#Steamy Quotes From Movies

[yumemiruuuu]

Mu Qing: (scoffing) You don’t even know my favorite color

Feng Xin: (in deep thought)

Feng Xin: The color of my eyes

Mu Qing: …

Mu Qing: You are actually so dramatic

Mu Qing: My favorite color will never be “Shit Brown”

[str4ngr]

OKOK IM DYING FOR THIS ONE

you know that one titanic scene in the car and it’s all steamy and shit

that with chigiri and bachira

so y’all are running from the paparazzi, and he is basically holding your hand and you’re running behind him and he runs with you all the way to some parking lot and gets you inside his car

and then the same dialogues ensue “where to miss” “to the stars” and she pulls him to the backseat and yeah 🤭🤭

and at the end i want that steamy window hand scene 🫠

love love love your writingg 💗💗 thank youu

to the stars and back. [ chigiri hyoma & bachira meguru ]

cw: suggestive, pro-football player! chigiri & bachira, established relationship, fem! reader. notes: sorry I took so long, i got busy and my motivation to write took a nose dive. also, i've never watched titanic! but i googled the scene, and its veery juicy. and tysm for the rq<3. like 40% proofread lmao.

your laughter echoed in the halls as heavy footsteps tailed behind you. his hand clutched yours, sweet grin gracing his lips as he pulled you faster, as if you could catch up with a man who ran around for a living. bursts of secretive laughter and exhilaration scrambling from his lips as your turn corner after corner and out of a random door you have no idea how you came to.

𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐢 𝐡𝐲𝐨𝐦𝐚

"c'mon, hurry!" you gasped after him, your heels wobbling under your ankles as you were practically dragged behind your gorgeous fiancé. his long hair had untied itself in his sprint, fluttering in the rush of your escape, "hyoma! slow down!" you whine as you almost strip over, heaving for breath. he stops, a bit concerned as you steady yourself, holding you a bit closer to his side as the two of you awkwardly approach his car, trying not to be caught by the cameras still scrambling around inside the banquet hall. he helps you in, whispering into your ear, his lips smiling against your skin, "where to, miss?" your breath fanned across his neck when you chuckle. so this is why he put me in the backseat...' your wrapped your arms around his slender neck, your hips scooting back not minding the way you dress bunched up around your hips, "to the stars..." chigiri laughed delicately into your lips as they met, soft caresses of his hand on your thigh through the slit in your dress. the door shut behind him, his hair falling around you faces. his tie came loose, so did the string on the back of your dress, soft sound of passion and adoration echoing the the back seat of your car. panting below him, you laughed, a sweet sound chigiri adored, but wished he could replace with the sultry gasps from only moments befroe, "they didn't see us, did they?" he'd hope not, your hair sprawled around your face, sweat dripping down your brows, chest rising and falling, he wished that was a sight only for him.

𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐚 𝐦𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐮

bachira's feet pounded on the tile floor as your heels synchronized with him. obviously he was enjoying this, holding your hand like you would disappear, running as though chased by a fierce beast, laughing as if you were on a rollarcoaster. "meguru!" you squeal as he pulled you around corner after corner. no matter how chaotic it all seemed, you couldn't help but join him in his joyus behaviors, laughing with him as he scooped you up, jumping down the stairs of the entry way and sprinting to your car. "y/n-chan~!" he cooed, pushing you into your passanger, hungry hands pushing up your pretty dress. as soon as he was seated in the driver seat his hands grabbed your face, playfully eager yet gentle. "where to missy?" you rolled your eyes, "if you wanna' to quote a movie, at least quote it right!" laughing together, his lips trace down your jaw, tongue peeking out as it always did in his concentration. his eyes traced up your figure, relishing the way your hair was messily tussled, how you dress was still ruffled to perfectly flaunt the supple skin of your legs, "only thing i want done right is you." "m-meguru!" he sniggered tugging you over the console as your lips met in hazy love. his hands wandered down your neck, pushing down the straps of your dress as the boiling heat between your bodies made the windows foggy in contrast to the cold breeze outside. he pulled you closer, letting you fall back into the back seat, your hand wrapped around his tie, the lingering taste of bittersweet wine mixing with you saliva as you finally reply to him, "to the stars, mister."

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈

directory

[smooth-perceval]

“My love, my life.”

“I’m just a guy who drinks tea.”

Max Verstappen x Fem!Reader

PART TWO

Max Corner

Summary: [Max and reader crossed the line in their 3 year friendship, resulting in 2 positive pregnancy test. And 1 baby on the way.]

Reader finally forgives Lando for being a bad friend, Max finally decided what he wants- if only the reader wants that.

Warnings: 18+ little bit of idk pre-smut or just some ‘steamy scenes’, angst, pregnancy, swearing, some heavy flirting, Google translate?, no proof read.

Key: Y/N (your name), Y/L/N (your last name)

Word count: 3,783

A/N: I honestly just wanna thank use for the love on each of my post, it means so much 🖤 I’m not the greatest writer in the world, hell I even make myself cringe at things I write… and how I write them but the love I’ve received is just so lovely 🥹 Thank you 🖤 again movie quotes I think- 🥲

**Two weeks 3 days later**

The two boys stuck to what I said, they kept no contact with me… It hurt, hurt like hell that they really didn’t keep in touch, I didn’t expect them to really leave me solo- but here we are.

Slowly the whole situation became more real, I have my first private scan in 4 days- and I did feel joyous. It’s not the greatest situation, but I’m having a baby.

Truthfully the thought always brings a smile to my face, wether I’ve got Max and Lando or not. I’ve always got this baby. And that’s more exciting than anything.

The shock and tears stopped the minute I shut the door on them two boys. I knew I had to be stronger than this for my baby. And I was adamant on not letting some stupid boys bring me down in the process, I was going to do this. And I was going to be perfect, all alone.

My parents are both thrilled for me, not the entire situation… but happy for the news, which gave me the motivation I needed. I had my two parents and this little baby, I had more than enough to do this, okay my parents live back in England… but it’ll be fine.

I’ll be honest… this is my mind 24/7, reassuring myself I can do this- with or without Max’s assistance. It was a painful torture… especially when the devil on my shoulder was whispering anything but hope in my ear, telling me everyday this is going to be the struggle of a lifetime without Max… This would last for hours before the perfect little angel would shut him up, and reassure my mind that I was a mother now, and all mothers are strong, and that everything was going to be okay.

I was sitting down eating my dinner, when my phone rang out, making me jump slightly. A contact I wasn’t expecting flashing on the screen, followed by a message I wasn’t sure I’d receive.

“Landiniho 🏎️”

Please read this.

I’m sorry I haven’t been in contact, I thought it’s best to leave you be- as I wasn’t the greatest friend. What your doing is incredible- and if anything after the way Max reacted, I should’ve realised then you needed a friend than some idiot screaming because he wasn’t told a secret- I’m sorry from the bottom of my heart, I don’t want our friendship to feel like nothing to you, because it means the whole world to me… Please forgive me.

P.S: don’t give my uncle rights to Carlos please.

P.P.S: I’m so proud of you.

Love Lan x

Could I help the smile that broke out on my face? No, it’s Lando. Was I still mad at him… again no. He was just reacting in a way any friend would if their pal didn’t tell a secret. It hurt how he reacted sure… but he still my friend.

Typing a message back I sighed clicking onto Max’s contact… still reading the last message he sent

“Maxiiii 🦁”

“Hope your feeling better Schat. Me and the idiot will be round after quali x ” (Darling)

My phone sounded again multiple times, I clicked on Lando’s notification, laughing to myself at the spam messages.

