kyle garcia 2/12/24 kyle garcia 2/12/24

‘Love me’: Top 5 Vday Classics

‘He loves me…He loves me…NOT.’ Check out my watchlist & reviews for Top 5 Valentine’s Day films.

1.) EVER AFTER

*20th Century Studios*; Click image to view trailer!!

‘Ever After’ is a timeless, captivating and refreshing film, beautifully directed by Andy Tennant, that offers a delightful twist on the classic Cinderella fairytale. Drew Barrymore stars as Danielle, a resilient and spirited young woman who finds herself trapped in servitude under the heartless rule of her stepmother, fiercely played by Anjelica Huston. The film follows Danielle's journey from hardship to empowerment, as she encounters ruthless adversity and blossoms true love with the charming Prince Henry, handsomely portrayed by Dougray Scott. “A fish may love a bird, but where would they love?” The film is visually stunning, transporting us into an enchanting story set in the South of France, with masterful costumes and medieval set design. Castle walls and lush gardens ignite the screen, along with vibrant performances and sincere touches of comedy. ‘Ever After’ is forever a true legacy film, for fans of love seeking a heartwarming and empowering experience.

🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5

2.) GHOST

*Paramount Pictures*; Click image to view trailer!!

‘Ghost’ is a gritty, heart stopping, and emotional film set in the late 80s New York City. Molly and Sam, played by the infamous Demi Moore and beloved Patrick Swayze, are madly in love. They can literally melt pottery, no kiln needed. However, when Sam is murdered over a shady business deal, he’s left to roam the earth as a powerless spirit. After he learns the truth about his murder, Sam seeks justice with the help of a fraudulent eccentric psychic, Oda Mae Brown, hysterically played by Whoopi Goldberg. “Molly, you in danger girl.” Directed by Jerry Zucker, this film showcases the use of nostalgic special effects that seamlessly blend the supernatural with the real world. By twisting the power of love and fear of the unknown together, ‘Ghost’ delivers something haunting and truly heartbreaking, distinguishing it still as one of the most romantic films to ever grace the screen.

🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5

3.) ROMEO + JULIET

‘Romeo + Juliet’ is a visually chaotic and modern adaptation of Shakespeare's timeless romantic tragedy, brought to life by esteemed director Baz Luhrmann. Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes deliver captivating authentic performances as the star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, amidst the colorful backdrop of Verona Beach. “Thus from my lips, by thine my sin is purged.” Luhrmann's bold decision to transform the feuding Capulets and Montagues into rival street gangs adds a fresh and dynamic alternative to the tale. Throughout the film were catapulted into some insane visual aesthetics, vibrant costumes, and breathtaking cinematography. ‘Romeo + Juliet’ is a heartfelt and cinematic portrayal of tragic love, similar to a sour candy. Sweet at the start, and bitter in the end.

🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5

4.) ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS MIND

*Focus Features*; Click image to view trailer!!

‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ is a crazy, deep, thought-provoking drama that delves into the intricacies of relationships and the profound impact of memory. After a painful breakup, Clementine, played by Kate Winslet, undergoes a procedure to erase the memories of her former boyfriend Joel, portrayed by Jim Carrey. When Joel discovers that Clementine is going to extremes to forget their relationship, he undergoes the same procedure and slowly begins to forget the woman that he loved. Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet both give us remarkable performances, showcasing their versatility as they navigate the emotional depths of their characters. “I’m sorry. It’s just, you know, my life isn’t that interesting.” Directed by Michel Gondry, the film captivates with its unique visual style and imaginative storytelling. As everything unfolds, it skillfully explores themes of love, loss, heartache, depression, anxiety, and the human desire to escape pain. ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ is a masterpiece that challenges the ideals of love and questions the conventional.

🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5

5.) The Notebook

*New Line Cinema*; Click image to view trailer!!

"The Notebook" is a touching and poignant love story set in the 1940s South Carolina. Based on the Best-selling Nicholas Sparks novel and vintagly directed by Nick Cassavetes, it follows the story of mill worker Noah Calhoun and rich girl Allie who are desperately in love. Played by the amazing Ryan Gosling and skilled Rachel McAdams, they express one of the most captivating on and off screen romances in cinematic history. Their chemistry is undeniably palpable, passionate and enduring. I admire how expertly they played on the nuance of two individuals from different social backgrounds who share a meaningful connection. “If I’m a bird, then you’re a bird.” However, when Noah goes off to serve in World War II, their love affair seemingly ends. But when Noah returns years later, it becomes clear that their romance is far from over. "The Notebook" is a gut wrenching tale that tugs at the heartstrings and still leaves you sobbing on the floor after all these years.

🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5

kyle garcia 1/31/24 kyle garcia 1/31/24

Jasmine Nights: Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy is exactly what you think it is. But then, somehow it’s not. Like how it always reeked of piss and jasmine the entire time. Which made it all feel even more captivating and cinematic. Yes, it’s true. The hundreds of fountains were in full swing, but from one foreigner to another stick to the bottled water. Rome is a crunched city, blending ancient history with modern charm. The columns, statues, food, and hand gestures are all still frozen in time, but the experience was as refreshing as a chilled espresso martini on a Thursday morning.

During my stay, I opted for a one-bedroom Airbnb in Pigneto, a neighborhood often referred to as the "Brooklyn of Rome." Most people prefer to stay in Monti or Trastevere, but if you want less crowds and chaos stay here. It’s only about fifteen minutes from the city center. Right off the bat, if you’re not walking everywhere the best invention is ITAXI, which is essentially Rome’s car service. This will help you get around efficiently. Okay, back to our scheduled programming. Pigneto boasts a calm, eclectic, artsy scene, with cafes, bars, and unique restaurants that caters to a more offbeat crowd. While out exploring the neighborhood I really enjoyed the local artistic atmosphere. However, it's worth noting that Pigneto does lack any desirable shopping options, so if you desire a broader retail experience, then venturing into the city center is necessary. My favorite places in Pigneto were Niché for coffee and cocktails. Also Borgo, I had my first Puccia Burger. It was so good! During the night the city of Rome takes on a Mumbai-Italian vibe, as the silky sky contrasts the glowing street lights and bustling night life. Honking cars, classical musical, and trickling fountains break the sound barrier.

The city center of Rome is a shopaholic's paradise, offering a plethora of options for retail therapy. From high-end fashion boutiques to local artisanal shops, there is something to suit every taste and budget. The streets are lined with renowned designer brands allowing visitors to indulge in a luxury shopping experience. Additionally, the city center is home to various markets, such as Campo de' Fiori and Porta Portese, where you can certainly find unique souvenirs, fresh produce, and vintage treasures. Maybe even, a few things you didn’t know you needed. Most of the thrift stores and vintage shops are actually located in Monti or Trastevere. Definitley check out these amazing shops where I myself got a couple of things. Omero and Cecilia, Vesti di Messalina, and Humana Vintage! Honestly, walking around and exploring all the shopping districts was one of my favorite things to do while visiting, and is a must for anyone seeking a truly diverse retail experience in Rome.

Beyond its many shopping opportunities, Rome's city center is a trove of historical and cultural landmarks. From the iconic Colosseum, which is surreal to see up close. Or the illustrious Roman Forum, where you can literally spend the entire day walking around like an ancient roman. The views from this area were incredible to say the least. The ruined columns up close are adorned with garlands, torches, and surrounded by colorful poppies flowers. The special highlight for me was seeing ethereal parrots soaring above. I found myself closing my eyes to imagine myself reliving a past life. For tourists sake, definite must visits are the trevi fountain, the Pantheon, and the Macuteo Obelisk, which is an Egyptian obelisk dating back to 37AD. Also, there is the breathtaking Vatican City, rich in history and former pope tombs. This metropolis is the central blood line of Italian religion and stretches across a whopping 109 acres of independent city-state. A Koyote trip trick is booking your trip around Italy’s Republic Day, on June 2nd, their Independence Day. All the museums and landmarks are free admission, but tickets and reservations are a must. If you expect trying to get in without one, you’ll be turned away.

Lastly, let’s talk about the food! This magical city also offers a vibrant and delicious culinary scene, with numerous trattorias, pizzerias, and gelaterias serving up quintessential Italian cuisine. It’s gelato everyday, or it’s no deal. My favorite flavors you must try are the salted caramel, Ferre Roche, or cherry chocolate! I will admit finding the best places to eat didn’t depend on reviews or stars, but word of mouth and gut instincts. The pasta sometimes was okay, and others were amazing! I realized I didn’t like wet pizza. But we’ll talk about that another time. However, I did love on the go potato, onion and cheese pizzas. So good! The wine is always organic, and the limoncello was often complimentary. The service and hospitality of the Italians is one of the best in the world, and they really make you feel apart of their family.

Rome was a dream that went by too fast! If you do decide to come here, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with just how incredible this place still is after all this time. Eat everything because you will certainly burn it off and look ten years younger. Make sure to wear your most comfortable shoes, the cobble stone roads aren’t for the faint of heart. And don’t forget to leave a little room for all the gems you find while out shopping and strolling throuh the streets, you’ll be sorry you over packed. Overall, this city has so much to offer, and when YOU’RE finally here, soak it in, immerse yourself in this city’s rich history and culture. ‘Underneath the jasmine nights, let Rome into your heart. If the moon ignites, embrace your new dolce vita life’.

🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5