睽违3年再度莅临狮城开唱的”铁肺王子”萧敬腾,在11月末带来了他的最新巡演”娱乐先生”,和9000名观众一起度过了情绪激昂澎湃的夜晚。2.5小时的卖力狂热演出,飙至19度的音域,虽没震破我们的耳膜,但那感染力超强的嗓音不断回荡在脑海里,久久挥散不去。

一段时日不见,你会发现”老萧”有些微妙的改变。虽不能说已到老神在在的境界,但表演方式已能收放自如。人也变得更活泼开朗,自信许多。虽贵为”金曲歌王”,但在娱乐圈打滚十年的老萧依然那么率真可爱和调皮。他仍然是那个爱闹,爱歌唱的男孩。不同的是,他多了份自信带着他音乐上的成长来展现自己的创作给大家听。

他的蜕变,大家有目共睹。

不论是在演唱或交谈方面都比较放得开,表演特别自在,没那么害羞,也会和观众开些冷笑话。他甚至可以那么轻松地用他高亢浑厚的嗓音,飙到19度高音的境界。动静皆宜的他,可以温文尔雅地弹奏钢琴演唱动人的抒情歌曲,也能很卖力地打着他最拿手的爵士鼓,来一段Drums Battle.

他还偶尔”人来疯”把”萧汗淋漓”的湿毛巾,频频丢向观众,或是当个”萧人” (Siao Lang) 满场跑,乐在其中。尽管不久前在金曲奖演出时,左手骨裂,仍忍痛卖力演出。看他那么忘情投入的弹钢琴和打鼓,有点替他捏把冷汗。其敬业态度更令人为之钦佩。

“娱乐先生”可谓是一场盛大的音乐飨宴。他这次参与了演唱会的策划,从舞台搭设,灯光效果,服装等,都展现满满的诚意。

在演唱第一首”纯金打造”时,老萧隔着帘幕演唱,观众只看得见他的侧影。这为的是想把大家的注意力摆在他的歌声上。

这就是所谓的”先声夺人,以声会友”。从开始演唱的第一个字,就能深深吸引你的目光&注意力。先发制人这一招挺管用的。他要先征服大家的耳膜,才能得到百分百的专注。

看他表演是种享受,他表演的如此沉醉,我们也听得如此陶醉。

他不论是在演唱或弹奏表演时,脸上都特别有戏。每个表情都富有张力。

帘幕被抽起时,你会看见10几位管弦乐手在2-3楼的台架上弹奏,也让观众能够注视他们。串场部分也安排了几位小提琴家的演奏。舞台中央有很大的萤幕,延至左右侧都有很绚丽的灯光效果。舞台两侧也有小小的延伸台,可让他更靠近两旁的歌迷。

那霸气的气势和台风,已不可当日而言喻,可谓”有过之而无不及”。

也只有萧敬腾才能撑得起这壮观的舞台和气场。

他的音量和音域能够震破套牢在你身上所有无形的枷锁和束缚,让你顿时得到解脱,舒解所有烦恼和压力。

他奔放的演出,给了我们精神和情绪上的释放。

当年的”省话一哥”或许已没那么”省”话。俗话说,”韩国有苏志燮,台湾有萧敬腾”。两人都属文静的类型,面对媒体有时会显得不知所措,但历经多年的磨炼,两人也渐渐活泼起来。他们比较慢热,需要熟络些才会open up.

有人说,听萧敬腾唱歌会替他觉得喉咙辛苦,但小编认为听他唱歌是多么疗愈,多么舒缓情绪的一件事情。

试问,现今歌坛有多少人能够用这种声线飙高音嘶吼,却又不让你觉得吃力,做作,还能音准到这种程度的呢?

尤其是像”皮囊”有19度音域的歌曲,也只有萧敬腾能把这首歌掌握地那么驾轻就熟。这首歌的音域是介于狂飙海豚音和呐喊之间。能呐喊嘶吼的那么悦耳动听,是一项才能,艺术,也是种天赋。

他的歇斯底里并非卖弄技巧,而是想展现自己最纯粹 (raw) 的一面。瘦小的身躯宛如隐藏着滔天巨浪般的力量,足以淹没你我的心,震破你的耳膜。

He’s a vocal powerhouse.

31岁还算是活力充沛的年纪。他在最后一首歌曲一股脑儿地往Terrace 栏杆跳上去,有些惊险,但掩饰不了内心的亢奋。可见这回新加坡观众的热情有感染到这个闷骚包。不按牌理出牌是不错的。毕竟这是场演唱会,就是要靠当下的感受。

人生苦短,我们不是应该努力活在当下吗?

