Musings about The Mistress : Not a Review

I just finished watching The Mistress, a Filipino / Tagalog movie starring John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo. The story revolved around mistresses, secret affairs and other typical scenarios you'd see in a Filipino movie - rich boy falls for poor girl, they can't be together. Since I basically almost summed up what the story is about in this first paragraph, needless to say, this ain't a review.

In case you haven't watched the movie yet, (SPOILER ALERT!!!) John Lloyd plays the role of Eric / JD Torres. He's an architect and the son of wealthy businessman Rico (Ronaldo Valdez) and Regina Torres (Hilda Koronel). Bea is Sari Alfonso who is a seamstress who came from a poor, big family led by her mother Carmi Martin. Eventually, you'll know that Sari is Rico's mistress, and JD / Eric later finds out about this, but still pursues Sari.

You might be wondering now why I'm writing this blog post about the movie with no intention of reviewing it. I guess there were lines and scenes from the movie that hit me. Sure, I've been the other woman and on the cheating end, so you'd really expect that The Mistress has affected me in a way.

Yes, I admit, it did, especially the part where JD said Sari deserved someone who is completely hers, who she didn't have to share with anyone else - in short, she deserves more than leftover love. I realized this a long, long time ago and I'll never put myself in that situation again 'cause I know now how it feels to be the cheater, the other woman and the clueless girlfriend, and how good it is to be with someone who’s got eyes for only you. Whenever I deal with boys (for me, real men are monogamous) who act and talk like they're God's gifts to women, I keep telling myself I deserve better.

And THAT, ladies and gentlemen, is why I'm still single.

 

The Blame Game

Aside from the obvious effect on me of this movie, what surprised me was how mature Bea's character was. Her mother (Carmi) was a mistress too. After everything with JD and Rico got all messed up, her mother was apologizing for what Sari is going through 'cause she felt like it was her fault - she wasn't a good example.

After years of watching select Filipino / Tagalog movies, I didn't expect Sari to say that it was not her mother's fault, that no one else is to blame but herself. This scene made me stop and start writing this post.

The X Factor USA : Why Carly Rose Lost to Tate Stevens

As I have predicted it, Tate Stevens won The X Factor USA over Carly Rose Sonenclar. I knew it'll be a tight race between the two, but I sure was hoping Carly Rose will win in the end. I guess Tate's sincere enjoyment of what he's doing, his lovable personality, irresistible smile, and, of course, his amazing voice won the hearts of voters a thousand times over.

 

The X Factor USA Judges

This is actually my first time to watch The X Factor (didn’t even watch the local version). When I learned that Britney Spears will be judging alongside Simon Cowell, Demi Lovato and L.A. Reid, I just had to watch! I've been a fan of Britney ever since and I've looked forward to the day that I see her back on her feet again. Though most of her comments were a little generic, I think she did an awesome job! :)

I honestly didn’t pay attention to Demi Lovato before even when I listened and liked some of her songs. This time though, I found myself agreeing many times to what she had to say. And I loved how feisty she was towards Simon. Hahaha! I think he finally met his match! Plus, I absolutely enjoyed her performance with Fifth Harmony. They rocked! :)

To be quite honest, I don't like the format of The X Factor. I LOVE the concept of The Voice more than any other singing competitions on TV, but I love the unique arrangements of the songs on The X Factor. Most of them don't work as well as the others. In the end though, I became a fan of the show, even with those awkward times when the hosts Khloe Kardashian-Odom and Mario Lopez (I have a big crush on him ^_^) will cut off someone still speaking just so they could continue with the show. :D

 

The X Factor USA Finalists

Carly Rose vs Tate Stevens

I loved Carly Rose Sonenclar ever since she sang Brokenhearted, originally by Karmin (who I adore!!). Her voice is AMAZING and how she interpreted the song was just crazy!! Will.i.am put it quite well - 'she's like a little caterpillar. And you'd think she'll turn into a butterfly, but then she turns into a dragon'. Well, not exactly (word for word) what he said, but you get the gist. Watch her video below and be awed! ;)

Week after week, I looked forward to Carly Rose's performance. I think hers and Fifth Harmony's are the only performances that I never skipped or fast-forwarded while watching.

Survivor Philippines (Season 25) : The Winner Is…

Obviously, you're here because you want to know who won in Survivor Philippines, season 25 of my favorite reality show. I was rooting for Lisa Whelchecl all the way, but as it turns out, Denise Stapley is the winner of Survivor Philippines.

