#Scanners II: The New Order

[watching-pictures-move]

Movie Review | Scanners II: The New Order (Duguay, 1991)

Decided to celebrate Canada Day not by watching a beloved Canadian classic or, god forbid, a movie about Canada (*vomits*), but a not particularly well regarded DTV sequel to a much more famous Canadian movie. If you want to get a sense of exactly how Canadian this is, let us say that if you trimmed the blood and gore from this, it would not look out of place had you caught it on one of our major networks. This has CBC production values. Maybe Space, if you had cable.

To rub in the Cancon factor, the big conspiracy plot here centres around using the Scanners in a dastardly scheme to become… the mayor of Montreal. Okay, they don’t actually say it’s Montreal in the movie, but it was shot there, and the ambitions of the villain palling with municipal politics got a good chuckle out of me.

This time the lead is played by David Hewlett, who has a much more luxurious mane than he sported in his better known (to me) role in Stargate: SG-1 and its follow-up Stargate: Atlantis. So this is the level of star power we’re dealing with. Again, extremely Canadian. On the level of pure expressiveness, he’s certainly an upgrade from Stephen Lack, although one must concede that David Cronenberg made more interesting use of Lack than the fairly conventional portrayal Hewlett turns in here.

Anyway, it sounds like I’m dumping on the movie, but I found it reasonably diverting. I’ve enjoyed other movies by Christian Duguay, and while he doesn’t make this look slicker than its DTV production values, he does direct with a decent amount of verve, especially once he starts piling on the action elements, even if the meager amount of ‘splodin’ heads suggests he was trying to keep costs down. And as I’ve already made comparisons to Canadian TV, this definitely played on the Scream Channel back in the day, so I can’t help but feel a bit of warmth towards this.

[scholarofgloom]

[minty-oblivion]

David Hewlett as David Kellum in "Scanners II: The New Order" (1991)

[fanofspooky]

Scanners II: The New Order

1991 • R • 1h44m

Born with powers so terrifving it's beyond their control, A scanner discovers a plot by renegade elements in the city government to take power with the help of evil scanners.

[haveyouseenthishorrormovie]

SUMMARY: A young telepath learns that a Montreal politician is exploiting scanners, those with explosive psychic powers, for evil purposes.

[thedrillerkiller]

[siflshonen]

The Greatest Robot on Earth: Astro Boy and Pluto Part II

Part I is here. This side-by-side continues in part III here, or you can read the whole thing on Ao3.

Side-by-Side Comparisons

“The Greatest Robot on Earth” and Pluto

The best place to start in comparing these series is their summaries. This summary for “The Greatest Robot on Earth” comes from the 2002 Dark Horse release: 

“In the novel-length "The Greatest Robot on Earth," a wealthy sultan creates a giant robot to become the ruler of all other robots on Earth. But in order for that to happen, he must defeat the seven most powerful robots in the world, including Astro Boy, who must have his horsepower raised from 100,000 to 1,000,000 to face the challenge! And his sister, Uran, also flies in to lend a helping hand!”

Well, besides the fact that Uran doesn’t actually fly, I suppose that’s true enough. Gotta love marketing copy.

And here is Viz’s summary for Pluto: Urasawa X Tezuka, vol. 1: 

“In an ideal world where man and robots coexist, someone or something has destroyed the powerful Swiss robot Mont Blanc. Elsewhere a key figure in a robot rights group is murdered. The two incidents appear to be unrelated...except for one very conspicuous clue - the bodies of both victims have been fashioned into some sort of bizarre collage complete with makeshift horns placed by the victims' heads. Interpol assigns robot detective Gesicht to this most strange and complex case - and he eventually discovers that he too, as one of the seven great robots of the world, is one of the targets.”

An ideal world, eh? Well, I’m all about subverting surface appearances, so I like it. Anyway, right off the bat, we can tell that these two series aren’t the same genre, aren’t using the same principal characters, and aren’t concerned with the same stakes. They seem to only have one thing in common: the word “robot”.

The following pages for “The Greatest Robot on Earth” are from the Dark Horse Omnibus. In most cases, I have used pages from Viz’s Pluto: UrasawaXTezuka, but there are a few pages from the fan scans. Why? Because I own the physical manga, didn’t want to pay for all the volumes again in a digital version, and realized that the images in the fan scans were cleaner and bigger than most of the ones I could get from cracking the spine of my books and mooshing them on the scanner.

Pluto at Its Most Faithful

Mont Blanc died first in “The Greatest Robot on Earth”, and in Pluto he fares no differently. Of course, in true dramatic Urasawa fashion, Pluto chooses to begin with the fiery discovery of Mont Blanc’s head tucked within his killer’s calling card to establish the mystery and suspense of this work rather than start with a quaint lumberjacking-scene-turned-robot-fight like the original.

Urasawa and Nagasaki’s choice to include human victims in Pluto also immediately raises the stakes in a way that “The Greatest Robot on Earth” never did or would. It also immediately changes the type of exploration within the world that the series would do, given that the robots of the extended Astro Boy universe are believed to follow Asimov’s Laws.

Greece’s Hercules, spelled Heracles in Pluto’s English translation, is a straightforward warrior-type in “The Greatest Robot on Earth”, and he sasses the crap out of Epsilon when he shows up to speak with him just as he does in Pluto. He then gets trounced by Pluto after a drawn-out fight. 

In Pluto, Hercules still fits the original warrior archetype, but with the addition of his very own character arc! His rivalry and friendship with Brando is new and refreshing, and his blooming respect for Epsilon pairs nicely with his own discovery of his humanity and personal beliefs as it relates to combat, war, and victory.

They called him the god of victory, after all, not necessarily bloodshed. He may have lost his fight with Pluto, but he went down believing he won and with a newfound appreciation for life and the bravery it requires to not fight. His manager Al Haft(a) is an easter egg character.

In real life, Greece participated in the Gulf War, but disagreed with the 2003 Iraq War and did not participate. Meanwhile, Australia participated with the goal of growing closer to the USA. In Pluto, these stances were swapped in their representative robots.

Personally, I think Epsilon (sometimes called Photar in the Astro Boy anime adaptation dubs) is the most surprising figure in these page comparisons if only because he didn’t actually change that much between works. Instead, it is Wassily who exploded onto the Pluto scene with his very own expanded story and Bora trauma. Yes, the disembodied hands scene is in both.

Pluto’s Epsilon looks just like Monster’s Johan, which is funny—Urasawa seems to use Tezuka’s Star System method across his works. In English, Johan and Epsilon are voiced by the same guy, too.

Speaking of, Bora is native to “The Greatest Robot on Earth”, and he is still a bomb. In “The Greatest Robot on Earth”, his creator takes the time to tell the sultan that he created him just to beat Pluto and, by extension, the sultan. In Pluto, Bora’s existence and purpose is to exact vengeance on a broader scale.

