Art, design & photography exhibitions (July - Dec 09)

Anish Kapoor's sculpture at the Royal Academy of Arts

I did a lot of traveling in 2009 esp. later in year and so managed to visit quite a lot of art and photography exhibitions around the world. And here's a list of the exhibitions I visited from summer until winter of 2009:

London:

Garden and Cosmos: The Royal Paintings of Jodhpu, British museum (May – Oct 2009)
Wonderful and delicate paintings produced for the maharajahs in Marwar from 1725 to 1843 are on display at the British Museum. Colourful and detailed, the paintings tell so much about the history, life style, religion, fashion and culture of that period. Truly remarkable.

Design High, Louise Blouin Foundation (June- Aug 2009)
A range of design/ art installations are exhibited at the huge gallery, it's rare to see a spacious gallery like this in London! Most of the work on display are huge too, and they examine the boundaries between design and art, function and form. There are some interesting furniture/ installation esp. Womb house by Atelier van Lieshout, which is humourous and memorable.

Johanna Billing: I’m lost without your rhythm (July- Sept)/Alexandre de Cunha: Laissez-faire (July- Sept), Camden Arts Centre (July - September 2009)

Telling tales, V & A (July - October 2009)
Can design be regarded as art? This exhibition showcasing 'fairytale-themed' contemporary designs from Europe (mostly the Netherlands) make us wonder the boundaries between art, craft and design. Some of the designs are hardly functional, so do we just dismiss them as 'bad' designs? Can decorative designs be conceived as 'good' even if they don't fulfil their original function? Some bizarre and interesting designs esp. the ceramic pyramids designed by various Dutch designers (like Hella Jongerius and Studio Job) for Royal Tichelaar Makkum. Useless but cool.

Super Contemporary, Design museum (June – October 2009)
15 leading London designers (including Paul Smith, Zaha Hadid, Tom Dixon, Ron Arad etc) were commissioned to design a better London. Some good ideas but probably wouldn't work in reality. Interesting enough but a bit disappointing.

Anish Kapoor, Royal Academy of Art (September – December 2009)
This exhibition became the talk of the town for a few weeks! A cannon shooting out red wax inside the Royal Academy might sound crazy but it happened! All I could think of was how were they going to clean the mess (or sorry, I mean art)! I really enjoyed Kapoor's small architecture exhibition last year but I found this rather mainstream... fun, loud but a bit shallow.

David Chipperfield: Form matters @ Design Museum (Oct 09 - Jan 2010)
It's hard to believe that British architect, David Chipperfield has only a handful of buildings that were realised in the UK! Why is Chipperfield's design more appreciated abroad? He seems to be doing very well elsewhere but here, even though 2 galleries are on their way. (Personally I think architecture competitions are a waste of time because most of time, the winners don't get to build their designs anyway!) At last, we can only appreciate his work through this comprehensive exhibition at the Design Museum. There are models, drawings and photographs that demonstrate his style: understated, simple, functional and bold. It has nothing to do with fashion nor trend, I believe his work will stand the test of time. Great stuff!

Less and More - The Design Ethos of Dieter Rams @ Design Museum (Nov 09 - Mar 2010)
Dieter Rams is probably one of the most influencial product designer of our generation and yet he is not as well known as designers like Philippe Starck. By looking at his understated, simple and sleek designs, we can understand more about him, his philosophy and the reason why he is still relatively unknown outside of the design world. He has inspired designers like Jonathan Ive (for Apple), Naoto Fukasawa, Jasper Morrison and many more. When looking at his work during the Braun days, we can appreciate how timeless his designs are and see his influence on our everyday lives. A true master.


Bangkok

Portraits of the KING... The Art of Iconography @ Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (Aug - Nov 2009)
In Thailand, it's hard to avoid images of the Thai King because they are everywhere! The Thai King is an iconic figure and so he always appears ageless. i.e. we rarely get to see recent images of the elderly King within the country! With all the recent political issues, the future of Thailand and the Monarchy is still unsure, but this exhibition provides a good starting point for those who want to understand a bit more about Thai history and their attitudes towards the King.


The Guggenheim-like Art centre

Art outside of the Art centre

Tokyo

Washi: The timeless beauty of Japanese paper @ Suntory museum of Art (Sept - Nov 09)
A exhibition on traditional Japanese paper, washi, with work ranging from calligraphy to kimonos and fans. Craftsmanship and beauty are the focuses here. Particularly fascinating if you are into paper like me, but some extra contemporary work would have made it more interesting.


