Waxing Lyrical

It's been a while since I dedicated an entry just to TV shows. I find it very relaxing so please bear with me. :)



I am a big fan of Ghost Hunters. Probably for at least 5-6 years now. It used to air regularly but local cable stopped screening it for ages, before season 7 recently reappeared on the Thrill channel ( which specializes in horror and suspense ).

There're a lot of paranormal investigator-type programmes out there, in the U.S. and U.K. alone. I've seen quite a few of them, but GH always wins hands down. ( Ghost Adventures is also pretty good, but I have no idea what happened after season 1 and haven't tried Google searching. )

GH was founded by Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson, who are - get this - plumbers by trade. A moonlighting gig earned them a network contract, and the rest is history.

The format for every episode is standard, but the entire team keeps things interesting. They go to the coolest places - Sharon Tate's home ( scene of the grisly Manson family murders ), sprawling forts / asylums, even a resort in Maine which reminded me of the film, The Shining - the team members all have different, dynamic personalities ( my favourite, Dave Tango, and his pal, Steve Gonsalves, like to investigate together and crack corny jokes which have me in stitches ), and they sometimes pick up the eeriest paranormal phenomena ( disembodied voices, weird sounds, video footage of strange occurrences ).

I'm not saying everyone will enjoy this sort of thing, but I can't get enough of it. :D

Something else I'm addicted to: The Chicago Code.

Originally aired in the U.S. in 2011, after which it was cancelled after 13 episodes. It only materialized on local cable a few weeks ago, and I think it is EXCELLENT. ( Capital letters necessary, believe me. )

I'm a bit of a conoisseur when it comes to American legal procedurals. NYPD Blue, Law & Order ( original plus all the spin-offs ), CSI, Dexter and The Practice, to name a few.

The Chicago Code is right up there with my top 3. The cast is impeccable - Jennifer Beals, Jason Clarke, Matt Lauria - the stories fascinating ( though I don't think I'll have the balls to step into the city ever ), and the action sequences nail-bitingly awesome.

Is Chicago really this frightening? Who cares, when it makes TV viewing so exciting? :)

Beals is superb as the new female police Superintendent - smart, tough, and really cunning. The tactics she employs to solve cases, battle sex discrimination and fight corruption are ingenious. I've learned a few things which I use at work heh!

Lauria is adorable. All boyish good looks and earnest innocence, but blossoming quickly, with sharp instincts of his own.



Clarke, however, is the star. An Australian actor whom I've already seen in Zero Dark Thirty ( caught my eye as one of the Navy Seals who stormed Bin Laden's hideout ) and a few other not-so-prominent films ( e.g. Texas Killing Fields ), he has my undivided attention every time he appears in Code.

As Jarek Wysocki ( talk about a creative character name! ), the Superintendent's ex-partner and best friend in the force, Clarke is perfect for the smart-mouthed, swaggering role. He nails the American accent, keeps me on the edge of my seat whenever a suspect is interrogated, and handles a gun like the best of Hollywood's action stars.

Not conventionally handsome looks-wise, but an incredible actor who oozes massive sex appeal.

Little wonder he's recently won roles in The Great Gatsby and the upcoming Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes. He's 43 but still single. Please stay that way. :)



And now, on to Hannibal. It took 20 years for Thomas Harris' Dr. Lecter to hit the small screen, and the result is quite spectacular.

While the first 4 episodes annoyed me slightly - solving serial murders within one episode, plot holes sprinkled here and there, a ludicrous story about abducted boys returning to kill their families - the show has improved significantly since episode 5.

If it had been any other series, I would've stopped watching after episode 3. But I'm a long-time fan of the Hannibal novels ( excluding Hannibal Rising, which is obscenely bad ), and love Hugh Dancy to bits, so this was a no-brainer.

Dancy's Will Graham differs greatly from Edward Norton's version in Red Dragon. Here, Graham is psychologically scarred - by the gory crimes he investigates and his unique ability to think like the killers he hunts. He's socially withdrawn, moody, unshaven and plagued by terrible nightmares. Which is where Lecter steps in, when Graham's boss requests his expertise in keeping poor Will from teetering off the edge.

Mads Mikkelsen is an inspired choice for this crucial role. Following in Anthony Hopkins' Oscar-winning footsteps is never an enviable task, but he does so very well indeed. It's refreshing to see Hannibal in a younger form, still enjoying his freedom and indulging in culinary activities. Part of the fun for the viewer is figuring out what's in those delectable French dishes he whips up. The first 5 episodes keep his true nature ambiguous, but episode 6 reveals him committing a murderous deed for the first time ( that we know of, that is ), and the cat-and-mouse game ramps up 10 notches.

I think Mikkelsen may soon outshine Hopkins as the quintessential Lecter. Perhaps a TV series format helps flesh out ( apologies for the pun ) the character better, making it easier for audiences to embrace him. But there's no denying Mikkelsen's charisma - he doesn't always do or say much, but every act and word, however simple, resonates. He speaks with a rather thick European accent, in an unnervingly calm manner, always assessing the other subject with great interest if s/he is worthy. I've grown very fond of Hannibal's therapy sessions with his unsuspecting patients. Look out for a simpering, bearded, chubby fellow ( I can't recall his name offhand ) whose clumsy attempts to befriend his psychiatrist is guaranteed to elicit pity and uneasiness. Will he be Hannibal's next main course? If he keeps irritating him, yes!

More importantly, we learn of Lecter's previous specialty before he switched to psychiatry - "ER surgeon". Oooh, thank you, scriptwriters! :D

There're plans for a 5-season run, so I'm rubbing my hands with glee. Keep up the good work. Don't take us for granted! :)



Dexter fans unite! Looking forward to season 8, which, as the picture aptly describes, signals the beginning of the end.

I'm sad to see one of my all-time favourite TV shows sing its swan song, but I'm sure it's going to be epic.

Check out the many YouTube promo clips, which are fantastic. Crime scene nastiness-wise, Hannibal is a worthy successor. Thank goodness - I need my gore fix every now and then. Oh wait, there's also True Blood. And Game Of Thrones. And The Following. And Bates Motel.

TV isn't suitable for kids anymore. I'm glad that phase of my life is long over. :D

Catching Up

After more than a month of silence, it is time to update the blog. :)



First, my recent trip to Sydney, which was primarily for Josh Groban's concert at the Opera House. However, I ended up getting much more than I bargained for!



The day I arrived - after severe sleep deprivation thanks to a mistake I made with my roster request and zero rest on the plane - I prepared for an evening of R&R, only to receive a message from a friend based in Sydney about the cast of Star Trek: Into Darkness being in the city at that very moment. A frantic Google search revealed details of their appearance at a red carpet premiere near my hotel, just an hour after I got the notification!

My mum, who travels with me regularly, wasn't too pleased with the last-minute change of plans, but was surprisingly game to accompany me. After a hurried shower and a series of Facebook message exchanges with staff from the George Street Cinema ( they're amazing :)), we had 30 minutes to find our way to the venue.

Weaving through rush hour human traffic was no joke, but George Street is easy to navigate and the directions I got were accurate. Sadly, by the time we arrived, all the spots in front of the theatre were gone, and we had to make do with places across the road. However, it turns out we managed to get a good look at the proceedings, and my camera's zoom lens helped a lot. :)

Despite not being in a prime position, I could see J.J. Abrams, Karl Urban, Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto very clearly. Initially miffed that security wouldn't let us through despite the sparse crowd along the red carpet, this proved important when I realized it actually enabled those of us across the street to see what was going on.

The experience was incredible! Sure, I've caught celebrities from varying distances and interacted with a few of them previously, but this is a major blockbuster, and I'm a huge fan of its director and stars.

