Showing posts with label Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Reviews. Show all posts
To gain closure from the relationships that no longer are, Lara Jean has written love letters to all the boys she's ever loved meant for her eyes only. But when her unsent letters are mailed out, Lara Jean finds herself in a rather peculiar situation.
Jenny Han's captivating novel, 'To All The Boys I've Loved Before', is a charming novel that will sweep you off your feet. It'll leave you feeling wonderful, warm and so nostalgic. This story is a beautiful read for a late summer afternoon, when you're looking for an adventure with an adorakable dash of the feels. It's a great pick-me-up if you're feeling a little blue, and wonderful treasure to the soul. I'm still smiling even just thinking about it! It's a coming of age story about family, high school and learning to love. An absolute pleasure to indulge.
'We Were Liars' - the book that captivated me and destroyed my fragile heart into a million pieces of the feels. A couple of months ago, I was blissfully unaware of how this deep dark mystery would keep my mind turning as I devoured each page. To say anymore would ruin this story for you, if you haven't already been mind-blown by its content.
So here's what I'll say to all you blissfully unaware people. We Were Liars is a unique mystery that leaves you gasping for more. The anticipation and climax will leave you utterly breathless and unsure what to do with yourself. Or even how to process the events of the novel and life. Read it, I dare you. It is a book you won't forever for many months to come.
- SPOILER ALERT -
Seriously avoid reading any reviews or material relating to this book if you have not read We Were Liars. Going into this book blind was the best decision I ever made.
Seriously avoid reading any reviews or material relating to this book if you have not read We Were Liars. Going into this book blind was the best decision I ever made.
Set in a futuristic world where the battle amongst an alien threat draws near, the Enders Game tells the story of a young boy called Ender and his journey through battle school training - a potential key to the survival of mankind.
For years and years, I have heard so many brilliant things about this novel and it truly does not disappoint. This book was incredibly thrilling and thought provoking. It explored the depths of human morality in the face of physical and ideological war. I have never felt so thoroughly amazed by a standalone - that had so much to give. This novel is incredible - and if you love dystopian fiction you need to read this now.
In The DUFF, Bianca actively seeks to change the label attached to her name, through enlisting the help of her neighbour Wesley Rush - a charmer amongst the ladies. She finds herself on a journey discovering her identity and road to self-acceptance.
I remember when I read The DUFF at seventeen - barely out of secondary school and learning to explore the world around me. I found myself captivated by this story because it addressed so many important issues that teenagers face in the modern age; politics between families, social hierarchy between their peers, and defining labels that are so hard to get rid of. I loved the message of the book, so I was excited when I heard it would be brought to life.
Although the movie was enjoyable - it was so far from the story I had envisioned on screen. I had waited so long, only for the story to be sabotaged and destroyed on screen for no true purpose. This movie slaughtered the book I fell in love with. And while it was enjoyable, it was so far from it's true potential. What had the makings to be a brilliant story in it's own right was completely upstaged by the producers attempt to become the 'next big teen story'. So heartbreaking indeed!
Starting off as a goofy light hearted show, The Flash has come a long way since it's first episode - setting up character arc's and grounding for the future, while entertaining audiences in the present. This show has had one of the most well rounded first seasons I've ever seen in the history of television - with the right amount of drama, intensity and relationship dilemmas. I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute of The Flash, and I urge you if you have not see this show already to watch it. Weather or not you are a fan of the comic books, I promise you it will not alienate you ...
Highlights
The characterisation of Dr Wells through this first season has been incredible. I couldn't have expected that jaw dropping outcome. From our very first glimpses into his dark self from the beginning, to uncovering mysterious of his true identity with the team, it's been an absolutely pleasure finding out the story behind Dr Wells and Eobard Thawne. Seeing everybody come together one by one and releasing the sinister nature that lurks behind those glasses was one of the best parts of this season. An evolution of a character who was once thought to be good corrupting everything he had worked to create - well that's a first!
