Hiatus

I'm currently thinking about going on a little hiatus.  A reason for this is to re-evaluate the way I think and write.

I've really lost a sense of what my writing should really be, so I shall be taking a minor break from personal blogging.

In addition to this, I have decided to change the URL of my blog to Spammymonkey. Spammymonkey is just an old nickname, as the blog I originally started was a place to keep in touch with friends.  For those who decided to join me along the way, thanks for coming!!

I will be back. I'm just a bit tired of blogging for a while.

If you still want to read what I have to say, you can switch over to some of my journalism work at my online portfolio.

Have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!

SHAME.

So...I did something shameful this weekend.  And it was something I loathed others for doing...which makes me really hypocritical.

I decided to link a blog post discussing the same topic on a website that specifically hated on bloggers. BOOM. Hate ensued.  I'm quite ashamed about this, but I'm slowly learning to move on.  I'm glad people came to tell me this, instead of those mocking me over the internet. Well, I guess I've gained some hate followers haven't I?

Oh well. That's not to say I condone most of the hate people say about other bloggers on the site anyways...If it were constructive criticism, it would be okay.  But some of the comments criticizing someone for their appearances don't quite solve anything or lead to any improvements.

That being said, yes I am a douche. Come and hate follow me!!! :)

In somewhat related news, I caught the film Shame the other day. And boy, it was really not a film to go see with friends.  It displayed full-frontal nudity and of course, lots and lots of sex.  I mean, what's a movie about a sex-addict supposed to be if it wasn't raunchy?

But if that isn't enough to turn you off, I come with more warnings.  Shame is not a film for everyone as it is probably the unsexiest movie about sex anyone will ever see.  Let's just say there is too much of it that you will leave the theatre wanting to take a long shower or wanting to watch a happy, children's flick.

What I do have to say is, the movie struck a chord with me.  Just like any addiction, Michael Fassbender's sex-crazed Brandon was in a terrible state and needed help badly. I just wish he could have helped himself much sooner instead of making the audience go through so much pain watching him suffer.  Though on the flip side, at least he had a nice body.   That made the film more bearable to watch.

If Michael Fassbender does not at least get a nomination for his acting, I'm not sure I can take the Academy seriously anymore. But then again, they put in ten nominees into the Best Picture category...which completely takes out the whole competitive nature of the awards.

This isn't a film I would recommend, per say.  But if you're still interested, I've left you with a teaser.  Watch this beautifully crafted scene scored by Hans Zimmer as Fassbender's Brandon tries to chase after a woman he isn't able to completely lure.



I do have to say, if Fassy wasn't so attractive, this scene wouldn't be as easy to joke about. If this happened to me in real life, I would have ran far, far away!!!!

Honesty is the best policy.

I'll admit that I am not SUPER big on fashion blogging because I find a lot of it vapid and just another way to make me feel poor for not having "nice" clothing.

But when the Man Repeller  started to get popular a little over a year ago, I became an avid reader because Leandra Medine has a humourous outlook on fashion, dresses for herself and didn't give a damn about being single if she could dress the way she wanted with harem pants and furry shoes included.  

But when she announced earlier this week that she was engaged in a (now deleted but good thing there's CACHE) post, many readers were supportive.  But others blew up and were angry.  A part of me doesn't know how to feel.  I'll keep reading her blog because I find it entertaining a lot of times, but like many, I feel a bit cheated.  

I believe honesty is always the best policy when it comes to writing even if it is just a blog.  But for the past 18 months or so, Leandra has been pulling off this whole schtick about being perpetually single because she dresses weirdly.  I understand the whole point of her blog being solely a fashion blog with the perspective of attracting females who appreciate "fashion that men hate".  But to suddenly drop a bomb and reveal something personal like being ENGAGED after 18 or so months of coming off as a single girl who couldn't score a date because of your odd outfits is kind of wrong to me.  

Reading this thread, I gathered a lot of opinions from readers and  GOMI, the poster.  I agree. 

All writers (whether you blog or not), need to be honest with their readers and by doing so, they must pick one specific lane and stick with it.  If you're going to be a fashion blogger talking about weird fashions men dislike, then stick to that and be subtle about your personal life or not mention it at all!!    You can't pretend to be single for a year and a half while acting like you're best friends with devoted readers and fans when you say you want  "your private life private".  If you want to go with the whole "man-repelling" theme, then be consistent with it.  If the whole purpose of your blog is to show women that being single is okay and to dress the way you want, then there shouldn't be a need to be too personal and get attached.  Because then, people will feel betrayed and lied to.

I'll still continue to read her blog.  But this definitely changes my perspective on her.  Don't be personal if you're going to not share something with your readers.  Pick one theme and stick with it.  

Even though my blog doesn't have a specific theme, I know for a fact that this blog is a way to express issues that matter to me.  

In Defense of Patrick Chan

I know I haven't been posting lately because I have been in hibernation mode for my exams.  But during the time away, a lot of of news has happened. Christie Blatchford, a columnist for the National Post, decided to post an extremely sexist article on little boys hugging (I shall get to that in a later post).  In addition to that, a super drunk couple was caught having sex on the TTC.


