#chloe reviews

[romajuliettemai]

“The romance in Immortal Longings was so bad!” “We want more romance!” “Chloe’s OTHER romances are so well done!!”

How many times do we have to say ITS NOT A ROMANCE!!

[watchnrant]

Interior Chinatown: A Sharp Satire That Challenges Stereotypes and Forces Self-Reflection

Interior Chinatown is a brilliant yet understated reflection of the world—a mirror that exposes how society often judges people by their covers. The show captures this poignantly with the scene where Willis Wu can’t get into the police precinct until he proves his worth by delivering food. It’s a powerful metaphor: sometimes, if you don’t fit the mold, you have to prove your value in the most degrading or unexpected ways just to get a foot in the door. The locked precinct doors represent barriers faced by those who don’t match the “majority’s” idea of what’s acceptable or valuable.

While the series centers on the Asian and Pacific Islander (API) community and the stereotypical roles Hollywood has long relegated them to—background extras, kung fu fighters—it forces viewers to confront bigger questions. It makes you ask: Am I complicit in perpetuating these stereotypes? Am I limiting others—or even myself—by what I assume is their worth? It’s not just about API representation; it’s about how society as a whole undervalues anyone who doesn’t fit neatly into its preferred narrative.

The show can feel confusing if you don’t grasp its satirical lens upfront. But for me, knowing the context of Charles Yu’s original book helped it click. The production team does an incredible job balancing satire with sincerity, blurring the line between real life and the exaggerated Hollywood “procedural” format. They cleverly use contrasting visuals and distinct camera work to draw you into different headspaces—Hollywood’s glossy expectations versus the grittier reality of life.

Chloe Bennet’s involvement (real name Chloe Wang) ties into the show’s themes on a deeply personal level. She famously changed her last name to navigate Hollywood, caught in the impossible middle ground of not being “Asian enough” or “white enough” for casting directors. It’s a decision that sparks debate—was it an act of survival, assimilation, or betrayal? But for Bennett, it was about carving a space for herself to pursue her dreams.

This theme echoes in one of the show’s most poignant scenes, where Lana is told, “You will never completely understand. You’re mixed.” It’s a crushing acknowledgment of the barriers that persist, even when you’re trying to bridge divides. Lana’s story highlights how identity can be both a strength and an obstacle, and the line serves as a painful reminder of the walls society creates—externally and internally.

Interior Chinatown doesn’t just ask us to look at the system; it forces us to examine ourselves. Whether it’s Willis Wu at the precinct door or Lana trying to connect in a world that sees her as neither this nor that, the show unflinchingly portrays the struggle to belong. And as viewers, it challenges us to question our role in those struggles: Are we helping to dismantle the barriers, or are we quietly reinforcing them?

[jessread-s]

Thanks to @chloegong and @sagapress for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review

Art torn with the permission of @artbysmashley

✩⛓️🕊️Review:

Seeking out the next fantasy book that will destroy you? Look no further! 

Picking up where “Immortal Longings” leaves off, “Vilest Things” follows Calla Tuoleimi as she serves as royal advisor to August Shenzhi, who has risen to the throne. Only Calla knows Anton took over August’s body to survive her betrayal. The two must set aside their conflicts when Otta Avia awakens and her secrets threaten the very fabric of the monarchy.  

This book outdoes its predecessor with more power (but in the wrong hands), more repercussions, more politics, more tension, and even more  betrayals. Gong truly has a knack for making her readers suffer and I’m not sure what this says about me, but I endured every cliffhanger, volatile exchange between Calla and Anton, and unanswered question happily. 

“Vilest Things” is told from multiple points-of-view and I was captivated by every single one. Gong makes each perspective necessary in advancing the plot forward and unraveling what larger is at stake. As a result, I was equally frustrated and excited to follow a different character at the start of each chapter and discover a new piece to the puzzle. 

I am obsessed with the world Gong creates in “Immortal Longings”, so I really enjoyed how she expands upon it in this book. Gong completely engrossed me in Calla and Anton’s journey beyond the walls surrounding San-Er and into the outer reaches of Talin. Each province they cross into is accompanied by descriptions of the region and its customs to make one distinctive from another. The secret that draws them out there in the first place adds an element of mystery relating to the kingdom and its history that kept me on the edge of my seat!

 Calla and Anton’s begrudging alliance on their travels had me in a chokehold! The events at the end of book one obliterate all trust established between the two of them, bringing their relationship right back to square one, and their toxicity festers because of that. Both still have residual feelings, but allow their stubbornness to keep them apart. Otta also serves as a source of tension for Calla and Anton’s relationship and nothing was more agonizing than watching Otta manipulate their perceptions of each other. The angst and mutual pining, however, makes it all worthwhile.

