#booth knockdown

[miabrown007]

Trick or treat!

oh, hi, hello!!! I've never done this, but this is where I give you a treat right? I don't know what you like, or if you have any allergies, but we probably can't go wrong with a sweet Felonies snippet

They mingle with the crowd, and survey several booths with flashing lights and cheerful music of their own. There’s a wide variety of games to choose from, from fishing through fortune telling to high striker, but in the end the relatively empty bottle knockdown is where Marinette stops. "Look at that! It's so adorable!" she squeaks, pointing at a black cat plushie sitting on the topmost shelf. It’s fluffy, it’s big, and its eyes are even bigger. Marinette could never resist pleading kitten eyes. It’s genetic. "I have to take a picture!" "Do you want to win it?” She shakes her head, whipping out her phone. “No, it’s fine, I don't need a giant plushie—I wouldn’t even know where to put it. I'll just send this picture to a friend because it reminds me of him." Adrien grins. "Does your friend also reside on an unattainably high pedestal?” "No, but he also looks hug-shaped.”

[dynamitehq]

funfair / carnival.

saturday march 4th, doors open at 2pm. ( cst )

one day before aew's revolution pay per view, a funfair / carnival will be hosted in san francisco, california.

included at the fair will be:

ferris wheel, bumper cars, adult bounce house and many other amusement style rides.

fair style food stalls such as cotton candy, funnel cakes, hot dogs, cheeseburgers, candy apples, ice cream and many more.

refreshments such as water, soda and alcohol beverages such as beer, wine and margaritas.

prize winning games such as milk bottle knockdown, ring toss, bust a balloon, fish for a duck and basketball hoops.

an outside movie screening playing various movies throughout the day.

face painting artists.

photo booth.

tags to use: dhq.event dhq.funfair

we hope you enjoy this event and have lots of fun!!

[jasesims]

The Rhodes Legacy, Chapter Ten

As the bar filled up with more patrons, the dance floor started getting very crowded, and the guys decided to go to Manzanita Plaza in the Anchorpoint Wharf area of San Sequoia.

Cliff and Jaylen visited the arcade first and had quite a bit of fun playing video games together.

The guys took some pictures together in the arcade's picture booth. Cliff managed to sneak in a quick kiss on Jaylen's cheek during one of the shots and judging by the smile on his face, he's pretty sure that Jaylen enjoyed it.

In fact, Jaylen was still smiling from ear to earwhen they left the photobooth.

After leaving the arcade, the guys decided to play a few rounds of bowling at San Sequoia's newest bowling alley.

Cliff's a pretty good bowler and decided to show off his moves in hopes of impressing Jaylen.

Yes... a strike!

Jaylen had never bowled before, he tried his best, but decided bowling might not be his thing.

But with the guidance (and steady hands) of Cliff, he finally started getting the hang of it, and was able to even knockdown a few pins. Woohoo!!

Cliff couldn't be happier on how things were going between him and Jaylen. The connection was undeniable.

He finally worked up the nerve to just go for it and went in for a full on kiss. To his relief, Jaylen went in for a kiss at the same time. It was instant fireworks!

Since the bowling alley was getting ready to close, the guys walked across the plaza to the small, vintage movie theater.

Cliff let Jaylen pick the movie. He picked the latest superhero movie because all of his coworkers kept talking about how great it was. Since Cliff had already watched it with Ken and Kyle prevousily, he couldn't help but whisper sweet nothings into Jaylen's ear.

No too far into the movie, Jaylen realized that he didn't really care too much for superhero movies and would much rather focus on Cliff's beautiful eyes anyway...

And lips... Did he mention just how much he enjoyed kissing Cliff.

After the movie, the guys kept exploring all that Manzanita Plaza had to offer and stopped off at the cute, coffee shop.

The guys were overwhelmed with all of the drink options and decided to keep it safe by ordering a couple of cappuccinos.

They enjoyed their drinks outside on the cafe's patio area with a few cute moments of flirting mixed in.

Sadly, it was time to end the date... So, Cliff walked Jaylen back to his home in the Gilbert Gardens neighborhood. Unfortunately, Jaylen's' sister and her husband, Salvatore, were awake. So, they called it a night with a very "hot and heavy" kiss.

That night Cliff had the best dream he's ever had in sim life. It was of his future life with Jaylen and their adorable kids. The only downside was when the alarm went off and woke him up the morning.

[mr-sanshravz]

Carnival games in Bangalore

Bangalore, the bustling capital of Karnataka, is known for its vibrant culture, dynamic nightlife, and an ever-growing love for entertainment. Among the many forms of leisure and excitement, Carnival games in Bangalore have recently gained immense popularity, drawing in crowds of all ages. These carnival games add an extra layer of fun to events, be it corporate parties, school festivals, or grand public gatherings. If you're looking for some good old-fashioned entertainment combined with modern twists, then carnival games are the perfect option.

In this blog, we'll dive into the world of carnival games in Bangalore, the types of games available, and why hiring the best event management company in Bangalore will make all the difference in organizing a successful carnival event.

The Rise of Carnival Games in Bangalore

Over the past few years, Carnival games in Bangalore have emerged as a popular attraction at various events. Whether you're attending a local fair, a corporate family day, or a school fest, you'll likely spot colorful booths featuring exciting games that bring out the child in everyone. From classic ring toss to modern virtual reality (VR) setups, these games offer a nostalgic yet fresh experience.

Bangalore’s fast-paced lifestyle means people are always on the lookout for ways to relax and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Carnival games in Bangalore provide the perfect opportunity to unwind, compete for prizes, and engage in light-hearted fun. They create a sense of community and joy, making them a great addition to any event.

Types of Carnival Games Available in Bangalore

Bangalore’s carnival scene is diverse, offering a wide range of carnival games to suit different tastes and age groups. Let's explore some of the most popular options:

1. Ring Toss

One of the most iconic and simple carnival games in Bangalore, ring toss involves tossing rings onto pegs or bottles. The thrill of landing a perfect ring keeps both children and adults entertained. Variations of this game include glow-in-the-dark ring toss or giant-sized versions for added fun.

2. Balloon Darts

In this classic carnival game, players are given darts to pop balloons and win prizes. The satisfaction of hearing the balloons burst is unmatched, and it’s a game that is easy to set up and fun to play.

3. Can Knockdown

A test of accuracy and strength, can knockdown games challenge players to throw balls and knock down stacked cans. With varying levels of difficulty, this game is great for all age groups. Many best event management company in Bangalore offer customized versions of this game with unique themes.

4. Basketball Shootout

For sports enthusiasts, the basketball shootout is a must-have at any carnival. Players compete to score the highest number of baskets within a limited time, making it a high-energy game that draws crowds and keeps the competitive spirit alive.

5. Water Gun Race

Players use water guns to fill up balloons or move objects across a track. This game is especially popular at outdoor events and adds a refreshing element, especially during Bangalore’s warm weather.

6. Virtual Reality (VR) Carnival Games

While traditional carnival games will always have a place in our hearts, VR games bring a futuristic twist to the carnival games in Bangalore. These games transport players into immersive worlds where they can interact with virtual environments, making the experience thrilling and engaging.

