#i love charlotte for this line delivery

[curiouslilbird]

Western NC Is Not Okay

Cell service, phone lines, roads, and other infrastructure have all been damaged or destroyed, especially way up in the highest elevations.

Loved ones who live here may or may not be able to send or receive messages.

Many places out here are unrecognizable from what they looked like just a few days ago.

Most families are without power, and panic buying of food and fuel have already started.

Many restaurants and grocery stores are either running out of food, are without power themselves, or have been damaged too much to function.

Many are fleeing east to Gastonia, Charlotte, and further toward the coast, where power is more stable and food is at least a bit more reachable.

Out where I am, about an hour west of Gastonia, I was lucky to find a friend with power so I can use my CPAP and charge my phone. Lots of people like me are relying on cell phones as their sole source of communication, but with cell towers messed up and hilly terrain, even that is spotty at best.

I am doing better than most. My house is undamaged as of now, our cars work, and I am in a safe shelter with power, but even so, I am still worried about being able to access food and gas once our small supplies are gone. We're currently limiting driving to emergency measures only, but here in the south, public transit is simply not a thing...the closest train station, for instance, is an hour away in Gastonia. Biking is also not safe with all the downed trees and power lines, plus just the sheer distance between places and the lack of bike lanes and sidewalks in general.

As car and gas dependent as we all are, not being able to buy gas anywhere reasonably close is a huge problem. I sure hope deliveries of gas can be made to this area soon, because that makes finding food much easier. I don't have any problem driving the 50-60 miles to Charlotte to find food, but it will become an issue if I sit in heavy traffic and lose my little supply of fuel that way.

Honestly I know I personally underprepared for this storm, but I also had no idea how bad our infrastructure is without power and gas. Everything's electronic and now stores have had to go back to cash only...which meant we drove 2 hours around yesterday trying to find a working ATM and/or a store that took cards. At least people are being fairly gracious in stores so far, but desperation can quickly change that.

So, yeah...WNC is not okay, and because of the conditions, a lot of people can't even get the word out. I'm one of the lucky ones with a working cell signal and relative peace to be able to communicate, and I have the hope of being able to go home to an undamaged home within days. (I don't know yet how vain that hope is....both weather flood warnings and power outage advisories keep being pushed back.)

In any case, travel to or through WNC in the next few days/weeks/months is basically a no-go, especially for places like Asheville and Boone. Down the mountain where we are, things are a bit better here, but it's still a developing situation. Hoping for the best. 💞💔💞

[silencefromafar]

I couldn't agree more with you. I'm not entirely hating their fight, I was so excited to see it, but in the end, it dragged on, and it was filled with cumbersome elements (pointless shapeshifting and swinging swords with no damage inflicted), and there was no emotional payoff.

I was waiting to see their "cosmic connection" being acknowledged by both characters, but it's like the writers categorically refused to make Galadriel admit for one second that what they had was real, which would make their bond even more horrifying knowing who Sauron is and what he has done and will do.

Sauron torturing and killing Celebrimbor was devastating, it was beyond traumatizing, and yet Celebrimbor pierced Sauron so thoroughly he made him lose control, and they both cried. It was a gut punch, but it was emotionally satisfying.

I didn't feel that with Sauron and Galadriel, and I don't care that Charlotte Brandström said that Galadriel and Sauron 'love' each other, and I say that as someone who enjoys haladriel (doomed lady of light/dark lord dynamic). Show, don't tell.

I understand my take is very unpopular, but the "heal yourself" line really sounded like a "go fuck yourself", and I don't think it was earned at that point, not truly. It's cliché, but I think even the "over my dead body you shall have my ring" would have worked better than that line. :/

Hello there, Nonnie! Thanks for sharing your thoughts, I love this kind of insightful exchange. If you're the same Anon from the previous ask then thanks for coming back!

"No emotional payoff" yeah, I couldn't have said it better, my friend. But that's not exclusive to the Saurondriel reunion: most character arcs and storylines were concluded the same way (notable exception being Celebrimbor and Annatar). After rewatching the last two episodes and picking scenes apart I'm mostly certain that:

There were reshoots;

They filmed a LOT more content than what was aired, and that missing content left clear gaps in the narrative;

Many scenes that made it to the finale were done in a hurry, including most of Galadriel x Sauron fight and, I believe, the Stranger confrontation with the Dark Wizard;

The good points of the Saurondriel reunion are drowning in a sea of uninspired action gimmicks and stale dialogue;

Either they genuinely didn't know what to do with the Saurondriel confrontation (hence the uninspired and recycled dialogue) or they decided (or were pressured) to tone down from what they originally intended to do, leave things as ambiguous as possible and not commit to a clear path (hence all the narrative mixed signals and tentative hints of elrondriel);

The Galadriel we got in the finale was, for the most part, Young Adult Action Franchise Protagonist Galadriel. She stood out from the emotional backdrop like an incredibly 2D sore thumb made from witty remarks and don't f*ck with me attitude;

All of the above leads me to believe that the showrunners and writers are having real trouble with all the different storylines. They might know what story they want to tell, but they surely are struggling with pacing, development and execution within the screentime they have available. Some external factors might be weighing down on the narrative decisions as well.

P.S.: I hate the 'heal yourself' as well. It's not about the idea in itself, it's all about setting and delivery. There are better ways to convey the message than with that 'Pwned! Galadriel out! *mic drop*' cringe approach they went for.

[glindaupland]

The Phantom of the Opera | Seoul, South Korea | 조팬텀 x 손크리 Review 4/6

October 13, 2023 - Matinée

The Phantom of the Opera | 조승우 Jo Seung-woo

Christine Daaé | 손지수 Sohn Ji-soo

Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny | 송원근 Song Won-geun

Carlotta Giudicelli | 이지영 Lee Ji-young

Final boss of ticketing, Jo Seung-woo! The last one I snatched out of the four in one single ticketing after an hour of suffering. He's a pretty big actor who sells out shows quickly and has also been in dramas and movies. By the time you make it into one of his schedules' seating charts, the seats are all grayed out. So I had to keep refreshing and playing fucking whack-a-mole with the single color specks for any released seats that would pop up. One time I even even made it all the way to confirming payment and it said someone else took it. I actually thought I was about to turn into the Joker. But I am stronger! I won! And after seeing his performance in person? It was worth the fight.

I'll start this off with this tweet:

Shoutout to the guy next to me that was in shambles crying through his binoculars I hope he lived. Admittedly I did get teary-eyed myself! Which is quite an accomplishment even if it wasn't full blown tears like when seeing Ju-taek because I thought I was immune to this show after so long! But this is like uber sad pathetic wet cat man. My seat was actually a great unobstructed view with lots of space in the aisle. The Charlotte is so small that absolutely any view here is a good one especially if you have a pair of opera glasses/binoculars. Also I was safe from the piercing screams of the ballet girls! Hurray!

Hannibal Rehearsal

I really thought "I'll only use my binoculars for the major scenes with the trio because it's too tiring to hold them up", but that was a lie because I loved observing the supporting cast and ensemble too much. This time I watched for the smaller details like Christine quietly singing along to herself on the side while Carlotta was singing 'Think of Me'. Both Christines do it, but I remembered to look for it this show :') Kim Ah-seon had been clearly still recovering from being sick the previous performances, but I think she finally had her strength again this show. I love how elegant and dignified she is and her strong line delivery

The Mirror

Hearing Raoul's voice made the Phantom shoot a dark glare towards the dressing room door. Then, with the slightest smirk, he invited Christine into the mirror. Is somebody proud they managed to swipe the girl from the pretty young rich boy tonight? Ha

First Lair | POTO / MOTN / STYDI

Even if he's like...the most sad sewer creature-y of the Phantoms he's still got his charm okay! His voice isn't very strong, but I think he was able to handle it well enough during my show. He sounds older than he is actually is to me. How do I elaborate without making it sound backhanded? Even though he struggles in some areas with his singing, I think his vocal color is still suited for the energy his Phantom has. I'm just going to have to hope you understand me 😭 Whatever he lacks in that department, he certainly makes up for it in acting. It seems like he never stops onstage, like he's always making so many little choices at every moment. So it was a bit hard to keep track of everything he did because he was constantly doing something and was really immersed. I liked the sort of dreamy delivery of the beginning lines like the whispered way he sings "어둠...속에 - in the darkness". Halfway through the song he seems to build a little more enthusiasm seeing how open she is to him. He used more soft hand movements to act out certain parts of the lyrics like both his ear and then his body when he sang 들어, 느껴 - hear it, feel it". It's like really wanted to paint a clear picture of his mysterious beautiful dark world of music for Christine. I liked when he did a gesture with his hands like energy bursting free when he sang his big note in “네 영혼 다시 태어날 순간 / The moment your soul will be reborn” (let your soul take you where you long to be). This version of the line is unique to his Phantom. He smiled a lot and although he had a bit of a slight odd nervous energy, he still managed to maintain eye contact with her most of the time. Once he finally held her, he rested his head on her shoulder and whispered his words into her ear. 👀 He looked really worried and tried to catch her when she fell. After putting the cloak on her, I think he went to touch her, but stopped himself feeling a bit nervous. He put his hand on his chest instead to finish his final note

