/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66873808/Screen_Shot_2020_05_29_at_2.52.41_PM.0.png)
I HAVEN'T BEEN READING, BUT ARE WE REALLY SURPRISED?
This semester is kicking my butt with these lengthy, but not always unbearable, readings and numerous homework assignments—the usual suspects. I'm mainly reading translations of Modern Chinese fiction, American-Latin American relationships, and racism in the United States. I've tried getting back to reading, like Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World by Murakami, but I was so lost on the first page, which could be due to my mental state or the fact that it's a Murakami novel. I recently deleted Animal Crossing Pocket Camp, so I have more free time, which will be dedicated to watching films/movies. If you got a movie recommendation, send it my way!
MY NEW THOUGHTS ON REBECCA
On numerous occasions, I have hailed Rebecca as one of my favorite books and a Classic I would recommend to covert Classic-haters. Four years after my initial reading, I have a newfound appreciation for the writing and a better understanding of the protagonist, but my qualms with the development were amplified. It pains to me say this, especially since I've praised it for so long and my respect for it, but it can be a real bore!
On another note, I've also done a little more research on Daphne du Maurier. I found this article from The Guardian, which will open in a new window, incredibly fascinating. Reading this article affected how I read and interpreted Mrs. Danver's spiel after the ball, giving me a whole new perspective on the characters and the author.
REWATCHING GHIBLI IIX, IX, X + BONUS
Pom Poko
I remembered this strange movie as raccoons who can transform with their scrotums hanging out. Even as a child, I got the message of protecting the environment and considering the impact one has on other living creatures: they lay it on pretty thick. With this viewing, which took me most of the day, I didn't feel anything new or develop a newfound appreciation for it as I have for other films. I was amused by the tanuki's antics and dazzled by the animations during the parade full of Japanese mythological figures, but it wasn't exciting or ground-breaking throughout. The plot became repetitive and depressing because of their repeated failures. And when the ending came, it felt sudden and rushed. Am I missing something? It felt like a defeat. Well, it was a defeat after all... This movie is bittersweet: it has adorable and hilarious raccoons, but its final message was, "even if you start paying attention now, it's too late. You should have recognized earlier."
ENJOYING TV FOR ONCE
As someone that has boldly claimed to hate TV and prefer movies over in this post, I would like to take back my words because I have recently and immensely enjoyed one, and I mildly enjoyed another one, but we'll get to that later.
RESPECT FOR THE GRAY-HAIRED CHARACTERS
Not sure if any of you guys are familiar with the animated movie Big Fish & Begonia because it's in Chinese, but you should definitely watch it if you like Chinese culture or enjoyed Studio Ghibli films, specifically Spirited Away. Some parts paid homage to the filmmakers, borderline replica (the water dragon flying into the "sky," mouse-version Yubaba, and more,) yet there is a distinct Chinese flavor.
I STILL LOATHE SHAKESPEARE
Romeo and Juliet
by William Shakespeare
In Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare creates a violent world, in which two young people fall in love. It is not simply that their families disapprove; the Montagues and the Capulets are engaged in a blood feud.
In this death-filled setting, the movement from love at first sight to the lovers’ final union in death seems almost inevitable. And yet, this play set in an extraordinary world has become the quintessential story of young love. In part because of its exquisite language, it is easy to respond as if it were about all young lovers.
REWATCHING TWILIGHT AND BREAKING DAWN PART 2
