The Beauty of Simplicity

`` my daily journey. [#] `-

Sunday, 31 December 2006

http://www.starhub.com/hubvillage/hubbinghighlights/rain/index.html

A not to be missed site. There's treasure to be found at this site...=)

Light my path
2:09:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

The Interview of Jamie King after Rain's LV Concerts

Jamie wants Rain to perform along side of the legendary Madonna.

After the X'mas eve concert, back in the lounge, Jamie King -choreographer for Rain's World Tour, (a choreographer Jamie King, who produced Madonna's "Confession Tour" and choreographed for Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera) stopped in to visit Rain with X'mas presents (clothing). He also took out CDs to ask for Rain's autograph because his parents have become Rain's fans after the concert, so they demanded their son to get Rain's autograph.

Opinions of Rain: (interviewed by a reporter) "To put it in one word, Rain is a perfectionist; he has amazing stage presence, very dedicated, the best solo artist there is in Asia. We need to work more with people like him.

"Most fans were Asian" (said reporter)
Jamie: "In order to cross over from Asia, he needs more experience and more exposure, therefore he needs to have more experience in a venue like vegas and inf ront of a crowd like this. Like how my parents became his fans after seeing him in concert, he's starting to show his magic to the American fans. After more experience and exposure, he will indeed succeed in America."

"What is your dream concert?" (reporter)
Jamie: "I want Bi, Madonna and (someone), I want to present a super concert that no one's ever dreamed of, it will be a charity concert for the children around the world, because children are our future."

Light my path
1:58:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

(Las Vegas Concert, Local staff''s view of Bi)

I ran into a few local staff for the Bi concert while shopping at Caesars Palace earlier today, Because we exchanged a few words when purchasing our tickets, we got to talking. I thank them for their hard work for the past few days, because they had to take care of a big group of Korean tourist, (I heard there was 120 + people). I joked that taking care of Rain must've been a pain in the arse, because we all know Rain has really high standards, so he expects a lot from his staff.

Below are what the staffs thinks of Bi:

From spending time with him backstage in the last few days, I could tell Rain is a perfectionist when it comes to his performance, whenever he makes a mistake during practice he would be upset with himself. I could see from far away he's mouthing *(@#*)@.

He was especially dissatisfied with the timing of special effects and the actual effects, plus he wasn't happy with how the VIP zone was pretty dead, but that's just how he is when it comes to work.

But in private, Rain's one of those rare superstars who doesn't like to trouble others for things. Other than during practice, Rain doesn't like it when staff follows him around and do things for him. Whenever he gets a chance he would run off somewhere by himself and not wanting the staff to follow him. He has his own Korean bodyguard, which resulted in us thinking he's nearby whenever we see the bodyguard, when in actual fact he isn't.

When they first got to vegas the transportation wasn't ready, but Rain wanted to get some Korean food, so the American staff drove him to eat in his personal vehicle. Rain politely asked the staff, as he got in the car, "What um.. is your name? How.. old are you?" When he found out the staff was only 21, he felt bad; but the staff was asked to be on stand by Rain's side, so he had to wait outside the restaurant while Rain eats. Feeling bad, Rain ate very quickly and never asked to dine out again through the rest of the trip.

After the dec 24th concert, we were getting ready for the after party, the staff waited forever for Rain to come out, after a looong time we finally saw him walking out drinking a bottle of Evian, they asked him if there was a problem, but he said, "Oh, I just wanted to have some water so I went to get some myself". We couldn't believe that came from a superstar, we assured him that there will be water at the nightclub or the staff could go fetch it for him. He smiled and said, "That's quite alright."

One of the most memorable thing about Rain, according to the American staff, was whenever he gets a chance, Rain would practice his English. He always has a stack of paper in his hand, he practice when he eats, when he was waiting backstage, he would mumble to himself, "Tonight, I'm very.. wait. No no that's not right.. (shakes his head). Tonight I'm very...." He felt like his accent wasn't good enough so he kept on practicing till he felt it was good enough.

When he was rehearsing he would play two roles by himself on stage.

Rain: "Are you my babies?
Rain (acting as the audience): "YEAH!"
Rain : "Make some noise!"
Rain (acting as audience): "AHHHH!!!" (While waving his hands, jumping up and down, the only thing he didn't do was running around the entire venue.

Bottom line: the impression the American staff got from Rain is that he is a very hard working celebrity, they have worked with many asian celebrities in the past, a lot of them were just trying to pull some connections to see if they can become famous overnight, in comparison Rain keeps his feet steadily on the ground and takes everything he does seriously. That is probably the reason why Rain is hugely popular.

Light my path
1:36:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

RAIN To Promote Elimination of AIDS on His World Tour

KBS World Radio
13 Dec.2006

K-pop superstar Rain, who will embark on his global concert series, will promote an AIDS-free world. Rain begins his world tour concerts on December 15th in which he will perform before live audiences in 12 countries.

Appointed a promotional ambassador for elimination of AIDS by charity organization World Vision, Rain will deliver messages of sympathy for the victims of AIDS in the world while singing his song �Friends� in the concerts. Also at concert venues in Korea, Japan, China, Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Philippines, promotional booths will be installed for AIDS elimination projects that are being carried out in the world.

The proceeds from the sales of various products at the booths will be donated to the charity organization for AIDS elimination in Cambodia and Bangladesh.

Light my path
12:10:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Saturday, 30 December 2006

I though when love for you died, I should die.
It’s dead. Alone, most strangely, I live on.

-Rupert Brooke: The Life Beyond

Light my path
11:59:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Thursday, 28 December 2006

While surfing around aimlessly online, I discovered a pianist/singer by the name of Steve Barakatt. My attention was captured when a Korean radio station played one of his pieces: Sensual Night With You.

It is an excellent piece, one in a number of many.

http://www.stevebarakatt.com/accueilang/audio.html

Click on the above link to listen to the previews.

Gosh, is it that late already?

I seriously need my beauty sleep.

Loads of it.

I've fallen into my previous bad habit: sleepin real late.

Which is real bad, especially when I would be working the next day.

Really late nights have taken a toll on my body.

In breakouts.

Damn.

I almost never have any pimples, except for the occasional ones.

To top things up, I've been feeling sluggish whenever I wake up.

*cries*

It is my fault, thus I shall remedy it by going to sleep, NOW.

Night....=)

Light my path
2:16:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Arirang Surveys Popularity of Korean Celebrities

A global online survey on the popularity of Korean celebrities was conducted by the station you are watching.

Arirang's survey conducted in mid-December asked a total of 775 people from 46 countries with whom they would like to watch the first sunrise of the new year.

Topping the female chart were actresses Song Hyegyo and Kim Taehee who tied with just over 20 percent.
156 people evenly voted for the two women.
Other names included Lee Youngae and Ha Jiwon.

