Never Let Me Go Drama Review

 

Hoshina Kyoko, Doi Tomohiko and Sakai Miwa have been leading ordinary lives working as adults. Raised at Yoko Gakuen which was isolated from the world and located on the mountain, the three of them enjoyed child-like lives and education and were supposed to be normal children. One day, they were told by their principal Kamikawa Emiko that they are special children who have been given a “mission” from birth and were informed of their “true destiny”. The three are actual clones and they were produced for eventual organ harvesting. 

Finished watching Never Let Me Go Watashi wo Hanasanaide. If you not already know, this is based on the novel "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro.

Personally, I feel that the story is refreshing and classic on its own. Though the introductory may appear brief, it was nicely crafted with a suspenseful plot. Honestly, I was expecting more could be delivered from its already good story-line.

If such clone really exist, it is difficult for them to accept who they are and survive like humans. Especially, when they are created for organ harvesting. There are many touching moments and learning points to grasp. 

I have to say that it is a slow-paced film. You either enjoy or dislike it. 

Ratings: 3.3 / 5

Long Long Time Ago 2 我们的故事 2 Movie Review

In 1977, the Government begins expropriating land for redevelopment, forcing villagers from their kampongs. Licensed farmland owners, such as Zhao Di, are financially compensated for their land. Ah Kun, Zhao Di’s greedy brother accuses Zhao Di and Ah Long of having an affair to tarnish her name in front of the family. In the midst of Ah Kun’s persistent accusations, Zhao Di’s health takes a hit. Will Zhao Di be able to keep her hard-earned compensation money? What will become of her family if Zhao Di’s health continues to deteriorate? As people change with time, will the kampong spirit remain?

Watched Long Long Time Ago 2 我们的故事 2 with mum after church Easter service today. I watched the prelude - Long Long Time Ago 我们的故事 with her earlier this year as well.

Personally, I feel that the sequel is rather compact and well-crafted. The story flow is nicely presented with a good story build up. As usual, it educated me about Singapore history, the living standards and its culture that varies from present till past.

This time round, the plot focused more on family matters which is commendable. It led me to ponder why in those days, parents dote son over daughter? Even though when He was unfilial? It is difficult for a daughter to win their hearts.

The many touching moments are nicely injected. Not to forget some hilarious elements which comes in rather handy. It showed me the importance of kinship. Sometimes, we just need to be appreciative and never take things for granted. Especially, to the one who contribute and care more in the family.

Ratings: 4 / 5

The Divergent Series: Allegiant Movie Review

The third installment of the blockbuster Divergent series franchise, ALLEGIANT takes Tris [Shailene Woodley] and Four [Theo James] into a new world, far more dangerous than ever before. After the earth-shattering revelations of INSURGENT, Tris must escape with Four and go beyond the wall enclosing Chicago. For the first time ever, they will leave the only city and family they have ever known in order to find a peaceful solution for their embroiled city. Once outside, old discoveries are quickly rendered meaningless with the revelation of shocking new truths. Tris and Four must quickly decide who they can trust as a ruthless battle ignites beyond the walls of Chicago which threatens all of humanity. In order to survive, Tris will be forced to make impossible choices about courage, allegiance, sacrifice and love. 

Watched The Divergent Series: Allegiant with Jiewei earlier this evening. Previously, I watched Divergent and Insurgent as well. In comparison, I prefer this installment compared to the previous one (Insurgent).

Personally, I feel that the sequel is good though it could have been more refined. Initially, it may appear dull without much development in its plot. However, the story build up got better with certain secret agenda and truth among the casts.

The story flow presented is quite messy and could have been improved. Honestly, it keep me in great suspense and ponder about the story. Towards the end, I get the entire idea of depicting it though this method. A rather smart one indeed. I enjoyed the many intense moment which keep me at the edge of my seat as well.

Ratings: 3.55 / 5

Kung Fu Panda 3 Movie Review

In 2016, one of the most successful animated franchises in the world returns with its biggest comedy adventure yet, Kung Fu Panda 3. When Po's long-lost panda father suddenly reappears, the reunited duo travels to a secret panda paradise to meet scores of hilarious new panda characters. But when the supernatural villain Kai begins to sweep across China defeating all the kung fu masters, Po must do the impossible—learn to train a village full of his fun-loving, clumsy brethren to become the ultimate band of Kung Fu Pandas!

Watched Kung Fu Panda 3. Before that, I have watched Kung Fu Panda 2 as well.

Personally, I feel that the plot is simple and compact as a whole. The story flow is decent though its introductory scenes could have been fine-tuned. Initially, it may appear predictable without much substance. However, It got better with a rather good story build up that is commendable.