J.J. Abrams - I've followed his career from the beginning, from TV series Felicity, Alias and Lost, to wonderful movies Mission: Impossible 3, Star Trek and Super 8. He is soooo tiny in person, but extremely personable in spite of his A-list status. Even when reporters' attention was fixed on Pine and Quinto, Abrams continued making the rounds among the fans, chatting, signing autographs and posing for pictures. This is the man who's going to direct Star Wars Episode VII!
I also recently realized I've now seen 2 key figures from Alias in person - in addition to creator Abrams, I also met Jennifer Garner at the stage door on Broadway in 2007.
Who's next? Bradley Cooper? :)

Karl Urban - not exactly A-list just yet, but I love his work in Lord Of The Rings, and most recently, was awe-struck by his turn in Dredd. The latter is sorely underrated - I personally think it's mind-blowingly excellent!
The very tall actor towered over everyone and arrived with his wife and children. Quite friendly, but not as sociable as Abrams. It was great to see him. :)

Chris Pine - everyone arrived separately, and Pine was third. Clearly the hottest crowd favourite, he elicited loud squeals of joy when he emerged from the car, and a bunch of Chinese girls were on cloud nine when they reached out for hugs and he happily obliged. That was probably the only moment I was tempted to climb the barricade in front of me and dash across the road heh! Security can drag me away after I get a hug. :D
I too have been following Pine's career for years, from as early as his role in The Princess Diaries 2. Yes, when he and Anne Hathaway were still acting in Disney fairy tale flicks.
He's done very well for himself since scoring the role of Kirk in Star Trek. And after seeing him treat fans with such affection, I hope he achieves even greater success in the coming years. Nice chap. And equally handsome in person. :)

Zachary Quinto - the last to step onto the red carpet, and significantly more subdued than Pine. Didn't hug anyone, but posed for photos with an arm gently placed on each fan's back, flashing a slightly tight smile. I'm not too familiar with his work, having only watched him sporadically in Heroes, and films-wise, in Star Trek and Margin Call. YouTube clips of interviews reveal a strong command of the English language for sure ( "propinquity", anyone? ), but I'm particularly pleased about meeting both halves of a Hollywood couple ( Quinto's boyfriend is actor Jonathan Groff, whom I chatted with after an off-Broadway play in 2011 ).
Interesting how different they are in terms of fan treatment. Groff is unbelievably friendly, loves to converse and gave me the best hug ever. Maybe Quinto warms up under the right conditions. Who knows, if I'd said something he liked, maybe he would've hugged me too. :)




Day 2 was spent recovering from Day 1's excitement! A little bit of shopping after breakfast, then a short rest before heading to the Opera House.

It was Josh Groban's 2nd performance during his stopover in Sydney, and the audience comprised a large number of middle-aged and elderly people, with a smattering of younger fans. It was also the first time I'd ever attended a show which actually started early! Though scheduled to begin at 8pm, Josh and his band appeared on stage 2 minutes before that, without any fanfare, to everyone's delight.

The next 100 minutes were totally awesome! Not only did the repertoire feature songs from his latest release, All That Echoes, he also included popular hits from earlier albums ( his self-titled debut and follow-up, Awake ).

Selections from the former sent me into the stratosphere! Alejate, Alla Luce del Sole, Vincent ( Starry Starry Night ) and To Where You Are are among my all-time favourites, and he sang them flawlessly.

To Where You Are holds special meaning for me because it was mentioned by the fiancee of a young doctor who succumbed to SARS during the 2003 outbreak. She reached out to me on this very blog and we later corresponded via email. The song brought her great comfort and will always be a significant part of that era. When Josh sang it that night, I was overwhelmed with emotion; I swear I could feel my heart breaking all over again.

Aside from the heavenly music, Josh's humour also shone through. Famous for his witty and often corny jokes, the concert hall regularly erupted in uproarious laughter. At one point, he invited a lady in the front row to go on stage and sing a duet ( it was The Prayer ). She did an amazing job, and Josh's attempt to upstage her had us all in stitches. ( I have it on video too, what a treat! :))

Later, he hopped down and ran to the back of the hall to give someone his drumstick. Lucky girl! :D

I wish the night could've gone on forever, but it had to end sometime. When I got to the stage door, the place was swarming with around 200 fans, and Josh was only able to stay for about 10 minutes, signing autographs for those closest to him. Unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to meet him, but it was an unforgettable experience nonetheless, and I hope another opportunity will present itself one day in the not too distant future.

Most importantly, please don't bypass Singapore again argh!

On Day 3, we took in the annual ANZAC Day parade - a military extravaganza which we had no idea about until the day before. We also took a ferry ride to Manly. If there's time, perhaps I'll write more and post pictures in a subsequent entry, but I'd like to say a special thank-you to all the wonderful Australians we met on this trip! Strangers offered directions on the street and opened doors; drivers always let us cross the street even though it was their right of way; almost everyone we met was incredibly gracious and kind.

The locals were nice the last time we visited in 2009, but have improved even more 4 years later. Singaporeans have much to learn from other countries. Coming home is such a rude awakening. :(




Next, I need to send some love to Robert Downey, Jr. :)

I've been a fan for decades now, since his heyday in Chaplin, Chances Are and Only You. My support did not wane during his up-and-down periods, and I was hopeful about his comeback during a well-received stint on Ally McBeal.

Regardless of his trials and tribulations, I couldn't be happier when he slowly returned to prime form, notably in Zodiac, followed by Iron Man, which sealed his status as a profitable leading man.

Iron Man 2 was equally terrific, but the franchise scales new heights with Part 3. Don't think I've been this thrilled since Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol!

It's always tough to follow 2 super-successful films, but everything came together perfectly here. The mind-blowing special effects are present, but relatively toned down compared to its predecessor. Still, the plot and subplots move along efficiently, and nothing feels gimmicky. Stripping Tony Stark of his powerful suit is pure genius, and a detour to a sleepy town, with Stark befriending a precocious boy and wreaking havoc on unsuspecting inhabitants, is one of the movie's best highlights.

That, and a certain sky-diving sequence, minus parachutes!

Also, Guy Pearce has never looked better, WOW! :)

My only grouse - a small one - is the purpose of the female characters. Rebecca Hall's Maya Hansen has a pseudo-pivotal role that doesn't optimize her talent, while Gwyneth Paltrow's Pepper Potts is suddenly transformed into a super-powered fighting mutant. Err, okay...

Small wonder Iron Man 3 is raking in hundreds of millions at domestic and international box offices. I'll bet the studio is doing everything it can to keep RDJ in the franchise, because who else can play Tony Stark so perfectly? Stay on for at least Part 4, yes? :)




Someone else worth raving about: local actor Eden Ang.

I saw him last February in Pangdemonium's Spring Awakening, and more recently, in Rabbit Hole.

He played polar opposites in both productions - in the former, he was a mohawked rebel who belted rock songs; in the latter, he played a wholesome schoolboy trying to make amends for a tragic accident.

I thought he was remarkable in Rabbit Hole, despite having a relatively small role. Whenever he was on stage, I couldn't look anywhere else, and a scene he shares with Janice Koh is absolutely gut-wrenching.

He also reminds me of Joseph Gordon-Levitt. A LOT. That's a huge compliment, by the way. :)

Here's my review.




Last but not least, another upcoming trip overseas, also to catch a show which will not come to Singapore.

The main draw is Ramin Karimloo, a theatre star I've hoped to see since 2011. Purchasing tickets for shows in Japan is a horrible nightmare, and I managed to do so only because a friend who lives in Tokyo kindly offered to help. I initially gave up when 2 websites wouldn't allow seat selection, but for some strange reason, a 3rd site popped up and offered a great location.

I hope attending the show won't present any complications! Also crossing my fingers that I'll be able to meet the cast - a friend who knows Lea Salonga personally may be able to help. :)


Was planning to review Hannibal, but perhaps in the next entry.

March!

Once again, I've been neglecting this blog, concentrating recent writing efforts on Just Watch Lah.

The past few weeks have felt like a whirlwind at times, with 4 shows in 3 weeks, and more to come.

Saw Adam Lambert in concert on the 8th, at the Star Performing Arts Centre. He played to a packed theatre, but sadly, the show ended abruptly after 80 minutes and a single encore, just as everyone was getting really excited.

In spite of this rather irritating turn of events, I enjoyed myself immensely. The set list was fabulous, featuring many of Adam's chart-topping hits, which he sang flawlessly.

Many songs from his latest album, Trespassing, were featured, of course. My personal favourite: Shady, which had everyone bopping and singing along to with great enthusiasm. I haven't danced quite like this since Robbie Williams' scream-fest of a gig at the Indoor Stadium 10 years ago! :)

No idea what happened at the end when Adam left the stage, leaving his band looking confused for a moment.

Will he return to Singapore in the future? If he does, I'm definitely watching him again. But the organizers really have to do whatever it takes to make him happy. It isn't right to pay this much for only 80 minutes!




2 days later, I caught The Exchange at a little recital studio at the Aliwal Arts Centre.

It is a VERY ulu place, with a seating capacity of only 100.

But it was such a &^%*$#@ good show! :D

Here's my review. Knock yourself out!

The group headed back to Hong Kong after their stop here, and have been making huge waves this past fortnight, both at the a cappella festival and at loads of high schools.

I sent them a Facebook message while they were in Singapore, suggesting they perform at schools to increase exposure. No idea if they actually decided to follow my advice, but if they did, I'm feeling quite proud of myself. :)

I've emailed people at the Esplanade to consider organizing a show for these guys, so let's hope that effort is successful. I absolutely NEED to see them again - they are AWESOME!




Le Noir was on the 14th. The acts aren't earth-shattering, but I was very moved by the music and the almost ethereal beauty of the performers. I haven't seen so many gorgeous people in one spot since Paris' Moulin Rouge in 2010!

My mum and I had front row seats, and the performers strolled through the aisles on multiple occasions, which was fantastic. A young male skater is, hands down, the best-looking of the group, and my favourite act is a scary balancing routine featuring tiers of cylinders. It defies the laws of physics on so many levels, I had to avert my eyes and hold my breath for most of the segment. Worse than a horror film, but what an adrenaline rush! :)




On the 21st, I saw the Singapore Repertory Theatre's Venus In Fur, reviewed here.

