քʊʀքʟɛʝɛɨռ: [action]

Maharaja

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Friday, July 26, 2024

Maharaja (2024)
U/A | 2h 21m

A barber seeks vengeance after his home is burglarized, cryptically telling police his "lakshmi" has been taken, leaving them uncertain if it's a person or object. His quest to recover the elusive "lakshmi" unfolds.

I’m glad I decided to check out Maharaja after seeing a post from our TM. Initially, I was hesitant because I don’t recall ever having watched an Indian film before. From the small video clips that went viral on social media, it seemed like Indian movies often feature a lot of dancing and singing, with some scenes appearing quite exaggerated.

However, since I’ve watched most of my preferred genres on Netflix, I’ve recently been exploring documentaries. So, I decided to give Maharaja a chance.

The first part of the movie was a bit slow and hard to get into, partly because I wasn’t familiar with the actors and the story felt drawn-out. The film picked up when the lead actor began acting in an unexpected way, which sparked my curiosity and led me to piece together the plot like a jigsaw puzzle. This type of engaging and complex storytelling is exactly what I enjoy. I hope to see more movies/series like this on Netflix.

Kingdom

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Monday, July 31, 2023

Kingdom (2019)
Original title: Kingudamu

R | 2h 14m

In ancient China, a young boy dreams of becoming the greatest general of the Qin Kingdom.

This movie and its sequel are currently among the top 10 movies on Netflix PH, which piqued my curiosity, so I decided to watch them. The lead actor's face looked familiar as he was also the protagonist in the Alice in Borderland series that I enjoyed.

According to my sons, this movie is a live adaptation of a manga series, while I initially thought it was based on the Dynasty Warriors game :p.

I found it quite entertaining to watch, with its impressive fight scenes, themes of bravery, and the pursuit of dreams. The movie also conveyed valuable moral lessons about sibling rivalry and the idea that sometimes those not bound by blood can be closer than actual siblings. It emphasized the importance of fair opportunities for everyone, regardless of their status or background.

I was particularly amazed by the character of Greatest General Ouki, even though he had limited screen time. It was evident that he was a great commander, and his presence left a strong impact on me, just like it did on the main character.

Kingdom II: Far and Away (2022)
R | 2h 14m

It follows a young man who dreams of becoming a general and Ying Zheng, whose goal is unification.

The sequel primarily focuses on the art of war, exploring different generals' strategies and determining which one would be more effective. This aspect is highlighted by the brief but impactful appearance of the Greatest General Ouki in the movie.

The movie also conveys that even when facing defeat, a small spark of effort can ignite greater strength and overcome even a formidable opponent of 10,000.

However, I found myself confused during the final scene when King Esei mentioned that he trusted Ryofui, despite stating in the first movie that he only trusted Shoubunkun. This confusion was further accentuated by Shoubunkun's bewildered behavior in the background. Adding to my confusion, the names on the subtitles did not match the characters' names on IMDB and Wiki.

Nevertheless, I don't intend to delve deeper into the story by searching for more information, as I am eager to watch the third sequel instead.

GotG 3 & The Flash

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Friday, July 21, 2023

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
PG-13 | 2h 30m

Still reeling from the loss of Gamora, Peter Quill rallies his team to defend the universe and one of their own - a mission that could mean the end of the Guardians if not successful

"Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3" delivers a thrilling and action-packed adventure that fans of the franchise will surely enjoy. The film picks up where the previous installment left off, as Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot find themselves facing a new cosmic threat. Director James Gunn continues to masterfully blend humor, heart, and stunning visuals, making this installment just as entertaining as its predecessors. The character development remains a highlight, as the team's dynamics deepen and emotional arcs are explored. With a mix of nostalgic '80s music and an engaging storyline, "Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3" is a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy, leaving audiences both satisfied and eagerly anticipating what lies ahead in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Overall, it is a fitting and enjoyable conclusion to the beloved franchise. The film's clever dialogue, charismatic performances, and dazzling action sequences make it a joy to watch. James Gunn's ability to balance humor and heart allows for both lighthearted laughs and poignant moments that resonate with viewers. While saying goodbye to these beloved characters might be bittersweet for some, the film leaves us with a sense of fulfillment and excitement for the future of the Marvel cosmic universe. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just a casual moviegoer, "Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3" promises a cinematic experience that is out of this world.