The historical background and flashback scenes are nicely presented. I could easily understand and identify the plot without any doubt. It educated me that everyone has its own strength. In order to get things accomplish, we got to work things out as a team. It is certainly important to know your identity before everything falls nicely in place.

Ratings: 3.65 / 5

[Media Invite] THE BUFFET EGG-XPERIENCE by STREET50!

Was invited to a media tasting: ‏THE BUFFET EGG-XPERIENCE by STREET50! For the Easter weekend from 25 to 27 March 2016, Bay Hotel Singapore’s STREET 50 Restaurant & Bar is egged on to bring to the buffet lunch menu some specialty egg dishes curated using the First and Only Pasteurized fresh eggs in Singapore from the N&N Farm and freshly laid quail eggs from Uncle William’s quail farm.

 Combination of Chinese Cold Cuts

 Braised Tofu with Crabmeat and Egg White

A rather simple and rather light dish to indulge. I adore its silky texture which complement well with the egg white.

Soft Boiled Egg with Chicken Essence

A dish that is rather classic on its own. Surprisingly, the soft boiled egg complement well with the chicken Essence. You got to give this a try!

Oven-roasted Chicken with Quail Egg and Spicy Tomato Sauce

It tasted okay though its sauce appear slightly flavourful for me. I would recommend you not to dip your meat with sauce as it certainly tasted better that way.

Potato Salad with Pommery Mayonnaise

Scotch Egg

Sambal Prawn with Quail Egg

Particularly, I adore this dish pretty much! The sambal is not too spicy and has a sweet taste that complement well the prawns! The prawns are pretty fresh as well!

 XO Fried Rice with Crabmeat

Initially, it tasted like an ordinary fried rice without much punch. However, it got more tasty after each mouth. A simple dish that tasted not too flavourful. Oh well, one may like or dislike it.

My very own Terrarium

The Buffet Egg-Xperience is made complete not just with a luscious, egg-cellent buffet spread but you also get to try your hand at the alfresco Easter egg terrarium workshop conducted by Gardenasia’s ‘egg-ffervescent’ instructors, lay your hands at the N&N premium egg bazaar

'The Buffet Egg-Xperience'
25 - 27 March 2016
Buffet Lunch: $38++ per adult. $18 per child (6-12 years)
FREE Easter Egg Terrarium for every 4 paying adults
Plus 15% off adult pricing egg-Xclusively for DBS/POSB Credit Cardmembers*
*Discount promotion is not available on PH but valid on 26 and 27 March 2016  

STREET 50 Restaurant & Bar
Bay Hotel Singapore (opposite VivoCity)
50 Telok Blangah Road
Singapore 098828

[Media Invite] New Concept Cafe in CBD - Kraftwich

Swissbake Pte Ltd is a bakery in Singapore that provides premium quality European bread and confectionery products. Other bakery products include healthy bread, savouries, pies, salads, customized cakes and pastries delivery. 

Kraftwich is more than just a quick pit-stop for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The concept shop’s waistline-friendly yet delectable offerings sharpen the mind, heal the body and replenish the soul.

 

The bread used in creating Kraftwich is made from flour containing the healthiest grains including wheat, soya, sunflower seeds, flax seeds, rye, and oats. These super ingredients have been lauded for benefits such as improving digestive function, reducing bloating, improving blood cholesterol levels and aiding in heart health.

Personally, I enjoyed the multigrain taste and texture of its toast! For the sandwiches itself, I adore the smoked duck one pretty much! 

Poached Egg and Turkey Ham Swiss Crumpet 

A toast that tasted pretty classic on its own. However, the hollandaise sauce is rather strong and flavourful that covers the taste of the ham and poached egg. 

 

Bread and Butter Pudding

I have no issue with the vanilla gelato as it tasted pretty great on its own! The pudding is good though its texture could have been better. A rather good combination.

The desserts has a pretty presentation! Each has its own unique flavours for consumers to choose from. Particularly, I adore the chocolate fudge pretty much! It is rich and not too sweet for me.

Besides toast and desserts, there are also pastries! The chocolate bretzel tasted good! It has a crisp exterior and fluffy interior. The almond complement so well with the chocolate bretzel!

Kraftwich
One Raffles Place Tower 1 

#B1-04/05 

The Queen 复仇女王 Drama Review

The Queen 复仇女王 is a Singaporean Chinese drama which was produced by Wawa Pictures and telecast on Singapore's free-to-air channel, Mediacorp Channel 8. The drama began production in September 2015 and made its debut on 18 February 2016 and ended on 16 March 2016. This drama serial consists of 20 episodes, and was screened on every weekday night at 9:00 pm. It is the 6th Wawa production to air on Channel 8.

