#and their friendship getting the spotlight it deserved was awesome

[davyjoneslockr]

IDK IF ITS TOO LATE FOR THE CHARACTER ASK GAME buuut trish if ur still doing it!

(For this ask game)

First impression: I guess I didn’t really think much about her at first? I loved her intro and her almost breaking Narancia’s wrist + dunking on Fugo for no discernible reason was so awesome of her. But she unfortunately kinda took a back seat for the beginning parts of Vento Aureo, and I just found myself wishing there was more of her, and that she was granted more agency by the narrative.

Impression now: LOVE HER SO MUCH. After like the halfway point of VA she very quickly became a highlight of the part for me. The way she doesn’t hesitate to question what’s happening around her, chooses to become an active player instead of letting her (very justified) fear consume her, and when she not only gets a stand, but one that presents her softness as a strength and demonstrates the incredible resolve she has? So so good. I also really really love her in the Purple Haze Feedback bonus chapter, where she meets Bucciarati’s mom and ponders whether he was a good person after all, and I think she was a great perspective to frame the Giorno vs Mista fight in the flashback. I only wish she had more time in the spotlight, and that she had a more active role in the final fight (which. Sorta ties in to other criticisms I have of the part as a whole).

Favorite moment: Obvious answer, but the Notorious BIG fight. Like I said before, I think Spice Girl is a perfect stand for her, and I like that she’s sentient, which allows her to basically interact with her own conscience while she’s suddenly thrust into a life-or-death situation only she can handle. And we finally have a fight where it’s not Giorno stepping in to save everyone – because without Trish, Giorno would’ve been out of commission for good. I also just found the way she struggles, has to think on her toes, and ultimately perseveres very refreshing and human in a way that reminds me of what I loved about Jonathan in Phantom Blood. And her “arrivederci” at the end is so awesome I clap and cheer every time I see it. Again it makes me wish we had more Trish-centric arcs, because Notorious BIG was so so good and she was what made it such a highlight for me.

Idea for a story: Post-canon Trish aughhh I love you. Whether it’s immediately after Vento Aureo where Giorno isolates her from her only living friends, and she has to navigate life on her own after her world was shattered over the course of a week, or years down the road where (I think) she eventually reunites with them, has to confront Fugo now that’s he’s back, interacts with Sheila E. (so much tragic toxic foil relationship potential), and balances her stardom with her ties to the criminal underworld. I need to write more about her there’s so much to talk about with her.

Unpopular opinion: As much as I love AUs where she joins Passione in some capacity, I don’t think that would be a good or satisfying ending for her. I think she retains those relationships eventually, and she definitely wont ever be able to live a “normal” life after everything she witnessed, but the fact that she ultimately leaves Passione and does something else with her life is good, actually. It builds on her contrasts with Narancia (where he didn’t take the chance to lead a better life, and she did), and, frankly, I don’t think she deserves to have to do horrible things and fight to survive for the rest of her life.

Favorite relationship: Her and Narancia!! The parallels between them are so awesome, and I like how Narancia projects onto her at first, but eventually gets to actually know her as a person – and while they’re different in many ways, they’re still similar, and Trish grows to trust him, too (love that one of the first things she does after the body swap is to run to “Narancia” for comfort). And her friendship with Mista by the end is so fun and silly too, and quickly turns tragic with the PHF bonus chapter stuff. Let them go to the mall together please I’m begging no more horrors </3

Favorite headcanon: When she’s older and far into her music career, rumors start spreading around that she’s involved with the mafia. They’re generally treated with the same level of seriousness as the “Paul McCartney/Avril Lavigne died and was replaced with a lookalike” conspiracies. Eventually, she puts out a rock opera concept album based on a “fictional mafia story,” with a couple strangely-dressed musicians nobody can place a name to – a guitarist and a pianist – joining her usual lineup. Everyone praises her for being a meme savvy queen.

[twisted-wonderland-but-gayer]

(🐱 anon rambles #??)

W profile btw

Anyway, I was thinking about Animated Disney canon! G7 as parents cause their my current interest(no live action movies) and got this:

QoH: pretty nice to yuu unless she's upset about something whether it'd be yuu or someone else who pissed her off, just like the king of hearts, QOH listens to yuu or at least yuu also has the ability to calm QOH down or delay a trial.

Scar: manipulative, uses yuu as a pawn in his schemes, he does care for them but not much, acknowledges them to some extent and also taught yuu that brains over brawns is a worthy/important skill, yuu and scar might have a strained relationship of some sort.

Ursula: despite her greed and lust for power, she's an awesome parent, she teaches yuu to respect others who deserve it and not to let their guard down as well as treat people as equals unless otherwise, (going off Ariel is Ursula's niece concept) when Ursula tells yuu the story of her and Ariel's father without sugar coating it or lying yuu is at first upset at the gender roles in merfolk society and wanted to do something about it but Ursula advised against it not wanting to see yuu harmed in any way but tells yuu that they could help by befriending Ariel.

Jafar: does not care for yuu but doesn't neglect them, also uses yuu as a pawn in his schemes to get close to the Sultan, Jasmine and Aladdin, ( imagine Lago and jafar's relationship, kinda?)

Evil Queen: yuu's situation is similar to snow White (besides the whole fairest one of all thing) but instead EV checks up on them, regularly whether through the paned glass or physical interaction, she'd try to pin yuu and Snow White's friendship against each other (maybe it'd work and maybe not🤷‍♂️)

Hades: keeps them away from spotlight, a generally decent guy/father (kinda leaned into myth Hades cause Disney did him dirty) let's yuu explore inside of shielding them away, but would step in if yuu or anyone messed up his plans if necessary, leaving meg under the impression that he's a good father.

Maleficent: would neglect yuu 100% as her animated counterpart, maleficent wouldn't hesitate to discard/get rid of yuu if they no longer served their worth, doesn't care about nor for them, but why yuu is kept around for longer is unknown

🐱

I made sure to copy this incase Tumblr decides to eat my ask

Thoughts? Ideas?

No thoughts or ideas, it's your concept.

It's cool.

[brawlqueen]

Selective, Canon Divergent Mizuki Date formerly, Mizuki Okiura,                                 of  AI: The Somnium Files Series.

Exploring subjects of: Grief, Never Having a Childhood, Piecing Broken pieces together, Living with a broken heart, Unflinching courage and desire to be kind even with a mouth full of teeth, Love with nowhere to go but searching all the same, Innocence Lost, Choosing your own family, loss, trauma, abandonment and coping / lack of coping with abuse while discovering who you, yourself are. Friendship and coming into your own self and learning slowly but surely what genuine love really means when it’s given. Not everything is a battle. Not everyone is an enemy who will hurt you, you won’t always be alone. Beating up old perverts and bad guys though? 

.....With your overpowered strength you’re definitely alone on that one.

                                                                  may you grow healthy and happy.

Written by Lily 25+, she/her, minors dni / personals dni, rules WIP! SPOILERS AHEAD!

RULES.

Thanks a ton for reading this now bear with me as I get this out if the way! Please call me Lily, and it’s nice to meet you!

Out of Character p.sd by ariapsds / supersources!

Minors and personals dni please. Reblogs from personals / non roleplay blogs will result in a block.

I will have various routes or verses and am completely open to crossovers! I tend to cherry pick AINI as I have my own gripes with it, but still very much enjoyed its improvements in some areas, and pitfalls in others. So I’ll follow things to a point but also do my own thing, so please be patient with me. I also will adapt my canon about it with other AITSF roleplayers so we can meet a middle ground as we all likely have some divergencies and our own takes!

Communication is really important to me! I primarily use discord, so please feel free to IM me, if we hit it off, because you will 99.9 percent find me there for plotting, chatting and just chilling out. Also I tend to initiate as best I can, but while there’s no due date on ooc replies, I do tend to wait a little bit if there’s no reply for a while, since I figure as we all have lives, I don’t wanna burden the person I’m chatting with! That said, please always feel comfortable to let me know about something you want to talk about in our writing, our messages, or keeping or dropping threads. It really, truly, genuinely won’t hurt my feelings. I’m not weighing your interactions / speed or judging you.

Mizuki may look simply short and sharp-tongued, but her superhuman/supernatural strength is on another level. In both ability, regenerative properties and sheer agility, strength to lift and crush things, jump, leap, survive, endurance etc, is far beyond what a human being could or should, really. This of course is elaborated on down my rules but do not underestimate her as I will not hold her back, she is ridiculously overpowered and it is NOT EASY to take her down as we don’t know her full capacities since she grows stronger each year of her life, but certainly not impossible at all for her to lose we just gotta plot it out! plotting is always always encouraged, naturally! just think of her as some weird unstoppable weapon of a detective, sci-fi series. She is not afraid to fight whatsoever to defend her loved ones and innocent people, and for now, is just focusing on not breaking a mug from sheer grip. I do follow the Horadori Institute Genome Editing, but minus Mizuki being a clone, and it’s elaborated below. 

Crossovers are awesome, I said it before that you don’t have to have a muse from the Somnium Files to be welcomed here, OCs and Multimuse blogs are just as important. I can be selective but really I love just about any interactions of all kinds!

I think it’s safe to say since I’ll be having a lot of verses, that I will be making sure Mizuki, without being spoiler heavy, is given the spotlight I felt she deserved far more than she got. I also firmly will have verses where her father figure, imperfect but very loved by her, trauma issues aside, is mentioned as being present in her life because let’s face it both were done extremely dirty after the Mizuki route, which I felt should have been canon at least in the relationship set up, transferred to Resolution Route as the canon end in the OG. It isn’t so much that these two are my favorite family unit, but that they were nerfed so badly back to square one in this game, that it hurt the story quite a bit and Mizuki already has gone through way too much to have that on her shoulders also, and frankly Date, if you know you know, didn’t really deserve that. 

Some verses though he will be involved in the Explosion route instead of a mentor figure to her in some verses, and you’ll see how Mizuki takes that. Which is to say not well at all. :’) Something we didn’t see in AINI, which is probably my biggest gripe, the nerfing of relationships / development from the first game of the characters

While I’ve looked at the tags, various places and this is the common consensus on Mizuki being a ‘clone’ it’s just not gonna be a thing here nor is Bibi. That completely nerfs any of her development, takes away the message of ‘found family’ so heavily themed in the original game, AITSF, and pretty much takes away her identity as a solid character in it, and also retcons a lot of what happened with her biological family. I will have ideas and try to figure out her ‘superhuman strength / combat ability’. I’ll follow along with the Horadori Institute experimenting on her as a baby, but not to make a clone.

Something like Shoko, who repeatedly calls Mizuki abnormal etc, to Date, maybe saw an opportunity while she was a baby to see if she could ‘fix’ her, and that’s how Chikara got a hold of her in some verses. Not even for prestige or connections, just desperation and a likely unstable mind wanting to fix a child she frankly never wanted. I don’t know what other Mizuki blogs are doing about this if there are any, so I’ll try to keep brainstorming but for me, unless there is a good reason, the main detractor of Mizuki’s protag status / relevance in the story is Bibi, and trust me, I love Bibi dearly as she really grew on me as a character and I wish she was better utilized -- and I saw Marco!

Some verses like in AISTF, I’ll have Mizuki’s god like OP superhuman abilities never explained. Other times? She’ll never lose her eye and just decide to be a detective to avenge her Dad and Kizuna and everyone who got hurt without having an AI-ball.

Most of the time for continuum, she has lost her left eye, despite Date’s best efforts and the others, and will probably post game share Aiba with Date, as if there is an AI3, I’d like someone made for Mizuki herself, if she appears again. Which I sure hope she does, even though Aiba is her family too, and they do get along well together, as Aiba takes the seat as a more nurturing, protective figure for someone made of seaweed.

Mizuki is not sugary sweet. She is traumatized back to back to back. I will not sugar coat themes of abuse in all its forms, neglect from parents, the negative reactions from trauma that for Mizuki, never seems to end, and the slow journey of accepting a parent that chose you out of love even if he’s imperfect and doesn’t always make the best choices with her, the point is, one person in the world tries, and it’s Date. I borrow a lot from the Mizuki route even if their relationship seemed to go backwards in Res route.

So Mizuki essentially is very much bite and fight. She’s snarky, she can be rude, she’s mature beyond any preteen or teenager should be, she’s fiercely protective of her loved ones, she’s guarded and cagey around affection or compliments, she’s angry, very angry, and also very kind. She’s a broken girl trying to find out where she fits and the pain of her life never seems to end, something continued in Nirvana Initiative. I want to explore all these traits and feelings negative or positive, but be warned, she’s more likely to verbally eviscerate a muse or be her guarded, but actually genuinely kind self, buried beneath layers of trauma just as much.

Note that a lot of themes in this game, as Mizuki is a detective in her teens, more aptly put a Pysncer / Special Agent, that I do not reflect beliefs or opinions of everything my character does, as we are both separate individuals. While I can empathize with Mizuki for personal reasons, that hardly means the premise of the story or base foundations or plots or actions of the characters I necessarily condone.

Honestly a lot of my verses you’ll see more detail and info on what’s going on in each as I want to have lots of ideas with her! I want her to get what I felt she didn’t in AINI despite also seeing some positive things also! 

No drama, bullying, homophobia, transphobia, bigotry, racism, drama, godmodding / meta-gaming etc. If I don’t see someone acting like a decent human being or fair it’s a bye from me.

Also all icons coloring psd wise were by sunnypsds, promo, icon border and header done by @ganymakes​ / @colnerys​ (DO NOT STEAL PLEASE) and the caps are all done by me. Please do not steal! 

I know this is a lot, but thanks a ton if you read even half, I really appreciate it. I hope we can have tons of fun together and don’t be a stranger!

important links: stance on mizuki’s portrayal / storyline changes.

blogroll:  @goldspun​ + ind. selective, fandom friendly oc.                          highly selective / low activity:            @unvergangliche​ + ind. selective frieren of sousou no frieren. 

[criminalmutantsins]

Top 10 Favorite Young Justice Characters

10. Jaime Reyes/Blue Beetle

Starting off the list is Blue Beetle. Young Justice introduced me to him, and I was hooked. He’s probably the most mellow and calming voice. His arc and relationship with Bart (friendship or not) were my favorite aspects of S2. They bounced off each other in every scene. I was very disappointed when Jaime and Bart were sidelined so much, and hope S4 changes this (particularly with Bart).

Jaime in the number 10 spot since he doesn’t really have much of a memorable personality. Still love him to bits though.

        9. Will Harper/Red Arrow

Funny enough, I did not like Will. He was an asshole in S1; S2 kind of changed my mind about him but not enough since he didn’t appear as much. What really changed my mind was the episode “Private Security” (S3 Ep.4). I started looking back into Will’s storylines and, I have to admit, his is probably one of the best character development.

The first season had him unwillingly living a lie and betraying the people he cared for. In season 2 he was so consumed into finding the original Roy for five years, not even caring or focusing about his own life. I felt really bad for Will because he was probably going through an identity crisis and thought he couldn’t live his life without finding Arsenal. Probably felt guilty.

Seeing him living his own life and being happy with his daughter was so heartwarming. I smiled every time Will appeared in the latest season (totally ignoring the Will x Artemis fiasco), especially with Lian. I’m very proud of him.

I feel bad for putting him so low, yet I adore the next characters more.

