#and i really love that it's also post-tjm

[heyftinally]

Am I the only Hey Arnold fan who dislikes Arnold x Helga? I always thought their relationship was toxic, even when watching the show as a kid.

I'm gonna be honest, anon, I disagree wholeheartedly, and I'm about to go off on a hyperfocus induced rant lol so if you aren't prepared for a dissertation, this is your warning.

Okay, despite using the word dissertation, this is not going to be structured I any way. Strap in, it's about to get needy. I will give you a timeline, though:

Pre-k

Pre-FTi part one (ep1-mid series before FTi movie)

Pre-FTi part two (mid series-FTi movie)

FTi movie

Post FTi movie

TJM

I very much see Shortaki as a beautiful example of enemies to lovers.

In the beginning, both are kind to each other. In pre-k Arnold helps Helga, but they also wave across the snack space. Yes, after Helga gets bullied she turns hostile, but I think it's important to remember that their friendship is ultimately started on kindness.

Pre-FTi(P1) is a lot of just establishing the character and Hillwood, but still we don't often see Arnold truly upset with Helga. For the most part, she's a nuisance at worst. In episodes like The Vacant Lot and Save The Tree, we see Helga help Arnold/her fellow classmates with things that matter to them. Yes, she tries to play it off, but in Save The Tree specifically she says she's helping Arnold "because [her] dad has been bugging [her] lately" - not too many nine year olds would climb up into a tree their parent wanted to demolish for business SOLELY because said parent had been "bugging" them. So despite her frequent annoyances to Arnold, he has clear evidence early on that she's kind deep down.

In Monkey Business we get the reverse - Arnold, despite all of Helga's torment, shows genuine care and concern for Helga, even though he doesn't really believe in her faux diagnosis. If he truly disliked her, he could have simply not shown up.

Pre-FTi(P2) Arnold states on multiple occasions that he doesn't think Helga is a bad person, both to her and others. He considers her a friend, despite their rocky relationship. She's done enough over the years that he's seen proof that she's a kind person.

On top of that, Arnold is known for being wise beyond his years, in some cases even more so than the adults around him. Let's not forget in Benchwarmer when he realizes the reason the coach mistreats everyone else is out of misplaced love for his kid - it's not that far a stretch that Arnold would assume Helga *also* lashes out/mistreats others out of some kind of misplaced or maladaptive emotion. He's already shown the emotional maturity to understand such a concept, even if he doesn't have the vocabulary for it. Which would further explain why he sees Helga as a kind person despite her constant antagonizing.

Furthermore, in the episode School Play, Arnold clearly suspects something after Helga claims she didn't want to kiss him. At that point I don't think he was ready to admit to himself that it was a crush, but he noticeably smiles when he tells her "whatever you say" in response to her protests and excuses.

FTi is a hell of a movie in the best way, and could easily get it's own rant on several topics, but namely for this one I want to focus on the roof scene.

First of all, it's the first time Arnold gets truly upset with Helga, albeit without knowing it's her initially. Upon figuring out it is her, he's shocked and confused because Helga's kindness has never been so out of her way before. Things like Save The Tree more or less just required her to show up. Saving the neighborhood required her to put together an elaborate trail of information, an alias, and full on espionage far beyond the normal lengths available to a 9yo even in their universe. It's not that Helga's never been kind, before, it's that she put SO MUCH effort into something that was important to Arnold, who she supposedly hated, at clear and significant detriment to herself both present and future.

The love confession, unsurprisingly, takes Arnold completely off guard, because up until that point they had more or less been frenemies/a one sided friendship, but upon saving the neighborhood and things settling out, Arnold notably isn't *upset* with Helga about the whole thing. He's awkward and confused, but not angry about it.

Post-FTi we get stuff like, notably, April Fools Day, where Arnold appears to be starting to return Helga's feelings, at least in some way. Again, if he viewed her as someone toxic, he would likely try to stay away from her, not woo her even after being lied to.

TJM shows us (and Arnold) Helga's most selfless act to date - entering the video essay contest so that Arnold can go search for his long lost parents. Arnold already tried to enter - he knows how much work it took just to made their mediocre entry. For Helga to make a winning entry would have taken significantly more work, which Arnold recognizes. She put in an unparalleled amount of effort to do something that could (and did) change Arnold's life for the better forever. That's a huge gift to give even someone you care about, nevermind someone you "hate".

And throughout the movie Helga continues helping, even whilst going through her own personal emotional turmoil. Despite being broken hearted and resigned that Arnold will never return her feelings in the way she wants, she still helps him continuously. Because that's what you do when you love someone - it's not conditional.

Meanwhile Arnold is so focused on finding his parents and everything that it's not until the end that they're finally able to connect and express mutual feelings.

Basically, the way I see it is this:

Both of them have their issues - Helga is closed off and reactive, Arnold is idealistic and naive. But both of them are good, caring people who want to see the best in others, especially each other. Their communication isn't great, but they're kids. They communicate as best they're able, and to a degree we do see it improve over the course of the series.

And that whole-series progression is part of what I like. They're the definition of slow burn, and in that time we get to really see them grow and mature, and learn how to work with each other even when they butt heads. If they just jumped from Downtown As Fruits to TJM, I'd say it was toxic, too. But there's so much mutual growth and understanding that happens during the course of the show as a whole that I just can't agree with that. People change. And they mature and learn and get better.

The end of TJM shows Helga already slowly growing, despite her discomfort. Where previously she might have knocked Arnold aside for trying to hold her hand, she instead retreats into herself. It's not perfect, but it's growth. And change takes time. That little bit of growth tells me that Helga would keep working on her issues (especially if she continued seeing Dr. Bliss), and Arnold is willing to be understanding and supportive while she does it.

So yeah, that's my shortaki defense rant. I love these two beyond any other ship, and nothing can change that.

[thegoodenchantress22]

Day Seven - Vow / Heartbeat / Waterfall

Alright, I couldn't help myself. I had to do the two of them getting married in San Lorenzo. I chose to interpret the Green Eyes amulets as not only gratitude for saving their people, but also a symbol and acknowledgement of the wearers being soulmates. Whatever status of companionship. Joining them in heartbeat and seeing eye-to-eye.

Initially, though, I feel like they got wedded traditionally in a Hillwood church (like they both dreamed) with friends and family. But they also decided they wanted to be wed by the green eyes as well, since I head-canon Arnold would have spent his high-school and/or college days with his parents in San Lorenzo.

