#Passport Games Studios

[twig-tea]

East Palace, West Palace in ep5 of Blue Canvas of Youthful Days

I have been punched in the solar plexus by Blue Canvas of Youthful Days episode 5. So much happens in that episode that is overwhelming, from Qi Lu setting up a Netflix-and-chill date with the clear intention of making a move, to his putting on the famous film East Palace, West Palace (1996), to Qi Lu hiding Qin Xiao in the closet, to Qi Lu's panic at his father realizing he's been lied to, to the devastatingly practiced way Teacher Liu steps to Qi Lu being abused and handles his father, to the way Qi Lu shuts down, to the way QIn Xiao keeps sending mixed signals and Qi Lu calls him on it directly. And nobody else in this episode let me rest either; Tan Fan trying to ask Teacher Liu to wait for him and Liu brushing him off AGAIN, and Turtle trying to call out

@lurkingshan was already more coherent than I can be right now about what happened in the episode in her post.

So instead I want to focus on some queer cinema history that this episode evoked by using East Palace, West Palace as the film that Qi Lu shows to QIn Xiao.

For those who don't know, EPWP is considered to be the first realistic depiction of a gay man in film by a mainland Chinese production. It is to my knowledge the first time a gay man says "I love you" to another man on screen. It was made before being gay was decriminalized in China (1997), and it was filmed by an independent production company and smuggled out of China to France in order to be finished and distributed. It ended up at the Cannes festival in 1997, but the director's passport was seized and he was placed under house arrest to prevent him from attending. Despite pressure to pull the film, it still aired that year. In 1998, the Film Law was passed to prevent anyone from making films outside of the studio system (and therefore censorship review), effectively preventing anything like EPWP from being made in the future.

The film is about a gay man who cruises in the notorious bathrooms in the parks on either side of Tiananmen Square getting harassed by police officers (a situation extremely familiar to the historical queer experience in Canada [where I'm from] as well) and playing what I'd describe as a psychological game with one of them; A Lan kisses the cop, runs, and then gets caught a second time, and uses the second police confession as an excuse to tell his life's story in the public record, all while pushing the police officer a little further into deviance. As far as I'm aware, this film has been banned in China since being made and never shown (please correct me if I'm wrong about that!).

This is hitting me hard because of the much more recent history of Blue Canvas of Youthful Days itself. As most of you know, but I'll capture here for posterity, episodes 1-4 of this show aired on iQIYI (a China-based app) on August 6, and within 24 hours they were pulled from the app with no information about the future episodes being shown. When I watched episode 5 today, after waiting for it for 3 months, I was immediately hit with a wave of anger that this gorgeous, emotionally moving and powerful episode had been held back from public consumption for months, for the same reasons that the film being shown within the episode had been withheld from viewing in its own country.

Censorship is such an ugly thing, it's hard to articulate but the emotions around it are so strong because we know, when they pull or refuse to show media that depicts our lives, it's because they don't want our lives to be real; they don't want us to exist. It's a very real threat. And to have this episode--which is all about an abused boy who is in very real danger but so bravely insisting that he shoot his shot and take his best chance at love and happiness anyway, using the iconic confession scene from one of the most famous banned films in Chinese queer cinema history to do it--to have this episode be the one that was prevented from airing......I am overwhelmed.

In the scenes they watch in episode 5, A Lan tries to prevent the officer from uncuffing him, and then the officer lets him go, but A Lan doesn't go far and comes back. He declares his love to the officer's face, and demands that his love be acknowledged and not dismissed. And the officer does not know what to do with it and reacts with violence, which is partially what A Lan has been angling at all along. The show really played with this by having all three of the couples in the show stymied by having their overtures dismissed this episode, but we almost didn't get to see it.

I'm so grateful this got distribution now, and on multiple platforms. Blue Canvas of Youthful Days is airing Saturdays and Sundays on GagaOOLala and Youtube (note, as per @thisonelikesaliens's excellent language posts, the subs on Gaga are much better), and on Mondays on Viki. I know there is an avalanche of content right now, but this show is so good and worked so hard to make it to us, please give it some love!

[allwaswell16]

A One Direction fic rec of fics that involve football (soccer) as requested in this ask. If you enjoy the fics, please leave kudos and comments for the writers! You can find my other fic recs here. Happy reading!

—Louis/Harry—

⚽ Learning to Breathe by youcomecrash

(E, 110k, uni) He’s playing football at one of the top universities in England and he should love everything about his life right now, but instead he’s moving backwards

⚽ Don't Stop Thinking About Tomorrow by @1diamondinthesun

(NR, 84k, high school) the American high school AU loosely inspired by She's All That.

⚽ Bring Your Body Baby (I Could Bring You Fame) by @theboyfriendstagram

(E, 84k, famous/not famous) A self-indulgent AU that takes place over the summer of 2015. 18 year old Harry hates pining after people he can't have, and 23 year old footballer Louis loves flirting with people even though it never means anything.

⚽ Way in the World by flowsque / @mortediunfiore

(M, 74k, both players) the one where Harry has a knee injury and an embarrassing crush on Manchester United's pretty number ten.

⚽ Caught In Your Gravity by @lululawrence

(NR, 62k, Ted Lasso au) an AU inspired by a 30 second trailer of Ted Lasso that doesn't actually have much in common with the show at all.

⚽ so grab your passport and my hand by @infinitelymint

(M, 32k, strangers to lovers) The one in which Louis plays football and Harry sings a lot, and somehow that means they're meant to be. They'll figure it out soon enough.

⚽ Higher, Further, Faster by hazzahtomlinson / @itsnotreal

(E, 31k, uni) the one where Harry decides to go to college regardless of what his team warns him about and has to face the consequences, some of which aren’t so terrible after all.

⚽ Dive (series) by @allwaswell16

(E, 21k, famous/famous) Newly retired football star, Louis Tomlinson has left Manchester for Malibu. Along the way, he finds music, friendship, and love in the form of his pop star neighbour and the very fit movie star hiding out next door.

⚽ Hold My Breath by @zarah5

(M, 19k, injury) It's possible — possible — that his three-week ban from the football pitch makes Louis just a tad antsy. Surely it's not so bad that it warrants punishment in the form of his friends signing him up for a yoga class?

⚽ time slows down whenever you're around by wildestdreams / @thelavendrhaze

(E, 14k, flower shop) Louis plays "soccer" and falls for the wrong boy and Harry works in a flower shop and falls for Louis — again.

⚽ burn this flame by rainbowninja167 / @rainbowtitania

(E, 13k, famous/famous) When Harry gets invited to play in a celebrity charity match with Louis Tomlinson, Manchester United's star player, he's determined to impress him with brilliant football skills. The only flaw in Harry's otherwise foolproof plan? He has absolutely no football skills, brilliant or otherwise.

⚽ Come In and Change My Life by lightswoodmagic / @lightwoodsmagic

(E, 12k, neighbors) Harry and Louis become friends when Harry looks after Louis' cat during away games, until one night at a party changes everything between them. It's just a shame Louis' going to be away for the FIFA World Cup for three months.

⚽ Want you more than a melody by @softfonds

(E, 12k, mpreg) It's 2016, and Harry's life couldn't be better. His band is about to release their third studio album, he's dating the hottest football star on the planet, and tour is going to start the following year.

⚽ Just One Touch by jacaranda_bloom / @jacaranda-bloom

(E, 11k, Dr Harry) When footballer Louis Tomlinson needs to get match fit in a hurry, team doctor and best mate Niall Horan prescribes an unusual form of treatment.

⚽ Down the Field by @creamcoffeelou

(M, 9k, coach Louis) Louis, a pro football player of Chelsea, is forced to retire after a severe injury to his foot.