In the male category, number ONE was the heartthrob singer-slash-actor Rain garnering 24 percent or 189 votes.
Trailing behind were names like Jang Donggun, Lee Junki and Bae Yongjun.

DEC 27, 2006
- Reporter, julian@arirang.co.kr

Source: http://www.arirang.co.kr/
(under News, sub category-Life/Culture)

Light my path
12:24:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

"It's so hard to say goodbye. In a language you don't know."

- Edward Chun

(http://www.arirang.co.kr/Radio/Radio_MessageBoard.asp?PROG_CODE=RADR0114&go_MESS=List&Page=1&c_seq=46833&mNo=1)

Light my path
12:13:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Tuesday, 26 December 2006

Rain Aims Higher for World Star

By Chung Ah-young
Staff Reporter

Korean pop superstar Rain, known as 'Bi' in Korea, held a successful first concert of his world tour in Las Vegas, the United States at 8 p.m. Las Vegas time on Saturday.

The 24-year-old K-pop star took the stage at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, aiming to make inroads into the North American market.

It was the largest concert ever given by a Korean artist and his second outing in the U.S., following two sold-out concerts in the Madison Square Garden Theater in New York City last February.

Rain has expanded his fan base from New York in the east to Las Vegas in the west only 10 months after his debut on the U.S. stage.

He was also named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World this year.

About 3,800 fans packed the venue where world-class artist Celine Dion is a resident performer and where Elton John and Gloria Estefan have also given concerts.

About 90 percent of the audiences were Asian fans from Japan, China, Singapore and Taiwan.

At the concert, titled ``Rain’s Coming,’’ he successfully hosted the two-hour concert in English featuring 21 songs with stunning dance sequences.

``I exist because of your support. My dream has come true,’’ he said in gratitude to a fervent response from his fans.

``I am very proud of Rain who stood up on the stage where world-class pop stars are used to performing,’’ Moon Ji-hyun, 24, who saw the show, said.

The ticket price costing $98-$288 was high, but the concert was sold out just one week after ticket sales opened.

Stage direction was by Jaime King renowned for Madonna’s recent ``Confessions Tour,’’ and Christina Aguilera’s choreography, working with lighting specialist Roy Bennett, and visual director Dago Gonzalez.

Park Jin-young, producer of Rain’s music and CEO of the JYP Entertainment, and Lil Jon, producer of ``Yeah’’ sung by Usher attended the concert.

Rain is receiving acclaim as an international celebrity as his first movie ``I am a Cyborg, But That’s Okay’’ directed by Park Chan-wook, was invited to the Berlin International Film Festival in the competitions section.

He had been invited to sing at the opening ceremony of the 2006 Doha Asian Games in Qatar, but his tight schedule prevented him from attending.

His world tour will span 35 cities in 12 countries, including Hong Kong Jan. 12-13, Singapore Jan. 21, Malaysia Jan. 27, Thailand Feb. 3, Vietnam March 10-11 and Taiwan, China, Japan, the U.S. and Canada afterwards.

StarM, the entertainment agency organizing the concert, is in charge of coordinating with travel agencies from different countries to make it easier for fans to watch the show.

Source: http://times.hankooki.com/lpage/nation/200612/kt2006122517394652920.htm

Light my path
1:22:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Monday, 25 December 2006

Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for coming. Let the ceremony begin.

On the left, we have earrings from Michelle & Gracie (they're sisters) from my workplace. The one on the right is some thing from Jimmy.

From Carol

From Angeline

From Yan Ping

From Auntie Grace

From Shuhui

From Cassandra

A pretty sad looking Santa.....=p

A log cake bought by Cassandra

And lastly, a group photo.

I present to you, the presents and letters (Sebastian, Michelle, Angeline and Daniel) from Chirstmas 2006.

Tune in again, next year. See you, bye.

Light my path
10:55:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

BLESSED CHRISTMAS.

즐거운 성탄!!

Light my path
12:00:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Sunday, 24 December 2006

Boy, I am feeling totally drained. No kidding.

And I think I have pulled a muscle in my right calf.

In addition, I had brought home with me, the only set of work keys. My boss had left her own set at the cart this morning, in her haste to leave for church. In any case, even if she hadn't left behind those keys, I wouldn't tell her about it as I do not want to trouble her (plus, there is only ONE key to the cash register. Which is dangling happily from the bunch of keys I took home).

I'd have to drop by at my work place early tomorrow morning, when I'll be working at 4pm.

Just plain excellent.

Damn.

Thank you Shuhui, for the Swatch watch!=D *mwack!!!!!*

(I have not opened it yet, as it isn't Christmas yet...=p But, I know that I'll love it, as I do with all those gifts which you'd given to me before. You're really someone who knows my likes and dislikes very well.)

Thanks to Sebastian for taking the time to write and mail the card...=)

And thanks Angeline for the CD....=)

Light my path
11:05:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Saturday, 23 December 2006

So this is what it is like, to be free from chains of the past.

From the shackles of past foolish infatuations.

To have no monster from the past coming up to bite you on the ass..=)

Light my path
3:27:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

“I thought that when you’re in love, you’re supposed to be calm all the time, but I realized that isn’t what I wanted.

I want to live life every day and have my heart racing, never knowing what’s going to happen.

Someone to laugh and joke with.

Someone who stirs this type of passion within me that I feel when I’m with you and only you.”

Light my path
3:21:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Sunday, 17 December 2006

Seasons In the Sun

(Original version)

Adieu, Emile, my trusted friend,
We've known each other since we were nine or ten.
Together we climbed hills and trees,
Learned of love and A B Cs,
Skinned our hearts and skinned our knees.

Adieu, Emile, it's hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky.
Now that the Spring is in the air
Pretty girls are ev'rywhere.
Think of me and I'll be there.

Chorus:
We had joy. We had sun.
We had seasons in the sun,
But the hills we would climb
Were just seasons out of time.

Adieu, Papa, please pray for me.
I was the black sheep of the family.
You tried to teach me right from wrong.
Too much wine and too much song,
Wonder how we got along.

Adieu, Papa, it's hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky.
Now that the Spring is in the air
Little children ev'rywhere.
When you see them, I'll be there.

Chorus:

Adieu, Francoise, my trusted wife,
Without you I'd have had a lonely life.
You cheated lots of times but then,
I forgave you in the end
Though your lover was my friend.

Adieu, Francoise, it's hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky.
Now that spring is in the air
With your lovers ev'rywhere;
Just be careful, I'll be there.

All our lives we had fun.
We had seasons in the sun,
But the hills we would climb
Were just season out of time.

Adieu, Emile. Adieu, Papa. Adieu, Francoise.

All our lives, we had fun.
We had seasons in the sun,
But the hills that we climbed
Were just seasons out of time.