Yeah, big deal huh?  Well since including all of that would mean an incredibly long and dreadful post, I have decided to write about something, rather someone, who is dear to my heart in terms of Canadian sports.

Patrick Chan, whom we all know I love, was announced today as the recipient of 2011's Lou Marsh Award which makes him Canada's Athlete of the Year.

Kind of controversial after a few of his comments came under fire after a Reuters article popped up last week with quotes stating how he wished he could represent both China and Canada in figure skating.

If you're too lazy to read the article here are the quotes Patrick said.

"If you look at all the sports in China, the government is extremely involved and they are extremely proud of their athletes. People understand better what we do as skaters," Chan told Reuters in a telephone interview ahead of this week's Grand Prix Final in Quebec.

"Sometimes I feel we are not appreciated for how much work we put in. If my parents hadn't emigrated from China and say I had skated for China, things would have been very different. My parents wouldn't have had to make as much sacrifices as they have and there would be a lot more respect for what we do as figure skaters.

"I'm extremely well recognised in Korea just because of what I do on the ice and there is a lack of that in Canada because hockey is our sport and it will be for eternity. Figure skating has lost the draw and the attention (it used to have before)."

"Several years ago I felt more Canadian but I'm slowly feeling more Chinese and feel I should be more proud of being Chinese and appreciate where I've come from. (This is because) of the support I get from the Chinese community in Canada," Chan, who is fluent in English, French and Cantonese, said as he took a break from his intensive training schedule.

"I do (wish I could have represented both China and Canada when I compete). That would be the ideal situation... in a perfect world."

I'll admit here that I am going to be biased about this because it's Patrick Chan.  But if it were any other athlete saying similar comments, I would probably feel the same way.  

As a Chinese-Canadian of parents who immigrated here from Hong Kong (much like Patrick's parents), I am able to relate to Patrick because culture is important to me while Canada is where I'm actually from.  I once traveled to China myself, and I definitely felt the roots to my culture and therefore felt more Chinese.  So yes, I definitely can see where Patrick is coming from with his quotes.  But that doesn't mean he doesn't want to stop competing for Canada!!  He said so himself, he would not stop competing for Canada. 

As a student journalist, I have been able to learn how to judge articles for the way they are presented and written.  There is always a some sort of framing involved to show an angle of of the story. Unfortunately for Patrick, Reuters decided to angle his quotes in an unfavourable way.  In this piece, he sounds pompous and is made to seem somewhat "unproud" of his Canadian heritage.  But who's to say that's how he actually sounded during the interview?  It's only in print...so people can make up their own assumptions of the tone of voice he's using.  

But even though I am on Patrick's side of the game I do have criticisms for his comments.  He mentions how the Chinese have incredible support for their athletes, but I don't think he quite understands what he is saying because he isn't a citizen of China.  HE IS CANADIAN, AFTER ALL.  

Heck, I don't know what goes on there either but I have heard and seen news pieces about young Chinese children going into training at an incredibly young age to become elite Olympic athletes.  They have to watch their diets and sometimes, they are the hope of their families to get some wealth.  So to hear Patrick say something like this-- where he is so privileged living in a country with good education, wonderful coaches and freedom of choice--was a little bit upsetting to me.  I don't quite think he has a complete grasp of the world or how lucky he is to have so much support from his own country.  

But other than that,  Patrick does have a point about figure skaters (and amateur athletes) being under-appreciated in Canada.  In this culture of hockey and professional sports, why can't we show some more love to amateur athletes who train just as hard but are paid less and publicized much less than those athletes who are shown on TV every night?!  And to say amateur sports doesn't matter is just plain ignorant. Those athletes have been putting as much effort into their sports as much as any other elite player. 

So this is why I think Patrick Chan is deserving of the Lou Marsh Award despite his comments and his inability to keep his incredibly honest thoughts to himself.  Yes, he "failed" at the Olympics by coming in fifth...but he has since learned to improve his skills by adding a quad to his repertoire. Since then, he has won two Grand Prix Finals, his fourth Canadian Championship, a World Champion Crown, and set three Guinness World Records.

Yes, I know people think he is overscored but perhaps people don't really understand the whole figure skating judging system.  And besides, it's not him who determines the scores!!  To say he hasn't accomplished a lot in the past year would be a lie.  

But that's not to say the other athletes nominated weren't just as deserving.  If it were up to me (even though I wanted Patrick to win), it would have been between Dylan Armstrong, Milos Raonic and Eric Lamaze with Hickstead.  Dylan Armstrong is the #1 ranked shot putter in the world, but he only won silver at worlds. Milos Raonic climbed way up in the ATP rankings this year, but injury has plagued him from competing.  Eric Lamaze and Hickstead did wonderful things as an equestrian team.  To honour them both for the award would have been an honour of the champion horse's death.  

However, I truly believe 2011 was Patrick's year. Nothing really went wrong with him in terms of competitions.

So congratulations Mr. Chan, you truly deserve it. I hope you realize how much we Canadians actually love and support you. 

As for interviews, from a young journalist to a young athlete, I advise some media training to help you censor your comments.  

But enjoy the crown Patrick. And remember, Canada does love you. 

It's not LIU. It's LUI.