⚽ every day and tomorrow night by @justanothershadeofblue

(E, 8k, high school) Harry stares. The new boy is beautiful, there’s no other word for him. 

⚽ Eat Your Vegetables by @bananaheathen

(M, 8k, famous/not famous) In which Louis is a celebrity footballer and Harry is the new team nutritionist.

⚽ Glass Heart by @musketrois

(G, 7k, coming out) “26-year-old West Ham footballer Louis Tomlinson was seen getting acquainted with 24-year-old pop sensation Harry Styles and others. Although it is not unordinary for these two professions to be social, we can’t wait to see what this budding relationship will bring to London’s social scene.” -Celebrity Blurb 25 March, 2017

⚽ Down To Be a Distraction by QuickedWeen / @becomeawendybird

(E, 6k, famous/famous) The English national team is on the brink of winning the UEFA final and it all hinges on a penalty kick from team captain and national hero Louis Tomlinson, who was forcibly outed in the press right before the tournament. 

⚽ Game Changer by @neondiamond

(E, 6k, mpreg) A couple months before playing in his first long-awaited World Cup, Louis finds out he’s pregnant. Harry’s there for the ride.

⚽ The Air From My Lungs by Kikiberoski16 / @larrysballetslippers

(E, 5k, uni) Harry doesn't like to take showers in public for reasons he isn't willing to share, until Louis, the hot football captain, rocks his whole world.

⚽ the stars are coming home by lsforever / @kingonafiftymetreroad

(G, 5k, established relationship) After three years together and nearly a full year of marriage, Harry has finally been permitted to sit in for one of the team’s practices. 

⚽ every night with us (is like a dream) by moon_rose25 / @darkinfinity

(T, 2k, established relationship) A look into the life of a professional football player dating a physical therapist.

⚽ 2,870 Miles by @sadaveniren

(G, 1k, mpreg) Harry hated the BT Sports commentators, but considering he couldn’t fly to Baku while eight months pregnant this was all he had if he wanted to watch his husband in the Europa League final.

—Rare Pairs—

⚽ love and kickin'!verse by camiii

(E, 140k, Louis/Nick Grimshaw) the fic where Nick has no interest in football but is dragged to a football match, Louis is the Arsenal player that catches his attention, and maybe there are some redeeming qualities to the game after all.

⚽ Devoted by @nouies

(E, 5k, Louis/Alisson Becker) A collection of drabbles about Louis’ life as the housewife of a professional football player.

[crescentblossom66]

Character Analysis: Conductor and DJ Grooves

Before I start this analysis made out of reading too much into dialogue and overall being way too obsessed with chapter two of A Hat in Time, I want to clarify that I like both of the directors. Conductor is my favorite character in the whole game and DJ Grooves is another character that I enjoy (I agree with all of you DJ Grooves fans, that funky penguin isn't getting enough content).

I also want to try to make people think about those two more and make them less one dimensional in their fan works. I understand that it is very easy to see DJ Grooves as just the charming underdog with absolutely no bad bone in his body, and Conductor as nothing more than a deranged lunatic. I hope I can inspire with this and draw some attention to these two lovingly crafted characters.

I'll split this analysis into 4 parts:

First impressions of the directors

Conductor, the deranged psycho...or not?

DJ Grooves, charming or cunning?

Final Thoughts

1. First impressions of the directors

We first meet the two quarreling directors in Chapter two act 1. As soon as we enter the lobby of the huge building that we'll later know as Dead Bird Studio, we bare witness to an argument between the Sci-fi and musical making penguin, DJ Grooves, and Conductor, a strange-looking owl thing that makes Westerns. The first thing every player will notice is that both characters seem to act very differently to the whole argument. While the yellow owl stomps his foot in anger and seems very aggressive, his rival seems to not be too fazed by the whole argument, simply dancing and more or less ignoring the allegations and insults the other throws his way.

In the very first scene we learn that the DJ appears to be rather calm and collected, while his counterpart comes of as rather aggressive and downright vindictive, given that he locks the penguins into their side of the studio.

Those first impressions get strengthened even more if the player talks to the actors of the studio. The Express Owls appear very scared of their boss, the Conductor, informing the player that they're mere passengers on the train that the Western director operates, they also state that he makes unexpected stops and caused them to be late for their work and that they get randomly dragged into filming movies. The Moon Penguins on the other hand seem to idolize their boss, DJ Grooves, they even have a fan club in his honor. Those flipper-snapping birds also seem to be very hostile toward new people seeing the player as a threat for their idol and are rather rude to Hat Kid.

When the player makes their way through the vent to enter the studio itself, the interactions that the DJ has with his penguins are all pretty friendly, he encourages them and is pretty calm when his actors make mistakes during recording, even when the player disrupts the recording by jumping in front of the cameras, the former DJ seems to only act confused and just continues on with his filming.

The Conductor on the other hand yells at his actors nonstop, voicing his frustrations clearly, calling his actors lousy and terrible when they make mistakes. Unlike his rival, the yellow owl doesn't take kindly to his recording being disrupted and he yells and gets even angrier whenever the player decides to jump in front of his cameras.

All of this just reaffirms the impressions we had of the characters so far, and even the finale of the chapter only underlines this, as the penguin asks for our help with desperation, and even hands us a bird passport, while the owl wants to take us to jail for messing with the Annual Bird Movie Awards.

The player will come out of this drawing the conclusion that DJ Grooves is the underdog that needs help in beating his despicable rival, who seems to be a terrible person all around. As it is the nature of us humans, we want to see the lovable underdog win against the overconfident and cruel rival, as it is seen in most media.

The second act of chapter two, “Murder on the Owl Express”, takes us onto the beloved train of the Western director where we are greeted by said director on the small balcony at the back of the caboose. Nothing much will change for our perception of the character here. He seems to not care that he scared the owls and Hat Kid with a fake murder that the player will obviously notice as just a set up. He will once again remind us that he hates his rival's movies before we're given a time piece and go on our merry way back to the spaceship.

“Picture Perfect”, the third act of the chapter, brings us to a big set on the moon where the DJ greets us enthusiastically. He takes on a mentor role for Hat Kid as she tries to build her own fan base as she goes from endorsement to endorsement. We get once again remind that the DJ is the “good guy” of this story as the Moon Penguins around him are happy and upbeat as opposed to the tense Express Owls. This pleasant and colorful act also clashed hard with the more dreary and serious “Murder on the Owl Express” act that we went through earlier.

Things take a more drastic and extreme turn in the last two stages. In “Train Rush” the player will get told that there is a bomb on the train and they'll have to go and defuse it. It shows the lengths and extremes the Western director will go to just to get a few nice shots for his movies. His attitude toward Hat Kid is once again rather harsh and demeaning, as he blatantly states that he doesn't care for her or the owls, only his train seems of any concern to him. When the chapter is completed, he will brush aside the concerns of the young space traveler, telling her that all of this was done in the name of cinematography.

“The big Parade” also takes things to the extreme with electric floors and homing missiles. The DJ seems as pleasant as ever, informing the player that it will be easy and that all they have to do is walk around the place a bit which does little to prepare the player for the rather hazardous minutes ahead of them.

The final Chapter will be determined by whom the player chooses as the winner at the end of the four split chapters. If the player chooses the Conductor, things will remain like they were before, the Conductor will remain condescending toward Hat Kid and will even attempt to murder her, while the DJ will come to her rescue when he's needed the most. If the player chooses Grooves, however, things will take a twist, the DJ will betray the young girl and will fight her instead, and Conductor, very surprisingly, intervenes and saves the poor girl from certain doom.

If taken at first glance, it is pretty straight forward who the bad guy is supposed to be it's obviously the Conductor, right? He's a terrible person that treats everyone around him horribly, while DJ Grooves did absolutely nothing wrong and only tried his best to win all this time.