All our lives, we had fun.
We had seasons in the sun,
But the stars we could reach
Were just starfish on the beach.

Seasons In the Sun (Le Moribond) (McKuen-Brel) This poignant French ballad tells of a dying man's farewell to his best friend, his father and his wife. Originally entitled "Le Moribond," it features English lyrics by Rod McKuen, translated from Jacques Brel's French.

Released in April 1964, this recording was the last Kingston Trio single issued by Capitol. It failed to chart, but 10 years later Canadian Terry Jacks turned the song into a No. I smash.

Here's the story of Terry Jacks and "Seasons in the Sun," direct from an unimpeachable source: Uncle John's Fourth Bathroom Reader.

SEASONS IN THE SUN - TERRY JACKSBackground: The song was originally written as "Le Moribund" (literal translation: "the dying man") by Jacques Brel in 1961. The English Version: Rod McKuen adapted the song to English . . . Terry Jacks heard it on a Kingston Trio record. In 1972 he took it to a Beach Boys' session he was producing, and the Beach Boys recorded it.. but didn't release it. So Jacks, who was distraught over a friend's death, did his own version.

Jacks was playing his year-old recording of it one day at his house when the boy who delivered his newspapers overheard it; the boy liked it so much that he brought some friends over to Jacks' house to listen to it, and their enthusiastic response inspired him to release it on his own Goldfish record label. The result: It skyrocketed to #1 all over the world and sold 11.5 million copies.

Seasons In The Sun
( Terry Jacks )

Goodbye to you my trusted friend
We've known each other since we were nine or ten
Together we climbed hills and trees
Learned of love and A B C's
Skinned our hearts and skinned our knees.

Goodbye my friend it's hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky
Now that the spring is in the air
Pretty girls are everywhere
Think of me and I'll be there

We had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the hills that we climbed were just seasons
Out of time......

Goodbye Papa please pray for me
I was the black sheep of the family
You tried to teach me right from wrong
Too much wine and too much song
Wonder how I got along.

Goodbye Papa its hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky
Now that the spring is in the air
Little children everywhere
When you see them I'll be there.

We had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the wine and the song like the seasons
Have all gone.

We had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the wine and the song like the seasons
Have all gone.

Goodbye Michelle my little one
You gave me love and helped me find the sun
And every time that I was down
You would always come around
And get my feet back on the ground.

Goodbye Michelle it's hard to die
When all the birds are singing in the sky
Now that the spring is in the air
With the flowers everywhere
I wish that we could both be there

We had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the stars we could reach
Were just starfish on the beach

We had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the stars we could reach
Were just starfish on the beach

We had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the wine and the song like the seasons
Have all gone

All our lives we had fun
We had seasons in the sun
But the hills that we climbed were just seasons
Out of time......

We had joy we had fun
We had seasons in the sun

Light my path
1:20:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

The world is like a Carousel. It goes round and round—

with or without you.

Light my path
12:43:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

15 Dec 06 - Seoul Concert "It's PERFECT!!

The curtain finally opened!!!

The first concert of Rain's World Tour, has rocked the whole Olympia stadium, Seoul yesterday (15 Dec 2006)! In gorgeous and ancient style costumes, Rain immediately heated up the atmosphere when he stepped on the stage!

Rain looked excited, his latest hair style gave a feeling of the one in 'I'm A Cyborg, But That's Ok'. Plus the shining golden pants and letter "R" on his chest, his costume makeup brought a big surprise to his fans! Obviously he sweated a lot, but fans kept yelling crazily whenever he took off his sunglasses.

Starting with 'It's Raining', there were 21 songs in this concert. The highest ticket price is 130k Won, but still the stadium was filled with 80% audience.

There were several mechanical setup on the stage. Every 1-2m there was a automatic underpass/ exit so that the dancers can come out from different angles. Rain himself entered and left directly from the middle of the stage, sideways and the entrance that faced audience. So the audience had no idea where Rain would come out or disappear each time.

After the concert was over, Rain told the reporters that he was still nervous because today was his first performance. However, due to the multi-entrance/exit design of the stage, it saved lots of time for costume changing. In order to show different patterns of 'Rain', there were staff waiting at the auto-door of each entrance and underpass to assist Rain in changing costumes.

In particular, Rain and the crew rehearsed until 3am to familiarise themselves with the standing positions in each song and sequence of costume changing. During the concert, Rain changed more than 10 sets costumes, including white suit, orange jacket, MJ style black & white attire, a series of sports costume in black, leather coat, army attires etc.

Light my path
12:21:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

South Korean Pop Star Rain Debuts As Robot Lover

SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korean pop star Rain, who has made women swoon from Seoul to Singapore, is aiming to prove his talent on the silver screen with a movie debut.

Rain, 24, the song and dance sensation who has taken Asia by storm and landed on Time magazine's list of the world's 100 most influential people, stars in the quirky comedy called "I'm a Cyborg, But That's OK," which opened this week in
South Korea.

The man who has sold millions of records across Asia, and performed in sold-out concerts at New York's Madison Garden, has traded his trademark trendy clothing for an awkward hospital gown in the film, where he plays a patient at a psychiatric ward alongside a character who thinks she is a robot.

"The main actress and myself spend a lot of time feeling rather disoriented," Rain, also known as Jeong Ji-hoon, told reporters earlier this week.

"The movie was a nice change of pace for me."

Rain's character tries to steal the identities of other patients at the hospital. The supposed cyborg played by actress Lim Soo-jung ends up stealing his heart.
The movie is directed by Park Chan-wook, whose film "Oldboy" won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival in 2004.

Park, known for his intricate story lines and dark humor was looking for lighter fare after completing his last movie "Sympathy for Lady Vengeance," which tells of a woman wrongly imprisoned, who once freed, seeks devastating revenge.

FILM FRIENDLY?

But some of the world's top music talents have a hard time dealing with celluloid. Critics bashed Britney Spears for her role in the flop "Crossroads" and Mariah Carey was about as sparkling as coal in her film "Glitter."

Rain, who glides and gyrates smoothly on the dance floor, said he often fumbled on the movie set.

"It was difficult delivering my lines while I was acting and finding the right time to take a breath," he said.

This isn't the first time Rain faces the camera. He has appeared -- perfectly at ease -- in three TV series in South Korea and is one of the country's top pitchmen in TV ads.

Although little known outside of Asia, Rain is a pop sensation at home and in major regional markets including Japan, China and Taiwan, where fans can't get enough of his dance-infused pop tunes.

Rain's fourth album came out earlier this year and he will embark on one of the largest tours for an Asian pop star this month. He will play in about a dozen countries over the next six months and his promoters expect ticket sales to total 100 billion won ($108.7 million).