The three have grown up since TJM, of course, so I feel like it would mean the world if the princess-now-probably-queen wedded the two in person to a recluse audience after the traditional one. Kind of like a blessed send-off for the Volcano Boy and the Golden Corazon Girl. (And maybe a chicken wedding gift? For a future son?)

I actually made a small reference of this in the previous post! Look closer at the pictures on Helga's corkboard right near Olga's marriage picture and you'll see something similar to this pose, but in the Jungle Movie outfits. This picture is clearly more thought out than the little reference I made then, but I thought it'd be a cute little callback~ I really loved making this special moment between the two.

I really hope you liked this, I do have something planned for Day Eight, but I have thoroughly enjoyed every single moment this week! Thank you to everyone who has liked my stuff enough to engage with it. I am so elated that this week this year has been so successful and it's all thanks to you guys~ Last day tomorrow! See you then!

[c0nnverse]

i'm sad and i want hey arnold season 6 to be real in 50 minutes

[boldhoplite]

…Normally she sat behind him while he was closer to the front, however this year his assigned seat was closer to the back with her being in front. Had the seating been on purpose or just random? It didn't matter to him. Now he finally had a chance to actually view her naturally, something he had never really done before.

…He watched as she started to actually pay attention to class and chew on the tip of her pencil eraser. Had she always done that? Arnold began to feel a familiar feeling grow in his chest. A strange yet calming warm type of feeling…

…Over the last year, he had started to recall little amazing things about her that he had never really realized. Her tenacity. Her passion. Her talents. Had she always been this way? Was the only reason he never saw it before because of all the negative things she did towards him? The more little things he learned, the more this strange little feeling grew and the more interested he became…

Finally finished with this piece!

This is a very special piece, because it’s a small, but packed scene from Saki35721’s fanfic Sixth Grade Beginnings.  You can find this moment play out in the first chapter.

I would contend that the weakest (though not necessarily actually weak) part of Shortaki is the requited love of Arnold towards Helga. It’s apparent in the show that Helga loves Arnold and why she does, but it’s disproportionate compared to Arnold’s side of the relationship. Whereas Helga has a whole thing with her numerous and profound soliloquies of Arnold, I don’t recall any scene where Arnold has a similar moment towards Helga (unless his subconscious from Arnold Visit’s Arnie counts). It’s there, it’s still sufficiently believable with the official material that a smart sensitive guy like Arnold could have been letting his feelings for Helga develop in secret, so to speak.  But it was less-than-fully-satisfying to come to the answer without “showing the work”, so to speak, in TJM.

Which brings us to Sixth Grade Beginnings.  Aside from being a very lovely and believable Shortaki experience, Saki does an awesome job of delving into Arnold’s side of the relationship, especially his internal feelings (and frustrations!).  This is such an important topic for Shortaki to have fleshed out, and Saki did such a good job of it!  She’s been writing the story for a few years now, and Is still writing it.  I absolutely recommend it if you haven’t checked it out.

I’m also awfully pleased for this piece because it’s my first break-through art. I speak of the dreaded Artist Block! I started this piece back in December (after a series art postings almost every week)… then I hardly touched it for several weeks! I found myself very unmotivated to pick up the tablet and do the work. Fortunately the HA!/Shortaki community here jumpstarted my lagging wrists! (I’m still reeling from that awesome deluge of Shortaki stuff last week!). It was the longest piece I’ve worked on thus far, and I’m quite happy with it. Here’s one more, in honor of Saki and everybody else who’s keeping Shortaki kicking! 😃

@Saki35721 Thanks for the inspiration Saki!

[kazziemuse]

Hey Arnold! The Jungle Movie - Review!

My History with Hey Arnold!

Hey Arnold! It’s about time! Before I dive into the Jungle Movie itself, a note from history and the person writing this review. At the time of this writing, I am 29 years old. Yes, I am a late 80’s baby! And with that, I grew up in the 90’s…When we didn’t all have cell phones, the internet, online multiplayer gaming, and going outside to explore was daily life. What else was good about the 90’s? The cartoons…and, one specifically? Hey Arnold.

I remember at the time, Hey Arnold was a new thing in 1996. It would air during a two-hour time slot dedicated to after school cartoons called CITV. My Nan would pick me up from school at 3:00pm, and we would be home by 3:30pm, just missing the first cartoon. That was ok though, because beyond all else, my favorite by far was Hey Arnold. I used to sit with my Nan watching, and because Hey Arnold was SUCH a real-life show, it got my curiosity running wild. There was so much in this show that grabbed me, that taught me and that made me feel certain emotions for the first time. I would spend hours thinking about episodes and bugging my nan with questions about what we just saw. It must have driven her crazy.

In the many years that I watched CITV after school, not many cartoons from that time period stood out to me as well, apart from of course…Hey Arnold. And, I have fond memories of watching it with my Nan who, sadly passed away in the year 2000. I was 12 years old.

Hey Arnold “concluded” a few years later. And while I still loved the show, I was starting to move onto other things. Still waiting for TJM which, never came. In those early days of dial up internet, it was hard to find information if you didn’t know what you were doing. And thus, I entered my teenage years with the Hey Arnold book closed…But, for how long?

Fast forward to my early mid-twenties. OMG life, right? Real life? This sucks. Crisis after crisis…Let’s try and dive back into something that gave me some good feelings and thoughts. I know! I will dive back into some cartoons…Lets rewatch some childhood favorites, such as Recess and Hey Arnold.

Re-watching the Hey Arnold series as an adult was like watching a different show entirely. The emotion, the truth about how life can be so cruel, the real world problems these characters faced and most of all, Helga’s undying love for Arnold which of course, I shipped immediately. After finishing the Journal, I was devastated to find out the story of TJM being cancelled. I researched, signed the petitions and with little hope of Hey Arnold ever coming back…I counted my blessings and moved on into other fandoms, which would consume the next 5-6 years in terms of obsessions.

It wasn’t until about two years ago, I stumbled across the news that TJM would happen. And honestly? I was excited but not ecstatic. I had moved on and completely obsessed with other fandoms. More TJM information started to fly around, and I slowly started to become obsessed again. It’s only really in the last year or so, that I have re-watched the whole series, followed the news and subscribed to YouTubers. And with that, I’m hooked again.

