Series Review: Insatiable

"Being skinny, don't mean sh*t if you are ugly on the inside" is probably the best thing to come from the Netflix Original series "Insatiable" -which I am probably dropping from my #NowWatching list (I officially gave up on episode 6) but just continued watching so my review will have some merit. 

The dark comedy from 'Dexter' producer Lauren Gussis tries to be relevant and earn "woke points" by having an overweight lead character who deals with themes like body image and bullying. The show having a racially diverse and queer cast but they seem to be doing more harm than good as they present a plot wherein the female lead, Patty Bladell (Debby Ryan) -who used to be overweight; can only be happy if and when she becomes thin. She loses the weight by punching a homeless guy who was trying to take her chocolate, breaks her jaw and goes on a liquid diet for a number of months. 

The show manages to make fun of religion, sexual identity, body image, Southern society, statutory rape, molestation, adoption, pageants and honestly, abortion and honestly every topic under the sun. 

Patty says: "Now that I'm thin; its my turn to get the guy"  

I actually know of couples wherein the cute boy next door goes for the chubby girl. There is such a thing as "chubby chasers" you know and its disappointing to think that the boys in the series only take a second glance at Patty now that she's thin and pretty but wouldn't have given  her the time of day before. 

Now that Patty is thin, all that she wants to do is to get revenge on all those people who ever made fun of her but she ends up just hurting everyone around her. She is a selfish character with no redeemable quality whatsoever. Its so hard to root for her, when all that she thinks of is herself. 

When the trailer dropped I didn't that there was a lot of backlash with the possible fat shaming that the show will be projecting. It got so bad that there was even a call to cancel the show and probably Netflix should have. 

With the backlash from the series, Netflix has defended it saying that it is all 'satire' but the thing with satire is, in order for it to work, it has to be intelligent, your audience must be in on the joke, you must be winking at them and they should be laughing with you and with "Insatiable" trust me - no one is laughing. 

The characters are all annoying, they are all selfish and seem to live in their own bubbles, its so suffocating that they all seem to run circles around each other, as if their small town in Georgia is the smallest place on earth. They all seem to all have done some twisted, sick, unforgiving thing to each other. 

One of the few things that I liked about the show was the relationship of Patty's pageant coach Bob Armstrong (Dallas Roberts) and his social climber wife Coralee (Alyssa Milano). Yes, they both are weird in their own insatiable needs, him to  be the best pageant coach and her to be the ultimate Southern socialite but they are both partner in crimes who love and support each other, until the show ruins it. 

Also, all the parents in this show seem to allow their children to run wild and do as they please and alright just abandons them. No wonder these kids are so confused and just keep finding themselves in one bad situation after another.  I hate how the show leaves so many plots hanging and unexplored. Its as if the writers are just throwing everything at the wall and trying to see whatever will stick. 

3/10. Given that the finale was a cliff hanger-I am curious about what will happen next but not out of concern for Patty that's for sure. You just never get to like her to care about her. If the series survives another season, they should think of a major overhaul. 

Fear The Walking Dead Finale: Save the Best for Last

While Walker fans anticipate the return of The Walking Dead they were given the opportunity to sink their teeth into a different kind of Walker Universe and go back to the beginning so to speak. To a time when people still went to school you can still watch videos on your smart phone. 

While the series does not tackle the origin of the virus, fans are introduced to a whole new set of characters in a different location; from the backyard woods of Georgia to the concrete jungle of Los Angeles. It's important to note that it's also the largest city in the US and a larger population always means more bodies and more bodies mean more walkers. 

It's interesting to note that the first episodes didn't really provide that quench for more walkers. We do see the un-dead in a more fresh state than their decomposing counter parts in The Walking Dead. 

As society collapses, we see the military try (and fail) to control the situation come on, we all know where this is going but in the middle of the apocalypse is a family drama who despite their dysfunction and 'un-likeliness to survive the apocalypse' stick together. 

The series starts strong with a view of society before it collapses upon itself with the descent of an unknown virus and enemy. We have Travis and Madison who are both teachers and currently dating. Travis has a son, Chris from a previous marriage. Madison has two children, drug addict Nick and strong willed Alicia. As the riots break out, Travis brings both his families together and meet the family of Daniel Salazar along the way. 

As the series progresses to weaker middle episodes, we see the differences in how the characters handle the apocalypse. Travis (ever the optimist) still sees the infected as human and can't bring himself to kill them. (You need to have a talk with Rick) while Madison and Daniel understand that you have to take extreme measures in order to survive. 

