Cluesless Ramblings

Saturday, December 27, 2008

My Top 5 Manga-Turn-Live Action Wishlist

With the recent increase of live action versions of popular mangas, it's only a matter of time before these jewel manga turn silver screen royalty. Some live action has been successful (such as Hana Kimi, Hana Yori Dango) while others may want to smack the head of the producers for ruining otherwise brilliant mangas (such as Honey & Clover, Hell Girl), I've come up with my own top choices for the manga-turn-live-action phenomenon. And I know there are a lot of great mangas out there that deserves such feat but here are my personal Top 5 list for the category...

1. OURAN HIGH SCHOOL HOST CLUB

I mean seriously people, don't you wanna see a live action version of this hilarious & fantastic shojo on TV? With the right cast (somehow I imagine Maki Horikita as Haruhi already) & storyline based on the original manga, I can't see why they didn't think of doing it by now. Some fans have stated their dislike over the idea (since it may also ruined the manga, like Honey & Clover) & they might be some budget problems (but if they can spend lavishly for HYD, then I don't see the problem), this is still the most anticipated live action to date (well, for me of course!)

2. THE WALLFLOWER (Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge)

Yup, this is also one of my personal favorite manga & anime to date and it will be awesome if they did a live action version as well. The Japan entertainment isn't lacking in the pretty boys department so I don't think it will be such a problem for them to find the 'beautiful boys' of YNSH. Plus, it's also common knowledge that Japan has probably the best actresses to play a creepy (but still eerily attractive) leading role for Sunako-chan. Bring on Akira, Hiroshi & Josephine as well!

3. FRUITS BASKET

Before you can even begin to say it, let me just say that yes, it might be hard for the production crew to do a (whole lot of) human-turn-animal (and vice versa) scenes that is essential in Furuba as breathing. But think of the possibility that such matter can be resolve (knowing the fabulous reputation the Japanese usually get in animation & special effects - wink, wink) and we'll have a live action gold here. Plus, I can't wait to give cutie-pie Momiji a hug as well (kawaiiii....)

4. PARADISE KISS

For some unknown reason (yes, even to me) I am initially not a fan of the manga. It was after I watched the anime version that I began to see the 'fabulosity' (to quote Miss Kimora Lee Simmons of course) of the whole thing. Fashion has always attracted me so I really can't imagine if the series is turn into a live action. Think of all those glittering high-fashion couture type dresses parading around the screen & the flamboyant characters in real life. Drool....

5. HOT GIMMICK

There are already so many heartbreaking & somewhat emotionally heavy live action out there so why not add one more? Another masterpiece by Aihara Miki, this one is darker then the rest of mangas on my list. It kinda remind me a bit of Peach Girl and the issues being raised in this manga is quite serious as compare to the others (which are more laid-back, and that includes Paradise Kiss as well) but I still woould love to see the romance part of the series being materialized on the silver screen. Fingers crossed!

Labels: live action, manga

posted by Aly at 10:25 PM

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Book Review: Pulling Princes

PULLING PRINCES
By: Tyne O'Connell

The Story:

When Calypso returns from Los Angeles to her English boarding school for the summer term, she is determined to fit in with the popular crowd. Her plan is to pretend her mother's gay assistant back home is her boyfriend. And to her surprise, the trick works...at least at first. She makes a whole batch of new friends, and even finds herself winning the unwritten contest to woo the prince at the boys' school next door. But one girl, Honey, undermines all her efforts. When Calypso and Prince Freddy end up in the tabloids and everything seems set to go down the drain, it's Calypso's parents and sense of humor that save her from utter humiliation.

My Thoughts:

The British version of popular boarding school series Private, this book is just an awesome read. Much, much lighter (and funnier) than its American counterpart, the book captivated me from the start. It's kinda rare to see a book that's able to do so these days (and without me flicking pass several pages cuz I grew bored with lengthy explanations easily) and let me tell you, I actually read this one from page-to-page. Although somewhat confusing (with several Brit lingos), the book still manage to create suspence, drama & (obviously) a sisterhood athmosphere without being too dark. The heroine is also not anywhere near as sexed-crazed as most of teen lit 'top series' which is kinda refreshing to me, while the resident bitch in the story is more sneaky bitchy than evil-minded bitchy. Definitely a kindos from me!

