My favorite film to re-watch would probably be the Hunger Games (franchise) its dystopian world building of Panem is really engaging. Katniss Everdeen is one of the most well written protagonist (IMO), even the supporting characters such as Peeta, Gale, Effie, and etc... they all have such depth and overall very complex that made the franchise worth revisiting. In general I just really enjoy how the films did such an amazing adaptation to the books, the emotional depth of the scenes were captured spot on and I really admire how the franchise just explore themes such as propaganda, the class struggles, rebellion and such that just makes it feel relvant with each reawatch I've noticed how it parallels to real world issue (especially nowadays).

I like to watch dystopian movies such as the Hunger Games, Divergent, The Maze Runner, and the like. I like these types of movies because usually these films have a strong sense or urgency and survival most of the time. The wold building of such films makes me imagine what would it be like if I was in their situation.

• What happens in the film? 

So the film starts around in an ancient Egytian city and there was this group of people who are investigating the place, but unfortunately they've woken up "Imhotep" the highly cursed high priest of the ancient city, thus the deadly plague curse was released. So basically the Protagonists need to battle "Imhotep" to stop the curse and restore peace in the city of Egypt.

• What was scene that stood out to you - whether good or bad and why? 

The scene that stood out to me would probably be the one wheres Jonathan (Evelyn's Brother) chanted the spell multiple times to break the curse of the skeletons thus attacking the wife of "Imhotep". I find it incrediblly hilarious and comedic how he needs to repeat it multiple times to get it right.

• What were the production aspects or details that stood out to you – whether good or bad? Why?

The aspect that stood out to me in the whole entire film was probably the parts where they pan out the shots in each time the scenes change. Giving us the lens to look and imagine what the place of the characters are in. I also want to point out the cgi was actually good and the quality was catchy for a film that was made in 1999.

• Was the film well made? Why do you think so?

For me YES OFCOURSE!!! The Mummy (1999) is one of the staples action and adventure film for its time! Highly reccomended for the people who hasn't watch the film yet~ (Go na watch it naaa~)

Rating - (9.5/10) <33

• What were scenes that stood out to you - whether good or bad and why? 

  For me, the scene that really stood out was probably the sword fight between the samurai and the bandit. During the trial, the bandit claims that their duel was between two skilled swordsmen. But when Mr. Woodcutter tells the truth, the fight is anything but noble. HAHAHAHA. The overall fight is awkward, novice, and to me, a little comedic. The two men just swing and fumble with their swords in the air at each other. I also remember when the bandit accidentally drops his sword and looks terrified, desperately trying to defend himself against the samurai.

  To me, this scene is peak, and it really stands out because it completely breaks the illusion of them being heroic, which the previous testimonies tried to paint. People's perspectives can be unreliable and self-serving sometimes. Overall, this scene is 10/10, best anime fight... KIDDING!!

• What were the production aspects or details that stood out to you – whether good or bad? Why?

  The production detail that really stood out to me was the acting. The actors really went all out, especially Toshiro Mifune's performance as the bandit Tajomaru. The way he gets into character with his animalistic mannerisms, wild laughter, and erratic body language makes his character both comedic and intimidating at the same time. During the bandit's testimony at the trial, his exaggerated expressions really contrast the awkward and pathetic reality of the duel between him and the samurai. I still stand by my opinion that that fight is the most hilarious and iconic part of the whole movie.

  Another production aspect that stood out was the cinematography. Rashomon's use of natural lighting, even though it's in black and white, makes the forest scenes stunning, giving them a dream-like feel. The unconventional angles and even handheld camera work make it feel like we are right there, watching the story unfold in real time.

  
  

• Was the film well made? Why do you think so

  Yeah, for me, the film is really well made. They really captured the themes of Rashomon. The plot, where each character tells a different perspective about a single event, makes us question what really happened in the first place.

  It goes to show that there are always three sides to a story: "Your side, their side, and the truth."

  
  

• Why do you think this Japanese film would have made such a splash internationally?

  I feel like this film made such a splash internationally because it relates to a lot of people's perspectives on things. The characters in Rashomon say a lot about us and how we see a single event differently, depending on how we interpret and acknowledge the truth behind every story or event that we’ve experienced.