“Landiniho 🏎️”

Your how far?!

Already-

I haven’t been there…

I’m sorry, are you getting an early scan?

I’d love to come?!

I’m trying to make it up to you for being a shitty friend x

Messaging him back I confirmed the scan date, time and location. Was he forgiven easily, yes. So easily, but it gave me some sense of relief knowing he cares.

The scan was a day before he had to fly out to Canada, but he was adamant on being there, meaning he had to fly from Barcelona, back to Monaco then to Canada. Which only made me feel guilty at the insane amount of effort. I’m glad I got Lando back, truthfully the sun didn’t shine without him.

The days had passed, nothing major happening, Max still hadn’t reached out, and as the days went on I was pulling myself further away from him, not wanting any association with him.

I was getting ready for my scan and my phone signalled, Lando reminding me of the appointment, he had kept in touch a lot… he really was apologetic, and I’m so glad he reached out cause it sure did dull the devil on my shoulder. He wasn’t so loud anymore…

Lando messaged last night when he arrived back in Monaco telling me he had arrived and that he would see me in the morning. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief, Max or no Max I had someone. I missed Max. Missed him a ton… even if whatever we did was a ‘mistake’ just having him as a best friend, someone I could talk to- I missed just him. It’s a different vibe with Max,

With Max it was late nights curled on the sofa, gossiping about paddock life, a glass of wine in hand and soft touches that we both swore was innocent, we just had another level of connection- someone who understood myself on a different level.

Lando on the other hand? It was hectic- spur of the moment kind of things, he would call at random times of the day telling me we are going somewhere and expect me to be ready- it was always an adventure! It was always a laugh and joke between two friends.

Two different vibes, with two different outcomes- my brain doesn’t function without Lando’s random calls, however my heart aches without Max’s teasing smiles and lingering touch… I was really in deep.

I was waiting around in the parking lot, legs jittering around nervously trying to spot Lando’s car anywhere, waiting only for a few more minutes before heading inside and checking myself in. I hadn’t heard from him for a few hours and he hadn’t respond to any messages… which only led me thinking he had to go somewhere else- which is fine, his a busy guy…

There was still no sign of him- and I was now getting called into the office, sighing with defeat I got up shuffling in. That little flicker of hope burning out- all I needed was a friend today…

Me and the nurse was going through a few documents, and details to cover about the pregnancy, before she asked me to go behind the curtain and remove my bottoms and underwear, placing a sheet over myself, then requesting for me lay down on the bed while she got her equipment ready. The door rattled slightly from a soft knock, causing us both to look up.

“Sorry- two minutes.” The nurse smiled apologetically before getting up and opening the door slightly and stepping outside.

Within a few seconds the door was opened again by the nurse and following behind was him.

Max- he had a cap on and was holding onto some sunglasses I guess he is calling that his “disguise” some dark blue jeans and a casual white t-shirt.

Mouth hung open I stared at him, sitting up on the bed. Ensuring the sheet was still covering myself. “What are you doing here?”

“Lando said you had an scan…”

“I haven’t heard from you in weeks.” I angrily whispered, I felt a rage in me all of a sudden to bite this man’s head of. Yet grab him and hold him tight and thank him for being here.

With his head hung low he stepped closer, giving the nurse a small smile. “Maybe we discuss all of that stuff after this?…” glancing back and fourth between me and the nurse.

And once again in defeat I sunk back onto the bed turning my head away from him. The little flicker of light burned in my chest, and I couldn’t help the small smile… it’s a good thing I had my head turned so he couldn’t see what he was doing to me.

Giving me hope again.

“Where’s Lando?” Mumbling I watched as the nurse started preparing everything.

“I- I asked him if he could wait out there.”

Nodding my head in acknowledgement the nurse then looked up smiling.

“Are you ready? It may feel a little cold- but it shouldn’t cause any discomfort, if it does just let me know straight away.”

Nodding my head again I smiled a little glancing over at the screen, trying to find any form of distraction.

Taking a sharp in- breath at the coldness of the gel, the nurse laughed a little apologising once again. She was right there was no discomfort, the room was silent as we was all watching the screen waiting for any sign of the baby.

“Anddd… there is your baby.” Pointing up at the screen, the picture showing what looked to be a small bean.

Resting my head back onto the pillow in a happy daze, I caught a glance over at Max, who was leaning over slightly watching the screen. As if it was out of instinct his hand clasped onto mine in a tight grip, like he needed reassurance for himself. Some form of clarity.

Squeezing his hand back, he broke his gaze looking straight at me, eyes shining with threatening tears, and as quick as he looked at me, he looked back at the screen.

“I’ll just go get the scan printed for you both-” The nurse disposed of the equipment before excusing herself, I untangled my hand from Max’s and held the sheet heading back behind the curtain getting dressed, nervously I shuffled back out from behind the curtain Max now sitting down hands covering his mouth, as if he is understanding the situation properly now.

“We really are having a baby…” his voice was barely audible above a whisper. Humming with a small smile more for myself. I finally got to see my baby- it seems so real now…

Tilting his head up He reached over taking my hand pulling me closer, nearly tumbling over my own feet.

“I’m so sorry.” He mumbled wrapping his arms around my waist head flushed against my stomach.

“It’s okay-”I whisper back, rubbing the top off his back before pulling away. My hands moved to his face wiping his spilled tears.

“I shouldn’t have jumped to conclusions I was just terrified-” sighing he looked down at the floor, breathing in and out slowly.

“You wasn’t the only one- I was scared to even tell you.. I didn’t exactly tell you in the greatest way…”

“Well it wasn’t my best reaction, it’s been eating me alive for these past few weeks how bad I acted…”

Shrugging I look away, taking a seat in the doctors chair next to him “Water under the bridge… just glad you and Lando are both back. Even for a day.” Nudging his shoulder he smiled a little, taking my hand once again.

“You got me for a lifetime now.” Laughing a little I hummed rolling my eyes. “Lucky me.”

Both thanking the nurse, and leaving her office Max’s hand was gently placed at the bottom of my back, like a guidance, and in his other hand he was holding the scan photo’s looking at them with a smile on his face.

The wind was nearly took out of me, when Lando practically jumped onto me hugging me tight.

“I’ve missed you.” Letting out a huff, with a little laughter I hugged him back tight. “I missed you too.” He quickly pulled away taking the scan photos from Max walking ahead of us both to the exit.

“Why does it look like rice?” Both shaking our heads we followed behind.

“Because it’s early stages Lan.” Laughing I had a little run catching up with him. “About a month and the baby will start developing little arms and legs!” Linking my arms with his, Max trailing next to us both. I reached my other arm around Max’s linking him as well, pulling both of them closer.

Max followed me back to my place, Lando was complaining that he had to go get some more sleep before his flight in the morning. Leaving us both in the car park and the screeching sound of his tires as he pulled away.

“Did you want tea or anything…?” I poked my head out the kitchen looking over at Max.

“I don’t like tea…”

“What kind of person doesn’t like tea?” I smiled teasingly at him. Shaking my head I trailed back into the kitchen. He laughed lightly following me into the kitchen standing in the doorway.

“A person called Max” he hummed crossing his arms, I spare him a glance, a small smile playing on my lips. In silence I made a tea and offered Max a bottled water, placing his across the kitchen island, me sitting down on the opposite side.

“I’m sorry again, for everything I said.”

“I said don’t worry-”

“No- it wasn’t fair on me to shift blame… if anything it was my fault we was in that situation.” Moving his drink aside, he leaned down on the counter hands clasped together.