Just finished watching The Queen 复仇女王. Personally, I feel that the story is interesting and classic on its own. 

Initially, it may appear dull without much development in its plot. However, the story build up got better when the main casts are introduced. It depicted their past agony experiences in relationships. The Queen 复仇女王 organisation is then formed to protect others from facing similar situation.

The mission carried out by The Queen 复仇女王 is nicely presented. They are smart and quick in analyzing each case. The fighting scenes is good though it could have been more fine-tuned.

I have to affirm that the casts did rather well in their craft. Priscelia Chan acting capability improved in terms of her expression and speech. A good local drama worth watching. 

Ratings: 3.45 / 5

London Has Fallen Movie Review

The sequel to the worldwide smash hit “Olympus Has Fallen,” a non-stop, suspenseful action thriller that delivers high-octane excitement through a heightened sense of authenticity. The visceral intensity springs from a timely premise: after the British Prime Minister passes away, his funeral becomes a target of a terrorist organization to destroy some of the world’s most powerful leaders, devastate the British capital, and unleash a terrifying vision of the future. The only hope of stopping it rests on the shoulders of the President of the United States (Aaron Eckhart) and his formidable Secret Service head (Gerard Butler), and an English MI-6 agent (Charlotte Riley) who rightly trusts no one. Morgan Freeman also stars as the Vice President of the United States.

Watched London Has Fallen on Tuesday evening with Carine at GV VivoCity.

Personally, I feel that this film is simple and compact on its own. The story flow turn out well but its introductory appear brief without a strong background. However, it got better with a good story build up that is commendable.

The plot may appear predictable but I enjoy the intense moments which keep me at the edge of my seat. Not to forget those action and thriller scenes that are nicely presented. A good action thriller film but not the best.

Honestly, I think the trailer appear more promising than the show itself.

Ratings: 3.3 / 5

[Media Invitation] Momiji Shabu Shabu revamps dining concept with new and affordable à la carte menu

Promising  a  spellbinding  experience  at  an  affordable  price,  Momiji  Shabu  Shabu  is the undisputed favourite for those hankering for a Japanese-themed hotpot. Lined with wooden slats and furniture, the restaurant exudes a congenial, understated vibe suitable for tête-à-têtes.

Momiji Shabu Shabu (Momiji) is proud to announce its brand-new à la carte  menu.  In line with the launch, the Japanese-themed restaurant has also introduced  four  new soup bases, all of which are  prepared with collagen puddings. 

There are four new soup bases - Healthy Veggie (S$12.80), Low Calorie Pork (S$15.80), Premium Beef (S$18.80) and Lamb Stew Tonic (S$18.80). I got the chance to try the Low Calorie Pork and Lamb Stew Tonic. It tasted good though the broth tasted quite salty for me. Diners can opt for Duo Pot (S$25.80) where they can choose from any two soup flavours!

With the revamp, there are also delicious side dishes to enjoy at Momiji.

Fried Pork Cutlet (S$6)

Minced Pork Rice (S$3.50)  

Coconut Chicken Soup (S$9.90)

If you are there for the buffet, you can DIY your own waffles!

Momiji Shabu Shabu

Shaw Plaza

360 Balestier Road

04-01

Singapore 329783

[Media Invitation] Experience the Steamboat Goodness of GoroGoro!

GOROGORO Steamboat & Korean Buffet Restaurant provides a cozy environment for light-hearted gleeful dining experiences without burning a hole in pockets! Notice how an empty tummy goes "gorogoro"? That's the inspiration for our name! It is also the bubbling sound from our delectable broth boiling, each represented by a cute monster.

Look at the spread of food they offer! There are up to 70 selections of fresh meats, vegetables and drinks available for one to enjoy!

GOROGORO caters to different taste buds with six choices of broth to select from: Ginseng Chicken, Beauty Collagen, Mala, Tomyum, Tomato and Vegetarian!

I got the chance to try all the broth! You may wish to know that their collagen broth are boiled for at least 12 hours to extract the goodness from its stock and spices! Particularly, I adore the Ginseng Chicken and beauty collagen broth which is pretty tasty. You may wish to give the vegetarian broth a try!

Oh ya! Their Korean glazed fried chicken is really good!

Remember to grab them before it is gone!

Special promotions for Students & Senior Citizens!

- Weekday Lunch: 1.5 hours dining time
 - Dinner/ Weekend: 2 hours dining time
 - Valid till 31 March 2016
 - Not applicable with other promos, discounts & privileges
 * Weekday Lunch not applicable on PH

GOROGORO
Orchard Gateway@emerald

218 Orchard Road |

04-01, Singapore 238851