Leading up to The Jungle Movie

So, with my history with Hey Arnold covered, was that really important? Yes! Because like many of fans, it’s a story of growing up with this show and how returning to the things you loved can bring back the same happiness. But now it’s time to dive into The Jungle Movie!

Where to begin? Craig gave us so much insight to this movie to get one internally screaming! But, at the same time, he didn’t reveal too much as to give us the whole plot. The balance was truly perfect. We would have the answers that we wanted. Where are his parents, and would Arnold and Helga ever be?

SDCC 2017. The first sneak peek is shown and boy! I remember that afternoon so well. My heart was skipping beats watching. Look at this! Look at the animation, how spot on the voices are, look at how true they are to the original characters. It felt like an absolute dream! No revival can be this good? Can it? The more and more footage and screenshots that got released…The more and more I got obsessed and excited. Honestly, at first I wasn’t too keen on Arnold and Helga’s animation. I felt at times it was too different from the main series, especially Helga. That point aside, we were still getting The Jungle Movie soon! And I’m sure it’s not going to ruin anything for me. Hell, it might even grow on me!

In the leading months and weeks to TJM being aired, it had become my main obsession again. Craig’s weekly to daily Instagram posts became something I kept checking my phone for; the previews got me running from my desk at work to a toilet, so I could watch and fangirl in private. This was amazing! I knew this ship would soon be canon! But also, we would find out the answer to the biggest Hey Arnold Mystery of all time: Arnold’s parents.

By now, I was part of Facebook groups, being as active as possible in YouTubers live streams, meeting other fans at ComicCon, and the best part…Making friends within the Hey Arnold community. I was so ready for The Jungle Movie.

The Jungle Movie

As a 10-year-old watching the show back in season 1, I would’ve had a glass of orange juice. Now, as a 29-year-old watching the premier of The Jungle Movie for the first time, I had a glass of wine in hand. The movie kicked off, and the palpitations in my heart were disturbing my comfort. But I didn’t care, Arnold was back on my screen for the first time in many years.

The first dream sequence was painful and emotional. He finds them, but they keep leaving him? This must be a huge fear for him. The wine is needed and straight away this film is grabbing me, it had my emotions from the first scene. Buckle up girl…It’s going to be a long night! Arnold subsequently wakes up, and the main plot of the film is evident. But, this is a cartoon! Cartoons are meant to be funny! Luckily, Hey Arnold has that balance of comedy and emotion, because here enters Grandpa and Grandma to smooth over that first hill of feels. The boarders haven’t changed apart from a slight change in voice, but nothing that’s upsetting. And a pig eating bacon? No I quite agree, that is not ok haha!

With Arnold meeting Gerald on his stoop with friendship thumb wiggle, accompanied by familiar backing of jazz music, it’s apparent that Hey Arnold has kept that original vibe. And I couldn't be more excited to see what was in store! Like bumping into Helga in the next scene. Classic! Helga’s introduction into the movie was our typical old Helga. Leaving her temporary home at the beeper emporium while arguing with her father Bob.

The Jungle Movie has aged with the current time in terms of technology. The characters are only a year older from the original series. Beepers (or, pagers as they are known here in the UK) are not a ‘thing’ anymore with the ever-growing cell phone industry. A small but clever gag was Phoebe explaining what a beeper actually was to our younger audience watching. On another note, Bob’s company is failing as beepers are now obsolete. You get what you deserve Bob!

We see our main characters bump into each other just like tradition. Helga’s behavior hasn’t changed (thankfully). She is still love struck, but quickly raising her defensive walls (shout out to Francesca Marie Smith for keeping her character so true). But one thing that really struck me about this encounter was Arnold. He was reacting to her differently as he would in the original series. Instead of his normal frustration at Helga scolding him, he just smiles, offers to help her up and laughs to her attempts to push him away. “Whatever you say, Helga” with an almost flirtatious look on his face. Wait WAIT, why is he acting like this? Is this a call back to him knowing her feelings after the confession at FTi? Very interesting!

We move onto what seemed like a classic episode of Hey Arnold. Arnold and Gerald working as a team to win a contest. Helga scheming to help then win in a hope to win his affection, and ultimately them winning leading onto the main plot of the movie. I thought this was an incredibly clever call back. It was like being back in that Hey Arnold magic. It felt so true and pure to the original series.

Arnold Shortman, A 10-year-old signing his passport and confirming a long term mystery of his surname. Which was right under our noses for the last 20 years. So, Mr. Shortman, you promised your Grandpa not to search for your long lost parents. Your grandma is hilariously dressed up as a Jungle explorer. Keeping her wacky antics is nothing but a pleasure to watch. Are you ready to go? What could possibly go wrong?

Olga is coming! What could possibly be worse for Helga? Again, the writing stays true to the original show. Helga living in Olga’s shadow and being neglected by her father in favor of Olga. Sad but true. I feel that the amount of neglect Helga experiences from her dysfunctional family reflects on the way she feels her emotions so strongly. She has a lot of love to give and just wants to be loved in return. She is so used to disappointment and neglect which is why she puts up her defensive walls and bullies people away. She doesn’t want to get hurt. The only thing she can express is anger. I feel that is why it is so difficult for her to show the real love filled Helga. She is expressing herself in the only way she knows possible that will keep her safe. But over time we see her brave enough to let her true self seep through…More on this later!

We see our favorite class of PS 118 saying goodbye to parents and loved ones. A huge call out to Mr. Simmons, who is saying goodbye to his gay partner. We don’t see LGBT awareness much in cartoons. As someone who is part of the LGBT community myself, I felt this was a very warming addition. Thank you Craig and team! On the subject of Mr. Simmons… How hilarious was he with his agenda? From the fictional city of Hillwood, to the fictional country of San Lorenzo, my friends, welcome to the jungle.

Here we are guys, after how many years, speculation and imagination…We are finally here with Arnold and his class in San Lorenzo! But remember to be at the docks at 3:00pm to catch the boat down river. Our captain is Eduardo; anything suspicious about him? Many of us from the get-go were suspicious about “Eduardo.” Now here he is, in front of us ready to pilot this boat, and straight away he is fixated on Arnold. And what the hell did he say about tuna anyway? (Yes, I know it was Fortune ;)) Sure, it COULD be his parent’s best friend. We don’t actually have any recent images of him and he may have aged…I mean…He seems friendly, welcoming and genuine. So far anyway, right? But we all know…this “Eduardo” fellow has a huge part to play and we all know it’s not going to be in Arnold’s favor.