Smiling a little, cheeks slightly red at the faint memory. “If I remember it was both of ours…”

“No.” Moving around the counter, I turned on the stool, him now standing in front of me, lost in his own thoughts.

“I knew what I wanted as soon as I crossed that finish line.” Max stared down at me, his mind looked like it was turning, like he was trying to understand himself.

“The night ended with just a slice of what I was thinking about when I got out that car and see you standing there, smiling at me. With that smile of yours… that pretty smile...” he was mumbling words, it was as if he was in a trance, his hand moving up to my face letting his thumb swipe my bottom lip slightly before tucking a strand of hair behind my ear.

I was frozen in place- scared to act on my thoughts… I didn’t want the same feeling I’ve had these past three weeks of no Max, I’d rather hold back.

“So this was all planned…?”

“Not exactly planned… I was planning on telling you the truth…” mumbling he looked down at my hands that were fiddling around on my lap. “It was just me telling you without words-” once again my face burned red at the thought of what we got up to 3 weeks ago.

“You can’t tell me you don’t feel the same?” Looking back up at me he quirked a brow- like he was taunting me for words.

“Max-”

“Ah-” Cutting me off, he stepped between my legs caging me against the island arms either side as he held onto the counter, his head had ducked slightly, trying to level with me.

“Do you, or do you not?” Shaking my head quickly, not trusting my voice, I already knew my body had given every motion for him to continue, from the way I was biting my lip, to even leaning in so our chest are nearly touching.

Humming to himself in disapproval, his hand grazed over my hip, dancing up my stomach and resting on the centre of my chest, “Your heart says different…” his eyes followed his hands as they slowly roamed my body. My body was reacting to every little touch. Telling him to continue even if I said anything different.

His fingers brushed above my heart again as he tapped his finger to the racing heart beat. “You don’t feel the same?” He didn’t even need an answer from me to know how I was feeling- I’m sure even my eyes speak for themselves.

“Max…” whispering I looked down at his hand removing the one from my chest. “I invited you for tea…” subconsciously my tongue darted out licking my bottom lip as I looked back up at him.

Raising his eyebrows a small smile playing on his lips, I tugged at his other hand removing it from my hip,clearing my throat.

“And you, don’t can’t do relationships.”

As quickly as I removed him he was back on me- like a lion stalking it prey. His lips trying to kiss every inch of my face, and as much as I was trying to hold back- I failed… my hands gripped onto his bicep and shoulder, head slowly falling back as his lips trailed down my neck whispering sweet nothings.

“You’ve stated what you think I can’t do and not what you want.”

“I don’t want something that you can’t do.” He placed a soft kiss behind my ear, making me only bite my bottom lip- trying not to give myself away any more than I have…

“Maybe I can.”

“I don’t want if, buts and maybes. I want absolutes.” Gulping, closing my eyes. I let out a shaky breath, my hands slowly moving to his chest, before I pushed him back gently.

We was both now staring at each other, breathing heavily, like it was our last.

Covering my face with my hands I stood up, my fingers combed through my hair as I left the kitchen wandering to the living room, my hands finally resting in my hips I turned to Max, who as always was following behind me.

It was awkward… the energy was still basking on lust- and me and Max just didn’t know how to use our words.

“I should go…” clearing his throat, scratching the back of his head he looked down and the floor.

“Maybe it’s for the best…” I whispered it, only because it was a lie. The silence overcoming us again.

“Right-” he moved his hands to be clasped together in front of his trousers- hiding anything to show for the little break in the kitchen. Shuffling his feet slowly he moved down the hallway to the door, quickly pulling his shoes back on.

“Oh… did you want to take one of the scan photos… you don’t have to?” Tilting my head slightly, I could barely hear myself let alone his response over my pounding heart.

I only knew what he said by the nod of his head that followed, I quickly ran to my bag in the lounge grabbing one of the scans and bringing it back to him holding it out.

Smiling a little he pinched the other corner of the photo- both scared once again to go near each other. Max was looking back down at the scan photo as he took it from me, the smile on his face only wider.

“That’s our bab-”

I couldn’t tell you what came over me- I just needed to kiss him- even if it was a last- his lips had kissed everywhere on my face today- but my lips, and they craved the sensation so terribly.

I practically jumped onto him arms around his neck- and it’s now I thank heavens for his quick reaction, I probably would’ve slid back down him if he hadn’t reacted. The scan photo getting caught between our colliding chest, both his arms were fasted tightly around my waist holding myself in the air-

Our lips felt as if they’re moulding together, both hungry, desperate, lustful.

I felt his hands slide from my waist down to the backs of my thighs tugging them up around him, before he moved back along the hall to the lounge. Both giving feather kisses, my hands tugging the end of his hair softly. He couched slightly placing me on the arm of the sofa before pulling himself back slowly.

The picture now fell from between us and we both looked down at it before he picked it back up placing it on the coffee table.

No words needed to be said, his hands were supporting me as he placed soft kisses back on my lips, and with every kiss we slowly fell back onto the sofa, Max climbing further up, one knee between my legs the other practically hanging off the sofa holding him up slightly.

And in silent agreement we both started undressing each other, as if it was the first time again. Both awed by the sight of one another.

As always, Max looked heavenly, his hair was disheveled from my fingers running through, his eyes were a bright blue filled with lust and adoration, the apples of his cheeks were flushed red… his toned body was warm to the touch. He always is perfect.

Moving closer his soft, wet kisses were making their way down my exposed chest, feeling him smiling against my skin after every kiss he placed. Mumbling things like-

“So perfect…”

“My pretty girl.”

“My schat” (darling)

I felt as if I was floating, if this is what heaven feels like I want it everyday.

I said once before- heaven wouldn’t accept two sinners. And there’s no way I could stop from sinning now- if it meant locking me up in the depths of hell I would happily dance myself down to the gates only if I can have Max devouring every inch of my body like he was.

He worshipped my body, and took me on highs I don’t even remember either of us reaching the last time we ended up in such positions.

When all was said and done, our bodies heaved with exhaustion, Max still pulled back on his underwear and hauled himself upstairs to the bathroom getting wet towels to clean us both up with. He even helped me get my underwear and his T-shirt on… he took such gentle care with me, it was difficult not to love him.

It took some time before our breathing levelled out, Max turned his head bringing his lips to kiss my forehead. A small smile tugged at my face, my head now leaning against his shoulder.

“Please stay the night…” he moved his hand around cupping my cheek, placing more kisses to the top of my head.

“Don’t have to ask twice.” My smile widened and I responded with a hum.

“I’m going to make a cup of tea, did you want a cold drink?…” slowly I pushed myself of the sofa stretching turning to look at him.

His hands slowly moving up each sides of my legs, as he looked up at me.

“I’ve got more water?”

“Actually I’ll have tea.” I raised my eyebrows at him, brushing some hair back.

“Are you trying to impress me?”

“Of course not, I’m just a guy who drinks tea.” Laughing a little I push his head back gently leaving him in the lounge.

We have so got this Verstappen.

A/N: idk what it is but I just had terrible writers block- and as you can tell it was sort of forced finished, so hopefully Part 3 I will have a bit more inspo flowing 🥲 But hope you enjoyed anyways 🖤 Part 3 hopefully end of the week the latest I’ll update if not 🖤

Masterlist

[shipcestuous]

I decided to go back and read your Paul/Jessica commentaries again, and I thought that you'd be interested in hearing these things.