I have lived almost 20 years of my life and people have been pronouncing my last name wrong since birth.  It is seriously not that hard.  And since I have been frustrated lately by the amount of butchering, I have decided to clarify it through a video.

As a journalist, I seriously hope this video helps people with my name.  There's nothing worse than hearing your name being butchered on live television!!

You're welcome everybody.

Downtown was once a very mystical place

When I was little, I used to think  downtown Toronto was a very mystical place.  I lived in Scarborough.  And while that is still considered Toronto, there was never much of a reason to go downtown.

But when I did go, it was always so magical. Especially during the Christmas season. I loved going to the Eaton Centre to look at the huge diamond Christmas tree and I always loved looking at the beautiful Christmas lights.  Once a year, I would go down to watch a Ross Petty production at the Elgin and Winter Theatre.

But the real treat was always the Santa Claus Parade.  There is only one or two other times I remember attending.  Maybe I attended when I was a little baby, but I don't recall any of it.  However, I got to relive that magic this weekend.  Seeing all the floats and Christmas cheer was amazing.  Even if it was cold, it was nice seeing everyone's face light up when Santa's float came sliding by.

I'm not going to lie though.  I thought the wait was quite long, especially since the temperatures were steadily dropping and getting colder.  I really could have used a nice hot drink at the moment.  But overall, I quite enjoyed myself.  It reminded me of old memories and the floats were quite nice!!

Besides, the buy one get one free holiday drinks at Starbucks afterwards was a treat!!  Because I had no one to share with, I ended up stocking up on caffeine.  WHOOPZ.

Even if I'm familiar with downtown Toronto now, it will still somewhat be that magical place I once thought it was.

But perhaps, London, England is that place for me now.

 Toronto Rock, our city's lacrosse team. 

Toronto Mayor Rob Ford throwing candy canes. I didn't get any by the way. 

 Creepy looking monkeys

 Extremely small-waisted Barbies.

 Mrs. Claus!!! Her first time at the parade!!!

 SANTA!!!!!!!!

Can you spot us?? 

Taking part in the 2011 YouTube Survey

Because I haven't video blogged in a while, I have decided to take part in the YouTube 2011 survey my friend Laura  took because I needed more ideas...

Here, I will answer some questions that will hopefully let you know more about me!! (Only if you want...)

Hopefully I don't bore you too much with my answers!!!

Living Vicariously through Tumblr...

A recent quote from hometown boy Drake really resonated with me:

"I'm really scared for my generation, you know. The thing that scares me most is Tumblr. I hate what Tumblr has become. Because it like, it reminds me of those clique-y girls in high school that used to make fun of everyone and define what was cool, but in five years, when you all graduate, that shit doesn't matter. No one gives a fuck about that shit. Instead of kids going out and making their own moments, they're just taking these images and living vicariously through other people's moments. It just kills me. Then you'll meet them and they're just the biggest turkey in the world. They don't actually embody any of those things. They just emulate. It's scary man, simulation life that we're living. It scares me."


As a Tumblr user, I started to think about why I actually had an account.  Sure the things posted there are hilarious as hell.  But when I see some  memes of why people are "single", "forever alone", and how "no one will ever appreciate my quirkiness or find it endearing!!", I start feeling miserable because I begin to think it's true. 


Now I don't want to sound like this is a pity post.  Because after reading Drake's quote up there, I started to wonder:  "Why?!"  Why do I spend my time on Tumblr looking at funny pictures and feeling sorry for myself?  Why do I have to watch such cute things on the internet and wish my life was different when it could very well be?!


Why do I have to live through other people's moments and pity myself when I could just go out and DO MORE to make myself proud.  Do more to go and get what I want instead of following it on the internet? 


I want to be more than just a copy cat. More than just an emulator on the internet.  More than just a sad sack wishing reality was better.  


I know I'm more than just a nobody on the internet.  And for that, I am going to go out and get what I want instead of wishing my life was better.  


(I know this post sounds lame, but Drake, thank you for saying something I actually agree with.) 

REVAMP

By the end of this horrendous week of video editing and essay writing, I will be attempting to revamp this blog.

It will be edgier, a bit more colourful...and contain more pictures!!

Be excited.

Because I demand you to.

Honestly, just see how excited I am!!!

Being Jealous Gets You Nowhere. Nor Does Being Pretentious

I'm sorry if I don't make any sense here on this blog post.  But if you enjoy my rants, here goes:  

A couple of nights ago, I went out with some friends and started talking about a few people that grind my gears for the way the act or behave towards others.

Gossip is never a good thing, but at that point in time, I felt like I needed to address it.

And now I regret it.

No one's ever perfect, but the truth came out and will come out again (without specific names).

I cannot stand some of the pretentious d-bags in my program who constantly ask you whether or not you got published in the school paper or WILL get published in the near future.  It's great that you get published, but no need to rub it in my face that you're more successful than me.  

I will admit that I get a tiny bit jealous.  But getting jealous will not get me anywhere. Nor does complaining to your friends.  But that night, I felt like I needed to address it because I cannot stand people who shove their articles in my face.  

I'll admit that I have enthusiastically shown my articles to people only because it was something I was proud of.  But never do I do it for every single article I get a byline on.  There's nothing wrong with having pride in your work, I will say that.  But when you decide to act like you're better than everyone else and decide to communicate with a certain number of people, then there's a problem.  

