Broken vow...

Larawan sa Friendster
Ni Ronelo S. Ladiao

“I’m beautifully broken and I don’t care if you know it, I’m beautifully broken and I don’t mind if I show it…”
Lines from ‘Beautifully Broken’ By Ashlee Simpson

Napapikit ako. Ang mga hilam na luha ko’y umagos sa aking pisngi na parang dugo mula sa kaibuturan ng aking pusong pinapatay ng katotohanan. Katotohanan na kailanman ay hindi na kami magkikita pa.
Pero iminulat ko pa rin ang aking mga mata at itinuloy ang aking ginagawa sa internet, sa Friendster. Login name: rslphoenix@yahoo.com, password: hex77…you have one friend request. Tiningnan ko muna kung sino ang nais dumagdag sa napakaraming kaibigan ko sa Friendster. Nagulat ako sa nakalagay na larawan niya. Isang lumilipad na saranggola ang larawan niya at “J” daw ang palayaw niya. Ah, Bahala siya…friend request: cancel.
Tumunog ang cellphone ko dahil may teks. Naku, nagteks ang kaklase ko at mahuhuli na raw ako sa klase ni Sir Frank, instrikto pa naman ‘yon. Patakbo akong lumabas sa internet station papunta sa University matapos akong maglag-out sa Friendster at magbayad sa kahera.
“ Aba, may isa pang bakasyunista na nahuli sa klase,” insulto ng mataray kong propesor sa Pol Sci nang pumasok ako sa pintuan ng classroom. Pero hindi ako naapektuhan sa kanyang sinabi, sa halip iba ang bumabagabag sa isipan ko nitong nakaraang linggo. Nasaktan talaga ako sa biglaan at walang paalam na pagpunta ni Ricardo sa Australiav kasama ang kanyang mga magulang. Hindi ko matanggap sa kaloob-looban ko na kaya niya akong iwanan sa kabila ng malalim na pinagsamahan namin mula pa noong hayskul hanggang magkolehiyo kami.
Siya ang tangi kong bestfriend sa hayskul at nang pumasok kami sa parehong paaralan sa kolehiyo, niligawan niya ako nang tumuntong kami sa third year. Kung kailan ko pa naman siya sinagot sa panliligaw niya noong nakaraang lingo, saka pa siya naglaho na walang paalam at nalaman ko pa ito sa kanyang kaibigan.
Sinubukan kong magteks at magpadala ng mensahe sa Friendster ngunit wala akong napalang kasagutan mula sa kanya. Ang kaligayahn ko sa piling niya noon ay napalitan ng masamang panaginip sa pag-ibig, isang malalim na sugat ang iniwan niya.
“Miss Rhenia Sanchez, ang sabi ko sa inyo kumuha ng papel at may long quiz tayo ngayon!,” medyo galit na wika ni Sir Frank. Naku, paano na ito? Hindi pa naman ako nagreview kagabi dahil sa kakaisip ko sa aking problema at pagbabad sa internet na nagbabakasakaling sagutin man lang ni Ricardo ang mensahe ko sa Friendster. Ngayon blangko talaga ang utak ko dahil sa aking pusong tuliro.
“Psst, classmate huwag kang maingay dahil pakokopyahin kita ng answers sa long quiz ni Sir,” napalingon ako sa sinabi ng aking katabi. Aba, napakabait naman pala nang isang ‘to at alam pa yata niya na dehado na ako sa pagsusulit. Sige na nga at kahit papano ay may isang mala-anghel na kaklase ko ang sumaklolo sa akin na ang pangalan ay…
“…Richard, salamat talaga sa pagsalba mo sa long quiz kanina ha,” sabi ko habang nasa Cafeteria kami para ilibre siya ng meryienda bilang ganti sa kanyang kabaitan.
“Okay lang, at least kahit transferee ako may bago naman akong kaibigan,” ngumiti lang siya at parang may naalala ako nang malapitan kong nakita ang kanynag maamong mukha… si Ricardo. Kahit paano ay pansamantala kong nakalimutan ang aking problema sa pagiging malapit namin ni Richard sa isa’t-isa. Pinapatawa rin niya ako kapag napansin nitong medyo malungkot o nakasimangot ako. Parati siyang tumatawag siya sa cellphone ko at minsan naman iniimbita niya akong kumain sa labas. Marahil hulog nga siya ng langit sa buhay ko ngunit sa kaloob-looban ko‘y hindi pa rin iyon sapat upang tuluyan kong makalimutan si …Ricardo.
“Hoy, ngumiti ka naman diyan! O sige, ililibre na lang kita sa internet ngayon,” pangungulit ni Richard at sabay hila sa akin papunta sa malapit na internet station. Alam niyang iniisip ko na naman ang problema ko dahil ipinagtapat ko ang lahat-lahat sa kanya noong isang linggo.
Friendster…login name: rslphoenix, password: hex77…you have one friend request…cancel! Siya na naman? Nakakainis naman ang misteryosong si “J” dahil kahit ilan daang beses mong i-cancel ang mga friend requests niya, hindi pa rin tumitigil. Manigas siya dahil gusto ko lahat ng idadagdag ko sa listahan ng mga kaibigan ko sa Friendster ay may mukha at hindi nababalutan ng kung anong misteryong larawan ang profile nito. Kaya bahala siya at mamatay ka sa kaka-friend request.
“O bakit nakasimagot ka na naman diyan?” bulalas ni Richard mula sa katabing computer nang makita na naman ang pagkainis sa mukha ko.
“Paano kasi nakakainis ang ‘J’ na ito at palaging may friend request. Hindi ko maintindihan kung bakit larawan ng saranggola ang nasa Friendster profile niya,” mataray kong sagot kay Richard. Ngumiti na lang siya imbes na magtanong pa. Napangiti na rin ako at napansin kong guwapo rin pala ang kaibigan ko kapag sinusubukan niya akong patawanin. Marami silang pagkakahawig ng ugali ni Ricardo. Mula sa pagiging malambing nito hanggang sa hindi maiiwasang kakulitan. Pakiramdam ko tuloy ay nahuhulog na rin ang damdamin ko sa kanya at ang mga kislap sa kanyang mga mata ay may nagpapahiwatig na mayroon din siyang nais ipagtapat…sana ipagtapat na niya ito sa akin para tuluyan na akong makalimot sa kahapon.
Gabi ng Foundation Anniversary ng aming University. Halos lahat ng mga estudyante ay nakikisaya sa Rockfest concert dito sa Auditoruim. Paano kasi dumating ang mga sikat na banda mula sa Maynila tulad ng Hale, Spongecola, Kamikaz, Cushei at Kuwatrokantos. Naroon din kami ni Richard para manood ng palabas dahil pareho kaming mahilig sa musika.
“M-may sasabihin sana ako sa iyo,” mahinahang bulong ni Richard sa akin habang siksikan ang mga estudyante. Hindi ko iyon pinansin dahil may nais din akong ipagawa sa kanya.
“Buhatin mo naman ako kahit sandali lang kasi hindi ko makita ang mga banda sa dami ng mga nanonood… please,” pagpapa-cute kong pakiusap sa kanya.
“Sige na nga para matapos na ang pangungulit mo,” napangiti na lang siya imbes na mainis. Ngunit nang buhatin niya ako ay bigla siyang nadulas at nawalan ng balanse. Bumagsak kaming dalawa pero nagawa pa rin naming tumawa. Nang tumayo siya ay may napansin akong nalaglag sa kanyang bulsa. Hindi niya namalayan na pinulot ko ito. Postcard lang pala at kahit madilim napansin kong pamilyar ito. Medyo mahirap makakita dahil sa mga sumasayaw na ilaw mula sa entablado ngunit talagang pamilyar ang postcard dahil ang larawan dito ang parehong larawan ng saranggolang ginagamit ng misteryosong si “J” sa Friendster na laging napapadala ng friend request. Binasa ko ang nakasulat sa likod ng postcard at bumilis ang pintig ng puso ko sa aking nabasa…

Rhen,

Sana
mapatawad mo ako sa aking paglayo. Nais ko sana’y malaman mo na mahal na mahal kita higit pa sa buhay ko. Whenever I go, you have a piece of me that only you can return to its proper place and make me whole again.
Ricardo

