ParaNorman (2012)

Whenever I catch a movie in theaters last year, the trailer of ParaNorman would always be on alongside Despicable Me 2. And while I made a mental note to watch it on the big screen, my loyalty to my budget always prevails. So it's only now that I got to watch it. 

The movie opens with a gloomy atmosphere. Heck all throughout the movie, that gloom persists, only cut short occasionally by sudden bursts of hilarious comedic scenes. I can't stop wondering if parents complained about how this movie is too scary for children. It just feels so dark, that same feeling I get when I watch the Harry Potter movies. BUT, the movie is a must-see especially nowadays when bullying is rampant and kids need to be educated early on about what bullying can do and how it affects the victim.

A kid named Norman is seen as a freak by his classmates and is always bullied for being weird. When zombies rose from their graves because of a witch's curse, Norman must face his fears and confront the witch for the sake of the town he lives in. The witch used to be a young girl killed by the townspeople for being different. People were scared of her so instead of trying to understand, they disposed of her. Pretty much what Norman is experiencing, only he's not killed.

Norman persuades Agatha not to forget who she is and to remember the people who have been kind to her.

A touching scene in the movie is the confrontation wherein Norman tells Agatha the witch that they're the same, that hurting those who hurt you won't do anyone good, that despite the general hatred there's at least one person who loves her. And because this is a movie for children, naturally everything ends well.

This movie reminds me a lot of Frankenweenie and Coraline though the latter has this eerie feel all throughout. (I would learn later on that ParaNorman was created by the same company that gave us Coraline.) What I consider astounding is the visual effects of the film especially in the scene where Agatha assumes the form of a golden lightning-like being. No wonder this movie raked in nominations and awards.

Some web articles that I found interesting:

Cinematographer Tristan Oliver on ParaNorman

Drawn to century-old technique

Immersed in Movies: Exploring 'ParaNorman' VFX

'ParaNorman's' Travis Knight: The Nike Scion Behind the Oscar-Nominated Film

The Body and the Blood: The Middle East's Vanishing Christianity and the Possibility for Peace (Charles M. Sennott)

Having read Statecraft: And How to Restore America's Standing in the World earlier this month, I am all the more interested in the Middle Eastern conflict. These days we often hear news of the Syrian conflict which now resulted to the loss of approximately 100,000 lives (see link to be in the know as to how the civil war erupted in Syria). Living in a third-world country with its own problems and crises to pay attention to, we are not much concerned about the chaos happening in the Middle East. One thing is certain though, sooner or later, we will feel its impact since other countries (US, Iran, Russia, etc) have stepped in and have taken sides.

A few years back, I bought the book The Body and the Blood with the goal of educating myself on what lies in the Middle East. As we all know, world history is mostly centered on Western Europe which undoubtedly produced great advances in both the sciences and the arts. But I wouldn't want to believe that other nations are mere consumers of Western-led culture, I adhere to the belief that all cultures have their own strengths and weaknesses, and that their respective peoples are interesting in their own way. Also, I'd like to see through other people's eyes how Muslims are since more often than not, they are equated to terrorists, a very unfair idea since I hold the belief that there are both evil and good in every culture.

Going back to the book, Sennet, the bureau chief of the Boston Globe in the Middle East, attempts to investigate the dwindling population of Christians in the Middle East, that region in the world where the three great faiths originated and which now are in conflict with each other--- Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. The Israel-Palestinian conflict over land territories bore a huge impact on the lives of not only Muslims and Jews, but also of the Christian minority who, as Sennet finds, is caught in the middle and suffers from the hands of the clashing giants.

What started as a pilgrimage to trace the path Jesus followed during his life turned into a mission to record the lives of the already diminishing Christians. In that respect, Sennet vividly describes the build up of tensions between the Israeli military and the Muslims, as well as the gradually growing aggression and persecution against the Christians. The Body and the Blood records cases of injustice and inhumanity and one particular chapter stands out which makes one question how other people see other people's life.

In chapter VII titled "Egypt: The Flight", Sennet describes Egypt as the place "where people, especially the lower classes, love in fear of the police force" (p.175). And they have cause to fear, especially when the police is known to grab any family and torture them for the alleged crimes they know nothing of. Also in the same chapter, the author narrates how a riot resulted in the death of 20 Christians and 1 Muslim and yet half of the arrested were Christians. This grave injustice caused many Christians to flee.