The military come in and take control of the situation but of course we know that control is one thing that doesn't happen. The six episode first season escalates into a strong season finale where we see the Walker action we've been waiting for and maybe, an awakening for Travis that has been long overdue. 

It may have taken some time for the action and excitement to pick up but Fear the Walking Dead ends with a strong finale which has renewed the faith for fans who may have lost interest along the way. The Walking Dead starts in a few days of course, we are all excited for that and now I'm also looking forward to season two of Fear The Walking Dead as well. 

Heroes Reborn: Second Chances

When the original series of "Heroes" came out in 2006-2010 I wasn't the big TV Geek that I am now and one of my regrets was not getting to follow the original multi-awarded and highly acclaimed TV series. 

It's a good thing that there are second chances-Fast forward to 2015 "Heroes Reborn" is described as a 13 episode event mini series which will be the continuation of the original Heroes TV Series. Lucky me right?! 

I was able to catch a few episodes of the original series just so I wouldn't be completely lost watching Reborn but the challenge with continuing series, or spin offs is that it should be able to stand on it's own while still maintaining the same feel and tone as of the original. 

So after the two hour premiere how did I find Heroes Reborn? 

Well- as the first episode started it felt really rushed like you are suddenly thrown into the fray and so many things are happening at once (you're traveling from one place to another dealing with different characters and story lines) but I guess with an established myth, existing characters and new ones it was going to be crazy, very fast. 

I just love Zacharay Levi! I loved him in Chuck and I love that he's such a big and proud Geek. I was excited that he'll be in Reborn but just sad that he'll be playing the antagonists (well, so far). 

Miko Otomo was really cute but she dresses up like the Pink Ranger and what's up with that CG transformation? Not so sure on how to feel about her plot. Are they trying to re-create Masi Oka's popularity in the original series? Most probably. Will they succeed? That is something that is left to be seen. 

Yes- there are a lot of characters new and old and different story lines that overlap with each other but things manage to intertwine, sort of and you get a grasp of things but it was hard to feel empathy for any of the characters, since they threw in so many of them in one go. 

The episode opens with a peaceful existence of humans and EVOs (you know, another word for mutants) but then a bombing kills thousands, EVOs are blamed and now they are in hiding. Mercenaries in the form of Zachary Levi and his wife are off killing EVOs. Noah Bennett has his memory erased, becomes a car salesman but is soon back to what he does. There are many other characters and new EVOs but we'll have to wait and see how everything plays out. Like I said it's confusing but I'm hoping everything will tie up soon and fast. 

Will I watch episode 2? Most probably yes. Am I worried about the series? Honestly - I am but remember that the first episode will always feel a bit confusing but things should get better along the way. Still giving this one a chance. 

Things Will Fall Apart: Fear The Walking Dead: Episode 2

What's really scary about Fear The Walking Dead is that it is society as we know it. It is society as how we live in it. We are the characters, with our domestic drama, hopes, dreams, fears, worries about school or work. Heck! They even have their cellphones and lines of communication are still open! 

In creating these characters that thought of uncapable to handle the apocalypse was in mind and what chances do a guidance counselor, an English teacher, a drug addict and a competitive high school student have against surviving something that they don't even know or can understand? 

They're very different from the original series' characters, a Sherrif, a huntsman with a bow and arrow and a katana wielding badass. So how will they deal with society collapsing and neighbors and peers turning into the infected? Well, this is something that we have to see as the series goes on. 

In episode 2 - "So Close Yet So Far-"school is already out and we start to see riots breaking out in the street. Looters have begun to ransack food, medicine and weapons. The police are trying to contain the chaos but until when can their shields and batons protect them from what the audience knows is the beginning of the end? 

There are two compelling scenes in the last episode, both placing protagonist Madison on center stage, in the first, she faces an old colleague who has just turned, what does she do? Can she bring herself to kill him in order to survive? And in the other scene - the family is hiding in their home when they hear their neighbor who has just turned attack another neighbor. Her cries and pleas for help pierce the night - would you go out to help? 

It's a whole new level of frightening - unfortunately Fear The Walking Dead is on break next Monday (September 7) as it is Labor Day in the US. We'll be able to watch episode 3 on September 14.

Fear The Walking Dead is on every Monday at 9:00AM (local time) on AMC Asia, channel 106 on Sky Cable. 