萧同学似乎也是个”人来疯”。兴起时会满场”飞”,或发挥嘶吼功力。唱到忘我时,还会甩头摆尾,蹬脚,甚至深蹲下跪。有时会暗笑,有时又会很调皮的作弄观众说他不唱”王妃”,因为已经唱到腻了。

老萧正拿着毛巾擦汗,台下的粉丝却鼓噪着,像中了降头似的,想把那”香汗淋漓”的毛巾带回家做纪念。他越擦越起劲,还狂丢好几条毛巾给台下的观众。

会自弹自唱的人的确有魅力,但不会读琴谱,还能自我弹奏,创作歌曲的人,额外有魅力。这是所谓的”无师自通”。看着他和鼓手在台上尬鼓技,是种享受。

记忆力超强的他,根本无需提字机或琴谱。这是不是也增添了几份魅力呢?

大家也超爱萧敬腾的悲伤情歌。他的唱腔,脸上的表情一点都不浮夸,是很干脆的把内心的情感和痛处展现在歌曲里。

最有感触的是”只能想念你”,”会痛的石头”和好久没听见的”原谅我”。

他唱的撕心裂肺,当下听得眼泪就在眼眶里打转,回忆也不断的涌现。当时心里是这么想的,如果再来一首”善男信女”让它彻底地痛彻心扉,该有多好?

当然也少不了萧敬腾成功翻唱的”新不了情”。不管听多少次,还是博有韵味。

令人动容的画面就是在演唱”这首歌”时直接不用麦克风,用其强大的声量把歌词都传递给在场的每一位观众。这就是老萧的诚意,蔓延到场馆的每一处,触碰甚至穿透你我的心。

可惜他有多首脍炙人口的歌曲都没唱,幸亏有唱我最喜欢的王子的新衣,疼愛,让我为你唱情歌,阿飞的小蝴蝶 & 王妃!

中场时有播放一小段串场Video道出萧敬腾这些年来打拼的故事。17岁就在民歌餐厅驻唱,可是都没人认真听他唱歌,直到星光大道才改变他的人生。多年的创作都不被接纳,直到最近才有机会发表自己的作品。

这音乐之路从来都不是外人看来的顺遂,唯有努力不懈才能坚持下去。

我也忘了他出道已有11年。还记得那在星光大道踢馆时顶着一头”金毛狮王”的男孩,一鸣惊人。

他说除了唱歌,他什么都不会。

其实大家无非喜欢那么率真,可爱,纯粹因为热爱歌唱,而唱的他。

这样的人在舞台上会发光发热,也会把力量传递给你。

出众的天赋和嗓音,就是他最大的武器和魅力。没什么想和别人去斗争,只想开心地唱着自己喜欢的歌曲的淳朴阿美族小孩。

或许是小编不够”In”吧,不是很能欣赏他的服装时尚。不过我们该为他的勇敢和自信给点掌声,就是要穿出自己的个性。虽然有痞子和台客味,但还是令人眼前一亮的。

最令人印象深刻的就是他那一席套装+短裤。那难得一露的白皙美腿,还跪在地上,真是吸睛不少。

就在演唱”王妃”之后,发现自己的链断了,边四处在舞台上找”残骸”,边嘀咕”这条链很贵的,我买不起啊”。这很跳 Tone的剖白,把之前的霸气弄得荡然无存。

他说听说新加坡的观众比较冷静,可是他觉得大家好激动啊! 所以谣言不能信!

新加坡的观众比起其他国家来说是比较冷静。不过这次观众抱以热烈的掌声和欢呼声来勉励老萧。观众情绪High, 表演者更加High. 这是很好的互动。

看他烙了几句英文,如”Touching”就沾沾自喜的模样,令人会心一笑。

希望有观看演唱会的你,可以重温一些 Moments,也能吸引到没到场的你,下次买票来观赏老萧的演出。

若有机会,还蛮想听萧敬腾和邓紫棋,这两位巨肺歌手合唱一首。不知他们会飙高音到什么音阶,不过会是首很摇滚,很有震撼力的金曲!

希望老萧不要再让我们等个3年才来开唱。1-2年来一次会比较好。

继续用你的生命,热诚和纯粹来演唱这最美丽的旅程!Read More →

薛之谦在他的首场”摩天大楼”新加坡演唱会,带给了现场8000名”谦友”们一个特别愉悦,捧腹大笑,疗愈,难忘的夜晚。除了听出耳油的首首动人歌曲,去听薛之谦的演唱会还能够抛开压力,舒解烦恼。

他是位创作歌手,主持人,也具备搞笑天分。”薛氏”歌曲旋律简单,听似淡而无味的,没什么高潮起伏,但其实内有乾坤,胜在不浮夸,歌词紧扣人心。他的歌总能带给你许多感慨,能触碰到内心最深处。就是这份心思细腻,才能写出那么多现实成面隐藏的感情观。

