I love the Eppes brothers. I love to watch and figure out the dynamics of their relationship, one of the recurring themes of the show. Tonight’s episode somehow hit a nerve, even when I know it’s make believe.

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When my friends tell me about their lives, I almost always end up thinking my experiences are so ordinary in comparison. This is when it comes to personal relationships, not work or other interests. And these are the so-called ‘normal’ people, whom you wouldn’t expect to be having such experiences.

I have lost count the times I’ve watched this movie. At first it was the story of going all over New York City in one night. Then it was the lead characters. After that, it was a mix of those two. I’ve seen the city at dawn, but only through windows. Maybe next time, I’ll get to experience it.

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Last week, I needed to laugh and I got to laugh really hard it was such a relief. The pain in my shoulders subsided, thanks to some quality time with friends and family. And a Sunday to myself. Nice.

The tenth time watching Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist. I think it was. With all that has happened the past week, Paul Tiernan’s song somehow got the better of me.

to get up and go / to catch the last train / to get in some car / and drive out again / to never come back this way…. / and have to say…. / goodbye

Between that song and and this number, I guess I’m all set.

When people ask for my views on the local political scene (we Malaysians can’t seem to escape it), I would say what I always say. I hate politicians.

If asked to explain, which is not often, I’d say that I don’t hate the actual person (usually), but the deeds they do. You know, like being able to say with a straight face that he or she did not do something but everyone else know otherwise. Or telling another politician “don’t be greedy” when he or she is the head honcho in that department.
Then there are the bureaucrats. They are supposed to be the enablers of policies, overseeing progress and ensuring the government works like a well-oiled machine. Not that that ever happen. Anywhere in the world.

I wanted to be part of the system once. Thought I’d work in public service in return for the education I had receive. So I had to find other ways to ‘give back’.

Where am I going with this?

I just saw Body of Lies (yes, an American movie) and was reminded of politicians and bureaucrats who are comfortably ensconced in their leather chairs in air-conditioned rooms, plotting schemes while their people on the ground provide them with information which they can choose to ignore if the info is deemed of no use to propel their message further. And the lies. And the layers upon layers of intrigues.

If you are being true to the people, to yourself, why add untruths into the mix?

I have been told many times that I should take another perspective when looking at the political situation. A perspective that is more rational, less emotional. Less of being morally indignant but puttling more logical thoughts into it. You may wonder how I can continue being a hack if I can’t be rational and write objectively, eh. I guess it is easier when you are not doing hard news.

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Apart from the Ridley-esque cinematography and strong performance from the lead roles, that brief scene towards the end tugged at me. I could see the longing in his eyes and wistful smile.

She left to go back to Barcelona. The kitten he had just started caring for died. His son doesn’t talk to him. When he stepped out for a minute to get a present for the son, his push cart was stolen. The final scene showed him manning his friend’s cart while the said friend sends his van for repair. As a customer walks away, he said “have a nice day”. What irony.
A sad story, and I didn’t even cry. I almost hated it but I don’t.