Boohoo! I never liked Denise, though I admire her agility in the challenges. She's a bad ass!! However, I believe that strategy-wise, Lisa deserved to win. But, it's another season where you have bitter jury members.

I've been a big fan of Survivor since its first season, and I've waited for too long for them to finally pick my home country, the Philippines, as their location. After 25 seasons, finally, it happened! And I was so amused by how Jeff Probst says "Matsing" (Tagalog/Filipino for monkey), "Tandang" (rooster) and "Kalabaw" (carabao). :D

I think the show has gained many new fans this season because there were a lot of Filipinos who were too excited to see our country featured in such a big show such as Survivor. :)

America’s Next Top Model Season 19 : Bring Brittany or Leila Back!

First of all, I am so loving the new concept of America’s Next Top Model College Edition. When I was watching the first episode, I thought Tyra Banks decided to let people call in or text to vote for their favorite ANTM contestants. Thankfully, she had something cooler in mind - use social media!

America's Next Top Model and Social Media

Being a social media practitioner myself (though I handle restaurants), I am happy about the new scoring system of America's Next Top Model Season 19. This gives the audience/viewers or fans of the show a chance to somehow control who gets voted out of the competition. And it's just smart to use social media since it's the most powerful tool now for any brand or company to promote themselves. I think Tyra's using social media pretty well, don't you think?

I also like the idea of giving the wannabe models that were eliminated a chance to go back in the competition through the power of social media. I'm especially glad about this NOW that I have no one else to root for amongst the ones who are still in the show.

Kelly Cutrone, Rob Evans, Bryanboy and Johnny Wujek

The addition of Kelly, Rob and Bryanboy is one of the amazing things about Season 19 of America's Next Top Model. I love Kelly Cutrone, with her fierce comments. Rob Evans, and all his gorgeousness, is surprisingly a pretty awesome judge himself. I agree with him and his comments 99% of the time.

Bryanboy - I know he's Pinoy and I've heard some issues with him before, but I like him on the show too, especially when he told Yvonne off with her nasty attitude during one of the shoots.

Johnny Wujek is a great addition too. I feel like he has contributed more to the show because of his insights and the way he handles the models during their photo shoots. Oh, and he's Katy Perry's stylist, so that's another PLUS. And, of course, he's gorgeous too. :)

America’s Next Top Model Comeback : Bring Brittany or Leila Back!

Everyone has his or her own bad days, and this happens to the best of us. So, I am really hoping that either Brittany or Leila is brought back into the competition through their social media scores.

(If you haven't yet, watch America's Next Top Model Comeback Web series)

I am crossing my fingers for Brittany and Leila. I think Leila will be a stronger competitor though 'cause I find that Brittany is a little boring during most of her shoots. I LOVE her on this Walt Disney shoot though:

Leila looks more like a high-fashion model, so I am rooting for her first before Brittany. But, either of them is okay in my book.

Victoria is Weird

Beautifully weird - I'm not sure. The way she comes into every photo shoot, with all the crazy characters she comes up with, is just too funny for words.

Sure, this is all because of her being home-schooled and well-pampered by her mother. I hope and wish she'll grow up, seriously, 'cause I think she's a very smart young girl who needs a ton of maturing to do. And I hope her mom helps her with that.

Who Am I Rooting For?

I am rooting for Lauren and Kiara now. Well, that's only because I have no other choice but them 2. They're the lesser evils.

Nastasia, I used to like, but she’s been boring recently.

Kristin is hot and pretty. But, I think she's just lucky she has the looks. With that said, she’s not a fierce high-fashion model to me. Plus, her personality sucks. :D

I don't like Lauren for her attitude too, but she’s one of the top competitors now. I love her zombie photo shoot.

Who are YOU supporting in America's Next Top Model College Edition?

Photo Credits: America's Next Top Model on CWTV

Fairly Legal : My New Fave TV Series

For some reason, I started this love affair with lawyer-y TV series with a dash of humor. One of them is Fairly Legal.

The series revolves around this petite bombshell Kate Reed played by Sarah Shahi. I remember Sarah as Carmen de la Pica Morales, the super hot lesbian partner of Shane (Katherine Moennig) in The L Word. She used to be an attorney, but decided to step down and serve as a mediator.

A mediator acts as a negotiator between two parties to avoid all the hassles of going to court. She uses her shrewdness to get what she needs to finalize a deal between the parties she mediates. And how she does her job is the most fun part of the series.