One of my favourite and heartbreaking moments of this season is when Bary Allen goes back in time and witnesses his mother's murder. Stopped by his future self from saving her, he pulls his willpower together to resist the urge, but is rewarded by getting to speak to her one last time. It shows such courage, such depth to his character. Grant Gustin broke me down hard. That acting in that moment was so on point. That scene is one of the most iconic moments on the show so far - hands down. Guaranteed to always be remembered!
I'm so excited for the future of this show. In those final moments there were snippets of future events including an appearance from Killer Frost, Barry Allen suck in jail and an appearance from another Flash from another universe. It was utterly overwhelming, and yet I wonder if these are all from some parallel universe, now that Barry has found himself stuck inside the worm hole. What world exists if Eddie is no longer alive, meaning that Eobard Thawne never existed? My mind is boggled and I need Season 2 to explain everything to me! Come soon October, come soon!
Shortcomings
When the episode 'Out Of Time' (1x15) aired, emotions were ever so heightened. Barry had to stop a tidal wave from coming on to Central City, he and Iris were finally together and Cisco - upon discovering the truth of Dr Well's identity as the Reverse Flash - was silenced to death by Eobard Thawne. I was so sure that we had finally reached the climax - where everything was going to take off. Things were going to start blossoming to their full potential and develop further into oblivion.
But instead when the next episode aired Rogue Time (1x17), we were faced with an ordinary everyday experience at STAR Labs, fighting average crime again instead of dealing with the events of the past episode. It was a real let down, going back into a routine of introducing characters, which in that very moment I didn't have true interest in. My energy was so focused on weather the group would the identity of Dr Wells, my interest began to falter. I wish they had given us something significant to tie us over - like Eobard Thawne conferring with Gideon on his future plans, or his thoughts on Barry's time travel experiences. It really would have helped transition the excitement accordingly - instead of leaving everyone so disorientated!
Conclusions
The Flash has a wonderfully enriched blossoming future ahead, and everything we have seen is only the beginning. From the villians we have yet to face, to future wormholes and universes I'm so excited to see what Barry Allen will face next. It's clear to say that Season 1 has been a well rounded set up for the future, but what the future holds only October will show. So excited!
So what did you think of this season of The Flash? Hit or Miss?
Continuing on from the fatal fall that left Oliver Queen on the brink of death, Season 3B finds itself exploring consequences of past actions and mysterious of the Arrow's future in Sterling City. Team Arrow find themselves soul searching and questioning their identity outside of Oliver, while trying to keep Starling city safe. So many mysterious and events lurk in the path of Team Arrow, as they collide against the league of assassins forces and the devil Malcolm Merlyn himself.
This season blew my mind. It's crazy that our biggest concern was about weather Oliver was truly alive. Who knew there were actually things worse than death and being imprisoned on an deserted island for five years? What started of as an identity crisis for Team Arrow turned into a fight for survival, where trust is no longer a given.
Between Olicity, a budding relationship developing between Felicity and Ray Palmer, and tension between Team Arrow and the league, this season was jam-packed and so thrilling! It's only unfortunate that the season finale rushed it's end conclusion, tying up storyline way too neatly packaged.
Spoiler Alert: Readers enter at your own risk.
Jumping straight back into action, Mockingjay Part 1 starts where Catching Fire picks off. As Katniss struggles to come top terms with the loss of her comrades especially Peeta, District 13 begins to prepare together the equipment to take on the capital. A war is brewing right on the horizon, and so much is at stake.
I was never really a fan of the final book in The Hunger Games series, mostly because of it's sour end. I expected to love the first part of Mockingjay, and sourly dislike the latter. But I'm surprised to say Mockingjay Part 1 is my least favourite film in the series. The story itself sets up for epic finale I'm sure, but that feels like this movie's main and sole purpose. It was truly amazing seeing the political workings of a war, but everything else falls short. The engaging elements from the book were missing from this military based adaptation, and I really don't understand why, since it had enough time to divulge and explore. It's clear that Katniss takes complete front and centre in this film - with very little room for other players to contend. All in all, I'm pretty disappointed with the outcome of this movie, and I can already tell that Part 2 will definitely be better than this.