Being jealous and a pretentious keener can get you places but can also become a hindrance. Being jealous can give you more drive to get published and accomplish other things.  Being a pretentious keener can allow you to stand by your work and get to your goal.  

But being jealous and not doing anything about it will get you nowhere.  And by being a pretentious keener and acting like you're better than everyone else will leave you with little or no friends at all. 

So why people? Why can't we all just be nice and be friends?  Do I really have to tell people they're being annoying and irritating? 

Okay, I for one, will admit that I am annoying.  There's no secret about that.

But I really don't mean to say bad things about people...most of the time.  

But perhaps, that's something I just need to work on.  Some things are just better left unsaid.      

November = Time to be busy month

November will be the month where I will get even fewer hours of sleep than I already get.  That's because I have an essay, midterm, critical analysis and feature due!!! To add to that, I also have broadcast assignments!! Whoopee!!

But nonetheless, I am thoroughly enjoying school particularly because I finally feel as if I'm getting used to the whole university groove without having to make first year mistakes.  But perhaps I'm talking too soon.  I don't really want to jinx anything.  But definitely, I feel like I'm actually accomplishing things that will help me get to my long-term goal:  becoming a journalist.

Wow, that sounds really corny.  Anyway...let me tell you about my Halloween.

I originally wanted to go as a Sim character from the game The Sims.  It's a cheap and low-budget costume but it did work quite well.

However, no one knew what I was...so I decided to make more of an effort and go the typical route of being a pirate.  But changing costume ideas meant I had to spend more money on my costume.  Not wanting to spend more than five dollars, I headed to the dollar store to buy a head piece and make-up.  That cost a total of $2.26.  What a big spender I am.  As for the rest of the costume, I just wore clothes I had in my closet.

The end result:

Photo creds:  Amber Hickson

And then it was party time!! Headed over to my friend's apartment and ate pasta and drank some wine.  So very classy... And if you're all wondering why I decided to pose with a wine bottle, it was because I didn't have a proper pirate prop (alliteration hehe).  Therefore, I pretended to be an alcoholic pirate. Is this even appropriate to post on this blog?  I really don't know.  Don't worry I was not crazy at all.

Just normal. :)

My First News Stand-up

Check it out peeps.

This is my first news piece with a voiceover and stand-up.

I'm particularly proud of this piece after the fiasco I went through with my last one.  This time around, my group got along just fine.

This particular story is about the radio referendum taking place at my university.  With the shut down of CKLN last year due to lack of diversity and student-operated shows, production ceased in April. But with heavy campaigning, students in related programs such as Radio and Television Arts and Journalism have been campaigning to bring in a new station.

So...that's really the gist of it!! Watch it!!

I also showed it to my parents today and instead of praising me (I'm so vain...), they offered me critiques such as: "You talk a bit too fast", "You only interviewed guys."

Well, they were the only ones that offered articulate enough answers that were relevant!!!

Anyways, my reporting teacher and class seemed really content with the piece, so I'm hoping I did a good job this time around!!

Flaws in Toronto's Shark Fin Ban

The banning of shark fin today in Toronto has been met with mixed reviews.  Toronto city council has voted to ban the sale of shark fin on a proposal that passed  by 38 to 4.

If some of you are unaware of the delicacy of shark fins, they are often used in a thick, gooey soup often served at Chinese weddings.   If you don't live in the Greater Toronto Area or was just unaware of the issue, the banning of shark fins have been an ongoing debate between Torontonians because while the soup is a traditional dish, supporters of the ban say sharks are killed inhumanely and often thrown into the ocean alive after their fins are cut off.

As a Chinese Canadian, I would first of all like to say that I am not a big fan of shark meat.  I've tried shark fin soup a couple of times at weddings and celebrations, but it is honestly nothing special to me.  In fact, I have choosen to refuse the soup at risk of supporting the way sharks are slaughtered in the process.

  While I do not support the inhumane killing of sharks, I see some flaws in this new ban. According to news sources such as CBC, Toronto Star and Globe & Mail, they all clearly state that shark fin is banned.

However, there is no word on shark meat being banned.  So does this mean eating shark is still allowed?

On another note, I'd like to make it clear that only Toronto's city council voted for a ban on shark fins.  What about other parts of the GTA?

 As a resident living on the border of Scarborough and Markham, it's no secret that that area is filled with Chinese immigrants.  If not Richmond Hill (which is also in the GTA), Markham probably has the biggest population of Chinese people in Ontario.

Considering this fact, it won't make a HUGE difference to Chinese people living in Toronto as they'll just flock to Markham and Richmond Hill for shark fin anyway.

So, what's the point now?

Now I know it may sound contradictory for saying that I am happy the ban is officially passed in my city, I still  feel there should be clearer guidelines with this law.

Here's the way I see it.  If such a ban is proposed, there should probably be a ban on shark meat as a whole to prevent people from killing sharks.

And in terms of accessibility, people are still going to find ways to eat shark fin soup.  If there's only a ban in Toronto and not other regions in the GTA, why not make this a provincial or national issue?

What do you think?  Are there flaws in this issue or not?  Discuss.