“R-rhen?” tinig ni iyon ni Richard. Halos hindi siya makapagsalita nang makita akong hawak na ang postcard habang umaagos ang aking mga luha. Alam niyang nagulat ako sa aking nabasa at higit sa lahat, totoong sulat-kamay ni Ricardo ang mensaheng nakasulat sa likod ng postcard. Hindi ko matanggap sa aking sarili na niloko niya ako sa loob ng isa’t kalahating taon.
“Bakit Richard, hindi ko maintindihan kung bakit may postcard kang may sulat-kamay ni Rocardo?” puno ng hinanakit ang tinig ko. Patakbo akong umalis dahil parang gugunaw na aking mundo ng mga sandaling iyon. Hinabol ako ni Richard ngunit hindi niya ako naabutan dahil mabilis akong nakasakay sa taxi pauwi.
Nagising ako sa tawag ng roommate ko. May bisita raw ako na ayaw umalis at buong araw sa naghihintay. Dalawang linggo akong nagmukmok sa kuwarto at halos mamatay sa kakaiyak. Pumunta ako sa sala kung saan naghihintay si Richard.
“Rhen, sumama ka naman sa akin kahit ngayon lang dahil may gusto akong ipakita sa iyo,” pakiusap ni Richard. Wala akong magawa kundi pagbigyan siya…
“S-sana, mapatawad mo ako sa aking paglayo nang walang paalam. Naduwag kasi akong ipagtapat sa ‘yo na…may taning na ang aking buhay dahil sa kanser sa utak. Hanggang ngayon mahal na mahal pa rin kita at ayokong makita kang umiiyak…” halos pautal-utal na wika ni Ricardo habang nakaratay sa kama ng ospital. Isinama raw si Ricardo ng kanyang mga magulang sa Australia upang magbabakasakaling malunasan pa ang kanyang malubhang karamdaman. Ngunit bago siya umalis ay ipinagbilin niya ako sa kanyang pinsan na si…Richard para bantayan. Kaya pala parang angel si Richard na laging nagbabantay sa tabi ko at pilit na pinapasaya ako sa gitna ng kalungkutan. Kaya pala kahit nararamdaman kong may pagtingin rin siya sa akin ay mas minabuti niyang manahimik at itago ang kanyang pag-ibig sa akin. Masakit pa rin ang katotohanan dahil hanggang ngayon hindi pa rin niya kayang higitan si Ricardo sa puso ko…hindi.
“Ikaw pala ‘yon sa Friendster… Ricardo, ikaw pala ‘yon,” maraming gustong sabihin ang aking puso ngunit ito lang ang kaya ko. Tila nadudurog ang sugatan kong puso sa nakikitang pakikipaglaban ni Ricardo sa kamatayan at piliting mabuhay kahit ilang sandali lang para makapiling ako. Hindi na raw makayanan ng makabagong medisina ang kanyang malubhang sakit kung kaya mas minabuti na lang ng kanyang pamilya na iuwi siya sa Pilipinas.
“L-lalayo na ako pero kahit saan man ako dalhin ng hangin alam kong hawak-hawak mo pa rin ang munting tali na nag-uugay sa ating masasayang alaala kahapon, mga pangarap na naputol at pusong tapat na nagmamahalan. Lilipad ako na parang saranggola sa himpapawid habang ikaw ay nakatanaw mula sa malayo kasama si Richard, ang napakabuti kong pinsan…
sana
lumigaya kayo…” nakangiti pa ring wika ni Ricardo na halos nabulag na dahil sa malubhang karamdaman.
Napakahigpit ng hawak ko sa kanyang mga kamay at tanging mga hilam na luha ko lang ang maisagot ko sa kanyang nakakadurog-pusong pananalita. Hindi ko mapigilan ang aking sarili at hinalikan ko siya sa noo habang pumapatak ang aking mga luha sa kanyang nanalalamig na pisngi. Ilang sandali pa ay naramdaman ko na lang na tumigil na ang kanyang puso sa pagtibok …at napapikit ako.
Kahapon lang kami gumradweyt ni Richard sa kolehiyo. Magiging ganap na rin akong guro pagkatapos ng board exam. Si Richard naman ay magiging mahusay na nars sa iabgn bansa. Bumalik na sa Australia ang mga magulang ni Ricardo matapos i-cremate ang kanyang katawan. Huling habilin niya na itapon sa lawa malapit sa kanilang bahay bakasyunan ang kanyang mga abo matapos ang araw ng aming gradwasyon ni Richard sa kolehiyo.
Takip-silim na at nararamdaman ko ang malamig na simoy ng hangin. Sa wakas lulubog na rin ang araw upang bigyang daan ang gabi dahil bukas sisiskat muli ito para sa panibagong yugto ng aking buhay. Ito ang tadhana naming tatlo. Mamaya ay sisimulan na naming pakawalan ang mga abo ni Ricardo sa hanging magdadala sa kanya palayo sa amin at pabalik sa piling ng Poong Maykapal. Salamat sa tadhanang ibinigay niya sa amin dahil higit kong napatunayan na makapangyarihan at walang hanggan ang pag-ibig.
Alam kong nabubuhay pa rin si Ricardo sa pagkatao ni Richard.
Tinatawag na ako ngayon ni Richard mula sa gilid ng lawa malapit sa bahay bakasyunanan nila. Nagpapalipad siya ng saranggola habang pinagmamasdan niya itong sumasayaw sa himpapawid.
Napapikit ako. Ang mga butil ng luha sa aking pisngi ay nagmumula sa aking pusong naghihilom mula sa sugat ng katotohanan. Katotohanan na kailanma'y hindi na siya mawawala sa aking alaala magpakailanman.
Iminulat ko ang aking mga mata. Bago ako lumabas para samahan si Richard na itapon sa lawa ang mga abo ni Ricardo ay kailangang magawa ko ito sa internet, kahit sa huling pagkakataon...
Friendster, login name: rslphoenix@yahoo.com, password: hex77…you have one friend request…. Approved:-)

The writer’s thoughts: This is my fourth Tagalog short story published in the Central Echo, Central Philippine University’s official student publication since my three other short stories: Blangkong Teks, Teks sa Outbox and Ringtone. I am grateful to the present and past editors of CE who gave me the chance to let my stories get published and touch other young people’s heart. I wish I could write more stories that inspire people to never give up on love, the reason we live and die for a REASON. My next story in the CE portfolio this December 2006 might be about Hinduism, textmates, soulmates, pasaload, World War II, Martial Law, soap opera, Charmed and … something to do with breaking all the writer’s rules of endearment.

