Reviews written by Tammy
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September 19, 2007 Great Comeback or Introduction
For many, Elva is a comeback queen, a diva striking back after a 1087-day hiatus. For many others, though, this CD serves as a great introduction to a girl whose vocal pipes and natural dancing prowess have clearly made her a star.
The techno-esque dance tunes on this CD (notably, LoVe, Biao Bai [Confess My Love], and Dai Yan Ren [Spokesperson]) are undeniably catchy; other slightly less infectious tracks have a Western R&B feel to them (of course, this could reflect my personal taste). Elva's real edge, though, lies in her ability to pull off both dance tunes and soulful ballads equally well... her voice is adorably sweet in Honey Honey Honey (written for her by Taiwanese superstar Wang LeeHom) and deeply emotional in Bu Yuan [Not Far].
This CD does NOT, however, score higher marks from me precisely because of the DVD. I would have much preferred the standard MV DVD that typically accompanies Commemorative Editions of CD's... anyone who's seen any of Elva's MV's off this album would definitely agree. The girl can SERIOUSLY dance-- she even injured herself while filming Dai Yan Ren [Spokesperson]-- the dance steps are really that complicated and difficult! Instead of MV's, however, her company chose to release footage of her sick. :(
You don't want to miss out on this CD, but I would recommend a different edition of it (if possible/available)...Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
The Legend Of Star Apple (Ep.1-25) (End) (Taiwan Version)
The Legend Of Star Apple (Ep.1-25) (End) (Taiwan Version) DVD Region 3
(2)Our Price: US$83.99Related promotions:September 18, 2007 Some Hits and MissesThis drama suffered rather poor ratings in Taiwan... however, in my opinion, this was due more to the leaking of the drama-- and the determination of the second female lead, Yang YaZhu, to have her name in the papers, than anything else.
The absolute highlight of this drama is Ming Dao. It's true; I'm a fan of his acting in general, but he actually tackles a different type of character this time around. Usually, his character is awesomely cool and clever; this time around, he's actually a loser!-- a rich young "shao ye" who can't seem to do anything for himself... and he's darned good at it. He's absolutely hilarious!
The bad/so-so points? The supporting cast could have turned in better performances, in my opinion. The female lead, Zhang XinYu, was cute as RuiRui, but her acting will probably annoy some (although I liked her)... she tends to over-shout her lines and make cutesy faces. LiYang (of K-One) was a bit awkward, and Yang YaZhu was really underwhelming, considering all the high praise I'd heard about her acting abilities and talents. WeiRu (of 7Flowers) and Johnny Yan XingShu (of 183Club) did, however, turn in decent performances and were a cute tandem.
Overall, I would recommend giving this drama a try. It's not on my "must-watch" list, but it is still, nevertheless, a good watch.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
May 7, 2007 talented; extremely enjoyable
Rynn Lim, a Malaysian singer/songwriter, is relatively unknown, but it isn't for lack of talent or even good looks. This album is currently on repeat in my Media Player; I just can't seem to get enough of his smooth ballads or his peppy, upbeat love anthems. His voice is a little high and not strictly powerful-- somewhat reminiscent of JJ Lin-- but nonetheless smooth and extremely soothing. Some standouts include his love duet with Jin Sha (Kym), "Fu Huo [Rebirth]," his heartfelt "Xuan Lu [Melody]" (originally a collaboration with Malaysian singer Sheila Majid)," and "Kong Qiu Qian [An Empty Swing]," which is guaranteed to leave your toes tapping.
Definitely, definitely give this album a try!Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Eternity (Vol.1-40) (End) (US Version)
August 25, 2006 beautifully directedI've watched quite a number of "ancient" dramas, and this is by far the best in terms of scenery, action sequences, and especially costuming. While it's true that SOME of the special effects are awkward-looking, most of the time, just watching the screen is breath-taking.
First, the good parts... then, the reasons why I didn't give it full marks.
One of the things I loved most about this drama was the superb casting choices. Honestly, each actor or actress was a perfect fit for his/her role... and they all delivered great performances. From the various "jins" (spirits) (especially the Spider) to the "bad guys" and the characters I hated, everyone proved they had terrific acting prowess and chemistry together.
Another thing I appreciated about this drama is that it's more than just skin-deep. All the characters are entwined in an elaborate web (seriously, I was very impressed) of relationships, fate, and choices... and every action affects everyone else. It's a drama that also tries to deliver a deeper message about acceptance, the curse (and breaking) of fate, and sacrifice. The execution of that message might sometimes be a little obvious or clumsy, but I was still very moved by many of the stories, especially that of the Lan Mo (The Blue Dragon). In fact, this is the ONLY drama at which my mother has ever cried!
