#i put no critical thinking into anything past season 4 and anything beyond season 9 like i just don't think

[twd-obsessed-bitch]

I was explaining Beth's death to my bf and I realized in my tired ass state how fucked up Grady memorial really was ...

Like to put it in the shortest amount of words possible the people they grabbed and held at the hospital were basically turned into slaves to be able to earn back their points or whatever to them be able to leave

But the system is so purposely flawed that you're literally never able to earn enough to actually be able to leave.

But they have them being basically their slaves and then Dawn, wants Noah, a young black man, to be given back to her. THAT'S FUCKED UP

Is that what Beth got now? And I slow as fuck?

[seblore]

everyday i wake up and you still havent posted your evermore rant </3

there u go boo 👩‍❤️‍💋‍👩👩‍❤️‍💋‍👩👩‍❤️‍💋‍👩

GDBDNSKDJHHDDNDS GIRL................ ok so i very cleverly avoided ranking folklore because every song REALLY HIT and the whole album was just SO.. SO.. yeah. i can however rank miss evermore. i dont want to compare the two album i do not get the point in that. both give off really different vibes. now what i will say is with folklore, AS AN ALBUM, it is just a master masterpiece. The songs flowed amazingly with each other and really held you close the entire first listen. at least thats what I felt like <3 with evermore however, the individual songs are OMG!!! THERE IS LITERALLY NO SONG I DONT LIKE FROM ANY OF THE TWO ALBUMS. but as an album on the first listen i did feel a bit disconnected from evermore which didnt happen to me with folklore. why i think that might’ve happened is BECAUSE taylor is just so brilliant m8.... the MASSIVE contrasting emotions between the songs was too much for my little brain to handle.

Ok so now that’s out of the way dhsjsk time for rankings :) i have no idea where im going to put each song im just going to make it up as we go <3 ill ALSO give you my fave lyrics from each if I remember it <333 (oh and also you’ll notice marjorie isnt here. im sorry but i never listened to it after the first listen because it hits a little too close to home and i dont want to unpack all of that now im sorry! it is a beautiful song)

14. Closure: she popped off <3 she really said dont treat me like a situation that needs to be handled 💃🤙💯 a beautiful song with beautiful lyrics HOWEVER its the first song i couldnt connect with thus it’s down here BUT I STILL WOULD LISTEN TO IT ON REPEAT THO... the last in my ranking but still fucks 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️ thats taylor swift 👩‍❤️‍💋‍👩

13. long story short: i have never been in a relationship ever BUT GODDAMN ‘pushed from the precipice, clung to the nearest lips’ hdjsksksjjddjnBbdns jddd ubebs!:!?:?:$3&39383$hzjs WOAH.... and this bitch really summarized the full 2016 drama with long story short it was a bad time. HILARITY. yeah not much to say here tho this is just the ‘at least one mandatory song to shake your tits to on each ts album’ song of evermore <3 and always remember that if the shoe fits walk in it TILL YOUR HIGH HEELS BREAK WOOH ANDIFELLDOWNTHEPEDESTALRIGHTDOWNTHERA—

12: dorothea: making a lark of misery :D RENt free. i had to listen to ‘if youre tired of being known for who you know you know youll always know me’ 113 times to finally understand it tho 😐 some of us are stupid and illiterate have you ever thought about that miss swift???? anyways TINGTINGTINGINGINGING THE STARS IN YOUR EYES SHINED BRIGHTER IN TUPELO <33333 such an innocent feel good song I LOVE!!!!!

11. ivy: the goddamn here and the hush of mirrorball ARE THE REASON IM STILL ALIVE 😽 another lyrical masterclass <3 ‘id live and die for moments that we stole on begged and borrowed time’ IS2G!!!!!!!!!!! anyways what if you cheated on your husband with me and i cheated on my husband with you and my pain fit in the palm of your freezing hands 😳 JK JK 😅 unless...... 🤪😏 hdjsks yeah this song is magnificently cursed and i am in love with it 🧎‍♀️

10. tis the damn season: this song is august but the other side of the coin. august but four months later. AUGUST SLIPPED AWAY LIKE A BOTTLE OF WINE- THE HOLIDAYS LINGER LIKE A BAD PERFUMEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE... she sounds so pretty goshhh! ‘time flies messy as the mud on your truck tires NOW IM MISSING YOUR SMILE hear me out we could just ride around and the road not taken looks real good now’ is on repeat in my mind. and as always the bridge ::::::::::::::.............:::::::::::::: how does she do this everytime. ‘and wonder about the only soul who can tell which smiles im faking’ 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️ after every ts song i listen my expectations about true love grows exponentially and my chances of finding true love falls exponentially simultaneously ADIEU.

9. willow: she really took the invisible string quartet and put it in huh..................... FUCKED IN THE HEADDDDDDDDDDDDDD. what can i say <3 its just such a pretty song <3 hashtag gorgeous hashtag i cant say anything to its face. WRECK MY PLANS!!!!!! WRECK IT BITCH!!! ‘wait for the signal and ill meet you after dark’ LOVE STORY WHIPLASH. also mate i cant even focus on the song she looks SO GOOD in the music video i—

8. happiness: !!!! what can i say.... one of the best songs of the album hands down. lyrical masterpiece AND musically rich. she really logged into tumblr dot com and typed out ‘THERE’LL BE HAPPINESS AFTER YOU’ AND ‘THERE WAS HAPPINESS BECAUSE OF YOU’ ARE IDEAS THAT CAN COEXIST and logged off...... h8 her and her insanity. the one word i have to describe this song is: picturesque. tis a picturesque song <3 oh and dfbhhffcbhDDVHHTRSDVJK when i heard ‘i hope she’ll be a beautiful fool who takes my spot next to you’ i audibly GASPED and then she says ‘no i didnt mean that sorry i cant see facts through all of my fury’................. i fell out of my chair. IT FELT LIKE AS IF SHE HEARD MY GASP AND TOLD ME SPECIFICALLY THAT NO SHE DIDNT MEAN IT LIKE THAT... anyways yeah. ill write an article one day named THE SWIFT DECEPTION OF TAYLOR about how she keeps writing songs with deceptive titles and this will be the opening case 😈🤙 also the fact that this is one of my faves and i put it in number 8 says a lot......

7. evermore: i havent recovered from ‘motion capture. put me in a bad light’. i mean come on the whole goddamn song is a lyrical masterpiece. ‘writing letters addressed to the fire’. IS SHE OK!????????????? i think tf not. beautiful song beautiful arrangement. iver sounded really good too. and lol lol rofl WOOFWOOFbarkbark ‘HEY DECEMBER GUESS IM FEELING UNMOORED’ unmoored definition from google dot com: no longer attached. she doesn’t go back to december anymore. about2 faint oml. long story short: i did not survive. THIS PAIN WOULD BE FOR EVERMORE........ what i felt with this song is that she took the quarantine sadness we all felt at least once this year and made it into a masterpiece of a song. couldve been easily the top song on any album except this. no i will not elaborate <3

6. no body no crime: i cannot believe. she teased us with a musical number. this woman teased us with. a musical number. I THINK SHE IS WRITING A MUSICAL BUT I JUST CANT PROVE IT! when she wins that tony 16 years later call me prophetic xoxo. anyways yeah she literally wrote this to flex her storytelling abilities. send tweet 🐥

5. cowboy like me: YEEEHAWWW I’LL BE HONEST WITH YOU I DONT EVEN KNOW WHAT THE FULL SONG SOUNDS LIKE I JUST HAVE THE BRIDGE ON REPEAT!!!! OMFG!!! the skeletons in both our closets plotted hard to fuck this up. AAAA!! ??? STFU. IM NOT EVEN TALKING ABOUT THE LYRICS MATE THE WAY ITS SUNG!!!!!!! GUT WRENCHING! the best bridge she has ever written musically. i cant stop listening to it. REALLYYY DID BELIEEEVE I WAS THE ONEEE. STORIESSS ABOUT WHEEEN YOU PASSSEDDD THROUGHH TOWN. y e l l. and then she hits me with ‘now you hang from my lips like the gardens of babylon.’ L ???? M !!!!! A $$$$$ O “”””” i had to pause it and sit there for 10 minutes to take in what i had just heard. case closed critical hit sustained yeedhawd.

4. tolerate it: i cried. the only reason it’s not 1 is because it hurt me too much. WHAT THE FUCK YOU MF YOU ASSUME IM FINE BUT WYD IF I BREAK FREE AND LEAVE US IN THE RUINS???? TOOK THIS DAGGER IN ME AND REMOV— m8 this physically hurts me everytime. if its all in my head TELL ME RN. aghhh aRghhhhhhh. pain. and lol she broke down sleep to its bare essentials ‘breathing with your eyes closed’.

3. ??? coney island: i know it’s a bit of a controversial top three but WHO CARES 🕴this is solely here for ‘AND IM SITTING ON A BENCH IN CONEY ISLAND wondering where did my BABYy GO’ im shaking. my bed is shaking. my body is shaking. my pupils are shaking. THE WAY SHE SINGS IT OH MY GOODNESS ME i have to lie down gimme a sec. ‘and if this is the long haul howd we get here so soon 😟’ SCREAM. and when i was hearing it for the first time and she said ‘sorry for not making you my centerfold’ i was like yeah and?? so what?? and then she hits me with ‘over and over’...... so she didnt make him/her/them her centerfold over and over !!!!!!! she is sorry she didnt do it over and over!!!!!! mannn.... the chorus.. i shall not speak. i am held at gunpoint i CANNOT SPEAK. the bridge tho dhdnsksksjsb I CAN SPEAK AND I SHALL SPEAK. BITCH WENT OFFFFFFFF. <3 this is the apology she deserved from her exes which she never got so she wrote it herself. podium. grey skies. birthday cake. ACCIDENT. im laughingggggggggggg <///3 and yeah so overall it is a really yummy song with yummy vocals and yummy arrangement 9/10 would recommend. also!! life lessons kids life lessons. disappointments? SIMPLY CLOSE YOUR EYES AND PRETEND YOU DO NOT SEE IT YAAAAAAAAAS

2. gold rush: ETHEREAL!!!!!! The last time i felt like this™️ whilst listening to a song was with mirrorball <3 the production of this song omg omg omg LOVE 💃 but what propelled it to number two status was the ‘i dont like slow motion double vision in ROSE BLUSH/ i dont like that falling feels like flying till the BONE CRUSH’ imagine how fucked in the head a person needs to be to rhyme rose blush with bone crush. yeah i have nothing more to say really this song is extremely gorgeous and ‘eyes like sinking ships on water so inviting i almost jumped in’ / ‘walk past quick brush’ ?:!:!&:8483 F A V E <33333 and the transition transmission transfusion from ‘... gray old tea cuz itll never be ᵍˡᵉᵃᵃᵃᵃᵐⁱⁿᵍ ᵗʷⁱⁿᵏˡⁱⁿᵍᵍᵍᵍ’ MADAME

1. champagne problems: are we surprised? ARE WE REALLY SURPRISED? when listening to new albums i normally listen to it at one go in order. i stick to that rule. HOWEVER after many years of my solid album listening self made rule tm i finally broke and immediately replayed this mf song after listening to it once. ‘you had a speech, youre speechless/ love slipped beyond your reaches’???? stfu???? VILE. PUNISHABLE. DEROGATORY. and welp the entire bridge ...... .... ........... what can i say. And the parallels to miss all too well??? WHAT WAS THE REASON???? your SISTER splashed out on the bottle- left my scarf there at your SISTER’s house 😐 she’ll patch up your tapestry that i SHRED- maybe this thing was a masterpiece till you TORE it all up 😐 your MOM’s ring in your pocket- your MOTHER’s telling stories bout you on the tee ball team 😐 November flush and your FLANNEL cure- PLAID shirt days and nights when you made me your own 😐 wHAT A SHAME SHE IS FUCKED IN THE HEAD IS2G........... and also why would she not rhyme POCKET with LOCKET?????? why with wallet???????????? slant rhyme why????????????? AND THE NOTE THIS MF SONG ENDS ON..... FUCKED IN THE HEAD

THATS IT. i really sat here and did this for the past 2 hours huh...... hhdjsms anyways LONG STORY SHORT: I HATE ONE INSANE WOMAN AND HER NAME IS TAYLOR ALISON SWIFT. GODSPEEED 🏃‍♀️

[justanothercinemaniac]

Epic Movie (Re)Watch #238 - Men in Black 3

Spoilers Below

Have I seen it before: Yes

Did I like it then: Yes.

