book to movie adaptations I can't wait to see.

2012 seems to be a promising year for movies. While I am so very excited for movies like the Avengers and the Dark Knight Rises, I mostly can't wait for the book-to-movie adaptations that are coming out.

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One of those films I can't wait to see is The Woman in Black, which is an adaptation of the 1983 thriller/horror novel by Susan Hill. The premise and plot line of this story is as eerie and intriguing as it can be, and the trailer for it looks like it might live up to the novel. Also, Daniel Radcliffe leads the cast here, and let's be honest - I am not even going to try denying it - that is Harry Potter right there. Of course I'll pay to see him on the big screen again. Thankfully, this film will come out soon - February 10, to be exact.

Another movie I can't wait to see is The Perks of being a Wallflower. This was an awesome read for me back in high school. The cool thing is that the screenwriter and director for this is the author of the book himself, which I think makes this project an even more promising one. Also, Emma Watson is playing as one of the main characters. (See a trend here?)

Of course, The Hunger Games. The trailer for this looks amazing. It looks dark and thrilling; just the way it should be. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for this one! And yes, I am definitely lining up for a midnight showing.

The Great Gatsby. Leonardio di Caprio as Gatsby, Carey Mulligan as Daisy... need I say more? This movie project intrigues me the most. I always think it's more difficult to make classic novels into movies, but that's just me. I can't wait to see how it turns out.

Last but certainly not the least, I am extremely excited for The Hobbit coming out December of this year. There are seriously no words to describe how ecstatic I was when I first saw its trailer. It looks epic already.

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So... are you looking forward to watching any of these films I can't wait to see this year? Do you have any other book-to-movie adaptations to add to this list? Let me know!

Hunger Games!!!

I can not wait for this. It looks like it's going to be really good!

I do hope that they capture and show the darkness and violence that the series has well, because I think that's one of the things that makes the Hunger Games work, at least for me.

And if you're like me, you have probably watched the trailer repeatedly since it came out Monday. What do you think of it?

movie recommendation: (500) Days of Summer

I've seen this movie countless times - and when I mean countless, I literally mean that I can't even count how many anymore. It has easily become of one my favorites. For some reason, I just love it so much!

Maybe it's the fact that the story itself was such a great surprise in the first place. Or maybe I love it because of the extremely realistic and believable characters, or the fact that the actors who played these people are some of my favorites. I've always had a huge crush on Joseph Gordon-Levitt ever since 10 Things I Hate About You and have also always just adored Zooey Deschanel! Or it could also be because of its amazing soundtrack, its fresh script, its unique way of story telling, or the number of quotable quotes that can be discovered. Perhaps, it's because the story is honest and true; perfectly relate-able. Or really, maybe it's because it's just so darn adorable and heart wrenching at the same time that despite the fact that I can't pinpoint the exact reason, I know I'm so in love with it.

Well, last night, I saw it again. And even though this is the millionth time I've watched it, I have to tell you, it just doesn't get old. The heartbreak, giddiness, and everything else that comes with the movie felt exactly the same.

If you haven't seen it and you like good stories... then this might be for you.

Movie: Water for Elephants

I saw Water for Elephants this weekend, and I have to say, I'm so happy it didn't let me down. As expected, I liked it. I enjoyed it, and thought it was really entertaining. The best part was that, except for minor details, it did stay very true to the book. And because I liked Sara Gruen's novel, I appreciate the fact that the movie didn't stray away too much. As expected, there were a couple of changes and misses, but overall, the heart of the story was there.

As for the actors cast to play the three lead roles, I thought they did well too. My favorite of course has got to be Christoph Waltz' playing the menacing character of August. After falling in love with him in Inglourious Basterds, where he played a part of an evil Nazi, I was excited to see WFE to see his performance here. He definitely did not disappoint. He is able to play a multidimensional character that the audience clearly hate and can sympathize with at the same time.

Robert Pattinson did awesome as well, I thought. Him playing the role of Jacob - ironic, right? - was so spot on. He was able to pull off the character really well. He was exactly how I thought the main character would be. Casting him was one of the best things about the movie. I also have to say that I think that anytime he comes out with a new movie (that is not Twilight - sorry fans!) I am definitely watching, because he is quite good!

As for Reese Witherspoon playing the role of Marlena, I thought she was alright. I love Reese Witherspoon and think she's adorable, but I just don't think she fits the "smoldering, exotic, sexy, fragile" characterat all, in my opinion. She did a great job playing a complex character though as she always does, but maybe another actress could have been a better choice. Also, she didn't seem to have much chemistry with Robert Pattinson at all, so maybe that could be it as well.

