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extremelyblackandwhite · 3 years

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ascendance - 04

PAIRING: mob!bucky barnes x reader

WARNINGS: abduction, age gap (reader is 23, bucky is 37)

A/N: hello!! i hope you enjoy this new chapter as i dive more into bucky’s past. italics in this work symbolise a flashback in case anyone’s confused. hope you enjoy it xx

> NEXT CHAPTER | MASTERLIST

The entrance hall of the Barnes household was pilled up with people. Between his mum barking orders left to right and caterers bringing food in and out, the once silent room turned into a busy crossroads which meant James had retreated back to his room. He was sat down in his bed, cashmere black suit on and hair pushed back, Dead Souls opened on top his legs. He was lost in between the small black letters printed on the yellowing paper, so lost that the sound of his window opening went by him until a loud thump woke him up from his literary daze. Bucky looked up to see his younger sister, sat on the floor of his bedroom by the window with her dress partially on and hair messy due to the windy weather outside. He sighed, closing his book and putting it off to the side.

- Can’t you climb into your own bedroom? - Bucky got up from bed, leaning down to help her back onto her feet.

- Yours is closer. - she brushed the dirt off her baby pink dress picked by their mother. - Shouldn’t you be downstairs?

- Shouldn’t you be in your bedroom?

- Touche. - she pointed. - Can you not tell mum? She’ll freak out if she discovers that I went out on dad’s big day.

- Go on, I’ll keep mum occupied while you sort out that bird’s nest hair.

- Thank you! - she smiled, giving him a short hug. - What am I gonna do when you go to Princeton? Who’s gonna cover for me?

- I guess you’ll just have to form an alliance with the maids.

Y/N and Bucky were silent, barely speaking to each other if even looking into each other’s eyes. She merely remained there in her operatic costume, the corset doing the best of jobs at enhancing her female features and almost making her look like a femme fatale out of a classical movie in rich red and green fabrics decorated with what he guessed where heavy metal gold pieces resembling precious jewels and golden rings. He did not know which production they were putting on, he hadn’t even heard her sing before but she looked like she belonged in that stage, like she would have been showered in praise the moment the spotlight grazed her.

She paced around the living room not exactly sure what to do, the beads which made up her skirt and would suddenly peak to show her legs making a slight rustling noise as her eyes studied the book shelf which was filled with tons and tons of books from the classics to mere economy books. Maybe she could read them whenever the tension between of them wasn’t so apparent. She couldn’t help but sometimes look at the badly fixed window and wonder if she could make it, maybe when he wasn’t looking, maybe when he was sleeping yet looking at him; tall, muscular, fast, definetely much stronger than her, she knew that even if she managed to get outside, he would easily get her back. Her mind battled her positive side as she wondered if this was it, if this was home now. Suddenly, her old flat no longer seemed old and she would give everything away if only she could go back, back to being told to do errands that really did not concern her, to stepping on bobby pins laid on the ground, to way too strong makeup which looked ridiculous in proper daylight. She would give everything, if she could go back to what her life had been.

The man whose name he hadn’t even dignified himself to tell her yet was sat on one of the high chairs by the kitchen with his eyes trained on her. She briskly turned around, arms crossed under her chest with an almost child like pout of someone who had just been punished. In reality, I’m the one who’s being punished here, he thought to himself.

- You could tell me your name. - she said, not looking into his eyes, instead rubbing her worn out ballet shoes against his hard floor.

- You don’t need to know my name. - he was quiet yet imposing. Y/N could not deny he seemed to have a strong presence despite barely raising his voice. It was almost magnetic as if he was made to be looked at, yet she felt he didn’t want to be seen.

- What if I need to call out for you?

- I would know. There’s no one else here, is it?

Y/N did not reply to this, instead rolling her eyes and sitting down on the couch. There was not much to do in the small one bedroom apartment other than pace around, eat and watch television. Her hand flew over to the remote, pointing it at the TV to turn it on which opened on the news channel. She guessed this was the way she had of now knowing what was happening outside the four walls she was being held captive in. There wasn’t much happening and even if it was, all the local news could talk about was about the upcoming mayoral election. It was a circus with advertisements and rumours flying around about each and every candidate and while it was almost painfully enjoyable to see men over thirty acting like gossip mean girls in school, everyone knew who was gonna win.

She’d always been told that behind every great man, there’s a great woman and in this particular election it couldn’t be anymore true. The favourite candidate to win, Robert Moore, also known as Bobbie, was married to an senator’s daughter but not just any senator, Senator Barnes. She was too young to remember his policies or even his public persona, yet from what she knew, he had been a very well liked and well respected Senator, coming from a prominent family and building an even more prominent family. Being married to Rebecca Barnes, now Rebecca Barnes-Moore, was a one way ticket to a good career in politics. The two stood in the television screen, side by side in an almost JFK and Jackie Kennedy fashion with sunny smiles looking like the picture perfect Americana couple. It seemed all his ads showed him, his wife and their new born baby. High school sweethearts, it seemed.

- Are you gonna watch that the whole day? - she turned her head around, looking at his annoyed expression, whiskey glass in hand.

- They look good together.

- It’s a circus. - he snickered, sitting by her side.

- What are you? An anarchist? - those words flew out of her mouth without any filter, mostly out of nuisance. - Her father was a great politician and he is young and likeable.

- Young and likeable ... sounds like great political traits.

- What do you know about politics?

- What do you know about politics? Do they have a crash course in politics at whatever company you were in?

She rolled her eyes, turning the volume up to listen to the broadcaster tell the love story of the future mayor and his wife. Her face softened as she heard what was probably a highly modified version of the actual truth yet she couldn’t help but slightly smile at the idea of it. They seemed in love and as someone who had a degree in pretending to be in love while singing, it warmed her heart to see it. She liked that idea, the idea of Ms and Mrs Americana, the idea of having someone to lean in. Well, she liked the idea of someone. Sure, maybe the man whose name she still didn’t know and was starting to believe was never going to learn was right, it was a circus, all elections are but she couldn’t help but be pulled by the myth of it, by the we against the world mentality no matter how morally wrong it was.

She continued to watch the coverage of the election run as the man next to her got up from the couch to pick up a phone call. Her hearing slightly moved towards what he was doing, mind always thinking of escaping but even though he was talking on the phone, his gaze was trained of her as if she were his prey. He mumbled something on the phone before turning it off and moving his eyes to text someone yet after that his eyes were on her once more.

- Try not to escape for the next hour.

- Do you have a nameless anarchy convention to attend?

- Billy is coming to watch over you. No funny business.

- Will. - she corrected him. - He doesn’t like being called Billy.

- As long as you don’t pull a mission impossible on him, I will call him whatever you want.

Will didn’t take long to arrive, dressed in a tennis-like outfit as if he had been pulled away from tennis which sounded like something he’d do. Bucky exchanged a few words with him before leaving the two of them together. He trusted Billy, or Will, was smart enough not to let her escape or run away. God, he didn’t even want to think about what John would do to him if she escaped, much less what he would do to her if she escaped. He made his drive to John’s condo in fifth avenue, parking his bike somewhere before making his way up. The condo was always weirdly filled with chatter talk yet he could see no people, it was as if the ghosts of the people he had taken out followed him in his own home and Bucky couldn’t say he pitied him. After all, he had his own ghosts too.

He looked into John’s office where he was sat in the couch, the coverage of the election run on the television on low volume. John’s eyes immediately found Bucky’s figure looming at the entrance, never really entering, just standing behind the line which separated the hall from the office.

- How’s the roomie? - he motioned his hand for him to come in. - Still pretty?

- What do you need?

- I just got an invitation to a fundraiser. Zemo’s going so I want you to go.

- I can’t, I have her to watch over Y/N. She’s not very keen on remaining in the flat.

- Chain her up for all I care. It’s in two weeks and I’ll be damned if I’m there by myself with Zemo. Besides it’s your sister’s fundraiser, I always love to see Rebecca.

- She’s not gonna be there. - his jaw locked. - A fundraiser for the mob? It’s mostly free alcohol and networking with them not showing up.

- Maybe you should bring your roomie. She’s pretty and if anything I’m sure she can sing and if not maybe she can entertain in another form.

- The NYPD is probably looking for her, it’s not wise ...

- Do you make the rules? - John interrupted him, leaning against the couch with arms crossed. - You seem to have forgotten who makes the rules, soldat.

- I just don’t think ...

- You don’t think. - he interrupted him once more. - This election is important and since I do not have the right person here to get ahead, I will make do with what we have. I don’t give a fuck about what you do when you’re at your flat but she is mine. She is my get out of jail card. Are we clear, soldat?

- Yes.

- You can go now. - he dismissed him. Bucky turned around, eyes open wide yet emotionless face as if he were disconnected from his own consciousness. He guessed it was for the best to remain disconnected, to not know what was going on.

He drove himself back home, standing alone at night looking at his flat; the window still broken while the lights were flickering. He thought about running off, starting his bike and running off into the night and just drive until the tank was empty but he couldn’t. He had strings, strings which kept him tied to where he was right now. He guessed that now she was another string keeping him here.

Bucky sighed as he walked back to his flat, opening the door to a rather serene sight. Will was by the kitchen watching the football game while Y/N was laid across the couch, book in hand which he recognised as one of his old ones. Her hair was different, she probably had taken off her wig and for the first time since those few minutes in the costume room. It looked soft, framing her face and getting in front of her eyes as she herself got lost in the room. Will excused himself, leaving just as he noticed Bucky before he could be yelled at by using his television. Yet again, Y/N and Bucky were alone in that small flat. She looked up from the book and at him before returning to read.

He left her with the book, walking to his bedroom which was probably now more hers than his to grab one of trousers and hoodies before returning back to the living room. Still reading. At least she wasn’t trying to break any more windows. He put the hoodie and trousers by her side, turning off the television as more screams for the football match came through.

- You can change into those. - he pointed at the clothing, getting her attention as she closed the book. - Those beads can’t be comfortable.

- Oh

- The bathroom’s there. - he pointed at one of the few doors in the flat. - You can shower too, there’s towels.

- Thank you. - she grabbed the things he had put out for her before leaving him in the living room by himself.

And then it was just him once more, alone, tied to this city which screamed everyone’s name but his.

TAGLIST: @lookiamtrying @buckyswillows @blossomslibrary @juliesland @iloveshawnieboi @unmagically @red-head011 @poisonous00

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somedayonbroadway · 3 years

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more.. please?

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Okay, no quote for this one, but this is a scene I had in mind since I started writing this fic!

So, as Spot was discovering, things at the Larkin home tended to get a little intense when it came to bedtime. True to his roommates words, the twins did try to convince him that they were quadruplets. Spot still had no idea how they’d gone in through one door and magically ended up behind him when he turned around but one thing was for sure. They were witches.

So many children around here were yelling and Spot was only trying to get to the safety of the quiet guest room. Jack was busy downstairs with Medda. Something about an elf and a shelf and a “do not tell the kids!” so Spot figured he would just go to bed and try to figure out what these feelings were that were swirling around in his chest.

Everything in this house seemed to be some kind of friendly competition. As Romeo had held his hand walking to see the tree lights and the light snow, others had been racing around him to see who could get there first. Somehow, and Spot may never know how, it had been Charlie. He’d looked very smug when he’d turned around to greet the rest of them.

Even after that, it seemed the boys had a bet to see who could see who could sing the loudest. Jack mostly just danced around with Smalls and signed the lyrics to countless Christmas carols with her. It was honestly one of the most adorable things that Spot had ever seen.

He needed to get away from it all before he actually melted. So he made his way past four of the twins and a tiny Smalls who tried to sign to him only for Charlie to translate that she was only saying goodnight and then he ducked out of the way as Henry kicked and writhed over Specs’s shoulder to eventually open the door to find Racer sitting on the floor of the guest room.

It seemed only appropriate to make a joke at first, after their established relationship from the last couple of hours had only been a chaotic mesh of playful flirting — which Spot needed to put an end to. He knew he did. The kid was only that. A kid. But when the boy didn’t even look up at him, Spot paused as it occurred to him that the boy might not actually be in here to see him. “Racer?” he ended up asking. It was almost amusing how the boy nearly jumped out of his skin, but Spot held back his laugh as he shrugged. “You okay?”

“Oh, yeah!” Race grinned. “I’m so sorry, I totally forgot that you, like… are gonna be sleepin’ in here…” This kid was really entertaining. “Sorry, I just… normally come in here ta look at Jack’s painting before I go ta sleep.”

As amused as Spot was, he had to admit to himself how incredibly sweet that was. With a sigh, Spot made his way down to the kid, sitting with his legs crossed as his back leaned up against the bed, just as Racer’s was. “I’m still just tryin’ ta figure out what it means,” he said.

“It’s our story,” Racer said with almost no thought at all.

Spot glanced over at him. “What?”

The blond stood easily, walking over to the wall. “To everyone else it just looks like a bunch a’ squiggly lines but… it ain’t, just like how ta most people I just look like an innocent kid, when I can assure you that I’m very mature for my age and—“ the boy spouted out so dramatically.

“I’m gonna stop ya right there, Juliet,” Spot teased, standing and nodding over to the painting. “So, what’s the story?”

Clearing his throat and straightening up his non-existent tie, Racer turned back to the painting. “Well, you see here,” he began, pointing towards two intertwined lines, one blue and one golden. “These two lines are seen more than one time throughout this painting in various positions, always drawn towards each other. Blue is Jackie’s favorite color and he associated this particular shade of gold with me, so you’ve gone from point A to point B, you’re a master of the arts now, you’re welcome.”

