i faced my fear and drew a polka on paper

Interview with Akaza + Douma (Actor!AU)

A/N: wanted to write this as a full on fic but who am i kidding (not proofread haha..)

“Hi I’m Hakuji Soyama and I've had the honour to play Akaza since the Mugen Train Arc” He gives a brief nod after his introduction. Slinging his right leg over the other, he glances at his counterpart who awkwardly raises his hand.

“...And I play Douma.’’ He states, causing Akaza to erupt into a fit of laughter, the audience and interviewer joining him instantly.

“Well that’s one way to introduce yourself.” Akaza grins, dramatically wiping a tear away from his eye.

“So tell me, what’s it like behind the scenes?"

"I think everyone gets along great, we all have a similar end goal in mind and work hard to achieve that together."

Douma nods before starting. "This is my first big time job and everybody has welcomed me with open arms. The writers even listened to my ideas and we've made some changes together for me to portray him better."

"We've heard rumours about you all doing your own stunts. Is it true?"

Akaza sighs making Douma laugh.

"You know that one scene in the infinity castle where I parkour around like it's nobody's business? That took a week to film, I nearly had to relearn to walk again because I was dangling in the air so much."

"Tch, you're so dramatic." Douma quips.

"You didn't make it any easier for me! You know how ticklish my feet are and you kept taking advantage of it while I was hanging from the ceiling!" He scoffs jokingly. "You guys better appreciate that scene." He laughs, making the audience cheer for the duo.

"How do you guys get ready for a day of shooting? Walk me through the day you started filming the uppermoon meeting."

"Make-up is the first thing we do, during make-up we go over our scenes together."

"Whose make-up takes longest?"

"Hantengu's by a long shot. He's actually really good looking in real life."

"I second that. I think Hakuji's the quickest since he has temporary tattoo's and dyed his hair for the part. He only needs to put in his contacts."

"Muzan's actor is actually really soft-spoken in real life, we had to reshoot the 'Upper Moons' meeting a lot because he would be to gentle with us and we would end up laughing." Akaza chuckles.

"Who do you respect most among the actors?"

"I respect everyone, especially the younger actors! They're super professional. I shot a scene with Ume who plays Daki and she gave me a lot of useful tips."

"The way Rengoku's actor portrays him gave me chills. He did so beautifully! I really respect him!"

"Hakuji came home crying after they filmed Rengoku's death scene." Douma teases.

"It was a long day, alright?"

"Yeah, you guys live together right?"

"We've been best friends since we were like five, so becoming roommates when we both wanted to go to theater school was an easy decision."

"Is your friend a bit like the character he portrays?"

"Absolutely not! When we're not shooting he's cooped up in his room playing video games all day. I don't know how he maintains his figure because all I see him eat is instant ramen. I'm even convinced he's a virgin." He cooes at Douma, pinching his cheek.

"Get off me!" The platinum haired man laughs. "Like you're anything like Akaza, you manwhore."

Akaza shrugs, a sly smirk on his face. "I know a bit of martial arts. That's like my character, I guess."

"The karate workshop we had when we we're eleven? Really, that's your knowledge of martial arts?"

Akaza nods seriously, trying to hold in his laugh.

"Wow, you're really something..."

"We're almost out of time." The interviewer states. "Anything you want to add before we round this interview up?"

"I can't recommend watching Demon Slayer enough! I've never been so proud of a show or movie I've done, this is next level."

"What he said, and hi mum!" Douma says, waving at the camera with a toothy grin.

"Give a round of applause for the one and only Akaza and Douma! Thank you for the interview."

if you can live your life without an audience, you should do it.

The Truman Show // MAG188 - Centre of Attention // Twitter: TubboLive // Can't Handle This (Kanye Rant) - Bo Burnham // Wilbur Soot VOD (Oct 17th 2020) - [DreamSMP] Speedy Stream Festival What festival // MAG117 - Testament // Margaret Atwood - The Robber Bride // @elytrians // MAG188 - Centre of Attention // The Truman Show (edit by @parakeet) // Untitled #15 by @that-house // something about a truman show complex, greek heroes, and the illusion of free will. by @yuker // Tom Stoppard - Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead // Bo Burnham - Inside // you're fairly certain there's a curtain somewhere by @irrealisms

[IDs under cut]

Images 1 and 2: Screenshots of the Truman Show. The Closed Captions read "Let me get you some help, Truman. You're not well."

Image 3: ARCHIVIST: Hm. You want a show so badly?  Fine.

Image 4: a twitter poll by @TubboLive. text of the tweet is "What do we do..." Options are "Exile Tommy", with 55.8% of the vote, and "Don't Exile Tommy", with 44.2% of the vote.

Image 5: The truth is, my biggest problem's you/I want to please you/But I want to stay true to myself/I want to give you the night out that you deserve/But I want to say what I think/And not care what you think about it/Part of me loves you/Part of me hates you/Part of me needs you/Part of me fears you/And I don't think that I can handle this right now"

Image 6: WILBUR: You're saying "do it", chat, but you're-- this isn't-- you aren't affected, you just want to see explosions, you guys aren't affected, I understand, I understand, I-- I've been hasty.

Image 7: TIM: All right. I don’t know what you are, I don’t even know if you’re listening. I don’t care. Just, if you’re there, I want you to know that I hate you. I hate you for, for witnessing what’s happened to us.

Image 8: “Male fantasies, male fantasies, is everything run by male fantasies? Up on a pedestal or down on your knees, it's all a male fantasy: that you're strong enough to take what they dish out, or else too weak to do anything about it. Even pretending you aren't catering to male fantasies is a male fantasy: pretending you're unseen, pretending you have a life of your own, that you can wash your feet and comb your hair unconscious of the ever-present watcher peering through the keyhole, peering through the keyhole in your own head, if nowhere else. You are a woman with a man inside watching a woman. You are your own voyeur.” ― Margaret Atwood, The Robber Bride

Image 9: a tumblr post by @elytrians. text: *coughs up blood* how do i look? do i look good? was that hot?

Image 10: She had once counted how many times she could spot a camera watching her during her morning run: thirty-one in ten minutes. At least, it had been back then. Last time she had tried it there were hundreds. They tracked her movements, and made so much noise she could not have ignored them if she tried. It was halfway between the mechanical whir of a focusing lens and the low rattle of mean-spirited laughter. Carmen didn’t go running anymore.

Image 11: The last scene of the Truman Show, edited to add a twitch chat full of PogChamp emotes.

Image 12: a comic of two squares talking. RED: I realized something. BLUE: Yeah? RED: This comic could just end. Without warning. The Creator could just get bored. BLUE: No closure, no catharsis, nothing. RED: Our recent few strips would make for unsatisfying ends. Maybe we should give every comic a satisfying conclusion. BLUE: But that’s life. Life doesn’t always have a satisfying ending. RED: This isn’t life, this is a comic. We can control it. We can make sure there’s a happy ending. BLUE: We can’t control jack shit. The comic’s ending is up to the Creator.

Image 13: a comic of Technoblade. He is sitting amongst scattered papers with his hands on his face. The scattered papers have the titles of various Technoblade DSMP Youtube videos written on them. Text on the image reads: “It can hurt, knowing you’re just a character with predetermined lines instead of a person with feelings. The voices are the audience and they’re constantly critiquing your performance.”

