Farewell, Redford White!

Actor/Comedian REDFORD WHITE Passes Away
[source: ABS-CBN News]

Actor-comedian Redford White passed away Sunday morning at his home in Caloocan City after losing his battle with cancer.

According to a certain Edwin Ringo of Barangay 177 in Maligaya Park Subdivision, Novaliches, White, who died at 6:47 a.m., had a brain tumor.

“Ayon sa ating tanod, namatay [siya] dahil sa sakit sa tumor sa utak,” Ringo told radio dzMM.

Singer-composer Jim Paredes, a close friend of the comedian, said White had been sick since February.

“I saw him yesterday (Saturday) to bring him Tita Cory's rosary given to her by Sr. Lucia of Fatima. We hugged the last time, exchanged 'love you, 'pre', had one good laugh, a few tears and an 'ingat 'pre' before I turned around and left his room,” Paredes said.

Born Cipriano Cermeno, the comedian, 54, was last seen on television in the ABS-CBN primetime programs “Kokey” (2007) and “Palos” (2008).

He was last seen on the silver screen in the 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival entry “Iskul Bukol: 20 Years After (The Ungasis and Escaleras Adventure).”

Incidentally, his first television appearance in 1977 was in the “Iskul Bukol” television series.

He was also known as “Sol” in the comedy program “Buddy en Sol” where he starred alongside Eric Quizon. Their successful TV tandem also headlined the movies “Buddy en Sol (Sine ito)” and “Buddy en Sol: Praybeyt depektibs.”

The comedian also starred in various films such as “Tar-San,” “Ala eh... Con Bisoy! Hale-hale-hoy!: Laging panalo ang mga unggoy,” “Haba-baba-doo! Puti-puti-poo!” and “I Do, I Die (Diyos ko Day).”

His earlier films include “Hee-Man: Master of None,” “Billy the Kid and the Sunshine Gid,” “Wrong Rangers,” “Rambo Tan-go,” “Darakula,” and “Tartan.”

Writer Woodrow Serafin said his body will lie in state at 139 Sto. Niño de Maligaya Shrine, Maligaya Subdivision, Novaliches.

‘Honest and good man’

In a text message to ABS-CBN News, Quizon described White as “a good friend, a wonderful father, a loving husband and a faithful son of God.”

“Today is one of the saddest days of my life. A truly honest and good man has passed away. Red was my partner. My sol. We were One. I was the body, he was the soul. I was the vessel, he was the spirit,” he said, adding:

“He was a man who believed in the craft and valued his work. He was a professional and dedicated actor that everybody admired…. He is now one with his creator. We love you Red. We will miss you.”

Quizon, along with Leo Martinez, visited White at his home last Tuesday before he was brought to a Quezon City hospital.

Paredes, on the other hand, said the actor-comedian had taught him many things including “simplicity, generosity, kindness, lightness of spirit, good humor, pure friendship and love.”

“Bahala ka na sa akin sa taas. My tears are welling as I write this. It's been a great wonderful life you have led. I will see you again. I know that. Ingat, p're!” he said.

Predators

THIS IS HOW YOU PROPERLY MAKE A PREDATOR MOVIE
by Reymundo Salao

First off, my apologies for the horrible delay in writing a review for this one because I watched this during my trip 2 weeks ago in Manila, I initialized writing it there and wasn't able to finish it. And when I got back, Inception was opening and I had to focus my attention on that one. So, now that I'm done with Inception, is the only time I get back to this review, and here it is...

These days, it seems to be a pretty rare instance when a movie positively breaks the expectations it creates from the trailers and the marketing buzz that surround it. Although there was indeed a hype that came along the coming of a new Predator movie, it was not so loud and feverish. Just like the recent movies that used the Predator character/concept, everybody assumes that this new movie PREDATORS was just another typically mediocre sci-fi horror film. Oh they were dead wrong. Because PREDATORS crushes expectations and does prove itself to be one heck of a great sci-horror-action movie.

The trailer of Predators honestly made the characters look boring and/or too conventional and predictable for a movie like this. But it is surprising how the movie and the story succeeds in a very efficient character development, so much so that each and every character becomes interesting and becomes one that audiences would root for. If we thought they were mere numbered victims for a monster movie at first, much later having gone through the story, they become important characters. Fact is, that no amount of trailer could really make these characters interesting not unless you get to watch the movie itself.

PREDATORS succeeds in hoping to consider itself as the more fitting sequel to the first movie the way it announces itself to be; just in the similar way ALIENS was a perfect sequel to ALIEN (although I do personally love Predator 2 which starred Danny Glover), and completely redeems the Predator franchise from the recent awful Alien vs Predator movies that have diminished the greatness of the Predator concept.