Mega-talk

Sharon Cuneta meets her greatest fan

The country’s megastar, Sharon Cuneta has always been loved by her fans, by the adoring masa and those millions of lives she touched as a celebrity with a compassionate heart. For more than two decades of successful singing, TV and movie career, the affable and approachable Sharon Cuneta never loses her glittering aura and star appeal.
What more can a certified superstar asks in her extraordinary life after all the blessings and luck bestowed upon her by destiny? By marrying a prolific media persona who flawlessly earned the support of the people and elected as a senator in the person of Senator Kiko Pangilinan is a reason that makes her a lucky woman. She’s also blessed with three beautiful children that gave her inspiration everyday.
Sharon Cuneta’s credibility and star appeal lies in her flourishing television career via her Sunday talk show aired every Sunday night at ABS-CBN. With countless movie and film achievements as a caliber actress, Sharon put her sights on producing quality movies that every Filipinos would be proud of.
So it feels emotionally overwhelming when the megastar decided to pay tribute to her millions of adoring fans and at the same time dedicate her time for charity. Last October 21, 2006, her Ilonggo fans were given the privilege to experience a splendid evening of music, fun and heartwarming moment with Sharon Cuneta via her sensational concert at Central Philippine University’s Rose Memorial Auditorium. Singing sensation Christian Bautista was the show’s special guest.
Proceeds of the extravagant and much-awaited concert will make a difference in the lives of people suffering from Lupos disease since it was produced and sponsored Lupos Foundation. Thousands of her loyal fans never missed the opportunity to support Sharon Cuneta’s effort to give joy through her undying music and give hope for the less fortunate. SM City Iloilo shoppers were given a chance to meet and greet the megastar at the mall’s activity center in the afternoon of October 19, 2006.
Two nights before her thrilling concert-for-a-cause, the megastar pleased her ever-supportive Ilonggo fans club by attending their oath taking event at Belle Terrace of Amigo Terrace Hotel. It was also a perfect evening when she met one of her greatest and faithful fans, the 58-year-old Jessie Garcia.
A passionate writer by heart, former showbiz critic and retired English instructor of Central Philippine University, Jessie Garcia spent a flourishing career in the entertainment industry for almost 20 years and 18 years in the teaching field. His passion for the Philippine movie industry led him to write and publish five books including a biography of Vilma Santos in 1980s and the monumental “A Movie Album Quiz Book” launched last 2004.
His 400-page movie album quiz book is a proof of his avocation as a movie buff that flawlessly contains the rarest and straight historical account of Tagalog movies, a treasure worth keeping for every Filipino movie lovers. The megastar’s timeless legacy in the local entertainment industry fitted her to be a part of the front cover of the book.
For almost 20 years of absence in the movie industry, Jessie Garcia misses the megastar’s presence and it was timely to fulfill his dream of meeting her once again. With a high hopes and excitement, he personally gave Sharon a copy of his book and let her sign some of his collected photos during a fans club gathering in the evening of October 19 at Amigo Terrace Hotel.
Sharon Cuneta was emotionally overjoyed to meet one of his greatest fans who hailed her to high heavens in his book. For Jessie Garcia, it was a dream come true to meet the megastar once again having the same radiant smile, teary eyes and a compassionate heart of a timeless movie queen.
In the near future, he plans to release another monumental book that contains the feats and successful careers of Philippine movie queens where the megastar, Sharon Cuneta was included and earned a rightful place in the showbiz royalty.A few copies of Jessie B. Garcia’s “A Movie Album Quiz Book” are still sold at several major bookstores nationwide.

Closing note: It was truly a dream come true for me to finally meet the megastar and talk with her personally. My star reveries are almost fulfilled after nearly two years in my writing profession…hehe! In the first photos Sir Jesse was hugged by Sharon and the other one, well there was me!

X-flick sentiments

Hex of X
(The X-men Chronicles part 3 of 4, published in Panay News)

“Some people fail to see beyond their two eyes”
Kurt Wagner AKA Nightcrawler

Like the vastness of the universe, there’s so much tales to be told about the X-men mythology. Comic book stories aren’t all about kid stuff and childish in wider perspective. Like any other fictions and real-life drama, the super-powered beings often feared or hated by the judgmental society called “mutants” are humans too, real people who also learns to dream and live a normal life.
After all, the validity of being human isn’t all about having normal looks or characters that conform to society’s norms. But having a heart that embraces compassion and affirm other’s existence makes someone a better human being.
X2: X-men United debuted in worldwide cinemas in May 6, 2002. History reveals that the film sold more than $ 214, 948 alone in North America that certified X2 as a worldwide blockbuster film of 2002. Reuniting with the old cast, they were joined by new set of Hollywood actors like Alan Cumming as the teleporter blue-skined Nightcrawler and Kelly Hu as the vicious Lady Deathstrike. Of course, a bunch of comic book characters had cameo roles like Colossus, Shadowcat, Jubillee, Beast and the temperamental Pyro.
As usual, the sequel tackles disturbing social issues similar to our present world, mutant hysteria is worsening and normal humans are restless with the existence of different few. In the beginning of the film, Nightcrawler engaged in a ferocious fight to assassinate the US president as if he is mentally controlled by an unknown force. Charles Xavier and his X-men were alarmed that Nightcrawler’s move would trigger a war between humans and mutants.
The untamed fighting-beast, Wolverine has just gone back from his search for his gloomy origin. The telekinetic Dr. Jean Grey underwent inner struggles to suppress an unexplained rising of a vicious force inside her. Her lover, Cyclops was concerned for Jean’s erratic behavior.
The young mutant apprentices Bobby Drake/Iceman, Rogue and Pyro deals with growing-up, teenage relationships and developing mutant abilities. Meanwhile, Mystique freed Magneto from his plastic-made prison as Cyclops and Xavier were mysteriously kidnapped by the new villain, Lady Deathstrike under Col. Jeff Stryker.
Worse, the school for gifted youngsters or Xavier’s Mansion was invaded by Strykers’ forces to capture its young mutant residents and take hold of Xavier’s invention called Cerebro. The remaining X-men had no choice but to runaway for their lives and regroup to rescue Xavier and Cyclops from the clutches of Col. Stryker. Stryker viciously devised a plan to mind-wipe all the existing mutants around the world with use of Xavier under the mental manipulation of his mutant son Mastermind and the Cerebro.
Stryker is responsible behind the threatening mutant hysteria and a madman obsessed to eliminate mutantkind due to his frustration over his own mutant son- Mastermind. His move proved to be a relevant reflection of Hitler’s World War II madness and lunatic schemes that cost millions of lives during the holocaust.
But the X-men were righteously brought up by Xavier’s dream of human-mutant co-existence. The X-men joined forces with Magneto to oppose Stryker and their action proved to be triumphant. But for their archenemy, Magneto turned the situation to his advantage by using Mystique to counter the mind-wipe among the mutant population and redirect the attack to all human beings around the globe.
Storm’s elemental prowess and Nightcrawler’s teleporting ability thwarted the jaded Mastermind from using Xavier to mind-wipe humanity. With Wolverine’s encounter with Stryker and his ferocious to-the-death-fight with Lady Deathstrike, it leaves hanging queries about Stryker’s connection regarding his dark past.
The young Pyro abandoned his vow to the team and escape with Magneto. Moreover, the confused Jean Grey struggling with her own inner demon, she uses her expanding powers to sacrifice her life and save her family-the X-men in the midst of a rampaging flood due to a shattered dam.
Her death was deeply mourned by the X-men. Worse, Cyclops (Jean’s lover) and team mate Wolverine, two men longing for her affection were deeply saddened. In her words before she embraced death while red-fiery energy veiling her body, “...this is the only way, goodbye!” we can conclude that this mutant mythology is far from over (though Xavier and his X-men prevented a declaration of war among the mutant population by the US president in the end of the film).
In fact, brilliant writer/director Bryan Singer was definitely prepared to push the limits further by toppling what Chris Claremont (prominent writer for various X-men titles) did in the comic book realm to relive a tragic storyline that destined the X-men to rise from the ashes towards greater fame.
Is it a prelude to the Phoenix Saga?
But Singer wasn’t prepared for consequential backlashes: his lavish production plans were dropped by the producers, cast tensions and project abandonment...
The Asian release of X-men 3: The Last Stand in theaters is two days ahead its US
debut. If you want to be a member of the mutant friendster-like website, check out or sign in at www.x-planet.net for awesome web surfing and chat forums.
(To be continued)

writer's note: No matter how we say it but sometimes the world is a dark, lonely place for souls who are different. Most of the time, the world failed to see the light inside them and the passion they posses to change the world. The X-men is a reflection this real world revolving in an endless cycle of enmity. I must say that my difference is a gift that I must turn into a something good to end the curse bestowed upon me and those who share the same dellimma.

X-flick reverie

My unique perspective of X-men in my own artistic stroke. I draw this artwork for a special documentary article about the world's uncanny superheroes published in our school paper when I was the chief Ed four years ago.

