Magic Mike (2012)
R | 1h 50m


A male stripper teaches a younger performer how to party, pick up women, and make easy money.

An electrifying and alluring film that delivers on both entertainment and eye-candy. Channing Tatum's charismatic performance as the titular character shines through, adding depth to the storyline. The movie strikes a harmonious balance between humor and drama, providing an engaging glimpse into the world of male stripping. While the plot may not be groundbreaking, the movie thrives in its energetic dance sequences, which are both skillfully choreographed and visually captivating. With its talented cast, appealing soundtrack, and tantalizing dance numbers, "Magic Mike" successfully seduces its audience into an enjoyable and unforgettable cinematic experience.

Snow White and the Huntsman (2012)
PG-13 | 127 min

In a twist to the fairy tale, the Huntsman ordered to take Snow White into the woods to be killed winds up becoming her protector and mentor in a quest to vanquish the Evil Queen.

The adaptation of this classic fairytale was an absolute delight! The visual effects transported me to a mesmerizing world of magic and enchantment, enhancing the story's allure and bringing it to life in a truly captivating manner. And oh, Charlize's acting was simply phenomenal! Her portrayal of the iconic character added depth and charm, making it impossible to take my eyes off the screen. The movie succeeded in breathing new life into a beloved tale, leaving me enchanted from start to finish. A true cinematic gem that I will cherish for its stunning visuals and outstanding performances.

A Trip to the Moon (1902)
Original title: Le voyage dans la lune 
G | 13 min

A group of astronomers go on an expedition to the moon.


I stumbled upon this short movie on YouTube, and what caught my attention was its inclusion in the esteemed "1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die" list. My discovery of this list came while perusing "1000 places to see before I die," and since I don't have the means to travel, I decided to embark on a journey through movies instead.

What I love about watching both new and old films is the opportunity to immerse myself in different cultures, traverse countries, eras, and times, and gain insights into the filmmaking process. It's fascinating to compare the technology used in movies, especially in sci-fi films, from the past to the present. Watching an old movie feels like a delightful time travel experience, offering a glimpse into bygone eras and the artistry of filmmaking back then. Through these films, I get to explore worlds I might never visit physically, expanding my horizons and enriching my appreciation for the diverse wonders of cinema.


Arthur Christmas (2011)
PG | 1hr 37m

On Christmas night at the North Pole, Santa's youngest son looks to use his father's high-tech operation for an urgent mission.


Arthur might not possess the brawn or toughness of his family members, but what sets him apart is his immense heart. While others may excel in strength and skill, it is Arthur's boundless compassion and genuine care for others that make him truly exceptional. His unwavering determination to spread joy and ensure every child receives their Christmas gift embodies the spirit of the holiday season. Arthur's kindness and selflessness remind us that true strength lies not in physical might but in the capacity to show love and bring happiness to others. His heartwarming journey teaches us that the most meaningful gifts we can give are those filled with love and the joy of giving.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)
PG-13 | 2h 9m

Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Dr. Watson join forces to outwit and bring down their fiercest adversary, Professor Moriarty.


The second installment to the Sherlock Holmes franchise is just as intriguing and captivating as the first one. It keeps you on the edge of your seat with its compelling storyline and brilliant performances from the cast. I thoroughly enjoyed watching it, and it definitely lived up to the high expectations set by its predecessor.

Immortals (2011)
R | 1h 50m

Theseus is a mortal man chosen by Zeus to lead the fight against the ruthless King Hyperion, who is on a rampage across Greece to obtain a weapon that can destroy humanity.


After weeks of searching, I finally discovered the title of this intriguing movie, which I had caught glimpses of during my bus rides to work. Deciding to watch it alone, I knew it wasn't suitable for kids. It's funny how I initially mistook Zeus for Orlando Bloom, but a quick check on IMDb revealed that the talented actor was, in fact, Luke Evans. Surprisingly, I found myself drawn more to his character than the lead actor's.

As the story unfolded, I couldn't help but ponder one thing—how could immortals die in the movie? It was a thought that lingered in my mind, questioning the very nature of their existence. Nonetheless, the movie held me captivated with its unique narrative and engaging performances. Exploring the world of immortals and their struggles, it offered a fresh perspective on the concept of eternal life and the challenges that come with it. Despite the initial confusion about the characters, the movie left a lasting impression, prompting me to reflect on the complexities of immortality and the transient nature of life.

Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
PG-13 | 2h 4m


After being deemed unfit for military service, Steve Rogers volunteers for a top secret research project that turns him into Captain America, a superhero dedicated to defending USA ideals

In our household, it's customary for my kids and me to associate ourselves with the characters in the movies we watch. In this particular film, my second son enthusiastically claimed the role of Captain America. Despite being slim and small, I couldn't help but playfully tease him about it, saying, "You'll grow up big and strong just like him!" I encouraged him to eat lots of vegetables and maintain a healthy diet to fuel his growth and development. It's a fun way to connect with the movie and, at the same time, instill in him the importance of making healthy choices that will support his growth and well-being. Who knows, maybe one day he'll embrace the qualities of his favorite superhero, both in strength and character!

Howl's Moving Castle (2004)
PG | 1h 59m

When an unconfident young woman is cursed with an old body by a spiteful witch, her only chance of breaking the spell lies with a self-indulgent yet insecure young wizard and his companions in his legged, walking home.


After much urging from my youngest sister, I finally decided to watch this animated movie, and I'm so glad I gave in to her recommendation. As someone who has always been amused by fantasy fiction and utterly fascinated by magic and witchery, this movie spoke directly to my heart, making it an instant favorite. I found myself so captivated by the enchanting world it presented that I couldn't resist watching it not just once, but twice in a single day. It's rare for a movie to evoke such a strong response from me, but this one earned a perfect 10 out of 10 stars in my book. The delightful blend of fantasy elements, endearing characters, and a heartwarming storyline left me thoroughly enchanted, and I'm certain it will remain a cherished film in my collection for a long time to come.

Megamind (2010)
PG | 1h 35m

The supervillain Megamind finally defeats his nemesis, the superhero Metro Man. But without a hero, he loses all purpose and must find new meaning to his life.


While this may be categorized as an animated movie for kids, it offered a valuable lesson even from an adult's perspective. It served as a poignant reminder that life has a way of surprising us with unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes, we find ourselves content with what we have, believing it's the right path, only to discover that true happiness lies elsewhere. The film beautifully captured the essence of this realization, urging us to be open to new possibilities and embrace the journey of self-discovery. Its profound message resonated with me, as it gently reminded me to remain receptive to life's surprises and to be brave enough to pursue the path that brings genuine joy and fulfillment. Beyond its colorful animation, this movie held a meaningful narrative that transcends age, making it a truly impactful and enlightening watch for all.

Hotel Transylvania (2012)
PG | 1h 31m

Dracula, who operates a high-end resort away from the human world, goes into overprotective mode when a boy discovers the resort and falls for the count's teen-aged daughter.


This heartwarming movie brought joy and entertainment to both me and my kids. As we watched, it unexpectedly reminded me of our dear dad, filling my heart with a bittersweet mix of emotions and making me miss him even more :(. The portrayal of the over-protective dad in the film resonated deeply, evoking memories of similar themes from the beloved movie "Finding Nemo." The strong bond between a parent and child, the challenges of letting go, and the overwhelming love that parents have for their kids were all beautifully depicted, striking a chord with my own experiences as a parent. Despite the moments of nostalgia and longing, the movie ultimately left us with a sense of warmth and comfort, reminding us of the enduring power of family connections and the love that transcends time and distance.

The Avengers (2012)
PG-13 | 2h 23m

Nick Fury of S.H.I.E.L.D. brings together a team of super humans to form The Avengers to help save the Earth from Loki and his army.


For me, this movie didn't quite reach the level of greatness I experienced while watching XMEN or Iron Man, but it served as a decent way to spend some time with my kids and share a few laughs, especially thanks to Iron Man's entertaining presence. While it may not have been as captivating or immersive as some of my favorite superhero films, it still provided enjoyable moments and allowed us to bond as a family over a lighthearted adventure. As a fan of the XMEN and Iron Man series, my expectations might have been high, but I'm always open to exploring new superhero stories and discovering different facets of the genre. Despite not hitting all the right notes for me, it was a pleasant enough experience, and I look forward to continuing our superhero movie nights together.

What to Expect When You're Expecting (2012)
PG-13 | 1h 50m

A look at love through the eyes of five interconnected couples experiencing the thrills and surprises of having a baby, and ultimately coming to understand the universal truth that no matter what you plan for, life doesn't always deliver what's expected.

