15 books

My cousins Lala and Rain and my very bright inaanak, Yuan, tagged me on Facebook. Yes, I'm on Facebook and whilst I'm a wee bit disappointed with myself for signing up, I take pride in the fact that I only have 58 friends (more than half is actually family) compared to others who has thousands of random strangers whom they refer to as "friends". Being popular was never really a childhood dream. Eating a whole lechon with the crispiest skin and not having to worry about cholesterol and hypertension, now that's a serious head trip.

But I digress, here are the rules of the game.

Don't take too long to think about it. Fifteen books you've read that will always stick with you. List the first fifteen you can recall in no more than fifteen minutes. Tag fifteen friends, including me, because I'm interested in seeing what books my friends choose. (To do this, go to your Notes tab on your profile page, paste rules in a new note, cast your 15 picks, and tag people in the note.)

1. Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

2. The Rosales Saga by F. Sionil Jose

3. Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

4. The Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling

5. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

6. A History of Violence by John Wagner

7. Hope for the Flowers by Trina Paulus

8. The Books of Abarat by Clive Barker

9. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

10. The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger

11. Girlfriend in a Coma by Doulas Coupland

12. Amsterdam by Ian McEwan

13. High Fidelity by Nick Hornby

14. America is in the Heart by Carlos Bulosan

15. The Stranger by Albert Camus

it's getting hot in herre

Yesterday was the hottest day so far this year at 30C and it almost made me throw a tantrum for it made my sleep really uncomfortable. Today's temperature at 28C and a steady breeze was just enough for me to slightly revel in the British summer. Since I was in the city today (I will tell you more about it later), I couldn't help but admire the scene at London's Trafalgar Square. In fact, I was that amused I decided to bask in the afternoon sun at the steps of The National Gallery whilst reading Miguel Syjuico's award-winning debut novel, Ilustrado.

View from my spot.

Clear blue sky and a busy square.

More sun worshippers out and about today.

epilogue: the bunny suicides

I promise this'll be the last in the bunny suicides series.

N0. 6

No. 7

No. 8

No. 9

and No. 10

the future is here

It's the last day of the first month of 2010. We are in the future. Except that it is actually known as the present. Can y'all believe it's been more than 10 years, a decade(!), since Y2K? It really was much ado about nothing!

If we were to believe some of the sci-fi movies from our not so distant past, our date with aliens are in the offing. We have, after all, sent them a message. The Beatles' "Across the Universe," for that matter. Who could argue with such a well-meaning, positive initiative?

Before y'all become overwhelmed by panic, fear not because I don't think they're that bad. As long as we remember not to do this, I think we all are going to be allright.

* a friendly reminder from the bunny suicides.

bunny suicide tips 2, 3 & 4

Because depressed bunnies are found in all corners of the world, here are more funny ways to die wherever you are.

Japan

Italy

and Israel

bunny suicides

The Book of Bunny Suicides: Little Fluffy Rabbits Who Just Don't Want To Live Any More is a bestselling collection of mostly one-image black comedy cartoons drawn by author Andy Riley. A friend gave it to me as Christmas/birthday present.

Some people may feel sorry for me because I only get one present for two special occassions. To be honest, I don't mind. I just think that at least I would always get something for christmas and my birthday no matter what, even if it's just a stupid little book about some depressed rabbits.

Here's one of my faves. I'll posting more by and by. Oh, just a disclaimer, I won't be held responsible for giving y'all ideas.

there will be blood

After more than a year, I'll be reading something other than Harry Potter. I haven't been "reading" for a while now. I know I should considering all the free time that I've been getting lately. I admit, I spend way too much time on the web and watching telly. And so before I completely run out of brain cells, it's time to feed me some food for the brain. Yesterday, I visited the local library to borrow some books. I picked up Clive Barker's Mister B. Gone and Ryu Murakami's Audition. Both of the horror genre and promise to deliver bloody (pun intended) good stories.

The plan is to read the two books in 3 weeks. Reading a chapter or two before I hit the sack and if I can, just before getting out of bed. The books should be interesting enough to keep me hooked. But with so much distractions around, even the best laid plans can go awry. So help me God.

What's your bedside reading?

hp 6

Like a true Potterhead, I watched the new Harry Potter film on its first screening day. Together with a few friends, avid Potter fans like me, we trooped to the cinema last night.