Hex of X
(The X-men chronicles part 2 of 4, previously published in Panay News)

The X-men was branded as one of the most influential comicbook superheroes of all time. The creative team of the comicbook series injected new concepts both in the storyline and artworks. In return, the writers and illustrators gained massive fame with their innovative makeover of the mutant superheroes that pave way for the expansion of the comicbook series.
In 1989, there were only two bestselling X-men comicbook such as Uncanny X-men and X-factor. But in the late 1990s, there were already more than 10 X-men comicbook series oftenly called "x-titles" that consistently remained in the bestselling top list of Wizard, the comicbook authority in America.
But the plan to turn the X-men into live action movie was cut short for a while due to script and budget disagreements between the executives of Marvel Comics and the film's producers. It was only in 1999 when the project was revived and made into a reality. Since most of the Hollywood actors first eyed to portray the X-men characters are becoming expensive in terms of talent fee and their fame status, the filmmakers consists of producer Tom DeSanto and director Bryan Singer auditioned actors for the film.
Neophyte Australian actor Hugh Jackman got the part for the famous X-men character ever- Wolverine. Model-turned-actress Halle Berry was cast as Storm, Famke Janseen as Jean Grey and Patrick Steward known for his prominent part in Star Trek, the next generation TV series was tasked to play Professor Charles Xavier. Ian McKellen a British broadway actor and known as Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings trilogy accepted the offer to become the X-men's archenemy, Magneto.
True to its comicbook counterpart, the debut film of the X-men deals with the social issues of discrimination and prejudice among the strange mutant population in the present world. They were hated and feared by normal humans for having unique and sometimes, misunderstood abilities. Bryan Singer as a director brought the cinematic mood of the film into the next level like what George Lucas did with Star Wars.
The lynchpin of the film is in the character. They've chosen Logan/Wolverine to focus the narrative, and the tale spreads out from there. Logan is the wander, the loner, no longer looking for answers. However, when he meets Professor Xavier the tragic figure becomes heroic, and he again is interested in solving the mysteries of his creation. Furthermore, the screenplay focused in the important goal of Xavier which is "co-existence between normal humans and mutants". Bryan Singer successfully introduced the existence of the X-men in the film especially Wolverine portrayed by Hugh Jackman. He not only gets the character, gives it weight, and looks like the character in the Marvel comicbook series. Most impressive is his ability to compliment the scenes he is in with veteran actors Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen. These to cinema greats take the characters and instill in them an essence equal to that of a Shakespearean hero, or a villain in McKellen case. It is delightful to watch the visual poetry that is create on screen when these actors are together.
The struggle between Charles Xavier's dream of peaceful co-existence and Magneto's belief in mutantrace domination led their apprentices to take sides.
When filmmakers attempt to adapt comic material the pitfall exists where they can become caught up in the effects and window dressing that cloak a basic human drama. By stressing those elements the film often becomes quite comical. However, when they concentrate on the drama, they make the material accessible to a wider audience. With a good screenplay as a foundation, the next key that can make or break the film is casting. A balance needs to be struck between the characters and available talent. The biggest box-office draws are not necessarily right for the part. Sometimes, when an unknown or character actor takes on the mantel of a superhero it can turn them into overnight household name.
X-MEN posses a unique problem in the way the story has evolved over the past thirty-plus years, and the numerous heroes and villains that populate its universe. Executive producer Tom DeSanto and director Bryan Singer take these potential problems and work them to their advantage. Not since "Star Wars" has a film reinvented and reinvigorated a classic film genre. The lynchpin of the film is in the character. They've chosen Logan/Wolverine to focus the narrative, and the tale spreads out from there.
Logan is the wander, the loner, no longer looking for answers. However, when he meets Professor Xavier the tragic figure becomes heroic, and he again is interested in solving the mysteries of his creation.
X-MEN draws the audience in right from the start. The narration and opening sequence are unencumbered by credits. Bang, we are off and running. The emotional level is carried right into the next scene, and each subsequent one. By the time the audience gets a taste of the first complex visual effect they've been well primed. The effects flow from characters that we've begun to know. There is an organic aspect to them, and other then Mystique, there is acceptance by the audience for the fantastic.
Director Bryan Singer makes good on his promise of delivering a character driven story with special effects. With a running time of 92 minutes, the film is pared down to a respectable fighting weight. It's satisfying, but leaves you wanting to know more, which is exactly what Lucas did with the first "Star Wars" film. There is a feel to the pacing and development of X-MEN that is reminiscent of the classic fantastic serials like "Flash Gordon." X-MEN easily earns director Bryan Singer his place in cinematic history alongside directors George Lucas and Stephen Spielberg.
In X-MEN, the casting is the thing! To quote Bryan Singer, "God Bless Hugh Jackman." He not only gets the character, gives it weight, and looks like the character in the Marvel comic series. Most impressive is his ability to compliment the scenes he is in with veteran actors Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen. These to cinema greats take the characters and instill in them an essence equal to that of a Shakespearean hero, or a villain in McKellen case. It is delightful to watch the visual poetry that is create on screen when these actors are together.
An important element to the success of the production is the score. Singer and DeSanto have saved the film from the plague of pop songs in the score. Michael Kamen's classical score shines through accentuating the film's dramatic moments, creating a foundation by adding atmosphere and mood.
The film's core theme "fear the rest, trust a few" draws relevance in its social aspect and paranoia among the different few. Sometimes what we don't understand seemed outcast and taboo. X-men emphasize the relevance of having real people to trust and a family to belong when the world turned its back on you.
But the loyal fans of the X-men were in discontent with the outcome of the film due to the fact that it failed to follow the same storyline in the comicbooks and many characters were not included in the film. For some, the film lacks lavish special effects and costume enhancement.
Fortunately, it was a blockbuster film and ranked as sixth biggest film of 2001. Meticulous film critics praised Bryan Singer's attempt to make the storyline and the character's display of powers in a believable perspective. But in the midst of success and excitement for the expected sequel of X-men, Singer is preparing to turn a tragic saga from the comicbook storyline into a reality that once cataputled the world's hated heroes into a name bigger than any fictional superheroes, not even Superman or Spiderman.
X-men: The Last Stand will be shown in the local cinemas on Wednesday, May 24, 2006. Check out the movie's website at http://www.x-menthelaststand.com/ for a 7-minute video clip teaser and character profiles.
(to be continued)

writer's note: for me, this is one of my most memorable articles I wrote for comic characters that has became my art icon. X-men 3 was a massive hit amid mix reviews and departure of the film's orginal director- Bryan Singer who worked for Superman Returns. Check the last two part for the concluding stories.

New K in the block

Step Up: the Kuris testimony


“Because I fought for people who believe in me”
words of Andy (Step Up 2: The Streets)

“Don’t give up, just be yourself coz life is too short to be somebody else”
words of Andy’s mom (Step Up 2: The Streets)