7. Bouncy Castles and Inflatable Games

For younger children, bouncy castles and inflatable obstacle courses are an exciting part of any carnival. These setups are not only fun but also provide a safe space for kids to play and burn off some energy.

Why Choose Carnival Games for Your Event?

Whether you're organizing a small birthday party or a large corporate event, Carnival games in Bangalore add a unique flair that attendees won’t forget. Here are a few reasons why you should consider incorporating these games into your next event:

1. Family-Friendly Entertainment

Carnival games are suitable for people of all ages. From kids trying their hand at ring toss to adults competing in basketball shootouts, these games provide wholesome entertainment that brings people together.

2. Nostalgic Fun

Many of the traditional carnival games in Bangalore offer a sense of nostalgia, reminding adults of their childhood. This connection to the past can make events feel more personal and memorable.

3. Interactive and Engaging

Carnival games encourage active participation rather than passive observation. Whether it's aiming at a target or strategizing for a game, participants are more engaged and invested in the fun, ensuring your event stands out.

4. Prize Incentives

One of the most exciting aspects of carnival games is the chance to win prizes. From stuffed animals to vouchers, offering rewards for game winners can boost participation and excitement.

How the Best Event Management Company in Bangalore Can Help

Organizing a successful carnival requires more than just setting up games. It demands meticulous planning, creative execution, and attention to detail. That’s where hiring the best event management company in Bangalore comes into play. Here’s why partnering with a top event management firm is crucial for the success of your carnival:

1. Expertise in Game Selection and Setup

The best event management company in Bangalore will have extensive experience in selecting the right games that cater to your audience. Whether you need child-friendly options or games that appeal to competitive adults, they can provide you with a diverse range of options.

2. Professional Execution

The success of an event lies in flawless execution. The best event management company in Bangalore will handle everything from logistics to setup, ensuring that the games are arranged neatly and run smoothly throughout the event.

3. Customizable Themes

Carnivals often revolve around themes, whether it's a tropical beach party or a retro circus vibe. The best event management company in Bangalore can help you customize your event with themed booths, costumes, and decorations that align with the carnival’s essence, creating a cohesive experience for your guests.

4. Safety and Quality Assurance

Safety is paramount, especially when children are involved. The best event management company in Bangalore will ensure that all carnival games and rides are properly maintained, securely installed, and meet safety regulations. This gives you peace of mind knowing that your event will be both fun and safe for all attendees.

5. Crowd Management and Engagement

Large events can sometimes become chaotic without proper planning. Event managers are skilled in crowd control and ensuring that everyone has a chance to participate in the games. They can also offer engaging hosts or emcees who will entertain the crowd and keep the energy levels high.

Making Your Carnival Unforgettable

To make your event stand out, consider adding some special touches. Hiring live performers, such as magicians, jugglers, or clowns, can add extra entertainment value. You could also consider food stalls offering classic carnival treats like cotton candy, popcorn, and hot dogs to complete the experience.

Additionally, setting up a photo booth with fun props will give your guests the chance to capture their carnival memories. Hiring the best event management company in Bangalore ensures that these extra elements are seamlessly integrated into the event for a well-rounded experience.

Conclusion

Carnival games in Bangalore have quickly become a staple at events, providing fun, excitement, and a sense of nostalgia to people of all ages. Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering, school festival, or a community fair, incorporating carnival games can significantly elevate the entertainment factor of your event. However, organizing a successful carnival requires the expertise of the best event management company in Bangalore, which can handle everything from game selection to ensuring smooth operations on the day of the event.

If you're ready to host an unforgettable event filled with laughter, competition, and joy, carnival games are the perfect choice. So go ahead and bring the magic of a carnival to your next gathering, and watch as your guests immerse themselves in the fun!

[daashika]

Carnival games in Bangalore

Bangalore, the bustling capital of Karnataka, is known for its vibrant culture, dynamic nightlife, and an ever-growing love for entertainment. Among the many forms of leisure and excitement, Carnival games in Bangalore have recently gained immense popularity, drawing in crowds of all ages. These carnival games add an extra layer of fun to events, be it corporate parties, school festivals, or grand public gatherings. If you're looking for some good old-fashioned entertainment combined with modern twists, then carnival games are the perfect option.

In this blog, we'll dive into the world of carnival games in Bangalore, the types of games available, and why hiring the best event management company in Bangalore will make all the difference in organizing a successful carnival event.

The Rise of Carnival Games in Bangalore

Over the past few years, Carnival games in Bangalore have emerged as a popular attraction at various events. Whether you're attending a local fair, a corporate family day, or a school fest, you'll likely spot colorful booths featuring exciting games that bring out the child in everyone. From classic ring toss to modern virtual reality (VR) setups, these games offer a nostalgic yet fresh experience.

Bangalore’s fast-paced lifestyle means people are always on the lookout for ways to relax and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Carnival games in Bangalore provide the perfect opportunity to unwind, compete for prizes, and engage in light-hearted fun. They create a sense of community and joy, making them a great addition to any event.

Types of Carnival Games Available in Bangalore

Bangalore’s carnival scene is diverse, offering a wide range of carnival games to suit different tastes and age groups. Let's explore some of the most popular options:

1. Ring Toss

One of the most iconic and simple carnival games in Bangalore, ring toss involves tossing rings onto pegs or bottles. The thrill of landing a perfect ring keeps both children and adults entertained. Variations of this game include glow-in-the-dark ring toss or giant-sized versions for added fun.

2. Balloon Darts

In this classic carnival game, players are given darts to pop balloons and win prizes. The satisfaction of hearing the balloons burst is unmatched, and it’s a game that is easy to set up and fun to play.

3. Can Knockdown

A test of accuracy and strength, can knockdown games challenge players to throw balls and knock down stacked cans. With varying levels of difficulty, this game is great for all age groups. Many best event management company in Bangalore offer customized versions of this game with unique themes.

4. Basketball Shootout

For sports enthusiasts, the basketball shootout is a must-have at any carnival. Players compete to score the highest number of baskets within a limited time, making it a high-energy game that draws crowds and keeps the competitive spirit alive.

5. Water Gun Race

Players use water guns to fill up balloons or move objects across a track. This game is especially popular at outdoor events and adds a refreshing element, especially during Bangalore’s warm weather.

6. Virtual Reality (VR) Carnival Games

While traditional carnival games will always have a place in our hearts, VR games bring a futuristic twist to the carnival games in Bangalore. These games transport players into immersive worlds where they can interact with virtual environments, making the experience thrilling and engaging.

7. Bouncy Castles and Inflatable Games

For younger children, bouncy castles and inflatable obstacle courses are an exciting part of any carnival. These setups are not only fun but also provide a safe space for kids to play and burn off some energy.

Why Choose Carnival Games for Your Event?

Whether you're organizing a small birthday party or a large corporate event, Carnival games in Bangalore add a unique flair that attendees won’t forget. Here are a few reasons why you should consider incorporating these games into your next event:

1. Family-Friendly Entertainment

Carnival games are suitable for people of all ages. From kids trying their hand at ring toss to adults competing in basketball shootouts, these games provide wholesome entertainment that brings people together.