Word of caution though. If you are extremely sensitive when it comes to animal abuse, this movie might be harder to watch. The story itself deals a lot with the abuse of animals in circuses, so that's a given. To be honest though, I thought these scenes in the film were definitely the strongest moments. And the actual animal "actors" in the movie were pretty much amazing.

Overall, I really liked it. I paid $10.50 for the movie, and didn't feel guilty at all that I spent it on this, because to me, it's definitely worth seeing it. I loved the overall feel and ambiance of the movie, the actors playing the characters, the animals, the cinematography, the soundtrack... everything. So yes, I highly recommend the movie. It's not amazing or a favorite of mine by any means, but I am in love with how they truly paid attention and stayed true to such a good novel.

Water for Elephants.

I saw a movie last night and one of the trailers shown was Water for Elephants! I got so excited and curious to see because I honestly didn't know how they could make it into a movie. So far, just based on the trailer, I am really intrigued already.

The soundtrack and the overall feel of the movie trailer itself makes it look like it's going to be very good. I also do like Reese Witherspoon, but most especially Christoph Waltz -- from Inglourious Basterds!! And yes, if you've seen Remember Me, you probably saw Robert Pattinson in a whole new light. I think he's going to pull off this role. Oh, and a funny thing, guess what his name is in Water for Elephants... JACOB. Quite a funny coincidence, I have to admit.

I'm actually very excited to see this movie, as I really liked the book. What do you think?

Mini-Movie Review: Tangled

Seeing this movie just brings me back so many memories as a child, falling in love with every single Disney movie -- Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast... Tangled brings us Rapunzel; a long lost princess trapped in the tower all her life. This is an old-fashioned story with a new and modern twist. What can I say? I felt like I was a kid watching a Disney classic and a princess movie all over again. Everything about this movie is reminiscent to what Disney is to me -- and what it is for so many. Tangled was cute, funny, old-fashioned, and romantic. I also loved the fact that Rapunzel was actually sort of the heroine here, and wasn't really the "damsel in distress." I adored the lead male character, and loved (and hated!) the villain. The music... well, all the songs were composed by Alan Menken; the genius behind The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Hercules, Pocahontas, Beauty and the Beast, among so many others. The score and the songs truly added to the movie, creating the magic that only Disney films have. It is a good, fun, and cute film, that will surely bring back memories of your childhood. Watch it!

Inception: Movie Review!

This review contains no spoilers.

An inception is when you plant a specific idea in someone else's mind without them realizing that you're doing it to them or that you're toying with them. The idea then becomes their own -- believes in them and swears by them. It grows within them, and eventually, it becomes theirs and theirs alone.

So what is this movie about? Ideas. And dreams. Dreams within dreams. Reality. The subconscious. Then, more ideas. A mixture of heist/action/sci-fi/thriller all rolled into one. The movie's plot may sound difficult to understand at first, but the truth is, it's actually pretty simple. The only thing is, you do have to think about it first before you might get it, and you are forced to think. I kind of liked this, as it really challenged me as a viewer to think outside the box.

I'm no movie expert, but I have to say, I loved the visual effects. I loved the overall cinematography of it. I loved the action sequences. I loved the script! The writing is just excellent! It's smart and witty, interesting and engaging. And the acting.. let's just say that with a huge cast of great actors like these, it's to be expected that they will be good. Fortunately, they did not disappoint. Each of them delivered their characters, their roles, and their dialogues so well.

Overall, it's an exciting film. It's different, and it's quite unique. It is well-written, and well-acted. As for the questions everyone's asking:

"Is this really the best movie ever?" Hmm.. no, but it certainly is one of the best in 2010 so far!

"Is it really as good as everyone says it is?" Yes, I believe so!
"Should I see it?" Oh, most definitely.

P.S. I still have a huge crush on Joseph Gordon-Levitt! From 10 Things I Hate About You in 1999, to 500 Days of Summer, to Inception, I have to say he's still so cute. That's all.

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus: Movie Review

To read the synopsis, let Wikipedia help. This review contains no spoilers.

What a strange film. Very, very strange indeed. In fact, I am not exactly sure what I had just watched. Did I like it? Absolutely. Did I understand it? Well enough. But to recommend or not to recommend, that is the question, as they say. All I'm going to say is that this is most definitely not for everyone.