Images taken from: here, and here.  

Things through my mind at the moment.

1.  Decent mark on my broadcast assignment.  We stayed at school until 11:30 pm...because we are boss.  Nonetheless, I honestly and sincerely thought it was horrible.  But my teacher thought the edited version was not the issue despite the piece being flawed.  I would post an example right on this post, but I figured it would be embarrassment to my two other members.  Unless...they think otherwise...

2.  Frustrated with the fact at how immersed in commercialism I have become ever since going to university.  I feel that I will divulge on this topic a little more in a later post but lately, I have found myself lamenting more over clothes than boys. Never homework though. The geek in me will cry if I ever fail.

3.  Currently wondering who I like better.  Ryan Gosling or Patrick Chan. RIGHT? I KNOW RIGHT?  Never have I thought I would have to decide between this because I am equally unqualified for both of them.  Sigh...Awkward Girl Problems...

  I remember last year was all about PChiddy. And while I still love PChiddy, there's something about Ryan Gosling that I makes me love him so!!!  Maybe it's because Ryan dresses so much like what I envision my ideal man to dress like. You see this?! All this shallowness!!!   I dunno. The way he just carries himself! UGH. I really cannot handle myself. But it's not just that!! Ryan is so charming and funny in person and in interviews that I just want to know him!! Be friends. Have tea together. Hang out together. He can even drive me in the Chevy he drives in his new movie Drive!!

LOOK AT THIS! FLAWLESS HUMAN BEING.

Okay, getting carried away.  I promise to update more.

Yay for stupid blog posts. 4evah!!

PLAID. HOMEWORK. BRAIDED HAIR. AND...A&C WORLD

While I wait for my news video to encode, I resorted to my Gr. 9 days and decided to take pictures of myself on my horrible webcam and do a terrible photoshopping job. 

Thus, it the above picture is the result.  I really have no idea why I'm even posting this...but I guess you could say I like my new plaid shirt and my braided hair.  MY HAIR IS LONG ENOUGH TO BRAID!!!! 

Wow. SO irrelevant. 

On another note,  I went to A & C World yesterday for a Super Smash Brothers Melee tournament so I could complete interviews for my place profile.  I felt like I was experiencing high school again or something because I ran into at least three people I recognized from school.  It was kind of an odd experience, but hey...it's nice to catch up. 

The world is honestly so small.  

Anyways, I ended up shadowing a player named Kyle...who goes by the name Idea when he plays Super Smash Brothers.  His main character is Jigglypuff, a round, pink pokemon with massive eyes you can swim in.  At first, I laughed...because I thought Jigglypuff was the most annoying character on Super Smash.  But it turns out that Kyle is an excellent player!! 

That's Jigglypuff...

 I'm really glad I chose to follow him around. He was extremely nice and he didn't think I was annoying for tagging behind him all the time!!  I guess he thought it was pretty cool to be part of an article.  

Overall, the whole tournament experience was interesting yet exhausting.  I don't know if I'll ever be competing in a video game tournie, but I can see why people keep coming.  The gaming community is incredibly tight and welcoming...and everyone in the room yesterday made me feel like one of them.  Gamers and self-proclaimed nerds....I LOVE YOU!!!!!!

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School = Stress.

I am currently typing this while I wait for an interview.

School has been incredibly stressful with midterms and assignments that I have neglected this blog once again.   And of course, there really is nothing interesting going on in my life.

Somehow, I get the feeling I say something like this in every blog post, so you might as well just skip on through to the bottom.

Anyways, I'm currently working on a news segment about midterm exams and I am put into a group with two other people.  My job for this week, is the editor.  Now I don't have a problem with that, but things have not gone accordingly because of  terrible camera shots, and last minute interviews.  Therefore, I am skipping class as we speak just so I can wait for an interview and edit this piece.

I dislike ranting about boring things, but this project has been incredibly stressful for me.

On another note, I ended up getting new glasses! And it's about time I got a pair too!  My old ones lasted me six years. If anyone's counting, that's since Grade 8.

So...that's really about it!  Here is a picture of my new glasses.

Movie Review: Drive

And while I spent so much time volunteering and hanging around TIFF, I even wrote a movie review published on andPOP!


CLICKIE...only if you want to...

Rating: 4.5/5

If you’re looking for another heartthrob-worthy performance from Ryan Gosling, you won’t be getting much of that in Drive.

But nevertheless, you won’t be able to keep your eyes off him.

In Drive, Gosling is mysterious and riveting and the only name available for his character is Driver.

A Hollywood stunt driver and mechanic by day, Driver serves as a wheelman for night time heists.

In early scenes of the movie, he’s helped by his boss and mentor Shannon (played by Malcolm in the Middle’s Bryan Cranston) who gives him a Chevy Impala to  drive his clientele around to do their dirty deeds.

All goes well until he gets involved with his neighbour Irene (Carey Mulligan) and her young son Benicio. When her  husband Standard (Oscar Isaac) is released from prison, Irene and Benicio’s safety is at risk.

Gosling’s ‘Driver’ tries to save the situation by helping Standard steal money from a pawn shop.  But when the heist goes awry, it’s up to ‘Driver’ to take things in his own hands.