Jessica is Paul's concubine through weird legal fuckery and property rights. Jessica was purchased from the Bene Gesserit school by Leto's father (Paulus Atreides) for Leto when they were teenagers. From the day that the Old Duke bought Jessica for Leto, Jessica became property of the Ducal Household. Yes, she is Paul's mother. But, legally, Jessica is Paul's property after Leto's death. That's a big part of the book and why Jessica defers to Paul and allows Paul to dictate a lot of the things that are happening once the House of Atreides falls. Jessica is the bound concubine for life to the Duke of House Atreides - no matter who he is.

So, technically, from a legal standpoint, Jessica is actually Paul's concubine, which would be a classic Bene Gesserit move (Bene Gesserit sisters will marry and breed with their own sons if ordered to preserve or strengthen traits in House bloodlines.)

Another thing I wanted to mention was pertaining to the Dune movie draft with canon Paul/Jessica (which was actually the first draft for Ridley Scott's attempt before the Lynch movie)– here's what its writer (Rudolph Wurlitzer) had to say about it:

“I took what I always felt to be a latent but very strong Oedipal attraction between Paul and the Lady Jessica, his mother, one step further. I injected a lovemaking sequence between these two. I meant that act as a supreme defiance of certain boundaries, which might make Paul even more heroic—in the sense that he willingly, but lovingly, broke a taboo.”

Lastly, I don't know if you've heard this before, but at least three more scenes between them (including two training sequences that you can find stills of) were removed from Part One because test audiences and executives had gained the impression that they were in a secret relationship and thought that they had too much sexual tension (hence the deletion of the aforementioned scenes) together, and that Jessica was pregnant with Paul's child, not Leto’s. This was also because of Rebecca Ferguson's choice to play Jessica as very closed off and reserved when dealing with Paul, which, when combined with the aforementioned factors, had the effect of giving their interactions a sexual and romantically intimate subtext (and also due to runtime!) The scene where they change into their stillsuits was just the tip of the iceberg compared to what they cut out. It's wild that because Rebecca Ferguson can't play maternal at all (which is actually quite fitting for Jessica,) test audiences and execs really thought that Part One was a secret love story between Paul and Jessica...

This ask was delicious, like a giant slice of fresh chocolate cake, the kind with chocolate shavings on top.

I had heard some of these things but I thought they were just rumors. It sounds like they're a bit (a lot) more confirmed than I had realized.

I had absolutely no idea that Jessica was considered property or that she passed to Paul upon Leto's death. The Bene Gesserit powerful/powerless dichotomy is really fascinating.

That Rudolph Wurlitzer quote is insane.

might make Paul even more heroic

Heroic, lmao. I like the way this guy thinks. Pour one out for this version that was never made, and also for the scenes that were cut from 2021, so steamy they convinced test audiences and executives that Jessica was carrying Paul's child.

And raise one up to Rebecca Ferguson. I toast to you, madam.

[bellasbookclub]

"A movie day—the lift in the class atmosphere was almost tangible" 🤒💊🚑

—Bella Swan, Twilight chapter 11, "Complications"

"Lorenzo's Oil was not a cheerful piece"

—Edward Cullen, Midnight Sun chapter 12, "Complications"

Is it hot in here, or is it just this 1992 film about a child suffering from formerly-fatal genetic disease adrenoleukodystrophy? That's right, we're watching the movie Edward and Bella got horny to in biology class: Lorenzo's Oil! Pull up your plastic chair and get ready to feel the chemistry this Friday, July 5th on our Discord at 8 PM EST (10 AM AEST Saturday for Aussies). It's the steamy aphrodisiac film of the summer winter 2005! (Hey, Susan Sarandon's in it.)

lurkers and new folks always welcome! 🎥 🍿

Bella's Book Club is an interactive virtual book club created by the Three Books One Plot podcast. Our monthly discord discussions are open to all! More info here.

FULL TWILIGHT/MS QUOTES BELOW ⬇️

[ilikethisacompletelynormalamount]

New photos from an amazing new Vanity Fair article with much more in depth information about the upcoming Andrew Haigh movie, All of Us Strangers, starring Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal!

Sex and strangers have long been intrinsic elements of Haigh’s filmmaking. In Weekend, a one-night stand provides the impetus for a spellbinding saga of longing and intimacy; HBO’s Looking charts the growth and regression of its single gay San Franciscans through raw, honest portraits of their sexual experiences. Yet in All of Us Strangers, it all hits differently—becoming more emotional, more revealing, definitely more mysterious. “I’ve been more objective in how I’ve shot sex scenes in the past,” Haigh says. “Here, I really wanted to feel the subjective nature of having sex and what it feels like—the nervousness and the excitement and the physical sensation of being touched by someone else, and what that does to you.”

The two performers at the romance’s center bring that intention to beautiful life. Scott inhabits a character just coming to terms with his buried shame, while Mescal takes on a more enigmatic figure who unveils himself carefully. The actors commit wholly—sweetly, deeply, explicitly—to the intensity of the physical connection that develops between Adam and Harry. “There was chemistry between the two of them literally the second I saw them together,” Haigh says. “Both of them were pretty fearless. There was no sense of them being afraid of approaching those scenes. They knew how important they were.” That importance particularly relates to Adam’s greater journey in All of Us Strangers. It’s no coincidence the sex feels unique, even special, with Harry. That bond proves inextricably linked with his posthumous family reunion...

There's so much more that I want to quote, but this is the most important part to me.

Scott’s skill as a performer serves as the real glue. His work is openhearted, incredibly poignant, and dramatically rigorous. And somehow it’s his first true lead role in a film, following years of lauded stage work and that fan-favorite turn as 'Hot' Priest in Fleabag. “This whole film sits squarely on his shoulders, and he clearly had it in him, but it’s beautiful to see it,” says Broadbent. Haigh adds that Scott “hasn’t had this kind of central role—and I always felt like he should have that central role.”

[bigswitchenergyy]

RWRB movie thoughts (SPOILER HEAVY!)

So, I watched it. Twice. And I haven't been able to stop thinking about it since.

First off, non-spoilers - I loved this movie. I loved the energy, I loved the humor, I loved the chemistry between all of the actors. Taylor and Nick in particular had phenomenal chemistry and I can't stop thinking about them and firstprince and how beautiful it all was. I miss the boys already. 😭 SPOILERS!!

I'm gonna get the (incredibly minor) gripes out of the way.

We got cornbread!! But we didn't get "cornbread knows my sins" which I was a little bummed about. But the beauty of the scene as a whole absolutely made up for it.

The lack of the emotional kiss after the fight really bugged me, because to me, that kiss is the breaking point for them both. That's the "gonna love this stubborn shithead forever" moment, and it's all of the tension and pain and heartbreak poured out into a desperate, hungry, incredibly passionate kiss. going right from "tell me to leave" to the V&A felt a little like mood whiplash, but the V&A scene is so good I can get past it pretty easily

I wish we could have had more of their emails, the phone call where Henry begins to open up about his family, and more pet names. Especially more baby, considering how much that one word affects Henry in the book.

I know why Matthew did it but fuck Miguel, I miss Rafael and Liam

WE NEEDED MORE PEZ, NORA, AND BEA

Now, for my favorite quotes/moments!!

"I'd break the sound barrier for you." when i tell you i fucking screamed into a pillow and sobbed

HISTORY HUH BEING SAID AT THE V&A, I LOVED IT SO MUCH, I SQUEALED AUDIBLY

THE CAKE SCENE, 10/10

Zahra and Amy are the absolute fucking best and were truly able to shine in a way I didn't expect, I'm so glad we got so many great scenes

"I will brexit your head from your body" I know it was in the trailer but it's SO FUCKING FUNNY

The texting scenes were done so well?? I loved hearing their voices saying the lines and I loved the way they portrayed the long distance conversations. The turkey scene in particular is fucking cinema

THE MOTHERFUCKING RED ROOM SCENE. NEED I SAY MORE.