My Interview with Jonathan Broderick of B.O.R.N to Style

Paul and I enjoy watching B.O.R.N To Style - yup you read that right, despite Paul's nonchalant attitude towards fashion he shows a surprising interest when it comes to the art and science to clothing and accessories. He did surprise me one birthday when he brought an entire outfit for me with shoes- he even had this whole explanation of matching print with plain and a pop of color over neutral ones. 

Which brings me back to the both of us enjoying the Fashion Make-Over show - B.O.R.N To Style; which focuses on New York based vintage/thrift shop B.O.R.N (which stands for Borrowed, Old, Refurbished, New) which also tackles make-over clients as well as styling for clients as well. 

The shop is helmed by the stylish Jonathan Broderick and his colorful and hilarious assistants. 

I had the honor of interviewing Jonathan over the phone and here is how it went down. 

Man Of The Hour: Jonathan Broderick

I just wanted to ask, you’ve actually quoted a saying that “you can be comfortable and fashionable at the same time.” So, do you have that same goal for your clients or is it a case-by-case basis?

I totally agree with that. With each client, that’s still something that I would tell everyone. Because once you’re comfortable, you’ll feel more confident, so you’re able to walk better. You’re able to not feel that if it’s too tight or if the dress is rising up or if it’s pulling you down. Or the guy who’s jacket is not fitting right so he’s uncomfortable in his shoulders, won’t stand as broad as he would be comfortable with. So that’s really something that I stick by and that’s for every client that we do. Comfortability is totally first.  Be it that in shoes, be it that in the belt, if it’s too tight, if it’s too loose, fit is everything - fit is everything. I always encourage the women to always go to a tailor to know their size and as far as with the bra size. you know, which is very important, the undergarments. Like a lot of women, the majority of women do not know their bra size! They’ve been walking around with size that is not theirs and wondering why their clothes don’t fit, as why the look don’t look as polished as it does when they see somebody on the red carpet. It starts with the undergarments.

I’d like to ask, at the end of the day, what are you most happy about with what you’re doing, with your day job, so to speak?

Yes. At the end of the day I’m most happy that I made a difference in somebody’s life. Because very early on, I didn’t think that fashion- and I always denied it - I didn’t that fashion was so important. You know, like a scientist, or a doctor, you know, or all those other professions - I didn’t think that fashion was that real, was that necessary. So each and everyday, at the end of the day, of the notes that I get and the emails, and people coming-we just had people come from Texas and they bake cookies for us and they bring their children and you know, people cry afterwards-So I mean like, it’s making a difference. Who would think that clothes can make a difference in somebody’s life? Because it’s all about their esteem-self- esteem and they get assurance and I listen to them, and you know, they trust me-that’s another thing. Because if I’m telling them and suggesting something that they gonna go out and present themselves to the world, that’s really important-that’s very important. People will go on job interviews, people could go out on their first date-people could just do all those firsts and I feel that I was part of it. So at the end of the day, it just makes me smile and makes me feel that this is worth it-it’s worth it.

I’d like to know, what else do you like to do when you’re not styling a client or when you’re not out, shopping for vintage clothing. What are your other hobbies or interests?

You know, that’s such an interesting question and I might seem a little boring or anything, but I love shopping. I love shopping. I don’t care if it’s at a grocery store, the fruits market or just like inquiring. I love the hunt. I love the hunt like everyday I’m shopping. Be it if it’s for me, if it’s for the store, if it’s groceries for food, if it’s in the pharmacy for you know, lotion and soaps. I love to shop. I love to people watch. I love to talk and I love conversing. I love to read-I’m reading everything. I’m staying current on everything-I read the newspaper, the daily news, the Women’s Wear Daily, I read Harper’s Bazaar, I read the New York Times, the New York Post. You know, International Magazines-I love pictures, I love the story.

So would say that you’re probably the best shopping buddy anyone can ask for?

Absolutely! A lot of people can’t hang with me because they’re exhausted at the end of the day and I’m just energetic, ready to go-‘cuz it’s still that one more piece, that one thing that I didn’t see. I like to window shop as well. It’s New York City! like Bergdorf Goodman. 57 street you see Christian Dior, you see Louis Vuitton, you see all the new stores that are opening up and down in Soho, like, you’re watching the people in the subway-it’s fashion everywhere. It’s everywhere.

Jonathan Broderick and his crazy, colorful crew. 

So, you work with your friends, what has that been like? Tell us about the pros and cons of being in business with your friends.