Image 14: ROS: I wish I was dead. (Considers the drop.) I could jump over the side. That would put a spoke in their wheel. GUIL: Unless they're counting on it. ROS: I shall remain on board. That'll put a spoke in their wheel. (The futility of it, fury.) All right! We don't question, we don't doubt. We perform.

Images 15, 16: Bo Burnham stands outside a house on a stage; there is a spotlight on him. the caption is [disembodied applause] He tries to reenter the house. the caption is [disembodied laughter].

Image 17: WILBUR: It’s better to play along. Give them what they want. Put on a show. Who cares who it hurts, as long as it’s fucking—influential? God, I hate it so much sometimes, I want to scream. And then I think, would they like that? Would that be entertaining enough for them? Still have to give them their performance. Even when I was dead I was still—I rehearsed my resurrection.  TECHNO: Dude, you need therapy.

icemav again but with somesort of lifeguard au?

Thanks for playing!

I'd say I'm sorry for this, but I'm not. It's also waaaaaaaay more than three sentences. (We all knew I could not stick to that rule.)

Over drinks and dessert, Bradley’s girlfriend, Phoenix, asks how they met.

Ice teases the edge of his tiramisu with the tines of his fork.  “I was on the swim team in high school—”

“You captained the swim team in high school,” Maverick counters between bites of Ice’s dessert.

“—and we all made money for tournaments and stuff lifeguarding the pool during gym classes or free use or whatever.”

“You were very cute with your red shorts and whistle,” Maverick adds.  “I transferred to Ice’s school at the beginning of the year, like the calendar year—”

“Spring semester,” Ice says.

“Yeah, spring semester.  So I was brand new in the middle of the school year.  I didn’t know anyone, but I saw Ice at the pool.  When he was lifeguarding, yeah, but then I started coming in early and watch him swim laps before school.”

“That’s very normal and non-stalkery behavior of you, Pops,” Bradley says.

Ice cuts in before Maverick can take the bait.  “I was really busy.  I was taking a full load of AP classes, and I had a bunch of extracurriculars—”

“I don’t blame you at all for not noticing me,” Maverick says.  “It probably would have helped if I had, you know, spoken to you.”

“But you didn’t,” Ice says.  “You had a different … plan.”

“Look,” Maverick says seriously, gesturing dramatically with his spoon.  “You were beautiful and gorgeous and perfect and so fucking smart—like scary smart—and I wanted to know you and date you and kiss you and—”

“We may be getting slightly off-topic,” Bradley says.

“Right,” Maverick says.  “So, I needed him to notice me in a way that didn’t involve me putting my foot in my mouth in front of a large audience.  So I came up with a plan.  A great plan!”

“Was it?” Ice asks, arching an eyebrow.

“A great plan,” Maverick repeats.

“So one day, I’m lifeguarding,” Ice says.  “And I notice someone in trouble.  Splashing around like this is the first time they’ve ever been in the water.  I get up, go to check, and then they go under, and there’s no more movement.  So I blow my whistle and tell people to move, and I jump in and pull this poor guy up onto solid ground.  He’s limp.  Not moving.  Eyes closed.  I get him laid out on his back, check his vitals.  He’s got a pulse, but his chest isn’t moving.  No breathing.  So I designate someone to call 911, and I start mouth-to-mouth.  Airway is clear.  I pinch his nose, tilt back his head, seal my mouth over his.  I give two breaths, and his chest inflates and deflates like it’s supposed to.  I check the pulse again, and it’s fine.  But he’s still not breathing on his own.  So I presss my mouth to his to give him two more breaths, and he grabs my ass and sticks his tongue in my mouth.”

Phoenix chokes on her drink.  Bradley starts laughing in big, braying guffaws; he’s heard this story many times before, and was holding in his laughter until the punchline, and it all comes out at once.

“What?!” Phoenix asks weakly once she’s composed herself.

“I told you, I had a plan,” Maverick says.

“You drowned yourself …?” Phoenix asks.  “On purpose?”

“Of course not!” Maverick says.  He waggles his eyebrows at Ice.  “Not that you’re not worth it …”

“He held his breath,” Ice says.  “Once I figured out what was going on, I did something I’m not entirely proud of, but it was instinctual.”

Phoenix looks at him.  “So you …?”

“I punched him in the face.”

Bradley is giggling now.  Phoenix’s jaw is on the floor.  “And so you married him …?”

“And so I got sentenced to two full weeks of afterschool detention,” Ice says.  “Only I had extracurriculars after school three days a week, so I ended up having two days of detention a week for almost a month.”

“And you married him,” Phoenix deadpans.

Ice smiles.  “Maverick felt bad that he’d gotten me in so much trouble, so he came and spent every single detention with me.  At first, he was really withdrawn, apologetic and embarrassed, but I didn’t tell him to fuck off, so he kept coming.  Soon he decided it was his job to cheer me up, so he’d talk to me, tell me jokes, clown around.  He was funny and sweet.  And cute.  It didn’t take me very long to stop being mad at him.  I started actually looking forward to detention, because I got to spend two hours with Maverick in the back of the classroom with our 600-year-old history teacher asleep at the front of the room, and it kind of felt like just the two of us.  I waited until detention was over, and then I asked him to go on a date with me.  He agreed, and we had a great time, and that night I kissed him properly for the first time, and things just kind of … kept growing from there.”

Maverick takes his hand, running the pad of his thumb across the simple gold band he slid onto Ice’s finger the day Ice agreed to love him, always.  To belong to him, always.  To go where he goes, always.

“Thirty-six years and counting,” Maverick says, and looks at his husband like he’s the only thing in the world.  Ice looks back, beaming, weaving their fingers together.

“You’re insane,” Phoenix says, dumbfounded.  “Possibly literally.”

“They’re in love,” Bradley says.  “And if we sneak out while they’re still gazing into each other’s eyes, they’ll pay our check.  Don’t worry; we have plenty of time.  Finish your dessert.”

HIJINXX_OFFICIAL IS NOW LIVE — MICHA’S BIRTHDAY LIVE

the live opens up to micha sitting in a decorated room with a captain’s hat on her head, surrounded by presents and a simple but charming cake topped off with ‘HBD MICHA!’ written in icing. she stares into the camera as comments roll in, confusion and amusement being the general consensus as she continues to keep silent.

this goes on for a solid three minutes until a comment rolls by that catches her attention. does turning a year older bound you to silence or is the company holding you hostage. blink twice if you need help. the comment makes her snort, sitting forward with her hands folded on the table. “i’m not being held hostage, first of all. though i might as well be. i was fine with the birthday posts and the cute comments and now i have to sit here and talk to people?”

she stares at the camera in disbelief, the comments blurring past with reactions. “but i’ve always been a generous person, and you get to see my face for free. win situation for you, i guess.”

“i turn 24 today. on april 24th. in 2024. isn’t that something? you’d think i’d be lucky today. but i haven’t met anne hathaway so until then. keep your fingers crossed for me.” her own words make her smile briefly, only to be promptly wiped off when she squints at the screen.