"Fake it til you make it" was working so well until it wasn't. Whatever confidence he built up during MOTN...bye. He's a little scary at the end when he shrieks out the 'Curse you!' and an extra 'No!' But most of all he's just really sad. When he asked her "what did you hope to see?" while chasing her, his voice sounded hurt and there was fear in his eyes. Like why, why did you have to be curious when I actually had it under control somehow? He slid slowly to the ground in defeat halfway through the song when he began the crawl. He eventually stopped making an effort to cover his face on his way toward her. Maybe he was so destroyed he didn't have the energy to. I liked how natural his acting felt here. It was tragic without being over the top. But I felt this about a lot of his choices in general

All I Ask of You (Reprise)

What a sad little man, completely a wreck. He covered his ears pleading "그만 제발 그만 크리스틴 다에 ! - Stop, please stop, Christine Daaé!" There should be a Christine Daaé name drop counter for Jo Phantom. He loves to say her name!!

Why So Silent? / Notes II

Taking focus away from the main roles for a moment, André is sooo extra stressed by this point. He fumbled the score when the Phantom tossed it to him. He does this every show, but this time I only just noticed him quickly doing sign of the cross during Notes II when they were opening up letters. He got super jumpy Also, Firmin and André start laughing to each other and making silly gestures making fun of Piangi when the Phantom starts attacking him in his note, but as soon as he addresses them, oh it suddenly really wasn't funny anymore!

The Point of No Return

Somebody help this man he already got jumpy simply just hearing her start to sing. 🤭 JSW Phantom seemed like the weakest one here across from Christine. He’s writhing terribly and gripping himself He was startled the most when she was close behind and he began to tremble. But when Christine finally touches him he moaned a little. It wasn't very loud, but it definitely was there and he threw his head back. His hands reached up to his face as he looked up before he finally held hers. This proposal was a mess. He got down on one knee at one point, but then he got too freaked out and shot right back up again as if he realized it was too vulnerable of a position to be in. When he was unmasked, he didn't scream and it was actually really heartbreaking to me. Like I do love a good scream, but ouch. His face dropped and he froze in complete shock looking like he'd been stabbed in the heart. His eyes darted around for a moment seeing everyone watching him like a trapped animal. It took him a moment to snap out of his daze and run off with her.

Down Once More / Final Lair

After throwing Christine, he almost looked regretful like he realized he was too hard, but then tried to push forward. Because he was fueled by anger, he didn't hide his face away as much like usual. It was still clear he was very actively disgusted by it. He touched his face for a moment after he let go of her and then immediately wiped his hand on his thigh. This performance he was actually able to look into her eyes when giving her the bouquet instead of looking down in shame. When he picked up the mirror bride to toss her he sang his lines into her ear in a whisper and actually very gently just plopped her on the ground instead of throwing her. I love this weird little detail I won't lie...it was kinda cute and silly that he had to hop a little to reach Won-geun's neck with the lasso haha. It's not supposed to be cute but I find it cute okay. He covered his ears while crying when she was coming over to him before the kiss :( After the first kiss it looked like he put his face in her shoulder for a moment, but still didn't have his hands on her. He seemed to give in a little for a second, but then took her hand off his head, looked at it for a moment, and gently wiped it with his sleeve like he couldn't let her have his filth taint her... When he approached Raoul with the candle, he could almost barely be heard whispering "Raoul de Chagny..." slowly in a chilling way before releasing him and turning away. I think he harbors the most bitterness towards Raoul out of the Phantoms. He's the most insecure one, and Raoul is everything he'll never be. He fell and pressed his head into the ground roughly while shaking when he screamed for them to leave him. And his scream was so painful and raw I don't know how he lets that out. He stayed like this for a while before he crawled clumsily and quickly towards the monkey in desperate need of any kind of comfort. He put his forehead head against it, closed his eyes tightly and held it so closely while he sang Masquerade. Christine came back and he tried to fix his hair and clothes before going to her I think SJS Christine was a good match for his interpretation of the Phantom because of how unconditionally compassionate she is. He was very fragile and she's very caring and gentle. I think she really did view JSW Phantom as her guardian and guide and had a very pure deep kind of love for him. Maybe not romantic love, but it was very strong either way. She watched him closely in the boat as she left, but he was facing the other way gripping her veil, repeating her name over and over. He turned at the last moment and called out "Christine Daaé!" one more time to her running over to take in the sight of her one last time. His final lines are actually different from the other Phantoms. It only just hit me the other day that they're the same as the lines from the original production in 2001-2. No idea why it took me that long to make the connection, but I found it interesting enough to note!

I really want to do musical promo time, but I really don't think what's on youtube does him justice. So let me just say his 2019 Jekyll/Hyde + Sweeney Todd and his Hedwig? Incredible. There's a reason for that ticket selling power he has and I say that completely unbiased!

Also lol at the person in front of me on the plane to Seoul that was watching his movie 'The Classic' because I was like "oh hey it's you I'm seeing you in a few days"

[dissectedgrrl]

okay fir starkid

whats ur favorite song and why?

who’s ur favorite character? and whats ur favorite moment from them

were you sad or happy with the ending, and what do you think it contributes?

(assuming u mean hatchetfield since thats my obsession atm)

omg okay so. i have so many favorite songs its ridiculous . . . . so i'll color code them. if the words r in color it means im still on this question 😭

from tgwdlm i LOVE join us and die, cup of roasted/poisoned coffee + not your seed

join us and die because it just feels so. CREEPY !!!!!!! and the scene itself is so great i love that charlotte's guts r spillin outta her eww

cup of roasted/poisoned coffee because again VERY CREEPY. and the choreo is so nice to watch. not to mention their VOCALS when they sing the last "hey mr. business how do ya, how do ya, how do ya doooooo ?" like omgggg

not your seed because i relate to it a bit AND the scene is so important 2 me. when alice says its "all your fault" while addressing bill . . . . she wasnt thinking abt bill when she thought that originally she was most likely saying that to herself and UGH my baby 😭

from black friday i <3 caliform.i.a + do you wanna play

caliform.i.a is js such a sweet song to me idk. you can tell how much lex and ethan care abt each other and hannah and and and. UGHHHH. in my mind they made it to california idc idc

do you wanna play because. EVIL. WOMEN !!!!!!! becky is so hot i mean what who wrote that. seriously tho i just love her voice sm UGGHHHH

from npmd my faves r hatchet town, nerdy prudes must die (omg they said the thing !!) + just for once

hatchet town because. good lord. THE VOCALSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS. send tweet

nerdy prudes must die bc the scene ?? the line delivery ?? the peak villainy radiating off of man jagerman ?? hello ?? omg ?? im in love ??

just for once because its from the pov of a character in an in universe play but it also shows us how ruth really feels. she just wants to be seen. me n her r twinning frfr

i have a lot of faves (becky, linda, ruth, richie, paul, zoey, bill, etc etc) but background characters always capture my heart so im gonna go with ziggy. they r sooooo important 2 me and they barely even talk omg. when they said "so is that a crime?" to being called out for being a drug dealer . . . . oh ziggy they could never make me hate u

i was happy with every ending !! i feel like theyre all so perfect especially black friday's. they always leave you wanting more

[tyrantisterror]

For the past two years, I've been introducing a friend to Wizard School Mysteries by live reading the first two books over Discord, and she's loved everything about them so far (especially certain characters; I can confirm that Fafgander, Dhenregirr, Demonbone and Professor Spidergrin officially have the monsterfucker seal of approval). However, one line from Book 2 stuck out during one of these readings that made me wonder whether the impression we got was due to my own delivery or intentional on your part.

I reading the Needlessly Gendered Night Out chapter, and I ended up delivering Polybeus asking James to be his wingman as if it were a marriage proposal. On one hand, I just thought it was the funniest way to read that line at the time (which my friend's reaction confirmed), but on the other, it ties in so well with Margot's suspicions of Polybeus having a crush on James back in the first book that I can't help but wonder if that was the connotation you had in mind in the first place...

Well, firstly, thank you for that! I can't overstate how much I appreciate it when people spread the word about my books, and the idea of someone doing a dramatic reading of them in particular just makes the novelist AND theater kid in me very happy.

I've definitely written Polybeus and James's interactions to be very flirty, particularly on Polybeus's end. Polybeus is the Rival archetype, after all, and if your Leader of the Group and the Rival don't have some shipping sparks going on, you're probably not writing them right. So even as the nature of that rivalry evolves into something more friendly/healthy in book 2, it remains very flirty because Polybeus is, on some level, kind of obsessed with James.

