#i really like this show just can't stand this subplot

[wandixx]

I finally got around watching Young Justice and I love it so far. I finished Bialaya episode, though, and I have one problem with it specifically and one subplot in general. Imo Superboy and M'gann shouldn't get together, they shouldn't fall in love at all. He is not mentally ready, I think. He should have more time to grow as a person, to learn who he is outside of the Superman's clone, genomorph, get a freaking name, maybe some friends outside of YJ not because other members are bad friends but because he should get a chance to learn to be a person outside of being a hero. He should not go around trying to kiss with M'gann.

I don't have problems with Wally and his overly flirty behaviour, because he is teenager and I heard people say awkward stuff like that and people react to that with right amount of annoyance.

I do have problems with kid who "didn't exist half a year ago" getting into romantic relationships. I feel like this should be a moment when M'gann should back off, especially after getting to see even glimpses of his mind. He is not ready

Also, she just up and left Kaldur like it was nothing to rescue Superboy. I know he was in pain etc. But Kaldur was like, nearly dying, right? And she knew rest of the team couldn't transport him to Bioship for medical intervention fast? And she just left! And there was nearly no consequences for it? No, "M'gann, what the fuck?"! No, "you shouldn't have done this"? She had her romantic adventure with Superboy ending with almost kissing and Kaldur almost died from dehydration and there is nothing for it other than mid annoyance. WHERE ARE THE CONSEQUENCES?!

Though, on a lighter note, I was cackling when I realised that Queen Bee send literal army after this bunch of kids. They were shooting at these teenagers from tanks and planes. How big of a danger were they considered to be. Even if rightfully, just why go so far to use tanks?!

[chelledoggo]

Happy 1-Year Anniversary to The Amazing Digital Circus!

i sadly don't have any art pieces ready (i want to do something! it'll just be late.), but i wanted to commemorate this day anyway, so let me talk about what this silly, twisted, heartfelt little show means to me 💖

i admit, i jumped on this crazy train slightly late. it was a couple weeks after the pilot premiered. but i kept seeing this nervous little jester girl on my social media timelines and thought "hmmmm… i should check this out."

best decision ever.

now, i have a cornucopia of neurodivergences and mental illnesses: autism, possible ADHD, anxiety, depression, C-PTSD, etc… i've always felt "trapped" in this loud, scary, confusing "circus" of a world. so naturally, this traumatized jester woman resonated with me.

she finds herself thrown into this loud, bright, scary digital world. she can't comprehend what's happening, and it seems at first that no one really understands her.

and it dawns on her: this is her life.

the autistic experience right there.

she eventually meets Gummigoo, an NPC who suddenly finds himself in an existential panic. Pomni sees that Gummi's just as scared as she is. she sits down to comfort a fellow "outcast."

and this is when the show began to speak to me on an even deeper level.

but just as quickly as Pomni feels she finally has some hope, those hopes are instantly dashed as Gummigoo is unceremoniously blasted into confetti. Pomni once again finds herself feeling hopeless and alone.

that's when her fellow circus cast members step in.

she stands witness to a beautiful funeral service for Kaufmo, a friend she never got to meet. all these fellow scared humans, giving beautiful eulogies for their fallen comrade.

and then it hits her, these people are a family. they care for one another. she's not alone.

this sense of love and community is displayed once again in the latest episode. Pomni is at her lowest low. she's literally in Hell. but even then, she has a friend. a friend who's also suffering.

…i'll let this scene speak for itself. it's just that powerful.

honestly? it's not even just Pomni that resonates with me, either. i see a little of myself in a lot of these characters.

Ragatha tries to hold onto optimism and childlike wonder, but she's going through it too. i'm a traumatized womanchild in my 30s, too. big-ass mood.

Gangle literally has to "mask" and put on a happy face, not stepping on any toes. but that mask is fragile. she can only put on a front for so long before the sad, scared, trembling girl underneath is exposed. another autistic mood for me lol.