But is it really, dear reader? Is it really as clear-cut and black and white as that, I'll ask you? Is Conductor really an all around bad guy, as Mustache Girl would say, and is DJ Grooves really the uwu penguin that can't do any wrong like his Moon Penguins seem to view him as? Let's find out together.

2. Conductor, the deranged psycho...or not?

One of the crucial arguments people make when they talk about the narrative of story is that the Conductor is obviously a crazy, derange old man who cares about nothing and nobody aside from his movies and his train. It's easy therefore to shove him into the villain role, like the story portraits him, however, his character is a bit deeper than what people give him credit for.

The easiest way for me to explain this point is debunking or at least theorizing on a couple of questions to which the answers may be not as cut and dry as you may think. Those questions are:

Is the Conductor a cheater? Is he endangering his actors? Does he care about Hat Kid at all?

To answer the questions, we're going to look at it from the very beginning of the chapter again, starting with the first question, is the Conductor a cheater? In act one the Conductor accuses Hat Kid of rigging the awards in the favor of his rival, considering what his rival did as fraud and roping the young girl into helping him as well. He seems to have contempt for her as she disrupts the status quo, and the best course of action is to make sure that the odds are evened out again. Given that the owl is rather direct, straight forward, and quite honest, we can potentially see him as despising cheating. This can be further backed up as In chapter 6 he will mention that the DJ will mock him for cheating if word gets out that he cheated, this could imply that he never cheated before that, and thus the accusation that his rival based a lot of his argument on (Saying that he manipulated everything to make sure that he never wins, cheating, and fraud) could all just be illusions that the penguin made to justify that the yellow owl won every award except for one, and that the Western director never actually cheated and won his awards legitimately.

The second and bigger problem, and what is a lot harder to ignore is the question of whether or not he actually puts his actors into danger? I can already hear you facepalm and go “Duh! Have you actually PLAYED 'Train Rush'! That owl...thing is a psycho!” To which I will say “Method Acting” Regularly a technique used by actors to get into their roles by putting themselves into situations that the characters they're playing is in, in order to give a more convincing and expressive performance. The Conductor purposefully exposes the owls, and Hat Kid to the stressful situations and without telling them that they're recording to get better acting out of them.

This is confirmed when he tells Hat Kid that his script isn't ready in act 2, there he also says that he's not recording. We as the players know this whole scene is a set up, which is of course confirmed by the owl himself at the end of the act.

The owls seem just as clueless about it as the young space traveler, as they show fear and panic. (The only one clued in is the owl that plays dead, but none of the others know that he's pretending) This can of course be slightly debunked depending on the person or group you chose as the culprit. If you pick Hat Kid we don't know if she only picked herself just because, due to the owl simply saying that she put a rubber knife on him, but we were with Hat Kid the whole time...I mean we're controlling her so we would have seen if she had done that to the owl. It makes it probable that she simply lied, Conductor's dramatic retelling of the events also makes that more unbelievable, making it likely that she had no idea that it was a set up and just picked herself on a whim to see what would happen

To summarize, no owls were harmed during “Murder on the Owl Express”

I know you've been waiting, tapping your foot at me impatiently considering that “Train Rush” is the bigger issue. I can already hear you typing. “THE CONDUCTOR LITERALLY TELLS US THAT THERE IS A BOMB!”

Yes, that bomb existed, and yes, I know about that, but the important question is yet again, was anyone harmed? Where those risks calculated? What if I told you...that they were.

The owls do mention that they have more explosives on the train, which is true, but those are all on carts where we don't see any owls being in. The owls are all in areas that are more or less safe and none of them appear to be harmed. Even the band plays as if nothing is wrong, further confirming that they knew that they'd be safe.

As you know, the Conductor is at the front of the train the ENTIRE time we see him after the announcement. (I have no idea how he got to the front all the way from the caboose without us noticing, game logic, I guess) He could have switched that bomb off at any time. We never actually see the bomb blow up even if the time runs out, we simply die as if killed by an enemy, so it neither confirms nor debunks that the bomb blew up. Not even in chapter 6 do we see the bomb ACTUALLY exploding.

So is he endangering his actors? Physically no, mentally and emotionally, yes. His actions here still make it clear that he only see the owls as a means to and end, which is winning the award. The amount of stress and trauma he forces the Express Owls through is just collateral to him.

The last point on this list is does he show care toward Hat Kid aside from the finale?

Too many people say the switch in personality that Conductor shows when he saves Hat Kid from the demented DJ comes out of nowhere, and they do not see the build up that happened across the two chapters that lead up to chapter 6. I understand that wholeheartedly, because that build up is extremely subtle. It is very easy to go through both, chapter 2 and chapter 4, thinking that the yellow bird show no affection toward Hat Kid, especially when you consider that the DJ shows more affection for her in his chapters. The Conductor's shift in demeanor is very easy to miss. In act 1 the owl seems to dislike Hat Kid quite a lot for interfering, but there's two easily overlooked lines that show some growth.

I want you to look at those two pictures, the first is at the end of “Murder on the Owl Express”, while the second is taken at the end of “Train Rush”.

Do you see the slight switch in demeanor? The first one tells us that we should leave, but the line delivery even shows that he doesn't yell this time even if it has an exclamation mark. He speaks a bit more fondly of her in the second picture, saying that Hat Kid deserved the time piece instead of telling us to grab the supposed prop and scram.

I'm also going to briefly mention here that he still helps Hat Kid in chapter 5, and even apologizes for attempting to kill her (He tries at least, he's not very good at it) if he was chosen as the winner for the award. If he's the loser, he will express a bit of empathy for her for what his rival had put her through.

So, is the Conductor the good guy now? No...not by any means. He's still a very aggressive and competitive bird thing that doesn't value his actors too much and prioritizes his movies over everything. Some theories explain his behavior, but this analysis is based on what we actually see in game and theories and conclusions we can potentially draw from those facts. As it stands, he's very much still a bad person, but he has far more nuance when what people give him credit for, if you know where to look. I hope that my small analysis on him here has shown you that there is a potential for him to actually care about Hat Kid, and that the owl is just a tad bit kinder when he lets on.

3. DJ Grooves, charming or cunning?

Another thing that I and a few others hate to see is that people tend to view the charming and stylish former DJ as just the good guy that can't harm a fly, thus they think that Conductor winning, and the subsequent fight in which the DJ rescues us, makes more sense than if he back stabs the young girl he so affectionately calls his diva. Just like with his counterpart, there are a few things I have gripes with, but the ways in which the DJ is more twisted when he lets on are about as subtle as the ways in which the Conductor is kind.

Once again, we can ask a few questions to make it easier to understand where I'm coming from with this, those being: To what extend does DJ Grooves hate his rival? Is the DJ a manipulator?

I once again hear you guys typing a defense for the underrated costar of the second chapter of the game, telling me that the DJ never did anything wrong, that all he wanted to do was make good movies and defeat his angry and hostile rival once again. You may even say that the penguin doesn't really hate his rival all too much, seeing as he tries to stay mostly calm when talking to him...what you don't see is that he has a lot of contempt for the yellow bird, far more than he lets on.

When we first see him interact with his rival, he comes off as calm and collected, appearing to not take the argument too seriously. He takes a jab at the owl's struggles to come up with new ideas which leaves the yellow bird stunned for a moment. The fact that he know that his rival struggles with ideas and the fact he mentions it here is important, keep it in the back of your mind. The penguin seems to know exactly how to get under the other's skin and riles up the Conductor even more while he himself stays calm, he even dances during this whole exchange, showing how little it affects him.