It took me quite a while to "get" the film, but I do think that is part of its charm. Ultimately, I have to say, I actually enjoyed it a lot. There are a lot of great aspects about it; perfect casting, the acting, the costumes, the movie's overall mood, among many others. You can tell how the tragic death of Heath Ledger -- who was terrific, by the way, as expected -- might have taken the movie to a whole other route, but Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell did a great job with the roles given to them. I also loved Lily Cole who played the role of Valentina. She was pretty awesome. As for Christopher Plummer, well, as expected, he fit the role very well. The Sound of Music anyone? He will never get old, I swear.

My favorite part though has got to be the fantastical elements that are included and that are a huge part of the story. Simply breathtaking! It's beautiful and dark, scary and amazing all at the same time. It truly is something unique!

If you decide to give the movie a chance, do expect to be transported to a whole other world; somewhere you've never been. At first, you will be reluctant to stick with it, but in the end, let it take you away. Immerse yourself and let your own imagination wander. Perhaps in the end, that would be the main key to see the real beauty of this very strange and twisted but wonderful world of the imaginarium and of Dr. Parnassus himself. Again, if you decide to watch this, one advice: Watch it with an open mind. You'll need it ;)

An Education: Movie Review

This review contains no spoilers.

An Education tells the coming-of-age story of a teenage girl living in 1960s suburban London, and how her life changes with the arrival of a playboy nearly twice her age. The screenplay itself is written by Nick Hornby; author of High Fidelity, About A Boy, among many others. While I have to admit the story itself has been done many times before -- young girl falling in love and "awakened" by an older man -- this film brings something else to the table by offering superb acting, evocative 60's atmosphere, strong points of view, and brilliant writing.

What I loved about the movie is the main character, Jenny, and the actress that played her, Carey Mulligan. Both are beautiful and strong. But one of my favorite parts about An Education is the atmosphere; the fashion, the style, the culture, the fact that Paris plays a part in this, and the actual era itself. It is depicted so well, I can only wish to live in it! Everything about is just beautiful! That being said, it's truly the overall appeal and vibe of the film that made me fall in love.

Not to say that it doesn't have anything else to offer, because it certainly leaves us with strong and much-needed messages as well. What is education anyway and why is it so important? And when we say the word, "Education," do we mean it in a literal sense, or are we talking about the kind that expects people to grow and mature as human beings? The film asks these questions and leaves you figuring them out for yourself.

As far as recommendations go, truthfully, the film is probably not for everyone, but I still highly recommend you try it and see for yourself. The story is mediocre, but the acting is great. The overall mood is GORGEOUS, and the message is enlightening. Personally, I loved it.

I'm just going to go ahead and end this review with a quote from the movie itself; "The life I want, there is no shortcut." It's such a simple quote, yet that perhaps, might be, the biggest -- not to mention, the most difficult -- lesson of all.

Remember Me: Movie Review

This review contains no spoilers.

Remember Me has gotten a lot of negative feedback from critics and other movie reviewers. They say the story is predictable, trite, and contrived. While I'm no professional movie critic, and I certainly am no professional reviewer, I do love to watch a lot of movies. I have to admit, I had my predictions, assumptions, and initial impressions before watching this. After seeing this though, I threw all of them at once because the movie proved me wrong. Now I can honestly say that having been able to see this, I don't think I have ever been this pleasantly surprised with a movie in a while.

The characters, first off, are multifaceted and complex, lovable and believable. The writing and the overall feel and mood of the movie was brilliant. But the best part about this are the actors themselves. They were hands down, superb. And yes, people, Robert Pattinson can act. So please -- please! -- do not let the fact that Pattinson plays the leading role deter you from watching this movie. I do feel that Robert Pattinson isn't getting enough credit, mainly because he is stuck in the whole Twilight world that fans (and people who are not exactly fans) know him for. But he is beyond Twilight and he is most definitely beyond Edward Cullen. This is coming from somebody that's not exactly a huge fan of the Twilight saga. By the end of the movie, I have discovered a newfound respect for him as an actor.

When the movie was finished, my friend and I -- who were watching it together -- just sat there, feeling dumbfounded and introspective, lost in our own thoughts. So contrary to what the critics say, to me, this movie is extremely unpredictable. It's no big blockbuster, but Remember Me is original, unique, thought-provoking, intense, unexpected, and just plain good. It certainly asks the toughest questions in life you wouldn't even want to think about, but should. Also, it will make you think, challenge your emotions, and leave you feeling reflective. That being said, go ahead and see this. I highly recommend it. It's a good movie; plain and simple.