网路上盛传一句话”听得懂薛之谦的歌是经历,听不懂薛之谦的歌是种幸运”。

薛之谦的歌曲能触及人心,旋律简单,但歌词却不一定浅白易懂。在仔细研究了他的歌词之后,你会很赞同薛同学的”世间观”。历经了人生百态的我们,或许早已遍体鳞伤,早已麻木,但或多或少,心中仍会存芥蒂。若你能参透歌词中的奥秘,你会对他的写词功力拍案叫绝。若你还听不懂,只能说那是你的”小幸运”。

所幸他个性爽朗,也超幽默,整场演唱会的气氛拿捏得恰到好处。唱得深情,观众也听得陶醉。Talking 的部分,也总令大家哈哈大笑。 他可以立刻投入角色, 时而搞笑后,可立刻切换成一本正经地唱歌,似乎完全不需酝酿情绪。而且他的歌声真的是很棒!

“摩天大楼”给人的既定印象,就是魁梧,富丽堂皇的感觉。虽然摩登,但富有距离和冷漠感。

现代人所追求的究竟是什么? 是世俗眼中的繁华,名利,金钱,地位,还是舒适的环境?

内心的炽热似乎早已冷却,或已完全不复存在。这世界的冷漠,究竟给了你我多少的幽默?

在追逐更好的生活的当中,人们往往牺牲了许多。少了时间陪家人朋友,只为了力争上游。因为曾经付出过真感情,而被背叛,从此再也不相信谁,变得堪少和别人交心。这就是文明世代的悲哀。

摩天大楼再富丽堂皇,也只是个外壳。若”内在”不够坚固,也会有坍塌的一天。住在摩天大楼或废弃的楼里,都有不同的面貌。是虚假或颓废,就看你怎么看。反而是外观不怎么吸引人的旧建筑,里头可能给人更温暖的感觉。基本上,”人”才是关键,而非外在因素。

薛之谦给人的印象很搞笑,幽默,能坦然面对自己的尴尬。化解尴尬的最佳方法不是逃避它,而是勇敢面对它。虽然真的很糗,但能够在这么短的时间恢复过来,还深情款款的唱着悲伤情歌,没几量功夫,是堪难办到的。

他就是那种令人觉得可以舒服相处的人。他很自然,轻松自在地说着自己的故事,也能很随性的站着,坐着或躺着唱歌。他也很健谈,应该是属于那种可以点一杯咖啡,促膝常谈的那类型。

虽然因为时差有点 Jet Lag, 导致刚开场时和演唱有些歌曲时,会显得有点疲惫和气音不足的状态,但大致上都唱得很好。尤其偶尔飙个尾音或拉10几秒的尾音来让你 Impressed 。观众们的反应极为热烈,不管是跟着合唱,或有笑点的时候,配合度都极高。

果然不是浪得虚名,He’s really a Joker! 你很难不被他的 Happy Vibes 感染。他随便来几则真实生活里发生的趣事,都令人喷饭。

可那么搞笑的人的内心世界,竟然有如此大的反转!

那博君一笑的背后,隐藏着360度不同的内心世界。

从多首”薛氏情歌”里的歌词可以看出薛同学的心思细腻,对世间许多事情的观点亦是所谓的”世间观”,冷暖人间事。He sees the big picture but also the finest details.

在演艺圈浮浮沉沉13年,靠的是拼命搞笑,”自黑”来赢得大家的关注,掌声和笑声。皇天总算不负有心人,结果还是让他等到属于自己的一片天。

或许是现代人对许多”无奈”的事情,早已达到习以为常,无关痛痒的境界,对许多事情不闻不问。直到你细细品尝薛之谦歌词里所道出那血淋淋,赤裸裸的现实社会,你会产生那无比大的共鸣感。

他的人生经历充满着崎岖,荆棘,波折与反转。但他拥有众人没有的天赋 – 那就是能把它们一一道出在歌曲里。听说他的人生故事也很精彩,还有花边新闻。这些并不重要。重点是,他的歌曲能够唱进你的心砍里。搞笑能力强也为演唱会加了不少亮点。 所以即便他的歌曲大多是抒情卦,但他就是不拘小结,很坦然搞笑, 更让观众觉得轻松自在。

仔细聆听他的歌曲,你会陷入许多不同时期的时光隧道。

我是因为”暧昧” 才开始喜欢听他的歌。最爱的还有”你还要我怎样”和 “违背的青春”,尤其是当天的 Rock 版本,是特大爱!

听到”违背的青春”,你会对于逝去的青春,很有感叹。那些年追逐的,放弃的。。都会随即涌入眼帘。感觉像是洗了个冷水澡之后, 再品尝冷饮的感觉。

我们都在坚持与放弃之间,不断相互的矛盾着,挣扎着。

这些年,你放弃了多少? 你对得起曾经那傲慢不羁的青春岁月吗? 心里的那团火是否早已熄灭?

