Saturday, November 24, 2012

Ah Boys to Men


I have to admit I was sceptical at first, but Jack Neo, the director of box-office record breaking (the only reason why I chose to watch this) "Ah Boys to Men", has really impressed me with this sincere work: nothing too melodramatic (this is what I dislike about his movie, and Jack's forced attempt to "preach") and there seems to be a certain objectivity or "balance" in his script this time. I think Jack Neo is a living proof that old dog does learn new tricks! I love the part where the recruits tell stories they heard from the olden days recruits - brought back memories of the same stuff I heard. I think the movie would be great for a family outing: grandparents, children and grandchildren - apart from some vulgarities, inevitably - where some of its members have undergone NS, great topic for all to talk about. Either that, or I was simply being sentimental, clouding my objectivity.

I understand that "Ah Boys to Men" was blasted by critics. Perhaps, they were looking at the movie from an artistic point of view. But they must have forgotten about last year's Taiwanese hit "那些年,我們一起追的女孩": can anyone tell me where is the artistic value? I remember telling my friend how "那些年,我們一起追的女孩" would be a hit for Generation Y. And coincidentally, "Ah Boys to Men" shares a similar underlying theme: growing pains. And mind you, in this department, Jack Neo has done a more than competent job. 

2 comments:

Whiskoffee said...

I watched the taiwanese movie and loved it. Nolstagia loads...

Have yet to watch the Jack Neo movie. Guess I will find time to do so after the new eyar.

mrdes said...

See, see, I know that it would been a hit among the Generation Y...and you're of them...haha.