The spite for his rival and his obsession with winning the award is a lot harder to see, and we only get a glimpse of it during act 6 itself if he's the winner were he makes it clear that he despises the owl, slandering his name even without the prove for it, and, if my own theory that I made earlier is true, that accusation has no leg to stand on.

The amount of vitriol in the voice of DJ Grooves (which is amazing by the way, kudos to the voice actor) shows just how frustrated and spiteful he really is, an amount of anger and hatred we've not heard from the penguin in any of his levels yet, is present. There is a few more instances other than this though that show his hatred for his rival and his obsession with winning the award.

These little newspaper clippings can be found in the basement of Dead Bird Studio and are placed on the wall outside of the trophy room. This room is situated right above the DJ's dressing room.

Conductor's is in a completely different area of the basement and not even adjacent to it, kind of making it questionable that the room belongs to Conductor like many people claim. There is a hallway, a room, and another hallway between his side of the studio and Grooves' side.

Also, why would he have a room above his rival's dressing room? But back to the posters. These poster show the Conductor in a bad light, the one on the top left seems to be an article on the Western director's first loss, while the one below that shows that something went wrong in his movies, saying that a “Calculated risk went horribly wrong”. It likely refers to the movie that cost the yellow owl award 42. It also isn't favorable for the yellow owl to be laughing at the misfortune of another bird, as the right clipping shows. All in all, those clips show embarrassing and more humbling moments of the owl, further proving that the room is Grooves', and that he hates his rival enough to remind himself that the strange yellow bird is far from perfect and in fact not untouchable. If that room really is Grooves, it shows an eerie obsession with winning, having over 200 plastic replica of the golden trophy, it shows just how far gone the penguin really is.

But it gets better, yes, dear reader, there's more, and this one can be completely missed if you pick the wrong character in a completely different act...and that act is “Murder on the Owl Express”!

You may be asking yourself “Huh? What does one of Conductor's acts have to do with DJ Grooves?” Well, the penguin mocks his rival not only in front of his whole crew...BUT IN FRONT OF HIS OWN AUDIENCE! I know pics or it didn't happen, so...here you go.

THIS is why I told you to listen when I said that he hated Conductor a lot more than he lets on, it may appear as him being friendly, but look at the context, he's helping his poor, idea-less, incompetent rival create a story line. Is that friendly or detrimental? I'll ask you! Keep this screenshot in mind, it will be relevant again.

Have I convinced you that the penguin, REALLY hates his rival now? That the amount of anger he feels might even justify him snapping if he hadn't already? That he hides insanity and hatred behind his fashionable shades. If not, stay tuned, there's more.

Now, let me shatter your view of the 'uwu, I'm incapable of doing anything wrong' penguin even more. Let's focus on another important factor in this whole story, the main character, Hat Kid. We get roped into helping the DJ after he pleads for Hat Kid's help, telling us that is penguins are terrible actors. No, I'm not saying that he hates the Moon Penguins, given that the story book “Groovy Underdog” exists. It makes it clear that he's frustrated with their acting, but still tries hard to make it work even with them being bad at their jobs.

What I have an issue with is that he manipulates Hat Kid into helping him, which is the very thing that prompts Conductor to accuse her of fraud. DJ Grooves simply spotted an opportunity to beat his rival and win the award, the goal was not to help Hat Kid become famous, he simply more or less cheated by dragging an outsider into their quarrel.

The second instance that shows that the DJ is amazing at manipulating those around him is in the first act we see him again, act 3 “Picture Perfect”. He demonstrates an uncanny ability to wrap the viewers at home around his flipper. Everyone on the moon seems to know him as he himself says that everyone knows his name, and it is backed up by the amount of followers Hat Kid gains after every endorsement.

The best example of this is when Hat Kid takes a page out of Conductor's colorful dictionary and uses the word “Peck” ,a swear word in the bird world. Here the DJ shows that he knows his audience rather well, explaining that swearing on TV would get him into trouble, he knows that his image could take a blow if Hat Kid says the wrong thing. He quickly sweeps the occurrence under the rug and tells the space traveler to scram.

The entirety of act 3 shows perfectly how amazing the DJ is at manipulating people to his advantage, even Hat Kid doesn't catch on to what he's actually doing. He's using Hat Kid's cute, childlike charm and likability to his advantage, this is backed up in act 1 where he refers to Hat Kid as an innocent soul with a heart of gold before dismissing her right BEFORE he gets the idea to use her for his own gain.

He continues to manipulate the public and even the player's impression of him by presenting himself as a charming mentor character to Hat Kid, and an overall likable funky fellow. It's all a facade, a charade put on by him to hide his desperation for the victory, show the player, Hat Kid and the public what they want, a charming director who can't do anything wrong at all.

The cracks show in “The Big Parade”, act 5 of the chapter. He explains to us and to Hat Kid, that the parade will be easy, that all she has to do was jump and run around the rooftops...with not a single line does he mention the dangers we're actually facing. Electric floors, homing missiles and carnage, all presented as a happy-go-lucky movie with nice effects and pleasant music.

The audience of the movie doesn't see the danger, the difficulty and the hazardous chaos that Hat Kid navigates through. They only see the pretty colors, the nice effects and the cheery music so out of place in this nightmare. The DJ either doesn't know that Hat Kid is in danger, which is unlikely, or he doesn't care. In “Train Rush” The Conductor blatantly tells us that there's a bomb and that were in danger of the whole train blowing up, here, the disco-loving director shows that he cares as little for Hat Kid's safety as the Conductor does, he just doesn't blatantly tell us.

To summarize, the DJ feigns to care for Hat Kid and only sees her as a means to an end, just like his, apparently seen as more evil, counterpart. Speaking of his counterpart, I told you to keep that screenshot in mind where Grooves “helps” the Conductor with his movie.

I mentioned that he ruins the reputation of his rival, but he also BOOSTS HIS! He even makes clear who is speaking! In the line before the screenshot I took, he announces to everyone in the room and the audience that will watch this movie that HE is here to help his poor rival. It not ONLY mocks the Conductor for his lack of ideas, but it might boost his own movies as he's seen as a generous and helpful guy by the audience of Conductor's movies.

Once again I'll ask, just how innocent is that penguin really? Can you STILL claim that his shift in demeanor is out of character, when everything he does can point to him being just as deranged as his rival if not more so. I think that I have at least given you some food for thought...Maybe you will look at this flashy disco penguin in a different way the next time you play his levels...and you'll see the cold and calculated show he puts on for the viewers.

4. Final Thoughts

I hope that I managed to convey that both the Conductor and DJ Grooves are far more nuanced and interesting when we give them credit for, that chapter 2 can be far more interesting and less black and white when what people say. I personally love both characters a lot. Don't go chasing me with pitchforks for ruining the character for you, it's okay if you want to see DJ Grooves as nice and a cinnamon roll, and Conductor as a cold-hearted bastard. Everything is up to interpretation which varies from person to person. All I tried to accomplish was give food for thought and maybe explain a little why DJ Grooves as the winner makes more sense when people realize.

I'm always up for discussing chapter 2, as it's my favorite. Thank you for reading and have a nice day or night! You're awesome!

-

@majormeilani Here it is, you wanted me to tag you for this. I hope you liked it. Chapter 2 ftw!

[tacticalhimbo]

hi i have too much time on my hands, i created a more detailed and evidence-supported timeline for the welcome to the game/reflect studios franchise!

obvs disclaimer: i played games on the easiest modes i could, bc i'm bad with cue-based things so i relied pretty heavily on the fan-wiki and the information there. i cross-verified where i could.

WELCOME TO THE GAME 1 - Unknown, 2016

Based on establishment dates of the Doctor Murder website (est. 2012, noted as running up to/until 2016).