It’s our PS118 students as funny as they were 15 year ago. And, I for one am so happy to see them keeping us entertained with their old antics. Arnold, however, is away from his friends and with “Eduardo,” speaking of his parents and hoping to find some answers. But remember, he promised not to go looking for them and Arnold is a boy of his word…right?

I felt Arnold was more out of character than anyone in this movie. But who can blame him? He has the opportunity that he has waited for his whole life: to find his missing parents. With such an opportunity, Arnold takes a risk under false assumptions, which inevitably leads himself and his friends to danger.

Speaking of Arnold being out of character and his development…something stuck out to me and few other fans about his behavior towards certain friends. We see Arnold obviously concerned for his friends’ safety and how he is struggling to keep composed after he is sworn to secrecy by “Eduardo.” Gerald, his best friend of whom Arnold never hides anything from, is the first to confront him. And to my shock, Arnold hides the truth even though Gerald is not oblivious to the fact something is going on…Arnold?

Instead, Arnold opens up to Helga…HELGA. And poor Helga…she has struck up the courage to finally (and again) confront Arnold about her feelings. Hoping that her efforts to get him there to San Lorenzo had nudged at his heart strings, Helga is frustrated when Arnold opens up about his fears of getting his friends in danger while he plans to look for his parents. Again, he opens up to Helga, and not Gerald. Is this maybe a sign of his feelings and trust in her?

We can understand Helga’s frustration and feels of rejection when Arnold dodges out again of her confession. Even though technically, they were having two completely separate conversations. Helga takes this as the last straw. To all of our gasps, she gives up all hope of Arnold retuning her feelings and destroys the most precious thing in her possession since day 1: her heart shaped locket of Arnold. Devastating right? Brainy?

The vibe of the movie is certainly starting to take a turn into unfamiliar territory. Craig Bartlett said, “Friendships will be tested,” and I guess, these are those tests. When you think things couldn't go anymore wrong for our gang, well…it does. They are attacked by river pirates. Eduardo, claiming Lasombra is behind the attack, tells Arnold to hide and forget about his friends…hmm…still trust him, Arnold? By this point, any trust I had in this guy was completely gone.

Epic sword battles, fights and rapids. Our PS 118 friends take the most dramatic journey of their lifetime. Clinging on for dear life, we are all on the edge of our seats hoping that no one falls overboard…Even Curly, who is having the time of his life up on the crows nest. After a rough ride, we end up ship wrecked. We can breathe a sigh of relief that no one is thrown overboard, apart from poor Eugene. But who didn’t see that one coming? But never fear, He’s ok! As he is his own lifeboat.

With some truths coming to light about Arnold being involved with why the attack happened, trust and friendships begin to suffer. It was heart breaking seeing Arnold being avoided by his friends…Only “Eduardo” there to help him up during their long-suffering hike to the safety of the camp. But for me, Rhonda absolutely stole the spotlight here… Come one, We are all Rhonda…taking selfies, refusal to part with one’s luggage and being absolutely traumatized at the thought of hiking through the jungle. Her reactions and deliverance had me laughing so hard. That is certainly something I would like to see more of in Hey Arnold future.

The montage of our PS 118 class traveling through the jungle was a chance to demonstrate some of our characters individually. It was fun to see Nadine having the time of her life collecting weird and wonderful bugs, Sid crying on the floor after the unfortunate demise of his beetle boots (good call back there), and Rhonda struggling to just do…well anything. These kids never fail to make me laugh, even today! They all have something special and individual about them.

We are about halfway through the movie now, and if you made it this far, thank you for sticking with me! Now, let’s move on to what we have suspected all along…“Eduardo,” right? Wrong…if you didn’t suspect something of this guy, then go back and watch again, because this guy had something about him from the get-go. Our “Eduardo” is actually none other than the film’s villain…Lasombra. DUN DUN DUNNNNNN.

We then learn the true intentions of the class trip to San Lorenzo. It was all a scheme conducted by Lasombra just to get Arnold there. Unfortunately for our football headed amigo…he’s already put a lot of his trust in this guy. And he was wrong to trust someone who won’t give out a Wi-Fi password.

As the story continues, I felt nothing but mixed emotions. I found myself laughing, and then soon wiping tears from my eyes. We have so many sad moments that tug at our heart strings. Helga’s monologues expressing her love for Arnold have always been some of the most rewarding scenes from the whole Hey Arnold series. The writing and deliverance from Francesca is nothing short of spectacular, and let’s face it. We’ve all been there! Arnold giving up whilst in-prisoned hit me so hard. His voice was full of regret and defeat. Arnold, the boy who is always so optimistic, has given up.

It takes Helga to talk him out of his depressive state, and to accept the challenges ahead of them. Helga is already sticking to her guns and coming out of her comfort zone to assist Arnold. Seeing her comforting him and really being there to offer her support, which Arnold accepts is just so heart-warming! A sign of things to come with these two? Maybe.

Secret pathways, using beepers to create a homing beacon, and a pig eating shrimp cocktail in first class? The only thing missing from this movie is violence…wait no, it’s got that as well. I was surprised to see such brutal deaths of Lasombra’s guards. Although it’s kept fairly ‘clean’ with no blood (thankfully), we do see a guy getting hit by multiple arrows, one guy plummet to his death, and another bunch of guys getting crushed by rocks. That’s quite a few on screen ‘implied’ deaths. Who said TJM had no action?

I doubt this movie could mess me up more than it already had, but boy was I wrong. The emotions were about to kick into overdrive, and I have only had 1/4 bottle of wine left by the time Arnold, Helga and Gerald had found the Green Eyes. The answers to all our questions of the past fifteen years were soon to be revealed. As a long time fan of the show, it was so special getting to see these mysterious beings for the first time. The way they acted, spoke, lived and looked was something one could only imagine for all this time. Not only were we about to get our answers, but so was Arnold.

The hidden city of the Green Eyes was absolutely spectacular. The animation and the amount of detail put into this habitat was an eye saw which dropped jaws. We soon learn of the heartbreak that happened to this society: the adults were all asleep…for the past nine years! While nine years of sleep sounds like a luxury to most of us, joking aside, for these kids they have been functioning on their own for all that time. We start to learn about the final moments recorded of Arnold’s parents: the murals. WOW, was this hard-hitting. It’s the first sign of his parents that this poor kid has had in years, and you can tell just how desperate he is for answers.