Fresh from Nicolas Winding Refn’s Best Director win at the Cannes Film Festival, Drive is an excellent action-drama thriller packed with violence and exciting car chases. Much like the style of Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill: Vol. 1 and Pulp Fiction, the film is filled with blood and gore.  Though the movie lacks dialogue,  Refn somehow makes it work through the film’s characters’ actions and expressions.

While Gosling is supported by a talented cast that includes the likes of Christina Hendricks, Albert Brooks, Mulligan and Cranston, he holds his own playing the violent and badass Driver. And while there isn’t much that can be learned about the Driver, you’ll somehow still be swooning over him as he tries to save the day in order to protect the girl he’s fallen for.

Drive may not be for everyone due to its violence and gore, but it’s definitely a film worth watching. With a retro ’80s-inspired score and beautiful shots of the Los Angeles streets and skylines, it will keep the audience  jumping in their seats from all the adrenaline and tension that arises from the film.


(Photo courtesy of andPOP) 

Late Update: TIFF

Holy moley. It's probably been three weeks since I last posted on this thing?

Well, apologies x 1 million!  School has been really busy...and I never expected it to be this stressful!!!

First of all, I would like to say that after seeing Drive at TIFF, I ended up seeing three more movies for free
From what I saw, my recommendations would be From the Sky Down, Damsels in Distress (surprisingly!), and Where do We Go Now?

DO NOT, I TELL YOU, waste your time watching Wuthering Heights.

The film was boring, lacked dialogue, was too long, and the acting was horrible.  Maybe I'm just being overly-dramatic and critical, but what I did know was that I should have watched something else with my volunteer voucher. I guess you could say the good that came out of the film was taking someone's second-hand popcorn they left (probably because the movie was a hot mess) and joking with my friend Beth.

By the way, when I mean second hand popcorn, it technically was not taking someone's trash and eating it when they left more than half of their box full of popcorn...but make your judgments.

On the other hand, the People's Choice movie, Where do We Go Now?, was a pleasant surprise. Directed by Lebanese actor/writer and director Nadine Labaki, the film touches on the sensitive issue of religious conflicts while adding in a little heart and humour.

Overall, TIFF was an incredible experience. I am definitely going to rush line films again!  Rushing is probably the most exhausting and best part of TIFF.  Not to mention, seeing the beautiful face of Ryan Gosling here and there.

Alas, I will end off with a couple of pictures I shot from the red carpet of 50/50.  Which of course, I need to see!!

P.S.  I was a little bit disappointed when Joseph Gordon-Levitt didn't stop by for photos or autographs.  I'd just like to say that half the people waiting were there just for him.  He made a lot of people angry that day.  But on another note, Seth Rogen signed my  poster!

Goes to show Canadians keep it classy.

 JGL why you lookin'so smug?!

 High fives all around with Seth Rogen!

 "AHUHEHEHE."That's how he laughs. 

Keepin it classy Rogen. Keepin' it classy.

TIFF 2011: Waiting in Line for Drive.

As you all know, the Toronto International Film Festival is in town...and I get to be part of it!

I am of course, a volunteer this year. As a result, I get to see a ton of movies and also some celebrities!!

While I was off duty on Saturday, I lined up for Drive, which of course stars the gorgeous and immaculate Ryan Gosling. I was at Roy Thomson Hall the day before to try and catch a glimpse of him and George Clooney...which failed quite miserably. People kept pushing...and to make things even better, a 6 foot dude decided to stand in front of me...blocking my view.

I did however, catch Clooney's face and Ryan Gosling's hair that day. Since I was disappointed about not seeing Ryan Gosling, I felt the need to rush Drive the next day. Apart from that, I really wanted to see the film  anyways.

So, after my early morning shift, my cousin and I headed down to the Ryerson Theatre to line up extra early. You would think we were crazy (okay, maybe a little) but we ended up getting free tix! (I'll get to that later)

The first red carpet gala I caught was for Melancholia starring Kiefer Sutherland, Kirsten Dunst and Alex Skarsgard. I heard the film was quite amazing, and now I am determined to watch it!!

Here are some shots I caught while stuck in the scrum of madness (AKA the people asking for autographs just so they could sell them on eBay.)

Not super amazing, but close enough. Kiefer Sutherland walks the red carpet.

Alex Skarsgard signing autographs for fans

Striking a pose on the red carpet.

Kirsten Dunst signing for some fans. 

I LOVE HER OUTFIT!!!!!

So after than fun, it was time for some more waiting!! These girls tried asking to get in front of me which I immediately declined. I was already in the front of the line. There was NO WAY I was letting them butt in. I was there waiting for three hours already!! Honestly, I really don't know how or what compelled these people to ask such a ridiculous question.

And of course, when 5:30 rolled by, the cast of Drive was starting to arrive!! I really could not contain my excitement to finally see Ryan Gosling! I'm so sorry Patrick Chan. I still love you but Ryan Gosling has captured my heart as well...(wow that sounds really creepy).

Seriously, would you look at that face?! 

It was hard to take pictures, but I was soon delighted to find out some really good news! Me, along with my cousin and two other friends, won reserved seats courtesy of Diet Coke because we were in the front of the rush line!! 