  
  

• Since this film's release, "the Rashomon effect" or it's style of storytelling has been borrowed and used in various forms of media, such as films, animation, television series and music videos. What do you think is the appeal of this style?

  For me, the Rashomon effect is really appealing because it defines and challenges the idea of objective reality. It mirrors the way we perceive things—how one event can have multiple interpretations and how those interpretations affect people, whether in a good, bad, or neutral way.

  I feel like the Rashomon effect makes us really think about what is actually happening. It makes us question what is real and whether we can truly believe a situation from just one perspective. People reflect and understand that that’s not always the case—we should always be open and mindful of the things we hear from others. Each and every one of us sees the world differently, and Rashomon captures that perfectly.

  (Rating 9/10)

So basically what happened in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is all about this highly and very legendary sword that is named “Green Destiny” that somehow always gets stolen, and causing these many things or sets off a chain of some events involving some mix between duty, love, betrayal (OUCH), and also freedom. The story centers around Li Mu Bai (a warrior who basically just wants to retire same KIDDING), Yu Shu Lien (his bestie and a love interest), and even Jen Yu (a noblewoman living a two or some might say double life). Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon basically has themes of martial arts, romance, and a lot of flying and standing through some trees and leaves~

What scenes stood out to me?

Oh boy, that iconic bamboo forest showdown was absolute cinema. It was kinda and somewhat tense and dreamlike (Mostly because of how light and airy they fought its funny how some of the scenes were so “nakakahilo” for me but it was awesome nonetheless) It wasn’t just action for the sake of action it told each of us a bit about the characters their peculiar motives and personalities including inner conflicts of Li Mu Bai, Jen , & Jade Fox.

Production aspects that stood out?

For me personally its the Cinematography and Choreography (INSANE)

Every frame was gorgeous. Director Ang Lee really knew how to mix beauty with brutality. The color grading was so rich but muted like have you seen the amazing scenes and shots?! and the camera movements felt smooth and intentional what a masterpiece.

Was the film well-made

Yes, absolutely. It’s so well made and masterfully done (what a way to start my journey in chinese movies or dramas hehe) director Lee skillfully combine Eastern martial arts philosophy with Western storytelling structures (according to an article i read online), which is probably why it resonated with us the audiences that are from different countries. everything just felt so spot on and deliberately well made 10/10.

Narrative Structure Breakdown

ACT I – Setup:

So the film starts if in the world of the wudan warrios. Li Mu Bai basically gives up his sword aka (green destiny) to retire. Then the sword gets mysteriously stolen, and thus we start to see the mysterious motives behind Jen and her relationship with the Jade Fox.

ACT II – Confrontation:

In act II, the many secrets starts to unfold; Jens double life is revealed, and her desired freedom and duty starts to have conflicts. Jen clashes with both Mu Bai and Shu Lien. Then Lo her love interest is revealed, thus her resistance drives the central conflict.

ACT III – Resolution:

The last act basically strikes when Mu Bai is severely injured. Then he confesses his love for Shu Lien (FINALLY YIE), and Jen she realizes the damage she has caused, seeks some sort of redemption. The end is basically Jen jumping off a cliff it is a symbolic gesture tied to the open ended that leaves us questioning her fate.

My expectations and after I watched the film:

When I started watching Crouching Tiger hidden Dragons, I expected some very good actions scenes and beautiful visuals, but I didn’t expect it to be this sooo emotional and symbolic. It wasn’t just about the soft and beautiful fight scenes (mostly flying HAHA); it was about the silent and inner battles each character has, and price to have freedom. My expectations weren't just met it was exceeded by thousands!!

Misconception in English summaries

I guess a lot of synopses and summaries say that Li Mu Bai and Shu Lien are technically lovers or a couple but its not true. They loved each other for many years although they never showed it out of loyalty and restraint.

If someone watches and goes in watching and expects a typical love story movie, they might've be in a wild ride… the subtle tension what makes their final moments so freaking powerful~

• Was the film well made? Why do you think so?