Do I remember it: Yes.

Did I see it in theaters: Yes.

Was it a movie I saw since August 22nd, 2009: Yes, #159.

Format: Blu-ray

1) For some reason it took ten years between the second and third films in this series, after five years between one and two. At this rate we’ll see Men in Black 4 in 2032.

2) The escape from Lunar Max is actually a very well done opening to the film.

It does well to re-establish this world which audiences haven’t seen in ten years. The sense of humor, the eccentricities, all of it. But more than that you get a sense for how dangerous Boris the Animal is.

3) Jemaine Clement as Boris the Animal

(source)

There are two absolutely incredibly performances this film gives us and the first of them is Jemaine Clement as the villainous Boris. Holy crap, Clement is just amazing in the part. Nearly unrecognizable under Rick Baker’s masterful makeup, Clement embraces the prosthetics and otherworldly nature of the character to make Boris something truly special. Every scene he’s in Clement just commands. It’s hard to top Edgar the Bug from the first film but honestly I think Clement’s Boris is my favorite villain in the entire film. He is uniquely memorable and totally fun to watch.

4) I love that, even after 15 years on the job, J still has fun with the neurloizer.

5) The first scene of the film does well to re-establish the dynamic between J and K. We never really got to see them as seasoned partners in the first two films but now they’ve been on the job for ten-fifteen years depending on how you count. This shows in the as-always strong chemistry between Smith and Jones, making for a unique facet of the film.

6) Zed may be dead, but that doesn’t mean Rip Torn isn’t in this movie. Did you see him?

7) Emma Thompson as O is a welcome and fitting addition to the world. A remarkably talented actress, it feels like O has been here the entire time and I love it.

8)

J [to K]: “How did you get to be like you?”

Unlike Men in Black II, which I felt introduced a number of interesting ideas but didn’t develop any of them well enough to be interesting. This film on the other hand puts a considerable focus on the question of how K ended up where he is. It’s a very personal story and we can tell the stakes are higher because of how K acts. He loses it on Wu, he gets really upset by K standards, which shows the audience something is up. That’s important moving forward.

9) The Chinese restaurant shootout is a very classic Men in Black action scene. Fun alien surprises, a bit of the gross out factor, good action, solid laughs, everything you’d want from this film in one scene.

10) The conflict between J and Tommy Lee Jones K, however brief it may feel, is incredibly rich and interesting. It sets up the relationship with J and Josh Brolin K very well.

11) The changes brought on by Boris’ time travel are fun to see. The fact that the woman who lives in K’s apartment is the waitress from the second film, a different guard at the door, and a random but appreciated Will Arnett cameo. The added detail of those who have experienced a disruption in the time stream craving chocolate milk is a fun element also.

12) I love how J is able to recall super specific details about K when he’s proving he didn’t imagine him. It speaks greatly to their relationship.

13) We never FULLY get an explanation for why J can remember K but no one else can. I think it’s because J saw what K did at the very end or something, but it’s never really fully explained. And even if that is the reason, why can Jeffrey Price remember it?

14) Time Jump.

Visually speaking, this scene is the crown jewel of the entire film. The way time moves and changes around J as he falls is unique in the time travel genre and incredibly fun to watch.

15) I love, J.

J [after getting pulled over by cops in the 60s for being a black guy driving a nice car]: “Just because you see a black man driving in a nice car DOES NOT MEAN IT’S STOLEN! [Beat] I stole this one, but not because I’m BLACK!”

16) Josh Brolin as Young K.

Brolin is tied with Jemaine Clement as the best damn part of the whole movie. Because holy freaking shit, his Tommy Lee Jones is kickass. It’s beyond freaky how believable Brolin is as a young Tommy Lee Jones, but what makes his role as K so good is that it’s not JUST an impression. Brolin is giving a performance which matches Jones’ while also making it his own. He’s playing a younger K, a K who is a bit happier. This K is the same character that Tommy Lee Jones plays but a different version of him, a line which Brolin wakes with finesse and perfection. His chemistry with Smith matches Jones’ and he just has a fun time on screen. I freaking love Brolin in this film.

17) I’m surprised it took them three movies to make this joke.

J: “Yeah, I was an agent for three years before I learned all models are aliens.”

18) Bill Hader as Andy Warhol/Agent W.

Hader’s cameo is one of the best gags in the entire film. He has probably five minutes of screen time but it’s Bill Hader and he totally steals the scene. The entire concept that Andy Warhol is an agent of MIB who is just bullshitting his art is such a unique idea that it’s hard not to laugh at the scene that follows.

19) Michael Stuhlbarg as Griffin.

Stuhlbarg is one of the finest character actors in modern day cinema, having appeared in such critically acclaimed films as Lincoln, Hitchcock, Steve Jobs, Miles Ahead, and most recently The Shape of Water. His work in Men in Black 3 is no less up to snuff as his performance/character adds a unique level of intelligence and wisdom to the film. Griffin is a hopeful, soft spoken, gentle creature who helps give the film an extra layer of sympathy and emotion. I think while we have absolutely stellar performances in Brolin and Clement, it’s Stuhlbarg’s Griffin who helps elevate the story as well.

20)

Young K [to J]: “Ask me any question. Anything you want.”

I love that. It gets to the heart of their relationship, a connection they didn’t have before, and further illustrates the difference between Brolin’s K and Jones’ K. It’s a great moment.

21) Griffin showing J & Young K the game.

There is one unique detail in this scene which I think helps make it so smooth and that’s the lighting. Anyone who sees the game Griffin is watching is lit in sunlight, but when J steps back he’s in darkness even though Griffin is still lit. It helps keeps the sense of place and action, anchoring it in physicality and reality.

Beyond the technique of the scene, Griffin’s entire philosophy on how miracles work adds a nice level of philosophy to the film which helps differentiate it from previous Men in Black movies.

22) The cycle chase is a great action set piece while the cycles themselves are a great addition to the franchise’s gadget canon.

23)

Boris [to his 1969 counterpart]: “You pathetic waste of Boglodite flesh!”

The scene with 1969 Boris and 2012 Boris just shouting at each other/shitting on each other is a unique and fun way to show the character’s self loathing. It helps you understand him a bit more.

24) I used this line in a paper I wrote for an AP English paper my junior year of high school.

Griffin: “But where there is death there will always be death.”

My teacher wrote something along the lines of, “I don’t think you should be using a Men in Black quote in this paper,” to which I ask: why not? I still got an A and it fit. Check your genre basis, public education system.

25) I ship K & O (OK? KO?). That is all.

26) Hey look! It’s Luke Cage!

The twist that comes about from Mike Colter as the Colonel makes the character extra important, but the fact that five and a half years later I know who Mike Colter is gives the scene an extra bit of rewatch value.

27) The Cape Canaveral climax.

The climax of the film plays with the idea of the two Boris-s in a fun way. The entire thing is well paced, well choreographed, and notably intelligent (especially in the way J uses time travel to his advantage). All in all, it’s just really fun to watch.

28) The truth about the Colonel.

This moment retcons a little bit of the first movie, of the relationship between J and K. But it packs a considerable amount of emotional punch to it, answering the question of, “What happened to K?” in a meaningful way. It’s remarkably sad, giving the film an extra layer of heart and emotion which makes me tear up a bit now for personal reasons. I love it.

29) It’s nice to see 2012 K with a little more heart to him, that he’s come out of this time travel adventure for the better and his relationship with J is strong.

30) The ending gag of the film does well to match the intelligence and organic nature of the marble gag from the first movie without feeling forced.

I really like Men in Black 3. There’s a chance it’s my favorite of the the trilogy (although objectively I think the first is the best). It moves past the problems of the first film to deliver an emotionally interesting, high stakes story. Jones & Smith’s chemistry is top notch but they’re joined by INCREDIBLE new additions to the film such as Jemaine Clement, Josh Brolin, and Emma Thompson. I definitely recommend this film, it’s a lot of fun and I think the most underrated of the trilogy.

[grimey--gal]

All? Can? 🙏

Okay here goes! (Apologies ahead of time; I’m on mobile)

💛💛💛

1: What color are your socks?- They’re light purple with black and some white stripes

2: Have you ever lied about your age? Why?- No. Never felt the need to.

3: What is something you regret in the past month?- Hmm… letting my emotions control me too much, I think!

4: Do you believe in love at first sight?- I believe anything is possible, but I think this is a rare occurrence. It’s more likely attraction at first sight, and the love develops.

5: When was the last time you wrote someone a letter on paper?- If writing to myself counts, then a week ago.

6: How old were you when you first learned how to ride a bike? Who taught you?- I can’t remember my age, but I’m pretty sure my parents both had a hand in it!

7: Do you get along with your parents? Why or why not?- Yeah I think we get along fine. There are some things that have caused a rift between us, but I don’t think it’s anything big.

8: What’s your favorite season?- Fall.

9: Do you currently like someone?- Maybe 🤷🏽‍♀️💖

10: Have you ever used an Ouija board?- No.

11: What’s the last song you sang?- When He Sees Me from the musical Waitress.

12: What’s your favorite scent?- My Ariana Grande perfume

13: What’s your favorite urban legend?- Slenderman? Dude I don’t actually know lol.

14: What’s a bad habit that you have?- Obsessing over negative qualities that I have/over-criticizing or ridiculing myself

15: What’s a strange habit that you have?- Answered!

16: What’s the first instrument that you learned to play?- Piano! If I had one in my new house I would be practicing it now.

17: How would you describe your ‘type?’- Answered as well!

18: Would you rather stay in or go out?- Depends on my mood and who I’m with.

19: What was the last thing you said to your mom?- I was texting her about our day

20: Do you want to get married someday?- Maybe! Now that I realize my options go beyond men I kind of do.

21: Have you ever snuck out?- No.

22: Can you sing well?- I’m okay. I was in choir almost my whole life so I have to have learned something

23: What’s an embarrassing thing that happened this week?- Nothing really. I don’t get embarrassed easily.

24: When was the last time you went sledding?- Two or three years ago? I can’t remember.

25: Have you ever/do you liked someone you know you can never be with?- I did.

26: Do people often mispronounce your name?-Yes haha

27: Would you like to live in another country?- Maybe Brazil!

28: Do you like to watch ghost-hunting shows?- Kind of? I don’t watch TV much nowadays

29: Who was the last person you said you loved to?- My housemate probably. He’s needy 🙄

30: What’s something you’d like to be better at?- Drawing. Playing instruments.

31: Have you ever stayed up to talk to someone who was sad?- Yes! Just last night.

32: What was the last thing you cooked?-Grilled cheese lol (I don’t like cooking hahaha)

33: Do you think you would make a good parent?- I think I’d do okay.

34: Do you have trouble sleeping at night?- Depends

35: Where is your best friend right now?- These days I don’t really know who my best friend is.

36: How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?- 15 minutes tops.

37: How late do you usually stay up at night?- Later than I want thanks to same housemate lol

38: When was the last time you cried and why?- A day or two ago. It was about some shit I do not like.