See, sometimes it pays to line up for six hours!! 

HAHA.  And while I thoroughly enjoyed Drive, nothing beat seeing Ryan Gosling in the flesh and on stage being all sexy and such. (Okay, I really have to stop...)

As for a more detailed review of Drive, that will come later!!

So now, I will just leave you with two pictures of Ryan Gosling.

Sorry if it's dark!!!!

A New Year's Resolution that Came in Early.

A thought came to me after my trip to Europe.

While I took a lot of worthwhile pictures, I realized I probably haven't taken enough.  While I know I will be returning to Europe, especially London, England, I realized that I haven't made the best of my abilities in capturing some worthwhile things that didn't occur to me at the time while I was there!!

For example, being in Covent Garden for the four days, I could have probably taken 20 more interesting shots.  Being at Camden Market once, I should have taken a picture at more of the little trinkets from the vendors.  But of course, I probably would have gotten into trouble.

The point is, being a blogger and budding journalist, I should really become more of a visual person. Writing is not the only thing that is important anymore. Nor is watching a broadcast on TV.
Photography has never been my forte. I have always preferred video. However, I guess this year will be when I will improve.

Pictures are doing more of the talking nowadays.  And for that, I need to exercise this a lot more.

The Piercing Issue.

As seen from my last post, I have mentioned that I got a helix piercing.

To me and everyone else, this is not a big deal at all. In fact, it's nothing at all. In the western world,  a helix piercing is simply just another hole, another piece of jewelery in your ear.

But in the Asian world, it means the following things: low-life, rebel, bad influence, gangster, criminal...I think you get the gist of it.

If that's the case, I really wonder what a tattoo represents.

Anyways, as I wear my hair up to keep it out of the way, I have already gotten two shocked and most likely disapproving reactions from my aunts.

One said that if I was applying for a job, she would not hire me BECAUSE I have a helix piercing. But because she retaliated by saying my parents were more modern than her, I didn't mind her reaction at all. However, the comment still irked me.

But when I mentioned to my other aunt that I had limited cash because I had used it on a piercing, she reacted with such surprise that just irked me even more.

Her reaction was literally a really loud, "WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!"

And after having to shush her from yelling so loudly and making her disapproval so obvious, she shook her head and clicked her tongue in disbelief because my mother had left me pierce my own ear even though I am legal enough to sign my own waiver form.

And then, she went on to tell me how piercing it would shatter my cartilage. However, I know that was not her concern.  She was obviously already thinking that I looked like some rude, rebel bitch on my way to a terrible future with no set goals.

Which leads me to why I'm ranting about this on a blog.

First of all, I'm thankful my parents are open and cool about it. Second of all, it's none of your business what I do with my own body. 

How in the hell is piercing a hole in your body and putting jewelery through it such a terrible thing?

Who's stupid idea was it to determine that body jewelry apart from the ear lobes was abnormal?

Who's bright idea was it to decide that anyone with piercings apart from the ear lobes would be a rebel, bad influence, low-life or a rude-ass biatch? 

Did some sort of Asian congregation gather in court and propose to the judge that those with piercings would immediately be looked down upon?! 

"AHEM. I PROPOSE THAT THOSE WITH PIERCINGS APART FROM THE LOBES WILL BE MADE SECOND CHOICE FOR A JOB EVEN THOUGH HE/SHE IS FULLY QUALIFIED."

"I ALSO PROPOSE THAT PEOPLE WITH SUCH PIERCINGS WILL BE FROM NOW ON LOOKED DOWN ON. THEY WILL BE DEEMED BAD INFLUENCES, LOW LIFES, AND TERRIBLE EXAMPLES TO FOLLOW. HIDE YO' KIDS. HIDE YO' WIFE."

Seriously. I have never heard such nonsense. Piercings do not define a person especially in their knowledge, thoughts and  abilities.

Rather, piercings should be seen as a form of self-expression.  My body is my temple. I should do whatever the hell I please with it. And besides, my piercing is absolutely nothing at all.

Hell, I should try coming home with my nose pierced. Or even better, a tattoo.

The only reason I'm telling you what I'm doing is out of respect.  Otherwise, I could just go in and sign my own waiver form since I'm of age.

Seriously.

We're living in the 21st Century. If a simple piercing prevents me from getting somewhere in life, then I believe there are some changes to be made.

Eat, Sleep, Run, Read, TV and Repeat.

Hello my fellow blog readers!

For the past month, I have been working at my high school's summer school for big time procrastinators and slackers.  And seriously, I'm not lying about that...because the amount of work students had left, I felt no sympathy for them what so ever. (With the exception of Grade 12 students summer schooling Calculus because that shiz is hard and I would have never survived.)

Though from a full time job in the month of July, I am now unemployed once again for the month of August.  I'm not complaining though. My cousins from the UK are coming next week!!! I also have a (LONG OVERDUE) feature to write, and I will be heading to Europe for 10 days!!! (Yes, I know 10 days is not a long time for a Europe trip but I have school and tickets were cheap...and my cousins live there so why the heck not?!)

Anyways, I got my helix pierced!! It's not very special...and I actually got it a month ago...but here's a picture of it!