The pros and cons - at first, if you always see like it’s not always good to do business with friends-from my experience, I would disagree with that.  Because once you have friends and people that really care for you and see your vision…All the cast, and there have been times when I’m just so overwhelmed and they remind me of the vision and my purpose on why I’m doing what I do-they treat the business as if it’s their own. There’s a difference of having employees that are just there for the check and they just work in clock in and clock out and that’s it-they’re invested-my friends who are invested in B.O.R.N-it’s THEIR business. You know, I don’t have to worry about with people like…there’s a lot of theft in businesses: people just take advantage, people who steal, like I never have to worry about that-everybody will ask for anything that they wanted, they need-it’s not collective, we put it together to make something happen, we encourage each other, you know, and the flip flop side of that is is that your friends really know you and you can take advantage of each other because you know the brain to push, you know the way to ask for something. Oh, you know, you come in and do that smile, or do that dance and make me laugh you know, once you make me laugh, you got it-you get everything you want (laughs), you know, so they know me like that and I’m usually softer with my friends as I would be with somebody else that wasn’t.

FYI November Highlights

It's fortunate enough that for TV addicts like Paul and myself we can relax and get inspired at the same time and for crafts (writing for me and photography for Paul) inspiration is always important. 

It's a good thing that there is a network like FYI which offers shows that can get you inspired to work on your own little projects or craft; whether it is re-decorating that cluttered room which you've always told yourself you'd do (but never actually got around to doing) or trying out that recipe you saw online weeks ago. Whenever you feel like your stuck in a rut or need a little boost to start on that little project of yours then watching a few programs on FYI will definitely give you that much needed inspiration. 

Here are some new shows to watch out for on FYI this November! 

Bondi Vet Season 5

For pet owners and pet lovers, their pets give them that love and inspiration that helps them get through the day. Whether you are watching Bondi Vet for the cute pets and animals or the cute vet - Dr. Chris Brown you would be glad to know that new episodes are coming this November on FYI. 

Epic Meal Empire 

Paul has been telling me a lot about Epic Meal Time which he and office mates have already been watching on YouTube; after all boys will be boys and their appetites will always be proof of that. They've been dreaming of doing their own spin, in EMT (Epic Meal Time) recipes from youtube, but haven't gotten together due to schedule, budget and oven restrictions. For now, they'll have to settle with Angel's Burger massacre (an instant concoction of quick orders from the cheapest burger place in the Philippines).

These guys create everything from whiskey-laced burger stuffed lasagna a to donuts casseroles (I'm already drooling) to Jack and Coke cupcakes. These folks from the Epic Meal Empire team delivers recipes that are visually mind-blowing spins on food preparation and presentation. 

The new FYI series will follow the group as they invent spectacular new dishes and bring them to a whole new epic level. Epic Meal Empire will premiere on Nobvember 20. 

Red Hot Design 

The Way You Want It with Sky Cable

Paul and I are big TV coach potatoes, since we are mostly awake in the early morning (like 2 AM) during our rest days we depend on Cable TV to keep us entertained and sane. :) 

If you follow me on Twitter, you would probably notice that I tweet a lot about what I'm watching, that's coz I'm a big TV person, I love laughing out loud (think boisterous laughter) to hilarious comedies, (much to Paul's dismay) I love crying my eyes out on dramas and I just love that heart-skip-a-beat or two moment with action and suspense shows. 

Aside from these, I also love to be inspired from cooking and makeover shows-whether it's a house or fashion make over show there's always that rags to riches appeal which I have to admit I'm just a sucker for. 

Paul and I are also big History buffs so we do enjoy those historical documentaries, especially now since technology has brought the quality of entertainment up a notch. 

With the countless channels available on cable, it's definitely a good thing that you can tailor the channels that you want with Sky Cable. A very concrete example of which is that we had Animax (in case you didn't know, we're big Otakus) added on our package. When we first got our package from Sky, Animax wasn't included which was a big dissapointment for us, we were told that our area (up in the mountains) didn't have it available but after some time we were able to add Animax for an additional P50.00 to our monthly bill, and it's totally worth it! Now we get to watch Anime anytime! Whether it is old classic favorites or new shows straight from Japan! 

Now Paul and I are thinking of we'll have CI (Crime Investigation) added. The shows are just so engrossing! I remember there was CI in a hotel room we stayed in and I couldn't sleep coz the shows were just that good. 

Aside from getting the channels that you want, you can also have HD (High Definition) channels added and the difference between SD (Standard Definition) and HD is just too good to be true! We might consider getting a few HD channels once there's room in the budget :p For TV addicts like us- it's a must! 

