Girlfriend For Hire Trailer Impressions: 2016 Andre Paras and Yassi Pressman RomCom Film Adaptation of Yam-Yam28 Wattpad's Novel

Girlfriend For Hire is a 2016 romantic comedy film based from a popular romcom Wattpad entry written by a Yam-Yam28 of the same title is distributed and produced by Viva Films and SMDC under the direction of Vanessa de Leon with screenplay by Jose Javier Reyes which stars Yassi Pressman, Andre Paras, Shy Carlos, Donnalyn Bartolome, Josh Padilla, and Ronaldo Valdez slated for a February 10, 2016 theatrical release. Let's check out what this latest romantic comedy big screen adaptation of the popular Wattpad story by Yam-Yam28 has to offer.

Girlfriend For Hire Plot / Synopsis

A rich guy hires an orphaned poor girl to be his pretend girlfriend in order to escape his grandfather’s plan of marrying him off to another woman. In exchange of her service, he gives her a posh condo unit and a big weekly salary but there’s a catch: she’s not allowed to fall in love with him. Eventually, they start falling for each other and just when everything is going fine, his ex-girlfriend (and first love) resurfaces. Will he give their old love a second chance or will he choose to be with his hired girlfriend?

This Valentines season, VIVA Films invites you to witness a love story based on the best-selling Wattpad novel! Starring one of the country's hottest love teams, Andre Paras and Yassi Pressman. GIRLFRIEND FOR HIRE in cinemas nationwide this February 10!

Watch Girlfriend For Hire Official trailer here:



Girlfriend For Hire Official Trailer Impression
Girlfriend For Hire Film Trailer Review

What can be said about the Girlfriend For Hire official movie trailer? Well it is a standard fair as how Viva Films produced romantic films is concerned... looks crispy and clear cinematography-wise which the production team on"My Bebe Love" can learn a lot from, some scenes shown in the trailer can be a bit off (attributed to the direction), and a chemistry between the two lead which can be a hit or miss. Well, there should be a good chemistry between Andre and Yassi by now as "Girlfriend For Hire" is the third Viva Films movie that pairs up Andre Paras and Yassi Pressman; with "Diary ng Panget" (2014), and "Wang Fam" (2015) being the first two. That is yet to be seen on their first major romantic movie.

Girlfriend For Hire uses the cliched Rich Boy - Poor Girl romance cliche we've seen so many times which is only spiced up by injecting more humor than drama. The Girlfriend For Hire suffers to what most trailers have been notorious from, exposing too much of the film's original premise. It makes it so predictable that leaves little to nothing to the imagination of how will it unfold. Is this the fate of most Wattpad entries or any online literature sharing website being adapted into film? The original Wattpad novel by Yam-Yam28 is popular among its users. The Youtube comments section alone has some "colorful insight" as what most have to say about it. Like any literary piece followers there is a big expectation from the film. The big question is can Viva Film's big screen adaptation of Girlfriend For Hire win the hearts of fans and attract RomCom fans seemingly monopolized by Star Cinema in the same process?

How about you guys? Are you big into Wattpad stories? Have you read and liked this piece from the Wattpad user Yam-Yam28? Did Viva got the casting correct when they include Yassi Pressman to play as Nami Shanaia San Jose and Andre Paras as Bryle Caleb Stanford? Who is a better pick in your opinion? What are you excited to see on this film? What are your thoughts generally of Wattpad stories being adapted into film in general? Share your thoughts and opinion about the Girlfriend For Hire movie trailer in the comments section below:

Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin Trailer Impressions: 2016 Film Adaptation of Bob Ong's Novel Satirizing Entertainment Industry Cliche

Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin is a 2016 comedy anthology film based on Bob Ong's 2011 satirical parody book of the same name with three directors for each episode: Episode One is under the direction of Mark Meily which mainly stars Benjie Paras and Candy Pangilinan; Episode 2 is under the direction of Andoy Ranay which mainly stars Maricel Soriano, Herbert Bautista, and Shy Carlos; and Episode 3 is under the direction of Chris Martinez which mainly stars Christine Reyes, Antoinette Taus, and Paolo Ballesteros slated for a January 13 theatrical release. Let's check out what this Viva film's bigscreen adapatation of Bob Ong's popular comedy novel has to offer.


Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin
Plot / Synopsis

VIVA Films and Heaven's Best Entertainment present the much-awaited release of the laugh-out-loud comedy movie based on the best-selling novel by the legendary Bob Ong titled, LUMAYO KA NGA SA AKIN. The movie is a rib-tickling parody and satire of the commercial filmmaking in the Philippines with an anthology of three different stories:


‎#EPISODE1. BALA SA BALA, KAMAO SA KAMAO, SATSAT SA SATSAT: Ang epic action movie ever starring Benjie Paras and Candy Pangilinan.