In this book, Sennet does a wonderful research on the current conditions of life in the Middle East and traces  it to history and the current economy. He speculates on the impact of low employment rate and the correlation between financial success and aggression. Ultimately, he sees the ruling elite and religious leaders, their greed for power and wealth, as the factors that play a major role in the destiny of the region. 

Broca's Brain: Reflections on the Romance of Science (Carl Sagan)

I find it weird that I have suddenly become interested in science books when I got out of school. I guess my brain craves something other than the usual literary forms I grew up with. Lately, fiction has taken the backseat after dominating 15 years of my life.

Since I became engrossed with chaos theory, I would often find myself buying science books from Booksale. For some reason, my lack of science courses in college gave me this thirst, this feeling that my education lacks something essential for me to have a clearer grasp of the natural world. One of the books I bought is Carl Sagan's Broca's Brain, which struck me at first as a sci-fi novel. (I didn't know any scientist named Broca, that's why!)

One thing I like about the book is that it is written for the lay reader, for those like me who are not science majors. The book on the whole is very engaging as Sagan not only focuses on scientific findings and discoveries but also touch on myths and pseudoscience. Reading the introduction part, one is already tempted to read the book from cover to cover in just one sitting. There's just this excitement that I felt when I read the following words:

"We live in an extraordinary age. These are times of stunning changes in social organization, economic well-being, moral and ethical precepts, philosophical and religious perspectives, and human self-knowledge, as well as in our understanding of that vast universe in which we are embedded like a grain of sand in this cosmic ocean. As long as there have been human beings, we have posed the deep and fundamental questions, which evoke wonder and stir us into at least a tentative and trembling awareness, questions on the origins of consciousness; life on our planet; the beginnings of the Earth; the formation of the Sun; the possibility of intelligent beings somewhere up there in the depths of the sky; as well as, the grandest inquiry of all--- on the advent, nature and ultimate destiny of the universe. For all but the last instant of human history these issues have been the exclusive province of philosophers and poets, shamans and theologians. The diverse and mutually contradictory answers offered demonstrate that few of the proposed solutions have been correct. But today, as a result of knowledge painfully extracted from nature, through generations of careful thinking, observing and experimenting, we are on the verge of glimpsing at least preliminary answers to many of these questions."

In Broca's Brain, Carl Sagan successfully captures the attention of readers to hear the side of science as he tackles major claims made by pseudoscientists. In particular, he debunks Immanuel Velikovsky's Worlds in Collisions which explains why catastrophes were experienced by ancient cultures, as reflected in their myths and religions. After a detailed critique, Sagan suggests that science should not be kept in an ivory tower and should be demystified so that technological initiatives can be supported by the people since scientific research is expensive and more often than not, funds are sourced from the taxes that dutiful citizens pay.

Sagan also offers a personal snippet of his life as he traces his early interests in science through science fiction, though he has come to think that science is way cooler than fiction. While sci-fi is too romantic and too full of speculations, he notes one benefit of sci-fi is that it becomes an avenue through which readers can learn bits and pieces of scientific knowledge. He is quick to point out though that one downside to science students having been exposed to sci-fi would have prejudices which would be difficult to detach from when they do their own experiments.

Another point of interest in the book is how the celestial objects got their names, as well as the widely debated extraterrestrial life. At the end of the book, Sagan juxtaposes sciences to religion, touching on the question of origins and which inevitably would lead to the question of whether God exists or not. To this question, Sagan plays it safe by saying that "we simply do not know" (p. 337) quoting the passage below from the Rig Veda:

"Who knows for certain? Who shall here declare it?

Whence was it born, whence came creation?

The gods are later than this world's formation;

Who then can know the origins of the world?

None knows whence creation arose;

And whether he has or has not made it;

He who surveys it from the lofty skies,

Only he knows--- or perhaps he knows not."

Shanghai 0404072013

A few days before our flight to Shanghai, news of a new bird flu outbreak caused a stir even here in the Philippines. My parents told me to postpone my trip with my highschool friends, but I told them we'd be just fine. For their peace of mind, I swore not to eat fowl meat (though it doesn't really contribute to contracting the flu). I also told them I'd be putting on face mask at all times (though when we got to Shanghai it felt weird so I didn't use it much). The stubborn me insisted that we have already paid for our plane fares and it would hurt if we didn't get to consume our flights. I also added that this would be risk I would be willing to take for the sake of travel. (Honestly though, the thought of my almost P4000 going down the drain scared me more.)

