Ever since the release of the movie Avatar, popularity for 3 dimensional movies has sky rocketed. In Korea, many 3D and 4D movie theaters were made specially for Avatar. There was a lot of money to be made.
Unfortunately, with the end of April, cinemas in Korea have stopped playing Avatar. I missed the chance to see the "phenomenal visuals." However, I have seen Alice in Wonderland in 3D. I was very disappointed.
First of all, the movie changed the original story by Lewis Carroll; the movie was very boring. Just when it seemed as if something was actually happening, the movie ended. Also, I did not like the actress who portrayed Alice. Twiddle dee and twiddle dum looked scary.
Although I didn't like the story, the pictures were indeed wonderful. However, watching it 3D destroyed the experience. The glasses were tinted like shades, so everything looked a lot darker. It was like watching wonderland with very dark sunglasses. In addition, Alice in Wonderland was filmed to be released in 2D. When released, they made changes to show it in 3D in some places. Therefore, something didn't seem right. The pictures did not look as nice as they would have without the glasses, the 3D effect did not help enhance the images, but rather was distracting. Watching a movie in 3D was not a very pleasant experience.
I don't know what it is about music before my time that attracts me so much, but I also really like Simon and Garfunkel's music. It just really showed me the meaning of "timeless," unlike some digitally created sounds that come and go without a trace, like air, temporary, without substance, and obvious (just personal opinions because there is a time and place for everything). Without passion and truth, music is nothing.
A few years ago, I was rummaging through my father's CD cabinet when I stumbled upon a CD called The Best of S and G. It looked familiar, but did not ring a bell. And what do you do with a CD if you don't hear it? So I stuck the CD in the living room stereo and listened. The music was soft, bubbly, and pastel pink.
I especially liked how "The Boxer" sounded.
Although you have probably heard it a lot here and there (it's pretty famous, I learned after looking up a little about Simon and Garfunkel), here you go. Enjoy!
Last time, I uploaded a ballad by X Japan. This time, I thought I'd upload something a bit more up-beat. I really like listening to rock ballads, but sometimes powerful speed metal really attracts me. The speed, energy, passion, thrill, and indescribable chemistry of guitar, bass, drums, and vocals coming together (keyboards too) to create such a powerful sound simply blows me away. Loud and crazy, but beautiful and with its own charm. Unfortunately, many people around me do not share my passion for rock so I am spilling it out here. We are X!!!
This is X Japan's "Kurenai" (Crimson), from their album, Blue Blood. An earlier version of "Kurenai" is also available in their 1988 debut album, Vanishing Vision.
This is the live performance of X Japan's Kurenai during their December 1, 1997 "The Last Live" concert. The concert was called "The Last Live" because it was going to be their last concert before their breakup. Although X Japan grouped up again, this concert really was a "last live" with their guitarist hide. Hideto Matsumoto, or "hide" as he was called, passed away an year later in May of 1998. Leaving that aside, isn't the energy of the concert just amazing? If I wasn't two years old in 1997 and in Hong Kong, I would have wanted to go to this concert.
If I were to talk about the history and legacy of X Japan, it would be endless so I'll leave it for another time. Enjoy!