Whether it's getting the channels that you like or watching them in HD. You definitely get what you want and the way you want it with Sky Cable! 

BIO To Get A Face Lift With FYI

Sometimes Paul and I have so many events and gigs to go to - our schedule gets really crazy and we love it even if it can be tiring but there's also a side of us that just likes to just sit back, chill at home and watch TV (while Paul edits photos and I write) and one of our go-to channels is BIO. :) 

We love their Home Renovation shows, whether it is Extreme Make Over or Flipping Vegas/San Diego/Boston or Reno vs. Relo (we're always rooting for Reno) There are times when we lose sleep just watching their shows and weekends are just better kicking back, relaxing and checking out their food and travel shows also. 

And as if things can't get any better - BIO being re-branded as FYI - For Your Inspiration, Innovation, Imagination and personally I cannot agree more to the direction to which the channel is taking, all those hours watching their shows definitely gets us inspired - to travel, to taste new food and watching all those renovation shows lets us dream of awesome designs (photo studio included for Paul) for our future home. :) 

Here are some of the things to look forward to with the new FYI! 

In a Press Release dated last September 19, the re-branding of BIO to FYI aims to give each viewer a personalized experience. "The network embraces the way audiences really live their lives - proudly -hyphenated and not constrained by one passion or interest. Never an instruction manual and always an inspiration engine (I love that line!) FYI offers viewers a more adventurous, personalized and non-prescriptive approach to programming with a range of stories that reflect how people actually live their lives today, not defined by just one passion or interest. 

"FYI's mission is to inspire personal creativity that emphasizes improvised living, while reflecting our authentic slate of programming" says Michele Schofield, Senior VP, Programming & Marketing at A+E Networks Asia. "And with its rich mix of inspirational content, the new channel's Asian premiere is sure to bring its viewers a season of quality entertainment." 

FYI will feature over 300 hours of original content each year across four programming genres taste, space, look and journey. FYI will include locally commissioned productions and local acquisitions.

Here are some of the shows to look forward to on FYI 

TINY HOUSE NATION 

One of the shows that have caught our attention. Tiny House Nation features "renovation experts and hosts, John Weisbarth and Zack Griffin as they travel across America to show off ingenious small spaces and the inventive people who live in them. They also help families design, construct and prepare to downsize into their own mini-dream homes no larger than 300 square feet! 

DESTINATION FLAVOR:JAPAN   

Paul has a love-hate relationship when it comes to the show, Destination Flavor: Japan, he loves it because the show features Japanese Cuisine, he hates it because he gets jealous of chef Adam Liaw who travels "from the frozen ponds of Hokaido in the north to the southern multicultural island of Okinawa...to "savor the cuisines from local legends and master chefs while watching Adam Liaw immerse himself in a vibrant food culture that embraces innovation and cherishes tradition." 

Asia's Next Top Model Season 2: Finale

From 16 to only one. All Sixteen Candidates with Host and Judge Nadya Hutagalung 

Time does fly so fast - and here we are again - it's the Season Finale for Season 2 of Asia's Next Top Model! 

I did a blog post on the Season Finale of Season 1 of Asia's Next Top Model last February 17, 2013 you can check out the link here. 

I'm obviously a fan of the franchise especially because of it's Asian flare. Long gone are the days when fashion and glamour are confined and defined by race. 

Anyone who has the guts to dream, to pursue that dream and to fight for it deserves...well to be on top so to speak. Just like Season 1 winner Thailand model Jessica Amornkuldilok, who despite her not so young age (in Modeling industry)-27- during the time of the competition, still won the coveted title of Asia's Next Top Model.  

Season 1 was based in Singapore were model hopefuls went around the Lion City chasing their modeling dreams. Season 2 was based in Malaysia and this was a good change, since it offered new location shoots for the photo shoot challenges. 

Even after Season 1 - I've followed the careers of last years' finalists thanks to Instagram :3  

Season One Winner Jessica Amornkuldilok on the cover of a Thai Magazine.

Winner Jessica has been to London (as part of the winners' spoils) and has been to many fashion shows, runways and guestings. Second runner up - Kate Ma of Taiwan had a baby (and might I say he is just a too cute bouncing baby boy) after the competition. And of course, I don't need to look too far since First Runner Up - Stephanie Retuya of the Philippines is a constant on billboards and magazine covers here! :) 

I love this Gundam/Anime/Japanese themed Magazine Cover of  First Season Runner Up Stephanie Retuya

    

While I'm still admiring and gawking over the accomplishment of last season's finalists; Season 2 was well on it's way and I must say that I loved how the producers really made it a point to bring new things to the show. 