Fair warning: “Vilest Things” ends with the most brutal cliffhanger. I thought the end of “Immortal Longings” was soul-destroying…but this is a whole other level. I could do nothing but watch it play out and I fear I might be scarred for life. Chloe if you’re reading this, I’ll forgive you in exchange for book 3. 

Cross-posted to: Instagram | Amazon | Goodreads | StoryGraph

[jq37]

I've been thinking about Descendants 4 again today and, having had more time to think about it, it's even more disappointing than I initially felt it was. Because it actually has all the ingredients to be my favorite of the four.

-Brandy coming back as Cinderella (along with her prince) is an inspired move (as a Black girl and theater kid in spirit, I obviously loved her as a kid). -I also love a Cinderella focus in general because she's one of my favorite princesses--in Disney and in general. My MFA thesis project is literally a Cinderella retelling. -I love a focus on platonic relationships and an interesting mother-daughter dynamic is one of my faves. -Likewise, as cliche is it is, I love two characters with almost violently opposite vibes being forced to work together and getting close along the way.

This movie has all these things that I love which makes it extra disappointing that the movie seems uninterested in basic tenets of storytelling.

The two main relationship rifts in this movie are between Cinderella and the Queen and Red and her Queen and neither of those relationships grow or develop in a way we can get invested in. They're just fixed by stealing a book. The Red Queen doesn't learn to be a better person. They just erase one bad thing that happened to her and it's all fine now I guess? Ella doesn't reconcile with her friend. Whatever caused their rift (which we never see or even are told about in any detail) is just poofed from the timeline. There's no emotional climax. There's no real action climax. Every time it seemed like something interesting was going to happen or be revealed, they hard pivoted to something else. The connective tissue in the movie is super weak and the foreshadowing leads to very little if anything.

I've really never seen a movie so bizarrely unfocused and disjointed. It has real first draft vibes.

[pr1dek1ng]

Okay so this is my real review on the life is strange double exposure game. That original post I made was to troll

I went into it with an opened mind. I tried to stay away from much spoilers as I could but the internet made that impossible so I knew a little bit about things.

I thought the story was actually really good. I love a murder mystery type plot. I didn’t think it was to bad at all actually. The amount of twists and turns was awesome.

The characters were probably my favorite part about the game. I loved majority of the characters that max interacted with. The relationship dynamic between max, Safi and Moses was comforting gave me such sibling vibes.

Max and Amanda’s dynamic was really good and probably my favorite. I loved how they interacted and I loved how much Amanda cared for max.

Max and Reggie’s dynamic felt like big sister/little brother vibes. Reggie was absolutely hilarious and such a Comedic relief

Max and diamond’s dynamic was interesting to me. I loved diamond don’t get me wrong but I really couldn’t understand her very well. But that’s probably just me

Max and Vihn’s dynamic (prolly spelling his name wrong) was very interesting as well. I loved how we went from not liking him to him becoming apart of the gang and dating Reggie.

Gwen was like hot damn. Nothing else to be said. shoutout for trans representation ❤️ loved her

Lucas can just kick rocks tbh

Now the only problem I had with this game was how they did Chloe. I think what they did with Chloe was entirely stupid and a trash take. Like I personally would’ve been fine if she was in the game but interacting with max throughout it. Her not being present doesn’t bother me but the way they just trashed her relationship with max is wild to me.

But besides this I thought the game was a 9/10. Cannot wait for what they have next for max’s story 🤘❤️

Also happy Halloween 🎃 p.s please don’t harass and or trash on people who are like me and like the game! I feel like this shouldn’t have to be said but unfortunately it does.

[tare-anime]

SxF Mission 89

(Beware spoilers)

I love every Yuri development we have in this chapter.

I love Chloe!!!

OmG!!!

And she's much older than Yuri too???

My Chloroform ship is sailing!!! 🥰🥰🥰🥰

So YuriIona (Yuri and Fiona) or Chloroform (Yuri Cloe)?

Ahem

Anyway, yeah, I love how we got tidbits of Briar siblings' past, and Yuri's growth.

Chloe's speech here is immaculate.

Yes. You need to get stronger and be able to protect yourself first, before you able to protect others. But you also need to stay alive!!!

This speech is so important.

Having a dream to protect others but by being reckless to your own body is a big no no.

Yep yep.

Yuri also starts to notice that Yor's "important persons" has grown

Back then during the bus hijacking arc, and now this.

It's a slow progress, but still a progress nonetheless.

And I love how strong the Briar siblings bond is.

Both can sense the other's presence just like that??

What a special bond!

Of course if we go to angst route, this might lead to a very very angsty Briar sibling reveal, or they might sense if the others are severly injured or died.