 8. Garfield Logan/Beast Boy

I have been a massive Beast Boy fan since Teen Titans so you probably can imagine how excited to see him. His origin story was unique and his brother-sister bond with M’gann was very sweet. It was pretty weird seeing how much younger Gar was than Dick, but I got used to it. I was bummed that Gar wasn’t in S2 as much; however, S3 truly made up for it. 

After watching Beast Boy being a great leader in S5 of Teen Titans, I wanted a leader-like and more mature version of him. Young Justice truly delivered with Gar being the leader of the Outsiders. It’s nice to see him treated with respect rather than as a joke because that was my biggest gripe with Teen Titans. Though it was weird seeing him not crack a joke at all.

Gar’s story with his mom was heartbreaking to see. I literally cried seeing his reaction to revisiting his trauma in S2 and S3; I just wanted to hug and tell him how awesome he is. My only complaint with Gar in S3 was that the Outsiders weren’t established until near the end of the season.

His voice actor being Greg Cipes also gives him extra points (He’s a chill guy and radiates BB energy).

 7. Dick Grayson/Nightwing/ Robin I 

Sorry to all the hardcore Nightwing fans.

I love Dick (don’t get any ideas), but he doesn’t get enough development in the spotlight. One of the things I really wanted to see from him is his growth as a main leader, and his journey to becoming Nightwing. I was really bummed when these happened between the first two seasons.

To be honest, I don’t have as much to say about him other than straightforward qualities I enjoy about him.

1.His Voice (it’s so soothing)

2.His Personality (very charismatic)

3.Very Handsome (Probably in the top 3 my most handsome YJ Men list)

I put him higher than the others since he made a lot of contribution to the story and his new words (gotta love that aster!)

6. Megan Morse/M’gann M’orzz/Miss Martian 

If I made this list during S1, M’gann would have probably been in my top 3 (maybe even No. 1), but S2 didn’t give her any brownie points.

I really liked S1 Miss Martian because of her kind heart, awkward girl next door personality. Her trouble fitting in the beginning reminded me of when I was going through a time in high school; seeing her having trouble as well helped me feel not so lonely. M’gann powers were (still are) my favorite since I am a big fan of mind-like powers. I would feel so powerful. Watching her identity crisis(?) arc was great too. I’ve had trouble feeling comfortable in my own skin as well as my social anxiety (I’m a mess) and I could understand how scared Megan was of her friends’ thoughts on her true form. 

Oh boy. Season 2 basically ruined her. Learning what she would do to enemies was terrifying to see and left me wondering what happened to Miss Martian that made her step this far. What she almost did to Superboy was almost unforgivable. You do not try to manipulate with your boyfriend’s mind when you guys have an argument! Shame on you M’gann. If Superboy hadn’t forgiven you then I wouldn’t have either.

Good thing S3 somewhat redeemed her. Her kind heart was noticeable again and she refused to do that mind trick again (thank god). Very excited for the Superboy and Miss Martian wedding! Please creators, I beg of you to not skip over it. I want to cry my eyes out in happiness!

 5. Kaldur’ahm/Aquaman/Aqualad 

Now we’re in the top 5 with Aqualad (*ahem* Aquaman) starting it off.

Creating Kaldur was the best decision the creators ever did. I love him with all my heart!

He added diversity to the original team and was a great leader. S1 was not his breakout season, though the second season definitely was.

Kladur played the villain so well that he deserves an automatic Oscar. I never doubted that he was with the heroes, but he didn’t disappoint. My favorite part about Aqualad’s performance was when he rose from the ocean slowly like a cliché villain (he made it work), and the line he said right after he “killed” Artemis; it sent me chills. Love it! 

Pretty disappointed that he didn’t appear as much in S3. Very happy that he is a part of the LGBTQ+ community and is in a happy relationship. I’m a part of the community and loved that there was finally some representation in one of my favorite shows. Even so, I have to criticize how rushed and sidelined it was. I hope Kaldur and Wyynde’s relationship gets development.

 4. Kon-El/Conner Kent/Superboy

Like Will, I did not like Superboy at first. Mainly angry and volatile characters were never really my cup of tea. I do understand why he was upset and felt bad for him; I just handle anger the direct opposite as him. My love for Conner started growing around the end of S1. He was very sweet towards Miss Martian (bless him for not caring about her appearance) and his anger was in control.

Season 2 pretty much switched my opinions on him and M’gann. It was awful what M’gann almost did to him. That scene with him being so sad that what she did ruined that special bond they had almost made me cry. I wanted to give him a hug. He grew so much too since I don’t think he would have handled the whole M’gann drama as well in S1. A lot of furniture would’ve been broken.

I gotta admit something. I almost put Conner near the bottom (maybe no. 7). A comment in a poll in Amino changed my mind. I wrote a poll asking other fans who did they prefer SB or MM. At that point I said SB, though I didn’t think much of it. Someone (specifically yjfangirl) responded “Superboy has the best development in the show.” This had me thinking about how far SB has gone. In the beginning, Conner was an angry guy who felt alone and rejected by the person who he was meant to emulate. Now he is happier and living for himself rather than to be the next Superman. He’s getting married people! A little detail I noticed when rewatching S3 was Superboy mentioning to new characters that they weren’t obligated to be a hero because of their abilities. I adored this! The main reason why Superboy was created to be Superman if the original ever died, and another one of Luthor’s puppets. But he strayed from that pressuring path and is doing his own thing. Conner doesn’t want other people to feel like he did. What an absolute pure soul.

Also, yjfangirl, first I want to say Hi (*waves*)! Then say thanks for writing that comment. It made me really think about the bigger picture with SB and my love for him as grown exponentially. You probably didn’t mean to do that, but I still want to thank you. 😊

 3.Wally West/Kid Flash

We’re in the elites now.

I don’t know how to explain it, I just love Wally. He makes me laugh, and his character growth was great. At first, Wally was this cocky flirt who didn’t take the hero work as seriously. That changed in “Cold-hearted,” one of my favorite episodes in the series. This was when I really started seeing more of Wally than being this dumb flirt. It was great seeing him actually caring about helping people since I believed for a long time that he wanted to be a superhero to just have powers rather than actually protect others. The regret in his eyes when he thought his impulsive behavior killed Perdita helped me see who he really was- this somewhat arrogant speedster who had a kind heart. Episodes that can make me change my perspective on characters are truly special.

I was very upset that he wasn’t in S2 a lot. I understand why since he gave up the life, but I was still bummed. Seeing him being so loving and protective towards Artemis was amazing. Spitfire is my favorite ship and I will not give up on them. All I want is a happy ending! The penultimate episode of S3 was a hint that it will happen. Watching the S2 finale was heartbreaking, I cried watching him disappear, his love for Artemis being the last things he said. Artemis’ reaction did not(I just wanted to hug her). 

I have more to say, though I’m leaving it for another post. 😉

 2.Bart Allen/Kid Flash II/Impulse

Picking between Bart and Wally for second place was tough. Took me a while to decide; I’ll talk about it later on.

The moment Bart made his appearance, I absolutely adored him. He is amazing and I live for his hyper, fun attitude. His arc and relationship with Jaime were my favorite aspects of S2. What can I say, their chemistry is great to see.

That scene when he was meeting the Flash family was so adorable. His excitement was infectious and spoiling his dad and aunt’s births was hilarious! I watch it occasionally whenever I need a good laugh or reason to smile.

Unlike most time travelers- at least the ones I’ve seen- Bart was very involved with what was going on and befriended his biggest enemy- evil and weirdly huge future Blue Beetle. He was pretty careful about disclosing very important information and took things very seriously. You never know if disclosing everything was the thing that brought the world to chaos.

What I found interesting was his choice on how to interact with everyone. He seemed pretty gloomy in the future, but decided to portray this cheerful, devil-may-care attitude to be more likable. I understood (still kind of do). I had terrible mental health issues and I pretended to be happy in front of loved ones because I thought they wouldn’t care about me anymore. Bart got some brownie points for that.

I was dissatisfied when his role was greatly reduced. I wanted the creators to go further with Bart by revealing his past and how it affected him. He was pretty much comedy relief. You couldn’t imagine how disappointed I was, especially with it involving my second favorite character. Season 4 better change that.

I know that you shouldn’t assume a character’s sexuality, yet I really hope Bart is gay. There needs to be more clear representation and Bart can be one of them. I’m also a Bluepulse and Bartuado shipper (fine with either one as long as Bart’s bond with each of them stays strong).

Anyway, I mentioned that I would explain why I chose Bart for 2nd place over Wally. It mostly stems from wishful thinking. I really want S4 to have Bart as a main character since I believe the future will be strong plot point in the season. Development could surely happen such as Bart opening up more about what he went through. Let all those feelings go.

I’m going to write an article on my hopes for S4 when a release date is announced. Bart and Wally will most definitely be talked about.

 …..

We are finally near the end!

And my No. 1 favorite character is…

Drumroll please!

…

..

.

1.Artemis Crock/Tigress/Artemis

That’s right people!

Artemis Crock, original member of the Team and daughter of villains!

She is such an inspiration to anyone who wants to go their own past without their parents’ support.

It’s hard to describe how much I love Artemis. She’s brave, strong-willed, and a kind person. It’s crazy how great of a person she is after all the terrible things that happened to her. I look up to her because I don’t have a healthy relationship with my parents (verbal and mental abuse) and there are times I don’t feel strong enough to stand on my own. I want to carry the amount of strength Artemis has as my own.

After all that happened in S2, it was amazing to see Artemis come back to the team and train the new generation. It must have been hard to walk away from a safe, comfortable life for a chaotic, dangerous life. I admire that in everyone, but I hold more respect for Artemis since “the life” “killed” Wally. I wanted to hug her so bad.

She’s also one of the kindest people in the show, the events in S3 being the best example. When Zatanna was crying about her dad, Artemis was there to comfort her. It was so sweet! Roy and her also took in Halo and Terra like they were a part of the family; the archer treated them like the best big sister. That rainstorm scene was heartwarming to the core.

Wouldn’t Artemis be an amazing mother? Lian and her have a strong bond like a mother and daughter; I loved it, and Lian is in good hands with Roy and Artemis. Though Jade deserves a chance to be a mother. Artemis also seemed to enjoy taking care of those kids in that S1 episode. Wally too. You guys know what I’m guys insinuating. 😉

Get ready for some fanfics on that someday.

My favorite Artemis-centered episode was the second to last episode of S3. I was waiting for this episode centering around Artemis missing Wally and learning to move on. It was great yet heartbreaking. Nothing bad happened. That Will and Artemis kiss never happened. Everyone makes a mistake. No matter how terrible it was.

Anyway, seeing Artemis and Wally living their lives and having a baby gave me life, even if it was fake. It was a vision of the future. I will believe this until there is confirmation that Wally will not come back.

Did anyone else cry when Artemis was so desperate to, but Wally wouldn’t let that happen (the real Wally would do that)? They are a great example of a healthy relationship with all the love and support they have for each other. I want that.

[emisirrelevant]

Thoughts on Zombies 2:

I like that overall it kept some things from the first movie- like the animation in the beginning and telling more lore again- with the werewolves like they did with the zombies. Also the minor breaking the fourth wall moments Zed and Addison do.

The football coach running a fro-yo business in his off season. I love that for him.

Zed's impeccable timing (this is sarcastic) of trying to do a prom-posal and ending up making the entire cheer squad bus crash.

Addison telling everyone with her quality leadership skills (again, sarcasm) to remain calm, but then jumps out of the bus herself to go find Zed.

Interesting to see that silver was a weakness to the werewolves in this movie- I always like to see what people's takes on supernatural creature myths are when they do these things.

Bree and Bonzo in a relationship was very cute for me. I knew I was right to stan them in the first movie.

Also Zoey and Wynter's interaction. That was probably one of my favorite parts of the movie.

Wynter: Trying to scare the shit out of Zoey

Zoey: Just wants to make a new friend and finds the weak spot in 2 seconds

If you hadn't already guessed, I added Wynter and Willa to my stan list in this movie. (every time Wynter's necklace would malfunction I was like NOO)

And Eliza too- I wasn't too sure of her in the first movie, but Eliza is iconic. She makes some valid points. Our resident woman in STEM.

Bree being confused when Addison said she wanted to be with the werewolves and then Addison saying "I needed help with the chemistry homework, did you not see the beaker emoji?" "Oh- I do now" 😂😂😂 I LOVE BREE SM like the first thing she saw was HELP she didn't even check to see the emoji she went straight to MY BESTIE IS IN DANGER mode

Werewolf Addison eating breakfast with her parents and Addison's dad asking her if she joined a rock band😂

When the zombies and the werewolves show up to Prawn and Lacey is like "they do look good" for once I agree with her 😂

The reprise of Someday in this movie too- I might be a little emo about that actually

Lifting up the moonstone and carrying it with THE POWER OF FRIENDSHIP™!

Bonzo doing the wolf howl and Wyatt saying "You said that perfectly"

The choreography and songs still being pretty decent for me.

One For All having that line "no wristband required" actually being low-key genius bc if you think about it the zombies were able to take off their Z-bands and embraced who they really were.

Me being low-key sad actually for our main zombie himbo Zed in this because he felt like he might lose Addison and all he wanted was to take her to Prawn. Obviously he could have found another way than stealing the necklace from her, but also he was more resistant to the werewolves while Addison being the welcoming accepting character that she was invited them to the cheer squad. At times I think they both had their moments. If it weren't a Disney movie, I think that they could have handled their relationship in other ways that were more in depth, like a good heart to heart, but obviously we get our classic good ending.

Finally, I was wondering who the Great Alpha would be since it wasn't Addison but then it made me smile to myself when I realized they actually didn't need one in the end because they all came together, and I think it would be so awesome to give Willa more spotlight in a prominent role. Because she deserves it. Also because it would have been awkward if someone else took over as the alpha when Willa was already looking jealous/upset whenever Wyatt would say something like Addison's the one!

Edit: I almost forgot this but I was thinking, if Zed and Eliza were able to take off their Z-bands and didn't go after living people as their zombie selves, would the wolves ever be able to take off their necklaces? I had to take a moment when Zed asked if their necklaces kept them from "wolfing out" and Willa was like no, we wouldn't be human either, we'd die- like wait what- also Disney said the word DIE and didn't censor it or try to use a different word? This is very interesting to me. Maybe the werewolves will still have their necklaces though because Willa also said they show their true selves?? Idk. Personal brainrot.

I will be watching the third movie/Zombies 3 and I will share my thoughts on it as well when I finish it.

[maxwell-grant]

You are your top 5 Shadow agents

I don’t talk about the Agents as much as I should, even though I constantly try to stress their importance, because I’m working on essays for them individually. To be honest, I think about the Agents practically every day to the point I have a hard time separating my headcanons from the actual canon material, but I have to stay true to it, and the lack of material regarding them means that the only way I can truly talk about their characterization is by diving deep into the novels and taking notes, which I don’t have much time to do, and then finding the right books or moments to talk about, which is even more difficult. 

This by no means constitutes my big thinkpiece on them, but it’s a start, and ultimately narrowing it down was a lot harder than I expected. This order is by no means final, if you asked me this question next week or next month I’d probably have a different answer, but it’s the 5 that I find myself thinking on the most. 