Now, at the moment the exact nature of that relationship is intentionally vague. Perhaps not from James's end - we kinda know where he's leaning romantically by this point, right? - but for Polybeus it, like many things in his life, is in flux. A huge part of Polybeus's arc, especially in book 2, is figuring out exactly who he is and what he really wants.

Polybeus comes from Mediterra, specifically the part of Mediterra that's based on the Greek version of Greco-Roman mythology rather than the Roman version, which means homosexuality/bisexuality is pretty normalized where he comes from. His favorite hero, Achilles, is explicitly a gay man in Midgaheim canon. So Polybeus isn't unaware of homosexual attraction, nor does he have any reason to think he can't feel it. So him not knowing exactly why he's obsessed with James isn't a sort of "guy who's been raised to think he's straight doesn't realize he's gay" situation. He's been raised in a culture where people are kinda assumed to be bisexual by default.

But he's also raised in a culture with a strong emphasis on platonic homosocial relationships as well - warrior bonds and the like. Your closest buddy on the battlefield is just as important a relationship to a Mediterran like Polybeus as your romantic partner - and yeah, for some people those two are one and the same, but for others they aren't.

And then there's also just the fact that James is, in many ways, exactly who Polybeus wishes he was. James is clever like Odysseus, marked for greatness by a higher power, and capable of attracting friends and followers with what appears to be relative ease. He's confident (or so Polybeus assumes) and strong and brave, all traits Polybeus fully believes he himself lacks.

So what is the source of the obsession? Romantic desire? A warrior's bond? Envy? Polybeus himself doesn't know, just as he doesn't know what most of his other desires are or why he has them. But it's something for him to unravel as our story goes along.

And you know, we also have to take into account the fact that James isn't the only person Polybeus flirts with. He's infatuated with Gretchen too, even if he expresses it clumsily, and he's got a strange friendship budding with Charlotte, not to mention the somewhat Helga Patacki-ish treatment he gives Ivan. Polybeus contains multitudes, really.

[twittercomfrnklin2001-blog]

The Sentinel

I first saw Michael Winner’s THE SENTINEL (1977, Shudder, AMC+) in a TV print with large-scale cuts that rendered it virtually incomprehensible. Watching the complete version certainly makes the plot more coherent but doesn’t exactly alleviate the general, all-around rottenness. One of those all-name (if not star) films Hollywood loved back in the 1970s, it suggests that it takes nine Tonys, six Oscars and another 17 nominations to make a film this bad. Of course, it’s not fair to lay all the blame on the actors. The lion’s share goes to Winner, whose direction and screenplay adaptation carry a lot of fetid weight even the best actor couldn’t counterbalance.

After two suicide attempts, model Cristina Raines insists on a spending at least a year living alone before she’ll marry her fiancé, crooked lawyer Chris Sarandon. The only furnished place she can find in her price range is an historic Brooklyn brownstone. But soon she’s plagued by strange nocturnal noises and even stranger neighbors, although the rental agent (Ava Gardner) informs her the only other tenant in the building is a blind priest (John Carradine) living on the top floor. In fact, the building is owned by the church for purposes I dare not divulge.

The film views corruption as the source of horror. The problem, however, is where it locates that corruption. There’s no issue with making Sarandon a crooked lawyer. But the non-existent neighbors include a flaming queen (Burgess Meredith) and a pair of lesbian exhibitionists (Sylvia Miles and Beverly D’Angelo,and I wonder if D’Angelo lists her movie debut as “masturbating lesbian” on her resume). From there, the film also presents corruption in the form of age, mild obesity, infirmity and physical disability. Hell, even Meredith’s cat is corrupt (though given my Charlotte’s habit of waking me up at 5 a.m. to give her breakfast, that may not be a bad idea). And what’s the only hope for fighting this corruption? Why, it’s the Catholic Church, a plot element that hasn’t aged very well, though with the plot’s outcome, it wouldn’t exactly have seemed a ray of sunshine back in 1977 either.

The best thing about THE SENTINEL is probably Gil Melle’s score. He was brought in to replace John Williams, who wisely left to work on STAR WARS (1977), and Melle wisely models some of his music cues on Williams’ style. As for the actors, Sarandon does his best. Raines is a charming comedienne, and she commits to the big emotional moments. But she has problems sounding genuine on normal, everyday lines. For them she has a singsong, whining delivery that makes her seem more bad local newscaster than character. Most of the veterans chew a lot of scenery, with Miles, who’s usually deliciously camp, annoyingly so. Only Arthur Kennedy, as a priest, and Gardner have the wisdom to underplay, so they tend to steal every scene they’re in. If you’re good, you’ll spot early appearances by Christopher Walken, Jeff Goldblum, Charles Kimbrough, Tom Berenger and Nana Visitor. I even caught three actors from the late, still lamented ANOTHER WORLD.

[kiquebi]

Tarot Delivery ^_^

Sun - Moe

Attributes: Warmth, Joy, Success, Enthusiasm, Recognition

Reversed Attributes: Optimism, Freedom from Care, Trouble Seeing the Bright Side

Coming out of the inner turmoil and conflict of the Star and the Moon, THE SUN promises sunny days ahead. You've done the work to process past trauma, stepped into your power, and owned who you truly are. The Sun's rays illuminate your future, clear away confusion, and eradicate anger. With this type of energy, confidence, recognition, and success are natural conclusions. Now all that's left to do is shine bright!

The Sun's analogue in anime is Moe. Moes are precious, warm, upbeat, and positive characters- kind and joyful youths who usually support main characters as sunny, optimistic counterparts to complex and dramatic plot points. They might have backstories that, once revealed, show that they, too, have gone through trauma, but no matter how painful their past, these characters always have smiles to offer.

REVERSED, the Sun card can hint at a few different things: either you're having difficulty seeing and appreciating the silver linings in life, or your successes and celebrations are taking longer to actualize. Be patient, because happiness, joy, and love are on the horizon- but be careful to not be overly optimistic. Check with those you trust to make sure you're being realistic

Moes appear in: Yona of the Dawn (Tae-Yeon) Berserk (Erika and Princess Charlotte) Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Vento Aureo (Narancia Ghirga) March Comes in Like a Lion (Momo Kawamoto) Kyoukai no Kanata (Mirai Kuriyama) Fruits Basket (Momiji Sohma)

Pretty pretty tarot! Oh boy am I a sucker for sun characters in anime… I should rewatch some anime soon.

Anyhow, did u sleep well Kade? ^w^

[the-haunted-office]

Another one I'm interested in! I have got to stop looking at books. xD

In a dead-end town, pizza delivery boy Gavin Reser's life is going nowhere, fast. His saving grace? Charlotte, his brilliant high school sweetheart, who sees the good in him no one else does.

On an ill-fated pizza delivery run, a mysterious shooting star leads Gavin to the Dark Convoy, a sinister organization catering to the universe's most dangerous clientele. Their offer? Complete five jobs as one of their getaway drivers, and he'll be set for life. Fail, and he and Charlotte are as good as dead.

As Gavin plunges into a world of cosmic horror and impossible choices, the line between good and evil blurs. How much of his humanity will he sacrifice to save the people he loves?

Buckle up for a mind-bending journey—the NoSleep cult classic that will leave you questioning reality long after the final page.

[alebanana]

DUDE YOURE SO RIGHT!!

Joshua Kilimnik killed it as Mendel!! And youre right he was the perfect amount of insufferable as any Mendel should be. He sincerely became my favorite version of the character.

I personally didn't like Taylor Long as Marvin at all tho!! I dont know why, but he didnt feel like a Marvin to me. Hes acting felt cheaper than other Marvins and the tension of his and whizzer relationship on Act 1 was completely lost on me (Thrill Of First Love and The Chess Game suffered from this so much)

He made me feel close to nothing the entire show, which is an extremely jarring change from other actors (My favorites being Michael Rupert, 2004 Northwestern University Marvin and Christian Borle). I agree that one of the reasons for that is that his voice was a bit much too, but i believe his acting was also lacking.

I loved this Trina tho!! Olivia Daniels had such great chemistry with Taylor Long and Joshua Kilimnik and her acting was on point most of the time. I totally agree she didnt feel as manic as she should have during Act 1 but i didnt mind it too much.

I didnt hate Randy Lei Chang as Whizzer but I didnt loved him either. He hits the notes and all but i feel like he was a somewhat flat version of the character. I have a problem with his lack of subtle acting, opting for really exaggerated body movements, facial expressions and line delivery, which didnt fit the character more often than not.

