Books and Movies! Weee!

Avalon (2001) by Mamoru Oshii

This is one of the few movies I greatly enjoyed in recent years. Directed by Mamoru Oshii of the 'Ghost in the Shell' fame, this film manages to showcase what many other filmakers could not; amazing live actions scenes that are terribly exciting that are not overcooked into unbelievability. One of the things that made me a fan of his Anime work is that his films always has a larger underlying philosophical message or question that encapsulates the entire story, and he does not disappoint with this live action film. Most importantly, he reminds us all what many have seem to forgotten; film making is an art. Anyone who was a fan of Ghost in the Shell or The Matrix will definitely enjoy this film.

This movie opens with the line "Some young people deal with their disillusionment by seeking out illusions of their own" and leaves you seated gripping on to your chair wondering how sure are you that what you know is real? The movie is set in a post holocaustic world in the future (think cyberpunk) and revolves around an illegal game, pretty much like Counter Strike except that the players' minds is carried into the game's universe.

The lead character, Ash is a local legend among the players and spectators as she belonged in a group that had dominated the game until it was disbanded. The movie begins to kick into gear when she discovers that there is a rumored secret level where only the elite can hope to find, but for some reason, everyone who has supposedly found is has turned into a vegetative state, including members of her old group.

I can't find a genre to drop this movie into; it's psychological, sci-fi / cyberpunk, art film all crammed into one film. Check out some reviews here and also at DVD Vision Japan.
Also check out a write up on the director, here.



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On another note, a friend of mine, Fiona, has just opened her multiarts studio offering Dance, Drama, Music, Rhythmic Gymnastics and Martial Arts lessons near Plaza Damas in Sri Hartamas. Address is 19-2 Prisma Ville, Jalan 19/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas, or you can visit the website for details. http://www.talenthub.com.my/

Song of the Day 1: The First Donuts - Phiosophy in a Teacup
Song of the Day 2: Tori Amos - Cornflake Girl


Today's Book Recommendation: The Sandman series by Neil Gaiman.