Letting his mouth hang open a bit Spot laughed. “Oh my God, I’m a genius now? Wow, I’d like to thank so many people—“

Racer just scoffed and nodded, shoving Spot’s shoulder a bit as he spun back around and sat on the bed. He looked like an adorable little puppy with his curls, a huge mess from the wind outside and his matching pajama set and slippers. “For real though… it’s me and Jack. Sort of… I usually come in here before bed because… I don’t know, it makes me feel closer ta him. It’s stupid—“

“It ain’t,” Spot assured, sitting down beside the kid. “You n’ Jack… ya must a’ been through a lot together…” he said, gesturing to the very complex mural he was now staring at. Maybe Jack was actually more interesting than he’d originally though. To be completely honest, that was already true. Spot hadn’t even known that Jack had been adopted, much less that he had nine siblings or was this good of an artist. Sure, he knew that Jack was an art major, but that didn’t mean anything.

“Yeah,” Race smiled. “Everything… see the first lines I pointed to was when I was born, n’... ya see how they get separated after that? Then the blue one starts ta get smaller n’ thinner n’ almost disappear n’ the gold one’s tryin’ ta get to it n’ then… the opposite happens… we had quite the eventful childhood,” he explained, sounding all too happy about what sounded like a truly awful story. Spot’s heart broke a little for him but it was hard to be sad when the kid smiled at him like that. “Oh, ain’t ya so attracted ta me now that ya know I have a dark, mysterious past?”

Spot rolled his eyes. “Okay, kid, ya should leave before I take my shirt off, I don’t know if it’s a good idea for you ta—“

“Oh dear God, please take off your shirt,” Racer begged as Spot stood back up and shook his head.

“No, I was told not to encourage you,” Spot chuckled lightly.

The boy pouted. “But I’m so encourageable!” he whined. Spot was beginning to wonder what this boy saw in him. He supposed that he was very much in shape, but that was about it. The kid didn’t even know if he was gay.

He didn’t really tell anybody.

Maybe he was drawn to the boy because he was so confident and forthright with what he was thinking and who he was. That was something to be proud of and Spot wished he could just live like that, just be outright himself. It sounded so much easier than it was. “If Jack finds you in here—“

“He can’t hurt me. He loves me too much,” Racer shrugged. “Okay, that sounded like a joke, but it’s one hundred percent true. This family is like… ours n’ we love them, but we were all each other had for a long time… man, I love that guy.”

Hearing it all made something in Spot’s chest tighten because so long ago, he’d known what that felt like, to have an unbreakable bond like that with a person, to just understand that no matter what they’d be there for each other. But that was a long time ago.

Before Spot could come up with any kind of response, the door was knocked on and then opened and a very annoyed looking Jack peaked in as he leaned against the doorframe. He whistled and used his finger to gesture to his brother to come closer. “Hey, you. Out,” he ordered easily. The way Race pouted and let his head hang low just made him look even more so like the little puppy Spot was convinced he was. Still, the boy did as he was told, giving one sly glance back to Spot. Spot refrained from sending him a quick wink. Instead he just smiled as Race was pushed gently from the room. “I said no encouraging—“

“He was in here when I got here,” Spot defended. “Told me the story a’ this paintin’... at least, what it’s about.” The young man shrugged, admiring the craftsmanship again.

Jack bit his lip. “Yeah… like I said… it’s complicated,” he shrugged, glancing back down the hall towards Racer’s room. He sighed. “Ma’s real happy you’re here, by the way. Told ya she’d adopt ya in three seconds.” The man yawned. Spot never cared much to actually get a good look at Jack, but now that he was, the man looked so young and somehow seemed so wise. It wasn’t like Spot didn’t know he was an idiot who had once nearly jumped off their apartment balcony on a bet, it was just that something felt different now. The things that Racer had said were swirling around in his mind. He wondered what the disappearing of the line meant, though he didn’t wonder for long, not knowing if he actually wanted the answer at all. Maybe it meant nothing but he knew that probably wasn’t the case. “Anyway, tomorrow’s the annual Christmas Eve party so there might be a lot a’ noise out here in the mornin’, but there will be Christmas Tree shaped pancakes, or… ‘ornament shaped’ pancakes if Henry lets Specs make a few,” Jack informed.

Spot nodded with a small smile. “Thanks.”

The older boy nodded back, offering him a small wave. “Goodnight, Spot.” Jack almost turned to walk away. “Oh, and uh… if ya don’t want kids — or Racer, for that matter, barging in at God knows what hour, I’d lock the door.”

And just like that, Spot was left alone. He did lay in bed but he spent a long while staring at the painting on the wall. He pulled a small necklace out from beneath his shirt. It was nothing much, just a little key. He held it gently in his hand as he stared at the painting, watching the story pass before his eyes until finally blue and gold were back with each other on the other side.

Before he knew it, Spot was fast asleep, something a little lighter in his chest.

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aaronmaurer · 3 years

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TV I Liked in 2020

Every year I reflect on the pop culture I enjoyed and put it in some sort of order.

Was there ever a year more unpredictably tailor-made for peak TV than 2020? Lockdowns/quarantines/stay-at-home orders meant a lot more time at home and the occasion to check out new and old favorites. (I recognize that if you’re lucky enough to have kids or roommates or a S.O., your amount of actual downtime may have been wildly different). While the pandemic resulted in production delays and truncated seasons for many shows, the continued streaming-era trends of limited series and 8-13 episode seasons mean that a lot of great and satisfying storytelling still made its way to the screen. As always, I in no way lay any claims to “best-ness” or completeness – this is just a list of the shows that brought me the most joy and escapism in a tough year and therefore might be worth putting on your radar.

10 Favorites

10. The Right Stuff: Season 1 (Disney+)

As a space program enthusiast, even I had to wonder, does the world really need another retelling of NASA’s early days? Especially since Tom Wolfe’s book has already been adapted as the riveting and iconoclastic Philip Kaufman film of the same name? While some may disagree, I find that this Disney+ series does justify its existence by focusing more on the relationships of the astronauts and their personal lives than the technical science (which may be partially attributable to budget limitations?). The series is kind of like Mad Men but with NASA instead of advertising (and real people, of course), so if that sounds intriguing, I encourage you to give it a whirl.

9. Fargo: Season 4 (FX)

As a big fan of Noah Hawley’s Coen Brothers pastiche/crime anthology series, I was somewhat let down by this latest season. Drawing its influence primarily from the likes of gangster drama Miller’s Crossing – one of the Coens’ least comedic/idiosyncratic efforts – this season is more straightforward than its predecessors and includes a lot of characters and plot-threads that never quite cohere. That said, it is still amongst the year’s most ambitious television with another stacked cast, and the (more-or-less) standalone episode “East/West” is enough to make the season worthwhile.

8. The Last Dance (ESPN)

Ostensibly a 10-episode documentary about the 1990s Chicago Bulls’ sixth and final NBA Championship run, The Last Dance actually broadens that scope to survey the entire history of Michael Jordan and coach Phil Jackson’s careers with the team. Cleverly structured with twin narratives that chart that final season as well as an earlier timeframe, each episode also shifts the spotlight to a different person, which provides focus and variety throughout the series. And frankly, it’s also just an incredible ride to relive the Jordan era and bask in his immeasurable talent and charisma – while also getting a snapshot of his outsized ego and vices (though he had sign-off on everything, so it’s not exactly a warts-and-all telling).

7. The Queen’s Gambit (Netflix)

This miniseries adaptation of the Walter Tevis coming-of-age novel about a chess prodigy and her various addictions is compulsively watchable and avoids the bloat of many other streaming series (both in running time and number of episodes). The 1960s production design is stunning and the performances, including Anya Taylor-Joy in the lead role, are convincing and compelling.

6. The Great: Season 1 (hulu)

Much like his screenplay for The Favourite, Tony McNamara’s series about Catherine the Great rewrites history with a thoroughly modern and irreverent sensibility (see also: Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette). Elle Fanning brings a winning charm and strength to the title role and Nicholas Hoult is riotously entertaining as her absurdly clueless and ribald husband, Emperor Peter III. Its 10-episodes occasionally tilt into repetitiveness, but when the ride is this fun, why complain? Huzzah!

5. Dispatches From Elsewhere (AMC)

A limited (but possibly anthology-to-be?) series from creator/writer/director/actor Jason Segal, Dispatches From Elsewhere is a beautiful and creative affirmation of life and celebration of humanity. The first 9 episodes form a fulfilling and complete arc, while the tenth branches into fourth wall-breaking meta territory, which may be a bridge too far for some (but is certainly ambitious if nothing else). Either way, it’s a movingly realized portrait of honesty, vulnerability and empathy, and I highly recommend visiting whenever it inevitably makes its way to Netflix, or elsewhere…

4. What We Do in the Shadows: Season 2 (FX)

The second season of WWDITS is more self-assured and expansive than the first, extending a premise I loved from its antecedent film – but was skeptical could be sustained – to new and reinvigorated (after)life. Each episode packs plenty of laughs, but for my money, there is no better encapsulation of the series’ potential and Matt Berry’s comic genius than “On The Run,” which guest-stars Mark Hamill and features Laszlo’s alter ego Jackie Daytona, regular human bartender.

3. Ted Lasso: Season 1 (AppleTV+)

Much more than your average fish-out-of-water comedy, Jason Sudeikis’ Ted Lasso is a brilliant tribute to humaneness, decency, emotional intelligence and good coaching – not just on the field. The fact that its backdrop is English Premier League Soccer is just gravy (even if that’s not necessarily represented 100% proficiently). A true surprise and gem of the year.

2. Mrs. America (hulu)

This FX miniseries explores the women’s liberation movement and fight for the Equal Rights Amendment in the 1970s and its opposition by conservative women including Phyllis Schlafly. One of the most ingenious aspects of the series is centering each episode on a different character, which rotates the point of view and helps things from getting same-y. With a slate of directors including Ryan Bowden and Anna Fleck (Half-Nelson, Sugar, Captain Marvel) and an A-List cast including Cate Blanchett, Rose Byrne, Uzo Aduba, Sarah Paulson, Margo Martindale, Tracey Ulman and Elizabeth Banks, its quality is right up there with anything on the big screen. And its message remains (sadly) relevant as ever in our current era.

1. The Good Place: Season 4 (NBC)

It was tempting to omit The Good Place this year or shunt it to a side category since only the final 4 episodes aired in 2020, but that would have been disingenuous. This show is one of my all-time favorites and it ended perfectly. The series finale is a representative mix of absurdist humor and tear-jerking emotion, built on themes of morality, self-improvement, community and humanity. (And this last run of eps also includes a pretty fantastic Timothy Olyphant/Justified quasi-crossover.) Now that the entire series is available to stream on Netflix (or purchase in a nice Blu-ray set), it’s a perfect time to revisit the Good Place, or check it out for the first time if you’ve never had the pleasure.

5 of the Best Things I Caught Up With

Anne With An E (Netflix/CBC)

Another example of classic literature I had no prior knowledge of (see also Little Women and Emma), this Netflix/CBC adaptation of Anne of Green Gables was strongly recommended by several friends so I finally gave it a shot. While this is apparently slightly more grown-up than the source material, it’s not overly grimdark or self-serious but rather humane and heartfelt, expanding the story’s scope to include Black and First Nations peoples in early 1800s Canada, among other identities and themes. It has sadly been canceled, but the three seasons that exist are heart-warming and life-affirming storytelling. Fingers crossed that someday we’ll be gifted with a follow-up movie or two to tie up some of the dangling threads.

Better Call Saul (AMC)

I liked Breaking Bad, but I didn’t have much interest in an extended “Breaking Bad Universe,” as much as I appreciate star Bob Odenkirk’s multitalents. Multiple recommendations and lockdown finally provided me the opportunity to catch up on this prequel series and I’m glad I did. Just as expertly plotted and acted as its predecessor, the series follows Jimmy McGill/Saul Goodman on his own journey to disrepute but really makes it hard not to root for his redemption (even as you know that’s not where this story ends).

Joe Pera Talks With You (Adult Swim)

It’s hard to really describe the deadpan and oddly soothing humor of comedian Joe Pera whose persona, in the series at least, combines something like the earnestness of Mr. Rogers with the calm enthusiasm of Bob Ross. Sharing his knowledge on the likes of how to get the best bite out of your breakfast combo, growing a bean arch and this amazing song “Baba O’Reilly” by the Who – have you heard it?!? – Pera provides arch comfort that remains solidly on the side of sincerity. The surprise special he released during lockdown, “Relaxing Old Footage with Joe Pera,” was a true gift in the middle of a strange and isolated year.

The Mandalorian (Disney+)

One of the few recent Star Wars properties that lives up to its potential, the adventures of Mando and Grogu is a real thrill-ride of a series with outstanding production values (you definitely want to check out the behind-the-scenes documentary series if you haven’t). I personally prefer the first season, appreciating its Western-influenced vibes and somewhat-more-siloed story. The back half of the second season veers a little too much into fan service and video game-y plotting IMHO but still has several excellent episodes on offer, especially the Timothy Olyphant-infused energy of premiere “The Marshall” and stunning cinematography of “The Jedi.” And, you know, Grogu.