Mostly i disliked Luca Mcphee, its was a very different interpretation of the character and even if the acting was good, i just couldn't warm up to the drastic change, it felt out of character and out of place in the story. Tho i predict this opinion will change the more i watch this production or the more i think about it. (For some reason i have a very bad issue with her line delivery of "If im a bitch, well, i am what i am", cant explain it, wont explain it)

I really enjoyed Mona Hillis as Cordelia, only problem is that i felt she didnt have a lot of chemistry with Charlotte and such, but shes overall an amazing singer and plays the character really well.

Jason is a hit or miss in any production, but k believe Max Goodman was a hit. He wasnt as good (or as sassy) as my favorite Jasons (Anthony Rosenthal and Thomas Creatore) but he definitely stands out in a good way. Hes also the cutest Jason so theres that!

And ill mourn the loss of the chess set still the day i die. Even if its creative in its use of the staging and all, The Chess Game didnt feel right without it (i especially love the 2004 Northwestern University version, i think everyone should see it... just saying)

But anyhow i hope you enjoy the rest of the show if you havent finished it yet!! Its a pretty good show as it is, im just a fellow nitpicker!!

Gonna be a hater for a bit, enjoy the negativity about the new falsettos production from bow tie productions, no hate to the peeps but I want to rant and my falsettos irl friend is busy.

Here’s what I liked:

Jason was actually played by a kid!!

Randy Lei Chang really embodied Whizzer well, though I think his performance was lacking at times.

Joshua Kilmnik played a great Mendel, just the right amount of insufferable (again great job)

Marvin and Whizzer had great chemistry

Taylor Long is an amazing singer (more on this later)

Choreo was well done

The set was cool

Costumes were well done, not very 80s but embodied the characters very well

Jason actually did a great job, especially for being a kid

Mendels little crowd interaction at the start of act 2

I liked March of the falsettos a lot, especially Mendel and Whizzer (will also touch on later)

Nice detail to have Mendel put a menorah in “the home” during making a home

The SCREAMs for the lesbians were amazing

Trina and Marvin had great chemistry together (as in great chemistry for hating each other)

Now for my hating <3

I’m pretty sure Olivia daniels was the only actual Jewish actor (maybe Marvin?) in a musical about Jewish people in the 80s so that’s something, that’s not a negative per say but its just a little disappointing Y’know? But I’m also not Jewish so I can’t really say anything

On that same note Trina’s actual voice was not great at times, she fell flat and offkey at times, but everyone’s only human. Also she didn’t feel manic enough during the first act, especially breaking down.

It was a very cool idea to pull people in from the audience during March of the falsettos but it undermines the point of the song. Same with them being in baseball uniforms, cool idea but defeats the purpose of song.

I think Marvin was had to much going on at times but Taylor Long has a history in opera so it makes sense he was a bit much at times

Lack of a chess prop throughout the musical was disappointing. Especially during chess game (obvi) and Jason bits of being a shut in who *plays chess* in his room all day (in act one)

Marvin’s mic was too quiet in about time

I stopped watching at year of the child so I can’t say crap about the rest of it. This was my two bits, over all everyone did a great job though!! This is mostly being nitpicky. I am one of the 52 likes so go show this production the love it deserves!!

Here’s the show!! Go watch and make your own opinions please!!

[smaptain-smerica]

Female Reader x Rooster

Time: Post-Top gun: Maverick

Y/n Blackwood - L/n, daughter of Charlotte "Charlie" Blackwood. Y/n took a strong interest in planes from a young age. Knowing her father was an esteemed pilot drew her even further into the navy. Quickly, she became one of the best solo pilots and graduating at the top of her class at Top Gun.

Her next mission? Return to Top Gun, Face certain death, romantic interests, and finally, her thought-to-be-dead, father.

This book contains strong language and sexual content that may be sensitive readers under the age of 18

This story was originally posted on Wattpad, follow me on there for faster updates. I have published a non-binary version of this story published there for those who do not identify as female or use she/her pronouns. It will follow the exact same story line. Link to Wattpad Account Link to the Non-Binary version

Master list

In Love

Sleeping in felt weird. I woke up with a heavy sleep feeling in my eyes that caused me to rub them fairly roughly. I sat up in my bed and stretched my arms up wide.

I had went to bed in my undergarments (being a white tank top and long pants) with my hair in a tight bun that caused me to wake up with a small headache. I immediately took my hair out of my bun and shook it out.

I heard my phone buzz next to my bed. I got up to look at it and read the text from my step-father.

I smiled at the nickname. If anybody else called me that, it would be a bad day for them. But my step father and i bonded over watching game of thrones together which is where the nickname originated from. I sent him a quick reply back saying I missed him and that I'd call later tonight.

I sat down at the chair at my desk and decided to go through my phone a little. I noticed a twitter notification that Hangman had tagged me in a post. I reluctantly opened the notification, but ended up smiling at his thoughtfulness. 

I closed my phone, deciding to thank him in person today since I was actually able to. I quickly got dressed and grabbed my hairbrush and toothbrush to make my way to the bathroom.

Once I had finished getting ready I made my way to the cafeteria. As I entered I smiled and waved at everyone who greeted me with a good morning. Unbeknownst to me, Hangman was lurking in the shadows because moments later I was picked up and spun around in the air.

"Happy birthday!" He shouted while holding an exaggerated note to extend the word 'day'. I couldn't help but let out a laugh and turn around to face him as he put me down. I punched him in the shoulder playfully.

"Thank you for posting that embarrassing photo." I teased.

"Isn't that what you're supposed to do on birthdays?"

"What? It's your birthday?" Phoenix stood up from the table and walked over to give me a hug. I wrapped my arms around her and smiled.

"Why didn't you tell us?" Fanboy asked while taking his turn in giving me a hug.

"I don't like making a big deal out of it."

Rooster stood up from his place at the bench. He walked over to me and gave me a hug, ducking his head down by my ear. "You could have told me that your birthday was soon."

"You never asked."

Rooster chuckled as he pulled his head back. He gave me a quick kiss on top of the head. "Happy birthday."

I felt the heat rise to my face as I smiled at him. He had a wide, toothless grin on his face while looking down at me.

"We've gotta do something tonight." Fanboy exclaimed with excitement.

"I agree. But what? We're stuck here." Payback stated.

Everybody remained silent, trying to think about what to do.

"Food delivery?" Bob suggested. We all turned to look at him. He seemed to get flustered as he was now expected to explain himself.

"Um, last week I got some food DoorDashed to the front gates. They're not allowed to come on base but we can meet them there?"

The group looked around at each other, smiles slowly spreading on their faces. "Bob you're a genius." Rooster clasped him on the shoulder and they exchanged a smile.

"A genius?" Maverick's voice alerted us at the door way. He smiled and looked around his crew. "Why's that?"

"It's Wolf's birthday. We're gonna have some things delivered tonight to celebrate." Hangman explained.

Mavericks face fell into shock as he looked over at me. "It's your birthday?"

All I could manage was to nod with a smile. I felt guilty not telling him that my birthday was soon. He was my father after all. Birthdays just weren't my thing. I ended up either crying because of other people or spending them alone. I don't think I've had a good birthday since I was 10.

Maverick walked over to me and extended his arms. I smiled and accepted his invitation to a hug. His hug was quick, but tight and loving. He drew himself back while keeping his hands on my shoulders. "Happy birthday." He said sincerely. 

"Thank you." I replied with a smile.

"Well, besides that, we're ready to start training. Hangman and Phoenix and Bob, you guys will be in the air first. The rest of the teams can utilize the screening room to go over your partners flight patterns and study the mission pattern together."

I listened to Maverick's instructions, but I couldn't help notice Phoenix and rooster off to the side whispering to each other and smiling. It was too soon for jealousy, I shouldn't be jealous. She was his friend long before I came around. I still felt an ache in my heart watching them be so close and laughing and smiling with each other.

Once Maverick was done talking the two split. Rooster immediately came over to me with a soft smile on his face. "We should use the screening room and look at flight logs. We can also review the mission plan."

I pushed my feelings of jealousy aside and smiled. "Yes, sure let's go." We started our walk to the screening room and he held the door open for me when we entered.

"You know," he started, shutting the door behind us. "I'm kind of mad you didn't tell me your birthday was in two days. I feel like an asshole, I would have gotten you in a present."

"No, Rooster seriously. It's not a big deal." I reassured him. "I don't even like to celebrate my birthday, so don't-" Rooster had walked over to me while I talked with a smug smirk on his face until we were inches apart. He put his hands on either side of my face and ducked down to kiss me. The kiss was simple and sweet, the soft touch of his lips and the rough, scratching feeling of his mustache. He pulled back and looked down at me face.

I grabbed his wrists, stroking them with my thumbs and leaning into the feeling of his course hands on my face. My heart beat faster and I felt a flutter in my stomach. I don't remember the last time that I had felt a feeling like this. "Happy birthday, sweetheart."