My thoughts are blazing tonight after watching the second installment of “Step Up”, subtitled “The Streets” with Marx and Elson. It’s a dance movie with tricky plot, twisted script, love games and great ending. I first saw the prequel of “Step Up” film about two years ago which stars some of the best rising Hollywood actors of this generation. The first film has touching moments and hyper-active adrenalin rush dance performances. I love it and would love to watch it again just like the first time I watched it from a pirated DVD disc.
But last night, I happen to grab the recopied VCD from my cousin who hacked it in the internet. No, sorry, he just downloaded it from a legal downloading website. Anyway, Andy is a tough girl who can dance as if it’s just the air that she breathes (meaning she’s a born dancer). I realize that if you were born and destined to express your gifts with less-pretense, you can do something stunning without hardship. It flows naturally like water in the river. When she was young, her mom died but left her with relevant words which gave her a purpose to pursue her passion. “Don’t give up, just be yourself coz life is too short to be somebody else”, her mom clearly said. She knew that dancing would be her destiny. Andy grew up in the care of her mom’s bestfriend who was an Afro-American woman. But her involvement in a reckless group of street dancers (composed mostly of black Americans) in their neighborhood, creates public disturbances through their street dancing that made her guardian decide to send her away to her relatives in Texas. It was gainst her will since she considered her groupmates as her family. That night she ran away from home and look for a place to stay. The main character of “Step Up 1” that showed up as his relative of sort, convinced her to audition for a dance scholarship in a prestigious school nearby if she defeats him in a dance contest that night in the club where she loves to hang out. Unfortunately, she lost and was is obligated to follow the agreement. Luckily, she passed the entrance test but the school director wanted her to get rid of her street dancing moves and study classical dance (mostly ballet) which proved to be a hard choice for her part. The school director’s younger brother who was skilled dancer and good-looking guy fell in love for her.
Let’s skip the story: Andy got close to the cute and famous guy in the campus who happen to like her secretly. But she avoided him big time. Until they were fated to get close when the guy wanted to please Andy by forming their own “crew” or dance group in the school when she was kicked out of her old dance crew. Her busy schedule took a strain with her friendship to her old groupmates. Her love interest guy risked his reputation to get close to her and impressed her by organizing their own group of street dancers. Their group was composed of unknown, geeks and unpopular students in the school. The school director hates street dancing and is very strict with his students.
When their new group of dancers tried to perform in a huge gathering of street dancers, they were ridiculed, bullied by Andy’s old dancemates who happens to be the defending champions in the street dancing. They tried to join in the competition but their group was not accepted and rejected.
The rejection they experienced motivated their group to pursue their goal of beating the overconfident old groupmates of Andy through dancing who call themselves 410. But Andy’s old groupmates didn’t like the idea of a new group competing against them. When Andy’s group (called MSA crew) broadcast a music video with sensitive contents against 410 in youtube.com, the conflict heated up.
One day, everybody was shock to see that their school’s rehearsal hall was vandalized by 410. Andy admitted all the blame and cause of the conflict in front of the school director just to save her friends from being expelled in school. That was the end for their hardwork to join in the street dancing competition and MSA Crew was no more with Andy’s expulsion from school.
Until the evening of the big fund-raising event in the school, Andy’s groupmates in the MSA Crew decided to leave and convince her in joining the finals of the street dancing that would also take place that same night. Andy wanted to give up her dreams and decided to leave for Kansas. But for the last moment, her guardian who finally understood Andy’s passion told her these words that changed her mind—“you we’re like you mom, you never give up your passion…I want you to go and do it for yourself”. “Yes thank you,…because I’ve always fought for people who believe in me”, Andy replied.
That evening, Andy spoke in front of the crowd that doesn’t want their presence in the club and hailed the stunning performance of 410. Andy’s old pals were always rude to their group and especially that night. “We’re here to dance and do our own thing. Dancing is supposed to be different people coming together no matter what races, color or dress you wear…we’re here to dance”, she emotionally said with courage. “So if 410 is the best but afraid to lose in the championship, the hell we care, we’re here because we want to dance in the streets”, she added. The crowd was touched by her strong words and Andy’s group headed to the streets where they we’re supposed to dance with freedom, no discrimination or restricting rules. The rain poured harder, they were wet but the crowd cheered at the top of their lungs because they finally understood what free dancing supposed to mean.
Their music was far far different from any of the competiting groups, their dance steps were unique and they dance not because they expected or aspire to win but to express their physical artistry, the rhythm and beat that made up their passion.
The school director saw how the crowd reacted and changed everything through Andy’s strong words. “That was different… see you in the class tomorrow”, he told Andy with a smile in his face. Who would disagree that they won that night? No one, even 410 knew their time is up and that MSA Crew played the game fair and square. Finally, Andy realized that she’s not a born loser after all. It only takes time to hold on until her dreams will come true. Her true friends will always be there for her… always.

unwinding for a while

Marx and Elson, enjoying a sip of Coke at Grecel's.

Morrigan and Hulk, great combination against Elson who uses Capt. Commando and Spidey, hehe!

Nice screen shot Marx... get ready Elson you'll gonna beat me again...hehe, I'm a loser this time again!

Weekend break

After a whole week of gruelling pressure and responsibilities, we are taking everything so easy and one step at a time. The Kuris "specialproject" guys--Bryan, Marx and Jaylord are catching up with their deadlines. Amado and Dads can't find time to have a break from their part time jobs. Janelyn and Racil are all at the comfort of their homes texting us to be always cool. Elson is doing almost half of the Lapis storyboard. I was busy doing both the finalization of Lapis script and the stunning presentation for Summer Bud's Search 2008 scheduled on May 22. On top of everything, we were contented with what we achieve personally and share all the good times we had in life.
May 24, saturday morning, 8:30 AM, Sir K was texting me to return the projector I borrowed. I just arrived from Bacolod to attend a gathering of artists there and presented our animated works. I hurriedly go the school and returned the projector. Minutes later, Elson was texting me--"Nel, tapos ko na ang storyboard ka Lapis, wer k na?". "Ok ara na"--I texted back. I was astonished by his artistic style in making the storyboard of Lapis. I knew this guy has so much potential even way back those days when he created the design for TASI.
After a short chat, we decided to meet Marx in their home. Since it is the annual fiesta of La Paz that day, the three of us shared their little "handa" for us. We shared a meal full of talk and fun. We talk about the positive and bad comments we got in this blog lately. But the truth is, we are not bothered becuase I told them that we are now picking up readership and attention. If the bad comments keep pouring...the positive comments are pouring like rain as well. So there are lots of people in this city who believe and appreciate what we do. Take for example our latest participation in Summer Bud's Search 2008, the peeps in Bo. Obrero got blown away by our simple 3D animation and loved our Lapis or Bequest trailers. I will write a great concluding article about it soon. Just check it out here, OK.
After a few hours, we decided to unwind at Grecel's just a few blocks from Marx's house. Elson bought a bottle of coke for us to share. Marx had fun again taking pics from my cellphone camera and me...well i can't resist to play the "piso-piso" arcade games beside us. As usual, I recall my younger days when I got hooked with this kind of game. I was always on top of the game even if the characters I bring are all-female heroes like Rogue, Storm or Cammy. My competitors are always having a rough time breaking my fighting techniques. But that was in the past and it feels good to look back with a smile in my face. Elson challenged me and I decided to let him win, hehe. Marx suddenly said---"gapapirde-pirde lang na si Ronelo pero kon tuod-tuoron ya tapos ka gid, hehe". But I just give in and let Elson win. It's just a game and sometimes we just let the odds overtake us. The best thing about it is to play the game fair and square.
So commentators in this blog keep your postive and even the negative thoughts pour in. You make us stronger and better every time you make us smile with your blazing thoughts. "By the way, where's Bryan and Jaylord?", I asked Marx. "They're in Bora for a short vacation with their project heads, by Monday, they will be back to resume work", he said. "But why didn't you go with them?", I asked again. "I just want to rest, that's all", he laugh candidly.
That evening, we watched "Step Up 2: The Streets" on my lapotop. It was one of the best maverick films this year, I must say. It's another dance-themed movie with great story twist, dance performances and essense. It reminds us of our bonding and how we survived the torments of fate. Promise, I'll write a good article about it here in our blog and my personal my blog (http://www.rslphoenix.blogspot.com/) few days from now.

right through your tummy!

The latest Ilonggo sensation!

Hey, sorry Bray if you're still waiting for your next Mang Inasal lunch in the middle of our BEQUEST pressure.

Marky, what's on your mind looking at this Mang Inasal pic when you were in the middle of the BEQUEST work?

Why does Mang Inasal makes me guilty?

Dear Kurisans,

I think my thoughts can’t wait right now.