Honorable mentions: Jericho Druke and Myra Reldon, who are incredibly awesome characters conceptually and who have great moments each, and whom I definitely think deserve big turns on the spotlight if the Agents ever get put on the spotlight again, but are held back by issues with their presentation and lack of prominence. Margo Lane, whom only just narrowly missed the cut because, as much as I like her and think she gets an underseved bad rep and definitely has great things going for her, I sadly have to concede isn’t as consistently great or well-written as she should be. Clyde Burke, whom I definitely like a lot based on what I’ve read and consider an integral part of the line-up, but haven’t read enough of the novels he’s in to really solidify him as one of my favorites just yet. And Slade Farrow, who is a bit too complicated to talk about superficially.

Allright, so here they are

Number 5: Burbank

As the center of all communications within The Shadow’s network and the only character in the series who is even more mysterious and elusive than The Shadow himself, Burbank is fascinating and the kind of character who simultaneously seems to be both begging for an in-depth exploration and yet who also should be dead last on the list of mysteries about the series we want spoiled, because nobody wants the mystery ruined. He’s a bit of cipher personality-wise compared to the other agents, but he kind of has to be, and I think it helps to illustrate the many forms the agents of The Shadow can and should take, that one of them is this total mystery whom we know nothing about and yet is so vital to the whole thing. And it’s interesting also because, for all the many variations we’ve had on The Shadow’s life and thoughts and feelings and etc over the years, Burbank has stayed more or less the same. Whatever variations he’s had in design aside, Burbank just is. 

The pulps did often have moments where we would get to see moments that told us a little more about Burbank, gestures he did, capabilities he had and didn’t have, little details Gibson would sprinkle in to keep people fascinated. Several scenes with Burbank are almost presented like you’re watching a movie, in the way Gibson keeps describing his face being mysteriously blocked from view by objects or lighting, like not even in your mind you are supposed to know what he is. And it’s all the more fascinating because, unlike The Shadow, as far as we know, Burbank is just some guy who’s good with tech, who was only recruited in the 2nd story but apparently knows The Shadow from before it, and whom The Shadow entrusted with virtually every secret necessary to keep his operations running. 

It’s kind of a sign as to how utterly neglected the agents are that, to this day, few writers who’ve ever touched The Shadow has ever come close to giving us any sort of explanation or backstory or anything on Burbank, and I refuse to believe these people had that much self-control. Of course I have my own ideas for Burbank, but even I would hesitate to put them on a story, because Burbank epitomizes that double-edged sword that comes with a solid narrative mystery. Burbank just is, and hopefully he will stay that way. 

Number 4: Dr Roy Tam

Mention of Dr. Tam meant much to Sayre. He was acquainted with Roy Tam, the Chinese physician. He knew that Tam was a power in Chinatown; one who worked for good

Unrolling a map, Tam showed the entire Manhattan area, studded with tiny dots in districts quite remote from Chinatown.

"These represent my outposts," he said soberly. "They are places, owned by Chinese - restaurants, laundries, curio shops, other places of business. In each of these places, I have a friend."

The Shadow understood. Dr. Tam was the motivating factor among the Chinese who adapted themselves to American ways. His mission was to create good will among races, to put an end to prejudice and superstition.

A newer and more sober spirit had replaced the old and dangerous festivities. Feuds in Chinatown were a thing of the forgotten past. Dr. Tam and his associates had done much to bring about the present sentiment; but there were persons - even among that group - who felt regret at the passing of old traditions.

Dr Tam is a remarkably layered character for one that only appears in about ten stories, and he’s one of the agents I’m most eager to discuss in-depth. He’s another one of those agents that Gibson introduced by tricking you into seeing him as a villain, as a Yellow Peril cliche, until he is revealed to be in fact a good man. Not just good, Roy Tam is presented as a powerful, influential and cunning Chinese man with a lot of assistants secretly working for him, and who is consistently presented as a progressive, pacifistic, benevolent civic leader and ally, even friend, of The Shadow. 

Tam is very much westernized and the stories paint that mostly as a good thing, and this is one of the areas that I think could very much result in an interesting story that looks at the ramifications of his role, because of course not everyone is going to agree with his viewpoints, of course him being an advocate against superstition and tradition isn’t necessarily a good thing (and it’s not how Yat Soon, The Shadow’s other major Chinese ally, works, which puts the two at odds), and of course it’s a complicated situation, but the fact that Tam invites this kind of debate at all I think is something very interesting

Largely because of the movie, Dr Tam is one of the few agents of The Shadow who’s managed to sustain appearences in modern stories, and none of them have ever really went with his original angle as a powerful civic leader. Instead he’s been largely painted as either a scientist, like in the movie, a general practitioner, and a psychiatrist, and his age has been all over the board. 

I prefer him in his original form but I also very much like the idea of Roy Tam being, like the Chinese supervillains he was created to be a subversion of, an incredible genius who’s got skills in all fields that can fit under the “Dr” part of his job and is also an incredibly capable leader able to unify splintered communities under a cause of unity and cooperation, someone who absolutely could be the adventuring genius so many other pulp heroes are, except he dedicates himself wholesale to his community and the fight against prejudice and the betterment of lives, even if he’s misguided or wrong at some of the causes he takes up. I really think this character could partake in really great stories if ever brought back.

Number 3: Cliff Marsland

(Fan-art by @cryptixcreations)

Cliff may have actually been the first agent I really fell in love with based on concept alone, even before I read the stories he was a part of and started loving all of the others. He’s one of the few agents who has prior history with The Shadow and we get ever so tantalizing hints at his background that we ultimately never get to learn about in full. He’s the resident tough guy and underworld contact of The Shadow, which in any other series might have made him the biggest badass and a loner action hero who’s too cool for things like thinking and relying on others for help. But here, trying to be that only gets Cliff into trouble, and circumstances gradually morph him into the series equivalent of a Team Dad. 

He was one of the agents who we got to see develop as a character. As he appears more frequently past his introduction, he grows from a headstrong, careless jackass, mostly interested in the action parts of the job, who “resigned himself to an adventurous career with violent death as its inevitable termination”, into one of the most reliable and capable agents, taking the lead during action scenes but otherwise fully defering leadership to Harry, and being the agent most likely to partake in gunfights and rescue The Shadow out of trouble, joining in missions like infiltrating circuses or high-society clubs and forming very strong friendships with Harry, Clyde & Hawkeye, who almost kills a man with his bare hands when he thinks Harry’s been killed. He’s the hardass, square-jawed ex-con who plays the reputation of a brutal killer, and is in reality a great friend, ally and husband (Arline has sadly only been mentioned in three stories), on top of being an invaluable fighter and secret agent.

Cliff could have easily been the protagonist of a long-running series all his own and that’s one of my favorite aspects of The Shadow’s agents. They are people with agency, goals and dreams and relationships and lives beyond the roles they play, they all have strengths and weaknesses and faults and positives that bring them much closer to us than The Shadow could ever be, with no end to the variety of roles they can take, and Cliff in particular is a character I’m very attached to. 

I do hope that he eventually found peace in a quiet life with Arline once his business with The Shadow was over.

Number 2: Harry Vincent

The Shadow as a franchise has been vastly worse off as a result of Harry Vincent being completely sidelined and mischaracterized in virtually every adaptation since, and the sheer love that Shadow fans hold for Harry purely may be the closest thing to a true universal opinion in the fandom. 

Harry is a lot of things: the audience surrogate, the protagonist of much of the early stories, the leader of the agents in field duty, the dude in distress who gets kidnapped far more than even Margo, a hopeless romantic, an action hero, the one who gets sent to recruit agents because all The Shadow has to do is send Harry on an assignment and wait for him to come back with a new friend. He is a competent, resourceful, strong, extremely kind ball of sunshine who's got the potential for greatness, even if he can't see it. 

And for this post I’m going to highlight this: Harry is, on top of all that, the ultimate embodiment of what The Shadow strives to protect, help and uplift. He is the living proof that The Shadow's mission has a good, positive effect in the world, long after criminals are brought to justice and plots are failed and victims are rescued, purely by the fact that he’s alive and helping others who were once like him. Someone who, despite having so much to offer, could have easily been swept away by the world’s callousness and cruelty, if The Shadow wasn’t there to rescue him and uplift him.

I liked The Shadow pretty much at first sight after seeing the character’s design and listening to episodes of the radio show, and my appreciation for the character grew after reading The Shadow’s Shadow, but it wasn’t until I encountered @oldschoolcrimefighters and her brilliantly informative writings on The Shadow and Harry that I not only fell in love with the series, but decided to do everything in my power to try and get other people to love it too and see the potential it has. I think a lot more people should at least be aware of why Harry matters. 

Number 1: Moe Shrevnitz

I was honestly a bit surprised when I rounded up all of the agents to make this list and Shrevy here ended up in Number One, but in hindsight, it may have been obvious all along. 

My reasonings as to why Shrevy is my favorite agent do get a bit too personal, especially because of something that happened to me as I was writing this post, so I’m putting it on a separate post here. 

[that-one-bi-wizard]

Okay so RotT… I liked it. Not all of it, but I thought it was pretty good. And cuz of that, I’m gonna list off the things that I liked about the movie

So first off, the entire train scene!!! That opening battle was just so cool! Loved seeing Jim with Akiridion tech and more Claire and Douxie working together! Everything about it was so good!

The police interrogation scene! Once again, really good!! It got a good few funny moments with Krel bursting in a suit with the whole “Your mom sent me” joke. It was a fun moment seeing them get interrogated and escaping the police station!

The Douxie and Nari body swap!!! Now that was a good idea! Just wish we could’ve seen a bit more of it. And when Douxie’s soul was getting ripped from Nari’s body… omg that scene was chilling

Stricklake ENGAGEMENT!!! PLEASE THAT WAS SO CUTE!!! They deserved a happy ending😢 But seeing Strickler ask Jim to be his best man was so sweet

Barbra being a great mother once again! I love the little talk she gave Jim (plus the fact that Jim’s dad wasn’t a huge part of the story was something I kinda liked)

ELI’S GLOW UP! Bro, puberty hit my man Eli like a truck 😭

Varvatos Vex coming in with the freaking Gun Robot! Just for the sheer reference and that my boi ELI designed it! ELI DESIGNING A GIANT ROBOT ITSELF IS AWESOME!

Toby and Jim’s friendship!!! I’ve always loved their dynamic and it really shines here! AND TOBY’S SACRIFICE FOR THEM!! TOBY SWEETIE YOURE DOING GREAT—

Jim as a character still felt like Jim. A few characters like Aja felt written a ooc, but I think Jim worked well. Him being at a low point feeling helpless since he depended on the amulet to be a hero just felt right. I liked watching his struggle and overcoming it. It was enjoyable to me.

I also kinda liked the idea of the six main characters coming together at the end to pull out Excalibur. I think it would’ve worked better if some characters got more development cough cough KREL cough cough and had a moment in the spotlight but it was still a cool idea itself was pretty cool, I think. It just could’ve been fleshed out more

Ok don’t hate me… but I liked the ending. Yeah… I liked the whole Toby getting the amulet thing. LET ME EXPLAIN: The way I saw it is that nothing was unwritten. Everything still happened. Jim just started a different timeline. One with a different Toby and different events and where everyone is still alive. It’s one where he’s going to try to save everyone. Also I think Toby as the Trollhunter would be interesting. If they ever decide to return to the TOA series I’d like to see Toby’s adventures and Jim helping him, knowing what’s to come. I want to see Jim try to help everyone survive what’s to come.

And bonus: imagine a scenario/ fanfic idea where Toby’s the Trollhunter and a point comes where Jim finally tells him everything he’s seen and what’s happened. Eventually Toby having to give the amulet to Jim and him having to take the Amulet and returning to his original timeline. Then Jim having to deal with the guilt that this is his reality and that he couldn’t undo what had already been done. In which Jim has to learn to accept that he can’t save everyone. Maybe he can save Strickler and Nomura but is unable to ultimately save Toby. Idk just an idea.

You don’t have to agree with me. To each their own, but I like to look on the bright side of things. Admittedly, there were a few gems and hints of what could be good ideas in the movie. So these are just my personal thoughts on the movie.

[jippy-kandi]

Digimon Adventure: 2020 – Episode 1: Tokyo: Digital Crisis! (Review)

Thoughts on the first episode of the Digimon Adventure reboot series.

Disclaimer: I just want to make it clear that I’m watching and reviewing Digimon Adventure: 2020 in the context of it being a children’s anime -- because that’s what it is. By design, it’s obviously going to be “dumb” to the mind of the average adult. But that’s OK, because it’s for kids. And for a first episode aimed at children? It was pretty good.

The opening credits were 99% Taichi and I don’t like it if it’s permanently going to be this way. But I’m hoping that it will change to perhaps be character-centric to the person being “highlighted” in a particular episode, going through all eight kids, until there’s a permanent one where all eight are equally in it. I also hope the same for the ending credits.

I noticed that Angemon and Angewomon were missing from the opening credits, whereas the other digimon evolutions are shown. So I assume they’re following in OG Adventure’s footsteps and doing the whole “special angel” evolution reveal? I’m OK with that. It seems really interesting how they’re setting up Takeru and Hikari to be included this time (as they were both missing in the ending credits with the other five standing opposite Yamato . . .).

Both the opening and ending songs are fine, but I prefer the original songs, especially Butter-Fly. You are missed, Kouji Wada. <3

The art and animation of this series is really good. Toei Animation are really putting money into this series. I’m impressed.

I have mixed feelings about how they chose to introduce the characters. On the one hand, I think utilising just two characters is great to really highlight them to the audience and not overwhelm them with too much information. But on the other hand . . . I think introducing all eight characters in the first episode would make it appeal to more kids, because they can easily identify with one kid and keep watching the series. But a kid might watch this first episode, not like Taichi or Koushirou, and just switch off from the series completely. But I think what they went for is probably best for how they plan to introduce the characters (particularly regarding what they have in store for Yamato being a lone wolf who joins them later).

Taichi was a bit too generic to me. But, it’s only the first episode, so this isn’t a real criticism -- I’m sure he’ll be fleshed out as the series progresses. He also seems more responsible than OG Taichi. And while I do like his new voice, I think Toshiko Fujita was a lot better; she managed to convey more personality in her voice.

Koushirou was actually quite “cute”. But I’m not sure I totally like that he’s being portrayed as shy . . . he never seemed shy to me in the original series, but just a kid who was super absorbed in his own tech world. But his shyness did make him more endearing? I’m just not used to it so I find it a bit unsettling. But it does “humanise” him more and thus makes him more relatable, rather than just a distant tech nerd, so I guess it’s a positive? I also really like his voice.

I am liking the Taichi/Koushirou friendship a lot. You can tell Koushirou is going to completely idolise Taichi for making him feel included and “useful”. And let’s be real: Koushirou has always been the most underrated character when it comes to popularity, relative to actual impact on the plot, because he’s actually the one who solves almost everything and he doesn’t get nearly as much credit for it as he deserves in the fandom. It’s nice that they’ve spotlighted him with Taichi in this episode.

So apparently Mimi’s family owns a conglomerate because they made both Koushirou’s tablet computer and Takeru’s hat? I always thought the weird “TK” scrawled on his hat was for his name (TaKeru or T.K.), but apparently it’s for TachiKawa! Wow, Mimi is insanely rich this time around (moreso than the first). Princess indeed!

Takeru’s design is so freaking adorable. I still think his clothes are a bit off, but his face is so adorable! And I didn’t really think that of OG Takeru. I mean . . . I guess he was kind of adorable, but not overwhelmingly so like this one! He hasn’t said one line but, OMG, the cuteness. *SQUISH*

Did anyone notice that in Takeru’s room, there is a poster of an ASTRONAUT? OMG I loved that! What a nice throwback to Yamato’s future career in OG Adventure (and thus to the 02 epilogue!). I can imagine reboot Yamato idolising astronauts and influencing Takeru into liking them, too. Awesome Easter egg there!