“do you have a special someone to spend today with? oh, sure. i have a hot date with my bed right after this. we’re gonna get really comfortable and i’m gonna sleep and dream about starting my own fashion empire.” micha glances down at her cake to comment offhandedly, “this cake looks like its made out of cardboard.”

the comments laugh as she’s silently reprimanded by staff, to which she adds on, “but i didn’t taste it yet–then i’ll truly be able to see if it doesn’t taste like cardboard. aces, pray for my tastebuds.”

she picks up a knife placed next to the cake, cutting a slice out of the dessert to place on a nearby plate. and just as she’s setting down the utensils to taste, a familiar face pops into the screen.

“mimi,” the voice lilts out in a sickly sweet tone, and micha puts down her fork to deadpan at the screen.

yuina’s overjoyed attitude instantly brightens the blunt tone of the live, fans greeting the other member as enthusiastic as she greets them in return. “hi everyone! i just stopped by after spending time in the studio–”

“you knew i was going to go live.”

“–and i heard it was a certain someone’s birthday–”

“i live with you?”

“–and i just wanted to stop by to wish her a happy birthday!!” the younger ends her sentence regardless of micha’s interruptions, singing the last word as she squeezes her into a hug. micha looks half miserable, staring straight into the camera with a look that unmistakably reads ‘kill me now’. her expression only sours even more as yuina begins to sing happy birthday to her with purposely botched vocals, even getting the staff to join as micha looks on.

“oh, there’s even cake!” yuina zeroes in on the dessert once the singing and clapping dies down, examining the plate with a comically quizzical look. “it kind of looks like it’s made out of cardboard.”

“that’s what i s–you know what.” hushed laughter can be heard behind the camera as micha picks up the plate with the slice she had cut earlier, spearing a chunk of it on a fork and holding it up to yuina. “here. taste it.”

yuina happily bites from the fork, chewing thoughtfully as both her in person and live audience wait for her reaction. “it’s kinda decent? wait, give me another piece.”

micha complies with a raised brow, feeding her another piece of the slice. “you better not be faking and eating my cake for me.”

“you’re willingly feeding it to me, though.” micha glares at her halfheartedly as she laughs. “not it’s actually really good! it’s not even dry.”

micha tries the cake for herself, eating the remaining part of the slice, and tilts her head away from the screen with furrowed brows. yuina snorts at her behavior.

“it’s like…” micha breaks off a piece of the main cake to eat again, “weirdly good? the aftertaste isn’t too bad, either.”

“i don’t think this cake is staying in the fridge for three months, either,” yuina quips cheerfully, which makes micha hide a laugh behind her hand. “eunji’s gonna like it a lot.”

“anyway, i’m gonna go now.” yuina waves to the screen as the comments bid her goodbye. “bye aces! make sure you’ve eaten today. i will know.”

micha watches with slight disdain as yuina stares into the camera briefly before she slips out of the room. after she leaves, micha turns to the camera, muttering, “weird.”

after a few more bites and answering questions, swiftly avoiding anything involving music or a comeback, she finally deems it ready to open her presents.

“this one’s from ahyeon,” she starts, her expression visibly softening as she reaches for the gift. tied together with white ribbon, micha brings a basket to the center of the table, setting the cake to the side momentarily. “knowing her, she probably spent hours on this, so. if i see anyone make fun of this gift online, you’re a friendless and loveless loser who has never experienced joy in your life ever. sorry you don’t have people who care about you.”

pulling the wrapping paper open without further comment in front of a now scandalized staff and increasingly delighted fans, the basket contains a multitude of self care and sweet items, from dried flowers and lindt chocolates to candles and a miffy keychain right in view. the comments coo over micha’s reaction to the gift basket, a slight pout on her lips as she pulls out other miscellaneous items.

“i talked to her about this keychain like three months ago…” micha looks genuinely touched, setting the keychain down before briefly looking at the ground briefly. when she does look up, she catches the comment ahyeon is a real life angel, we don’t deserve her at all, voicing her agreement immediately.

yuina’s gift is a bit bigger, a box that nearly obscures her face when she drags it to the center. it makes micha scoff, standing up to tear the wrapping paper off. it doesn’t take long for the comments to figure out what the gift is, the signature detailing on the house shaped box coming into view.

it takes micha a moment to truly take in what’s in front of her, glancing up at the screen briefly in disbelief. she opens the box slowly to pull out a frog plushie in overalls. a brief smile spreads across her lips at the site, setting the plush on the table in camera view.

“it matches her pink one,” is all she says, ignoring as the comments gush over the information. she sets the plush next to the gift basket, reaching for the last gift out of three.

opening the gift, her smile widens as she pulls out a beaded bracelet, white with pink accents with a small tulip charm hanging off. it’s paired with an envelope which she opens, refusing to read the letter out loud. her expression says enough for the fans to know she’s truly touched, her smile genuine.

“she’s been into bracelet making lately, after seeing the fans gift each other some during fan events.” her voice is fond when speaking about the group’s youngest member, adding, “she’s damn near made everyone in the building a bracelet. ateez have matching ones. real cute.”

she puts the bracelet on and shows the live, gently tugging the piece of jewelry around to put the tulip charm in view.

after she sets aside the torn wrapping paper, micha sits down with the frog plush in her arms and the gift basket placed near her cake. “this was fun,” she quips with a slight nod, looking around briefly. “think that’s enough interaction for today. still have a date with my bed that i’m looking forward to, so. bye for now.”

micha waves briefly before the live cuts.

INTERVIEWS ETC 2023

I sometimes talk to people! Going back over the last year, I had some nice conversations with some very cool people. I like doing interviews, but they definitely stress me out a little bit. I suppose it's good to get out of your comfort zone from time to time, though ... So yeah, here are a few of those interviews, in case you missed 'em the first time around.

HEAD VOICE (James Jackson Toth, Ben Chasny, Donovan Quinn)

Donovan Quinn: There’s one aspect of process which is like a user manual. You know, turning on a machine, how you control the bass or whatever. But then there’s a part of process which is more of our terrain, where it’s kind of a story. An artist or a group of artists is interacting with all these elements — each other, gear, inspiration. With each of our pieces in Head Voice, we’re getting little bits of that story.

ILYAS AHMED

With my record, I’ve seen people reference Loren Connors, which is great — I’m a huge fan of Loren Connors. But I’m always comparing it to something like Bill Fay, maybe in an emotional sense. Or like, Neil Young — how do I make “Cortez The Killer” … but not just copy it. One of my favorite Coltrane tunes is “Alabama.” Those eternal favorites you always come back to. How can I make something that feels like that without just doing that, right? I’m not interested in copying it, I’m interested in transmuting it, making it fit into my weird perspective of the world. 

WILL HERMES

As an artist, [Lou] was a “transformer,” and everybody has their own version of who he was. What they want him to be, what aspect of his character they wanted to take in. I tried to show them all. I don’t know if they all morph into a single, intelligible human being. But maybe that is part of what was endlessly fascinating about him. He was all of these things simultaneously and they didn’t all necessarily add up.