This movie, inspired by the book that I also happen to own, truly resonates with the reality that not all women experience the glowing radiance during pregnancy. Personally, I consider myself one of the fortunate few, and I can't help but indulge in a little bragging about it *wink*. "What to Expect When You're Expecting" skillfully captures the humorous moments while shedding light on the very real and relatable aspects of pregnancy. It offers a glimpse into the myriad of emotions and challenges that women go through during this transformative journey. From the funny moments that had me laughing out loud to the true-to-life situations that struck a chord, the movie beautifully portrays the roller-coaster ride of emotions and experiences that come with pregnancy. As a fellow expectant mother, it felt heartwarming to watch a film that captures the essence of this incredible phase in a woman's life with such authenticity and charm.


Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (2012)
R | 1h 45m

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, discovers vampires are planning to take over the United States. He makes it his mission to eliminate them.

The story of "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" is undeniably intriguing, and it left me wondering about the creative mind behind this unique concept. I couldn't help but wonder what inspired the author to blend history with the supernatural, and why they specifically chose Abraham Lincoln as a vampire hunter. Were there any intriguing urban legends or folklore that sparked the idea? The imaginative fusion of historical figures and supernatural elements adds an extra layer of fascination to the narrative. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and how it can take unexpected twists and turns, creating a captivating and unforgettable tale that leaves the audience pondering the mysteries and wonders of creativity.


The Lorax (2012)
PG | 1h 26m

A 12-year-old boy searches for the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. To find it he must discover the story of the Lorax, the grumpy yet charming creature who fights to protect his world.

I watched this movie with my kids, and while it had a cute story, I must admit it didn't leave a lasting impression or stand out like some of the other family movies we've seen together. While it provided a pleasant viewing experience, it lacked that special spark that makes you want to watch it again and again. Nonetheless, it still offered enjoyable moments and served as a delightful way to spend time together as a family. While it may not be a movie we'll be talking about for years to come, it was a pleasant addition to our collection of family movie memories.


Dark Shadows (2012)
PG-13 | 1h 53m

An imprisoned vampire, Barnabas Collins, is set free and returns to his ancestral home, where his dysfunctional descendants are in need of his protection.

Vampire stories seem to have an enduring allure, captivating audiences across various forms of media like series, movies, and books. I can't deny being intrigued by them myself, and part of me even fantasizes about what it would be like to be one, though I'm sure I'd be better off as a human, right? Nevertheless, I recently watched this particular movie, drawn by the urge to explore the vampire theme once again.

Johnny Depp's appearance in the film certainly piqued my interest, but I must admit that in my personal opinion, his portrayal here didn't quite reach the same heights as his iconic characters like Captain Jack Sparrow or Edward Scissorhands. Despite this, the movie still had its moments and was enjoyable in its own right. It's always interesting to see different actors take on unique roles, and even though it might not be my favorite Johnny Depp performance, it was a decent watch overall. As I continue to indulge in the world of vampire stories, I look forward to discovering more captivating tales and memorable performances that will keep me immersed in this mesmerizing genre.

Inception (2010)
PG-13 | 2h 28m


A thief who steals corporate secrets through the use of dream-sharing technology is given the inverse task of planting an idea into the mind of a C.E.O., but his tragic past may doom the project and his team to disaster.

What a phenomenal movie! I absolutely loved how it engages your mind, prompting you to think deeply and analyze every detail. The concept of dreams within dreams is mind-blowing, leaving you questioning whether they're truly dreaming or not, and whose dream they might be in, and at what level. It's such a fantastic idea! I can't help but daydream about the possibility of saving our dreams to watch them later :P. 

I consider myself lucky, or maybe not, as I have the ability to vividly remember most of my dreams. They're so vivid that I often wish I had artistic talents to draw and capture them all. Some of these dreams are incredibly realistic, to the point where I can genuinely feel the emotions and sensations within them. The experience is so intense that I even wonder if I encountered an incubus in one of them. "Inception" truly sparked my imagination and made me appreciate the enigmatic world of dreams even more.


Life as We Know It (2010)
PG-13 | 1h 54m

Two single adults become caregivers to an orphaned girl when their mutual best friends die in an accident.


"Typical opposites attract" is the central theme of this movie, and while the plot may be straightforward and some scenes a tad corny, there's one irresistible factor that kept me hooked: the yummy actor! Without that eye-catching presence, I might have found it challenging to sit through the entire film :P. However, the allure of this charismatic actor made the viewing experience enjoyable, adding a touch of charm that made the simple storyline all the more appealing. Sometimes, the right casting can truly make a difference in how we perceive and enjoy a movie.

Men in Black 3 (2012)
PG-13 | 1h 46m

Agent J travels in time to M.I.B.'s early days in 1969 to stop an alien from assassinating his friend Agent K and changing history.


