-winners, but he doesn't deserve all the backlashes that he's been getting. And in all honesty, I'll take most of his performances back in Season 5 over Danny Gokey's this season. And he seems like such a genuine dude.
- Matt's reaction: "Holy shit! I'm standing next to Adam. Let it be a shocking result and he goes home instead." But seriously, Matt knew his doomsday is tonight when he stands next to Adam, I can see it in his eyes.
- Jamie Foxx's performance is mediocre at best! It's pretty annoying actually.
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