Zooble? ohhh, their therapy subplot hit me HARD as both an autistic person and an enby. they've tried to communicate how unhappy they are. they've tried to let Caine know what they need. but he doesn't even seem to hear them. eventually it's not worth it to try anymore.

i can't stress enough how much this show has resonated with me. Pomni and her friends have become my friends as well. they're faint sparks of hope in a hopeless world, even as they're suffering themselves. they remind me to find the light in my own "circus."

wellp. i've rambled enough.

i just… really wanna thank Gooseworx, the voice cast, and all of the TADC crew who've worked hard to bring The Amazing Digital Circus to life. what you're doing really means the world to a scared little jester like me. 💖

[sototallynormaliswear]

I really don't care for the "true alpha" thing, and there are plenty of other people's posts about why, but I can't stop thinking about what it does to Scott and his character.

like, seasons one and two he's constantly fighting for NO ONE to be murdered, because he believes that you can't justify it and it's wrong. fair enough. this insistence places him at odds with people he might otherwise get along with, solidifying him as an underdog. even his alliance with Derek is tenuous, as Derek sees murder as necessary to keep people safe and Scott doesn't. but BECAUSE he's an underdog he has to work with the people around him and convince them why they shouldn't kill, he isn't powerful enough to stand on his own.

but in the later seasons.... he doesn't have that??

as the true alpha, his power hinges on him not killing people. while it would be unreasonable to say that his former stance is completely GONE, pessimistic fans (like me, hello hi how's your day) can make the case that he doesn't kill because he would be less powerful if he did, at least in part. it COMPLETELY cuts the teeth off his moral argument, which sucks because the show still has at least twelve more moral arguments left.

hes also completely LOST the underdog angle. he and Derek are finally chill, thankfully, but he's suddenly the most powerful cool guy in the area, the first of his kind in years, with super special powers just for him. about a season before he lost a fight with a guy who had been a werewolf for all of two seconds. and you know how before he had to convince other people to join his side and work with his plan? yeah no now he can just yell at them and they'll do whatever he says, magic rules.

No matter how you feel about season one and two Scott, it's undeniable that he is fighting an uphill battle that just kind of plateaus as of Season Three. and I love season three, but I feel like, if it did happen, it should have been closer to the end of the show

(And for all the talk about the McCall pack being weird and unconventional, they still fall in that same power structure that EVERY PACK EVER falls into. I think it would be more interesting if they didn't and their pack is even MORE of a mess to werewolves. take, for instance, the underlying subplot of seasons 1-3 that Beacon Hills doesn't have an alpha (at least a good one sorry Derek) and is there for ripe for the taking. a big reason that Derek wanted Scott in his pack was that he didn't want to be seen as weak or targeted by hunters, even other werewolves. they don't get along but they HAVE TO or else they straight up DIE. But then in 3A they suddenly have an alpha (at least a good one sorry AGAIN Derek) and that plotline is dropped. they're still being hunted, but that anxiety about being a good enough pack is gone. which is weird, right? wouldn't you want to increase that tension?

imagine if they didn't actually HAVE an alpha. They still consider each other pack, but that's not good enough for anyone but them. especially at the start of season four? no alpha, their former alpha has gone MISSING, they haven't told anyone, they have to go get him but every second any of them is away the more their town is in danger, and oh FUCK our former alpha is a TEENAGER NOW?? AND NOW HES BASICALLY NOT WVEN A WEREWOLF??? not only having to deal with the mercenaries and Kate but also other werewolves trying to nudge into their territory?)

[scolop98]

Turns out I have too many thoughts to put this in a comment and honestly it was a matter of time before I made a post about these two.

Okay so: AMC's Pantheon. Season one episode one. Cary and Renee are playing out their whole "pretending to be in an abusive relationship" shtick. We the audience find out that this is a ruse after their shouting match at dinner, when they meet up in the garage.

Everything about this exchange—their dialogue and poses, the smirk on Renee’s face, the casualness of it all—read like flirting to me. That, combined with the general reveal that they'd been faking an abusive marriage—not to mention how Renee immediately slides back into The Role after Cary leaves—had me HOOKED. AND it was our first hint that something was seriously and abnormally wrong (= very interesting) with Caspian's life/the Keyes family, so my initial interest in Caspian's subplot was heavily tied to Renee and Cary's dynamic.

Then we get to episodes two and three... and they absolutely hate each other.