Time for Spoilers ....
Aged 24, Matt Haig found himself feeling lost and hopeless, seeing no way he could go on living. Reason To Stay Alive is an account of that journey and how he overcome his struggle from the dark depths of his illness.
I remember stumbling across this book by accident through twitter. I had heard there would be a book signing with Matt Haig - and being an avid book signing attender I thought I'd go. Having the privilege of hearing Matt speak about his novel was pretty much what sold this book to me, and I'm so glad it did. Reasons to Stay Alive is an important non-fictional novel, that gives a preview into one individual's experience of depression and anxiety. To those who've suffered, it provides solace. To those who haven't experienced those troubles, it gives a glimpse into the hardships and struggles others face on a daily bases. I found this book re-enacts that heavy feeling of a weight you can not explain, and yet tells these stories with a hopeful twist for the future. Well worth reading, and definitely one of the must read novels for everybody this year!
Love Rosie is an enjoyable read, that definitely has some hilarious moments that will have you laughing so hard! But what struck me the most about this story is it tells the realistic struggle of adulthood. Not many romantic novels I've seen have done that pretty accurately. It's honest and authentic - well worth reading whatever age you may be. My only main flaw with this book was it dragged out its love story unnecessarily, draining out its quirky nature and narrative till it's very end.
Now, time for spoilers. Back away from the computer if you have not read this yet. Spoilers be waiting ...
After the slightly disappointing squeal, I had high hopes for The Death Cure. Probably due to the fact that The Scorch Trials continued to build up this story to it's climax. The first half of the book blew my mind. I was amazed at where this novel was going and excited. But somewhere along the way, everything seemed to become chaotic. I felt frustrated towards James Dashner - who although creates intriguing plot lines - focuses way too much on shock value. That is why I believe this novel and The Scorch Trials fall short of what they should be. Though entertaining and thrilling, I knew right of the bat that this concept - an awesome premise - was not properly executed. None-the-less, so worth the read.
Note: Spoilers ahead. Avoid if you intend on reading The Death Cure. You've been warned.
Red Band Society is a story about the lives of a group of teenagers living in the paediatric ward at Ocean View Park, struggling with their own issues. Together they form the 'Red Band Society' to stick together through the trouble life throws at them.
When I first heard about this show, I remember feeling reluctant to watch it at all. I felt torn about the way media is - in a way - exploiting stories of children with terminal illness, and almost turning them into a trend of somesort. Since The Fault In Our Stars became so successful, why not capitalise on that by creating something similar. That idea pretty much put me off. But I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did.
Red Band Society is a show with so much heart and emotion. It's like My Sister's Keeper meets One Tree Hill. Each character has their own journey and struggling to face, with family and relationship drama added to the mix. The way this show handles addressing cancer and other diseases is powerful. Although it falls short on truly representing characters and storylines at times - which I'll get into later - this show does a good job of representing the teenagers time at the hospital, and bringing attention the social impact illness can have on them.
Now - Time for spoilers!
After the tragedy we faced in season 2A, The 100 came back biting stronger than ever. This season was definitely much more darker and intense than the previous two, knocking them straight out the park. It's crazy how much this show continues to evolve. Season One was child's play compared to all this drama. There were so many moments that really stood out this season on The 100. Here are a favourite few.
Note: This post contains spoilers, so if you are not currently up-to-date with The 100 - come back later and check it out.
I was so excited to read The Scorch Trials after finishing The Maze Runner. I had such high hopes for this novel, but it sadly didn't live up to my expectations. Don't get me wrong, The Scorch Trials is entertaining, and continues to hold mind blogging mysteries that keep you on your the tips of your toes. The stakes are higher than ever, and the pieces of the puzzle are being to ever so slowly fit together. But The Scorch Trials fails to truly reach its true potential. This novel needed a clear sense of direction throughout, and to expand on certain events and storylines. But instead Dashner drags out the mystery further, and puts all faith into the final book of the series, The Death Cure - which I believe will be much more fruitful.