Uran’s changes between series are actually really straightforward. In the postscript of the physical Pluto manga’s volume 6, essayist and critic Gorot Yamada laments the fact that Urasawa avoided the “ero-kawaii” of Uran confronting Pluto in nothing but Atom’s briefs and calls it a “minor weakness” since it is representative of Urasawa’s relatively gentler hand in showing “cruelty or eroticism” when compared to Tezuka.

I can’t begin to tell you how funny I think this criticism is, although I do believe that Urasawa does have, overall, gentler sensibilities than Tezuka. But still. I don’t think we’re missing much by keeping Uran in her clothes. She’s still a snot, she’s still a braggart, she’s still good-hearted, and she still makes her big brother look like a square and a stick-in-the-mud. Writing precocious little girls and sweet stories of unlikely bonding moments are a few of Urasawa’s specialties, so I don’t find it surprising that he took the Uran by the hair-horns and maximized her existing character traits.

Spiritually, she feels consistent to me, though her basic actions are decidedly different: Pluto’s Uran doesn’t fight or try to fight Pluto, doesn’t want Atom to fight Pluto at any point, doesn’t ever hate Pluto, and has empathy-based powers (separate from that, she may just be smarter and more emotionally intelligent than the original Uran). 

However, the sequences in the park and the underpasses where she befriends Pluto strongly resemble Uran’s near-naked adventures in the streets of “The Greatest Robot on Earth”, and that’s fun.

Abullah is where things get spicy, and that’s mostly because the only real change to his character was the addition of his human backstory and discovery of hatred. In Pluto, he is Tenma and Abullah’s science project who believes he is a human scientist (which he isn’t), but he’s actually also got a split personality! That’s a lot. There’s just so much going on with that. But still, where Pluto’s twist falls on the scale of wild twist bullshittery lessens considerably once you know how this character is portrayed in the original, I feel.

In “The Greatest Robot on Earth”, Abullah is a robot butler disguised as a scientist disguised as another scientist. Not to pooh-pooh the original’s Scooby-Doo antics, but, by comparison, Pluto’s reveal is actually quite nice, logical, and thematically consistent. It also gives Tenma a chance to look cool and not just pathetic.

Professor Ochanomizu is the best character. Don’t argue with me. In Astro Boy, he has a big heart and a big temper to match, and he gets knocked around more than Wile E. Coyote in a Looney Tunes segment. He spends most of “The Greatest Robot on Earth” being kidnapped and hanging out with the sultan, but Pluto spreads the wealth by letting the other roboticists be the damsel in distress throughout the plot.

In Pluto, he’s mostly characterized by doing kindly old man shit (do you recognize that robot dog and how it definitely influenced Ochanomizu’s design for Bobby?), but it is absolutely the kind of stuff the original Hiroshi Ochanomizu would do. He gets treated with more on-screen respect in Pluto than in Astro Boy, but only because he isn’t as cartoony. The animation team made damn sure to have the physics of his stomach work not like those of an innocent-at-heart anime girl’s titties when he’s enthusiastically running to the next big important thing, and that’s exactly the right spirit for a creator to have towards this character. A+ job, M2.

Also, in the manga only, Ochanomizu is the facilitator for the single most entertaining referential gag in all of Urasawa’s works: the police dog car diagram. This was cut in the anime.

In the postscript of Pluto: UrasawaXTezuka volume 5, manga critic and lecturer Tomohiko Murakami observes that “Urasawa’s depictions of Professor Tenma and Professor Ochanomizu almost appear to be [his] perspective on two different aspects of Osamu Tezuka’s character.” I don’t necessarily disagree, especially given the commentary Tezuka gave regarding Atom’s status as a “monster”, but I think that Ochanomizu and Tenma also more generally represent the “dark” and “light” side of progress and science. This is likely what Tezuka intended for them, too, back when he was writing the series.

But Tenma is just a hot mess. For the duration of “The Greatest Robot on Earth”, he was more or less emotionally stable up until the “death” of Atom (and guess what? He totally enabled Atom’s increase in strength to 1,000,000, despite Ochanomizu constantly advising Atom not to do), though his general moodiness and instability is a defining character trait for much of the series. He gets better over time, but make no mistake: he is an eccentric, reclusive, and vain disaster man.

In Pluto, Urasawa lets Tenma’s disaster qualities shine alongside his signature ego, moodiness, cynicism, and destructive tendencies. This man self-sabotages like it’s his job. He also flings his creations around willy-nilly and never thinks about the consequences, and that’s why he has a hand in a significant number of the most harmful and destructive events in the extended Astro Boy universe somehow, including in Pluto.

Tenma’s rejection of Atom at the dinner table in Pluto is way classier than his breakdowns in the original Astro Boy manga, but I liked the gravitas of the scene and the over-the-top vibe of the fancy dinner in the sunset. Tenma’s portrayals throughout different series run the gamut from “frenetic cartoon maniac” to “vanilla un-stellar dad” to “Phantom of the Opera”, and this is a nice lean towards the latter end of the scale.

His constant contest over ownership of Atom/influence over Atom with the Ministry of Science (and specifically one Hiroshi Ochanomizu) extends beyond “The Greatest Robot on Earth”, though, and I think elements of their more direct conflicts are very present throughout Pluto. I love an old man fight, and it seems Urasawa does, too.

But goddamn is it satisfying to see Ochanomizu tell Tenma to shove it where the sun don’t shine.

Apparently, their dynamic is so popular that it inspired a completely new series set in the alternate universe where they not only go to college together, but are best friends. If you want something fluffier than Pluto where the old men aren’t old, go read Atom: The Beginning, I guess.

And, like, sure. This is all great. But sans the extended old man drama, many of these side-by-sides have been pretty faithful to “The Greatest Robot on Earth”, and that is NOT what Makoto Tezka asked for.

Pluto as a Remix of Astro Boy

North No. 2, called Monar in “The Greatest Robot on Earth”, is generally the same robot as in his original portrayal, but instead of just going to fight Pluto, he stars alongside new character Paul Duncan in a brand new story about pianos and music and being blind and growing past trauma to accept others into the heart. Tezuka’s Kuroo Hazama (Black Jack) was even there in Paul Duncan’s memories. It had everything: crying old people and kids, medical drama, orphan trauma, mama trauma, prostitution implications, castles, the emptiness of fame and fortune, singing, an android dreaming of more than just electric sheep, long monologues, and an emotional goodbye where one character stares longingly (even if he can’t actually see anything) at the other knowing they shall never return.

I’ll just say it: Turkey’s Brando is a total red shirt in “The Greatest Robot on Earth”. Meanwhile, Urasawa gave him a family, a love of Turkish drinking culture, a friendship and rivalry with Hercules, and a penchant to dabble in illogical forces like luck, and a classic tearjerker death. Urasawa gave him the world. 

In the anime, Brando is among my favorites. Y’all can swoon over your twink Epsilon or whatever, but it’s Brando over randos for me!

