Keeping up with the Joneses: My Movie Review

One of my most favourite idiomatic expressions of all time, "Keeping up with the Joneses," has now become my most favourite movie of all time! 

Yes, the latest big screen delight being served by 20th Century Fox Philippines stars only my favorite personalities, most especially Zach Galifianakis (who rose to stardom in the awesomely hilarious Hangover trilogy & Due Date movies) and the very sexy Gal Gadot who I have been watching for since I first saw her in a film with fast cars and big guns. I will never forget Gal Gadot as she fired shots as she fell to her demise, only for her to rise as Wonder Woman (I could not think of any other actress who can give life and justice to this timeless Justice League character) and now, I just cannot pry that scene off my mind where she towered over Isla Fisher and well... why don't you just see it for yourself!?!

Don't JEWISH your girlfriend was hot like she [her]? Yes, I too wish I was as hot as her. Well, she's not cast as Wonder Woman for nothing.  This Israeli beauty queen & actress springs from superhero to super spy. And she is one of the many great things about the film! 

Anyway, apart from this movie being peppered by the hottest & most flavourful personalities of this day and age, what really makes it worth seeing is that it is one exhilarating and hilarious ride at every turn! I felt my face slim down just like Mrs. Natalie Jones (Gadot) from all the laughing! Truly, I could barely keep up with the Joneses! 

This is your espionage film with an unexpected twist (at every turn, I should add), as the new neighbours, the Joneses, being beyond perfection, piquing the curiosity of the Gaffneys, Jeff (Galifianakis) and Karen (Fisher) only for them to confirm their suspicions during a joyride of hilarity and suspense. And that's all I am sharing - for the details, you have to find out for yourselves! The only think I can promise you is that it's worth every peso, and I suggest you bring your better half along as you will fall in love with each other as you both fall in love with the movie! 

So, are you a Gaffney or a Jones? I would say I am a Jones; who wouldn't want to live that high-octane, sophisticated, perfect life? Get into the heart (and heat) of things and treat yourself this weekend to see the Joneses! 

Thanks for swinging by and do visit my other sites too for more of my work as an events host! 

Marylaine Louise Viernes, Professional Events Host Website: [www.marylaineviernes.com]

Marylaine Louise Viernes, Professional Events Host Portfolio: [www.marylaineviernes.org]

Ice Age: for kids of every age! My Ice Age Collision Course Movie Review

Look what I've unearthed... a movie ticket fossil... my ticket to this year's greatest animated big screen adventure!  

Loved that cool Saturday morning where the gang and I all trooped to the Greenbelt Cinemas for another COOL-ision: the Ice Age Collision Course Movie Premiere! Forever thankful to the lovely Ms. Mae Vecina of Warner Brothers & 20th Century Fox Philippines, and of course their wonderful and kind President, Mr. Francis Soliven for the awesome invites and amazing big screen adventures!

As always, silly Scrat causes another chaotic course that sets the Ice Age gang, led by monolithic mammoth, Manny and his family (nuclear and extended to include the other species) into one chilly-thrilling ride! You would have to watch this for yourselves to learn more about the escapades that the movie lets its viewers all walk through. But let me just tell you the reasons why you need to watch this with your squad!

1. It is all about Family - Indeed, as what resonated in the past Ice Age film instalments, this movie is all about Family and about how tough it is to survive the cold, hard, icy (literally) world without those whom we can stand on for support. I love how Manny continues to be the main mammoth, the rock of the crew, steering them all towards safety, even if at times, he too would find himself at the brink of fear and uncertainty. 

2. It's a SCRATASTROPHIC Adventure - whenever I see Scrat, chasing after his acorn, I know that trouble is not too far away! Yes, I love those Ice Age trailers; they excite me as I wait for the next Ice Age movies to be launched. Ok, so Scrat can sometimes be so annoying, but then life would be boring without him and his acorn. But hey, what would Ice Age movies (or life for that matter) be without struggles and downfalls? What matters is how we pick ourselves up and save the day in our own little way... together as a family! Check out Space-Scrat who was the movie screening's VIP guest!