M. SAGE

I think it’s radical to have fun. And to be silly. It’s not meant as escapism or denial, but the world is dark and weird. And it keeps getting darker and weirder. It’s radical for an artist to afford an audience joy or pleasure. I mean, I love a lot of that solemn, serious, foreboding electro-acoustic music. There’s incredible stuff, obviously. But I wanted to make something that felt fun. And accessible! That’s radical, too, I think.

HORSE LORDS

Andrew Bernstein: We’re trying to make things that sound interesting to us, first and foremost. But we’re also hoping that the music and the way we operate spurs the listener to think differently. Every act is political, and our decisions might make someone reconsider how they make music or how they go about their lives.

BRENDA SAUTER

“The Obedient Atom” at White Eagle Hall was really special. That was one of the original Willies songs and it never got recorded. It was one of those songs that was always left behind for one reason or another. To finally play it out just felt incredible … and then the fire alarm went off and everyone had to evacuate [laughter]. There’s something about that song! Surreal. The atom wasn’t so obedient that night.

Further reading: Bill Million on the Feelies' live tribute to an Underground legend

GUIDING LIGHT: A TOM VERLAINE APPRECIATION

Alasdair MacLean: I also think of some of Stephan Mallarme’s phrases – “the musician of empty nothingness.” Verlaine seemed to be working in parallel: “Watching the corners turn corners;” “Lightning struck itself.” The language turns in on itself, like the guitar solos. He obviously knew those poets back to front. I imagine lots of other people have tried to do this since, but all of them have made fools of themselves. Verlaine never did.

Further reading: Tom Verlaine - 20 Great Tracks

SPIRAL STAIRS

When we first started talking about rehearsing, I was like, “We’re probably going to be playing the same 20 songs. Let’s just pick another 15 songs that we know we can bust out.” Eventually, we finally came to that point…but then in rehearsals we ended up playing probably like 60 songs [laughs]. I’m like, “Oh my god!” That was just for the two Primavera shows, so it was like “Come on!” It took a while to re-learn all of that stuff. 

qi rong! i kid, i kid. how about jc.

I will ignore your cruel taunting and focus on my viniferous darling.

a song that reminds me of them

I don't think I have a personal anthem for him, but En Fortapt Bror (A Prodigal Brother) by Rotvelt would probably go on the playlist if I made one, just for this bit alone:

Kan ikke ta det tilbake Kan ikke få du gjort Jeg vil ikke ha tilgivelse Det vil ikke vaske det bort

Can't take it back Can't get you done I don't want forgiveness It won't wash it away

what they smell like

If we're getting poetic, like lotus fragrance and ozone.

an otp

No one in the cast is right for JC but I do think he wants and deserves a suitable wife so I like the idea of reading something where he's in a relationship. His problem is that he needs just, so much therapy before he can make an effective life partner for anyone. He features in this postcanon AU I wrote and that's a reasonable depiction of how I think things could shake out for him after many years have passed if he's worked on himself. Basically, I know his extracanonical list of qualities he requires in a wife is meant to be humorous, but I tried to incorporate them into an OC while also making her a match for him.

I dabbled in reading Sangcheng because I am a slave to @starwife and like, in theory, many many many many many years postcanon who knows what might happen? And mightn't that be interesting? Sadly I have come to the conclusion that it's too much of a stretch and isn't my cup of tea. Pls forgive

a notp

I was racking my brain to think of a JC pairing I kneejerk hate beyond the general 'well, he isn't really compatible with any of the characters we meet' stance and then I realised I had forgotten Xicheng exists. Pause for audience laughter.

What can I even add here? It's based on nothing and it's not even like there's the intelligence of a thoughtful resistant read behind it. The laziest possible pair the spares approach taken by people whose reading comprehension is so poor they think JGY is an irredeemable cackling villain and WWX is a noble woobie. Thankfully it's easy for me to avoid and therefore ironically ends up irritating me less than bad Xiyao in practice.

favorite platonic/familial relationships

I love his relationship with his mother. She's just horrendous to him and I don't think he ever has any concrete evidence she loves him until their final moments together, but what I find most interesting and realistic is that he seems to understand her. He can see why she is who she is, which doesn't in any way mitigate the damage she does but is an important part of their dynamic because it's an element of why he defends her and it contributes to how he internalises her criticisms.

My favourite JC and YZY moment is this:

Jiang Cheng was stuck between his father and his mother. After a moment of hesitation, he moved to his mother’s side. Holding his shoulders, Madam Yu pushed him forward for Jiang FengMian to see, “Sect Leader Jiang, it seems that some things I have to say. Look carefully—this, is your own son, the future head of Lotus Pier. Even if you frown upon him just because I was the one who bore him, his surname is still Jiang! … I don’t believe for one second that you haven’t heard of how the outside people gossips, that Sect Leader Jiang has still not moved on from a certain Sanren though so many years have passed, regarding the son of his old friend as a son of his own; they’re speculating if Wei Ying is your…”

YZY emotionally, verbally and sometimes physically abuses her son. She is failing him as a mother and as a mentor. But she is not failing him as badly as JFM is failing him, and everything she says here is completely correct. And when JC and WWX talk about it afterwards, JC is also correct. WWX and LWJ kill the Xuanwu of Slaughter and no one cares or gives JC credit for his less glamorous contributions. His own father prefers WWX and doesn't even like him, and that is appalling.

WWX means well by trying to gloss over it, but it's an open secret and pretending it's not true is harmful. YZY is also going about it all wrong, but she's the only person who calls JFM out directly for failing his son. Pot, kettle, but there's a reason why when JC is stuck between his parents he ends up going over to his mother's side.

a headcanon that is popular in the fandom but that i disagree with

I'm going to go radical here and say I don't personally enjoy or want to read any postcanon Twin Heroes reconciliation. The novel is pretty final about how things end up for them, and it's my belief that they are both far better off not being in each other's lives any more. It's sad because they were close as brothers and love each other so deeply, but ultimately it's for the best. They both appear to be in agreement about this.

the position they sleep in

Probably looks all super cool and handsome when he sleeps, but unfortunately not quite as super cool and handsome as WWX.

a crossover au i’d love to see them in

Puella Magi Madoka Magica. Can you imagine.

my favorite outfit they’ve ever worn

We all know I'm MDZS first in almost everything, but I'm not a huge fan of JC's hair in the official art. Besides, it cracks me up that JC is far and away the most stylish member of the cast in CQL, and yet there's no indication that it's actually an interest of his. CQL NHS wearing his same basic bitch grey and white yet again while CQL JC swaggers past in his shoulder pads owning the entire world—amazing. How could I pick a favourite? I do like his official photo look though, because the gold looks great with the purple.

Five Easy Pieces (1970)

By: Christian Lavarello

The film “Five Easy Pieces” by director Bob Rafelson tells the story of Robert Eroica Dupea, “Bobby” played by Jack Nicholson, a thirtysomething oil rigger working in Kern County, California. Bobby moved away from his upper middle-class upbringing and classical musical talent as a pianist, intending to run away from his problems and his character demonstrates a lack of responsibility, ambition and insecurity. Bobby’s lack of ambition and insecurity led him into a period of emotional emptiness and dissatisfaction for twenty something years as a blue-collar worker alongside his girlfriend Rayette whom he treats unfairly and shows a lack of respect and love.  