I love it how Yor's cooking has improved by Yuri not vomiting when he eats her cooking 🥰

Last, Yuri is still the firstmate of TwiYor ship it seems (Anya is the captain)

So yeah, Yor, answer him will ya??? 🤣🤣🤣

Lovely chapter. I can't wait to read more 🥰🥰

[crownedinkcomix]

Heretic adds a fresh twist to the religious horror genre, though it succumbs to some common contrivances. The film uses a SAW-like setup, with its victims forced into a series of choices that feel more like manipulative traps than real options. This formula creates tension, yet I found myself wondering why the characters complied so easily with their captor’s orchestrated scenarios.

In any horror film, some suspension of disbelief is expected. But even as someone who doesn’t consider themselves particularly clever, I kept thinking: why not refuse to play along? Rather than submitting to the “Door A or Door B” choices, I’d likely ignore the options entirely, maybe even wait by the front door until the timer ran out.

The captor, played well by Hugh Grant, openly admits to setting a lock timer and adding signal-blocking metal walls to prevent phone calls, yet he insists on maintaining the illusion that he’s not forcing these girls to participate in his game. Given that his philosophy centers on the idea that religion is all about “control,” his strategy would have been stronger if he were more openly coercive rather than relying on these thinly disguised choices. His indirect approach feels less like a character-driven choice and more like a narrative convenience.

Despite these issues, Heretic is still a compelling entry in modern religious horror. It manages some surprising twists and offers a unique approach to the genre. For those seeking something new, it’s a worthwhile watch, especially when compared to recent offerings like Late Night with the Devil.

[rainmidnight]

i'm reviewing for a quiz for my theology class and in one of the videos we're required to watch for it there's this one quote that made me go "oh the chloe gong fans are going to love this" and it's this:

"How [do] we live [with] that? How [do we] live [with] the truth that love and wounds are never separate?" – Henri Nouwen

[whilereadingandwalking]

In 2004, in the Australian town of Palm Island, an aboriginal man named Cameron Doomadgee was arrested by Senior Sergeant Christopher Hurley. Less than an hour later, he was dead. Chloe Hooper came to Queensland to cover the case, and her months of interviews, investigation, and witness led to The Tall Man: Death and Life on Palm Island, an account of the struggle to get justice for Doomadgee's death.

This book was on my list of priorities to buy while in Australia. The case is historically important on its own, as the community rose in riot and protest against the police department (who claimed Doomadgee got his injuries from an unfortunate fall), but also in the wider context of aboriginal rights and the continuing issues aboriginal communities face due to the impact of colonization and imperialist violence. This well-written narrative nonfiction brings everything together into one coherent, frustrating story of police brutality, systemic oppression, and the complicity and "codes" that keep those systems going. Superb nonfiction read. Highly recommend it both in general and to add a global perspective to radical US readers.

Content warnings for violence, racism, police brutality, anti-indigenous sentiment and violence, suicide

[tremorsmackenzie]

interior chinatown ep 10 & series thoughts

i think its pretty good what they did with the ending. just really dropping the show to hammer home the message about how the entire societal expectation towards asian americans and immigrants in general is fucked. im german and white, i lack the experience to really get it, but i still know enough to just agree. i hope that it helps raise awareness and make people in the us a little more aware of the situation. especially now.

in terms of the show itself, the "is this all a tv show" plot is sort of resolved by saying "yeah it is and the viewers and studios control it but we can upgrade ourselves to a new format". the logistics and implications arent really adressed, but like i said after episode 1, not the point. im just nitpicky because i actually have ocd.

because i am a gigantic daisy johnson stan i will always wish chloe bennet plays a bigger role in anything she is in, and that that thing is agents of sword, but thats just me still grieving the loss of agents of shield.

this show is great, it really has some existential horror aspects to it (even if they just serve as a vehicle, not really the main gimmick), and the social commentary at least to me cuts through everything and is the way more important part. and thats what mattered to the cast too, going off all the interviews they gave.

its also really funny, although they dial up the drama a lot in the last few episodes.

the only thing that really bothers me is the willis lana romance cause there are so many reasons against it, even if it doesnt really take off even towards the end

[crimson-chaffinch]

Life is strange but I like it.

A new game of Life is Strange franchise was a big surprise. I love first game so much (played it 3 times and never could change my final choice). This game is definitely different and I’ll try to write about its pros and cons.

Let’s start with something positive. The first things you notice (since first trailers I’m sure) are graphics and facial animations. Characters look like real people; you can see when they are puzzled or surprised, and it’s amazing! Voice actors and actresses did a great job; you feel this chemistry between characters when listen to them (Max and Vinh are just brilliant).