  
  

  Just like my previous answers the film is pretty well made. The fact that theres so many iconic references all through the movie just goes to show how much of an impact The Matrix (1999) really is. Even if you haven’t watched the film yet you can already pin point some reference other movies and shows has made about the movie. The cast, crew, directors, and everyone that made this movie possible did their best to become the movie that will be remembered.

  
  

1. PROTAGONIST | ANTAGONIST

• Neo | Agent Smith

• Neo the moment he took the red pill

• Agent Smith it was obvious from the start that he's against and has a huge hatred against human

  
  

2. REASON | EMOTION

• Morpheus | Cypher

• Morpheus because he is driven by belief in the prophecy he uses reason to guide others.

• Cypher because he acts out of bitterness and his frustration showing values of emotion rather than reason.

  
  

3. SIDEKICK | SKEPTIC

• Trinity | Cypher

  Trinity because her devotion to neo and her belief about the prophecy that neo is the One.

• Cypher has doubts about the prophecy and consistently questions everything.

4. GUARDIAN | CONTAGONIST

• The Oracle | Cypher

• The oracle telling Neo that hes not the one protects him by forcing him ti basically learn the harsh truth.

• Cypher Killing members of the Nebuchadnezzar crew.

  
  

(Before I start I would like to say that The film Three Extremes is basically a compilation of 3 different films from asia put into one disturbing and terrifying movie. The title of the three films are: Dumplings, Cut, and Box. I will be discussing my personal favorites which are the Dumplings and Box. Overall the three films really lives up to the title of THREE... EXTREMES. )

Dumplings - the first movie which is named dumplings is basically about a woman (Mrs. Li) who is trying to get back in to (the young and beautiful youth - Beauty in a bottle, haha ok ill stop)youth and save her marriage by simply eating a very special and nutritious dumplings made by this mysterious woman named Aunty Mei.

Everything seems to be normal but, the horror kicks in when I find out that the dumplings are made from aborted fetuses. (I remember having a gag reflex when I saw and realized what the dumplings were made of) Thats basically a the gist of what happens in the first film

Box - Box (this left me in absolute shock at the ending) now the third film shows us a young woman named Kyoko, a writer who’s haunted by dreams and past memories of her twin sister, Shoko. As the film progress, it becomes clear to us that something tragic really happened during their childhood involving a circus that both of the sisters did back then both of them are contortionist, and a terrible fire that caused the life of sweet little shoko.

The film is like a blend reality and dreams (trippy and confusing in some parts that leave us with 2 words in our minds "WHAT HAPPENED?!), and it’s not always clear what’s real or a dream/imagination. In the end, there’s a big twist that suggests Kyoko might have been trapped in a dream or memory the whole entire time of the movie. Box I'd say is the most psychological horror film out of the 3 films .

What were scenes that stood out to you - whether good or bad and why? 

So for Dumplings, the scene that really seriously messed me up was the moment when Aunty Mei was chopping up, making the ingredients for the dumplings. Like, the moment I knew the title of the short film was dumplings I already know something was off, but seeing it confirmed with all the squishy sounds and her just acting like it’s totally normal?! (Girl..) I felt sick to my stomach, but also couldn’t look away. It was one of those “omg this is super gross but I cant look away” moments. And the fact that Mrs. Li just keeps eating them, even when she knows what’s in those dumplings? That was kinda hardbreaking, like I could sadly feel like she’s so desperate to feel young and loved that she’s willing to cross that line. That stuck with me.

Now for Box, the scene that stood out to me was when Kyoko climbs into the tiny little box. It was quiet but sooo creepy. It made me develop "claustrophobia"(kidding) just watching her. It was like she was literally trapping herself in her own guilt and trauma and also the ending really left me feeling confused and sad but in a beautiful yet kinda haunting way. Like I didn’t totally get it at first, but emotionally? It hit me

• What were the production aspects or details that stood out to you – whether good or bad? Why?

For Dumplings it would probably be the sound design... it was insanely good. Like every chop, squish, and bite was so detailed to make me have goosebumps. I could literally hear the dumplings being eaten and it made the whole thing feel way too real.