She's witty, easy-going and gets the job done almost every time. It doesn't matter what the case is all about, even taking on some that aren't her expertise. Most of the minor cases she handles are about property disputes, business partners (she handles small to huge companies, some who own stores selling various products from discontinued appliance parts to high-end equipment) and (ex)couples.

She also has a knack for being aggressive and bluffing to settle disputes. Kate's very dedicated to her work, which in turn, as expected, caused troubles in her marriage to gorgeous Justin Patrick (played by Michael Trucco).

Kate's personal life is a mess, but she's VERY successful in her job. She's a partner in her father's law firm, and she also has problems with her stepmom, a lady almost as young as her - Lauren Reed (Virginia Williams).

The story of Fairly Legal takes a lot of twists and turns, which has kept me glued to the screen. Plus, they're not too technical with their lawyer-y terms (LOL), so I know almost everyone can understand and most probably enjoy the series too.

The series just started last year and they're on their second season. I hope they'll continue on for a longer period 'cause I enjoy their unpredictable plot. Though they handle different cases every episode, you'll fall in love with Kate Reed's out-of-the-box approach. It's really Sarah Shahi who I look forward to watching. :)

American Idol Season 11 Finale: Jessica Sanchez vs Phil Phillips (with Videos & Updates)

The much-awaited American Idol Season 11 Finale is currently happening in the US, and I can't be more excited than to find out who'll win. I deeply and sincerely hope Jessica Sanchez wins American Idol over Phillip Phillips.

Since I'm watching this live, here are live blog updates and videos from the finale tonight. Credits to the original poster of the videos:

 

American Idol Live Updates:

ROUND 1:

Here's video of Jessica Sanchez singing I Have Nothing:

Randy Jackson says Round 1 goes to Jessica!

Video of Phil Phillips singing Stand by Me:

How Much I Love Kathy Griffin (and her new talk show)

My friends who know me for years would understand why I LOVE Kathy Griffin. I am such a big fan of her, especially after watching her show My Life on the D List. I know, her humor may not be for everyone. It's an acquired taste. If you've seen her on the D List, you'd probably change your mind about her and you'd start watching her new show Kathy on Bravo.

My brother Ken also shares the same preference for Kathy's type of comedy - with a mix of sarcasm, self-deprication, making it all witty and dark. She can make you laugh at the simplest things 'cause she can make a joke that's so fricking funny, you'd end up histerically laughing for hours! She's probably the smartest comedienne I've ever watched. But what made me adore her is how much she cares for people. Deep down that "evil" and tough exterior is a loving person.

This is why I am so glad and grateful that Kathy Griffin has her own talk show now. FINALLY! I stopped watching those late night shows because I can't stand the host, except for Conan O'Brien. I already watched the first episode of Kathy's new show that's self-entitled Kathy, and I cannot wait for the next one. I managed to stay glued watching her and I wish I'd get a chance to watch her live.

There's no doubt, Kathy is quick-witted. Most celebrities she's encountered either hated her or loved her 'cause of all the things she says. The thing is, most of the ones who hated her were probably hurt by the truth behind what she's saying. LOL

And have you seen her 91-year old mom Maggie Griffin? Oh gosh. Kathy may be making fun of her and her love for boxed wine, but if you've seen the D List and from everything I've seen from her, you'd know Kathy LOVES Maggie so much. It did break my heart when I watched the D List where they were mourning her dad's death. Imagine being together for 50+ (or more) years. Her dad was adorable too, probably where Kathy got her twisted humor.

Kathy may have this sick, sick humor. But, there's no denying that her fans love her to death and even her assistant Tiffany is a living testament of how fun it is to be around her. I'd probably be laughing every minute I'm with Kathy. Also, the way she speaks her mind is one thing I can relate to. But, I have more self-control. *LOL*

Oh, and yes, she's 50+ years old, but look at her bod! Also, she LOVES dogs, which is another reason why we love her. :) Plus, she is one of the firm supporters of gay rights, just one of her many advocacies. Trust me, when you get to know her, you'd understand why I'm such a big fan.

America's Next Top Model British Invasion : AzMarie Should Win!

Another show that I'm absolutely addicted to watching is America's Next Top Model. Yeah, I may not have the model-type of body. I won't even pass for a plus-sized model, but I love taking photos and posing in front of the camera myself. I enjoy the crazy and sexy concepts for their photo shoots. And this latest season, ANTM delivers! It's the British Invasion!