The Tick (Amazon Prime)

I’ve been a fan of the Tick since the character’s Fox cartoon and indie comic book days and also loved the short-lived Patrick Warburton series from 2001. I was skeptical about this Amazon Prime reboot, especially upon seeing the pilot episode’s off-putting costumes. Finally gaining access to Prime this year, I decided to catch up and it gets quite good!, especially in Season 2. First, the costumes are upgraded; second, Peter Serafinowicz’s initially shaky characterization improves; and third, it begins to come into its own identity. The only real issue is yet another premature cancellation for the property, meaning Season 2’s tease of interdimensional alien Thrakkorzog will never be fulfilled. 😢

Bonus! 5 More Honorable Mentions:

City So Real (National Geographic)

The Good Lord Bird (Showtime)

How To with John Wilson: Season 1 (HBO)

Kidding: Season 2 (Showtime)

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy Vs The Reverend (Netflix)

#tv #television

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penniesforthestorm · 3 years

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The One in the Hat

Hey Everybody I Found a New TV Show

The thing is, in all the years I’ve been typing these posts into the howling maelstrom of tunglr.hell, I’d like to think I’ve maintained some perspective-- my primary audience is... well... me. I write about concerts and albums and movies so that I can keep track of them, and because it’s fun for me. If I see something and I like it, I want to examine why. (True story: I once unknowingly followed an actor of considerable renown for half a block in midtown Manhattan because I was distracted by the exquisite tailoring of his suit. No, I will not say who it was, but when we got to a crosswalk, he glanced over his shoulder and I immediately realized I’d better move along.) Keeping that in mind, once i start something, I do generally try to see it through. All this to say, The Great Twin Peaks Rewatch Project is officially on hiatus-- I will finish it, but at this point, all I can say is that it’ll happen when it happens. (I sent in my BA thesis the morning before graduation, from the hotel lobby. Still got an A on it. Don’t try that at home, please.)

Meanwhile, to entertain myself, I recently started watching the FX series Justified, which ran for six seasons, starting in 2010. I heard about it while it was airing, and always kept it in mind as something I’d like to check out-- I’d loved Timothy Olyphant on Deadwood, and I’ve been a casual fan of Elmore Leonard’s writing ever since I saw Jackie Brown (adapted, of course, from his novel Rum Punch). I’d also picked up on the behind-the-scenes story of the character played by Walton Goggins-- he was originally supposed to die in the pilot, but based on Goggins’ performance and a few other factors, they decided to keep him around, making him one of the main characters by the second season.

Justified is a feast, in terms of characters (and the actors who play them). In terms of sheer entertainment, it’s hard to beat. Sure, OK, it’s not a time-warping, transcendental extravaganza, but... not everything has to be. Different kinds of stories serve different purposes... and that’s OK. Certain followers of mine may recall the phrase “sometimes all I need is a protagonist with kind eyes and a troublesome mouth” (and/or various permutations thereof)-- Deputy United States Marshal Raylan Givens, as portrayed by Timothy Olyphant, fits that bill like his pearl-colored Stetson fits him. The show does also have some serious moral weight to it--more so as it progresses-- the nature of evil, and the possibility of redemption, are perhaps the strongest threads running through it.

So, in that spirit, I have decided that I will be re-capping it here. Each season runs 13 episodes, which makes for a little bit of clunky maneuvering, but I think I’ve decided on a workable format: for each season, I’ll review the first and final episodes individually, and the rest will come in small groups. I’ve watched through Season 4 so far, so I will be tying in elements across seasons-- whenever possible, I’ll try to avoid direct spoilers, but, again, since I’m largely doing this for myself anyhow, the rules will be pretty fast and loose. As always, you’re all welcome in my inbox; this is going to be a lot of fun, I promise.

#tv #tv review #justified #(for what it's worth)#(imagining 'Peaks' characters here and vice versa has been entertaining)#intro post

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r3b3lgrrrrrrrl · 4 years

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A LunaTic and her Gunn (Part 104 1Xs2) "Late Nights and Lazy Days"

@creatureofthen1ght-v3 @crystalbaby12 @5sosfam1dlover @backoftheroomandnotbelonging @findingmyths

The show at The Roxy was a huge success. The venue filling with electricity as soon as The Boys took the stage. Outside, the sight of Luna had given Colson an extra boost of energy to his mind. Inside, OnStage, her touch was a direct shot of adrenaline to his body. The crowd growing even more insane once Dom and Travis joined him OnStage for an intense encore of I Think I'm Okay.

BackStage, Luna had offered up her repacked bullet to whomever wanted it while hanging off of Colson's back. Collecting their things, they sent their luggage to the LA house after deciding to spend their night in The Valley at Roger's Bowling & Arcade. Luna calling Frannie and Paris while Colson invited Mod and Noah.

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"You're goin' down, Sucker!" Luna wiggles her loose arms and fingers as she grins at Benny and he chuckles.

With so many of them, they have to break off into teams. Luna and Colson call Captain in unison, leading him to complain about how They Won't Be On The Same Team. He only pouts out a Fine when Luna gives him First Pick and a kiss.

Choosing Slim first, Luna takes Paris. Eyeing Luna and knowing how his last interaction went, Colson tries his luck by picking Fran. Making Luna shake her head when she catches her friend rolling her eyes at his effort. Luna takes Rook as a response. Colson snatching up Travis, AJ, Mod, Benny and Bullet while Luna secures her team with Ashleigh, Dom, Baze, Noah and Paris's boyfriend Gabe.

It's way passed midnight. Having been ON since before Noon, Luna's hitting her fifth or sixth peak by now. Just as it starts to kick in for Ashleigh and The Boys. Having only hit the bullet upon arrival with Frannie and Gabe, Paris dutifully sets up their bowling screens as everyone crowds around and the two teams talk shit to each other.

"You don't know what these guns can DO!!" Benny laughs at Luna as he flexes.

"We gonna take her cocky ass down?" Colson nudges Frannie trying to break the ice between them.

Paris had rallied for Colson on the way over, still trying to persuade her to give him a chance. Deciding to bite her tongue tonight for Luna and P, she nods with a small smile. Agreeing with him that, THAT Bitch Could Be Knocked Down A Peg Or Two. It's Colson's laughter that draws Luna's eyes over to the two of them.

"Ugh... With all this bullshit with Sam, I really fucking hope tonight goes well..." Her mind flashes before it catches a trail of colors and is off flying in a different direction.

"Alright.... Here we go!" Paris calls out.

The pure MDMA is now coursing through all of their bodies, minds and souls. The stream of black lights wraps around them, causing them to glow. The bass driven music making their hearts pound as they laugh, trip and bowl.

"It's so great to finally get to hang out with you!!" Luna exclaims as she grabs a seat beside Gabe.

"It truly is!" He agrees with a wide smile.

"Tell me.... What are you guys working on right now. P said you have a mini tour coming up?" Luna asks regarding their band The Soundflowers.

"Yes!!!" Gabe beams as Paris approaches them after picking up a spare.

The three go on to talk about The Couple's music and plans. Colson making his way over as they take turns bowling. Wrapping himself around Luna from behind, he kisses her cheek before joining their conversation. Colson and Gabe clicking quickly as they bond over their love of Sublime and Oasis.

"Your turn, LunaTic!!" Rook hollers.

With her body warm from happiness, content, love and drugs, Luna leans her head back into Colson's chest. Lifting up, she kisses him under his chin before going to support her team.

Grabbing her bearings along with her ball, Luna poises herself as the different colors and objects dance around her. Blinking twice, she swears she can taste cotton candy as she throws a Strike.

"MY GIRL!!!!" Colson yells to her squeals as he spins her around. "I don't even care that you're supposed to be my rival right now!" He laughs as he pulls her chin up for a kiss after he sets her down.

"Come on, Loooove Birds!!" Mod teases them. "You're holding up the game!"

They're really not though. All Sixteen of them are ON, distracted by the black lights and lasers. Slightly Slipping. Bodies still bouncing and bobbing to the music that surrounds them as they chat uncontrollably with each other about EVERYTHING.

Growing bored after the first game, The Slipping Sixteen venture into the Arcade. Simultaneously finding a row of ski ball lanes alongside a line of electronic basketball games. Entering into more challenges against each other, they drop tons of shiny quarters into the game's slots along their way.

Slim, Colson and Benny battle it out in basketball while Luna, Frannie and Ashleigh go head to head in ski ball. Paris and Rook switch out when Luna wins as Baze steps up to challenge Slim along with Gabe after Colson loses to him.

"I got next!!" Colson calls on ski ball.

Luna wins again. Squaring up against her and Frannie, Colson takes his stance in front of the middle lane VERY seriously.

"You two have NO idea what you're in for." He says confidently as he laces his long fingers together and stretches them out in front of him.

Lights, lasers and images dance around them. Flowing in through the windows of their eyes, down into their souls. Binding them together like sticky, magical taffy.

Popping their quarters in, the wooden balls fall down the slot with a loud SMACK. The sound making the three players grin as it brings back goosebumps from their individual childhood memories.

With Rook shouting 1.2.3. GO! They're off. All three being incredibly skilled, it's a close call. Luna coming in 3rd as Frannie takes Colson by two solid 100K point hits. A slightly smug twinkle glints in her cool, blue eyes. It's the only sign of how pleased she is with herself.

Comparing ticket winnings with each other, Luna notices Baze is a little quieter than usual. Part of The Slipping Sixteen going on to wander around the Arcade, giggling and wiggling while they taste the sounds and hear the colors. Finding Travis, AJ, Mod and Bullet, they're consumed by the vivid, original arcade games as the others join them.

"You okay?" Luna asks Baze as she hooks her elbow into his and they continue to wander together.

"Is it that obvious?" He answers with longing eyes.

"Only to me." Luna reassures him as she leans her head against his large arm.

"I miss her, MaGoons..." Baze sighs.

Passing a mirror, Luna stops them. "Let's tell her." She smiles at him before taking a selfie of them and Snapping it to Sam.

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Sam is at Pier 97 with Ashley, Stephanie, Mack, Jackie, Logan, Jason and a bunch of their other friends. Continuing to celebrate at Pride Island, a 2day music festival created solely for the end of the week long event. Checking her phone in the bathroom, she finds the Snap from Luna.

Sam sighs when she sees Steve's face as her heart flutters for him. They have a strong connection but Sam is incredibly independent... And if she'll admit it, incredibly scared of intimacy. Reading Luna's words, she's annoyed with her but can't help Snapping her back with love along with her trademark sass.

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"Yo!! You game?" Slim challenges Luna when he sees the beaming lights of an open AirHockey table.

"Bet, Motherfucker." Luna laughs as she digs in her bag for more quarters.

Slim drops the plastic disc on the table as it begins to roar and cool air blows from it's sides. With a nod, they signal their beginning. It's an intense, fierce game. Both talking shit as they slam the disc across the board with all their might.

"You ain't got SHIIT!" Slim tries to intimidate her as they match up at 2to2.

Pulling the puck from her slot, Luna holds it in place as she points at Slim. "Watch me, take your whole life and FUUUUUCK it all up in one shot." She grins as she rearranges and recites Colson's lyrics.

"You're such a fucking dork." Slim laughs at her.

The two of them are quick as they make the plastic object zoom across the flat surface. Luna's wide eyes steadily following it as it turns from one disc into four. Glowing orange trails fly around behind it, causing her to become distracted by it's zip as Slim connects just right. Slamming it into her goal, he wins the game.

🎶Who fucked who's life all up in one shot? I DID! Beat THAT bitch when I made THAT disc drop in her slot and YOU KNOW that I'm so good that I can't stop.... Because SOMETHING'S FUCKING WRONG WITH ME!!"🎶

Slim raps as he teases Luna, laughing as he dances around the table. Quickly grabbing her to happily jump and shake her around with him. They're slowly becoming friends.

"FUUUUUCK Yooou!" Luna laughs with him as she rolls her eyes before giving him playful shove.

"You gonna let THESE BOOYS play us like that, B?" Frannie asks with a grin, throwing her arm around Luna. "I got next, Big Man." She taunts Slim with a welcoming smile.

Frannie is naturally suspicious of all people, growing up in the environment she did. It's when her third eye is open that she let's her guard down, fully enjoying herself as she kicks Slim's ass 3to1. Lightly teasing him along the way.

"You got an eye, Girl, don't cha?" Slim compliments her after her win, making Frannie laugh.

Coming back together, The Slipping Sixteen decide to bowl another game. Keeping the same teams as they continue to be entertained by each other and mesmerized by the different colors. Noah and Mod argue over Who's Ball Is Who's while Colson and Slim both High Ten Frannie when she hits a strike on her first bowl. Ashleigh flicking them both off when she nails her own solid strike.

Only picking up a spare, Luna checks her phone as she sits on Colson's lap. Finding a Snap back from Sam, she opens it.

Seeing the Snap over her shoulder, Colson realizes for the first time that Sam didn't come back with Luna. He's called for his turn before he can ask Why.

Having a blast, they finish up their game. It's a close one, Luna's team only winning again because of Rook's impeccable Turkey.

Gathering together, Paris and Gabe exchange GoodByes and Love before catching an Uber home. Frannie uncharacteristically choosing to head back to Colson's with Luna along with Noah and Mod. Dom catching another Uber with Travis to his place, choosing to crash there while Ashley's still in NYC.

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Back at the crib, they let loose with all of them being happy to be Home. Making their way through the house, only Twelve Tripping Twits remain. Pumping up some old Blink 182, Colson immediately starts jumping up and down on the couch before hopping off to grab whatever he can find to juggle. Being pool balls this time.

