I FINALLY READ A BOOK AND I DIDN'T LIKE IT

Xinmei Liu

The Song of Everlasting Sorrow
by Wang Anyi

Columbia University Press | March 1, 2008

     Set in post-World War II Shanghai, "The Song of Everlasting Sorrow" follows the adventures of Wang Qiyao, a girl born of the "longtong," the crowded, labyrinthine alleys of Shanghai's working-class neighborhoods.
     Infatuated with the glitz and glamour of 1940s Hollywood, Wang Qiyao seeks fame in the Miss Shanghai beauty pageant, and this fleeting moment of stardom becomes the pinnacle of her life. During the next four decades, Wang Qiyao indulges in the decadent pleasures of pre-liberation Shanghai, secretly playing mahjong during the antirightist Movement and exchanging lovers on the eve of the Cultural Revolution. Surviving the vicissitudes of modern Chinese history, Wang Qiyao emerges in the 1980s as a purveyor of "old Shanghai"--a living incarnation of a new, commodified nostalgia that prizes splendor and sophistication--only to become embroiled in a tragedy that echoes the pulpy Hollywood noirs of her youth.
     From the violent persecution of communism to the liberalism and openness of the age of reform, this sorrowful tale of old China versus new, of perseverance in the face of adversity, is a timeless rendering of our never-ending quest for transformation and beauty. 

I GUESS I'M A FILM/ANIME REVIEW BLOG NOW... I'LL TRY TO READ

After watching Hotarubi no Mori e, which I have a "review" for on my blog, I wanted to watch more sad animes. One of the most highly suggested movies was Wolf Children. I saw clips of it on Youtube, I read the synopsis, and I wasn't that intrigued; in fact, I was a little weirded out after I saw the clip where Wolf Man reveals that he is a werewolf to Hana, and the next thing they decide to do is make babies... Not how I would react if I found out the guy I've been seeing is a werewolf, but you do you!

THE LAST OF REWATCHING GHIBLI

WHY REDO A HITCHCOCK CLASSIC

REWATCHING GHIBLI XI, XII, XIII, XIV, + XV

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

Like every other person in the book community, I heard the news about Midnight Sun, and though I won't be reading it, I am considering rereading The Twilight Saga to torture myself/gain a new perspective. After the news came out, hilarious Twilight memes started to bombard my Instagram discover page. These fans love the series and aren't afraid to make fun of it, which I love. Seeing them so invested in the characters with imagining the possible dialogues and scenarios convinced me that I missed out on something during my reading and viewing. Plus, everyone's rewatching it.

REWATCHING GHIBLI VII |THE WORST GHIBLI FILM

I have never watched this movie, and I wish it stayed that way because it tarnishes Studio Ghibli's reputation because it is shallow, a shitty teen romance movie from the 90s, and an insult to other less shitty teen romance movies. Don't watch it. I didn't even finish it because it was that awful.

ADDICTIVE HORROR MANGA

Diner

Written by Hirayama Yumeaki

Illustrated by Kawai Takanori

I am a scaredy-cat, so I rarely ever delve into anything horror-related. I forgot how I came across this messed-up and grotesque manga, but I don't have any regrets. I only finished 6 volumes, but it took me three times to get here.

REWATCHING GHIBLI VI

Porco Rosso was one of those films I rewatched multiple times as a child because it's the few CDs I still had in my possession, it's weird, and I want to understand what it all means! With Ghibli films, you must accept the inexplicable, even if you are dying to have an explanation because that's what Miyazaki intended. Look what happened to me with Castle in the Sky. I was fixated on "plot-holes" that I ended up hating the movie, even though I enjoyed the heart/camaraderie. I have to accept that he's a pig, an actual pig. 

I READ THE OURAN MANGA

Every shoujo-loving person has encountered Ouran Highschool Host Club in their career. I first came across the series, the dubbed version, on the Funimation channel. I still can't believe they were on cable, and I was heart-broken when they left because there are little to no animes on TV in America, especially ones that play throughout the day. I was drawn to the bright colors and flashy characters. Tamaki is ridiculous, and everyone has stilts for legs! I loved the crazy antics they got into, and the elaborate costumes for every club meeting. This comedy about wealthy elites' children and their free time was quality entertainment. 

I NEED TO STOP READING TEEN ROMANCE FOR A WHILE

Crave (Crave #1)

by Tracy Wolff
Entangled Teen / Tantor Audio | April 7, 2020

     My whole world changed when I stepped inside the academy. Nothing is right about this place or the other students in it. Here I am, a mere mortal among gods…or monsters. I still can’t decide which of these warring factions I belong to, if I belong at all. I only know the one thing that unites them is their hatred of me.