#‎EPISODE2. SHAKE, SHAKER, SHAKEST: Ang epic horror-comedy starring Ms. Maricel Soriano and Herbert Bautista.

#‎EPISODE3. ASAWA NI MARIE: Ang epic baliwang teleserye starring Cristine Reyes, Paolo Ballesteros and Jayson Gainza! Bob Ong’s LUMAYO KA NGA SA AKIN is COMING SOON in cinemas nationwide this 2016!

Watch Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin Official trailer here:






Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin Official Trailer Impression
Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin Film Trailer Review


What can be said about the Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin official movie trailer? Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin looks interesting and fun. Those who have read or followed the original Bob Ong novel may expect more but for those of us who hasn't read it, the film through this trailer looks like it is a lot of fun. Fun in a sense that it seems to be smart as it satirizes television and movie (or entertainment industry) cliche as a whole. Because come on, how many times have we looked at someone whom we are watching something and simply as "Why?" as the actions of the on-screen performers are doing exactly what we call rational and in the realm of common sense. This reminds me of a similar segment in GMA Network's Bubble Gang called Antonietta where the antagonist Antonietta (played by Betong Sumaya) satirizes telenovela cliche. Here is a sample:



Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin has tons of breaking the fourth wall which seems to be the case in most comedy films that we've seen as of late; mainly from films starring Vice Ganda and or those directed by Wenn DeRamas. In Lumayo Ka Man Sa Akin's case it seems like this is going to be the main running theme in its three episodes. The question is whether Viva Films Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin is the "smart" comedy that some of us are looking forward to finally see or it is simply another brainless slapstick one that the industry has spoiled the majority of Filipino movie going fans. Will the film be a straight or loyal to its resource material? These questions and my curiosity will make me want to check this film out over this weekend.


How about you guys? What do you think about the 2016 movie adaptation of Bob Ong's 2011 novel Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin? Have you read the satirical parody novel? If yes, then did Viva Films with its director properly cast the film or do you have someone else in mind that could have played the roles in the book? Share your thoughts and opinion about Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin movie trailer in the comments section below:

Etiquette For Mistresses Trailer Impressions: Celebrating the Life and Drama of Being a High Society Mistress

Etiquette For Mistresses is a 2015 drama film from Star Cinema under the direction of Chito Roño and inspired by Julie Yap-Daza's 1992 national bestseller “Etiquette for Mistresses and What Wives Can Learn From Them”, which stars Claudine Barretto, Kris Aquino, Iza Calzado, Cheena Crab, and Kim Chiu slated for a September 30, 2015 theatrical release. Let's check out what this high society drama film that celebrates the life and deals with the drama of being a high society "other woman" has in store for the movie going audience here at Pinoy Movie Blogger.


Etiquette For Mistresses
Plot / Synopsis

In love, how important is it to know when to follow or break the rules?

The “Etiquette for Mistresses” tackles the lives of five successful and glamorous women whose friendship is based on their common weaknesses—they are all trapped in the prison of their hearts.

Source: Star Cinema

Watch Etiquette For Mistresses official trailer here:






Etiquette For Mistresses Official Trailer Impression
Etiquette For Mistresses Film Trailer Review


So what is there to say about the Etiquette For Mistresses official trailer? First off, the film is inspired from a book published entitled "Etiquette for Mistresses and What Wives Can Learn From Them" by a Filipino author Julie Yap-Daza so this story has long been out there. It just so happen to coincide with how popular mass media has been using the idea of mistresses and illicit affairs on film and television. One can criticize that the local media has now been celebrating infidelity or endorsing polygamy which can be both true and false. There is a basis as to why the book came to be. That both men and women can commit adulterous or polygamous act. Reality can be much more brutal than how it is depicted on film and television. You can consider these kinds of films as a celebration of infidelity or a precautionary tale of what life would be like if ever you decide to be one. I would like to think that it is a fad in the mainstream media, but if it is not, then let's just hope that they can develop do that with other serious issues as well. That the film studious could do it in a more thought provoking way and not just another "Sex in the City" clone which by the way the Etiquette For Mistresses is giving off.


Etiquette For Mistresses is all about the story of these high society women which could either make the movie going audience curious or alienate them: curious to see as to how "miserable" the life of being a mistress is, and that amidst their riches they can't buy love or contentment with their partners; or alienate because infidelity is not widely acceptable topic for discussion and the mere fact that the characters belong to the "upper class of society" that people cannot really relate to. I am quite surprised at my reaction with my trailer impressions as I initially think that I would hate it, but surprisingly I did not. The film is still not on my preferred genre though, but I am curious. Will the Etiquette For Mistresses worth to seeing on the theaters? Do you like the acting chops showcased by the cast mainly Kris Aquino and Claudine Barretto? Are you the curious or the alienated?


