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Showing posts with label reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label reviews. Show all posts

Wouldn't life be more interesting if we actually know what purposes we bring? Okay that’s deep but imagine dying, but still being able to walk amongst the living. Izombie gives you a glimpse of how sometimes second chances can come with repercussions.

When medical resident Liv Moore goes to a party that becomes a zombie feeding frenzy, she ends up joining the living dead. Despite her post zombie pale complexion, she tries her hardest to be pass as a human and in order to quench her thirst for brains, she works in a local morgue as a coroner officer where she can easily get her zombie hands on brains of corpses delivered there. She later then discovered her zombie powers; with every brain she fed on, she possesses their memories. With this new purpose in her (living dead) life, she poses as a psychic and help solve their murders alongside a detective.   


This humorous television show will bite your heart into loving the story plots and amaze you with how Rose Mclver (Liv Moore) acts as different characters in every episode. This show would not let you down, it will spice your taste buds with various recipes on how to cook brains. They are in their second season so be sure to catch up if you are still way behind! Who knows, Izombie might make you hunger for brains as well, that is always a plus, no? Okay it isn't but this is a must watch as Kanese gives it 3.5/5 stars.


Three Top Designers of Degree Fashion Show 2016 (From left: Ashraff, Exora and Hajaomiza) Photo credit: Izyan Rasul

As the final project of UiTM’s graduates; Bachelors in Fashion, the Degree Fashion Show 2016 announces top three winners that make a statement in their collections.

There were two sessions of the fashion show that placed more than 20 designers. Kanese got the opportunity to cover the second session of this incredible event. A total of 32 looks walked down the runway in an astonishing lineup that had mixtures of everything, from traditional tailoring to futuristic space cowboys, and a healthy dose of knitted fabrics.

All the graduate’s design filled the crowd with shock and admiration. The colours and fabrics used to slur out their messages in the collections were highly anticipated. Cladding the garments were an ensemble of professional models which did not disappoint the audience.

One of Ashraff Haqimie's design (Photo credit: Izyan Rasul)

The show ended with naming the top three designers that succeeded in capturing the judges’ attention. Second runner up, Ashraff Haqimie won with his “fiery” clothing line. When asked what his inspiration was, he answered with, “My inspiration was sparked by cigarettes which then touched the issue of health risks, specifically; lung cancer. The singer, Rihanna played a role as my muse in creating this ‘smokey’ collection.” Ashraff heard his calling as a fashion designer when his blind father gave him an idea to express his emotions through this skilled education.

Hajaomiza's stunning design (Photo credit: Izyan Rasul)

 First runner up victor was Hajaomiza Kaderi. Her collection focused on geometric 3D paintings. Her statement was mostly regarding how real and authentic her designs were. The colour consists of only black and white but it hypnotised the crowd with its whirly print on the fabrics.

Exora with her collection (Photo credit: Izyan Rasul)

Then comes the ultimate designer in the second session which was Wan Nadhra Exora. Her collection’s concept was inspired by futuristic race cars that only took her about 23 hours to finish one design (pretty amazing!). Her knitting skills were out of this world. According to Exora, her collection is not suitable for Malaysians as knitted wears are most likely to be worn in colder weathers. “If the western side can make spring clothing for the eastern people, why not we make their winter clothing? It is all about breaking the market.” Exora explained more on her future aspects.

Shazarul standing proud with his designs (Photo credit: Izyan Rasul)

Among other designers, Shazarul Annuar who wowed us all with his ‘submarine volcanic eruption’ collection that was honoured with cheers and applauses from the audience. His designs were mostly depicting silhouettes on the fabrics. To us, it was phenomenal how such detailed skills were put into the making of his collection. The use of salt on his fabric to create the volcanic texture was a clever technique. Shazarul exclaimed he is proud of his collection, well so are we, it was downright astonishing.