39: Have you ever won a contest?- Yes! A mathletes contest.

40: Can you draw well?- You tell me.

41: Would you ever date someone you met on Tumblr/the internet?- Yes! Definitely 💖

42: What was the last thing you ate?- Cheese and crackers

43: Do you think you’re/you’d make a good boyfriend/girlfriend?- I’d do my best! I’m very affectionate and I have no problem putting others first so I’d hope I’d be decent!

44: Have you ever had a near-death experience?- Uhm… I fell out of a tree house and knocked myself out.

45: What do you think people think of you?- I don’t know. That I’m stupid and weird but nice lol

46: What is your middle name and do you like it?- Danielle. It’s okay!

47: Are you close with either of your parents?- More my mom.

48: Do you like yourself?- I’m okay.

49: State five facts about your appearance:- I have brown hair, brown eyes, I’m skinny and short, and I have small boobs lol.

50: State five facts about your personality- I’m usually outgoing, bubbly, adaptable, creative, and kind!

Whew we got it fam haha. Thank you Rosa! 💖

[renaramblesaboutcomics]

Wednesday Roundup 29.11.18

Another week another grab bag of comics in what might be one of the highest rated weeks of the Roundup since I started over a year ago! But how does everyone hold up? How do they all compare? I’m asking for dramatizing’s sake but genuinely there’s nothing in this week that isn’t immensely enjoyable if they even remotely pique your interests. GREAT week for comics, everyone. GG.

Tesladyne’s Atomic Robo, Image’s Black Magick, DC’s Super Sons, IDW’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles/Ghostbusters II, IDW’s Transformers: Lost Light

Tesladyne’s Atomic Robo and the Spectre of Tomorrow #2 Brian Clevinger, Scott Wegener, Anthony Clark, Jeff Powell

There is a certain amount of dry wit and scientific community knowledge that is instrumental to getting the full experience out of the clever writing and deceptively simplistic design of Atomic Robo, and for the past few months I’ve been making a solid attempt to evaluate these comics and Robo himself based on the entertainment received without much of that. And, in all honesty, the more I’ve looked into this the more I wonder if that’s the wrong approach for “unbiased” evaluation to begin with. 

For example, I’ve been very firm on my description of Usagi Yojimbo as being one of those great comics that only gets more and more enriching as you grow a personal interest in history, Japanese culture, and mythologizing -- it’s far enough removed from our actual realities and accessible enough that I recommend it to people who don’t have those interests, but I find that those interests add so much more to the experience. The simple designs, the consistency, the way the narrative is built in episodic spurts more than long form narrative -- those are all reasons I can in good faith recommend these comics to people outside of niche interests, but those niche interests add so much to any reading that it’s difficult to really express why anyone would want to read without so much as acknowledging it. 

That all said, this particular issue continues that same level of quality and intrigue, but also rewards the emotional investment you may have in the characters involved. PersonallyI relate a lot more to Robo’s sense of self-exile and reclusive depression which only causes more and more problems to pile up far more than I’d have ever thought I would, and I don’t think I’d be alone in that. There’s also the long time readers’ reward in seeing consequences to that stollen crystal from Doctor Dinosaur’s island ages ago. All great stuff which is only more greatly emphasized by the creative use of familiar real world scientific organizations and entities wrapped up in this bizarre and surreal reality of Atomic Robo.

Image’s Black Magick (2015-present) #9 Greg Rucka, Nicola Scott

Sometimes the real value of storytelling lies less in identifying the complete package and more in being able to identify the way it weaves multiple elements and even genres at once to provide a new kind of satisfying narrative. And it’s in that way that I think Black Magick has so quickly become not only one of my favorite Greg Rucka and Nicola Scott comics, but one of my favorite recent publications in general. 

Black Magick follows a noir-style crime drama in structure, but its embrace of the supernatural and, especially, in witching stories provide the sort of edge that makes the tiredness of the former genre feel fresh even in the heavily saturated market for procedurals we have currently, while the latter feels completely reborn from that small but influential boom we felt in the 90s. I have never been closer to re-marathoning The Craft, Practical Magic and Charmed outside of the Halloween season. But each new issue of Black Magick brings me that step closer.

This issue also happens to follow the very specific to this week trend of leaning heavily on emotional stakes to really pull itself and its characters above even the thickest of genre settings however, and Black Magick specifically manages that while maintaining an incredibly tight hold on Rowan’s perspective. Which is fascinating because on reread you really realize how much the POV shifts away from Rowan and onto the other characters and their subplots but in reflection it all feels like it’s only in service to Rowan’s main story more than anything else. 

Nicola Scott continues to prove she is perhaps the most gifted and, really, the most prolific of comic book artists in the modern era and I maintain that seeing the true extent of her talents is best assessed by reading this comic and just allowing yourself to be blown away by it all.

This issue also gets major props for introducing a familiar. Good, comic. Perhaps not as action filled or breathtaking as the last issue which was a nail biter from start to finish, but most certainly deserving of those 4/5 stars. 

DC’s Super Sons (2017-present) Annual #1 Peter J. Tomasi, Paul Pelletier, Cam Smith, HI-FI

If you’re one of those people -- and let me absolutely clear that it is more than understandable to be one of these people -- who find super pets and the absolute general ridiculousness of a storyline that involves super animals in any capacity with a timeline that makes no sense and the only real dialogue that matters being literal growls barks and yips, this is not an issue worth your $4.99, you’ll hate it and be annoyed with people like me screaming from the rooftops that you should buy it and read it and love it. And that is completely and utterly fine and reasonable.

I am not fine or reasonable, however, and this is literally the most rewarding $4.99 I’ve spent on a comic in ages. Because no joke there were several times while I was liveblogging this issue both on my main blog and to my friends in PMs that I was literally in tears crying with laughter because

because

Holy shit guys.

In recent years a continued criticism I have carried for superhero comics is that there is a huge tone problem, in that there is a genre’s worth of tones and atmospheres that could be played off of to give at least each individual book if not each individual issue its own feeling and its own intrigue that would set it apart from the rest of the line that given week. DC, especially, has contributed greatly to this tone problem because as I’ve said many times, there was about five years there where even the color palettes for their comics had no variation between them. And it was maddening. 

So to have something goofy, to have something different, and to have it be fun, enjoyable, full of twists and turns, and not so damn determined to take itself beyond seriously, it makes this comic throwback feel like a breath of fresh air in the most necessary of ways. 

And I should be clear, I don’t mean that this comic is for everyone, or that Super Sons as a comic in general doesn’t manage to strike that cord a lot since it really is one of the most enjoyable comics DC has put out in years, but this really felt like a treat, an additional, ridiculous, hilarious story set so far apart from what’s come before. It’s greatly enjoyable. Genuinely deserve of my coveted 5/5 stars. 

IDW’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles/Ghostbusters II (2017) #5 (of 5) Erik Burnham, Tom Waltz, Dan Shoening, Charles Paul Wilson III, Luis Antonio Delgado

We finally come to an end of this second giant mashup of Ghostbusters and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, truly the sort of framework and pairing that is as old as time, and I get to reward everyone’s patience with me reviewing these for a month an a half straight with some final thoughts of sorts. 

I compliment both of these writers quite a bit for their respective contributions and the absolute mastery they both have shown for the voices of their respective franchises, but as this week is pretty well summed up with Rena Waxes Philosophically And Is Old, I think both of our times are better spent here by pointing out something a bit different that really came together with this issue. And that’s that for how pitch perfect these writers are for capturing the long expected voices of these beloved characters, the real remarkable compliment I can give them is how they have uniquely captured and redefined these voices to really make them their own.

Despite how much my childhood might have desired these team ups (and believe me, it so did) the fact is that these interactions and these relationships are utterly a modern invention, and what could easily fail outside of the concept states instead flourishes with us here specifically because they are sticking to their guns and not always angling for the obvious route with these interactions. That’s what makes all of this so fascinating and so rewarding as a fan.

In comparison to the predecessor, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles/Ghostbusters II does not have as tight of a storyline with a steady but consistent pacing and understanding of where it’s going. But I think because that set up was taking care of in the original these five issues allowed for more experimentation and more concentration on character development and fun scenarios. So if you’re far more invested in character interactions and in comics taking full advantage of the outrageous and unique tone of its medium, there’s probably all the more for you to enjoy with this compared to the first. But at the same time, it would be lying to say that the main driving plot and stakes, with Darius Dun’s ghost and the Fast Forward Evil Turtles-lite trying to harvest souls in a complicated and underused concept didn’t come off as overall a bit weaker than the original.

All that said, ultimately this comic is a joy for fans and it seems to be aimed quite specifically at that audience either way. And in that case I have to give it my highest regards.

IDW’s Transformers: Lost Light (2016-present) #11 James Roberts, Jack Lawrence, Joana Lafuente

Ever since the last arc of James Robert’s parent series, More Than Meets the eye, there’s been a few gaps in the concept of what happened on the Lost Light during and after the mutiny, whether or not the crew saw the Rod Squad’s las message, and especially curious to people like me who can’t help themselves but love our affable and entirely flawed co-Captain Rodimus, what was his final request for his burial and what not since we saw the rest of the crew’s.

And in the second part of this “Mutineer Trilogy” that we have for Lost Light, we are at long last getting our answers to many of those questions. And for a reveal that was a year coming, the Lost Light manages to pack all the twists, turns, and punches that we could hope to expect! 

It’s fascinating to see Getaway’s sense of grandeur when it comes to himself, his plans, and really the whole driving force with the mutiny, but I really find that where Roberts’ writing and where we as readers get the most out of is the interesting and very layered sense that Roberts has for the lore of the Transformers. It feels like every subtle piece of dialogue, whether it concerns lore and mythology of the universe or not, is really weaved throughout with a submersion in this fictional culture. And that, especially, is really revealing here. It’s a very rewarding way to handle lore and I greatly appreciate it. 

One that does make me apprehensive with the turns Lost Light has taken most recently, however, is that moral grayness sometimes feels really blurred with a light take or even somewhat forgiving light given to what are undeniably and outright stated as fascist and genocidal elements of the Transformers’ past, especially Megatron. Having this issue completely dedicated to Getaway’s perspective while tackling these themes doesn’t really help because he is most egregiously one of the most villainous and traitorous characters the series has tackled, but while it feels like he’s only using the aghast feelings of the crew toward Megatron, ultimately he’s the only one who gives a speech against Megatron’s past of genocide and fascism while also taking over in the most truly reprehensible and fascist ways possible himself. This is further blurred by having some very topical buzz words like “fake news” uttered by Getaway in a... lbr pretty nonsensical way in-universe, but then have him going around imprisoning or hideously killing all of the crew which doesn’t agree with him.

I’m basically waiting for Roberts to fully address all of this in the story but right now it feels very much like “both sides are extreme and bad” mentality that, given Roberts’ politics and statements irl, I don’t think is what he ultimately wants this story to be coming away as, but I’m nervous and would like for things to tread lightly considering the current environment. 

ALL of my apprehensions and concerns out of the way, this is still a fascinating and ultimately fantastic comic that I really truly enjoy and would love to see more of because if Roberts’ Transformers is guilty of anything it’s definitely guilty of raising my expectations and setting that bar so high because of how good and how complicated and interesting all of it ca be in the right hands.

Hey there! We finish up another pretty fun, if not quick, week in comics with lots of stories and characters, and another pretty great time from yours truly. And if you enjoy these write-ups or anything else I do whether it be the Roundups, my Rambles, my personal creative projects, or you’re interested in my upcoming podcast, you can help contribute through donations to my Ko-Fi, Patreon, or PayPal. For as little as $1 per project, you make all of this possible.

You could also support me by going to my main blog, @renaroo, where I’ll soon be listing prices and more for art and writing commissions.