How about you guys? What do you guys think of the proliferation of movies that deals with adultery or polygamous relationships? What do you think of the cast of the film? Have you read the Julie Yap-Daza book this was based on? If yes, what are your expectations? If not, will the curious theme of the film be enough for you to go watch it? Share your thoughts and opinion about the Etiquette For Mistresses official trailer in the comments section below:

Just The Way You Are Trailer Impressions: Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano Romantic Film About Bet and Love

Just The Way You Are is a Star Cinema romantic film based from (author) Kimberly Joy Villanueva’s pop fiction book entitled “The Bet" under the direction of Theodore Boborol which stars Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano slated for a June 17, 2014 theatrical release. Let's check out another novel-based romantic movie starring ABS-CBN's hottest break-out loveteam for 2015, Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano with Just The Way You Are.


Just The Way You Are
Plot / Synopsis

Drake Sison (Enrique Gil) is a boy who loves to win – so when he loses in a bet with friends, he’s determined to make up for it – through another one. He needs to make a girl fall in love with him in 30 days. But she’s not just any other girl, she’s Sophia Taylor (Liza Soberano), a nerdy transferee who isn’t into playing games. In the end, whose heart will be played? Who will win in this game of love? “Just The Way You Are” is the movie adaptation of Kimberly Joy Villanueva’s pop fiction book “The Bet.”

Resource: Star-Cinema Page

Watch Just The Way You Are Official trailer here:





Just The Way You Are Official Trailer Impression
Just The Way You Are Film Trailer Review

So what is there to say with Star Cinema's latest romantic film simply entitled "Just The Way You Are"? Well let's see about the film's premise. It is about a somewhat misunderstood guy who's into bets and fooling around with women and got into a bet with making a woman fall for him. Then the woman is usually not the guy's "type" but still does it for the challenge. The girl seems to be aloof and suspecting, but eventually softens up and in the end both making both fall for each other. Everything will all be fine until the "bet" is revealed. Now where have I heard such "unique" premise before?


Just The Way You are primarily stars Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano whose on-screen pairing became the "talk of the town" (to its soap opera ABS-CBN viewing audience) with "Forevermore", so it is only a matter of when is the best time for ABS-CBN to cash in on their popularity and this is just it. Well, to Star Cinema's credit, the film's premise is based on a pop fiction book which is probably the reason why it is so familiar and may I say "generic". There seems to be a sub-plot regarding the male protagonist's parents, but we all know that it is just an icing to this wonderful cake of romantic blandness (in terms of story). But who knows, maybe the on-screen pairing of Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano love team could give this cliched premise a breathe of fresh air.


How about you guys? What do you guys think of the Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano on-screen pairing? Are you a fan of their on-screen love team? What made it work? Will you go see this film amid the cliche premise? Are you familiar of the works this film is based of? Share your thoughts about the Just The Way You Are movie trailer in the comments section below:

Your Place or Mine? Trailer Impressions: Wattpad Story Adapted Romantic Film Starring Andi Eigenmann, Bret Jackson, and Andre Paras

Your Place or Mine? is a Viva Filma romantic film adapted from the hit selling Wattpad novel written by "Turning Japanese" (turning_japanese) under the direction of Joel Lamangan which stars Andi Eigenmann, Bret Jackson, and Andre Paras slated for an April 29, 2015 nationwide theatrical release. Let's check out this latest hit Wattpad novel adapted into the big screen with You're Place or Mine?.


Your Place or Mine?
Plot / Synopsis

With the growing popularity of novels being adapted for the big screen every year and after the success of the bestsellers turned blockbuster movies “Diary ng Panget” and “Talk Back and You’re Dead,” VIVAFilms is proud to release another popular Wattpad story entitled, “YOUR PLACE OR MINE?” Written by Turning Japanese, with 13.7 million reads.

“YOUR PLACE OR MINE?” stars VIVA Princess Andi Eigenmann and newest heartthrob Bret Jackson, together with Diary ng Panget’s Andre Paras. The film is directed by Mr. Joel Lamangan .

“YOUR PLACE OR MINE?” is a coming-of-age romance movie that features the crazy love story of HALEY SAAVEDRA, a 19 year old girl taking up BS Psychology, who gets drunk in a bar and sleeps with a guy who’s a complete stranger to her. This man who comes from a rich family is CLAY RUSSELL SANDOVAL, a soccer star player from the same school where Haley studies.