(context: first video is after he shoves her to the ground in front of their "son" and his "girlfriend" in ep2. second video, from ep3, they are picking out the hammer that (spoilers) will be used to break her arm later that night)

Every interaction is clipped dialogue and frosty glares and the bare minimum effort spent to make sure you and your coworker aren't going to step on each other's toes. At least on Renee's side—sometimes Cary seems like he's trying to connect with Renee (ex: after they meet "Hannah" for the "first" time), and sometimes he just seems pissed at her (ex: buying out the hammer) (which is understandable, she's the worst. she is such an asshole and I love her for that)

And then we get to end of episode three: The Hammer Scene

Where Renee breaks her own arm because Cary is "too pussy to do it himself" (not an actual quote), and Cary breaks down in tears after leaving Caspian. When Cary shows that despite participating in this ethical nightmare, he's enough of a decent human being to not want to break his coworker's arm and also genuinely cares about the surrogate son he's raised for the last 17 years; and when Renee shows that she is 110% committed to whatever this still-ambiguous, evil-shadowy-tech-corp-backed Truman Show gambit is that she's dedicated the last 17 years of her life to.

Also relevant (to me specifically) is that this scene is sandwiched directly between David and Ellen's breakup scenes, which are some of my favorite moments in season one and the primary reason why David/Ellen is my favorite Pantheon ship. The contrast between David and Ellen's dynamic (we both agree it's healthier to not get back together, but that doesn't mean we can't still banter about old memories) & my reaction to them (WOW is it obvious these two used to be married, instant OTP) compared to Renee and Cary's power hour (i.e. performing the most jaw-dropping, unexpected plot twist in the show up to that point) did something irreversible to my brain chemistry and single-handedly kickstarted my interest in "incredibly divorced animated parents with convoluted relationship histories" ships.

In hindsight, the tone shift in Cary and Renee's interactions in the first three episodes was probably just bad continuity or one of those "characterization was not fully fleshed out when we made the first episode" situations. Aside from the first episode, literally all their scenes in season one make it obvious that Renee and Cary were in a purely professional fake marriage and were NOT friends. Renee can’t stand Cary, and he’s incredibly frustrated with her half the time. While their garage banter did an incredible job as a Reveal Scene, it's also a clear outlier in terms of how Renee and Cary's relationship is written.

I wasn’t really thinking about any of that during my first watch of Pantheon. I was thinking: "flirty coworkers in a morally fucked up job" + "clearly pissed at each other" = "hate-to-love-you ship dynamic," and then I was thinking "HOLY SHIT SHE JUST BROKE HER OWN ARM" and could not stop rotating this family in my mind. I did notice that the garage scene didn't match their later characterization, but instead of thinking about the bad writing I kept rotating the potential of that dynamic in my mind.

Later S1 developments such as "Renee sees Cary and shoots him on sight" and "now that I've put you in this hospital bed I will gloat about everything (I think) you've lost, and also we still have to pretend to be married," and "we are in different states and still jump at the first chance to throw each other under the bus, which unintentionally reads as obsession with each other" did nothing to dissuade this train of thought, mind you.

So to synthesize all this: Cary and Renee are very clearly not in any sort of romantic/sexual/emotional relationship. Renee dislikes Cary at best, and all of Cary's post-episode-one moments of concern/sympathy toward Renee can be framed through this flashback sequence:

Cary, exasperated: "And… we're gonna be working together for awhile […] Let's. Try and make it pleasant. Deal?"

Cary (reasonably) wants to get along with the coworker he's going to spend the next 17 years of his life with, even (especially) if she's an asshole.

But that plot-critical-but-OOC moment in episode one wired my brain to think about these two being close enough to banter, and through that filter their dynamic in the rest of the season looked a lot like those sexually-charged, obsessive mortal enemy dynamics that enemies-to-lovers and hero/villain shippers thrive on. Not to mention the fact that these two have lived the last 17 years in the same house and might've been sleeping in the same bed for several years to keep up appearances (I know that everyone's favorite fake-marriage duo don't sleep in the same room but TwiYor don't have to keep their fake marriage a secret from their child). It is very, very easy for me to imagine an AU where Cary and Renee would have hate sex sometimes, and I feel like it would have practically zero butterflies on the outcome of the plot. Or alternatively, imagine if they were genuinely in a relationship while raising Caspian and how insanely toxic it would be—especially since their platonic, professional canon relationship is already incredibly unbalanced in terms of emotional labour.