With all that being said, I actually didn't particularly like the two so-called "leads" in this, Daniel Chan and Barbie Hsu... which is rather strange because I'm generally fans of theirs. Their characters were whiney and immature... luckily, the other characters are given just as much screentime. Unluckily, the drama eventually close to an unhappy ending (well, for me... as I was rooting for someone else) after a rather draggy number of episodes.
Other than that little personal preference/bias for the second male lead, though, I thought this drama is really excellent. I highly recommend it.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Wedding Gown In Heaven (Vol.1-29) (End) (US Version)
Wedding Gown In Heaven (Vol.1-29) (End) (US Version) DVD Region All
(11)Our Price: US$43.99Usually ships within 7 - 14 daysRelated promotions:August 25, 2006 hated LeonThis drama isn't awful, but it isn't particularly good, either. The plot is all right, although it gets a little draggy at points. Cyndi Wang XinLin's character is rather annoying in this, and you can tell that she's a new actress (she's since improved, in my opinion)... she "overacts." Ming Dao, though, the second male lead (HaiNuo), does a very good job. I wouldn't put it on the same level as his performance in WZBQW (Prince Turns Into a Frog), but this is still a good drama for his fans to watch... although he clearly doesn't wind up with the girl.
For me, though, the WORST part of this drama was Leon Jay Williams. Firstly, I don't find him attractive... but more importantly, his acting is awful. He only shows off a grand total of two expressions throughout the whole drama! Not only that, since he can't speak much Mandarin (he's only 1/4 Singaporean), his sentences (seriously) consist of half Singaporean-British-accented English in the first half... then a few words of poorly spoken Mandarin in the second. This could be somewhat tolerable if he didn't read even his English lines in a monotone, completely-devoid-of-feeling voice. He DOES manage to look tragic when he's supposed to (which I'm sure girls who find him cute will like)... but I just hate everything about the way he delivers his lines. Sorry. :x
After that rant, though... I have to say that even though this drama doesn't top my list of recommendations at all, I think it's probably worth the asking price. Don't go in with particularly high expectations, but it isn't without its entertainment value or romantic moments.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Tokyo Juliet Original TV Soundtrack
August 24, 2006 catchy OSTI'm not really a fan of Tokyo Juliet (the TV series). I'm watching it mainly because I like Ariel Lin and Ryan Tang... Wu Zun, the true leading man of the series, gets on my nerves. However, I have to admit that the soundtrack for the series is really excellent.
I was skeptical at first, especially when I found out that Fahrenheit, a boyband consisting of so-so actors, sings two of the songs on the CD. However, the songs they were given are actually catchy, and Jiro Wang (Ah Jin of It Started With a Kiss) proves to have decent vocals. Their collaboration with record company sister Hebe (of S.H.E.) is my absolute favorite song on the CD, and I never get tired of it. Other "surprises" on the CD include Ariel Lin's track... she does go out of tune a couple of times, and her voice isn't thick or strong, but it's pleasantly soothing.
If you're a fan of this series, there's no reason not to buy this CD. And even if you're not a fan of this series, I think you'll still like the OST. It's perfect to bring to the gym-- hearing it always makes me want to move around. :)Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
The 40-Year-Old Virgin (Widescreen; Unrated) (US Version)
The 40-Year-Old Virgin (Widescreen; Unrated) (US Version) DVD Region 1
(1)Our Price: US$14.98Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:July 26, 2006 raunchy, but hilariousIf I thought it was hilarious, why do I not give it higher marks? Well, because on some level, something recoils in me at the thought of something this raunchy.
Actually, Steve Carell really makes this movie. He's completely believable as the poor chap who's 40 years old and still lives with a bunch of toy models. There's something endearing about him as he tries to impress his friends, who are mostly fun in their own way as well. I didn't always find them humorous, though (like the old Indian guy who just swore all the time... is swearing all the time suddenly the most hilarious thing in the world or something? I don't get it), which is another reason the rating's not higher for me. Not to mention the sort of... lack of chemistry between Carell and his leading lady. I realize this is a comedy, not a romantic comedy, but I'd still have liked there to be some sort of build-up there. Their relationship was more of a detail than the main storyline, which I assume is the way the writers wanted it... after all, the focus is on Carell, not on Carell's first love affair. Still, I think some time/screen time could have been spared for SOME development.