Jack Nicholson learning to play the piano for his lead role in "Five Easy Pieces".

When Bobby learns from his sister that his father has had two strokes and his health was declining, he decides to travel back to his family home in Washington State. It is during this trip that we get to know Bobby on a much deeper level as he shows embarrassment towards Rayette, cheats on her and ends up abandoning her at the end of the film. One of the most touching scenes that lets the viewer see Bobby in a vulnerable state is when he tells his father, “I don't know if you'd be particularly interested in hearing anything about me. My life, I mean... Most of it doesn't add up to much that I could relate as a way of life that you'd approve of... I'd like to be able to tell you why, but I don't really... I mean, I move around a lot because things tend to get bad when I stay. And I'm looking... for auspicious beginnings, I guess... I'm trying to, you know, imagine your half of this conversation... My feeling is, that if you could talk, we probably wouldn't be talking. That's pretty much how it got to be before... I left... Are you all right? I don't know what to say... Tita suggested that we try to... I don't know. I think that she... seems to feel we've got... some understanding to reach... She totally denies the fact that we were never that comfortable with each other to begin with... The best that I can do, is apologize. We both know that I was never really that good at it, anyway... I'm sorry it didn't work out”. 

Five Easy Pieces director, Bob Rafelson left home at an early age to experience the world on his own terms, performing for a time in rodeos and playing jazz combo in Mexico. Bob Rafelson was the son of a hat manufacturer and studied philosophy at Dartmouth College and at the University of Benares in India before serving in the U.S. Army in Japan. He was an American film director, writer and producer who is known as one of the founding leaders in the “American New Wave” movement of the 70s.  

Five Easy Pieces was widely acknowledged as Bob Rafelson’s masterpiece given how artistic and influential this film was for its’ time. The film, Nicholson, and Black all received multiple Oscar and other Academy Award nominations. The majority of reviews of this film were extremely positive and some touch on the themes of masculinity, upper- and lower-class America, alienation and family dynamics. Robert Ebert wrote a few reviews for this film and in one he states the following, “It is difficult to explain today how much Bobby Dupea meant to the film's first audiences. I was at the New York Film Festival for the premiere of "Five Easy Pieces," and I remember the explosive laughter, the deep silences, the stunned attention as the final shot seemed to continue forever, and then the ovation”. 

By the late 1960s prior to the release of “Five Easy Pieces”, the United States political situation was very unstable with President Richard Nixon's secret bombings of Cambodia and the uncertainty of the Vietnam War. This was followed by President Nixon’s resignation given his Watergate scandal and Wall Street’s hard-hat riots. On a more positive note, the Apollo 13 mission launched on April 11, 1970. 

While “Five Easy Pieces” is considered a conventional film due to its story and style being for the most part easy to understand and was produced and distributed by a large corporation, some have referred to it as the “first Sundance film”. The film was a success with a $1.6 million budget and a gross profit of around $18 million in the U.S. I enjoyed watching this film and learning about its influential value in modern day American films as well as the psychological dilemma the main character faced and how these various issues were presented to the viewer during a time where the U.S. was undergoing various major changes in history.  

Mystictober 2022 | Day 23 - Cosplay

Summary: Given your boyfriend is an actor; you can't help but get curious about all the outfits sitting in his wardrobe.

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When Zen agreed for you to use his costumes one time, you didn't expect to fall into the trap of amusement so deeply.

He let you try on anything that was available and within reach of your greedy fingertips. Luckily your boyfriend didn't seem bothered much; on the contrary, he looked happy whenever you came back out to pose in a brand new outfit you mixed together. Almost like a fashion show.

You found joy in taking on different roles, having you wondering if that's the reason why he loved acing on stage in the first place. Was it the chance to become someone completely different? Someone you usually would never act like? It's fun and finally you understood why that is.

He clapped, laughing softly as you jumped back out for the countless time that evening. You're unsure where the idea even came from; probably Seven's fault for making you curious with his experiences inside the cosplay topic. Not that you're able to complain, he did what made him happy and that's all that counted.

Zen hid the grin behind the back of his hand as the wig were close to slip off your head. You're no professional, of course they could look a thousand times better if someone with trained hands would lend them to you. Although you asked your boyfriend, he declined immediately.

Saying it's funnier seeing you try on your own; how it would be for you alone instead of relying on his skills specifically. At first you felt uncertain about your abilities, you never were big on fashion or clothing yourself the perfect way. However, this was nothing like before and it took some work getting it done correctly.

Regardless, you couldn't stop yourself from laughing along your boyfriend. He liked this as much as you did; having you both ending up do this all evening. Zen even took pictures when he loved a particular costume; sending it into the RFA chatroom with your premission for feedback.

The others also seemed to like your passion, Seven mentioned briefly you reminded him of himself just as he started picking up the world of cosplay. Zen waved his hand once you offered for him to join, he wanted to sit at the couch instead and play your loyal audience.

The two of you slowly formed a concept out of it. What wig would fit best to the dress, if you should add some makeup for the effects, when to wear high shoes and when to use simple sneakers. To be honest with yourself; it's a bit surprising he got into it so deeply.

Zen's an actor; dressing up was a part of his job, while the pain one's playing a role and story with his outstanding skills. Yet he appeared interested whenever you turned into a circle and wondered out loud if this would be something he'd wear under job related circumstances.

Most of the stuff hanging in his closet were borrowed; so you took special care of the fabric that's on your body. Zen rolled his eyes as you come out with a mask covering your face, playing around like you're a witch when holding up a fake mggic wand while blabbing nonsense.

Time on the clock moved on and before you're realizing it; it's midnight. He's the first to point it out and watch your jaw drop, it made his already used up laughter echo throughout the room once again. He then reached his hand out to you, taking it softly into his own to leave a kiss on top of it.

Him promising you're going to continue tomorrow had your eyes sparkle; his blush in response left no room for change of mind. You thought it's a real advantage to have an actor as boyfriend in order to try out brand new things.

Art in the times of censorship

You are invited to celebrate the marriage of Leyla and Joel. Dress code in place. Time of the exchange of the vows set. Entertainment will begin shortly after. That's the official version for this gathering. For the Ministry. And Motherland.

What's really happening is: this performance is stage without the licence from the Ministry and players commend your courage and will to participate. The risks are great. Welcome.

A mechanic writing a play - a mirror of his reality. A director of the Ministry of Culture who claims to be a patron of the arts, a benefactor. As long as the art is aligned with what the Ministry says happened. As long as it's art and not the depiction of the real world, because "a mirror is not a painting!". A young woman caught between two men. A celebrated playwright to guide the young mind. Because no one really wants to face the reality or rather relive it for what it is (was) - especially not the ruling regime when the truth is not exactly compatible with the doctrine. Theatre is supposed to be this profound spectacle lifting spirits. It does not raise doubts in the official version of history.

The thing with truth and art? It always finds its way to the surface. Bruised and battered? Maybe. But eventually comes to light...