Exhibition posters of Washi & The Outline in Roppongi Hills

The Outline： The unseen outline of things @ 21_21 design sight (Oct 09 - Jan 2010)
I was quite excited before my visit to Naoto Fukasawa's major exhibition in Tokyo. Famous for his minimalistic approach to design (notably Muji's CD player), Fukasawa's work is often described as simple, clean and functional. This exhibition uses a rather clever and unique approach to explore his work... photographs. Photographer, Tamotsu Fujii, spent 4 years taking series of photos that offer variations and intepretations of Fukasawa's designs. Displaying side by side, the photos seem to enchance and magnify the beauty of the products. This is quite unexpected and very refreshing indeed.

Ko-Imari in Paris: Enchanting Beauty 350 Years of Japanese Porcelain Exports to Europe @ Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum (Oct - Dec 09)
A huge collection of porcelain and ceramics exports from the 16th and 17th century, from vases, plates, bowls to tea pots etc. Yet what fascinated me was not the exhibition itself, but the beautiful Art Deco ex-residence of Prince Asaka. I just love the Art Deco style furnishings! However, the garden was a bit of a disappointment, perhaps because it was getting cold... I am sure it would look quite different in spring/ summer.


Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum


Singapore

Baba Bling: The Peranakans & their jewellery @ Peranakan Museum (May -Dec 2009)
While I was in Singapore, I met and chatted to some Peranakans (descendants of early Chinese immigrants and local women from Singapore, Malacca and Penang etc) and I was very impressed by their enthusiasm of their heritage and identities. Hence I was curious to find out more and thus it brought me to the Peranakan museum. The temporary exhibition showcases beauitful jewelley from the Peranakan families, mostly made of gold. It's hardly surprising that jewellery was not only used as decoration but also as symbol of status, however, it's odd to know that children also worn jewellery to show off family wealth! In today's dangerous world, this would be an invitation for kidnapping... not a good idea!!


Baba Bling

Tactile @ 8Q, Singapore Art Museum (Nov 2009 - Jan 2010)
13 local artists are brought together to showcase their artwork through the senses. Each artist has a distinguish style but my favourite is Teng Yen Lin's Linear Perspective.


Linear Perspective

Thrice upon a time: A century of story in the Art of the Philippines @ Singapore art museum (Nov 2009 - Jan 2010)
I know nothing about Filipino art and so this exhibition is an eye-opener for me. I am truly impressed by the diverse and unique work showcased at the museum. The European, folk and religious influences can be seen in many of the works but somehow these artists manage to create their own style that are different from both Western and Eastern art. Thumbs up for both the artists and exhibition curators!


Jose Tence Ruiz's Paraisado Sorbetero

Tupperware @ Red Dot Museum
To visit a world class design musuem (the original branch is in Germany) in South East Asia is a thrilling experience! But to find out that Tupperware won the best design team red dot award 2009 is even more thrilling! The eye-catching tupperware display stands out amongst a room full of sleek designs. Cool.



Red Dot museum


Hong Kong

The Prosperous Cities: A Selection of Paintings from the Liaoning Provincial Museum @ Hong Kong Museum of Art (Sept - Nov 2009)
The paintings exhibited are exquisite! Refined and detailed, they showcase the brilliance of Chinese art or paintings. However, the confusing layout, dull looking display and decor are huge letdowns! The curators here really need to spend some time visiting world class museums like Louvre and British museum to understand the importance of exhibition design.

The Ultimate South China Travel Guide – Canton @ Hong Kong Museum of Art (Sept 2009 - March 2010)
I thoroughly enjoyed this small but fun exhibition! And it's so refreshing to see this in Hong Kong! The exhibition is curated in the style of a travel guidebook for foreign travellers in the 19th century, and even the exhibition leaflet is designed in a guidebook style! A humourous and unique approach that provide visitors an understanding of life in Canton in the 1800s.

Fa Pai (flower plaque) heritage - local craft aesthetics @ HKICC Lee Shau Kee school of creativity (Nov - Dec 2009)
This small exhibition is an interesting one because it examines an local craft that is on the brink of extinction. In a city where anything old (including people), historical or traditional are considered as 'out', many local craftsmanships are disappearing with the demolishments of local areas where communities are forced out and businesses are forced to close down. It's encouraging to see children taking part in the exhibition and to know that there are people here who are fighting to conserve the heritage of Hong Kong.