A few Asian music stars have made inroads in international markets such as the United States but Rain believes the day will come when an artist from Asia will be as popular as Britney and Mariah are in around the world.

Rain sold out New York's Madison Square Garden for a show in February 2006.

"The U.S. market will start to love Asian artists as time goes by," he said.
(With additional reporting by Jang Sera)

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20061215/people_nm/korea_rain_movie_dc_1

Light my path
12:12:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Friday, 15 December 2006

We did used to be close.

What happened to us?

Life, I suppose.

Light my path
2:14:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Thursday, 14 December 2006

“I want to stay with you forever.”

-Kaoru

Light my path
9:52:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

"When a woman says nothing's wrong, everything's wrong. When a woman says everything's wrong, EVERYTHING'S wrong. And when a woman says 'that's not funny,' you'd better not laugh your ass off."

- Homer Simpson

(Gentlemen, take note and beware.)

Light my path
9:16:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

"Is there a need for a reason to kill someone?"
- Mugen

Light my path
9:16:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

"If there are any idiots in the room, will they please stand up," said the sarcastic teacher. After a long silence, one freshman rose to his feet.

"Now then mister, why do you consider yourself an idiot?" inquired the teacher with a sneer.

"Well actually I don't," said the student, "but I hate to see you standing up there all by yourself."

Light my path
9:14:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

A "good" friend would bail you out of jail. But a true friend would be sitting next to you saying, "Damn, that was fun!"

Light my path
9:13:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Please don't upset me. I'm running out of room to hide the bodies.

(You go, girl!!)

Light my path
9:13:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Light my path
9:12:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Tragedy is when I cut my finger. Humor is when you fall into an open sewer and die.

Light my path
9:10:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

"In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends who didn't stick up for you."

Light my path
9:01:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

"Me, I'm dishonest, and a dishonest man you can always trust to be dishonest, honestly! It's the honest one's you have to watch out for because you can never predict when they're going to do something incredibly stupid!"

- Jack Sparrow

Light my path
8:54:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Too often, we lose sight of life's simple pleasures. Remember, when someone annoys you it takes 42 muscles in your face to frown.

BUT, it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and bitch slap that mother fucker upside the head.

(Yea baby!! Total agreement! Go and show 'em! Don't mess with me!!)

Light my path
8:52:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Darn.

Today is my off day and I am nursing a sore throat and a stuffy and sniffly nose.

Double darn.

I'm going to call the ICA later and check if my passport is ready. If it is, I'll going down to Lavender to collect it.

Haiz.

I really don't feel like going anywhere, period.

Oh.........................

REJOICE!!

I'd just called the ICA, but the person who answered my call told me that there isn't any such application or some thing some where along that line. She said she'll tell the passport section to look out for my application. Which means, I do not have to go out today, if I do not wish it!

Yippee!!!!!!!!

I am so glad!

Feeling under the weather, due to late, late nights, no doubt.

But, I don't suppose it is a good thing, as the later I get my passport, the later my friends can book the air ticket. They are not going to be pleased.

Shit.

Alright, some updates on work last night:

In summary, sales this week has been steadily picking up. It has been average, bordering on quiet during the day, but relatively busy during the last 1-2 hours, before closing time.

Yesterday's sales was not bad...=)

Thank God!

I love busy times, makes one look and feel more porductive.

During the day, sales was average enough; quiet for most part of the day. There was enough to make it to the commission earning stage. It started with a couple who returned after their dinner (the woman came up to ask what time we close when I was standing right beside a hot guy - our mannequin), while I was serving them, a young couple came up; followed by a living nightmare.

So, in the whirlwind of busy-ness, a nightmare descended upon me.

It was a person asking for exchange for a t-shirt which is on sale. Apparently, my colleague told the customer that she could exchange within 7 days, with the receipt. I do not know if she really compromised and said that or she was referring to another t-shrit which was on the same receipt. Like all other shops, we do not accept refunds. Exchanges are allowed for REGUALR-PRICED shirts, within 7 days, with the shirt tag intact and together with the receipt. Sale items are NOT exchangable nor refundable.

Some way, some how, the customer was given the idea that the sale item, too, was exchangable, as long as it fulfills the conditions governing the exchange, given to regualr priced shirts.

I had a hard time dealing with it, as I was seving two other groups of customers who demand my attention. I explained our policy to the person, she called her friend, who was the one who bought the t-shirts. The person stood there talking with her friend, discussing and debating what to do, while all the time, I was serving the other 2 couples and hoping STRONGLY that things will be resolved.

When I was done with one couple, the lady passed her phone over to me to talk to her friend who'd purchased the shirts. Before explaining, I apologized for mistakes on our part; the customer listened and commented that they'd bought many shirts from us before and were always allowed to exchanged, he couldn't see why this time it was different. I went through all the sale items are not exchangable part and closed with a suggestion to call my boss, if my explaination did not satisfy.

(psst..........I think it is my dad who is home and not one of my sisters, as I had initially thought. I will check it out later......stay tuned)

Relieved, I handed the hand phone back to the lady and went back to my other customers. The counter was in a mess and clothes were strewned about hazardly.

Some time later, my boss called and told me to allow the lady to exchange the t-shirt for a regular-priced shirt and to top up the difference. The lady's husband, I think, who had arrived, commented that it is a strange way of doing business. I'm not sure which?? Referring to not allowing the sale item exchange? Or not allowing the person to exchange sale item for sale item? Or that we allowed the exchange, but it is to be with a regular priced shirt?

Upon hearing that, I felt a little bad, as this shirt was his birthday present, plus it is not good for customers to lose confidence in us. I apologized left and right while serving them as they decided on the shirt to exchange.

I do not know if it helped, but I was slightly relieved that the couple was smiling every thing off; thus, hopefully they aren't pissed or had made up their minds never to patronize us again.

Frankly speaking, we cannot help it, as sale items are really not exchangable. All shops have that policy, some do not even allow any exchange, at all. You may think and say that this is inflexible, we should give some leeway. I do not know what kind of perspective you have, but if it is the this-is-a-Chirstian-shop-and-I'm-one-too-so-we-can-talk-things-out-and-be-more-flexible or the this-is-just-a-small-pushcart-not-a-shop-so-rules-are-dead, kind of mentality which you have, let me correct you.

First, so what if you and I and perhaps the whole world are Christians? Does that mean that you should be given priority over those who aren't? School rules are meant to be abided, country laws are to be observed and obeyed, company policies are guidelines which enable a smooth running relationship between company and customers. If every one thinks that such rules, laws or policies can be bent just because you are a some body, would not this world be in chaos? People commiting crimes without having to pay for it, perhaps because they are relatives or friends of the highest huamn authority. Customers getting special treatments, because they are believers, while the minority of of customers are not. Is that how things work? Just because you are a some body to some one or a some body in some where, means that you are entitled to special treatment, discounts or rules which apply to all others, doesn't apply to you, simply because they are not who you are? Christians too, have to follow and abide by the same rules which govern the country, school, companies and church. By that, I mean those which do not contradict the Bible. Our highest authority is God.