     Then there’s Jaxon Vega. A vampire with deadly secrets who hasn’t felt anything for a hundred years. But there’s something about him that calls to me, something broken in him that somehow fits with what’s broken in me.

     Which could spell death for us all.

     Because Jaxon walled himself off for a reason. And now someone wants to wake a sleeping monster, and I’m wondering if I was brought here intentionally—as the bait.

REWATCHING GHIBLI V

I've never watched Only Yesterday before, so I was looking forward to learning why it has 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. This movie is different from what I've watched so far because Isao Takahata directed this movie. From what I remember about the 10 Years with Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata was his artistic rival; he challenged Miyaki with his interesting story-telling choices. From what I've seen so far from Takahata, I agree that he makes interesting choices. I'm basing this off of Gauche the Cellist, Grave of the Fireflies, and Pom Poko. While there are whimsical elements to these stories that appeal to a younger audience, they seem more "adult-oriented."

TORTURE DOWN TEEN ROMANCE LANE V

I doubt anybody knows this series, but I will be rereading the Gods & Monsters series by Kelly Keaton. This series is probably unknown for a reason. It's one of the many things I read on PulseIt, now called RivetedLit. I have a history of not enjoying books from this publisher, so maybe I will do a whole reread dedicated to this publisher, LOL! I am sure the reason I liked this series was because of the romance, but as I continued with the series, I realized how awful it was (the romance and the plot.) I do remember this is set in New Orleans, but it's dark and somewhat post-apocalyptic. I also remember that it has some Greek mythology. It's tragic to see stories with potential fail. 

Note: the Goodreads summaries have more spoilers than my reviews. If you are interested in this series, don't read the summaries (they're in a blockquote,) read the reviews. 

REWATCHING GHIBLI IV

Unfortunately for me, I could only find a dubbed version of this movie, so parts of the story are a little different than the Japanese version. I was hesitant to rewatch this movie because I always felt ambivalent towards it as a child. It's cute, watch it once, move on. I don't remember itching to watch this movie when my uncle took and lost my CD versions: I didn't feel much of a loss. While Kiki's Delivery Service is lighter than some Ghibli films, it has more depth than My Neighbor Totoro. There is both naivety and maturity to the story that makes it alluring and rewatchable at any age. 

REWATCHING STUDIO GHIBLI III

When I think of My Neighbor Totoro, I always have warm and fuzzy feelings because I believe this is the first Studio Ghibli movie I have ever watched as a child. In Cantonese, I use this movie metonymously to represent the production company itself. Totoro is a beloved character that's been made into plushies, t-shirts, puzzles, and other merch which I probably own. Since everybody, including myself loves this character, I was afraid to rewatch this movie. 

AMÉLIE MEETS RICK & MORTY

I professed earlier this year that my new favorite movie was Léon: The Professional, but that has already changed in three months! This movie was weird and unique. I was enthralled with the art, fast-paced story, and quirky characters. Night is Short, Walk On Girl is one of the best things I have watched this year. 

REWATCHING STUDIO GHIBLI II

I can't help but compare Castle in the Sky to Nausicaä, which I watched and reviewed a couple of weeks ago. Because Nausicaä is still fresh in my mind, I realized how similar they are in terms of art, story, and themes; however, I can say Nausicaä is the better movie out of the two, mainly because I was not left with too many questions and plot holes. This will have minor spoilers, so beware!

MUSIC MONDAYS

I have a lot more time to discover new music during this quarantine, and music has helped me get through this time. Here are some songs I have been listening to on repeat! I hope you find something new/something you enjoy on this list. 

REWATCHING STUDIO GHIBLI I

After watching the four-part documentary called "10 Years with Hayao Miyazaki" (you can watch it for free too with English subtitles here, I highly recommend it), I have a newfound respect and understanding for Miyazaki's films. I will be omitting Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, Howl's Moving Castle, Whisper of the Heart, and Grave of Fireflies from my list, due to the fact I have rewatched them previously, and still have a lasting impression of them. Also, I don't want to break my heart, again, watching the last movie of what I just listed. I will be rewatching Ghibli Films in the order they were released. If you are a die-hard Studio Ghibli fan, I think you know what I'm about to review...

ANIME REVIEW | APPLYING KANT TO ANIME?!

