A Skin-deep Look into “Portrait of a Beauty”

Stories that involves visual arts, in my opinion, is less popular than those that has to do with political schemes—especially if it’s set in the 18th century Joseon Era. Nevertheless, the story behind Miindo (English Translation: Portrait of a Beauty), and why it is called as such, was enough to pique my interest.

Miindo (Portrait of a Beauty) Theatrical Poster | Wikipedia

Miindo is a 2008 South Korean film that is based on Lee Jeong Myeong’s novel Painter of the Wind. The movie revolves around Shin Yun Bok (player by Kim Gyu Ri), also known by her pen name Hye Won, who entered the royal painting institute by his father’s command. 

Apparently, Yun Bok is the daughter of a former court painter, Shin Han Pyong, who seeks to settle an old score with his former pupil and now popular painter Kim Hang Do (portrayed by Kim Young Ho). Everything was under control, until Yun Bok met a merchant named Kang Mu (played by Kim Nam Gil). As their love story blossoms, the greed and jealousy of other people tried to bring them apart.

Story-wise, Miindo has a great plot and an ample time for character exploration and establishment. It is one movie that viewers will find intriguing and moving. Here’s why:

1. As mentioned earlier, the movie has a great plot. Every character’s actions and reasoning are justified by the circumstances and previous actions. Han Pyong wants to restore his pride that he seeks revenge, and the only way he can do it is through his kid. Kang Mu was able to expose Yun Bok to the world that the latter would want to explore it with him. Lastly, Hang Do was left brokenhearted and jealous that he wants Kang Mu out of his and Yun Bok's lives. 
2. I also salute Kim Nam Gil for being a natural. He was able to pull out a playful brass mirror maker who knows the ins and outs of the street. His facial features and physique suits him well to portray the role of Kang Mu. In addition, his fighting skills in the movie made his being a man of the streets more convincing. 
3. There is a good balance between show and tell in this movie. It was immediately established why Han Pyong has an angst against Hang Do without the need to stretch the whole movie. The progress of Kang Mu and Yun Bok’s love story was also visible, that’s why viewers won’t be left wondering how it all began and how they ended up as lovers. Moreover, loose ends were tied through flashbacks instead of confrontations, which make the rest of the story understandable with less talks and the ending quite neat. 

However, the movie has its loopholes and problems.

1. It may be a small thing for some, but the gisaengs in the movie are not pretty enough for me. Korean courtesans, just like Geishas in Japan, are typically coveted by their beauty. The movie may not be revolving around them, but they are part of the story. Or perhaps it’s just me, setting a Hwang Jin Yi standard whenever I see a gisaeng. 
2. I also find the adultery in Buddhist temple quite disturbing. Although the movie revolves around greed and lust, indicating that some monks allow people to commit adultery in their temples doesn’t make sense to me, let alone them having sex with married woman. After all, they are priests who were “trained” to win over physical pleasures. 
3. Lastly, Hang Do made one thing that I don’t understand. Why would he shot Kang Mu with a poisoned arrow and give him the antidote later? If I were in his shoes, I would have killed him point blank so that I can have Yun Bok for my self. 

Despite the loopholes and that one action that I was unable to grasp, the movie thought me two things. First: We have our own interpretation of art. The movie left me questioning whether Yun Bok’s paintings were a form of visual art or just a creation of a lewd mind. Nonetheless, to each is their own.

Lastly, it taught me that art is not just a thing that only the rich people can appreciate. It is actually around us. If we know how to open ourselves to the world and explore, we will be able to see the real beauty that lies within and beneath it.

Adarna Food and Culture: Learning You History through Delectable Treats

It’s been over a month ago when Neish, a good friend of mine, and I were invited to visit Bookware Publishing for unknown reasons. As it turns out, Ms. Edith Joaquin surprised us by introducing Ms. Roma Nympha—a Tagalog romance novel writer that we’ve been dying to meet.

We stayed in the office for quite a while to have a chat and buy a couple of books. After all the spazzing and tete-a-tete, Ms. Edith brought us to Adarna Food and Culture in Kalayaan Avenue.

The Place

You will be greeted with a Spanish-like environment once you stand in front of the restaurant. The entrance is that of wooden gates that you’ll usually see in churches, although it’s a smaller version of it.

Despite coming there at lunch time, the tables and chairs that were set up outside has a romantic feel to it. It’s as if it is one of those places you’ll see in a music video of a Christian Bautista or Eric Santos. Its interior, on the other hand, has a bistro feel to it. The walls and floor is painted in maroon, while its wooden dining sets are covered with white and gold table cloth.

The Food and the Price

That day, we opted to have Pancit Molo (Php 140.00), Pinapaitan (Php 140.00), Adobong Batangas ala Adarna (Php 240.00), Grilled Chicken Breast with Kesong Puti (Php 345.00), Banana Peanut Roll (Php 95.00), Rico Tsokolate (Php 100.00), and Kesong Puti and Langka Fry (Php 75.00).