My Ratings: * * * *

Labels: teen lit

posted by Aly at 9:52 PM

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Thursday, December 25, 2008

Book Review: The Ruling Class

THE RULING CLASS
By: Francine Pascal

The Story:

In a wealthy suburb of Dallas, the top clique in the school rules with snobbery, money, and style. When Twyla Gay arrives, she doesn't fit in at all because of her clothes and her name. But she mostly sticks out because she is poor. When the Ruling Class begins to target her, Twyla Gay fights back with her only friend, Deena, deemed the school slut by the vicious RC. The story alternates between Twyla Gay, who is determined to get revenge rather than drop out of school like her mother did, and Myrna Fry, desperate to belong to the RC and whose ignorance, racism, and pure idiocy can be hard to read.

My Thoughts:

I was a bit surprise to find that most of the reviews for this particular book is kinda negative cuz (gasp!) I actually think that the book is not as bad as some readers thought. Okay, so it's no Gossip Girl. Hell, it's not even close to Pascal's other popular series, Sweet Valley High. But this stand alone teen lit has it's good points. For one, the writing is not too complicated for us readers to read (cuz I find that most books today tend to have long, boring explanation of unnecessary things). And the flow of the plot is actually pretty smooth. But yes, I can't deny that there are also bad points, such as the weird names (where the hell did she came up with Myrna Fry & Twyla Gay? No normal person will name their child like that, unless of course you are Bradgelina) and the ending seems a little rush. But I really think that overall this book deserves another chance cuz it's quite enjoyable and relatable.

My Ratings: * * *

Labels: teen lit

posted by Aly at 7:24 AM

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Wednesday, December 24, 2008

LiveAction Review: GTO

GREAT TEACHER ONIZUKA (GTO)

Produced by: Fuji TV

Main Cast Members: Sorimachi Takashi, Matsushima Nanako, Kobuzuka Yosuke, Nakamura Aimi, Ikeuchi Hiroyuki, Kuroda Miki etc.

The Story:

The drama series is based on the manga and anime of the same name, both created by Fujisawa Tohru. In the series, Sorimachi Takashi plays Onizuka Eikichi, a graduate of a third-rate University and the leader of a motorcycle gang, whose lifelong dream is to become a teacher. After being hired by a seemingly eccentric director, Onizuka begins his unconventional way of teaching a hopeless group of troublemakers. Although he meets much opposition from the students and teachers themselves, his passion for teaching, and more importantly, his students, eventually convinces everyone that Onizuka truly has the makings of a great teacher.

My Thoughts:

Now here's another classic live action series that I would like to include in my reviews. Undeniably one of the most influencial & fascinating series that had ever graced our TV screens, this is THE ONE every teacher-inspired-manga-turn-TV-series needs to topped. I mean seriously, my first ever idol crush is none other than Sorimachi-san (and I'm really, really happy that he ended up married to co-star Nanako Matsushima in real life) and each and every episode is just great & spirit lifting (get it?). I still get excited whenever I heard the playback of Sorimachi-san's OST music being played right before Onizuka goes and rescues his students. Makes you wish that your teacher is like that as well huh (or half as hot as he is). And if you want to catch a glimpse at Shun Oguri (before he was all grown up and became as hot as he is today) then this one is a must watch for you. Can't think of a better actor to play Eikichi Onizuka though other than ultra-cool Sorimachi-san. This is definitely a classic live action that has the power to stir interest for many, many years to come.

My Ratings: * * * * 1/2 (still loving it until now!)

Labels: live action

posted by Aly at 10:25 PM

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Sunday, December 21, 2008

Anime Review: The Story of Saiunkoku

THE STORY OF SAIUNKOKU

Animated by: Madhouse Studios

Original Mangaka: Sai Yukino & Kairi Yura

The Story:

Saiunkoku is a world of eight provinces or houses, each named after a different colour. The new Emperor, Shi Ryuuki, has gained for a reputation for being uninterested in courtly matters and for flaunting his love for men. Shuurei, although born of the important Kou family, has difficulty making ends meet. She easily accepts an invitation to be the Emperor's concubine in order to turn him into a good ruler. The mysterious Seiran, a young man who was adopted by her father, goes with her as Ryuuki's bodyguard. Entering the imperial palace revives Shuurei's dream of being a court official, and, together with the many companions she meets along the way, continues moving bravely forward while trying to fend off the Emperor's advances.