The list of negative things will be definitely longer and I’m upset writing that.

The greatest problem is the plot. Probably I shouldn’t have bought an early access because after finishing Chapter 2 I had some high expectations and also read some stupid spoilers on reddit (which I definitely wasn’t looking for). So my high expectations and some cool ideas which appeared in my head played a cruel joke on me. Probably Chapters 3 and 4 were kind of good but Chapter 5… and ending was so disappointing. I had a feeling like a scriptwriter just gave up right in the middle of the story, and even didn’t try to make it a bit complicated. Come on, gamers aren’t stupid, we like good stories, cool twists and heartbreaking endings. But it’s not about LiS:DE.

The second problem – characters. Some of them are just good or bad, there is nothing in the middle. Amanda is cute, hard-working and has a big family. That’s all I can tell about her. You even can’t understand why Max like her. She is just an ordinary girl, a typical green flag for Max and it’s cool to have relationship with some good person in real life but such characters in games are just super boring.

That’s why I like Vinh (yeah I like him), because he seems real, he did something stupid in the past and he isn’t proud about it, and it makes him real.

Tbh I don’t know what to say about Safi without spoilers, so maybe it’s better to skip this part.

The rest of characters are like a background for the main story, not sure if you remember any of them in a week or so.

And the third part – length of the story. Yeah, when you play it for the first time you are too curious and just want to move further and further. But even when you start playing the second time and you look for all photos and other collectables, chapters are still so short.

I wish we all got some cool DLC which isn’t about cat or extra clothes. But dreams, sweet dream. Deck 9, plz, can you guys make something really funny for fans, maybe a date for Max (she deserves it).

And the last problem – there is no Chloe. She was annoying in the first game but she is a person Max needs and in my game Max sacrificed Arcadia Bay for her. I just can’t believe Chloe could leave her so easily. Btw Max’s trauma after these events is shown really well, and it helps to see how deep her character is. Sad that’s other characters aren’t so well-written.  

In conclusion I still want to recommend this game. No matter if you are the fan or not, it worth playing and it won’t take lots of time to finish it. Max is still Max even being 28 she can say some cringy stuff and that’s why I like her.  

[just-a-girl-who-likes-sharks]

Just finished Foul Lady Fortune…

An honest review:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 it pains me to say this but Juliette Cai walked so that Rosalind Lang could run

[generalluxun]

Miraculous: The Movie Reaction/Review

A little more ordering of my thoughts now, and I can go through in a little more detail why I loved this movie so much. This will be a solid look at things, and so... yeah, SPOILERS! And just for the record this will be looking both at the movie itself as a movie AND in comparison to the series. I know that there are different pressures on both, but I do feel there are narrative through lines tackled better or worse.

Putting a cut here for the Spoiler free folks.

This will be somewhat chronological, with some asides.

Okay, so the opening, a great setup. It's a Lore dump, but it's clean and neat and we are already introduced to the vibrant colors we will see throughout the movie, and Mr. Overdramatic Fu who I find priceless.

Marinette:

Oh Marinette, I love this Marinette. She feels downtrodden to start. The type of person for whom one too many hiccups have become a self-fullfiling way of life. The movie spends a lot more time with her on this. Which is to the benefit because her choice and ascension are much bigger payoffs. She's still a dreamer, and energetic, She's our Marinette, but vitalized.

Okay I'll put this here: The Songs. They're fine. They're not great, but they're find. they have a stage-style vibe to them which fits in with the change to Emilie's career. They are also pushing the narrative through most of the time, so even if the song isn't to your liking, you've got a lot going on.

School&Chloé: Marinette seems a lot more jumpy/unpopular in general, it's not JUST Chloé which is a good shift. Don't get me wrong, the blonde is still clearly a nightmare, but it's not she alone among the student body that thinks something's off about Mari at the beginning.

Alya&Nino: What is there to say? She's Alya, she's great. Nino and Adrien friendship! yay! And Alya&Nino are a cute secondary couple-in-the-making. The movie loved it's secondary characters.

Adrien: Sad Adrien, but gentle. Marinette's first interaction with him was great. She's Marinetting, but she actually gets up the will to talk to him. I liked this balance. Yes some of it comes from a shorter runtime, but it comes across as just... healthier?

Gabemoth: Gabriel outside! GASP! He's a human being! Clearly still flawed, but this Gabe is one I buy the ending for, and I quite enjoy it. Both Gabe and Adrien being over the top theaterical fits having Emilie in their lives. and.. OMG we got to see and hear Emilie as a person! I loved this. I'll add in Nathalie here. She didn't have a lot but we get her care for Adrien and the family right away.