I've always treated the HP movies different from the books. Personally, I like the books better. Only because when you read the books, you let your imagination go wild and interpret the words and stories in whatever way you want it to be. But I like movies too. I'm a visual person, first and foremost. So it is a treat for me to watch the stunning details of other people's interpretation of the book.

Before we forget anything, The Harry Potter movies are films based on the novels. It says so in the credits of the film. Knowing this, we must accept that there will be stuff from the book that won't be in the movie. The newest installment is just that. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is the filmmakers' interpretation of the book. And I liked it.

Here are 15 things I thought when I sat the entire 153 minutes of the film.

1. The visuals are great; the special effects superb. This is the most picturesque HP film to date.

2. And the most magical film too. The details, omg! From Slughorn's wrecked house to Weasleys' wizarding shop, amazing!

3. They've all grown old. Too old to be 16 year- olds. I mean, is that Neville Longbottom? He looked like somebody else's dad.

4. Question: How tall is Draco Malfoy?

5. In the previous films, I didn't think the filmmakers understood what Quidditch is. In this one, however, they finally got it. And it's bout time because there is no Quidditch in the final book. The Quidditch scenes are probably the most enjoyable parts of the movie. Fast-paced and full of action, an exhilarating experience.

6. Lavender Brown is Stifler's mom.

7. Was the script written by a stand-up comic? There are more laughs here than the first 5 movies combined.

8. Answer: Draco Malfoy must be at least 10 feet tall.

9. The Siege of the Burrow is stunning. S-T-U-N-N-I-N-G!

10. Bellatrix Lestrange is wicked. Helena Bonham-Carter's performance is so good, it's evil.

11. Jim Broadbent shines as Professor Slughorn.

12. Note to Harry: Wear heels if you're standing next to Ginny.

13. After about an hour and a half, you'll slightly feel it to drag a bit.

14. If you didn't read the book, you wouldn't understand why he was called the Half-Blood Prince.

15. The battle of Hogwarts there wasn't. Bummer.

cat f(R)ight

A cat crawled into my bed the other night and scared the living daylights out of me.

I was in deep slumber when I was woken up by something that landed on my legs. Because I had no idea what it was and my room being pitch dark, it felt like the fright of my life. I frantically searched for the torch on my bedside table and turned it on whilst pointing on my bed only to find a cat. A big, fat and stupid, stupid cat!

Last night, I didn't sleep well because I kept on thinking that it'll come back with its posse to terrify me. A vision of 10 cats in my bed hissing and gawking at me was etched in my mind and I couldn't erase it.

Damn you stupid, big and fat cat!

tarrie cats from Abarat by Clive Barker

inipnako!

If not for the writer's strike last winter, we would be seeing the new HP installment next month. Instead, we have to content ourselves with another sneak peek of the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince film for it won't come out in theatres until summer of 2009.

Anyway, I'm re-reading the first 5 books again (sixth time, I think) and currently midway to the Goblet of Fire. I have until the 15th of November to finish the Order of the Phoenix because... I'll tell y'all about it soon. Basta, I can't wait for July!

bobby/fox

"Few will have the greatness to bend history itself; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total; all of those acts will be written in the history of this generation."

--- Robert F. Kennedy

Saw Bobby yesterday. Or a movie of which title should've been: Half of the Screen Actors Guild.

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Former Mexican President, Vicente Fox, was on Larry King Live the other day where he talked about his book and his life after the presidency. He also discussed various issues affecting Mexico particularly immigration. When asked which US presidential candidate he supports, he practically endorsed Hillary Clinton saying that a lady would be his choice. Adding that women candidates show their vision, their capacities, their emotions, their passion, their compassion.

And did you know that before becoming Mexico's president, he started as a truck delivery driver for Coca-Cola working his way up to become the company's chief executive in only ten years! Truly remarkable.

the end

It's the best book in the series, most definitely. The Harry Potter saga ends with the Deathly Hallows. I am both sad and happy, disappointed and relieved, wanting and fulfilled.

Thank you to JK Rowling for the plethora of emotions that she let me, and the many other Muggle readers, experience with these books. This last one, in particular, is overwhelming. And I mean that in a great way. It also showed how skilled, bright and talented author you are.

Again, many thanks. And yes, all is well but allow me to shed a few more tears one more time.

harry potter and the deathly hallows

It's gonna be a looong night.

harry potter and the order of the phoenix

In general, the new HP film didn't disappoint.