Not expecting cold weather, I packed mostly t-shirts and jeans, with only a coat to keep me warm. Bad decision indeed since our bodies were too accustomed then to Manila's summer heat to withstand the sudden cold of China. When we got out of the plane and stepped int the airport, I could immediately feel the chill. Later on, I was already shivering, and thoughts of spending my vacation in the hospital scared the wits out of me. Oh no, I just couldn't afford to be sick at that time when I was supposed to be seeing new places and eating Shanghai cuisine. Fortune smiled on me and I survived the night. We had a few hours' sleep on the benches in the airport.

Come morning of the 5th of April, we had quick breakfast at KFC in the airport. I had chicken congee (8.50 CNY) forgetting my promise to my parents. I just couldn't resist. Chicken soup is just the thing when cold. We bought our three-day unlimited subway pass for 45 CNY and boarded the first-hour train.

On our first day (April 5) we went to Century Park, Shanghai Museum, and The Bund. I had a heavy lunch of porkchop plus 3 veggie dishes and rice for only 11CNY. And boy was I happy with what I was served! The eatery is located near Jinjiang Pudong Inn where we stayed for two nights for this trip. For dinner, I had hot and sour beef noodles (still couldn't get over Vietnam's pho) for 15 CNY which lives up to its name making me a happy diner. It's a good thing, too, that I bought green tea yoghurt drink (8 CNY) when we got out of Shanghai Museum. I used the sweet and sour and cold of the drink to temper the hot and spicy noodles.The noodles were a little pricey because the shop is in a tourist spot. It's located near the People's Plaza.

On April 6, we had breakfast at a small dumplings shop on the way to the Subway. We walked far from the hotel, refusing to take a taxi or the bus to save on fares. Besides, we had to take advantage of our unlimited pass. We had hot 千里香 (Qianlixiang) wanton (6 CNY/ 20pcs) and seaweeds wanton (10 CNY/ 10 pcs). Both were served in soup, which was good seeing the rain wouldn't let up any minute. I also bought rice hash brown (1.50 CNY) sold in the streets. The day before, when we were checking in at the hotel, I saw a man eating that and I almost interviewed him had my friends not interfered. (I just wanted to ask where he bought the hash brown). Anyway, that fried thing was a nice treat. Crispy outside and a bit soft inside. Yum! It's best eaten hot. Otherwise, you'll see much of the oil.

Yuyuan

Our second day was spent walking and viewing the posh buildings of 新天地 (Xintiandi). Later on I thought we should have skipped this since the area is known to be a shopping district and expensive items are sold there and we were just a bunch of poor kids. After that, we went to 豫園 (Yuyuan) where we went shopping for food items for our loved ones back home. A visit to the famed Kobayashi which produces wonderfully fried cookies, is a must. We shopped at Cheap Road, so called for the cheap items being sold there. After a quick lunch of 金包銀 (some sort of dumplings which can get addicting) and小籠包 (xiaolongbao), we headed to Shanghai Railway Station. This time, to meet V's goal of buying her wig, which according to her is near the railway station. Unfortunately, the place was too big and we have circled the area but found no wig store. Utterly defeated, we proceed to Jade Temple for a bit of spiritual guidance.

Shanghai Railway Station

After Jade Temple, we went to  陸家嘴 (Lujiazui) to see the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. We didn't get inside though because of the expensive entrance fee. Still we appreciated very much the wonderful dragons in the middle of the road and the distinct tower towering above others.

Oriental Pearl TV Tower at dusk

Our last day in Shanghai was spent touring three more places: 七寶 (Qibao town), 龍華寺 (Longhua Temple), and the Jewish Refugees Museum. I had the most fun in the ancient town of Qibao, I felt like a wandering samurai walking on the streets and savoring the festive atmosphere there. There just were too many people, perhaps because it was s Sunday.

Qibao on a Sunday

When it was time to say goodbye, I felt sad. Not only will I miss the dimsums and the architectural beauties, I will also miss the jokes told to me by the Chinese people, the stories, everything. I just love how I made them laugh and how they made me laugh in return. It's different from the Shanghai experience I was expecting.

Exchange rate: 1 CNY= 6.60 PHP

More blog posts about my Shanghai trip to follow and will link to this post. :)

Shanghai Museum 04052013

In the afternoon of our first day in Shanghai, we trooped to People's Square, intent on visiting the Shanghai Museum. In my research, the museum is one grand place where different sorts of artifacts are put on display. As an archaeologist, my main goal is to familiarize myself with objects from China. I think this will come in handy in excavations where we recover Chinese artifacts. Chinese porcelain still tops the list but occasionally we recover Chinese coins, like the ones we found in Intramuros in 2011.