Do you call yourself a Christian? Do you dare to call yourself one? Thinking that just because you are a regualr customer (excuse me, we have quite a few of them) and are a believer, you should be given special priority, discounts or leeway? We are called to make disciples of all nations, bringing all to Chirst. And here we are, having people who think tht they deserve something better than others; who 'lose' out, simply because they are not believers.

Is that it?

Aww...........don't give me all that crap about this is a way of doing business...giving special discounts now and then.

My answer is: if others, who are the same as you, in terms of position, finance and belief, can pay the usual price for every thing, why can't you?

So what if you are from the same church as the staff working there? If you are given a discount, does that means that every one who is or claim to be from that church, will be given discounts?

Lastly, for those coming from the second perspective, the this-is-just-a-small-pushcart-not-a-shop mentality; let me tell you something: Get that stick outta your ass or I'll shove it in.

Yep.

So what if we are small? Does that means that we can be pushed around and bullied? Does that means that we are nothing?

Don't be such an ass. A business is a business, regardless of big or small.

Show respect for others and yourself (don't shame yourself by appearing to be so small-minded).

Light my path
10:56:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Running to the ends of the earth,
Just to catch a glimpse of your face.

Following in your footsteps,
Hidden by your towering figure;
Just want to be the one person who is closest to you.

Devouring news of you,
Like air, water and food,
Never letting go, holding on tight,
For fear of losing you to the unknown, should this death-grip loosen.

Light my path
12:54:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

It's raining.

I mean the real rain, as in water droplets from the skies..

Light my path
12:40:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Wednesday, 13 December 2006

Create A World Without AIDS

12 Dece6mber 2006

RAIN's World Tour will begin on Dec 15, one of the messages that he would like to bring out is:

To create a world without AIDS!

Rain will begin his World Tour from Dec 15. As the ambassador of AIDS Prevention, Rain will do voluntary publicity, to call on people's attention "Create a world without AIDS".

"Because of HIV virus and AIDS, there are 8,000 children lose their parents everyday... Most of my concerts are held in Asian countries. So some people did advise me if people here are not aware of the AIDS prevention, it's most likely that Asia may become Africa in 1990s - AIDS spreaded around. This is also the reason why I become the ambassador of AIDS Prevention."

In addition, charity auction will be carried out during Rain's concerts, the fund will be donated to World AIDS Foundation.

Light my path
11:55:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Tuesday, 12 December 2006

Live and love, like you are dying.

Light my path
1:58:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Monday, 11 December 2006

08.12.2006 'I'm A Cyborg, But That's OK': Excellent Box Office!!

Directed by Park Chan-woo, the movie won NO.1 box boffice in its first showing day. It is a good starting for this movie.

"In its first showing day on Dec 7, 'I'm Cyborg, But That's Ok', attracted 33,000 audience in Seoul... In total, there were 92,000 people watched this movie yesterday and hence it was NO.1 in S. Korea box office!" according to CJ Entertainment, the movie distributor of 'I'm A Cyborg, But That's Ok'.

This is a romance movie using mental hospital as background, which is quite unique. Since it is starred by super star RAIN, many people have noticed this movie before its showing.

Recently, the number of audience going to the cinema is hardly more than 200,000 per week. However, 'I'm A Cyborg, But That's Ok', created a new record, i.e. 92,000 in its first showing day. It may indicate that the movie industry can enjoy good market response in the future soon.

'I'm Cyborg, But That's Ok', is shown in 340 cinemas in S. Korea.

Light my path
11:26:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Sunday, 10 December 2006

"You know you need a boyfriend when cartoon characters begin to look amazingly hot."

Light my path
2:36:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

"There's a reason why we were born with brains in our heads, not rocks."

Light my path
2:35:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

"Love is what we are born with. Hate is what we learn."

Light my path
2:34:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Saturday, 9 December 2006

As I was on the way to a MRT station, I saw some thing which made my eyes stop and return for a second look.

A couple was standing around a wall. The teenage girl was wearing a sports shoe on her right foot while in the midst of slipping a black low heel pump, off her left foot. I glanced at her companion; the guy who was with her, was wearing a matching sports shoe on his left foot. He was shifting around trying to get comfortable with the low heeled ladies shoe.

In the matter of seconds, things were pretty clear to me. I was quite touched and warmed by the guy's gesture, albeit more than a little envious.

Not many guys would do that sort of a thing for their lady friends, sisters or girlfirends. The standard response would be to walk with the girl, very slowly, matching her pace. Or to accompany her to get a new pair of shoes, which wouldn't pinch.

I'd thought that such acts are only for show, on the sugary, romantic dramas; until I'd seen it with my own two eyes. The guy exchanged his sports shoes with the girl, for a pair of ladies shoes which pinches the feet.

Not only do the shoes hurt the feet, they are ladies shoes, any man who wears them, is simply inviting laughing looks, curious glances and mocking laughter, unless he is cross-dressing or acting.

The guy is brave, gentle, thoughtful and very gentlemanly...=)

Thumbs up to him!

Light my path
1:28:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Friday, 8 December 2006

Feeling down right depressed and DOwn..........................

I am damn sick of everything in my life.

Sick of all the expectations and commitments.

Sick of every thing, every one and myself.

What a total truckload of crap - my life.

Wishing that every thing will just go away, every one wil just disappear..

There isn't a thing which doesn't irk me.

Light my path
1:32:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Your Depression Level: 68%

You seem to have moderate depression. Your symptoms are bad enough that they're effecting your everyday life. You would benefit greatly from professional help.

Are You Depressed?

Light my path
1:27:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Your Five Variable Love Profile

Propensity for Monogamy:

Your propensity for monogamy is high.
You find it easy to be devoted and loyal to one person.
And in return, you expect the same from who you love.
Any sign of straying, and you'll end things.

Experience Level:

Your experience level is low.
You've probably either had only one relationship..
Or all of your relationships have been very similar.
You still have a lot to learn... and a lot to try!

Dominance:

Your dominance is low.
This doesn't mean you're a doormat, just balanced.
You know a relationship is not about getting your way.
And you love to give your sweetie a lot of freedom.

Cynicism:

Your cynicism is low.
You are an eternal optimist when it comes to love and romance.
No matter how many times you've been hurt - you're never bitter.
You believe in one true love, your perfect soulmate.
And if you haven't found true love yet, you know you will soon.

Independence:

Your independence is high.
You don't need to be in love, and sometimes you don't even want love.
Having your own life is very important for you...
Even more important than having a relationship.