Toy Story 3: A Short Movie Review

11 years ago, I watched the very first Toy Story movie. I fell in love with Woody and Buzz Lightyear, Andy, Rex, and all the other characters, almost immediately. I fell in love with its catchy theme song, and I never looked at Tom Hanks the same way again. I also had stupid nightmares about their freaky neighbor who kills his toys. Remember him? I remember him quite well. I also still remember Pizza Planet, the claw.. oh and so much more fun little things.
Toy Story 2 came out, and while it was not as good as the first, I still loved it. I loved Jesse, Bulls Eye.. and hated the old Western dude. Ha ha.
I love the movies so much that of all the other Pixar movies, this has got to be my ultimate favorite. Sorry Wall-E. Sorry Monsters INC. Sorry Cars. Sorry Finding Nemo.

Last night, I watched the 3rd movie! I was super excited. There I was, laughing like a little kid. Mind you, with a filled theater full of adults, who are ridiculously falling in love with the movie's characters once again. It definitely brought back fond memories of childhood. To keep this review short, as promised, it was an awesome movie. It was hilarious, cute, touching at times. It will also remind you why you fell in love with the movie in the first place. In fact, in a way, it almost felt like a good reunion of some sort. Awesome, awesome. Go see it with your niece, nephew, kids.. and even if you don't have any child with you, that's okay. You can be the child for a good 1 hour and 49 minutes. Totally worth it :)

The Last Song: movie review

This is a review for the movie adaptation. It has no spoilers. If you're interested, my review for the book can be found over here.

A story about Family.
First loves. Second chances.
and the Moments in Life
That Lead You Back Home.

If you are going to watch this movie, you have to look past the fact that it's Miley Cyrus playing a very dramatic role. Once you've successfully done that -- which believe me, I have tried over and over again -- then you can finally enjoy the movie.
Now please don't think I am simply hating on Miley Cyrus, because I'm really not. I watched this with a very open-mind. I have to admit, she was effective when the scene called her to be funny, happy, and giddy. But when it came down to the dramatic scenes -- when she was crying, moping, angry, or just deep in thought -- I'm afraid she just did not deliver very well. Fortunately, the rest of the cast did.
Greg Kinnear, who took the role as the father of Miley Cyrus' character, Ronnie, delivered, as expected. The supporting role of Ronnie's brother, played by Bobby Coleman (Martian Child, anyone?) was also effective. His acting did not seem forced in any way whatsoever, which I think is an amazing achievement for his age. Liam Hemsworth played the character of Ronnie's love interest, and I have to admit, I found him extremely likable. There are four reasons: 1) He's good-looking 2) He has a certain charm to him that captures the audience quite easily 3) He can act, and 4) He's not annoying.
As for the plot itself, it's the usual 'Nicholas Sparks' emotional tear-jerker. It is nowhere close as The Notebook or even A Walk to Remember. In fact, the plot and story line has been done many times before. There were also the usual cliche lines and dialogues. In a way though, I actually didn't mind because like I said, I thought the other actors delivered it well enough. As for Cyrus, well -- again I'm really not just hating! -- let's just say I was literally cringing whenever I heard her say a corny line.
Overall though, this movie is 'okay-good.' It is absolutely not a great movie. However, it does have the ability to make you laugh, smile, and maybe even cry. You might even remember and reminisce about your first love -- and loss. Because of these, I will be generous and give it 3/5 -- I liked it, but it's not like "I really liked it." I also do recommend it, but definitely only to certain audiences. Also, the truth is, personally, I really think it's only DVD worthy. If you are going to see it, please try to watch with an open mind as well. Look past Miley Cyrus, and you might actually enjoy it. Sorry, no offense.

Alice in Wonderland: movie review

This is a review for the movie adaptation. It has no spoilers. If you're interested, my review for the book can be found over here.

If you know me, and have noticed my previous posts, you would know I have been so excited for this movie to come out. Sadly though, I have to admit, I was a bit disappointed.
For this film, Tim Burton creates an eerie and imaginative version of a timeless classic. It's an odd take on it, but that is the beauty of a Burton movie. You can't help but be hooked. It simply demands your full attention.