Hazwani among her clothing line (Photo credit: Izyan Rasul)

There was another collection that took our breaths away, designer Nur Hazwani Borhan with her ‘Hellebore’ collection. Her theme was based on this ‘Christmas Rose’ with an urban attire for High Fashion Street. She didn't let anyone down as her designs were putting people at the edge of their seats, excited to see each of her design. Her theme was chic, aesthetic and confident on the runway. She definitely won our hearts!

Overall, the fashion show was superb and it left us with an aching feeling of curiosity and anticipation to see more from the talented designers in the future. BRAVO!
We are back from our hiatus and wow does it feel great to write to all of you again! This month’s theme is the very aspect of second chances and this recommended film is one that touches home.


 THE RAILWAY MAN (2013)


Based on a true story, this movie occurs during World War II, where the main character, Eric Lomax, a British officer who is taken by the Japanese in Singapore and sent to a Japanese camp where he is labored and forced to work on the Thai-Burma Railway north of the Malay Peninsula. Lomax was tortured by by the Kempetai for building a radio receiver from spare parts. This made them suspect him of being a spy for allegedly using the British news broadcast receiver as a transmitter of military intelligence. In which his true intentions were to boost him and his friends’ morale. The torture portrayed included beatings, rape and waterboarding.

Years after the war, Lorax was still haunted by his psychological trauma during his wartime experiences. He then got moral support from his wife Patti and his best friend Finlay when Lorax decided to confront his captors who had escaped prosecution as a war criminal. He went back to the scene of the crime where his torturing began. Later on, he tracks down Takashi Nagase (the only one of his captors still alive) to ‘make amends’. 

This movie is ally to our theme due to the fact that Lorax forgave Takashi in the end after all the things he had done to Lorax. This should open up our eyes to why forgiveness is such a heavy compliment. After Lorax forgave his torturer, they became close friends and wrote to each other every day till death came knocking. Lorax felt a new life emerging for him after he had let go of the past and decided to accept the present. 

This film will surely arise emotions as it did to us. Tears were certainly shed, twice maybe, when watching this incredible story. The element of second chances is possible and things will definitely get better. Wait out on it, peace will surely come.
Okay, so it isn’t a secret how much women love splurging on makeup and skincare products. However, it takes a lot to be in our favourite list! These are just some of the products that we have come to love in 2015. *Not all products are new. There are some products that was launched years ago, but was recently discovered.


1.       Laura Mercier Mineral Powder Foundation
This foundation has been sold for years but I found it in September when my previous foundation was running out. It might have been quite a splurge with it being sold at RM175, but I DO NOT regret this purchase at all! To be honest, you need so little to cover your whole face and the fact that it covers ALL of my dark spots is amazeballs. With this foundation, I don’t have to waste any money on buying concealers because it does everything for me!



2.  .  NARS Audacious Lipsticks
We cannot begin to rave how much we LOVE these lipsticks! What makes it so much better than other normal lipsticks is that it has a semi matte finishing, meaning that it has a matte finishing but it doesn’t dry out on your lips making your lips super moisturize even though with matte lipstick on! Personally, our favorites are Anita and Vivien. But beware, these lipsticks comes with a hefty price tag! Currently, it is retailed at RM101 a pop!



3.     Tarte Bling It On Blush Palette
The reason why this blush palette is soooo much better than other brands is simply because of the choices they have in the palette. With 5 different colors, you can pick whichever color that suits your mood. There are 4 matte blushers and 1 shimmery blusher for that special occasion. This palette costs RM 157 where in our opinion is quite a steal when each of the blusher retails at around RM 117 each.


4.     Nivea Men Replenishing After Shave Balm
Don’t let the fact that this product is a men product scare you away! Truth is, this balm works best as a primer! Yes, a primer! So far, with this balm, we managed to wear my makeup for more than 8 hours without having to do any touch ups in between! It made our face soft and oil free for that period of time. And the fact that it’s super cheap is a plus too! 