'A Mirror' is such a careful web, each thread reveals something different, each delivers a gut punch - with finesse and precision, I may add. Layer, after layer, digging deeper - each character searching for... well, something. Artist versus censor. Truths and recollections of events excluding each other. And somewhere between: valuable lessons on how to write a play. How to build characters, arcs, differences between writing comedy and tragedy, character's choices and challenges, what could influence character's change. All excellent points to explore by a playwright. The very same points being picked apart by censors so the play fits the image of a great motherland.

Very Shakespearean (but careful! these books are banned!) - a play within a play exposing truths of a rotten system ('Hamlet'). The tragedy is imminent, the audience knows how the story ends and yet one hopes that this time it will be different, that it will defy the odds, gods and all the chaos between (like one would hope for star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet). A quote from 'Macbeth', completely unmatched with the situation only adds to the drama.

The tension grows and grows throughout the play, until it becomes this heavy knot weighing you down.

It starts small: a little red light at the back of your head as you laugh, a part of the collective ('wedding guests'). It changes hue slightly later: it becomes a chip on your shoulder, but you're still laughing. What danger? The fourth wall doesn't exist. The boundaries are a blur. So it creeps up on you when the grand finale unravels and your heart beats a little too fast. The laughter? A bit forced by then, covering the unease.

Palms sweating as the tragedy peaks right before your eyes. The sense of urgency never leaves you and is fed by the players through 2-hour "ceremony".

Company led by excellent Jonny Lee Miller is playing on the audience's emotions like it's a Stradivarius. Tanya's Mei and Michael's Adem battle their own demons, the reality, lose and find themselves, they shine and burn bright within the tragedy presented onstage.

Sam Holcroft's 'A Mirror' is a whirwind of twists and turns, raising questions about morality, ideals and whether it's better to live on your knees or die on your feet. And how far can one go to silence rebellious voices.

---

'A Mirror' by Sam Holcroft. Directed by Jeremy Herrin.

Cast includes: Jonny Lee Miller, Tanya Reynolds, Michael Ward, Aaron Neil, Geoffrey Streatfeild, Miriam Wakeling

Performed in Almeida Theatre London (August- September 2023)

While You're Waiting...

An intermediary post while I’m reading the next book... A plug for my favourite true crime podcast - True Crime and Cocktails. 

Produced by Art19, this podcast is hosted by Lauren Ash, most well known for her role as Dina in NBC’s hit show Superstore and her cousin/best friend Christy Oxborrow. 

What started out of a guest appearance on Lauren’s old podcast, became a lockdown passion project for the pair. Starting off with a running time around an hour and a half, the episodes got to the point much quicker than they do these days. Mainly, Christy researched the cases of Netflix's first season of the “new” Unsolved Mysteries. 

Now on their 132nd episode, the running time passes the two hour mark with at least one episode sitting at three hours. With enthusiasm and humour that’s made me snort in laughter a time or two, they discuss their lives and current or twenty year old pop culture to warm up their audience for half hour to forty-five minutes of the episode.

In my personal opinion, Christy Oxborrow might be the best researcher in audio media at the moment. I understand that on television shows or fancy network podcasts, like Dateline NBC or Crime Beat, their researchers must be more careful with what they say or where they look for details. Nobody wants to get sued. Christy however, will do an occasional social media search or a search of a town’s archives. It adds much more to the episodes, and gives credence to the moments when the pair essentially calls some of the suspects ‘idiots’ (in their own educated opinions).

Christy and Lauren are just as entertaining, even more revealing and connected to their invested listeners on their Patreon. True Crime and Cocktails is the first patreon I’ve ever subscribed to and I think it’s a worthy choice. They provide three tiers of content, all at different and reasonable prices. 

Many cases covered on the podcast are familiar, like Nicole Brown, Heaven’s Gate, or Whitey Bulger. A majority of the cases are a medium level familiarity for anyone who’s dabbled in true crime along with cases that are next to unknown. These tend to be Christy’s and Lauren’s specialty. A particular series I find unique is titled ‘Missing’. Christy presents Lauren and the audience with a range of cases with little information available. As there’s Unsolved Mysteries. 

Sticking to their roots, Lauren and Christy have covered the two newest seasons of Netflix’s Unsolved Mysteries. 

At the end of an episode, Lauren (and when they occasionally reverse positions, Christy) goes over the diligent notes she’s taken, often with the loving interruption of one or multiple pets. The pair spend half an hour discussing the case and theories they’ve come up with for the unsolved episodes. Lauren often gives her “psychologist’s hat” opinion. As she reminds the listeners, she does not have a degree, only a history of true crime fascination.

In conclusion, True Crime and Cocktails is a podcast anyone can listen to if they’re interested in getting more true crime into their brains. In my opinion, you won’t be able to listen to any other true crime podcast without feeling like you’d rather hear it from your Canadian, quirky friends. The oldest episodes may be a little rougher to get into especially if those are the ones you chose to start with, but soon enough, the two get their stride and have grown a podcast that I anxiously wait for every Tuesday morning. 

The bride's replacement

Written for Day 06 of the February Ficlet Challenge 2023 by @februaryficletchallenge. Prompt: Accidental Marriage Also available on AO3.

That’s my first time writing for the Merlin Fandom. Here’s the result:

Fandom: Merlin Pairing: Merlin x Arthur Pendragon Rating: Gen Word count: 797

“You’re late again”, Merlin joked as Arthur entered the room. He was not late. A king couldn’t be late. He came and went whenever he saw suitable this being always the right time.

“Gwen won’t make it. She’s not feeling well”, Arthur announced. He turned to Gaius and asked: “Will this hinder the wedding preparations?”

Gaius waved his hand not worried at all. A small smile appeared on his face. “Merlin can step in as the bride for the rehearsal.”

“What?” - “No way!”, both men said in unison.

Gaius raised one eyebrow and directed his expression at Merlin.

“Fine, I’ll do it”, he caved in almost immediately.

“Is this really necessary, Gaius?”, Arthur huffed.

“Get over it, it’s just a rehearsal”, Merlin jumped in.

“Just a rehearsal? Merlin, that’s my wedding. As King of Camelot, my ceremony needs to be perfect.”

“Ugh, you’re exaggerating. No one cares about the details of the ceremony. It’s a stupid wedding., nothing more”

“Did you just call my wedding stupid? You know, I can throw you in a cell for speaking like that.”

“Oi!”, Gaius stepped in. “Now, that you’ve shown that you can bicker like a married couple can we please begin?”

“Fine!”, Arthur agreed. When he saw Merlin grinning like a Cheshire cat, he felt the need to add: “Stop laughing, you’re not as funny as you think.”

Gaius cleared his throat before the bickering could start all over again. He motioned Merlin to step to Arthur’s side. The young sorcerer followed the order, linked his arm with Arthur’s and looked into his eyes. “My beloved king”, he whispered with a high-pitched voice and broke into laughter when he saw the face Arthur made.

“Stop it, Merlin!” Arthur tried to shrug him off – with no success. He hoped no one noticed the blush that for sure had rose onto his cheeks. He didn’t understand why Merlin’s innocent joke had such an effect on him.