“暧昧”,是对于过往情路崎岖的悲哀感。大家都因为曾被伤害过,就上了一层层的保护色,设有防备心理,很难再相信谁,更别说敞开心扉。

当被问及逝去的感情,我们都会当着是无关痛痒,故作坚强,轻描淡写地带过。就深怕曝露自己脆弱的一面,什么都要伪装成那么的面面俱到。

“你还要我怎样”让人很有意境,寓意和画面感。

或许我们最终都不会和最爱的人在一起,但那个人在心里永远都会像初恋一样,拥有个特别的位置。这存在只有你自己知道,是无人能及的牢笼。

我们的潜意识里,还是会 have a soft spot for this special someone. 是傻得可以,还是得不到的永远是最美的?

演唱会有着不同的”建筑物”为背景,例如高楼大厦,富丽堂皇的宫殿和阶梯,水晶吊灯, 废弃的空屋和楼梯,荡秋千,夜空的星星和流星,雨点。

薛之谦一开口,小编就了解朋友说他很搞笑是怎么一回事情了。不管是在机舱上获”赠”$300的”礼券”,不同国家对于演唱会舞台搭设有着不同规矩而闹出的笑话,或是那前所未有的经典”打嗝”,都让观众们对他的印象深刻。童心未泯的他,还叫台下的幕后工作人员把升降阶梯下降又上升,还说要”玩死你”,真的令人捧腹大笑。

这人还真的很会自娱娱人!

那晚大家印象最深刻的就是在演唱”骆驼”第二句时,薛之谦突然对着麦克风打嗝!! 因为是对着麦克风,大家都听得非常清楚,不到几秒,全场就爆笑! 这是前所未有的状况。他可是破了所有歌手在新加坡开唱,第一个打嗝的记录。

他也自觉很糗,弯腰笑了好一段时间。之后便试图自打圆场说,通常演唱会都是晚上8点才开始,而他的是7点,所以饭都还来不及消化,就被拉上台了。

他便问道, 是因为他是172公分才放在7点钟开场吗? 但别人的演唱会就不用赶地铁,只有他的需要那么赶吗? 大家听了更是哗然大笑。

他还真是天生带给大家欢乐的活宝呀!

虽然演唱会才2个小时,令很多人有点错愣,但这还是一场值得一看的演唱会。这是一场唱功了得 + 搞笑功力 + 娱乐性十足的演唱会! Read More →

观赏了这部剧集, 你会深刻地体会到”平凡既是甘苦,也是甜蜜”。

除了那命运作弄人的相遇和悲惨的13年改变了许多人的人生,其他都是一些生活里的琐碎大小事。剧集里没有所谓的”奸角”。原以为这种”平凡无奇”的剧情,很难让观众感兴趣。但就因剧情写实,也很励志,收视率才能截截上升。

除了有可爱”小鲜肉”和昏迷了13年后醒来,仍然是17岁心智的30岁”少女”的搞笑甘苦爱情故事外,还有许多关于亲情,友情,和平凡人在现实社会里跌跌撞撞的机遇。你会看见这社会的冷酷与市侩,例如光靠有实力但没有文凭,或者是年纪大了一点,就很难找到工作。看剧里的主人翁们如何从不相识,到互扶持,交心,信任和一起走过人生重要的里程碑。我更爱的是戏剧里许多很有人生哲学的”金句”。

每个人物(即便是配角)也有着自己一段不为人知的故事。

虽没什么大起大落,但就是琐碎的平凡小事才会让你心里的涟漪波澜。我们都是心里住着长不大的小孩的,佯装成是大人的小孩。

They are strangers living under one roof, who grow to be like a family. However, there is a point of connection that is unknown to all till the ending – the accident on that fateful day.

Woo Jin 和 Seo Ri 两人在剧中起了微妙的互补作用。

一个为了好心帮助人而变成”害死”人,从此封闭自己,再也不对任何人或事,抱有热忱。另一个原有大好前途的”未来小提琴家”,一夕之间失去了家人,朋友,梦想,甚至自己的青春和13年的宝贵时间。

Seo Ri 虽因昏迷了13年,有点难适应一下子就是30岁的心态,但她却关关难关,关关过。

Shin Hye Sun 把这个角色掌握得非常优异。在苏醒后惊觉她的世界都变了,还在努力复健,寻回亲人和朋友之时,也显露了和这个时代格格不入的尴尬。她的表情动作也许会令人爆笑,但如果我们也一下子到了13年后的未来,也会显得那么突兀。

去应征侍应生被嫌太老, 去当小提琴助教又被嫌没正式文凭。虽尝尽了世间冷暖,但她仍然不放弃。即便没有文凭,她也没有气馁,想靠自己的双手养活自己。因手指头僵硬的关系,她需要克服许多障碍才能练回小提琴,只是无法回到之前的水准。她常告诉自己,那是她人生的”中场休息”。