"Don't call me that." The truth was it made a warmth spread across my body. The nickname made me smile like an idiot, and I loved it.

"What? Why?" Rooster protested. I pushed him away playfully while I walked over to one of the computer desks to load up the program.

"I'm not sweet."

"What? Come on, you're the sweetest person I know." He followed me over to the computer, a sarcastic tone in his voice.

"Shut up." I growled at him, typing in my password to the system.

Rooster plopped down next to me in the chair, kicking his feet up onto the table. "See, honey couldn't be sweeter."

"Are you always this insufferably romantic?"

"You'll learn to love it." Rooster swiveled his chair so his upper body was closer to mine. He reached his head over to give me a quick kiss on the cheek before swiveling back to his original position.

•••

Many many hours had come and gone. Rooster kept me locked in the screening room practically all day. After studying each others flight patterns we hopped into the flight simulator and messed around. We played many games of 'try to crash your planes together while flying with your eyes closed'.

Now, we were landing our real planes after our seemingly unproductive 30 minutes of flying. Maverick had us do a series of drill formations and synchronized flying just to get comfortable with each others reaction time. I don't want to brag, but Rooster and I were flawless.

I took my helmet off my head, thankful to get out of the sweaty bowl. I thanked the landing pad coordinators that would be taking our aircrafts onto the standby carrier and met up with Rooster and Maverick on the deck.

"You two did great." Maverick complimented us. "I'm not worried about you two in the slightest. From here on just work on the formations."

"Thanks Mav. Hey what's Amelia doing later? I want to give her a call." Rooster asked.

"Penny told me she's doing homework." Maverick replied.

"Well," I interrupted their conversation. "I'm going to go in and change."

"No wait!" Rooster grabbed my wrist to prevent me from walking away. "We have a surprise for you."

"A surprise?" I questioned.

"Yes." Rooster replied. "Go get changed but Meet me outside the cafeteria immediately after."

I smiled, immediately excited about the surprise. I rushed off to my room and got changed into more comfortable clothes. I still had to dress for on call measures so I was in a white tank top and a pair of loose fitting shorts but it was better than the thick, scratchy uniform.

I walked with a pep in my step down the hallways and rounded the corner towards the cafeteria. Rooster was there, leaning against the wall. He smiled when he saw me and pushed himself up.

"So, what's the surprise?" I asked. He smiled and stepped behind me. He placed his hands over my eyes to cover them.

"Open the door!" Rooster raised his voice. I heard the latch open and the push of a door. Rooster walked me blind into the cafeteria. My heart raced with anticipation.

"Ready?"

"I think so." I replied.

Rooster removed his hands from my eyes. I opened them to see all the pilots wearing party hats. "Surprise!" Everybody shouted. The lunchroom tables had a large variety of soda and snack foods on them along with a tray of cupcakes. Fanboy walked over to me and put a party hat on top of my head, the kind with the elastic string that goes under your chin.

"You did all this for me?" I asked, feeling the emotions well up inside of me.

"Why do you think we had Rooster trap you in the screening room all day?" Phoenix asked, bringing me over a drink of my favorite soda. I took the cup gratefully.

"I don't know what to say."

"Don't say anything, stuff your face with cupcakes and chips and let's watch a movie." Rooster grabbed my shoulders and shook them a little while he talked. I agreed, filing my plate with the different snacks that were provided.

Bob had chosen the movie Step Brothers from the selection of movies that the closest Walmart would ship to us. It was a ridiculous pick, but I couldn't remember the last time I had sat down and watched a movie.

About halfway through the movie  I felt my phone buzz. I was getting a call from my step dad. I had stepped away to answer the phone.

"Hey Harry. I'm sorry I didn't call earlier."

'That's okay. I understand you're busy. How was your birthday?'

"It was great. Everybody pulled together a little surprise for me. We're watching a movie now."

'That's fantastic. Do you have an update on the mission?'

I felt my heart sink and I swallowed hard. I covered the phone with my hand to try and prevent the others from hearing.

"Yeah, We're on call. We're supposed to get the call sometime this week." There was silence on the other end of the phone. I heard him take a deep breath.

'Well, I hope everything goes well. You'll be careful, right?'

"I'm always careful. I'll talk to you after it's done."

'Alright. Well I'll let you get back to it. I Love you.'

"Love you too dad. Bye."

'Bye, little wolf."

I hung up the phone and sighed.

"Dad?"

I turned around to see Rooster had joined me in the back of the room. "My step father. Calling to say happy birthday."

"That's sweet. I was about to call Amelia, do you want to join me?" Rooster asked, taking out his phone. I smiled and nodded enthusiastically.

Rooster dialed Amelia's number. It only rang twice before she picked up the phone.

'Hey Brad!' Amelia chirped from the other side of the phone.

"Hey Amelia. I'm here with y/n."

'Hi y/n!'

"Hey Amelia." I responded with a laugh to my tone. She sounded so excited to talk to us.

"Guess what? Today is y/n's birthday." Rooster looked over at me with a smirk on his face, to which I rolled my eyes.

'No way! Happy birthday!'

"Thank you." I responded. I looked over at Rooster. His face had fallen slightly as he cleared his throat to continue.

"I assume Penny told you about us going on the mission soon?" There was a pause on the other side of the line, I could hear the smallest huff of air come through the speaker.

'Yeah, she did. I'm really nervous. Will you guys be okay?'

Rooster and I exchanged looks. It was impossible to know that for sure. I felt prepared, but there was still the underlying nervousness of knowing that death might be lurking around the corner. Rooster looked down at the phone, his eyes looked lost. I decided to jump in and answer for him.

"Luckily, Roos- Bradley and I were put on a team together. We make a good team, we'll be fine." I looked over at rooster who mouthed thank you to me.

'You guys were put on a team together? Does Pete know about the date? How was the date? Did he take you somewhere nice? Oh my gosh did you kiss?'

"Amelia keep your voice down!" Rooster whisper shouted into the phone. I covered my mouth to prevent myself from breaking down laughing.

'I'm sorry! I have to know!'

"Pete does not know and it needs to stay that way." Rooster said sternly.

"The date was great. I already agreed to go on a second one. And..." I exchanged a glance with Rooster, both of us knowing more than just a kiss happened. "Yes. He kissed me."

'Damn Bradshaw, who knew you had game.'

"Amelia!" Rooster scolded her. This time I couldn't hold it back. I laughed at their sibling-like banter. "Well we should get back to it. I just wanted to check in."

'Okay. Promise me you guys will be careful?'

"We promise." Rooster and I said in unison.

We said our goodbyes and then hung up the phone. We turned around to see that the movie had just ended and everyone was getting up from their spots. We all cleaned up the mess and did our best to put everything back where it was.

I said my goodbyes and thank you's to all of my friends that helped my birthday be something special. As I made my way back to my room, I checked my phone. I saw the notifications of posts from the pilots. I smiled, feeling the love and appreciation from my fellow peers. For the first time in a long time, I went to sleep happy on my birthday.

Today has been a fantastic day.

Next Chapter

[awigglycultist]

Hey, Melissa! Read through thoughts bc I'm super behind on the stream but there's no way I was gonna just catch up and start watching were the stream is now, absolutely had to watch this first

"hey nick! Hey nick? Before we get started can I ask a character question?"

Ted pt 2

Omg Jeff-

Fanart my beloved everyone's incredible <3

Charlotte :( hnggg

Also yes Melissa likes cats!

Paul!!

Oh yeah Melissa likes Paul doesn't she

Bill!

Yeah Bill! Call Paul out!

Yeah Paul! Call Bill out!

You see your daughter in her hey?

TED!

Okay Jesus Ted

It's... Kinda.. Sweet? In a way? That Ted doesn't want step on Paul's game and chances with Melissa. I mean considering heoves fucking other Men's wives, and as someone who's obsessed with the fact Ted sees Paul as his best friend, there's something nice about Ted saying this... Even if it's followed by him being a horny bastard and saying he can't keep it up for long

"you're a fucking idiot Paul!"

He doesn't like her bc she's a cat person? I agree with Ted, "come on Matthews!"

Paul's childhood pets were named Spot and Whiskers my god he's so fucking Normal™

"well your lost fuckhead!" "yeah, ya fuckhead"

Ted doesn't see women as something you can, it's a win!!

Oh no Freddy is going to fucking run Ted over isn't he? If he dies this soon istg-

Omg no his office is empty omg noooo

But they didn't actually say he's dead... Maybe... Maybe there's a chance-

Melissa how do you not know Paul despises musicals?

Working Boys?!

"do you like film?" "not particularly" this single handly destroyed everyone's hc that's Paul's has a special interest in movies wtf Langs I'm gonna pretend that he does like film and only said this to get out of going out with Melissa

Beanies delivers?

Emma!!

Paulkins :))

Oh poor Melissa :(

Yeah Melissa stand up for yourself!! I love you!