Ignoring the men’s shenanigans, Gaius started his explanation: “Arthur, you follow the musicians into the throne room. Sir Leon will be following you as your best man. When you arrive at the end of the hall, the music will cease. Sir Leon steps closer and hands you the ring.” Gaius pulled a simple wedding band – a cheap substitute for the real one - out of his pocket and pushed it into Arthur’s hand. “The both of you face the audience. Keep in mind to have the bride to your left side. Then it’s time for your vows.”

Arthur was staring at the elegant ring in his hand. It was made of a dark metal reminding him of Merlin’s hair colour and had a golden line exactly like his own hair.

“The vows!”, Gaius repeated himself, shaking Arthur out of his thoughts.

“You shouldn’t doze off during the real ceremony”, Merlin added helpfully, completely unaware of his friend’s inner turmoil.

“Shut up, Merlin!”, Arthur muttered annoyed but leaned closer. Why closer?, he asked himself. I have to play my part perfectly, after all, the same voice in his head answered. “I promise to have and to hold you, my bride – Merlin!”, he interrupted the recitation of his vows as said warlock acted like he was wiping tears away. Arthur took a deep breath before he continued: “in bed and at the table, whether you be fair or ugly for better or worse, in sickness and in health, to death us depart.”

Gaius had to hold back his laugh as he realized that Arthur had included Merlin’s name in his vow and therefore accidentally made him his bride.

“The ring”, he exclaimed as Arthur looked over in question.

The young king took Merlin’s left hand in his and slid the ring on and off his first, second and third fingers while reciting: “In the name of Camelot, with this ring I, King Arthur Pendragon, thee wed.” He then proceeded to push it on Merlin’s ring finger.

When he looked up, he saw that Merlin was staring at him with a strange expression on his face.

“Very well”, Gaius announced, and the two men jumped away from each other as if they have been electrocuted by the closeness. “That’s it for today.”

What about the kiss?, the small voice inside of Arthur’s head asked. He pushed the thought as far away as possible and was fleeing the room not even a minute later. I have to care for my sick soon-to-be wife!, was his explanation for the hurry. The possibility of being so close to Merlin was too ridiculous to even think about.

Merlin, on the other hand, stood frozen in place for what felt like hours looking at the ring on his finger. Wondering what his life would be like if he was the one to marry Arthur.

Bitter

-Be feminine and dainty so a Christian man will want you

-Save your virginity because you don't want your perfect Christian husband (with his own wh*re past) to think you're a wh*re

-Wear you hair natural and never wear makeup you don't want people to think you're too worldly

-You don't need college, if you go that's find, but if you don't just take care of yourself (no one ever taught how) oh and you're husband will take care of you

-Don't ask for too much because that's a turn off to people

-Don't complain about your problems because God will fix them and be grateful you have anything

-There's no money for you to go to college so you'll have to work (of course I'm only qualified for low, to no pay jobs)

-Gain some weight, guys hate skinny girls, bf always was caught liking the "thick" and curvy women

-Gains weight, ooh that's too much, you're fat, you're big backed getting called sir by men at work

-Wear your hair natural. Eww it's so nappy and short. You're bald.

-Gets locs and they grow long, she think she's all that since she grew out her hair, she's still ugly.

-You talk white, you're weird you still watch cartoons? You're childish.

-You're skin is uneven and ugly. I am so glad I don't look like you

-Your nose is huge, it takes up your whole face

-This guy likes me (to friends) oh lets add him and flirt with him online

-Talking and having a great convo. Oh you're homeschool? The person stops talking to me

-I can't wait until you turn 18 so you can get out of my house

-You contribute nothing.

-Look at people when they talk to you. Speak loud, stop being shy.

-Always being a friend to others, but noone being a friend to me

-Meeting great friends that ultimately lose interest in our long friendship after they go to college and I don't

-Believing due to you conservative upbringing that feminism is bad and that it does not benefit you

-Testing so well in your end of grade test. Being embarrassed by several community college professors because it turns out you were extremely behind in English, Math, Science, and much, much more.

-Saying I am going to start a business, but having no confidence and giving up eventually to work a series of low skilled, low paying jobs, going to college off and on.

-Secretly wanting to go to college just like my friends, but we can't afford it.

-Guys rarely being interested especially black ones who only had use for me in order to get to my lighter friends or white girls I knew

-Having $exual trauma from childhood

-In a long term engagement/relationship with a person who is nice, but can't afford to move out.

-Experiencing so much failure that life is starting to feel like a bad 90s comedy except I don't hear the audience's laughter

-Having $ex because that's the only time you feel connection anymore

-Eating yourself sick to try to fill yourself with the abundance of food because you lack love in the way you need.

-Have monthly thoughts off ending everything due to the despair and helplessness you feel

-Undiagnosed mental disorders that were disregarded as a child

-Using TikTok to try to self diagnose because the alternative costs too much to be figured out.

-Being 31 with no husband, no kids, no house, living at home, no job, and quite frankly not much hope.

-Years of cruel bullying, but WHY DOES SHE HAVE SUCH LOW SELF-ESTEEM?

-Waking up and feeling like your very existence is a burden

To you reading these may just sound like incoherent ramblings of various people. Unfortunately, these babblings, yes all of them, are mine. Despite the name I'm not completely bitter, at least not yet. Getting there though

Wilson Home Improvement Costume

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history behind Tim Allen’s hilarious character on Home Improvement, provide step-by-step instructions for creating your own DIY costume, offer tips for nailing Tim Taylor’s signature grunting and catchphrases, share ideas for getting your friends involved in a group costume theme, explore alternative options from the show to dress up as, and much more.

For more: Wilson Home Improvement Costume

So grab your tool belt and power up those creative juices because it’s time to transform yourself into everyone’s favorite insightful neighbor. Let’s get started on bringing some nostalgic laughs.

The History Behind Tim

Fans of the hit 90s sitcom “Home Improvement” will fondly remember Tim Taylor, the lovable and bumbling host of the fictional show “Tool Time.” Played by the talented actor Tim Allen, Tim Taylor became a household name for his hilarious mishaps and catchy catchphrases.

Tim’s character was inspired by creator Matt Williams’ own experiences with home improvement projects gone awry. The character embodied the quintessential handyman who always had big dreams but often found himself in over his head. From exploding lawnmowers to disastrous kitchen remodels, Tim’s misadventures never ceased to entertain audiences.

Throughout its eight-season run from 1991 to 1999, “Home Improvement” showcased not only comedic moments but also touched on relatable family dynamics. Despite his frequent blunders in DIY projects, Tim’s dedication to his wife Jill and their three sons showed that there was more to him than just being a tool enthusiast.

Tim’s on-screen chemistry with co-host Al Borland added another layer of humor to the show. Their banter and contrasting personalities created countless unforgettable moments that still resonate with fans today.

While “Home Improvement” may have ended over two decades ago, its legacy lives on through syndication and fan appreciation. Dressing up as Tim Taylor for Halloween or costume parties is a way for fans young and old to pay homage to this iconic TV character.

So whether you’re donning a plaid shirt tucked into your jeans or sporting a tool belt full of gadgets, channeling your inner Tim Taylor is sure to bring laughter and nostalgia at any event. Just be sure not to take any power tools too seriously.