It was a good performance, but didn't match my expectations in terms of heat. Not sure if things have improved since then, but based on my experience with other shows, I suspect they will.

There lies the conflict in writing reviews - you see shows early to stay current, but may end up with a diluted product; see them later and be rewarded with something better, but by the time your critique hits the Net, the run is practically over.

It's a fine balancing act, so I try to toggle between both, sometimes by choice, sometimes out of necessity ( e.g. if I'm overseas or have other more important commitments ).

But one of the biggest pleasures I get from my moonlighting gig is establishing valuable relationships with theatre industry figures, who are incredibly generous with their time and assistance. They arrange interviews with the cast and director, invite you to meet-and-greets or help you get autographs, etc.

My support for local theatre companies spiked only a few years ago, but the experience has been extremely rewarding in many ways. Their tireless efforts have resulted in collaborations with world-renowned troupes like the Royal Shakespeare Company and The Bridge Project, bringing stars like Ian McKellan, Rebecca Hall, Ethan Hawke, Lea Salonga and Kevin Spacey to our shores.

In addition, Pangdemonium! wows with their edgy choices, expert direction and nurturing of young talent. Spring Awakening easily rivals the Broadway productions I've seen, which is amazing!

I encourage anyone who's able and willing to make a regular donation to a local theatre company of your choice. If that isn't your thing, then at least attend the shows. They are terrific. :)




Finally got around to watching this, after Ben Affleck's triumphant win at the Oscars.

I've been a fan of his work for many years, from his early films ( School Ties, Chasing Amy, Good Will Hunting ), through the duds ( Daredevil, Paycheck, Gigli ) and his directorial efforts ( Gone Baby Gone, The Town and Argo ).

He has always struck me as highly intelligent, and I couldn't be happier that he managed to bounce back after a period of missteps ( Bennifer, anyone? ). He's blessed with a beautiful family and demonstrates great maturity as a director, choosing source material that is controversial, thought-provoking and, most importantly, inspiring.

Argo is expertly paced, with understated yet poignant performances from the entire cast. Affleck's films always explore the intricacies of human nature, and Argo celebrates the selfless contributions of the Central Intelligence Agency's personnel, many of whom risk their lives for complete strangers, fighting wars behind the scenes while others take credit for their work.

Affleck touched me deeply with his portrayal of Tony Mendez, the CIA officer who orchestrated the daring rescue. I have no idea how close it is to the truth, but for the purpose of the movie, I consider this his best role yet. The trials and tribulations he endured over the years have transformed him into an accomplished actor and director, and I applaud his perseverance and courage.

Congratulations, Ben, on your many well-deserved accolades! :D




Another film very much worth mentioning is Love Never Dies, which I watched on cable a few days ago.

Recorded during a stage performance at Melbourne's Regent Theatre, it stars Ben Lewis as the Phantom, and Anna O'Byrne as Christine Daae.

I actually had a copy of this for about a year, but never got round to viewing it because I kept reading about the negative reviews it received when it debuted at the West End ( with Ramin Karimloo and Sierra Boggess ).

Imagine my surprise when I fell in love with the musical immediately. While I agree the plot is a little ludicrous - the finale MUST be altered! - the songs are exquisite, and the cast absolutely fabulous.

The Australian actors are superb, with Lewis and O'Byrne captivating me completely. I am now hopelessly addicted to the soundtrack!




Before signing off, I must include Josh Groban.

After being a fan for 12 years, I have decided to take a flight to catch him in concert for the very first time.

It's a gig at the Sydney Opera House, and promises to be an awesome show. I last visited the venue in 2009 during a conference trip, and recall watching the orchestra rehearse when the guide brought us on a tour.

The theatre is HUGE. And sooo grand. I managed to book 6th row centre seats - it's going to be marvelous! :D


Watching Kumar on Thursday. Check Just Watch Lah for my review.

As Kevin Spacey signed in his autograph: Go to more theatre!




Before I sign off, a special mention about Hannibal, which will premiere in the U.S. on 4th April.

The trailers are gruesome and quite terrifying, and the cast is top-notch. I love Hugh Dancy, and Mads Mikkelsen appears to suit his role as Dr. Lecter pretty well. I can't wait!

Till next time... :)

House Of Cards

It's been a long while since I've loved a TV series this much. The last time was probably in late 2006 or early 2007, when I first encountered Dexter - a show so dark and twisted I fell in love with it instantly and haven't found anything else quite as worthy after 6 years.

Now, I am happy to report that a new champion has been crowned. :)

House Of Cards, an American update of the BBC series, gained widespread attention last year, no doubt because of the many famous names attached to the project. David Fincher ( director of Se7en, Fight Club, Zodiac, The Social Network ), Kevin Spacey ( a two-time Oscar winner who's starred in Se7en, American Beauty, The Usual Suspects ) and Dana Brunetti ( producer of The Social Network and the upcoming 50 Shades Of Grey film ) caused quite a bit of media frenzy, and Netflix outbid other networks to clinch the deal for exclusive access on its online subscription service.

Fortunately for those of us who can't use Netflix - note: not because we don't want to, but because Netflix's global reach isn't extensive enough - there're other ways to get our hands on the episodes, and even though I apologize for technically poaching, if Netflix would consider adding Singapore to its list, I would gladly pay.

Anyway, thank you to whoever uploaded the files on the Internet. I, for one, greatly appreciate it!

On to the show itself. Without revealing spoilers, HOC focuses on Congressman Frank Underwood ( Spacey ), who plots and schemes through a variety of complicated situations in his quest for power. Along the way, he is aided by his wife ( Claire ) his chief of staff ( Doug Stamper ) and a rookie reporter ( Zoe Barnes ). A young politician ( Peter Russo ) unwittingly becomes a pawn in Frank's game, and a series of dramatic events culminates in a cliffhanger which will have you salivating till the season 2 premiere.

To be honest, I had no idea what to expect. My interest stemmed mainly from the fact that Kevin Spacey has been at the top of my favourite actors list for close to 20 years now, since my earliest memory of him is from Se7en (1995), in which he played vicious serial killer John Doe. As far as political dramas go, I've never found them particularly appealing, giving the likes of The West Wing, Commander-In-Chief, Scandal and Political Animals a complete miss.

Aside from featuring Spacey, however, HOC also arrives at the right time in my life. If it had been 5 or 10 years earlier, I probably would've given up after a few episodes. The cast is of a substantial size, the jargon formidable, and the pace whiplash-inducing. Blink and you're sure to miss something important. This is not a programme you can leave running while you take a piss, make some coffee or multi-task. Your full, undivided attention is demanded.

But the payoff is huge. :)

The pilot's opening scene - where Frank decides the fate of a neighbour's injured dog - sets the tone for what's to come. Most strong-willed, ambitious characters are ruthless and unscrupulous to a certain degree ( and believe me, I've met my fair share in occupational and personal capacities ), but Frank practically revels in his viciousness. Perhaps the frequent asides to the camera / viewer magnifies this attribute further. It transforms you from bystander to confidante, and everything changes.

This tactic bears some similarity to Dexter, in which the protagonist's thoughts function as narrative. But compared to Michael C. Hall's serious ( almost ominous ) delivery, Spacey's drips with unabashed glee.

That sadistic streak is significantly augmented by the numerous classic quotes, a few of which can be traced to the source - a series of novels by Michael Dobbs. I attempted a Google search for an exhaustive list, and Twitter has been surprisingly generous. No idea who's running this account, but the spiritual resemblance is downright spooky. :)

Writer Beau Willimon, who developed HOC for an American audience, is most well-known for his play, Farragut North, which eventually became a critically acclaimed film ( The Ides Of March, starring George Clooney and Ryan Gosling ).

I can't give an accurate estimate of how many original quotes he penned for HOC, but I'm guessing maybe 80%?

They form an essential part of my enjoyment ( and perhaps for millions of others as well ).

A few examples:

"I love that woman. I love her more than sharks love blood." ( comment about his wife, Claire )

"We'll cleave you from the herd, and watch you die in the wilderness."

"Sometimes the only way to gain your superior's respect is to defy him."

"He doesn't measure his wealth in private jets but in purchased souls."

Willimon's script is pure genius. Intelligent, insightful and challenging, yet also incredibly witty. Many of the observations made can be applied to our own lives and the people we know. But its primary targets - politicians and those close to them - are ripped to shreds. Don't tell me you don't love it, even a little bit. :)

Granted, I live in a country that is tiny compared to most developed nations. Our political system is still monopolized by a single party, and is nowhere as convoluted as the United States'. Still, the thirst for power is universal, and anyone who puts politicians on a pedestal is in serious need of therapy. I personally consider it one of the dirtiest professions in existence. Don't be fooled by the optimistic campaign slogans and feel-good propaganda. Behind the seemingly noble intentions and wholesome images lie Machiavellian plots and sex-soaked secrets. Jokes about lawyers talk about scraping the bottom of the barrel. Politics lies a few rungs below that.