3. Just Let it Go... You'd really have to watch this awesome family movie to understand what I mean, but this movie is all about learning to love and accept one another for our quirks, differences and preferences. Sometimes, we lose our cool and be all ICY whenever we meet those who challenge our views and 'break the ice' that surrounds our comfort zones... indeed this movie is all just letting go, and just being... who you are and who you can be! It is all about loving, respecting and accepting one another, knowing that each of us hold a potential in our hands, and maybe sometimes it has to take a tough situation like the end of the Ice Age world, for us to discover that... 

I absolutely loved ICE AGE: COLLISION COURSE and you will to! Catch it at your favourite movie theatres before the ICE melts... 

Marylaine Viernes, Events Host Website (www.marylaineviernes.com)

Marylaine Viernes Events Host Folio (www.marylaineviernes.org)

Three times the fun and the dumplings: My Kung Fu Panda 3 Movie Review

DumpliMazingly Kung Fu-Riffic! Where do I start with my Kung Fu Panda review? (1) The fact that the overall 3D experience was such a thrilling ride, with the Dragon Warrior, Po, and a whole new dumpling-bowl of adorable characters... (2) that the movie was so well-written so I was thinking "the Kung Fu Panda series couldn't be more inspiring than the last two ones," but guess what, I was blown away like a kung fu kick in my brain by the twists in the plot leading to yet another colourful destiny of our huggable black-and-white hero and his posse (3) the pre-show: seeing Kung Fu Panda Po himself show off his signature Kung Fu moves live before the premier screening thanks to Warner Brothers Philippines (thanks Sir Francis Soliven & Ms. Mae Vecina), or (4) the fact that the movie truly speaks to us all... indeed, my friends and family who were also invited to the screening could truly relate to the story; we felt as though it was written for us. Let me just share my top 10 favorites dumplthings about it! I will try not to spoil it for you... 

1. More servings of Pandumplings. Imagine, our beloved Po, times ten! More kung fu, more fun, more cuteness and loads of dumplings! Even if they all look the same, each of the new Panda characters will surely stand out with their special traits and talents... Po truly knows how to share the cuteness and the awesomeness!

2. Confidently beautiful with a Heart - and so much Art! Yes, it is a winner in the universal scene, witty lines that appeal to kids and the kids at heart! I will never forget what Shifu remarked: "If you only do what you CAN do, you will never be more than you are now." Indeed, this strikes straight to my heart, for reasons I will share someday... Indeed, the story boils down to us finding who we are, and ultimately accepting ourselves, acknowledging our places in this world. I myself am guilty for trying to be who I am not, and running away from who I truly am. I know Destiny can only catch up to me if I allow myself to; and like the path of the Dragon Warrior, it is not a fun, easy, breezy road! And may I just add that the Shangri-la like lair of the Pandas was simply breathtaking! Beautiful and artful in all scenes, indeed! And to make the art more special, the movie resonates truth as with most of the Pandas' qualities - such as their carefree stance and rolling - literally rolling down hillsides- are all true traits of these wonderful creatures! 

3. Panda Ponder This. No need to ponder about why it was such a terrific big screen experience; Dreamworks studios kicked the digital experience up a notch. I never truly enjoyed watching in 3D until Kung Fu Panda 3! Every single feature in the film was notable - from the color tones (perfect, especially on the otherworld, all that golden chi!) from the well-drawn new characters brought to life to Pandariffic ease. Everything about this movie was simply perfect!

How cute are these furry dumplings? Beyond cute!!!

4. Tigress and the Crew. And by this I mean the A list stars who gave life to the characters. Photo not mine, credits to the owner/s. I mean this photo doesn't need much explaining... Wow, just wow... and I thought that our screening was the most awesome advance screening of all... Kung figure (Go figure)...