Woo Jin 一直是 Seo Ri 的支柱,努力隐藏自己心里的恐慌和不安,也导致他也一直活在”17岁”的阴影里, 裹足不前。

严格说起来,他们都是外貌老成了,但内心深处还是属于那17岁的状态。所以两人的相处都帮助对方一起成长。

很多时候,是我们一味地觉得事情就是如此。但每件事情都是有两面性的。

虽然他把自己伪装的非常冷漠,事不关己的模样,但一旦 Seo Ri 遇到苦难或遭人欺负,他都会挺身而出。过了些许时间,大家都看得到他的转变。笑容变多了,做事也很积极,渐渐地释放封锁已久的真实个性。

他成了 Seo Ri 的朋友,知己和家人。

虽然 Seo Ri 成长的比较快,但要看 Woo Jin 因为”毁了” Seo Ri 的人生而深深自责的痛处,还真令人心疼。

他最终懂得逃避不是办法,选择留下来面对问题,做个有担当的成年人。

这两人的相处到相恋,充满欢笑泪水,和满满的感动。

Yoo Chan 是个非常乐于助人的阳光少年。除了偶尔流露出来17岁少年的懵懂模样,因为还在摸索着成长的过程,但他其实心智上比许多同龄人还要来得成熟。

他是第一个对 Seo Ri 敞开心扉,接纳她的朋友,让她在这即陌生又熟悉的家里,感到无比的温暖。

他和舅舅 Woo Jin 感情堪好, 但最担心是舅舅一遇到难题,就会”离家出走”,流浪个几年。

Jennifer 是大家最坚实的后盾,为他们打点日常的种种,也在他们遇到困难时及于安慰和开导,加上行动上的支持。感觉比较像”妈妈”,而不是帮佣的角色。但没人知道她的”木纳”是为了惩罚自己,因为不想让自己过得快乐或过于悲伤,而是要在中间取得平衡点

我喜欢 Woo Jin 和 Jennifer 在家后院的互动。他们其实都很关心彼此,也把他们各自所经历的种种都看在眼里。 平时不大会讨论,都会用”金玉良言”来开导或鼓励对方。

这是她对 Woo Jin 的忠告: “伤心和痛苦的事情,都会随着时间的流逝而慢慢被冲淡。但是如果选择逃避,只会往往让人错过那些正在发生的好的事情。到时候后悔的话,也改变不了任何事情,因为已是于事无补。”

其实她的这番话很有道理。我们往往都会在发生许多事情后, 认为不去触碰它, 事情就会慢慢淡化。但其实,有些事情乘早摊开来说,会比较有帮助。
Jennifer’s quote for Woo-jin: “The only cure for sadness is to do something, by J.H. Lewis.”
On Jennifer’s last day, Woo Jin said to her: “”I hope you smile when you’re happy and cry when you’re sad from now on. I hope you don’t live with your eyes closed anymore.””

大家都希望 Jennifer 能真正的快乐,也不希望她一只因为过去而惩罚自己。

As we age, we learn that dreams may get further from reality. Just like Seo Ri’s case, she didn’t get to be a violinist but she could still play violin for those who appreciate and need music therapy.

Similarly, Yoo Chan could have joined an adult coach team but he chose to remain with his school team.

It is not always about going for the best opportunities that would make you successful, but going for what suits you best.

Kim Tae Rin is a manifestation of our most inert insecurities.

她虽然已是世界顶级的小提琴家,但内心一直处在不安之中。从小就把 Seo Ri 当成是威胁,拉小提琴对她来说只是个责任,而非出于真正的喜欢和享受。

戏里最”凄惨”的是 Hyung Tae 吧? 从17岁就喜欢 Seo Ri, 就算在她昏迷的这13年都细心照料她, 可惜最后换来的并未如他所愿。

这世界是不会因为我们要它变得怎样,而能一一如愿。

There are not so many “What Ifs” in life. IF he was the one she saw the moment she woke, how different it might have been?

“Don’t think, Feel!”

这是在剧里听到最多的”金句”。的确,许多时候会因为我们把事情想得太复杂,有太多顾虑,而裹足不前。若试着跟着心里的声音迈步向前的话,或许就能成功。

有一幕是 Seo Ri 对 Hee Soo 说她其实很羡慕她,因为她就是 Seo Ri 心里想象30 岁该有的模样。而 Hee Soo 的解答是”其实很多人的心智和念书时是一样的,只是按照世上想要的30岁,活成”30岁”该有的模样。”

其实,我们都是披着大人外皮的小孩。或许心智还像个小孩,但行动却需要附和所谓的大人该有的担当。

“人生的 intermission 就是等着精彩的下一次演出,暂时停止的时间。 不是结束,而是暂时休息。”

休息是为了走更长远的路,适当的放慢脚步,让自己有喘气和沉淀的机会,未尝不是件好事?