Next, the superb cast, which is virtually perfect. Robin Wright's Claire is an enigma - Frank's loyal partner-in-crime but also defiantly unpredictable when it matters most.
Frank may be a master manipulator, but Claire lies beyond his charms and even outsmarts him on a few occasions. Their marriage is unconventional by political standards, and as the series reaches its climactic finale, you shudder at the thought of these two individuals succeeding in their evil deeds.

Another memorable performance comes from Corey Stoll ( Russo ). Initially a more peripheral role, it builds up steadily, culminating in an event which will shake you to the core. Spacey's sarcastic Underwood is designed to steal the spotlight, but Stoll's Russo is a gut-wrenching portrait of spiraling self-destruction, caused in large part by forces he can't control. A sacrificial lamb in Underwood's cruel scheme, his personal struggles are manipulated in the most evil ways, with devastating results. Just when you expect him to crumble and end it all, he puts up a fight that prompts a move to silence him forever.

For me, it was an unexpected twist in the tale, and utterly heart-breaking. Definitely one of television's most memorable storylines. And what a tour de force performance from Stoll, bravo!

Michael Kelly, who plays Underwood's chief of staff, Doug Stamper, is also a favourite. He looks very familiar, though his filmography doesn't strike any major chords. However, this role definitely puts him front and centre on my radar! Though a quiet character who shuns showboating, Stamper plays an integral part in Underwood's plan, and carries out orders with cold efficiency. His moments of humanity aren't entirely surprising, given the complexity of Willimon's writing, but the source of his weakness threw me off completely and added another thick layer to the conspiracy. Fantastic. :)

Which leaves spunky reporter Zoe Barnes, played by Kate Mara. I'm sure she has a lot of fans out there, but I find her extremely annoying. Was it Willimon or Mara's intention? I think it's a case of miscasting. Mara's looks are too child-like, her voice too shrill and nasal. I picture Underwood gravitating towards someone more sultry. Zoe may be young, but she's got to be intriguing enough to cast a spell over a powerful congressman. Mara simulates an orgasm quite convincingly, but the heat is clearly absent. I don't think Spacey plays any part in the chemistry equation. Just watch him in American Beauty, The Life Of David Gale and Pay It Forward - he practically scorches the screen during the seduction scenes.

Which brings me to the star of the series - Spacey himself. Long-time readers are aware of my great respect and admiration for the man and his work. Swimming With Sharks' Buddy Ackerman was his best performance for 2 decades, until HOC came along. It is the perfect role for him, and no-one else could've played it any better. He counts President Bill Clinton as a close friend, and I think that adds significantly to his confident portrayal of a high-ranking congressman. Did a recent stint as Richard III add swagger to his performance? In my opinion, yes. This isn't the first larger-than-life role he's taken on, but I've never seen him relish it so passionately before. It is a massive treat for loyal fans, and a great showcase of unparalleled talent for many newbies.

I always marvel at how lucky I am to have met him twice, and found him immensely gracious both times. He also recently cleared a stack of fan mail at The Old Vic Theatre, and sent me a batch of DVD covers I posted 3-4 years ago, all autographed with personal messages, enclosed with a separate signed photo. Thank you, sir! :)

This review isn't exhaustive, and highlights only my main impressions of the show. If I had to pick another political series which matches HOC's malicious spirit, it would be Boss, a short-lived series about a corrupted Chicago mayor ( Kelsey Grammer ) and his savvy crew of spin doctors. Boss was cancelled after 2 seasons, but HOC should enjoy a longer run with Spacey and Willimon at the helm.

I'm just glad that there's something to keep me happy when Dexter ends after season 8.

HOC scores a perfect 10! I can't wait for season 2 to start. :D

Bye Bye Baby...

As the dust finally settles, the cast and crew of Jersey Boys (South Africa ) are now grabbing a breather before the show's early April run in Johannesburg.

Most who saw the musical had only the best things to say about it - "awesome!", "fantastic!", "amazing!" - and once again, hearty congratulations to Showtime and Base Entertainment Asia for a job well done!

Sometime last year, I filled out an online survey form emailed by Base Entertainment ( they captured my address because I attended an Andrew Lloyd Webber tribute concert previously ). I was asked a number of things, like which musicals I'd watched overseas and locally, but one question which really stood out is this: among the list of 10 shows, which would you like to see in Singapore most? I vaguely recall Spring Awakening and maybe Chicago in the mix, but without any hesitation at all, I checked the box for Jersey Boys.

Never in a million years did I think it would ever become a reality. After The Lion King, Wicked, A Chorus Line and Annie - Australian versions which I avoided - I was still waiting for the right opportunity to catch a full-scale musical at the Marina Bay Sands. And even though I wanted to watch Jersey Boys pretty badly, the only reason I held back until a week into the run proper was fear - of having a perfect memory marred, of not being able to get past the Broadway original's impossibly high standard and the original cast recording which I know like the back of my hand.

Fortunately, I did get past them, thanks in large part to my emed resident, whose opinions I value and trust. Turns out she was right on the money - I was extremely impressed with what I saw and heard. :D

But aside from the show itself, 5 key people have helped make the entire experience a truly special one. With events like these, meeting the fans is practically a duty you can't afford to shirk from. Numerous Tony winners on Broadway make it a point to sign autographs and pose for pictures at the stage door after every performance, to show their appreciation for the audience's support.

In early 2008, a few months after I missed "the original Frankie Valli", John Lloyd Young, post-performance, I wrote him a short letter saying how much I enjoyed the show, and was shocked to receive a personal reply, including 2 autographed photos. When I sent a thank-you note in return, he reciprocated with a second reply a few weeks later. I think the exchange could've gone on for ages, but decided to give him some space. Very reluctantly, might I add. :)

I mention this because it's an example of how certain actors go far beyond what anyone expects, and it stays with you forever. Like Jonathan Groff, who chatted with fans for more than 30 minutes after a matinee performance, and gave me not only a beautifully posed picture, but a whopper of a hug as well.
And Kevin Spacey, who thrilled and inspired my cousin's teenage daughter immensely when he penned a personal message for her in a Richard III programme, and was unbelievably gracious to both of us.

We sometimes set the bar so high, we easily forget how tough it is on the actors themselves.

Take this South African production. Not only were they joining an international pedigree franchise ( stressful! ), they were debuting it in an Asian country ( Frankie who? ). While predecessors like The Lion King, etc, appeal to a wide audience and feature eye-popping set designs to please the crowds, Jersey Boys relies heavily on musicality and the strength of its leads.

The absence of a massive supporting cast makes each performance a challenging and exhausting one. The musical moves at an insane pace, with a never-ending parade of high-energy numbers stuffed between tense dramatic scenes. It's got to be one of the hardest jobs ever. Doing it far from the comforts of home and family no doubt only adds to the fatigue.

Which is precisely why this particular Jersey Boys experience illustrates how far the actors' dedication goes. Even before I first met them in person, Daniel Buys ( who plays Tommy DeVito ) accepted my Facebook friend request and sent me directions to the stage door. ( Yolanda Kimber, the company manager, did the same through the JerseyBoysSA FB page. )

When my group arrived, I was completely shocked to see all 4 actors waiting for us. Grant Almirall ( Frankie Valli ) revealed that they'd come out together specially to meet us, and Yolanda was right there with them as well.

The guys were a huge pleasure to talk to, signing beautiful autographs and expressing their appreciation for our support. That was great! I thought. Am going to watch it again, who knows if we'll get to talk to them once more?

The next day, 2 of the other gentlemen - Kenneth Meyer ( Bob Gaudio ) and Emmanuel Castis ( Nick Massi ) - also accepted my friend requests. Not long after, Yolanda agreed to arrange an interview for a theatre blog I contribute to. And over the past month or so, the actors corresponded with me regularly about the show and other assorted subjects. When they had to work through the Christmas and New Year holidays, I sent them festive greetings. When Grant wasn't well and couldn't perform for a few nights, I wished him a swift recovery. It wasn't much, of course, but I hope it helped in some small way.

When I finally saw the show a second time, I was lucky enough to encounter them again at a formal meet-and-greet in the foyer. They all looked gorgeous in their sharp suits, but I do kinda miss the T-shirts, bermudas and flip-flops a little heh!

I brought a few tokens of appreciation to thank them for doing the interview, but even before I got to say anything, Daniel and Emmanuel came forward and hugged me - something I didn't expect at all. ( Actually, I stuck out my hand first, earning an annoyed "Wha...?" look from Daniel. Oops, my mistake! :)) Grant and Kenneth followed, and the moment felt like a reunion of long-lost friends rather than a fan merely meeting the cast.