Everybody would have thought Nimrod Antal would be another forgotten name among directors who took on a Predator movie (the trailers never did spark much interest initially), but he has proven with this movie that he knows how to take on a rich character development in a genre movie. It could also possibly due to the fact that this movie is under the production watch of Robert Rodriguez who is one of those big name filmmakers who have a flawless understanding of sci-fi and genre movies. In addition, it was wise that he did inhibit himself from directing it himself coz his wild ideas and tendency to inject reckless elements in his movies would have ruined this one.

Even the references to the old movie, like the gattling gun and the sword scene that seem to mirror the first movie seem properly placed and never became a hindrance in building up its characters. That is the reason why the first 15 minutes of the movie seemed too slow; it was because it needed to lower its pace in order for the audience to be familiarized with the characters, the setting, and the situation.

Great story, script, direction and character development, and although it takes references to the first Predator movie, manages to deliver a remarkable uniqueness. PREDATORS clearly does bring back the glory of what a Predator movie should be like. I do hope the team who did this would be back for the next movie. PREDATORS is a Full Price, Full Thumbs Up movie.

Edward Norton will not be changing into the Incredible Hulk anymore

As far as the Incredible Hulk is concerned, the tale of making the Avengers movie looks to be a sad one, in my opinion. For many fans, including myself, Edward Norton was the best (perfect) choice to play the role of Bruce Banner, the man haunted by the alter-ego of the menacing Hulk. Sadly, Edward Norton will not be reprising his role as Dr. Bruce Banner for the Avengers movie, and that Marvel Studios plan to cast a new actor in the part. Marvel Studios is planning a May 4, 2012 release for The Avengers.

Several Weeks ago, Hitfix reported that a deal could not be made, despite Edward Norton wanting to join the ensemble cast that will include Robert Downey Jr as Iron Man, Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, Chris Hemsworth as Thor and Chris Evans as Captain America.

Marvel Studios' Kevin Feige confirmed the report with the following statement he sent to the site: 

"We have made the decision to not bring Ed Norton back to portray the title role of Bruce Banner in the Avengers. Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Robert, Chris H, Chris E, Sam, Scarlett, and all of our talented casts. We are looking to announce a name actor who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the iconic role in the coming weeks."

If you ask me, that's one heck of an insulting statement that is obviously unprofessional. Brian Swardstrom of WME, which represents Norton, made his reply also via HitFix:

This offensive statement from Kevin Feige at Marvel is a purposefully misleading, inappropriate attempt to paint our client in a negative light. Here are the facts: two months ago, Kevin called me and said he wanted Edward to reprise the role of Bruce Banner in The Avengers. He told me it would be his fantasy to bring Edward on stage with the rest of the cast at ComiCon and make it the event of the convention. When I said that Edward was definitely open to this idea, Kevin was very excited and we agreed that Edward should meet with Joss Whedon to discuss the project. Edward and Joss had a very good meeting (confirmed by Feige to me) at which Edward said he was enthusiastic at the prospect of being a part of the ensemble cast. Marvel subsequently made him a financial offer to be in the film and both sides started negotiating in good faith. This past Wednesday, after several weeks of civil, uncontentious discussions, but before we had come to terms on a deal, a representative from Marvel called to say they had decided to go in another direction with the part. This seemed to us to be a financial decision but, whatever the case, it is completely their prerogative, and we accepted their decision with no hard feelings.

We know a lot of fans have voiced their public disappointment with this result, but this is no excuse for Feige's mean spirited, accusatory comments. Counter to what Kevin implies here, Edward was looking forward to the opportunity to work with Joss and the other actors in the Avengers cast, many of whom are personal friends of his. Feige's statement is unprofessional, disingenuous and clearly defamatory. Mr. Norton talent, tireless work ethic and professional integrity deserve more respect, and so do Marvel's fans.

And then EDWARD NORTON himself made his own reply via Facebook with this statement:

Depressing, isnt it? Well, we'll have to adjust to yet another new Bruce Banner now. I would have wanted David Duchovny to play the role coz he seems to be also perfectly fit for the role of the nerdy, angsty Banner. But then, over the past days, there has been announcements that Marvel already has somebody in mind; and that is Mark Ruffalo, who is said to be in the final stages of negotiations to play the role. My reaction? Meh :( How about you? What do you think? Hit the comments for your reactions...