My Thoughts:

I'm doing a back-to-back review again here guys (cuz I'm extremely bored being bed-ridden). I remember the first time I saw an episode of the anime is when I was vacationing with my sister & accidentally saw it on the TV about 2 years ago. Being a 'reversed harem' anime, its obviously about a girl being surrounded (and not to mention admired) by a team of men, two of which are the Emperor & the Ex-Emperor of the land (not bad indeed!). I was drawn to the ancient China type of story from the moment I lay my eyes on the TV. And if you are looking for a women-empowerment type of anime then this is the one for you. Not contempt living a comfortable life with the Emperor & her family, our heroine decided to do the unthinkable; being a goverment official (it was a taboo for women to have a high ranking position at that time)! With its fresh setting & well-developed plotline, it's one of my favorite anime so far. I absolutely love seeing how Shuurei almost always blocking the Emperor's romantic advances, eventhough she was suppose to be his concubine! I just wish I can get my hands on the 2nd season of the anime though...

My Ratings: * * * *

Labels: anime

posted by Aly at 5:55 AM

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LiveAction Review: Peach Girl

PEACH GIRL

Produced by: Chai Zhi Ping/ CTS

Main Cast Members: Vaness Wu, Annie Wu, Kenji Wu (hah, all of the man cast had the same last name!), Michelle Gu, Duncan etc.

The Story:

Xiao Tao is a young girl entering college. Things just don't seem to be going right for her. She falls at the beach and spraining her ankle; she has unwittingly made the university's reigning princess, Sha Hui, her enemy. Dong Si, her secret crush, doesn't seem to know of her feelings, but she has the school's most popular playboy and troublesome, Ah Li, showering her with his attentions! This may prove to be just too much for the tall, shy and athletic Xiao Tao until suddenly happiness comes her way: she and Dong Si begin dating! This happiness is short lived as the calculating Sha Hui is determined to be the number one girl, even if it means destroying Xiao Tao in the process. Also, standing on the sidelines is Ah Li who has made it known that the only girl for him is Xiao Tao.

My Thoughts:

Let's see... Like the manga, hated the anime... and LOVED the live action version. Based on the manga created by Miwa Ueda, this 2002 version of PG stars the then extremely popular (and hands down has the best hair) F4 member Vaness Wu. And they really cast the most suitable playful yet kind-hearted playboy on campus role of Ah Li (aka Kairi Okayasu in the manga) & the somewhat tragic heroine Xiao Tao (Momo) in Vaness & Annie Wu. Michelle Gu also did a great job in making people actually hated the role of evil-minded Sha Hui (cuz I hated her like nobody's business) but I wouldn't say the same thing about Dong Si though (who was played by Kenji Wu). He still delivers his part although somewhat stiff in the expressions. But overall it was a cool rendition of the manga. But be warn! The story is quite heavy (to me) as compare to its conterparts during that 'period' (such as Meteor Garden & Marmalade Boy) as it involves a lot of sexy bedroom scenes (not that I'm complaining much) & pretty serious stuff like drugged-raped, hard-core sabotaging etc.

My Ratings: * * * 1/2

Labels: live action

posted by Aly at 5:15 AM

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Saturday, December 20, 2008

Anime Review: Rental Magica

RENTAL MAGICA

Animated by: Zexcs

Original Mangaka: Makoto Sanda & Akiho Narimiya

The Story:

Due to his father's disappearance, Itsuki Iba has to take over the family business: a magician dispatch service called 'Astral'. Astral basically employ countless magicians and other supernatural beings in order to send them out to help those who need magical assistance. As a leader, Itsuki now has to be tough, commanding, and reliable, but there's one problem, he's a coward. Also, in order to run a successful business, he has to connect with his employees, which is more difficult than it seems due to his personality and lack of magical ability. But not only does he have to deal with his own employees, he also has to deal with those who threaten the family business.