Fa Pai exhibition


Paris

Madeleine Vionnet, puriste de la mode @ Musee des Arts Decoratifs
Known as the 'Queen of the bias cut' and 'couturier of couturiers', Madeleine Vionnet inspired many famous designers like Cristobal Balenciaga, Ossie Clark, John Galliano, Azzedine Alaia, Yohji Yamamoto and Sophia Kokosalaki (who was appointed as the creative director of Vionnet between 2006-7). This exhibition, filled with the most beautiful dresses I have ever seen, were mostly made between 1912 and 1939. Words that sum up her work: simplicity, perfection and sophistication.

Louis Comfort Tiffany, couleurs et lumiere @ Musee du Luxembourg (Sept 2009 - Jan 2010)
Was this the last exhibition to be held at Musee du Luxembourg? When I visited, there was a petition going around to save the museum from the closure. I am not sure of the dispute behind the closure, but from the point of view of a visitor, it would be a loss for the public.
I am not a particular fan of Tiffany, but I was curious to see the original works by the founder of this famous brand. And I was quite plesantly surprised by the colourful and decorative works by Tiffany esp. his mosaics and stained glass window based on drawings of Toulouse-Lautrec. The craftsmanship was simply outstanding. It's a real shame that this kind of craftmanship is disappearing fast in our convenience-based society today.

The Dragon’s gift – The sacred arts of Bhutan/ Threading the Genji-Mongatari – Homage to Master Itaro Yamaguchi @ Musee National des Arts Asiatiques Guimet
As someone who knows Paris quite well, it's hard for me to believe that I have never visited Musée Guimet, a museum devoted to Asian arts. I am not even sure how I managed to miss this amazing museum for all these years! There is so much 'treasure' here, it's hard to know where to begin! You will probably need at least 3 hours to see everything properly including the exhibitions, and the best thing is that it is not as touristy and crowded as The Lourve. Highly recommended!


Chinese ivory-carved house at Musee Guimet

Voyages. Regards de photographes japonais sur le monde @ Maison de la culture du Japan a Paris (Oct 09 – Jan 10)
An insightful photography exhibition of six contemporary Japanese artists, traveling from Mount Fuji in Japan to India and Portugal, showing isolation, over-population, disappearing culture and other issues through their camera lenses.

Chasing Napoleon @ Palais de Tokyo (Oct 09 – Jan 10)
This exhibition examineed various utopian ideas that emerged around the year of 1977. A fascinating exhibition esp. by Amercian artist, Paul Laffoley.



Palais de Tokyo

Jean-Michel Frank @ Foundation Pierre Berge Yves Saint Laurent
How do we define good designs? Sometimes only time will tell. Good designs should be timeless and this statement applies to work by Jean-Michel Frank, the legendary interior decorator/ furniture designer of the 1930s and 40s. If we look at his work today, they don't even look out of place in a modern home and that is what good design is all about. Tres chic et moderne!




Jean-Michel Frank exhibition

Islamic Arts @ L'Institut du Monde Arabe (Oct 09 – Mar 10)
I have never been to L'Institut du Monde Arabe before, so it was interesting to visit this Jean Nouvel designed building as well as seeing the huge exhibition on Islamic arts. There was a lot to see, from pottery to calligraphy, paintings and carpet... very diverse and educational. However, sometimes with big exhibitions like this, my concentration level would decrease because of information overload! I love Islamic arts but I think the overall layout is rather dull, it would have been better if it is lightened up more.


L'Institut du Monde Arabe

Delpire & Cie @ Maison Europeenne de La Photographie Ville de Paris (Oct 09 – Jan 10)
Robert Delpire has been an important figure in France for over 60 years. He changed the modern photography scene by publishing work of future photography legends like Cartier-Bresson, Brassaï, Doisneau, Lartigue and Bischof. As a fan of 'street photography' and having previously worked as an Art director, I found this exhibition very inspiring because of Delpire's diverse range of work . Besides photography, there are children's books (illustrations), editorial work, advertising and videos. I also love this small Marais gallery, it's a hidden gem.