THE SCENE RIGHT AFTER?? AND THEN THE ONE IN ALEX'S ROOM?? I'M FUCKING WEAK, MAN. THEIR CHEMISTRY IS OFF THE CHARTS

The closet scene was SO good. Watching Alex's entire perception of the man change in a matter of minutes is so well done, and Henry realizing that Alex's feelings about it all were completely valid & apologizing is so 10/10

jesus fuck, PARIS. OH MY GOD. The cafe scene, the one where they're taking a walk, and then their first time having sex. It's so beautiful and emotional and i just... I was breathless watching it. It's steamy but it's just beautiful and loving and the way alex and henry are just so enamored with each other absolutely destroyed me.

"You don't know what that's like." "I'm learning." SOBBING

the entire new year's eve sequence was wonderful. Henry's so happy when he's with Alex and Alex is just so happy he's there, and then that fucking SHOT?? The way they're just staring at each other across the crowded room?? C I N E M A

The first kiss was STRAIGHT OUT OF THE BOOK and it was MAGICAL

Nora is a queen and deserved more screentime but I LOVE her scenes with Alex. I think having her not be his ex in this version is a nice change too

And, of course, the motherfucking STORMING OF KENSINGTON. The boys acted their asses off and Nick in particular broke my heart so many times over

The leak. The leaaaaak. fuck.

"Hello?" "Baby." "Alex??" when i tell you i cried so hard

the piano scene 10/10

THE SCENE WHERE THEY COME OUT TO THE CROWD. THE ENTIRE END TBH

CASEYYY!!!!!!

So, yeah. I loved this movie. I'm gonna be thinking about it for a long time, and I sincerely hope Matthew releases the extended cut & all of the deleted scenes and bloopers, because we NEED THEM.

I also hope that Matthew, Casey, Nick, and Taylor know how much we love this film and book. How thankful we are that these beautiful characters were not only written, but then able to come to life. I will forever be thankful for Alex Claremont-Diaz and Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor (yes, i'm using his book last name LMAO) and for their beautiful love.

[mochapads]

——— .REASSURANCE ;;

Rin Itoshi x (gender neutral) reader

warnings: kinda angsty (not exceedingly) in the beginning, ends in pure fluff + comfort (reader cooks)

[ in which : reader would like to get some reassurance about Rin’s love towards them ]

———————————————————

Even though Rin wasn’t the individual who’d tell you ‘I love you’s and apprise you words of affirmation on a daily basis, somedays you missed the cliché love confessions people gave one another in movies despite dating for oh-so-long just to clarify their feelings. You were fully aware what he had been through in his childhood and you honestly couldn’t blame him for acting this way after all the events — but still. The phenomena came to your mind quite often.

It was none other on that evening as well. You thought of making ochazuke — his favourite — in order to lighten his mood after a tiring training lesson; and also to snap yourself out of overthinking. Stepping into your shared kitchen, you turned on the television, (just so you wouldn’t be cooking dinner in silence) slightly astonished to see a seemingly romantic movie playing. You decided to pay it no heed, focusing on the dish instead.

He hadn’t arrived yet, making this a perfect opportunity for you to cook the meal. He was often drained from all the running and exercising, and honestly, who wouldn’t enjoy their comfort food after such a tiring day? Meanwhile, after cooking the rice, you poured the tea in the bowl and let the bowl of food sit for a while before re-heating it — he loved steamy ochazuke (to get steamy och., you need to re-heat it) more than anything, afterall. While the bowl was heating, you snapped your attention on the TV once you heard a certain line from the film.

“My feelings for you are not worth keeping inside”

Your eyes widened, stopping your actions to turn around and look at the television positioned on the wall behind you in the kitchen. The movie contained a certain line none other than what he confessed his feelings with. This ‘pecked’ something, and there the thoughts were once again: the slight concern on how he doesn’t mention romantic quotes nor as many sweet lines at the end of the day as often as he did before.

Yet you weren’t given any more time to think as the front door opened, revealing the man in question. He wore the dark coat he left in the early hours on with, with his training suit packed in a bag, which was hanging by his side. After undressing from his coat, changing his shoes and putting the training accessories away he moved towards the kitchen, with an almost unnoticeably small smile creeping up his lips after sensing the familiar aroma that lingered in the air.

How was training? — You asked as you gently put the finished dinner on the dining table, placing the chopsticks next to the bowl, yet not looking into his eyes.

Fine. — Came the answer. — Those lukewarm asses bore me to hell, especially that antennae bastard. — He said calmly, rolling his eyes.

And yours?

He gave you a suspicious look after not getting an answer for solid tens of seconds, asking again.

Good. — you answered, voice barely a whisper, most wouldn’t even hear it.

What’s bothering you? — His gaze softened, but that too was, barely noticeable.

It’s honestly not worth mentioning, I’m alright. Just.. finish your meal, you truly deserve it after working out and training all day long. — You closed the conversation from your perspective, giving him a cracked smile. You wouldn’t ever guess that the damn loverboy in the movie would confess his feelings once again, with a quote even sweeter than the last one, and you just had to hear it due to the silence filling the atmosphere. Catching you slightly off guard, you turnt away from him and felt your eyes slowly fill up with tears — not enough to roll down on your cheek, but enough to blur your vision. Rin, who noticed the movie as well and still haven’t eaten, obviously spotted it out and made his way towards your figure. You were tightly holding your side with one arm, the another in front of your nose, silently trying to muffle the low whimpers from the man behind you to notice. Turning around, you were now facing him and decided to finally free the concerning thoughts.

I know it’s hard for you with words, I really do, Rin. But sometimes it’d feel so nice to hear an ‘I love you’ or just a few words of affirmation. I’m aware we love eachother but.. — you gulped sharply, instantly continuing — I also know that soccer is really important for you. I don’t want you to throw away your chance of a-dream-of-a-career for me, either. I understand that it’s your first priority and I fully support you in it, but you know..

I’m sorry. — came the answer, simply, shortly, directly to the point as usual from a — now lowered gazed — Itoshi Rin.

The silence felt too loud and the seconds passed like hours — briefly taking their sweet time, making this moment a tad bit awkward.

I should’ve seen through the situation earlier and do something about reassuring you.

It’s not entirely your fault, Rin. I kept it behind the curtain as well.

Once again, silence.

Yeah, soccer indeed is my first priority.

But you are my zeroth.

And there it was. All the worry and overthinking getting erased with just 4 words. “You are my zeroth” — There was all the reassurance you needed to hear from him.

.. And I know I don’t say it often, but God damn it, I love you. So much more than what I’m able to present, Y/n. — Finishing his sentence by pulling you closer to his chest and you were basically lying against his chest, feeling every single hurried beat of his heart.

There weren’t any words needed. The actions did the trick. Closing your eyes, you let yourself rest a little, listening to his heartbeat as he rested one hand on your waist and another on the small of your back.

———————————————————

adm’s note: Is this Rin out of character? Probably, but let’s pretend it isn’t as much😭 This is my first work published on this site, phew. I really hope everyone who read this far enjoyed it<3

reblogs and saves are greatly appreciated!

do not repost or translate nor trace in any way.