Really though, the best thing about the film are actually the actors. Not surprisingly, it is Johnny Depp that makes the movie. The Mad Hatter seemed to be no longer just a supportive character in Alice in Wonderland. At least to me, Johnny Depp was the saving grace of this film. I did think there were other actors that played their characters extremely well. One of them is Helena Bonham Carter, who played the Queen of Hearts. She played the character as if it was her own; from her mannerisms, expression, to the delivery of her dialogues. It seemed effortless. Ann Hathaway did a great job too, for the part she was given. However, I thought the Depp-Carter team up (Sweeney Todd, anyone?) overshadowed her performance just a bit.

The other characters -- the blue catterpillar, Cheshire cat (my favorite!), Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum -- were done just right. They were amusing and awesome, just as they should be.

The main downfall, and this is kind of unfortunate, was the main character, Alice. She is played by the lovely Mia Wasikowski. She was indeed lovely. It's too bad though because that was it. She was lovely, but I didn't think she played her character that well. Her expressions were one-sided. At times, she just looked extremely bored to death. She lacks charisma, and should I say, that "pizazz." There was nothing new, unique, and special about her that was brought to the table.

On an entirely different note, I have to comment real quick about the costumes, as they were amazing! People tend to overlook this part, thinking it's not important. But I disagree, because I feel as if costumes, along with set designs, adds a much needed factor to any film. The power of costume design definitely worked for this one. Be on the look out for Alice's different dresses -- I actually kind of want them all! :P

Finally, I want to clear it out that I did not think it was a bad movie. I was entertained, and it did not bore me in any way whatsoever. There were parts that were witty, smart, and even funny. Unfortunately, I just didn't think it was that good. There were a couple of painful-to-watch moments, and the dialogue -- a bit cliche and juvenile. I'm actually kind of bummed writing this review. I really am one of those big fans of Alice. I was super excited about this one, and have been since I first saw the teaser poster in early 2009. I really, really, really wanted to love this movie! I didn't. I probably wouldn't even buy the DVD when it comes out. However, I still recommend you to watch it though.

Visually, it is as stunning as Tim Burton's aesthetic, but as a whole, the film lacked a bit of substance. To put it simply, it just was just not as effective, and as good, as it was hyped up (and as I had hoped) it to be.

Note: I did not see this on 3d, as I get easily dizzy. I heard it was amazing though, and if I weren't the type to get light-headed easily, I would've watched it in that version. If you saw it on 3d, what did you think?

Shutter Island: movie review

This is a review for the movie adaptation. It has no spoilers. If you're interested, my review for the book can be found over here.

I am no movie expert or critic, so I can not say much on the film's technicalities. All I know is, with this movie, I was sitting on the edge of my seat; entertained, creeped out, and intrigued the entire time.
I read the book before seeing the movie, and if you are wondering if the movie lives up to Dennis Lehane's haunting novel, I can say that yes, it definitely does. This is one of the very few movie adaptations based off a book that actually satisfies and maybe even exceeds expectations.

The well-acclaimed director, Martin Scorsese, did something unique for this story, and made it even more twisted, if that was even possible. He put many subtle hints and touches, that makes the total feel and vibe of it realistic. He also added the creepy factor, as there were times that I literally had goosebumps. I have to clear this out though, Shutter Island is NOT a horror movie, but is more of a psychological thriller that has its share of horrific moments.
Of course, it's not all up to Scorsese to produce a good film. The actors carry a movie, and especially in one that builds its foundation on its characters, the portrayals are crucial.
Personally, I found Leonardo DiCaprio's performance to be flawless. He dove right into the main character's shoes like it was his all along, making me not only see what he sees, but feel for everything he was going through. I also thought Ben Kingsley did a great job with his role as the kind and sympathetic, but mysterious Dr. Cawley.

As you're watching this, you will be full of questions until the ending is revealed. That ending, I thought had an incredible build up, and was delivered perfectly. Even when I already knew what the conclusion was going to be, I still found myself awe-struck and shocked by it. It was heartbreaking and mind boggling all the same time.
I heard some people say that this movie was "too complicated." I believe, we all enjoy movies that simply entertain, make us laugh, cry, or feel good. Sometimes though, I also like movies that make me think. This movie asks you to do that, without meaning to. Call it "complicated," I think it just challenges its viewers, like me, to think outside the box. That is actually one of the reasons why I liked it.

Though these kinds of mysterious who-did-what, what's-going-on stories might have been dealt with times and times before, this movie delivered the same concept in an entirely different way. Another clever thing was that this movie will also prove that you do not need big, jumpy scenes to scare the audience and make them feel disturbed. Psychological terror that digs deep into our fears are more than enough.
Having said all that, Shutter Island is a clever, haunting, thought-provoking, smart and an overall entertaining movie full of thrill and suspense that everyone should watch at least once. Whether you like it like I did, or not, one thing's for sure. It's a mind trip.