5. Life in Black & White means all the colors combined. I loved how Po and his furry buddies (family, actually) in Black & White . Here's my movie buddy and BFF for life with his Dragon Warrior Panda-popcorn bucket and Li Shan atop his kung fu drink! There were just so many awesome things about this screening! It was so much Pan(da)! I mean it was so much fun!!!

6. Chi-riffic Bad-ass Villain. This Jade-blade wielding Yak named 'KAI' brings me the chills for he was all-seeing, all powerful. His name in Oriental regions is synonymous to strong and unbreakable. Even if everyone hates the bad guy, there is so much to learn from Kai: his journey, his tenacity in learning from his surroundings that led to his ruthless return. A few things that I already knew, and which Kai taught us kids, is that greed will lead you nowhere. Indeed, how many of the mightiest and most entitled figures in history fall blind in their pride and finally perish in selfishness. And I guess that his choice of a weapon, Jade  blades (green which is the color of envy) also resonates to our nature of always believing that the grass is greener on the other side, and how envy deters us from realizing our potential, from understanding what we are here for... something that the chosen one, the pure-hearted, selfless Dragon Warrior Po never allowed himself to succumb to. Kai is such the bad guy, but you gotta hand it to him; he was bad-ass too!

7. Who's your PanDaddy now? As what we've all seen in the awesome trailers, Po is reunited with his biological father. But that doesn't mean that his loving, adoptive father and noodle warrior Mr. Ping will have any less screen time! Indeed, for a time, Po was torn between who is truly is father, but more so, who he truly is. It is simply beautiful how it reflects the often sad reality of broken homes and families due to whatever reason, but with Love and Acceptance - as in the case of Po - without a mother, only two fathers - life may not be perfect, but it will always be beautiful. Po has the best of both worlds: his biological father, Li Shan, and his logical father, Ping - both who love him in their own, even queer, imperfect ways.  

8. Make way for the master: Oogway! Come on, Po, admit it; you won't ever be the dragon warrior if not for the wisdom, courage and selflessness of Oogway! Up to this date (and already in a different plane), Oogway plays a very significant role in the film. And can I just gush how much I love my pet Tortoise? Just seeing my very own Baby Oogway chew his clover-shaped weeds, grass and on special days, his rose petals and watermelons is just so therapeutic! That's why I am not surprised with how the movie producers still make sure that Oogway gets his way. Tortoises are just so zen, so amazing, and just like Oogway, they live for eternity, and I don't mean just in the next life... Here's my Baby Oogway, Sammy the Tortoise munching on greens and rose petals...

9. The inspiring quotes.. I can still recall the first movie's super popular line: Yesterday is History... Tomorrow is a Mystery. Today is a gift. That is why it's called, The Present." This movie was brimming with so many gems of wisdom as usual: from Master Oogway to Mister Ping... there's something to learn from the mesmerizing scenes!

10. The importance of a Grand Entrance. Indeed, they say that most of what matters in life is how you fare in the end. But may I just stress the value of coming in strong, righteously, correctly in the start. Like what Shifu told Po about the value of a dramatic entrance, sometimes, battles are won on the first round - and doesn't that make life all the easier? Doesn't that allow us more battles to fight and win? And more than just entering the Kung Fu training temple, the dramatic entrance of Po to the other realm, as he saved his family and friends from Kai in an unexpected and heart-rending manner said so much about what he is made of: pure, selfless, loving energy. And that is why he is the master of Chi, to add to his accolades, the other most famous being "the Dragon Warrior." And to those who are unable to make the grandest of entrances, then it is time to make sure that we make up for it; and at least make sure that we have an honourable exit.

*****

I think I already wrote a (dumpling) mouthful already; time for you to make your dramatic entrances in the the nearest cinema (ideally 3D for the perfect experience) for you to actually feel what I share from my heart. Great job Po, it was one memorable experience with you and you equally awesome buddies! 