[destinyc1020]

i’m the anon who mentioned the awards pundits and omg i did not mean for so much of the attention going to the “bisexual” part of it, i know the oscars haven’t shied away from lgbtq+ movies for a long time! challengers is just too fun and fresh and energetic and wild and steamy (that’s what i meant by my oversimplified quote lol sry), and the movies the oscars favor are either emotional or feel-good or dramatic or depressing (which fit all the movies you mentioned btw), maybe they’ll throw in a blockbuster or two. i would love a surprise though, especially concerning acting noms

Haha oh OK thanks for clarifying, cuz I was about to say! Umm.... the Academy usually doesn't shy away from LGBTQ+ films lol 😆

But I see what you mean.

But by all means, don't sleep on the Academy! They can be unpredictable sometimes! I say that it really all depends on how STEEP the other competition is that year.

"Barbie" was nominated this year for goodness sakes lol 😆 so the Academy nominates fun and even silly movies sometimes! 😁

So yea, who knows? Acting nods might be in order for the 3 of them in challengers. We'll just have to see! 😅

[reginastarrewrites]

Writeblr Intro!

Hi, welcome, I'm Regina!

Facts about me:

I've been writing for years and years. My writing is fueled by rage, frustration over stories I wish had been better, spite, and competitiveness. Also self indulgence.

I prefer Tumblr to most social media platforms. It's homey. It's comfy. I've been here for years but this is a new blog for a new pen name because I felt like it.

Favorite genres to read: Regency romance (especially Georgette Heyer, despite the problematic elements of the times), romantasy, monster romance.

I can and will rant about Bridgerton (good and bad) all day. You think I'm joking. I am not joking.

Queer, neurodivergent, married to the love of my life.

Facts about my writing:

The Regency era is one of my special interests, and I've always wanted to write historical fiction set in the era but my brain refuses to write anything unless it has fantasy in it. Refuses. Goes blank. Won't move. Is way too bored, even though the time period was fascinating. So I capitulated to the inevitable and am running with Regency fantasy, plus probably some romantasy on the side. (By which I mean I have ideas but we'll see what happens with them.)

Mostly fem-centric steamy stories with a strong focus on social intrigue.

My stories include variety of pairings, including FF, MM, various other queer pairings, and polyamorous pairings.

What you can expect here:

RANTING AND RAVING! So many (good and bad) Opinions on writing, movies, TV, and Regency fiction. Most especially about Bridgerton, with an occasional rabbit trail into BBC's Merlin.

Steamy and smutty story excerpts under the tag #mywriting.

WIP introductions.

Regency AU imagines of other stories, especially fairy tales.

Historical ramblings about Regency history.

Quotes from Harris's List of Covent Garden Ladies.

Blathering about the state of indie publishing. (Good and bad!)

Open to asks and tag games!

Pleased to meet you, and it's so good to be here!

[cupids-chronicles]

Hades X Persephone Saga: A Game of Fate #1.5

Please note that this is not a sequel to "A Touch of Darkness", but rather a retelling from Hades' perspective. This means that you do not need to read this book to read the rest of the series.

Author: Scarlett St. Clair

Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Mythology

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐/5.

Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶

Goodreads rating: 4.1/5

Pages: ‎‎416

Published: 12 September 2020

A Game of Fate Review

Note: This book is intended for mature audiences over the age of 18 due to explicit content (steamy chapters).

Ah, the Fates. They're like that meddling aunt who sets you up on blind dates without your consent. One day you’re chilling in the Underworld, doing your dark and brooding godly things, and the next, boom, you're hitched to a feisty journalist called Persephone. This is the premise of A Game of Fate, the second installment of the Hades Saga.

First, let’s set something straight: when I first heard there was a Hades POV, I imagined something dark, brooding, and mysterious. Instead, I got a modern twist that was somewhere between "The Devil Wears Prada" and Greek mythology speed-dating. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Expectation vs Reality: Scarlett St. Clair, you sly minx, you played with my emotions. I was waiting for depth, for a change in the narrative, but alas, it was like watching your favorite movie with director’s commentary. Interesting, sure, but not quite the new experience you were hoping for. If you’ve read A Touch of Darkness, this is essentially the 4K ultra-HD rerun from Hades' perspective. Although I know that it was the whole point of the book to just read Hades' perspective of "A Touch of Darkness", sometimes it just felt a little too dejavu-ee to me.

Now, let's talk about the continuity issues. You remember that scene where Hades is chilling in his throne room, banishing Minthe, and suddenly needs to "teleport" to the Underworld? Wait… isn’t he already there? I’ve got to say, I spent an unreasonable amount of time trying to figure out if I missed a location change or if Hades was just being extra dramatic. Either way, it made me chuckle.

However, for the fans of the previous book, A Touch of Darkness, there's a lot to like here. The scenes with Hades showcasing his soft side — whether it’s confronting Demeter, comforting a battered soul, or bantering with his hooved companions — is just the right amount of sweet and somber. My personal favorites include Hades telling Minthe it was never her (Ouch! Burn!) and, of course, him making cookies. Because what's more divine than a god in an apron, right?

The world-building is commendable. We’re shown an Underworld with its own culture, quirks, and horse chats. And as for our dark and brooding protagonist, there's considerable growth in Hades. It’s quite something to watch him evolve from a stoic, perhaps misunderstood ruler to someone more human, all thanks to love and… journalism?

A stand-out quote for me: "Take her, and I will destroy this world. Take her, and I will destroy you. Take her, and I will end us all." It encapsulates the depth of Hades' passion and the lengths he's willing to go for love. Bravo!

As for the spice? Oh boy. Let's just say, if this book was a salsa, it'd be the one that leaves you reaching for a jug of water (or perhaps a fan? Oops, I promise no more cringy jokes!).

To wrap up, while A Game of Fate did serve some déjà vu vibes, it didn't stop me from enjoying the journey, even with a few giggles. You'll love it if you’re seeking a unique take on Greek gods and their soap-opera-worthy drama. I’d rate it a generous three stars. But remember, approach with caution and perhaps a pinch of humor. Because when a god starts baking, you know you're in for a wild ride.

Please note that this book is part of a series and can not be read as a stand alone. Lucky for you this can be your little weekend binge as almost all the books in the series has already been released !

Wait a minute boys and girls, check out these trigger warnings first:

Murder.

Sexual abuse (mentioned)

Torture

Harsh Language

Romance Tropes, you ask ?

Enemies to lovers

Fated Mates

Who do we meet in this book ?

Hades

Persephone (Perri)

What to read next:

Neon Gods (Dark Olympus) by Katee Robert.

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black.

Drag Me Up (Gods of Hunger) by R.M. Virtues.

Or just like read the next few books of this series.

[deborahdeshoftim5779]

This is fully deserving of a reblog. I often find myself wondering why the declaration of love in German rom-com Isi und Ossi is, at least to me, far superior to the more "serious" romantic films?

For those who don't read German, the quote says, "I finally want to want what I want, and not what I think I want." Isi Voight made this claim after realising that she didn't want to go to New York; she wanted Ossi Markowski instead.

Even more than that, Isi didn't need New York. Isi's character arc is a great example of the Johari Window. American author Kristen Lamb explains this on her writing craft blog.

American psychologists Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham developed this model in 1955 as a way to improve group dynamics. The Johari Window is a technique used to refine and boost feedback, prompt disclosure, and ultimately deepen self-awareness.

“Johari Window” derived its appellation using a combination of the two psychologists’ names.

The model is founded on two fundamental ideas.

First, that trust is earned when one reveals personal information to others.

Second, that this information then leads to feedback from others which can then give the person a more accurate “reality.”

Using feedback, we can become more self-aware and change accordingly.