Oh boy I wonder what he wants to tell his wife...

He'll never be able tell his wife huh?

"don't work to hard" "I don't :)"

Oh no...

I wonder if it's Freddy or is it Melissa?

Yeah!! Melissa! Badass!

Oh god Mr Davidson why would you keep that in your office...

Paul is a good man :) I love him :)

Wow Paul really loved that dog

LANGS STOP KILLING THE DOGS :( FFS

I mean it was when he was 10 so Spot would dead by now anyway ig but COME ON

Okay wow jeez Melissa he didn't mean for the dog to die, he didn't kill the dog it was accident

Teddy Bear? I.. Don't like that...

Holy fuck wtf Melissa omg

But at least Ted's alive!!

She cut off his fingers? Melissa is the human pet guy-

Can I just say Jon's scream in response to the taser was great

The way Melissa is saying absolutely terrifying things while also saying "soft little puppy beans!"

Something about Jon "Catteson" playing Paul pretending to be a cat

Also Melissa has lost her mind like she fully thinks Paul is a cat just bc he meowed

Ignoring the irony she is right about declawing being inhumane

Melissa should know that cats don't listen well

She's leaving RUN PAUL RUN TED

"WHAT THE FUCK TED!? WHAT THE SERIOUS FUCK!?" this line has me dead and Jon's delivery is grest I will be quoting this forever

Honestly yeah piss on her couch, she deserves it

The way Ted's totally accepted that he's stuck here

Joey omfg

Why would she record it??

Emma! Omg yes Emma that's right! Emma please! Go to Melissa's house! Save them!

Okay so Melissa... Is both aware that Paul is her "cat" but also full believes he's a cat?

Yes Bill!

No Bill-!

Melissa I have a feeling your friends are gonna be freaked out by your human pets

"w e n e e d h e l p"

Yeah ofc they don't care

There's a community of ppl in hatchetfield that all have human pets

Ted you fucking horny bastard-

TED THIS IS YOUR CHANCE YOU CAN FUCK OTHER WOMEN LATER WHEN YOU ESCAPE THE TREAT PROBABLY ISN'T GONNA BE SEX ANYWAY YOU DUMBASS

"if you go near that door I will bark at you! I swear to god I will bark at you Paul!" this is another line I'll be quoting a lot

Please the Scooby Doo impression

Ya know... I don't actually think this is considered a treat for dogs...

Goddammit Ted's alive again

"you don't want to get another dog killed do you?" is so. So bad. Like Paul already feels terrible for accidentally getting a dog killed when he was young and now I can't imagine how he feels partially being the reason Ted's dead... And then Melissa saying this, like obviously everything she's done up to this point is worse but like goddamn the psychological hurt

BILL!!!

Bill.... Daddy.. No..

PLZ NO GIRLS DONT NOT BILL NOT BILL PLEASE

PAUL!!!

Bill you dumbass-

NO OFC A CAR WOULD HIT PAUL

A gun?

FREDDY?? I CAN'T BELIEVE HE'S THE FUCKING HERO!? Also good job Melissa you forgot to kill him

HE'S APART OF THE FBI???

The Kitty Cat Club?

Okay come on you didn't have to saw paw

13?

Paul let it go she deserves to feel bad for this if nothing else

SHE'S GONE? HOW?

Paul- Paul- PAUL WHAT DID YOU DO

PAUL YES SHE IS A MONSTER SHE KILLED 13 PEOPLE YOU LITERALLY SAW HER KILL TED SHE WAS GOING TO KILL YOU TOO

PAUL WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU

"love comes in all forms"

[midnightswithdearkatytspb]

VelvetCardiganBucky’s Recommendations 2021: Week 16 | April 11th – April 17th

Welcome to week 16 of my recommendations, if you would like to be featured on a future list, I follow the hashtag #VelvetCardiganBucky, message me, tag me in your future works, or reblog this post and link to your story, one-shot, Masterlist, writing challenge, etc.

Be aware some if not most stories and writers on this list are meant to be consumed by an audience of those 18+. My blog is also an 18+ blog.

✨Page breaks are made @firefly-graphics✨

«Last Week

Week 17»

My Masterlist

My Fic Rec List of Mafia/Mob Bucky/Sebastian & Steve/Chris/Andy

Stuff I Posted This Week:

Lee Bodecker

One-Shots:

Rough Love by @ladyfallonavenger » Lee Bodecker x Reader — Lee wakes to his wife getting ready for the day. This work is inspired by the song Poker Face by Lady Gaga. | So very hot. 🥵

I Can’t Wait To Meet You by @not-a-great-writer » Lee Bodecker x Pregnant!Reader — Request: Lee doesn’t want to leave his pregnant wife’s side. | I summarized the requested one-shot up. It’s very fluffy and domestic and sweet. I say we petition for the user name to be changed not a great writer to a fantastic writer!

(Mini) Series:

*Give In 🎡 Pt.21 🎡 Pt.22 by @not-a-great-writer » Soft!Dark!Lee Bodecker x Shy!Reader — She didn’t think she was anything special. So when the intimidating Sheriff takes an interest in her, she can’t help but feel a little unsettled. Her boring life is about to get a little interesting. | Can I just say this story is just *chefs kiss*? Lee Bodecker? *chefs kiss* Reader? *chefs kiss* It’s just all so perfect and so is the smut.

Bucky Barnes

One-Shots:

I’m In The Water by @nsfwsebbie » Dark!Winter Soldier x Reader — He’s in the wind, and you’re in the water. Nobody’s son, nobody’s daughter. | Read the tags, this is extremely dirty as well as dark, but I honestly enjoyed it. Sabrina really blew my mind with this one.

Show A Little Gratitude by @thicccsimp » Bucky Barnes x Reader — You discover a new kink with Bucky after making a bad call during a mission. | Hot, Hot, Hot 🥵

Just Wondering by @infernal-fire » soft!dark!Buck Barnes x Reader — Reader is pregnant and has some mixed feelings. | This is sort of adorable, and pregnancy hormones really come out in this.

Sunday Kinda’ Love by @msmarvelwrites » Bucky Barnes x Reader — You weren’t sure when it happened, falling in love with Bucky Barnes. | Brontë is such an amazing writer who wrote something that made my heart squeal while the rest of me just thought it was really hot.

Don’t You by @pagesoflauren » Bucky Barnes x Reader — Bucky sees you for the first time after breaking up with you. | Taylor Swift and Bucky Barnes what more could you ask for in life?

(Mini) Series:

Just Like Dad 💋 Pt.2 by @ladyfallonavenger » Bucky Barnes x Reader — The Reader loses Bucky in the snap and life presents a whole new challenge. | It’s got your angst and your fluff, everything you need for a perfect one-shot.

Sweet Dreams Pt.3 ✨ Pt.1 ✨ Pt.2 by @jedimastermelkor » Bucky Barnes x Reader; Mystery Avenger x Reader — Your daily routine involves waking up in the morning, going to work and sulking at night. But then you meet the man you’ve fantasized about for your entire life, Bucky Barnes. At the same time, you’ve caught someone else’s eye and his first step in winning you over is to cook you breakfast. But will you be welcoming of that person’s affections? | You can tell Bucky really likes the reader in this and the reader has a crush on Bucky. Now you add Peter who you know has a crush on the reader. It's sort of adorable. I highly recommend it. It will keep you at the edge of your seat and your jaw hitting the floor a couple of times along the way.

Stucky

(Mini) Series:

The Miracle Pt.3 ✨ Pt.1 ✨Pt.2 by @heavenhatesme » Soft!Dark!Stucky x Reader — When infertility threatens mankind with extinction and there hasn’t been a baby for almost 18 years, what happens when two certain super soldiers fall for the same woman and accidentally impregnate her? | Heed the tags folks. I want to call them soft!dark, but they are pretty dark, but it’s up to you the reader to decide. The smut in this is great, and the storyline just as good, it also pulls on your heartstrings.

Vampires Will Never Hurt You by @missgraceomalley » Steve Rogers x Darcy Lewis; Bucky Barnes x Darcy Lewis; Steve Rogers x Darcy Lewis x Bucky Barnes — Darcy's been hiding something and Steve can't pin what it is. Can the serum help him? Or will he be compelled away? (AO3)| I love stories that take you on twist and turns, I also love vampires, add in Damon Salvatore plus the two Super Soldiers? You make me very happy!

*Brooklyn Wars by @world-of-aus » Mob!Steve x Reader, Mob!Bucky x Reader / Eventual Mob!Stucky x Reader — Childhood friends pulled apart by a move and a rivalry between families, will a shared promise of ‘till the end of the line’ be enough to keep them together. Or will a deal struck up gone wrong, and an indecisiveness to choose who your heart loves be the ‘end of the line.’ | I spent my Saturday morning re-reading this and loving every part and wishing for more. @world-of-aus is such a fantastic writer that doesn’t get enough recognition in my list.