很多时候,我们往往都过于死心眼,所以才会一直沉浸在过去种种的不幸, 而没发现其实有很多扇门正为我们打开着。

该看这部剧,因为它会让你在短短的16小时里,获益良多。Read More →

This drama is pretty well paced, exhilarating, shows many futuristic elements, coupled with some surprising twists and turns. There are sweet and endearing moments but also heartbreaking instances and cold hard truths that we have to experience as part of life’s journey. It gives us many life lessons about handling interpersonal relationships, holding close what’s dear to us, how destructive human greed can be and how we have always neglected people around us.

This drama’s theme is very much about love & acceptance. We always talk about loving and accepting people for who they really are, even when they are so diversely different. Would it have been any different to show our love and acceptance towards Artificial Intelligent (A.I) Robots?

While many may be driven by greed and ambition, which leads them to a destructive mode or even irredeemable state, some are driven by love and acceptance to be who they really are and to do good.

The drama started off with a pace quick enough to keep you entertained while anticipating subsequent episodes. You wonder how Namshin could avoid being tracked down, how could the Robot Namshin III act like the real McCoy without having his cover blown & all the conspiracies that were brewing within.

We love the “interpersonal” relationships that Namshin III has forged or helped Namshin to do “damage repair”, and how the 2 Namshins had to go through much ordeal when one wants to co-exist but the other wants to be the 1 and only Namshin.

Why do we FEEL so much for Namshin III?

He was created as a “replacement” for Laura Oh’s human son, Namshin. 他只是为了精神寄托,而制造和设定出来的。It feels sad whenever he has this yearning look when his mum shows favouritism, especially when he asked his mum if he is not her son anymore, just because he doesn’t behave like the real Namshin?

He would never say no to his mum, even if he knew that he would be abandoned someday. He just wanted to be “useful” and “helpful”; otherwise it defeats the purpose of his existence.

He’s more thoughtful than Namshin, since he’s observant and would buy medication for his mum when she has a migraine. He could even tell she was lying without his lie detector on anymore. That’s how he evolves by studying and observing the environment and people around him, he could tell from their minor expressions and body language.

Over time, he would only listen to So Bong as she is the only one who accepts him for who he really is and sees him as an unique individual. He often said that he may understand what people say, but he would not be able to experience those feelings himself. The saddest was when, he wanted to cry like a human being, but he just couldn’t.

H e shouldn’t feel any emotions and he supposedly couldn’t but many a times, he proved that he has his own persona. He’s able to DIFFERENTIATE on his own, what the things he should or should not do are and IF he wanted to do it. There came this powerful force called “Love” that overwrites his programming. It is similar to how human beings learn about their feelings too.

He is self-aware and seeks affirmation that he’s being liked and needed. You can also sense his compassion, love, jealousy and sadness many a times too.
That’s already being human.

I like the intricate details that Seo Kang Joon puts in to distinguish the 2 Namshins. How effortless it seems for him to do the switch instantaneously. It’s not an easy job to act with “less expressions” since he is a robot, yet his actions need to prove that he genuinely cared.

He not just has to act as a robot and a human, but also a robot who’s acting like the human Namshin. That’s something on a deeper level. How the look in his eyes went a little blurry, 善良, innocent or what we call the “puppy eyes”, would show that he is Namshin III and how when he has this sharp glare or anguish look in his eyes, with that smirk on his face or snarky look, would mean that he is human Namshin.

Namshin is full of himself, has a terrible attitude, filled with hatred and so lack of love. However, there are times you could see beyond his pain & anger. You can rationalise his “irrational” and “bratty” behaviours.

Namshin has the absolute right to be angry. It is understandable that he may go through extreme measures to “secure” his position.

It is an act of self doubt, self-defence and lack of confidence.

If only he did not continue to wallow in self-pity, things might have changed for the better.

We can feel the pain in both Namshins. They are just little boys who yearn for their mum’s love.

It felt like a relief when Namshin III could announce to the world that he is a robot and what impressive things and good deeds he has done. He wants to co-exist with human beings, doesn’t have to fear that people will discover his identity anymore. We always wanted to just be who we really are and hope that others can accept us for being ourselves too.

A robot-human romance is TOTALLY viable in this drama.

Obviously So Bong would be confused after being with him 24/7, even Young Hoon, who’s closest to Namshin also waivered. Namshin III also treated Namshin’s little cousin Hee Dong with much care and affection that the little kid could TELL he is not his real cousin.

He’s like your Superhero boyfriend – Iron Man to be exact.