So the Crests are showing up right from the start. No rehash of finding the Tags and Crests, then! (Or will they find the physical forms later?) I really like how different from OG Adventure it already is, while keeping touches of the old as well. Toei have done a good job with mixing the old and new so far. Keep it up!

I thought Taichi’s meeting with Agumon was super cute and quite “realistic” with Taichi reaching his hand out to “pet” Agumon! Though Taichi is obviously more courageous than the average person, because uh, I would be afraid that dino would bite my hand off, lol.

I thought Agumon’s evolution “sequence” to Greymon was really cool, but at the same time, I did miss an actual evolution sequence like the OG one. It’s probably just nostalgia making me feel that way. I can accept this new version though! It feels very “updated”.

It was very fast-paced compared to OG Adventure. I’m not sure I entirely like that Agumon evolved so easily and so quickly to Greymon in the very first episode, but it also didn’t seem to hinder the episode. But where do they go from here? What do they have planned to pad out this series if things happen so quickly? I’m intrigued to find out!

Oh, remember how I said less than 24 hours ago that I might not even like reboot Yamato? Yeah, well . . . throw that idea out the window, because the dude had two seconds at the end of this episode and HE ALREADY WON ME OVER lmao. He had NO LINES and was still the highlight of the episode for me. My attachment to him is insane. (Of course, I’m hoping he doesn’t turn out to be a super douche, lol.) I like that he was “chosen” before Taichi and was in the Network before him. What have you been up to in there, Yamato?

While I LOVED the ending credits, as I said before, I hope it changes to be central for each specific character (going through all eight kids), before there is a permanent main ending that includes all the characters equally. I really don’t like how Toei Animation seems to forget that there are EIGHT CHARACTERS and not just two. Come on, Toei, do the right thing!

But . . . let’s talk about the ending credits. IT WAS AMAZING. It characterised Yamato so much without him saying a word. I love that he’s still a lone wolf, that music is still a big part of his life (a bass at 11!), and that his love for Takeru is still so genuine. There was also a pivotal scene where it shows Jou, Mimi, Taichi, Sora and Koushirou standing together, and Taichi smiles at Yamato, who hesitantly steps forward to join them. I loved that! It made me think about the discarded plot where “Yamato might’ve separated from the group entirely” -- it seems like this is a reverse version and I can’t wait to see it play out. The scene that inspired that discarded plot idea was when Yamato decides to fight Taichi, and Sora yells at him to stop -- and I just loved her reactions to him throughout that arc. Especially because, if Taichi had turned on the group, I think Sora’s first instinct would be to conk him over the head -- but she gives Yamato a massive pass and then supports him to separate from the group to find himself. My Sorato thoughts are already swirling about how Sora will react to Yamato in this reboot! Will she hate him at first? Will she ask him to join? Oh my, they haven’t even interacted in this reboot and I’m already shipping them, lmao. I hope Sorato still have a connection in this reboot!

Overall, I liked it for a children’s anime. And I never would have watched it if it wasn’t a reboot with the original Adventure cast, as I have only seen a few episodes of Tamers, Frontier and Savers . . . and a few seconds where Yamato shows up in Xros Wars, lol. I’m not interested in Digimon, I’m interested in the Adventure cast. So I’m really glad this reboot exists! I’ll happily watch all episodes of this series because it’s more of my kids goddamnit. XD

Oh, and I just want to apologise that even though the episode was focussed on Taichi and Koushirou, I used screenshots of Yamato and Sora for the episode post . . . I’m sorry, I’m a Sorato blog! XD;

I think I will do a weekly Digimon Adventure: 2020 “review”, because the episodes are only 20-ish minutes long and it’s easy enough to consume and write about. And even if I might not have a lot to say about a particular episode, I can still spam Sorato screenshots, lol. :P

I can’t wait for the next episode! Because: YAMATO. <3

[depressedacadamia]

De Humani Corporis Fabrica

Chapter I: Le Studio Royal Jupiter

Word count: 3.4K

Summary: Pjo Dancer AU! When Le Studio Royal Jupiter starts competing, friendships and budding romances are ignited but enemies are also re-united.

Taglist (send me a message if you want to be added): @showtunesandsolangelo​

A competition. An actual competition. Nico and Percy couldn’t believe it! They had spent all their lives training and now, their studio was finally going to a dance competition! Nico wasn’t about to admit it, but he practically did a pirouette in joy when he found out. Him and Percy couldn’t be more excited- their studio was becoming competitive! 

But of course, they weren’t the only excited dancers. 

Annabeth, Nico's ballet partner, was over the moon when she heard the news from Nico himself when they were warming up at the bar. Jason, one of the few students who took a fusion of ballet and street dance, had done a flip that the ballet dancers could not describe with any word other than awesome. The tap kids had come in singing musical theatre songs like ‘the story on tonight’ from Hamilton in honour of the news and Will Solace, the captain of the Tap dance crew, had given a terrible haiku as a celebration- something that he got from his father. 

The salsa kids were literally tangoing their way into the studio and the best salsa duo -Hazel Levesque and Leo Valdez- had walked in with roses in their mouths as to also celebrate. However, Percy’s street dance partner, a talented breaker and popper- Frank Zhang, was more nervous and cautious towards this news. 

Normally, the dancer’s all danced in the section of the studio where their style was taught. Studio A had the Ballet dancers, Studio B had the Street dancers, Studio 1 had the tap dancers and Studio 2 had the Salsa dancers and so on. The spare studio spaces were just rehearsal spaces and normally classes weren’t taught there. However, today, all of the top dancers from each style were gathered in Studio A. 

Annabeth, Nico and Jason were all whispering as they sat down, doing butterflies. Behind them, they could hear Hazel and Leo- also known as fire and ice- because while Leo brought the fire (quite literally in that one routine they had performed involving the alcohol and matches), Hazel would always bring the coolest of moves that oftentimes, everybody had forgotten about. They were both talking about a funny incident with their lazy teacher, Dionysus, who spent his time drinking way too much.

Will and Piper, the musical theatre tap duo were probably considered the most talented duo. They could sing, dance and act- practically triple threats. With them on the dance team, there was no way they could lose. 

“Has anyone considered that because we are now a competitive studio, we will have to audition to get on the teams?” Frank's concerned voice rang out, making everyone fall silent. Everyone expected to just be on the team- no one had remembered that there was no way every single one of them would be able to compete. 

“Good morning dancers, thank you for being here early on a Saturday nonetheless- we know most classes do not start until 10, so we thank you for being so dedicated to this studio,” a firm voice rang out. Reyna, the ballet teacher, had walked in with her prize pupil- Calypso.

“I bet you Calypso will be competing- that's what happens when you practically live in this studio,” Annabeth whispered to Hazel, who was behind her. Despite being in different classes- they were good friends who hung out during their breaks.

“Doesn’t mean she deserves this any more than we do,” Leo, who despised Calypso, added. 

“As you know.” Reyna glared at the group of people talking before starting again. “We have recently decided to become a competitive studio again.” 

Reyna was suddenly cut off by a series of whoops, claps and whistles from throughout the crowd. 

“This means that we will need a team. Many of you seem to have forgotten that when we weren’t a competitive studio, we still held auditions for teams. The competitive team who will represent Le Studio Royal Jupiter will be determined through auditions.

“She can just say The Royal Jupiter Studio, it’s not like you get extra brownie points if you say it in french,” Leo snorted slightly, causing Calypso who also despised Leo, to glare at him. 

“It is tradition for our studio to make sure the best of the best is chosen to represent. Many of the students who have been with us for almost their entire lives,” Reyna turned her eyes to Nico, “Know of the times when this Studio was competitive. The trophies in the corridor show our successful history that was closed down to a tragic incident and it was decided for a period of time that LSRJ would stop being competitive.”

“But now, we’re going to regionals so let's talk business- or in dance, we like to say auditions,” The street dance teacher, Thalia Grace ,who was also the brother of the best fusion dancer - Jason Grace- walked in. Her abrupt statement caused the room to start buzzing with whispers and excitement. She had baggy tracksuits with a skull t-shirt as well as a black patterned bandana around her cropped black hair.

“For the auditions, there will be solos and duets. You can choose whether you want to do either however, doing a duet will be seen a better as in proves your ability to work with others. Solo auditions for regionals itself will be decided once the team is in,” Reyna added the last sentence when she saw Annabeth about to open her mouth. 

“For ya duets, we highly recommend you don’t partner with someone of the same style, So Annabeth and Nico- big no no, sorry guys. We want to see what you can do when you are put outside your comfort zone. Hazel and Leo, stop pouting unless you’re willing to pout at the floor while you do push ups,” Thalia grinned wickedly. 

“As for the 2 other sections of the auditions- there will be improv which you all are familiar with. There will also be a choreographed audition- you will be sectioned into groups and taught choreo in a sectioned amount of time. You will be given an hour to learn this choreo and perfect it before presenting it to the judges,” Calypso added, standing at the front. 

“We hope to see many faces at the auditions and good luck!” Reyna called out as she pinned the sign up sheet to the notice board. Dancers practically ran to the sheets, scribbling their names under the solo column, despite the warnings given. 

“So… you’re Annabeth, right? You do ballet with Nico- wanna team up?” Percy grinned all too knowingly making Annabeth sigh. 

“We’re dating, you dumbass.” She facepalmed before quickly answering. “ Yes, yes I will be your partner.” 

Unfortunately, the rest of the dancers who did not sign up for solo’s did not find their partners so easily. Hazel and Leo were so tempted to be partners- they were almost definite that they could choreograph a salsa routine that would be so good, the judges would forget the whole ‘different style’ partner.

Percy had already gotten his partner but he knew that Frank needed one. He had seen how Frank had always been shy to approach Hazel and he couldn’t blame him too much. Hazel was a super talented dancer and her smile was guaranteed to light up any room. However, Percy wasn’t definite that Hazel and Leo weren’t dating. They would always be seen together and while they were called fire and ice, they got along very well. 

“Hey Hazel!” Percy beckoned her over. “Since you can’t pair up with Leo, how about you try pairing up with a hip hop guy….Oh Frank, you’re free- surely you wouldn’t mind pairing up with Hazel?” 

Frank who was shoved into the spotlight could feel the blood rushing to his cheeks as he managed to successfully not stutter his words.

“Uh, well I’m down if you are,” he mumbled slightly, looking towards his feet. 

“Sure!” Hazel agreed happily which earned herself a light nudge from Leo.

“Who do I go with if you’re off with B-boy?” 

“Leo, stop being codependent on me. Ask Jason, he does fusion,” Hazel recommended. 

“I can’t lift Jason though!”  

“Jason just paired up with Piper,” Jason added as he walked over, throwing his arm over Percy’s shoulder.

“Jason, you did what?” Nico asked, horrified. “Jay, I wanted to pair with you!”

“There’s still Leo, Will and… Calypso,” Annabeth offered. Nico shot her a look saying Do I look like I’m about to deal with Calypso?  On cue, Will walked over, humming as he did so. 

“Any of you free? I need a partner, I really don’t have it in me to bother for a solo,” he confessed. Jason, who wore the smile of the devil's advocate at this very moment, decided to speak for Nico. 

“Hey Nico, weren’t you just complaining about not having a partner. Oh and would you look at that, your styles are completely different!” 

Nico whipped his head around and glared daggers at Jason who was smiling uncontrollably.

“Nico, is that good with you? I know how uptight Ballet dancers are.”

“We aren’t that uptight!” Nico snapped which earned him a look from Leo that read are you sure about that? 

“Is that a yes?” 

Nico sighed, knowing he had lost this battle. “Yeah, it’s fine.”

“No! No it’s not fine! I still don’t have a partner!” Leo cried. Calypso, with a plan forming in her head, literally walked up to Leo and attempted to drag him by the arm, only to be stopped by him pulling his hand away.

“¿Qué te pasa?” Leo immediately broke into Spanish.

“Us. Partners.”

“Partners? Are you out of your mind? Go do a duet with Castellan!”

“Our styles are too similar- we both do Ballet,” Calypso shot back. 

“You know Callie, considering you are one of the studio's best Ballet dancers, I would have thought you would be going with a solo... '' Will mused, teasing her over the crush he knew she used to have on Leo. Well that’s what Calypso would claim everytime it was brought up. Calypso could feel her cheeks heating up and curled her toes to stop it.

“But I guess you going with a duet would make you look more like a team player.” Will stopped for a second to place his fingers on his chin as if he were stroking a beard. “Although, I never thought you’d go for Valdez since Clarrise hasn’t got a partner yet.” 

“Clarrise and I had an argument, it would be unethical to work with her.”

“More unethical than it is to work with me? Also, I love the passive aggressive undertone- it doesn’t suit you though,” Leo gave a genuine smile. Calypso did not respond to the intense sarcasm and instead told Leo to make sure he checks his messages which resulted in Leo wondering how he ever got her number.

“Hey Nico, I've gotta skadoodle but text me a good rehearsal time, kay?” Will grabbed Nico’s wrist before he left. Nico responded with a gentle nod- slightly shocked that someone had just touched his wrist without his permission.

________________________________________________________________

“Wait, wait- how do you do that?” Hazel asked as Frank showed her a piece of choreography. 

“Okay, well you push your left foot out and then you bend both knees and your arms come down like you’re about to crouch. Then just kick out your left foot before pulling it back and set your right foot in front,” Frank instructed, holding Hazel's arm for her as she struggled to get the move down pat. 

“Wait, I think I’ve got it,” She performed the move perfectly. “ Ooh, hey we can add on a salsa part to this!”

Hazel shuffled her hips, rolling her body and hips forwards before bringing them back her arms both in the air elegantly. 

“Okay, put your right hand on my hip with my hand and then put your other hand in my free hand.” Hazel waved her free hand in the air which Frank then took. 

“Now, just move with me,” Hazel finished. Frank, who was terribly nervous and could feel his hands shaking, somehow managed to perform the move adequately- which even led him to another idea for their dance. 

“Hey, how do you feel about adding a lift?”

________________________________________________________________

“Percyy, put me down!” Annabeth shrieked as Percy held her on his back and refused to put her back to the safe ground.

“Not until you say that you secretly despise pointe shoes!”

“But I like performing on pointe! I was even hoping it would be part of our routine!”

This made Percy set her down. Annabeth’s cries of mercy died down as Percy let her feet touch the floor. They were occupying studio A which had the best mirrors- something that every dancer knew was necessary. 

“You did?” 

“What, did you think we were going to abandon Ballet entirely? We need to incorporate both styles, not just completely ignore the other,” Annabeth reminded him, her hands resting on her hips.

“I kinda thought we’d lean in the hip hop direction considering how technical the studio is.” Percy rubbed the back of his head.

“The studio isn’t that technical…. Okay maybe it is but we don’t need to abandon Ballet completely for this routine to stand out.”

“Do you have any ideas?” 

“Of course,” Annabeth scoffed slightly before looking back at Percy, who rolled his eyes at her brash statement.

________________________________________________________________

Leo and Calypso were working on opposite sides of the room. They were in Studio 2, the salsa room- which they had for the rest of the day. Most dancers avoided Studio 2 because Dionysus was one of the weirdest dance teachers there were. He’d sit in a chair and tell the students stories and somehow, their dances blew people out the water. Some students believe that Leo and Hazel actually taught the class but others thought that Dionysus would just copy dances from the internet.