Now for Box I also noticed how quiet the film was, there were barely any music, just this eerie silence that made everything feel more intense!!! It was slow, but that slowness built this kind of emotional pressure that made the ending so much more impactful

.

• Was the film well made? Why do you think so?

For me YES ABSOLUTELY! I honestly think Three... Extremes Like, even though Dumplings, Cut, and Box were so differently made films, they each explored and showed really dark and uncomfortable themes in their respective ways. Dumplings was all about getting back their youth and obsession, Box tackled guilt and trauma, and Cut was just pure chaos and revenge. But none of them felt lacking in a sense that they all had strong visuals, good acting, and creepy atmospheres that stuck with me after watching.

What I liked most is that it didn’t rely on jump scares or typical horror stuff. It was more psychological and emotional, and that made it more scarier than any horror film could acheive.

So yeah, even if some parts were confusing or slow, I still think the whole film was really well crafted. It’s the kind of horror that makes you think and feel weird after, which I lowkey enjoyed (10/10)

Why did you think the directors of the films chose their specific color palettes for the sets and props? 

I think the directors for Three Extremes had to chose specific color palettes to match the mood and themes of each film.

In Dumplings for example, the colors were kinda muted and which made everything feel sick and unsettling. I guess it was perfect for the eerie and gross themes. The colors really helped set the emotional tone without saying a word.

What do you think these choices for the set are meant to convey to the audience?

For me I think that the sets basically reflected what the characters were feeling deep diwn inside like for Dumplings, the cramped, dim spaces and weird lighting like something was always off (and it is) It kinda gave off “you’re not supposed to be here and eating those dumplings" In Box, all the quiet and white snowy shots made me feel somehow sad, like she was stuck in her own little world like still living in the past and trauma of what happened. The sets just added to the emotions without needing to directly needing to point things or explain things out.

In your opinion as an audience member, were these choices for the setting used effectively?

YES, I think the setting choices were super effective, like they really matched the mood of each story emotions of the characters without overdoing it too much. Everything just felt right for the kind of horror each film was kinda looking for.

For you as a viewer, what were the standout costume and makeup choices in these films? 

For me personally I think it will go to the the mask the father wore in Box. It was so creepy but also kinda sad if you think about it. It made him feel less human but more of a haunting figure from Kyoko’s past. The makeup and mask definitely added that creepy aesthetic to the overall films.

What were these costume or makeup choices meant to say about the characters we were watching?

I think that the costume and makeup choices were there to show us who the characters really were underneath (ehem the mask HAHA). Like in the first film Dumplings, Aunt Mei looked so youthful and elegant, but it made her creepier ‘cause of what she was doing to achieve that youthful look.

In Box, the dad’s mask made him feel more like a ghost than someone human. Overall I'd say that the looks matched the characters’ vibes and energy beautiful on the outside, but hiding something dark inside.

Of all three shorts, which film did you find some sort of appreciation for and why?

The film that left me more of confused but appreciated so much was the Box for sure. Because to me, the film wasn't that loud and in-your-face type of horror film. To me, it was more subtle yet very disturbing. The themes of how it explores guilt and memories in such a quiet yet haunting way made me think and feel a lot of emotions without saying or obviously pointing it out.

Rating - 10/10 :3

The Royal Tenenbaums (Before watching the film I need to google what Tenenbaums mean don't come for me) tp summarize is about this film its basically about a highly dysfunctional family of a former child prodigies, all grown up and the film showcases that theres some emotional baggage in to it. The dad AKA Royal, who’s been gone for quiet some time, randomly shows up faking and acting like he has a terminal illness just to get back and be close to them again. As the film progresses, we get to see how broken and kinda awkward their relationships are and how they slowly, trying to get it fixed.

What were scenes that stood out to you – whether good or bad and why?

One scene that really stood out with me was when Royal takes his grandsons out for a fun but chaotic day running through traffic, throwing stuff, just complete mayhem and chaos (HAHAH cute). It’s not the most emotional moment, but it’s oddly sweet. The lighting gave of this bright and playful scenes, but underneath it, you see Royal trying (in his own messed-up way) to bond. It’s like his version of love its super flawed, but kind of heartwarming in his own way.