Luna watches him adoringly. She can feel her brain and heart throb for him as her body continues to tingle during it's own personal rollercoaster ride. "Fuck, I missed him." She thinks. Regardless of the stress from the loss of his Adderall, traveling or even Sam's issues, Luna's glad to be Home. Colson being her Home. Not The West Coast. Not even NYC. Her Home lies where Colson is. Always.

Hooking up Casie's Dance Dance Revolution, at different points they all succeed in both excelling and destroying their attempted dances. The Twelve Tripping Twits laughing uncontrollably at each other throughout their turns as they pass joints amongst them.

They continue on with their magical journey. Gliding in and out of the house, talking about and touching everything. Different Twits alternate in and out of different jam session at different times.

Colson, Luna, Rook, Frannie, Noah, Slim and Mod take to chasing each other around the house, wrestling about and hitting each other with pillows unexpectedly as they round corners blindly. Ashleigh, Benny, AJ and Baze are curled up in fuzzy blankets while Mario Kart escapes from the television. Bullet can be found outside lounging by the pool, staring at the stars.

There's a lot happening at all times. The Twelve Tripping Twits making a huge mess out of the house with their amusing antics.

"Lemme set you up...." Luna says to a still wild eyed Frannie.

"I can't sleep right now, Loons.... I'm on some seeing and feeling shit." Frannie let's out with an exasperated gasp.

"That's okay... I just wanna show you that you've got a safe space when you're ready to crash." Luna answers lightly as she takes Frannie's hand.

Already talking to Colson, Luna shows Frannie to Casie's room. It's a special privilege. Frannie may not be aware of it, but Luna is. NO ONE sleeps in Casie's room.

"This is The Kid's room. You can sleep here without being bothered..." Luna trails off as her swirling mind struggles to formulate words again in order for her to speak. "But... If you're not ready to sleep, you gotta stay the fuck outta here." She asserts by closing the door to Frannie's all too knowing nod.

"There's our killer!" Slim shouts as he comes out of his room, finding Luna and Francis in the hallway.

Wrapping his arm around Frannie's shoulders, he asks What They Were Doin'. Fran answers with a NunYa to Slim's laughter as they follow him back downstairs into the ongoing House Party.

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Rolling hard, the music is still loud as Luna offers up Xanax for calmness and sleep. BB King easily grooving through the living room as The Twelve Tripping Twits begin to slow down. Lounging around while burning HARD. The blues guitar slipping, ripping and vibrating through their enlightened souls.

Exploring each other's bodies slowly on the floor behind to the couch, Luna coaxes Colson to his room. Not bothering to say GoodNight as they slip away. Thinking they're quiet, they loudly laugh as they fail at racing each other on the stairs. Tripping in different ways as they make their way up them.

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In his bed, there's a sweet sensuality to Colson and Luna. Trying to focus, they slowly take each other's clothes off as they kiss the other with soft touches. Uncontrollable colors, feelings and love radiating off of them. Luna's breasts are full as she runs her hands down the sides of her throat, then along her shoulders. Pulling down the straps of her black, lace bra. She unhooks it, letting it fall off of her body as she drags her hands down alongside her ribcage. Still rolling hard, even the lightest touch to her body is amplified by a million.

"I don't know if I can handle fucking you tonight." Colson let's out with a slight hint of fear in his voice.

"Mmmm... That's okay... Can we just lay and touch?" Luna asks delicately with an understanding of the intensity that drugs can bring.

"Yes, please...." Colson answers, wrapping his naked, long body alongside Luna's tiny one as they lay together side by side.

Getting comfortable, he can't help but cup her breast. It's not long before his coarse thumb finds it's way to her pierced nipple. The rounding strokes of his hard thumb making her body heat up as her pussy becomes plump for him.

Their touches are kind and sensual as Colson pulls Luna closer to him from behind. With his right arm under her, distracting her nipple, his left hand slides over her hip. She can feel his growing cock against her as his fingers slowly reach for his goal. Running his two tips up her vulnerable lips, he grows harder as he feels how warm her insides are.

"I wanna live inside her pussy." Colson's drug addled mind wishing for the impossible

Pulling her lips open with his index and middle fingers, Colson slowly makes his way inside of her from behind. His touch causing Luna to arch her back as her whole body tingles. Taking his time as he slowly slips his dick into of her, making her quiver at not only his girth but also his touch.

"Holy fuck...." Luna's body erupts as her brain slowly repeats "Holy Fuck....." Over and over again. The sensation of Colson being inside of her so insanely strong that she feels like they're melting into each other.

Taking his time, he rocks her back and forth along his cock slowly. Colson grunts louder with every inch of him that she pulls further inside of herself.

"Oh, Kitten..." He moans as he sucks on the back of her neck.

"Mmmm....." She coos, enjoying the way he fills her.

Colson holds Luna closer to him, making her juicy pussy clutch his cock tighter. Picking up his pace as he drives into her deeper. Still playing with her piercing with one thumb, he reaches down. Using his middle finger of his other hand to tickle her clitoris, Colson has full control over Luna's body.

"Oh FUUUUUCK, I'm cumming." She moans, not being able to control herself as her body gyrates.

Feeling her tighten around him even more, he let's go also. Bursting inside of her like an overfilled balloon.

"God Damn, Loons.... I swear, your pussy gets better every FUCKING time." Colson pants as she kisses her naked shoulder with a sigh.

Luna let's out a light snicker from his words, causing him to pop out of her to both of their disappointment. Placing his tired dick against her bare ass, they drift off wrapped in each other.

Sticky from their sex as the Xanax begins slowing down their running minds. Their touch calming more than just each other's soul as they end another late night together.

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Feeling Colson shift, Luna rolls over with him, turning him into The Little Spoon. Nuzzling in between his shoulder blades, she kisses his bare, tattooed skin as she whispers out an I Missed You. Squeezing his body tighter against hers. Lifting her hand, he kisses it as he mummers the same. The two easily and instantly falling back to sleep together.

A few hours later, Colson stretches out long as Luna curls up against him under the covers. It's a Monday, the first of July. Just coming off a month long tour, they're taking the day off. A lazy day if you will. Already deciding last week that business will resume it's regularly scheduled programming tomorrow.

Wrapped in each other, their too hungover to talk. Both of their brains feeling like mush from the massive amounts of drugs they not only consumed the day/night before, but throughout the last 2mnths or so. Although their insides feel like dehydrated fruit, there's an intimate relief as they simply cuddle. Enjoying the quiet moment to themselves, they drift back off. Catching up on some much needed sleep.

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Colson and Luna finally make their way downstairs after lazily fucking each other awake. He's bare chested in a pair of EST basketball shorts while she's in an oversized Hotel Diablo shirt with a pair of Colson's black boxer briefs underneath and a loose bun.

They find Frannie, Slim and Ashleigh surrounding the island as Baze controls the kitchen. Joints flowing freely while Neil Young plays lowly in the background. Noah and Mod are knocked out in the living room on separate couches with Bullet sprawled out across the floor. The sight of him making Luna happy. While Rook, AJ and Benny can be found still snoozing in their bedrooms.

"Holy shit, that smells delicious." Luna compliments Baze as she peeks around his arm. "What 'cha makin'?" She asks as she accepts a cup of coffee from Colson with a grateful Thanks.

"Homemade bacon cheese burgers, REAL fries and grilled asparagus along with spinach and mozzarella stuffed garlic mushrooms." Baze answers proudly as he checks the oven.

"You truly are a Norseman's God, aren't you?" Luna teases as she slides into a chair between Colson and Frannie, accepting a joint from her pal.

"Viking in the HOOOUSE!!" Baze shouts as he triumphantly thrusts his fist in the air, making the room laugh with him and Luna.

"How'd you sleep?" Luna asks as she turns to Fran after passing the joint to Colson.

"Fucking GREAT!! That bed is a dream. Literally." She laughs. "Thank you for letting me crash in your daughter's room." Fran goes on to speak to Colson as she leans up against the counter to look at him.

"No problem, I'm glad you were comfortable.... Just don't let her know her when you meet her. She can be a little anal about her room and things." Colson says with a smile as he exhales a large cloud of smoke.

"Wonder where she gets THAT from.." Ashleigh chimes in as she rolls her eyes.

"Not THIS guy, EVER." Slim laughs as he jerks his thumb towards Colson.

"Fuck you both, you don't like people touching your shit either." Colson counters as he throws them both a middle finger.

"Facts." Luna laughs as she backs up his statement.

"You're just as bad!!" Frannie exclaims to Luna with another laugh.

"Who's just as bad and what are we eating, My People?" Mod asks happily as he comes bouncing into the kitchen just in time to intercept the joint.

"All of 'em, apparently." Frannie answers through her laughter.

"Hey!! Don't you lump me in with them fools!" Baze threatens with a smile as he points his spatula at Fran.

"My bad, Dude." She continues to laugh with a grin.

"You fuckers are soooo LOUD...." Rook complains as he makes his own appearance.

"IF YA CAN'T HANDLE THE HEAT, GET THE FUCK OUTTA THE KITCHEN, YA FUCKING ROOKIE!!" Colson yells at him with a teasing tone.

This catches him a middle finger from Rook and a solid NO from Luna as she puts her hands over her ears. Colson retaliating with another loud I DO WHAT I WANT before Luna skips him and passes a fresh joint to her Favorite Drummer Boy.

"You're such a bitch." Colson complains with a chuckle once he realizes what happened.

Noah, AJ, Bullet and Benny slowly trickle in as Baze throws the burgers on the grill. Making The Twelve of Them a complete set again as they fill the kitchen with bodies, music, smoke and coming food. All surprisingly functional once coffee and bud hits their blood streams as they recount the madness of last night.

"You totally stole that kid's tickets!!" Noah shouts at Colson.

"No I didn't." He shoots back immediately with an undeniably guilty look.

"You stole a kid's tickets!?!" Luna and Frannie ask together in wide eyed shock.

"No." Colson asserts. "He walked away, I just grabbed the loose tickets that were hangin'." He shrugs with a smirk.

"Seriously?" Luna asks with a cocked look.

"I mean, yeah... But, I gave all our tickets away to a bunch of kids at the end of the night so fuck 'em." Colson shrugs again as he sips his coffee.

"You're such a fucking dick." Luna replies with her face still twisted in disbelief.

"Whatever. Someone else would've jacked 'em if I didn't. And at least I spread the wealth... Because I REALLY wanted those fucking light sabers." He laughs.

Slim, Baze, AJ, Benny and Rook solidify him with a RIGHT. Leaving Luna to lean across the counter now, looking over at Ashleigh for someone else besides Frannie to shake her head with.

"So, what, you fancy yourself as the Robin Hood of Arcades?" Fran challenges Colson. "Robbing from the dumb who are probably in the same poor crowd that you're rewarding?"

"Ohh, FUCK ME." Luna mentally sighs as Colson cocks his chin towards Frannie.

"No." He answers with an attitude. "But if you're stupid enough to leave your money hangin', I don't give a fuck what age you are. Imma snatch that shit up. Don't be dumb and you won't get played like you're dumb."

"Truth." Slim agrees, tossing his bestfriend an elbow while Luna's tosses her an unamused eye.

"I get what you're saying, Kells... But that's fucked up. You can't tell me you wouldn't snap if someone swooped up on Case's tickets." Ashleigh says, putting her two sense in.

"Case wouldn't be dumb enough to leave her tickets behind." Colson replies smugly.

"I had you until then...." Luna laughs lightly as she leans across the counter again to Ashleigh's sigh, both knowing he's right.

"So, what's that make you... A partial dick?" Fran asks not letting it go.

"Oh no, I'm that FULL dick. Through and through. Ask Luna." He smirks.

"Shut the fuck up." Luna replies as she sucks her teeth. Going on to roll her eyes at him and shake her head, she displays the three quality signs of an annoyed woman. "No one here gives a fuck about your dick." She continues as she SideEyes him.

"Yo! Check my mushrooms!" Baze interupts them as he hollers from the patio.

"Gotcha!" Ashleigh shouts back as she hops up.

"All I know is, I'm gonna FUUUUUCK this food UUUPPP." Luna declares, making the entire room agree for the first time.

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Crowded around the dining room table, they all compliment Baze's cooking skills as it's sweet scent fills the room. After passing plates of food and condiments around they all dig in. There's a collective sigh of Oh SHIT when they sink their teeth into their burgers.

"Holy fucking cracker balls." Luna moans as she bites into the homemade potato wedge. "PLEASE fucking teach Colson!" She requests with her eyes closed in pleasure.

"Hey... I know how to cook." Colson states as he shoots her another SideEye.

"No Bunny, you know how to grill. Not cook. We both know this. I love you, but there's a difference." Luna sighs in delight as she takes a snapping bite off of her asparagus.

"Facts." Colson admits. "To Truck, our Viking cook!" He says as he raises his beer. "Great food, better friends and MOTHERFUCKING HOTEL DIABLO!!" He shouts as everyone clinks their glasses and beers with his.

Enjoying their meal, each other's company and being off of The Road, The Twelve of Them relax around the table as they shoot the shit. Bodies slowly recovering as the delicious food regenerates their beings. As always, continuing to bust each other's balls as they laugh with full bellies over a round of drinks and joints.

Once they've finished, The Girls begin to wipe down the kitchen and do dishes as The Boys clean and clear the table while carrying things in from the dining room. They wrap up leftovers before helping with the rest of the clean up. Baze being the only one who's exempt. It's been said before, if you cook in Colson's kitchens, you do not clean.