My Thoughts:

Do you know what I love in an anime? Apart from the obviously stunning visuals & great stories (which in this case, the anime only scored a so-so points with me) I also like it when the anime actually gives you a new knowledge. What's interesting for me in this anime is the different types of magic that existed in this world. Sure, I'm a fan of the occult & new-age things but from watching the anime, I discover that apart from your usual 'brand' of magic (in anime it's usually Shinto or the Celtic witches) there are also the Solomon & Buddhism type of magic. This definitely increase my interest in watching the whole anime, which in the end I find interesting and funny. The visuals like I've mentioned earlier was average for me but it's still a good series to relax your mind with. And of course, be prepare for the 'harem' part of the story though cuz this series is all about it.

My Ratings: * * *

Labels: anime

posted by Aly at 11:43 PM

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Friday, December 19, 2008

Manga Review: Land of Silver Rain

LAND OF SILVER RAIN

By: Mira Lee

The Story:

Abandoned in a cabbage patch as a baby, Misty-Rain is saved from certain death by a witch who brings her up as her own. Far from the company of humans, she is raised as one of the Dokebi, a magical race from Korean myth. Among them she is happy and content, until one day she loses the trust of her protector, causing the enchantment that had kept the secret of her true identity to be broken. She is cast out to the world of her birth and must find her place among her own kind.

My Thoughts:

Okay, so it says there on the covers of the manhwa that this was suppose to be a romance manhwa. Unfortunately I've seen NOTHING romantic about the story whatsoever. Maybe it's because of the (very, very) slow pace of the story. I know this might be intended as the introductory volume to the series but it's quite boring to me. The whole volume revolves around Misty Rain & Thornpricker's rivalry which I think is dragging too long. And I also agree with several other reviews that the chapter titles are a big spoiler to the story. Art wise however, the piece is rather fantastic. The visuals are beautiful, stunningly drawn (which are almost always present in manhwas) and has this classic feel to it, sort of like a newer version of Ouke no Monshou or Red River. With a major improvement in the storyline, I'm sure this series would be a hit.

My Ratings: * * 1/2

Labels: manhwa

posted by Aly at 5:12 AM

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Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Manga Review: Yurara no Tsuki

YURARA NO TSUKI
By: Chika Shiomi

The Story:

Yurara Tsukinowa is a quiet girl who can see spirits and sense their emotions. Not wanting to seem abnormal, she hides her secret until she meets Mei Tendo and Yako Hoshino, two guys who use their spiritual powers to ward off vengeful spirits. The dormant guardian spirit in Yurara arises and a strong-willed beauty with the power to release souls emerges!

My Thoughts:

Hmm... I must say that after reading ALL 5 series back-to-back (I'm still bed-ridden I'm afraid), I am not impressed by the ending of the story. And if you don't like SPOILERS then I suggest you guys back away now. Why the hell did Yurara eventually end up with Mei? I mean.. poor, poor Yako. Okay, so to be fair the real Yurara (not guardian spirit Yurara) has always stated her interest in Mei but come on. Somehow I feel really sorry for Yako (since I like the responsible Yako more than playboy Mei) but hey, good girls almost always ended up with the badboy in mangas right? Despite my dissatisfaction towards the story, the art is actually well drawn (considering this is a shojo) & I gotta hand it to the mangaka for being able to make me absorb myself into the story. Interactions between Yako & Mei were my favorite parts in the manga cuz it's just too hilarious. Oh well, I suppose I have to console myself with its predecessor, Rasetsu no Hana though...

My Ratings: * * *

Labels: manga

posted by Aly at 10:12 PM

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Sunday, December 14, 2008

LiveAction Review: Devil Beside You

DEVIL BESIDE YOU

Produced by: CTV

Main Cast Members: Rainie Yang, Mike He, Kingone Wang, Tsai Pei Lin etc

The Story:

After finally getting the courage to confess her feelings, Qi Yue was handing her love letter to Yuan Yi, but by a stroke of bad luck, he did not see and walked passed her. The person standing in front of her was the troublemaker of the school, infamously known for his devilish ways – Jiang Meng. The devil will get what he wants, and the object of his desire was Qi Yue. Although having a cruel exterior, Ah Meng’s heart is kind and caring, which truly touched Qi Yue. The big problem remained – Ah Meng is the son of the man Qi Yue’s mother is going to marry. Even though they were not related by blood, who will accept this step brother-sister relationship? What is to become of their relationship when other lovers come into the picture?