Chochi Chochi Ababa transformed into Saddam Hussein—er, Pluto’s King Darius XIV. One is a cartoon villain who provides an opportunity to learn a basic moral lesson, and the other is a motherfucking war criminal. I think that's a sufficiently mature new twist on an old concept.

Of all the characters present in Pluto, Atom himself is likely the one that gave Urasawa and Nagasaki the most grief, if only because he is the one and only Astro Boy, hero of justice, and if his portrayal wasn’t popular, they’d probably be sent to manga hell forever.

For me personally, one of the most gratifying details regarding his portrayal is how quickly he will lie while maintaining the lie that robots can’t and don’t lie. This line of thinking, as well as the implication that Atom follows Asimov’s Laws more because he wants to, not because he has to follow his programming, is something that became more and more apparent the longer the original Astro Boy ran even if none of the other characters directly said anything about it. Speaking as a fan, I also think it’s nice that Urasawa makes the most of upholding Atom’s observed personality traits throughout adaptations. That he made Atom a deeply curative flavor of an insect kid is a grounded, but nice touch.

(It may also be worth noting that Osamu Tezuka had a known fascination with insects. The “Mushi” in Mushi Productions means “insect”. I don’t know how intentional that was, but it seems Pluto’s Atom may have been intended as a chip off the ol’ Tezuka block whether he was his “monster” or not.)

But as lovely and detailed as Urasawa’s embellishments on these characters is, this is still not what Makoto Tezka asked of him. So far, these characters are strikingly similar to the existing “The Greatest Robot on Earth”, and apparently, if Tezka’s interview in the postscript of Pluto: UrasawaXTezuka volume 2 is to be believed, he told Urasawa multiple times to keep revising until he made it his own! It seems Atom really became Urasawa’s monster, too!

[niqhtlord01]

Humans are weird: Space Vampires

(A continuation from Humans are weird: Space Werewolf) ( Please come see me on my new patreon and support me for early access to stories and personal story requests :D https://www.patreon.com/NiqhtLord Every bit helps)    

The drop ship slowly crested its way down through the cloud banks and shook as it hit yet another pocket of turbulence.

“Would you like me to pilot?” Markus joked as he tightened his crash harness again. “I might not be as experienced as you, but I think I can avoid at least one batch of bad weather during our trip.”

Flint chuckled beside himself before quickly stifling it as Hooper grunted from the cockpit.

The craft was an older class V model of shuttle. Enough room for the cockpit and a small storage area in the back where Markus and Flint sat in modified seats. Much of the craft had been modified beyond what the original designers had envisioned, but in their line of work it was a hunter’s job to adapt to any situation with whatever they had on hand.

“You? Pilot?” Hooper laughed as he flipped a series of switches in rapid succession. “You’d be more likely to crash us into a bloody mountain and call it a detour.”

The shuttle shook again suddenly and it felt like it dropped ten feet before stabilizing out. Markus was opening his mouth to make another remark of Hooper’s piloting skills when the now unamused Hooper held up a finger for silence.

Several more shudders pierced swarmed the craft before finally the shuttle cleared the cloud banks and saw the world below. A desolate world of stone and sand with a sky constantly drowned in the depths of clouds so dense that barely any light at all ever reached the surface of the blighted world.

A perfect world indeed for their contact to meet them on.

“Are we sure we should be doing this?”

Hooper took pause from scanning the horizon for their landing to tilt his head back and see Flint looking between the pair. The signs of doubt already beginning to creep over his features as his right foot slowly tapped a rhythm to some new age song. It was a trick Hooper had taught the young hunter to calm his mind when the darkness began to creep ever closer.

“We’ve not got a choice I’m afraid.” Markus spoke before Hooper could. “We’re in uncharted waters and they’ve more a grasp than any of us.”

“But what if they double cross us?” Flint pressed. “When have we ever known them to honor a parlay of truce, let alone not lie to our faces?”

“I understand your reluctance,” Hooper began as he flicked on autopilot and turned the pilot’s chair around to face Flint, “and if times were different I’d be the first one in line to kill these bastard.”

“But Markus is right,” Hooper admitted with a heavy heart, “right now we need to put aside our old grudges and work together.”

“If it makes you feel better, at the first sign of a double cross we can kill them all!” Markus announced boldly and slapped his knee. Flint said nothing at this but smiled; though he could not help still tapping his feet a little softer. Hooper watched this quietly and kept his own council confined within the depths of his thoughts.

He had been hesitant to bring Flint along for this task. Normally a novice hunter would not be exposed to these sorts of dealings until they had become folly ordained within the order; but Markus had lobbied hard for the lad and their previous dealings with the werewolf pack on Sectus II had shown he could hold his own. Markus was also right that there was little time to follow traditional procedures and they needed every hunter in the field they had.

“Is that it?” Flint asked sheepishly as Hooper was dragged from the council of his mind and turned back to look out the cockpit window.

Just nestled in the valley between two long and tall mountain ranges was a red light glowing so bright it was even registering on the shuttles scanners.

“Strap in you two,” Hooper said as he flipped off autopilot and began the descent, “we’re about to find out.”

With that said the shuttle began a rapid descent towards the surface of the planet until coming to a stop just beside the strange red glow. The area around the light was completely deserted save for a lone figure. Their features were hidden beneath their cloak but they seemed untroubled by the storm of dust and flying stones as the shuttle came down next to the flame.

“Gear up.” Hooper said as soon as the shuttle finally came to a rest and the engines started spinning down. He watched the figure for a moment to see if they would move to greet them at the boarding ramp, but they just stood stoic by the light.

“I thought you said we should trust them?” Flint spoke as he untangled himself from the webbing. Hooper shook his head as he unbuckled himself from the flight chair and picked up his plasma caster that was nestled beside him. He popped in a fresh power pack and the weapon began to hum to life as the lethal energies coursed through its elegant frame.

“I said we need them, not that we should trust them.”

The trip of hunters loaded themselves with the weapons and tools of their trade before Markus hammered the boarding ramp switch and the back of the shuttle popped open with a grinding screech. It took a minute to fully open before the hunters set foot on the desolate world and walked around the shuttle to meet with the figure.

None of them spoke as they approached the stranger as they finally moved; walking towards the flame and casually extinguishing it with a casual kick of dirt. Hooper switched between keeping his eyes on the figure and scanning the horizon, but for the most part the figure was the only one out in the open for miles around.

“I thought we had agreed to meet alone.” The figure spoke as the trio of hunters stopped several paces between the two parties.

Hooper smirked. “That we did,” he said as he swept his plasma caster around the surrounding area, “so would you care to tell your friends to leave and I’ll do the same.”

The figure cocked his head in confusion, but Hooper just pointed his weapon at the ground he now stood over.

“You think we didn’t see your friend buried in the stones?” Hooper asked mockingly. “Tell them to get out here now or this one below me is about to find out what a face full of holy plasma feels like; and trust me when I say it makes holy water feel like a pin prick.”