The Five Variable Love Test

Light my path
1:10:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

You Are 63% Feminine, 37% Masculine

You are in touch with your feminine side. Sensitive, intuitive, and caring are all words that describe you. And you're just masculine enough to relate to both men and women.

Are You Masculine or Feminine?

Light my path
1:05:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

You Are 40% Normal

While some of your behavior is quite normal...Other things you do are downright strange. You've got a little of your freak going on, but you mostly keep your weirdness to yourself.

How Normal Are You?

Light my path
12:58:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

You've Changed 60% in 10 Years

You've done a good job changing with the times, but deep down, you're still the same person.
Your clothes, job, and friends may have changed some - but it hasn't changed you.

How Much Have You Changed in 10 Years?

Light my path
12:52:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

You Are 8% Happy

You know that there's more to life than how you've been living it.Life can be rough at times, but most of your unhappiness is self-inflicted.

How Happy Are You?

I guess, I am not a very happy person, huh?

Light my path
12:48:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Thursday, 7 December 2006

The only way to describe my current situation is : Stretched Thin.

Very thinly.

Almost to the breaking point.

If not past it.

You hear me??!!

I can't take this shit anymore!! Stop dealing me any more of this crap.

I am fraying at the edges and coming undone.

Cut me a lot of slack, or I'll just cut up everyone.

Light my path
11:11:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Hard To Say Sorry

by Chicago

Everybody needs a little time away
I heard her say, from each other
Even lovers need a holiday
Far away from each other

Hold me now
It’s hard for me to say I’m sorry
I just want you to stay

And after all that you’ve been through
I will make it up to you, I promise you
And after all that’s been said and done
You’re just a part of me I can’t let go

Couldn’t stand to kept away
Not for a day, from your body
(baby, I can’t live without you, not even a day)
Wouldn’t wanna be swept away
Far away from the one that I love

Hold me now
It’s hard for me to say, I’m sorry
I just want you to know (you to know)
Hold me now
I really wanna tell you I’m sorry
I could never let you go

And after all that we’ve been through
I will make it up to you, I promise you
And after all that’s been said and done
You’re just a part of me I can’t let go
(I can’t let go)

Light my path
2:20:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Gokusen - 极道鲜师

It is pretty sucky, huh? The girl on your shoulders, is thinking about another guy in her sleep, while you are all worried about her and she is the one consuming your thoughts. Pretty cutting la. Like a punch in the gut, preceded by a pail of ice-cold water dumped all over you. I supoose that was what Shin felt, when Yankumi called out Shinohara Sensei's name.

Really bloody cold reality.

Light my path
2:03:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Wednesday, 6 December 2006

For Rain, 'Cyborg' May Prove A Stepping Stone To World Fame

Yonhap News
By Kim Hyun [hkim@yna.co.kr]

SEOUL, Dec. 6 (Yonhap) --

Rain may be taking a gamble playing a psychiatric patient for his big-screen debut, but the Korean singer-actor, currently on a world tour, is steadily reinventing himself as he prepares to flood the world stage.

"This will be a new image of me," he told Yonhap News Agency at a downtown cafe in Seoul.

"If I had to pick one, the image of me in the movie is closer to who I really am than the Rain you see on the singing stage."

Rain will debut in "I'm a Cyborg, But That's Okay," directed by Park Chan-wook and set for local release on Thursday. In light of Park's success with "Old Boy," which picked up the Grand Prix at Cannes two years ago, the movie is almost certain to get a worldwide release, something Rain hopes will raise his standing in global terms.

"Now I feel that I have taken the first step," he said. "To me, the issue was that the director was Park Chan-wook. He was the director I liked as a fan, and with whom so many actors wanted to work. I thought there would definitely be things he could teach me (as an actor)."Ranked among Time's 100 most influential figures this year, Rain has been a superstar in Asia with four albums and three hit TV dramas under his belt, but his star quality hasn't translated into global appeal.

His sold-out shows at the Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City in February received mixed reviews that pinned him down as a star with more local than universal attraction. His storied past as a struggling backup dancer with a poor family has shadowed his career. Now, at 24, he is finally transcending his past and his homeland with the leap to the silver screen.

Playing a psychiatric ward patient in "Cyborg" required him to shed his onstage persona and appear blank and inexpressive in a bulky white gown. His character, incarcerated for his anti-social behavior that developed after his mother deserted him, falls in love with a girl who believes she is a cyborg, played by Lim Soo-jung.

Despite his commended acting in South Korean TV dramas, Rain, who uses his real name Jeong Ji-hun for the film, said he had some headaches acting for the big screen.

"The reason it was so difficult was because, you know, you look sad when you're sad, you laugh when something is funny - but the director wasn't happy."
"I asked him how I should act, and he said, 'You are sad, but you shouldn't be sad.' I asked, 'Wouldn't it be better to show some sign of tears?' He said, 'No, maybe not.' But I did well-up in one scene. It was declared an NG at the time, but he used it, maybe because my feelings were genuine."Rain was referring to a scene where his character looks at the cyborg's scrawny, naked body as she refuses to eat. He finally gets her to swallow a sthingyful of rice by inventing a tool that transforms food into energy.

Park said that casting Rain totally changed the dynamic of the film. What was originally intended to be an experimental and low-budget affair ended up needing rewrites and more cash to fit his star persona.

"I initially thought of this film as one of my HD projects, or something in-between," Park said at a recent press screening, "But that idea was thrown out because Jeong Ji-hun was cast."Rain's caring, supportive role in the film fits with his kind image, but not with his reputation as a self-made man who trains mercilessly to stay on top. When starting out, he famously plastered his bedroom walls with inspirational mottos like "You will fall the moment you relax."

Fortunately, mentor and singer Park Jin-young was there to provide a safety net after his first high-school band collapsed. Park, a famous singer himself, spotted the young back-up dancer at an audition and decided to mentor him. The result? Rain's debut album "Bad Guy" came out in 2002.

But his past refused to sink quietly into the background. He broke down while accepting the top prize at the KBS annual music awards in 2004 while paying tribute to his mother, who died from complications of diabetes before his album came out. More tears followed at a concert in January 2005. Stories about his impoverished family circulated.

Not that the rumor-mongers hampered his success. Rain was the first Asian to hold a concert at the U.S. prestigious Madison Square Garden, and his fourth album "Rain's World" was released across Asia last month. He now has world tour commitments in Seoul, Las Vegas and Singapore among others.

"Cyborg" co-star Lim says his success is a product of hard graft and intense self-discipline.

"He's really tough on himself," Lim said. "While shooting the film, he had to practice singing and dancing while juggling schedules abroad, but still when it came time to shoot, he became Il-sun (his character) and got totally immersed in it, which wouldn't be possible if he weren't so focused."