Hot Burners uses a quote from an alleged customer from 2015; would assume to use a somewhat older quote to establish one's business as reputable (regardless of review being legitimate/real or otherwise).

Passports Are Us uses an image of the current Latvian passport, which the design for was established on or around Jan. 28, 2015; the game therefore has to take place after this date.

WAITING ROOM - Late 2017; Assumption

Considering the risk that comes with hosting Red Room streams, as well as the surrounding hype, it is unlikely that the streams are a common occurrence.

The reason I assume it is late 2017 is because of the existence and references made in Welcome to the Game 2.

== These two take place within close vicinity; Victim from WR calls Amalea to tell her they were burned / that Adam knows of their snooping into The Prey; It's not unfair to assume, given Adam's demeanor and general history across the games, risks would want to be taken care of as soon as possible to preserve his business ==

WELCOME TO THE GAME 2 - Early 2018; Assumption

Many sites that were present in the first game are either redone entirely or have become dead links. A bit of a stretch because expertise is varied, but it would take a while to do that while maintaining consistent clientele.

The player can find Clint's resident dossier on the lobby computer. He's 29, lives in 803, and is described as a "Very quiet individual, sticks to himself, pays rent on time. No issues." Not really relevant, but this would mean Clint was born between 1988 and 1989. He was a 90s kid, and that's so cute to me.

SCRUTINIZED - Middle of June 2020

Computer states that the date is June 14th on the starting night, and report dates are formated as 06/xx.

Social media posts are dated with 2020 (e.g., Jeniffer Connally, aka BloodAngel123). And yes, her name is spelled like that in the game.

DEAD SIGNAL - 2022

Confirmed by environmental details, such as a newspaper(?) clipping within Ronald's apartment. I don't own this title in the series, but have been watching a close friend play it and we both noticed this.

Clint contacts the player and says he has had run-ins with Adam in the past (re: WTTG 2). For him to phrase it this way shows a decent time has passed between the games, as not only is that just how US Americans tend to phrase it, but he's also telling this to a stranger (albeit, he owes The Shade a favor, and thus it's equally likely Shade told him to give Ronald any information he had to keep his employee alive)

[despair-to-future-arcs]

Is that how you meet Junko?

Yeah I do wonder how you 2 met, how did she influence you...

Right Junko, well...it's complicated, you probably saw me mention that I work in fashion magazines too, right? Well that means I took photos for those with Junko in it.

Which I also remember Mukuro saying it was all photoshop during the killing game which I don't do that!

Ah...so you met Junko even before she enroll into Hope's Peak Academy?

I believe so, I never realize that Junko cause all this damage as she was a normal high school in fashion magazines, it was hard to imagine...

...

...

...

Date: April 20th, 2010

Fashion Agency Employee: So remember that Miss Fushimi wants these done on the 30th, so please make sure they look good.

Wow, tons of pressure but thanks anyway, I better get to work...

*As then Mahiru gets into the studio and there standing was the girl*

*Is on the phone* Yeah, okay mom I'll call you when I finish up, okay cool - tell Sachiko to do well during the military contest.

Okay then mom, love ya bye! *hangs up*

Maaan... mom is so annoying, seriously she gets way too overprotective ever since I enter the fashion industry!

Huh...?

Sorry sorry! It was a call I was taking, just mom being mom! It's sooo annoying when she calls like that!

So anyway enough of that, I suppose your here to take photos for Red Ribbon, right? Anyway since will be working together, you can call me Junko Enoshima!

Okay got it, my name is Mahiru Koizumi so let's get started!

*As then Mahiru starts taking photos as Junko was doing poses*

'Junko... I really thought she was a normal teenage girl, I guess everyone thought that so I never notice her manipulation at all and told her a few things about myself as we spent more time with each other...'

...

...

...

Date: June 12th, 2011

*As then Junko was looking over the photos*

Oooh so are these the photos you took...?

Oh yeah, they are! Just don't touch them, there for the exams coming up at Hope's Peak.

I see, I see... so you attend Hope's Peak as the Ultimate Photographer?

Yeah I am but I usually am not at school, mostly just out in the field and taking photos - just wish I could travel to other countries; it's rather boring that I have to take photos of the same places, I rather wish I had a passport to travel and take photos.

Wait... you don't have one?

Not...really, I don't I'm mostly taking pictures of the same subject and honestly it does bore me, I even remember having someone say that my photos are 'amazing' again which annoys me as that's not words of encouragement at all and pretty half-assed.

Ah well if you ask me you took the subject matter pretty well, honestly I even say your the best photographer I know! Still, how did you get into photography? Sounds like your quite the expert!

Well that probably be from my mom which she's often say that photos depict everything, whether it's beautiful or horrible. That's the truth contained in these images...

That's why no matter what situation we're in, it's a photographer's duty to keep taking photos....That's basically what my mom taught me.

Hmm, I see so your mom works in the same field as you?

Well not exactly, she works as a war photographer, she often is in the middle east a lot, she doesn't show me all the photos thought as I could imagine you probably can't show to a kid but I did like the ones with smiles!

Hmm, that is pretty cool! I can tell she is quite inspirational for you, isn't she?

Yeah I suppose so, I really do want to take photos just like her but I don't think I can; I just... think that we are most use to different subjects. Anyway, I think we are done here - it was nice talking with you, Junko.

Okay Mahiru, see ya next week! I'll looking forward to talking with you!

*As Mahiru left, Junko grab her phone and started calling someone...*

[lonely-soul-02]

I wonder if Sara was jealous of Liam and Noels relationship and that's why she hid his passport, so he would spend more time with her.

I always thought their whole relationship was two toxic people playing mind games with each other

There'd have to be some resentment there somewhere. Or even just bewilderment, like what the fuck are these two on about? Who acts like this? This is not normal. We have no idea if they played mind games with each other, or if the relationship was toxic. The way she seemed to belittle Noel's music seemed to come from a place of resentment or defensiveness? He apparently was obsessed with building his studio and not spending time with her and boys (as was hinted at in an article not so long ago). So she made little digs at anything to do with his music because that was the barrier between them. Of course, that would only have widened the barrier, I'd have thought.

[cartel34]

Native Instruments - ELECTRIC MINT: A Digital Symphony of Dynamic Soundscapes" Download

Dive into a world of sonic innovation with Native Instruments' latest release, "ELECTRIC MINT." This cutting-edge virtual instrument is a game-changer for music producers and sound designers, offering a kaleidoscope of dynamic soundscapes that redefine electronic music production.

Unleash Your

Soundscapes" Download

Creativity: ELECTRIC MINT opens up a realm of creative possibilities, combining the organic warmth of analog synths with the precision of digital technology. From ethereal pads to pulsating basslines, this versatile instrument allows you to sculpt and shape your sound with unprecedented precision. Whether you're producing ambient tracks, EDM bangers, or cinematic soundtracks, ELECTRIC MINT is your passport to limitless sonic exploration.

Immersive Synthesis Engine: At the heart of ELECTRIC MINT lies a powerful synthesis engine that seamlessly blends classic analog tones with modern digital flexibility. Craft intricate melodies, experiment with evolving textures, and sculpt your signature sound with an intuitive interface that caters to both beginners and seasoned professionals. The instrument's expansive library of presets serves as a launchpad for your creativity, while advanced users can dive deep into the synthesis engine to fine-tune every aspect of their sound.

Expressive Performance Features: ELECTRIC MINT is not just a static instrument; it's a dynamic musical partner. The incorporation of expressive performance features such as mod-wheel assignments, aftertouch sensitivity, and customizable macros ensures that your music remains fluid and expressive. Whether you're performing live or layering tracks in the studio, ELECTRIC MINT responds to your every nuance, allowing you to infuse your music with unparalleled emotion.