La subversion des Images: Surrealism, photography, film @ Pompidou Centre (Sept 2009 – Jan 2010)
When I was studying at art college years ago, I wrote an essay on Surrealism because I have always been fascinated by this art movement. Hence I was quite relieved when the strike at the Pompidou Centre ended just before my departure.
The exhibition concentrates on the film and photography side of Surrealism, showing over 350 works by famous Surrealists like Man Ray, Salvador Dali, Luis Bunuel and Andre Breton etc.

Soulages @ Pompidou Centre (Oct 2009 - March 2010)
A retrospective of the most famous living French abstract painter, Pierre Soulages, covering more than 60 years of work. Soulages is famous for his use of black throughout his career, and like the Russian/ American artist, Mark Rothko, his work is meditative and poetic.

Via. Design 3.0 1979-2009 30 years of furniture design @ Pompidou Centre (Dec 2009 - Feb 2010)
An exhibition organised by VIA (Valorisation de l’innovation dans l;Ameublement) and Centre Pompidou, which pays tribute to French furniture design over the past three decades. There are 40 prototypes including big names like Philippe Starck and Ligne Roset.




Via. Design 3.0 exhibition

Films & documentaries 2009

I love films and documentaries but I am not a fan of Hollywood blockbusters, the films I watch are usually not very mainstream. I find many of the Hollywood films shallow, unrealistic and predictable. Luckily, more independent and foreign films are being acknowledged and appreciated worldwide in recent years, which I think is a healthier sign for the film industry.

Since I am not a professtional film critic, I did not manage to see all the critically acclaimed films in 2009 like Coen brother's A serious man, Von Trier’s Antichrist (which doesn't appeal to me very much), Fish Tank, The prophet, Still walking and The class etc. But hopefully I will get a chance to watch them when they are out on DVD... Here are the ones I did manage to see either in cinemas, on TV/DVD and inflight entertainment...

My favourite 2009 film:

Up
I didn't know what to expect from this animation, but given Pixar's track record, I knew it would be pretty good. Actually it turned out to be my favourite film of the year! It is delightful, emotional and inspirational, it really should have won the Best Film category at the Oscars!

The good:

Let the right one in (2008) - I got free tickets to see this rather odd Swedish Vampire film and was pleasantly surprised by it. It is quirky, original, atmospheric and well acted. This is so much better than Twilight, I just hope that Hollywood will not do a remake on this!

The white ribbon - An ambitious film by Michael Haneke, and quite different from his previous work like Cache, La Pianiste and Funny games. This film is subtle, thought-provoking and it reminds me of 'To kill a mockingbird' or films made decades ago about moral issues and social injustices. It's rare to see a film like this nowadays, the acting, directing and cinematography are all superb. A truly remarkable achievement.

Departures (2008) - This Oscar-winning Japanese film deals with a subject that is still quite a taboo - death, even though it is something that happens around us everyday. The Japanese's professionalism and perfectionism are clearly demonstrated in this film, and even though the subject matter is serious, the direcor managed to add humour into it without making it look silly or disrespectful. Masahiro Motoki is very good in this but I feel that Ryoko Hirosue is a miscast, her acting is quite weak compare to the rest of the cast. However, this is only a minor issue and doesn't affect the overall quality of the film.

500 days of summer - Everyone was raving about this film over the summer period, but I didn't manage to see it until autumn. I wasn't expecting much but to my surprise, I really enjoyed it. It is light, refreshing and very 'now'... the story is simple but told in a rather 'non-Hollywood' style. The plot and acting are convincing, and it shows what modern relationships are really like, which sadly most of us have probably been through at some point in our lives. Hollywood should realise that their audiences no longer want to see 'fairy tale' style romantic comedies, it is films like this that really connects with the audiences.

Is anybody there? (2008) - I actually watched this on a long-haul flight and was rather touched by it! Very well acted by the entire cast and a faultless performance by Michael Caine. A British film that deals with aging, death and dysfunctional family may sound a bit grim, it is actually well-handled without being too sentimental nor depressing. It is probably not a film that will change your life, but it is a quality film about life and death.

Broken embraces - Pedro Almodóvar is one of those directors who keeps evolving and maturing over time. Many of the Almodóvar elements are still here, i.e. the bright colours, glamour, passion and dark secrets... Penelope Cruz really shines in this, partly because she is much more natural acting in Spanish. Almodóvar's style is one of a kind and he is a very good story-teller, although this is not his most creative, it is his most mature film to date.