With his trademark charm, washboard abs and slender, yet muscular body not on show in the movie, Rain's staking everything on his ability to act -- and Park's ability to direct.

"Like everybody knows, he's really famous in Europe and elsewhere. He's really a world-renowned director, so hopefully our movie will be screened widely overseas."

Source: http://english.yna.co.kr/Engnews/20061206/670000000020061206093405E7.html

Light my path
8:44:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Light my path
1:56:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Statues of Rain

Light my path
1:12:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

4 Dec 2006 - Cyborg Press Pictures

Light my path
12:40:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Singers-Turned-Actors: the Best and the Worst

In Korea, singers don't just sing to make a living any more. They try hard to map out a career cycle as entertainers, with the arch usually taking them into acting ventures of varying success. In soap operas particularly, some acquit themselves well. Others, however, provoke derision from Korea’s merciless Netizens for the way they flounce and pout around the sets.

In fact, the majority of soap leads are played by singers today. The Chosun Ilbo asked 14 writers and producers of hit dramas who the best and worst of the bunch are. We asked them to rank the top three in each category by giving three points to the best, two to the second best and one to the third.

From left: Rain, Kim Chang-wan, Kim Dong-wan, Lim Chang-jung and Eric

Among men, famously ambitious Rain came top with a score of 29 for appearances in “Full House” and “A Love to Kill.” Praise was fulsome. "He successfully appeals to the public with his ability to express feelings in a sympathetic way and by making the transition from singer to actor very naturally,” one panel member enthused. "He’s a jewel. It would have been such a loss if he hadn’t decided to act.” In second was Kim Chang-wan with 13 points, followed by Kim Dong-wan with 10 points and Lim Chang-jung with 9. Mun Jeong-hyeok or Eric, who landed in fifth with 8 points, got mixed reviews. Some said he was “taking full advantage of his pretty face and ability as an entertainer." Others were less kind.

From left: Jung Ryoe-won, Uhm Jung-hwa, Eugene, Seong Yu-ri and Lee Hyo-lee

Among women, Jung Ryoe-won came top thanks to her part in “My Name is Kim Sam-soon.” Jung "is able to reflect her own natural image into the role she plays in the drama," one panelist said. "She works hard at learning her craft. If you look closely at her eye movement, tempo, breathing and reactions to her partners, you can see that she studies the script really hard.” Uhm Jung-hwa came second with 17 points and Eugene in third with 12. Uhm is said to be able to play a wide range of parts, have a lively spirit as an actress and act very naturally. Eugene drew favorable responses thanks to her fluent dialect in the drama “I Really Really Like You” broadcast this year. She was praised for speaking dialect very well, which is not easy at all.

Overall, Rain came top with 27 points, followed by Uhm Jung-hwa with 14, Jung Ryeo-won with 12, and Lim Chang-jung with 11.

Who, then, is the worst singer-turned-actor? Seong Yu-ri held the sorry title with 21 points, followed by Lee Hyo-lee with 14, Park Jung-ah with 13, Kangta with 8, and Eric again with 5. Seong, our panelists said delicately, "has starred in several dramas but still has a long way to go.” Lee Hyo-lee, who was featured in the drama “Three-Leaf Clover,” was denounced as woefully miscast. The glamour girl “did not suit the character of a factory worker,” they said. In Park’s case, the difference between the singer’s image and her soap character was also judged too glaring.

Source: http://english.chosun.com/w21data/html/news/200612/200612020002.html

Light my path
12:14:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Tuesday, 5 December 2006

Lim Soo-jung, (left) and Jung Ji-hun (Rain) star in
"I Am a Cyborg, but That’s OK,"
a movie by “Mr. Vengeance” director Park Chan-wook

After the completion of a trilogy on the theme of revenge, director Park Chan-wook has taken an unexpected turn toward romantic comedy. But his new film will be different from the ordinary sweet and cute romantic melodramas.

Park, who was once nicknamed "Mr. Vengeance’’ by New York Times Magazine, said that the film is not only to cool himself down, but also to try to experiment more boldly.

"This was originally something light between big movies,’’ Park said Friday during a news conference after the preview screening of his new film 'I Am a Cyborg, but That’s OK' ’’ at CGV Yongsan multiplex theater in Seoul.

"But it doesn’t mean I was going to make it without doing my best or something. I just wanted to make it without feeling much pressure about commercial success, which I believed could allow me to do more experimental and bold things so that it could be a kind of movie in which a lot of people may not understand what’s going on,’’ Park said.

The film, which Park introduced as 'a kind of romantic comedy,’’ is set in a mental institute, where a male patient and a female patient fall in love. The couple is played by two big stars _ Rain, who is one of the most popular singers in Asia, and Lim Soo-jung, who gained huge popularity throughout Asia with the television drama series 'Sorry, I Love You'.’’

Rain plays Il-sun, who believes he can 'steal' other people’s characteristics, and Lim’s character is Young-gyun, who thinks she is a cyborg.

Park Chan-wook, director, talks about his latest movie.

The two stars’ huge popularity seems to be an advantage for the film, but Park said that they were an obstacle to his experimentation.

"When Rain and Lim were cast for the film, the planned experiments were screwed up,’’ Park said, laughing. "The two actors said that they didn’t understand the script, and I had to deceive them with sweet and kind words, (that) everything will be OK.

But I started worrying about what would happen if the audience didn’t get it or got confused. So I tried to be kinder, to help the audience understand it better,’’ Park said.

Through the trilogy 'Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance' (2002), 'Old Boy (2003) and Sympathy for Lady Vengeance’’ (2005), he explored human nature and the complicated emotions related to hatred, revenge and atonement for sins.

In his new film, what does he want to tell?

"This is a love story between patients, not between a patient and a doctor. A doctor tries to cure a patient, but the patient just understands diseases that other patients have. Il-sun loves Young-gyun as she is, along with her illusion and fantasy. I think love is something that makes you love problems that your loved one has even though you can’t fix them,’’ Park said.

Source: http://times.hankooki.com/lpage/culture/200612/kt2006120419520711690.htm

Light my path
11:33:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Jung Ji Hoon, "Wanted to take director's abilities"

December 1, 2006"

"If I could, I thought that I wanted to take the director's abilities."
Singer Rain (Bi) who is also actor Jung Ji Hoon had a meaningful initiation rite. Jung Ji Hoon who is making his screen debut through the movie 'Cyborg, but that's okay,' that will be opening on the 7th and is directed by Park Chan Wook, showed more charm as an actor than his previous drama series.