And the fact that one of their most emotionally charged, status quo-changing, plot-relevant scenes was paired and directly contrasted with the most emotionally charged, character arc-relevant scene of my favorite Pantheon ship (David x Ellen) in what rapidly became my favorite sequence of season? Meant I was constantly reminded of this ship (Cary x Renee) whenever I thought about why I loved this show.

Anyways that's how a tiny bit of inconsistent characterization in pantheon's first episode turned these awful fake parents into my second favorite Pantheon OTP - not in the sense of "I think these characters should be together," but more like a "can you imagine how much worse their lives would've been if they were in an on-and-off situationship at any point in the last 18 years" that I constantly rotated in my mind for weeks after finishing season one. I hope my first attempt at a proper tumblr analysis essay was coherent, I wrote it between midnight and 3 AM. As a bonus, have this edit of them that I made last summer for a "toxic/complicated/disorienting relationships" MEP

The song is Tainted Love, covered by Milky Chance and originally by Soft Cell

Also, to clear up any confusion: just because I think Renee is The Worst and an Awful Human Being does not mean I don't like her as a character. I like her character a lot more than Cary actually. She's not blorbo material but she IS "I love to hate this character" material. She's the centerpiece of the entire fucked up Keyes Family Dynamic! From an audience perspective, she acts as The Face of Logorhythm's clone plot, given how she has more screen time and direct interactions with Caspian than Cary or Julius Pope in S1, and she's so intricately tied to Caspian's "what the fuck is wrong with my life" investigations. She's an asshole, but she's a complex, interesting asshole with plot relevance, screen time, and more personality than Julius Pope, and I loved watching how she and Caspian play off each other and how that changes over time. also she's a fucked-up and evil woman and idk i find that compelling in a fictional character, sue me.

[jq37]

I'm like genuinely interested as someone who thinks a lot about the craft of critique and fandoms the ways in which the current Rat Grinders discourse shows why you can't really apply the same lens you use to critique a pre written story vs an improvised actual play show by a bunch of comedians who are first and foremost concerned with committing to the bit. Like Porter's a great example of this, he went from a nothingburher to secretly evil with a whole lore and backstory!

In the same vein the Rat Grinders probably could have turned out to be not as culpable in all of this had the Bad Kids really tried to bond with them, but instead they focused on other things with the way downtime was structured! And because they did that they could pass the Last Stand, and are safe from Porter's rage thing! Like legitimately I really liked the mechanics of downtime this season, it just also came at the cost of developing the Rat Grinders!

(Though to be entirely fair, the BKs did try to engage with Oisin, Ivy, and Ruben and then Oisin launched the house, Ivy was racist, and Ruben still attacked Wanda so)

I think it's really fascinating from a storytelling/game design perspective! The downside is the Discourse is so tiring

Yeah it's interesting. I covered some of this in other asks so I'm gonna hit on the stuff I haven't yet.

If you're telling a story that is based partially on user input, it's not entirely fair to be like, "This subplot was underdeveloped" if the reason for that was that the players didn't make choices to facilitate that development. When DM's push hard for the players to care about things they're not interested in, they get hit with railroading accusations.

And even outside of the player choices, there are also the rolls. A BIG part of D&D is the randomness of the dice. Even if the players care about something, it doesn't mean they'll get it. I'll mention again that Kristen tried to roll Insight on Buddy before the final fight and got a Nat 1. What is she supposed to do? Roll again until she gets a good read on him? That's not how that works. If the dice aren't cooperating, there's not much you can do. And you can make sure your big story beats don't rely on dice but at the end of the day they *will* shape your story in ways you can't control.

Another key thing about the medium, as you pointed out, is things can change on the fly. The confluence of high rolls and serious interest can change things that were behind the screen canon in an instant. In Burrow's End, Aabria planned for Bennet to have a family but as soon as Tula/Brennan expressed interest in romancing him, she Thanos snapped that family out of existence. I don't know how much Brennan wanted the Rat Grinders to be recruitable but even if he'd planned them all to just be foils and evil and nothing else, I can totally see him flipping one if they'd really wanted to and it would have made for a good story beat.