My Thoughts:

Ok, ok.. So this is hardly a new live action series. But I forgot to include it in this blog (after watching the DVD for like, the hundred time) so I'm doing it now. Based on the popular manga Akuma de Sourou (The Devil Does Exist) created by Mitsuba Takanashi, this series is simply a delight to watch. I was hooked from the moment I saw Qi Yue's panting in exhaustion (and excitement) over her original crush Yuan Yi. Although yes, Kingone is a little stiff but it is forgiven due to the overshadow performance by both Rainie & Mike. The story itself is nothing new (step sibling love drama) but is still intriguing. I mean, who doesn't want a hot-looking stepbrother right? The setting of the series is fairly typical for Taiwanese dramas (are they shooting at the same place cuz the college looks mighty familiar) but hey, who am I to complain about the budgeting of the series. Still, they're able to produce an entertaining series that became a fan-favorite all over Asia (and beyond).

My Ratings: * * * 1/2

Labels: live action

posted by Aly at 6:41 AM

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Friday, December 12, 2008

Manga Review: One Thousand and One Nights

ONE THOUSAND AND ONE NIGHTS
By: Han Seung Hee & Jeon Jin Seok

The Story:

Everyone knows the story of Shahrazad and her wonderful tales in the Arabian Nights. For one thousand and one nights, the stories that she created entertained the mad Sultan and eventually saved her life. In this version, our Shahrazad is a guy who wanted to save his sister from the mad Sultan by disguising himself as a woman. When he puts his life on the line, what kind of strange and wacky stories would he tell?

My Thoughts:

Yup, I'm writing back-to-back here due to my 'overwhelming' free time right now. Anyway, by looking at the creators, you would've guess that this is indeed a manhwa. And yes, by actually reading the title, who are correct if you guess that this manhwa has got something to do with the famous Arabian story. But there's a major twist in this setting though, the manhwa version of Scheherazade is actually a dude! Although the most pretty dude I've ever seen of course. But that's not the only twist. With a beautifully drawn setting & amazing new versions of the original 1000 stories, the manhwa is actually a fresh take of the otherwise most familiar story in the world. Some people may say that they're just recycling the story and made it their own, but I personally thought that it's a good idea. We're always inspired by something in our daily lives so why not this right? Plus, I'm pretty excited to know what other twisted are there in their stories. An enjoyable & read indeed! Oh and I love the notes at the end of the volumes, which explains the origin of the inspired stories further.

My Ratings: * * * 1/2

Labels: manhwa

posted by Aly at 9:40 PM

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Book Review: Confessions Of A Not It Girl

CONFESSIONS OF A NOT IT GIRL
By: Melissa Kantor

The Story:

Jan Miller feels that she's is destined to live the world's least fabulous life. To make matters worse, her best friend is an official It Girl who graces the pages of fashion magazines and dates older guys. Jan can't even speak a full sentence around her crush, let alone get a date! Her college applications are looming and Jan can't seem to get a grip. Life is starting to resemble a Greek tragedy rather than the romantic comedy that she longs for. If only Jan could write and star in her own reality. But in spite of feeling that the forces of the universe are against her, Jan's about to learn that in life and romance, sometimes being a Not It Girl has the most surprising and biggest rewards.

My Thoughts:

Lately there has been an overwhelming teen lit that has entitled themselves 'Confessions of Something Something' sitting nicely on the shelves. And of course being 'influence' by this, I've picked up this one before my 'foot surgery' recently. And guess what? The story basically trying to tell us the age-old saying of 'don't judge a book by its cover'. Well, at least that's what I thought the writer is trying to voiced out. Cuz in between the 'my butt is huge' (approximately 50 times being mentioned in the book) 'my bestie is the It Girl' (roughly 40 times) and 'Josh this, Josh that' (1000 times, and I'm not kidding) I was too annoyed that I've spaced out numerous times while reading it. And what's up with that fantasizing 'curtains' (which appeared like gazilion times, everytime when you're trying to get into the story) anyway? It would looked pretty good in a manga setting but NOT in a teen lit. True, you may argue that in reality, teens are that vain, self-absorbed & loves fantasizing about boys they like. But is it necessary to throw everything on our face, at one go? So I would like to extend my apologizes to the author & fans of this book but I just don't like it. Period. And my bandaged legs is itchy again... Crap!