Steve Rogers

(Mini) Series:

*His Koala Bear by @kinanabinks » Dark!Steve Rogers x Innocent!Reader — You and steve have been best friends since you were 5. for the longest time, he has wanted so much more from you. and it’s getting harder for him to stop himself from taking it. | Prepare for the emotional roller coaster this story is going to take you on and to change your underwear or perhaps to take a cold shower, maybe both.

*Lipstick and Crayons 🖍 Pt.5 by @oneoftheprettynerds » Dark!Mob!Steve Rogers x Single Mom!Reader — Steve can’t ever repay you for what you did. After meeting you, Steve believes his broken family is the missing piece in the puzzle of your own wrecked one. Indebting the crime lord to you has been the biggest mistake of your life, cause now you can’t get rid of him, no matter what. Loyalty and favours go a long way in the mob. | This story makes you feel like you are watching a Dark!Mob Romantic movie staring Steve Rogers. It’s just that good and I love it.

Ransom Drysdale

One-Shots:

Sugar by @chrissquares » Ransom Drysdale x Reader — Reader sees Ransom in his glasses for the first time. | Let’s be honest, I wouldn’t mind seeing Ransom in his glasses more often, especially if he looked like that.

(Mini) Series:

Stolen What’s Mine Pt.1 by @wanderinglunarnights » Ransom Drysdale x OFC!Charlotte Callahan — Charlotte and Ransom are up for the same promotion at the publishing house. She hates his handsome ass, especially when he steals the job as editor in chief out from under her nose. | Charlotte is sassy and she isn’t going to take any of Ransom’s nonsense, I love it! You can tell it’s going to be a good one!

Andy Barber

One-Shots:

I’ll Be Here by @candlefics » Andy Barber x Reader — Jacob grew up with you around. What happens when he’s convicted of murder, and his family falls apart? What will your relationship with Andy turn into? | I like this take on a show I have still yet to watch. It was sweet and emotional, a must read in my book.

(Mini) Series:

*Moment’s Silence Pt.3 🥞 Pt.1 🥞 Pt.2 by @syntheticavenger » Frank Adler x Reader; Andy Barber x Reader — The tumultuous relationship between twin brothers Frank and Andy takes a turn for the worse when Andy offers to wipe out Frank’s debt by asking for the one thing Andy wants that Frank has. | This story has me wanting to bite my nails in anticipation even though I can’t. So freaking good!

Misc.

Drabbles:

Good Behavior by @syntheticavenger » Dark!Andy Barber x Reader; Soft Dark!Steve Rogers x Reader — Andy’s special delivery arrives with a familiar face. | This is hot in a way you wouldn’t expect it to be, and I’m sort of wishing for a part 2.

One-Shots:

*Distractions by @rebelwrites » Jax Teller x Reader — I requested “Can you please put a shirt on?” | Let me just say this prompt was just so well written and it put a smile on my face. I would welcome Jax as a distraction any day, as long as he threw one of his signature panty dropping smiles my way.

Seal Team

One-Shot:

I’m Not Good Enough by @rebelwrites » Sonny Quinn x Reader — “So, we’re just going to ignore the fact that you drunk-dialed me to tell me you love me?” | This broke my heart than it fixed it. 💗

No Damsel In Distress by @rebelwrites » Clay Spenser x Reader — #3 and #13 for Clay Spenser. “Even when we were kids, i always kicked your ass!” And “How is my wife more badass than me?” | So hilarious and badass.

You Aren’t Allowed To Be Sick by @rebelwrites » Clay Spenser x Reader — “What do you mean you’re sick?! You’re my partner in crime!” | Clay can buy me flowers and take care of me any day.

[stuff-diary]

Aftersun

Movies watched in 2023

Aftersun (2022, UK/USA)

Director & Writer: Charlotte Wells

Mini-review:

What a lovely movie. I went in only knowing that it starred Paul Mescal and it was about a little girl and his father on vacation, and I was very pleasantly surprised. It took me back to when I was the same age as the main character, to that time when things start getting confusing for you and when summers always felt so special and sort of magical. And yet, at the same time, the whole movie feels so melancholic and there's this low-key sadness that flows through it from beginning to end.

But, the thing that truly makes this movie one of a kind is the acting. Frankie Corio is simply phenomenal. I can't think of many peformances by child actors that show such incredible naturalness. There wasn't one fake expression or line delivery. This girl will go far, no doubt. And then there's Paul Mescal. We all know how good he is and Aftersun just confirms he's one of the biggest talents of his generation. Their chemistry is also incredible, I would absolutely belive if you told me they were father and daughter in real life. Also, the movie was shot in very interesting and refreshing ways, which makes me curious about Charlotte Wells' future work, cause this one doesn't feel like her first movie at all (in a good way).

[lnevada]

I have too many thoughts:

Of course Ray is on TikTok (Swellview alternative name).

The whole 10 seconds without internet bit. Living.

Ray is never allowed to wear tank tops (wifebeaters, cough* cough*) in an episode again. He simply wore too many in a single episode and has maxed out his limit.

The villain prison is so much more sophisticated in the Man’s Nest. Except for the facts that the villains are awake/mobile and crammed in one pen as opposed to having separate pens (why don’t they conspire and escape? Oh wait, they probably are in the 4 part special).

Monkey. Also, Cooper (the actor, not the character) picking up the monkey in the end scene. So adorable!

The use of ‘sus’ had me howling. Yes, it’s a video game reference (because Mika was playing a video game). BUTTTTT, Ray was also using TikTok and sus carries a queer connotation on the platform (and no I don’t ship Ray/Henry), but come on(!) invoking a man’s name like that? The kids just confirmed they know Ray is Bisexual. Don’t @ me, I will not be accepting criticism on this front.

HOW HAVE I GONE THIS LONG TYPING WITHOUT HYPING UP CHOPA’S HAIR? That tears it, I’m dying mine after graduation.

I’m a sucker for nicknames and I just love that Bose is the only one with a nickname (I feel like everyone should use it, but I’m ok with just his mentor using it for now). I think it really drives home his childlike innocence that the rest of the team doesn’t have.

Which, side note, the fact I view Bose as so childlike and ‘simple’ (not dumb because he is extremely smart; the language example I always go to), had me thrown for a loop that he’s going on 1000 dates for charity. And into it? Mainly to make Ray jealous, but still. Trying to grow the kids up because the actors are already so much older?

Wait to go Dana (not Mika) for owning that power suit and totally taking on the new character/persona for the dual role this episode.

Calling out Ray (Cooper) for being 40, I cackled. 😻😻😻

Have I mentioned I missed Schwoz and just enjoy having him on my screen?

The jars! Cute, but isn’t Ray really the only one who dabs?

The towels for the exorcist matched the teams’ colors, except Ray’s was white (for the wifebeater) and Schwoz’s was purple (a fem color since he’s usually paired with pink; but also it has religious connotations/those shoal things; praise the costume department).

Wait a minute, RT isn’t a ghost and that’s not how possession works.

The Exorcist is so outdated by today’s standards, but as a horror buff I appreciate the reference.

I love Michael (and Schwoz) so much!!!! He was so happy with that line delivery, I could see it on his face!!!

Also, also: Ray had the same joke/horror reference in Charlotte Gets Ghosted (HD).

I love the cardio joke. Because I always point out when there’s a running scene, Ray is doubled over and panting (albeit, he usually plays it off as due to his yelling at the same time, but not always) by the end of it like he doesn’t do cardio and he’s just all strength/muscle. Great call/meta joke.

Mika playing the video game inadvertently reminded me of the Flabber Gassed episode & Ray’s ripped muscle in the legs reminded me of the Massage Chair episode (HD).

Mika has so much control over her power now as seen through the precision of blowing the tiny item out of Chopa’s hand. Whereas RT had no control over the power despite possessing her body. She is probably the strongest DF member (despite Chopa claiming to be able to control the range of her power; something yet to be seen, but I’d like to).

I’m so excited for the next 3 episodes (in particular), but I’m super excited about the new season coming out!!!

[hatchetfieldtheories]

Return to Hatchetfield-Town - TGWDLM Part 2

Oh my god, we’re back again. Brothers, sisters, everybody sing – wait no

It’s TGWDLM part 2! Today we talk about coffee, those police siren sounds and we begin looking into Hidgens… god help us.  It also features a new theory I haven’t actually posted on the blog yet.

Also, please let me know if you’re enjoying these. They do take a lot of time, but they are a lot of fun to put together.

Part 1 | Part 3

Reality is falling apart as I stand here today… I guess it’s time for a coffee break

This is how I have entered every Starbucks I have ever been to.

Hey Starkid, when can we get a full version of the Black Coffee song?  