RenaRoo Ko-Fi | RenaRoo Patreon | RenaRoo PayPal

[dovelikewar]

October ‘17 Playlist

Hello, friends! Happy November. October went by really fast, but that’s okay, because that just means the holiday season is starting. 🙌

Since it is the first day of November, I thought I would post about my October playlist. Since January of last year, I have been making 20 song playlists every month. They’re usually a mix of new music from artists I like, new discoveries, and songs that I have been listening to a lot in that specific month. 

This one in particular has a lot of overflow from September because I filled my September playlist pretty early. I will link each song and write a little about why I included it. I will also include a link to the full playlist on both Spotify and YouTube (where you can find all music videos if the song has them) up here so you can follow along that way:

Find the full YouTube playlist here.

1. Fantasy - Superfruit ft. Amber Liu

This song is from the full length album Future Friends by Superfruit, the duo of Scott Hoying and Mitch Grassi who are also members of the A Capella group Pentatonix. I am already a big fan of PTX so naturally I was really excited when Scott and Mitch announced that they would be releasing an album. AND BOY WAS THE EXCITEMENT JUSTIFIED. The entire album is SO good. So much so that I was actually debating which song I should include on my playlist. I eventually narrowed it down to 2, and spent the remainder of the month trying to decide between them. I eventually settled on Fantasy, but love GUY.EXE and its music video so much, that I decided to include it in the blog even though it's not on the actual playlist. If you haven’t listened to Future Friends, please do. It’s a masterpiece. 

2. Ugly - Jaira Burns 

I found this song from browsing on YouTube after binging a bunch of Billie Eilish videos. Her music is a bit different as it contains a lot more mature subject matter, but her vocals are delivered similarly to Billie’s, so that drew me to this song specifically.  I also really Jaira’s voice and think it works really well with this genre. I’m not a huge fan of the other two songs she has release, so I don’t see myself following her career too closely in the future, but I feel like she has a lot of potential to grow a large audience around people that can connect with her music more.

3. Sick - Barcelona

I found this song while browsing through my discover section on Spotify. I heard it and automatically vibed with it. The instrumentals, vocals, and just everything about it is such a great mix of a bunch of different styles. Somehow though, it fits together so well and makes for such a great song.

4. Rollin’ - B1A4

This is another roll over from September. On the 25th of September, one of my favorite k-pop groups, B1A4, released their newest mini album. This is the title track from it, and I love it with my entire heart. The entire album is amazing, but I fell in love with Rollin’ the second I watched the MV for it, so I knew it had to be the one I included in my playlist. It is a quite different sound from what B1A4 usually goes for, but it is still so well done and amazing. B1A4 never cease to amaze me, but the entire Rollin’ album is such a masterpiece and was so worth the wait that it took to get released. 1000000/10. Would recommend.

5. Oogie Boogie’s Song - Nightmare Before Christmas Soundtrack

Of course, since it’s October, I had to include some Halloween-y songs, and what’s more Halloween-y than Nightmare Before Christmas? It is one of my favorite movies ever, and Oogie Boogie’s song is one of my favorite songs from it. It’s such a good song to listen to if I’m trying to get spooky.

6. Walls - Airspoken

This is another song I found through my Spotify discover playlist, and I liked it pretty immediately. It has a very chilling yet rhythmic vibe to it that I really like. Another thing that I found really nice is that contrast between all four vocals in the song. It goes from a smooth vocal, to a deeper vocal, to a more raspy and high vocal, to a weird mix of the three. The different vocalists make the already catchy song even more interesting to listen to, and I just really like it. The group doesn’t have a huge following by the looks of it, but I intend to look into their music more and maybe support them if I like more of their material.

7. Shatter In The Night - Vesperteen

Honestly, I am so sad that I have just recently found Vesperteen, because I listened to more of their music and it is all really good. This song specifically is just a really feel good “driving around a big city at night” type song. I like it a lot.

8. American Love - Smallpools

Yet another artist I wish I would have found sooner. This song landed on my discover playlist and just the very beginning immediately caught my attention. The song is very melodic and the type of song I wouldn’t mind hearing live. I listened to more of Smallpools music too, and all of it is so SO good. The instrumentals and vocals on this and all of their songs that I have heard are top notch and really beautiful. I can definitely see myself getting more into their music.

9. Hobgoblin - CLC

CLC is one of the only girl k-pop groups whose music that I actually genuinely like. I found them quite recently, but I’m still glad I finally found a girl group where I like every song I have heard. This is one of the first songs I heard by them, and is also one of their most popular title tracks. I really like this song and their song Pepe so far, but hope I have time to look more into their music soon.

10. Mess - Jordan Fisher

Not gonna lie, I pretty much put this song on my playlist before I even listened to it just because it’s Jordan Fisher and I love everything that he has ever put out thus far. This song is no exception. It’s very similar to his other music with heavy R&B elements and super strong vocals. Jordan very consistently slays, and his music is always on point. Mess is no different.

11. Bite My Tongue - Logan Henderson

Not gonna lie, I pretty much put this song on my playlist before I even listened to it just because it’s Jordan Fisher and I love everything that he has ever put out thus far. This song is no exception. It’s very similar to his other music with heavy R&B elements and super strong vocals. Jordan very consistently slays, and his music is always on point. Mess is no different.

12. ENVY - coldrain

Finally. I’ve been waiting to talk about this one. This is from coldrain, one of my favorite band’s, new album from this month, Fateless. The entire album is beyond amazing, as expected. This was another situation where I was heavily debating for weeks over which of two songs I would put on the playlist. Ultimately, I just chose the one that had a music video (and then the other song came out with a music video 3 days after the album came out. Go figure.). Still, I recommend the entire album to anyone that enjoys rock music at all. Yet another masterpiece, if I do say so myself. 

13. Close You Eyes - The Midnight Club

I found this song after one of my favorite music critic youtubers tweeted it out saying that it sounded a bit like another one of my favorite bands, Panic! At The Disco. When I listened to the song, I could definitely see what he was getting at. It really sounds a lot like P!ATD’s older music, and the vocalist even sort of sounds like Brendon. More than anything though, I noticed how good the song and band was in their own right. I ended up liking it enough to include it in my playlist this month.

14. J.D. Blows Up - Heathers Soundtrack

More Halloween type stuff! Heathers is another one of my favorite movies. Although it isn’t a horror movie per se, it is definitely a very dark movie. I was reminded of this specific instrumental off the soundtrack while doing homework for a film survey course I am currently taking, and got chills as I listened to it more. It only felt right to include it on this month’s playlist or make it just a bit more spooky.

15. Callin’ - A.C.E

Another favorite artist! A.C.E, another one of my top k-pop groups, had their comeback this month. I love this song, and the music video, and the choreography, and really just everything. Callin’ has the same fast paced mood as their debut song, Cactus. Overall, it is a really fun listen and is even more fun to watch them perform. I am consistently blown away by their talent, and this comeback was just a reminder of how much talent they have. I love this song and I love A.C.E. 

16. Blonde - Waterparks

Keeping with the theme, another one of my favorite bands announced that they would be releasing their new album early next year along with releasing the lead single off of it. This is that single. It does not stray too far from what Waterparks usually releases, but is still different enough to see a musical growth. I especially love the more unclean vocal in the bridge. Blonde has really made me excited to hear the rest of the album. I can’t wait for it to come out in January!

17. Not Thinking Of You - The Royal

A catchy tune I found on my discover playlist. The instrumentals are a pretty normal indie alternative mix with even more normal subject matter. The catchiness of it and the vocals are really what caught my attention and made me want to include it on the playlist.

18. Time Warp - Rocky Horror Picture Show Soundtrack

Because is it really October if you don’t listen to the Rocky Horror Picture Show soundtrack? This song is a classic and a staple at any Halloween party. I had no choice but to include it.

19. South Drive - WSTR

I was drawn to this song because of the raw instrumentals and vocals. It almost seems a bit messy during the verses, but comes together for the chorus. When I heard it for the first time, I questioned whether or not I liked it. As I listened to it again though, I did find myself really enjoying the more authentic garage rock band vibe that it has. It does feel a lot more cut and paste than what you would normally hear from more popular bands of the same genre, but it still works really well. I enjoy it.

20. Astoria - Marianas Trench

The last song on this month’s playlist is very close to my heart. It is the intro to the album Astoria by another one of my favorite bands, Marianas Trench. I decided to include this song last on this playlist because this month they released the music video for the song. It is a very beautiful video that very well sums up what the whole album is about. However, the release of the music video also ended the Astoria era exactly two years after the album’s release on October 23rd. It was a very emotional time for me and all other MTrench fans. The album has provided me with so many great memories, made me dance, made me cry, but most of all made me appreciate the intricacies of music so much more. Although I am sad to see the era end, I hope it means that the band can get some much deserved rest and start working on more music. Never say die.

That is it this week, friends. It’s been a rough week, but writing about music has made it a little better (even if it’s a little late). I used to write blogs like this for my playlists when I first started making them last year, but stopped when I realized no one read them. I still have absolutely zero people reading, but ya know, a girl can dream. Still, happy first week of November, and happy day to you, invisible friends.

- 🕊️ ❤️ 🏹  

[junker-town]

6 risers, 4 fallers in the latest NFL playoff picture

Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images

The 49ers are back atop the NFC, but the Patriots keep slipping in the AFC. Geoff Schwartz takes a look at this week’s playoff standings.

What an amazing Sunday of football. The NFL games to remember happen in December. Between the 49ers-Saints game and Bills-Ravens in the early window, followed by Patriots-Chiefs in the late window, we might have had our best Sunday this season.

As usual, this week also provided another glimpse into what the playoffs will look like. Two more teams clinched their spot in the playoffs, while six others were eliminated.

Let’s check out which of the contenders helped and hurt themselves the most Sunday in Week 14.

The AFC’s Risers

1. Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens are officially in the playoffs, and unless something weird happens to end the season, they’ve basically locked up homefield advantage. Their offense has cooled off the last two weekends as they’ve faced better defenses, but they find ways to get it done.

In the 24-17 win over the Bills, Lamar Jackson had 145 yards passing, with 61 of those coming on a single pass. The Ravens ONLY had 118 yards rushing, almost half of their usual amount. The Buffalo defense harassed the Ravens and made Jackson uncomfortable. I don’t think they are getting figured out, but that’s two straight weeks of just OK play on offense.

However, Baltimore defense was legit once again. The Ravens made life tough on Josh Allen and forced a fumble to give their offense a short field. Their defense doesn’t get the credit they deserve because Jackson is on track to win MVP.

I’ll say it again, though: The Ravens just have that look of a Super Bowl team.

2. Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs went into New England and won! It almost never happens. In fact, the Patriots entered the week 42-0 at home against AFC opponents when Tom Brady has had a healthy Julian Edelman in the regular season. How wild is that? Or how about this one:

At 24 years old, Patrick Mahomes is the youngest QB to beat Bill Belichick and Tom Brady in Foxborough during the regular season. New England had been 29-0 against starting QBs under the age of 25 at home since 2001. pic.twitter.com/nd7UAtTs0L

— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) December 9, 2019

But, the Chiefs got it done. They had an outstanding second quarter where they scored 17 of their 23 points. Outside of that quarter, their offense was out of sync, like it’s been at many times this season. Patrick Mahomes leaves the pocket way too often when there’s no pressure and doesn’t set his feet, or step toward his target on plenty of his throws, which leads to inaccurate tosses. It started when he hurt his ankle at the same time the Kansas City offensive line was beat up. It’s not gotten better as the OL has gotten healthier. It’s something to watch moving forward.