They see each other again unexpectedly inside the school, recollecting the details of what really happened on that night. Their actions show that they both enjoy the night and still desire for more.

Watch Your Place or Mine? Official trailer here:


Your Place or Mine? Official Trailer Impression
Your Place or Mine? Film Trailer Review

Viva Films has outdone themselves again with this trailer for their Wattpad adapted romantic film. Don't you just "love" it when a trailer leaves little to the imagination? Guess they are marketing this to the Wattpad fans who already knew the ending of the film because the trailer "never" hinted it.


What is there to say about Your Place or Mine? official movie trailer? From the trailer alone we can say that there is a lot punching and slapping, arranged marriages which still somehow works in this politically correct society (probably explained why she needed to wed the person), a "friendzoned" guy who becomes somewhat a threat and may becomes a third party to the initial pair, and some PG-13 love scenes. Guess this is the source of the "kilig factor" of the Wattpad novel and its film adaptation to its teenage (at heart) targeted demographic. Interesting as of the time bing local television channel TV5 has a romance television show featuring Wattpad stories with "Wattpad Presents". Guess "You're Place or Mine?"'s adult theme (of one night stand) and this being a best-selling novel is not covered by the usually tween-friendly television programming of the local networks.


Times are truly changing as romantic films (and films in general) have now become more and more gutsy with their presentation and themes. More skin and more love scenes is the future of movies as if that indicates that film studios (and writers) are taking their audience seriously and treating them like mature and rational individuals. There is nothing wrong with it as it gives creators more space to add more twist to recycled movie story and themes. It somehow deviate from the rich guy-poor girl or vice versa theme. Unfortunately Viva Films lack or marketing with the titles they produce (unlike that of Star Cinema) and the film's sexy imagery can somehow affect the sales of this film. We'll see how this film will perform. Will it be a sleeper hit or simply another mediocre romantic film left to obscurity?


How about you guys, what do you think about this film adaptation of Wattpad's bestselling author Turning Japanese (turning_japanese)' novel? Are you big Wattpad reader? What is your best Wattpad stories? How does You're Place or Mine compare to other stories you've read? What Wattpad story is better in your opinion? Share your thoughts about Your Place or Mine? official movie trailer in the comments section below:

Para Sa Hopeless Romantic Trailer Impressions: 2015 Movie Adaptation of Marcelo Santos III Novel

Para Sa Hopeless Romantic is a Star Cinema and Viva Films romantic film adapted from the romantic novel of Marcelo Santos III under the direction Andoy Ranay which stars Nadine Lustre, James Reid, Julia Barretto, and Inigo Pascual slated for a May 2015 nationwide theatrical release. Let's check out another Marcelo Santos III romantic hit novel being adapted into the big screen with Para sa Hopeless Romantic.


Para Sa Hopeless Romantic
Plot / Synopsis

Para sa Hopeless Romantic is the Star Cinema movie adaptation from Marcelo Santos III's hit romantic novel of the same title about a girl (Becca) who fell in love but was eventually got her heart broken by her supposed prince (Nico). The brokenhearted Becca then started writing a supposedly romantic novel with fictitious characters mirroring her personal story and tragedy. What will be the outcome of the characters of her story? What will happen to her own love story?

Watch Para Sa Hopeless Romantic Official trailer here:


Para Sa Hopeless Romantic Official Trailer Impression
Para Sa Hopeless Romantic Film Trailer Review

Para sa Hopeless Romantic uses three tried-and-tested formula for another successful Philippine romantic film: a soundtrack which is "Ikaw" by Yeng Constantino that target its loyal musical demographic, two of the "hottest" young romantic teenage on-screen couples (Nadine Lustre and James Reid x Julia Barretto and Inigo Pascual), and a story like "no other" from one of the more contemporary "best-selling" author (for the teenage-young adult market), Marcelo Santos III.


Star Cinema has been the leading producer of "quality" romantic films (to a fault) throughout the years and Para sa Hopeless Romantic with cooperation of another film producer giant Viva Films is definitely one of them. If something is not broken, why fix it right? As long big corporations produces new artist every millenia, there will always be a film for its younger generation and those who love everything that gives out the "kilig-factor". A variation of the story with different artists just like what Kim Chiu & Gerald Anderson, Regine Velasquez & Ariel Rivera, and even Nora Aunor and Tirso Cruz III did in the past. That their film's stories and pairings will disappear to obscurity only to be placed by another more contemporary version of it which is only (or has become) "normal" by mainstream Philippine movie standards.