The truth was, Dionysus was the kind of person who would get a bit tipsy at work every once in a while- normally it would just result in him mis- shuffling his steps when teaching but every so once in a while, he would create some extraordinary move from scratch. The rest was just his natural ability to dance- Dionysus told stories through his dance and he told the stories first. Always first.

Calypso was on the side of the room with the bar, stretching and warming up while Leo was on the other side with his headphones on and practising. 

“Hey! Hello Leo! Take your headphones off!” Calypso called from the other side of the room. Leo, oblivious as ever, continued marking moves, in a manner where he was basically just shuffling his hips. Calypso marched over towards him and snatched his headphones off his head.

“Oi! What was that for?”

“I’ve been trying to talk to you if you haven’t noticed,” she pointed out.  Leo rolled his eyes passive aggressively which only got onto Calypso’s nerves even more. 

“What do you want?” Leo asked bluntly, eager to finish the conversation. 

“I know what we should do for the routine, so come on.” She tried grabbing Leo’s wrist again. 

“Of course you do. There you go again. Always Calypso, the everlasting angel who bosses everyone about and sucks up to every teacher in sight,” Leo mumbled under his breath. Unfortunately for him, Calypso caught his words.

“Oh look, it’s Leo- the immature and idiotic salsa dancer who set his dance partner on fire and is only known because of his partner and his ridiculous crush he has on her!” Calypso threw her hands out. 

“First of all, setting her on fire was part of the routine and we planned and rehearsed it several times. Second of all, I do not have a crush on Hazel!”

“Do to!”

“How would you even know! You’re always in Studio A or one the rehearsal rooms. You never come down to Studio 2- not that we want you down here,” Leo retorted. 

“I have no desire to come down here with your loud and improper techniques and not to forget your funky, weird teacher. Everyone knows Hazel practically teaches the salsa classes.”

“Salsa isn't improper. It’s not our fault you’re the only ballet dancer with a stick so far up your ass, you’re practically a mannequin doll! And you’re just jealous that you have Reyna who is terrifying as a teacher- Dionysus is super chill and you know it!”

“Reyna is 10 times the teacher Dionysus will ever be. Besides, you aren’t even the best dancer in your class, you can’t be one to talk,” Calypso boasted. 

“You aren’t the best in your class either,” Leo pointed out, as if the fact was obvious. Calypso, who thought otherwise, stopped, dead still. 

He did not just go there.

She had always seen herself as a passionate, ambitious and successful dancer- a lot of the time, the best even.  When she spoke again, her voice seemed softer, vulnerable even.

“What do you mean I’m not the best? Who else is there?”

“Well there’s Castellan- everyone knows he’s being scouted. Besides, Nico and Annabeth blow you out of the water when it comes to technique, so you really can’t come and attack us salsa dancers.”

Calypso was at a loss for words. Did people actually see Luke as the better dancer? Was she just his backup all this time? Di Angelo and Chase blow her out of the water in technique? Since when? She had been at this studio her entire life and it seemed like since forever, she had always seen herself and assumed herself to be the best. Quickly, she packed her stuff away and scurried out of Studio 2- leaving Leo all by himself. 

________________________________________________________________

It was 8 at night. Almost every dancer had left the studio by now. By now, almost every light was turned off. Almost every part of studio A was covered in darkness. Except for the spot where Nico was dancing. His black pointe shoes were elegant, just like his turns, his leaps and his jumps. It was like watching a swan- graceful, smooth and completely unaware of its surroundings. Swans also gawked the second something unexpected happened- so when Will walked through the doors of Studio A and started clapping at the end of Nico’s routine, Nico freaked out, slipping his foot (which may I remind you was on pointe) and landing on his butt. 

“Ah shit! Are you okay?” Will asked, his tone worried as he rushed towards Nico who was clutching his ankle, with his eyes screwed up.

“Why the hell were you there? Why the hell are you still here?” 

“I could ask you the same question,” Will challenged. 

“I lock up the studio normally. Reyna gives me the keys before she leaves.” Nico flexed his ankle, making sure it was able to move in all directions. He started ripping his pointe shoes off, eager to get his feet out of the pretty torture devices. 

“Sorry about the ankle, I probably should have made it clear I was coming.” Will rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.

“Yeah, normally I rely on your tap shoes. Those things click clack like a bloody cow bell,” Nico remarked as he walked over to his cubby to put on his trainers.

“Harty har, if it means you don’t go leaping into an injury then I will consider it.”

“Wow,” Nico drawled. “Good to see that you care so much about my health.”

“Well if you got injured, who would I audition with?” Will smirked cheekily, hiding his eyes under his voluminous amount of blond locks. 

“Now I feel even better,” Nico laughed slightly, pulling his sports bag over his shoulder. 

As they walked out of the building, Nico stopped to make sure everything was all locked up. They passed the silver plaque, which had the studio's motto on it. While the studio had a french name- Le Studio Royal Jupiter- it’s motto was Latin. Nico had always loved the studio’s motto, seeing as it was cryptic but meaningful. In fact, he had found out that the motto was actually named after the anatomical book of Andreas Vesalius who was a 16th century anatomist. 

De Humani Corporis Fabrica

On the fabric of the Human Body- Nico thought it was perfectly fitting for Le Studio Royal Jupiter.

[lonelier-version-of-you]

WTF was that end scene? Did they intend it to be touching or powerful? I just found it cringey. Even the bit with everyone clapping in the Casualty COVID ep (yes, I’m the one person who thought the Casualty COVID ep was badly written and didn’t do the topic justice, sue me - except don’t actually sue me please I have no money lmao) was less... bizarre than that. It just felt... overdone. If we’re going to be doing a tribute to NHS staff/nurses, I think it would’ve been better to do something more subtle. I know this may come as a shock to the current Holby writers, but sometimes, more understated actually equals more powerful.

Indeed, I could extend my ‘WTF’ to that episode in general. So since I started with the ending - *cue record scratch sound* - let’s rewind.

Donna being awesome was by far the best part of the ep. I love Donna, always have, always will, and she’s so underused by the show - even though she’s now the longest-running character! So it was wonderful to see her get some spotlight tonight. And I’m glad Henrik saw sense and reinstated her.

The Josh and Jeongsoo scenes were fun. I love their dynamic. I also really liked the storyline with Jeongsoo helping the woman who was in an abusive relationship. That was the second best part of the episode. I’m glad we’ve been getting actual patient storylines again these last couple of weeks. I hope we continue to get them.

Don’t have much to say on the Dom stuff. His quest for ~revenge~ is going to bore me to sleep and it hasn’t even started yet. I did like the little moment with Henrik expressing concern about Dom - I hope this means the writers haven’t forgotten their friendship entirely.

(I still really want scenes of Dom being there for Henrik now, like Henrik was there for him after Isaac. It would be a wonderful little parallel. Sadly, it would require the writers and storyliners to actually care about characterisation and not just ~shocks~ and misery, so I doubt we’ll get it.)

Speaking of Henrik, we are now in phase 2 (i.e. the post-Sahira era) of the exploitative, racist, sensationalist CSA storyline. So far, it is no better than phase 1.

Following in Chloe’s footsteps from 2019, tonight it was Henrik who got the self-harm scenes with no trigger warning during Mental Health Awareness Week. (Oddly, Chloe’s SH scenes then were of course part of the Evan storyline, and so they were part of the build up to an exploitative, sensationalist rape storyline; Henrik’s SH scenes are part of the aftermath to an exploitative, sensationalist rape storyline. Yeah, you can really tell this is a Wallbank and Harper story, even if the scenes are technically playing out under Gleeson’s tenure. There are too many similarities to Chloe’s story.) I suppose I should just be grateful it wasn’t as graphic as last week’s episode! Sigh.

I have a feeling more recent fans (who haven’t seen older episodes) may start saying that Henrik’s behaviour is out of character. However, as someone who has seen almost every episode Henrik is in, barring his guest appearances on Casualty (and I even plan on watching those someday), I can tell you all: it’s not. This is actually one of the less terrible parts of the storyline.

Henrik threatening Josh was a shitty thing for him to do, but it is absolutely in character, so kudos to the show for getting that right at least. And as for the ‘cold looming CEO who doesn’t care about anyone’ act, it’s actually very similar to how Henrik was early on - I could definitely see early Henrik firing Donna for starting a protest. So this basically confirms the way I’ve always interpreted Henrik - that the Cold CEO act from his early days, and that we’ve seen occasionally even in recent years, is his way of making himself feel like he’s safe and in control. He really hates being seen as vulnerable, and that’s why we tend to see him lapse back into that act when he’s stressed or struggling.

As much as I hate how awful and dark and exploitative Henrik’s storyline is, I am glad they’ve moved away from writing him as a Good Victim(TM), because I really felt they were leaning into that way too much in previous weeks. He still deserves sympathy even when his trauma symptoms aren’t convenient, when he’s not suffering prettily in silence.

I don’t really know how to end this post, so I guess that’s all, folks.

[haebeomsleftbuttcheek]

Tamaki Amajiki and maybe Izuku Midoriya of you will oh and also Shouto! ☺️

Tamaki Amajiki

Favourite thing about them

Tamaki reminds me of too much, he’s such a shy boy and I love it! The fact that he just freaks out when talking to crowds, and is a bag of nerves it just screamed at me. So I instantly connected with his character, as I was just like him during school. Hyperventilating when introducing myself or doing a presentation, and trying to pretend everyone’s a potato or whatever😂! I love that he’s got such an awesome quirk, but when someone compliments him on it he just dies of embarrassment or nerves! He’s my little shy boy and I must wrap him in bubble wrap to keep him safe!

Least favourite thing about them

I don’t know if I can think of what I least like about him, I guess I could mention his hero costume. I don’t know what it is about it but it’s not my favourite!

Favourite line

‘I’m someone who eats even the sun. That’s why I’m Suneater’ man, that moment was so badass in the anime, and like his hero name is awesome! Suneater!

brOTP

The relationship he has with Mirio is adorable, I love how the other encourages him to be a hero! Like he really looks up to Mirio, and I like it.

OTP

I don’t have one.

nOTP

Just don’t like shipping him with adults, even though he is 18 years old.

Random head-canon

Don’t have any in my mind!

Unpopular opinion

I don’t know, I guess me not liking his hero costume too much could class as an unpopular opinion🤷‍♀️!

Song I associate with them

Hero by Mountains vs Machines.

Favourite picture of them

He be looking badass, with his quirk making him look like a centaur!

Izuku Midoriya

Favourite thing about them

Izuku is such a sweet, kind-hearted boy with the spirit of a true hero! I love that he was able to grab the respect and attention of his favourite hero All Might, he really deserved it and he is the definition of a true hero! I I’ve that he was able to help Shouto with his pain in the sports festival, and was able to open the lonely boy up! He is truly what I would want in a friend, someone who would look out for you and do what he can to make things right! I also adore him in general his big green eyes, freckled cheeks and fluffy green hair, he is so adorable and I just want to reach into my computer or TV half the time and squeeze him to death!

Least favourite thing about them

I hate that he doesn’t think about himself, like he goes all out to save people and that’s great but he also needs to take care of himself too. He needs to realise that he matters too, his selflessness and reckless behaviour is hurting not just himself but his mother too. Izuku needs to realise that he needs to protect and care for himself too, not just other people!

Favourite line

‘I can’t afford to fall behind. I’ll be going for it with everything I have’ and he really has been going for it with everything he has!

brOTP

His relationship with Iida and Shouto is cute, and that Stain arc was just a great show of friendship and heroism! With Izuku saving and protecting Iida, he also helped Shouto with his trauma in the sports festival! Just a sweet boy who has good friends and makes a good friend!

OTP

I don’t ship them romantically though I do tend to reblog a few of them but it’s BakuDeku. I’m just really interested in what the future has for their relationship, and like will they become the wonder duo!? Who knows maybe they will! I also will be happy if Izuku ends up with Ochako in the end like we all expect, they are cute together!

nOTP

I can’t see the chemistry between him and Toga, she wants to murder him! Also when people ship him with All Might, Aizawa or other adults it’s a bit iffy given that he’s a 16yr old!

Random head-canon

Izuku choosing to go down the road of villainy, and getting revenge on Bakugou for his past actions against him.

Unpopular opinion

I’ve seen a few people complaining about his hero outfit, so I’ll use this here to give my views. I love his hero outfit. I think it looks great, and it has great meaning behind it given that his mother had an input on the design!

Song I associate with them

Warrior & whatever it takes by Imagine Dragons.

Favourite picture of them

This moment oh man the feels that come with it, and the fact that it’s the mark of Izuku & Shouto’s friends!

Todoroki Shouto

Favourite thing about them

Shouto is just so cool, I love his quirk. It's truly amazing and it’s one of the quirks in the anime I would want (literally I’m stuck between wanting Bakugou’s, Nejire’s & Shouto’s all three their quirks are so cool)! I love that he’s striving to be the type of hero he wants to be and not what his father wants him to be, like yes Shouto be what you want to be not what someone else wants you to be! In general I love Shouto, and I feel he will definitely be one of the top 3 heroes in the future!

Least favourite thing about them

I like that he’s a bit dense in a way because it’s sort of cute, when he doesn’t get what someone means. However, it also makes me sad, because I remember he never got the childhood he deserved! And it makes me remember he was sheltered from other kids and his siblings!

Favourite line

‘If you want to stop this then stand up. Because I’ve got one thing to say to you. Never forget who you want to become.’ When Shouto told Iida not to give up, it was so good, and it really helped Iida. I also liked when he told Izuku it was ok for heroes to cry!

brOTP

I do love that he’s genuinely not really fazed by Bakugou’s rude exterior, he just doesn’t give a shit! But I would say it’s Izuku he’s best paired with!

OTP

I don’t really ship him with anyone, but I do love his friendship with Izuku. Like Izuku is his first genuine friend, and someone he cares about. I also wouldn’t mind him ending up with Momo!

nOTP

When people ship him with his father or siblings it’s a big nope from me, I have stumbled across it and it’s just 🤮! Not only is it incest but your shipping him with his abuser eww!

Random head-canon

I don’t know, maybe him going into villainy alongside Izuku.

Unpopular opinion

I don’t know I can’t really think of anything, maybe it would be better if he got a bit more spotlight than Bakugou. Not that I dislike Bakugou being in the spotlight, I just love Shouto a bit more.

Song I associate with them

Cold blooded by Zayde wolf.

Favourite picture of them

Can we talk about the parallels of this moment and the forest camp! At this moment he’s successful in capturing Katsuki but in the forest he wasn’t and I don’t know it’s so neat!

[ladyloveandjustice]

Shadow of the Batgirl: A review type thing

I just read the graphic novel Shadow of the Batgirl by Sarah Kuhn and Nicole Goux, which reimagines the superhero origin of Cassandra Cain.

It was overall good and EXTREMELY cute! If you want an awesome story about a teenage assassin running away from her shitty dad and finding a neat library, a community of cool ladies and the hero within herself, AND WHY WOULDN’T YOU WANT THAT, definitely get this! 

It’s a standalone Batgirl story completely accessible to all and with none of the weird baggage and the complicated continuity of the regular Batman universe! it’s appropriate for younger teens but still a good read for adults, the art’s colorful and great, it’s packed to the brim with joy and hope.