The Flash (2023)
PG-13 | 2h 24m

Barry Allen uses his super speed to change the past, but his attempt to save his family creates a world without super heroes, forcing him to race for his life in order to save the future.

An electrifying superhero film that delivers an exhilarating cinematic experience. As the fastest man alive, Barry Allen, played by a charismatic lead actor, embarks on a thrilling journey to discover his powers and the responsibilities that come with them. The movie is a rollercoaster ride of action-packed sequences, showcasing breathtaking visuals as The Flash races against time to save the world from impending doom. With a perfect blend of humor, heart, and high-octane excitement, the film successfully captures the essence of the beloved comic book character, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish. While some plot elements may be predictable, the overall fast-paced narrative and well-choreographed action sequences make "The Flash" a must-watch for superhero enthusiasts and casual moviegoers alike.

"The Flash" brings a refreshing and entertaining addition to the superhero genre. The movie masterfully combines elements of science fiction, drama, and adventure to craft an engaging story that appeals to a wide audience. The film's stunning special effects and impressive CGI enhance the thrilling visuals, elevating the experience to new heights. Alongside the exhilarating action, the film also delves into the emotional journey of its protagonist, allowing viewers to connect with Barry Allen on a deeper level. While adhering to classic superhero tropes, "The Flash" manages to inject its own personality and charm, making it a standout film in the DC Extended Universe. With its compelling storytelling, strong performances, and a dash of humor, "The Flash" is a lightning-paced adventure that leaves a lasting impression.

John Wick 4

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Monday, June 19, 2023

John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)
R | 2h 49m

John Wick uncovers a path to defeating The High Table. But before he can earn his freedom, Wick must face off against a new enemy with powerful alliances across the globe and forces that turn old friends into foes.

"John Wick: Chapter 4" delivers another action-packed thrill ride that fans of the franchise will undoubtedly love. Keanu Reeves once again shines in his iconic role, bringing intensity and skill to every jaw-dropping fight sequence. The film further explores the intriguing world of assassins and offers a compelling storyline with unexpected twists. The high-octane action, stunning cinematography, and mesmerizing choreography make "Chapter 4" a true adrenaline-pumping spectacle. While it may not deviate significantly from its predecessors, the film remains a satisfying and entertaining addition to the John Wick saga.

Wakanda Forever

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Sunday, December 11, 2022

Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio (2022)
PG | 1hr 57min

A father's wish magically brings a wooden boy to life in Italy, giving him a chance to care for the child.

This movie offers a dark and captivating take on a classic fairy tale, almost like an adult version of Pinocchio. I thoroughly enjoyed watching it and was truly amazed by the mesmerizing slow-motion animation. The film's unique approach breathed new life into the familiar story, delving into deeper and more mature themes that kept me engaged from start to finish. The slow-motion animation added an extra layer of visual brilliance, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable cinematic experience. Overall, it was a refreshing and captivating departure from the traditional fairy tale adaptations, leaving a lasting impression on me.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

PG-13 | 2hr 41min

The people of Wakanda fight to protect their home from intervening world powers as they mourn the death of King T'Challa.

What a wonderful birthday treat for me and my boys, marking our first movie post-pandemic! It was truly a special occasion since our last cinema visit was around 3-4 years ago. To make it even more exciting, we got to experience the newly renovated cinema house, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations. The upgraded setting was a significant improvement over the old one, providing a much better viewing environment.

The only downside was that the restroom was quite far from the cinema, unlike before when it was conveniently located near the entrance of each cinema hall. Nevertheless, it didn't overshadow the joy of being back in the cinema after so long.