If you haven't read the book yet - skip this review and come back when you have. Trust me you don't want to know anything at all going into this book. The best part about this series is it's mystery - don't spoil it for yourself! So time to talk spoilers ...
Adapted from the popular novel, The Maze Runner tells the story of Thomas - a boy with no memory of who he is. Thomas finds himself inside a maze with a community of teenage boys living harmoniously together. Everything begins to changes drastically however, when a girl enters the maze for the first time carrying a note that will change everything.
The Maze Runner was literally one of the most perfect novel to film adaptations I've seen in a long while. While being faithful to it's novel counterpart, this movie adds it's own flavour to the story that keeps you gripped to the screen throughout. It was entertaining and engaging from the very beginning. Told in a fast paced narrative that keeps you on your toes. Mirrors the suspense, mystery and confusion of the book. All and all, thrillingly entertaining. So excited to see what's in store in The Scorch Trials.
* * * * *
HighlightsJust like the book, the mystery of the maze was utterly captivating on screen. This movie is exceptional loyal to it's novel counterpart. Just as in the book - this novel jumps straight into the universe, and is so captivating. The mystery behind Thomas and the Maze is almost too much. While it skips over several details, it stays faithful to its source material. It's jam packed, and entertaining. If you are looking for a mystery and thriller, this is your story. The cast carry this film exceptionally well. While Dylan O'Brien (Thomas) carries this story well as its protagonist, Thomas Brodie-Sangster who plays Newt really stood out the most. With his sense of wisdom and almost friendly charm, Thomas plays the character of Newt exceptionally well!
Something I loved about this movie was how they nailed the ending. It was on point and as jaw-dropping as the book! I don't know about you but I felt so exhilarated just watching it. Such a brilliant lead up to get you excited for The Scorch Trials!
Shortcomings
The Maze Runner relied a lot on it's action, which I found interfered with some of the plot lines and character development. In the film, we never really got to know the boys all that well. I wanted to get more of a sense of Alby and Gally's character. relationship development between characters. I wish we could have seen more of a bond form between Chuck and Thomas. I always imagined Thomas to be like an older brother to Chuck in the novel - and I really didn't get that sense. Their entirely brotherly bond was cut from the screen.
Something that I don't quiet understand is how they'll continue the rest of this series since they've removed a key point in Teresa and Thomas's relationship. How will they manage to continue this series without it? I guess we'll find out pretty soon though - since The Scorch Trials is released in September!
Conclusion
The Maze Runner was an enjoyable adventure, with promise of more action and suspense yet to come. Like it's novel counterpart, it is full of mystery and suspense to keep you on the edge of your toes. An enjoyable movie for all dystopian and young adult fiction lovers.
So what do you think of The Maze Runner? Let me know in the comments below!
Image Source
The Nine Lives of Chloe King tells the story of a young girl Chloe, whose mythological heritage is awakened on her 16th birthday. She is the uniter of the Mai, a species from ancient Eygpt - who are basically super human with cat-like reflexes. Her powers make her a target against human supernatural hunters, who have an ever-long-lasting fued with the Mai.
Though this series started off a little rocky, it was entertaining and fun to watch. Between the action of Mai universe and the family-friendship dynamics in the show, there was always something to keep you entertained. The Nine Lives of Chloe King really had the potential to grow as series. There were so many intriguing story lines to develop, between exploring the mysterious of the Mai, other mythological creatures, and their feud with supernatural bounty hunters. Unfortunately just as the show finally found it's footing, it was cancelled before all those beautiful plot lines could reach their full potential, and come to their final conclusions.
Heads up - if you don't want to get spoiled, skip to the conclusion! I can't contain my feelings for this story!