And on top of all that, it gives a great character who’s been traditionally horribly neglected by mainstream comics for some reason (*cough its because she’s not white cough*) a spotlight and a chance to shine (and get written by an Asian American author for once!)! This also features one of my other faves, who had her disability and adult identity erased in the main universe, but not in this comic, hurray!

SO YEAH, if you like superheroes at all, highly recommend this!

NOW for a more detailed review, calling on all my expertise as a Cassandra Cain superfan and going into pros and cons. This’ll be long, but I’ll do it as a list to break it down.

Let’s start with the good stuff, there’s a lot of it:

- This story takes place in world where Barbara Gordon as Oracle (and former Batgirl) and Cassandra Cain as Batgirl exist, but Batman and The Killing Joke do not appear to. That is honestly transcendentally great to finally see this as an officially realized concept, Batgirl allowed to stand on its own as a legacy of powerful women, with all history of these characters being victimized for the sake of manpain erased. I am elated.

-The art was adorable, the designs were great, the clothes and Cass’s costumes were super cute, the setting was vibrant.

-Jackie was a really fun character and mentor figure for Cass. Loved her snark and how she and Babs basically become Cass’s two Moms and an awesome team in their own right. The relationships in this were just heartwarming. Loved the range of characters in general.

-Cass basically lived in a library aka my life dream. I mean, she did it because she was homeless and on the run from her assassin father, but like.

-Cassandra FINALLY knows her own race, (she’s half-Chinese) and gets to have a goddamn connection and basic feelings about it (Jackie bringing up what the bat means to Chinese culture), etc, god it should not have taken this long for this to happen.

(And it’s really important to have a version of Cass’s story where, y’know, the positive inspirational figures in her life include other Asian people, they aren’t just white people. it wasn’t until I read this it fully dawned on me how screwed up it is she never had that before.)

-For the first time in her entire existence, Cassandra Cain got to be in a canon romance that wasn’t fucking awful, can you believe it. Her love interest Erik was adorable, and him being a budding romance writer was an especially sweet touch- and I think there’s an implication/hint his dad’s the Bronze Tiger? Which is really cute Easter Egg for Cass fans, considering she had a strong friendship with the dude in her original series!

-The idea of Cass liking to draw and expressing herself through art is really fun and fitting. Her being visually focused, it makes a lot of sense.

-Cass extending her body language ability to sort of being able to guess at people’s underlying emotional problems from how they carry themselves is a really neat idea- it could have been implemented a little more smoothly but I like the concept.

-Cass going after the “evil-doers” in the library after becoming a hero was one of the best things I’ve ever seen. Deserves to be framed. I love what a huge nerd Cass got to be in this.

-The comic understood that core of Cass’s character is compassion and empathy, that how she reaches out for people, refuses to harm, and really believes in people and embodies change, rebirth, hope. THAT’S IT, THAT’S MY GIRL, THAT’S MY HERO..

-I’ve read a ton of comics with Barbara Gordon and this is the first one I’ve come across where she discussed her relationship with her mother having any sort of influence on her interests and personality, she isn’t even the main character of this and her mother matters more in it than every other comic I’ve read with her combined how sad is that

-I liked Babs just casually making gadgets and stuff all the time, and loved that she expressed she honestly preferred doing this and that was why she was giving Batgirl to Cass. MADE ME WANT TO SCREAM FUCK YOU DC ALL OVER AGAIN.

-Compared to the original Cass Batgirl comics, this story is obviously more accessible as a standalone, but it’s also just overall more appropriate for a wider range of ages since the darker elements of Cass’s story are way toned down. I was a young teenager when I read Cass’s series and was fine, but there are young teenagers that DON’T want like, graphic onscreen deaths in their comics, so it’s good there’s a lighter Cass story for them. It was just a really sweet, affirming story.

Now for some cons, none of them damning:

The romance was cute, but wish it’d had room to breathe. Ideally, it didn’t need to be happening alongside Cass’s origin, I think it would have been better if it was just hinted at and then was allowed to fully play out as an after-she-became-Batgirl thing, but I can get that Kuhn didn’t know if this would get a sequel and there were probably a lot of good reasons she wanted to include it.

-I think this came from Kuhn being used to writing as a YA author rather than doing comics, but it was weird to read a Cass comic with so much narration and the way it was used really detracted from the potential power of the story. We’re told through Cass’s super chatty narration she’s not a normal teen, she TELLS US that she barely knows how to read and speak and TELLS US she’s better at reading body language-but we never get a sense of this, not even at the beginning, because the story doesn’t trust the reader to take in the visuals without narration, and then she’s able to talk like a normal teen pretty much right off the bat.

 I’m okay with Cass becoming a chatty girl, and her voice in this comic was fun- I know “silent Asian” has a lot baggage and Cass’s original character leaned into some stereotypes- but the first chapter/part would been far more powerful if it had her world be a little more silent and fully emphasized the visual, for her interactions with people and words be garbled and confusing, and if it gave us more of a sense of the world she comes from and how her perception of things differs from the average person. Cass’s original debut and the beginning of her original series did a really good job giving us a sense of this, and took great advantage of comics as a visual medium, and I missed that.

-Cass learns to read and talk SUPER EASILY and it just comes off as unbelievable. I do like the idea of her camping at a library, eavesdropping, and teaching herself, but I would have liked to see her actually struggle like a person would. Moreover, while I know the presentation of it was very flawed, Cass basically had a learning/language disability in the original series. I was kind of hoping this comic would lean into that, and actually give a more realistic and nuanced representation of that kind of disability (it could have been presented as something she always had that was exacerbated by how she was raised, not caused by it!).

 Honestly, I think her romance with Erik would have been far more interesting and meaningful and tied in better if she’d actually struggled to read, maybe even discovered she was dyslexic and couldn’t quite read the same way he could. That could have been a source of development between them.

-David Cain’s a super flat as a character in this comic, he doesn’t have much presence, menacing or otherwise, and Cass’s complicated feelings and relationship with him is not nearly as painful as they were in her original series.This is partly because there wasn’t a lot of a space for it though, and that’s fine.

-Overall, the main thing that hurts the story is that we don’t see all that much of what Cass’s life was like as an assassin, and her life with David Cain was like. It’s harder to invest in Cass’s transformation into a hero when we don’t really have a sense of who she was before,it’s hard to appreciate her breaking free when we can’t get a sense of what kind of cage she was even in. How much language DID she know? How much of the world was she exposed to? What was she really deprived of? I hope if there’s a sequel we can see more of this.

-Babs isn’t the main character of course, so this isn’t a real complaint, but I did miss her cynical and angry edge. She’s pretty much just a chipper nerd with no sign of her own baggage in this, and it makes her relationship with Cass less interesting. It’s implied that her “accident” did affect her and she just managed to work through a lot of it before she met Cass, but I missed the element of their relationship where they both were hurting from losing  “the world they knew” and working through it together, sometimes clashing, etc.

-I read one of Sarah Kuhn’s YA novels in anticipation of this, and while I’m relieved this is better about it than her first book was (I expected it to be, writers improve, I definitely know how messy a first book is) there’s still some cringe-y ideas of how “average” teens talk creeping in, occasional clunky pacing etc.

But all in all? It was a really nice little story that did a lot of cool things, and I really want a sequel and want more of this version of Cass and her universe. As someone who was driven away from DC comics in part because of how badly they treated Cass, Oracle and the Batgirl legacy. it’s really like a salve on old wounds.

[picture-pearlfect]

Non-spoilery Review of She-ta Season 5

I think that the She-ra series finale did an excellent job of both giving the attention every character deserved, while still giving the fans the fan service they desired without it being shoved in at the last second.

I honestly can’t think of a single character that I had wished to see more because I feel that every character got the screen time I wanted to see. I was really satisfied to see each character—whether it was their hilarity, their action, or their growth. There’s normally that character not many people enjoy to see, but gosh, every time a certain character got their spotlight, it was fantastic. The characters I’m really happy we got to see more of was Netossa and Spinerella. The seasons prior normally only had them in a couple of episodes, but they really really got to shine this season. (I also found it hilarious that Netossa knew everyone’s weakness. It was an entire gut punch to hear what her’s was at the end.) Again, every character got their spotlight!

The She-ra team really upped it this season with the animation, the action, and the attention to detail. This also goes for the voice acting! Gosh, such excellent voice acting. I really wanna applaud AJ and Aimee the most. Their voice acting has always been spectacular, but man, did they swing it out of the ball park this season.

And yes, the fan service was very important.

I get upset when people say, “They only did that because of the fans!!”

Well of course they did, you make a show to show to people. Of course you’re gonna do some things because of the fans, but I do understand where the view comes from. A lot of times, many creators shove certain things into shows because the fans wanted it. However, that entails that it probably didn’t have any proper set up, any proper time.

And I feel like Noelle and the team did a great job to put everything together. From the start of the season all the way to the end, I felt so excited to watch. I felt vulnerable, pumped up, scared, happy to watch, and all these wave of emotions pumped up through each episode. And heck, the fan service given wasn’t sugar-coated or slightly hinted. It was just there, and it was great.

This is one of those shows where you know how it’s gonna end because it is the kind of show to focus on the happiness, friendship, and love of it all.

But yeah, that’s what this show is. If anything, there is so much more than just those three things, but sometimes you need shows like She-ra to show that you really only need happiness, friendship, and love to win.

I give massive props to Noelle and the entire She-ra crew for producing such an amazing show and experience. Thank you for giving an awesome spin to a spin-off with representation, heart, and love.

[psychicmedium14]

Your 2020 December Horoscope

December is the twelfth and final month of the year in the Julian and Gregorian Calendar. It is also the last of seven months to have a length of 31 days. Will the last month of 2020 bring happiness or even more chaos?

♈

Aries:

Your definition of 'relief' could involve Saturn and Jupiter no longer influencing your career. Both will target friendships and your involvement with groups. They'll also bring a new level of focus to cherished hopes, dreams, and wishes for the next twelve months - and beyond. Social restrictions won't deter you from forming and strengthening networks on every level. That's where the most inspiring opportunities can be found from this month - and for the next few years!

♉

Taurus:

Saturn and Jupiter bring a wave of change to transform how your professional world appears currently. For the next few years, Saturn will push you to take your career more seriously by shouldering more responsibility. For the next twelve months, Jupiter will encourage growth and 'thinking bigger.' That 'top rung of the career ladder' is about to appear more within reach. All that's needed is a consistent effort and positive approach. This month, you can begin both.

♊

Gemini:

Prepare for your mind to open in new and potentially thrilling ways. Saturn and Jupiter bring new ways of thinking, spiritually and educationally. You may have never experienced before the 'mind-broadening' process that will affect you for the next few years. Any teacher or mentor you need to embark upon a learning curve will be available. If you thought your religious or philosophical beliefs were solid, then you could start to think differently about both, too!

♋

Cancer:

It's your financial picture that receives special, significant focus from this month - and beyond. Saturn and Jupiter target money that comes your way disconnected from earnings. The planet of reward and the planet of luck and optimism will be integral to bringing new levels of financial security and stability. In time, it's possible that what gets underway from this month and over the next few years could replace your earnings rather than support them.

♌

Leo:

If you've wondered how to improve your love life or a relationship, then the universe has plans to step in. Saturn will strengthen the foundations of relationships for the next few years, and possibly in both love and business. You also have Jupiter bringing a more expansive, adventurous approach to one-to-one relating – and a Solar Eclipse affecting true love on December 14. This offers a powerful fresh start to one special connection - or maybe one waiting in the wings!

♍

Virgo:

How long has it been since you woke each morning, loving what your working day was about to bring? If you don't already see shifts occurring on the work front, then coming events will make these clear. Saturn and Jupiter target daily routines, service to others, and health for the next twelve months and beyond. For every tough lesson learned, inspiring growth and opportunities will be on offer. A sense of work-related purpose is about to be discovered - or revived.

♎

Libra:

Although your love life receives special focus this month, you probably won't ignore a shift occurring with your career. This is likely to culminate with the Full Moon on the 29th. It acts as a spotlight, shining directly on you to make professional progress. But Full Moons are as much about endings as they are beginnings. If a current role no longer offers professional pizzazz, then pursuing something more satisfying - or less stressful - could be more than a possibility.

♏

Scorpio:

Strong focus is about to be given to your emotional foundations. Saturn and Jupiter have far-reaching plans to strengthen your home and family world. Saturn's three-year influence will solidify anything flimsy with current domestic foundations. If all's fine there, it may be with family members or relatives where a profound learning curve commences. For the next year, you'll likely appreciate the open-mindedness and optimism Jupiter offers to smoothen this process.

♐

Sagittarius:

The effort and sacrifices made in the past few years to strengthen your financial stability are about to pay dividends! A wave of relief enters your world from this month as Saturn shifts its disciplinary focus from your earnings to how you communicate and learn. Jupiter supports this by opening your mind to pursue new educational interests and learning curves, too. You've learned enough money-related lessons since 2017. Accept the pleasurable respite coming your way.

♑

Capricorn:

This month's celebrations are even more awesome due to Saturn departing your sign. Since 2017, the ringed planet has brought restrictions and harsh lessons. From this month and until 2023, it targets your earnings. More restrictions and lessons await - but so too do rewards. You also have Jupiter departing your sign after a year's visit. But it will provide the optimism and open-mindedness needed to boost your income. You'll like what that does to your confidence, too!

♒

Aquarius:

Take a good look at your life now because a wave of change is coming. Saturn enters your sign on the 17th for three years. This puts you in the driver's seat of your life and helps you steer its direction. Expect to learn valuable lessons along the way, too. Jupiter also enters your sign, on the 19th. This offers 'star treatment' where luck and mind-expanding opportunities are concerned. A memorable year of personal growth awaits, and it commences this month! Lucky you!

♓

Pisces:

Saturn brings a new level of reality and lessons regarding fears, insecurities, and healing. This relates to all that doesn't take a physical form, such as dreams, secrets, and emotions. Be prepared to look deep within yourself. Clarity will replace what you've seen idealistically. This is also supported by Jupiter, enhancing psychic and spiritual development. As for your career, a Solar Eclipse on the 14th marks a turning point. A well-deserved spotlight is well and truly on you!

[allthefilmsiveseenforfree]

Jaws

I never claimed to be a film scholar, and that’s why I was almost 33 years old before I saw Jaws the first time (and yes, it is my birthday next week thank you so much for asking!) It’s not that I never wanted to - but by the time I had overcome my fear that Jaws was going to eat me in my bathtub, I didn’t want to watch it cut up by commercials on a Saturday afternoon on TNT and we didn’t own it and if you think I was going to waste my one pick at Blockbuster on a movie from 25 years ago instead of renting Now and Then for the fifth time, you are just a plain fool. So here we are in a quarantine and I’m doing some much needed catching up.

One thing I’ve discovered about these classic completely-permeated-in-pop-culture films is that they’re not immune to the phenomenon of high expectations->very disappointed. I was a little worried that, because I’ve had the “you’re gonna need a bigger boat” scene imprinted on my retinas since I was about 7 years old, the film just wouldn’t have the same oomph as it did when it became the world’s first true blockbuster. So, to an avid movie-watcher like me, does Jaws still have teeth? Well...