Anyway, yeah! Interesting stuff to think about. Even though D20 often feels like a TV show, it's important to remember that it's a different beast in many ways.

[low-budget-korra]

My comments on Arcane s01

-Vi is the sister I wish I had, fr. And as an lesbian older sister myself, it wasn't hard for me to connect with her from the very first episode.And now that I've watched the show, I don't understand how some people blame her for wherever she did to Jinx. Yeah, Jinx was just a kid but guess what, so was Vi. Jinx lost everything? So has Vi.

"but Violet abandoned Powder" No! She was protecting her lil sister. And she just saw her sister murder their entire family, how y'all think she feels? And she was about to save Powder before she was kidnapped.

And the fact that she manages to be so soft and good besides everything she went through... Vi is THE exception.

-Powder/Jinx was just a kid and all but damn. Vi forgives it all she has done, and in the one time Vi needs her forgiveness, she's so quick to hate her for good. Did she really realize what she had done?

Well, now I see why some people compared her to Azula. The difference is that Azula never had anything like Vander or Vi, Jinx had that and still went nuts. And also, Azula never goes for the murder, not really when it was expected (like when she was betrayed by Mai and Ty Lee). While Jinx would give 2 shits about kill people for funzies.

Yes, I feel sympathy for her, just as much as I feel anger towards her. She is a complex character that's for sure. And mentally ill

And my hate for her is mostly for the way she treats Vi honestly

Anyway, there's this joke on Brazilian fandom that Jinx is homophobic and that's why she can't stand Caitlyn and can't stand seeing her with Vi, and I think it's honestly hilarious

-CaitVi is a wonderful ship. Nothing against the explicit and big gestures such as kissing and all but damn, I missed the subtlety. The minor and meaningful touches, the gazes...it reminded me so much of Korrasami

-I loved Jayce and Caitlyn's relationship. When united, gays and lesbians are strong.

And I still don't get why people keep pretending Caitlyn actions on s2(as far as I saw in the trailers) aren't justified. Her mom was murdered by the people she tried to help, if it was me, I would also raise hell upon them. Anyway, let's talk about s1 Caitlyn and she is just so adorable.

She really wanted to make a difference, to help. She got out of her bubble and got a taste of the real world, and I bet it hurt. She just wanted to help and to do what's right but she paid the high price and has all the right to me mad at s2

And from the way she flinched at Jinx during the "dinner" scene, at bet the hours she spent under Jinx mercy weren't nice

-Im sorry, I didn't care much about the hextec plot. I know it's important and it's what makes the character on the road but their inner struggles and their subplots are far better to watch.

The only interesting part of them was Jayce cuz he is such an interesting character. For the way I've seen people talk about them, I thought he was gonna be the worst but no. You can see he struggles with some decisions. He ain't bad, he just does bad decisions

-Ekko is such a G man. If something happens to him in s2, I will riot. I like how he is the exact opposite of Jinx.

Ekko also lost everything and everyone, but instead of Jinx, he turned his pain into something good, into helping others the way Vander and Benzo helped him and the other kids.

I wasn't expecting him to be friends with Heimerdinger but I love that for him

-Lets talk about something serious, Jinx was right in her anger towards the upper class but blowing things up was not the answer. Vander knew and saw things how it was, making deals is better than having innocent blood in the streets.In fact, I saw a lot of simplified comments about the politics and social aspects of Arcane and now that I've watched the show I see how damn immature and naive a lot of them are.

Do not get me wrong, we should rebel every time we need and violence is a part of that. No revolution happened without it. But we should be wise about the battles we pick.

Let's look at Caitlyn for example, she is born rich and a good person. It's naive to expect someone born with everything and disconnected with the lower class problems and needs, to all of sudden be an ally to social causes. Born rich and privileged doesn't necessarily mean you are born a bad person, just as much as born poor doesn't automatically make you a good person.

Now, do you think Caitlyn deserved to lose her mother like that? Do you think she deserves what Jinx did to her just because she was from Piltover? That's when you lose potential allies and gain strong enemiesIt's not that simple. Social problems such as class differences, poverty, violence...it's not something that you can fix that easily. Oh man, I wish it was but it ain't.