Whenever a conversation about anime strikes up, I always recommend these animes because they are some of my favorites: Soul Eater, Naruto, Blue Exorcist, Kaichou wa Maid-Sama, Kamisama Kiss, Asobi Asobase, Death Parade, Paradies Kiss, You Lie in April, and Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica. I'll tailor recommendations, but these are all great. I rewatched Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica in hopes of finding something new and crying my eyes out. 

TOSS A COIN TO YOUR OUTLIER

The Witcher appeared everywhere on social media and real-life: Geralt's bath scene, toss your coin to your witcher song, Jaskier and Geralt's bromance, and conversations with people. I avoided watching this show because I am not a fan of shows; I prefer movies because they're shorter and less of a commitment. Also, everyone kept comparing this show to Game of Thrones. I don't hate the latter; I'm just not a die-hard fan. 

QUARANTINE MUSIC MONDAY

Hi everyone! I've been cross-stitching my biggest project to date, so I've been listening to a lot of music and watching videos to keep me entertained as I stitch. 

QUARANTINE 2 | WHAT I AM READING & BOOK HAUL

Hello everybody! How are you? I hope you are well. I'm not gonna repeat all the descriptions and instructions people have written and said. I want y'all to know I moved my desk chair somewhere, so I am sitting on top of a trashcan while typing this post on my desk. All about them cold openings here on my blog!

QUARANTINE | POST I

Hello everyone! I hope everyone is well. A long time has passed since my last post. Now that classes are online, I have a little more time to pursue hobbies and read. Hopefully, there will be a book review soon; I recently placed an order for some new books! My spending has been out of control because of social-distancing. What are you guys doing? What are you watching? Drop some recommendations in the comments. I'd love to catch up with you guys. 

LATE TO THE MOVIES and to finishing this post

Bohemian Rhapsody

I didn't watch BR in theaters when it came out because I wanted to cry in the privacy of my own home, which I did, twice. I like Queen, I am not familiar with their entire discography, only their famous hits, but I do love what I've heard. Unfortunately, I didn't have the opportunity to listen to them while Freddie was alive, like how I had a chance to listen to Bowie while he was alive. Their music left an impact on my life that I was unaware of. When I was in elementary school, I would do the stomp-clap rhythm from We Will Rock You in the cafeteria, I would sing "we are the champions," and I didn't find out that was Queen until a while later. 

I LOVE PRIDE AND PREJUDICE MOST ARDENTLY

My love for Mr. Darcy the series was reignited after watching the television series (a.k.a the best adaptation.) This is my justification. 

THE MOST IMPORTANT REVIEW OF 2020

The Queen of Nothing
by Holly Black
Little, Brown and Company | November 19, 2019

     He will be the destruction of the crown and the ruination of the throne.
     Power is much easier to acquire than it is to hold on to. Jude learned that lesson when she released her control over the wicked king, Cardan, in exchange for immeasurable power.
      Now, as the exiled mortal Queen of Faerie, Jude is left reeling from Cardan's betrayal. She bides her time, determined to reclaim everything he took from her. Opportunity arrives in the form of her deceptive twin sister, Taryn, whose mortal life is in peril.
      Jude must risk venturing back into the treacherous Faerie Court, and confront her lingering feelings for Cardan, if she wishes to save her sister. But Elfhame is not as she left it. War is brewing. As Jude slips deep within enemy lines, she becomes ensnared in the conflict's bloody politics.
     And when a terrible curse is unleashed, panic spreads throughout the land, forcing her to choose between her ambition and her humanity...

RINGING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH CIRCE

Circe
by Madeline Miller
Little, Brown and Company | April 10, 2018

    In the house of Helios, god of the sun and mightiest of the Titans, a daughter is born. But Circe is a strange child—not powerful, like her father, nor viciously alluring like her mother. Turning to the world of mortals for companionship, she discovers that she does possess power—the power of witchcraft, which can transform rivals into monsters and menace the gods themselves.
    Threatened, Zeus banishes her to a deserted island, where she hones her occult craft, tames wild beasts and crosses paths with many of the most famous figures in all of mythology, including the Minotaur, Daedalus and his doomed son Icarus, the murderous Medea, and, of course, wily Odysseus.
    But there is danger, too, for a woman who stands alone, and Circe unwittingly draws the wrath of both men and gods, ultimately finding herself pitted against one of the most terrifying and vengeful of the Olympians. To protect what she loves most, Circe must summon all her strength and choose, once and for all, whether she belongs with the gods she is born from, or the mortals she has come to love.