Admittedly, I didn't have high expectations, as my boys had shared some negative feedback beforehand. However, the movie turned out to be much better than I anticipated. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and it's worth mentioning that the movie showcased some fantastic girl power moments that I absolutely loved! It was a delightful and empowering experience, and I couldn't help but cheer for the strong female characters throughout the film. All in all, it was a memorable day, and we had a fantastic time celebrating my birthday with an unexpectedly enjoyable movie outing. Girl power all the way! :P.

The Yin-Yang Master

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Wednesday, March 24, 2021

The Yinyang Master (2021)
1h 53min

Adaption of the phenomenon-level mobile game "Onmyoji" - film version with the same name that will bring the magnificent oriental fantasy world to life.

Currently trending on my Netflix feed, I opted for the English audio to spare myself from reading subtitles. Initially, the movie's legend/story was a bit confusing to me as I wasn't familiar with it, but as the plot unraveled, my interest grew immensely. Intrigued to fully grasp the movie's depth, I decided to re-watch it, and I must admit, I didn't mind at all since I thoroughly enjoyed the crystal-clear VFX and CGI.

Throughout the viewing, a fantastic idea took root in my mind – this captivating tale would make an incredible theme for a mobile game. Imagine embarking on an in-game adventure, collecting Shikigami, leveling them up, and engaging in battles like a card game or chess-like strategy. My excitement soared even higher when the animated QingMing appeared at the ending, and a quick Google search revealed that it was based on the mobile game "Onmyoji" (which, by the way, I'm currently addicted to :P), which in turn drew inspiration from the Onmyoji series. It turns out, the creative process was the other way around :P.

Thanks to AsiaOne, I learned that another YinYang Master movie predated this one, and fortunately, it's also available on Netflix. I found the story to be captivating, reminiscent of the likes of "Monkey King" or "Journey to the West" (both of which I hold dear as favorites). The movie's lesson, not to judge a book by its cover, resonated deeply – sometimes, those we least expect to be malevolent are the very ones concealing darkness within.

All in all, I'm adding this masterpiece to my list of favorite movies, titles, and legends. I can't help but hope for sequels to further explore this enchanting world. Fingers crossed! :)

The Yin-Yang Master: Dream of Eternity (2020)
Yin-Yang Master I (original title)
PG-13 | 2h 12min

Qing Ming, the Yin-Yang Master, took his master's last wish and went to the Captial Tiandu City to attend the heaven ceremony.

I couldn't help but notice the differences in the storyline compared to the previous version I had seen. It appears that this adaptation is more closely tied to the Onmyoji series, which might explain the variations.

While the character of QingMing was not as bad-ass in this rendition, he took on a different persona resembling a priest, akin to figures in "The Journey to the West" or "Monkey King." Surprisingly, it was Boya who stole the spotlight this time, presenting a stark contrast to the other film. I pondered whether these differences were a result of the actors' performances or a portrayal consistent with the original novel or series.

Nonetheless, the movie's plot remained compelling, keeping me engaged throughout. Yet, I must confess that the VFX's dark presentation made it challenging for me to fully appreciate compared to the previous film's brighter and more vivid visuals—especially now that I have a 40" Sony Android TV, which I must admit, accentuates my preference for brighter aesthetics :P. Despite this, the captivating storyline managed to leave an impression, making the viewing experience enjoyable in its own unique way.

Independence Day

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Monday, November 09, 2020

Independence Day (1996)
PG-13 | 2h 25min

The aliens are coming and their goal is to invade and destroy Earth. Fighting superior technology, mankind's best weapon is the will to survive.

It's such a delight to find the Independence Day franchise available on Netflix. Even though this movie was made two decades ago, it never fails to captivate me, especially since I have a soft spot for sci-fi films. Watching it on Netflix makes the experience even more thrilling and vivid, as if I'm reliving it for the first time, although I can't quite recall when I last saw it.