2. Nostalgic Fun

Many of the traditional carnival games in Bangalore offer a sense of nostalgia, reminding adults of their childhood. This connection to the past can make events feel more personal and memorable.

3. Interactive and Engaging

Carnival games encourage active participation rather than passive observation. Whether it's aiming at a target or strategizing for a game, participants are more engaged and invested in the fun, ensuring your event stands out.

4. Prize Incentives

One of the most exciting aspects of carnival games is the chance to win prizes. From stuffed animals to vouchers, offering rewards for game winners can boost participation and excitement.

How the Best Event Management Company in Bangalore Can Help

Organizing a successful carnival requires more than just setting up games. It demands meticulous planning, creative execution, and attention to detail. That’s where hiring the best event management company in Bangalore comes into play. Here’s why partnering with a top event management firm is crucial for the success of your carnival:

1. Expertise in Game Selection and Setup

The best event management company in Bangalore will have extensive experience in selecting the right games that cater to your audience. Whether you need child-friendly options or games that appeal to competitive adults, they can provide you with a diverse range of options.

2. Professional Execution

The success of an event lies in flawless execution. The best event management company in Bangalore will handle everything from logistics to setup, ensuring that the games are arranged neatly and run smoothly throughout the event.

3. Customizable Themes

Carnivals often revolve around themes, whether it's a tropical beach party or a retro circus vibe. The best event management company in Bangalore can help you customize your event with themed booths, costumes, and decorations that align with the carnival’s essence, creating a cohesive experience for your guests.

4. Safety and Quality Assurance

Safety is paramount, especially when children are involved. The best event management company in Bangalore will ensure that all carnival games and rides are properly maintained, securely installed, and meet safety regulations. This gives you peace of mind knowing that your event will be both fun and safe for all attendees.

5. Crowd Management and Engagement

Large events can sometimes become chaotic without proper planning. Event managers are skilled in crowd control and ensuring that everyone has a chance to participate in the games. They can also offer engaging hosts or emcees who will entertain the crowd and keep the energy levels high.

Making Your Carnival Unforgettable

To make your event stand out, consider adding some special touches. Hiring live performers, such as magicians, jugglers, or clowns, can add extra entertainment value. You could also consider food stalls offering classic carnival treats like cotton candy, popcorn, and hot dogs to complete the experience.

Additionally, setting up a photo booth with fun props will give your guests the chance to capture their carnival memories. Hiring the best event management company in Bangalore ensures that these extra elements are seamlessly integrated into the event for a well-rounded experience.

Conclusion

Carnival games in Bangalore have quickly become a staple at events, providing fun, excitement, and a sense of nostalgia to people of all ages. Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering, school festival, or a community fair, incorporating carnival games can significantly elevate the entertainment factor of your event. However, organizing a successful carnival requires the expertise of the best event management company in Bangalore, which can handle everything from game selection to ensuring smooth operations on the day of the event.

If you're ready to host an unforgettable event filled with laughter, competition, and joy, carnival games are the perfect choice. So go ahead and bring the magic of a carnival to your next gathering, and watch as your guests immerse themselves in the fun!

[eventguru12]

Discover the Magic of Fun Fair Carnival Games in Singapore

Singapore is renowned for its dazzling skyline, diverse culture, and vibrant festivals. Adding to the city-state’s charm are the delightful fun fair carnival games that bring joy and nostalgia to people of all ages. Whether it's a neighborhood event, a school fair, or a large-scale festival, these games are a staple of Singapore’s festive landscape. Let's delve into the magic of Fun Fair Carnival Games Singapore and explore what makes them so enchanting.

A Tradition of Joy

Carnival games have long been a beloved tradition in Singapore, creating a lively atmosphere where families and friends can come together to celebrate and make memories. These games are often reminiscent of simpler times, evoking a sense of nostalgia for many. With their colorful booths, cheerful music, and the chance to win exciting prizes, fun fair Carnival Equipment For Rent Singapore games are a hit with both children and adults.

Popular Carnival Games

Ring Toss: A timeless classic, the ring toss game challenges players to throw rings onto pegs or bottles. It's a game of skill and patience, with the reward of winning cute plush toys or other fun prizes.

Balloon Darts: Pop a balloon with a dart and reveal a prize! This game tests your aim and offers an exhilarating thrill with each successful pop.

Can Knockdown: Stack the cans and knock them down with a ball. The simplicity of this game belies the fun and excitement it generates. It's a great way to test your throwing accuracy.

Fishing Pond: Perfect for younger kids, this game involves catching floating plastic fish with a magnetic rod. It's gentle, fun, and a sure win for the little ones.

Basketball Shootout: For sports enthusiasts, the basketball shootout offers a chance to showcase shooting skills. Making a basket wins you points and prizes.

Themed Carnivals and Festivals

Singapore’s fun fairs often come with unique themes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience. During festive seasons like Chinese New Year, Christmas, or National Day, carnivals are adorned with thematic decorations and games. For instance, during the Mid-Autumn Festival, you might find lantern-making workshops and mooncake-tasting booths alongside traditional carnival games.

Where to Find Them

Carnival games can be found in various locations across Singapore throughout the year:

Neighborhood Community Centers: Local community events frequently feature fun fair games as part of their celebrations, fostering community spirit.

School Fairs: Many schools organize annual fun fairs with a plethora of carnival games, providing students and families with a day of fun.

Major Festivals and Events: Events like the Marina Bay Countdown, Singapore Food Festival, and Chingay Parade often include carnival game booths as part of their attractions.

Bringing the Carnival to You

For those looking to host private events, there are companies in Singapore that specialize in renting out carnival game booths. They provide everything from setup to teardown, allowing you to create a personalized fun fair experience for birthdays, corporate events, or weddings.

[exhibitsnation]

Our Budget-Friendly and Affordably Priced Show Booths

Exposing at a convention could be a daunting experience for a first-time vendor. Affordable trade show booths offer the comfort of a hand-selected package with flexible printing options.

We provide our customers with a one-stop shopping experience that is tailored to the needs of a seasoned business professional and successful exhibitor. Take use of our Low cost exhibit booth experience to give you an edge over the competition. These options come with three to five distinct exhibit components, like backdrops, counters, and signage, and are reasonably priced. Our affordably priced trade show booths are the perfect place to introduce your business, and, these fixtures might grow with your business year after year. We have a great assortment of banners and backdrops with customised printing among our trade fair display fixtures. Develop your brand while gaining confidence throughout your first convention. From here, the options are unlimited, and following each successful event, you may come back and add more features!

What kinds of booth display alternatives can I get? Each of our economical trade show booth packages includes a custom printed graphic of some form. This paints a picture of your business for the audience. Retractable banner stands are free-standing displays that may be placed anywhere in a booth. They are portable and easy to use, and the vinyl banner is safely stored inside the base. You might, however, purchase a background that has been totally printed. The rear of your booth's large scale graphics leave a lasting impression. Low-cost trade show booths with l holders complete the essential task of organising brochures, and catalogues. The stands also keep this information close by and accessible while you converse with possible consumers. In line with the idea of a "portable," yet affordable, trade show booth, these carriers also come in collapsible or knockdown configurations.