New Movies this Week

It's a Wednesday once more, and it's change-picture day. Last week saw the release of big movies, which are as expected, on extended run. Movies like Inception and Predators are surely living a long life at the theaters because of the audiences they draw in, and because of how good these movies are. There are only 2 new movies that will open up today;

HATING KAPATID - When their OFW parents return from abroad, two seemingly inseparable sisters soon find their relationship strained as they struggle to find love and success in the big city. This Viva films presentation stars Judy Ann Santos and Sarah Geronimo, and is directed by Wenn Deramas

THE LAST AIRBENDER - based on the highly respected and phenomenal animated series "Avatar: The Last Airbender" , this movie adaptation is directed by M. Night Shyamalan. The storyline is about a world divided into four nations, each one exercising control over an element, a powerful army threatens to overrun the entire planet. Their only hope lies in the last survivor of long dead race, who has the power to control all the elements.

Inception

INCEPTION: MIND-BENDINGLY GOOD
by Reymundo Salao

"Was that a dream?" I asked myself after watching Inception. It was quite an action packed and at the same time, mind-boggling movie. I would want to say it's confusing, but the word just sounds too negative for a film that is enjoyable and does challenge you to understand it. But then again, I doubt if after the movie anyone has a full grasp of the storyline. It's a movie that you would either hate because it seems incoherent, or you would forgive because the cerebral pace is just too fast. The others who blindly just worship this movie and claim they fully understood it are either very smart and attentive, or just leveling themselves higher apart from those who did not understand it.

Basically, INCEPTION is about a group of individuals who know how to navigate through dreams, and there, you can do anything you want; you can steal an idea or plant an idea. For Dom Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his team, they are about to undertake a very difficult and very dangerous assignment. And any mistakes may lead them to a fate worse than death. Are you happy with that synopsis? Well how about this: this movie is directed by Christopher Nolan, who just recently directed the greatest film ever made; The Dark Knight, and has directed several other masterpieces including The Prestige, Memento, and the remake of Insomnia. With a line-up like that, who needs a synopsis?

This is the kind of movie that you will want to have coffee or hangout with your friends after watching it in order just to discuss it further. Nolan's film asks mind-bending questions about dreams and reality, and anything that has some sort of existential depth. At the same time, delivering some hard-ass action.

The action was radically awesome. Joseph Gordon-Levitt looked very agile in that gravity-bending fight scene; he has that swift grace of a fast-moving fighter (makes Batman geeks out there, including me, wonder if he's going to be in Nolan's 3rd Batman movie). The ensemble cast was brilliant as expected. Leonardo DiCaprio, Marion Cotillard, Ken Watanabe, and the rest; all of them are great performers that did deliver as expected. The movie had tremendous-looking visuals. From the exploding reality scene where Cobb discusses to Ariadne (Ellen Page) the concept of dreams, up to the near end part where we see crumbling skyscrapers on the background, the film is a superb kind of fantastic.

The film actually has several flaws, but most of it are questions you do not bother to ask because the film does a great job diverting your attention to how well the movie is executed and how awesome the action gets your cinematic adrenaline going. There is also the issue of clarity as I pointed out earlier as well. The fluidity of the storyline feels that it lacks some fragment scenes because some sequences felt like it needed to slow down for us to understand. Either I’m slow, or the movie is indeed to fast and oftentimes go by with a blur. The movie begs to be watched again, not because of how good it was made, but because you may need to understand it more.

At the end of it all, the flaws do not do much damage on how great the overall movie is. By comparison, I think his previous work The Prestige is way better, but this one is more spectacular and far more visually exciting. Regardless of that little comparison, the film is in its own right, a masterpiece as well. And it really is worth watching in the big screen. Full Price for this mind-bending gem.

SPOILER SECTION

(1) In the scene that we see in the trailer where Eames (Tom Hardy) was saying "You mustn't be afraid to dream a little bigger, darling" and pulls out a grenade launcher, it seems (I think) he was suggesting that they could dream up a bigger weapon. If this is so, then why did they not just dream up an ambulance or a tank when they were in trouble?

(2) While in a second level of dream state (in the snow-filled setting) why did Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) say "...when we hit the water" suggesting that he seems to know that they are about to hit water in the first level dream state when he is asleep in that state?

(3) If Saito suffered in Limbo for years and that's the reason he's very old in that Limbo, why has Cobb not aged as well?

New Movies Opening this Week [July 14 & July 15, 2010]

Wednesday is the regular change picture day, but when you have films that are of simultaneous international release dates, the change picture day practice is overruled. Wednesday July 14, 2010 only saw the opening of Cinco and Ninja.