What makes Shanghai Museum stand out is that entrance is free. (Now who doesn't like that?) The downside though is that one has to endure the long queue outside before one can enter. It is advisable then to go there early. We are still fortunate to have seen all the galleries. Still, it breaks my heart not to have had ice cream there. 

Ming and Qing furnitures made of fine lacquered wood

upper pictures: from Congo River artworks collection
lower pictures: traditional costumes and stamps

Shanghai Museum boasts of permanent exhibits on currencies used in Ancient China as well as those used in Central Asia. Most were donations to the museum by numismatists (coin collectors/ dealers/ scholars... Cool word. I'd like to become one, too). Ancient Chinese seals, furniture, Chinese calligraphy, ethnic minorites' arts and crafts, religious sculptures, and jade artworks--- these will surely take your breath away. The first time I took such pride in being Chinese, in being able to speak Chinese, was during my first trip to China in 2008 where Beijing's museums and grand palaces impressed me so much that from that time forward, I made a resolve to continue with my Chinese studies.

At the time of our visit, Shanghai Museum also exhibited art works from Central Africa. Dubbed "The Congo River, Central African Art", the exhibit puts on display the ritual wares of Congo River. The masks and sculptures, which inspire both relief and fright, trouble and serenity, reflect the ceremonies and rituals in the Congo basin. 

Another thing I love about this institution is that efforts to educate and inform visitors are obvious with the leaflets up for grabs at the entrance to each gallery. The information are never exhaustive but present a concise and brief history as well as a short overview of what the exhibit is about. This, coupled with descriptive plaques near artifacts are very much appreciated. 

Instead of buying accessories for souvenirs, I chose to buy three books published by the museum. One is on ancient Chinese ceramics (30 CNY), another on Chinese coins (25 CNY), and one on Chinese jade (30 CNY). I had wanted to buy one on calligraphy, too, but had to hold back since I had to stick to my budget. Next time I go there again, I'd be sure to buy as many books as I could. 

Century Park, Shanghai (世紀公園) 04052013

Park entrance: 10 CNY

We took the first train trip from the airport and decided to go some place before we check in at our hotel in Pudong area. We initially planned to go to Oriental Pearl TV Tower but noting the proximity of Century Park   to the subway, I suggested that we go there instead. 

It was drizzling when we stepped out of the subway and the morning chill attacked our frail bodies which were still accustomed to the summer heat at home. And we had our bags with us, thus slowing us down. 

Upper left: explains the colors, fragrance, and form of plum flowers as well as how they are represented in art and the best time to view them. Upper right: bonsai plants

Century Park is said to be the largest park in Shanghai and I have cause to believe that. We roamed the park in less than an hour but never got to see the whole place because of the rain. One of my friends, J, was so cold she just stayed at the front office desk, while V and I explored the area. There was many things one can  do here, provided the weather is good. I see the potential of this park as a nice place for long romantic walks. One can also do boating. Since it was raining, the park looked gloomy and it seems like V and I were the only visitors.

The Bund, Shanghai 04052013

After being enthralled and overwhelmed by the number of beautiful artifacts we saw in Shanghai Museum, we had a quick snack to wait until 6pm or so before we proceeded to The Bund. Before our trip, I had been researching on the place and I was expecting many people there since it's part of most (if not all) travel tours in Shanghai.

Samsung Building. I don't know if this is owned by Samsung or Samsung just put an ad on it...

It had begun to rain again. But at least now we were more prepared, having brought out our umbrellas for protection. Walking along East Zhongshan 1st Road and savoring the radiantly splendid architectural works that greet our eyes and which stretch until the end of the long road was a treat in itself, and for free, too. One cannot help but just bring out a camera and take consecutive shots of these Western-style buildings. Architecture students and enthusiasts will definitely love the place.

Pudong as seen from the Bund; note the many people despite the cold rain

We had our short rest at the end of Zhongshan road, in Huangpu Park. I was even more amazed at how the Chinese incorporate nature in its structures. A wall in Huangpu Park is covered with brightly colored flowers, adding up to the gaiety of the place at night.

colorful flowers on the wall and Customs House (right)

Customs House, considered as one of the most popular buildings in the Bund. And no wonder, since it  stands out  being a clock tower.

Oriental Pearl TV Tower as seen from the Bund on a rainy night