My Ratings: * * (out of mercy)

Labels: teen lit

posted by Aly at 9:05 PM

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Wednesday, December 10, 2008

The Hana Yori Dango Saga Continues...

Ok, so usually I'm into giving reviews & a list of things (or people) that I like/hate. Well then, here's a first since I can't seem to resist telling you guys about this juicy news. It seems that the mega-successful of Hana Yori Dango franchises is going to get even bigger - with a Korean version! Yup folks, the Koreans decided that they also wanted to be part of the Hana Yori Dango madness & came up with their version on the series. I'm not too sure whether the series has already been aired in Korea (of couse, the first place that they're going to show it right?) but all I know is that it was suppose to be release sometime this year so I'm keeping my fingers crossed for the DVD to come my way (very) soon. The cast looks pretty damn good to me so I'm hyped up to watch it soon. Initially (in every version) I would think that the guy playing Doumyoji Tsukasa is not that good-looking but ended up changing my mind afterwards =P

(From left to right)

Koo Hye Sun as Keum Jandi (aka San Chai/ Makino) Lee Min Ho as Goo Joo Pyo (Doumyoji/Dao Ming Si) Kim Hyun Joong as Yoon Ji Hoo (Hanazawa Rui/ Hua Ze Lei) Kim Bum as So Yi Jung(Nishikado Soujiro/ Xi Men) and Kim Joon as Song Woo Bin (Mimasaka Akira/ Mei Zuo)

** If you want more info on the Korean version cast members, then CLICK HERE

But before that happens, let's recap at the other 2 hugely popular spin-off of the series...

METEOR GARDEN

Yup folks, this is where it all began (well, at least for me of course). This is where I initially didn't think that Jerry Yan is all that & prefer Vic Zhou instead. Well, it only took me 2 episodes after that to be a devotee of Jerry! The first season of Meteor Garden is fantastic. The boys were looking fine & Barbie Xu is the perfect San Chai (aka. Makino in the manga). The stories were somewhat based on the actual manga so we get to see (and enjoy) lots of action, funny moments & tears along the way. But then came Season 2, where I think everything went downhill for me. The producers stretch the 'amnesia' plot far too long (which makes me bored seeing that Ye Sha hovering over Dao Ming Si 24/7). I know there's a bit of 'creative differences' on the set but still they could at least make the story art interesting right? But I was rather surprise that Barbie & Vic actually hooked up in real life (although it started when they filmed Mars & broke up recently) though. I always thought that she would be better off with Jerry (yes, the MG effect). Anyways...

HANA YORI DANGO

I have to admit that I'm not that interested in watching the Japanese version of HYD at the beginning, since I thought that I'm being disloyal to MG if I do (yeah, my obsession is that bad!). Besides, apart from Matsumoto Jun, I honestly think that the cast members were not that attractive either (sorry!). But after my sister persuaded me to watch it with her, I'm amazed! The Japanese version is even funnier & more comical than the Taiwanese version. And by the end of Season 1, I'm an avid fan of the series (with my favorite character in the series is actually Akira - hehe!). And unlike MG, HYD also delivers rather well for its Season 2, with more plots taken from the manga. I can tell you now that the Japanese actors are definitely not scared to make a fool of themselves, as well as taking a more serious role at the same time. And the wedding scene in Hana Yori Dango Final? AWESOME!

SO MY PERSONAL FAVORITE PICKS (EXCLUDING THE KOREAN VERSION)?

Makino = Barbie Xu (just too kawaii!)

Doumyoji = Matsumoto Jun (he's really like the manga description of the character)

Hanazawa Rui = Vic Zhou

Nishikado Soujiro = Matsuda Shota

Mimasaka Akira = Vaness Wu

Best Makino-Doumyoji Couple = Inoue Mao & Matsumoto Jun

Best Makino-Rui Couple = Barbie Xu & Vic Zhou

Funniest Scenes = Hana Yori Dango (hands down!)