* * * * *
Highlights
What I loved about the series the most was the whole mythology between the Mai and humans - not to mention Jackals too! I was amazed how unique the whole concept was - seeing as we have vampire and werewolf story-lines running from left, right and centre these days. Out of all the characters on the show, Skyler Samuels - who played Chloe - stood out to me the most. Her acting felt natural and very quirky. She was a pleasure to watch as the show continued, which makes me so excited to see her performance in The DUFF!
My favourite moment of season one was that amazing cliffhanger! It literally set up future storylines, and gave this sneak peak at where the series could go - like exploring Zane's gurdge against the Mai even though he is Mai himself. Oh and the fact that Alek is his brother - who he might even try to kill! What truly happened to Chloe's father since Brian's grandmother was impersonating him? What was going to happen to Chloe's mother, since Brian's dad has her? If Brian survived - who would he side with? His dad or Chloe? Did his mother die at the hands of his grandma? As you can see so many questions! Oh, it's so sad knowing that they'll never be answered on the big screen.
Shortcomings
The two main flaws that I found with this series were to do with the script and casting. I found Benjamin Stone didn't hold the exact charm and charisma that the character of Alek needed. While charming on the surf, he wasn't really able to pull of that snarky, cocky but endearing attitude. I hate to say it, but he felt pretty wooden. One-dimensional. I wanted more emotion, more feeling from him! As for Brian (played by Grey Damon) - I wish he'd been been given more quality, than just his 'nice' guy role. I actually cared more about Xavier - who was only in the pilot episode - than Brian.
As for the scripting, there were times I found dialogue to be so artificial. I wish the dialogue had felt more natural, something you would hear in everyday conversation rather than scripted. Sometimes in the show dialogue felt pretty out of place, and kind of disconnected me from the story. I wonder if this may be why the series fell a little short in the first place.
* * * * *
Conclusion
All in all, The Nine Lives of Chloe King was a show with promise, which held intrigue and depth. Despite it's shortcomings, this show had potential to grow into a pretty awesome show, expanding on the Mai universe and it's origins. Unfortunately it was cancelled before everything could come to fruition.
Seen The Nine Lives of Chloe King? What did you think of the series? Let me know!
Image Source
Big Hero 6 tells the story of Hiro Hamada - a 14 year old robotics genius - who with the help of his friends, attempts to battle an evil villain roaming the streets of San Fransokyo.
If you don't want to be spoiled, I suggest skipping to the end of the post, because I can not contain myself. For reals.
* * * * *
Highlights
Every single character held their ground in this film, and were just so hilarious. I loved every single one of them! I loved Hiro's childlike essence so full of check, and the fact that he could also be so endearingly vulnerable. Honey Lemon was so quirky and screamed scientific brilliance, breaking all the stereotypes of cheerleader blondes. Go-go was a walking swagger machine owning everything in her path, which was utter awesomeness. Wasabi was the pure embodiment of cool, and Fred was that fanboy always high on life. Oh gosh, can we just talk about Tadashi for a moment. He was literally the heart and soul of everything. So much purity and goodness!
Jesus, I'll confess I cried three times during this film, because of all the emotions caused by Tadashi. I don't think I've ever been that emotional in a cinema hall - nope. I love the way this movie dealt with grief. The way Hiro became so consumed in his grief and loss over Tadashi - who was everything to him. A brother and a mentor. It was just so emotional! And yet this movie was also so full of life and energy. Baymax was more than Hiro's loyal friend - his best friend. He was the perfect reincarnation of Tadashi - that spoke to Hiro in his most urgent time of need. He became the source of good that helped Hiro move on. Man, if I didn't already have enough reasons to love Baymax. Seriously, where can I get a squish-able marshmallow like him?
Shortcomings
My only flaw with this film was that it wasn't longer. I wanted more. More time to divulge into the story, more time to learn about each character's backstory, and get more invested into the story. I wish we saw more of Tadashi's character. I was so not ready to lose him. It was way too soon. In all fairness, with the amount of characters and action going on - the timing of his death could not be helped. One of my friends who saw the film with me actually said to me maybe this story might work better as a series - which would be amazing! In the beginning every episode could be an origin story for each character. They'd be more time to explore more and expand on events. And who knows, it might even be a possibility since this movie is out in the universe now!