Standing silent, the figure made no move to acknowledge Hooper’s claim. It wasn’t until the whine of the plasma caster finally reached its highest pitch indicating that it was ready to fire that they finally gave up and made a gesture with their right hand.

All around them more figures suddenly began bursting from the ground in showers of rock and stone, causing Flint to reach for his weapon before a calming hand from Markus forestalled him. These new figures wore elaborate sets of armor, now decorated with a thin layer of dust from their hiding places. Each held a sharpened blade in their hands while burning red eyes tracked the hunters every movements. The one beneath Hooper’s feet making an awkward assention as he crawled up from the stone beneath his legs.

“It is good to see your order has not lost its touch.” The figure said as they removed their hood to show a youthful looking face. “Existence can become so dull without a good sparring partner.”

“Morgan.” Hooper said with a tilt of his head. He powered down his plasma caster as the other figures shuffled over and stood behind their master.

Morgan, voice of the conclave of vampires, nodded in return and looked passed Hooper to Markus and Flint.

“And you’re friends are?” Morgan asked, but Hooper shook his head.

“Cut the formalities and let’s get this done.” He said.

The right eyebrow of Morgan twitched for the briefest of moments in anger but otherwise he retained his composure. The vampiric assassins jittered around him as if sensing their master’s anger but knew well enough to remain silent.

Holding out his hand towards one of the assassins, the vampire stepped forward to Hooper and presented him with a datapad before returning to his position behind his master. Hooper powered on the pad and began reading the information as it scrolled by.

“The names and last known whereabouts of the vampires responsible for the most recent…..” the voice paused for a moment to consider his words, “breaches; as you requested.”

“Breaches!?”

Morgan looked towards the speaker to find that it was young Flint who now spoke brazenly; his outrage at the dismissiveness of the vampire beyond constraint.

“Your kind slaughtered three colony worlds and left a damn near hundred young bloods to ravage the rest of the planet it a blood fueled ram-

“FLINT!!!”

Flint stopped himself as Hooper shouted at him and fixed him with the hardest stare he had.

“Shut. Up. Now.” he spoke through gritted teeth.

Not expecting this from his mentor, Flint looked confused and upset before relenting and resuming his silence. Hooper turned back to Morgan who had remained silent during the outburst.

“My…..apologies, for my protégés outburst;” Hooper said much to the surprise of Markus and Flint, “he still needs to learn how these matters are conducted.”

Morgan grinned, an expression that made Flint’s hand twitch towards his own gun, and waved away Hooper’s apology.

“Think nothing of it.” He replied to Hooper, before tilting and looking directly at Flint. “And I would go so far as to state that I agree with their assessment entirely.”

Whatever the trio had been expecting the vampire to say during these dealings, a formal apology was not amongst them. It was rare for a vampire to admit they were wrong, let alone agree with a mere mortal.

“Since the discovery of space travel the vampire conclave has found it increasingly difficult to keep its members in line.” Morgan began as he paced around the meeting area. He would stop every now and then to look at the ground before bending down to pick up a stone of unremarkable appearance before casually tossing it aside.

“On Earth such acts of carnage were contained and swiftly dealt with to maintain the balance, but now; as the universe opens up around us some of our kind see worlds as their own private feasting grounds.”

“Can’t keep your house in order?” Hooper mocked.

In a blink of an eye Morgan vanished from his position opposite Hooper and appeared with his hand inches from the hunter’s throat. The hunter could smell the sulfur radiating off the vampire and knew he had struck a nerve. He could see the crimson color of Morgan’s eyes and felt the vampire was using every ounce of his strength to resist feeding on Hooper.

Markus, Flint, and the vampire assassins all readied themselves as if battle would ensue but Hooper held up a hand to stall his companions.

“You would be wise to remember your place.” Morgan spoke through gritted teeth. His sharpened fangs protruding from his mouth with each syllable ready to dig deep into Hooper’s neck and drink of his blood. A notion Hooper was well aware of and had his right hand firmly priming a garlic grenade in his pocket to dissuade the vampire should he press further.

“The vampire conclave is handling the dealings of our kind on a hundred worlds across a dozen star systems. Your continued existence is merely a byproduct of our generosity for allowing you to live long enough to spread humans to more worlds to feast on.”

“There’s plenty of alien’s out there too,” Hooper said calmly, “why the special interest in us “lowly” humans?”

“They are..” Morgan spoke as he slowly pulled away from Hooper and the hunter eased off the garlic grenade, “incompatible.”

“That didn’t seem to bother the werewolves.” Hooper pointed out. “Nor zombies for that matter; those buggers will eat just about anything.”

Morgan sighed deeply and run his hands over his face as if he was about to speak slowly to a small child.

“I do not have the time nor patience to explain why human blood is the desired choice for my kind; just know that it is the will of the conclave to see your species continued existence to serve us in the coming millennia.”

He tapped the datapad Hooper still held in his other hand with a long finger ending with a sharpened fingernail that looked like it could cut steel as if it was cardboard.

“A decree that some of my kind are now putting at risk by their rampant blood feasts. If we do not pool our resources now they will exterminate the entirety of the human population leaving us without a crucial food source.”

“And here I thought you just enjoyed our company.” Hooper said begrudgingly. “So your only wish to keep using humans is for vampire food?”

Morgan paused to collect his thoughts, debating internally if he should share the new information with his hunter adversaries.

“There is another reason,” Morgan spoke slowly having made up his mind, “and it is with regards to alien blood.”

This peeked Hooper’s interest and he motioned for the vampire to continue.

“During your encounter with the werewolves from your previous…adventures, did you not see aliens infected by their mark?”

“We did.” Hooper replied, unsure were Morgan was going with this.

“We have discovered similarly, that when the blood curse is applied to nonhuman species the results can be……detrimental.”

“Meaning?” Hooper asked impatiently.

“The curse changes aliens in ways we have not seen before, and at times these new abominations have abilities far beyond even our elder’s capabilities to contain.”

This was grave news that Hooper could hardly believe. A vampire elder, or leader of the conclave, was easily thousands of years old and possessed enough strength and skill that centuries ago it had taken the entire order of hunters to destroy just one of their number. To hear that these beings of unimaginable destruction were being hard pressed by newly turned alien vampires was something that filled Hooper with a sense of dread he had not known in decades.

“You see our problem now.” Morgan spoke, seeing that the hunter finally realized what is at stake. “If we do not correct these divergences now, we may see a galactic scale level of devastation.”

“And to show you we are not joking,” Morgan continued as one by one the vampire assassins began vanishing into smoke leaving the area until only Morgan remained, “we brought you one to see firsthand.”

A loud roar thundered through the valley and the trio of hunters all reached for their weapons. In the distance they could see an ever growing mound of flesh thrashing towards them. Rows of teeth catching the light as it stampeded towards the gathering and Hooper caught sight of a pair of bright crimson eyes that he had seen just now in Morgan’s visage.