Well, if you're a guy, you'll love this movie. It really is very funny... and all the guys I watched it with loved it. As a girl, I recoil a little bit at some of the humor and the naked girls, but it's still pretty funny. It's worth buying.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Ever After/Never Been Kissed (2-Pack Bricked;) (US Version)
Ever After/Never Been Kissed (2-Pack Bricked;) (US Version) DVD Region 1
(1)Our Price: US$29.98Usually ships within 30 daysRelated promotions:July 26, 2006 super duoUm, my two favorite Drew Barrymore flicks together in one set? Must buy!!
Never Been Kissed is a romantic comedy that reminds me a bit of Clueless. In it, Drew plays a frumpy reporter whose next assignment is to "get the scoop on high schoolers" by going undercover as a student. She dreads going back (her nickname in high school was "Josie Grossie"), but, as time goes on, she finds her niche and the love of her life, Sam Coulson (played by Michael Vartan of Alias). There's one problem, though: he's her teacher!
Never Been Kissed is a super-cute movie. It's one of my top chick flicks, but that more because of Michael Vartan than anything else. It's more of a normal "teen comedy," so it's not something that I could watch non-stop repeatedly. I'd give it 4-4.5 stars.
Ever After, though, I'd give higher marks. It's a retelling of the Cinderella story, one in which Leonardo da Vinci plays a role. The self-assured prince (Dougray Scott) falls in love with the intelligent and beautiful Daniele (Drew Barrymore). Unfortunately, the pair of lovers didn't count on Daniele's scheming stepmother or the consequences a few white lies might bring.
Ever After is one of my favorite movies. It's true that Dougray Scott isn't obviously handsome, but I fell in love with him, too, as the movie went on. He delivers his lines beautifully. Drew, meanwhile, really suits the "Renaissance" style, and she looks beautiful in the movie (which I believe she produced or directed or something). The supporting cast of this movie, too, is BRILLIANT. Anjelica Huston (sp?) is wonderful as the wicked stepmother, cold and just radiating hatred, and the actress who plays the scheming stepsister Margeurite is both gorgeous and terrible (her character, I mean). The movie is really, really good... romantic, but with bits of humor thrown in. Not a very "teen flick" feel to it, which is why I think I prefer this to Never Been Kissed.
Anyway, don't miss this great opportunity to buy the two DVD's together!Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
The Wedding Planner (US Version)
The Wedding Planner (US Version) DVD Region 1
(1)Our Price: US$14.94Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:July 26, 2006 charmingThere is nothing I'd want to change about this movie. The cast actually isn't just an assortment of pretty faces. Jennifer Lopez made me fall in love with her, as did both of her suitors (imagine rooting for both guys! Even though it's obvious she'll wind up with Matthew McConaughey, I couldn't help falling for the other guy, too, played by a Justin Chambers with an adorable Italian accent). I even loved the other woman!
There are some definite memorable lines and scenes in this movie, both of the romantic and funny natures. This is one of those films that, while undeniably a chick flick, can still be enjoyable for guys, although I suspect it'd be more of a guilty, surprised pleasure. It's one of my favorite romantic comedies, though. :)Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Family Guy Presents Stewie Griffin: The Untold Story (Unrated) (US Version)
Family Guy Presents Stewie Griffin: The Untold Story (Unrated) (US Version) DVD Region 1
(1)Our Price: US$19.98Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:July 26, 2006 funny, but overpricedI don't mean that YesAsia has overpriced the DVD, but that the creators themselves have. It's very rare that any DVD's sell for $30 any more... when you consider that just a buck more could buy you an entire season of Family Guy, you'll see what I mean.
Of course, you can't watch this movie on network TV. I'd still be hesitant to say they should charge $30 for it, but it's a good laugh. Stewie is my favorite Family Guy character, so naturally a feature-length special on him is good news for me. The storyline is a little crazy, and I wouldn't say it completely works-- after all, Family Guy itself is offbeat, but usually only for half an hour-- the length of the movie makes it drag on a little. Still, it's pretty good... and obviously a must-have for any Family Guy fan. For those unfamiliar with the TV series, though, I'd recommend buying one of the complete seasons first. Some running jokes are exploited (in a good way) in this movie, so it wouldn't make much sense just to jump in.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Project Runway - The Complete Second Season (3-Disc Set) (US Version)
Project Runway - The Complete Second Season (3-Disc Set) (US Version) DVD Region 1
(1)Our Price: US$19.95Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:July 26, 2006 "Where's Andre?"Project Runway is BRILLIANT, and the second season, in my opinion, was better than the first and looks to be better than the third (which is just beginning to be broadcast on Bravo Network). Although I like fashion as well as the average person, I never thought I'd get so wrapped up in the creative process... or in the eccentric, crazy, adorable people who make up the second season cast. Even the villain of the season is more of a "love to hate" than a "hate hate."