[biglisbonnews]

Dive Into the Cuddle Pit at Marshall Columbia and Club Carry's 'Femme Fantasy' Last month, the tristate area's femme talent, audience and lovers emerged from February's frosty winter hibernation, threw on their skimpiest mesh, fishnet and threadbare rave gear and listened to bewitching DJ sets in a pillowy cuddle pit on the floor of NYC's Knockdown Center. If you were there, you know it wasn't a fever dream — it was an artful Valentine's Day-themed celebration called "Femme Fantasy," hosted by Brooklyn-based party collective Club Carry and Brooklyn-based designer Marshall Columbia.Taking over the spacious Knockdown Center in Queens for a seven-hour party with two stages, "Femme Fantasy" celebrated feminine energy by featuring a stacked lineup of 18 trans and femme performers, with buzzy headliners Bbyafricka, Goth Jafar, Memphy and Club Eat. The diverse lineup ranged from Nola bounce and Baile funk to techno and house."Trans and femme DJs and performers are nightlife," designer Marshall Columbia tells PAPER. "They are the blueprint, and, without them, nightlife would not exist. These are the powerful people who inspire my work." Marshall Columbia, designer of his whimsical, namesake brand (whose designs you've probably seen on Instagram or carried by big-name celebrities like Dua Lipa or Doja Cat) opted for an experiential fashion week show that honored his shared community — and not solely his collection — during the otherwise downtown-obsessed craze of NYFW. Related | The Queer Designer Making Trippy Neon Clothes and Plush Bags"The Brooklyn queer community will always be at the center of the Marshall Columbia brand," Columbia explains. His eccentric designs that tap into zeitgeist trends are playful both in their architecture and in how seriously they're meant to be taken. And just like his designs, which play with social fads with an ironic twist, his move away from the traditional NYFW structure is equally intentional in its cheekiness. Instead of using the classic runway model, Marshall Columbia dressed the performers and DJs in head-to-toe Marshall Columbia looks while they took the stage at the Knockdown Center. Related | KRATER Brings Anti-Fashion to Bushwick for NYFWCo-hosted by Club Carry, a rave-based collective started by Brooklyn DJs Antpuke and Memphy, the event was one of a growing series from the depths of the Club Carry girls' imaginations. Their itinerant party series is flamboyant and highly produced, with the intention of building safer spaces within nightlife for queer people by encouraging community care, radical self-love and harm reduction."We realize that having an accessible platform and community within the nightlife community for queer and trans folk is extremely important and generally lacking within the rave and techno community in the US," says Memphy, a recognized presence in the downtown scene as a rising model and DJ. She continues: "We recognize that the mainstream nightlife scene often prioritizes cisgender and heterosexual individuals, and we are tired of the same old headlining acts."Nightlife and queerness have always existed in tandem with one another, with event spaces playing a critical role in queer and femme communities. These spaces have not only served as safe atmospheres for queer people to congregate and express themselves freely but also offer a place of play and experimentation, birthing diverse music genres, styles of dress and bending expectations and standards of dominant cultures. The events that Club Carry curates are "specifically for queer, trans, POC and anyone who wants to have fun," Memphy explains. "Most importantly, it's a reminder that no one is alone, that there are others out there who share their experiences and understand what they're going through."The party, which raged through the night of February 17th, was set with purple mood lighting, a teddy bear-encrusted DJ booth and a massive cuddle pit filled with mattresses, pillows, pink satin sheets and cushions thanks to set designer Evan Jean. "The cuddle pit was definitely the cutest moment of the party," Marshall Columbia confesses. "Seeing all the different groups of people lying there together was a wholesome moment for sure.""Femme Fantasy" was a night to remember for friends and guests who attended, and the Club Carry girls assure PAPER there will be many more events to come. Photography by Jean Toir https://www.papermag.com/marshall-columbia-club-carry-femme-2659557854.html

[valentinagarridos]

for @tommyswilliam​

Of all the games littered around the festival, Valentina thought she was most adept at the game of denial. She didn’t really want to admit that she was excited about this ( ...whatever this was )— nor did she want to acknowledge that little pep in her step as she went looking for Tommy. And yet, here she was, feeling some semblance of elation at the thought of spending some time with her ex-boyfriend. If someone would have pitched this to her months ago, Val would have laughed. She’d probably laugh about it now since it felt so ridiculous, but it also felt nice? That was a lot of stuff she’d have to unpack much much later.

Right now, she would focus on weaving through the crowd of children that should have really been on a leash. Lucky for her, they didn’t seem to wanna hang around all the booths hosting the games; Val had seen a good chunk of them hanging around the Gravitron instead.

It must be thanks to that poor excuse for an amusement park ride that he’s so easy to find, right by the milk bottle knockdown. Valentina thought it fitting to start the night there. So she’s shifting her pace into a more purposeful walk ( because Val Garrido is not a runner ), and sliding up next to him. Being that all that stuff was yet to be unpacked, she can’t decide between a hug or no-hug and when in doubt, she usually goes for the latter. “Hey! You ready to play some games, win some prizes?” And Val can’t help but think of how odd it is, that this is the first time they’d found time for each other during the yearly festival. 

[laraalcantara]

𝗟𝗘𝗧 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗛𝗢𝗪 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗧… Six months ago I embarked in the idea of being a part of an art show that made sense for me. @theotherartfair is a place for artists, not for show off, not for competition, not for only collectors or fancy shmancy. It’s a place for art lovers, and people who believe in us artists as innovators, mind set changers and believers of pure magic. It’s a place to dream big, to show yourself as who you are and not have someone else say or make you who you are to please others. It made sense! I applied and got accepted from over 300 artists that applied. Then won the spot to represent the fair with the @hoxtonhotel family in my neighborhood of williamsburg!!! Set out to understand my art as an entity, as my career for a living, as the place where I want to be. I opened my company, open my business account and started in the venture of understanding organization, strategy and lots of LOVE for myself and who I came to this world to be. I want people to have my work on their walls, to smile when they see it, to wake up and contemplate it in their space. I want to live off what I most love. Being an artist or anything you do in life isn’t easy, but if you love it… it’s a blast! And that is the best job ever! Thank you the whole team @theotherartfair for believing in us! #artfairnyc #theotherartfairnyc #saatchiartist #saatchigallery #laraalcantara #pinkjacket #millyclothes #icpalumni #nyualumni #cindysherman Thank you @saatchiart for posting my image on such an incredible change of a lifetime day for me! Color cover is for sale in my booth 58 in 16x20 inches, 20x30 inches and 34x49 inches! (at Knockdown Center) https://www.instagram.com/p/CeUKb_DPq95/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[bokunoheroanalysisforthefuture]

Still building up to the first event. 

[No. 24 - Mad Dash and Knockdown]

We return to the stadium, all the classes coming out of their respective tunnels at the same time. Present Mic is having a grand old time hyping up the event as announcer in the booth, talking about how the sports festival is the one time each year fledgeling heroes compete in a ruthless grand battle. First up, of course, are the miraculous rising stars who brushed off a villain attack with their steely willpower - the first years of the hero course, Class A! 