Coming up behind Luna as they finish, Colson lightly touches his lips against the back of her ear lobe. Sending instant goosebumps down her spine as his deep voice crawls into her brain.

"I wanna show you something when we're done." He husks.

"Okay." Luna agrees without hesitation.

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Word Limit (1 of 2)

To be continued.....

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timeagainreviews · 5 years

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A Case for Older Companions

Back in 2013, before Doctor Who aired its 50th Anniversary special, there was a lot of speculation as to which Doctors would return. Would Christopher Eccleston make an appearance? Would any of the classic era Doctors return? Aside from a suitably strange appearance by Tom Baker as "The Curator," the answer would be "None… sort of." While Peter Davison’s age was explained away in "Time Crash," it would appear this explanation could not withstand the feature length of the episode. We most likely would not see the likes of the Fifth, Sixth, or Seventh Doctors. Enter John Hurt, the War Doctor and cypher for the classic era of Doctor Who. An old man to balance out the young faces of Matt Smith and David Tennant.

Perhaps it harkens back to the First Doctor, but it seems an important aspect of the War Doctor was to be a bit of an old curmudgeon. In many ways, the blueprint of Doctor Who has always lent itself to having a mature presence in the TARDIS. Usually, this role was reserved for the Doctor himself. Up until the Fifth Doctor, the Doctor had been portrayed by men in their 40’s and 50’s. However, it’s not always the Doctor who is the mature figure onboard. Sometimes, it’s the companions themselves.

While not old by any means, both Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright are perfect examples of older companions. Compare their ages to someone like Vicky, Zoey, or even Rose Tyler, and the difference is clear. These adults bring a different sort of energy to the role of companion than say a young woman working in a shop. I’ve touched on this before with Graham O’Brien. The ways in which an older companion can be a more realised person, have a capacity to change the dynamic of the Doctor/companion relationship. And with this, we get a different perspective on this relationship.

One of the things I hear constantly is how Edward Cullen-esqe it is for the Doctors to fall in love with their companions. People call it creepy that a 2000-year-old Time Lord would date such a young person. While I think this argument is often an excuse not to want to see romance in the TARDIS, it does bring up an interesting point about impressionability. Rory Williams said it himself- "It's not that you make people take risks, it's that you make them want to impress you... You have no idea how dangerous you make people to themselves when you're around." If you're going to make the point of a companion being too young to kiss the Doctor, you could also make the same argument about travelling with the Doctor.

This is where older companions have the upper hand. While many young companions join the Doctor in a whirlwind of confused emotions and self-discovery, an older companion such as Graham, or Evelyn Smythe bring a sort of self-realisation. The concept of choice is less muddled, as their lives are not threatened by peaking in their early twenties. They've seen the world, had their hearts broken, and become stronger people because of it.

Mind you, this is not always entirely the case. Donna Noble entered the TARDIS in a whirlwind of her own unhappiness, but even her problems were grown-ass woman problems. Stuck in a dead-end job, looking to do something of importance, and to see more of the universe, her bags were packed. Her choices were not made due to an infatuation with an older, dashing man. This isn't "An Education," this is a friendship. This is a choice. Compare this to Amy Pond, whose bags were also packed, by no choice at all. The Eleventh Doctor comments on the imprint young Amelia left on him as the first face his face had met. But in truth it was the other way around. The raggedy man left such an indelible mark on her, that it almost ruined her life.

Please don't construe this as me condemning the show. I think in many ways, Doctor Who is a bit of light entertainment that doesn't need to answer such heavy issues. And as with Amy Pond, it has explored this concept in depth. What I'm mostly getting at is that an older companion's maturity can bring a more active quality to the story. There's a sort of forward progression inherent in a character knowing why they choose to travel with the Doctor. And in many ways, this strength of choice bolsters their relationship to something more reasonable. Something responsible.

It's not just the rationality of the companion that is bolstered either. Older companions have a way of balancing the Doctor as well. After being followed around by two young women like puppy dogs, the Tenth Doctor's arrogance was put in check by Donna Noble's "take no shit from anyone," attitude. The result was her having a balancing effect on his more reckless tendencies. The same could be said about the relationship between the Sixth Doctor and Evelyn Smythe. With Peri, he was often over-bearing, selfish, and difficult. But with Evelyn, he seemed to be on better behaviour. His tantrums afforded him less capital with her patience. He strived to impress her with his scientific knowledge, over say, his own bravado. Because of this, she's my favourite companion of the Sixth Doctor era.

While maybe not full-on companions, both Jackie Tyler and Brian Williams had similar effects on the Doctor. In many ways, I like Jackie Tyler even more than Rose. As parents to companions, both characters act as a sort of reminder to the Doctor that his friends aren't just fodder. Their presence demands a responsibility on the Doctor's part that can be both sobering and grounding for the Doctor. They understand the importance of the Doctor's work, so much that they even join the fight on occasion. But they do so with little room for the Doctor's ego.

Thankfully, babysitting a petulant Time Lord isn't the only quality an older companion can bring to the table. Their perspectives often have a way of helping the Doctors understand themselves, or even the situation at hand. Wilfred Mott and the Tenth Doctor spoke like two old soldiers, allowing the Tenth Doctor a rare moment of nostalgia. It's easy not to look back when you have a young person with you. Everything is in the future (even when they're in the past). An old man like Wilfred gave us a surprising glimpse into the Doctor's sensitivity and vulnerability. Their adventure together in "The End of Time," remains one of my favourite Doctor/companion dynamics to this day.

Not only can an older companion bring perspective to the Doctor, they also possess the capacity to shed new light on the role of companion. Not only can their maturity aid their approach, but it can also add new levels of tension. A man like Graham, or even ersatz companions such as Jago & Litefoot, don't possess the same vitality of companions like Leela or Jamie McCrimmon. Instead, they have to rely on solutions that require less physical exertion and more planning. Think of women's roller derby or even the WNBA, where fundamentals of the game are given focus over the more aggressive approach of their male counterparts. These are companions with practicality by necessity. The wrong decisions could be even more disastrous when the outcome could mean relying on weak knees and stunted mobility.

It's easy to see why a young companion is an obvious choice for the show. They're often gorgeous people through which the audience can experience the Doctor. We watch them grow over time, to varying degrees of success on the writers' behalves. Martha Jones becomes a stronger, more independent person by choosing to leave the Doctor. Ace confronts some of her deepest fears. It's rare that an older companion brings the same vigour to the role. Bar maybe River Song or the Brigadier, few of them are action heroes. But almost without fail, these seasoned heroes exude charm and character that only age can bring. Even one-time companions (such as Amelia Rumford from "Stones of Blood,") remain popular within the fandom, due to their unique personalities. So much, that one may make the argument for their status as honorary companions.

Series eleven has been polarising on many different levels, but one of the most common bits of praise I hear was the choice to bring Graham onboard the TARDIS. In classic Doctor Who, we got companions out of time, companions from other planets, and even some robots. But in modern Doctor Who, not so much. Even futuristic Oswin became modern day Clara Oswald, for better or worse. The show was suffering from a line of predictable companions, from relatively similar backgrounds. You'll understand then, the pure excitement I had at the prospect of a granddad running around the TARDIS. It's sometimes easy to forget that the Doctor started out as "Grandfather." It's an important energy that was present at the genesis of the show.

Having companions always portrayed as young and attractive is about as believable as every superhero being a beautiful person. The truth of the matter is that you'd get the occasional old codger or school matron. This isn't American television where everyone has perfect teeth and washboard abs. It’s important to remember the value of the aged and elderly. Having aged companions is true to life. It is, essentially, rather British.

#doctor who #companions #Graham O'Brien #donna noble #river song #amelia rumford #brigadier lethbridge stewart #brian williams #jackie tyler #wilfred mott #evelyn smythe #sixth doctor #tenth doctor #Ian Chesterton #Barbara Wright #war doctor #eleventh doctor #amy pond #rory williams

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mashitandsmashit · 5 years

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America’s Got Talent: Season 14 - Judge Cuts 3

I guess throw Erin into the “likable personality, but was mostly just there” pile, since I’m so obligated to criticize these guest judges...But once again, a solid GB choice!

I guess the unfortunate casualties for this week would be Revolution Queens, Cirque Du Sewer (it’s like a cross between a pet act and a Rube Goldberg machine act) and I might even say Stephanie’s Child...Sure, maybe they weren’t the best singers, but I feel like entertainment value should be factored in as well, which will be a major topic of discussion in this review...

Obviously, a lot of people are pissed that Ansley didn’t make it and silly acts like Gonzo did, but as I commented on her video, I see variety as just as important as talent. The reason why some stupid acts slip through is because they’re unique and different, whereas she’s just an adequate child singer among much superior ones. (Hell, I’d say the girls from GFORCE are better...) I wish her the best, but she didn’t deserve to advance in my opinion (especially since she keeps running into the same issue...)

And it’s not a very good year for acrobats or dance duos, is it? I was hoping that at LEAST Duo MainTenanT would pull through, but to be fair, I didn’t see anything super-exciting from them this time, at least from the brief clip of them that I saw. And while it may have seemed like Edson & Leon would make it due to being previewed early, I guess it means nothing now...While it is impressive what they do, I don’t see them doing much to develop the act anyway...Honestly, from the brief three seconds we saw from Andrei & Alexander, they showed the most promise in this category!

Anyway, let’s move on to who made the cut...

7: Mackenzie. Yeah, he’s a good singer and everything, and I enjoy his stage presence and all that, so I won’t complain about him advancing...But he’s probably the least interesting singer to make the live shows...I was hoping there wouldn’t be any singers I would have to actively root against in the live shows this year, but it’s probably going to be him...

6: Sideshow Opera. Well, I guess we needed ONE weird sideshow act in there (even though Bir Khalsa should count as well). But yeah, this was just weird enough to be entertaining, and you gotta give the man props for singing on a bed of nails with a cinder-block on his chest while his wife smashed it with a fiery mallet, as well as the amount of precise timing that was required! They won’t make it past the next round, but I look forward to one more deadly aria!

5: Gonzo. I don’t care what anyone says, Gonzo is just too much! Like, he’s totally out in the next round, but I don’t care, one more performance from him is all I ask!

4: Greg Morton. While I think I liked his “Star Wars” set a little more, I still greatly enjoy his energy and all of the different voices he can do! (Here, I’d say he peaked early with the T-Rex impression...) He doesn’t even NEED to do all those voices; He can just read the phone-book and I’ll love it! Though he still looks terrifying when he opens his mouth like that...

3: Carmen Carter. Yeah, I don’t care, I had a blast! Sure, she hypes the audience quite a bit, but I think that kinda added to it! Had to find SOME way to get attention off of her massive rack! I’m sorry, I just couldn’t look away from that...But whatever, girl, you do you!

2: Marcin Patrzalek. I really had to think about these top two...Marcin definitely stepped it up, but after that audition, it’s hard to know how much more you CAN step up! Also, there is the matter of which one I would pay to see in a show, and a lone guitar player might not make for the best hour-and-a-half of my time, no matter how crazy he plays it! That said, that is just a factor to consider with an otherwise amazing talent! While he deserved a GB just like the act that beat him here, I will point out that I’m once again going to pick my own personal Golden Buzzer, and I think I already know who it’s gonna be...Winkity-wink-wink!

1: Light Balance Kids. I mean, I love Marcin, but could it have REALLY been anyone else to get the GB!? The adult version of this act had one, and these kids really DO have the potential to top even them! Hell, in the final results, they might even rank a little bit higher than Third this time! I’ll be pulling for these kids, just like I will with Marcin and V.Unbeatable! (And the best part is, they could ALL potentially make the Top 5! Though Kodi Lee will probably still win, but whatever...)

So there may be a few deserving acts not making the live shows who I would have liked, but I at least understand that there are some tough choices with all of these.

Otherwise, in my opinion, the judges are making solid choices this year! Let’s see if they bring it home next week when Ol’ Bigchin is their guest judge!

And now to predict the fortunate ones...I’ll start with the singers, since that’s looking to be a pretty cutthroat category for this one...

We have THREE child singers competing in this same show, and they are arguably the best of the category for this season (barring any that already have a Golden Buzzer)! Charlotte Summers, Benicio Bryant and Emanne Beasha!

Of the three’s auditions, Charlotte’s was by far my favorite, with some unique and powerful vocals, and a strong stage presence! I’m actually rooting for her, but I am a little worried...It’s hard to imagine all three of these kids advancing on the same show, and the other two just have stronger factors going for them...

Benicio has the factor of being the only boy of the group, so they might consider diversity, and he was also featured in the “Best of Auditions” compilation...Everyone else from that compilation has already made the live shows (including Greg Morton, which is why I felt as confident in him as I did).

As for Emanne...Well, she’s a young girl who sings opera, and we all know how much everybody loves those! In fact, while there is still a possibility for the other singing acts, she’s my most likely prediction for the Golden Buzzer! (Leno’s pre-GB line in the promo even sounds like he might be talking to a child singer of some sort, most likely a Jackie Evancho type...Hmmm...)

Either way, I’m fine with one more singer getting it; Both V.Unbeatable and Light Balance Kids have one, I’ll allow whatever for the last one now...

The other singing act to consider is Voices of Service, which could actually go either way...