How about you guys, what do you think about this film adaptation of Marcelo Santos III novel? What will drive you to watch Para sa Hopeless Romantic? Will it be because of the artists, story (by Marcelo Santos III), or soundtrack? What is your favorite romantic film of the past and what made it that unforgettable to you? Share your thoughts about Para sa Hopeless Romantic official movie trailer in the comments section below:

Boy Pick-Up: The Movie Teaser Trailer Impressions: Another Bubble Gang Skit Graduating to the Big Screen

Boy Pick-Up: The Movie is a comedy film from GMA Films and Regal Films under the direction of Dominic Zapata which stars Ogie Alcasid, Eri Neeman, Michael V, Dennis Trillo, Boy2 Quizon, Moymoy Palaboy's James "Moymoy" Obeso and Rodfil "Roadfill" Obeso, Antonio Aquitania, Gwen Zamora, Jackie Rice, Sam Pinto, Sarah Lahbati and Solenn Heussaff. Boy Pick-Up: The Movie is slated for a June 6, 2012 nationwide theatrical release. Let's check the teaser trailer for Boy Pick-Up The Movie here.

Boy Pick-Up: The Movie
Plot / Synopsis

Boy Pick-Up: The Movie is the film adaptation of Bubble Gang's latest famous skit "Pick-Up Lines Battle" featuring the fliptop-inspired battle of words using cheesy pick-up lines rather than well-rhyming trash talks. The film will try to tell the story of the iconic Boy Pick-Up (played by Ogie Alcasid) and Boy Back-Up (Eri Neeman) outside the Pick-Up Lines Battle Arena.

Watch Boy Pick-Up: The Movie teaser trailer here:



Boy Pick-Up: The Movie Teaser Trailer Impression
Boy Pick-Up The Movie Film Teaser Trailer Review

Ah Boy Pick-Up: The Movie... What is there to say about the Boy Pick-Up: The Movie's teaser trailer that made its debut on GMA Network? Coming from someone who's an avid fan of Bubble Gang and usually get his weekly laughs from the Philippine's longest running gag show, Boy Pick-Up: The Movie feels unnecessary.

Ogie Alcasid as Boy Pick-Up and Eri Neeman as Boy Back-Up

Some Filipinos are notorious in delivering these very cheesy pick-up lines to get the attention of their targets... I mean the ladies that can bring out various reactions (preferably a woman getting twitterpatted). Being a fan of Bubble Gang I have seen almost every Pick-Up Lines Battle episode to date. It saddens me to see how Boy Pick-Up's brand of humor starts to lost its touch after the long run. It probably might be just on the script, but ever since it got so popular, I believe its humor started to became normal... ultimately losing its brand of anti-humor. Sure it is nice to still hear cheesy pick-up lines every episode, but all those build up sometimes get squashed with the same kind of nonsensical pick-up lines used by boy Pick-Up last week. There is a limit on how many times the audience can tolerate "...kasi ang ulam na niluto ni Aling Maring ay masarap" boy pick-up punchline variant. I think that there are some jokes that need to end. Quit while they were ahead as what most people say. Like Yaya and Angelina, which was also a Bubble Gang Skit adapted to the Big Screen by GMA Films, there is a probability that Boy Pick-Up The Movie will be the last pit stop of this once was phenomenal comedic Bubble Gang skit. Like any other Bubble Gang skit it has to eventually come to an end: E.g MEV (Music English Version), MTB (Music Tagalog Bersyon), Kapitan Masa, Gagambala, Yaya and Angelina, etc. I just don't think that this film will get people excited or inspire them to spend money and watch it on theaters, and that is coming from a Bubble Gang fan and someone who adores Ogie Alcasid and Michael V. as comedians.

Women of Boy Pick-Up the Movie - Sam Pinto, Solenn Heusaff, and Sarah Lahbati

There is nothing much to make up for this teaser. It is just there to tease. Scenes featured in this trailer may not even be in the film itself. One thing is sure though Dennis will have Sarah as a love interest, while Ogie will have Solenn and that's probably where most of this will revolve around. I just don't think that fans of the skit would want to know more about Boy Pick-Up besides what they have been getting every Friday nights, or maybe it is just me. I can't vouch for every Bubble Gang fan. There will always be an audience that will support this. Even without the official film trailer released, I can say that Boy Pick-Up is one of those Filipino films which has willingly placed itself to shame just because some film producers think it would sell based from its popularity in television. The same film outfits which have been using prehistoric (traditional) marketing and movie making (writing, casting, producing) methodologies... milking something popular and current spelling doom to its original content source. Well, I might be over-thinking about this comedy film. I maybe wrong or eat up in the end all I have said here, but the teaser and the whole concept isn't giving me the right impressions. This is my impressions of the teaser to begin with. One thing is certain though, Boy Pick-Up: The Movie is not the smart kind of comedy I am looking for in a Filipino produced film. I will give this one a pass and will probably check this out once it makes it Philippine television debut which might not even take more than a year to happen.