Seamless Integration: Native Instruments is renowned for its seamless integration with popular DAWs, and ELECTRIC MINT is no exception. Enjoy a smooth production workflow as you effortlessly integrate this virtual instrument into your preferred music software. With support for various plugin formats, including VST, AU, and AAX, ELECTRIC MINT becomes an integral part of your production toolkit, regardless of your platform of choice.

Elevate your sonic journey with Native Instruments - ELECTRIC MINT, where innovation meets inspiration in a digital symphony of unparalleled soundscapes. Explore, experiment, and evolve your music with this groundbreaking virtual instrument that pushes the boundaries of what's possible in electronic music production.

[best-movie-ever-tournament]

Grave of the Fireflies was described as follow:

Following the aftermath of the bombing of Kobe, this film shows the impact of war on vulnerable populations, in particular children. A beautiful and tragic movie with some of Studio Ghibli's best work yet on display.

Casablanca was described as follow:

"It is so GOOD. OK so let me summarize by saying I got into Casablanca the movie by going first through Casablanca the Mickey Mouse adaptation and frankly neither disappoint, although both bring very different things. Anyway, Rick is an american living in Casablanca. He sees Ilsa, a norwegian-born woman he had met in Paris three years before, and learns she's married and her husband, who is hunted down by the nazis (Casablanca, Marocco, is a french colony so the nazis kinda have a reach in it through the Vichy regime), needs a plane to get out of here. Or rather, he needs a passport, which the administration won't deliver because if he manages to go to the states, then he'll be able to take a stand against them and all. There's a complicated subplot with the staff of Rick's café and another subplot with Louis Renault, the french policeman supposed to make locals respect nazi laws who is just some hedonistic sarcastic little hoe but not the point. I love him. Anyway through a complexe game of triple-crossing everyone, Rick ends up helping the woman he loves and her husband fly away, kills a bunch of nazis and run away in the sunrise with the french guy to kill more nazis. It's a good war movie because it's all about how just standing by and refusing to intervene is a stance in itself and how you can't expect a girl to like you back if you don't first make the effort to let her fly away with her husband, showing you hold no grudge against her for not choosing you. I don't know what I'm talking about really."

[sasmsb2006]

Hey, everyone! Long time no see! I know I'm rarely here, but whenever I have too big collections of fanart made, then where else is better to publish them than here?

Okay, You're propably wondering what these collages are and how I made them, don't You?

It's simple: All I had to do was to take some snapshots with my iPhone, then transfer the photos to my laptop and then make collages on Paint out of them all. They're all from the 90's computer game "The Pink Panther: Passport to Peril'' - one of my childhood's favorites to this day. It also has a following sequel called "The Pink Panther: Hokus Pokus'' which was released a year later, but for some reason the sequel appeared first in Poland in 2000 whereas the first game a year after. Therefore most of the Polish fans think the sequel is the first game and the firsst game is the sequel, but not me as I'd stick to the chronological order. Both games were educational point & clicks where You collected and used items, talked to characters and even learned some fascinating stuff about the countries You visited. Which brings up the main topic of this collaction which is the PDA: the small electronic device Von Shmarty presents Pink with before our hero can take off. Thanks to this little device, You can click on characters and objects and when the PDA icon appears below the left side on the screen, You automatically get access to the information written there. The countries You visit and learn about in the game are England, Egypt, China, Bhutan, India and Australia. As for the topics, there's 8 of them and whenever You click their icons on the main menu, You can meet the familiar characters from the 1993's animated "Pink Panther'' show:

Nature: The Dogfather and his goons Pugg & Louie (in Poland their names are Pershing, Zenuś i Szczurek)

Fashion: Voodoo Man

History: Inspector Clouseau

Religion: Dr. Helmut Von Shmarty

Geography: Mrs. Chubalingo AKA Granny

Art: The Big Nose AKA the Little Man AKA Camp Chilly Wawa's Director

Cuisine: Aardvard

Society: Ant

However, the animated series from the 90's didn't officially appear in Poland until the early 2010's. Basically, it's thanks to the games themselves I got interested in the series not only because Pink could talk, but mainly because it's so connected to both of them, to the point they inpired me to plan a fanfic or 2 in the future. It's uncertain when it'll be written, but when the time comes, I'll let You guys know here or on my DA page. Speaking of DA, don't forget to check out the many other artworks I put there, please: https://www.deviantart.com/marieangel04. And get ready, because today there'll be some new collages uploaded in there! ;D Just remember: NO trolling, hating, cyberbullying, gremlining ot stealing from neither here or there, alright? Thank You very much for Your attention and see Ya next time! Enjoy!

P. S.

I don't own "The Pink Panther'' show or games because they belong to the MGM Studio, whereas the games were made by Wanderlust Interactive!

P. S. 2

If You wish to read more of the PDA's content, along with the Book of Knowledge from the sequels, here are the links I recommend You to check for Yourselves: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLB9TwM3jkQo1_JulBxrWMXLwk_Srg9qbP & https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLB9TwM3jkQo3IS0-1qv11TeG1Z8gYsxIq.

[mymbios]

Cezanne Baron, 28, grew up with a passport in one hand and a sketchbook in the other. Born in Bordeaux, France, to Jacques (56) and Vivienne Baron (55), vineyard consultants who traveled the world for their work, Cezanne’s childhood was defined by constant movement. Her parents’ passion for winemaking took them from the lush vineyards of Tuscany to the sun-drenched valleys of South Africa, and she quickly developed an appreciation for diverse cultures and landscapes. While she was an only child, Cezanne never felt lonely, as her sketchbook became her constant companion, a canvas to capture the vibrant people, places, and patterns she encountered.

Cezanne’s artistic flair was evident from a young age. While other children played games, she spent hours drawing intricate patterns inspired by the Moroccan tiles she saw on family trips or sketching delicate cherry blossoms after a visit to Japan. Her parents encouraged her creativity, even as they prioritized their nomadic lifestyle. They made sure she had access to art classes and supplies no matter where they landed, fostering a deep love for self-expression.

In her late teens, Cezanne settled in Paris to study graphic design at university, but the confines of digital art felt uninspiring compared to the tactile beauty she had experienced growing up. While visiting Berlin on a solo trip, she wandered into a tattoo parlor, struck by the artistry and intimacy of creating permanent designs on skin. After a long conversation with the shop owner, Cezanne realized she had found her calling. She apprenticed at the studio and spent the next few years honing her craft, combining her passion for travel and art into a unique style that blends global influences with personal storytelling.

Cezanne’s tattoos are celebrated for their intricate, culturally inspired designs—delicate lotus flowers with an Indian flair, African tribal patterns, and Japanese-inspired wave motifs. Her work often feels like a journey itself, weaving her clients’ stories into art that becomes part of them forever.

Despite her adventurous spirit, Cezanne has a grounded, thoughtful nature. She’s known for her calm demeanor and the ability to put anyone at ease. A natural listener, she believes in creating meaningful connections with her clients, often taking the time to understand their emotions and stories before starting a piece. Outside of work, she remains deeply curious and loves to explore new cuisines, read travel memoirs, and hike in nature. She’s also an avid photographer, using her camera to capture the fleeting beauty of the places she visits, adding to her ever-growing collection of inspiration.

Cezanne currently spends her time traveling to collaborate with other tattoo artists worldwide. Her parents, now semi-retired, love seeing how she’s turned their nomadic lifestyle into a source of artistic inspiration. They’re proud of the life she’s created, one that allows her to honor the world’s diversity and beauty through her art.