This is not a controversial opinion - yeah, it does. Jaws is pretty fucking awesome. Sometimes things really are that simple. For the uninitiated (although honestly who doesn’t know the plot of Jaws), it’s pretty simple. There’s a shark. Like....a really big one. He’s feeling peckish, and starts looking for snacks around Amity Island, a touristy (fictional) beach community somewhere off the coast of New England. The local chief of police, Brody (Roy Scheider) is staunchly anti-shark attack but the mayor is like “we’ll just have to accept the risk that the weak ones will die because we can’t shut the economy down!” But because this is a fantasy movie, after 4 people die, the authorities do everything they can to stop the threat, including hiring a scientist named Hooper from the Oceanographic Institute (Richard Dreyfuss), and a crusty ol’ sea captain named Quint (Robert Shaw) to hunt the shark down and kill it. 

Some thoughts:

That John Williams score just kicks you in the teeth right from the beginning, doesn’t it.

It’s interesting, regarding all the scenes I’ve seen just in the context of living in a world where Jaws is part of pop culture - they always come in these little 30-second bursts without the context, enough to suggest the dread and terror but not really sit in it for long. As a result, this first initial shark attack scene goes on for SO MUCH LONGER than I was expecting. I was genuinely disturbed.

I’m seeing many Very Good dogs, which is fantastic news. There’s the Chief’s cocker spaniel, there’s a frisky black Lab on the beach chasing a stick, a couple more when all the fisherman are arriving, and many puppers in boats!

WAIT IS PIPPET OK

I mean, I know it’s sad that kid Alex got eaten on his raft but why haven’t they given us reassurance that Pippet is ok??

This intro to Quint is truly one of the best character introductions I’ve ever seen. What an iconic and instantly memorable performance, this salty, grizzled fisherman/bounty hunter who literally never stops talking. He’s a walking sea shanty, a collection of dirty jokes held together with sheepshank knots and moonshine. I love him in spite of his vague, amorphous sexism and relentless repetition of the same terrible song.

God, I had no idea how young Richard Dreyfuss is in this!

I already knew a lot of the parallels existed, but Wife wanted me to point out explicitly that watching this film is deeply upsetting in the time of Covid-19. The same willful ignorance, the same disregard for public safety, and the same reverence for “the economy” at all cost to human life is relevant, to say the least.

It’s easy to forget, but having watched more of his early stuff in the past few months, I completely get why Steven Spielberg was such an absolute lightning bolt to the film industry. The naturalistic way everyone talks, the overlapping dialogue, the use of light with the moon on the ocean and these spotlights in the fog, that iconic dolly zoom shot - it really is unlike any other director’s films, especially in this era. 

Who the fuck does this mayor think he is? If the people are at the beach, isn’t that enough? Why do you NEED them to go in the water? How does that help you? If they’re on the beach and not swimming, you get the best of both worlds - people are there spending money and they’re also y’know, not dead.

I’ve seen the moment dozens of times, and everyone knows the line, but goddammit when we first see the shark in all his glory and Brody says “You’re gonna need a bigger boat” it honest to god made my heart nearly leap outta my chest. 

What I didn’t know about in all the familiarity I had with Jaws before this was this long night scene with the three men drinking and singing and comparing battle scars and stories and bonding the way men in wartime do. Quint’s monologue is especially haunting. This is all just...it’s really good. 

I’m a little uncomfortable (especially in the time of Covid) with this class warfare, working class grunt knows better than the academic tug-of-war going on between Quint and Hooper. For a long stretch it seems like Quint has a point, that Hooper doesn’t know what he’s doing out there in the dangerous reality of a fickle ocean and a murderous predator. But once they get on the boat, Hooper proves himself more the capable. Maybe the man who is actually like, a doctor of sharkology can know just as much - or maybe more?? - than the man who has been hunting and killing them for years. Aaah fiction. It’s a good thing you have nothing to teach us about reality. 

Did I Cry? No, and I kinda thought I would when Alex Kitner’s mother confronts Brody about how he did nothing to prevent her son’s death, but I was too preoccupied with the fact that she and her husband looked about 60 and I was trying to figure out how they could be the parents of an 8-year-old boy. 

In all the clips I’ve seen, I really haven’t been exposed to shots of the shark for that long, and that’s for the good. The only thing that isn’t quite pitch perfect about the movie is how, in the longer sequences, the shark robot begins to quickly lose its authentic feel. The shadows, quick glimpses, and brief chomps really do have a much greater impact. Thank goodness Bruce (the shark robot’s name) malfunctioned as much as he did, because if he had been seen up close from the very beginning, there’s no way this film would be the icon it is. 

Oh damn, that ending really comes at you quick, huh?

I love that “this is gonna be the beginning of a beautiful friendship” final exchange. 

I don’t know what to tell you, guys, this movie is just really, really good. The scares are scary, the characters are interesting, memorable, and have a lot of emotional heft to them, and the shark is sharky. There’s nothing not to like. Even if you think you know what it’s gonna be like, it’s worth it to take a couple hours and really absorb it the way it deserves, because it does deserve it.  

If you liked this review, please consider reblogging or subscribing to my Patreon! For as low as $1, you can access bonus content and movie reviews, or even request that I review any movie of your choice.

[actuallylorelaigilmore]

i would love to hear a s3 rant tbh

i started writing this a few months after s3 came out, because i needed that long to sort of soak up all the feelings and changes that came along with it. now i’m used to it enough that i don’t find myself thinking too hard about s3 when i get to it in rewatches–it’s a shift, but one i’m adjusted to. and now it’s premiere day for s4! so i’m finally done writing the rest of it. 

it is a shift, though, and i think that’s why so many of us in the fandom had mixed feelings about it–we still loved it, but we didn’t come away from s3 with the same lingering mood that we did after s2. for me, s3 was the first season that ended on a truly happy note. there was no heartbroken elena at her quinces, there was no distraught family hoping lydia would wake up.

s3 left pretty much all the characters in a good, hopeful place, so why did we find ourselves more inclined to pick it apart? why did it feel different, when all the individual character arcs and plot points were in the same world we love, and clearly handled with the same amount of effort and care as we expect?

the following giant analysis is my attempt to articulate an answer to that, as a fan who has watched the whole show….so many times. so many times, guys. just so much. i don’t even have a number anymore.

to give you an idea of what you’re in for, here’s the categories you’ll find behind the cut:

each season’s focus was different

brothers and other strangers

dr. b’s inclusion minimizing other relationships

schneider being more isolated from the family

schneider’s sobriety

schneider & avery

avery + other characters

penelope & mateo

misc other gripes

feel free to reply to this and/or send me asks, i spent way too long on it. :)

each season’s focus was different:

obviously, odaat is an ensemble show. every character gets moments of their own, and most have larger arcs. but because the show needs a focus, each season arguably belongs more to some of the characters than others.

the stars of s1 are penelope and elena.

penelope is our anchor to the family and the story, the one that everything else orbits around. we’re watching her live through the end of her marriage and become more settled in her new role as the primary parent to her kids. elena is figuring out who she is, then dealing with the fallout from sharing her truth with the people who matter to her. her quinces is the topic of debate in 1.01 and closes out the season in 1.13.

lydia steals scenes a lot, but she doesn’t really have a larger arc in s1. at the end of the season, she’s the same person she was at the beginning, just changed by her involvement in elena and penelope’s stories. same goes for alex–he has stories, but they’re a lot smaller and more contained. and schneider and leslie are only involved in the season because of their friendships with lydia and penelope, then in schneider’s case, his dynamic with alex later on.

the stars of s2 are penelope and lydia.

penelope goes back to school, has her first serious relationship post-divorce, and finally deals more seriously with her mental health struggles. lydia decides to become a u.s. citizen, struggles with her feelings toward leslie, and ends the season triumphant after a major health scare.

elena plays a major role in s2, but a lot of her story is a continuation from s1, with the return of victor and her first romantic relationship, and developments like her new job as a handyma’am are awesome but not the central focus of the season. alex gets to be the star of a few episodes, more than in s1, but they’re not really tied in to an overarching arc. his first job, his anti-immigrant bullying, and his time at the movies with penelope are all standalone plots.

schneider has a larger, more serious role in s2, going from ‘you guys are like family’ during quinces in s1 to ‘now, you’re my family’ to lydia in not yet. but he’s still on the outside, looking in. and leslie’s role remains one that supports penelope at work and lydia in friendship, rather than giving him his own plot.

the stars of s3 are alex and schneider.

in s3, penelope’s story is more settled, because so is she. her job is secure, her schoolwork is coming to a close, and her kids are growing up. she has a romance, but mateo is less important to her than max was, and the plot reflects that, with mateo barely around until penelope’s neglect of him becomes part of the joke. pen’s reacting to what’s going on around her more, whether that’s alex’s drug use or elena’s anxiety and secret hotel room or schneider’s sobriety.

that’s not a bad thing! justina kills it in every episode, penelope’s still funny and a tearjerker and strong as hell while flawed…but s3 is the first season that doesn’t completely revolve around her, storywise.

elena’s story is also more settled, on some levels. victor’s return gives her a much-deserved coda, evidence that her life couldn’t be neatly tied up in a bow after a year and that emotional scars do real damage. but even that plot, like her first time with syd and her driving lessons, are part of larger episodes involving other stories rather than the main focus of all of them. victor’s wedding, the finale episode, tries to move forward five of our six main characters, compared to elena’s quinces, which was almost exclusively her show.

lydia’s s3 plot includes her fabulous bouquet list, ideas about aging and motherhood and family. but she’s back to being a scene-stealer–even her bouquet list exists as a subplot in other people’s episodes.

having focused the most on the alvarez women in s1 and s2, the show finally gives alex more room to shine in s3, a development that surprised me but pleasantly so because it turns out that the more they give him to do, the better marcel is at it. s3 shows us an alex growing up, making dumb choices and learning from them, but also being there for his family in bigger and more mature ways, schneider included.

and schneider…gosh. schneider’s arc in s3 is so important that it’s the one they foreshadowed ominously before the season was even on netflix:

he did step into the spotlight as promised, and by the end of the season, he was a full-fledged canon member of the family. not that we needed them to tell us that, even if schneider did. :)

to start with, though, that’s part of why s3 feels different: because it is. the focus widens to different characters, and the ones we’re used to following more closely have more contained arcs.

brothers and other strangers

s3 also decided to introduce new family members. a LOT of new family members. and while they all added to the story, some fit in better than others. the funeral did this well, finally giving lydia’s estranged sister a face to go with the name, and giving us more of a glimpse at the big family penelope grew up around before the military and parenting narrowed her everyday focus.

but the show’s decision to anchor an episode on brothers gave us what felt like a lot of consistency issues. they explained pen’s sudden s3 brother, tito, by making his absence during lydia’s coma a topic of discussion. they couldn’t actually include a never before mentioned sibling for penelope without creating bigger confusion, though. it just wasn’t possible.

tito is apparently the older brother that lydia idolizes, but until 3.04 she’s never mentioned him in conversation once? when she’s in a coma reflecting on her family and how they’ll go on without her, her beloved son isn’t worth a mention? i can forgive the show for deciding to give pen a brother three years in, but i can’t pretend it wasn’t jarring when odaat treated her like an only child before that.

and this is a much smaller issue, but also in s3 suddenly syd has a younger brother? who is homeschooled too? when they were telling elena their only classmate was their chinchilla the year before? like i said, a relatively small thing but it still bugs me because it’s so random.

schneider now has sibling(s) too, apparently, but his comment about not being his father’s favorite child was the first time that came up, in three years of him talking about his parents and household staff and childhood stressors. i have so many questions. hopefully future seasons will clarify some things.

anyway, hermanos was a deeply confusing episode for me because tito came out of nowhere and schneider’s conversation with leslie, while lovely, was the first time we heard schneider (or anyone actually) label his relationship with penelope a sibling-ish one. it was clear during lydia’s coma that he considered lydia a friend who was also somewhat a maternal figure in his life, but it wasn’t until s3 that the show extended that dynamic, from ‘lydia is like his mom’ to ‘therefore he and pen are both her kids.’

i’ll get into this later, but i honestly think that was meant more to tie into the episode’s theme than because it was supposed to shift his friendship with penelope into new territory. we’re watching penelope deal with tito, and elena deal with alex, and schneider makes the one comment during an important scene with leslie. it’s still jarring though.

the very fact that schneider wasn’t with the family during their vacation felt like an inconsistency to a lot of us, whose two-seasons-worth of headcanons about schneider make ‘he secretly books the room next to theirs and crashes their vacation’ more believable than him staying home alone.

it was done in service to the season’s goals of adding tito to the mix and folding leslie in more, and both goals were accomplished…it just felt a little strange.

dr b’s greater inclusion minimizing other relationships

speaking of leslie, s3 for him was what s2 gave schneider–more ties to more characters, and the first real subplots we’ve seen him have about serious subjects. for good or bad, a lot of what stood out to me in s3 as different was related to the show making more room for leslie.

schneider not being with the alvarezes on their vacation, even though he’s at every family event including funerals now? penelope made it happen by ‘entrusting’ schneider with the care of her house(plant), but really it played out that way so we could see schneider and leslie bond.

elena’s driving lessons being handled by leslie? it’s fair enough that penelope isn’t the one doing it, since she’s busy and it stresses her out, but if you want me to believe that schneider wouldn’t have jumped at the opportunity, even with avery in his life now, you’re crazy. there’s no believable canon reason in s1 or s2 why leslie would be the one doing that, but it played out that way so we could see elena and leslie bond.

even alex gets to know leslie better because he’s more involved with elena, meaning that after s3 leslie finally has connections to the whole family (which schneider accomplished in s2 once he was mentoring elena in building repairs).

by the season finale, leslie is attending victor’s wedding, mistakenly butting in on elena’s time with her dad, and finally traveling to cuba with lydia while he shares his practice with penelope.

however you feel about s3 in general, the show had to change its usual dynamic in order to include leslie more in situations like driving lessons and weddings. it just wouldn’t have worked otherwise. for example, the funeral at the beginning of s3 doesn’t involve him at all, because why would it? unlike schneider, he hasn’t spent a ton of time bonding with the extended alvarez family prior to s3. he’s involved in big moments because he’s close to lydia or penelope.

s3 is the first time we really see him get involved in the story just on his own merits. and that required less schneider in family moments, which paired nicely with the season’s other visible difference.

schneider being more isolated from the family

the schneider we know and love from s2 would have offered to take over elena’s driving lessons as soon as he realized they were stressing pen out. he would have found an excuse to join them on vacation, and he would have been present when penelope realized elena was sneaking off to a hotel room with syd.

schneider prior to s3 was always around that way, witnessing threesome porn on alex’s laptop and picking up strangers at the airport for the quinces, making it easier for penelope to go to him when she needed advice or a hug. in s1, she may have started out getting his help as a last resort, but by late s2, she was often turning to him instead of her own family, or her support group. pen was reluctantly aware of his many hookups because she was at his apartment so much.

once avery’s in the picture, though, we see less of schneider in the family orbit, and it’s really not explained. penelope pulls him (literally) into alex’s drug storyline, but after that he’s mainly in other people’s storylines, like lydia wanting to teach penelope to cook, or alex spending too much on shoes.

even in anxiety, schneider’s status as penelope’s most trusted person is one scene in an episode that shows how she interacts with everyone in her life, rather than the climax of it–the way his time with her is in hello penelope.

beyond individual episodes, it’s the relationships that matter, and we just see a lot less of that with schneider and the family in s3. in s1 we saw him bonding with alex all the time, and in s2 schneider became more important to elena. but in s3…where is he?