They were also incredibly sweet to my mum, who completely adores them. Winning her approval is not an easy thing to do! :)

I've gone through enough meet-and-greets to know that this one was really off the charts. I am not a member of the press, I'm not a big-time sponsor, I'd only met them once before, but none of this mattered. I was absolutely stunned.

Aside from audience members, they also posed with a horde of super-excited ushers, which brought a huge smile to my face. And it appears the stage door ambush has caught on with many, as evidenced by the numerous photos posted by blissed-out fans on their Facebook pages. Excellent, keep 'em coming! :D

Even after that second evening, the guys wrote back to thank me for the gifts and cards. Kenneth, who's always been the quietest of the group, practically floored me when he responded to a Facebook post on my personal page, saying he would miss Singapore as much as we miss them. Awwww. :)

When I first saw Jersey Boys in New York more than 5 years ago, I never thought it would ever make it to Singapore. When it did, I never imagined getting personally involved with it in any way.

What's transpired over the past 6 weeks will always have a special place in my heart. I love this musical so much, and every single piece of memorabilia I own ( both then and now ) is a treasure.

But most of all, I will never forget these 5 wonderful people from Jersey Boys ( South Africa ), who didn't just go through the motions of publicity like most would, but embraced all their Singaporean fans like family.

South Africa wasn't high on my list of must-sees before, but now it's definitely in the top 3!

Yolanda, Grant, Daniel, Kenneth and Emmanuel - thank you so much for everything. I eagerly await the tornado of hysteria Jersey Boys will generate on the rest of its regional tour! God bless, and hope we'll meet again one day! :)

Hello, 2013!

The new year is upon us! :)

As awards season descends, I've been loading up on the major nominees, among which Zero Dark Thirty sits prominently.

Famously referred to as The Hunt For Osama Bin Laden, the film is one slow cooker, clocking in at 2-plus hours, with numerous scenes of lengthy interrogations and CIA agents huddled in discussion in dim conference rooms.

I found it profoundly difficult to follow at times, no thanks to muffled dialogue and fleeting character development where the terrorists are concerned. The 10-year timeline adds to the rush - how many pages of script can you afford when there's so much material to cover?

Compared to director Kathryn Bigelow's previous offering, The Hurt Locker, ZDT is far less entertaining but also much more important. Ask yourself where you were when you first heard about the 9/11 attacks and I guarantee you will recall every detail without hesitation. A tragedy of such horrific proportions permeates our consciousness whether we allow it to or not. Rest assured that emotions will run high at some point, and that the final 30 minutes are extremely satisfying.

Buoyed by a top-notch cast - Jessica Chastain, Joel Edgerton, Mark Strong - the film features memorable performances, though IMHO, Chastain's best work to date is the sorely overlooked The Debt.

Keep an eye out for a standout scene with Strong bellowing at his colleagues and banging a table. Edgerton, on the other hand, shines every time he's on screen.

Disputes about accuracy aside, ZDT highlights the dedication of America's covert agents and the epic task they undertook to secure justice for the innocent thousands who perished that fateful day.

A top awards contender, this also focuses on a subject which is dear to my heart. Abraham Lincoln is widely regarded as America's greatest president, and Steven Spielberg's biopic chooses a key period in his life - i.e. the passing of the 13th Amendment to abolish slavery in the United States.

Like ZDT ( and many recent movies ranging from Skyfall to The Hobbit ), Lincoln lasts a bladder-bursting 2 hours and 40 minutes, with numerous scenes of subdued conversation. The complexity of Washington politics is lost on me, but again, the illustrious cast makes the journey highly enjoyable.

Daniel Day-Lewis embraces his role wholeheartedly, earning well-deserved accolades from critics and film industry colleagues. However, his tour de force performance thus far was in There Will Be Blood. Lincoln is, without a doubt, a great character, but Daniel Plainview generated much more from the audience - a potent mixture of disgust, pity and admiration.

All bets are on Day-Lewis to win his third Oscar. Do you agree?

Next, a few highly anticipated TV shows which will premiere soon.

The Following airs in the US next Monday.

Hannibal will debut in March.

And the incredibly hot Jonathan Rhys Meyers will play Dracula in a revamped version of Stoker's timeless tale. Do not fret - the story may deviate from the original, but the setting remains in the correct era.

Other exciting events in the near future:

1) Adam Lambert's concert on 8 March
2) Venus In Fur, staged by the Singapore Repertory Theatre
3) Kumar's annual standup gig at the Esplanade
4) Dirty Dancing at the Marina Bay Sands
5) Rabbit Hole, Next To Normal and Gruesome Playground Injuries by Pangdemonium!

Details can be found at Just Watch Lah.

If you previously weren't a big fan of local theatre, 2013 is the year to change that!

Till next time... :)

Adios, 2012!

As the year draws to a close - and I still have a pulse despite all the doomsday predictions - it is time to do my annual review of the past 12 months, as I look forward to 2013.

It's been a good one for sure, though not as spectacular as 2011, which featured once-in-a-lifetime experiences with Kevin Spacey and David Foster, as well as a spectacular week of Broadway shows.

Still, 2012 was equally exciting in many ways, and here's a summary of the highlights:

Without a doubt, the best thing that happened to me this year is Jersey Boys! If you haven't bought tickets yet, PLEASE don't delay any further. This South African production is top-notch, with many who've seen the Broadway version reporting that they're equally impressed by this cast.

If you need another nudge, how about the fact that the 4 leads are unbelievably nice chaps? I've got an interview lined up, so keep your eyes peeled. :)

A close second is Pangdemonium's Spring Awakening, which I reviewed in February. It's bloody brilliant!

In third place, God Of Carnage.

Kudos in particular to Adrian Pang, whose production company staged Spring, and who also starred in GOC. I'm a huge fan. :)


The concert scene was jam-packed this year, and I was ecstatic when the opportunity to catch 2 of my favourite musicians came up. However, both gigs failed to live up to expectations.

Jason Mraz sang flawlessly at The Meadow, but an emotional connection with the audience was sorely missing. I don't know what the underlying reasons may be, but it came nowhere close to his power-packed 2009 performance at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, and is way below his mind-blowing Singapore debut at the Esplanade in 2006.

I'm always grateful when he returns to our shores, but if the organizers stick him at The Meadow again next time, I'm going to have to give it a miss. So let's hope that doesn't happen!

Sting's Indoor Stadium concert on 13 December fared no better, personally speaking. Again, I am a long-time fan of his music, and had seen him twice previously, but that night, the audience was absolutely intolerable! I won't go into specifics, but in a nutshell, it was a nightmare.

Sting's vocals were impeccable, as always, and his band was super-slick. Sadly, the repertoire was a rehash of old hits, without much variation from his studio recordings or prior live renditions.

The emotional tone was also lacking, resulting in a conveyor belt-like feel to the proceedings. There's no question about his technical prowess and amazing stamina ( 22 songs in a row, no intermission! ), but I was really hoping for an acoustic set, as suggested by the tagline "Back To Bass".

David Foster's show was much more enjoyable in terms of audience behaviour and artistic performance. I had a such a great time! His annual birthday celebrations and gigs in Singapore have become a tradition, and I fervently hope he will bring either Josh Groban, Chris Mann or Clay Aiken in 2013.

No luck with formal meet and greets 3 years in a row. I hope to change that soon. :)

And speaking of Chris Mann, he is my favourite new artist for 2012! Loved him on The Voice season 2, and downloaded digital versions of his new albums the minute they became available.

By the way, he has 2 releases, not one. He may have come in 4th, but he is clearly doing extremely well. Congratulations, Chris, you deserve it!

I've listened to Roads, and am now moving on to Home For Christmas. Both are overflowing with beautiful tracks, mostly covers, but interpreted in the most inspiring ways, with that all-important ingredient - Chris' gorgeous voice.

I can't quite describe how wonderful he is, only that every note he sings puts a huge smile on my face. I can listen to this man forever. :)


2012 was also a fantastic year for movies. I've lost count of just how many there were, but my personal top 3 are Life Of Pi, The Hobbit and The Bourne Legacy.

p.s. I love Skyfall, but Jeremy Renner is hotter than Daniel Craig. It's true. :)

Click on the individual titles to read my film reviews.

Les Miserables may very well displace one of them. Am looking forward to watching it at the cineplex!


Next, TV shows.

Hands down, Suits is the champion. Granted, season 1 was only screened in Singapore in May, a year after it debuted in the U.S. But it... is... AWESOME. :D

So awesome I couldn't wait for season 2 on local cable ( which probably won't screen it till 2013 ). Thank God for the Internet!

Other worthy contenders: The Voice season 3, The Good Wife season 4, Hawaii 5-0 season 2 and American Horror Story Asylum.

My all-time favourite, Dexter, has lost its way a little with season 7, but remains in the top spot until the story finally concludes in season 8. The cliffhanger finale opted for emotional heft rather than shock tactics, and still almost gave me a heart attack.

Next year, please let Dexter find happiness at last. I won't be happy if he dies...!