And now for the other categories...If there’s one non-singing act for this show who is GB-worthy (though I doubt it’s him), it’s Eric Chien! But honestly, it might be more fitting if he doesn’t get one, since he’s the spiritual successor to Shin Lim, who WON last year without one! A GB might actually jinx it for him...But either way, I’m feeling pretty much certain that he’s gonna make it regardless...

Magicians haven’t been doing the best this year (I mean, most of them ARE struggling to reach the high bar that last year’s winner set)! Even the guy who already made it didn’t impress as much in this round...So we’ll see if Eric is the one who rises to the challenge...Because I don’t think it’s gonna be SOS...

So let’s get to some TOUGHER rivalries! In the stand-up comedy category, we have two naughty middle-aged comediennes! Going off of their auditions, I did like Kara with a K more, and she has a VERY colorful personality to boot...But we’ll see how well Jackie Fabulous can step it up...I guess it all comes down to which one does better in this round!

Then we have TWO contortionists, Marina Mazepa and our favorite human carry-on, Jonathan Burns! I can actually see this potential rivalry going either way; While we may have predicted early on that Burns will get pigeonholed, he could also find some way to squeeze through (pun way intended)! But no matter how amazing either of them are, I think they could both end up going home regardless...

Throw Dominguez Poodles and Trigger Happy into the candidate list...And while I don’t think they’ll make it, remember DM Nation from Season 10? Apparently they have returned and will compete in this episode...

So let’s try to guess who’s making the final cut...

1: Benicio Bryant

2: Dominguez Poodles

3: Emanne Beasha (Golden Buzzer)

4: Eric Chien

5: Jackie Fabulous/Kara with a K

6: Trigger Happy

7: Voices of Service

But I don’t want Charlotte to go so soon...

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doomonfilm · 6 years

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Ranking : Quentin Tarantino (1963 - present)

When it comes to connecting ‘cool’ with cinema of the past 3 decades, the name that often skyrockets to the top of most lists is Quentin Tarantino. With a distinct flare for mixing varied genres with the grace of a DJ, a unique tone in terms of both dialogue and humor, and more controversy than a gaggle of directors can shake a stick at often surrounding his name, Tarantino’s output never ceases to entertain or amaze. We never quite know what he’ll bring to the table next, but we know what he’s left at the table, and now is the time to put them in a personal favorite order.

While possibly controversial in its inclusion, Four Rooms will be on this list due to Tarantino’s distinct style being present in his equally timed segment of the film. Conversely, Sin City will not be included, as he only co-directed a scene and not an entire section of the film. True Romance and Natural Born Killers have also been excluded, as Tarantino did not direct those films, despite his involvement in them.

10. Four Rooms (1995) While not a full feature directed by Tarantino, his portion was the perfect way to wrap up the entire film. His portion amped up the film’s energy, the stakes were instantly recognizable and identifiable to a viewer, putting this feeling in the pit of your stomach that rides with you until the inevitable conclusion, and it was a continuation of the wonderful working chemistry between Tarantino and Tim Roth. It anchors this list simply because it is not a full-length feature, but it is a notable breathing point in a remarkable career.

9. Inglorious Basterds (2009) In terms of premise alone, this movie should have done it for me. Christoph Waltz gave a performance for the ages. Even my friend Tina Rodriguez is in the opening frames of this film. To put it plain and simple, the final 20 or so minutes of this film lost any and all momentum it had built, in my eyes, and became a piece of shock exploitation when it could have continued being a genre-redefining twist on a story we are all too familiar with. Basterds was definitely a shot at something unique, but Tarantino would go on to do it better in the next film on this list.

8. Django Unchained (2012) This could have been much higher on the list, as it does (in my opinion) what Inglorious Basterds could not in terms of taking a genre or topic we believe is well defined and putting a fresh spin on it. Making a continuation of the Django western series with a former slave in the starring role is a bold choice, but Tarantino came within a breath of hitting the bullseye. The only, and I mean ONLY thing that kicks this film so far down the list is the HORRIBLE choice to include the rap music cues more than two-thirds into the film’s run. It totally took me out of the world that the film had built, and turned it into a Robert Rodriguez level ending for what was nearly a modern day masterpiece.

7. Grindhouse - Death Proof (2007) This film oozes so much style and bravado that it’s almost disgusting. The cars chosen for this film would fit wonderfully in my collection when I become a rich man. The collisions captured for the film are some of the most jaw dropping and gut wrenching ever committed to celluloid. Kurt Russell is a pure joy to watch in this film, and every woman cast in this film has something unique about them that demands your attention and tugs at your heartstrings (if not base desires). The heavy exploitation elements, including the raucous ending, are pitch perfect. Even the touch of the entire missing reel in the theatrical version, present in the home released full cut, divides viewers, as many are missing a huge exposition chunk not present in theaters. Probably would not have worked as well outside of the Grindhouse context, but nevertheless a pleasant surprise of a film that emerged from that collaborative project.

6. Jackie Brown (1997) For a passion project, this film really finds its groove and sticks the landing. One of a handful of Elmore Leonard novels that found its way to the big screen in the mid to late 1990′s, Jackie Brown might be the one that speaks best to an older time and sentiment being forced to find value in a changing age. Robert Forrestor and Pam Grier’s chemistry is undeniable, Bridget Fonda brings a whimsy to the screen not present in full sincerity since the 1970′s, and seeing Samuel L. Jackson paired with Robert De Niro is cinematic gold. The soundtrack is amazing, the story is easy to relate to, and the style used for the film was probably the last Scorcese-esque approach Tarantino used before committing fully to the flare and outlandishness of his exploitation desires. An underappreciated gem, in all honesty.

5. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)

4. Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004) Oh, what could have been... here was an idea, when pitched, that would cover three to four hours of runtime, emotional and action-based peaks and valleys unparalleled in modern day film, and revitalize the possibility of a director’s vision and execution being identical if not extremely similar. Instead, what we were given were two halves of one film promoted and released as separate films, thoroughly confusing the majority of the viewing public and showing that, despite all that Quentin had done prior, he was still left to answer to the powers that be at Miramax. Had this film been released in its original intended presentation, it would very like be the top film on this list. I will hold out indefinitely for the hopes that it is re-cut as one film for the Criterion Collection one day.

3. The Hateful Eight (2015) Another film that seems deeply personal upon repeat viewing. This one was very specific on the technical side when it came to shooting with the Ultra Panavision 70 (for a true 70mm aspect ratio), but the result is an amazingly claustrophobic experience, as most of this wideness was used to capture strangers locked in together during a fierce snowstorm. Casting Kurt Russell in a low-key remake of The Thing is a stroke of genius. Casting Jennifer Jason Leigh in a scene-stealing lead actress role was another. This film is perfectly tense when it needs to be, extremely violent (usually out of the blue), and hilarious all in equal measure. A true example of what the film experience can (and should) be, and one that must be seen on a big screen if afforded the opportunity.

2. Reservoir Dogs (1992) It may seem obvious, but one way to get an established and fruitful career is with a monumental and mind-blowing debut. In the case of Quentin Tarintino, we got an exercise in minimalism, a showcase for a handful of actors that were not getting the respect they deserved at the time, and a (deceptively) straightforward genre film that you can hang your notions and comparisons on. What is quickly revealed, however, is a demonstration of how tough guys can be cordial when they need to be, and all business when the heat is on. This tale of a robbery gone horribly wrong shows almost none of the robbery, focusing instead on mostly fallout, and still somehow manages to ratchet the tension up so high that you find yourself constantly on the edge of your seat. Cool aesthetic is drenched all over this film, from casting to production to wardrobe. The radio motif presented in both the film and the soundtrack further solidify the film and sear images into the memory, making them instantly recognizable and utterly unforgettable.

1. Pulp Fiction (1994) Tarantino’s magnum opus. The film where he not only truly honed in on his first great run thanks to his style, aesthetic and motifs, but the film that spawned a generation of copycats, both directly and in terms of general filmmaking style. The film made John Travolta a star to an entirely new generation, it helped put Bruce Willis back on the map, and it made household names out of Uma Thurman, Samuel L. Jackson and Ving Rhames. If there were a single film that was ever symbolic of 1990′s cinema, one would be hard pressed find a film more suitable than this one to fulfill that role. Tarantino was truly firing on all cylinders when he put this one together. The film is so good that it made most everything he touched an instant classic for a long, long time afterwards.

If their were ever a director (or a list) made to generate debate, it would be this one. I anticipate disagreements, and in time, I even anticipate this list to probably change. But, as of this point in my life, and this point in Tarantino’s career, I feel strongly and confidently that this is a good representation of his work and how they stand up to one another.

#ChiefDoomsday #DOOMonFILM #QuentinTarintino #FourRooms #IngloriousBasterds #DjangoUnchained #GrindhouseDeathProof #JackieBrown #KillBillVolume1 #KillBillVolume2 #TheHatefulEight #ReservoirDogs #PulpFiction

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vanguardonlinefilmnezes · 3 years

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donotgogentlyintothatgoodnight · 6 years

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Stranger Places (a stranger things tale) chapter five: Therapy

Description: Everything changes when Dustin finds his mother’s lifeless body, but he is quickly reminded that he still has family when his older sister comes home. Though she is not the company he wants, can he learn to live with her? Can she readjust to life in Hawkins?

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Jackie was dead silent the entire car ride. It was a trait both her and Dustin shared; when they were upset about something, they would refuse to talk or listen to anything anyone had to say. Steve felt anxious from the energy being created. He knew he probably should stay quiet and mind his own business, but his curiosity was getting the better of him.

“So,” he began. “Wanna talk about it?”

“We don’t need to discuss how Carol, Nicole, and Beverly are airheads,” She said, without missing a beat. He let out an awkward chuckle. “Why’d you let them get to you then?”

“It wasn’t just that,” Jackie replied. Without taking his eyes completely off the road, he glanced over at her. She hadn’t moved or switched her position since they got into the car; her arms still crossed, the same curl caressing her cheek, and her eyes locked on the ever changing scenery as they passed through town. “So what else hap-”

“Listen, Steve,” she said finally turning her head to look at him. “I get what you’re doing and I appreciate it, but I’m really not in the mood to talk about it.”

He began to say something else, but decided it wasn’t worth really saying. If she wanted to sit in silence, he’d just have to deal with it.

When they did arrive to the Henderson house, Jackie sat there for a second. Her eyes fell onto the numbers above the garage door. They were rusted and the number two was crooked; the same ones from when they first moved in. Another thing her dad always promised he would fix, but never did. She hated that she was allowing him to even slip into her brain, because he had no place in her life, not even in her thoughts.

“Jackie,” Steve broke her from her trance. “I do have to get back to school.”

“Yeah,” she said, remembering he was skipping.

“Thanks” She told him, unbuckling her seat belt.

“Jackie?” he stopped her, before she could get out. She looked at him with tired eyes. He better make this one quick he told himself. “Give it some time. Things will get better and people will change.”

She rolled her eyes and smirked. “People don’t change, Harrington. At least, not in this town.” She opened the car door and hopped out, closing it behind her. Jackie sped walk to the front door. She fished around for the spare key in the giant pot on the porch, since she forgot hers in her locker with her coat, and let herself in.

Dustin sat in the guidance office directly across from his designated counselor, Mrs. Gonzales; who sat there patiently with a smile on her face and hands folded together on top of her desk. Dustin smiled back at her nervously. He notices the Newton’s cradle sitting on her desk and reaches for it.

“Oh, please don’t touch that,” she tells him, reaching out her hand to stop him.

“Why have it on your desk then?” he asked her. Mrs.Gonzales smiled, as if to see his point. “Dustin how are you feeling?”

He looked at her like he couldn’t tell if she was being serious. “Okay,” he said, dragging out the a and y.

“Dustin,” she began. “You’ve just been through a tragedy. Its okay to not feel okay.”

His eyes darted from one side to the room to the other. “Okay,” he repeated the same way. She was being serious.

“Is there anything you want to talk about?”

“Not really,” he said. Anything he did want to say, he didn’t want to discuss with her.

She closed her eyes and smiled. “That’s okay, you don’t have to say anything to me now. But I would like to start seeing you once a week, every Monday, at this time.”

Dustin slumped back into his chair. Another reason to hate Mondays. Mrs. Gonzales scribbled down a hall pass for him before dismissing him. Dustin started the destination back to class, but came to a hault mid-stride. He looked over to his right into the windows of the library. He backtracked to the entrance, searching for an empty table to make himself comfortable at. Dustin unzipped his back pack and pulled out the book Mr. Clarke had given him. He flipped pass the first few header pages and started at chapter one.

“So you’re interested in learning about energy and its correlation with the afterlife? Let me start off by telling you this book is not a guide on how to resurrect yourself or a step by step how to bring back a deceased loved one from the grave (I recommend studying witchcraft if you’re truly interested). It is simply my theory of how the energy our bodies produce and use while we are alive is recycled after we die, and how we could possibly use this said energy to our advantage while we are still kicking and screaming.”

Mr. Clarke knew exactly how to get Dustin’s attention. He was only a paragraph in and already intrigued. He continued.

“First of all, lets define what energy is. Energy (symbol: E) is the property of matter, usually created by the vibration of molecules interacting with one another, that propels an object. Energy can be created physically or chemically, but can not be destroyed. So what does that mean for us? Our energy is both physical and chemical. We can create it from sleeping, eating, exercising, etc. However, besides just allowing us to move, think, and talk which is incredible in itself, energy can allow us to do so much more than what we are already aware of; such as telekinesis, telepathy, teleportation, even time travel. But, we’ll get more in depth with that in chapter seven.”