The final pieces of the puzzle were starting to fall in place. It was just down to Arnold to do that final act. The problem being, it’s still a puzzle. And Arnold has no idea what to do. Before he can even start to figure it out…yep, what we were all waiting for: Lasombra.

Now, how many of you expected a young chief to throw a blade at Lasombra…A BLADE. I mean how badass was that? Followed by our trio and gang of Green Eyes kicking the wind out of this guy, unfortunately he was armed with a sword, and no one wants to go up against that unarmed. So, we all know what’s going to happen now. Lasombra is going to take what he came for with Arnold in tow.

Dragging an unwilling Arnold by his side, Lasombra reaches the (classic) rickety old wooden footbridge with the certain death plunge below. As they cross, we see Helga and Gerald appear behind them. Despite Arnold’s warnings and pleads, Helga and Gerald continue without any considering for their own safety. I mean wow, this thing is hanging by a thread, and these two kids are attempting to cross just to save Arnold. Can we get a round of applause for completely bravery and loyalty here? But this is a cartoon, that bridge won’t snap right? RIGHT?

Arnold has a dilemma in front of him. He has to solve this puzzle fast before his friends plummet to their deaths. OK that’s cool…it’s not like I’m already on the edge of my seat or anything. Arnold faces the Corazón with his amulet in tow. Sweat pouring down his head and full of determination to save his friends, we see his green eye tracing the steps needed to unlock the treasure inside. Once unlocked, Arnold is pushed to aside and Lasombra looks directly at the heart of gold in all of its pure beauty. Unfortunately for him…he is not as pure and ends up with a poisonous dart in his forehead.

Screaming in pain and heading for the cliff edge which, he inevitably falls off, (yeah byeeeee). Arnold is finally free to help his friends who are still clinging on for dear life. Our hero slips, falls and only just manages to grab onto the same plank Gerald and Helga are clinging onto. Now, top up that glass of wine here guys, because this is where is I almost downed a whole glass. Arnold and Helga meet each others eyes and they just widen. You didn’t need any dialog to know what was going through their heads here. Arnold was finally seeing Helga for her true self, her bravery, her loyalty and that she really does love him. Here they are about to die, and all of this is too late to act upon. They just stare at one another waiting to die, talking only with their eyes. Would somebody please throw them a life line before I jump at my TV?

That life line is finally delivered from the REAL Eduardo, and I can finally breath. There is hope! One thing that grabbed me about what happens next, while Eduardo starts explaining what has happened and how he has been following them. Helga is taken in by the Corazón. Now, I remember back in The Journal, Miles stating to not to look directly into it because they say it’s too sacred. But yet here is our girl Helga…mesmerized and staring directly at it with her hands placed on her heart. No poisonous darts being fired at her. Yes…I was worried for a moment there.

Of course, Lasrombra isn’t dead and climbs his way back up the mountain to finish what he started. With the two fully grown adults getting into a fight over a mustache, pushed and thrown. Helga is the first to run in to assist dragging a bag to place over Lasrombra’s head and using her fist “Old Betsy” to smash him in the face a good few times. This girl is just outstanding and an overall badass. Unfortunately, we see the Corazón fall off the cliff edge to be lost(?). Lasombra finally meets his ends once the poison takes its final effect and he once again falls to his death. “He died like he lived, full of poison.” 10/10 for the sass there Eduardo.

From one heart wrenching scene to another. Now, with Eduardo in tow, he is able to translate the native Green Eye’s language. Once back at the hidden city, Arnold is finally told his parents are there, and that the Green eyes will take them to where they lie. Um, Excuse me? Where they LIE? Could that mean? No…you can’t do this to me…after all these years and the last hour of pure emotional feelings. You’re now going to tell me they are laying there peacefully? I honestly by this point was on invested into the story being told that I hadn’t put two and two together like most of you have already. Instead, I was off my sofa bitterly nose to my TV in suspense to finally find out what happened. As Arnold entered the room, seeing them there pale-faced, sleeping so peacefully hand in hand…I whispered no to myself while a stream of tears started running down my face. I was literally Arnold by this point. After all those years here they are…And here is Arnold seeing them for the first time.

“Are they-?” No, It’s the sleeping sickness. OF COURSE! Wait that means…they are alive? They are alive? I actually laughed as I let out a small laugh in relief. And no, I really didn’t catch on that they had caught the sleeping sickness, not in 15 years. As it was explained that the Corazón was the cure, my heart fell again. But no, it can’t end like this, There HAS to be a way right? Seeing Arnold crying over his parents’ lifeless bodies while Helga and Gerald look on in complete shock was heart breaking. But of course, our girl Helga has a solution.

I honestly didn’t know how Helga would fix this. They knew what they needed and what they had to do. But, they had lost the Corazón. When Helga approached Arnold with a possible solution, I fully expected her to hand him the Corazón. I thought maybe she had taken it while she was staring at it. That was the only thing my mind could muster in those few seconds. I never expected her to open out her hands and present Arnold her golden locket with his picture in. That object that has been a huge symbol of her life for so many years, she is sacrificing so much in that one moment. It’s not only her most precious possession, it’s her true identity. Everything she has kept hidden and inside for so long was out on offer to help Arnold.

This selfless act was causing more and more tears to flow from my eyes. I later thought about this more in depth and theorized the following: Helga mentions her locket is just gold plated and it’s not pure of heart. Now, how would Helga know the Corazón was a pure heart? And anything in its place would need to be pure? Because she stared into the Corazón and felt that pureness. This is why I think she didn’t get a poisonous dart shot at her. Because of that connection with pure hearts, and Helga’s heart is a pure as they get.

Helga doesn’t think highly enough of herself to feel that her locket will work. It takes Arnold to give her that push in confidence and guys, this couldn’t have been more cuter or tear jerking if they tried. “I think your heart is more pure than you know.” He finally understands her.