5.     NuTeen Skincare
Please tell us that we are not the only 23 year old around here with bad acne. Recently, we discovered NuTeen, a line of skin care dedicated to hormonal teenagers. Miraculously, by just using the toner and cleanser, we were finally able to get rid of those pimples that knows no end. Now we only get those fellas when it’s the time of the month. Their products range from RM 10 – RM 25 only.



6.     Makeup Eraser
Spending a bucket load of money on a towel that erases your makeup seems like a stupid purchase, especially since there are makeup removers who are there to do the job. But in truth, this was one of the best purchase that we have made. This towel can literally wipe off any trace of makeup that you have on, from your foundation to those waterproof mascara. Yes, those mascara that usually takes hours to remove! All in one swipe! And even better, after purchasing this towel, you wouldn't have to purchase any more of those expensive makeup remover. All you need to do is wash your towel whenever you think the towel has wiped off enough makeup. Beware, this towel however will cost you RM 95 at your nearest Sephora outlet. 

Sephora Malaysia is proud to announce the arrival of 3 Concept Eyes or 3CE in short during their launch in Nu Sentral, Kuala Lumpur on Saturday.

For those who didn’t know, 3CE is a famous Korean brand that was founded by StyleNanda, a famous Korean fashion line. It was created to help express the beauty and uniqueness of women with the help from the sense and creativity 3CE brings.

Since Korean women are known to be more bare face in public, meaning they prefer a no make-up look, one of their best sellers’ turns out to be their foundation! Their foundation gives the users a dewy look, similar to Korean models. Unfortunately their coverage is more medium and concealers are needed to cover up spots and under eyes.

Apart from their foundation, 3CE is also known for creating fun lipstick colors! I’m talking neon pink, bright purple and even orange. But they also have normal colors for those who are too scared to try bold colors. Their average longevity is around 3 hours without having to reapply. 3CE products is also known as a 2 in 1 where their lipsticks can also be used as blushers. Why waste money eh?

Look at all the beautiful colors!!
In my opinion, their products are of high end quality but without the high end price tag. However, their price isn’t actually drugstore cheap either. I’d say it is in between, making it affordable to their customers who doesn’t have the budget for high end products.

During the launch, the ambassador for 3CE, Park Sora even dropped by. Those with exclusive invites were given the chance to take pictures with Sora at the photobooth for only 20 minutes! I managed to grab a photo with her and honest to God, she is so gorgeous it made my head hurt.

Look at how gorgeous she is!
Apart from Park Sora, famous makeup artist, Stella Shim was also at the launch. Stella’s portfolio includes America’s Next Top Model cycle 21 and recent London Fashion Week. Those attending were given a glimpse of how Stella created a typical Korean look which only involves the basic makeup necessities.

While there are a lot of 3CE products available now, Sephora does not carry the whole line. For example, 3CE’s famous lip pigment is not available in stores, which is a huge disappointment because that was the one I was looking forward to the most. So here’s hoping Sephora will continue to update their 3CE stocks!

So to those of you who are interested with 3CE, you can head on down to your nearest Sephora and get your hands on them before it solds out!

Homemade By Yayah is a new rising online business that offers natural, organic and homemade skincare products. It was officially launched on 15 January 2015 by the founder Adawiyah Rusli or better known as Yayah and her husband who is in charge of marketing, inventory, and cash flow. The Kelantan-born entrepreneur decided to take homemade skincare courses and started making her own body scrub in June 2014. After receiving good feedback from family and friends, she commenced to sell body scrubs and other product line according to demand. 

Up till now, they are offering 20 different products in three main categories; Body, Lip, and Face. Here is the list of products: 


1. (BEST PRODUCT!) Masker Face Scrub: One product, two functions. Customer may use this as facial scrub or facial mask. Targeting oily and acne prone skin, Homemade by Yayah Masker Face Scrub also contains the strongest clay for skin detoxification to ensure deep and total cleanliness. 