24 City (2008) - A documentary-style film directed by the 6th generation of Chinese director, Zhang Ke Jia. This film gives us a glimpse of how China has changed over the past few decades through a group of factory (420) workers. It is well-paced, calm and insightful, personally, I think it is better than his critically acclaimed 'Still living'. Zhang is one of the most interesting young Chinese directors at the moment, I just hope that fame will not turn him into another Zhang Yimou!

Slumdog millionaire (2008) - Need I say more about this? I have always liked Danny Boyle's work, but unlike most people, this is not my favourite, I still think Trainspotting and Shallow grave were his best work. Cinematography is his strength, as we can see in this colourful and vibrant film set in India. At the end of day, this is a fairy tale with an unlikely hero... it is more mainstream than his previous work but the acting, directing, editing and cinematography are all excellent. I am not sure about all the Oscars but if you compare this to Titanic, then it definitely deserved the recognition it received.

Cloud 9 (2008) - This film really surprised me! Not only the plot is unusual, the acting is just superb. It feels raw and real. Probably like many in the cinema, the sex scenes did make me cringe at first, but I got over it pretty quickly. The point is not about the sex, it is about aging, emotions, dreams, family, romance and our society today... Is it ever too late to fall in love? Is responsibility more important than our feelings? What are the consequences when we put our self-interest before everything else? A thought-provoking and genuine film.

Grey gardens (TV film)
Despite being a T.V. film, this is a high quality one rather than a cheesy Danielle Steel one. I watched the original documentary about 3 years ago and found it rather depressing. This film provides viewers with a bit more background information on the relationship between Little Edie and Big Edie and it answers a lot of the questions raised from the original documentary. The performances are almost faultless, both Drew Barrymore and Jessica Lange are convincing as the eccentric and tragic characters. It definitely makes me want to re-watch the documentary again...

The moon inside you (Documentary)
A very interesting documentary that deals with a still taboo subject, menstration. I attended the screening with a director's Q & A session, and it surprised me so much by the difficulties she faced when trying to get the documentary shown or distributed. The film shows how ignorant and insane some people are... including a famous doctor in South America... shocking and fascinating.

Kim Jong Il's Comedy Club (Documentary)
Unlike Kimjongilia (see below), this Danish documentary adopted a lighter and more unusual approach to reveal the society under the rule of Kim Jong Il. The film follows a Danish film-maker and two South Koreans/ Danish comedians who were granted permission to perform at the National theatre. It is refreshing and informative in a rather amusing manner and it depicts the way things work in their society esp. when it comes to dealing with disabled people. An insightful but humourous documentary that is deeper than it sounds.

Not bad:

Avatar - Need I say more? Technically and visually spectacular, the storyline is very 'now' and carries important messages. However, I am disappointed by some of the cliches in the film, although I haven't seen the Hurt Locker, I am just glad that this didn't sweep all the major awards at the Oscars.

Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008) - Not Woody Allen's best, but it is much better than his other recent films. I find Scarlett Johansson over-rated and annoying, Penelope Cruz is good but not sure about the Oscar. I rather like Rebecca Hall's subtle performance. Not exactly a deep film, but at least it is light and entertaining.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008) - I think Cate Blanchett is one of the most versatile and balanced actresses in Hollywood today. She shines in almost all her roles and this is no exception. Honestly, I don't think Brad Pitt can act, but he is not bad in this one. This is a romance/ fantasy, though not very deep; it is much more engaging than 'The time traveler's wife'.

Accident - I watched this on the plane without much expectation because I was kinda bored of the H.K. crime thrillers! But then I became quite intrigued by the rather unusual plot after the first 10 mins. The storyline is flawed but the overall standard of production is high esp. with the score and cinematography. The acting is subtle but quite powerful, since it's produced by Johnnie To, the film does resembles some of To's films like 'The Mission' and 'Exiled'. Despite the disappointing ending, it is a stylish and dark H.K. crime thriller.

An education - It's hard to dislike this film, it's about dreams, rebellion, love and life. The storyline is quite predictable but Carey Mulligan delivered a strong and convincing performance, probably not Oscar-winning but excellent given her age and experiences. Finally, we are not stuck with just Keira and Sienna...