Rescue Fu Alleyway and Tikki: Saving Fu felt much more earned in this one, give a bonus to whoever storyboarded this. Marinette pulling him from in front of a bus then bodily putting herself between him and the danger of another oncoming car? This girl! Go Marinette, you've earned these earirngs(want them or not) also: Her reaction to this crazed little man screaming about death and end of the world was awesome, I LOVE them lamp shading this trope.

Little aside about Sabrina She's adorable in the whole movie, but we get a hint of her own independence when she covers for Marinette in the Alleyway, and I loved that. Tiny Character building moments are a sign of great writing.

Tikki: They amped up Tikki's energy and I can see why. Marinette's more reluctant heroine role needed someone with a bit more push to keep her going. This is honestly the most I've ever enjoyed Tikki (not that TV Tikki was awful)

Cathedral: So, We meet Cat Noir here, and he's a cocky goofball, and it works. They balance it well. He gets instant karma a few times, he tries hard, and he does quickly acknowledge Ladybug later on when *she* acknowledges herself. This is an important lesson, people do treat you better when you believe in yourself, it shows. Much like I said with Gabe, Adrien being an overdramatic theater kid fits perfectly in this story.

The back and forth between these two is great. And here's something else: It's instructive for Marinette. If Cat Noir was just a fawning lovesick boy from square one, she wouldn't learn to stand up for herself, which she later uses vs Chloé. People fuss at chat for the watermelon, but Ladybug's throwing her own zingers in there too.

I do like that we bring Fu back here, and then again at the end. He's a little more sane, a little more mentor, so his use as comic relief isn't one note. That's another sign of good writing.

Marinette's refusal: I liked this a lot. It felt right for Marinette. This was dangerous, scary, and she was barely managing for a lot of the fight at the cathedral. I love how the scene evolved from loud and frustrated, to comedy, then finally settled on sincerity. Marinette curling up in her chair was more earned emotion and heartbreak than S5 wrung from me in 13 eps.

Plagg and Adrien: Okay so yeah, Fart jokes. The show had it's share of 'stinky cheese' jokes so we shouldn't point too many fingers. I love dad-Plagg in the TV show, so I was slightly bummed it wasn't as prevelent here, but with Tiki needing a more energetic role, Adrien not being a shut in, and Gabriel not being a complete and total heel, Plagg's role is going to be different. It's worth noting that after Chat's failed confession Plagg does Dad-Plagg him, so all is not lost for that dynamic.

Fairground: Just a showcase of fun. Marinette&Adrien, Alya&Nino, the Akumas, Marinette making the *decision* to be a hero and triggering her first voluntary transformation. The two of them working together. This was a great celebratory event, and it kicks off:

Montage!

You knew they'd need this in a movie covering this much ground. We got to see a few fun akuma designs, a few Adrienette dates, and how the changes wrought on the fairground played out. We had enough time with sad, isolated, Marinette that this does feel like a triumph.

Third Act low point: This is where everyone fails. Chat's confession to Ladybug burns out. Marinette's confession to Adrien burns out. Even Gabriel has burned out. All three of our main players are at their low (which is a brilliant way to hint they're framing Gabe as not just a villain, he's treated to the narrative beats of a hero) All three felt solid and hit hard. It's the Lovesquare cliff notes, but it hits all the right elements. You still come away thinking 'If only they knew!' because the movie has really built up both Adrienette and Ladynoir in equal parts.

Final fight: Damn son, what is there to say? Akumatized Hawkmoth is not playing. Plagg telling Adrien to get his stuff together. This battle is just plain brutal. Mari unmasked! Chat punching his dad. Marinette being a hero without the suit, saving Chat in the same selfless way she saved Fu back at the beginning of the movie. Chat unmasked. and Gabriel's breakdown. *Adrien hugging his dad!* CLOSURE. Ladybug getting her Miraculous Ladybugs and it being a BIG DEAL, like it should be!

The Dance: Cute character moments. Chloe is big enough to give Marinette a 'truce' it seems, but mean enough to let her know it's not over yet. Sabrina's shrug is great :) Oh wait MARINETTE'S DRESS. It's Ladybug, it's beautiful. This girl is a designer. A reveal in snow. The two of them together, yes!

Post-script: Mayura next Villain? I'm hype.

End Notes: I feel this movie hit all the notes it needed to. We got the characters, they were compressed clearly because it's a movie, but still felt themselves, but fresh. Everything about this word feels a little more 'real' which is funny considering how ethereal all the lighting was.

I'm notoriously prone to critique and dissecting media, even media I enjoy. Yet my nitpick sensors were surprisingly mute while watching this. They told a huge amount of story, accessible both to long time fans and newcomers.