Pure hearts, loyalty, dedication, love, friendship, determination and Brainy being a saint in retrieving Helga’s locket got us to where we are now. We are about to witness what we have all wanted from Hey Arnold in so many years. Helga’s locket worked, and the cure rains down upon those in deep slumber. Butterflies start to flourish as the cure takes effect. Does that mean? Arnold runs to his parents’ chamber with the most dramatic heart sobbing music in the background. This was it, finally the moment we had all be waiting for, his parents…Arnold parents, of whom have been missing for nine years with no contact. In front of Arnold eyes, they wake from a deep slumber and the first thing they see is their baby. Hey, Arnold. His eyes replicate my own as he runs towards them. He did it, and I couldn’t be more happy even though I was a sobbing mess with no wine left.

The story was concluded. The mystery which lingered for over a decade was now solved. Arnold stood with his parents and celebrated along with the Green Eyes. Miles and Stella’s work was finally complete. It’s a sight we all wished we could see for so long. But our hero wasn’t there? And even after just being reunited with his parents, Arnold noticed Helga sneaking off. Helga was trying to retrieve her locket, which I thought was both a funny and sweet touch. Because after everything, that locket still symbolizes so much to her. After being interrupted by Arnold, Helga still tries to put on her tough girl front and hides her true self still, but Arnold is no longer blind to who Helga really is. With his words, we know that Arnold is seeing through her, seeing the real Helga and finally, after seeing her being so brave, loyal and willing to give up so much for him, he is ready to accept her love.

Even though Arnold didn’t outright say how he feels about Helga, I am a true believer of actions speak louder than words. We have seen how Arnold has acted towards Helga his entire movie. He silenced Helga, she literally had no come or no way out for the first time ever. His act of confirming how he feels about her is sweet beyond words. He takes her hands and offers her a mutual kiss like a true gentleman. The two of them share a moment with their lips locked, and it couldn’t be more beautiful. I was almost angry when Gerald walked interrupted the moment.

The adventure was over. Arnold wakes up in his bed and he is immediately concerned. Oh no you don’t, do not tell me that was all a dream. I am screaming profanity at my TV whilst a near identical scene is played from the beginning of the movie. Was that really all a dream? Please for the love of raspberries no. Please, please no. Arnold’s eyes widen and fill with tears when he thinks that it was indeed just a dream. But they wouldn’t do that to us…and in come Miles and Stella with breakfast for our forever moaning group of boarders. We have never seen Arnold so happy, Wide smiles and dancing on the spot at the sight of his parents back home. I must admit, I really did hold my breath for a second there!

Seeing Miles and Stella home and comforting Arnold is something I never thought I would see. And here it was. It was the sweetest conclusion and satisfying conclusion to the longest story. I would love to see them spend time together, but it’s the worst day of school. Repeating from one of the first scenes of the movie, we see Arnold and Gerald meeting Helga and Phoebe on the corner. But THIS time, things are a little different. There’s no classic bumping into one another. Gerald and Phoebe lead the way hand and hand leaving Arnold and Helga wondering if they should follow suite. While Arnold does attempt this making Helga (and all of us watching) swoon. Helga still ups her defenses and grabs her hand back. I can understand why people would questions her actions here, but I’m kind of happy they left that part of Helga in. This is still her character and she is not going to change overnight. She still keeps her guard up and she has a lot to learn in accepting Arnold’s effect in public. Still, the fact that she smiles as she walks off is a huge development. And don’t worry folks, Arnold isn’t put off by her…he runs after her with that same flirtatious smiley face.

A nice final touch is Arnold’s parents missing him and offering to walk him to school. That final look from Arnold as he enters his school with all his friends and Mr. Simmons declaring he still has a job after the jungle ordeal…that look in his eyes, looking back at his parents looking for him, waiting for him. And that smile knowing that they are never going to leave him again. THAT my friends is how you end a movie.

Conclusion

Nothing is perfect, but the Jungle Movie sure offers some closure. Every time I watch this film, I notice something new. The amount of detail in the background is admirable. They are like paintings. The texture, the colour, the ambience of them is just beautiful. The background animation of characters is incredibly detailed. Instead of just having a still image, I constantly found background characters to be animated and reacting, especially Helga.

The music in this film was gripping, and well suited for the story. A mixture of classic Hey Arnold style Jazz and hip-hop. South American Latin, full orchestral pieces. The emotion was most certainly intensified with the music backing. Hats off to Jim Lang. In cartoon revivals, one thing that is difficult to recreate are those voices. I can honestly say the returning cast and new cast did an absolute fantastic task of both recreating and advancing the characters. It was like watching an old and new show at the same time.

Overall, The Jungle Movie was everything an old school fan like myself could have hoped for. I am not only incredibly satisfied with what we have been given but, I am also thrilled for those who worked on this project for so many years. The creator, Craig Bartlett and his team and the fans who campaigned to make this happen. It’s a fine example of determination, love and appreciation for one another, which isn’t expressed much in today’s world. I am so happy with The Jungle Movie, and I finally have my closure from this epic story.

I can bet, if my Nan were still around today, she would be the one asking me all the questions. And, while I type up my final words, I feel a small part her sitting with me for the first time in many years.

[nerdyguardgrl]

Thought on Hey Arnold: The Jungle Movie

Warning, spoilers ahead!

So, finally got to watch The Jungle Movie (best $5 I’ve ever spent) and Lord, do I have some thoughts.

So, first off, I FUCKING LOVED IT. I have been waiting for this since I was six years old, back when I didn’t really understand what cancelling a show was. I was roughly Timberly’s age when this was cancelled, and the only thing I understood about that was I’d just have to watch old episodes over and over. Which I was fine with. But, there was a part of me, especially as I got older, that needed to know two things: are Arnold’s parents okay, and do he and Helga get together? Now both those questions are answered. So, some quick thoughts from during the movie.

- OH MY GOSH THAT DREAM SEQUENCE

- Now I remember how much I hate Miriam and Bob. I like Olga more now, but I really want the other two to go suck a toad.

- “Don’t go in there for a while.”

-Gertie’s personalities are still the best (but I need a return of her western persona).

- I absolutely agree that Albert eating bacon is creepy, and I don’t understand why more people aren’t talking about it.

-Helga still monolougues and I love it.

-They’re living in the fucking beeper store. Again, I really hate Bob. Like the only people that still use beepers are doctors, and even those are being phased out with new tech. Please, just either sell the store or switch to new electronics.

-Helga’s bat cave is wonderful and I love it.

-Monkey Man.

- They used my favorite gag from the show (Sid/Gerald with the kid generation legends) and I am living for it.