I loved how when each of the contestant spoke to the camera on their thoughts, their country's flag was right behind them as a strong reminder of the country that they were also representing in the competition.  

The producers also came up with having the best photo for each photo shoot printed on panels of boards which slid 'open' every elimination - that was just so cool!

The first episode of Season 2 started out with sixteen girls and it seems like they were too many and you can't really remember any of them but pretty soon I started to have my favorites and some girls started to stand out after a while. 

An early favorite of ours is Nicole Lee of Singapore who albeit her introvert personality (she's a neat freak who likes to clean the house and is not interested in make up)  delivered really strong photos. Unfortunately she ran out of her magic and was soon eliminated. 

Singapore's Nicole Lee 

Compared to the first season, the girls from the second season had more girl drama in the model house (Courtesy of Janice Hermijanto of Indonesia) which of course always makes for an interesting show. 

Right before she was eliminated Marie Nakagawa from Japan revealed that one of the reasons she joined the competition was to prove that she can make it in the Modeling Industry despite of her being of African-American descent (as well as Japanese), through tears she revealed how it was hard to pursue modeling in Japan just because of her color and features. I really admired her for having that drive in her during the competition. 

Marie Nakagawa of Japan

You would think that in this 'seemingly' modern world, there are still instances where in we let, race, color and features define whether or not you can be successful in an industry. I want to believe that we have gone beyond race, culture and definition and that we strive for the best no matter what shape or form. Which is why I believe that Asia's Next Top Models is breaking barriers and redefining and challenging what has long been accepted or tolerated. 

Aspiring models in the show have said that 'modeling' is a profession frowned upon in their culture and that joining the show was their way of 'proving' themselves to their families'. 

Asian models with mixed lineages experienced being bullied as children just because they looked different.I admire how they were able to step up and step out of being bullied and were strong and determined enough to prove their tormentors otherwise.                 

The Fantastic Four - Resident Judges and Mentors: From Left to Right: Mike Rosenthal,Joey Mead-King,  Nadya Hutagalung and Adam Williams

Aside from a new base of operations, two new mentors made up the Fantastic Four of Judges of the series. Former model now celebrity and fashion photographer to the stars Mike Rosenthal and Movement Coach Adam Williams joined Head Judge Nadya Hutagalung and Model Mentor Joey Mead-King. 

I felt a bit sad, since Paul and I have developed a certain admiration and have been following Season 1 photographer and resident judge Todd Anthony Tyler. He even made a trip to the Philippines recently, unfortunately we were not able to meet him due to prior commitments. Hopefully next time we do! :) 

I had to literally stay away from Social Media (yes-it's possible) since I would only be able to catch the finale during it's encore, Thursday in the afternoon, since I had work Wednesday evening. 

During last year's finale I did mention in my blog post that I didn't have any particular favorite to win, that I would have been  happy if any one of the finalists (Jessica, Stephanie or Kate) won. But for this particular finale - pardon me if I do have a favorite because I did and I was rooting for anyone from Team Philippines to win. (Yup - I was just a tad bit being patriotic :P)

More than just a pretty face: Katarina was first critized for being 'just pretty' but she soon grew and blossomed in the competition. 

I wanted Katarina to win because she was a girl who dared to dream. She had no modeling experience whatsoever prior to joining the competition, aside from that she is also shorter and fuller than most models. A fact which I like since it dares to defy the traditional concept of a model - tall and skinny. I loved the fact that she was an underdog and that she defied the odds stacked up against her.     

The Levitating Princess- Jodilly in a gown by Alex Perry gives jump shot some style and glamour in this winning photo. 

Catch Game of Thrones on HBO Go!

In light of recent developments, straight-from-the-US broadcasts have allowed fans of TV series to watch their favorite shows without having to depend on illegal streams and downloads. 

I have prayed to the seven gods that Game of Thrones would be one of those TV shows but HBO is taking it to a whole different level with HBO GO! 

While the rest of the realm is preparing for the upcoming Season 4 premiere with hashtags like #TakeTheThrone and watching recaps of the last three seasons and probably organizing viewing parties for April 7's Season 4 premiere. Sky subscribers can also get in the action through HBO GO  - so just what is HBO GO - well, it's an amazing app that let's you stream amazing HBO original shows (aside from Game of Thrones) like The Sopranos, Band of Brothers, Six Feet Under and so much more! And aside from that with HBO GO installed on your laptop or mobile device you can actually catch Game Of Thrones 12 Hours After it's US release! :)     

To get you more excited check out the video below!  