There were plenty of memorable moments in this season: Andre's breakdown, Santino's lingerie collection, Santino's Tim Gunn impressions, Nick and Tara's adorable relationship, etc., etc.... not to mention the memorable gowns (I won't spoil those for you).
The only reason I didn't give this DVD collection full marks is because the DVD didn't really add anything. I'd already recorded all the episodes onto VHS, so... while it was nice to buy them in DVD format, it did seem like a waste of money considering the small number of extra features and behind-the-scenes footage. Nevertheless, this show comes HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. It's sooo good. :)Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
2moro (Special Edition) (Taiwan Version)
2moro (Special Edition) (Taiwan Version)
(2)Our Price: US$11.99Usually ships within 7 - 14 daysRelated promotions:July 26, 2006 so-so... and sort of a jipThe guys of 2moro aren't the strongest singers in the world... luckily, this CD has more fast songs to disguise that fact. Actually, most of the songs on here are rather catchy... unfortunately, however, half of them are instrumentals, and at least one of them is a copy of Romanian (?) group O-Zone's hit single.
Of course, I do LOVE 2moro's rendition (Shabu Shabu) as well as their crazy, whacked out MV. Which is why I gave the CD 3 stars. However, I don't think 5 songs warrants releasing an entire CD, and I also wish there was some more originality on their disc.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
7 Flowers Debut Album (Special Edition) (CD+VCD) (Taiwan Version)
7 Flowers Debut Album (Special Edition) (CD+VCD) (Taiwan Version)
(2)Our Price: US$22.99Related promotions:July 26, 2006 singing not really their forteI'm a big fan/supporter of QiaoEn and XiaoQiao of 7F, and am getting into liking XiaoJie. However... honestly, they should probably stick to acting. Some of the songs on this are catchy, and I actually love all the MV's provided (Bai Jing Nu Lang or Material Girl is really cute, and the girls are definitely gorgeous), but I wouldn't recommend buying this album unless you're already a fan of 7F. It's not a good introduction.
It isn't that they sing out of tune on the CD... clearly, they could never release songs if that were the case! However, their voices aren't very polished, which is what I prefer. There are patches of good singing-- in fact, I'm starting to think 17-year-old XiaoJie has potential-- but not the best I've heard. Unfortunately, with all the other random girls coming out of Taiwan and HK these days, I guess they aren't the worst, either... their harmony can help mask some of their individual weaknesses, and their duet with the guys of 183Club (Hao Ai Ta, Hao Xiang Ta) is enjoyable... there's an added thickness. :)Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
July 26, 2006 classic collection!!
This is one of my favorite CD's. Phil Chang and Eric Moo were two of my favorite songwriters when I was younger, although we never had any of their CD's. When this compilation came out, I remember thinking that I was incredibly lucky... here were all their greatest golden hits... together! I'm extremely satisfied with it, although I must say that I prefer Phil's style (of singing) to Eric's. Nevertheless, it's nice how they divided the tracks.
I'm guessing that they unfortunately kept this collection extremely limited... it took my father numerous tries to locate it by only the latter half of 2004. If you can get your hands on a copy of this, though, DO. Snatch it up!Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
The Champion (Ep.1-20) (End) (English Subtitled) (US Version)
The Champion (Ep.1-20) (End) (English Subtitled) (US Version) DVD Region All
(4)Our Price: US$26.99Usually ships within 7 - 14 daysRelated promotions:July 26, 2006 subtitled!?I have to agree with the above reviewer. I'm not even sure this drama was shown in Taiwan (although three of the major cast members are Taiwanese, the others are all Singaporean). Although I'd heard of this because of Joyce Zhao HongQiao's excellent portrayal of an evil backstabber, I think there are a lot more well-known, better quality dramas from Jungiery artists alone, not to mention the likes of Ariel Lin or Mike He. In fact, a lot of people have said this drama is rather draggy.
I appreciate the subtitling effort, and I might buy this myself (price is good), but I would have preferred a different series. :(Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Casanova (US Version)
Casanova (US Version) DVD Region 1
(1)Our Price: US$14.99Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:July 22, 2006 A Silly Romp...Yes, it's a silly romp. But, in the end, it's a silly romp that tries a mite too hard. There are some truly hilarious scenes in this movie, but it just becomes a little too neat at the end for anything to be believable. The heroine is an (in my opinion) unlikeable (at any rate... not easily likable) feminist who rages at Heath Ledger and teaches science and philosophy lessons which are actually anachronistic... something evident to anyone who knows a thing or two about European history. Heath, as Casanova, is clearly a womanizer, but also a bit of a male chauvinist. Obviously, he is the very last man on earth she should fall for... although her allure can be understood-- she is a challenge for him.