Isi started the film insisting that she needed to go to New York. But while pretending to have a steamy romance with Ossi Markowski in order to achieve that goal, she accused her father of pursuing a marriage simply for status. Hold on-- what does that even matter? Why get so personal?

Yet Isi was insisting to her father that there are women who are with men because they are actually in love with them.

And so the truth starts to come out. Isi didn't respect her parents' marriage because she believed that her father had married for convenience, and that her mother had married for money.

Then, she later revealed personal information to Ossi. When cuddling with him in bed, she was reminded of a picture of her parents that used to be inside their bedroom. They were also cuddling-- but Isi found it strange, because they never did that anymore. She wondered how her parents could even have been that close in the first place.

So that fulfils the 'trust is earned when one reveals personal information to others.'

As a result of this confession, Isi wanted to act on her growing feelings for Ossi. They spent the night together-- and that changed everything. In my opinion, Isi stopped wanting to go to New York either shortly before or after her night with Ossi.

Isi eventually got what she wanted, the money to pursue a prestigious cooking course in New York. But when Ossi told her to go, she just stared at him. It took several moments before she finally got up and left.

(Just to fill in the gap here: Isi's parents came to Ossi's apartment and agreed to give Isi her money, on condition that she returned home and broke things off with Ossi immediately. Isi agreed. Ossi overheard this, and you'll have to watch the movie itself to see the look on his face, because I can't even describe it.)

That night changed everything for Isi. Notice that despite her willingness to blackmail her parents for money, Isi hardly ever discussed New York with Ossi. Sure, she said that she thought she would have fun on the course, but she didn't look excited. And Ossi's comments about the rich being too stunted to pursue real happiness were apropos.

Yet Isi becamore more invested in Ossi pursuing his boxing career than Ossi allowed himself to be.

It wasn't that Isi didn't want to become a cook: it's that Isi had only solved her superficial problem. She didn't want to attend university, especially not with a diploma that her parents forged. But that was just a superficial problem. She didn't recongise that she was an emotionally stunted person: unhappy, unfriendly, yet longing for real love.

So this fits the following part:

Second, that this information then leads to feedback from others which can then give the person a more accurate “reality.”

The diagram of the Johari Window is instructive here:

SOURCE: Wikimedia Commons

What Isi and others (Ossi) knew was that she aspired to become a cook. In more general terms, she aspired to break free of her parents' expectations for her future. What Ossi knew that Isi didn't was that she was rude, unfriendly, and spoiled. What Isi knew that others (Ossi) didn't know was that she saw her parents' marriage as insincere, and that pained her. What Isi and others didn't know was that Isi needed to experience real love; she did not need a prestigious cooking course. More specifically, Isi needed Ossi (a representation of real love), not New York.

Ich will endlich wollen was ich will und nicht denken was ich will.

Isi und Ossi

[project1939]

100+ Films of 1952

Film number 131: My Man and I 

Release date: September 5th, 1952 

Studio: MGM 

Genre: drama 

Director: William Wellman 

Producer: Stephen Ames 

Actors: Ricardo Montalban, Shelley Winters, Claire Trevor 

Plot Summary: Chu Chu, a Mexican-American farm laborer, dreams of saving enough money to live his own American Dream. He meets Nancy, a troubled alcoholic, and seeing the good in her, falls in love. Things crumble, however, when his racist boss refuses to pay him the wages he is owed, 

My Rating (out of five stars): ***¼  

For the first hour I absolutely loved this film- I would have given it four stars at that point. It was dark, sad, and more risque than most films of the time. Nearly all the characters were extremely damaged in an unvarnished way. But after about an hour, it was like the movie came to its senses and said, “Wait!! This is MGM in 1952! We can’t let this be some kind of Italian Neo-Realist stuff!” So it tacked on a happy ending and dispensed with most of the soul searching. (Some spoilers) 

The Good: 

Ricardo Montalban! First of all, the man is so beautiful I swear I could literally swoon if I was standing next to him. I kept writing, “OMG HE IS SO PRETTY!” in my notes. He was more than just a pretty face, though. His acting made me feel loads of empathy for his character. 

The character Nancy. She was one of the rawest and most vividly portrayed alcoholics I’ve seen in a Classical Hollywood movie. She wasn’t a glamourous alcoholic like the Joan Fontaine character in Something to Live For. She was desperate, self-hating, hopeless, and suicidal. 

We actually got some pretty steamy “female gaze” moments in this! The wife of Chu Chu’s racist boss often watches a shirtless Montalban working on the farm, and her thoughts are unmistakable. 

The two main villains in this, Mr. and Mrs. Ames, are so despicable you want to throw things at them. This made for really good drama, though. Then add in the fact that Mrs. Ames was much more complex than just a simple bad guy. She was one of the most broken characters, and it wasn’t hard to feel sad for her. 

The writing, especially in the first 2/3 of the film was pretty damn good. I often paused it to write down quotes that impressed me. 

The film was visually interesting- it was often darker and shadier, like a noir, but it still had a somewhat polished MGM look. 

The subject matter was shockingly dark and risque for the time, especially for MGM. 

It was pretty cool that a Mexican born character (and actor!) was the star of the movie- almost every single film released in 1952 had a white protagonist.  

The indictment of racism. Chu Chu is often subjected to racist remarks and prejudiced treatment. Slurs are used in the film, but they always come out of the mouths of bad guys. The character we are most meant to love and empathize with is Chu Chu. 

The Bad: 

Chu Chu is probably too perfect. It kinda reminded me of later Sidney Poitier films- some of the black characters he played were almost saintly, clearly to make them likeable to anyone but the most terrible racists. I get that there are good intentions behind it, but I wished Chu Chu could have maybe had one noticeable flaw! 

The broken English the Mexican characters spoke got to be a little much sometimes. 

The final 30 minutes or so were a letdown for me, mostly because the tone suddenly seemed to take a 180. What was gritty and realistic started becoming more sentimental and idealized.  

The ending, especially the change of heart from the Ames, seemed almost ridiculous. 

The romance between Chu Chu and Nancy wasn’t very believable. As interesting a character as Nancy was, I felt dumfounded that Chu Chu would fall in love with her. She was an absolute mess who needed medical care. I kept thinking, “She doesn’t need a boyfriend right now, she needs professional help! 

[battyaboutbooksreviews]

🦇 Practice Makes Perfect Book Review

❓ #QOTD What movie do you wish you could live as your life's story?

[ Find my review below. ]

🦇 Annie Waker is ready to find her happily ever after; someone she can start a family with, like something from one of her favorite romance movies or novels. Unfortunately, that's harder than it seems when you live in a small town where everyone knows EVERYONE'S business. After a date calls her "unbelievably boring," Annie wilts like one of the sunflowers in her flower shop. Luckily, the perfect learning opportunity presents itself in Will Griffin, bodyguard to Annie's sister-in-law-to-be, Amelia Rose. Inspired by Audrey Hepburn's Funny Face, Amelia recommends that Will (sexy, tattooed, has-no-interest-in-getting-married Will) tutor Annie in the way of saying. Can they fight their obvious attraction to one another amid steamy practice dates?

💜 I don't know how, but I managed to hit a streak of fake/practice dating romances (not complaining one bit -- it's a cute trope!). This story is as sweet as a bouquet of tulips with quick wit and sass tossed in between. Will (William? Wilson? Wilbur?) is a stern brunch daddy (a guy who looks scary but is actually all soft and sweet to the person he loves) for Annie from the get-go, quick to fall despite the traumatic upbringing that made him reluctant to let love in after all this time. Will encouraged Annie to be herself, defying the angelic reputation the entire town as pinned on her since childhood. With Will's coaxing, she learns more about herself, begins to take risks, and eventually stands up in a show of character development. The character development for both Annie and Will is beautifully flawless; proof that two people can bring out the best in one another, all while staying true to themselves. Will constantly coaxes Annie to speak her thoughts, even despite her self-consciousness and self-doubt. They defy the miscommunication trope that too many romances fall prey to.