-SEE PEOPLE, PIGEON MAN DIDN’T COMMIT SUICIDE

- Am I the only one who loves Curly’s crazy? I really love that kid.

- Mr. Simmons and Peter. Hell, all the LGBTQ+ couples.

- “OLGA. OH, and the other one.” Again, I really hate them.

- The larger pirate. I feel so bad for him.

- “She will show you where you parents lie.” OH MY FUCKING GOD IF YOU SHOW ME A SCENE WITH TWO COFFINS I WILL ABSOLUTELY FIND YOU AND MAKE YOUR LIFE MISERABLE.

- Oh, okay, they’re still alive. Life is better now.

- Helga having to use her locket to work the weather machine. Arnold being okay with her having it.

- Everything with Brainy. I really think he will be completely okay with Helga picking Arnold. I think he’d end up being their biggest shipper truthfully.

- The only voice I didn’t like was Stinky’s. It didn’t have that right country twang to it, I’m sorry.

-Sid’s Beatle Boots.

- What type of therapies were these kids using on their parents? Surely Stella showed them some sort of physical therapy to do with them so their muscles didn’t atrophy.

- THEY KISSED. THEY KISSED AND IT WAS AMAZING AND EVERYTHING I WANTED.

- Arnold’s leg popped and it was adorable.

- Gerald’s reaction to it. Hell, Arnold’s parents reaction to it.

-Arnold’s smile when both they woke up, and when they come into the kitchen was priceless.

-BOTH MY SHIPS HAVE SAILED AND I LOVE IT

- Phoebe being bad ass.

- “Daddy that boy hurt me!” Only Bob moment I actually liked.

- “Can we walk you to school?” These people cannot be more adorable.

- Helga letting go of Arnold’s hand and him being completely okay with it.

- The end credits.

Okay, so now that that’s out of the way, let’s get to the potential for the future. Nick has removed the showings on their regular broadcast hours apparently, which I’m not super surprised about. This isn’t as bad as it seems for one reason: they’ve added one or two (can’t remember which) more showings during splat’s block. They know their audience. They’re being smart. They recognize who this movie is for, and who it will appeal to. Which means, they might not be paying as close attention to the Nielson ratings as they would normally. Which, in this case, is a good thing. The online presence for TJM was much better than the in person showing, which is not surprising considering who the demographic was. More and more of us are getting rid of our cable packages, relying on things like the fire stick, Hulu, and Netflix to keep up with things. I know I personally had to buy it off of Amazon to see it, because I can’t afford cable anymore. Which is fine, I like my Hulu and my Amazon Prime.

So, this is what I think the future for season six will possibly be: it’s not going to be on Nick itself. It will either be on Splat, or they will do what they did with legend of Korra, put it online. Again, Nick is evolving, they are getting better at looking at the bigger picture and not just Nielson ratings. They are learning that with technology evolving, they will have to as well.

Also, I think this is an unpopular opinion, but: I want the potential for the Patakis to die. I’m sorry, but I just don’t think it’s possible for Miriam/Bob to be redeemed. Some people are just shitty, and I think these two are a couple of them. Now, I wouldn’t mind growth for Olga, but I don’t care about their parents a hoot.

We won’t know for a while yet if we will get a season six, and if we don’t I’m okay with it. We got our closure. If we do though, there are some things I want to see:

- Miles and Stella getting back into the workforce. I want to see Miles either as a college professor, or working in the museum. I want to see Stella being a brilliant doctor, bringing what she learned in the jungle to the modern world.

- The growing pains between the family, and the extended family they have in the boarders.

-Kokashka getting kicked the fuck out of Sunset Arms.

- Miles and Stella showing Helga the love she desperately needs. Potentially Helga having a room at Sunset Arms, as an emergency if things get too bad at home. Stella going absolutely mama bear on Helga’s biological parents because of the way they treat their daughter.

- Dr Bliss returning. Really, I want Helga/Bliss’s sessions to be a regular occurrence.

- A Mr. Feeny with Simmons. He can’t just leave these kids after all.

- ACTUAL AGING FROM SEASON TO SEASON.

So, I think that’s everything. I’m sorry about the long post. Have a nice day!

[thesassybuttercup]

Okay I’ve been obsessing over that scene from the trailer ever since it came out, the one where helga throws away her locket, and I thought “alright we all know Arnold is gonna be the one to find it but how would he even know how important it is, or that it belongs to Helga? His picture was torn up!”

And then of course I remembered the ENGRAVING that’s inside the locket but started thinking like, “we only ever saw the inscription one time in one episode, would Craig really go the distance and use it in tjm??”

So I just stumbled across this pic from Craig’s ig (bc I’m going through all his older posts because he’s showing a lot of hints and I need ANSWERS) that was posted back in august and realized this probably wasn’t a random pic of Helga’s locket. He specifically chose one with her locket open, showing the inscription and tagged #thejunglemovie

Now imagine Arnold discovering her locket and reading what’s on the inside. I always imagined just how huge of a scene it would be for Arnold to find the locket, but him reading the inscription (and finally REALIZING just how deep and true Helga’s love is) would be much more emotional and impactful than just seeing his picture

(I also have this head canon that after Arnold finds the locket, he keeps it to himself and doesn’t return it to Helga until the climax of the film where it becomes the key to the whole thing and somehow saves everyone lmfao)

[lucylearns]

My birthday was already almost two weeks ago?! How did this happen?!

On my actual birthday, I felt conflicted, and I wrote a very serious post about the consequences of a friend’s death 8 years ago. The day after, with sales going on for Ulta and Sephora, I thought, “Its basically still my birthday; I should treat myself.” Turning 23 felt so strange to me- in many ways, I still feel I’m still 17 or even 15… Six years doesn’t sound like a long time, but the difference between 17 and 23 really does! So I figured this year would be a good year to officially celebrate myself, by myself.

Last weekend, I visited my older sister in Milwaukee. We went to several stores (Ulta, Sephora, MANY thrift/vintage stores, and yes, TJ Maxx), and while I didn’t feel the need to get much from Ulta and Sephora, we found many great products at TJ Maxx- some I purchased for myself, and some my sister bought for me as birthday presents.

I know I’m chatty- so let’s get into everything I hauled!

It looks like so much! Let’s get into some details here.