Was the film well made? Why do you think so?

I'd say YEAH, definitely. It’s beautifully crafted and has so many symmetrical shots and scenes and such a quirky bunch of characters, but underneath all that is a really emotional story. The story and the scenes dont really clash but somehow goes hand in hand to compliment eachother.

The film is mostly lit in high-key lighting. Does this style help or hinder the themes explored by the storylines of the film?

Honestly, to me I think it helps. I’m not a film expert or anything (gosh I wish), but the super bright lighting kind of makes the whole thing feel like a storybook type vibes, which is really funny, WHY? Because the story itself is actually really heavy. That big of a contrast just makes the emotional parts hit harder when they come up. Like, it pulls and gets you in with this warm, quirky vibe, then BOOM crying (huhu)

There are a handful of specifically distinctly lit scenes in the film. Discuss the following in terms of Lighting Quality, Direction, Source and Color:

Margo arriving on the Green Line bus
This scene gave off soft and dreamy feels. The lighting is very warm and glowy, and with the slow motion and music (sound production), it totally feels like a movie moment. You can tell she’s a very important, it’s giving main character energy.

Royal’s room at the Y
Now for this scene the lighting here feels kinda sad and dull, which honestly fits. Nothing too fancy its just flat and kinda gray-ish. Which it ends up showing how down bad Royal is at that point in his life.

Richie’s attempt in the bathroom
This one really shifts the mood of the whole entire film its when the lighting turns cold, blue-ish, and way harsher than the rest of the movie. It’s extremely jarring but somehow works it sets you out of the whimsical vibe and straight into something real and heavy.

There are moments in the film where the characters are blocked in a specific way to keep them in different spaces of lighting. One such moment is the scene at the private investigator's office with Raleigh and Richie. What does that specific lighting choice convey to you, as a viewer?

It felt like Richie was literally “in the dark” like both emotionally and mentally. The way they are both separated by the lighting makes it clear they’re not connecting or even in the same headspace (honestly sad) . It’s a subtle but really effective way to show disconnect without using dialogue. (chefs kiss)

The film's lighting quality shifts throughout the film, to a certain extent, dividing it in its three acts. Discuss the points in which the shift happens in the story.

Yes The lighting did some changes throughout the film with the moods. At first parts of the film it’s was kinda warm and fun, kinda like a storybook. Then it gets cooler and sadder when things get serious (like Richie’s scene). By the end, it’s a bit warmer again over all not perfect, but it feels more hopeful. than before.

Rating - 7/10

What Happens in the Film?

So The Usual Suspects (1995).I just watched it and... WHAT A WILD-WILD RIDE. Like (but honestly the first part was kinda confusing to me and sometimes I sapce out) Without giving too much away (even though I’m dying to scream about it. REAL?!), the film starts off with a huge explosion on a ship, leaving 27 people dead. There were only two people who survived the explosion. the first one is a severely burned Hungarian man and this super anxious, physically disabled dude named Verbal Kint (played SO well by Kevin Spacey had to search up who the actor was because he was that good!). Most of the film is Verbal telling the U.S. agents about how he and four other criminals ended up doing a heist that spiraled way out of control… all tied to this creepy, mysterious crime lord named Keyser Söze.

The more Verbal talks, the more you start questioning everything. And that ending?? I literally had to rewatch it!!!

What Were Scenes That Stood Out to You – Whether Good or Bad and Why?

For me it would 100% be the ending to be honest (spoilers alert) . Like, I know that the whole movie was super solid and fantastic, BUT THE ENDING THAT FINAL TWIST?! it hit super hard and it made everything before to the tiniest details felt smarter. I had to just pause again during my rewatch and stare at my screen. The way everything just clicks into place... UGH SO SO GOOD.

What Were the Production Aspects or Details That Stood Out to You – Whether Good or Bad? Why?

It will be the Lighting and Sound Design for me. The very dark and moody like noir vibes. Perfect for the mystery and crime feels of the movie and the sound design? GENIUS aboslute cinema, so much tension during the quiet and silent scenes. It really builds up the suspense like crazy.

Was the Film Well Made? Why Do You Think So?