35 shots of rum (2008)
A homage to Ozu, Claire Denis' slow, meditative and sensitive approach may not everyone's cup of tea. The film focuses on an intimate (almost too intimate) relationship between a father and his daughter, there's little dialogue and nothing much happens. Nonetheless, it is a well-crafted and detailed film, but you need to be in the right mood to watch this, otherwise, it might just send you to sleep.

Soloist:
Despite the mixed reviews from critcs, I rather enjoyed this. I don't think it is a mainstream Hollywood film, which probably explains why it didn't do THAT well at the box office, even with stars like Robert Downey Jr and Jamie Foxx in it. The two actors gave solid and convincing performances throughout and the film shows a very different side of L.A., it's far from the glitzy and glamour of Hollywood but probably a more realistic one. I think this film should have received more recognition than it did.

Picture me: A model's diary (Documentary)
A documentary on the seedy side of the fashion industry made by model, Sara Ziff and her then boyfriend. This should be shown to all the young girls who aspire to become the new Kate Moss. Since I have attended and worked backstage at fashion shows, I am not surprised by the stories and am glad that I got out of the industry before it drove me insane. I don't think the industry will change just because of this but it's essential for the public to know the reality behind the glamour and glitz.

The September issue (Documentary)
Is this Anna Wintour's response/ defence to 'The devil wears Prada'? How much of the 'real' Anna do we see in this? I think 'real' moments were when she talked about her siblings and when she interacted with her daughter. But the person who really shines in this documentary is Grace Coddington... she seems like a genuine person who is passionate about her work rather than for the fame/ego and money and that is very rare in the articial world of fashion.

Objectified (Documentary)
An insightful documentary on product designs today. It is not exactly cutting-edge, but it is about our society today and the products we use everyday. The part where Jonathan Ive explains his 'Apple' design process is particular interesting.

Mixed:

Inglourious Basterds - Tarantino has proved that he is good at spotting talents and creating 'fusion' films. The best things about this film are 1. Christoph Waltz and 2. Most of the European casts (although I think that Daniel Bruhl was a bit 'wasted' in this). Brad Pitt has proved that he really can't act and honestly, the extreme violence was quite unneccessary. It is a very Tarantino film, but definitely not one of his best...

The headless woman (2008)
Lucrecia Martel's newest film received great reviews from the critics, but personally, I have very mixed feelings about this film. Like her other film, 'La ciénaga', this film subtly reveals issues like family dysfunctionality and class systems in Argentina today, as well as a dark and forgotten history. I understand the director's intentional detached approach, and I think she has succeeded in conveying the confused, distant and dreamlike state that the main character was experiencing. We, as audiences, were constantly trying to figure out who is related to who and what really did happen. It's not just a hit-and-run film, it deals with a lot of deeper social issues but it is not an easy film to like or digest after just one viewing.

Two lovers (2008)
A rather dark and complex love story where Joaquin Phoenix (before he gained weight, grew a beard and turned into a rapper!) is torn between 2 women. There is nothing ground-breaking but the acting is good and consistent throughout. I usually find Gwyneth Paltrow irritating but she is well-casted in this. I hope that Joanquin will end his 'hoax' and start acting again, it will be a shame if he quits for good!

Overheard - A Hong Kong cop thriller that is a bit different from the usual triad theme. The concept is interesting and the acting not bad, but the ending is feeble and mediocre. A bit of an anticlimax.

In the loop - I can't figure out whether I like this political drama/ comedy or not, on one hand, it is brave with very dry British humour, on the other hand, it is also harsh (very in your face) with almost unbelievable characters. The film deals with a very sensitive issue and makes a mockery of the both the US & British governments and politicians. Like it or not, it is definitely one of a kind...

Claustrophobia (2008) - I was quite looking forward to seeing this Hong Kong romance but was left a bit disappointed. The backward sequence style is nothing new but it is not the issue. My problem is with Karena Lam's character, Pearl... I find it hard to sympathise/ feel for her, her sensitivity just gets on my nerves! I don't mind the subtlety and non-verbal moments, but I didn't feel emotionally engaged and wasn't even concerned with whether the affair took place or not because I felt detached throughout. Not a bad effort by the 1st time H.K. director/ script writer, but there is definitely room for improvement.

The Young Victoria - I know that many people like this film, but for some reason, I don't have much feeling towards it. The sets, wardrobe and performances are fine but it just seems rather straight-forward and dull.