2. (BEST PRODUCT!) Beauty Drops Rejuvenating Serum: 100% plant based facial serum, specially formulated for mature skin (recommended for age 20 and above). This serum is very light in texture and high absorbent. It functions to erase the wrinkle line, lightening scar and dark spot, improve skin elasticity and tone, and able to treat dry and irritated skin condition. 



3. Body Scrub: Homemade by Yayah Body Scrub Variants (in best seller order): 
  • Coffee 
  • Chocolate Mousse 
  • Tea Tree 
  • Sweet Orange 
  • Fine Lavender 
  • Jasmine 
  • Vanilla 


4. Lip Scrub: Homemade by Yayah Lip Scrub Variants (in best seller order):
  • Strawberry 
  • Cranberry 
  • Grape 
  • Coconut 
  • Red Apple 
  • Caramel 
  • Marshmallow 
  • Vanilla 
  • Original 
  • Peach 
  • Root Beer 


5. Lip Balm: Comes in 3 variants (in best seller order):
  • Original 
  • Rose 
  • Cool Mint 


6. Face Mist: Comes in 2 sizes – Standard (125 ml) and Mini (10 ml). Three variants (in best seller order):
  • Tea Tree 
  • Jasmine 
  • Fine Lavender
What we love most about these products is that they are all homemade. Yayah is producing them as if she herself is using the products. She is very particular about the ingredients, cleanliness, and the effectiveness of the products. The second cute thing about it is that all the production process including label design and packaging are done in house in order to maintain the business identity as “homemade”, which provide “local” or “close to heart” feeling.

If you’re wondering whether the products are safe to use or not, fret not! Their products are 100% made of plant based, organic, packed full of natural goodness and are primarily based with essential oils. For your information, essential oils are naturally anti-bacterial and smell great. They believe that natural ingredients can take better care of us and the environment due to its gentle effects on our skin and body, and it is totally biodegradable.

The owner who is inspired by her grandmother said that there are no harmful chemicals or bleaching agents added and no preservatives, which explains why the shelf life is shorter than commercial products. Homemade by Yayah is free from SSLS & SLES, Paraben-free, Dimethicone-free, Petro Chemicals-free, Toxins-free and Phosphates-free. Fun fact; they are also against animal testing!

In terms of future plans, the Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS graduate aims to have her own business agents, and a physical store where customers can drop by to purchase and have a little beauty routine chit chat with her.

Good news, guys! They will soon introduce Combo Pack at a special price. So, what are you waiting for? Check out their Instagram at www.instagram.com/homemadebyyayah and contact them now via:

· Whatsapp: 013-3009466 – most active

After our month of hiatus, movies in theatres have been dominating all the movie goers. Kanese reviews two latest movies that changes the image of comedians; Amy Schumer and Paul Rudd.

1. Trainwreck (2015) – Amy Schumer


An American romantic comedy directed by the famous Judd Apatow and written by comedian Amy Schumer who also stars in this film. The storyline depicts a character by the name of Amy (Amy Schumer) that faces her fears of commitment when she finally meets Aaron, the perfect guy (Bill Hader). The thought of monogamy to Amy seems impossible and impractical after the divorce of her parents. Amy must make difficult decisions in her life for the first time regarding relationships and her career.

In this film, Amy Schumer portrays herself as more than a comedic relief on the big screen. It shows a whole new shade of seriousness in her character. Amy has written a story plot in which it faces all life’s ‘lemons’ in battling with addiction, loss and the ability to overcome fear and embrace change. Amy showed us a new side of her and introduces to all of her fans to the deeper side of herself. 

Rotten Tomatoes have given this film an easy 86% ratings, while The New York Times expressed their reaction towards the movie with this quote “It’s very funny and sweet and even a little weepy, and it has maybe the best scene ever filmed of dirty talk gone wrong. In other words, it’s a Schumer/Apatow production — may there be more to come”. This movie is a must watch and an easy 4/5 stars. 