Yes!! To be frank I think this is one of the best films I've watched like easily top 10. Everything just felt super intentional from the start to end of the film. Especially to the man who played his part so well Kevin FREAKING Spacey, Everybit of detail this man played like the walk, line, and to the tiniest twitch had meaning. The lighting and sound design on point the pacing of the film was just right not too fast but never boring plus the twist at the ending made the film worth watching I SWEAR. It gave of this mystery yet comedic vibe in some parts which I do highly recommend if you havent watched this film yet. Definitely a type of movie to rewatch so you could catch the little details

Let’s Talk About 3 Characters and Their Performance Details

1.) Verbal Kint

• Expressions: Always anxious and has twitchy eyes, nervous smiles and smirks.

• Movements: The limp!! THE WAY HE WALKS?! Felt real and made you trust him.

• Sound: His voice was quiet stutters sometimes, like he was scared of saying too much.

2.) Dean Keaton

• Expressions: He looked like a guy who somehow always kinda fights with his past.

• Movements: He is very calm and collected, giving of total leader vibes.

• Sound: Spoke like he had secrets. a zlittle intense but tired in a way.

3.) Michael McManus

• Expressions: Wild-eyed and highly unpredictable (you never know what his next move may be HAHAH)

• Movements: Aggressive, like he was ready to POP any second.

• Sound: Even his jokes felt dangerous. Total wildcard.

  
  

Two Scenes With Great Blocking:

1. Lineup Scene
They’re literally just standing in a row and as simple as that it basically tells you everything you need to know about each character in the film. So much personality in one simple setup. trully iconic.

2. Verbal’s Exit Scene Out of the Station
When Verbal walks out of the station and the limp fades? CHILLS. The slow reveal through blocking and movement was literally giving me the chills (Kyzer Söze!!!) yeah it gave me that reaction

Rating - 10/10

My favorite character would probably be… Roxie, THE Roxie Hart, the blonde main girl of the movie. She gabe off Marilyn Monroe energy, very charming, a little naive at first, but fiercely ambitious and clever underneath it all. There was something about her that felt both glamorous and messy to me, and I loved that she was not your typical “good girl.” Like her facial expression alone were so fun to watch! It was natural to her to give this kind of ability to look so sweet while scheming and you just knew she was going to immediately steal any spotlight.

One of the standout camera movement that I really found interesting was during the “Cell Block Tango.” First of all the camera movement moved so smoothly between each of the woman, and to me it almost felt like a dance in itself. The overall all lights and lighting, choreography, and the way each confession was framed made it feel super duper intense and dramatic. It wasnt just a musical number but it was something more like a emotional story telling. I personally believe that director wantes us to really feel the anger, power, and the pain in each woman’s voice and the camera brought us right into their world.

Another scene that really stood out to me visually was like whenever Roxie thinks and imagines herself performing on stage. I noticed that the camera would often isolate her specifically in terms of a spotlight with everything else fades into the dark, and even the angles would make her feel larger than in real life and even in reality, she was just sitting in a cell. Those moments to me made it clear that she lived inside her own “chicago” fantasy world, and the crew did such an amazing work showing the contrast between her glamorous imagination and reality.

In terms of editing, the courtroom scene was the most eye catching one. The way it was sometimes crosscut with Roxie’s imagined stage performance made it feel like a full on show. One moment she is giving a speech to the jury, the next she is dancing in her own little spotlight, seamlessly blending real life with her inner performance. This served a psychological function in editing, because it showed us how roxie was experiencing the trial not as a serious moment of judgement , but as her own show. It was so freaking effective because to us the audience made us question what was really real in the first place, and what was just Roxie trying to win over her audience (whether that was the public, the media, or us).

Overall, Chicago was such an amazing film 10/10 for me as a person who got the visual and musical delight in one sitting. I loved the fact that the film didnt take itself too seriously while still making sharp commentary on topics such as fame, media, and justice. The camera work, editing, and musical numbers worked together to create a world where fantasy and reality constantly collides with eachother and to me it was so fun to watch. Definitely one of my favorite musicals I’ve seen on screen, and I’ll be singing “Cell Block Tango” in my head for a year.