Three Monkeys (2008) - Although the Turkish director, Nuri Bilge Ceylan won the best director award at Cannes 2008, I find it hard to like or digest this film. It is atmospheric, subtle, tragic and slow-paced, but I felt quite detached throughout. Although technically brilliant and performances excellent, it didn not move me, unlike his last film, 'Climates', which I thought was excellent and emotionally-engaging.

If you are the one (2008) - This romance about a middle-age man looking for love was a big hit in China. It is sensitive and funny at times with good performances from both of the leads, but I feel that something is missing... Perhaps it tries too hard, at times it just seems a bit awkward.

Coco avant Chanel - A rather flat and safe biopic of an intriguing, unconventional and revoluntionary character. The film completely misses the target, although it is not a bad film, it's just a bit dull and shallow. Audrey Tautou's performance is decent but nowhere near the amazing portrial of Edith Piaf by Marion Cotillard 2 years ago. It is a bit unfair to compare the two but it's also hard not to... it's probably best to read the biography if you want to know the real Coco Chanel.

Il Divo (2008) - I know the critics love this slick Italian political film, but I can't help thinking that it is rather over hyped. Perhaps it is due to my lack of knowledge in the Italian political world, but even after talking to my Italian friend about it, I still felt that something was lacking for me. It is stylish, cool, controlled and ambitious, but I also found it a bit pretentious. After watching 'The Consequences of Love', I realised that it is Sorrentino's cold and rather detached style of direction that bothers me. Perhaps I need to view more of work to be convinced...

Amalfi
This is a Japanese thriller set in Italy about a kidnapping case, yet it feels more like an Italian tourism promotion for the Japanese market. Beautiful setting with a rather unconvincing storyline, but the two leads kept me in my seat (I was on a long-haul flight)! I never used to like Yûji Oda esp. when he did 'Tokyo love story' (a popular Japanese comic/TV series), but he has aged quite well and looks good as a cool and serious diplomat. Yuki Amami is convincing as a desperate single mother and the fact that the writer didn't add a cheesy love story earned it some extra credit.

The age of stupid (Documentary)
This documentary deals with the most talked-about issue of our time: climate change. The film gives a lot of evidence to support climate change and it does contain some thought-provoking information. Although I believe that climate change is man-made and is threatening us and our planet, I can't help but feel that politicians and many others are using this as a propaganda tool. Who is telling the truth and who isn't? Who is secretly profiting from manupulating the public? It's so hard to tell in this day and age...

Kimjongilia (Documentary)
I watched this documentary at a film festival and found it rather disturbing and depressing. The director interviewed many North Koreans who escaped from the regime yet paid huge prices (not just in terms of money) as consequences. The stories are emotional, sad and disturbing and they make you feel fortunate to be able to enjoy freedom, democracy and human rights etc. The film is well made and edited, however, it is very straight-forward and biased, it does not leave room for the viewers to judge or think for themselves. Perhaps the director was strongly affected by the stories told but is this good documentary-making? I have my doubts...

Disappointing:

Public enemies - I think Michael Mann is a good director, but this is another disappointment after Miami Vice. Johnny Depp looks cool (he hasn't looked 'normal' for quite a while!), but the film is just so-so and not outstanding. Christian Bale and Marion Cotillard are wasted in this, such a shame!

The Time Traveler's Wife - This film just didn't do it for me, I wasn't moved at all! And what a waste of Eric Bana!

Visage/ Face - Tsai Ming-liang's latest film is beautifully shot with an impressive cast. There are some memorable scenes, but on the whole, it is inconsistent, pretentious and self-indulgent. It just shows that bigger budgets do not necessarily create better films, he has made much better films with lower budgets.

Duplicity - I like Clive Owen and I thought he and Julia Roberts worked well together in Closer, but this film is too confusing, unconvincing and superficial. There are many 'smart' dialogues, twists and turns and intimate scenes, it is fine as a 'popcorn movie' but do not expect more from it. And personally I think Julia Roberts has lost some of her charm since she became a mother!

Red Cliff (2008) - Very disappointing despite all the big names attached to this! There are just too many unnecessary sentimental cliches (Mr Woo's favourite) and some of the dialogues are just cheesy and silly. If you are a guy and only want to watch battle/ fight scenes, then maybe this is for you, but otherwise there is not much else...

A prayer for the new decade...