With a runtime of 2 hours and 25 minutes, every second was well-spent. Will Smith's performance was undeniably enjoyable, and I couldn't help but be mesmerized by Bill Pullman's charisma and presence on screen. My fondness for Bill Pullman began when I watched him in "While You Were Sleeping," and since then, I've been enchanted by his character, his expressions, and the way he captivates with his gaze <3 <3 <3. The movie's timeless appeal and the enthralling performances of its cast make it an enduring favorite that I can watch again and again without losing any of its charm.

Independence Day: Resurgence (2016)
PG-13 | 2h

Two decades after the first Independence Day invasion, Earth is faced with a new extra-Solar threat. But will mankind's new space defenses be enough?

For sci-fi/fantasy enthusiasts like me, one movie is often not enough to satisfy our craving for captivating worlds and thrilling adventures, hehe.

I'm delighted that they decided to make a sequel even after two decades have passed since the original. It's wonderful to see Bill Pullman once again, and while he may have aged, his presence in this movie still adds a special touch. Likewise, Jeff Goldblum, who seems to have been a staple in sci-fi movies since the 80s, brings his unique charm and charisma to the screen. Their return to the franchise adds a nostalgic and heartwarming element, making the sequel a delightful continuation of the beloved story.

Justice League

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Tuesday, March 13, 2018

Justice League (2017)
PG-13 | 2h

Fueled by his restored faith in humanity and inspired by Superman's selfless act, Bruce Wayne enlists the help of his newfound ally, Diana Prince, to face an even greater enemy. Together, Batman and Wonder Woman work quickly to find and recruit a team of metahumans to stand against this newly awakened threat. But despite the formation of this unprecedented league of heroes-Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Cyborg and The Flash-it may already be too late to save the planet from an assault of catastrophic proportions.

Despite my high expectations, I must admit that I was somewhat disappointed with the lack of awesome battle scenes in this movie, considering it boasted a lineup of six powerful superheroes. While I anticipated epic showdowns, the movie seemed to fall short in delivering the action-packed moments I had hoped for. Nonetheless, the film still had its moments and enjoyable aspects, but I couldn't help but feel that it had the potential for much more thrilling battles that could have truly showcased the collective strength and abilities of these iconic superheroes.

Man to Man

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Friday, March 02, 2018

Man to Man (2017)
Maen Too Maen (original title)
16 episodes

A secret agent works under cover as a bodyguard and is forced to deal with both national security missions as well as a temperamental superstar.

The bromance scenes were an unexpected delight, and I couldn't help but find them more amusing than the scenes involving the lead couple, lolz. The subtle camaraderie between the characters brought a unique charm to the series, leaving me eagerly anticipating their interactions. The humor and chemistry shared by the male characters added an extra layer of enjoyment to the drama, and I found myself eagerly waiting for those hilarious moments to unfold. While the lead couple's scenes were undoubtedly significant to the plot, it was the bromance that stole my heart and kept me thoroughly entertained throughout the show.

On Stranger Tides, Dead Men Tell No Tales

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Friday, November 03, 2017

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011)
PG-13 | 2h 16min

Jack Sparrow and Barbossa embark on a quest to find the elusive fountain of youth, only to discover that Blackbeard and his daughter are after it too.

As my RD for this week comes to an end, I treated myself to a POTC marathon after watching "Transformers: The Last Knight" earlier.

It's intriguing to witness a different take on mermaids in the Pirates of the Caribbean series, as I was more accustomed to the Ariel-type mermaid portrayal :P. The concept of the Fountain of Youth got me wondering – does it actually exist? And if so, could it be lost or concealed somewhere, waiting to be discovered?

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (2017)
PG-13 | 2h 9min

Captain Jack Sparrow searches for the trident of Poseidon while being pursued by an undead sea captain and his crew.

I was thrilled to see the other two main characters make an appearance at the end of "Dead Men Tell No Tales." It left me wondering if this signals the conclusion of the series or if there are more installments to come. I can't help but anticipate what the future holds for the Pirates of the Caribbean saga.