Palettes:

Too Faced “Cat Eyes.” This was. TJ Maxx find for something like $10? It was quite discounted. I love Too Faced in terms of collecting, and this was one my sister ended up picking up for me! The actual quality is a bit… chalky and without excellent pigmentation, but there is a lot of potential for soft looks that don’t take much effort (read: perfect for work) with this palette.

Marc Jacob’s Stye Eye-Con 7 in “The Tease 202.” This was another TJ Maxx find, although I purchased this myself. This was $20 at TJM, compared to $59 at Sephora. I’ve been looking at this palette for several months now, so when I saw it for such a steep discount, I had to pick it up. It’s not the best palette (the mattes are a bit powdery, IMO, and the darker shades a bit patchy), but the colors are wonderful, the compact itself feels so sleek, and just… yes.

Tarte “Make Believe In Yourself” Eye + Cheek Palette. I actually purchased this from Sephora online with my 20% off VIB coupon. Yes, it’s a total glitter bomb, but it’s SO PRETTY, and I love glitter shadows. The highlighter in the middle (Believe) is also a wonderful highlight on fair skin. This definitely screams “festival,” but let’s be real; I’ll use it just as a pick me up on my days off work!

Viseart Petit Pro. Another Sephora 20% VIB purchase. I already had the Bijoux Royal palette (which I adore), and the idea of a travel-friendly Viseart palette excited me. The colors are quite warm and dark- but I’m thinking it’d be a perfect fall palette. The mattes are a bit hard, but the glitter/shimmer shades are amazing!

Lorac Pirates of the Caribbean Eye Shadow Palette. I purchased this from Ulta with a 20% anything coupon (plus, you know, 2x birthday points… and 2x Ultamate Rewards MasterCard points). I’m not 100% into the Pirates franchise (as I mentioned in my last FotM unboxing post), but I do like to collect Disney merchandise- and I absolutely LOVE Lorac’s formula and these colors looked very fun and easy to use. Very different from the Alice palette from UD (which was chalky, difficult to use, and came in troublesome packaging… even if it was very beautiful). No regrets here!

Lorac Pirates of the Caribbean Cheek Palette. Another 20% off Ulta purchase- yes, at the same time as the eye palette! The colors in this palette looked so fair-skinned friendly and yes, fun, that I really wanted to try it! My only concern so far is not being sure if the last color (in the right bottom corner) is supposed to be a very shimmery blush or a darker highlight 😉

  The other color products:

In order of swatch appearance, the other items I purchased were:

Spring Fling Argan Oil Lip Balm. This is a tinted lip balm that is shea-free and was on mega discount ($1.99 I believe) at Ulta. It’s a bit warm, but it’s lovely!

Nars Matte Lip Pencil in Sex Machine. This was one of those VIB sale purchases from Sephora. I had been considering which Nars lip pencil I wanted to purchase- Cruella, which was on my list for a while, actually came in a lip set I picked up not too long ago, and Sex Machine appeared to be the best spring-type shade for me.

MUFE Rouge Artist Intense in 43. Before I tell you how much this was- I want you to guess. It was at TJ Maxx…. for $6. SIX. Usually, MUFE lipsticks are around $20! I’ve heard that #43 is called “Moulin Rouge” and is an orange-based red; this one does NOT look like that at all, nor can I find it on sale anywhere online to check what it’s supposed to be… to me, it’s slightly cooler (not super cool, but slightly) and medium-deep. It is very beautiful, suits me very well, and whitens my teeth a tiny bit. GREAT find, IMO.

NYX Pin-up Pout in Bombshell. I purchased three other shades a while ago, and long story short, one of my colors (Almost Famous) was stolen by a kid at work, hidden in her pants, and used… so it went in the trash. I considered buying the shade again, but with summer approaching, I decided to go for a fun color- a hot pink that’s on the deeper side, so it looks almost red! This one was part of my Ulta order.

Ofra Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick in “Cape Town.” Ofra’s LLLL formula is one of my favorites, and I have it in a few colors that came in beauty boxes or part of sets- not colors I got to choose. When Ofra came to Ulta, I decided it was time to get another color, one that I carefully picked out myself. I settled on Cape Town because it was a nice plummy/berry color. They call it a cabernet with purple-pin tones. It’s one of my favorite, all-year-round colors!

Too Faced Melted Metal in Metallic Jelly and Metallic Violet. So these ones… they were also $6 each at TJ Maxx, and I was shocked to find both colors in packaging that wasn’t disgusting and not yet used/swatched. They appear to be on sale because the products themselves appear separated- they’re very light and very greasy feeling, which means I may need to pop the top off and mix them up in the tube.

Tarte Tarteist Pro Glow Liquid Highlighter in Stunner. I have the Amazonian Clay highlighter in this shade and love it- but I love liquid highlights (especially when paired with a powder on top) and wanted to try this one out. Ordered from Sephora during VIB sale.

Becca Pressed Shimmering Skin Perfector in Amethyst. I’ve been lusting after this since it was released (I LOVE lavender, violet, and any kind of purple hue on my face). I got it during the Sephora VIB sale, and I couldn’t be happier!

Origins GinZing Cream Eyeshadow in 16 Blue-tiful Burst. Yes, this is dark and feels quite navy, but I think it’ll be beautiful as a liner. I love using creme pots as liners! TJ Maxx find for about $10.

NYX Lid Lingerie Eye Tint in Whimsy. Liquid eyeshadows have become a thing recently, but not a thing I’ve tried yet. They are a little intimidating for my level of blending skills. I figured I’d start out with a NYX product, as the brand has a good success rate for me. This color is also super beautiful! This was an Ulta purchase as well.

Finally, the two non-color purchases:

Real Techniques Eye Brush Starter Set. This was another TJ Maxx find for about $8, which is half off the price from Real Technique’s website. I can never have enough eye brushes, as I hate washing my brushes…

NYX Honey Dew Me Up Serum & Primer. As somebody with dry skin, I’ve been curious about this serum/primer for a while- so the 20% Ulta sale was the perfect time for me to pick it up.

So there you have it- a massive haul, brought to you by my “Shoot, I’m 23” quarter-life crisis…. I mean… “treat yo’ self” mentality.

Haul // Birthday “Treat Yo’ Self:” Ulta, Sephora, and TJ Maxx Beauty Finds My birthday was already almost two weeks ago?! How did this happen?! On my actual birthday, I felt conflicted, and I wrote a very serious post about the consequences of a friend's death 8 years ago.