“Cool,” Dustin said, continuing to paddle his way through the voyage of knowledge.

Steve made it back to campus just in time for practice. He changed into his Hawkins High t-shirt and gym shorts and got out on the court, stretching his arms and legs out before practice actually began.

“So, did you here orphan Annie’s alive?” he heard one of his teammates say.

“Yeah, wild right? She’s actually sorta cute now too,” another one chimed in. Steve rolled his eyes. Jackie was probably getting this all day. No wonder she wanted to leave.

“Is she that sexy little curly haired brunette I’ve been eyeing all day?” Steve clenched his jaw. Billy knew exactly how to get under his skin, even when he wasn’t trying.

“Don’t waste your time on her, Billy,” Tommy told him. “She was sick back in middle school; had to be moved to a special hospital for it. Don’t wanna catch something from her.”

“She had cancer, you idiot,” Peter, one of their teammates corrected him. “You can’t catch cancer.”

“Still,” Tommy continued. “She’s not normal. She’s a crazy one.”

Billy smirked. “Well, good thing I like ‘em crazy.”

“Fat chance.”

“How much you wanna bet I can get in her pants before the end of this month?” Billy egged on.

“I bet fifty bucks you won’t,” Peter told him.

“Same,” Tommy said.

“You’re on,” Billy told them with a ghoulish grin. “Get ready to lose your allowances, boys.”

Steve’s hand clenched up into a fist. Jackie didn’t deserve this type of ridicule, or to already be preyed on by Hargrove. But before he could act on his emotions, coach blew his whistle.

“Stop gossiping boys. You can do that at your sleepover when you all are painting eachother’s nails and watching pretty in pink. Thomas, off my court.”

Peter came over and gave Steve a light slap on the back. “You good?”

“Yeah,” Steve replied and join the rest of the team to do drills.

Jackie sat on the couch staring at the clock. She thought she wanted to be alone. She really didn’t like the silence though, leaving her to get tangled in a web of her own thoughts. She sighed, getting up to look for a spare coat around the house. When she didn’t find one in her own closet, she went to Dustin’s, where she found an oversize wool sweater. This should do the trick, she thought as she pulled it over her head. She grabbed a scarf and hat as well, knowing very well Dustin never wore it if he was willing to leave it behind.

Jackie locked the front door behind her, placing the spare key back where it belonged. She needed to find a way to blow off steam. She knew the exact activity to help her do just that too and hopped on a bus into town. Plugging herself into her walkman, she avoided any possible human interaction with anyone else riding the bus. Thankfully, the trip wasn’t long and she was off within fifteen minutes, heading to the towns training center.

When she entered the gym, Jackie walked straight up to the counter, pretending not to notice that she was the only female there and all the men were staring at her. She rang the bell and a man peaked his head from behind his newspaper. He was big, rugged and intimidating, but Jackie didn’t even flinch at him.

“Are you lost?” He asked her in his deep voice.

“I want to sign up for your kick boxing classes,” she told the man, who raised a brow at her. A few of the men let out a few chuckles her way that she brushed off with ease.

“Sorry, but no.”

“Why not?” she insisted.

“I don’t have someone who could train you.”

“Then you train me,” she retaliated with.

He folded up his paper, setting it to the side. “What makes you think I want to train you.”

“Because,” she began, glancing around the room. Apparently she was the center of entertainment. They were really gonna love this one then. “Because I’m better than any guy you have here.”

There were a few whoops from the men in the gym.

“Little girl, this is a professional gym,” he explained to her, as if she was blind and didn’t know where she was.

“And I’m a professional,” she replied back

“Why don’t you sign up for the cheer squad?” he asked her, patronizingly.

“Because I don’t break nails, I break bones.”

He smiled at her and let out a slight chuckle underneath his breath. “You really want to train that bad? Fine, glove up. Lets see what you’re made of, big shot.”

She smiled and quickly headed over to get sized up for gloves. The young man behind the second counter, who didn’t look too much younger than her smiled. “What size?” he asked.

“twelve ounce.”

He seemed impressed by that alone that she knew her own sizing. He shrugged and handed them to her. “Knock ‘em dead.”

She giggled, braiding her curls. He was the first person not from her past that was actually pleasant towards her. “Thanks.”

Jackie made her way to the ring, where the man from the counter was waiting. He looked at her and let out a big exhale.

“Ready?” she asked him.

He rolled his eyes and put up his guards. “Okay, give me a left, then a right straight.”

Boom! Pow! She knocked her gloves into the padded guards.

“Good,” he praised her. “Now give me a right hook and a left uppercut.”

Pow! Pow! Again, she punched into the guards, making gun-pop like sounds. The man looked at her with amazement. She was disappointed that he found this impressive.

“Come on,” she egged him. “You’ve got anything more challenging? Give me some combos!”

He laughed. “Alright, kid. Throw a 1-2-1-1, then a 1-6-3-2 combo.”

She did them with ease. This went on for the next fifteen minutes. Him throwing combos at her left and right, more difficult as they went on, and her doing them with no hesitation. She could feel herself disappearing, forgetting all about the day and letting her frustration out on the activity at hand.

“Okay, lets stop,” he told her. Jackie frowned. “no,” she said breathless. “Why?”

He laughed. “Because my hands are beaten up and tired,” he said honestly. He threw her a towel. “Come on, kid. Lets go get you a water. You deserve it.”

She smiled, following close behind him with the whole gym in awe of her.

“What’s your name?” he asked, tossing her a water bottle.

“Jackie,” she told him.

“Nice to meet you, Jack. Brodie,” he told her, extending out a hand that she took graciously. “Where’d you learn all that, Jack?”

“Someone told me that it was good for a girl to know a form of self defense,” she began. “I thought it would be better to know how to throw a good punch.”

Brodie chuckled. “Well, you definitely know how to do that.” Jackie smiled, taking a swig from her water. “You’re right. I don’t think any of these pansies here can hold a candle to your lightning.”

She giggled, dabbing her forehead with the towel. “Classes are $30 a pop,” He began but before he could get in another word, her smile disappeared. “I’m sorry Brodie, but I can’t afford that. I have to take care of my kid brother and pay bills. That’s just too expensive for me at the moment,” she apologized, handing back the towel. “I’m sorry for wasting your time.”

He shook his head at her. “Wait, before you get hot and bothered by the price, I can negotiate with you. I’m not that much of an unreasonable man,” he said with a smile. “how to does $30 a month sound? instead of a class?”

“I can’t ask you to do that,” she said in awe.

“I’m not asking, I’m offering. I want you to train at my gym. You’re good kid, and you know it. Which means you’re not afraid to give it all you got. You just need someone to do the fine tweakin’.”

She smiled, “Thanks, Brodie.”

He ruffled her hair like he did with his boys after a good training sesh. “Be here nine am, saturday, in appropriate attire this time. Not like you’re going to chop wood.”

She giggled. She did look ridiculous in her outfit from school in a hot gym. Brodie disappeared into the back room, and Jackie went to return the gloves she had borrowed. The young man who helped her before gave her a small applause. “You didn’t just knock ‘em dead. You murdered them.”

She laughed, “I guess I took your advice a little too seriously.”

He extended his hand out, “Corey.”

“Jackie,” she introduced herself. “Do you train here too?”

He laughed. “As if. I just work here. I think my dad thinks it’ll make me less gay,” he told her.

“He sounds like a prick,” she mumbled.

He laughed again. “Well, he seemed to take quite the liking to you.”

Her eyes widened as she cursed herself.

“Don’t worry. I don’t think he heard you from back there.”

“Brodie’s your dad?” she whispered.

“Yeah,” he said with a sigh. “He’s a bit of a hard ass, but the man really does have a heart of gold.”

She thought it was kinda sweet how Corey described Brodie, and wished she could say the same for her old man.

“Well, anyway,” he began. “I better get back to work before one of these meatheads tell on me.”

She laughed. “Thanks Corey.”

“Later Gator,” he told her as she exited the gym.

Hey you! Thanks for reading. I’m trying to move things along so that I can possibly start posting more frequently. Just hitting little roadblocks, but we’re still moving! Feel free to like, leave a comment, or message me :)

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glenhoweyphotographictours · 4 years

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Testimonials

“I really enjoyed my photography trip with Glen. He was very knowledgeable as well as being an interesting and engaging guy. The conversations were very enjoyable. Naturally enough, the sights were spectacular and I almost felt like a fraud coming away with such good photographs. Glen is the kind of person who is prepared to go the extra distance to ensure you have a memorable trip. On top of this he edited some of my photos a couple of days later, and also shared some of the ones he took on the day, both of which I considered was part of his providing a top-class service.”

-Frank Gradwell, Wellington

“Having been on many of Glen’s landscape workshops I find each time I learn something new. Each location is carefully planned out and is always full of surprises.

Glen’s energy and passion for landscape is inspiring. His knowledge of the area, fantastic guidance, tips and techniques are tailored to everyones needs. All of these elements combined whilst enjoying a new adventure, gives you the get up and go...especially at 5am which is one of my favourite times of the day... sunrise....then sunset brings a whole other world of magic.

Overall, Glen’s workshops no only give you the tools to create great work, but being with other like minded people, and getting out amongst it all, leaves you wanting more. I always leave feeling inspired and look forward to the next one. Well worth every penny!

Thank you Glen for sharing your passion and knowledge as I know I am richer for it!”

 -Kathryn Armitage

" I have attended many of Glen Howey's Photographic landscape workshops over the years. During this period, I have learned an enormous amount from Glen's expertise and it has given me the confidence to pursue my own love for the genre. Glen is a one-of-a-kind Landscape photographer. He is so upbeat and makes you get up and do things that you would never imagine possible; It ́s infectious. His genuine care for others and enthusiasm is beyond this world. I couldn ́t recommend him and his workshops enough "

-Yvonne Wereta

“In the last 12 years I have been on numerous trips with Glen, both in New Zealand and Internationally, a I could not recommend more highly the photographic experiences that he offers.

He is generous with his knowledge and energy, and his upbeat personality never fails to inspire and entertain. He is completely reliable , and applies a perfectionists eye and attitube to everything he does. His knowledge of our New Zealand landscape is staggering and has been gained through 3 decades of intense exploration and dedication.

The trips I have had with Glen over the years have always been high points in my life.”

-Debbie Rawson.

“I had the great privilege to spend an 8 hour photo tour session with Glen Howey in the Queenstown, NZ region. Glen has a rich background in photography having taught at university in Wellington and been associated with two well known NZ photographers, Mike Langford and Jackie Ranken. He has decades of experience in travel, landscape and documentary photography and runs photo tours to SE Asia locations like Myanmar, Cambodia and Sri Lanka. Glen’s photography often focuses on the socially relevant aspects of a shoot. He was front and center for the Christ Church earthquake in 2011 and documented the tragedy in a highly acclaimed photo book. Glen is also a volunteer fireman and had been a first responder to a tragic bus accident of Chinese tourists just the day before. Despite the early 5 am departure and well understood lingering feelings about the accident, Glen’s enthusiasm for his craft and the shoot locations was infectious. It almost made the hot mug of coffee he brought for me unnecessary.

We started the morning with a drive up to Coronet Peak overlooking the entire Wakatipu Basin. The ski lift area is a favorite jumping off point for hang gliders and would be photographers. We were looking for a place to capture the sunrise. Given the cloudy morning, the amateur in me was a little disappointed by the muffled sunrise. But Glen saw colors forming through the clouds you and I wouldn’t see initially and his excitement was catching. Glen gives his photo partners plenty of rope depending on their level of experience, but offers worthwhile suggestions at just the right moments. A perfect instructive balance. I probably shouldn’t mention this since he’s busy enough as it is, but he offered to review my RAW photos from the sunrise shoot and make post processing edits and explanations for my benefit. One of those photos is a top three from all my shots during our 6+ week trip through Asia.

From Coronet Peak, we traveled along the narrow gravel road above Skippers Canyon, carefully avoiding the Shotover River jet boat crews and trailers along the way. Skippers is magic. From Gorilla Rock where Glen posed on the top for me, to a small gold mining town, capturing elevated views of the Shotover River, and finally a wooden suspension bridge leading to an old schoolhouse, Glen told stories of the Canyon’s history at each point. We stopped for a panaromic view and had “biccies” and coffee (I didn’t know coffee came in tea bags!). By the way, the panorama shot of Skippers Canyon is the full front and back cover of my 90 page photo book of our Asian trip.

The last stop was a bridge just outside Queenstown which serves as a jumping off point for the Shotover River jet boats. Capturing an image of one of the boats racing under the bridge across the teal colored waters is worth the stop.

Like all fantastic voyages, ours came to a reluctant end. It was definitely the highlight of my trip to the South Island. And if you’re a photographer with any level of experience, and your travels take you to the Queenstown area...or Southeast Asia...don’t pass on an opportunity to spend a few hours with Glen.”

-Phil Essman

“It was my first visit to New Zealand, and I wanted to make the most of it. Typically not a user of photo guides, but a large format user recommended Glen. He was quite responsive to email inquiries, and suggested a visit to Skippers, an area just north of Queenstown. I was reluctant, as I planned to pass by that area, and who needed to see it twice? Glen stayed with his recommendation, noting I would miss this area if not guided. And he was totally correct! We went out my first evening for a few hours, then as the light fell, we both realized it needed another early AM visit - so at 6 the following morning, he picked me up and off we went. It was an area akin to Utah, the road small and winding, wide enough for his car only! I was absolutely delighted to visit, it was a tremendous highlight. There is no way I would have ever found the area, much less ventured in. Glen had good sensibility about the place, the light and where to shoot, but more importantly, knew how to let me work on my own, with some very good suggestions. A fascinating fellow he is well recommended to photographers of all skill levels. We had a good time working together!”