Most Tearful Scenes = Meteor Garden

Best Soundtrack = Hmm... It a tie! (Flavour of Life by Utada Hikaru for HYD, Ni Yao De Ai by Penny Dai for MG)

Best Overall Version (so far) = Hana Yori Dango!

Labels: live action

posted by Aly at 8:41 PM

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Tuesday, December 9, 2008

LiveAction Review: Yukan Club

YUKAN CLUB

Produced by: Ogino Tetsuhiro / NTV

Main Cast: Akanishi Jin, Yokoyama Yu, Taguchi Junnosuke, Minami, Kashii Yu etc.

The Story:

Based on the manga written by Yukari Ichijo, the story revolves around 6 wealthy and popular high school students who'd formed the Yukan Club (Leisure Club) to solve mysteries and in their free time, amuse themselves lavishly.

My Thoughts:

I'm currently 'bed-ridden' (since I had my minor 'foot-surgery' a few days ago) so I do have lots of free times to spare. And during those times, I indulged myself in what else, a live action series. Initially I was attracted by the sight of Akanishi Jin on the covers of the DVD and when I finally finished watching the series, it did not disappoint either. Akanishi & Minami manages to come off as the funniest of the lot, while Kashii Yu also did a great job as the resident 'ice-queen' of the club. The other 3 are so-so in terms of acting though. But overall, the live action is still fun to watch, as Japanese fascination with the rich (that probably includes me) is neverending. Eventhough I think it's rather short in terms of episodes (I'm hoping for a season 2 here) as the story is interesting, I also think that it's still not as good as Hana Yori Dango & Hana Kimi in terms of excitement.

My Ratings: * * *

Labels: live action

posted by Aly at 9:41 PM

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Friday, December 5, 2008

Manga Review: Angel Sanctuary

ANGEL SANCTUARY

By: Kaori Yuki

The Story:

Organic Angel Alexiel, who is one of the highest and most powerful beings in existence, rebelled against God when, supposedly, she became disgusted by the way angels were behaving. She was captured and faced with the ultimate punishment of heaven, to have her soul reincarnated into human lives, and each of her lives would end tragically. The story follows her latest incarnation, Setsuna Mudo, who is romantically in love with his younger sister.

My Thoughts:

Trust the Japanese to come up with such a forbidden, dark theme. I have been following this twisted yet interesting manga/anime for sometime now. And I have to say that I'm more of a fan of Kaori Yuki's art than the story. After a while, the plot really thickens & is somewhat confusing to me. Besides, I'm not too fond of the idea that Setsuna is madly in love with his own sister Sara. Not adoptive or even step-sister, but his real sister. I know it's a taboo subject that may fascinate certain people (and to be fair, there's that reincarnation thing to consider), but unfortunately I'm more traditional than that. Plus, it's quite heavy on the religion matter as well (with the God & archangel storyline). It may not be as good as Godchild but the art & graphic is amazing. If you are a big gothic type of fan, than this is the one for you. While still being pretty (that includes the guys in the manga), there's also something 'sinister' in the art & I for one think that it's awesome.

My Ratings: * * * * (for the art alone) * * (for the story - sorry!)

Labels: manga

posted by Aly at 10:15 PM

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My Top 10 Favorite It Girls

And since we're still on the subject of celebrity offsprings, let us now take a look at a new batch of 'celebutantes' that are famous simply because the world knows who their parents are (although some of them has exhibit talents in the showbiz field). They are on a rise due to their impeccable fashion sense & has been hailed as 'it girls' in numerous magazines. And no, there will be no last names that's synonym to any type of building in this list.

1. ZOE KRAVITZ

Family Connection: Rocker Lenny Kravitz & former The Cosby Show actress Lisa Bonet

Why I like her: I mean come on people! She's gorgeous. Plus, I like it that she's not pushing it and is pretty laid back when it comes to fashion.

2. LILY COLLINS

Family Connection: Crooner Phil Collins

Why I like her: I think she's really cute & adorable when she first interviewed Elton John (I think). Another plus point = Her awesome smile!