True Blood season 5 was wacky as hell, but the cast has never been stronger, nor the chemistry more scorching. It also doesn't help that I had an odd but pleasant dream about Alexander Skarsgard a few nights ago. Can I have another? :)


Rising stars on the horizon: Joseph Gordon-Levitt ( robbed of an Oscar nomination for 50/50, and rumoured to be the next Batman, hmmm ), Richard Armitage ( glorious as Thorin Oakenshield in The Hobbit ), Rick Hoffman in Suits, and Suraj Sharma in Life Of Pi.


Other events worth mentioning: a trip to breath-taking Switzerland; another to fabulous Japan; my cool new car ( I don't talk about it much, but 4 words are good enough :)); meeting the casts of Jersey Boys and Swimming With Sharks!


Things to look forward to in 2013: a couple more trips overseas; finally enrolling in an ultrasound course I waited more than a year for; hopefully, more great concerts and theatre experiences, maybe celeb meet and greets? :D

I've had a blast; hope you enjoyed 2012 as well.

( Am so glad the world didn't end. Not a fan of doomsday prophecies!)

My next entry may be in January. Thanks for reading, and click on this to see and hear something amazing. :)

The Hobbit - A Review

My 4th entry in 2 weeks! And I thought 2012 would be a dry spell.

But being a movie buff, whenever something truly great comes along, I need to share it with others. :)

It's been a terrific year for movies, and The Hobbit is another in a long line of masterpieces. I'm a huge fan of The Lord Of The Rings trilogy, but only film-wise, since I never got round to reading the novels despite having them in my cupboard for eons.

I didn't read the prequel either, but it doesn't matter! Worried about the storyline not being grand enough? Yes, it isn't quite as perilous, but I didn't care!
And what about the dwarves? Not exactly the most popular characters around. Surprisingly, I love them! Even more than the LOTR heroes, who were already pretty cool ( e.g. Aragorn, Legolas ).

I've been reading up on the film in Empire magazine ( aka my movie bible :)). Perhaps it helped with the enjoyment factor, because at least I knew what was going on, and had a rather clear picture of each character's background.

I also kept an eye out for the hunky actors. :)

Here's one: Richard Armitage, who plays dwarf prince, Thorin Oakenshield. Thorin is, essentially, Aragorn's equivalent in this particular tale, but in my opinion, Armitage far exceeds Viggo Mortensen's intense performance in LOTR.

In fact, the former projects such a strong presence, he's probably the reason I had such a fantastic time. He eats up the screen whenever he appears, and even when he's not in a scene, you can't stop thinking about him and wishing he'd return ASAP.

He's also 1.88 metres tall! I'm still trying to wrap my head around that.

Back to the dwarves. I was never a fan of Gimli from LOTR, but absolutely LOVE the motley crew depicted here. Rest assured that you'll be able to pick out individuals easily based on appearance and personality, and will have a roaring good time as you join them on their adventures.

Personally speaking, I consider them fascinating characters when compared to humans and elves. Their various idiosyncracies and group dynamics are hilarious, yet when bravery is called for, they deliver 10 times more than anyone twice their size.

The action sequences are breath-taking! I don't think I've had such a massive adrenaline rush since Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol a year ago! The protagonists battle orcs, wargs, trolls and goblins in nail-biting sequences scattered throughout the movie. Every time you think you can relax, another conflict occurs, with exhilarating results.

These battles marked the turning point in my dwarf appreciation. They demonstrate the lengths to which the pint-sized humans will go to protect their own ( and sometimes, a fellow friend as well ). Gasp in awe as they charge into the fray, facing down giant trolls, vicious wargs and endless armies of orcs and goblins.

I also love how the dwarves' resourcefulness and ingenuity are highlighted, especially in a climactic chase through the goblins' mountain lair. Pay attention to the different methods they employ to escape. It's positively astounding! :)

Do not worry about the lack of a worthy opponent on par with LOTR's evil Sauron. There's a creepy segment where Radagast, the brown wizard, meets a malevolent entity called The Necromancer in an abandoned ruin named Dol Guldur. Made my hair stand!

Last but not least, Smaug the terrifying dragon will debut in Part 2 next year, after a sneek peek in the final seconds of An Unexpected Journey. I do hate cliffhangers sometimes!

However, the review wouldn't be complete without mentioning Martin Freeman, who plays Bilbo Baggins. Jackson made it clear in many interviews that Freeman was always his first choice for the role, and he has chosen wisely indeed. I became acquainted with his work through the BBC's updated version of Sherlock, and think he's much more interesting and charming here.

There're remnants of John Watson's high-strung befuddlement, but Bilbo exhibits his own very unique personality, with many traits which add layers to the otherwise straightforward plot. Since I didn't read the novel, the many instances where Bilbo is at the crossroads and chooses the path we least expect makes for extremely compelling viewing. Whether every incident is faithful to the source material, I have no idea, but the end result is inspiring!

The Hobbit would be excellent for the young and impressionable set, but there're too many potentially traumatizing scenes, from decapitations to slit throats and dismemberment, not to mention all the scary monsters. Yet, at its heart is a beautiful message about never underestimating someone's potential, the unbreakable bond of friendship, and the ability to overcome adversity even when the odds seem stacked against you.

The last 30 minutes had me on the edge of my seat! And my bladder was practically bursting after the halfway mark, no thanks to the blasted air-conditioning which was set to Death Freeze mode.

It just shows how freaking amazing the film is, because I couldn't bring myself to leave the theatre, even for a second. Brace yourself for the 3-hour length, but I guarantee 100% that there will never be a dull moment.

Another 12 months till The Desolation Of Smaug. I hope the time will pass very quickly. :)

Review Of Jersey Boys - Marina Bay Sands Theatre, 6 December 2012

So awesome I have to see it again!

Full review here.

:)

Life Of Pi - A Film Review

Many years ago, I read Yann Martel's award-winning novel and (gasp!) did not like it.

My feelings about this ranged from guilt and self-doubt to pure confusion. Over time, my impression of the story faded to a mere wisp of a memory.

When news about Lee Ang's movie adaptation surfaced, my first reaction was "Why?", followed by "How?", because the one thing I did remember about Life Of Pi was that it's impossible to translate to the big screen.

So why did I make it my mission to see it at the cineplex?

One: the AWESOME, jaw-dropping trailer, which was shown before a recent screening of Skyfall. There's this short segment with a killer whale leaping over Pi's boat, shimmering against the night sky, suspended in mid-air for what seems like an eternity.
I don't recall such a scene in the book. What page is it on?!

Two: Lee Ang. ( Yes, I believe in addressing him by his correct name rather than the reverse version favoured by Westerners. )
I've been a fan of his work for 20 years now, having watched his early films - The Wedding Banquet, Eat Drink Man Woman - before moving on to Sense And Sensibility; The Ice Storm; Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; Hulk, and Brokeback Mountain.
His track record has been spotty at times, but no-one can deny his immense versatility. If anybody could tackle Life Of Pi, it would be him.

The final result: an ASTOUNDING masterpiece filled with humour, poignance and imagery so stunning it brought tears to my eyes.

And get this - my mother, who dozed off during Skyfall ( Skyfall for pete's sake! ) was wide awake for the entire duration of Life Of Pi. She absolutely LOVED the movie. :)

There're numerous interpretations of the real meaning(s) behind this unconventional tale, and every viewer is entitled to his/her own opinions.

Philosophy isn't my strong point, but attempts at analyzing my overwhelmingly positive response to the film suggest an affinity with its religious themes.

I suspect that if I'd seen this more than 10 years ago, I wouldn't have been the slightest bit moved. Amused and entertained perhaps, but ultimately incapable of identifying with the main characters' turmoil.

And yes, there're 2 protagonists here, one of whom has no dialogue but is nevertheless larger than life. Pi may be the focus of everyone's attention, but Richard Parker, the magnificent Bengal tiger, is brought to vivid life through amazing computer-generated effects, and worthy of his own Best Supporting Actor Oscar. Rendered beautifully by Bill Westenhofer ( already an Oscar winner for The Golden Compass, and who also worked on The Chronicles Of Narnia ) and his fantastic team, RP is - for me at least - by far the story's most compelling figure.

Of course, we mustn't overlook Suraj Sharma, who plays the teenage Pi. It is indeed mind-boggling that this is his first role, because he is remarkably gifted. Remember Dev Patel, who shot to international fame with Slumdog Millionaire? That is nothing compared to Life Of Pi, in which Sharma acts with, well, thin air. When you consider this fact as you watch the movie unfold, you will truly appreciate the depth of his talent. Lee is, without a doubt, an expert director, but Sharma's performance is extraordinary, and I hope his future in acting will soar to even greater heights.

It's hard to pin down a specific source of enjoyment because there're just too many to count. A superb cast and memorable characters top the list, but Claudio Miranda's cinematography adds an additional magical quality, mixing vibrant colours with gorgeous shots of Mother Nature in all her glory.