Has it been established yet whether Nora and Zoey had already been infected when they were teaching Emma the new tip song.  If yes, why did they just teach Emma the tip song and not infect her?  Just to embarrass her mid-song when she didn’t know the rest of the dance?  Or…

Thomas Sanders Voice – Theory Time

So at the end of Part 1, I established that the Hive had picked Paul to be their Hero, their star, way, way, early on at the start of their apotheosis.  Once we move into Let It Out/ Inevitable I’ll talk about this more, but basically – there is a reason they want Paul to survive the start of the show.  There is a reason the infected (and later McNamara) keep pressing him on what he wants. They need him to want something, so that they can get what they want, because that’s how the Worrisome Wombles (LiB) work.  They want him to want to destroy them, so he can be with Emma – that’s his drive. They’re very aware that without a want, they may not be able to manipulate him to do what they need.

Therefore it’s very possible that if Nora and Zoey had been infected early on, yet hadn’t infected Emma, it was because they were sure Emma would be the “thing” that Paul wants – they want their star of the show and they think they know who they can use to get it. /End of theory

Promise me you’ll think about the implications.

@abiimaryy​  can I just post your one post  that perfectly encapsulates that Starkid definitely did not think about the implications of that line when they wrote it? We’ve all long gone past the point of no return.

“Cup of Roasted Coffee” is track 4 on Now That’s What I Call Coffee. “Poisoned Coffee” is the album hidden track that you must play 20 minutes of silence to find.  Is this an old person reference now?

I also fully believe the coffee shop patrons were already beginning to be infected when the song began. Sure they were poisoned and their coffee contained the blue goo but the “in-time coffee cup dancing” and exaggerated synchronous sips is just too on the nose.  Their infections begun, they just needed that dose of poisoned coffee to kill them off to fully take them over.

At this point the Hive are still not particularly violent – ignoring the fact they kill three men with poisoned coffee in broad daylight.  

The cat is clearly not a secret Eldritch being

There’s nothing I love more than a fourth wall break, and Starkid have regularly establish fourth walls do not exist in their universes.  I can’t decide which is more telling of some kind of Hatchetfield link with the audience, Jon and Lauren wandering through the alley, or Joey giving the audience member an apple.   There is a wonderful theory that the audience is part of the B&W which @wolvesandvoices​  put into words here: x

“I didn’t think about the implications!” – me thinking back to that time 12 years ago when I discovered something called Harry Potter the musical by someone called Starkid. They were a funny group of people – wonder what they’re all doing now.

Paul’s work friends one by one popping out of the trash cans is hilarious, but its notable again that Mr Davidson was infecting people in his office – Bill notes that people kept coming out singing.  On my first watch I didn’t really take note of this, and just assumed Paul got out of the office before Mr Davidson could infect him, but taking into account the theories mentioned above and previously, this line just reaffirms that the Hive do not yet want Paul infected.

Who is the latte hottay? Answers on a postcard.

These aren’t spirit fingers... THESE are spirit fingers

Ted really doesn’t fully grasp the severity of what is happening around him.  The police are singing at you Ted, I don’t think they’re too fussed about your ID.  

I don’t really have much to say about Show Me Your Hands – it doesn’t really add much to theory fodder until the end.  That’s not to say I don’t love it, its one of my top songs in the show (tho I think all of the songs are in my top songs… I’m very indecisive). Shout out to Mariah’s dry delivery of “the cat is dead” and Robert’s siren noises.  My sincere hope is that in a future Hatchetfield production there is a need for a siren sound effect, and it is just a recording of Robert.

Charlotte touched the brain. The blue brain.  The brain covered in goo.  Pokey’s blue goo.  I’m sure that’s fine and has no ramifications later in the show.  

It is at this moment on my first watch that I realised how much Charlotte’s voice in this show sounds like Judy Garland.  

Oh Hidgens. He’s finally arrived.  Does he need an introduction?  From what I have seen from a lot of posts as people discover TGWDLM, a lot of people know about Hidgens before they even know what the show is about.  Which you know what, fair.  I’m sure Hidgens would be thrilled to discover his legacy.  I feel like it’s obvious, but I am assuming Robert intended Hidgens to sound like Doc from Back to the Future? Hmmm, a kooky “academic” who has an accident and ends up with a vision of something that could change the world.  Great Scott!

Hidgens, my dear, please don’t gesture to yourself while holding a gun.

Ok, so Hidgens theorised this exact scenario thirty years ago. I believe it has been established this happened when he was struck by lightning.  Now, lightning is used a LOT in Hatchetfield shows, and I did mention briefly here, that it could possibly be a play on the trope that in books and movies, the “creature comes alive” from a bolt of lightning.  Certainly the meteor is accompanied by a storm, which does make me believe that Hidgens was granted the vision by someone from the Black and White. Theories:

Pokey sent him the vision because he knew that it would entice Hidgens eventually due to his love of musical theatre. 

Webby sent him the vision in the misplaced hope that he would work on finding a solution

I also found a tweet by Nick which states that initially Hidgens was supposed to talk about the 1518 Dancing Plague which honestly – what does this mean.  Was this plague originally intended to be an early attempt by Pokey to infect the world?

Hidgens touched the brain. The blue brain.  The brain covered in goo.  Pokey’s blue goo.  I’m sure that’s fine and has no ramifications later in the show.  

I posted  a while back about the concept that Hidgens actually got infected early in the show, which has further implications for the likes of Charlotte also, but for now I’ll just post this really succinct theory by @westcoastbroadway​: x

Hatchetfield High Homework:

What other songs would feature on Now That’s What I Call Coffee?

Consider an AU where Prof Hidgens and Doc Brown are swapped.  How different would TGWDLM and Back to the Future be?

Once again, follow the wonderful people mentioned in the post.

See you in part 3 for Charlotte Theories and sad Bill time.

[thatsuhboldchoice]

"this story needs a ending" does it though, mendel? aka here are my underrated trina moments in act ii

all of whizzer and trina's looks to each other in falsettoland ALSO they're both dressed in pink shirts and looking similar again how have i never noticed that before

trina doing the robot and whizzer hitting nancy and startling her they're both precious okay

every piece of trina's choreo in year of the child is perfect and perfectly delivered by stephanie j "that's me" block

"you have eight more innings, my love" so get your shit together

i love the little chastising turn and glare she and mendel do when marvin insults jason's playing

the entire baseball scene is just everyone being judgmental and then turning around and chastising and judging everyone else for the same behavior

incredible amazing award-winning

RUN

this isn't trina but i love betsy wolfe as caroline so much

*finger point* "you always do this"

the beginning of act ii more like time to drag mendel in subtle and not so subtle ways to remind us all of these characters are human and flawed

jazzercize + belting that's all

shoutout to trina finally getting her back massage

whatdoyoumeanyoudon'twantabarmitzvah this line gives me hives the passive aggressive parent energy is Too Strong

"how do you think we feel about that" with the little taps on jason's chest and the switch into some sort of mix or chest voice zone

the way she bops on jason on the nose and face with "go ahead and kill your mother"

when whizzer collapses and goes to see dr. charlotte "everything will be alright" is sung over that from offstage including what must be stephanie lingering with clearest most gorgeous delivery of that phrase

holding to the ground in its entirety but what absolutely sends me is the way this is sung over the set change from block world to the very real hospital

IN PARTICULAR the moment she stands up from sitting on the block into the full belt on that is LIIIIFE

and that block is immediately taken off by brandon almost out from under her (as if the ground keeps shifting)

and then we continue to get her absolutely raw vocals as the skyline is flown up and the entire scene is dominated by that backlit sterile curtain and whizzer is helped in

and then we don't even get to finish the final phrase back down in that lower register where stephanie is so rich and steady it's just

everything will be--

lapine and block i have some CHOICE words

also this is usually the point i stop watching if i'm not prepared to be emotionally wrecked

first thing jason says is "gee you look awful" and always composed and polite trina goes oh my god i can't believe my child just said that

cancelling the bar mitzvah but specifically after jason leaves and it's just mendel being brutally honest

her reactions break my heart and then the holding to the ground reprise breaks my heart

and then nothing sad happens between this song and the actual bar mitzvah nothing at all

okay now that i'm crying

"flowers make things lovely" into that whole lovely section sounds so so so lovely which makes the change into "i feel more helpless than i've felt in years" that much more ouch

cordelia and charlotte and trina with the food and the kiss and the reaction and the setting up and that harmony just UGH LADIES

and i'll include this because i like talking about blocking and it's a group effort so it counts as trina content

but the way whizzer and the hospital just....disappear

whizzer goes behind the curtain and exits with it and the rest of the set is taken away with such ruthless efficiency that within a few bars marvin is left on the empty stage alone

and then finally this is neither here nor there but i'm glad they all get to end in that final group hug because it seems like it could provide a well needed hit of serotonin after the weight of the show