Funny enough for a long while, I thought the masked villain was actually Tadashi. That somehow he'd lost his memory, and was employed by an evil genius to carry out his evil plan. That would have been one hell of a plot twist. Even though I'm glad that this movie still had the shock factor for me, I wished this was true! I just selfishly wanted more time with Tadahsi, and this would have been such an interesting storyline. I can imagine Hiro and his friends trying to help Tadashi, who stubbornly refuses. But then as he regains his memory, he risks his life again to save them all and the city, - turning back into the amazing character we all know him to be. I get chills just thinking about it!
* * * * *
ConclusionBig Hero 6 is a wonderful adventure that'll leave you sobbing, laughing and sat in awe at the edge of your seat. One of the best animated films I've seen in a very long time. Well worth the watch. You won't regret it - at all.
So what are your thoughts on Big Hero 6?
Image Source
|
| Into The Woods - © Disney Enterprises |
This wonderful musical indulges and defies the cliches of all the classic fairy-tales we know and love. Every story is enchanting, and every single character helps to make this movie spectacularly amazing! With songs at every turn, Into The Woods seamlessly leaves you breathless and entranced throughout with clever twists throughout. If you have not seen it yet, I urge you to go and see it, because it is so awesome, ever so entertaining and utterly captivating! Into The Woods by far is one of my favourite films of 2015 so far. Now time to talk spoilers ....
* * * * *
Highlights
I don't think I can put truly in words how much I loved and adsorbed this movie. Everything about Into The Woods was so visually stunning. The cinematography was so on point - supporting the brisk fast paced nature of film, helping to aid the storyline along and capture every movement and moment of the movie, putting spotlight on each character when their turn came. The acting in this film was superb! Every single cast member executed the role they had to play brilliant, which helped to shape and define the universe of Into The Woods. Lilla Crawford who played Little Red Riding Hood was absolutely spectacular! She carried herself with such grace and childlike innocence, it was such a pleasure to watch. Anna Kendrick nailed her vocal performances, which blew me away - period. The biggest surprise of all though for me was James Corden, who carried the weight of this film as the most wonderful narrator. Who even knew he could sing! I was just amazed by the amount of talent in this film truly.
My favourite defining moments of Into The Woods was that ultimate twist, which stole my breath away! The giant earthquake was almost like the ripple that broke the picture perfect fairy-tale everyone was living in. It broke all conventions, taking a very different direction from the norm. It was almost like two movies in one. The happy ever after ... then the grim reality. Just so awesome.
I was a little sad to see that Rapunzel and her prince had truly little time to really shine on screen. I wish they had included more for them. I wished that we could see Rapunzel finally reunite with her brother.
My only other flaw with this musical is the way the witch's death was portrayed when she sings the Last Midnight. I couldn't quiet decipher what she was saying exactly in hysterics, and neither could my friend beside me. Then she started throwing around beans - which I assumed was punishment for the other characters for not turning Jack in to the lady giant - and then the witch transforms into tar. Seriously, what was that?! It was only until I goggled the lyrics when I got home, realising what she was saying. In that moment I believe the music drowned out Meryl Streep's voice - making it an audio issue. But with all considered, it's such a small detail.
Conclusion ...My only other flaw with this musical is the way the witch's death was portrayed when she sings the Last Midnight. I couldn't quiet decipher what she was saying exactly in hysterics, and neither could my friend beside me. Then she started throwing around beans - which I assumed was punishment for the other characters for not turning Jack in to the lady giant - and then the witch transforms into tar. Seriously, what was that?! It was only until I goggled the lyrics when I got home, realising what she was saying. In that moment I believe the music drowned out Meryl Streep's voice - making it an audio issue. But with all considered, it's such a small detail.