3. DAISY LOWE

Family Connection: Rocker Gavin Rossdale & model Pearl Lowe

Why I like her: Current 'it girl' of the party circuit. And I like that she has this daring attitude in her wardrobe. Okay, so they say that she's a party-animal but hey, at least she's doing it with style.

4. ELETTRA WIEDEMANN

Family Connection: Actress Isabella Rossellini

Why I like her: Her mom still looked gorgeous and so does she. Need proof? How does a new Lancome ad campaign sounds to you?

5. EVA AMURRI

Family Connection: Actress Susan Sarandon

Why I like her: She's trying to break into the 'industry' right now & just for that effort, I give her this spot. Also, it does help that she's really talented & attractive.

6. RILEY KEOUGH

Family Connection: Lisa Marie Presley (of course granddaughter of legendary Elvis)

Why I like her: This girl grows on me. I initially think that there's nothing special about her but seeing her pictures recently changes my mind. Now if only she ditches that awfully looking, fame parasite Ryan Cabrera...

7. RUMER WILLIS

Family Connection: Actor couple Bruce Willis & Demi Moore (and stepdad Ashton Kutcher)

Why I like her: For her sense of humor & self-confidence. Sure, she might not be as beautiful as her mom (but still attractive in my eyes) but she took it well & actually make it work to her advantage. Kudos!

8. LIZZIE JAGGER

Family Connection: Playboy rocker Mick Jagger & supermodel Jerry Hall

Why I like her: She's unique. Not just her looks but her fashion sense as well. She always seemed to be looking fabulous without even trying. Tips from big sis Bianca & mummy dearest maybe? But I doubt that it came from Mick though.

9. ANNABELLE DEXTER JONES

Family Connection: The Ronsons clan, most noted right now being Sam Ronson (yes, 'very close friend' of Lindsay Lohan), Mark Ronson (who's dating Daisy Lowe right now) & Charlotte Ronson (of C.Ronson apparel)

Why I like her: Okay, so she may be a bit low-key compared to her other siblings but she's currently the most interesting one to look at. Hell, I personally think that she's the prettiest of the bunch.

10. JULIA RESTOIN-ROITFELD

Family Connection: French Vogue editor and non-Anna Wintour, Carine Roitfeld

Why I like her: She seems more approachable than say... her American counterpart (hey, even the mother is less intimidating than her American counterpart). And her fashion sense is great!

Labels: celebrity offsprings

posted by Aly at 4:31 AM

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Thursday, December 4, 2008

Cutest Celebrity Twins & Toddlers

First of all, I think that all celeb babies are cute & adorable. And with 'creative' names such as Mowgli (poor, poor baby Wentz - I can't imagine what traumatic childhood this child will get with a middle name like that) and Superman inspired Kal-El Coppola (I can understand if the child grew up & do a 'Miley' in the future) I turned my eyes to the new 'trend' in LaLa Land. Behold the 'super-twins' of tomorrow...

MAX & EMME MUNIZ (I think)

Famous Parents: Marc Anthony & Jennifer Lopez

VIVIENNE & KNOX JOLIE-PITT

Famous Parents: (Duh!) Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie

DARBY & SULLIVAN DEMPSEY

Famous Parents: Patrick Dempsey & Jilian Fink

HAZEL & PHINNAEUS MODER

Famous Parents: Danny Moder & Julia Roberts

D'LILA STAR & JESSE JAMES COMBS

Famous Parents: Sean 'P.Diddy' Combs & Kim Potter

EDEN & SAVANNAH MAHONEY

Famous Parents: Tom Mahoney & Marcia Cross

FINLEY & HARPER LOCKWOOD

Famous Parents: Michael Lockwood & Lisa Marie Presley

** Note - Sorry folks! This is as close as we can get until the twins are able to outrun the paps

THOMAS & ZOE QUAID

Famous Parents: Dennis Quaid & Kimberly Buffington

And of course let's not forget that there're other celeb toddlers out there that deserves some attention as well (and I have nothing against Suri Cruise & Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, but I think they're just overexposed right now, the Beckham boys has probably had the best 'kiddies parties' thanks to attention-loving mum Posh and poor Sean Preston & Jayden James plus little cousin Maddie are in the spotlight almost all the time). But wouldn't it be awesome if these celeb kids go to the same school? Anyway, here's to the future stars of the showbiz world...