We always make unsure decisions that could hamper our way to do everything in life. Taking chances has never been easy for us Kuris Animators. I know we always have our own personal lives and agendas to fulfill. But you see, we are still bonded with the same passion and most of the time, we can’t resist to let someone in the group lose hope, fell to any tragedies in life or feel depressed with miseries. These feelings for each other; the best and worst time we’ve had together or even the most unexpected events keep us connected to grow, to learn and live life one step at a time. I think we trust each other. I know because we are there for each other without any conditions. We hope to keep that connection wherever fate will bring us someday.Last week, we were struggling hard for so much stress and expectations. The Kuris special project boys--Marx, Bryan and Jaylord are expected to deliver their best shot with their current part time job in WVCST. I always have faith with these three Kuris guys whatever task they are assigned. The recent positive feedback for their effort in the special project “wowed” and impressed other graphic artists in Baguio that also submitted their work to earn a project contract. I know they really need a good break and part time job for now. They really need it to prove to their families that killing themselves in animation would bear fruits. I know you need it Bray prove something for your GF coz’ it’s the first you felt that way. Sometimes, I felt guilty for not giving them everything and all the reward they deserve in making the BEQUEST. Other people thought and even the disgusting peeps who theorized that we earn lots of money out of that humble project and we selfishly hide our earnings. False thinking I must say! The truth is: everything we got from the BEQUEST was the fruit of my friendship and trust by some loyal friends or connection from advertisers when I was still working as a journalist. I think I shouldn’t elaborate further why they trusted me and offer help whether in form of exchange deals of goods or minimal amount of money. Our promise was honest and sincere for strong publicity that would benefit their investments or expand their target market. I know I have satisfied them in a way that we delivered what we said and that our media friends were supportive. More than anything else, they saw our cause and motives as something worthy of their support. It was a success no doubt. For us, we don’t count success in form of money matters. We look at it as fruitful experience to expand our gift, our skills, our confidence and our horizon in the name of passion. But anyway, my point of discussing this topic is to express my little guilt of not totally pampering my fellow Kurisans especially my multi-talented friends—Marx, Bryan, Brynh, Aladin and Jaylord. Somehow, deep down inside I really felt sorry for making “tipid” of our resources from sponsors (I won’t call it sponsors, friends is the best term). If I would be given a chance to undo anything, I would surely try to be more open and generous to them. After all, they deserve the praise and big credits for making the BEQUEST a great success. I was just a visionary and giver of good concepts, they work their ass so hard to bring our group to the next level, to the top of the game. I must say now that they are the talent-factor of the team, the never-give-up players of life for Kuris.The truth is: it pains me a little to recall what Marx said that they ought to eat our all Mang Inasal Gift Certs as reward for giving substance, justice to the project. I agree. It was the first Ilonggo animated film with breakthrough concepts, innovative techniques and the central point of our struggle a few months ago. People wouldn’t even believe that we don’t have our own computer and we are using low-grade programs. The craftsmanship in it was astonishing for amateurs like us. Well, it would raise the eyebrows of other irrelevant peeps in this blog but we are not bothered. We don’t talk too much. We just appreciate what we’ve been through. So guys, I really felt guilty for not giving you everything back then and sometimes you really get offended when Racil was so harsh to all of you. I know, she’s just doing her best to serve the team as a responsible treasurer and caretaker of the group. That girl has a tough heart to beat. I miss her somehow and looking forward to visit their fiesta next month in the far far Aklan. Well, Kuris guys, I am wholeheartedly thankful for giving your heart and soul for the team. I know, your success and the constant praises you get from your project heads or even those graphic peeps that were impressed by your maverick but amazing outputs were never wrong after all. I hope next time around when we have another event to hold, I would be more open and generous to all of you. I really really regret neglecting your feelings by not seeing the real struggling you’ve been through to keep ahead with life, the very hard life of an Ilonggo animator. I hope we will share another meal of Mang Inasal and spend everything without feeling guilt of losing it. It’s worth to pamper ourselves sometimes when we are giving our heart and soul to do something great. The fear of losing something clouded our sight to see the path of destiny.But the only thing I ask from you is to take it easy. Splurging can sometimes be intoxicating and sharing is still the best way we can resolve who’s going to take the last bite of Mang Inasal chicken.

Sorry I’m a bit cheesy today,

XEH

POSTSCRIPT: Let’s celebrate your first salary by eating the same “carinderia” meals we used to have when we were broke. The cheap price of the meal is not the devaluating the flavor of our friendship. Thanks for accepting my eccentricities sometimes. Jay was right—you never look at me the way this homophobic world saw me, you look straight to what I can offer to the world right at the left side of my chest coz’ it beats for passion.

Interlude: If you want to know how scrumptious Mang Inasal meal, click the link below and see their latest advert at youtube.com. I'm still grateful they were one of our generous friends who contributed to the success of The BEQUEST and saving our tummy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6IbJ2FlYsQ

funky summer event!

The models in brainstorming session with the DreamTeam head. I bet one of you girls is Marx's crush...hehe!

Marky hope your 3D works well for the event. At least you start to break you limitations in 2D.

My good friend Richard Abadiano talks to the models prior the start of the show rehearsals. Our friendship is a DreamTeam as well.

A trial execution of our unfinished animated presentation for the event with Marx's 3D stuff!

Kuris statement: Summer Bud’s Search 2008

PERSONAL STATEMENT: The timing was bad, very bad. In fact, there are parts of me that dictated to abandon the project I promised to my old friends—Richard and Gel. A few months ago, we were conceptualizing and cooking a different kind of event that would challenge our sense of creativity. We also tried to make a different and unique statement by organizing a one-night event that would fuse music, fashion and audio-visual artistry. It was much like bringing Fashion Rock Awards in L.A. to invade the minds of Bo. Obrero peeps, my second childhood home. We started to conceptualized last February and the plan was finally done by the end of March. The plan was to organize a fashion show back-to-back with live band performance and an animated audio-visual presentation (where I was expert these days, hehe). Then we started to call our fusion as DreamTeam Production. Summer Bud’s Search 2008 was born in no time. I was making the lead player in terms of proposal letters, paper works and creative concepts. Gel was on the stage management and talent look-out while Richard was the die-hard financial head and risk-taker. The risk was experimental to combine the elements of live band, animation and fashion. We might be giving ourselves another chunk of stress and pain with this plan. But the plan was to go on just like what I did with Kuris. So, it must go on. The target date of event was moved from May 15 to May 22 due to financial and preparation reasons. The contestants that Gel gathered are also some of his best pals in a previous production where these hopeful youngsters that suffered false promises and unfulfilled commitment in repaying their effort. Likewise, I was having my hard time catching up with Kuris project proposal and requirements needed to validate the credibility of the group. I need to go through strain and sleepless nights to decide what to choose. It was a “make-or-break-it” contemplation. But Marx and the rest of the Kurisans understood me. They always understand every time I lay my cards on the table. They knew I always have plans of not regretting what I would do. After days of neglecting my commitment to the DreamTeam, I think it’s destiny that drags me back to where I should be… doing the things I love to do with my crazy artistic mind.

GROUP STATEMENT: The timing is not good. It’s not really good to disturb Marx or Jay in their latest project endeavor. It’s the starting definition of their future as small-time animators in this city. I’m really proud of their bits of success. But giving them another headache is not my intention. But what can I do. They are the best people I should consult for the 3D animation I was planning to make for the event. Marx has always understood me. Even if without any condition, he generously offered his helping hand. Five days ago, they were catching up with the deadline of their special project when I suddenly entered the scene and ask him to help me. He borrowed my laptop and do his own thing with 3D. For one day, he made the 3D animated logo of the event and I easily added my own editing later. I even asked him to come and assist me during the one-night event on May 22. Although I must admit that he likes to meet our female contestants to boost his “chickboy” persona, but his commitment was to extend a helping hand the way I always do when he needed my help. In Kuris, we don’t count how much we give but give priority to what we can give without conditions. It’s the secret spice of the team as I have said before. So even if the pressure was tough, Marx or even Bryan knows that whatever I do, I do it to uplift our team. I hope to see them at the event. It’s another way we can promote the team and spread the message that indeed Ilonggo animators are not just born to excel but to inspire. Your 3D works well with my editing style Marky. I know it was just a joke that I didn’t believe you can make 3D animation now. I always thought you’ll be stuck with 2D.See you on Thursday night. We always hope to raise the credibility and creative visions of Kuris Animation to it’s “Unlimited” boundaries of breaking the usual connotation about our craft. We don’t settle to the common output and expectations that we can do. We free up our mind and open rooms for new innovations. Though it’s not the usual way you envisioned everything as animator but trust me, this is one step to break our limitations (and our hesitation as well).

Mark it up Marky—May 22, 8:30PM, Summer Bud’s Search 2008 featuring Version acoustic band and animated visuals by Kuris Animation Unlimited. The streamers will be huge, hehe!

X-flick encounter

A jpeg image of my X-men article during my college years at CPU as Chief Editor of our campus paper.

