Barbie Movie is a subtle nod to moms and ordinary life

 Barbie Movie is a subtle nod to moms and ordinary life

We received tickets to the Barbie Daycation at Cove Manila and for a few hours we were transported to Barbie Land. 

We couldn’t help but conclude that the marketing campaign for the Barbie Movie was revolutionary as it seemed to permeate the consciousness of young people everywhere.

Growing up, I don’t recall owning a Barbie doll and so I don’t really have any sentimental attachment to the brand. However, the hype surrounding the movie got me interested to watch it with my family.

The Barbie Movie

The movie starring Margot Robbie as Barbie doll and Ryan Gosling as the Ken doll was quite entertaining. The visuals were well curated and the dialogue had funny and light banter.

It is not as shallow as what one would expect from a bimbo Barbie. In this movie, Barbie actually asks the question about death. 

She enters into an existential crisis that in the end, also included Ken’s own realizations. There is some gender tug-of-war that others may find discomforting. 

Ultimately, the whole story gives a subtle recognition of ordinary women who live simple lives, such as mothers who take care of their families. It relays the message that Barbie need not always be a superstar, extraordinary or successful. It is okay to be ordinary and human.

I asked feedback from one of the teens who watched with me and she said that the story development of Barbie in the real world can still be tweaked and perfected. So overall, I give this movie 4 stars out of 5 stars (highest).

Still a good movie to watch, if only to laugh a little. Enjoy!

Fangirl moment with Side A's Joey G

Side A, with lead singer Joey Generoso, was a famous band in the Philippines during the eighties.

Eventually, Joey G went solo while Side A still exists to this day with a different lead singer. My memories of the Side A Band included Joey G as the lead singer. 

I had their album back then and even went all the way to Shangrila Hotel to watch one of their shows. The song "Tuloy Pa Rin Ako" was already a big hit that people would get up from their seats when the music started.

Vista Mall recently hosted Joey G and it was like going back in time. 

Songs trigger memories that may be good or bad. I only have the best recollection listening to Side A Band music from the eighties. 

Many people swoon over the song "Forevermore" with its romantic feels. In my case, Joey G's "Tuloy Pa Rin Ako" is a clear favorite because it brings lovely notes from youth.

I asked the front act if they could play this favorite song. Much to my big surprise, Joey G delivered and did not disappoint. His voice sounds distinctly the same.

If you are one of those who grew up listening to the Side A Band, join me on this trip back into the eighties. 

"Tuloy Pa Rin Ako" is a song about a young man who appears to be courting a girl and determined to gain her graces. It is a song about courage and certainty. Also a perfect dance song for anyone looking to find a little optimism in life. Enjoy!

https://youtu.be/bvr7cCgoZwA

Warning: Video camera not steady because the audience was dancing to the tune #TuloyPaRinAko.

Voila! Rustika Resto has well known origins

 

Vista Mall Restaurant called "Rustika" has existed for some time now but it was only recently that we took notice and tried their food.

Unless you enter the premises, you may not notice the cozy interiors and eclectic surroundings. 

The couch was comfortable and seemed familiar. But first, we tried the food. The restaurant serves Thai and Vietnamese dishes plus pasta and pizza. 

They also share the space with Dumbo for smoked meats.

We were pleasantly surprised with our first bite and found the chicken barbecue to be tender, succulent, and delicious. 

After chatting with the servers, we eventually discovered that Rustika was managed by Ica Sebastian who is known for her Voila Restaurant in Tagaytay. It was at this point that we realized that the interiors of both restaurants were similar, including the cuisine.

Vietnamese fried spring rolls with pork and vermicelli noodles.

We particularly enjoyed the seafood lover's pizza. It included shrimp and salmon pieces.

On some weekends, the restaurant offers pizza and pasta buffet. We have yet to try that one, if we can still catch it.