What an incredible feeling to see the long-awaited third installment after a decade! As a fan of both sci-fi movies and Will Smith, I had been eagerly anticipating this movie, making it a must-watch for me. I cherished my VCD copies of the first two films, having watched them countless times. Even my eldest and second kid grew fond of those movies, finding endless amusement in the funny scenes that never failed to make them laugh. Needless to say, this excitement carried over to the third movie, and we were thrilled to finally see it.

As the story unfolded, we were delighted to learn the reason behind Agent K's serious demeanor. It was fascinating to witness how a single event could transform a person into an entirely different character. The movie hit close to home, reminding us of the profound impact certain events can have on individuals, leading them down unexpected paths. Such a powerful truth beautifully interwoven into a sci-fi adventure!

The film exceeded our expectations, and it was a joy to witness the characters we love back on the screen, embarking on a new thrilling journey. The excitement, humor, and revelations in this movie made it a truly satisfying and memorable experience. We can't help but appreciate the depth of storytelling and the exceptional performances that brought this fantastic universe to life once again.

A Little Thing Called Love (2010)
"Sing lek lek tee reak wa rak" (original title)
- | 1h 58m

Nam is talented and funny, but with plain looks. She falls in love with the older Shone, one of the best-looking guys in school. Will she get her first love?

Our friend Chad's admiration for Mario Maurer's handsomeness piqued my curiosity, leading me to search for the movie he mentioned, "A Little Thing Called Love." To my surprise, I realized that I had actually seen parts of this movie before, as it was once aired on our local TV station, dubbed in our language.

However, this time, after watching the movie in its entirety, I fell head over heels in love with it. The film took me on a journey filled with laughter, giggles, and tears, evoking memories of my own high school days. The "kilig" moments, crushes, first love, and unforgettable friendships in high school all came rushing back to me, making me reminisce about those sweet and innocent moments. "A Little Thing Called Love" managed to touch my heart and soul, capturing the essence of youthful love and the cherished memories of those formative years.

With unlimited surfing time and having already surpassed the era of days and weeks spent playing games, I found myself gravitating towards watching movies. I must say, I love how IMDB offers the "CHECK-IN" functionality, reminiscent of foursquare's location sharing feature. It's a fun way to share the movies I've watched, and I can't help but hope that IMDB will introduce badges, achievements, or medals for movie enthusiasts like me. Imagine earning a badge like "SCI-FANATIC" for watching a plethora of sci-fi movies in a month—how cool would that be?

John Carter (2012)
PG-13 | 132 min

Transplanted to Mars, a Civil War vet discovers a lush planet inhabited by 12-foot tall barbarians. Finding himself a prisoner of these creatures, he escapes, only to encounter a princess who is in desperate need of a savior.


Thinking about my first sci-fi movie, "Star Wars," takes me back to the 80s, when I watched it with my dad. Those moments were precious, as they were the times he could spend with me, usually when I wasn't feeling well. Strangely enough, just watching a movie together was enough to make me feel better, and I cherished being his little girl, the only child then. That experience sparked my fascination with sci-fi and fantasy fiction movies, leading me to enjoy more of this genre ever since.

As I immersed myself in the movie I recently watched, it brought to mind a beloved novel I've read numerous times, and I can't help but wish for a movie adaptation. I envision it being an epic three-part film, similar to "The Lord of the Rings," to capture the length and depth of the story.

I thoroughly enjoyed this particular movie, and I gave it a well-deserved 9 out of 10 rating. The anticipation for its sequel has me eagerly looking forward to more thrilling adventures in its universe. A movie worth savoring, with hopes for a continuation that will undoubtedly keep me entertained for even longer!


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Day 31 = WHERE I RELAX

This is where you can see me often. Internet has been my loyal friend for over decades now. Through my ups and downs, tears and laughter, joys and pains, successes and failures, etc..

TOY


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Day 30 = TOY

My Holiday Barbie (Green) Special 2004 Edition, gift from my ex-husband.

FEET


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Day 29 = FEET

Picture of my feet back in 2009, while pregnant (baby Juriz)...

TRASH


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Day 28 = TRASH

MY NAME


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Day 27 = MY NAME

Here's my name tag during my training days last year (last week of Nov-first week of December).

KEY


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Day 26 = KEY

Key or rather keys for my father's place.

BREAKFAST


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Day 25 = BREAKFAST

Love taking my breakfast at home, during Rest Days :).