How about you guys? What do you think of the concept of Boy Pick-Up movie adaptation? Share your thoughts about Boy Pick-Up: The Movie teaser trailer in the comments section below:

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (2011) Movie Review

After a decade and seven films under its wing, the Harry Potter film franchise comes to a conclusion with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2. Just what does the Pinoy Movie Blogger think of this last Harry Potter film? Check out my spoiler-free review for HP7: Part 2 here.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 Movie Review

Pinoy Movie Blogger Reviews

What hasn't been said about the Harry Potter series? You either love it or hate it. But one thing that the movie going audience would probably agree on is that this is the best commercial theater adaptation of the similarly phenomenal novel by J.K. Rowling. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 or simply HP7: Part 2 is the second part and the conclusion to the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows film adaptation. 

What can't be said about the film? They really gave it all on this last film. From set designs, special effects, to sound, almost all the production concepts are top notch. The people working on and behind the film had been doing this for ten years, so the acting is really excellent and the actors delivered what is expected of them. The story explains everything what there is to explain. You might eventually sympathize with a character who you previously hated, or lose admiration to another one whom you adored so much in the past films. In terms of action, it also delivers. The siege in Hogwarts felt like the siege in Lord of the Rings the Two Towers. When you compare a Harry Potter film to a Lord of the Rings films, it only means they made something really great in order to pull it off.

Some really minor complain I had is the lack of gimmicks in the credits of the film. This is the last film anyway so it wouldn't hurt that much to at least put some creative and fan service to movie goers. They could have at least put up collages of past and present production photos, set designs, or some artwork of Hogwarts or the character themselves. Well that is just some minor gripe, but I know that would be addressed in its DVD or Bluray release. I raised my eyebrow a bit after seeing the last few scenes of the film, I don't know if it is just me but tell me what you think about it after you've seen it.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 7 is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. Pinoy Movie Blogger easily recommends you to go see HP7: Pat 2 in the theaters nationwide this July 14, 2011.

The Rite (2011) Movie Review

The Rite is a 2011 supernatural thriller film adaptation of Matt Baglio's The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist which is said to be based on true events. Does The Rite have The Rite to be in the league that of The Exorcist and other decent horror titles? Find out in this Pinoy Movie Blogger's review of The Rite.



The Rite Movie Review
Pinoy Movie Blogger Reviews

I was a bit let down after seeing the film as I had this first impression that it was actually a back to form scary horror film which The Rite isn't. The Rite is just a supernatural film that tries to ground the overly exaggerated (by Hollywood) art of cleansing the spirit from demonic influence through exorcism.

You won't find spinning heads and vomit-puking exorcee on this film, The Rite is not your over the top 1973 classic horror The Exorcist. Though demons can probably push the limits of the human body to do so, The Rite doesn't milk that exaggerated way of exorcism that The Exorcist did... not until the finale though. There are some scenes that throws some cheap scares to startle, if not shock the audience. The Rite may have gotten away with some cheap scares, but the film delivers short in horror in my honest opinion. I am a movie horror fan and I prefer a slow creeping horror which can take you by surprise and that is a what constitute a perfect horror film which The Rite hasn't completely deliver.

Right off the bat, I knew what was going to be the climax of the film but the transition to that finale is what I am curious to see and I can say that The Rite delivered. The film started by stating that it is based on true events, this is probably why I didn't expect much extensive character development from the film. The film tried though, as it focuses more the story of Michael Kovak, it is a bit hard to route for the main protagonist especially with his bland performance of the confused and skeptic seminary student. Then of course there is Anthony Hopkin's who was pretty impressive with his role as Father Lucas, the mentor. The Rite has a pretty impressive musical scoring which I think stood out. Sound always play a big role in delivering a chilling horrific feel to any horror film, which the film done quite right. The cinematography and visual effects for the demonic possession was pretty impressive as well, not over the top... just realistically good, if those are the right words to use.

A movie goer should have an open mind about this film, as non-Catholic movie audience may find The Rite too preachy and biased over the Catholic religion. Although the Catholic church is not the only religious body which can do exorcism, it sure has established itself as one. The Rite usually tends to favor Catholicism which shouldn't be a surprise.

PMB Recommendation
The Verdict

The Rite is a decent supernatural thriller film which may throws some few scares, but it is one of those movies that saves the best for last. If you are looking for a somewhat close to reality exorcism film, this is probably the closest Hollywood might have gotten. Don't let the bland performance by the main character, a predictable storyline, and the theocratic nature of the film deter you from seeing the film... on the smaller screen. A decent film which okay to see on the big screen but it is better to wait for The Rite to come out on home video format, then watch it.