Kurenai - Music Video
Lyrics
I could not look back, you'd gone away from me I felt my heart ache I was afraid of following you When I had looked at the shadows on the wall I started running into the night to find the truth in me 嵐吹くこの街がお前を抱く 吹き拔ける風にさえ目を閉じる お前は走りだす何かに追われるよう 俺が見えないのかすぐそばにいるのに
人波に消えて行く記億の吐息 愛のない一人舞台もう耐えきれない All of you in my memory is still shining in my heart
すれ違う心は溢れる淚に濡れ
紅に染まったこの俺を 慰める奴はもういない もう二度と屆かないこの思い 閉ざされた愛に向かい 叫びつづける Crying in deep red
Lyrics (Romanized)
I could not look back, you'd gone away from me I felt my heart ache I was afraid of following you When I had looked at the shadows on the wall I started running into the night to find the truth in me
arashi fuku kono machi ga omae wo daku fukinukeru kaze ni sae me wo tojiru
omae wa hashiridasu nanika ni owareru you ore ga mienai no ka sugu soba ni iru no ni
hitonami ni kiete yuku kioku no toiki ai no nai hitori butai mou taekirenai All of you in my memory is still shining in my heart sure chigau kokoro wa afureru namida nure
kurenai ni somatta kono ore wo nagusameru yatsu wa mou inai
mou nido to todokanai kono omoi tozasareta ai ni mukai sakebi tsuzukeru
omae wa hashiridasu nanika ni owareru you ore ga mienai no ka sugu soba ni iru no ni
kurenai ni somatta kono ore wo nagusameru yatsu wa mou inai
mou nido to todokanai kono omoi tozasareta ai ni mukai sakebi tsuzukeru
kurenai ni somatta kono ore wo nagusameru yatsu wa mou inai
Crying in deep red
from lyricsdepot.com
Translation
I couldn't look back, you'd gone away from me. I felt my heartaches, I was afraid of following you. When I had looked at, the shadows on the wall ... I started running into the night, to find the truth in me.
A storm is blowing through the streets as I hold you in my arms. A violent wind begins to blow, blinding me. You're running from something that has been stalking you. But can't you see that I'm alone? You're a common, disappearing memory. Unloved, alone on the stage I can't hold back.
As of you in my memory is still shining in my heart. Passing by me, soaking me with flowing tears. I'm lying here in deep red to comfort my pain. I will never again give out these memories that keep love away from me. As I continue to shout, you're running from something that has been stalking you, but can't you see that I'm alone?
I'm lying here in deep red to comfort my pain. I will never again give out these memories that ... keep love away from me. As I continue to shout ... I'm lying here in deep red to comfort my pain.
Kim Tae Won is the leader and guitarist of the Korean rock band, "Boohwal." Long ago, he was famous for his charisma and unapproachable air. Recently, Kim Tae Won started coming out more and more on television shows. At first, I did not understand this because I had thought him to be the last person who would go on air without his guitar. However, he said that he wanted to make Korean rock more approachable to more people. Then it made a bit more sense. Anyway, with his thin frame, long hair, and sunglasses, Kim Tae Won started losing his charismatic image on television (he still has his rocker stuff going on on stage). He earned a new nickname, Kim Hal-mae (Hal-mae means Granny, in Korean), because of the way he looked.
Anyway, a commercial came out that sent me to the ground, laughing. This is the commercial for Mitte, a hot chocolate line.
This is what's happening.
A group of young boys come to a ski resort and see a person with long hair in a pink ski uniform. One guy approaches "her" with a cup of hot chocolate. As it turns out, this person was actually Kim Tae Won. On the ski slope, Kim Tae Won says, "Ah~ You should have come with a girl friend."
Then, the commercial ends with, "When the wind blows cold, hot chocolate Mitte."
Although the Korean music industry appears to be dominated by commercial K-pop idol singers, there is a lot more beneath the surface. Independent and underground, the Korean rock industry is quite interesting too. Of these rock bands, one of them is called "Boohwal." They were first formed in the 80's when a heavy metal boom around Korea started producing major rock bands. After their 2nd album, their popularity rocketed. "Boohwal" means resurrection in Korea and is one of the few rock bands to have lasting popularity until today. They went through many ups and downs and had quite a few change of vocals, but their signature rock ballads have never ceased to soothe the audience with both great music and showmanship.
Recently, for their 25th anniversary, they released their 12th album, titled Retrospect and it came out in two parts. The first part came out late 2009 and recently, their released the second part of the album. Before going deeply into this rock band, I wanted to introduce to you the title songs for Retrospect I and II.
Chae Kyung and Shin got divorced because of Yuul's plan to make his mark on the royal family. However, this was all done secretly without Shin knowing it. When the fact that Yuul caused the crown prince's divorce is revealed to the King and Shin, the balance tips. The King starts making plans of his own, Shin breaks off his engagement with his childhood sweet heart, and Chae Kyung's state of mind falls into chaos after learning that Yuul endangered Shin. Even so, Chae Kyung intends to go abroad with Yuul to stop him from destroying the Korean monarchy and Shin's place in it. In addition, now that everything is out, Yuul has nothing to lose. What will he do?