💙 First, I want to express my gratitude for the lack of a miscommunication trope here (there's an itty bitty one, but it only lasts a few pages). Unfortunately, there is a bit of tension lacking in this book. Annie remains steadfast in wanting someone she can start a family with until the end, while Will has convinced himself he isn't worthy of love. While these internal conflicts are consistent, the only external conflict is the town's petition to keep the two of them apart. I expected to see that as a catalyst for small roadblocks the two would need to navigate. Instead, it's pure fluff and cuteness; a sweet romance, for sure, but lacking in substance. There was so much opportunity to explore mental health (Annie's social anxiety, all of Will's issues, the pressure Annie feels because of her reputation, grief), but other than the mention of therapy in passing, it's not given the attention it deserves.

🦇 Recommended to fans of soft, closed-door romances. This is a sweet, quick, fluffy, cute af romance (and Will is definitely worth swoony over).

✨ The Vibes ✨ 🌸 Contemporary Romance 🌺 Part of a Series 🌻 Small Town Romance 💐 Grumpy vs Sunshine/Opposites Attract 🌹 Dual POV 🌷 Closed Door Romance 🥀 Fake Dating 💬 Quotes ❝ “It seems to me, Annie, that you are just waiting for someone to give you permission to be yourself out loud.” ❞ ❝ And the thing that scares me the most is how desperate I am for her to know all of this and believe it. ❞ ❝ This one is for the softies. The tenderhearted sweeties. The introverts who are afraid to shine. ❞ ❝ For introverts like me with social anxiety, the process of dating is equivalent to waxing your bikini line. Menstrual cramps on day two of your cycle. An emergency dental procedure you weren’t expecting—and guess what: they’re fresh out of novocaine. ❞

[art-of-manliness]

Odds & Ends: November 17, 2023

Crio Bru. I’m not a coffee drinker, but I like to have something warm to sip on as I get the day going. Kate and I have enjoyed Crio Bru on and off for the past few years, and it’s currently part my morning routine. It’s a drink made with ground cacao beans that you brew just like coffee. Like coffee, Crio Bru comes in different flavors and roasts. And like coffee too, it has a watery consistency and bitter taste; while it’s a chocolate drink, you shouldn’t expect it to taste like rich hot chocolate. It’s definitely its own thing. Crio Bru is 99% caffeine free, but has theobromine, a natural stimulant that is milder and longer-lasting than caffeine. Pick up a sampler pack to see which flavor you like.  The Wisdom of Mike Mentzer: The Art, Science, and Philosophy of a Bodybuilding Legend. I used this book as a resource for this week’s article about Mike Mentzer’s Heavy Duty bodybuilding program. I think the most interesting part of the book is exploring Mentzer’s philosophy towards bodybuilding and life. He thought bodybuilding was way more than lifting weights and getting jacked; it was an exercise in manifesting beauty, nobility, and heroism; he thought bodybuilding was philosophy. Mentzer was heavily influenced by Ayn Rand’s Objectivism. Whether or not you’re into that school of thought, it’s fascinating to see a guy try to physically manifest an abstract philosophy through the sculpture of his body. You’ll definitely feel inspired to reach further and higher after reading this book. First-Gen Social Media Users Have Nowhere to Go. I resonated with this article. As an older Millennial, I was an early adopter of social media and used it quite a bit both personally and professionally at first. But in the past few years, not so much. Just haven’t had the desire to. I haven’t logged into my personal Facebook account in years. For a long time now, we’ve scaled back how much we post and interact on AoM’s FB and IG accounts. I have no desire to start the TikTok habit, whether for work or pleasure. I find myself just using text to share things I find on the web and only do so with my close friends. Seems like a lot of other older Millennials are doing the same thing.  Sunglasses Kid. I have no clue how I found this guy, but he’s a British synthwave producer who makes instrumental music that’s influenced by the music and movies of the 1980s and early 1990s. Lots of awesome synthesizers and steamy saxophones. Whenever I’m listening to Sunglasses Kid, I feel like I’m hanging out at The Max with my old pals from Bayside High or going to Golf ‘N Stuff with Ali (with an i). Great music for doing chores or mindless tasks. “Falling in Love at the Drive-in,” “Red Shoes,” and “Graduation” are a few my favorites.  Quote of the Week Ninety percent of the world’s woe comes from people not knowing themselves, their abilities, their frailties, and even their real virtues. Most of us go almost all the way through life as complete strangers to ourselves—so how can we know anyone else? —Sydney J. Harris The post Odds & Ends: November 17, 2023 appeared first on The Art of Manliness. http://dlvr.it/SyzJ52

[hakawena]

Midnight chattering,

Years happen into days, weeks, months and then years, but do the things that happen within, happen into the figurative meaning of time.

An idea of self, other and life used to be in some way and the way had itself into different ways by time.

“You’re gonna carry that weight” a quote he wrote while doodling on a blank tote bag.

Translucent as it is, you’re the only one who’s gonna sit with the consequences of your choices. Not in any bad way, but it is you who’s living your life.

A screenshot sent by a friend on a steamy summer day “If fear had to decide our life choices, what else do we have to live for”

And so, Fear has its way to push you places or either confine you into a tight corner of nothingness and a swirl of ‘what ifs’.

As fear is the human’s basic instinct to move. Time molded it into different colors throughout the years as well. And as years were not the hours, days and weeks complied to the sense of a -year-

But else, it was the time spent in change, resilience, sitting with hard feelings without them hovering your life and self.

Time is such an abstract sense that by all means is so relative and beautiful.

Sometimes language feels precise and concise. It doesn’t have enough words to explain how the sun sounds like, or how the moon draws itself on the sky. How things make us feel even if we have the awareness of that feeling.

Yet translation lies between the lines of art, movies, songs, a stranger’s face or touch of a hand and a look into your lover’s eye.

In such life it’s quite enough to enjoy the small pleasures. Shots of awe do happen and when they do I hope that we contain them with serenity and gratitude but shall not frail into the despair of there absence.

In the past few years life has shown me so much gratitude for myself and the people around me.

We might swirl into the doubt that we’re the only ones going through -this thing- whatever this things is, however it is consoling enough that we all come from the same places, but maybe with different contexts.

We all have fear, love, longing, hopes, aloofness, anger, unfathomed feelings, insecurities, things that happened to us and so many other.

But one truth is that we’re all together.

A silver lining lies between the happenings of our lives.

May we have it in our hearts that life is all about living all the livings, embracing, letting go and moving forward.

May we have it in our hearts that life is not cosmic, we’re all leaving this place either ways. Somehow it makes much sense to live in ease, be kind, hold no grudges and enjoy whatever we have on our plate for now.💙

May we keep learning and ever-glow into all the lights that we can be and shall be, and how beatiful are the lights of all the people around us.

It’s so simple to believe in god if you open your heart an look around. Tuning with the rhymes of all the surrounding beauty.

Through the years, people have come and gone, we as well have come and gone into other’s lives.

And for such and more I’m humbled to feel that this life is beautifully fleeting and so much is yet to be lived and hoped for.

Grateful to the god who’s -at any point- in life:

عليمُ، مطلع بذات الصدور.

And so, in a sense of gratitude there is nothing to worry about.