Alfonso Cuaron's HP and the Prisoner of Azkaban is still my favorite film adaptation but the Order of the Phoenix is my favorite book. Having said that, I think the filmmakers did a good job in the adaptation. I have a few complaints though. I wish they could've added more scenes about the Order after all that's where the story is based. I also think that Ron and Hermione's prefectorial duties should be in the film specially since in the first book, Ron saw himself as the Head Boy in the Mirror of Erised. And lastly, where is Quidditch?!?

Anyway, despite those complaints I enjoyed the film immensely. Here are my top ten highs of the movie:

1. Although she isn't exactly fat, ugly and toad-like, Imelda Staunton is perfect for the role. She masked Umbridge's cruel and devilish ways by her saccharine smiles, annoying giggles and rich pink wardrobe.

2. The DA sessions almost compensated for the lack of Qudditch. I particularly enjoyed the lesson on Patronuses.

3. The supporting cast is outstanding. Although some of them only appeared briefly they still impressed. Amongst the younger cast, the actress playing Luna Lovegood is the best. And if I may add, Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson aren't bad either.

4. The wandering (wand duelling) is awesome. Harry against Lucius and Sirius against Bella. Dumbledore and Voldemort's face off is spectacular. Fire and water, sand and wind. Breath-taking indeed.

5. Snippets from the previous films used are nostalgic. How nice to see Harry and the gang grow up.

6. Helena Bonham Carter's presence is amazing. Her scenes are very minimal yet she clearly made her mark as a sadistic, twisted and wicked witch.

7. The Weasley twins' fireworks are cool. And the W at the end of the scene is a very nice touch.

8. Aunt Petunia's outfit is hilarious.

9. Snape hitting Ron in the head is very funny.

10. Kudos to the new director for using some element from the previous films. Most particularly, Hedwig's theme, the Hogwarts grounds and the locking system that looks like the inside of a clock from HP3 .

sari-saring potpourri

There are 26 copies of The Order of The Phoenix in Maidstone Library. As of 1300 today, all of which had been checked out. I guess all of us wanted to re-read the book again (this is the fourth time I'm reading the book) before the new film comes out.

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If you are reading this in Manila, be sure to check out the Virgin Labfest at CCP. Some of the country's best in theatre will be participating in the said festival. One of them is a very good friend who will be appearing in "Three Sisters" directed by Jose Estrella.

Joel, break a leg! I have always admired your talent and your audacity to chase your dream. There is nothing more important than following your heart's desire and living your passion. All the best pare. Btw, goodluck on your impending career on cable tv. Naks, pa-autograph pag-uwi ko. hehehe

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Speaking of good friends, happy birthday to Remy and JR. Have a wicked day and remember: y'all will get it all, only not everything at the same time!

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And talking about dreams, my cousin Lala's PCIJ feature has been posted on the Ateneo website. Well-done! Please write more.

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Read this new commandment of the Philippine Catholic Church: Thou shalt not wear skimpy clothes to mass.

It's really alarming how some people consider going to church as an opportunity to display their new clothes. I remember one of my teachers in highschool telling our class: "Sa simbahan ang punta n'yo, hindi sa gimikan."

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For three years now, I've been telling myself (and those who cared to listen) that I'll be going to Wimbledon. This year, it looks like it's going to happen. My mate and I are planning to catch one of the men's semi-final matches at the All England Club next week. I hope it doesn't rain.

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Lastly, the missus shares her recipe for the best kare-kare here. I swear by the only blonde hair in my body (one and a half inches long on my left arm), it's really masarap!

pop (idol)

" Do you know what makes a man great?"

" If a man could be said to be loved by his son, then I think that man could be considered great." -- Big Fish by Daniel Wallace

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In the future, if by some fortunate accident I find myself with a little me; my only wish is that I could be at least half as great as you are.

Salamat, Tatay.

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To all fathers out there, have a lovely day!

**Sculpture by Gustav Vigeland. Photo captured by Woody Thrower.

on stage- the lord of the rings

I saw a preview performance of The Lord of the Rings at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London last Tuesday. Adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien's books, the production is described by Matthew Warchus - the show's director- as Shakespeare meets Cirque du Soleil. I dunno about the Shakespeare bit but it sure was an amazing show of special effects and acrobatics.

When it premiered in Toronto last year, the critics panned it. Apparently, a reviewer from the New York Times dismissed it as "larely incomprehensible" whilst the Toronto Star headlined its review “Why we’re bored of The Rings”.