HOWEVER, of course she falls in love with him... desperately. And they get together in a pretty farfetched way. It isn't that I don't like a fairytales... it's that the ending sort of insults my intelligence. Not only that... I hated Sienna Miller in this. I normally think she is absolutely gorgeous, but, in an effort to make her a tomboyish feminist, the director has effectively erased her beauty. Her character, also, is high-and-mighty, but in the end betrays everything she believes in. Not exactly something to be admired.
This movie had decent entertainment value, though. It wasn't much as a romance story, but it was a good comedy, which is why I still gave it decent marks. And Sienna's character might have been annoying, but I have the feeling she played her as she was supposed to have been played. She and Heath Ledger have a good chemistry together. The supporting cast, none of them particularly famous (aside from Jeremy Irons), however, is excellent.
Expect to get a laugh, not a classic love story.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
July 22, 2006 a good blend
This is a really great album. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised. I'll be the first to admit it-- yes, I'm shallow, and yes, I probably would have bought it just because I loved Leo in "Romance in the Rain." However, I heard Leo sing on a variety show and was really impressed. He doesn't have what could be called a strong voice, but it's a steady and sweet tenor. It actually reminds me a lot of Leo himself... unspoilt, sweet, and adorable. Track #2 (Xi Huan) and Track #10 (Xu Yuan, featuring Gigi Leung) are two of my favorites, although their styles are completely different. The first is boyish and upbeat, fast-paced. The second is a slow, heartfelt love ballad.
Leo showcases his comfortable, but wide and diverse range of vocals on this CD. I don't think you'll be disappointed... and I honestly can't think of a nicer person to support, :) Did you know that he's adopted umpteen destitute children from China and Mongolia?Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
The Prince Who Turns Into a Frog Original TV Soundtrack (Commemorate Edition) (Limited Edition)
The Prince Who Turns Into a Frog Original TV Soundtrack (Commemorate Edition) (Limited Edition)
(4)Our Price: US$21.49Related promotions:June 21, 2006 an unforgettable soundtrackThis soundtrack is seriously the best I've ever heard. If you've watched the drama, you know that the songs fit the scenes and characters perfectly. And if you haven't watched the drama, I think you'll still enjoy this soundtrack. Every time I played it, my roommate, who is Russian and doesn't understand a lick of Chinese, would come dancing into the room. It is seriously that good-- even the instrumentals are catchy. There are several songs with a certain Latin flair, as well as several love ballads, the best of which is, of course, the drama's closing song, "Zhen Ai" (Pure Love), which was written especially for the drama's male lead, Matthew Lin Ming Dao. Although 183Club and 7F, the two groups who both star in the series and sing on the OST, don't have the BEST voices in the business, they aren't the worst. The guys of 183Club have, generally, smooth, chocolatey voices. You won't regret buying this OST.
I would suggest buying the HK version with DVD, though. I'm reviewing for this particular version because it's the one I have... but I want the one with the DVD. The MV's for this soundtrack are really cute-- plenty of eye candy for guys and girls alike.Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Meeting Love (Lovely Celebration Edition) (CD+DVD)
Meeting Love (Lovely Celebration Edition) (CD+DVD) DVD Region All
(3)Our Price: US$20.99Usually ships within 1 to 2 daysRelated promotions:1 people found the following helpful
June 21, 2006 Taiwan's peppy pop princessAlthough some people might be annoyed by Rainie's clear voice (critically speaking, there are plenty better-- but there are also plenty worse), there are many memorable songs on Yu Shang Ai, her second album. Half of them are typical Rainie-- peppy and catchy-- but her love ballads are also very pretty, and there's been an improvement made in her singing from her first CD.
Anyway, I am glad I waited to get this second version. I always love watching music videos; my favorite on the DVD is "Yu Shang Ai" (Meeting Love). Also, it just makes more sense to pay the same amount of money... but get an extra DVD into the bargain. :)Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
August 8, 2005 Quintessential Sky Collection
This is a compilation of Sky's greatest hits. I remember hearing and loving many of these songs 12+ years ago as a child in elementary school. He is one of the most talented singer-songwriters of the nineties, and you should definitely not be without this double CD. Highly, highly recommended. "Sharing (Feng Xiong)," on CD 2, is my absolute Sky favorite. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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