Oh yes! They brought in models from Britain's Next Top Model as competition for the amateur / inexperienced American model wannabes who made it to this season. How crazy is that? The catfight was more fiery than ever! What was Tyra Banks and producers of the show thinking?! RATINGS! *lol*

I've had a couple of favorites over the past weeks, but now, I only got 2 - AzMarie Livingston from the US team and Sophie Sumner from Team Britain.

I LOVE Sophie's look and personality. Though she may be a li'l catty at times, I still love her! And that cotton candy pink hair just suited her! She's not the best among the British models, but she's still my favorite among them.

I can describe AzMarie in 2 words - SMOKING HOT! I mean, dang! I even hear and read about women, STRAIGHT WOMEN, who find her so damn sexy! I know men out there are pissed that AzMarie is a lesbian. Still, you cannot help, but get attracted to her androgynous, but seductive look.

I fell in love with her more when she told the story about her coming out at a very young age to her mom. Because of it, her mom didn't have a mother-daughter time with her. So, modeling is AzMarie's chance to let her mom enjoy having a daughter. A very touching story! Which is why I strongly feel that AzMarie should win!

AzMarie has bagged the photo of the week for 2 consecutive weeks, thus earning her team prizes. I think this concept was very effective in pushing the models to do better next time. :)

The first weeks of ANTM British Invasion, the 2 teams of British and American models were at each other's throats. But, the indifference died down when one of the models, Louise Watts, walked out during judging 'cause she can't take the criticism anymore. Good riddance, I say! I mean, seriously? Why did she come to the show and why did she even think about becoming a model if she can't take criticism well?!

I know some of the contestants who join ANTM may have all sorts of reasons for getting themselves into such stress, like pressure from friends and family, desperate to earn a living probably because of debt, and, mostly, for the love of modeling. But, you'd be insane not to expect such high standards or intense criticism from others in the modeling industry. You can't be sensitive and be a successful model, really. She's beautiful, but she gotta work on her attitude!

Anyway, I love this season of America's Next Top Model British Invasion. I really, really hope AzMarie wins. She deserves it! Who are you betting for this season?

Jessica Sanchez and Filipinos on American Idol

First, there were Camille Velasco and Jasmin Trias on season 3. Then, Ramiele Malubay in season 7 and Thia Megia in season 10. And now, Jessica Sanchez. Five Filipinos who made it to American Idol, and it's only this year that I felt like a kababayan can actually win the title.

It's no wonder us Pinoys are very fond of singing. Even at a very young age, we were taught to appreciate music and singing. At least that's the case in our family. In fact, a party here in the Philippines is almost not complete without singing involved. That's why I thought it'll be pretty easy for the past Filipino singers who made it to American Idol to be in the finals and win.

Jasmine Trias got the closest to the title, but, although I love her, I think people only liked her sweet image and not her voice. Camille, Thia and Ramiele started out real good, but their fiery performances fizzled towards the middle of the season. It's only now with Jessica Sanchez that my faith that a Filipino can actually win the show.

Yes, she's Filipino-American. But, you can't deny that her stage presence, and even the way she holds her mic with that "twitching" habit, made famous by some Filipino popular singer from decades ago, is influenced by her being Pinoy.

Her voice is AMAZING! Her performance and confidence on-stage - flawless! I cannot believe she's only 16! The judges were right. It's shocking how she can perform so well considering she's that young.

I really wish Jessica can continue wowing the crowd and the viewers of American Idol to stay on and make it to the finals. She deserves it!

Here's her last performance, singing her own rendition of Beyonce's Sweet Dreams. She sang so good that this performance was even posted on Beyonce's own website! :)

Jessica Sanchez singing her own version of Beyonce's Sweet Dreams from last week.

I hope that will boost her to the top. I hope she continues on, but add a little more variety since she's a very versatile singer. Just watch and listen to her in the video below. SHE CAN SING ANYTHING!

Jessica singing different songs, showcasing her versatility and range of her voice.

She's the total package. Her voice is crazy good. She performs like a pro. She's young. She can even be a fashion icon. I love her fashion sense, and almost anything you put on her, even sterling silver jewelry or clothes from the 80s or 90s, she can pull off. Jessica Sanchez deserves to win American Idol Season 11. And I am hoping and praying she does.

Who are you rooting for this season of American Idol?