Pancit Molo (Top), Adobong Batangas ala Adarna and Grilled Chicken Breast with Kesong Puti (Bottom) | Adarna Food and Culture

You might be shocked at their price if you’re a first-timer, but it is actually meant for sharing. Still, it is not that expensive compared to other fancy restaurant, and your expenses will be worth it.

Peanut Butter Roll (Top-Left), Kesong Puti and Langka Fry (Top-Right), Rico Tsokolate (Bottom) | Adarna Food and Culture

I wanted to give my critique on every food that we had, but it might take us ages. Still, I can say that the plating was very creative and appetizing, the food was very tasty, and the desserts taste like heaven. Perhaps I should write a food review on each dish on a future post. 

The Service

Aside from the quaint place and sumptuous food, Adarna Food and Culture’s service was also good. We only waited less than 15 minutes for our food to arrive, and the waiters know so well what’s on the menu. We just have to say some menu keywords and they already know what we’re looking for.


When we left the place, I can’t help but imagine my self going back there one of these days. I would definitely want to spend solace in Adarna Food and Culture while having my Rico Tsokolate.

Date a Writer this Valentines' Day

It’s been years since I first stumbled upon a blog post talking about “Why You Should Date a Girl Who Reads”. As I read on every words, sentences and paragraphs of the entire entry, I feel like my ego is being stoked since I have a penchant for books. But what strikes me the most was its last sentence: Better yet, date a girl who writes. So what would make a writer an interesting date?

Girl Reading by Carolina Antunes | MorgueFile

They are Smart and Curious

I think this is already a given. Writers tend to read a lot, which makes them knowledgeable to a lot of things, although the extent of what they know varies from one person to another.

Still, they are the type of smart people who wants to learn more. If you’re able to pique their interest about something they don’t know yet, expect that they’ll do a research on it. And then on you’re next date, she will share to you all that she learned. It won’t just save you time on thinking of a conversation starter; you’ll also gain a good companion.

They’ll Romance You with Words

As a writer, they know how to play with words. Thus, they will express their feelings towards you through the best way they know—writing. And come to think of it, isn’t receiving a letter from someone special is waaaaay more romantic than an SMS, e-card or Facebook post?

They’ll Let You See the World in a Different Light

Aside from being curious, writers also love to look at things from various angles and points of view. They do this because they want to hear or see the story from the eyes of various people. It actually gives them a grasp of reality and the things that may be unknown to them.

Although there are writers who are introvert by nature, they’re actually the type of people who are interested with what others think about a certain issue. If you’re friends with a writer, you’ll surely have a wider understanding of the things around you.

They’ll Remind You that Money is not Everything

Yes, we need money in order to have shelter, food and clothing, but cash is not an ultimate thing for writers. What’s more important for them is that they can support their needs, as well as provide for their families. Not to mention that they can actually find happiness in simple things.

If you see them travelling far and wide or eating in some fancy restaurants, it’s because their current financial status permits them to do so. And who knows? Maybe it’s just a sponsored travel or food blogging gig.

They Enjoy Solitude

If you’re the type of guy who doesn’t want a clingy girlfriend, then dating a writer might do you good. As mentioned earlier, they are introvert by nature. This means that they enjoy some time alone, perhaps so they could be one with the world in order to come up with a great manuscript. Sure, they are human beings too who are looking for love; but just like you, they also need some space sometimes.


Writer or not, all of us are looking for that special someone who could fulfill that “ideal companion” job post—especially now that Valentines' Day is fast approaching. But, no, I didn’t write this because I’m a writer and I have a non-existent love life. I’m happy being single, to be honest. Moreover, I believe that we shouldn’t be looking for love because love will find us.

Looking Forward to 2013 and Beyond

Now that we’re done looking back on what 2012 has brought us, it’s time that we take a step forward. With that, I’ve decided to write down a bucket list or a number of things that I want to achieve before I “hit the bucket”.

Hope and Sunrise by CarolinaJG | Morguefile

Watch a Concert 
I really cannot say that I am a music lover, but I do appreciate good music. But due to lack of funds when I was in college, I was unable to watch the concert of my favorite bands here in Manila. That’s why when I started earning, I promised that I’ll watch a concert at least once a year. So far, I am keeping up with my promise, and I hope that I can share them with you next time.

Watch a Theater or Musical Play
Aside from watching a concert, I also want to watch a theater or musical play. I had my first experience of it when I was in high school because of Noli Me Tangere and El Filibustero. But this time, I want to watch a stage play that has nothing to do with school work. With that, I plan to watch The King and I in Resorts World Manila this February.

Become an Author
This is something that I hope will happen soon. As I’ve mentioned previously, I already submitted my manuscript for How to Start Your Blog to Bookware Publishing. Hopefully, it would be out in bookstores soon.