“Au revoir, Mr. Hooper.”

Hooper turned back to see Morgan vanishing into smoke, laughing as the tyrant alien vampire continued thundering towards the hunters.

[automotiveinstruction]

Engine Repair Instruction Full Guide

Engines are the heart of any vehicle, powering everything from your daily commute to long road trips. Knowing how to repair an engine can be a game-changer, whether you're an enthusiast who loves getting your hands dirty or someone looking to save money on mechanic bills. This guide will walk you through the entire process of engine repair, from diagnosing problems to reassembling your engine and ensuring it runs smoothly.

Understanding the Basics of an Engine

Before diving into the repair process, it’s crucial to understand how an engine works. Most vehicles use an internal combustion engine, which combines fuel and air, ignites it, and transforms that explosion into mechanical energy.

Components of an Internal Combustion Engine

The main components include:

Cylinder Block: The engine's core where combustion occurs.

Cylinder Head: Houses the valves and spark plugs.

Pistons: Move up and down to create the force needed to turn the crankshaft.

Crankshaft: Converts the pistons' up-and-down movement into rotational motion.

Camshaft: Controls the opening and closing of the valves.

Valves: Regulate the flow of fuel and air into the engine and exhaust gases out.

How an Engine Works: A Simple Explanation

An engine works by pulling in a mixture of air and fuel, compressing it, igniting it with a spark (in gasoline engines), and then expelling the exhaust gases. This cycle—intake, compression, power, and exhaust—happens in each cylinder and repeats hundreds of times per minute.

Tools and Equipment Needed for Engine Repair

Whether you're performing a basic repair or diving into more complex work, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools for Basic Repairs

Socket Set: For removing and tightening bolts.

Wrenches: Different sizes for various engine parts.

Screwdrivers: Flathead and Phillips for screws and clips.

Pliers: For handling wires and small parts.

Torque Wrench: Ensures bolts are tightened to the correct specifications.

Specialized Equipment for Advanced Engine Work

Engine Hoist: For removing the engine from the vehicle.

Cylinder Hone: Prepares cylinders for new piston rings.

Compression Tester: Checks the health of each cylinder.

OBD-II Scanner: Diagnoses engine codes and issues.

Safety Gear and Precautions

Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts and chemicals.

Safety Glasses: Shield your eyes from debris.

Work Boots: Offer protection against heavy parts or tools.

Diagnosing Engine Problems

Accurately diagnosing engine problems is the first step in any repair process. Understanding the symptoms can save time and prevent unnecessary work.

Common Symptoms of Engine Issues

Check Engine Light: Indicates a problem detected by the car's computer.

Strange Noises: Knocking, tapping, or grinding sounds can signal internal damage.

Excessive Smoke: Blue smoke might mean burning oil, while white could suggest a coolant leak.

Loss of Power: Often linked to fuel or air delivery issues.

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Process

Listen and Observe: Note any unusual sounds, smells, or behaviors.

Check Engine Light Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes.

Perform Compression Test: Assesses the health of your engine’s cylinders.

Inspect Fluids: Look for contamination or leaks in oil, coolant, and other fluids.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reassembly

Prepare Your Workspace: Ensure that your workspace is clean, organized, and well-lit. Lay out all the parts and tools you'll need in the order of reassembly. Keep the engine manual handy for specific torque specs and sequences.

Install the Crankshaft: Place the crankshaft back into the engine block, ensuring it is seated correctly. Use assembly lube on the main bearings to prevent damage during the initial startup. Torque the main caps to the manufacturer's specifications.

Insert the Pistons: Install the pistons and connecting rods. Be sure to align the piston rings correctly and use a ring compressor to insert the pistons into the cylinder bore. Attach the connecting rods to the crankshaft and torque the rod bolts to spec.

Install the Camshaft and Timing Components: If your engine uses a timing chain or belt, install it according to the timing marks on the camshaft and crankshaft gears. This step is crucial for ensuring the engine's valves open and close at the correct times.

Attach the Cylinder Head: Place the cylinder head gasket on the engine block, followed by the cylinder head. Torque the head bolts in the correct sequence and to the proper specifications. This ensures a good seal and prevents head gasket failure.

Install Valves, Lifters, and Pushrods: If applicable, install the engine's valves, lifters, and pushrods. Make sure they are properly aligned and that the lifters are seated correctly in their bores.

Reassemble the Valve Train: Install the rocker arms and adjust the valve lash according to the engine manual. Proper valve lash is critical for engine performance and longevity.

Reattach External Components: Begin reattaching external components like the water pump, oil pump, timing cover, oil pan, and intake manifold. Replace any gaskets and seals during this process to prevent leaks.

Reconnect the Fuel and Ignition Systems: Reinstall the fuel injectors, spark plugs, and ignition wires. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly routed to avoid short circuits or malfunctions.

Final Checks: Before moving on, double-check all connections, bolts, and components. Make sure nothing is left loose or unconnected.

Applying Proper Torques and Specifications

Every engine has specific torque settings for each bolt. Over-tightening can strip threads or warp components, while under-tightening can lead to leaks or parts coming loose. Use a torque wrench and follow the manufacturer's specifications closely.

Double-Checking Work for Mistakes

It's easy to miss a step or make a mistake during reassembly. Double-check your work:

Ensure all components are installed in the correct order.

Verify all bolts are torqued to spec.

Check for any leftover parts or tools in the engine bay.

Testing the Repaired Engine

With the engine reassembled, the next step is testing it to ensure everything is functioning properly.

Preparing for Initial Startup

Before starting the engine, perform a few preparatory checks:

Prime the oil system: This can be done by cranking the engine with the fuel system disabled until oil pressure is achieved.

Fill the engine with fresh oil and coolant.

Double-check all electrical connections and fuel lines.

Checking for Leaks and Unusual Noises

Once you start the engine, pay close attention to any unusual noises or leaks:

Oil Leaks: Check around the oil pan, valve covers, and front and rear seals.

Coolant Leaks: Inspect the radiator, hoses, and water pump area.

Unusual Noises: Listen for knocking, tapping, or whining sounds, which could indicate an issue with the timing components or internal parts.

Fine-Tuning and Adjusting the Engine

After the initial startup, the engine may require some adjustments:

Timing Adjustments: Use a timing light to set the ignition timing.

Idle Speed: Adjust the idle speed according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Fuel Mixture: On carbureted engines, you may need to adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal performance.

Common Engine Repair Mistakes to Avoid

Engine repair is complex, and mistakes can be costly. Here are some common errors to watch out for:

Misalignments and Incorrect Torques

Misaligned timing components can lead to poor engine performance or damage.

Incorrectly torqued bolts can cause leaks, parts failure, or engine damage.

Overlooking Small Parts and Connections

Small parts like washers, clips, or gaskets are easy to overlook but crucial for preventing leaks and ensuring proper function.