alex goes to his apartment because penelope ordered him to, to get a lecture about reckless spending, and that’s the only one-on-one time we see them have before the laundry room in drinking and driving. are they still close? i’m assuming they are, because alex clearly still cares about him and vice versa, but whether it’s because alex is growing up or because schneider’s busier with his first real girlfriend, they’ve stopped hanging out.

i feel the same way about schneider and elena. her support of him when he relapses (how amazing is it that elena is the first alvarez to use the word ‘love’ with schneider, when he’s been closer to lydia and penelope longer? i adore one gay cuban teenager) makes it clear that he’s still important to her, but even her building maintenance seems to be done alone now. the only solo conversations they even have are at the funeral, in the very beginning of the season.

and while schneider and penelope remain friends in s3, the nature of their friendship has changed in a lot of ways. she’s at his apartment less, he’s at hers mostly when the whole family is around, and until his father’s visit they’re less close physically along with everything else.

schneider’s absence in big moments like elena learning to drive or smaller ones like a rare family vacation can be explained as storytelling choices, but they also make it easier to understand how he started drinking again, and how it was possible for him to keep it hidden (along with his avery breakup) before victor noticed.

when penelope went off her meds, schneider was the first person to confront her about her unusual behavior, but penelope doesn’t see the change in him until she’s looking for it. some of that is the show arguing that alcoholics are really good at covering their secrets up, but it also only works because though schneider is making appearances at meals and still involved with family, he’s around a lot less than he used to be.

schneider’s sobriety

deciding to dive into schneider’s sobriety was the defining choice of s3, in my opinion, that made it feel so different. if i had to pick just one, that would be it, because so much else spiderwebs out from it. 

finally seeing more of the world schneider comes from, in the arrival of his father? a major relapse trigger for him.

penelope telling him that choosing his father over his tenants means he’s not part of their family? seemingly the last thing she said to him before he drank.

his inclusion in the alvarez family museum? a way to show how his sobriety is the most impressive work he’s done in his whole life. 

penelope (and the rest of the family, but especially penelope, once they’re alone) doing whatever they can to support him and convince him to keep fighting? the clearest sign we’ve had in three season of how important schneider really is to them.

it’s an amazing story arc for him, and as much as it hurts to watch, i love it. 

but boy does it make season three a change from the first two.

after first setting up how proud of him dr b. and lydia are (the closest thing he has to loving parents) for his years of sobriety, we then see him tempted to drink thanks to his father’s actions and just general presence. 

but because of how the show handles the reveal, we actually don’t know for sure that he’s drinking again until penelope and lydia confirm it. we can be rightly suspicious–i saw that the dangling tag was no longer on the bottle when he placed it on his coffee table, and assumed then that he’d already opened it–but we can’t know.

which means that for the first time, just like penelope, we don’t know if we can trust schneider. schneider! who has wanted nothing more than to earn and keep the family’s trust this whole time. 

it’s so unsettling. as is his visible unraveling once he realizes he’s been caught. 

and the thing is, that we’ve seen this before, just like penelope has lived it before–the worst of her fights and fear with victor happened offscreen, but when he comes back we see him lie to her, try to convince her he can handle his own problems and she should leave it alone. 

but that…that was season one. that was victor, who moved in and out of the picture often in really hurtful ways, and who we weren’t encouraged to get attached to. 

schneider is lovable, and loving, and present. and yet in season three, he also becomes a version of himself who is reactive, and dishonest, and will do whatever it takes to avoid being confronted about his relapse. including trying to hurt and push away the people he loves most.

i think part of why his relapse is so effective as an arc is because it’s as hard for the viewers to expect such a sharp turn from the sweet, laid-back guy we met in s1 as it is for penelope and her family. but that’s also why s3 leaves us shaken.

schneider & avery

oh gosh, schneider and avery. i’ve talked about them a lot before, so i’ll just say here that they brought her in with great potential, then let her stay so far on the sidelines of the show after the valentine’s day episode that it became impossible to know who she was anymore, what role she played in his life, and what their future could possibly look like now that they were reunited at the wedding. 

is she the gorgeous nerdy artist who has just enough in common with him to be a good fit long-term? is she rich and more suited to the world he comes from? is she uninterested in his life outside of what they do for fun together, so that she’ll never get to know his chosen family at all?

it seemed to change each time we saw her, and by the end of her involvement in schneider’s s3 storyline, we didn’t even know what had broken them up before we were supposed to be rooting for them to get back together. 

my theory continues to be that the people making the show were blinded by the impossible cuteness of real life marrieds todd and india, and forgot to make sure their plot threads on the show made sense. 

because avery was never going to get a ton of screen time, she was a minor character–but revolving any part of his story around her kind of gave the show a duty to at least give us a clue of what the heck was going on.

avery + other characters

my other major complaint about avery (who i genuinely adored, at least for her first couple of episodes! my liveblog of her existence in s3 is just a lot of flailing about her being so freaking cute) is that the show keeps her in a totally unprecedented bubble.

penelope’s love interests? always interact with her family. whether it’s ben getting a text from lydia, because he wasn’t around long enough for more, mateo joining an unexpected party, or max spending whatever time he could at her house…we always got to know how her guys related to her family, and that helped us understand them and the relationships better. 

syd of course spends a ton of time around elena’s family, and we’re going to see alex’s girlfriend meet the family this season. you could argue that those comparisons are different because schneider’s not one of them, his storylines are less central than say, penelope’s are–and that’s true. but even dr. b’s girlfriend got a long bathroom scene with lydia and we see/know much less about leslie than we do schneider. 

mostly though, this bugs me because avery clearly spends time in their home! she’s there for valentine’s day, and penelope also tells schneider to invite her during ‘the man.’ and she works at the kids’ school, so she’s in their orbit on another level. penelope is able to get in touch with her and find out they broke up.

and yet, the first real love interest for schneider that could be a healthy and serious relationship…and onscreen, lydia never meets her. doesn’t try to figure out if she’s good enough for the adopted son lydia has been encouraging to find love for three years. they never interact. 

elena, who developed a serious interest in alex’s love life and a taste for gossip in season one, appears to have no interest in the woman schneider’s seeing. alex, i could understand not caring, because he’s generally happier caring about what directly affects him and what he can do to help others…if schneider’s happy, i get why he might stay out of it. 

but it just sort of grates on me that none of the women in schneider’s family have a conversation with avery onscreen, beyond the moment when penelope is trying to kick her and schneider out and she pushes back. if avery is in a scene, she’s talking to and focused on schneider, or nikki, or schneider’s father. none of the family. is that because she doesn’t feel like she has to make an effort to know them? or because the show just wasn’t thinking about that? even though we see it with every other love interest brought into the house?

i mean, when you pay attention to that, then of course we don’t have a clear sense of who she is! how can we when there’s no reason to believe that anyone who cares about schneider does either? 

penelope & mateo

penelope’s relationship with mateo puzzles me almost as much as schneider and avery–and in some ways, even more. we see their friendship first, we watch them deny interest in more than that with each other. then penelope pushes the issue and they do decide to date, but just like with avery, the show doesn’t have a lot of screentime to offer him. 

so what we know about her new boyfriend is that they have some things in common that she really values but maybe too much in common to avoid fighting about it–and then we barely see him again, learning mainly through his absence that she’s just not that into him, until eventually they break up because it turns out he was more into his ex than her anyway.

there’s a karmic sort of humor in that for penelope, but for me it left mateo feeling like a waste of a love interest. we really didn’t get to enjoy their relationship much, especially if they wanted us to miss it when it was gone…so was it worth the time they spent setting it up in the first place? 

for me the answer to that was no. especially since as her ‘longtime’ school volunteer buddy, we’d never seen him before. and i feel like it’s not likely we’ll see him again.

penelope & schneider

this is a frustrating one for me because while i have complaints about these two and their relationship in s3 it was also AMAZING and i LOVED it. both are true.

the confusing part is that their dynamic is inconsistent in s3. think some of that is because the show is trying to do so much at once. fully bring schneider into the family, focus their romantic lives on other people, deepen their bond, deny the possibility of a romance between them, keep them each other’s person.

in s1 they’re landlord and tenant but also becoming real friends. in s2 they’re best friends and he’s a honorary part of the family now (though still an outsider). 

but in s3 he’s established clearly as her best friend and most trusted person, a guy who’s become deeply important to her and her whole family–so much so that after his relapse, they come together to support him much like they all did lydia in s2. 

but penelope treats him dramatically differently from moment to moment and episode to episode in s3. like an annoying brother when he’s getting cooking lessons from her mom, like a life partner when alex’s behavior has her angry and scared, like a bff when she’s considering dating mateo, and even a little like a flirting companion at the wedding.

it’s not completely unprecedented for their dynamic to have multiple layers. his relationship with lydia is complicated too. in past seasons, he flirted with both penelope and her mom–while they also laughed at victor calling them a couple and he told comatose lydia how important her mothering was to him. 

but they lean harder into it during lydia’s cooking lessons, while still hitting the beats hard of ‘are you sure you’re not dating?’ during penelope’s support group and schneider’s dad’s visit. the contrasting takes on their friendship is just a lot of whiplash in a single season.

another thing about s3 that’s different is the kinds of physical contact between penelope and schneider. you might not notice unless you’re looking for it, but penelope actually touches schneider more than he does her. lightly, casually, briefly. she makes contact in a friendly, familiar way all the time. schneider is more likely to touch her when it’s important, in big moments, as though he knows that she trusts him and welcomes him in her space but he doesn’t want to abuse the privilege.

i studied it for making gifsets, and she touches him more every season. and while he touches her a lot more in s2 than in s1, s3 is actually about the same amount. penelope grew visibly closer to him this season, but he held himself back from getting any more familiar. he was also the only one of the two of them who compared her to blood family. for now,it’s really up to interpretation if there’s a deeper reasoning behind that.

for both of them, though, more than half of the physical contact they make in s3 happens in just two episodes, both towards the end of the season. not only does schneider’s father’s visit and his relapse bring them closer together, literally and physically, but the season up until that point has them further apart. 

they spend time together stalking alex, or with schneider talking her down from her panic, but the casual dinners are less, and she’s going to him less for advice–which means there are less small touches, less moments where schneider sits her down on his couch or she nudges him affectionately. 

that makes it all the more intense when they do connect, with penelope holding his hand and them hugging twice all within the same few minutes. and then after his relapse, their conversation alone in the apartment is so tense and so much more separate than they usually are.

the last time she touched him was in the man, the most open and complimentary she’s ever been, and look what happened. this isn’t the man she knows and loves, she needs to reach her best friend who’s still in there somewhere under all the pain and self-loathing, but she tries to do so with honesty first, with bluntness, with tough love, with listening kindly but not without pushing back, and finally with his place in her family–as a role model for the kids. 

only once he’s agreeing with her about the course of action and just doubting his ability to survive it does she reach out. once he’s himself again. and then she’s more there for him physically than she ever has been before. this is a new level of intimacy between them, schneider letting her in rather than excusing himself during tough times, her giving rather than just taking support, her being his silent rock the way he always is hers.

it’s just different than the previous seasons, between them. the problem is that while you’re watching it, it’s hard to pin down what message about their relationship the show is trying to send, since they touch less but more deliberately, and they’re family but not in a way that has well-defined boundaries.

misc other gripes

elena’s world shrinking

as of s3, what exactly is elena’s life outside of syd and anxiety? don’t get me wrong, i love her relationship with syd, and the anxiety plot was good–driving lessons too, which were tied to the anxiety somewhat. 

but if we’re pulling back to look at the bigger picture, elena in season one was a lonely club leader, figuring out her identity, and navigating disagreements with her family. 

elena in season two was experiencing her first relationship, finding her first group of geeky friends to hang out with irl, confronting the fallout of victor’s behavior in s1, and continuing her academic hard work while also adding lots of political engagement.

in comparison, elena in season three exchanges ‘i love yous’ and has sex for the first time, as well as makes up with syd after their first fight. she learns she has anxiety and gets her driver’s license and continues to heal her relationship with victor, but…she has no friends anymore? no mention of josh or carmen or any of the echo park gamers? and she’s studying for testing, it seemed like, but she’s not in clubs anymore or volunteering or protesting? her whole world outside her family isn’t really syd, is it?? because i know first love is amazing, but that’s not healthy.

i said up there that less of the story belongs to elena after s1, and this is a large part of why i feel that way. the show treats her like some of her bigger arcs are settling down, rather than expanding, giving her subplots instead and making room for the other characters. it’s weird to watch though when just a quick comment here and there would have implied that she still spends time with friends or fellow social justice warriors.

lydia’s humor goes dark

when it comes to lydia, season one includes some jokes about her ending up in a home–or to be more specific, the fact that she never will. her comedy in season two revolves a lot around her identity, with her decision to become a citizen. 

and then, we go into season three after her coma. though she appears to be in good health, the family is still worried, and elena especially tries to protect her from herself.

whether it’s specifically related to her near-death experience or not, season three involves way more death jokes. things like lydia looking up, and inviting god to reunite her with her husband ‘berto, i am ready,’ she says, then sort of shrugs when death doesn’t arrive. 

it’s not unfunny…but it’s a different kind of humor. i can’t say i enjoyed the edge to it, probably because i was elena’s age when my grandmother died, and she was also a deeply religious woman who was awaiting her invitation to heaven. 

alex also has no friends anymore? does he still play baseball?

the way that s3 gives alex so much more to do, storywise, is awesome. but just like elena, his world seems to have gotten smaller in terms of socializing. we hear about his girlfriend but don’t meet her, and we never see him interact with friends, either–besides things like instagram. 

this one’s really a minor complaint because he has whole important storylines in s3 and at least the show does imply he still has friends…but it’s a little odd for the most popular alvarez teen to spend more time chatting with dr. berkowitz than any friends his own age. especially when he used to be so involved in baseball that we at least saw his teammates. 

it’s not clear to me if season three just didn’t overlap with sports season for him this time around, or if he gave baseball up–but if it were the latter, you’d think they would mention that.

scott came back but not lori

i honestly don’t know which of the show’s casting choices are influenced by availability and which are choices they make for plots they want–other than carmen leaving, because i know ariela went to another show.

but while lori hasn’t been around since season one, scott went missing after the second episode of season two…and then appeared in the second episode of season three before never showing up in the rest of the season. 

there’s no continuity problem with this or anything–i just don’t like scott and wish that if they were only going to keep one of pen’s coworkers, it would’ve been lori. i know that wouldn’t have let him do what they were able to with scott. but still.

max came back why?

i like max, for the record. he’s been my favorite of all penelope’s love interests so far, and i felt bad for them both when they broke up. but in terms of the finale, it felt really jarring the way they included his little appearance. 

in that one scene, the show managed to remind us that they truly loved each other, genuinely supported and cared for each other, had common background and went back a long time as friends–and that out of all the men penelope had been with, he was the one she was still hurting over.

and then he left, as easily as he appeared. 

besides reminding us that her major relationship in s2 was with max, what did that scene accomplish? it didn’t feel like closure, because it didn’t add anything to their original breakup. but it also didn’t change anything about how they ended–he remained someone she wasn’t going to be with, even though they loved each other a lot. 

the only explanation i can think of is that the show wanted to work with the actor again. because if their goal was to confirm that yes, she and max really were great together even though she wasn’t going to be with him…we didn’t need more confirmation of that. we got the message in s2. ed quinn is great though.