The Chiefs’ defense continues to play well, although I’d caution against getting overly excited about what y’all saw Sunday because the Pats’ offensive skill players are a hot mess. While Brady wasn’t fooled by anything, no one was getting open when the Chiefs brought the house. You can’t do that as often against better receiving options. The Chiefs did find matchups on the New England offensive line to take advantage of, so that was good for them.

In the end, the Chiefs won the AFC West for the fourth straight season. Andy Reid is the man.

3. Tennessee Titans

Raise your hand if you saw the Titans inserting Ryan Tannehill into the starting lineup and rattling off six of seven wins. The Titans cannot be stopped on offense right now. They put up 42 on the Raiders in a massive win on the road, after scoring 31, 42, and 35 in consecutive weeks. Tannehill is first in the NFL in passer rating, has completed 77.6 percent of his passes the last three weeks, and is one of the best in the NFL on play-action passing.

Ryan Tannehill threw for 276 yards on play action today, the 2nd-most yards on play action in a game over the last 4 seasons.@ryantannehill1 now has 2 of the top 5 games in yards on play action since 2016, both in the past 3 weeks (Week 12: 218 yards).#TENvsOAK | #Titans pic.twitter.com/mOWwffJCoW

— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) December 9, 2019

He’s had a revival in the Music City, and he’s got the Titans sitting at 8-5 with two games against the Texans in their final three weeks. I think the Titans have a great shot to win the division.

4. Pittsburgh Steelers

Quack, Quack, Quack ... Duck Hodges is 3-0 as the Steelers’ starting quarterback. It’s not always pretty, but he’s not making mistakes. He’s letting the game come to him. He was 16 of 19 for 152 yards in a 23-17 win against the Cardinals. It was a modest day, but he didn’t turn the ball over, and the Steelers’ run game and defense are winning games for them.

Right now, they are the sixth seed in the AFC. They get the Bills next weekend, then the Jets and possibly a Ravens team that’s not playing hard in Week 17. There’s a real chance they can make the wild card. What a coaching job by Mike Tomlin.

The AFC’s Fallers

1. New England Patriots

The Patriots’ longest plays on offense were two trick plays, two defensive pass interference calls, and a Tom Brady scramble. Their offense just isn’t good right now. They don’t have a single WR who can win against man-on-man coverage. Julian Edelman can, but he’s being doubled. There’s no easy fix unless their receivers all of a sudden become quicker. Brady is seeing everything, but just can’t make the connection. They still can’t run the ball, which is less than ideal when you can’t pass it.

The defense wasn’t perfect against the Chiefs, but it wasn’t bad either. They allowed 23 points, forced two turnovers, and the Chiefs had just 4.9 yards a play on offense.

Now, to address the obvious: Yes, the officials screwed the Pats out of two touchdowns. I get that. But the old Patriots would have been able to overcome that. This team can’t. They can still get the No. 2 seed and play two perfect playoff games, most likely rematches against the Chiefs and then the Ravens for the AFC Championship. It’s possible, but right now, how can you count on that?

In the past, the Patriots would lose games to random teams, like the Dolphins and Titans. We’d laugh about it and pretend to write them off, but they’d always be fine. However, this season they’ve lost to the other top seeds in the conference. That’s a legit concern. The Patriots might not have it this season.

2. Houston Texans

WTF, Texans? You get crushed by the Ravens, then beat the Colts and Patriots, only to get smoked by the Broncos at home with Drew Lock starting his second game. The inconsistencies week to week fall on the coaching staff, which I’ve felt has held back this team for years. Now, with the Titans coming on strong, the Texans have to get their shit together to win the AFC South.

The NFC Risers

1. San Francisco 49ers

Oh boy, a big-dog game from the 49ers. Down 27-14 in the Superdome, the 49ers came all the way back to win 48-46 after George Kittle just destroyed half the Saints’ defense on the final drive. The 49ers are a young team, with only two of their players on the roster seeing meaningful playoff time in their career. I thought they’d struggle with another physical opponent after losing to the Ravens, and they did not.

I think we can put to rest the idea of Jimmy Garoppolo not being a franchise quarterback. He had stones, throwing for 349 yards on 26 completions. He answered the critics.

The importance of this win goes beyond the box score. The 49ers now control homefield advantage. If they win out, they stay at home for the playoffs. While Levi’s Stadium isn’t a massive homefield advantage, they don’t have to travel to New Orleans or Seattle for the playoffs. Combined, Drew Brees and Russell Wilson are 11-1 at home in the playoffs. So the advantage is not having to go on the road.

2. Green Bay Packers

The Packers barely won at home against Washington, but they won. Their offense is still a wreck. It didn’t matter this week. They are now sitting in the No. 2 and are still a game up on the Vikings in the NFC North.

NFC Fallers

1. New Orleans Saints

Not only did the Saints allow 48 points at home, but Sean Payton did some weird things. The Saints scored to go ahead 13-7 and they went for two after the ball was moved from the 2 to the 1 because of a Niners penalty. Instead of running ahead, they tried to run Taysom Hill on an end around, and it was stuffed. If you’re going for it, at least call a decent play. You’ve run Taysom Hill on end round-type plays this season and it was zero surprise.

Then, why the heck are you attempting a boring fake punt? If you’re going to call that play, you need to make it creative, especially from the 49ers’ 45-yard line down 35-33. The Niners promptly drove down the field for a touchdown. I did not like that call.

With the loss, the Saints now fall from the No. 1 seed to No. 3 for now. More importantly, they lose the tiebreaker to the 49ers if it comes down to that.

2. Seattle Seahawks

They just laid an egg on the road against an average Rams team. Now they drop from the No. 2 seed and leaders of the NFC West to the fifth seed. There’s still plenty of time to make up the ground with a home game against the 49ers to end the season. But they looked flat in this game. Their defense was torched by a Rams offense that had been dormant for much of the season.

A few days ago, I ranked the Super Bowl contenders and I wrote that I didn’t trust the Seahawks. Their lackluster performance against the Rams showed why.

As a refresher, here’s what the playoff standings look like after Sunday in Week 14:

AFC standings:

Baltimore Ravens (11-2)*

New England Patriots (10-3)

Kansas City Chiefs (9-4)**

Houston Texans (8-5)

Buffalo Bills (9-4)

Pittsburgh Steelers (8-5)

NFC standings:

San Francisco 49ers (11-2)

Green Bay Packers (10-3)

New Orleans Saints (10-3)**

Dallas Cowboys (6-7)

Seattle Seahawks (10-3)

Minnesota Vikings (9-4)

*clinched a playoff spot **clinched division

[tocinephile]

Ada’s Top 10 Films of 2018

In tandem with this post, I’ve also recreated this list in Letterboxd.com, you can find it at: https://letterboxd.com/palindr0me/list/adas-top-10-films-of-2018/

Between Christmas shopping, baking a couple hundred cookies, and rewatching Bad Santa every December, I try to take a peek at critics’ lists of the top films of the year (even if I myself manage to procrastinate well into February to compile my own list each year). On December 31st a good friend and fellow writer published his list, the opening sentence of his blog proclaimed 2018 was the best year for film this century and that’s when I began to panic. 

Though I was far from finalizing my list, I had thought 2018 to be one of the worst years for film in recent history! I immediately starting chasing all the award season favourites plus other talked about films at TIFF 2018, and spent as much of January in front of a screen as possible. I hoped against hope that I somehow missed all the good films of 2018. 

A month later I will say this: 2018, it wasn’t as bad as I thought! However, after much brainstorming and revisions to the order of my list, I will say that not a single film stood out for me as the year's best, which is very rare. So here are 10 films (and then some) in not much of a particular order that I think should be talked about for 2018. 

Qualifying films for Ada’s Top 10 Films:

• any film that screened at a festival that I attended in 2018  • any film with a Canadian theatrical release dated in 2018   • is listed on www.imdb.com as released in 2018 

1. Widows 2. Hotel Mumbai 3. Destroyer 4. Capernum 5. The Hate U Give 6. Love, Simon 7. Isle of Dogs 8. Pick of the Litter 9. Shadow 10. Transit 

Honourable Mentions: 

 • Shoplifters   • Free Solo   • BlacKkKlansman   • A Star is Born   • Vox Lux   • Everybody Knows   • The Other Story

1. Widows 

I firmly believe Widows film came in under the radar considering all that it embodied. In a year of diversity in film, Widows is made by a man of Caribbean descent (Steve McQueen), written by a woman (Gillian Flynn), starting FOUR women - 3 of which are of a visible minority (Viola Davis, Michelle Rodriguez, Cynthia Enviro, and Elizabeth Debicki), and Daniel Kaluuya portrays one cold-blooded villain. And on top of that, Widows is good entertainment! I may have a soft spot for heists and ass-kicking women, but I’d like to think I know a good thriller when I see one. I feel that Widows didn’t get the love it deserved and so I'm mentioning it first. 

2. Hotel Mumbai 

I saw Hotel Mumbai last year and it is dated 2018 across the web, but it is coming to theatres soon and I assure you it’s good entertainment for your buck. I saw it in the midst of back to back films and long work days during TIFF 2018, worried that I’d accidentally nod off. Instead, I couldn’t close my eyes if I tried. Again this ensemble cast film is more about entertainment value that cinematic artistry, and I never compared the story on screen to historical facts, but what I took in was enough to stay with me and rank it amongst one of the best times I had in a movie theatre in 2018. 

3. Destroyer 

Destroyer is fresh in my mind having only seen it a few weeks ago. Due to the nature of my volunteer work with TIFF, it was one of the films this year that I kept walking into mid-movie (much to my dismay). I purposely avoided the ending of the film and then had no opportunity to see it again until recently, giving me lots of time to forget anything I might have accidentally absorbed. Fully aware that it was going to be a dark, depressing watch, I quickly found myself engrossed in the story reminiscent of the HK police dramas that I grew up with about divided loyalties and double agents. Director Karen Kusama pushes Kidman's character well past the point of likability but the story keeps you invested in the events as they unfold. That's when you know you've got a good story. 

4. Capernaum 

Also fresh in my mind is Capernaum, a Foreign Film nominee in this year's awards season. This film that looks at extreme child poverty from Lebanon is at once heartbreaking and endearing. The film follows young Zain but is supported by a host of complex characters, ch with a detailed back story of struggle and survival. Together they give the film a fullness and weaves a world where although individuals' actions fall into a decidedly grey area, no explanation is required to justify them. It is a world unknown to the majority of people who will see this film, but it is utterly engrossing. 

5. The Hate U Give 

This was a last film on my list of 2018 movies to watch before compiling this list and I'm really thankful I didn't get lazy and skip it. While there's no single aspect to make it truly stand out in awards season, it's a shame that The Hate U Give isn't getting quite as much love as Green Book nor BlacKkKlansman because it delivers a similar powerful message, from a different angle that actually made it the differentiator for me. The story comes from the eyes of young black teenager girl named Starr, wonderfully portrayed by Amandla Stenberg, and addresses an aspect of being a visible minority that speaks volumes to me: assimilation. Compared to other common themes (oppression, profiling, etc) 

6. Love, Simon 

When I think of light hearted, entertaining but impactful teen-targeted, coming of age tales, I like to compartmentalize them by the decade. Now maybe I'm getting too old, or maybe it's become so ok to be and do whatever you want that no individual story can resonate anymore, that I don't have too many examples from the 10's, but Love, Simon is definitely one of them. It's not heavy nor gritty, rather glossed over in fact (the main character even admits it), but the message shines through and it's a really fun film that I think will remain a crowd pleaser for years to come. There is a place in our hearts for movies like this one, it's easy to go over the top or fall flat in this territory but I think Love, Simon really hit the nail on the head. 

7. Isle of Dogs 

Wes Anderson + endearing tale about dogs, I mean, come on! None of my defenses would be strong enough to dislike this film! I wish I'd had a chance to rewatch it so that I offer you more than just a rehashing of all the things I love about Wes Anderson's style and trademarks. 