Visit Places I’ve Never Been To
I also mentioned before that I was bitten by the travel bug. However, my current financial state won’t permit a leisure travel. Nevertheless, I still managed to travel from various parts of Luzon at least once a year.

It started when I first spent the Holy Week in my friend’s house in Batanggas. We even went to Quezon Province that time for a family swimming. Because of that awesome experience, I’ve decided to keep a portion of my salary for an annual travel fund. Since then, I was able to visit Davao City and Iba, Zambales. Hopefully, I could keep up with my promise, especially now that I am planning to go longer miles.

Buy My Own House
Although living with my parents is fine, I realized that it won’t always be like this. It is not just about having my independence; it is also about having an investment. I am thinking of saving enough money for it, but not now since our community still have housing issues. When everything is settled, I’ll consider having my own house.

Build a Mini Library in My Bedroom
It’s a no-brainer that I love books. Ever since I was in high school, I dreamt of having a mini library in my bedroom. That’s why when I already have my own house, I will make sure that one part of it will be filled of bookshelves.

Learn a Foreign Language aside from English
For me, learning another foreign language is a refreshing experience. And because of my love for Korean Pop Culture, I’ve decided to study Hangeul or the Korean language. I guess I am doing fine, but I really wish I can meet a friend that can help me practice the language. Someone whom I can talk to in a casual manner while learning Korean.

Conquer My Fear of Heights
I am a certified acrophobic. Despite that, I love engaging to sports and activities that has something to do with heights. I’ve done rappelling and zip line already, and I intend to do bungee jumping in the near future. I would also want to experience riding on every Ferris Wheel in every city that I’ll visit.

Donate to Our Church or Charity
No, I don’t dream of becoming a philanthropist, but 2012 has been good to me. Then I thought, with all the blessing that I had, should I be the only one who’s blessed? That's why having the will and resources to help our church or any worthy charity should be my way of giving back.

Find and Marry Mr. Darcy
I am already 24. To some, I may be too young to think of getting married. However, I don’t want to grow old alone. Come to think of it, beauty queens would always tell that the essence of being a woman is to become a wife and a mother—or “to be able to complete Meiosis 2” as what my college friends and I would say.

But this time, I want to be happy and single first before going to another relationship. After all, if I am not happy being single, then I won’t be one even if I’m in a relationship. Happiness comes from within and not from the opposite sex. So, yeah, my wedding with Mr. Darcy will come in time.


Just because it was written this year, it doesn't mean that this bucket list is meant to be achieved within 2013 only. These are the things that I want to achieve throughout my lifetime starting today. Hopefully, I will be able to cross out everything written here one by one as I age and approach the sunset of my life.

Hero Day: A Jae-lebration and How it Rocked My Fangirling World

Perhaps by this time, my love for K-pop and JYJ is no longer a secret. Thus, seeing me attend Hero Day: A Jae-lebration last January 26, is now a no-brainer.

Birthday Celebration, Photo-op and "Mine" MV Viewing | Hero Day: A Jae-lebration

Organized by JYJ Philippines and Kim Jaejoong Philippines, dozens of Filipino fans celebrated Jae Joong-oppa’s birthday at Holly’s Coffee in Taft, Manila. I’m not new to fan gatherings such as this, but it still amazes me to see that there are a lot of K-pop fans in the country who are willing to go far and wide just to fangirl or fanboy and spazz together. Not to mention that this fandom garners fans of all ages! And when I say “all”, I mean from high school students to employed people to mommies of those employed people.

JYJ Philippines and Kim Jaejoong Philippines Staff | Hero Day: A Jae-lebration

Not that I’m being biased, but JYJ Philippines and Kim Jaejoong Philippines did an excellent job with organizing the Hero Day: A Jae-lebration event. From promoting it online, to the registration process and merchandise transactions, and to the event itself, all was hassle-free. Plus, they were so accommodating that they’re willing to answer every inquiry there is on their Facebook page.

Parlor Games | Hero Day: A Jae-lebration

So all that an attendee needs to do is confirm their attendance, pay for the registration and be there at the event. Then, it will be fangirling and spazzing all you want! 

Despite being so organized, the staff and core members of the fans club were never a kill joy. They were able to pull off games and activities that would loosen us a bit, show off how much we know and love Kim Jae Joong, and encourage us to meet and know other fans.

Kim Jae Joong Hunger Games | Hero Day: A Jae-lebration

I’m not really a fan of parlor games, but there was hype from all over the place that you can’t help but try your luck with their games. Who doesn’t want to bring home a Jae Joong poster, anyway? In fact, I really like their “Find Your Soul Mate” game. If not because of that game, I won’t be able to meet my new girlfriends. Teehee!

Fangilring with My New Girlfriends | Hero Day: A Jae-lebration

I must say, celebrating a K-pop idol’s birthday with other people who shares my fandom is a refreshing experience for me. So would I want to see them on the next JYJ event? Definitely!