I probably have more thoughts, but that's already a lot for a Tumblr post. Feel free to engage my Asks or replies if you have questions or would like opinions on anything specific.

[animehouse-moe]

The Case Study of Vanitas Manga Covers Explained

So, it has come to my attention that some people haven't clued in to the themes and symbolism of all of the covers for The Case Study of Vanitas. So, I am here now to explain the intricacies and important and impressive details of each cover so everyone can appreciate how outstanding these covers are. So without further ado, time to get a little too into something benign and slightly pointless.

Volume 1

So, allow me to state the obvious first. The "theme" of Vanitas here is Vanitas, as it's an actual painting style that combines vanity (go figure) with death essentially. Putting the opulence of life in opposition with the absolutism of death. You see it with the skull wearing a crown, for one, or the other skeletal figures that decorate the mirror.

Well, I guess I should explain that first, actually. Each cover has a mirror, in one way or another. A look into the characters, a reflection of themselves through both the frame and the actual contents of the mirror.

So anyways, in the mirror, we have the blue moon and the spider's web that we associate with Altus Paris. The undeniable connection that Vanitas has to the Babel Incident, Vampires, and Vanitas of the Blue Moon. As the first volume cover it's very well designed to evoke that connection without giving readers a touch more.

Volume 2

Next up we have Noe (one of my favorite covers). This one is interesting for a few reasons integral to his character as a Vampire. Firstly though, we have the two important bits cresting the the mirror, a pen and paper (to be taken as a journal) and the blue flowers of Noe's childhood with his teacher. They are integral aspects of his character in that he was never afraid of the blue moon like other vampires, and that his family's ability to feel the memories of others through their blood.

Alongside that we have his Teacher in the mirror, hands wrapped around Noe. It's pretty evident symbolism for how much his Teacher has him wrapped around his fingers, and how he's the controlling force within Noe's life. Outside of the mirror though, Noe is covered in blood from drinking it from someone. This is pretty easy to relate to Noe's line about a certain someone's fate, which he mentions within the first volume.

Volume 3

I find this cover particularly interesting, though it is not quite my favorite. Once more we see the Vanitas style applied to the mirror, though this one is special. It's a mirror that goes both ways. We're only seeing it from Vanitas' side. Regardless, Vanitas is both stained with blood and marked, while sharing the chain of the Book of Vanitas with Noe. This is pretty clearly symbolizes the nature of their connection, that Noe is chained to the book rather than Vanitas himself in this case.

Aside from that there's nothing incredibly crazy to it, though the water from the mirror and Vanitas' side disappears on the exterior of the mirror once it passes the plane that the mirror exists on. Essentially, the water only exists in the mirror and on Vanitas' side of it. The same can be said of Noe, as the "rest" of them on the volume is colored completely different.

Volume 4

I really love this one. The mirror is decorated with all manner of flowers to make it "pretty", and Jeanne is all dressed up as well. However, her mirror is coiling around her arm, trapping her in place. She's unable to leave it, stuck within it so to speak, eternally struggling to view herself how she so desires. But, we have Vanitas' hand pulling against this. He is there to free Jeanne of her mirror, to free her of the blood-stained thing that she desperately tries to hide.

It's a pretty straightforward theme that doesn't have a great deal to explain, but it has a really incredible amount of depth to it, especially considering the second part of the anime.

Volume 5

This one, this one is very interesting. It's arguably the most unique/divergent of the bunch. It doesn't adhere to quite the same rules as the prior 4, but still conducts itself like it does. I won't act as confident with this one, but I believe this cover to be from within the mirror. Things are as they are, and they are effectively trapped by the Beast of Gévaudan, which hovers menacingly in the background through the mirror.

Most interestingly however is the smaller details. We don't get to see Noe's right hand, and the book of Vanitas is not visible compared to it being featured in both of Vanitas' previous covers. Alongside that, we have the foreshadowing of the cover, with a certain spear covering Vanitas' leg. It's very well done and impressively creative, but is just a little too divergent from the rest for me to really sell my standpoint on it, so there's certainly room for personal interpretation here.

Volume 6

Really, all these covers are just so pretty. Here with Astolfo though, there's a couple of things that stand out. The spider's web, the butterfly, the damaged and odd mirror.

Let's start with the overall appeal. It's decrepit, it's damaged- tattered, if you will. A mess, a state of disrepair or lack of care. It all speaks to Astolfo's character, what his life left him as, and where he aims for. It's another more unspoken cover that digs deep into his character. For example, Have you realized that what they stand upon is a pile of skulls? Or that there is a fungus or something of the sort in place of the withered and dying roses along the bottom of the mirror? Or that the mirror itself is thorny?