You can't see it very much...but it's there. I blame the glare of the sunlight and the poor quality of my webcam. Oh wells.

Anyways, I'm currently looking for a sweetheart strapless tube top to wear under sheer clothing. I am having no luck so I am turning to the internet to help me out. I would like a cheap basic...under $20 please would be preferable.  I'm looking for a bustier shape...but something more practical and comfortable.

For example, this is what I'm looking for.

 Please help a sister out!!!

Toronto Track and Field Meet

Okay. So...I've been totally slacking on this blog but I have a legitimate excuse!! The past month has been incredibly busy.  I was working full time and was doing a lot of family stuff.  Therefore, I haven't had the time to update the blog very often.

So you know...this is like three weeks late.

Anyone who knows me knows that track is a sport I love and am passionate about.  On July 13, 2011, I got to volunteer at the Toronto International Track and Field Meet at Varsity Stadium.  Competitors included the likes of hurdlers Perdita Felicien, Phylicia George (a Mary Ward alumni!), sprinter Walter Dix, Shot putter Dylan Armstrong and several other talented runners from the United States, Kenya, and Jamaica. 

At the meet, my duty was to hand out results to the reporters.  Being a journalism student, I made this my opportunity to be a part of the media scrum so I could see how it would be like to work at big sporting events as a journalist. I even did a little networking with a recent Rye Journalism grad!!

And boy, did I run a lot that day!!  However, I felt the meet took in too many volunteers.  So many slackers GEEZ.

Nonetheless, it was a good experience. I even got to meet last year's World No. 1 hurdler Priscilla Lopes-Schliep!! She didn't compete that day because she's pregnant. She's super nice!!

Fun fact:  I ran my first and only OFSAA at this stadium!! *bittersweet*

 

All the boys here have the same outfit!! SO CUTE!!!! :') 

Harry Potter ends: A Part of My Childhood is Over.

Watching the final installment of the Harry Potter saga on Sunday has left me in a nostalgic yet depressed mood.

I'm no longer embarrassed to say this but Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, Neville Longbottom, Luna Lovegood, the Weasleys, Draco Malfoy, Voldemort, Sirius Black, Albus Dumbledore, etc have been a great part of my literary adventures when I was a child and an adolescent.

Some boys used to tease me at school because I loved reading...but you know what?! I'm not ASHAMED ANYMORE. (Okay, I was never ashamed...but offended when they called me a nerd). And with that, I am admitting on this very blog post that I am depressed that the series is no longer continuing.

Thank you J.K Rowling for writing such an amazing saga with so much detail and developing your characters as if they were real human beings, just like us.  I feel so connected to Harry, Ron and Hermione...almost as if I could be one of their friends whenever I pop open a Harry Potter novel.

Thank you J.K Rowling for writing it in a way, that made me completely and 100 per cent content.  The only thing I would comment on was that it was too short!! I really am curious as to what happened after the Second Wizarding War. How did Harry and Ginny heal together?  How did Ron and Hermione's relationship develop??

Particularly, I am interested especially in Ron and Hermione.  I have always had a hunch since the second book that they would end up together.  But since the Goblet of Fire, I solidly became a HUGE Ron/Hermione shipper. That's the beauty of books I think.  They offer an escape to reality and just gives you such a nice feeling of nostalgia.  (AND if anyone who doesn't ship Ron/Hermione...I will happily debate over this in the comment sections ;] )

Okay, so now that I have finished gushing over the series in my confusing little word vomit up above...let me talk about the Deathly Hallows Part 1 and Part 2.  (THERE MAY BE SPOILERS SO PLEASE BE CAUTIOUS)

Part 1 was amazing, simply put.  Like Daniel Radcliffe said in an interview with Tribute Magazine, it was a "slow-burning drama", which I really, really enjoyed.  I loved the adrenaline involved when they were being chased by the Snatchers, the tension between the friends as they look for Horcruxes and for the romantic in me, the development of Ron and Hermione's ever-growing feelings for each other.

I mean really?  Didn't you just melt at the way he looks at her?!



The way they bicker??

OR THAT LOVELY SPEECH HE GIVES WHEN HE RETURNS??

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFcwZH0MpYE

Ron has always been my favourite. He's such a dork. And I love dorks. He's so funny and sarcastic...and UGHH I love HIM. AND RUPERT GRINT. I want my very own Ron Weasley. Or Rupert Grint. I don't mind. I want THEM BOTH!! (Must. Watch. All. His. Other. Stuff.)

And on to Part 2...the thing I was most looking forward to was Neville Longbottom and of course the kiss by Ron and Hermione.  I won't say much...but I wish they shot it better.  But yest, they did do it justice and I am happy enough.

But Neville!! (AKA Matthew Lewis). My..have you grown into a handsome man.  UGH.  Another big fangirl crush on you. I MEAN LOOK AT THIS. LOOK AT THIS.

WHAT A BABE. SERIOUSLY.

 AHHH. The series was just too perfect.  The movies, a bit less than perfect...but of course books are better than the movies.  Go and watch Harry Potter!! And for those who haven't read all the books, it's never too late to start ;)

P.S.  This makes me laugh on a daily basis.

P.P.S Thank you again, J.K Rowling. for these books.  Stories like these make me love reading.