Electrical connections: Double-check that all sensors and connectors are properly seated.

Skipping Diagnostic Steps

Skipping steps in the diagnostic process can lead to unnecessary repairs or missed issues. Always perform thorough diagnostics before and after repairs.

Maintaining Your Engine After Repair

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your newly repaired engine.

Importance of Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and coolant checks, is essential to keep your engine running smoothly and prevent future problems.

Tips for Extending Engine Life

Use high-quality oil and filters.

Avoid hard driving until the engine is fully warmed up.

Regularly check and maintain fluid levels.

When to Seek Professional Help

While DIY repairs can save money, some issues are best left to professionals, especially if you encounter complex problems or lack the necessary tools and expertise.

Dealing with Advanced Engine Repairs

Some engine repairs are too complex for the average DIYer. Here's when to consider professional help:

Understanding When It’s Beyond DIY

Extensive internal damage: Cracked blocks or severely worn bearings usually require professional expertise.

Advanced electrical issues: Problems with engine management systems often need specialized diagnostic tools and knowledge.

Overview of Complex Repairs: Timing Belt, Engine Rebuilds

Timing Belt Replacement: Involves precise alignment of engine components and is critical for preventing engine damage.

Engine Rebuilds: This is a time-consuming and complex task that often requires professional machining and specialized tools.

Working with a Professional Mechanic

When the repair is beyond your capabilities, working with a professional mechanic ensures that the job is done correctly and safely. They have the tools, experience, and resources to handle complex engine repairs.

Cost Considerations in Engine Repair

Engine repair costs can vary widely depending on the scope of work, parts required, and whether you do it yourself or hire a professional.

Estimating Costs for DIY vs Professional Repair

DIY Repairs: Typically cost less but require an investment in tools and time.

Professional Repairs: Can be expensive but come with the assurance of experience and often a warranty.

Budgeting for Tools, Parts, and Time

Consider the cost of any special tools or equipment you might need, as well as the cost of replacement parts. Factor in the time required, especially if the vehicle is your daily driver.

Understanding the Cost of Mistakes

Mistakes can be costly. Stripping a bolt, breaking a part, or incorrect assembly can lead to additional expenses. Always weigh the risks before starting a major repair.

Conclusion

Recap of Key Points

Engine repair is a rewarding but challenging task that requires careful planning, the right tools, and attention to detail. Whether you’re fixing a minor issue or performing a complete rebuild, following the correct procedures is crucial for success.

Encouragement for DIY Enthusiasts

For those who love working on their vehicles, engine repair can be a satisfying and cost-effective way to maintain your car. With patience and persistence, even complex repairs can be tackled with confidence.

Final Thoughts on Engine Repair

Always approach engine repair with a clear plan and the right resources. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed, and remember that regular maintenance is the best way to avoid major repairs.

FAQs

How do I know if my engine needs repair?

Common signs include unusual noises, excessive smoke, loss of power, and a check engine light. Regular diagnostics can help catch issues early.

Can I repair my engine without professional help?

Basic repairs like replacing gaskets or sensors can often be done at home with the right tools. However, more complex tasks like engine rebuilds may require professional expertise.

What are the signs of a failing engine?

Signs include knocking noises, excessive oil consumption, smoke from the exhaust, and persistent overheating.

How long does it take to repair an engine?

The time required varies greatly depending on the complexity of the repair. Simple repairs might take a few hours, while a full rebuild could take several days or longer.

[tradewithwill]

Master Day Trading with These Transformative Strategies for Financial Success!

Day trading has become a popular way for people to take control of their financial futures. With the fast-paced nature of the stock market, day trading offers opportunities for quick gains but also comes with significant risks. To help you navigate this challenging yet rewarding venture, we’ve compiled essential tips that could revolutionize your approach to day trading. Whether you are a beginner or have some experience, these strategies will keep you on the right path to success.

Understand What Day Trading Entails

Day trading involves buying and selling financial instruments like stocks, options, or futures within the same day. The goal is to capitalize on small price movements and make a profit. Unlike long-term investors who hold positions for years, day traders need to be hyper-aware of the market and ready to act quickly. The key to being a successful day trader is understanding that it’s not gambling but a calculated and disciplined approach to the financial markets.

Master Technical Analysis

Technical analysis is the backbone of successful day trading. This method involves studying historical price data, trading volumes, and chart patterns to predict future market movements. Here’s what to focus on:

Charts and Patterns: Learn to recognize patterns such as head and shoulders, triangles, and flags. These formations can signal potential price moves and help you make informed decisions.

Indicators: Familiarize yourself with popular technical indicators like moving averages, Relative Strength Index (RSI), and Bollinger Bands. These tools provide insights into momentum, trends, and volatility.

Price Action: In addition to indicators, pay attention to price action—the movement of an asset’s price. It’s crucial for understanding market sentiment.

Mastering technical analysis takes time and practice, but it can be one of the most potent weapons in your day-trading arsenal.

Develop a Robust Trading Plan

Successful traders don’t rely on luck; they rely on a well-thought-out plan. Your trading plan should outline your entry and exit strategies, risk management rules, and the types of trades you’ll focus on. Here’s what to consider:

Risk Management: Never risk more than 1-2% of your trading capital on a single trade. This minimizes the impact of potential losses and keeps you in the game for the long run.

Profit Targets and Stop Losses: Establish clear profit targets and stop-loss orders before entering a trade. This approach will keep your emotions in check and prevent you from holding onto losing positions in the hope they’ll turn around.

Trading Journal: Keep a detailed record of all your trades. Note what worked, what didn’t, and how you felt during each trade. Reviewing your journal will help you learn from past mistakes and improve your performance over time.

Stay Informed and Adaptable

A multitude of factors, including economic news, geopolitical events, and market sentiment, influence financial markets. Staying informed about these elements can give you a competitive edge. Follow trusted financial news sources, monitor economic calendars, and be aware of earnings announcements that can cause sudden market movements.

However, it’s also essential to be adaptable. The market can change in an instant, and rigid strategies may fail when conditions shift. Successful traders know when to stick to their plan and when to adjust based on market dynamics.

Utilize Advanced Trading Tools

Day trading platforms offer a variety of tools to enhance your trading efficiency. Here are some must-haves:

Level II Quotes: These provide insight into the stock order book, showing buy and sell orders at different price levels. Level II data can help you make more informed decisions about entering or exiting a trade.

Hotkeys: Configure hotkeys for quick order execution. When every second counts, hotkeys can save you valuable time.

Scanners and Alerts: Use scanners to find stocks that fit your trading criteria, such as high volume or significant price movements. Set up alerts to be notified when a stock hits a particular price level.

Leveraging these tools will streamline your trading process and improve your decision-making.

Control Your Emotions

Day trading can be an emotional roller coaster, and emotions like fear and greed can cloud your judgment. It’s essential to remain calm and disciplined, even when the market is volatile. Here are a few tips to manage your emotions:

Follow Your Plan: Trust your trading plan and avoid making impulsive decisions. If you find yourself getting emotional, take a break to clear your mind.

Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like deep breathing and meditation can help you stay focused and calm under pressure.

Accept Losses: No trader wins every trade. Accept losses as part of the process and focus on long-term success rather than short-term setbacks.

Practice with a Demo Account

Before risking real money, practice your strategies with a demo account. Many trading platforms offer this feature, allowing you to trade in a simulated environment. This will help you gain confidence and refine your skills without the pressure of losing money. Treat your demo account as seriously as a real one to develop good habits that will serve you well when you transition to live trading.

Avoid Overtrading

One common pitfall for beginners is overtrading. It’s tempting to make frequent trades, but more trades don’t necessarily lead to more profits. In fact, overtrading can result in higher transaction costs and increased emotional stress. Stick to high-probability setups that align with your trading plan and avoid the urge to trade just for the sake of it.

Have a Contingency Plan

Despite your best efforts, not every day will be profitable. It’s crucial to have a contingency plan for days when nothing seems to work. This could involve taking a break from trading to reset your mindset or reviewing your performance to identify areas for improvement. Remember, the goal is to protect your capital and stay in the game for the long haul.

The Bottom Line

Day trading offers the potential for significant financial rewards, but it’s not without its challenges. Success requires a blend of technical skills, discipline, and emotional control. By mastering technical analysis, creating a solid trading plan, staying informed, and using advanced tools, you’ll be well on your way to revolutionizing your finances.

Remember, day trading is a journey, not a sprint. Keep learning, stay disciplined, and never stop refining your strategies. With dedication and the right approach, you can make day trading a profitable and sustainable endeavor.

[watching-pictures-move]

Movie Review | Scanners III: The Takeover (Duguay, 1991)

To be honest I decided to watch Scanners II: The New Order on Canada Day as a bit of a joke, but now I'm glad I got through it so I could watch this, because this is kind of amazing. For one, with Liliana Komorowska, this easily has the best lead performance in the series. She plays the villain, and I'd put Michael Ironside over her in that respect, but she has as much if not more screentime than Steve Parrish, who plays the hero in this movie. And compared to Parrish, the serviceable David Hewlett in the second film, or the total void of Stephen Lack in the original, she's giving 110% and totally sinking her teeth into her character's villainy, totally unafraid to make funny faces to sell the material. And speaking as a straight man, I found her distressingly sexy. Distressingly because she was using her Scanning powers for evil. Had she used them for good, there would be no distress. Anyway, I said I'd be less thirsty in my reviews, but I lied.

She plays one half of a brother-sister Scanner duo who uses her Scanning powers to climb the corporate ladder. At the time this probably played like a gender-flipped Michael Douglas yuppie thriller, and any misogyny that could be read into this was probably taken unironically. But in retrospect, this plays like a pretty good satire of the girlboss CEO archetype. Were this to be remade (instead of the original for whatever reason), you could credibly pretend it was inspired by Elizabeth Holmes without changing too much of the screenplay. I'd like to think this is at least partially intentional as satire, because Komorowska spends a good chunk of the movie with a hilariously outdated "power" hairdo that feels like it was dug up from the '30s. She looks like Mildred Pierce of some shit. (I haven't seen Mildred Pierce. For all I know the main character has perfectly normal hair.)

One quality that I think places this closer to the original than the sequel is the way it ties the characters' exploration of their powers into the overall thrust of the movie. I think one of the challenges of what you might call Vinegar Syndrome core is that daffiness on its own can be sporadically entertaining, but needs to have shape to sustain your interest. (This was released on Blu-ray by Shout Factory, but this definitely has VS energy with its absurdist streak.) And for all the baffling things that transpire, they are pretty consistently tied to the arcs of the two leads, who are figuring out the extent of their abilities and finding new uses for them. And while no one will mistake Christian Duguay for David Cronenberg, he does imbue this with almost relentless forward momentum, staging the action scenes with athletic swerves of the camera and a great sense of timing. (For evidence of this, one need not look further than an underwater head explosion or the severed arm punchline that Letterboxd user Adam L astutely cites.) This lacks the frigid surfaces of the original that one gets with Cronenberg, but the fact that it looks like a TV movie arguably helps the daffiness pop.

[utopianadaosophy]

Tiana Lavrova's invention of a Scrabble word scanner on a psychedelic toaster would be a whimsical and imaginative device. Here’s how it could work:

Scanning: The toaster would have an integrated scanner on top, where you could place your Scrabble tiles. The scanner would read the letters on the tiles.

Word Formation: Using an internal dictionary, the device would form valid Scrabble words from the scanned tiles. It could use algorithms to find the highest-scoring word possible.

Printing: Once the word is chosen, the toaster would activate its printing mechanism. Using edible ink, it would print the word onto the bread as it toasts.

Toasting: As the bread toasts, the word would gradually appear, creating a fun way to enjoy your breakfast and improve your Scrabble skills simultaneously.

Psychedelic Design: The toaster itself would have a vibrant, psychedelic design, making it a statement piece in any kitchen.

Tile Rack: A built-in tile rack on top of the scanner would hold your tiles when not in use, adding to the convenience.

It’s a fusion of technology, art, and wordplay, all in one playful kitchen appliance!

II.

The Scrabble word scanner toaster could have a variety of additional features to make it even more enjoyable and functional. Here are some ideas:

Word Learning Mode: A feature that teaches you new words each day, expanding your vocabulary while you enjoy your breakfast.

Game Mode: Connect with friends or family members for a quick game of Scrabble while your toast is being prepared.

Customizable Print Designs: Beyond words, the toaster could print intricate designs or patterns on your toast for a visually appealing breakfast.

Voice Control: Integrate voice commands to operate the toaster, choose words, or play music without lifting a finger.

Mobile App Integration: A companion app that tracks your word stats, suggests new words based on your skill level, and orders new edible ink cartridges.

Nutritional Information: The toaster could provide nutritional facts about your bread and suggest healthy toppings to go with your Scrabble word of the day.

These features would turn a simple breakfast into an interactive and educational experience, perfect for word game enthusiasts and those looking to add a little fun to their morning routine! 

III.

Absolutely, the Scrabble word scanner toaster could also play Scrabble-themed music to enhance the experience. Imagine it having a small speaker system that plays music with wordplay and letter-themed lyrics. As you wait for your toast, you could enjoy tunes that might even inspire your next game move. It would be a delightful combination of taste, play, and sound, perfect for Scrabble enthusiasts! 

[mvalana]

Scanners II: The New Order

[docrotten]

PIN (1988) – Episode 253 – Decades Of Horror 1980s

“Where did you learn to do that?” Learn to do what? Oh…that. Join your faithful Grue Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr along with guest host Ralph Miller – as they visit another strange twist on the ventriloquist/dummy subgenre called PIN (1988).