Volume 7

I do quite enjoy this one for how simple it is. Jeanne Jaques and Chloe share a mirror in this volume cover to better represent their relationship. And along the outline of the mirror is a type of music sheet to better relate to Chloe's history and purpose. To cap it all off is the positioning of the mirror though. Shining a light down from above, like they're trapped in a dark cage and it is the only source around them.

It's just really well done, and then there's the details on Jeanne Jacques, that he's the only one with blood on him, that his eyes are glowing and that he has that flame alight his left shoulder. It's really expert work and stuff you might not typically pick up on.

Volume 8

I could speak on this mirror for ages, but I will endeavor to keep it short. The mirror isn't just Domi's reflection, it is Domi. She's losing her sense of self, she's losing who she is, being pulled deeper into the cracked and dark mirror. Falling deeper into the visage of her brother Louis who has turned his back on her. She has her sword drawn, a sense of duty mixed with fear and sorrow is traced across her face. She's afraid that the boundaries that comprise Domi are being broken apart, not much unlike the mirror, and that she'll lose sight of herself as guilt drags her deeper into memory.

Vol 9

Butterflies are something that we manage to see quite a bit of in these covers thanks to their symbolism. But more interesting than that is the standout butterfly, the one butterfly for noe that shines red against the hues of blue that Vanitas finds himself slumbering beneath, trapped within the desires of Mikhail.

It's a rather self-explanatory cover, but still a very solid one. The exterior of the mirror meant to mimic the Book of Vanitas, with pins decorating its exterior to "hold" it in place similar to how you pin an insect up to display it. Along with that is another show of the symbolism of chains, though this one in a different manner. It does not attach Vanitas to Mikahil, but rather Mikhail uses it to trap Vanitas.

Volume 10

And we finish the foray into the covers with volume 10. This one is very pretty, and the only cover in which we don't directly see Vanitas' earring. Of course, the mirror is his earring, as well as a window into both Vanitas and Noe.

More than that though, the mirrors themselves continue the theme of chains, as they decorate the exterior of the hourglass figure. Vanitas being responsible for the dark and rainy mirror of the top, with Noe taking the brighter bottom half. It's an interesting one to see given the covers for volume 3 and 5, but one that fits incredibly well with where the story leaves off at. Showing the opposite natures that the two posses, but that regardless, one will always fall into the other.

So there you have it, my takes on the importance and symbolism of Mochizuki Jun's expertly crafted manga covers. There's really such a great deal to appreciate in them, especially given how light the designs can be for them. They clearly went to great lengths to attach a theme to the covers that would be integral to the overall approach they have with the characters, and for that I'm really thankful (and impressed).

[bubbeshfk]

My favourite part of Immortal Longings discourse is witnessing people getting confused and angry when they slowly realise that Calla is not the revolutionary girlboss TM they thought she was and then call the book bad for it

[mrsbsmooth]

Future Islanders: My thoughts

My predictions about the Islanders we haven't seen yet, based on their character designs. This information will be 100% accurate, guaranteed*

*Not at all guaranteed

Spoilers under the cut. 18+. Contains gratuitous swearing.

Love his style, love his vibe, love his earring. He's so cute, and seems like he's gonna be really fun and flirty. But dear God, when I saw his surprised face, I just:

Those eyes - those fucking eyes. They are lifeless. Like this man has seen either seen some shit or had some serious plastic surgery, and I worry about him. I just… oh god, I got the ick so fast it's not even funny. And then I realised he got the same as Ozzy and got the Rocco flirty face which ends up looking like this emoji specifically

Definitely has a cool job though - maybe a runway model, artist, or some other artistic profession. Definitely from a cool part of Inner London.

*Editing to add:

It’s been brought to my attention that the way I worded this criticism is rather offensive, and I want to clarify what I meant. When I mentioned Andy’s eyes, I was referring to the way they were drawn. Usually when animating a character you’ll give them smile lines or crinkles to show a smile “reaches their eyes” etc, but this looks like they just slapped a shocked mouth on him and nothing else. My intention isn’t to make fun of his eye shape itself, or of any aspect of his ethnicity, it was a poorly worded/thought out criticism and I’m sorry 🤍

Villain. Calling it now, she's a villain. Her pose is too cool and confident to be anything other than a villain, because GOD FORBID Fusebox give us a strong, confident WOC that doesn't have some deep, unbridled desire to get her claws into whichever man we tell her we want.

I LOVE her design though. She's got super cute outfits, and isn't afraid to show a bit of skin (THAT CORSET TOP GIVE IT TO ME!) so definitely great style. I'm calling it now - she's a model. Might even be French. If she's French and a complete and utter bitch I might just fall in love with her, give me the pain, urgh.