I am not a religious person. I attended Christian/ Protestant schools all my life but have never felt any strong sense of connection towards Christianity. I used to pray almost daily when I was a kid but it was for all sorts of selfish reasons i.e. I will be good if God can make my stomach pain goes away etc. It was quite silly and I gave up praying as I turned into a teenager. Then in my early 20s, I became interested in Buddhism and New age spirituality. I read books by Shirley Maclaine about her spiritual journey and was completely fascinated by the subject. At the same time, I also became interested in meditation, tarot cards, astrology, Chinese astrology & fortune telling... But just like a fashion fad, my interests came and went quite quickly. I guess I was too young and hedonistic to truly understand and sustain my interests.

Until about 2 years ago, I really thought I knew what happiness was... I have had a pretty good life, financially secured, happily married with family and friends who love and care for me. I was enjoying life to the fullest... dining in Michelin starred restaurants, traveling leisurely on regular basis and staying at some of the best hotels in the world. Then suddenly everything started to crumble right in front me (including myself), and I couldn't stop it. I was completely helpless, and during the most difficult time, I turned to psychotherapy, Buddhism and meditation for support.

After a few months of psychotherapy sessions and endless of self-help books, I realised that they were just short-term solutions. In order to heal properly, I started to meditate daily and read books on Buddhist teachings. Two years on and I can say that I am more positive, focus and content. My happiness does not come from external sources but from within. Although I still enjoy certain luxuries and nice meals occasionally, I know that they are not essential to me. I don't like to be labeled as a 'Buddhist', but to me, Buddhist teachings make sense and they help me to become a better person. For the past year or so, my life has changed gradually and positively, and I know that I could never go back to the hedonistic way of living again.

Over the New Year, I spent days at a meditation retreat with hundred of strangers and it turned out to be the most meaningful and unique New Year I have ever had in my life. I have never liked New Year's eve because of the expectations, I have spent the past New Years around the world... in spa hotel, upscale restaurants, dinner parties, house parties, private clubs, night clubs and even at home, but they were all dull and pointless. Hence I was determined to change all that this year esp. because it was the end of a decade. All my friends and family looked at me funny when I announced my New Year plan, but when they saw how positive and energetic I was afterwards, they began to understand why I did it.

After being cut off from the outside world for days, I couldn't watch the news when I got home because everything was so negative. The world didn't change THAT much over those few days, but my mindset did. We had generated so much positive energy between us that I became ultra sensitive to anything negative. Although personally I feel more positive about my future, realistically, I don't feel the same way about the future of this world.

We are now living in a very dangerous world, not only it is more divided than ever in terms of race, religions and wealth, we are also facing a crisis in our ecosystem. Most people in the wealthy and developed nations are more concerned with their economies, but personally I think this crisis is just what we need after years of prosperity. It is now the time to reflect and look inwards. If we want to make the world a better place, we need to start within ourselves. We need to re-evaluate our values, goals and purposes. Most people claim that their ultimate goal in life is to be happy, but what does happiness mean? Is it to find Mr Right, have some kids and live in a suburban house with a garden? Is it to become the CEO of a multi-billion dollar company? Or is it to win the X factor and become famous overnight? Yet why do so many of us still feel empty after achieving our goals?

In Buddhism, it is said that human sufferings are caused by desire. We humans don't seem to learn from our past lessons and we repeat the same mistakes over and over again. We believe that power, status, money, romantic love and beauty (all external factors) can bring us true happiness, and we want control over every aspects of our lives. But of course we always end up disappointed and disillusioned when things start to fall apart or are beyond our control. Why are people surprised about the collapse of the Western banking system and financial crisis in Dubai? To me, they seemed inevitable because people just got too greedy. And I can see this happening again in the future, especially in the up and coming countries like China, India, Brazil and Russia (In fact, Russia has also been affected by the recent economic crisis). Unless they learn from the mistakes made by the developed countries, they will not be exempt from similar crisis in the future.

My prayer for the new decade is that we, as human beings, must learn to control our desire, and we need to understand that instant gratifications do not bring us true happiness. Of course it is not realistic to try to abandon all our desire because we are not monks or nuns, but we need to know that being selfish and ignorant will get us nowhere and subsequently it will only cause more damage to our world/ planet. We all have the power to change the world and make things better, but we must start from within and then we can educate the next generation and hope that they can use their knowledge and power to do good in the years to come. I have no idea what will happen within the next ten years, but I will try my best to fulfill my role as a responsible citizen of this world.