8. Pick of the Litter 

Perhaps 2018 was truly the year of the dog, not just in the Chinese Zodiac but in film as well. Pick of the Litter was my most memorable documentary of the year, I did not make it through the intro without tearing up (it was really embarrassing and thank god the friend I went to see it with was sniffling harder than me) It was truly a journey, and insightful too, it goes way beyond humour and cuteness, and believe me there was a lot of cuteness. The thing that hit home most about Pick of the Litter for me besides the idea of guide dog named Phil (and we still always wonder how Phil and his human are doing!) as how invested I became in the litter's story through the course of the film. 

9. Shadow 

Ok, here's my Chinese film of the year. Joke aside, Zhang Yimou's Shadow is not on this list merely because I need an Asian film to fill a quota. With the possible exception of Isle of Dogs, the films on my list this year were selected largely based on story over style... Except this one. This is all style, it's a visual stunner that really puts the director back at the top of his game. He devotes the film to a steely palette that's at once cold but exciting. Come to the think of it, the story wasn't bad either. 

10. Transit 

If you haven’t seen Transit, I have some advice for you. This is not a spoiler so please take it into consideration. Transit is adapted from the 1942 novel by Anna Seghers with a few modernizations that calls for a leap of faith. As an audience member, be prepared to suspend believe and it will make all the difference in your enjoyment of the film. I wish someone had told me this beforehand so that I didn’t spend half the movie trying to make sense of details that had little bearing on the plot. I spent days after the fact trying to decide whether I loved the film or it didn’t make any sense. Thankfully the conclusion I came to was that Transit is a lucid tale of love, loss, longing, and humanity. Characters and story mirror each other in early meanderings that creates an almost surreal existence contrasting against the harsh realities of events taking place around them. There is profound sadness, but there is also beauty. 

Honourable Mentions: 

You'll note from above my list of honourable mentions is getting to be almost as long as the top 10 itself (in fact it was probably just as long until I trimmed a few films off... You don't need me to tell you about Avengers: Infinity War and Black Panther) 

I saw Destroyer, Capernaum, and The Hate U Give quite recently, but until I had, Shoplifters and Free Solo had firmly been in my top 10. 

 I'm typically not a fan of Japanese cinema, but there are always exceptions and Shoplifters was definitely one that defied the odds. It broke from the often tiresome mold (to me) of demure characters, restraint, and complicity that's often portrayed in that country's cinema. The message of making your own happiness and family being those that loved you most regardless of genetic ties was heartwarming and resonating. 

Free Solo ranked amongst the fictional narratives on my list for thrilling and edge of your seat viewing. It takes a lot to keep me wide-eyed griping the arm of my chair in the theatre in anticipation and fear for an hour and a half. I love heights and I was scared witless. 

BlacKkKlansman and A Star is Born are seemingly award show favourites, though not winning as many awards as they might have hoped, both have strong scripts, powerhouse talent, skillful direction for the former, and one of my favourite songs of the year from the latter. They truly are amongst some of the best films made in 2018. 

Vox Lux is one of those films that warrants a discussion after viewing, at least for me. Though it feels like the film scored points neither with critics nor audiences, there’s a part of me that’s drawn to intricate explorations of the selfish and narcissistic. Natalie Portman was great in the role in my opinion. To make an unlikable character worth watching is not an easy feat, especially when the possibility of redemption isn’t really on the table. Like Destroyer, it takes one hell of an acting performance and skilled direction to pull this off. I guess this is where some thought Destroyer nailed it, and pretty much no one thought Vox Lux did.

Everybody Knows (Spain, thought director Asghar Farhadi is Iranian) and The Other Story (Israel) were also amongst the most enjoyable foreign films I watched in 2018. I'm not sure if The Other Story got Canadian distribution but Everybody Knows is playing at TIFF Bell Lightbox right now for those who want to see it. Both are dramas centred around families. 

We're well into 2019 films now and I'm really hoping for some standouts this year, at least in my eyes. I mean, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood does have a July release date after all! As well, we're about to wrap another decade in film so even more lists charting the best of the last 10 years. But first, we got some more movies to watch!

[emblem-333]

Boston Is Alive

I’ve learned a lot these past four games.

1. Winning Fixes Everything

Twice we made a bunch of hoopla about the Bulls, their dysfunction in the front office and on the court. Entering this series I thought back to my first belief of what the Bulls were once the season began: a team who’s three best players all desperately need/want the ball. Neither of them willing to sacrifice. Even if they all were, they’re doing it to enable inconsistent, below-average role-players. Arguably, the ball-stopping of Rondo, Wade and Butler was the only asset to this team had.

Fred Hoiberg is asked to do so much, and nobody else did so little. Hoiberg is very likely the least effectual coach in the NBA. I wholeheartedly expected a full-scale mutiny led by Rondo. If the first two games proved anything it’s Rajon Rondo is still the smartest dummy ever. Well ahead of noted smart idiot Neil DeGrass Tyson.

Four days ago Basketball Twitter was on fire talking about the demise of the Boston Celtics. Marcus Smart lost $25,000 for flipping off…someone. Isaiah Thomas looked obviously somewhere else mentally, as did the entire team. And when they were in the moment, they barked at each other. The Bulls bench looked alive, Rondo boasted to his teammates that the boys in green were ready to quit. On the other end Boston looked just about that.

Ninety-six hours later, Boston players are smiling and happy again - especially Isaiah. Role-players are contributing. Even Terry Rozier earned himself a few highlights in Game 3.

Teams that win are happier than teams who lose. Go figure.

2. Robin Lopez Is Human After All

In Games 1 & 2 Chicago came out springy. Rondo ran the offense like it was 2010, putting on a great show for the cameras, an obvious lust to deliver good on his three-year quest on get revenge on the man who he blamed for his decline: Daniel Ainge.

But as great as the now injured point guard had been, Robin Lopez crashed the boards. Brad Stevens didn’t run him off the floor with Pick ‘n Rolls, like I expected him too. Lopez transformed to Wilt Chamberlain. Averaging 16 points, on 66.7% shooting, and 9.5 rebounds in the first two games.

Four days later, he cannot be on the floor in crunch time. Limited on the glass, though still making his presence felt, Lopez reverted back to…well….Robin Lopez on Friday night.

3. The Redemption of Rajon Rondo

One of the most annoying aspects of the sudden - but deserved praised of Rajon Rondo, is we all conveniently forgotten all the baggage he had complied since 2015.

He quit on Dirk and the Mavs. Spit on Rick Carlisle’s mercy in Game 1 when he reinserted Rondo in a playoff game where he had done nothing but pout and produce absolutely nothing.

A year later, he caused the NBA’s ugliest story since Tim Donaghy, in hurling a gay slur at referee Bill Kennedy.

And yet, I still have sympathy for him. A part of me still believed in him. Only against the Celtics in the postseason could have he been successful in redemption. A certain fire lit under him that wouldn’t burn so bright if the opponent was the Toronto Raptors.

Revenge is a seductive performance enhancer.

You expect me to believe Fred Hoiberg made the necessary adjustments in Game 1? Nothing could make me think that. Rondo dissected the Celtics defense as if it hadn’t changed since his departure.

His teammates looked happy playing with him. Rondo acted as a savvy veteran, and people like Butler listened to him! To their benefit.

4. Never Challenge Brad Stevens To A Duel of Adjustments if You’re Fred Hoiberg

Yeah. This one is pretty self-explanatory.

After Game 2’s debacle, Brad floated the idea of starting Jerebko at the four. A lineup change that served him well in last year’s first round series against Atlanta. I shrugged. Figured there wasn’t many adjustments you could make with this roster. Kelly Olynyk gets burnt on defense on every single possession. Isaiah can’t defend Rondo for a lick. Course, Brad could’ve told him Rondo hadn’t made a jump shot since 2008 and Isaiah will defend by sagging off him.

Turns out Stevens was just throwing us off the scent. Starting Gerald Green is the basketball equivalent of “Then everything changed when The Fire Nation Attacked.” His production has been a revelation. Let’s not downplay how big of a gamble it was to start Green. Playing in place of quality defensive stalwart Amir Johnson, Green isn’t exactly talented on that end of the floor. So if in any of the past two games his jump shot just wasn’t falling, you’re giving up points on the other end.

But his shots did fall. 10-21. 6-12 from three-point land for 26 points in Games 3 & 4. Provided Boston with a much-needed boost on offense and garnered seven rebounds in 22:59 of play tonight.

So how did Hoiberg respond? He didn’t. The loss of Rondo should’ve inspired him to get creative. Run the offensive through Butler and Wade, trot out Denzel Valentine, because you cannot play Michael Carter-Williams. MCW just isn’t good.

Instead Valentine never saw the court. Opting to play Isaiah Canaan, to his credit had a solid performance. 4-10 from the field, 3-7 from three, 13 points and three assists. If I were Hoiberg I’d start Canaan. Give up on Jerian Grant and send MCW to Siberia.

In Game 4 Hoiberg ran Butler (33 pts, 9 ast, 5 reb) into the ground and not surprisingly got little in return in terms of output from other players. Isaiah ran Butler ragged. Jimmy saw the court for 45 minutes and 47 seconds. Boston’s best player only had to play 35:48. Because Brad Stevens is smart and knows how to manage lineups and rest crucial players for crunch time. Hoiberg doesn’t.

In the last two games, Chicago’s trifecta of below-average to poor point guards complied 33 assists. In Games 1 & 2 Rondo alone posted 20. As a team: fifty.

Jimmy Butler dropped nine dimes tonight. He’s ready to play point-forward.

5. Isaiah Is Boston

I don’t know how long this love fest will last. With a critical summer of decisions for Danny Ainge on the horizon, it isn’t a stretch to suggest the two-time All Star is competing for his Celtics career to extended well beyond 2018. Down 0-2, I believed it was a referendum on the Isaiah Thomas era, his limitations due to his size were so great no amount of trickery could get him out of round one as your best player.

Heck. Those two games may still be a referendum. It’s just the Basketball God’s took pity on us and threw a lifeline.

Game 4 wasn’t just when Isaiah went supernova, driving to the rim without a care in the world and converting on crazy lay-up after crazy lay-up. It was also when he started to smile again.

Regardless of the outcome of this series, all of New England has been behind their point guard, as have his teammates. The court is his safe haven from despair.

An underrated distraction from pain: winning.

You can reach me on Twitter @Sailboatstudios

[walkonwalkonwithhopeinyourheart]

Player Review of the Season 18/19: #6. Fabinho via /r/LiverpoolFC

Player Review of the Season 18/19: #6. Fabinho

Sorry for the delay, got caught up in some stuff:

1: Fabinho

Continuing a trend with almost all our summer signings, Fabinho took his fair share of time to get into the groove of things. We had to adjust our shape and formation for him specifically; Klopp called it a "gift" for Fabinho, us playing with a two man midfield. He started playing from November, and since January, he's been comfortable as a lone DM in a 3 man midfield.

He's simply incredible. A DM that we've been crying out for since Masch. I love his long legs, and his tackling, especially when it seems that his man has gone beyond him yet he somehow puts a foot in. His passing is pretty on point too, and his lobbed passes look quality- we should be looking to make use of them more.

