“The Descendants

Another Friday, another movie. The difference? It's free. Joined my parents for my mum's company CNY function at VivoCity after work. Down to the movie: For those in blur peeps out there, this movie stars George Clooney and Shailene Woodley. Accolades wise, it has won the Golden Globe Awards in January 2012 and was nominated 5 times at the 84th Academy Awards including a Best Actor for Clooney.

The Descendants' Trailer 

Source: ClevverMovies

So did it live up to the expectations of a Golden Globe awardee? In my humble opinion, the movie was not really to my palette. The storyline was simple but too draggy (lasting almost 2 hours). It's supposed to be a comedy-drama. However, there were minimal moments of comedy that really made me laugh.

Having said that, the acting by Clooney and Woodley was commendable. As an on-screen veteran, Clooney struts his role as a father to huge aplomb. The care and concern expected of a father plus the undying love he shared for his dying comatose wife (who cheated on him) was palpable.

For Woodley, she plays the rebellious daughter who felt aggrieved for her father after knowing her mum cheated. She started off pretty well and from there she grew into her role both as a daughter and as an elder sister. Epitomizing a carefree attitude, her views in the show struck a chord with me at times. So congrats on her performance and also for being nominated the Best Supporting Female in the Independent Spirit Awards (See article: http://www.ifc.com/spirit-awards/best-supporting-female).

Here's her interview on the Ellen Degeneres' show:

Source: TheEllenShow

Saturday came and gone in a breeze. More so when I was enjoying it. Went to assist the University of Melbourne for its Pre-Departure Seminar 2012 at Swissotel Merchant Court. Was happy to see a few new faces whom I might bump into on campus next semester. Can still imagine their worried faces about what to expect and my job then was to allay their fears. They were like my descendants, treading the same path I once walked.

Really enjoyed the Faculty discussion as lots of stuff about Melbourne and UniMelb were discussed. It was not too long ago that I attended a similar event before my transition to Melbourne...time flies. Was also glad to meet my University mates from SSS, MUOSS etc at the event and catch up. Seems like everyone had been busy with internships, holidays and what not - definitely an eventful summer holidays for all.

Then night came. Had dinner and dessert with my friends and juniors from Nan Hua NPCC at Min Jiang (One North). Pretty expensive outlay but after all it was for CNY. At least I got to enjoy the Peking duck and it's the company that matters isn't it? Haven't met Chee Hoe for a long while and was glad to chat with him. Discussed many issues from academic stuff, working prospects to relationship management. Seemed like we covered almost everything...LOL

Nan Hua NPCC CI Team at Min Jiang One North.

After a sumptuous dinner, dessert was at NYDC Holland Village. These few days, I've been to Holland Village many atimes. Probably it's due to the new Circle Line MRT that made it convenient...Hmm. Ok the highlight was our 24 layered chocolate cake called High and Mighty. AWESOME! What a way to end a fun-packed Saturday.

Sunday came and gone. Spent the time resting at home so that I am ready to get back to work fresh on Monday. Of course, I didn't miss the epic Chelsea VS Man Utd match. A thriller that I almost wanted to miss but thankfully I didn't. As in previous years, Manchester United came from 3-0 down to draw 3-3. Kudos to the team effort and may they kick on from now towards the end of the season. Go Reds!