Generally, I HIGHLY recommend this to anyone. Mostly if you:
1. have read the book (I thought the movie stayed very faithful to it)
2. are a fan of Scorsese and DiCaprio
3. like thrilling, mysterious, crazy, creepy, eerie, & haunting films
4. like movies, period.

However, this isn't exactly for everybody. Maybe think twice if:
1. you scare and get nightmares easily (a.k.a me, but I still watched and liked it anyway)
2. you don't really like movies that keeps the answer to all your questions until the very end. Some people like drawn out mysteries, some like to get the answers right away. If you are the latter, read the spoilers if you'd like. I still think it's a good movie to see.

"Is it better to live as a monster or to die as a good man?"

i almost forgot how much i loved this

Probably my favorite scene.
Sad as it was.

Collecting everything we could of theirs, the Lisbon girls wouldn't leave our minds but they were slipping away. The color of their eyes was fading along with the exact locations... of moles and dimples. From five, they had become four, and they were all the living and the dead, becoming shadows. We would have lost them completely if the girls hadn't contacted us.

The Lovely Bones: movie review

This is a review for the movie adaptation. If you're interested, I have a book review for it too over here, which I wrote about 2 years ago.

Sentimental, sinister, fantasy, science-fiction, mystery, thriller, (horror?) are all the words I can think of to describe the story of The Lovely Bones. The book version achieved worldwide success because the combination of all of those worked so well and seemed effortless. In the movie, these mismatched and sometimes, even odd elements come back to bring out a story that can be viewed either to be a hit or a miss.

First of all, I liked the movie. It's not one of my favorites, but I am definitely on the 'i liked it' side of the spectrum.

In my opinion though, the best part about the film is casting Saoirse Ronan, the actress who played such an unforgettable role in Atonement, as the main character, Susie Salmon. I think she was definitely the best element in the movie. Never did her acting seem too over the top, cliche, or juvenile. She just brought naturalness and radiance to her part, that made me really feel for her character so much more.
Another actor I can say that really made the film also, is Stanley Tucci, who played the murderer. If you have seen the movie, you know exactly what I mean. The way he portrayed the character of Mr. Harvey was crazy-awesome.
Unfortunately, this movie has gotten a lot of negative reviews. But I usually don't rely on critic reviews or overly critical fan reviews anyway. I can be critical, but I also try to take a movie (or a book) as it is.
I do understand the most common reasons though why a lot of people don't understand or like this movie. Mostly maybe because of how the directors/producers made it such a 'fantasy-ish' movie. A huge example that had this aspect is Susie's afterlife. To some, it might appear too contrived, or too corny/sappy. Also, another reason why people tend to not like this could also be because the movie was extremely weird, creepy, and startling all at the same time! To say it was disturbing is almost an understatement. It wasn't so much that it showed scenes of violence and gore, because those aspects were actually kept to a mininum. What was more grotesque was the thought of those happening, and letting your own imagination wander. (My friends and I actually had a hard time walking back to our car because of the afterthought, go figure)

As predicted, the movie is depressing simply because the whole story surrounds the murder of a young girl. But personally, although it was definitely a sad story, it was also in a way very uplifting. In fact, it actually left me feeling hopeful instead. Mostly, it was just heartrendingly bittersweet.

I also have to add that the ending quote pretty much summed up everything. Understanding this quote somehow puts a touch of "okay-ness" to the injustice as well as the unfound bodies. I really wish people paid more attention to hearing it. hehe.

So I recommend this to people who:
1. have read the book (They changed some stuff, but I've come to accept that, that's how it will always be in movie adaptations)
2. like fantastical/sci-fi, drama, thriller all at the same time
3. don't have too much expectations
4. would like a movie, without judging it based on unbiased opinions
5. like Saoirse Ronan as well as Stanley Tucci

But maybe think twice if:
1. you are easily scared/disturbed/creeped out (a.k.a me, but I still liked it anyway)
2. if you do not believe there is a heaven, a hell, and in between. Arguably, this might be not a good movie to watch as it is heavily drawn towards those particular beliefs.


"There are the physical bones of our existence, which may or may not be found, and then there are the petrified emotions that linger in the hearts of those we’ve loved. These intangible proofs of our being are what make life meaningful, regardless of how old we become or how we die." - Susie Salmon