Decades of Horror 1980s Episode 253 – PIN (1988)

Join the Crew on the Gruesome Magazine YouTube channel! Subscribe today! Click the alert to get notified of new content! https://youtube.com/gruesomemagazine

Gruesome Magazine is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of Decades of Horror 1980s and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.

Isolated by his strange parents, Leon finds solace in an imaginary friend, which happens to be an anatomy doll from his father-the-doctor’s office. Unfortunately, the doll begins to take over Leon’s life, and his sister’s life as well.

  Directed by: Sandor Stern

Writing Credits: Sandor Stern (screenplay); Andrew Neiderman (based on the April 1981 novel by)

Selected Cast:

David Hewlett as Leon

Cynthia Preston as Ursula (as Cyndy Preston)

Terry O’Quinn as Dr. Linden

Bronwen Mantel as Mrs. Linden

John Pyper-Ferguson as Stan Fraker (as John Ferguson)

Helene Udy as Marcia Bateman

Patricia Collins as Aunt Dorothy

Steven Bednarski as Leon – Age 13

Katie Shingler as Ursula – Age 11

Jacob Tierney as Leon – Age 7

Michelle Anderson as Ursula – Age 5

Joan Austen as Nurse Spalding

Jamie Stern as Eddie Morris (as James Stern)

David Gow as Officer Wilson

Terrence Labrosse as Dr. Bell

Aline Vandrine as Mrs. Shaver

Joanna Noyes as Mrs. Henry

Andrew Carter as Andy

Leif Anderson as Dave

Joel Johnson as Jack

Shawn Johnson as Tim

Robin MacEachern as Richie

Jonathan Banks as PIN (voice)

Beware the anatomy doll! Ralph Miller III joins Jeff, Bill, and Chad for a look back at PIN (1988) from director Sandor Stern. The cast includes David Hewlett (Scanners II: The New Order, Cube), Cynthia Preston (The Brain, Prom Night III: The Last Kiss), and Terry O’Quinn (Silver Bullet, The Stepfather, Lost). While it struggled to find an audience upon its initial release, critics praised PIN as well-made, bizarre, and disturbing. Fangoria would later feature it in its “101 Best Horror Films You’ve Never Seen.” Now, it’s time for the Grue-Crew to revisit the film and share their thoughts.

At the time of this writing, PIN is available to stream from YouTube.

Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, moving into our Grue Believer Celebration Shenanigans month and chosen by guest host Scott Wells, will be The Queen of Black Magic (1981), an Indonesian horror film quoted as being an inspiration to modern-day Indonesian filmmakers such as Kimo Stamboel and Joko Anwar. You can check this one out on YouTube.

Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the Gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the Gruesome Magazine website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.

Check out this episode!

[lightcheckup]

How To Reset Traction Control Light And ABS In RAM 1500 And Jeep Wrangler

How to Reset Traction Control Light

How Important Are The Traction Control Light And ABS Reset?

It’s crucial to turn off the traction control and anti-lock brake lights. These two infants work together to keep you safe on the road. The Traction Control Light warns you of possible traction loss so you can prevent a skid or spin. And ABS? 

Wheel lockup during hard braking can be avoided to improve handling. These lights may indicate a system fault or a more severe issue. Thus, resetting them is crucial. 

You can do it yourself, but it’s not as simple as clicking a button. No! First, find the diagnostic connection, which might be located in odd locations. 

Once you discover it, slide a jumper wire or paperclip into the slots and switch on and off your ignition in a precise order. 

Restart your engine to see if those annoying lights are gone. If they persist, see a professional. But it’s worth a chance, right? Have fun experimenting!

Diagnosing The Issue: Troubleshooting Steps

You’re driving along when the “Traction Control Light” turns on. How to reset traction control light: since I have the troubleshooting procedures you need to identify and cure this problem, you can follow these steps to diagnose the issue and resolve it.

First, check the traction control switch. Check its position—you’d be shocked at how frequently that’s the problem.

Step two: reset the traction control light if that doesn’t work. Find that handy reset button and push it. 

A reset may fix the issue sometimes. If none of these measures work, it’s time to contact the experts.

How to Reset Traction Control Light

5 Steps: How To Reset Traction Control Light And ABS

The traction control and ABS lights can be easily reset using the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system.

Start by parking the car safely and levelly. The driver’s side OBD-II port is usually beneath the dashboard.

Plug the OBD-II scanner tool into the port and turn on the ignition without starting the engine. Once the scanner tool has powered on, navigate through the menu options to find the “Reset Traction Control Light” or “Reset ABS” function. 

Activate this function and wait for the scanner tool to communicate with the vehicle’s computer system.

The traction control and ABS warning lights should be turned off after the operation. 

This warning light reset does not fix the issue that caused it. If the warning lights return after the reset, a competent technician should diagnose a more severe traction control or ABS issue.

If you have questions about how to reset traction control light and ABS, check the vehicle’s owner’s manual or get expert help. These step-by-step procedures will reset the traction control light and ABS warning lights, returning vehicle control systems to optimum performance. 

How To Reset Traction Control Light In The RAM 1500: An Easy Guide

It’s crucial that you know how to reset the traction control light on your RAM 1500. The traction control light alerts the driver to possible issues with the system, which ensures road stability and grip. RAM 1500 owners and drivers must know how to reset traction control light.

Turn the ignition key to “on” without starting the vehicle to reset the traction control light. 

Next, push the center console “ESP Off” button for five seconds to turn off the traction control light.

Alternatively, certain models require pressing “ESP Off” and “Traction Control Disable.” Refer to the RAM 1500 manual for precise instructions.

These actions reset the traction control light, guaranteeing system functionality and safe driving.

How to Reset Traction Control Light

How To Reset Traction Control Light In A Jeep Wrangler: A Step-By-Step Process

Steps to reset the Jeep Wrangler traction control light:

Jeep Wrangler engine start

Spin the steering wheel right until it stops.

Turn the steering wheel left until it stops.

Hold the control switch for 3 seconds.

New Wranglers have reset traction control lights.

The sensor, wheel alignment, or switchboard may be to blame if the traction control light stays on after these steps. 

If so, get expert assistance. The light may remain on due to wheel sensors, wheel alignment, or switchboard issues. Fix switchboard issues, sensors, and wheels.

Safety Precautions When Resetting the Traction Control Light and ABS

When adjusting the Jeep Wrangler’s traction control light and ABS, safety comes first. 

Park the car carefully away from traffic on a level surface before starting. Disconnect the battery only once the engine is off to prevent power outages. 

Always use insulated gloves while handling batteries to avoid shocks.

To avoid injury, don’t touch the vehicle’s electrical system after removing the battery. If the light stays on after resetting, visit a technician to protect your vehicle’s safety systems.

[omercifulheaves]

Scanners II: The New Order  (1991) watching this on Tubi and wow, the “cornball rip-off that was passed off as a sequel” vibes are off the charts.