- Marylaine Louise Viernes (Please click this link for my Events Host & Writer Official Website)

Excuse the Panda-eye-bags and Panda fat soreness... just focus on Po please. LOL.

The Revenant: A beautiful take on allegiance, survival and retribution

As what is to be expected in a movie top-billed by the timeless Leonardo DiCaprio (who may have considerably aged but in whose eyes you'll still find the heartthrob from Titanic and from the Man in the Iron Mask) The Revenant, 20th Century Fox's latest hit blew me away with poignant and brutally enthralling scenes that still, all in all, make for an epic artistic rendition of life's often cruel realities. 

Based on Michael Punke's work, The Revenant is an immersive, Western-set film about the journey of Hugh Glass (DiCaprio) as he encounters one tragedy after another. After an attack, Hugh finds himself face to face with death who pursued him relentlessly, throwing on tragedy after another. He survives physical death, but walking through far more painful, recurring demise that somewhat fortifies his will to live further each time his physical self gets the best of death. Forgive me for spoiling the film slightly, but apart from the gruesome challenges, the movie boasted of heart, with the elements of Glass's character, who was married to a native-American. But then it took a turn for the worst again as alongside Glass, a helpless, dying father could only look on as his beloved son, Hawk, was murdered. For me, that scene was a bit too much to bear. And speaking of 'Bear,' I especially loved the scene with that grizzly bear mauling Glass (not because I am violent) but because if my mom didn't shake me to remind me that it was just a movie, I would have wept for Leo right then and there. The cinematographic experience is just amazing, even more realistic than how I perceive reality! 

It wasn't just DiCaprio and Tom Hardy's reunion that reminded me the movie Inception (which they both starred in), but also its hauntingly intriguing closing scene with Glass - after coming on top of the endless tragedies that had unraveled before him, finally finds peace as he sees his wife once more. This is, at least, my interpretation, that he finally finds peace after serving justice. And it had to take a bear to basically tear him up physically - in order for him to weave together all the brokenness around him. 

Indeed, The Revenant beautifully sculpts out an unexpected treasure after enduring grave, gripping tribulation. See this movie to understand why it's been nominated for several awards! 

To end, it is interesting to note that the word "REVENANT" is derived from the French term 'Revenir' which pertains to one who returns after a to return from a long absence or supposed death. Certainly, this movie will make you come alive!  

*****

- Marylaine Viernes Website (www.marylaineviernes.com)

- Marylaine Viernes Portfolio (www.marylaineviernes.org)

A Whale of a time plunging "In the Heart of the Sea..."

I've been swimming through the powerful imagery after this awesome movie experience, thanks to Warner Brothers Philippines! Watching this big screen adaptation of a true life story in IMAX made all the more AmaSEAng!

The story takes place back in 1819 at Nantucket, Massachusetts as first mate, Owen Chase (played by Chris Hemsworth, kudos to the impeccable casting) tries to chase after his dream of finally being captain only to be thwarted as one of the sponsors of the Essex installs Captain George Pollard, Jr. Politics comes in between the two men - the former being the one with the skill and experience, while the latter earning his laurels by blood relation. So the warring duo and their crew set sail in one of the greatest journeys in history... and atrocity. 

Witnessing the journey was indeed mesmerising; giving us viewers a solid firsthand account of how it must have been on that harrowing whale-hunting journey aboard the Essex. Scene to scene there was always something gripping but yet, even if this awesome movie walked us through this wonderful journey back in time - there were still enigmas that really leaves the creative mind curious - that is why I still ponder about the whale, what it must be thinking when it devised the plan; could there be more to it than this, and what wonders, really does the seas hold from the rest of the world? 

You cannot afford to miss this exhilarating tale and for sure you won't miss this tail... 