With all that said, Jinx, Vi, Caitlyn, Ekko, Vander...none of them are evil and most of their actions (if not all of them) have a solid reason behind it, but this doesn't mean they were the best thing to do.

-Fuck you Silco. He is what happens when you put a "wherever it cost" mentality, cuz sometimes the cost is high. Too high. Also, he doesn't want justice or revenge, he wants power

-The animation and sound design is a masterpiece too. And the fight choreography? Damn shit was fire

[david-talks-sw]

What The Acolyte Season 2 would have looked like (had it not been canceled)

A nice thing about The Acolyte is that showrunner Leslye Headland was always very clear about the themes of the show and what the story was about, for her... and where it was going.

So as a fun exercise, I figured I'd speculate where the story might've gone, had the show not just been canceled.

The Sith subplot:

So Season 1 ends on this powerful image of Osha and Qimir/The Stranger standing together, united...

... but they're not gonna have a happy ending.

Firstly, their relationship is still forming. Yes, they united against a common enemy, but now it's time to put the pleasantries aside and start training her into becoming a fearsome Sith warrior, which is a dynamic that puts a strain on their relationship.

Secondly, and most importantly, because Qimir wants to train Osha so that he can overthrow his own master... Darth Plagueis.

And Plagueis realizes what Osha is. She's a being created exclusively using the Force... wow! Maybe she's the thing he was looking for to finally make his attempts at achieving immortality succeed!

Osha, in the meantime, realizes the Sith life isn't for her either. Her path lies somewhere in the middle. She decides to quit, maybe tries to convince Qimir to come with her.

Qimir is killed. Either because he rejected Osha's offer, thus being left alone to be off'd by Plagueis, or maybe dies sacrificing himself to let Osha escape, so the Sith Lord can't get his hands on her.

The internal review of the Jedi Order:

Beginning of the season, the chancellor is still deciding, the Jedi are being reviewed, but by the end of the first episode he decides to let Senator Rayencourt do his thing.

Instead of lying to him, Vernestra tells Yoda the whole truth... and he agrees to keep it under wraps, at least until she can find Qimir and bring him to justice, thus helping elucidate everything and get the Senate off their back.

Vernestra attempts to use Mae to find Osha (and thus Qimir), maybe in an attempt to exploit their bond in the Force. However, as with half the "memory loss" tropes in TV, Mae eventually regains her memories and frees herself from Vernestra's grip. She's now out in the wind.

Unable to find Qimir, Vernestra's lies eventually pile up and are uncovered. This scandal results in the Jedi being in the place we find them, in the Prequels:

With their power restricted, and put directly under the thumb of a Senate that will now grow more and more corrupt, seeing as the Jedi are now unable to keep them in check.

Finally, we get to Mae and Osha's final fate:

With both sisters away from their captors, their identity remains a mystery that they must both make sense of. They're not sisters, they're not twins... they're the same person.

At some point they reunite and find themselves on Dathomir... greeted by Mother Koril.

The get-together starts out great, but takes a turn when Koril explains she wants Osha to go through with her gathering. The witches of Brendok had a nefarious ulterior motive when performing the ritual that resulted in the sisters' creation... and Koril wants to see it through, their individuality be-damned.

It is at this point that the sisters' realize what "the Power of Two" really is. They're not Jedi, they're not Sith... they're something in-between. A Dyad in the Force.

They overcome Koril, maybe Plagueis too (that way he can witness a Dyad himself and we can tie it back to TROS) and go about their own way in the galaxy, now finally free and secure in who they are.

Either that or one tragically dies so the other can live. It is Star Wars, after all. Or maybe they fuse back into one being?

Bottom line: that'd be my guess as to what would happen in Season 2, had it continued. Note, I don't like the storyline I just detailed. In my headcanon:

Osha and Qimir would get slaughtered by Plagueis (because that's where joining the Dark Side takes you),

Vernestra would lie to Yoda and the ordeal would end there (because there's no way Yoda would hide something of this magnitude), with

Mae living off her days by rebuilding herself a life, happily oblivious to the horrors of her past (she deserves a break and fuck the whole "gray Jedi" nonsense).