[charleyad]

The Future of Portraiture: Showing iFoto's AI Headshot Generator Revolution

In a world where first impressions matter more than ever, the art of portraiture has evolved into an essential tool for personal branding and professional standing. We've all seen the conversion from the classic passport photo to the high-resolution, studio-quality headshots that now grace our social media profiles. But what if you could achieve that professional look without stepping foot into a studio? Enter iFoto's AI Headshot Generator, a game-changer for anyone looking to raise their portrait game.

Have you ever wondered what it's like to walk into a professional photo session, only to step out with a headshot that far exceeds your expectations? iFoto's AI Headshot Generator is the key to unlocking that potential. By controling the power of artificial intelligence, this innovative tool can change your everyday photos into stunning, formal professional images or ID photos that stand out.

Imagine, for a moment, the simplicity of uploading a photo to your smartphone, adjusting a few settings, and voilà—your picture has been converted. It's like having a professional photographer at your fingertips, ready to capture the essence of your identity in a single click. The AI Headshot Generator is not just a tool; it's a personal stylist for your portraits.

Let's take a closer look at how iFoto's AI Headshot Generator is revolutionizing the way we view portraiture. One might ask, "How does it work?" The answer lies in the advanced algorithms that analyze the original photo and apply a range of enhancements to create a polished final product. This includes adjusting lighting, color, and even the background to ensure that every portrait is as professional as it can be.

Now, you might be wondering, "How does this impact the industry?" The answer is, it's a game-changer. Traditional portrait services require time, money, and often a studio space. With iFoto's AI Headshot Generator, anyone can achieve professional-grade portraits at a fraction of the cost and time. This change not only makes professional portraiture more accessible but also redefines industry standards for what's expected in personal branding.

Consider the impact on social media, where a great profile picture can mean the difference between being noticed and overlooked. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a model, or a student, a professional headshot can boost your online presence and credibility. With iFoto's AI Headshot Generator, you can now ensure that your online persona arranges with your professional aspirations.

I had the opportunity to chat with a user who recently tried out iFoto's AI Headshot Generator. They shared, "I was skeptical at first, but the results were incredible. I used it for my LinkedIn profile, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. It's like I got a professional headshot, but without the hassle and cost.

In the realm of personal branding, the ability to create a professional image without the typical barriers is a significant leap forward. It's not just about looking good; it's about the story that your image tells. iFoto's AI Headshot Generator allows you to control that narrative, ensuring that every portrait you share reflects who you are and where you're going.

As we stand on the cusp of this technological revolution in portraiture, it's clear that iFoto's AI Headshot Generator is more than just a tool—it's a statement. It's a testament to the power of AI to change our daily lives and expectations. So, the next time you need a professional portrait, think about the possibilities that iFoto's AI Headshot Generator can open up for you.

In a world where first impressions are everything, isn't it time to invest in a portrait that truly speaks for you?

[benjaminlas]

Your Passport to a Professional Online Image: How iFoto's AI Headshot Generator Changes Everyday Snaps

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where a professional photo is required, but you're nowhere near a studio or a photographer? We've all been there, right? Maybe it was for a LinkedIn profile, a dating app, or a personal blog. And then there's the ID photo, the unflattering, unsmiling picture that seems to make everyone look twice as unappealing as they actually are. Well, my friends, the digital age has bestowed upon us a wonderful gift: the AI Headshot Generator by iFoto.

Let me tell you a story. Once upon a time, there was a young professional named Alex who was meticulous about everything except his online profile photos. He'd use the same selfie with a hat on for every application, a comically exaggerated version of his face that made him look like a character in a '90s action movie. Until one day, a colleague pointed out that a professional image could make a world of difference.

Alex, a tech-savvy soul, decided to try iFoto's AI Headshot Generator. He uploaded a picture of himself, took a deep breath, and let the magic happen. What came out was a formal, professional photo that didn't look like it was taken by a family member with a camera phone. It was a revelation.

The change was nothing short of stunning. Alex's eyes sparkled with confidence, and his smile was genuine. He couldn't believe how simple it was—upload, select the desired style, and voilà! It was like having a professional photographer in his pocket, ready to capture the perfect image at a moment's notice.

But the story doesn't end there. There's a side to this tale that many of us can relate to—the struggle with certificate applications. Whether it's a school, a bank, or a government institution, the need for a formal ID photo can be a source of stress. Not anymore, though, with iFoto's streamlined process.

Imagine this: you're a student, and you need a student ID card. Or maybe you're a new employee, and you have to get your work ID. In the past, it might have involved a trip to the post office, a long wait, and a fair amount of patience. But with iFoto, it's different. You upload a photo, choose the format required, and voilà, you have a certificate that looks as official as can be.

Now, let's talk about the 'why' behind this technological marvel. The AI Headshot Generator by iFoto isn't just a tool; it's a statement. It says, "I am professional," "I am reliable," and "I take my personal branding seriously." It's a subtle yet powerful way to present yourself to the world, and in this digital age, it's more important than ever.

But here's the catch. Not everyone can use a smartphone or direct a website with ease. So, what about them? That's where iFoto's commitment to accessibility shines. The platform is user-friendly, with a clean interface that makes even the most technologically challenged feel at home. It's this thoughtfulness that sets iFoto apart, and it's what makes Alex's change story so inspiring.

I, too, have had my moments with less-than-ideal profile photos. I remember a time when I was applying for a job, and I used a picture of myself on a casual outing. The response was less than enthusiastic. It was a wake-up call. I realized that a professional image could be the difference between getting noticed and being overlooked.

So, what are you waiting for? Whether you're looking to update your social media profiles, apply for a new job, or simply want to present a more polished version of yourself, iFoto's AI Headshot Generator is the answer. It's a tool that democratizes the art of professional photography, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or budget.

In a world where first impressions are made in a blink, having a reliable, high-quality photo can be a game-changer. And that, my friends, is the magic of iFoto's AI Headshot Generator.

[design-college]

How a BSc in Animation and VFX Prepares You for the Future

Visual effects (VFX) have transformed the industry of films, television, and digital media. VFX plays a crucial role in modern storytelling, from breathtaking action sequences to complex fantasy worlds. A BSc in Animation and VFX offers a solid foundation for those looking to build a career in this exciting field. 

There are many film and TV production courses in India, preparing you for the ever-evolving dynamics of the entertainment industry. Let’s find out why these courses are so relevant. 

The Creative Power of VFX

VFX is not just about creating otherworldly creatures or vast landscapes. It’s about enhancing the narrative, making the implausible seem possible, and expanding the creative boundaries for storytellers. VFX is prominent in blockbuster movies like "Avengers" and "Avatar," where it complements and drives the storyline. Its applications extend beyond cinema to television, advertisements, video games, and even virtual reality, presenting numerous opportunities for skilled professionals.

What Does A BSc in Animation and VFX Include?

A BSc in Animation and VFX equips students with the technical skills and creative insights required in this field. The curriculum spans animation fundamentals, including modelling, texturing, and rigging, and advances into complex VFX techniques like compositing and motion capture. This education ensures that graduates are proficient in sophisticated software and understand the artistic nuances that elevate visual effects.

Practical Experience in VFX Education

Hands-on experience is a cornerstone of VFX education. Many courses offer practical projects that mimic industry scenarios, from crafting short animations to developing detailed visual scenes. These projects, guided by industry veterans, provide a glimpse into the professional world’s pressures and demands. Additionally, internships and placement opportunities at top studios can set the foundation for a successful career.

Soft Skills and Career Readiness

Beyond technical expertise, a BSc in Animation and VFX develops essential soft skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and project management. These skills are as vital as technical abilities in a field with stringent deadlines and complex projects. The course fosters creativity and innovation, enabling students to forge their unique style and approach to VFX.