And from one masterpiece to the next, this movie also gave light to how Herman Melville was inspired to write one of the greatest classics of all time, Moby Dick. Have a whale of a weekend with your family by watching this movie! And while you are at it, here are some fun facts: 

1. A sperm whale (such as the not-so-mythical albino one known as Moby Dick) owns up to the scientific name, "physeter macrocephalus." This defines exactly how sperm whales look! 
2. Whales continue to be targets of hunters primarily because of oil and ambergris, substances with high demand to this date. (Oh I wish we can find substitutes to these and lessen whaling efforts).
3. Sperm whales are vocal and through echolocation, they are able to determine the location, size and shape of their target. 
- Marylaine Louise Viernes

Tears, triumph and fun: one unforgettable journey in 'The Martian'

As expected, Warner Brothers Philippines presented another masterpiece, with the movie adaptation of Andy Weir's phenomenal novel of the same title. It was one beautiful journey that spoke of courage in adversity, life in barrenness, and hope in tragedy. Astronaut-Botanist Mark Watney (Matt Damon) rouses after being hit during a terrible storm and finds himself left behind to withstand the elements solo through the SOLs (term for 1 Martian day / cycle). 

This movie was magnanimous with scenes that tugged at the heart, and on another scene, the movie would make you laugh so hard thanks to the hearty, unexpected puns in between; it was inspiring the way Watney became the epitome of the superior creation, Mankind: that we are meant to survive, transcend our situations, and most of all, that we are created not just to exist, but to live. 

And I don't know the extent of the story's reality (as I have never been on Mars) but I found it enthralling that almost during the premier night of The Martian, news about discovering water on Mars also catapulted into the media hemisphere! I guess we will never know but some things we don't really need to know in this lifetime; what we cannot go on without is seeing this movie! Of course I won't go spoiling this amazing cinematographic blockbuster rocket ride for you all, but you need to see this riveting movie for yourselves! Go beyond Earth and watch this now!

Lastly, The Martian made me realise how important Math and Science are: the two elements that make man so advanced (such as building aircrafts, venturing into intergalactic missions, and heroic non-gravitational interception awesomeness - let me see you try to beat Mark Watney, Tony Stark!) and at the same time, these beautiful concepts form the very basic cornerstones of man's humanity and survival. So much depth in such a lofty, imaginative and well-written plot.  

Get your tickets now for one out-of-this-world experience that leave you crying and smiling at the same time... before they fly back to Mars! Don't go SOL-o, take the entire family with you for one memorable and lovely big screen journey! Thanks again Sir Francis Soliven and Ms. Mae Vecina for always inviting me! Check out MAE V. and MAY V. posing below with the Martian potatoes... and... Mae the force be with you!!! 

- Marylaine Louise Viernes

A Date with Hilarity: Mike and Dave need Wedding Dates, the biggest comedy flick of the year!

Laughing the night away. Where do I begin exactly in my review for 20^th Century Fox’s latest flick, ‘Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates’? I hadn’t laughed this hard since the last comedy film we saw, Vacation, also by Warner Brothers & 20th Century Fox Philippines.

When good girls go bad. Basically, this hilarious film is top-billed by one of my favourite teen pop star growing up, Zac Efron (who I can never see the same way again), along with funny sexy gal Anna Kendrick, Aubrey Plaza and Adam Devine who plays Efron’s brother in the film. These two handsome, troublemaking brothers find themselves landing hot ‘good girls,’ like how their parents wanted, all thanks to their ad that had been so successful it went viral. But just when their parents thought that Mike and Dave, finally having dates along could keep them out of trouble – guess again, for paradise has never been in trouble like this before! As soon as Mike and Dave arrive with their dates, the woes started brewing sooner than you can say 'espresso', leading viewers to the most white-knuckled pile of the funniest scenes that make you feel like you’ve been hit train after train of laughter – and yet you walk out of the movie house wanting more!

True colors. In a nutshell, underneath that exhilarating hilarity comes the recurring theme at the core of all successful movies: that love, especially for family, prevails. All we need is to be true to ourselves, to accept each other in spite of our flaws. Sometimes this task is hard enough – given the pressures all around us – expectations of society and in this case – in the movie – the expectations of Mike and Dave’s parents to sober up their act for the sake of their sister’s wedding.

