"Howl's Moving Castle" Movie review

The best thing about watching Ghibli movies is that it never ceases to show you something new. Its where reality meets fiction, a breathtaking experience which everyone should enjoy. Be prepared as you dive into the magical world of Studio Ghibli.

The story of "Howl's Moving Castle "takes place in a world full of magic and a battle between two opposing factions. Our story begins with a young girl named Sophie, who works at her mothers hat shop. Until one day a witch came by and put a curse on her, turning young Sophie into an old hag. This marks her journey into the wastes where he met a scarecrow she called turnip head, then stumbled upon Howls Castle. There she met Calcifur, a fire demon which keeps the castle from collapsing and is Howls ultimate source of life. From there on she works as a cleaning lady, little did she know about Howls dark secret and that he secretly has deep feelings for her. This shall mark the beginning of Sophies tale as she journeys through the wastes inside Howls Castle where she'll encounter different kinds of problems, battles and at the same time learning the true meaning of Love.

Such an amazing story filled with romance, action and of course magic. It just goes to show the things you can do in order to protect people you love. I was moved by the creativity that was put into the movie. From the castle itself to the vegetation and the detail of the scenery. its a must watch for everybody and i'll never get tired of watching it over and over again.

photo (c) https://www.google.com.ph/search?q=howls+moving+castle&espv=2&biw=1366&bih=623&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwip18SguI7MAhXIFpQKHaElDiUQ_AUIBigB

Elevate - A Youth Experience

I remember the first time i attended Elevate. I was invited by my friend Albert whom i met through borrowing his pants when i forgot to bring mine. Anyway, he told me there was this place where youth come to worship and at the same time have fun. Now this is not like anything I've ever heard of but i agreed to accompany him anyway. The following day, Albert and i commuted to Molito in Alabang Muntinlupa. Then i realized this was the church my folks used to take me to when i was a kid, Christ Commission Fellowship or CCf for short.

So we took the elevator to the 3rd floor, Inside was some kind of waiting room where the youth could relax and be entertained while waiting for the service to start. As we waited, there were a lot of teenagers who were entering the room. To my surprise, the hosts were also teenagers who were entertaining the youth by playing games and singing songs. After a few minutes, they announced that the doors were open. Then i thought, what does that mean? All of the sudden everybody got up and rushed upstairs to the main hall. I was a little confused at first and at the same time pumped, good thing Albert grabbed my hand and yanked me upstairs.

The main hall looked more like a Theatre than an ordinary church podium. It was loud and modern, there were so many lights flashing in different colors, not to mention the art designs and sound system. Then i thought to myself, is this a church or a concert? Then as the lights dimmed everybody began to shout as a song played. The song was called "Wake" by the band Planetshakers. Then i finally understand why they called it that. So Albert once again grabbed me and pulled me into the crowd. I was so surprised to see everyone jumping and singing while raising their hands. So this is what its like to be a Christian. I felt something, i felt like crying and at the same time smile as i listened to the songs. Little did i know that it was the presence of God.

After a couple of songs the announcer spoke some motivational words about God and how our problems are smaller than we think. I was curious at that time and didn't know where to place my faith. After that we finally got back to our seats. There were games, prizes and song numbers which i have to admit was very enjoyable. Then the lights dimmed and people began to shout. I asked Dhon who is that? is that the pastor or a famous actor. then Albert told me; This guy is good, listen to him.
His name was Daniel Carandag or as he's called, Kuya Dan. He was in his mid 20's, lean, fit and didn't look famous. But alot of people seem to know him, then i realized why.

Usually services are looked upon as boring and dull, but not this one no. It was more of a motivational seminar and my ears could relate to every word he said. Kuya Dan spoke about Jesus and why he died for our sins, why God loved us more than anything in this world, why we should surrender our lives to Christ. I used to think that this was all a bunch of ritualistic mumbo jumbo but then Kuya Dan said these exact words which changed my life forever "Christianity is not a religion, It is a personal relationship with God" I was immediately stunned at what he said.

When i got home i had time to reflect on that very phrase "A personal relationship with God" So i grabbed my bible and read some stories from the book of John then began to pray. I cried and expressed all of the pain, the hardships, the trials and challenges. There and then i surrendered my life to Jesus. It was such an amazing experience for me, and i had my friend Albert to thank. There's a purpose for everything that happens. Why we are born, the way we live, the way we struggle and the way we see the world. For me, There's no such thing as mere coincidence. Just simply the act of God.

Photo (c) https://www.facebook.com/ElevateAlabang/?fref=photo

"My Neighbor Totoro" Movie Review

Prepare to be amazed as you enter the brilliant mind of Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli where things that may seem impossible come into reality. The movie My Neighbor Totoro captures what it means to be a child again and lets you indulge into the magical world of spirits whom were said to guard us in our everyday life.

The story starts with the Kausakabe family who just moved in to their new home in one of the provinces of Japan. With his wife confined in the hospital, Mr. Kausakabe does everything he can to give his two daughters the best experience in their new home. With Satsuki being the eldest and Mei being the youngest, the two sisters explore their new house not knowing that they would find something truly amazing. One day, Mei stumbles upon a large camphor tree then falls into a deep hole, luckily she landed on a giant fluffy rabbit like creature named Totoro, a spirit which guards the people living in the province. Until then the Kausakabe sisters find themselves experiencing magical wonders whenever Totoro is around. At the same time the family hopes for their mothers quick recovery. What adventures will they take together as they explore with their magical neighbor Totoro.

It was breathtaking, nostalgic, heartwarming and adventurous. The scenery looks so realistic for a cartoon, its as if you really are in the provinces of Japan. The music was so beautiful, it truly helped in delivering a no forgettable experience to the viewers. This movie showed me the value of family and friendship, and that's something i will always treasure in my heart.

http://www.animationmagazine.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/My-Neighbor-Totoro-Picture-Book-post.jpg

Who is Gene?

Hello, Everyone. Welcome! This website is a compilation of all of my past reviews, and write ups for when I have free time. Basically it's sort of my hobby. I like to write about things I've seen, experienced, and enjoyed. Also, this contains most of my academic outputs for Reading and Writing in school. So please; read, breathe, and indulge in my stories. So what do you say, shall we walk?

About the Author

Gene Daniel Floresca is currently an 11th grader studying at Muntinlupa Science Highschool in the Philippines. He started writing at the age of 8, with his write ups being published by Manila Bulletin in the kids section. Most of his write ups were reviews about books, movies, toys and the hobbies that he enjoys. As a young writer, Gene believes that everything can be learned, as long as you have the guts to try one for yourself, and practice until you master it.
As a person who is adept with writing, he also has a slight interest in Mathematics. Unfortunately, he has a long way to go before he masters that.
He also wishes to study medicine someday, then eventually become a Doctor.

"Sometimes i like to look back at my footprints, and mutter to myself; My gosh look how many footprints there are! and many many more to create." 
                                                                                            - Gene Floresca