Adapting to Industry Changes with Advanced Training

Advanced training modules integrated into the course curriculum cover emerging trends such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR), which are set to redefine interaction and immersion in entertainment. This forward-thinking approach ensures that graduates are current with today's technologies and prepared for tomorrow's innovations. 

Career Prospects After Graduation

The career opportunities for VFX graduates are diverse and promising. VFX professionals are sought after in film studios, game development, advertising, and even sectors like architecture and healthcare, which utilise animation for visualisation purposes. With digital technologies becoming increasingly pivotal, the demand for skilled VFX artists is set to rise, making it a lucrative career path.

Conclusion

A BSc in Animation and VFX is more than just a degree; it's your passport to the digital arts and entertainment world. When considering film and TV production courses in India, a specialised course in animation and VFX prepares you with the necessary skills and positions you to shape the future of entertainment. 

[songvitko]

Revamp Your Professional Look: Try iFoto's AI Headshot Generator Now!

Are you tired of the same old headshots for your professional profiles? Look no further! iFoto's AI Headshot Generator is the game-changer you've been waiting for. Transform your everyday photos into stunning formal portraits or ID-ready images with just a few clicks.

Imagine having professional-quality headshots for your LinkedIn profile, dating app, or even your passport photo. With iFoto's AI Headshot Generator, it's easier than ever to upgrade your image without stepping foot into a photography studio.

Here's how it works: Upload a picture of yourself, and the AI does the rest. It analyzes your features, applies the perfect lighting, and adjusts the composition to create a photo that's ready for any occasion. Whether you need a formal portrait for a job interview or a simple ID photo for official documents, iFoto's AI Headshot Generator has got you covered.

Don't let your profile pictures hold you back. Take control of your online presence and leave a lasting impression with iFoto's AI-powered headshots. Ready to try it out? Click the link below to start transforming your photos today!

Unlock your professional image with iFoto's AI Headshot Generator and see the difference for yourself!

[simplefelicity]

september 2024 bookkeeping - the first half

i've moved abroad! i'll be here for a few months and my finances are in absolute shambles so i've decided to make this a bi-weekly occasion. or maybe even weekly, we'll see.

what i spent

in total i've spent: 292.34€. for two weeks not that bad, about 150€ a week is an ok budget i think now that i live alone and am trying to organize my life. i would still like to bring it down to 100€ so let's see where i can improve.

food: 61.38€ (eating out) + 45.62€

here eating out is relatively cheap (it comes to about 5€ per meal) and groceries are expensive, as you can see.

i ate out 11 times in two weeks (+ 3 cafes). mostly because we were out and about visiting places and had to eat there but there were a couple of times that i could have avoided, like going to cafes/bubble tea. it happened 3 times, so for maybe a total of 10€ but i've discovered that i don't even like bubble tea here so i should just not go there anymore.

i've spent a lot on groceries in one go but it should last me a long enough time (lots of prepackaged meals).

object purchases: 171.53€

all of this stuff was unavoidable (even if it doesn't feel like it seeing it totaled up). there were 2 souvenirs, which i could have avoided but like... i'm here. i will get a couple of souvenirs i also refrained from buying a third one, so i'm at least proud of that.

in any case, these are all one time purchases and i won't need to worry about getting these objects for a long time.

i could have gotten some of this stuff tax free but i had forgotten my passport. so next time i should remember to bring my passport.

actually, one thing i do regret is that i tried to take my id photo at a photoboot because it was less expensive, but they rejected it and i'll have to go to a professional studio next week anyway. yikes.

experiences: 45.92€

i paid for a traditional craft class, a ticket to a monument and a one day tour that will happen in october. so far, no regrets.

what i earned

my last salary for a while. it was a bit higher than expected so i'm happy about that :)

what i decluttered

not much to declutter in a new house. but i have been taking a lot of pictures so i'm at 9.835, +255. i need to take the time to sort through them and delete delete delete.

next week plans:

i have booked the professional photo id, which will come to about 20€ (ugh). i'm also going to a baseball game but i'm still not sure how much that will cost. and we have planned a one day trip for tomorrow. and i'm going out in one hour and will probably have lunch and dinner out (but it should be street food so less expensive so maybe 8€?).

i will also need to charge my transportation card, which is going to be a monthly expense (42€ but i will get a discount later on).

what i want to do is 1. not get any bubble tea but rather get some water if i'm feeling too warm. 2, pick the least expensive option at the cafeteria i need to go to when i'm on campus. 3, not go out just for the sake of going out even if we are visiting places i've already been to. i should stay at home and eat my groceries.

hopefully i'll be able to stay in the 100€ per week budget!

oh wait, i wanted to start working out again so probably not :( but i love my sport so it will be worth it!

[southernvangard]

(Southern Vangard) Episode 409 - Southern Vangard Radio

BANG! @southernvangard radio Ep409! Any second. Any minute. Any hour. Any day. Any week. Any month. Any year. Any decade. Any century. Any village. Any town. Any city. Any county. Any state. Any country. Any continent. Any planet. Any galaxy. Any universe. THAAAAANK YAAA and YOU WAAAAALCOME!!!!! #SmithsonianGrade #WeAreTheGard // southernvangard.com // @southernvangard on all platforms #hiphop #undergroundhiphop #boombap

Recorded live Aug 18, 2024 @ Dirty Blanket Studios, Marietta, GA

southernvangard.com

@southernvangard on all platforms

#SmithsonianGrade #WeAreTheGard

twitter/IG: @southernvangard @jondoeatl @cappuccinomeeks

Pre-Game Beats - Observe

"Southern Vangard Theme" - Bobby Homack & The Southern Vangard All-Stars

Talk Break Inst. - "Kouign-Amman" - DJ Muggs

"Unknown Species" - Kurious

"Lesson Learned" - Lord Sko (prod. Statik Selektah)

"Love Is Blu" - Blu & Exile

"Codes" - Diamond D ft. Royal Flush, Agallah The Don & David Bars

"Crabs In A Barrel" - DoamPeace x William Bostick

"Out" - B1 The Architect & Le Zeppo

"Work Again" - Passport Rav

Talk Break Inst. - "Queens Get The $$$" - DJ Muggs

"Orthopaw" - Doza The Drum Dealer ft. Aïda & Casket d.

"The Glow" - Fliptrix

"Bosses" - Diamond D ft. Sauce Money & Lord Tariq

"Telegraph" - Doza The Drum Dealer ft. Dax Mpire & Shortee Sha

"Don't Touch My Hair" - Ilajide & Def Dee

"Another Bag" - Wais P & Khrysis ft. Geechi Suede

Talk Break Inst. - "No Vacancy" - DJ Muggs

"Had It Coming" - 38 Spesh ft. Havoc & Lloyd Banks

"EKIN 4" - Jae Skeese (prod. Ski Beatz)

"Dangerous In Louis Vuitton (Paris Fashion)" - Ru$h & SwuM ft. Tha God Fahim

"Phantasm" - Grim Moses x ArtLords ft. New Villain

"Del Lago" - 38 Spesh

"Fruits Of The Labor" - Jae Skeese ft. Project Pat

Talk Break Inst. - "Warning Shots" - DJ Muggs

SOUNDCLOUD

https://soundcloud.com/southernvangard/episode-409-southern-vangard-radio/

https://on.soundcloud.com/k1YLL3vyGHa4r4XR6 (SHORT LINK)

APPLE PODCASTS

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/southern-vangard/id1036355114

SPOTIFY PODCASTS

http://bit.ly/svrspotifypodcasts

YOUTUBE

https://youtu.be/GJLDnWfL3NM

TWITCH

http://twitch.tv/southernvangard

MIXCLOUD

https://www.mixcloud.com/southernvangard/episode-409-southern-vangard-radio/