-Geoffrey Goldberg

My sunset photo trip to Skippers Canyon with Glen was one of the top highlights of my trip to New Zealand. Driving along adventurous roads that I could never have accessed on my own, Glen would pull over at one lovely photographic opportunity after another. We would discuss composition ideas and lighting angles. I would take some shots, we’d evaluate how they came out, Glen would provide feedback and critique, and if I wanted, we’d try them again. Then off to the next stop! Glen had lots of photographic tips and tricks to share along with interesting tidbits about local history. I am still using the information I learned from Glen and I love the shots I took. If you have the opportunity to go out with Glen on a photo trip I highly recommend you do so!”

- Lisa K.

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suppersanchez · 4 years

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Three Must Watch Indian Crime Movies

With most motion pictures talking about wrongdoing in India in the late eighties and nineties, one recollects the wrongdoing escapades motion pictures in Bollywood. Tragically, there are very few wrongdoing escapade films, and the greater part of the wrongdoing driven motion pictures that exist talked increasingly about the passionate disturbance of the lawbreaker and how they came to turn into a crook. You see debauchery is as yet an outside viewpoint to Bollywood. In any case, this doesn't imply that are no wrongdoing driven motion pictures in Bollywood. Here is a rundown of the main three wrongdoing driven motion pictures, which fundamentally changed the manner in which the world took a gander at Bollywood motion pictures.

Parinda: https://putlocker-online.com/golden-collection/popcornflix This film is obviously the one that propelled and re-propelled the vocations of in any event three entertainers, Nana Patekar, Anil Kapoor and Jackie Shroff. Nana Patekar was a lesser known on-screen character around then, however yet had demonstrated that he had the acting cleaves to take away the job of a handily maddened wear who was frightened of fire. Anil Kapoor required a jolt to support his profession that was going to be sandwiched between sweetheart kid and senior sibling. Jackie Shroff required something to demonstrate individuals that Subhash Ghai had really settled on the correct choice propelling him as the large hearted rascal and Nana Patekar needed to positively shape standard film.

The film is one of the most smoothly made Bollywood motion pictures, and you won't locate the standard routine daily schedule, however will rather invite the melodies and moves when they come - in light of the fact that you are so overpowered by the happenings onscreen.

Scenes to Note: Nana Patekar's fit when he sees fire and the peak where Jackie Shroff slaughters him by fundamentally securing him up a room brimming with fire. Another scene of note is the place their companion, a cop is taken shots at the Kabootar Khana, a spot where pigeons are taken care of. Before you state that it is roused from Quentin Tarantino, we folks didn't have any acquaintance with him in those days.

Dayavan:

Dayavan is one of those clique works of art that had everything in it. The activity, the feeling, the tenderness of an individual who has been naturally introduced to the universe of wrongdoing and capitulates to it, everything is depicted on screen by probably the best on-screen character this side of the Arabian Sea, Kamal Hassan. The film has been revamped and made in a few dialects all over India, and is perhaps the best screenplays and storylines in current film.

Scenes to Note: Scene where Dayavan first kills a cop. Scene where his significant other tumbles down from the overhang and the end succession where Dayavan is killed by the distraught child of the cop he had killed as a youngster.

Agneepath:

While Parinda and Dayavan were basic and clique hits in their time, Agneepath is something that I despite everything recalled today, with numerous individuals remembering the exchange. This film saw numerous things occurring - it was another supporter shot to Amitabh Bachchan's vocation, individuals concurring that Mithun Chakraborthy can act, and essentially gave Bollywood the permit to make motion pictures on the wrongdoing pervaded universe of that time. The film is said to have diminished down when it was first propelled, and it was just later that individuals comprehended what the film was about.

These are the three motion pictures that had the guts to challenge the mindset in those days, and many would concur that motion pictures like Johnny Gaddar, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai and even Shootout at Lokhandwala wouldn't have been conceivable if these films had not made the main imprint.

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girlonfilmmovies · 5 years

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New Classics: Universal Soldier - Day of Reckoning (2012)

“Would you like to be free from pain?”

The Universal Soldier series was never the blockbuster franchise its producers so desperately wanted to be. Even the original 1992 entry felt like a decade too late when it appeared, a warmed over mish-mash of post-Vietnam fears and cornball sci-fi that’s only remembered for Dolph Lundgren’s delirious villain and Jean Claude Van Damme’s naked buns. By the second, Van Damme was already phoning it in and Lundgren’s charming psychopath was nowhere to be found. Eventually the rights were swept up in the late 2000s, presumably to be relegated to the same dollar-bin garbage that keeps pumping out unnecessary z-tier sequels to forgotten fare like Behind Enemy Lines or The Marine. Yet John Hyams, son of director Peter Hyams of 2010, Outland, and Timecop fame/infamy, had other plans.

While on paper 2009′s Universal Soldier: Regeneration sounds like any other cheap action film shot on whatever Eastern European backlot that will stretch every dollar in their budget, Hyams showcased a natural talent for shooting action that many of his rivals lacked. Especially in the post-Bourne era, an action film that isn’t cut within an inch of comprehension seems like a wonderful breath of fresh air. Bringing back a freshly rehabbed Van Damme and an always hard-working Lundgren certainly helped too. So what to do after achieving a mild success with a mostly forgotten C-tier action franchise? John Hyams certainly had a bold idea: throw everything related to the series in the trash and turn it into a two hour arthouse horror film, complete with hallucinogenic freakouts, nightmarish atmosphere, and some of the most brutal action put to film.

To be fair, he didn’t jettison all aspects of the franchise, although you won’t miss much by going in fresh. He keeps the core concept of the “universal soldier”, a government program that revives deceased soldiers and uses them (under mind control) for their own dirty work which usually goes horrifically wrong every time. He also brings back Van Damme and Lundgren’s respective characters, though now with entirely different personalities and motivations (also Lundgren’s is alive again after having half his head blown off in the last one). He retains the menacing former MMA fighter Andrei Arlovski from the previous film, although he actually plays a different character this time around. Barring all that, Hyams essentially starts from a clean slate, and to do that he finds a new lead in Scott Adkins. A hero in a very specific film niche, Adkins was always the right man in the wrong time. A highly skilled martial artist, he initially started in turn of the century Hong Kong fare, making a few appearances in mediocre Jackie Chan crap and direct to video garbage as evil henchmen. Once he moved on to Hollywood, the Bourne style had taken over and directors had no need for an actor who could actually fight when they could just cut around an actor’s lack of athleticism. Relegated to the henchman role for almost the entirety of his mainstream work (most widely recognized today for Marvel’s Doctor Strange where he plays... a henchman), he only received larger roles in cheap video fare, where he was also mostly wasted. One particular director named Isaac Florentine took a liking to him though, and often gave him major roles that allowed him to showcase his skills. His breakout role was as hardened Russian fighter Yuri Boyka in the Undisputed franchise, a similarly hijacked brand that took a bad prison movie and turned it into a quasi-Bloodsport tribute, complete with flashy fight scenes and a lot of actual talented martial artists. But even then, there was a watchability to Adkins’ raw acting talent, and being handsome and able to roundhouse people flawlessly also couldn’t hurt.

We open with average everyday dad John (Adkins) woken up by his daughter in the middle of the night. She worries that she hears monsters in the house and needs her dad to give her the all-clear to go to sleep. Much to his horror, his kitchen is inhabited by a group of ominous masked men, led by a bald man named Luc Deveraux (Van Damme). The Deveraux of past films was a noble if tired soldier, who was more than willing to save the world last film. This one rocks a shaved head and a thousand yard stare, a man broken by the world around him into whatever shape stands in front of John. He rambles in vague existentialist terms, only to interrupt when he begins to summarily execute John’s family right in front of him. One shot later, John awakens in a hospital bed with that as the only memory left in his shattered brain. A government agent gives him word of an investigation into Deveraux, but even the injured John knows there’s no backbone to his words. Whatever that agent knows he’s keeping to himself, so John has to do some digging on his own. We set on a path reminiscent of David Lynch’s Twin Peaks, a dreamlike collage of characters who all seem a little bit off in an environment that looks not to far behind from joining them. A possible lead winds up dead with only the classic noir matchbox to lead John to his next destination. A seedy strip club with a girl who seems to recognize him but under an entirely different name and personality. And for a man who was gravely injured, he seems to be healing at an almost unnatural rate.

Intercut with this first half is the descent into hell of sleeper agent Magnus (Arlovski). An imposing hulk in a massive plumber jumpsuit, he becomes activated in the middle of a job by the same mysterious agent John was questioned by and goes off wordlessly hunting. He shows up at a seedy neon-soaked brothel filled with a group of soldiers led by Deveraux’s right hand man Andrew Scott (Lundgren), all receiving copious amounts of strange, almost brutally violent sexual pleasure. Magnus’ shotgun does most of his talking here, in quite graphic form, until Scott hits him with a drugged syringe. A piercing fluttering sound enters as Magnus slows down and stares into the camera with a thousand yard stare. Scott (and soon a hallucinated Deveraux) preaches about being freed from his government oppressors and joining their separatist group, aimed at infiltrating the very top powers of America through these techniques. He arrives at their compound and it’s a nightmarish hellscape of masculinity: dingy lighting, distant dog barking, more camo than an army surplus store, and a near never-ending barrage of hyper masculine muscle men with guns at their side beating the hell out of each other for pure entertainment. We drift through the compound in slow motion, driven by a constant unnerving low rumble and lights feverishly pulsating. Scott delivers his speeches on freedom to his recruits, but one can only wonder if Deveraux has merely become their new slave master, as he roams the halls silently killing any who seem to perturb him. He is their cult leader, as all bow down before him and worship his words like that of a priest. They send Magnus after John, and soon enough the chase is on.

Hyams’ slow-burn style reads like Lynch by way of Gaspar Noe, a mix of the puzzling bad dream confusion of the former and the drugged up nightmare rave aesthetic of the latter. The brothel Scott’s troops spend their time in plays very much in the fashion of Noe’s underground trips of perversity. Taking full advantage of the film’s rare NC-17 rating, men’s muscular naked bodies are on full display, playing much more like contorted funhouse portraits of the “desired” male physique. Everything is sweaty and dingy, the people more rugged than Hollywood usually goes for, with the glimpses of depravity we see far beyond the usual we expect from sexy fanservice in low rent action movies. We see extremely aggressive acts from violent abuse to fetishized self-harm; the only way these men can get off is through the same violence that surrounds them. We meet mysterious characters later on who seem to know what’s ahead of John even before it happens and once Magnus attempts to hit John with the same drugged concoction that turned him, things get even stranger. Particularly nasty wounds seem to miraculously regenerate, he begins seeing visions of Deveraux in the mirror, and finds footage of a mystery man who looks just like him committing heinous acts of brutality towards people from his past.

Speaking of brutality, Hyams knows that at the end of the day this is an action film, and he really lets it rip with the full freedom of the NC-17. Magnus often comes in like a feral animal, screaming like a bat out of hell and often with a very dangerous weapon to boot. His first confrontation with John is a mess, an average man having to face an enraged behemoth, throwing him around like a ragdoll and tearing the set apart. John’s carelessness gets his fingers get caught in Magnus’ axe, immediately grounding Hyams’ action in clear physical stakes. We’ll eventually see a enraged John storm through Deveraux’s compound, mostly staged like one long shot, tearing through men like they were paper, as he too becomes like a rabid animal, letting out feral yells as he mercilessly slaughters everything in his path. But the real showstopper is a one-on-one showdown with Magnus in a sports department store, as both men grab whatever they can, from baseball bats to dumbbells to bowling balls, to pulverize the other one into pulp. Hyams’ and his team always shoot very clearly and cleanly, letting these talented men showcase their athletic skill and only sprinkling a little extra spice on top when needed.

John will eventually discover that he is quite literally a monster himself, not so different from them, and will be led towards the swamps of the Bayou. There, he will literally descend into the earth into the compound, into the masculine hell, looking for Deveraux’s promises of pure freedom. He’ll find a curious doctor, a man fallen right out of a Cronenberg movie, who will promise him freedom by telling him the truth and offering a rather gruesome surgery. But can John handle learning the truth, a truth that will shatter his entire reality? Much like in Noe’s Irreversible, the original crime is a lot more important than the vengeance we are supposed to demand. And to put it simply, John will not handle the truth very well.

The film ends on a rather disquieting note, as we meet the mysterious government agent again in the middle of nowhere. He admits his greater involvement, but has a bizarre adoration for John, noting how impressed he was that he was not powered by simple blind patriotism like the turned murderous agents, but rather his blind love for family. He speaks to him like a father would to a graduating son. One gun shot later and the agent is being replaced with an identical copy, who takes his spot in his vehicle to presumably go back to work and infiltrate higher parts of society with the separatist group’s ideas. But before he leaves, he gives a blank, subservient bow to the changed John, a man who has become all powerful only by rejecting the reality right in front of him. For if patriarchy has taught one thing, it’s that power and force are the only means of control, and John’s violent rampage has only won him followers. And when a broken man has an army that will listen to his every word, it’s hard to not throw your morals out the window and become a literal god among men.

#new classics #action #horror #scott adkins

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