Into The Woods was such a spectacular story that every fairy-tale fan can appreciate. While telling its own unique spin, it entertains thoroughly and captivates you from the very beginning. Well worth the watch. You'll be replaying its soundtrack long after the credits end!
So what did you think of Into the Woods? Did it meet your expectations?
In this novel, Rainbow Rowell truly captures the essence of what it's like to be a teenager, awkwardly fumbling through life and its struggles. One of the things I liked about this book is that it isn't a polished version of reality. It discusses the hardships that both Eleanor and Park face in their everyday lives - without sugar-coating it. It's a story about personal struggles and what its like to fall in love for the first time, that readers of all ages can appreciate. Don't be fooled by it's synopsis either, this novel is not just about romance. That is literally just the surface of this book. I did have one main issue with this book - which I'll discuss down below in the spoilers ...
Delirium is set in a futuristic world, where love is classified as a disease. Teenagers - at the tender age of 18 - are set to receive the cute that will forever rid them of love. From there, they will live out their lives planned by the government in so-called-contentment, away from the dangers of love and impulse. Things seem to be going according to plan for young Lena - who can not wait to get the Cure -, until she falls in love weeks before her appending due date.
When Fox announced that it would be adapting Delirium to television, I was slightly sceptical, nervous but excited. I loved Delirium. The story was incredibly well written and executed, and I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. I hoped that the producers would do it justice! The feeling of apprehension I had surrounding the adaptation continued on as the casting for the series was announced. But I kept hope. As long as the core principles of the story were kept, I didn't mind. In the end all that anticipation was left to waste, as the pilot was not picked up. As a fan of the series, I would have at least loved an opportunity to see the final cut! But now, after finally viewing the unaired pilot, it is so clear to see why this series did not get picked up after all. Despite the amount of potential within the pilot, there were many pitfalls that brought its downfall, including ...
.png)
|
| The DUFF - Watch the trailer here. |
Thoughts
I have very mixed feelings about this trailer. On the one hand, I understand why CBS decided to turn it down the sexual tension a notch. It makes sense - the novel was slightly riskay afterall. But to change the entire premise of the story is something else entirely. The DUFF was never about 'reinvention', but learning to accept and love the quirks and qualities that made you unique - your individuality. The good and the bad. There is so much more to Wesley and Bianca than just their labels on the social ladder, and this trailer doesn't really showcase that. If I hadn't read the book, I would pass this story off as a typical high school cliché story, which it is far from.
In the novel, Bianca never sets out to change herself and learns to accept herself for who she truly is. That's part of the reason why her her character is so iconic, and why I'm concerned for this adaptation. In this trailer there is also no mention of Bianca and Wesley - other personal dramas involving their family, which is something I hope has been omitted from the trailer - not the actual movie itself. Based on this trailer alone, it feels as though Hollywood has decided to take this story and tried to turn it into - or at least advertise it as - this generation's She's All That. That being said, this is a first look trailer. There may be so much more than we haven't been shown. Maybe this is all a marketing tactic to gain some further interest in the story. The thought of that alone, leaves me feeling pretty optimistic.
Highlights
Despite some major changes to the plot, I still feel like this story holds potential. It's possible that the themes and events that take place in the novel, may be explored on camera - just without so much sexual tension. That is my greatest hope for this film.
I absolutely love the quirky nature of this trailer. Mae Whitman nails that quirky, quick witted yet humble persona that Bianca holds. It's hard to say anything more about the other characters since the trailer solely focuses on Wesley and Bianca - but here's to hoping that they stay true their novel counterparts, (and are more than just the typical high school type-casts). As long as the stories core principles and issues are stuck to in this adaptation, I'll be a happy bunny, and so thoroughly entertained. But anything otherwise oh ho ho - CBS, you will have disappointed me big time ...
What are your thoughts on The DUFF? Have you read the novel? I'd love to hear more about what you think ^_^
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
Social Icons