Pinoy Movie Blogger gives The Rite a two point five out of five frogs.

Gulliver's Travels (2010) Movie Review

Gulliver's Travels is a comedy adventure film loosely based on a 18th-century fantasy novel of the same name. Though I have vivid recollections of what the original story is like, all I can say is that this new spin-off of the classic Gulliver's Travels is an entertaining voyage amidst a seemingly deadly rapids of critics negative reception of the film. Here is what Pinoy Movie Blogger thinks of Gulliver's Travels.



Gulliver's Travels Movie Review
Pinoy Movie Blogger Reviews

The film does not claim that it is a movie that directly adapts the Jonathan Swift's classic Gulliver's Travels, so expect the unexpected as this modern adaptation deviates from its origin and transforms into something bite size comedic film that you either hate or love. Throw Jack Black into the picture and what you will be getting is just that. Though it would be very informative and entertaining to watch a film adaptation that is very close to its classic novel roots, you won't have that opportunity in this movie. A more family friendly comedy adventure featuring Jack Black's brand of humor as you've always seen him in films like in 2003's School of Rock and the 2009 video game Brutal Legends.

Though I may favor the films humor most of the times which can range from okay to outrageous, it can't hide the fact that there are missed opportunities for the film to effectively use the original novel's chapter to further develop its characters and progress its story. One good example is the scene in the Island of the Giants (Brobdingnag) which is shrunk down to mere scenes of awkwardness with a few chuckles on the side but no further exploration whatsoever. The scenes in Brobdingnag can just take place anywhere and the effect would still be the same. Lemuel Gulliver's character development may feel a bit rush but how long should the transition from being a self-serving loser and lier into a noble hero take anyways? I just wished it was given more emphasis together in Brobdingnag.

Gulliver's Travels' visual graphics are okay. With some nice looking CGI effects (e.g. robot controlled by the main antagonist) with some minor flaws in chroma keying, but doesn't take away too much. The film is also nice to watch in 3-D though I don't the same entertainment value in watching it in ordinary theaters. The film has nice sound and musical scoring which features some retro and rock music.

PMB Recommendation
The Verdict

Not being overly exposed to too much on brand of American comedy has its perks, because I can't help but laugh out loud Gulliver's Travels humor and awkwardness; that or maybe I just like Jack Black's brand of humor. If you are looking for a funny film this weekend and like a Jack Black film, you might want to try Gulliver's Travel's with friends or together with the entire family. There is also a bonus Ice Age short which you will surely love, "Scrat's Continental Crack-up".

This is why Pinoy Movie Blogger gives Gulliver's Travels a three out of five video game guitars.

The Losers (2010) Movie Review

The Losers is a 2010 movie based on a Vertigo comic series of the same title about a team of elite government unit sent on a special mission to Bolivia and later double crossed by some diabolical mastermind, only known as Max was later double crossed. The plot is a very common action movie cliche where the main protagonists gets back at the people who do them wrong which either ends up in a happy or tragic conclusion. So what does The Losers have that other action movies don't? Read the rest of the review to find out, don't worry Pinoy Movie Blogger is spoiler free.



Before you read the rest of the review you can check out The Losers trailer, synopsis and movie posters here:

The Losers - Revenge Has Always Been Sweet Specially if It's Against the CIA

The Losers Movie Review
Pinoy Movie Blogger Reviews

The Losers 2010 movie is is based on a Vertigo comic book series, The Losers. Highly acclaimed Vertigo (DC Comics), known for its mature, controversial, violent, and graphic published stories, expect these said elements and so much more on The Losers.

One of the best factor that made The Losers a winner is the perfectly blended of action, comedy, and a very few yet warm family moments. With six main protagonists, one would probably ask if is there would be enough movie time to give justice to each of the characters in the film. Well, the answer is an astounding Yes! The Losers presented the main characters to its audience as these already established team of elite government soldiers, with no much drama on telling how and why did they become what they are. This made the movie give more time to breathe life to each of the comics adapted characters, show their relationship, camaraderie, and respect towards each other.

The Losers shot in many locations around the world and presented it in a very unique comic-ish style. Chris Evans performance in this movie is good, from being a cool human torch into this witty and very skillful tech extraordinaire, Jake Jensen. You will also find Max, the villain in this film pretty entertaining as a villain, a brand of acting which reminded me of Heath Ledger as the Joker in The Dark Knight.