At a press conference held just after the premiere on the 1st, Jung Ji Hoon commented regarding his character Park Il Soon, "Before I started acting this character, I was very frustrated and worried."The 'mentally ill' Il Soon who constantly commits theft after thinking the reason his mother ran away was because of himself meets and falls in love with Young Goon (played by Lim Soo Jung) who believes herself to be a cyborg. Through Il Soon's 'serious' efforts to feed Young Goon who is suffering from anorexia, the audience soon realizes the true meaning of love.

In response to a question asking what type of ability he would steal if he was able to just as Il Soon, Jung Ji Hoon said, "I wanted to become the president when I was young. Of course that cannot be achieved by stealing someone's abilities. During the filming, I wanted to steal the director's abilities and switch the positions we were in," indirectly expressing his distress as an actor."

It was hard to express the many different emotions in the mental hospital such as the melodrama, thrill, pain, sadness, and others. But after thinking 'this type of genre and character has never been created before so I can create it myself,' I became a little more comfortable. The character seems to be normal one second and confused in a third dimension the next. The set environment was great so I think Lim Soo Jung and I were both able to act naturally in a confused state."

Lim Soo Jung who played Cha Young Goon, a character that closes herself off from the world after being forced to part with her grandmother who believed herself to be a mouse, commented, "I had to constantly be on a diet through the filming so I was naturally able to understand Young Goon's emotions."

Lim Soo Jung who was not able to have a complete meal due to the character's anorexia said, "Whenever the meals were served, Jung Ji Hoon, the director, and even the entire staff seemed so mean. I was always hungry, always angry, and felt it was unfair that I was the only one that couldn't eat. So when Young Goon sang 'Silent food (Goyohan bap; bam-night, bap-food), Holy food (georookhan bap)' I was better able to understand her state of mind. Lim Soo Jung is said to have weighed as less as 38kg during the movie.

In regards to the character Young Goon, Lim Soo Jung said, "She is a very unrealistic character. I wasn't sure how to express her but when Song Gang Ho at the crank up ceremony told me, 'You are very lucky as an actress to have been able to meet such a character and movie. The character is a white sheet of paper that can play around freely within the fences that the director, co-stars, and staff have set up,' all my worries disappeared at once."

Light my path
11:21:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Sunday, 3 December 2006

Man....it is late, 2:47 in the morning; I am working tomorrow or today, whichever way you like it, and I am still online.

Bah.

What's wrong with me, man.

There isn't much for me to do online, yet I've whiled away so much time, even my sleeping time.

This is BAD.

Bad girl.

Bad, bad, bad.

I guess I shall retire now.

Good night.

Light my path
2:46:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Lie to Me

Lie to me,
Say it can return to the way it used to be,
Lie to me,
So I can open my eyes and see.

Lie to me,
Promise you'll never leave,
Lie to me,
So it's me you decieve.

Lie to me,
Say you'll be there for me when I fall,
Lie to me,
Say you'll be waiting for me even if I lose it all.

Lie to me,
Whisper in my ear,
Lie to me,
And say the words I want to hear.

Lie to me,
So I can actually smile,
Lie to me,
So it can last a little while.

Lie to me,
Say you need me with you,
Lie to me,
So I can believe it's true.

Lie to me,
Say it's me you care for,
Lie to me,
So I can feel your warmth once more.

Lie to me,
So that if I'm gone,
Lie to me,
And say you'll wait and won't go on.

Lie to me,
Say you'll protect me through the dark weather,
Lie to me,
And say I'm your only treasure.

Lie to me,
Say I'm your delight,
Lie to me,
So I can pass the night.

Lie to me,
So my love can return,
Lie to me,
So I'll have no more concerns.

Lie to me,
Say you will forever be by my side,
Lie to me,
But in the end, I know you'll say good bye.

Poem taken from Kodoku Kokoro Miko, Kikyou

Light my path
12:20:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Bury Me Deep

Bury me deep,
Because I don't want to face reality anymore,
Bury me deep,
I'm so tired and sore.

Bury me deep,
So I can't again arises,
Bury me deep,
Since I chose my own demise.

Bury me deep,
So I can't see you,
Bury me deep,
So I can be true.

Bury me deep,
In my dark, black tomb,
Bury me deep,
So I can be consumed.

Bury me deep,
So I can't feel the pain,
Bury me deep,
So I can walk death's lane.

Bury me deep,
So it's me you can no longer see,
Bury me deep,
So I can at last be free.

Bury me deep,
Because I can't let go,
Bury me deep,
So the others can rest and grow.

Bury me deep,
Because I can still care,
Bury me deep,
So I'll be gone of despair.

Bury me deep,
Because my heart still hold love,
Bury me deep,
Since you're the only one I'll forever think of.

Poem taken from Kodoku Kokoro Miko, Kikyou

Light my path
12:08:00 am

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Saturday, 2 December 2006

Yay! Yay!! Yay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YAAAAAAAAAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I've collected my ticket this afternoon. It is for Rain 비's World Tour Concert.

Isn't that cause to celebrate??=D

Yippe!!!!!!!

I went through a lot of pacings-round-Starbucks, stressfulness, worry, lips-biting, anxiety and a call to Sebastian (to tell my sob story and garnered enough courage) to finally make my way to a group of girls gathering around a table in the cafe.

I had been observing the group for a looooong time, thinking them to be the most probable group, as the rest of the patrons were either alone, in twos or threes. But, I was still quite hesitant, as the group which I had singled out, wasn't big enough, in numbers, to qualify as my target group.

I was really agonizing over it, till so much so that I really want to burst into tears, sit down and kick my legs like a spoilt brat. I didn't want to embarrass myself by going up to a group and strangers and asking if I were supposed to collect my ticket from one of them.

Pride. Pride. Pride.

It is my downfall.

Lol.

In the end, I called Sebastian for help, meaning to ask for advice and check out the group in the cafe, without looking conspicious. I felt a little bad, when I discovered that I had disturbed him from his rest. So, sorry, my friend!!! I didn't mean it! Aaa................the perils of being my friend.

Anyway, after explaining the situation and chit-chatting, I worked up the courage to push open the glass door of Starbucks Cafe and approached the group. The people in the group turned to look at me when I started in their direction. My heartbeat tripled and I swore that, if it wasn't the right group, I could die from embarrassment. From their reactions, there was a 90% chance that it was the correct group.

Guess what?

It really was the correct group.

Thank the Lord for that!!!

The person in-charge, who was wearing a white t-shirt, with some words, of which the one which stood out the most, was the word 'RAIN', commented that I'd been standing outside for so long.

Opps.

Guess my presence wasn't un-noticed.

Yikes.

I mumbled that I weasn't sure if they were the one.

After exchanging some words, I collected my ticket, thank the person and fled.

Immediately, I called Sebastian and reported the great news.

I was over the moon with joy, at having the ticket in my hands...=D

So HAPPY.

=)

Light my path
9:01:00 pm

youdrovemydarknessaway`-//*

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||