Aside from simply getting to watch amazing original HBO productions you can also watch exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and production notes of your favorite TV series! :) 

Now, we all know that some content in HBO TV series can be well - not suitable for the faint hearted and young children well, fear not because there is actually a Parental Control feature which allows you to ensure your children don't watch anything they're not supposed to. So leaving the tablet lying around the house with HBO GO installed is not a sign of bad parenting. 

When the announcement of the new HBO GO came out - I really wanted to try it out - coz aside from being fans of Game Of Thrones (read the whole books and everything) Paul is also a big fan of other HBO Productions like The Sopranos, Six Feet Under and Band Of Brothers to name a few. (He is currently watching Season 1, Episode 1 of The Sopranos as I am typing this. 

So how do you download HBO GO? 

Well - it's really easy all you have to do is go to http://www.hbogoasia.ph/ to register, you have to be a Sky Subscriber and have HBO :D 

You can also download the app on your smartphones and mobile devices. 

HBO GO was launched last March 10, 2014 - but Sky is letting its subscribers (SkyCable and SkyBroadband who have HBO Asia on their plan) get the HBO GO experience through a FREE trial until May 31, 2014! 

Yup! It read that right! You can enjoy over 1,000 hours of UNCUT and EXCLUSIVE HBO Original programs! Not to mention catch Season 4 of Game Of Thrones 12 hours after its US premiere! :D (Yeah, I know I mentioned that already but.....Game Of Thrones!!!!) 

Check out screenshots of my online registration to HBO GO below! :) 

Fox Philippines gives an even better The Walking Dead experience!

February marks the annual (obliged) celebration of "love" through the commercially (and economically) driven occasion known as Valentines Day but not everything is about hearts and chocolates since February also marks the return of: 'The Walking Dead' from its mid season hiatus.

So while the rest of humanity is off in a heart-shaped wonderland filled with roses and chocolates an entire following of 'The Walking Dead' fans will be eagerly awaiting the return of their favorite zombie franchise. So if the zombie apocalypse does happen you already know the people who will be ahead in the game :p 

So why am I blogging about The Walking Dead's return? Well this blog post is to commemorate and acknowledge the efforts of Fox Philippines to bring the latest episode to your TVs (and if you have a big ass TV then it makes for a great TV watching experience) closer to the US telecast! So close in fact that it is parallel to the US telecast! This means that you get to watch the latest episode while it is hot and fresh from the oven (so to speak)!   

You can watch The Walking Dead on Fox Philippines as early as Monday 11:35 AM, February 10 (and if you're not familiar with time zones this is Sunday evening in the US) and catch the prime time telecast at 8:55 PM on Monday and if you've developed the Saturday habit of watching the latest episode- you can still relive that practice with friends and families (the family that screams together while watching zombies stays together) :P  

I won't pretend to be something I'm not by saying that I never watched anything online by streaming or downloading it. I remember watching TV series that I follow online by streaming them and probably anyone of us can say that they did the same one point.  

Which is why I believe that in these fast paced times we should all adapt in order to stay relevant and compete with the infinite possibilities which the internet represents. So kudos to Fox Philippines for bringing their A game and making our 'The Walking Dead' experience an even better one. 

You can watch The Walking Dead on Fox Philippines, Channel 50 on Sky Cable on Monday, February 10 as early as 11:35 AM and catch the prime time telecast on Monday at 8:55 PM and on Saturdays at 8:55 PM.    

Nothing good happens after 2PM

Coz Ted Mosby says it best. 

The ever optimistic Ted Mosby from one of our favorite series - How I Met Your Mother has been known to say "Nothing ever good happens after 2AM". And this is because "the decisions you make after 2am are the wrong decisions." Now I have finally understood what he said - in my own terms and conditions of course.

Well for me, it is more appropriate to say "Nothing ever good happens after 2PM" simply because Paul and I live the strange and queer lives of people working in the Call Center or BPO industry, meaning we work the night shift and that means living the "undead" lives of vampires but the similarities only start and end with the waking up in the evening and sleeping in the morning part and surviving on coffee instead of blood. 

So, if you put on your thinking caps the "uneventful 2AM" to the ordinary person is "2PM" to the children of the night who are no longer goth kids but call center employees like us.  