(On one hand, I know that 1a would be getting attention no matter what because of the whole villain attack thing, but does Present Mic really have to lean into it this much? It’s just like… it feels like he’s throwing 1a under the bus a bit, even though logically this is likely his way to trying to play the media’s attention in a way that reflects positively.)

Izuku is staring up at the crowds, shaking like a leaf and heart pounding in his chest as he realizes how large said crowds are. Tenya notes how they’re expected to put on the best performance they can in front of so many spectators… but he supposes it’s merely one more necessary skill if they hope to become heroes. Kirishima is also looking a bit nervous as he looks up at the crowds for a bit, mentioning to Katsuki that the crowd/public/whoever is really giving them too much credit… but they won’t let it shake them, right? Katsuki says nope (with his usual intense face), it just gets him pumped up.

An Gremlin.

Present Mic then announces all the rest of the classes in basically one group - following class B are classes C, D, and E of general studies, and then support courses F, G, and H. There’s also the business course classes, but it isn’t said how many there are, though I’d suspect either two or three. Shinsou and some of the other gen ed kids in his class are looking a bit put out, with one of said classmates noting that they’re only there to make the others look good, and another sying it’s hard to get motivated.

Midnight is standing on top of the referee platform, cracking her cat-o-nine-tails (I think it’s called?) as she says it’s time for the athlete’s oath. Heroes in the crowd are commenting on it, noting that the first year ref this time is the R-Rated Hero Midnight. Someone else asks about the principal, and the first(?) replies that he’s always assigned to the third year stage. 

In the back of class 1-a’s lineup, Tokoyami wonders about her ‘R-Rated’ title and whether she should really be in a high school. Mineta tells him to shut it, and Midnight herself is annoyed by all the chattering happening, cracking her whip and telling everyone to pipe down. She then announces the student representative for their year - class 1-a’s Bakugou Katsuki. 

As a total aside, I have a theory that the reason Midnight is teaching at UA is specifically because of her R-Rated tagline - the kids will no doubt have to deal with villains using seduction or nudity or good looks or whatever else to distract or discomfort them, making them vulnerable to being injured or killed. By having Midnight play up her sexy persona (probably starting out mild and working her way up to fairly raunchy by the time the kids are in third year and ‘of legal age’), the heroes-to-be get innured to those kinds of techniques in the field and so are less likely to get shocked or discomforted by them, meaning they’re more likely to survive said situations.

As Aizawa would say, ‘it’s a logical ruse!’ Which isn’t surprising to see from someone who’s close friends with Aizawa, to be honest.

Back to the manga. Izuku is shocked it’s Katsuki, and Sero replies that it must be because he placed first in the entrance exam. One of the 1-c students overhears and shoots back that he got first in the hero course entrance exam. 

Katsuki steps up onto the podium, and begins the athlete’s oath. Izuku and Kirishima are entirely focused on him as he then states that, make no mistake, he’s taking first place. Kirishima is in disbelief (as is Izuku), though I dunno why considering he has to have a basic idea of the kind of person Katsuki is at this point. 

The rest of the students are booing him, telling Class A not to be cocky and him specifically a dirty bastard. Tenya is similarly disappointed, asking why Katsuki must show contempt for the dignity of the event. Katsuki just flicks a thumb across his throat and says everyone will make great stepping stones. Tetsutetsu grits his teeth and calls him an overconfident jerk, and that he’ll be the one to crush him.

Izuku, on the other hand, has realized something because of his familiarity with Katsuki. This isn’t confidence - the old Kacchan wouldn’t definitely been smiling as he said that. This is him pushing himself, telling himself he can’t loose. But taking the rest of class A down with him is the Kacchan he knows. 

Interesting that here, Katsuki is almost challenging Izuku specifically. I suppose either because he’s pissed that Shouto, the strongest in class, challenged Izuku instead of him, or because Izuku was challenged by someone other than himself. Possibly both. The mind of Bakugou Katsuki is a strange place thanks to the inferiority and superiority complexes raging against each other.

Midnight pulls up a holoscreen as she declares that, without any further delay, it’s time to get the first event started. Ochako comments on how everything at UA is always without delay. The screen buzzes as, presumably, options start to roll across it; Midnight fills the time by talking about how these are the qualifiers, and that this is the stage that sends so many home crying every year. Jirou comments on her stalling like crazy, while Midnight finally announces that the first event this year is…

Obstacle course race. Which totally wasn’t pre-planned or anything, what with all the buried landmines and the robots waiting and everything. 

Izuku looks a bit nervous at it being an obstacle course. As the huge-ass gate unfolds open (folds open?), Midnight expands on the race - it’s between every member of all eleven classes (which means three business classes!), and it’s a four-kilometer lap around the stadium itself. She restates how UA preaches freedom in all things, laughing a bit before she states that so long as the students don’t go off the course, anything is fair game. 

Midnight tells the students to get to their positions as the first light over the gate dings and goes dark (red?). We get a brief lineup of a number of the 1-a kids, and then Izuku again thinking about Toshinori’s call to tell the world ‘I Am Here!’ He considers how, realistically speaking, he still can’t regulate One For All to a reasonable extent. As Toshinori watches from the stands, and the second light goes red, Izuku thinks that that’s why he has to overcome it.

The third light goes red. Izuku mentally calls for… Toshinori? The world? To watch him, as the race begins.

...and with that, we’re halfway in, which means it’s time to cut it off here and leave the beginning of the actual race for next time. See y’all then! 

[brooke--tyler]

@smilesxburn​

Location: Carnival games on the Boardwalk

Taking a deep breath, Brooke stepped up to the line in front of the bottle knockdown station. She picked up the ball from the front of the booth and moved it around in her hand for a moment, trying to get a good feel for its weight and size. Sure, this was just a fun game, but even still the firefighter couldn’t help but be competitive, even if only with herself. Phoebe Tyler liked to say her daughter got that from her. Both of them were ambitious, never really able to turn off that drive to be the best even when having fun. Closing her eyes for a second, Brooke opened them and began to wind up, ready to toss the ball, only to have her elbow bumped from behind. Caught off guard she dropped the ball. Whirling around her dark curls bounced around her face like a fast moving storm cloud. “What? Did you want me to lose so you could get a turn faster?” She asked teasingly as her eyes landed on Smiley. 

[resurrectionrpg]

resurrection of evil’s event 003: NIGHT PARK

PART I: WELCOME TO THE THEME PARK OF NIGHTMARES. The Night family, a once prominent name in deacon falls, are now struggling to get their new-but-old theme park reopened in time for the holiday season. Candy apples, candy corn, and candy-coated misery all encircle night park. A once prolific park, it now sits abandoned on the outskirts of town, awaiting opening night: Halloween. But, bad things keep happening at the site of the park.

A select few will be allowed inside the park before it’s official opening date, but be warned. Nothing in this park is as it seems. Every turn of a corner in the fun house offers new horrors, some more real than others. Think you can make it out with your life? Not everyone will be so lucky.