Absolutely had a crazy good time. Plus loved the fact that this advance screening was held at the very luxe Uptown Mall Cinemas in BGC! So much fun in store for everyone and don’t forget to bring your special someone too; as this film can get as sultry-raunchy-hot as it is a-breath-of-fresh-air-funny.  Thank you so much 20th Century Fox for such a good time, and of course the pampering session for the media guests too; such a sweet pre-movie treat! Whether your status is single (or double), married or open relationship (or "it's complicated"), make sure to watch 'Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates' today or miss out on the most hilarious big screen adventure of your life!  

Marylaine Louise Viernes events host website (www.marylaineviernes.com)

Marylaine Louise Viernes events host portfolio (www.marylaineviernes.org)

Mary's a-MAZE-ing Scorch Trials Movie Review

Thanks again to Warner Brothers Philippines (Especially their awesome President Sir Francis Soliven and the lovely Mae Vecina), my family and I got to attended the special press screening and I got to take home an awesome Maze Runner shirt too! It was one high-octane ride, with so many unexpected twists and turns, leaving you breathless, exasperated, hopeful, angry, relieved and definitely wanting more! I cannot wait for the third part to be released and if I can, I would want to crush all those guys from W.I.C.K.E.D! You might crush me if I crush and spoil the story for you, so let me just share a few tidbits to get you excited before you watch this a-MAZE-ing film! This was one brilliant big screen adaptation! 

1. It's Complicated - so as we all saw the first movie, Maze Runner - we did have this whole Thomas and Teresa love thing going on... Let me just tell you one thing - I would love to punch Teresa in the face and burn her (not just because I am so jealous she's got all the boys to herself especially my favorites, Minho and Newt!) just watch it and you will understand... 

2. The Walking Dread - yes, as you run with our handsome maze runners out in the scorch, you will be dreading each decisive turn - where you never know what lurks (or dashes) ahead; get ready for a walking-dead like excitement that will surely move you to the edge of your seats and screaming (for more)! 

3. Eat, drink and be Mary - so there is this very significant character, Mary (I loved her, until something W.I.C.K.E.D. happened) and she just brought me and the runners so much hope! She revealed quite a lot in those few moments she had, but she left us wondering how the rest of them will fare on the next movie! 

All I can say is that this is the best movie ever (oops, I said that to the first one too, and I will probably say this to the third part of this series by the wonderful James Dashner)... so, go catch this Scorching-hot movie right now! (Scorching hot also aptly describes the well-cast male characters too! But I am hating on you, Teresa!)  

- Marylaine Viernes (Click Here for my Hosting Portfolio)

The best VACATION you'll ever take (A Movie Review)

Where do I even begin? Don't expect me to share something profound about the latest hit movie presented by Warner Bros Philippines: VACATION. This movie truly caught me off guard; from the awesome scene with Keegan Michael Key I lost my brakes and just kept on rolling with laughter until the end of the movie!  

VACATION is a remake of the hit “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” a classic comedy that my mom also loved when it was shown back in 1983, with Chevy Chase as the original Griswold dad. To my mom’s delight, Chevy Chase makes a cameo but this time, his son, Rusty is all grown up, leading his own family through sidesplitting misadventures. 

The movie is top billed by Ed Helms, Christina Applegate, Skyler Gisondo and Steele Stebbins and they make up the idiosyncratic Griswold family. The movie also boasts of a remarkable list of superstars as part of the supporting cast and the most notable would probably be Chris Hemsworth (Thor of the Avengers) but it was Norman Reedus (Daryl of Walking Dead fame) that solicited the loudest “ooohs” from the crowd with his enigmatic charm (though that thing in his truck still haunts me ‘til today).