Whether it is a biological reason or a human flaw which makes us incapable of making the right calls after our body has gone way beyond it's normal hours of operation; I think it was been placed there as a 'fail safe' by our benevolent creator as a reminder that we are not meant to run forever despite our fast paced lives and this is a reminder which rings true to me, for there are days/nights when Paul and I are awake for twenty four hours because of our unconventional occupation.   

Nothing ever good happens after -2AM this was the original caption that Paul gave for this photo which gave me the inspiration for this post. He ended up changing the caption of this photo to: "Left behind". Now that I think about it, Paul's photos have inspired me to write a blog post or two. I think that it's just that way between us - we inspire each other to be better in our craft and in our passions. :)

Book Review: Under the Dome + A Sneak Peek On The TV Series!

I know I said I haven't been writing as much book reviews as I would like so I'm making a point to start getting back to writing book reviews. I've already finished a bunch of books but instead of stopping to write reviews I would move on to the next book. So while I've already finished reading most of these books, some I've already read months back I can still recall my thoughts and opinions on each book. :) 

First up on the to-write-book review list is Stephen King's Under The Dome - I guess I want to start by saying that there are some books that I read when I have nothing to do, like before going to sleep or when I'm waiting in line but there are some books that I really make time to finish, the kind of books that once you are hooked on you sit on bed, with the television off, the computer off and you just find yourself going through page after page until you've already read about 200+ pages without even noticing the time and Under the Dome is one of those books. 

I clearly remember nights where I would be sitting on bed furiously reading through the book, being totally engrossed by it. 

Well before I go into my thoughts on the book let me tell you first how we first met. :)  

When I got a gift certificate for Fully Booked from my Ninang Joy for my birthday I immediately thought about what titles to buy. I originally intended to buy one of the Young Adult titles on my to-read list but when I got to Fully Booked I saw this really really thick book (think 3 encyclopedias) by Stephen King entitled Under The Dome. 

I've already mentioned in my blog posts that Paul and I are big Stephen King fans , we've read his books, watched movies based on these books and even bought the Kingdom Hospital (TV Series) DVD Box Set - King was a producer on this series (although that was dissapointment since it wasn't as good as we'd hoped).     

I picked up (with much effort) - the 1,074 page book and I knew I was going home with it.  

Just like other of Stephen King's books, Under The Dome takes place in a small sleepy town (in Maine) and where unsuspecting evil works up in a big dramatic climax that leaves a town with (SPOILERS) a record breaking death toll (even higher than Carrie).

But unknown to most people even before 'The Dome' (an invisible force field) descends on Chester's Mill cutting it off from the rest of the world, there is already much evil and corruption brewing in their supposedly sleepy town. 

Now a reluctant hero in the form of former Iraq soldier turned-short order cook Barbie (yes, his name is Barbie) along with his rag-tag team of some of the town's constituents take on a force none of them could ever fathom. 

While reading 'Under The Dome' I found myself remembering another of Stephen King's books - 'Needful Things' I thought of the latter because of the huge cast of characters that Stephen King has but he is able to orchestrate through them like a seasoned maestro, he knows each section, each character and he is able to have them play all together and come up with the perfect harmony and music.  

Stephen King is such a master story teller that he can even tell a chapter through a dog's perspective but it would still read like a masterpiece. He jumps from character to character and is able to narrate a beautiful story without having to sound like a diary. 

I really admire how unforgiving and gutsy Stephen King is when it comes to the demise and fates of his characters. I think he and George R.R. Martin are now infamous with how they kill off their characters - there is no rest for the wicked and let's just say that the death toll in Under The Dome is unrivaled, the shock factor is always there and will have you gasping and shaking your head at every turn of a page.   

One thing that did bother me about Under The Dome (SPOILERS) would be the actual origin of The Dome - leather heads and aliens are really not my cup of tea, they sort of remind me of Ancient Aliens on History. Aside form this the book is a big page turner and I also love the lessons that come with it - yes it's not all about conspiracy, corruption, blood and gore there are actually subtle lessons within the text of the novel such as environmental, religious and the human dynamics of kindness and cruelty.  

 I loved reading Under the Dome so much going through the 1,074 page novel was a breeze. 

Even if I'm already finished with the book I'm still exited - why? Because there is a TV Series out right now based on the book! :) 

Stephen King is a producer of the series and it has already been renewed for a next season. It premiered last June on CBS.