Goong Volume 22
Chae Kyung, before going far away with Yuul, asks Shin to run away for the day. The two run to the royal summer house (which belongs to Chae Kyung because Shin gave it to her as a "last gift" just before the divorce).
Meanwhile, back at the palace, Yuul, believing that Chae Kyung permanently ran away with Shin mess up Yuul's plans and show how insignificant he and his feelings are, starts to gather opposing forces to the current monarchy. Do we see a coup d'etat??? In addition, Yuul's mother is planning an "accident" for Shin. However, we also see some allies. Shin's father, decides to finally step up and take action to protect the Korean monarchy and his son. In addition, Miru, the daughter of a powerful family who likes Yuul and wants to get married to him, also helps out Shin and Chae Kyung by convincing her rich father to go and help out with whatever the King (Shin's father) is doing. Why would she do this when she likes Yuul? Because she knows that Yuul likes Chae Kyung and putting Chae Kyung and Shin together will leave Yuul free.
Back at the summer house, Shin proposes again to Chae Kyung, but Chae Kyung, stunned and confused is unable to answer. However, it is evident that the two are still in love with one another. That afternoon, Chae Kyung decides to return to Yuul. Shin intended to let her go if that was her final wish. However, Shin received orders from his father to keep her with Shin. (Go figure!) The king is waiting for Yuul to make a move so that he can officially step in, but if Chae Kyung returns, Yuul's coarse of action may change. Chae Kyung desperately tries to run away by hitchhiking, calling a cab, etc. All are futile attempts. Shin is intent on keeping her by his side. In the end, Chae Kyung tries to go out through the second floor balcony. Just before she jumps, Shin runs into the scene and pulls her off the ledge into his arms.
Well that was how the 22nd novel came to an end. I know, a cliff hanger huh? It's driving me crazy. Now I have to wait again for the next novel to come out. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed the short synopsis of Goong. There were some very funny scenes, pictures, and lines in the comic. I really recommend watching Goong.
Today, the twenty second novel of Goong came out. I loved reading the comic series, but the fact that it wasn't a completed series vexed me. In addition, unlike most comics, it would take months for one book to come out. However, I heard that the artist/writer of Goong had some health issues and underwent two surgeries during the duration of writing her 22nd novel. That is why I like to read completed comics. But since Goong has entertained me for a VERY long time, I guess I'll have to enjoy the anticipation for the next book each new novel gives. Unfortunately, even the 22nd novel is not the end of Goong. It's unfortunate because now I'll have to wait for the next novel. However, it's also a good thing because I'll be able to enjoy more and more of the story.
This is what happened. I heard that the twenty second release of Goong was coming out in February. But it didn't come out. Then I heard that it will come out in March. I had been waiting for this since I finished the 21st novel last year. That is a lot of waiting. The last thing I heard about the release date was "the last week of March." Finally, on March 31st, my friend texted me, "I got Goong!!!!!" Yes!!! Finally! So my friend read the book that afternoon and passed it on to me Thursday morning. Well, I actually ran to her first block (she was in World History), got the book safely in my arms, and ran back to my class (Geometry). I couldn't wait to read it!!! Every time we got an assignment, I bolted through the problems (correctly) and read the comic in my free time. First of all, I never knew I could solve math problems so quickly. Secondly, I learned that I could do Geometry and read Goong at the same time. If this is possible, anything is possible.
It's soon time for the next volume of Goong to come out. It's been over half an year since the last novel came out. Each Goong book takes quite some time to come out and right now, the series is continuing for over 22 novels. Now that I am thinking again, alot, about Goong, I remember how I first started reading Goong.