Chris Hemsworth has never been this THORriffic. I stared only at his nice hairstyle. I promise, that is all that I stared at, LOL! This part here was downright crazy. Crazy funny. You need to see this movie!!! 
It was quirky, raunchy and downright mirthful and I promise you it will drive your blues away! It may not be a ride for the entire family as the movie is strictly R-18, but for adults like you, watch it! All I can say is that I haven’t laughed like that in years!

A SPY-tacular Movie Review for The Man from U.N.C.L.E

Warner Brothers' latest blockbuster, The Man from U.N.C.L.E was one awesome ride! Its tongue in cheek and yet high-octane humour, it got me gripping my seat in excitement and laughter. Plus, with its fantastic set design (based on the 1960s spy series of the same title) and even more fantastically cast characters, the girls along my aisle - and myself - as if on cue, would swoon over Henry Cavill (maybe 'coz we won't forget that he was the hottest Superman ever and until now I wonder how anyone can have such a chiseled, perfectly manly face) and also Armie Hamer who did quite grow on me too with his charming, bright-eyed Jude Law vibe.

Napoleon Solo (Cavill), an ex-criminal turned super spy from the US (CIA Agent), and his forced and unlikely partner that won't let him run 'Solo', Ilya Kuryakin, super spy from the Russian Soviet Union! Together, they try to battle criminal elements that vow to make the end of the world closer - following the disappearance of the weapon's creator. And if you think two's company (or a crowd when you come from competing groups), think again for they are joined by Gaby (Alicia Vikander),  the daughter of the missing scientist for a triple dose of hotness. 

My favorite part (and the part I can relate to) was when Solo played WAZE to Gaby in an exhilarating ride, clutching his old-school map, fleeing death in the craziest manner! I surely would't mind trading the Waze App on my phone for Henry Cavill and his old school map minus the gunshots! Make sure that you catch this film - a classic indeed - classic dose of laughter and thrill! 

Another favorite scene - and my friends from the LGBT community almost rejoiced to - but it is not what you think. Watch the movie and see it for yourself! 

Lastly, to those wondering, U.N.C.L.E. stands for United Network Command for Law and Enforcement. It's something you and your family - especially the uncles - will enjoy!

Finding myself in Paper Towns: A Movie Review

Paper Towns, the latest and hottest new movie by 20^th Century Fox reached out to be in a pleasantly unexpected manner, harking me back to different times, when I craved for and loved mystery and adventure (and I still do). I was so glad to be invited to the premiere night for this awesome movie, which was based on a hit best-selling book by John Green (The Fault in our Stars). 

I remember my younger, morose self with scene of the movie, and realising more about my profound journey. Plus I realised too that while I never understood what made Cara Delevigne (and her eyebrows) a modelling hit, but I would have to agree that she lived up to the role of Margo Roth Spiegelman – an angst-ridden, elusive and downright crazy teenager who had a refreshingly sullen take on the world and everything else around her. I loved how she and “Q” (Quentin Jacobson, portrayed by actor Nat Wolf) took things into their own hands, and set their own passionate paths while having fun along the way. I loved how this movie testifies to the adage that, "you need to get lost in order to find yourself..."  

Indeed, this movie is perfect and relatable to all of us who’ve gone through that awkward, trouble times in our lives, looking for our places in this world, and bumping into different people and taking them for granted in this big sad word, not realising that maybe to one of them – we are the world.

I loved its refreshing take on adolescence – on how at this stage, we treat life with wild abandon, getting lost and not having a clue (but in the case of Margo she deliberately got lost and left them with clues) and sometimes not wanting to be found as we immerse ourselves in the beauty of all things we were told to be scared of. I loved the creativity of the movie, taking in the usual elements that we love: solving mysteries, young love and adventure! Let go of your fear of the road - by traveling it! (Translation: What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.) This is a must-watch! So make sure to catch it before it’s gone (like Margo) then you won’t know what you are missing. 

Loved the movie and even these awesome tickets. Thanks so much to the superb president of Warner Bros. & 20th Century Fox, Mr. Francis Soliven!

- Marylaine Louise Viernes