Hex of X
(The X-men chronicles part 1 of 4, previously published in Panay News)
By Ronelo Ladiao

The social issues of the 1940s War-torn Europe during World War II inspired the creative mind of Stan Lee to become the iconic father of Marvel Comics and one of the best comicbook creators of all time.
In early 1960s, he collaborated with Jack Kirby to create one of the most dynamic and influential comicbook superheroes of all time, the X-men. Inspired by the brutalities of Hitler and his Nazis to the Jews who were victims of Holocaust, he began working on a comicbook project along with Spiderman, Thor, Captain America and many other Marvel superheroes.
The storyline of the project centered on the issues of persecution, prejudice and heroic people with uncanny abilities called “mutants” gathered by a wealthy philantrophist professor, Charles Xavier. Xavier himself is a mutant with the superior ability of telepathy capable of controlling thoughts and minds. His vision of co-existence between ordinary humans and mutants inspired him to assemble young teens with extraordinary powers for good cause: to protect humanity from the vicious goals of his former ally-turned-nemesis, Erik Magnus Lenshuier or Magneto and his nefarious apprentices in Brotherhood of Mutants.
In Stan Lee’s storyline of the comicbook, Charles Xavier was able to train his first five students namely Cyclops, Marvel Girl, Iceman, Angel and Beast with the use of their extraordinary abilities. Cyclops can create forceful red energy blast from his eyes, Marvel Girl (now called Jean Grey) can move objects with her mind and later turned out to be the fiercest enemy of the team when was possessed by a cosmic entity called Phoenix (a mythological bird of flame). Beast has the superior strength, agility, Ape-like features and a genius mind. Iceman can drop the temperature level around him and create ice blast. And Angel was a gifted good-looking young man with large white wings.
In early 1970s, the comicbook was cancelled due to poor sales and by the end of the decade; the project was revived with new mutant characters introduced in the storyline. This time, new creative writers and artist re-launch the comicbook and more intriguing X-men joined the fold like the untamed-healer Wolverine who posses an unbreakable steel claws, elemental goddess Storm, the Russian artist Colussus who can turn his boy into pure steel, ‘sonic-shattering’ Banshee, agile Nightcrawler and superstrong Thunderbird. More characters followed in 1980s like Shadowcat, Dazzler, Havok (Cyclops’ lost brother), Longshot and Psylocke.
The comicbook gradually earned positive reviews from American readers and critics but not until its breakthrough storyline “Phoenix Saga” in 1986 that catapulted the sales and boost its popularity even further. Soon, the comicbook series was handled by dynamic new artists and writers. Notable comicbook illustrators that earned great fame in working with the X-men series are Asian artist Jim Lee, Marc Silvestri, Joe Maduiera, Brazilian Roger Cruz, and our very own, Filipino artist Wilce Portacio (who opened his own international comicbook company in the Philippines in late the middle of 1990s called Alamat comics). Portacio is responsible in creating another X-men character called Bishop, a mutant leftist from the future who has a mission to uncover the traitor destined to murder the X-men.
Like an irresistible magical hex, the X-men fame rivaled DC Comics’ Superman, Batman and many others comicbook titles which eventually spawned a hit cartoon series from FOX TV network in early 1992. In 2000, the second X-men cartoon series called “X-men Evolution” was released by Warner Brothers claiming to be less violent and more teen-oriented than the previous one.
But did you know that in early 1993 there was already an agreement between Marvel Comics executives and some Hollywood
filmakers to bring the world’s famous mutants superheroes to the big screen even before its 2001 film debut?
In fact, it involves huge Hollywood stars like Bruce Willis as Professor X, Angela Basset as Storm, Tom Cruise as Cyclops, Nicole Kidman as Jean Grey and Mel Gibson as Wolverine.
Well, the resemblance between Mel Gibson and Hugh Jackman as the present actor who successfully portrayed “Wolvie” is fact that they are both Australians.
(To be continued)

writer's note: X-men 3: The Last Stand, the third installment to the triology had its worldwide release on May 26, 2006. The film was a breakthroug hit, making it the second top grossing film of 2006.

Hale encounter

Champ of Hale Band and me after a sensible chat

Hale invades
By Ronelo Ladiao

(previously published in Panay News)

No other sensational bands in the country today plays genuine melodramatic songs with an impressive alternative genre influence like Hale known for their chart-topping singles "The Day You Said Goodbye", "Toll Gate" and "Kung Wala Ka".
Their presence in the music scene has captivated millions of younger audience, scored a 2x platinum selling debut album, hot music videos and prestigious recognitions from various award-giving bodies. With a new album entitled "Twilight", Hale tours around the country to promote their music. SM City Iloilo, the region's ultimate entertainment and shopping destination recently captivated Hale's loyal fans with a mini-concert-cum-album-promotion last November 19, 2006 at the mall's activity center.
As early as 3pm, the band's Ilonggo fans were already anticipating their presence to meet and greet them. By 5pm, the mall's activity center was filled with cheers and excitment as the band started to show up on stage and play their alternative-inspired music. Young girls were shouting and taking pictures of the band while playing on stage especially to the crowd favorite, Champ Lui Pio, Hale's talented lead vocals.
Prior to their awesome performance on stage, this writer was a give a chance to chat closely with Champ and his band members composed of Roll Martinez - guitars, Sheldon Gellada - bass, Omnie Saroca - drums. With angelic face and soft voice, Hale's frontman started to narrate the band's humble beginning in July 2004. Instead of playing indie and performing in various underground gigs, they focused on playing their original compositions. Less than half a year later, Hale signed a recording contract with EMI Philippines for a debut album which became a phenomenal success after their second single "The Day You Said Goodnight". Fans and music lovers were responsible in placing their songs at the top of the charts through massive text votes.
"Our musical influences ranges from Coldplay's melodramatic alternative music, The Corrs, Dave Matthews Band, John Mayer and the rock icon Nirvana," reveals Champ who wears a white-fitted shirt at the backstage. For the band, they wanted to reach out to the sentiments and relate emotionally not only to their fans but for people who loves music. As much as possible, they make their music worth listening, the lyrics are honest and artistic. "Our second album 'Twilight' offers more songs that are worth listening which reflects our personal views and expressions that we ought to share with our fans and to other people who likes good alternative music," says Champ who's deeply optimistic for their 2007 US concert tour will kick off soon. The new album's title was taken from their idea of a 'space between lightand dark' that symbolizes life's choices. He's got a lot of favorite songs in their new studio album but "Shooting Star" is somehow close to his heart.
When asked to describe himself in three words, he vividly says: "By nature, I am a martyr (for love), honest and passionate". Since a lot of young ladies admire his charisma, the 24-year-old charming band vocalist describes his ideal girl as modest, loyal and passionate.
"For us, fame is just a state of mind and when it fades out someday, everything doesn't matter," Champ expresses his opinion about their growing popularity. For them, establishing freindship with other local bands and keeping their feet on the ground would lead them to success and contentment. The only thing that matters for them is to share and express their musical creativity.
"I know it's quite usual to say these, but we should think and try our best to contribute anything for the betterment of country. It is our conviction to help uplift and promote local alternative music," a member of the band uttered while preparing to face their screaming fans on stage. With a promising career in the music industry, Hale never gets tired of creating great music that exemplify their lifelong passion.
For comments and news about the band, fans can visit their website at hale_music@yahoogroups.com

Say what?

Mimi--Mariah...love her in the past

Who's this stranger?...Oh I see, a chatmate.

Love and hate

It’s 2:47 AM. I’m alone and awake. There’s a lot of stuff I wanted to write about everything. But there’s nothing worth writing about those things I love and hate today.
I hate Mariah Carey’s new single and music video. I like the diva in her somewhere in the past but she’s awful lately. Her single “Touch my Body” and its accompanying music video is drop-head ugly and cheesy. I wish she could do more creative musical stuff that copying the tune of her previous last two hit singles (I forgot the title of those songs). And besides Mariah, its awful to call yourself “Mimi” and pretend your body is as yummy as fresh potato. Convince yourself that your getting old. Stop pretending you’re still sexy and cool as hiphop music.
I stayed at home and listen to some of mp3 music from my phone. But everytime I listen to those damn lovesongs, it reminds me of my chatmate who forgot to leave me offline message. I’ve been thinking about him so much but I got no sign if he’s still around. Life goes on. Time will tell if we will find each other at the crossroad of life.