It was a long, long time ago. I was in elementary school (maybe it wasn't THAT long ago, but anyway). I visited a friend's house and we were chatting on the floor of her room. Under her desk, a series of comic books were lying around. It was Goong. At that time, there were maybe only about 5 or 6 released novels. In the beginning, I wasn't very interested. The story seemed sophomoric, unrealistic, and the characters looked awkward. But the two of us didn't know what else to do so we started reading them while munching on some snacks. Soon we were completely hooked. With a huge smile on our faces, we rolled around the floor laughing and kept flipping through the pages. It was time for me to go. Not only did I want to finish a few books that were left, I wanted to see it from the beginning again! My friend was generous enough to lend me all of her Goong books. That day, I walked out of her house, both arms full of comic books. And that was the beginning.
In any movie, music plays a large role in enhancing the mood. In The Corpse Bride, there were some musical scenes that I really enjoyed.
First of all, there is the scene where Victoria first meets Victor. Victor awkwardly steps into Victoria's home and seeing a piano, starts playing a beautiful piano piece. I like this scene not only because of the music, but because it shows a lot about Victor's character. See for yourself!
I also like the scene where, after Victor tricks Emily into letting him go back to the "living world", he tries to make things up for Emily. Emily's inability to stay angry at Victor show how she feels about him. I think it's a genius way of showing what it going on between the two characters without having to say anything.
Another song, called "The Remains of the Day" is sung by the dead and narrates Emily's tragic story. The funky and catchy music as well as the underlying story in the lyrics makes the music a major part of the movie. In addition, the visuals also show what the Land of the Dead is like.
The Corpse Bride (2005) is an animation movie directed by Tim Burton and Mike Johnson. It is set in a village in Britain. Victoria (voiced by Emily Watson), is the daughter of a bankrupt aristocrat. Because of her family's financial situation, she is set to be married off to a man named Victor (voiced by Johnny Depp), the timid and gentle son of the nouveau riche class. Before the marriage, Victor makes some major blunders in front of Victoria's parents. Embarrassed, he runs off to the forest to practice his vows and slips his wedding ring onto a tree branch sticking out of the ground. Suddenly, the branch moves; it was a hand of a dead bride! Here comes Emily, the corpse bride.
X Japan is one of my favorite rock bands.I would like to dedicate a few posts to their music.
Endless Rain Single (released December 1989)
Composed and Written by X Japan leader/pianist/drummer Yoshiki.
Track Listings
1.“Endless Rain”
2.“X” (Live version)
Although I like the song “X”, “Endless Rain” really caught my attention in this single.I am currently obsessed with this sentimental, yet powerful ballad.The vocalist’s powerful voice to a moving melody captivated me.However, it would be a disgrace to a song to ignore its lyrics.Because I am not a native Japanese speaker, I cannot understand or feel the lyrics perfectly.I could understand the meaning of the lyrics, but I would never be able to see the beauty in and fully appreciate the Japanese language itself.However, I can be moved.I can be moved because that is what music does- move people who cannot fully understand, appreciate, or analyze its power.
This is the music video for “Endless Rain.”The recording is great, but I also suggest that you listen to some of their live versions too.
Hello! I'm back with more information about Goong! What happens in this comic book? What happens between Shin, Chae Kyung, and Yuul? Keep reading to find out!
Before Shin and Chae Kyung could even walk, the two’s grandfathers decided to marry the two children.Therefore, when Chae Kyung becomes seventeen, she is suddenly forced into a marriage which turns her life upside down.In the midst of trying to get accustomed to life in the palace, Chae Kyung grows closer to and falls in love with Shin Lee.As for Shin Lee, he had a childhood sweetheart.He only realizes later on that his true love is Shin Chae Kyung.The two grow closer to one another day by day and also fight through various challenges of life in the palace and as a public figure and role model, as well as other challenges any young lover may encounter.