COME CHECK OUT THE PARK’S MOST FAMED ATTRACTIONS, BACK AGAIN FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT:

The House of Wax

The Funhouse

The Ferris Wheel

The Tunnel of Love

The Tilt O’ Whirl

The Scrambler

The petting zoo

The Midway and all it’s fun games (darts, the ring toss, the dunk tank, milk jug knockdown, basketball, whac-a-mole, and many more!)

Fair trucks full of all your favorite treats! (Cotton candy, funnel cakes, candy apples, seasonal carts with apple bobbing and things like pumpkin spice treats, fried oreos, tacos, corn dogs, etc)

HALLOWEEN RELATED ATTRACTIONS:

Costume Contest (Voting begins the 28th, results posted on the 31st)

Horror Film Fest with the Acadia (Hosted by Acadia Call)

Pumpkin Carving Contest (Hosted by Dew Lee Tatum and Daxton Chung)

Guess the Weight of The Pumpkin! (Hosted by Niko Black) 

Kiss of Death (Kissing Booth) (Volunteers: Valentina Diaz, Jude Dahl, ___)

Spooky Scavenger Hunt (Hosted by Theo Bramford)

Kids Costume Parade (Lady Anderson and ___)

Face Painting Booth (Hosted by Bexley Hamilton, +1 more available)

Haunted House (Volunteers: Mia Brooks, ___)

Mad Mirror Maze

OTHER JOBS:

Volunteer medic (Ellie Katz)

Basketball Hoops (Channing Hedda)

Hello players, and welcome to our third event! The Night Park chapter!

This event will last from now, OCTOBER 25th - NOVEMBER 9th. There will be two parts to this event. Reminder that all of our events last 2 weeks due to the relaxed activity levels. Longer time between activity checks equals longer time for events so everyone can participate and enjoy it.

All members of the RP are included in the “select few” who are able to access the park early, however, you can wait until the in-game Halloween night to attend.

Please feel free to sign your character up for the attractions they can host! You can also have them work at the night park, from working the rides to setting up booths.

PLEASE NOTE: All witch, vampire, werewolf, baseline supernatural creatures, and any Halloween-specific characters (such as Hocus Pocus, Halloween, and Trick ‘r Treat) have increased powers during this time! Vampires may be stronger, may even be craving and ingesting blood, things of that nature! Any questions, just ask!

There are tons of things for your characters to do and we hope this opens the doors for good plots!

[pollylynn]

Moirai, Chapter 2—A Caskett Two-Shot Insert for Knockdown (3 x 13)

Title: Morai, Chapter 2 WC: 1400

She doesn't want Raglan's tale of woe, his nostalgia for real coffee cups and incongruous literary metaphors out of the mouth of a man who might as well have come direct from central casting, and guilt that’s way too fucking long overdue. She doesn't want to sit here and give this man, dying or not, the luxury of unburdening himself. 

It's progress of a sort, he thinks. He sits tense at her side and almost smiles to himself, because a Beckett who knows what she doesn't want—who is absolutely clear on what she's having none of—is familiar at least. 

And the two of them are on the same page as far as Raglan goes. The Dickens tumbles from his own mouth, unbidden—I wear the chains I forged in life—but he has no more patience for this than she does. Dying or not, there’s no misguided sympathy in him, and he hasn’t the least inclination to listen to one word from this man’s mouth that isn’t in service of  bringing her some kind of peace. 

He shifts in the booth while Raglan rambles on about context—about nineteen years ago. He does the math in his head twice, three times. The truth jolts him each and every time. Twelve. She was twelve.  

He glances at her, and feels . . . scalded. Bleached. He can't see it. In her profile in this late afternoon light, he can't see anything on the far side of that January night. The realization comes on a wave of unutterable sadness. 

He knows her. He holds tight in the most difficult moments, when he is weary and angry, to the certainty that he knows her. But just as certain is this: Not now—not once in three years—has he caught a glimpse of the bright little girl or the gawky, still-beautiful teen with braces. Not once has he spied the rebel in black leather. 

Even the things she sometimes tells him—about baseball and boyfriends, about a tattoo and a navel ring he’s dying to find out if she really has—all this things sound like stories she’s telling about someone she knew once. They’re all one degree of remove or more from the woman beside him, and not once has he caught a single, fleeting glance of who she was, who she might have been without the cowardice, the mundane fucking wickedness of men like this. 

He hates him then. He hates Raglan with a sudden fire that burns all the calm, all the all the stillness out of him. It eats away everything that's kept him silent and waiting, content to make good on his promise to do whatever she might need, to just be at her side through this. It consumes every good intention, the realization of exactly how much the everyday evil of men like John Raglan have taken from her. 

He hates this man and whoever he’s in this with for stealing who she could have been from the world, from her father, from him.

John Raglan stole all of that and what right does he have to that single note of pain, steady behind the rise and fall of his voice? What fucking right does he have to sit there with a pack of Marlboros in his pocket and grey-skinned, shaking hands drawing warmth out of a ceramic mug? 

What. Fucking. Right?  

Fury sings through him. It almost sends him across the table, fists raised. 

But the world ends before he can get there. 

************************************

He is sick in the rust-streaked toilet of diner’s bathroom. It’s just coffee and bile in the back of his throat. There’s nothing left inside to bring up, but his guts still heave. His body still clenches and shakes, and at the sight of blood on his hands, he’s sick all over again. He’s sick at the memory that it calls up—the dark spray fanning across her chest. 

He grips the edges of the none-too-steady sink. He leaves thick, tacky fingerprints on the dingy porcelain, red-going-brown, and the cycle starts again. A painful clench and an unsteady pitch forward that nearly knocks his head into the mirror. He’s trapped by his own body—by the riot of anger and fear let loose in that instant. 

You’re hit. 

I’m fine. It’s not my blood. 

He’s trapped until the sound of sirens breaks through the shock booming and ringing between his ears and the roar of his own thoughts. He is motionless, silent, though anything but quiet in his mind and soul and heart, until the sounds of equipment and busy voices and action galvanize him at last.

He wrenches the taps open. He scalds himself, and soundless, open-mouthed figure in the scarred mirror makes him jump back, dragging a sluice of punishingly hot water with him. He tries again and makes his fingers stiff with the rush of cold from pipes in the grip of a New York winter. He swipes cheap, stiff paper towels in between his fingers. He scrubs at his palms, at the backs of his hands, and the blood swirls away, just that simple. 

He shoulders his way through the door. He comes face to face with he, with that godawful Rorschach blot climbing the neck of her sweater. His knees almost fail. His feet almost go out from under him.   

“You good?” she asks. 

It’s brisk. Perfunctory, it seems, and a flash of anger lights him up that she could even fucking ask that. A flash of desperation uncoils within him, but then their eyes meet, and he sees . . . everything. He sees her fear and anguish. He sees the fury that lights her up. And he something flat and black and blank at the very back of her gaze that terrifies him. 

“Yeah,” he says faintly. “I think I got it all off my hands.” 

She hears him. She hears something in his voice and comes back to herself a moment.

“It’s different when it happens right in front of you.” She means it. Even though it sounds absurd coming from her. Even though it categorically is absurd, given everything. Given her life, it’s absurd, and still she means it as a kindness.  “Close enough to watch the lights go out.” 