The Losers could be considered a successful action comedy film of 2010. There are a lot of scenes where you will just crack up laughing at the circumstantial humor and jokes that the movie throws at you. I won't tell you what these scenes are to preserve the value of humor until you see it yourself. With almost all the recent and upcoming movies jumping on the 3D bandwagon, The Losers sticked to the original and proven classic big screen presentation. Though it would be better to see those cool explosions, and slow motion gun fights in 3D. Well maybe in a sequel, perhaps? (whoopsie!)

PMB Recommendation
The Verdict

The Losers is an entertaining action film which I recommended for everyone to see on the big screen. You will find yourself laughing, scratching your head, laughing again, moving on the edge of your seat with its brand of action, laughing again, feeling nostalgia, and making you realize that at the end of the day, your family is still the best place to go home into.

Pinoy Movie Blogger give the The Losers (2010) Movie a Four out of Five Dog Bobbleheads:

Alice in Wonderland (2010) Movie Review

Alice? The Alice! The Alice is back this time in a whole new adventure in Underland... I mean Wonderland. This is the very first Movie Review of Pinoy Movie Blogger and join me peek into the looking glass down the rabbit hole in Walt Disney Pictures' Alice in Wonderland (2010) movie.



A Sneak Peek
Synopsis

Thirteen years after the young Alice Kingsleigh's adventure in Wonderland, she has completely forgotten about her adventure in the enchanted world of Wonderland until one fateful day she is summoned by the "people" of Wonderland.

Alice is a free-spirited girl living in a sophisticated Victorian era setting. Eversince her childhood days she kept in dreaming about a world that could only exist on dreams, and this is probably why she lacks concentration and can easily be distracted by such the littlest of things that comes to her mind.

Alice was invited to a special event which was set up by her mother and sister for her to wed a "not so" sophisticated Lord. Alice has no intention of marrying but came to a conflict that she couldn't disobey the wishes of her family. Eventually she was accidentally helped by an unbelievable circumstances as she followed a strange rabbit on a waist coat.

What happens next is a series of events that lead her back to the place that she formerly called Wonderland. There Alice meet her old friends which she could no longer recognize, and to her surprise she is the prophesied Champion who will rid of Underland of the tyrant reign of the White Queen with her infamous and most feared underling.

How will Underland be saved if the prophesied Champion is not what she seem like? Catch how she transformed to become the one key that unlocked the chains of despair that haunts the whole Kingdom of Wonderland with Tim Burton's continuation of the world that Lewis Carroll craftily created, Alice in Wonderland.

Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland Review
Pinoy Movie Blogger Reviews

The world down the rabbit hole of Alice in Wonderland is truly visually stunning, especially if you'll see it in 3D. Even for a world destroyed and terrorized by the of The Red Queen's tyranny and her "Jabberwock", Wonderland is still presented as both creative and dreamy, and at the same time seemingly realistic world that only Lewis Carroll has imagined it to be.

Some of the character's of the beloved Lewis Carroll novel "Alice in Wonderland" and "Through the Looking Glass" makes a comeback and has been given much more exposure and emphasis on the film rather than just Alice's adventures. Almost all the beloved characters from the novel comes back to add color to the dark world that Wonderland came to be. Johnny Depp's portrayal of the Mad Hatter seemingly gave more of the human aspect (saner side) to the almost loony character from Carroll's novel. You will see what I am talking about and what role did The Mad Hatter portray in Burton's Alice.

There are a few barely noticeable bad cuts on the film which would make you wonder what could be that omitted scene? Also it is not really just for the kids as but the movie also appeals to the general public movie goer.

PMB Recommendation
The Verdict

A movie blended with good humor, great visual presentation and superb acting, Alice in Wonderland is commendable for the young ones, young at hearts and people who haven't even read previous Alice in Wonderland or Through the Looking Glass literary pieces or seen classic movies.

If you are an enthusiastic and movie junkee like I am and you haven't even read the previous books or just barely knew the story then be prepare because after watching this film your curiosity will be hungry with anything and everything that concerns Alice in Wonderland. Where did the queen of hearts go? Is the Red Queen the Queen of Hearts? Walt Disney's 2010 Alice in wonderland movie will make you go back to the down the rabbit hole to the classic wonderland and through the looking glass just to know who the characters are.

Alice in Wonderland's movie soundtrack is entitled Almost Alice, and let me derived my conclusion from the soundtrack and my general review on the movie. It is almost an excellent movie but there are some questions that you'll eventually ask yourself or someone who knows the previous novels and that doesn't really mean that the movie delivered all that it has to see. You may blame me for not researching or failing to see the previous versions but it should have at least clarified some parts of the scene, but don't get me wrong about this. It is still a great 3D movie and with all of the positive remarks I noticed on it...

I gave Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland an almost perfect Four out of Five Mad Hatter Hats.