It includes KOPIKO brown coffee, pandesal, and LUCKY ME Pancit Canton with Calamansi, hehehe.


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Day 24 = AN ANIMAL

This is our dog Buddy, turning 2 years next month.

MOON


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Day 23 = MOON

Movie poster of New Moon, since the moon isn't showing tonight :(


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Day 22 = KITCHEN SINK

Our kitchen sink, all green :p


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Day 21 = DELICIOUS


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Day 20 = BEFORE/AFTER

One of my favorites at KFC, Mango Cheesecake, yumyum!

FUNNY


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Day 19 = Funny

During one of our Food Trips after work, Gladys sharing her memorable "labor" day :P


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Day 18 = A CORNER OF MY HOME

Where my youngest son parks his car :)

GREEN


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Day 17 = GREEN

Our neighbor's mango tree :)

SUNGLASSES


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Day 16 = SUNGLASSES

Again, being second day of my Rest Days, I let my son took a nice & better shot of Sulley (James P. Sullivan of Monsters, Inc. movie) wearing my sunglasses.

Prompted me to search google about this movie again. Was so elated to find out that finally, after so many years, there's prequel to that movie. Scheduled release next year, and titled Monsters University. Based on what I read on IMDB, that it's gonna be the story way back their college days. Really so excited, and I'll save money so that we can watch it on big screen. :)

CAR


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Day 15 = CAR

First day of my Rest Day, means that I have all the rights to be lazy today :p

That's why instead of going out and finding a nice car to take pictures of, I let my son do this for me, hehehe. Told him to get his Hot Wheels toy car and get a nice shot.

CLOUDS


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Day 14 = CLOUDS

Good thing that our shift this week changed to 4am-1pm, because as early as 5pm, I'm already home. Just a few more minutes before it gets too dark, picture of clouds over our place.

A SIGN


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Day 13 = A SIGN

Where one should throw non-biodegradable stuff, and hope it includes "plastic" people too :p

FORK


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Day 12 = FORK

FORK you! :p


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Day 11 = SOMEONE I TALKED TO TODAY

My dear closest friend at work, Ryan :)

LOUD


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Day 10 = LOUD

Playing it LOUD, till I fall asleep.

MOSCOW
1. The Kremlin at night
2. Red Square
3. The chapel of our Lady's icon of Iberia near the Voskresenskiye gate
4. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour
5. The Kremlin at night


I did some research on the landmarks depicted on the postcard and found information on two of them:

The Kremlin:
The Kremlin is a historic fortified complex located at the heart of Moscow, Russia. Situated on the banks of the Moskva River, it overlooks significant landmarks such as Saint Basil's Cathedral and Red Square to the east, and the Alexander Garden to the west. As the best-known of all kremlins (Russian citadels), it comprises four palaces, four cathedrals, and is surrounded by the Kremlin Wall with its distinctive towers. Today, the complex serves as the official residence of the President of the Russian Federation.

Red Square:
Originally designed to be Moscow's primary marketplace, Red Square has evolved into much more. It has been the setting for numerous public ceremonies, proclamations, and even the coronation of Russia's Tsars in the past. Over time, the square has been developed and expanded, serving as the venue for official ceremonies under various Russian governments throughout its history.

The postcard was sent by Marina, who also mentioned that Russia is currently experiencing freezing temperatures.

RED


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Day 9 = RED

Celebrating Barbie's birthday.

Barbie wearing her Paso doble dress, would like to have this added to my collection.

WINDOW


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Day 8 = WINDOW

Our neighbor's window ;p

Shot taken by my eldest son, Kuya Pong. Took him quite a number of shots before he perfected it, because I wanted the best shot LOL.


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DAY 7 = SOMETHING I WORE

... and something that I will never EVER wear again!

5PM


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Day 6 = 5PM

My watch I bought for myself for Christmas 2011. Stuck at 5PM when it ran out of battery power.

A SMILE


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Day 5 = A SMILE

Was so glad I made the RIGHT move :P

BEDSIDE


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Day 4 = BEDSIDE

So this is what's on my bedside, the "BIG" LBC box sent by our youngest sister Joma :). During work days, this is my home away from home, me staying at Papa's place.


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Day 3 = MY NEIGHBOURHOOD

This is how my neighbourhood looks like ;)

Surely I'll miss all the things about this place/city, when we finally make our move to Manila. I'll miss how it's quiet, not polluted, and how peaceful I am knowing I'm in a good neighborhood. Also I'm going to miss Proven, the street food that is popular in Malolos.

;;