“Yeah,” he says again, hating how trite it sounds. Hating it enough that it drives the next words right out of his body. “When I saw the blood on your shirt I thought you’d been shot.”

The world ends again with those five words. It shifts on the shoulders of Atlas and cracks right open, and a new world is born. 

I thought you’d been shot. 

She falters before him. She is unsteady on her feet in this new, profoundly altered world in which what he wants has been irrevocably unveiled. He stands before her, devastated and saved from the terrifying brink, and sees with clear eyes the responsibility he bears for her uncertainty. 

It’s the slice of razor blade, quick and ruthless, bloodless and bloody by turns. It is inarguable that he has bent his own desires into shapes without number. He has played myriad roles—would-be conquerer and would-be conquest, sidekick and seducer, friend and unthinking flirt—as though any one would satisfy him, as though any one could ever have satisfied him.

He wants her entirely. He wants the trust she has already placed in him in such large measure, and he wants more. He is greedy for her belief in him, and he wants her to know him for the steady, faithful love he intends to be. He wants the care of her, her joys and sorrows resting on his shoulders and rousing him from sleep when she is in need. He wants her entirely, and he sees he has not shown her that. 

But the world has ended and begun again. 

The future holds more silence for him, more waiting. She is not ready, but is. He looks into his heart and it aches—it certainly aches with the long, rough road they have traveled already—but he sees a store of patience that seems infinite, now that it’s his true face he’ll wear as he walks in this new-made world. He looks into his heart and holds up what he finds there, so it’s plain to see. 

He wants her entirely.  A/N: IDK. I’m going to call this a two-shot? This is not satisfying, but it might be the end. 

[officialtoa]

BOOTH 14: HONOR AMONGST WOLVES

Honor Amongst Wolves 

Entertainment! Excitement! Fun and games and maybe even a sugar rush await at the HAW booth here at The Tournament of Ages!

Home of the Princess Milkshake!

Schedule* 

8/2/20 - Bomb-A-Boss

8/3/20 - Shooting Gallery & Turtle Thumpin'

8/4/20 - Wolf Tippin' (Nakster Skullflayer)

8/5/20 - Bomb-A-Boss

8/6/20 - Shooting Gallery & Turtle Thumpin'

8/7/20 - Wolf Tippin' (Utenka Skymane)

8/8/20 - Concessions only

*Food & Merch available throughout the week

Bomb-A-Boss 

Frustrated with the way things are and need to let off some steam? Take aim at one of our leaderboards and see if you can win a prize! For the price of five gold you get three shots with our paint bombs (Blue for Alliance, Red for Horde, Yellow for Neutral) to try and hit the bullseye of one of three available targets. Sylvanas Windrunner, Nathanos Blightcaller, or Scrollsage Nola. Winners shall receive a horse plushie in the likeness of their chosen target! As well as a corresponding charm!

Plushies and Shooting Gallery

Test your sights at the HAW Shooting Gallery! Pick up one of our air rifles* and try to hit the targets as the crab targets move along the conveyor belt. Or as the sea gulls bob and weave on the carousel. Five gold gets you three shots! Winners receive a crab or gull plushie, as well as the matching charm!

*Rifles fire plastic balls, not actual ammunition

Turtle Thumpin' 

If shooting isn't your game, then perhaps a game of reflexes is! Grab yourself a rubber mallet and try to hit the animatronic turtles on the head as they pop out of their shells! Winners receive a dizzy turtle plushie, as well as the charm!

Wolf Tippin' 

Test your prowess against one of the HAW heavy hitters! Three attempts to knockdown our own Nakster Skullflayer (8/4) or Utenka Skymane (8/7). Winners will receive a trophy commemorating their accomplishment, and a matching charm!

Charm Bracelet Challenge

Available for purchase this year at the Honor Amongst Wolves booth is a silver charm bracelet with a single wolfhead charm attached. The other charms to complete the bracelet can be obtained by daily participation and victory in the games held at the booth. Collect all 8 remaining charms to receive the final charm and a special gift!

Food & Beverages 

Food

Cycle of Life Gumbo - 1 gold/ 2 gold: A zesty and hearty dish to die for, comprised of crab meat, albatross and turtle meat mixed with celery, bell peppers, onions, spices, and a dark okra roux. Then topped with a scoop of white rice. Comes in two sizes. Small (Crab shell) or Large (Turtle shell)

Rocky Beach Poppers - 50 silver: Six corn flour breaded and fried choice turtle meat served with either cocktail or tartar sauce. Served in a turtle shell motif basket.

Lich King Crab Legs - 2 gold: Three steamed king crab legs served with a side of herb melted butter. In a king crab shell motif basket.

Alba-tendies - 75 silver: Six albatross tenders breaded and fried. Then served in a nest shaped basket with a tomato puree sauce (ketchup) on the side for dipping.

The Seawater Special - 1 gold 50 silver: Meal deal consisting of either the gumbo or, two of the poppers, crab legs, or tendies. Served with a pint of rum.

ToA Jousters* - 1 gold 25 silver: Three slider style burgers comprised of bear meat patties, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and cheddar stacked on a small shield platter. Lanced by a lance full of fries.

The ETC - 1 gold 75 silver: An elite burger guaranteed to rock your socks off! A 1/2 pound mammoth meat patty topped with thinly sliced bacon (panceta), caramelized onions, and a thick slice of brie. Then topped off with half of a bourbon poached pear between two buns!

The Blight Boar - 1 gold 75 silver: Dance under the Darkmoon with this sandwich of the macabre! Slow roasted pulled pork marinaded in a special sauce, topped with melted limburger cheese, red onions and a green chili sauce.

Wolf Paw Pastries - 50 silver: A wolf paw shaped pastry, filled with walnut cream and drizzled with almond glaze.

Tirion-misu - 75 silver: Layered pastry cake comprised of coffee-soaked lady fingers and sugared mascarpone cheese fillings, topped with cocoa dust.

Tombstone Turnovers - 50 silver: .Warm flaky tombstone-shaped pastries drizzled with sugared glaze. Filled with strawberry preserves.

*Lance & Shield can serve as small toys after eating!

Drinks

The Princess* - 75 silver: Red velvet cake and vanilla ice cream made into an extra thick milkshake with more cake crumbles sprinkled on top! Served in a drinking horn.

A-Bomb - 75 silver: Tomato juice served up with body part shaped ice OR body part shaped gels**, and a sprig of celery.

The Orangent Crusader* - 50 silver: Orange juice, vanilla ice cream, and heavy cream blended together into a smooth citrus treat!

Lost Isles Ice Tea* - 35 silver: Iced tea drink. Can be served hot or cold. Cold tea contains shaved ice.

The Black Prince - 75 silver: Dark cherry grog mixed with rum and cola. Then set ablaze! (Non-alcoholic version available as well)

*Alcohol can be added for an additional gold piece

**Gels contain vodka

Merchandise

The HAW booth has a couple items for sale as well!

Charm Bracelet - 5 silver: A silver chained wrist bracelet with a singular wolf head charm. Collect the other charms to complete the bracelet and win a special prize!