Meanwhile, the story also includes government conspiracy.Yuul’s mother is furious because, according to current standings, her son cannot become the next king of Korea.In order to raise her son’s and her own status, she starts to create allies within the government and plot against Prince Shin Lee.Yuul, however, starts to grow tired of his mother’s endless plots.This changes when Yuul decides to become a “bad boy.”In order to bring Chae Kyung to his side, he threatens Shin’s mother.If Chae Kyung does not divorce Shin Lee, Yuul says that he will do everything in his power to knock Shin off the line of succession.Although Yuul is second in line, Shin’s mother knew the danger of his resources and power.As a mother who wishes the best for her son, she tells Chae Kyung that Chae Kyung must divorce Shin if she truly loves him.Chae Kyung, hoping to protect Shin, asks for a divorce.Although Shin refuses at first, he sees that his wife is having a hard time in the palace and lets her go.However, he is determined to find out the secret behind Chae Kyung’s actions.In volume twenty, the fact that Yuul was the mastermind behind Shin and Chae Kyung’s misery is revealed and Chae Kyung is overwhelmed by the fact that her friend betrayed her.Although the secrets are revealed, it is not easy for a prince to announce a marriage, a divorce, and yet again another marriage.In addition, Yuul, now that he has nothing to lose, decides to step up his own game.Volume twenty one ends with conflicts still on high and Chae Kyung telling Shin that they should just run away together.
My Thoughts
Quite frankly, this comic does not contain a mind-blowing story line and often times, the character drawings are out of proportion; Goong would not have caught my eye on a book store.However, I skimmed through a few volumes at a friend’s house and learned why this comic book is enjoyed so much.The story is funny, light, and adorably sweet.It makes the readers laugh and smile to see how two teenagers grow accustomed to one another.At the same time, there is just enough serious scheming and back stabbing.All the characters, major, minor, good, or bad have their own charm.For example, although Yuul seems like a bad character, many readers grow to sympathize with and understand his sorrow because he has a story of his own, which, told from Yuul’s point of view, raises pity for the lonely character.For me, Goong is a great way to spend a boring afternoon; I have a lot of fun and reading this helped me improve my Korean grammar.I also learned a lot of terms, which were actually used long ago in Korea, that specifically address different people of the royal family.
Goong was also made into a live action drama which became a big hit.If you want a glimpse of what the drama is like, click the link below to see a short music video of one of the soundtracks of the drama.
Today I will introduce to you one of my favorite comic book series, Goong (Palace Love Story). Although Japan is very famous for their manga and animation culture, Koreans also enjoy reading comic books very much and Korea's comic industry has risen significantly. Just like we call Japanese comics Manga, Korean comics are called Manhwa. Let us take a brief look at what this manhwa is all about.
Title – Goong (translation: Palace)
Author/Artist – So Hee Park
Genre – Korean Comic (Manhwa), Romantic Comedy
Setting
This comic is set in modern-day Korea under the set-up that Korea is a constitutional monarchy.
Shin Lee – Shin Lee is the crown prince of Korea (first in line). At first, he seems like a stoic character who is not very interested in Chae Kyung. However, after time, he falls hopelessly in love with her.
Yuul Lee – Yuul, Shin’s cousin, used to be the crown prince and first in line to the thrown. However, with the sudden death of his father, he became second in line.Things get complicated when Yuul also falls in love with Chae Kyung. His jealously and obsession drives Yuul to do whatever he can to break Shin and Chae Kyung apart.
Other than these three main characters, the members of government as well as some of the main characters’ friends add to the story line.
Characters are an essential part of any story. What each character brings may make the overall work shine, or die. In Goong, we see a love triangle rather typical for East Asian comics and dramas from countries like Japan, China, Korea, Taiwan, etc. However, in this particular story, each character's style is portrayed well. That is why Goong kept my interest. For example, Chae Kyung's hilarious words and actions keep the readers deeply engaged. On the other hand, the seriousness that the older government officials bring into the scene keeps the story down-to-earth and less sophomoric.
Today I will keep my introduction at this. Don't fall into despair! I will continue uploading more information related to Goong, so stay tuned for more.
Hello! This is Clare's blog. I will upload a variety of posts relating to events and activities that add joy to my life. I hope you enjoy my blog and I would also love to know what you think about my blog. Please comment on my posts!
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