It wasn't as terrible as I expected it to be. In fact, it's not even as bad as what the reviews say. Sure there are flaws. I saw a preview performance, remember? The show doesn't officially open until June 19th, so I expect some changes will be made before that.

People who saw and will see the show will most likely remember the production's sights rather than its sounds. The stage revolves 360 degrees clockwise or counter-clockwise, sometimes at the same time. It has sections that rise and lower to create ramps, mounds, cliffs and gullies as the action goes on. The lights design and special effects are very impressive.

In the opening scene, Bilbo is seen in the middle of the stage making his speech about his retirement. When it was time for him to say goodbye, he slipped the ring onto his finger and vanished right before our eyes. I was very impressed. Another impressive scene is Gandalf's confrontation with Balrog in the mines. The clever use of lights, shadows, wind, confetti and a gigantic red eyed monster made the scene rather spectacular.

Kudos to the costume designer for the wonderful costume pieces. I especially like The Dark Riders and the Ents garb. How they were designed to enhance the actors movements when they moved made the characters really believable.

I was a little disappointed by the actors. I found most performances flat. Especially that of Gandalf. It was weak and whenever he says something, I begin to feel sleepy. The actor who played Aragorn didn't deliver as well. He lacked presence and didn't appear or sound convincing at all to be the heir to the throne of the Kingdom of Gondor. Also, the love story between him and Arwen wasn't believable. In the end, this part of the story felt like a just scene filler. Used only to make the show even longer. Such a shame because Arwen has a good voice.

If there's an award for the best actor in this production, Gollum will win hands down. He first appeared in the beginning of Act II. And what an entrance! Look at the picture of the stage, Gollum climbed down head first from the left top corner of the stage. And when he reached the floor, he stood up and walked. I was watching him like a hawk, expecting him to release himself from wires (discreetly of course) but I didn't notice anything. He just walked. Until now, I'm still in awe! Distant second are Merrie and Pippen who were actually funny, sometimes. They elicited most of the show's few laughs.

The songs are okay, except for one. The road goes on, sung by Frodo and Sam, I think is the best song in the bunch. It's lovely! The melody is great. It talked about the hobbits' adventures and friendship. The show only featured a few scenes about Sam and Frodo's friendship so when they sang this song it was really wonderful. The actors' voices blended beautifully.

(The London version of this song is slightly longer.)

The Battle of Helm's Deep was good. The choreography, I think is very inspired. The elves were holding a some sort of a stick with a green cloth (Symblosing the Ents. Very clever!), using it as a weapon to fight the orcs.

There are sub-plots from the books and the films that didn't make it on stage, which is understandable. Yet despite the cuts, the show still lasted for a little over three hours. I'm going to be honest by saying that there are parts that really dragged and bored me. The show was divided into three acts. My favorite is the second act because it didn't feel rushed and because Lothlorien's just beautiful. The ending, however, is a bit of a downer. I was expecting a big finale, which the production failed to deliver.

Will I recommend this show for people to see? Absolutely! Because despite its flaws, it was still one helluva theatre experience.

look who's on tv tonight

The year of living dangerously is a movie based on a book by Christopher Koch. It tells the story of a group of foreign journalists in Jakarta during the overthrow of the rule of President Sukarno. Directed by Peter Weir, the movie was shot in the Philippines.

See Bembol Roco's name alongside Hollywood stars? Talk about stellar billing. Sweet, eh?

happy ending

As a HP fan, I am very pleased to know that the Potter trio will graduate together after all. The threesome finalised their deals to star in the last two screen versions of JK Rowling's bestselling books.

Just last week, rumors about the actress playing Hermione quitting the franchise were all over the internet. I'm sure, Potterites are glad that the rumors turned out to be false. So yeah, we can all heave our sighs of relief now.

hermione to quit hogwarts

The actress playing Hermione in the Harry Potter movie series has yet to sign a contract committing herself to the last two film installments. Rumor has it that she's quitting. Apparently, she's tired of being known as that girl from Harry Potter.

Poor little thing is clueless. No matter what other roles she tackles, she'll always be known as that girl from Harry Potter. The sad thing about portraying a well-loved character in movies is that unless you're a big moviestar, the character will always be attached to you. It's like a stigma. Anyway, as a fan of the franchise, I hope it's not true. I like her as Hermione. And I can't wait for the Order of the Phoenix to come out.