SNAAAAKE SNAAAAAKEEE AHHHH IT'S A SNAAAAAKE

Don't let the glasses fool you. This man is a snake. I knew it from the second I saw him, and it's only been confirmed in the Casa postcards that @oliverslove posted. Never trust a blonde man (except Lewie, trust him with your life and ass).

Judges you on your book choices, but hasn't read one himself in years. Namedrops philosophers but has never had a unique thought in his life. Thinks some of Jordan Peterson's ideas "aren't actually that bad, when you think about it".

This is a man who looks innocent on the outside. "Oh, look at me, I'm a cute little nerd who reads books and plays D&D". But I guarantee, he's a fucking asshole. The kind of guy who thinks women owe him something, so treats them like dirt when they don't give him what he wants.

THAT SAID, his daywear is super basic but very cute, and he's wearing Versace underwear, so he's probably loaded. Jobwise - I'm putting my money on marketing or some other office-type job.

Okay, yeah, she cute. But I am suspicious of her too. Something about her screams Lily from S3 to me, like she's gonna come in purely to take my man. And what's worse, in the Casa postcard she's in bed with a girl, so she might even be taking my girl too!!!!

Love her style, but don't love her vibe. I can't even develop any thoughts outside of wild jealousy.

🤢 sorry, let me just *throws up in my mouth*, 🤢 Felix 2.0, God, I hate his character design so much. When I saw him briefly in his daywear I got SO EXCITED because I thought we might be getting a dadbod, but no, apparently the guy who walks around in the camel-hair woven poncho has a FUCKING EIGHT-PACK (FUSEBOX IN WHAT UNIVERSE?!!??!?!??) Then I thought he might be an environmentalist type, you know, vegan, save the animals and that. But then I saw his LEATHER JACKET and SHARK TOOTH NECKLACE and God damn it, I've lost all faith. This guy wants so bad to be Rocco it's not even funny, at least Rocco was decent looking, this guy has a pig snout for a nose and a smooshy face, don't ask me to elaborate, I hate him, and don't get me started on the fact he's wearing SANDALS with his FORMALWEAR

Smokes so much weed he can't get it up, will disappoint anyone who comes near him. Stay away, 0/10.

Gold diggers come get your man! It's Lucas Beresford-Smug the third. If this guy doesn't have a double-barrelled last name and a numeral in his name I will buy a hat and fucking eat it. Absolute guaranteed 100% arrogant FUCKHEAD, giant twat, thinks he is God's gift to women until he inevitably meets MC and falls so desperately in love that he changes his ways to show her he's the man she deserves. Yeah, okay, the storyline's predictable. Yes, he's likely an insufferable, sheltered, self-obsessed pig. But does that make me want him any less? ... No it does not.

Already posted it in response to @rebelrayne's husband's thoughts but what kind of spoilt little asshole wears a US$20,000 watch IN THE FUCKING SHOWER!!!!!!!

I don't care that it's water resistant to 100m you don't wear a $20k watch IN THE SHOWER and expect people to not think you're a complete and utter fucking asshole. He's a Jasper/ Lucas / Tom hybrid, with Taron Egerton's body and face, I'm getting a short king vibe but maybe that's just from the way his suit is way too big through the shoulders for him, making him look like a 1920's gangster. Works in finance or medicine, I will stake my life on it.

Blindfold this man, kidnap him, and handcuff him to the bed in the hideaway, he may very well be the death of my loyal Lewie route. He is so fine I can't breathe, it's something about the beard. Bearded men are the death of me. And if he's Ozzy's older brother, sorry, suddenly I can't breathe.

I have very few thoughts about him other than the fact he's a fucking stunning piece of artwork that, if real, I would physically need to take a bite out of. I am barking at him, god fucking damn. The arrogance and confidence and big dick energy required to wear an all-cream outfit is just... urgh, someone splash me with water.

Unfortunately, like his brother and Andy, our beloved and holiest daddy (Marshall) also got the Rocco treatment for his flirty face

It's not as bad because his beard covers the smirk, but holy shit, Fusebox, do better. I don't want to be doing a steamy scene with the boys and they whip out THIS. It makes me want to punch something. DO BETTER.

What an absolute waste of a hot-guy name. This dude looks like John Travolta had a child with Littlefoot from The Land Before Time. His mouth looks like it was slapped on his face as an afterthought, his eyebrows are too thick, and the only hot face he has is his angry one, which I'm going to be trying to elicit as often as possible. He looks like he's been to prison, Wentworth Miller vibes but not in a sexy way. Tried to join the skinheads but they didn’t want him. Tried to get a teardrop tattoo to look hard but everyone just ignored him. Strongest of strong dislike, 0/10, I will slander Toby until the day I die. Boooo. BOOOOO.