Wolf/Wolfhawk Plushies* - 10 gold: A white wolf plush or brown wolfhawk plush with red feathers. Can come with one of three collars. Red collar with ruby, Blue collar with sapphire, or Silver collar with opal.

*All proceeds from plushies will go towards the Argent's Relief Fund to help those affected or displaced by the Blood War and the Black Empire's invasion.

[chicagoindiecritics]

New from Jeff York on The Establishing Shot: MY 10 FAVORITE IMAGES FROM FILMS IN 2019

Every year at this time, I choose my 10 favorite images from films in the year. These are those particular shots that really stuck in my mind, made an impact, or became an indelible memory of the film for me. So, without any further ado, here are those ten that affected me the most. (Oh, and as always, there are spoilers ahead, so you’ve been warned.)

PARASITE The movie PARASITE, by filmmaker Bong Joon Ho, starts out as a comedy of manners. A low-class family cons their way into the home of a rich family to be caretakers of their children and household. It’s a dark comedy about the class system in Korea, but it’s really commenting on anyone’s station in life and how difficult it is to get to the next stage. Before they take over the Park family’s swank home, the Kim family thought they had it bad living in a below-ground-level apartment. Soon enough though, they’ll discover someone living a much lower existence – right there in the secret basement of the Park’s house. The little Park boy has seen him roaming the home at night, thinking it was a ghost. A flashback shows us exactly what he saw and indeed, it’s a terrifying sight. Hands down for me, it was the scariest and most memorable moment in any 2019 film.

MARRIAGE STORY My favorite scene in a movie this year is contained in Noah Baumbach’s MARRIAGE STORY. Charlie (Adam Driver) is a divorcing father, fighting his wife Nicole (Scarlett Johansson) for custody of their young son. He tries his best to impress the social worker (Martha Kelly) evaluating his worthiness one night, but then he accidentally cuts his arm with his pocketknife and tries to be nonchalant about it. As the bleeding continues, the social worker can’t help but notice. The hilarious and heartbreaking scene reaches its zenith when she can’t get the door open to exit. As Charlie watches her struggle, blood escapes down his arm, along with any chance of retaining custody. What a shot.

PORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE At the end of the eighteenth century, Marianne (Noemie Merlant) is a painter, tasked with capturing the likeness of a reluctant bride-to-be named Heloise (Adele Haenel). What starts as a tempestuous relationship between artist and subject grows into friendship, then lust, and love. They bond over being outsiders, as well as similar tastes in art and literature. They find particular fascination in the story of Orpheus and Eurydice, leading to a lively discussion of why Orpheus turned around to look at his wife. As their affair ends, and Heloise’s arranged marriage beckons, she invites the exiting Marianne to turn around. Marianne does and sees her lover in her wedding dress, bringing a shocking and definitive end to their relationship, just like that of Orpheus and Eurydice. The way that director Celine Schiamma shoots the moment startles us as much as it does Marianne, finishing off the stunning image with an iris dissolve to black that makes it all positively chilling.

BOOKSMART Early BOOKSMART, Amy (Kaitlyn Dever) drives up to pick up her BFF Molly (Beanie Feldstein) for school. It’s not just a stop though, it’s an opportunity for Molly to make an entrance, and for Amy to join her in an impromptu dance celebrating their friendship. It’s sweet, nerdy, and hilarious as both are eccentrically awkward, lost together in their own little world. Director Olivia Wilde even turns off the soundtrack music halfway through their dance to reveal that the music is all in their heads.

KNIVES OUT Rian Johnson reinterpreted the all-star whodunnit for a modern era with his comedy-mystery KNIVES OUT. He twisted around Agatha Christie’s tropes with relish, yet stayed true to her mainstay of an eccentric detective. Johnson’s investigator Benoit Blanc is a Southern gentleman played to comic perfection by Daniel Craig. Johnson furthered the fun in how he introduced him. Blanc remains a blank for his first minutes of screen time, shot out-of-focus in the background behind the local cop (LaKeith Stanfield). Creating a mystery out of just who is the stranger plinking the piano keys in the background? It killed!

YESTERDAY The movie YESTERDAY isn’t a great film, but it is an intriguing one. After a strange cosmic accident, struggling musician Jack Malik (Himesh Patel) wakes from a coma to realize that in his new existence, no one has heard of the Beatles. Wanting to restore their legacy, as well as make millions singing and claiming their songs as his own, he becomes a worldwide phenomenon. So, if the Fab Four never existed, what became of the fellows who made up the band?  Jack looks up one of them, and the reveal of an older and happy artist living in the country named John Lennon (Robert Carlyle) made for a moment that transcended the one-not idea of the film. Imagine that.

CAPTAIN MARVEL The first superhero movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe featuring a female lead was 2019’s CAPTAIN MARVEL. Brie Larson played pilot Carol Danvers (AKA Captain Marvel) in the 1980’s period piece, and in one scene, flew high into space with fellow pilot Maria (Lashana Lynch) and tagalong tabby Goose. Co-directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck come from the world of comedy and it shows in wonderful shots like this one where the cat just floats about, quietly enjoying zero gravity.

FORD V. FERRARI In the action-drama FORD V. FERRARI, Henry Ford II wants an American sports car to beat the Italian-made Ferrari at Le Mans in 1966. Thus, he sets out to do so with an esteemed team of designers and drivers. Ford (Tracy Letts) is a bullying S.O.B. and when designer Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon) has had enough of his attitude, he loads him up in the sports car and gives him a 120 MPH test-drive. As Shelby spins him around the dangerous track, Ford is scared shitless, weeping like a baby. It’s a sublime moment with the marvelous Letts letting go as you can see in this hilarious still.

ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD Few films this year received more water cooler discussion than Quentin Tarantino’s ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD. His story of an aging actor (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his best buddy, an aging stunt man (Brad Pitt), reckoning with the new Hollywood of 1969 was both amusing and elegiac. Age is a bitch in any walk of life, but in Tinsel Town, it’s a horror show. Pitt’s old-timer Cliff Booth is lucky to get a job stunting for the TV show THE GREEN HORNET. Still, he can’t help when the young upstart Bruce Lee (Mike Moh) brags about his prowess as a lethal weapon. Booth calls B.S. on the show’s star and they have a friendly fight. Lee scores a knockdown first, but during the second round, Cliff throws his opponent into the side of a car. It’s one of the best sight gags in a film all year, one talked about a lot at that water cooler.

I LOST MY BODY Few animated films are stranger than I LOST MY BODY. It starts with a severed hand escaping the lab where it’s being held to start on a journey of self-discovery. That means back to the body it came from, as well as the history of the owner. Naoufel, the young man who lost the appendage is a lost soul, trying to navigate his way through a difficult life. He’s such a mess, he can’t even deliver pizzas on time. One customer named Gabrielle calls him out on his shit and their conversation over the building’s intercom becomes a makeshift therapy session. As directed by Jeremy Clapin, and voiced by Dev Patel and Alia Shawkat, the simplicity of this static shot becomes mesmerizing in its simplicity and intimacy. It proves that stillness, even in animation, can be more moving than any action.

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