2. Ant-Man (2015) – Paul Rudd



Marvel’s Ant Man was a huge hit directed by Peyton Reed that stars Paul Rudd as Ant Man himself. This story follows Scott Lang (Paul Rudd), a cat burglar fresh out of prison when he is summoned by Dr. Hank (Michael Douglas) to arm himself with a super-suit that has the ability to shrink as small as an ant and still possesses strength of more than 100 men. Ant Man must save the world when a villain creates a similar suit to dictate Ant Man’s powers, thus taking over the world. 

Paul Rudd is known for his humor as a comedian, however, through this film, he portrays a different side full of intense emotions. This film does not rip away his natural funny bones, but it helps boost his image to us viewers as a growing movie star. 

Ant-Man brings out a powerful message of the significance of family ties and remorse plus the sense of new beginning. This movie is full of action and is sure to bring out more laughter than heartbreak. It deserves a 3.5/5 stars in our book. A must watch summer movie!

After disputing with my friends on where and what to eat for lunch, we decided to try out a recently opened restaurant, Macaroni Food and Coffee at Seksyen 9, Shah Alam. It is located at Plaza Masalam which is also the main venue for people to grab lunch. You don’t have to worry about finding this restaurant, because its huge signage will simply grab your attention. 


As I walk in the restaurant, I was impressed with the interior design and the friendly gestures from the staffs. The place is spacious and sort of giving me the feeling of comfort. I love how they paid attention on every little thing when it comes to the decorations. 


The back of the chairs are carved with letters from the word “Macaroni”. Same goes to the menu. The walls are filled with vintage posters of cartoons and food brands. They also have these huge food cans hanging from the ceiling. Every single decoration is just on point.


Enough with the interior, now let’s move on to the most important part of this article, FOOD. For now (wink), I have only tasted their pizzas and pancakes. Let me just take a second to just reliving the moment to remember how delicious it was. 



The pizzas are not just yummy, they are also homemade and fresh. It is made freshly when ordered. You can try their cheapest pizza, Pizza Margharita (RM 12). Topped with mozzarella cheese, fresh tomatoes, oregano leaves, and tomato sauce, it is simply delicious (and affordable too!). You can now say goodbye to Domino’s (just kidding). 


Next, I also want to recommend their pancakes. I tried the Buttermilk Pancake (RM12) and the Sandwich Pancake (RM14). The Buttermilk Pancake is served with whipped cream, fruit slices, and maple syrup. On the other hand, the Sandwich Pancake is dished with bacons, zucchini, whipped cream, fruit slices, and maple syrup (plus some other vegetables). Mouth-watering isn’t it? You can order it up to 3 pm. How awesome is that?


If you don’t like any of the foods I recommended above, don’t worry. They also have variety of cuisine to choose from. The prices are also affordable compared to the huge platting they serve you. 

Now that I’m done babbling, what are you waiting for? Head down to Macaroni Food and Coffee and try it yourself. You won’t be disappointed. Bon appétit!

Macaroni Food & Coffee
Lot B3, Plaza Masalam,
Seksyen 9, Shah Alam.
03 - 5518 1688
www.macaroni.com.my
Ladies, do you feel like you have too much hair down under? Want to know how to manage the lady parts? Well our writer, Zee went to Bubble Gum Wax to groom hers and she spills on the secrets and tips on keeping your down under clean, neat and hair-free. 
Read on to find out more!


I practice Brazilian wax. When I first tried it way back when it hurt like hell. But after going for regular appointments I am so comfortable with it that I could sleep through the whole process.

The first thing you need to do is to throw your awkwardness out the door. You HAVE to. You are going to show your private parts to someone other than your spouse, so yeah, it is going to be awkward. If you are planning on waxing more than once, then I suggest get the person you’re familiar with. For example, the girl who waxed you the first time. It helps on the awkward level.