Quite looking forward to a full season from him

2. Stats

Apps(PL) Started Assists Big chances created Passing Accuracy (own half/opposition half) Interceptions per game Tackles won per game Dribbled Past per game Clearances per game Error led to shot Errors leading to goal Duels won 28 21 2 2 92%/80% 1.3(63.9%) 1.1 (52.5%) 1.3 0.9 2 0 5.5(55%)

Apps(CL) Started Assists Big chances created Passing Accuracy (own half/opposition half) Interceptions per game Tackles won per game Dribbled Past per game Clearances per game Error led to shot Errors leading to goal Duels won 11 7 0 1 92%/72% 1.1 1.9(77.8%) 2.0 1.4 0 0 5.7 (56%)

2: What stood out

Here's some parts of his game and improvement to his game that stood out:

The Long Legs: They are great, no two ways about it. Some of the last ditch tackles that he puts in are just incredible, the attacker thinks they've done the hard bit, they are past him, and then in comes one of those long legs. Loved his tackle on Hazard particularly, and the multiple ones he made on Messi.

Quick to adapt: He had his first appearance vs Chelsea in the Carabao (not a particularly good one), and his first proper outing in the PL was at the Emirates. And boy, did he look lost in that game. Completely bereft of ideas, and not in tune with the pace of the match at all. I thought he would take a long while, perhaps a few more months to settle in. And yet, a month later, he was dismantling United on his own.

Passing range: I had heard from Monaco fans that he had a pass on him, but he's much better than I expected. Great, crisp passing with often perfect weights on the pass is what I expect from him regularly. His lofted balls are a joy to watch as well.

A great shield to the defense: While this is something we expected from him, it must be commended nonetheless. He allows the two midfielders and the front 3 to do their thing ahead, on the pitch, while he shields and even presses (when the situation calls for it) with good efficiency. His tackles won are the highest in from our team in the CL. I think he did particularly well in the knockout rounds of the CL.

3: Scope for Improvement

Here are a few areas where I feel his game could improve:

Penalties: You look at his penalty record before can, one would think he would increasing

Consistency (?): When he's having a good game, he is nigh on impossible to get past, but when he is not on it, as I noted during Soton (A), it seems sometimes that players just run by him. I may be being overly critical though, would like to hear your thoughts.

Impose himself on the game more: I am holding very high standards here, but I believe he can impose himself on games better, in a bullish way that the likes of Viera often did. He can add a bit more tenacity to his game, like Mascherano. Again, a very subjective opinion.

4: Rating for the Season: 7.5/10

He didn't play for almost 3 months, so can't really give him higher than 7.5. He's had a stormer of a season since he has settled in though, I cannot wait to see him next season, hopefully alongside Keita.

Previous Season Review Threads:

Player Rating Player Review of the Season 18/19: #1. Alisson Becker 8.5/10 Player Review of the Season 18/19: #2. Andy Robertson 9/10 Player Review of the Season 18/19: #3. Virgil van Dijk 9.8/10 Player Review of the Season 18/19: #4. Joël Matip 8/10 Player Review of the Season 18/19: #5. Trent Alexander-Arnold 8/10

Anyone has any other thoughts on his season, anything that stood out to you that I've failed to mention? Or if anyone wants to suggest any changes to the format, or if they wanna do one of these, they're more than welcome!

Submitted July 08, 2019 at 04:18PM by vivek2396 via reddit https://ift.tt/2xDTSot

[emblem-333]

Danny Ainge's Gamble On Kyrie Irving

I’m becoming more disenchanted with this stupid sport by the day. All the preconceived notions of sports I conjured in my youth have been disproven in the last few years. whisked away the illusion I had of loyalty still remaining prevalent in sports. The Spurs being the lone exception - players, coaches, general managers look out for primarily themselves. It’s why Gordon Hayward refused to take $500,000 less to make room on the roster without having to trade anybody. It’s why Paul George is in OKC, his old team is trying to throw a monkey wretch in their former player’s plan to return home to Los Angeles.

We don’t like it, even as fans benefit from it, the NBA is a business where childlike wonder doesn’t thrive. Old men go ring chasing, teams casually fire GMs and coaches every summer and trade players they don’t like regardless of how much they mean to fans and the team’s identity.

The Isaiah Thomas trade makes sense for the Boston Celtics in a computer. Kyrie Irving isn’t yet the superior point guard, but is younger, under contract for an extra season and will be cheaper to retain once a free agent in 2019 (he has a player-option for 2019 he’ll most definitely exercise). For all what Thomas was in Boston, he isn’t the ISO threat Irving is. He’s yet to hit his ceiling, while the 5-9 wonder hit his already and will only decline - coming off a server hip injury that’s derailed careers in the past, it isn’t unreasonable to believe we’ve seen the best of Isaiah Thomas.

Obtaining Gordon Hayward made the talented and prickly Jae Crowder expendable. You may disagree, certainly Ainge didn’t. It’s an armchair observation, but how far was your team going if Jae Crowder was your second best scoring option? He’s a wonderful player, he hasn’t been able to be the two-way threat he once was prior to J.R Smith slashing him in the playoffs in 2015. Still, Jae hit nearly 40% of his threes, hit an inordinate of twos (54%), and can get to the rim when his knees are healthy. In theory he should help your team defensively, yet for the last two seasons his DRtg jumps from 102 to 108, which isn’t scary, then you factor in his last two playoffs, against Atlanta in 2016 a hobbled Crowder put up a 99 DRtg. The next season, a healthy Jae, with defensive Swiss-army knife Al Horford, his rating jumped fifteen points.

Course, it isn’t easy guarding LeBron James. That can overemphasize anyone’s shortcomings. His DRtg rating was a solid 109 prior to the Cavs series for the postseason. Of course DRtg isn’t the definitive stat to accurately account someone’s worth on defense.

To me, Crowder is a solid two-way threat, when the offensive burden isn’t on him. If he is playing 27.5 minutes a night for you, as opposed to the 32.4 he played for Boston in 2016-‘17, his knees won’t wear down like they did and his jump shot may become more of a consistent threat in the playoffs. Outside of an explosive Game 1 vs Washington, Crowder shot 32.3% from beyond the arc in the post season prior, and 35% after. I’ve been of the unpopular opinion that he should take more TWOs than threes. The importance given the 3-point line been emphasized so much, a large chunk of the court has gone untouched. San Antonio exploited the glitch in the system against Houston, I wouldn’t mind seeing other teams try to do the same.

Ante Zizic in four-years will be Timofey Mozgov…

Evaluating the final Nets pick by the Celtics is most likely not of an opinion widely thought. Ainge believes the Nets aren’t a dumpster fire - and weren’t one last year, only when competent guard Jeremy Lin suited up for only 36 games did the Nets fail to crack more than 20-wins; 13-23 in games in where Lin started.

Newly acquired D'Angelo Russell has potential, is in dire need of a change of scenery. His basic stat line and per 36 are similar to Lakers favorite Kobe Bryant. Only in Laker Land was the second overall pick considered a bust upon arrival, never mind his first season being sacrificed to the Kobe Farewell Tour. His own coach threw him under the bus because D'Angelo caught a teammate cheating on his significant other. His second season things were more tame. Glimmers of a three-point shot showed, in a large sample between November 2016 and March of 2017, Russell hit 35.5% of his long-range attempts. 15.6 ppg, 4.8 asp, 3.5 rpg, and 1.4 steals per game. Keep in mind, Russell has had to make die with Julius Randle (an athletic forward without much of anything else), Timofey Mozgov and Luol Deng taking up most of the cap room and clogging the lanes.

Jeremy Lin is an average backup pushed into a starters role because of the Nets depleted roster. Nonetheless he is still an actual basketball player. Prospects Caris LeVert and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson are at least better than Randle. The gigantic elephant in the room is Brook Lopez - the second best player in Nets history is no longer starting at center. Subbing Lopez for Mozgov certainly is a downgrade. The complete roster of the Brooklyn Nets despite this is still superior to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Brooklyn added DeMarre Carroll when healthy is a decent starting forward, that’s loss a step from his days in Atlanta, but can still defend his position. And though I despised the trade, Allan Crabbe is a better player than Andrew Nicholson. Crabbe cannot do much but shoot. It is debatable whether he’s any better than Lin to start at SG. Both aren’t positive forces on defensive, their impact limited to their ability to shoot the ball. Except Lin can run the offense, where Crabbe cannot. But having D'Angelo makes Lin expendable.

Factoring in the laughable top-heaviness of the league, teams are undoubtedly tanking for next year’s draft. Atlanta, Indianapolis, Chicago, Orlando, New York, Phoenix are purposely going to lose fifty-plus games. New Orléans did not try to lose last season and were bad enough to stay in the latter parts of the lottery. Sacramento has time and time again appeared in the middle of the lottery, even without trying. There is no reason to believe the Kings won’t duplicate that result this upcoming season. In Los Angeles, if Danilo Gallinari and Blake Griffin aren’t ever healthy, the Clippers are out of the playoff race by Christmas, they could shut down their roster to get a high draft pick.

Perhaps the Nets are one of many teams who’ll win twenty-five to thirty games and by the fate of the ping-pong balls will land outside of the top-5. This is the gamble Danny Ainge is making. The package of Isaiah Thomas, Jae Crowder and Ante Zizc is enough for Irving - a top-5 lottery pick means he wildly overpaid for a player not better than IT.

As for Irving…yes, he isn’t better than Thomas…for now. I am probably being generous when assuming if he is healthy Thomas will still be better than Irving for the 2017-‘18 season. After that however, Thomas will never be an All-Star caliber player again. Thomas is on the back-9 of his career, his game relying on explosive speed, athleticism to get his shoots. Often he finds himself knocked to the ground, his wrist getting slapped, body being smacked around adds wear and tear to his body. Opposing teams running him off screens, making it impossible to get his shot off without it getting blocked. Yet, all that swarming of Isaiah for 2.5 years hasn’t deterred him from playing at a high-level.

Irving doesn’t need to worry about the same limitations Thomas does. But his game is far from altruistic. He’s an unwilling passer, and yearns to be the next Kobe Bryant; believes strongly in “Mamba Mentality”.

I can understand Kyrie wanting to leave LeBron. The third-greatest player of all-time is an asshole. There’s no need for nuance. Irving values a franchise that is stable. Well, he’ll get that in Boston. He wants to be the straw that stirs the drink, all of the assists coming from him. Is Irving the best player on the Celtics? Probably not. Does he give a fuck? No.

It’s frustrating because Irving has shown he can pass, hit his man off the cut, showing off his court vision. Unfortunately he doesn’t wish to play that way all the time, only in short spurts. He’s going to dominate the ball, and I worry he thinks the only way to silence his critics is to have an impeccable stat line even if the loses pile up.

We can point to him and LeBron’s disappointing regular season, finishing 23-23 en route to an underwhelming 51-win total. But keep in the mind the massive upheaval the roster went under mid-season and the age of the core role-players. Richard Jefferson, Kyle Korver, J.R Smith are in their mid-30s, and the unimaginative offense helmed by LeBron and Ty Lue did little to get worth out of them.

When push came to shove, on the grandest of stages Irving showed he can single handily destroy all your hopes and dreams. Everyone points to his Game 4 throat-stomp of the Celtics. Let’s not forget after Irving hit 48.6% of his shots, 43.6% of his threes, and averaged 28.5 points and nearly 5 assists.

Irving is a mixed bag. For all the talent he possesses he just wants to score. That’s all he wants to do. But the fact he’s going from Ty Lue to Brad Stevens has to count for something right? Name one player that’s passed through the Stevens vortex and hasn’t improved? Even Tayshaun Prince’s corpse hit 55.9% of his field goal attempts.

In two-years Kyrie Irving can become the best point guard in the N.B.A. It’s only a matter of if he wants to do it his way or not.

For now, he’s fourth best in the East - eighth best in the entire league. He’s played for four overmatched coaches, before James’ return, Irving’s best teammates were Jarret Jack and Seth Curry. He is moving into a situation where All-Stars Gordon Hayward and Al Horford are his best two guys. The tools are on the Celtics roster for Kyrie to be great.