Transformers: The Last Knight

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Thursday, November 02, 2017

Transformers: The Last Knight (2017) on IMDb

Transformers: The Last Knight (2017)
PG-13 | 2h 29min

Autobots and Decepticons are at war, with humans on the sidelines. Optimus Prime is gone. The key to saving our future lies buried in the secrets of the past, in the hidden history of Transformers on Earth.

"Transformers: The Last Knight" is a visually stunning spectacle that continues the epic saga of the Autobots and Decepticons. As a dedicated sci-fi enthusiast who has followed the franchise since its inception, I found the film to be a mixed bag. While it offers thrilling action sequences and impressive special effects, the convoluted plot and excessive CGI can be overwhelming at times. The presence of Bumblebee remains a highlight, adding heart to the chaos. Overall, it's an entertaining addition to the Transformers series, but it may leave fans longing for the simplicity and charm of the earlier installments.

The Mummy

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Wednesday, November 01, 2017

The Mummy (2017)
PG-13 | 1h 50min

An ancient Egyptian princess is awakened from her crypt beneath the desert, bringing with her malevolence grown over millennia, and terrors that defy human comprehension.

Tom Cruise being the lead, makes me feel like watching MI with a horror twist. :P

Wonder Woman

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Sunday, October 29, 2017

Wonder Woman (2017)
PG-13 | 2h 21min

When a pilot crashes and tells of conflict in the outside world, Diana, an Amazonian warrior in training, leaves home to fight a war, discovering her full powers and true destiny.

Amazing movie/story, it left me wanting to be Wonder Woman :P. Can't deny the chemistry between Chris and Gal, and it made me sad to see him died in the story. I wished they could have let the story ended that both the characters have spent couple of years together. But yeah, I know that Chris' being heroic have lead to Wonder Woman releasing/discovering her utmost power, so the story had to be ended that way.

Doctor Stranger

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Thursday, October 26, 2017

Doctor Stranger (2014)
Dakteo Yibangin (original title)
20 episodes

As a child, Park Hoon (Lee Jong-suk) and his father were kidnapped by North Korea. In North Korea, Park Hoon was trained to become a doctor by his father who was already a famous doctor.

Second KDRAMA of Lee Jong-Suk for me. Didn't thought that the series or the story will keep me interested. If only, I started watching this on the first day of my rest day then I could've finished this in just a day or two.

Though, I like him more on W: Two Worlds, because (1) he's more manly, he's better with a little more weight; (2) can't get enough of the chemistry between Lee Jong-Suk and Han Hyo Joo that I wished hard that they could continue off-cam :P. I didn't feel the chemistry between Lee Jong-Suk's character and Jin Se-Yeon on this series, I felt it though on scenes between Lee Jong-Suk and Kang So-Ra.

Overall, it's a good story and worth watching.

Baywatch

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Baywatch (2017)
R | 1h 56min

Devoted lifeguard Mitch Buchannon butts heads with a brash new recruit, as they uncover a criminal plot that threatens the future of the bay.

Watched the TV series like almost 2 decades ago. This movie is way too different from the old versions with Drama Action theme, while this one is more on Rated R scenes and a lot of comedy scenes. I can't stop laughing on the hilarious "Let me Help You" part.

Suicide Squad

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Saturday, October 15, 2016

Suicide Squad (2016)
PG-13 | 2h 3min

A secret government agency recruits some of the most dangerous incarcerated super-villains to form a defensive task force. Their first mission: save the world from the apocalypse.

It feels good to be bad! Loved Deadshot & Harley Quinn :)

This Means War at the Edge of Tomorrow

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Sunday, October 11, 2015

This Means War (2012)
PG-13 | 1h 43min

A pair of CIA operatives wage an epic battle against one another when they discover they are dating the same woman.