He could stop traffic light, piggyback you without ever feeling tired, stop cars with his bare hands, save you from a burning building, manipulate anything that’s to do with technology & protect you from harm. The way he looks at So Bong affectionately, fusses over her, rushes to her rescue and gets jealous, is just so “human”. It also evokes laughter when he kept having “imaginary hallucinations” when he misses So Bong.

He could be dense, but he learns how to make his loved ones happy.

The ever so kind and pure Namshin III went “bersek” and stared inflicting harm on people who love him, including So Bong and CEO Nam, when he was controlled via manual mode by Namshin. He was so afraid that he would harm human beings that he told So Bong to stay far away.
Namshin III would rather destroy himself than to harm others.

The times when So Bong told Namshin III that she hoped he is human and when Namshin III asked if things would be better if he were a real human, were heartbreaking.

She became the one who he opened his “heart” to. They remained steadfast to each other. They were protective, would comfort and go the extra mile to ensure each other is okay. She could almost always tell both Namshins apart, except when Namshin “pranked” her by acting like Namshin III.

The rude shock she had when she went into the auditorium to tell Namshin III that she likes him (not realising he is Namshin) and wanted to take him away from all humans trying to harm him, was impactful.

2 persons may look alike, but it is how they are at heart, that sets them apart.

It’s like a prelude that Laura would be torn between her 2 sons ultimately. We know that Namshin is a very rebellious and spoil brat. He would not be forgiving towards a mum who has abandoned him for 20 years.

While she may have thought that she didn’t feel for Namshin III, which mother could ever sacrifice her children, be it by birth or by creation?

While I understand where Young Joon is coming from by embracing ALL bad things that Namshin has done, it seems incredible as to how he can have such high tolerance level and is oblivious to all temptations. What we do know is, he truly cares for Namshin like a little brother.

I pity Ye Na, despite the wilful & awful things she did to Namshin III & So Bong. Being possessive and trying all ways and means to win the heart of Namshin for 20 years but failed to do so, would not do her any good.

She was being delusional, but she has always been on Namshin’s side and this over-indulgence made things worse. It’s only towards the end when she felt that she needed to do what’s right so that she could save Namshin.

CEO Nam & Seo Yong Gil are the biggest villains. Both are driven by immense greed and ambitions, trying to outdo each other, in a world where victory belongs to “survival of the fittest”.

It may be karma that CEO Nam eventually got played by his own prank that he really had dementia, but I wasn’t going to empathise how he could do such things to his son & grandson.

As for Yong Gil, his quest to protect his position and to wanting something more, which means owning the entire PK Group, eventually leads to a road of no return.

There was this scene when So Bong’s dad disagreed when Namshin III said that he would never have a change of heart. Since he is learning to become human, he may also have a change of heart some day.

Namshin III is constantly evolving and we have no idea if So Bong would be tired of him some day too. It’s common to have breakups if it doesn’t ultimately work towards marriage, which is definitely not so viable for them.

It is probably towards the end that we realise So Bong’s love for him would not likely change, that have us feeling more relieved.

Why think so deep into the future when we should live in the moment?

It’s just like what So Bong’s dad said, “Love and hate to your heart’s content, so that you won’t regret later”.

Come what may, I’m sure that’s what our lead couple would say.

We should just cherish the present.Read More →

Riding on the waves of zombie apocalypse movies, “Rampant” attempts to set itself apart by zooming into an era way before our time, set in the Joseon Dynasty 500 to 600 years ago.

Apart from the massive scale of zombies running rampage in colourful Joseon costumes across palaces, the majestic action scenes and swords play, a major draw to watch “Rampant” is definitely to see how this “fatally charismatic” duo, Jang Dong Gun & Hyun Bin, who are best friends in real life, take on confrontational roles in the movie. Their chemistry is impeccable.

Like many audiences, I have mixed reviews of this movie. If you have been a fan of zombie flicks, it would satisfy you to a certain extent with some of the most thrilling and exciting action scenes. However, if you are looking for character development and emotional engagement like “Train in Busan”, it may leave you dismayed.

If all else fails, we can always count upon JDG & Hyun Bin to save the day.

The brilliant cinematography and choreography of the action scenes, CGI effects topped with brilliant music pieces by the London Music Symphony, is what we call a “Sensory Feast”. It’s a refreshing fusion when you see western zombies mixed with Korean zombies set in the Joseon era.

From the landscape view of thousands of zombies aka “night demons” attacking their victims in the palace to the close ups was a sight to behold. We could see close ups of how the victims turned into zombies, with veins forming on their faces and limbs with white, gluey eyes as they began twisting and warping during the transformation.

The tracks by London Music Symphony are so 浩瀚澎湃 that it elevated the “Sensory gratification” it was supposed to deliver on a colossal scale at the gorgeously built Joseon sets.