In a computer this trade made sense. The cynical side of me likes this trade because Thomas is of no use to us beyond next season - he may not even be of use this season if his hip injury sidelines him. But Celtics Nation had reached a point up until the trade they’d rather lose with Isaiah Thomas than win with anybody else.

[junker-town]

NBA mock draft 2017: Lonzo Ball to the Lakers is destiny

LaVar Ball called his shot. Now Lonzo Ball appears on his way to the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers are going to meet in the NBA Finals for the third straight year. For everyone else, the only hope that exists comes in the form of June’s NBA draft.

If you can’t win now, you might as well build for the future. Every draft class has quality players lying somewhere, and this one is no different. With a strong top 10 leading the way, this class is full of players who won’t only contribute, but will also make the league a brighter, more lively place. NBA fans will love De’Aaron Fox’s speed, Malik Monk’s flamethrower shooting ability, Lonzo Ball’s sixth sense for passing, and Markelle Fultz’s creativity off the dribble.

With the lottery complete and the Finals only a formality, it’s time to get serious about draft season. This is a fun class of players with a group of intriguing teams near the top waiting to select them. Let’s mock.

1. Boston Celtics - Markelle Fultz, G, Washington

Think of Fultz as a bigger Kyrie Irving. He’s an acrobat at the rim, he can stroke jumpers off the dribble and has no problem splitting a trap in the pick-and-roll. He also won’t be the same defensive liability Irving often is because of his size. Fultz has two inches of height, six inches of wingspan, and probably 20 pounds in weight on Kyrie at the same age. The Celtics need to hold onto this pick, draft Fultz, and benefit from employing one of the game’s next great guards for the foreseeable future.

2. Los Angeles Lakers - Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

LaVar Ball spoke it into existence. Magic Johnson knew it would happen. Lonzo Ball is the heavy favorite to be drafted No. 2 overall by the Los Angeles Lakers, and it feels like destiny.

There will be plenty of speculation about the Lakers potentially picking De’Aaron Fox or Josh Jackson, but Ball has a sizable edge given his local ties, “Showtime” flair, and superior three-point shooting ability. Lonzo helped transform UCLA from a sub-.500 team to one of the country’s best in just one year. It might not happen as quickly for the Lakers, but they can expect the same result eventually so long as everyone buys into their roles.

3. Philadelphia 76ers - Josh Jackson, SG, Kansas

As I wrote last week, this is where the draft gets interesting. Philadelphia will have its choice at a ton of talented players, but no one feels like a perfect fit. The more I think about it, the more it feels like Josh Jackson has to be the pick.

Jackson’s jump shooting ability is the big question mark, but he brings so much else to the table. He’s a quick-twitch athlete who can defend multiple positions, create plays for his teammates and score both in transition and as a slasher. Philly will need to find shooters at point guard and on the opposite wing. Until then, a core of Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, and Jackson should do just fine.

4. Phoenix Suns - Jayson Tatum, SF, Duke

Tatum is gong to score in the NBA. The question is if he’ll be able to develop as a passer and playmaker to achieve his full potential as an offensive weapon.

Pairing Tatum with Devin Booker and Eric Bledsoe would give Phoenix a ton of offensive firepower. If last year’s lottery picks, Dragan Bender and Marquese Chriss, come along, Phoenix could emerge as a force in a few years.

5. Sacramento Kings - De’Aaron Fox, PG, Kentucky

Fox to the Kings at the fifth pick is the perfect storm of value, fit, and talent. He is exactly what Sacramento needs: a lightning-quick point guard who attacks opponents on both ends and projects to be the future face of the franchise. Buddy Hield’s knockdown shooting is a perfect complement to Fox’s game at the off-guard. The Kings still have a long way to go in their rebuild post-Boogie Cousins, but taking Fox with this pick would be a great start.

6. Orlando Magic - Malik Monk, SG, Kentucky

The Magic could really do anything with this pick. They could try to upgrade at point guard with Dennis Smith Jr. They could draft the player with the highest defensive upside in Jonathan Isaac. They could add shooting in the front court with Lauri Markkanen. In the end, the Magic just need star power and Monk is the chance to offer exactly that.

When Monk gets hot, he offers deep shooting range and elite athleticism. Orlando already has Mario Hezonja and Evan Fournier as options at the two, but adding another shooter and scorer never hurts. Maybe Orlando’s rebuild will end some day.

7. Minnesota Timberwolves - Jonathan Isaac, F, Florida State

It’s easy to see Isaac as this year’s Brandon Ingram: wing skills in a 6’10 frame complete with a developing three-point shot. That isn’t quite right. Ingram needs his jump shot to thrive, while Isaac uses it to complement his tremendous defensive ability. With quick feet and good length, Isaac looks like the rare four that can protect the rim and defend the perimeter. If he fully commits himself into being a great and valuable defender between Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins, he has the physical tools to get there. Whatever he develops offensively is just gravy.

8. New York Knicks - Frank Ntilikina, G, France

Phil Jackson has been adamant about bringing back the triangle offense, which is why the Knicks’ reported interest in Ntilikina makes a lot of sense. A point guard in the triangle needs to be big and have shooting ability, and Ntilikina checks both boxes. Still only 18 years old, the Knicks would be wise to give him plenty of time to grow into the job. Surely that will go well.

9. Dallas Mavericks - Dennis Smith Jr., PG, NC State

Smith has rare explosion for a point guard. He’s at his best attacking the defense downhill where he can get to the rim and make athletic plays at the basket. A little small and will face questions about his ability to be a natural distributor, but there won’t be many point guards stronger and faster. This draft must be stacked within the top 10 if Dennis Smith Jr. is slipping to No. 9.

10. Sacramento Kings - Lauri Markkanen, PF, Arizona

What a coup this would be for the Kings. First adding a brilliant lead guard in De’Aaron Fox, then adding a player who complements his skill set perfectly in 7-foot marksman Lauri Markannen. Markkanen is an elite shooter at 7 feet tall, one with a super quick release and range beyond the three-point line. He’s an ideal pick-and-pop partner for Fox and someone who would provide critical spacing in the front court.

11. Charlotte Hornets - Justin Jackson, SF, North Carolina

Michael Jordan must know all about Justin Jackson after he led North Carolina to back-to-back Final Four appearances, including a national title this past season. Jackson made major strides as a three-point shooter this season, but he does his best work around the basket with his floater. This would give the Hornets more lineup flexibility and a player with local connections.

12. Detroit Pistons - Donovan Mitchell, G, Louisville

The Pistons seriously considered moving Reggie Jackson last season. Mitchell isn’t a natural replacement, but he has some of the same qualities Stan Van Gundy looks for a guard. Namely: length and athleticism. Mitchell should be able to carve out a role defensively while his shooting and secondary creation ability continues to develop. Think of him as Victor Oladipo with a better handle.

13. Denver Nuggets - OG Anunoby, F, Indiana

The Nuggets’ No. 1 objective this offseason should be finding a strong defensive presence next to Nikola Jokic. That requires a power forward with great foot speed, long arms, and the ability to both defend the perimeter and protect the rim. If the Nuggets could trade up for Isaac, that would be ideal. Anunoby is the next best thing. He has the ability to defend potentially every position on the floor if he can get healthy after tearing his ACL in January. His offense remains a work in progress.

14. Miami Heat - Zach Collins, C, Gonzaga

It’s going to be fascinating to see where all of the big men in this draft land. There appears to be more supply than demand at the position in this first round. Regardless, Collins will be safe as a skilled five man who flashed some shot blocking ability as a freshman at Gonzaga. If the refs would have let him play in the national title game, the ‘Zags may have been champs.

15. Portland Trail Blazers - Jarrett Allen, C, Texas

The Blazers found a major upgrade at center when they acquired Jusuf Nurkic at mid-season. Allen would offer them a different dimension up front: faster, longer, and more projectable defensively. He didn’t make a huge impression for an 11-win Texas team as a freshman, but his physical tools are undeniable.

16. Chicago Bulls - Terrance Ferguson, SG, Adelaide (NBL)

The Bulls need athletes and shooters around Jimmy Butler. Ferguson counts as both. He reminds me of Magic guard Terrence Ferguson: great position size, a smooth shooting stroke, and explosive leaping ability, only it hasn’t all clicked yet. Ferguson would be wise to focus his gifts on the defensive end of the floor early in his career.

17. Milwaukee Bucks - Hamidou Diallo, SG, Kentucky

The Bucks like swinging for the fences in the first round and Diallo is this year’s lottery ticket. He posted the second-best vertical leap ever (44.5 inches) and has great length for a shooting guard. He essentially jumped from high school to the NBA, so he needs skill refinement, but that bet appears to have worked out OK for the Bucks with Thon Maker. Why not try it again?

18. Indiana Pacers - D.J. Wilson, F, Michigan

Wilson could be a diamond in the rough in this draft. He always had an intriguing combination of length, shooting touch, and shot blocking, but he finally put it all together during the last month of the season. He has all the tools to be the modern four the Pacers have been looking for.

19. Atlanta Hawks - Justin Patton, C, Creighton

Patton was a late bloomer who is still only scratching the surface of his potential. He has quick hands and fast feet, with a nice touch around the basket. He even drained eight of the 15 three-pointers he took this year. The Hawks are in position to groom a young big man behind Dwight Howard, and Patton would be a tremendous value here.

20. Portland Trail Blazers - Harry Giles, C, Duke

The most likely landing spots for Giles are the teams with multiple first-round picks. No one is better equipped to take a gamble on him than the Blazers, a team that enters draft night with three selections in round one. Giles was once the top recruit in the country before multiple knee injuries took a toll on his production at Duke. If he can regain his old form, this could be a home run pick for Portland.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder - Luke Kennard, SG, Duke

Kennard is a cold-blooded scorer who fills it up from three-point range and finds ways to finish around the basket. He would give OKC some spacing for Russell Westbrook, another scoring option when Westrook is out, and some potential to grow into a pick-and-roll ball handler.

22. Brooklyn Nets - T.J. Leaf, PF, UCLA

The Nets could use another shooter after trading Bojan Bogdanović at the deadline. Leaf answers the call there. Brooklyn would afford him plenty of time to get stronger and gain his bearings as a scorer by the time they’re ready to win.

23. Toronto Raptors - Rodions Kurucs, F, Latvia

A potential draft-and-stash pick on the wing, Kurucs is a 6’8 forward with some perimeter skills.

24. Utah Jazz - Semi Ojeleye, F, SMU

Ojeleye committed to Duke out of high school, but didn’t become a star until he transferred to SMU. A supremely jacked three-level scorer, Ojeleye would give the Jazz another bucket-getter on the wing and additional lineup flexibility.

25. Orlando Magic - Ike Anigbogu, C, UCLA

He’s like Bismack Biyombo, only a lot cheaper.

26. Portland Trail Blazers - Wesley Iwundu, SF, Kansas State

Iwundu is a big wing who can handle, pass, and defend, but needs to grow as a shooter. If his jump shot fully comes around, he’s going to be a good player.

27. Brooklyn Nets - Derrick White, SG, Colorado

White is the surprise story of draft season after a breakout D1 debut season at Colorado. The former DII guard can shoot, pass, and handle the ball, and also tested well athletically. He’s a great story and a good player.

28. Los Angeles Lakers - Jonathan Jeanne, C, France

A 7’2 French centerwho could develop into a rim protector down the low. The Lakers need to find interior defense with this pick.

29. San Antonio Spurs - John Collins, PF, Wake Forest

Good scorer and rebounder who struggles defensively and doesn’t have much shooting range. He’s essentially a bigger, younger David Lee, which is a great value at this spot.

30. Utah Jazz - Isaiah Hartenstein, PF, Germany

A massive big man who does a little bit of everything and is working to develop his face-up jumper. He could be an eventual replacement for Derrick Favors.