Tom Hardy's brilliant performance in "Mad Max: Fury Road" left me in awe, prompting me to search for more of his movies to watch next. As a fan of romantic comedies, I settled on this particular film. However, it was a bit disheartening to discover that he played the second lead role instead of the main protagonist. Nonetheless, I remained hopeful that his presence would still add a special touch to the movie.

Despite his supporting role, I couldn't help but admire Tom Hardy's acting prowess, which continued to shine in this RomCom. His charisma and talent were evident, making his character a standout even in a supporting capacity. While I may have wished for him to take the lead, I found myself thoroughly enjoying the film and appreciating his contribution to the story.

Watching this RomCom allowed me to see a different side of Tom Hardy's versatility as an actor, proving that he can excel in various genres. It only deepened my admiration for his talent and left me eager to explore more of his work, regardless of the role he plays.

Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
PG-13 | 1h 53min

A soldier fighting aliens gets to relive the same day over and over again, the day restarting every time he dies.

Feels like a live adaptation of those video games where you can respawn and try again until you defeat your opponent without dying. As a sci-fi enthusiast, I appreciated the concept, but I couldn't help but feel like I spent almost two hours watching someone else play a game instead of immersing myself in it.

While the movie had its moments, it left me yearning for more substance and depth. Nevertheless, the action sequences and sci-fi elements were engaging, and Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt delivered commendable performances. If you enjoy action-packed films with a unique twist, "Edge of Tomorrow" might be worth a watch, but for me, it left a lingering feeling of having missed out on a real gaming adventure :P.

Jurassic World & App Love

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Saturday, August 15, 2015

Jurassic World (2015)
PG-13 | 2h 4m

A new theme park, built on the original site of Jurassic Park, creates a genetically modified hybrid dinosaur, the Indominus Rex, which escapes containment and goes on a killing spree.

Jurassic World was a nostalgic thrill ride for this 80's kid who grew up loving sci-fi. While it couldn't quite capture the awe and wonder of Spielberg's original Jurassic Park trilogy from the 90's, it still delivered a satisfying dose of dinosaur mayhem. The special effects have come a long way since my childhood, making the prehistoric creatures even more breathtaking and terrifying. Chris Pratt's rugged hero and Bryce Dallas Howard's determined park manager added a fresh twist to the formula, but it's the nostalgic nods to the past that truly warmed my heart. Despite its shortcomings, Jurassic World successfully reignited my love for this franchise, reminding me of the timeless appeal of dinosaurs in cinema.

App Love (2014)
Original Title: Sing lek lek thi na rock

| Xh Xm

A new Thai comedy which the story is about a man who dresses like a woman. One day, he falls in love with a beautiful woman that he meets at school in all of sudden. Their relationship becomes more interesting and many funny moments comes up as they become closer to each other.

I stumbled upon this Thai film released as "Rock Angels" locally, while browsing through my local cable provider's offerings. Fortunately, it had been dubbed in Tagalog, sparing me the need to read subtitles. Intrigued by the mention of the same director behind "A Little Thing Called Love," I couldn't resist delving into the story to see how it would unfold.

At first glance, I couldn't help but wonder if BB Gandanghari was portraying the character Pupe, but it turned out to be someone else entirely.

However, as I watched the film, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was missing. I couldn't determine whether it was due to a less-than-stellar screenplay or if the performances simply didn't measure up. I had initially anticipated experiencing the same heartwarming "kilig" moments that I cherished in the Thai movie "A Little Thing Called Love," but unfortunately, that magic didn't quite materialize in "Rock Angels."

Captain America: The Winter Soldier

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Monday, November 03, 2014

Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014) on IMDb

Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
PG-13 | 2h 16min

As Steve Rogers struggles to embrace his role in the modern world, he teams up with a fellow Avenger and S.H.I.E.L.D agent, Black Widow, to battle a new threat from history: an assassin known as the Winter Soldier.

Game of Shadows

0 comments | Posted by PurpleJein on Friday, November 09, 2012

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.

;;

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