"Cinco" is a tagalog horror movie from Star Cinema, in the tradition of Shake Rattle & Roll, the movie is a collection of short horror stories; this one features five horror stories from five directors.

"Ninja" is a B-movie action flick which is (self-explanatory) about a ninja and some ninja action which looks pretty decently fun (and even looks like it could contest that Wachowski brothers-produced "Ninja Assassin"

June 15, 2010. Today, two big Hollywood movies open and are released here in Iloilo. Inception and Sorcerer's Apprentice.

INCEPTION is a 2010 sci-fi action thriller film written, produced and directed by (Dark Knight director) Christopher Nolan. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio, with a supporting cast that includes Ken Watanabe, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Marion Cotillard, Ellen Page, Cillian Murphy, Tom Hardy, Tom Berenger, Dileep Rao and Michael Caine.

The Sorcerer's Apprentice is an 2010 fantasy adventure film produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, directed by Jon Turteltaub, stars Nicolas Cage, and distributed by Walt Disney Pictures, the team behind the National Treasure franchise. The story is said to have been loosely based on the Sorcerer's Apprentice segment in Disney's Fantasia, which in turn is based on the late 1890s symphonic poem by Paul Dukas and 1797 Johann Wolfgang von Goethe ballad.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows poster and trailer

All you Harry Potter fans have got something here to wet your pants with, and that's the cool teaser poster for Harry Potter (part 7) and the Deathly Hallows. And not only that, the trailer for the movies has been released too. This final chapter of the Harry Potter series is divided into two movies; Part I will be released on the 19th of November 2010 and Part II on the 15th of July 2011. Both parts will be released by Warner Bros. Pictures in 2D and 3D formats on their individual release dates. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows will be the first-and-only entry from the series to be entirely in 3D.

HARRY POTTER and the DEATHLY HALLOWS is directed by David Yates who helmed the previous two movies. David Heyman and David Barron serve as producers for the film and the screenplay is written by Steve Kloves, the screenwriter of the first four and sixth entries.

On the issue of dividing the final chapter of the Harry Potter saga into two parts, scriptwriter Steve Kloves has this to say:

"Years ago, we briefly — and seriously — considered doing Goblet of Fire as two films. So this concept is not altogether new. As for Deathly Hallows, I intuited — almost from the first moments I began reading it and certainly once I'd finished — that to realise the story in a single film was going to be a tall order. Others in 'the group' felt similarly. So the idea of two films began to get kicked around as early as late summer of 2007. We didn't take it lightly. But ultimately everyone felt that despite the challenges it would present, it was the most sound creative decision.

I'm sure some will think we're crazy. My wife looked at me cross-eyed when I first mentioned it. But I'm really excited about it because it should allow us to stretch a bit with the characters and give them the proper send-off. The story is highly emotional and those moments deserve time to breathe. And, personally, I feel we owe it to [author] Jo [Rowling] — in order to preserve the integrity of the work — and the fans — for their loyalty all these years — to give them the best and most complete experience possible."

It is interesting to note that this teaser poster is like a consistent contrast to the poster of the first movie; and the poster does spell it literally; "It All Ends Here"

Here Comes the New Spider-man!

In an official twitter post from SONY PICTURES, the company revealed the actor who will become its next Spider-man. And his name is ANDREW GARFIELD. He has appeared in the TV series Red Riding and Boy A, he has also appeared in Terry Gilliam's The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus, and will be next seen in David Fincher's The Social Network, and in the adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro's Never Let Me Go.

Let me give you a quick rundown of what happened with the Spider-man franchise in case you are not familiar with it; Director Sam Raimi and the producers had some creative differences and disagreements while they were developing Spider-man 4; Raimi (who has revealed some regrets and is displeased with the result of Spider-man 3) has already surrendered his creativity to its producers once and seems like he is not bound to make the same mistake. Eventually, the disagreement was not settled, and the result of that is Raimi is not part of the making of Spider-man 4.

In this light, Sony Pictures decided that they reboot the franchise and go back to the very beginning with a fresh start; new director, new cast, new series. One that goes back to Peter Parker's high school days. This should not be too much of a stray from the source material because when Spider-man first got his powers he was still indeed in High School. But this will surely displease other fans who feel that Sony might take it to a more of a "sell-out" approach (like this one other popular franchise that is drawing a strong fandom, particularly in the young adult demographic).

Me? I am just open to any possibilities; I was actually unhappy with Raimi's departure from the Spidey franchise, and unhappier with Sony's decision to reboot the series. But then it's new director Marc Webb is someone I am willing to trust fully coz I just loved his movie "500 Days of Summer"