The opening credits sequence - a serene montage that blends Mychael Danna's evocative Pi's Lullaby with scenes depicting a variety of exotic animals engaging in normal daily activities - is a wonderful prelude to the miracles that follow. Perhaps most viewers didn't think much of these few short minutes, but I was completely hypnotized.

Time to download the movie soundtrack! :)

My great love of Nature also adds to the enjoyment. Life Of Pi is packed with flora, fauna and an entire spectrum of climates ( terrifying storms, a dazzling rainbow, you name it ). Aside from the breath-taking tiger and whale, there're otherworldly jellyfish, an eye-popping flying fish attack, and - a personal fave - hordes of meerkats carpeting a vast forest floor as Pi carefully tiptoes his way through the sea of furry creatures.

Last but not least, the theme of religion. I, too, identify with Pi's soul-searching journey, having found Christianity in my mid-20s after a number of traumatic, life-altering events. I can't fully explain my experience in words, but I'm sure anyone who's ever felt conflicted about the existence of God in any form, who eventually found what s/he was looking for, or whose quest is far from over, will grasp the film's message and be enriched by it.

Every once in a long while, if you're lucky, you encounter something so awesome it either completely changes your worldview ( preferably for the better! ), or reinforces a conviction that you once thought was slipping through your fingers.

Life Of Pi, wondrous jewel that it is, accomplishes both feats simultaneously. It is moving and uplifting in both its quietest and grandest moments, far surpassing 2011's The Artist, matching The English Patient's epic scope as well as Dead Poets Society's intimacy.

It is likely to be 2012's best film and an Oscar front runner in early 2013.
I sincerely hope Lee Ang wins another Best Director honour. He really deserves it.

10/10. Do not miss. :)

Jersey Boys - Flashback to 2007

Only 2 more days to go before I watch Jersey Boys at the Marina Bay Sands! Here's a fond memory I'd like to share, from my very first visit to New York 5 years ago. :)


Review of Jersey Boys, August Wilson Theatre, Broadway, New York City
October 17th 2007, Wednesday

Before the trip, I'd been doing a lot of research on the Broadway scene, but only got my first glimpse of Jersey Boys at the Emmy Awards show a few months ago, where the cast ( not from NYC though ) sang an energetic medley comprising classic hits Walk Like A Man, Can't Take My Eyes Off You and Who Loves You.

That was when I decided I just HAVE to watch the musical. Only problem was, Broadway has an, err, interesting ticket purchasing system, where brokers snap up all the good seats, then sell them at much higher prices. So the only way I could get something along the lines of the first few rows, dead centre, was to buy premium tickets, which cost upwards of US$300 a piece ( working out to S$450 ).

Yow. Too rich, even for me.

It was an intense battle between my brain and my heart -- the former didn't think it was worth it, but the latter had a gut feeling it was. In the end, however, the cerebrum won.

But not for long. Thanks to a stroke of beginner's luck at the slot machines in Vegas, Caesars Palace ended up paying for 2 premium tickets to JB, woohoo! :)

Just some background story on Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons: there's a biography written by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, and the musical was first conceived sometime in 2003, before debuting in California to rave reviews, and eventually moving to Broadway, NYC, where it then scooped up the 2006 Tony Awards for Best Musical and Lead Actor in a Musical, among many other accolades.

Jersey Boys deftly combines all their Billboard hits with a witty and poignant script, casting excellent actors in the major roles, topping it off with terrific musical arrangements and beautifully choreographed numbers, resulting in what I can only describe as "magic in its purest form".

Of course, it helps if you're familiar with their songs and are a fan of '60s music, which my mom and I are.

JB opens with a high-energy rendition of Ces Soirees-La, which is essentially December 1963 ( Oh, What A Night ) done in French. It then cuts quickly to the early years, where self-proclaimed bad boy / mentor Tommy DeVito ( played fabulously by Christian Hoff ) lays the foundation for the tale to follow. He describes how he discovered Frankie's unique sound and powerful pipes at the tender age of 16, then proceeded to groom him for much greater things, initially playing in nightclubs, rehearsing in churches and hunting for the right 4th Season, the right manager, the right song, weathering loads of obstacles along the way yet never giving up hope.

They finally hit paydirt when they recruited Bob Gaudio ( played by superb tenor and Cary Elwes lookalike Daniel Reichard ), a prolific songwriter who was also inspired by Frankie's voice, which prompted him to remark, "I know I need to write for this voice."

What then followed was a long string of massive hits, from Sherry to Big Girls Don't Cry, Walk Like A Man, December 1963 ( Oh, What A Night ), My Eyes Adored You, Dawn ( Go Away ), Big Man In Town, Beggin', Can't Take My Eyes Off You, Fallen Angel, Rag Doll and Who Loves You.

The group eventually split, but reunited in spurts, most notably for a special performance when they were inducted into the Rock 'N Roll Hall of Fame just a few years ago.

They admit they were no angels, falling victim to gambling, divorce and other heartbreaks over the decades. But what remains is a solid friendship built from their childhood days, and loyalty which no form of adversity can ever destroy.

The script moves at a crackling pace, delivered in a strong New Jersey twang, so if you're not familiar with the accent, you'll get lost pretty quickly. Luckily, I've seen enough Hollywood mafia films to switch my brain to the right channel, so it was indeed a pleasure to be able to catch all the punchlines -- and there were many of them! :)

The sets are simple but eye-catching, featuring pop art designs, screen projections of New Jersey landscapes, and cool cameraman / TV viewer perspectives for sequences where the Seasons perform on American Bandstand. There's also an ingenious backstage view for Walk Like A Man, where the guys stand with their backs to us, facing a black screen as flashing lights go off ( mimicking cameras from fans or press in a simulated audience, or maybe just lots and lots of stage spotlights ).

But of course, the 4 leads are the highlights of the show, with John Lloyd Young doing an amazing job with his falsetto. Turns out he looks a lot younger than his age ( born in 1978, but looks like he's below 25 ), and could easily pass off as ( "Numb3rs" star ) David Krumholtz's brother, don't you agree? He blows the roof off the theater when he hits those impossible notes! I know he has a famous vocal coach helping him along, but still...! He is absolutely pitch perfect in a 'live' setting -- something we should all admire him for, considering the level of difficulty involved -- and displays great versatility as he switches from rock 'n roll to ballads, showcasing an incredible vocal range and crisp nuances in his deliveries.

I particularly enjoyed the slower pieces, like My Eyes Adored You, Can't Take My Eyes Off You, and Fallen Angel. Major goosebumps!

Christian Hoff is a hoot as Tommy DeVito, who's something of a wise guy crippled by multiple weaknesses but who's just too damn proud to admit it. He doesn't sing solo much, but more than makes up for it with his larger-than-life personality, grabbing you by the balls whenever he delivers a punchline with a poker face or simply stands there with a knowing smirk. What a great character!

Daniel Reichard, who plays songwriting wunderkind Bob Gaudio, is equally engaging, with his wide innocent eyes and smooth tenor voice. A memorable scene where Gaudio and Valli seal a "Jersey contract" with a straightforward handshake and zero paperwork ( it's honoured to this very day, more than 40 years later ) is one of my personal favourites.

And last but not least, there's J. Robert Spencer as Nick Massi, who's somewhat quiet, but opinionated! A scene where all 4 Seasons voice their grouses turns into a riotous comedy when Massi suddenly stands up and lambasts DeVito for his stomach-churning bathroom habits. It's priceless!


If you've ever wondered what truly perfect casting entails, this is it. Young, Hoff, Reichard and Spencer come together in perfect harmony despite their varied looks and personalities, delivering top-notch performances without ever stopping for a breath ( okay, they rested a little during the 15-minute intermission ). Having done the same show almost daily for the past 2 years, the lines and songs come fast and furious without a hitch, but here're a few other surprises ( at least on October 17th ), which I will always treasure:

1) There were a few points during the course of the show, especially in the 2nd act, when the actors were visibly trying to suppress smiles, grins and outright laughs during the punchlines. Being in the centre of the 5th row afforded superb views of their facial expressions, and I loved every minute of it! This happened mostly with Young and Spencer, but also a little with Hoff and Reichard.
Young hid his smile by positioning his right hand strategically over his mouth and furrowing his brows in an attempt to appear serious, but I caught an upturned corner of his lips. Aww, how endearing! :)

2) During Can't Take My Eyes Off You, there's a short interlude when the brass section comes marching out on a balcony behind and above Young, while Reichard stands on the same balcony near the front of the stage, watching the performance.
I kept my eyes on both actors, and saw a HUGE grin spread across Young's face, before he glanced over at Reichard, who was also beaming.
This was clearly a very spontaneous moment, and I have no idea if anyone else saw it. It just shows how much they love what they're doing, and it honestly made my heart soar.