Worry-free me--the artist, the poet, the animator, the 6th spice

Blog up

Blog up your life (or is it, spice up your blog?). Yes, I must admit there’s so much crazy stuff going on my head and it wasn’t all about ginger or pepper. As my omnipotent pop goddesses, the Spice Girls are back for a world tour last year and rest for a while due to family commitments; I realize it’s time for me to make a blog. Not just a blog for excess mental baggage or another room for my political opinions (the last idea is something I would avoid doing coz’ it sucks), but for the love of writing. So whatever goodie-goodie stuff or nasty things I will write, I hope the outside world would understand that people have their own crazy ideas that they truly love to express. Who knows, the craziness inside us might save the world from the saturation of culture decline. I won't discuss my "wordwar" entry a while ago. After all, I am a harmless soul if I am treated fairly and when my friends are safe from the arrogance, toxic thoughts of those who are aiming to get to the top. Well, newsflash---the top is yours, all yours and we're not running after it. We are just eqquipped with gifts to touch other kindhearted artists in Iloilo or anywhere else. We prove what we say at the end of the day.
This is it. My first sane blog entry is going to be simple but will leave a promise that I’ll be back to write everything I wanted to express. Even those things I’m hesitant to share sometimes.
Proper pop is back, I’m the sixth spice guy in this side of the planet.

I'm gonna live with these thoughts for long long time.

Wordwar

Get chaotic with your art, I call this---57 heroes
Spread the word of your true potential

Word Up

Word up is the code. No matter how you say something as long as it has impact to other people’s existence, it makes them react. Whether violently, emotionally or psychologically, it tortures them deep down inside when someone’s get better against them. They want the top spot on their own and in fact, they can’t take it when they are dropped from the race. Yeah right, start the race when you have real aces on your hands. And don’t dare when you only got the fake ones. I would rather call it fake because most self-craving homophobic fools can’t take the biting reality when they still remain unseen, unrecognized or un-praised even if they already crossed the lines. The lines between friends and traitors, transparency and deception, dreams and nightmares, wits and stupidity. Isn’t it true that my premonition and suspicion came close to my theory that it was you who blab and flab your lips with insecure-branded lipstick a year ago that I was expressing negative comments to somebody or someone you worshipped as your ultimate art-pal. Why? It simply implied that he tickled your attention-craving ego and appreciated your eye-straining “CRAPSmanship” the way me or anybody else didn’t ever do. Of course, I did expressed my compliments and praise but it was not enough because no matter how you gulp Gatorade, swallow Enervon C or lift tons of barrels in the gym, your artistic stroke doesn’t alter your still “hiding-behind-photoshop-manipulated-works”. And you even have the guts to call my artworks Funnycomickish? Hehe, you amuse me so much with your gutter-like squatter responses and so so plain terminologies. Do you know other terms aside from “gay”, “hypocrite” or “stupid”? Yack, it makes me puke and vomit big time every time I read you faulty paragraphs that resembles your “pang-Grade-six-section-12-school-project-masterpieces”. You ought to print “submitted by: Treyvor, the unknown, the forgotten and passing-awa artist” in front of your project’s folder.
So the most-fitted “word up” to an ignoramus can’t-take-it, can’t-crack-it-up loose-circuit wannabe artist who deep down inside still wants to attached his pedigree-fed bloated ego to a slowly-solidifying friendship like ours is to stuck (I repeat with eardrum-piercing holler) in your “something fishy, hehe” quote you dearly advocate. After all, your favorite quote fits your photoshop-depency-artcraps. You can’t even conceal real good stroke from flashy photoshop effects. Take my “word up” in your very system this time for I even I know for sure that you’re going to send a dozen of Ilonggo-readable “testimonials” to friendster peeps just to drag them in the issue that you and yourself alone have attracted the dak side of Karma. I firmly advise you not to flaunt Christianic verses and lines in your friendster headline because it makes me puke big time to read something angelic from a former fellow who’s always wearing insecure-branded lipstick! Christian verses are for souls with pure and beautiful intentions. And you have none of the above. You’re even gayer that I ever thought coz you seemed too sensitive with your skin if it would burn in the scorching sunlight every time you go out or sink yourself too much in the gym fearing your machismo would wear off. Let me tell honestly, Machismo is just a hollow state of mind by people who are gender homophobic with lack of Educational application and thinking their bloody fuck-like looks could ideally conform the norms. Wrong catch bitch boy, times have change. Female empowerment and mutant idealism is far more fierce in a good and positive way than terrorism homophobia. So stop terrorizing the world with your no-impact, nonsense machismo that by far for me is worse that being gay. Being realistic these days holds more weight in the modern society. Who do you think you’re fooling with your old medieval way of thinking and third world paranoia?
You’re swelling out in the wrong direction, your trumpets blowing for far too long and indeed it’s a race to get out of the bottom right now. And personally, why would I race with a less-aced competitor when in fact, friends and observers were exclaiming that my hand drawn graphics are far more anatomically-better and appealing than your lousy structured anime fight scenes. Your tech pen won’t save you from your awful, eye-aching art masterpieces which you claim your deviantart peeps adore. Inside my very thoughts when we first met in 2D class, I found your work satisfactory and not as much as superior as you thought. I think you should stick to the recommendation I gave you a year ago that if I would assign you in a comicbook work---you better rest and be contented as MY colorist or little less an inker, or should we say backstage production work? You were not meant for the lead penciling job. The tip of the pencil’s lead abstractly implies that your strokes should remain in inking or coloring work. But I doubt if coloring would be perfect for you since you’re palate for coloring is only limited for glossy hues and not as extensively creative like other professional colorists I saw or met. I know that I’m taking too personal with these criticisms for your appetite in art. But you deserve such discouraging comments and insights since you have a fang of a deceiver and big time appetite to seal your lips with insecurities. You may be direct and brutal with my gender perspective but I guess you were absolutely wrong to conclude that I got offended. Indeed, I am proud and loud to say that a freaky mutant beaten you black and blue right at the tip of the pencil’s lead, and yes, at the keyboard of my laptop. I am well aware of my personal preference and everything that I do with my life. If I commit faulty decision or lapses, I don’t regret it and instead I learn from it. Unlike you who practice self-adoration, a self-craving ignoramus that traitorously stab friends if you feel they overtaken you. After the last text argument we did a few months ago before our historical project took it final shape, you never ever expected that your negative side comments about me and the group would slip right through someone you fooled. I must say now that she would never ever take your side for you are a recognizable hypocrite who has no real deal aces on his sleeve. Her cellphone's SMS messages speaks loudly of your backstabbing even if I let go the whole chaos between us months ago. He were never impressed and continued to comparew us with a dissolving entity. You may be successful to drag irrelevant peeps and those peeps who once trusted us with your toxic-acidic tongue, but you failed to crush my very spirit, our very dream and our conviction not to abandon what we were destined to be—maverick Ilonggos who made a mark and not just a mark but a recognizable contribution to the expanding animation trend in the city. And where were you when we sacrifice and pursued our dream? You were hiding in your gloomy cave, stepping away, cooking misconception issues, killing yourself to miraculously make your drawings better than Stan Lee and filling your “posporo-like” nutshell with filthy thoughts. Let me tell you straight forward now, your “bad luck curse” has never ruined our conviction and indeed it backfired to you big time. But I bet you won’t admit that you’re broke now because it’s against you bloated ego which I crushed, shattered big time with my Prada high heels. Start biting hard your nails now, your flaming poisons and toxic tongue that you thought would ruined us from our peeps would never ever affect us or crush our very core dream. We are moving forward and you’ll be stuck there in deviantart.com rattling like a rattle snake in an empty dessert of illusions and threatening users to send you half-hearted comments to justify your lousy, photoshop-dependent, ugly, gloomy graphics.
My fierce pal and sweetest nemesis will you please tattoo this for all eternity in your shrinking nutshell right now----the WORD UP for you is: you’re just a lousy firecracker Treyvor, I’m your atomic bomb! (LOL-laugh out louder, this time).

Genesis

Hi there,

I'm Ronelo Ladiao, a writer by heart, an artist by soul and a cryptic poet. I would start a blog right now and hope my unexpressed thoughts will be posted here. It will also feature some of my past writing and artworks...so expect a different take on blogging. I try to be maverick in everything i do.

TC