Creating the Perfect DIY Wilson Home Improvement Costume

If you’re a fan of the hit 90s sitcom “Home Improvement,” chances are you have a soft spot for the lovable character, Wilson. With his sage advice and iconic fence peeking, he’s an unforgettable part of the show. So why not pay homage to this beloved neighbor by creating your own DIY Wilson Home Improvement costume?

First things first – let’s talk about that signature look. To recreate Wilson’s style, start with a plaid button-up shirt paired with khaki pants and comfortable brown shoes. Adding a straw hat is essential for capturing his laid-back vibe.

Now, onto the most crucial element – the fence! You can easily make your own version using cardboard or foam board painted to resemble wood. Attach it securely to a headband or tie it around your neck with string for easy we arability throughout the night.

To complete your transformation into Wilson, don’t forget about his trusty gardening tools. Carry around a small trowel or hand rake as a prop to add an extra touch of authenticity.

Remember, while dressing up as Wilson is fun on its own, fully embodying his character takes some practice. Don’t be afraid to channel Tim Allen’s grunting noises and use some of Tim Taylor’s classic catchphrases like “More power!” or “I don’t think so, Tim.”

And if you want to take it one step further and turn this into a group costume idea, invite your friends to dress up as other characters from Home Improvement! Whether someone goes as Jill Taylor in her handywoman attire or Mark in his goth phase – there are plenty of options to choose from!

So grab your tool belt and get ready for some DIY Halloween fun! With just a little creativity and imagination, you’ll be able to create an authentic Wilson Home Improvement costume that will surely impress fellow fans at any party.

Incorporating Key Accessories for Authenticity

When it comes to creating the perfect Wilson Home Improvement costume, paying attention to the details is essential. One way to really nail the authenticity of your costume is by incorporating key accessories that are synonymous with Tim Taylor and his beloved TV show.

Start off by finding a sturdy tool belt that you can wear around your waist. This will not only make you look like a true handyman but also provide a practical place to store some of your tools. Look for one in leather or canvas material for an extra touch of realism.

Next, don’t forget about the iconic safety goggles that Tim often wore while working on his projects. These can easily be found at any hardware store or online retailer. Make sure they fit comfortably and securely on your face so you can channel Tim’s DIY spirit with ease.

To further enhance your costume, consider adding a baseball cap emblazoned with the “Binford Tools” logo – Tim’s go-to brand for power tools on the show. This small detail will instantly tie your outfit together and let everyone know you’re part of Team Taylor.

And let’s not overlook one crucial accessory – don’t forget to bring along some props! Carry around a fake tool or two, such as a wrench or hammer, just like Tim always had within arm’s reach during his hilarious mishaps.

Tips for Nailing Tim Taylor’s Signature Grunting and Catchphrases:

1. Embrace the Grunt: One of Tim Taylor’s most recognizable traits is his signature grunt. To truly embody his character, practice your own version of the “Arghh-arghh” sound he frequently makes when things don’t go as planned. It might feel silly at first, but it adds an extra touch of authenticity to your costume.

2. Master the Catchphrases: Tim Taylor has a repertoire of catchphrases that have become synonymous with his character on Home Improvement. From “More power!” to “I don’t think so, Tim,” these phrases are essential for capturing the essence of his personality. Practice delivering them with confidence and enthusiasm to really bring your costume to life.

3. Study His Mannerisms: Pay attention to how Tim Taylor carries himself on the show. He often uses exaggerated gestures and facial expressions to emphasize his points or showcase comedic moments. Incorporate some of these mannerisms into your portrayal, whether it’s a dramatic hand gesture or a playful smirk.

4. Don’t Overdo It: While it’s important to capture Tim Taylor’s grunts and catchphrases accurately, remember not to overdo it. Balance is key – sprinkle in those iconic elements throughout the night without overwhelming everyone around you.

5. Have Fun with Improvisation: As much as you want to emulate Tim Taylor, remember that part of what made him such a beloved character was his ability to improvise and be spontaneous in hilarious ways! Feel free to add your own comedic twist or one-liners inspired by him.

How to Get Your Friends Involved in a Group Home Improvement Costume

Getting your friends involved in a group Home Improvement costume can make the experience even more enjoyable and memorable. Plus, it’s always fun to coordinate outfits with your buddies! Here are some tips on how to get everyone excited and on board.

The Enduring Wit and Wisdom of "The Office Quotes"

"The Office," an American sitcom that garnered vast recognition and a loyal fan base, breathed life into our television screens from 2005 till 2013. The show's innovative mockumentary style and colorful characters etched its place in the annals of pop culture. One particular element of the show holding a dedicated fan-following of its own are The Office Quotes. This anthology of humorous, witty, and often insightful quips continues to resonate with viewers, fueling numerous memes and social media discussions.

The Hilarity of "The Office Quotes" Gems of humor can be found within a plethora of "The Office Quotes." The show's primary character, the bumbling Michael Scott, excellently portrayed by Steve Carell, is responsible for an array of laugh-out-loud moments. A classic example is when he humorously declares, "I’m not superstitious. But I am a little stitious." This almost satirical commentary on superstition amply demonstrates his character's ridiculousness, encapsulating the topsy-turvy logic that makes Michael Scott pure comedic gold.

Dwight Schrute, brought to life by Rainn Wilson, is another fascinating character known for his peculiar antics and hilarious quotes. An office-safety-conscious Dwight announces, "Today, smoking is going to save lives," in a tricky situation, illustrating his unique, sometimes awkward but often hilarious perspective on life.

Unboxing Wisdom: Learning with "The Office Quotes" While the humor element of "The Office Quotes" is evident, sometimes they present insights and wisdom wrapped in laughs. Michael Scott's candid quote, "People will never be replaced by machines. In the end, life and business are about human connections," demonstrates his touching take on the value of human relationships.

There's profound truth in his words that lends a thoughtful dimension to the otherwise humorous content of the show. Even amidst the rib-tickling comedy and office hi-jinks, the show finds opportunities to remind us of the things that genuinely matter.

Unveiling Authenticity and Human Relationships "The Office Quotes" have a knack for encapsulating the essence of human relationships in simple, endearing words. Pam Beesley's heartfelt revelation, "When you're a kid, you assume your parents are soulmates. My kids are gonna be right about that," adds a beautifully vulnerable aspect to the show. These layers of raw emotions, buried beneath comedic exchanges, enhance the relatability factor, making viewers feel seen and heard.

Moreover, the bond between the Dunder Mifflin colleagues symbolizes the meaningful friendships that can form in the workplace, turning peers into family. As Michael Scott rightly perceives, "In the end, the greatest snowball isn't a snowball. It's fear. Merry Christmas," delightfully encapsulating the essence of unity and fear as significant workplace dynamics.

In Retrospect "The Office Quotes" lend authenticity to the show's brilliance and humor, enriching it with a sprinkle of wisdom and a dash of raw emotions. They beautifully demonstrate the complexities of human relationships and workplace dynamics, providing viewers with countless memorable moments.

While "The Office" may have ended, "The Office Quotes" continue to thrive in pop culture, living on in social media threads, fan-made merchandise, and our hearts. Whether provoking laughter or eliciting contemplation, these quotes continue to captivate audiences, affirming the undying charm of "The Office".

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