3) The audience that night was very appreciative, bestowing raucous applause and lots of whistling and cheering after every number. But these were most enthusiastic after the biggest hits ( Sherry, Big Girls Don't Cry, Walk Like A Man, Can't Take My Eyes Off You ), and it's interesting how the actors responded, 'cos I was under the impression that they would've gotten used to such a reception by now.
But no! There were times when they genuinely looked shocked by it all, perhaps even slightly overwhelmed. This just illustrates how none of the fame has gone to their heads, a quality I find most admirable. :)

4) The performance of Cry For Me, when the 4 Seasons get together for the very first time, took my breath away! I was literally in heaven for 2 minutes, holding my breath! After they finished, I leaned over to my mom and said, "That was SO BEAUTIFUL!", only to hear a lady directly behind us say the exact same thing to her companion. Wow... :)


The Jersey Boys tickets are the most expensive ones I've ever purchased, but it is worth every single cent. I've always dreamed of watching a great Broadway musical, and I'm so glad this is my first. One of the perks of sitting in good seats is being able to make direct eye contact with the actors. Whether they actually remember any of our faces is beside the point ( I doubt they recall much, which is understandable ). But for the audience member, i.e. me, I made eye contact with every single one of them, and it was marvelous!

A major high point occurred during Young's delivery of Fallen Angel, a haunting ballad dedicated to Valli's daughter who died from a drug overdose at the tender age of 22. Young was seated on a bench with his back to the hall, then he slowly turned as he sang the opening verse, sweeping his eyes over the first few rows, before resting them ( and I swear this happened ) somewhere in my vicinity.
Again, I'm not assuming he registered anything as he looked my way, but from where I was sitting, it was an unforgettable moment, and the fact that this song is so beautiful made the experience completely surreal. Wonderful. :)

The rousing finale was rewarded with a standing ovation which spilled over into a refrain of December 1963, with the guys dancing and clapping along with us. It was just one gigantic party in there, woohoo!

After the show, I contemplated hanging around the stage door to get autographs, but nobody seemed interested in staying back, with everyone rushing into cabs or subways, or running to nearby restaurants and hotels. My mom didn't feel comfortable with the thought of us being left behind all alone, so I had to relent and return to the hotel pronto. Sigh, a missed opportunity indeed.

Anyway, Young will leave JB come November 22nd, moving on to new projects, no doubt. But the show will go on for many many years, so if you're ever in the USA, you can check the Internet for venues and schedules, 'cos it's playing in a few different states. I just don't know whether other casts can capture the same spirit and energy, even if the singing and dancing are up to par.

Before I end this entry, here're a few quotes from critics to whet your appetite. If you're into the Four Seasons or even just '60s music, and want to know what real magic feels like, Jersey Boys is for you.

"Too good to be true! Jersey Boys is terrific -- a show dynamically alive in music, while as a drama, it catches the very texture, almost the actual smell, of its time." -- Clive Barnes, New York Post

"The crowd goes wild! I mean the real crowd at the August Wilson Theatre, who seem to have forgotten what year it is or how old they are, or, most important, that John Lloyd Young is not Frankie Valli. And everything that leads up to the curtain call feels as real and vivid as the sting of your hands clapping together." -- Ben Brantley, The New York Times

"A fast-moving script electrified by most of the group's greatest hits. Energetically weaving story, songs, visuals and performances, Des McAnuff stages a compelling rush of events that pauses only occasionally to savor the beauty of the songs." -- Michael Sommers, The Star-Ledger

"The most exciting musical Broadway has seen in years." -- Chris Jones, The Chicago Tribune

"Jersey Boys should run for about twenty years! The songs -- and you'll be amazed how many hits there are -- are all flawlessly delivered. It's the music that counts, and the music is sheer joy!" -- Jacques le Sourd, The Journal News

"It will run for centuries." -- Richard Corliss, Time magazine


Thank you, guys, for a magnificent evening that lifted our spirits and made us believe we were back in the '60s watching the REAL Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. What a tour de force! I will most definitely see it again when I return to New York, or if it's ever staged in Singapore! :D

Skyfall, Emily Owens and American Horror Story Asylum

If you haven't watched this yet, spoilers beware!

I give Skyfall a 10/10, but others may disagree.

Allow me to qualify my rating - I've seen many James Bond films featuring Connery, Moore, Dalton and Brosnan. Movies appeal to personal tastes, so feel free to debate.

Timothy Dalton used to be my favourite Bond until Daniel Craig took over and revamped the sagging franchise. I thought nothing could ever top Casino Royale - how wrong I am. :)

I also never imagined Sam Mendes at the helm of a 007 movie, yet here he is, delivering a blockbuster that is filled with nail-biting, inventive action sequences, as well as inspired casting, superb performances and excellent writing.

I won't dwell too much on the rooftop motorcycle chase, train crashes and shootouts. Rather, did anyone notice the locomotive scene where Bond leaps off a bulldozer into a carriage, then nonchalantly adjusts his cuff? It's prominently featured in the trailer, but I wanted to point it out because I remember reading about it in Empire magazine, and it really does embody the essence of 007 - full of physicality, but still ( a little absurdly ) mindful of his personal grooming at all times.

Bond dons a suit for almost the entirety of Skyfall, which further reinforces my observation.

What I find most enjoyable are the quieter scenes: Bond conversing with femme fatale Severine ( played by the ravishing Berenice Marlohe, whose beauty made me salivate - and I'm straight! ); Bond's art museum rendezvous with Q ( portrayed with a mischievous twinkle by an adorable Ben Whishaw ); psychopathic villain Silva's chilling confrontations with Bond and M ( Javier Bardem like you've never seen him before ); and finally, a peek into Bond's past as he travels to his childhood home in a desperate attempt to keep M safe.

The film clocks in at 2.5 hours but I never felt it. Well, my bladder needed some relief at the halfway mark, but other than that, I didn't want the fun to end.

I believe Kevin Spacey was the first choice for the role of Silva, but had to decline because of his commitment to The Bridge Project's Richard III. I do hope he'll get a second chance. He excels at playing villains. :)

And some are clamouring for Christopher Nolan to direct a Bond movie ASAP. A brilliant idea!

I'm told Craig has signed on for 2 more installments, but when he's due to retire, Michael Fassbender had better be at the top of the list of successors. I can't think of anyone else more suitable. :)

After suffering a severe drought, a decent medical TV series may be emerging. Forget about nonsensical fluff like Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice and Royal Pains - Emily Owens MD may be able to revive a dying genre in need of urgent resuscitation.

It took me 3 episodes to get into the groove. Was admittedly skeptical of the first 2 - typical young intern starting work, getting into trouble, having relationship problems, saving lives solo ( the seniors are NEVER around during a code? - what a load of crap! ).

Emily Owens isn't perfect, of course. Networks seem to think the majority of female doctors are either bimbos, sluts or bitches, and the stereotypes are in abundance here. What makes it a cut above the rest is lead actress Mamie Gummer ( Meryl Streep's daughter, note the remarkable resemblance ) - while it's true that Owens is socially awkward and seems to have way too much free time to chat up her patients, Gummer plays her with just the right balance of quirkiness and intelligence so the character never completely veers off the deep end of realism. Teeters on the edge, yes. But at least she stays there.

The supporting cast starts off a little over-eager, but settles down nicely by episode 3. Group dynamics move smoothly, and Gummer's chemistry with male co-stars Justin Hartley and Michael Rady crackles and pops. ( FYI, I'm rooting for Rady's underdog senior resident. :))

Rest assured that life-threatening scenarios are in abundance, and the interns always manage to save the day. However implausible that sounds, I'm on board for the ride thanks to Gummer and the rest of the cast. Looking forward to the rest of season 1!

Last on the list is American Horror Story Asylum, aka season 2.

Following a critically acclaimed season 1, the follow-up takes place in a mental hospital during the 1960s. Racial discrimination abounds, homosexualism is considered an illness, and psychiatric patients are subjected to various forms of abuse without clear cause or authoritative oversight.

Jessica Lange is back, this time as a deranged nun whose past includes a career in prostitution. Evan Peters also returns as an inmate convicted of brutally murdering several women, though his memories consist of alien abductions and medical experimentation. James Cromwell plays against type, portraying a perverted doctor who harbours sexual fantasies about a pretty young nun and commits heinous acts in his basement office, while Zachary Quinto impresses as one of the few sane characters around - a state-appointed psychiatrist who attempts to uncover the atrocities he suspects are being committed.

Creator Ryan Murphy's twisted mind should not be under-estimated. I love his early work ( i.e. Nip/Tuck ), and AHS Asylum is far better than season 1. Episode 2 features an exorcism scene which scared the crap out of me - no mean feat, considering my high threshold for horror. It isn't the body count or gore that gets to you, but the extreme discomfort presented in each situation that's disturbing. Trust the writers and cast to pull it off with such conviction. Truly television at its depraved best.

Closest rival at present: Dexter. :)

By the way, if you're interested in reading my review of David Foster's recent concert, it's at this link.

More next time...