People associate waxing with pain. Some lady, ripping your pubes out, I mean, how can it not be painful? These are a few tips on how to reduce the pain:

1.    Make sure you book your appointment at least a week after your period and NEVER                    during your period. (Who wants to see your bleeding vagina?)
2.    Exfoliate!! It helps to remove dead skin cells and makes it easier to wax.
3.   If possible, find any numbing cream (Lidocaine or any numbing cream that you often                   use) and use it 45 minutes before your appointment.

You will still experience pain. However, the degree of pain will depend on your body’s tolerance of pain. Some people can be heard screaming during their sessions, regardless if it’s Brazilian or even full leg waxing, it’s still painful.

The first time will always be the worst. If you continue waxing according to the schedule at the waxing saloon, after a few times waxing, you will notice the difference with your pubes.

If you're looking for a waxing saloon, you can head on over to Bubblegum Wax located at Plaza Damas and at Casa Tropicana or you can check their website for more information.

It is the year of women around the world where feminism seem to be the topic for every coffee conversation at cafes. In honours of the International Women’s Day last March, this section would like to dedicate a list of women in a film with a strong image and empowerment.

Action:
Salt (2010): Angelina Jolie

This film, directed by Phillip Noyce and written by Kurt Wimmer was an ecstatic piece of art about a CIA officer, Evelyn Salt who swore an oath to duty, honor and country.

Her loyalty was tested when a traitor accuses her of being a Russian spy. Salt made her escape, using all her skills and years of experience as a secret operative to avoid capture. Salt's efforts to prove her innocence only creates doubt on her motives.

Angelina Jolie portrayed a strong, independent individual that could withhold any obstacles, that being of the physical or the emotion state. The character was written with much class and justification from Kurt that every young generation can look up to the bold characteristics of Evelyn.

Angelina proved worthy of this part as she herself obtains the qualities of a strong witted woman/ leader.This film gets 4 stars out of 5 for a quality story line and a perfectly written protagonist.


Biography:
Big Eyes (2014) : Amy Adams

Directed by the famous Tim Burton, this film was based on true events focusing on the life of American artist, Margaret Keane. Amy Adams takes on the role of Margaret in this heart wrenching story of her uprising fame. In this film, it takes place in the 1950s where Margaret’s painting was recognised by the public while it was hung in the hallway of a famous pub in town.
The twist of the story is that her husband (Christopher Waltz) claimed the art to be his. Therefore she was told to keep her mouth shut as her husband took all the credit. This was until one day she has had enough of the humiliation and demanded her rights to be credited for her big eye paintings.

Amy Adams studied Margaret Keane well for this role in order to avoid any misinterpretation of her character. Adams put in determination and discipline into bringing out the independent character of Margaret onto the big screens. This film deserves 4.5 stars out of 5 for it’s in depth story line and acting.


Drama:
The Help: Viola Davis, Emma Stone and Octavia Spencer

This inspiring film was directed by Tate Taylor based on the legendary novel by Kathryn Stockett. This story focuses around three women which are Skeeter Phelan (Emma Stone), Aibileen Clark (Viola Davis) and Minny Jackson (Octavia Spencer) around the 1960s during the civil rights movement era. Skeeter, an aspiring author, decided to write a book regarding the African American maids’ point of view about working with white families in the center of Jackson.

Aibileen was the first to have the courage to stand up and tell her own story of all the hardships she faces everyday working for the Leefolt family. As this story progressed, it focuses more on the freedom of speech and the limitations it actually possess.

Davis, Stone and Spencer were complimented greatly on their roles in this movie as they portrayed the strength and bravery of the characters in ever face expressions and body languages. They did not hesitate to go all out on their talent and put the rightful characteristics for such a sensitive issued film regarding racism in America. This movie deserves the utmost respect and acknowledgment from the public. This film is given 4.5 stars for its originality.