Excitement kicked in full force towards the later part of the movie. Audiences can expect to be glued to their seats while hoping the leads could make it safely out of danger.

My most favourite scene was during the hoards of zombies breaking into the dungeons trying to have a bite on the “only humans” left. It was such a 惊险 and thrilling scene that it would have your hearts thumping at your throats. You would also enjoy the scenes when Lee Chung fought the so many zombies single-handed in the main hall and the swordplay sparring between the 2 opposing leads. You’d be pleased with how both actors weird their swords like a pro.

What we were curious to find out was really to see how well the chemistry between the 2 real life best friends would turn out. Both shone in their respective ways, yet not stealing the limelight from each other since they complement well with each other and all other cast members.

This movie is about duty and responsibilities, political tensions, human greed and ambitions which would lead to an impending downfall.

It is the King who serves the people, not the King who owns the empire. Without the citizens, there will not be a king.

究竟是效忠还是愚忠? 我觉得张东健在戏里无非也提出了值得思考的一点。

想要做统领并非易事。On top of being a good leader, you need someone who has the abilities and willingness to assume these heavy responsibilities.

Whether you choose to be “good” or “bad”, it all boils down to options and choices in life. There’s always a consequence and price that we have to pay for making such choices.

Minister Kim’s下场 is a good portrayal of how when you have too great ambitions, it turns into personal greed, which will eventually lead to your downfall, or ultimately self-destruction.

The 1st hour was dreadfully slow and there wasn’t much character development or emotional engagement. Most characters are pretty one-dimensional and the plot is pretty predictable.

The reason why “Train to Busan” was a huge success was because it was in a league of its own, paying much details and attention to their character and emotional development that most zombie flicks lack.

There was more screen time for Hyun Bin to have gradual character development as the story progressed, from a 吊儿郎当 Joseon prince who had no interest to ascend the throne, to the hero who saved the day. In a way, you can feel how 迫切 Minister Kim yearns to rule the empire no matter what it takes, including self-sacrifice, but you can’t feel that willingness of Prince Lee Chung to even want to fight the zombies, not to mention protecting his people.

It was a little abrupt, for the switch towards the final showdowns.

Hyun Bin could do better, but with a script that weak on character development, that’s likely the best that he could make of.

He fared well in the intricate moments during emotional scenes whereby you could feel the pain and angst Lee Chung experienced when he lost his loved ones

Hyun Bin had more notable action scenes fighting against zombies, showcasing amazing swordplay skills. It must been very strenuous and physically exhausting for him under harsh weather conditions during winter.

Jang Dong Gun is the scene stealer. Minister Kim’s vast ambition & greed was portrayed subtly initially but it intensified when JDG unleashed his power towards the ending scenes.

He brings playing a villain to another level. It isn’t just a flat one-dimensional character. He stayed true to his words about putting efforts into adding depth and layers to his villain role. He was able to showcase not just his scheming antics, immense ambitions to rule the Joseon Empire, but also the devastation when it came to his downfall. Be it playing the good or bad guy, he’s always ready to assimilate the role and we can say his acting is of “Master” level in “Rampant”.

不管是穿着龙袍登基的那一幕,犀利的眼神。。还有惊警觉自己被咬到后嚎啕哀,嚎崩溃的模样。。决一死战的最后几幕,都令人为之动容。

演奸角的厉害之处,不是单方面地让观众对你咬牙切齿,恨之入骨,而是能让观众也感受到你内心深处的出发点。他的歇斯底里,已传达到观众的心里。那已经绝望到底,也要捍战到底的毅力,的确会让你为他感到稍微的心疼。这就是我们所谓的 “内心戏”。

The only thing he could have done better was the reciting of the Chinese poem. Some lines were pronounced very accurately and beautifully recited though.

Some of the notable supporting roles were Jeong Man Sik’s portrayal of Hak Soo, Lee Chung’s servant, who added much humour to the horror genre movie. Kim Eui Sung who acted in “Train to Busan” acts as King Lee Jon in “Rampant”. There was also Seo Ji Hye’s cameo as Concubine Jo whose transformation was an excruciatingly painful but impactful one. It was key to the development of the story line. Jo Woo Jin’s role as the head of rebel, Park Eul Ryoung, was one that may evoke a little of your emotions towards the ending.

It’s a pity that Lee Sun Bin’s role as Deok Hee, was nothing more than a potential love interest for Prince Lee Chung and a skilled archer, but failed to create much impact as a heroine in this male-dominated movie.

The above reasons would give you good enough gauge as to whether you would want to watch this movie at the cinema.

If you want to watch a zombie flick with a refreshing time setting back in the Joseon Dynasty, or have been either a JDG or Hyun Bin fan, or fan of both, it is definitely one blockbuster not to be missed.Read More →