The above is just speculation of what we would've gotten, going off the Leslye Headland quotes you can find below:

"Qimir is killed at Plagueis' hand, Mae leaves the Sith."

"If I continue to get to tell this story, I know how I would like that to play out. And I would say I think it’s pretty complicated and messy." - Leslye Headland, Nerdist, 2024

"With these two other people having gone through this positive corruption arc and coming together in a joining of forces and a romantic pairing, we always wanted to introduce Plagueis as a foreboding complication. We know Plagueis’s apprentice ends up being Palpatine, so it would be interesting to see how these two red-lightsaber-carrying warriors fit into that story." - Leslye Headland, Vulture, 2024

"What I think is going on with Plagueis is that he also knows this has happened. He also is aware, or will quickly become aware of this aspect of the Force existing. This is why I gotta say I disagree with the criticism of, “Well, so and so didn't have it, and Palpatine… Why do these women have it?” First of all, we're in a completely different part of the timeline. Second of all, if I'm going to tell the story of Plagueis, which I would love to do, like, absolutely love to do, him pursuing that power is so much more interesting as a storyline than him already having it." - Leslye Headland, Collider, 2024

"If the [Sith Apprentice] is craving the Master's power,then at some point, he must recruit his [own] apprentice-to overthrow the Master. And that's the acolyte." - Leslye Headland, Star Wars Conversations, 2024

"[We put the Darth Plagueis cameo in the series because] we wanted to show Qimir’s master." - Leslye Headland, Entertainment Weekly, 2024

"Because there’s Plagueis and because we know that Palpatine is eventually Plagueis’ apprentice, we know that these two people are not going to fall into that set lineage. [The end of Season One] is a triumph for Osha; it’s a triumph for both of them. But the added complication that master and apprentice — or in this case apprentice and acolyte — there’s always an imbalance. One to hold the power, one to crave it. And seeing these two characters completely aligned with each other in this hugely satisfying way, the tease is: How will they survive the structure of how the Sith work? Q: Is there a chance that they could decide not to be Sith? Yeah, I can’t talk to you about that." - Leslye Headland, Inverse, 2024

"Vernestra's lies become the reason the Jedi's hands are tied by the Senate, in the Prequels."

"Rayencourt suggests the internal review of the Jedi, obviously at the small council, but Chancellor Drellik doesn’t doesn't confirm or deny that request. It felt like she had to report to her superior and let him know what’s up, and probably tell him about what happened between her and her padawan. [...] It’s not like it’s the first time Yoda has hidden something from the Senate and the Republic." - Leslye Headland, Inverse, 2024

"A generation or two generations have gone by since the Nihil. There was a lot of drama, so it was just logical to me that there would be more of this button-down [idea]: ‘We're trying to avoid the mistake. Let's limit the power. Let's do that before someone asks us to.’ And it was just logical to me to show Vernestra as the bridge for that. [...] Vernestra and her relationship with the Senate and how that's going to unfold with this sort of internal review of the Jedi — where does that lead?" - Leslye Headland, Entertainment Weekly, 2024

"I am really excited about the prospect of the Mae-Vernestra relationship. I really love the idea that Vernestra now has on her hands a Force-sensitive, powerful woman that is, at this point, docile enough that Vernestra would be able to educate and form an allegiance with." - Leslye Headland, Inverse, 2024

The Final Antagonist & the Power of Two...

"No body, no death. That’s what I’ll say about [Mother Koril]. But what I will say, as a tease, if we are able to explore this story more, her species will tell you a little bit about where she ends up." - Leslye Headland, Inverse, 2024

[zootopiathingz]

If you really think about it, the ship where Alastor would be involved in that would most likely be canon so far would be Charlastor.

I mean, he despises Lucifer and sees Vox as not worth his time, so he's not gonna be throwing himself all over them anytime soon. Nearly everyone he interacts with besides the three women he's friends with, he's either indifferent, respectable or hostile to, but towards Charlie? This man has allowed her to touch him without permission, stated multiple times that he has faith in her beliefs and even handed her his source of power. Twice.

I'm aware he's doing all this with some underlying motive, but you can't deny he won't do all this for just anyone. I really can't imagine him all comfortably curled up in Angel's bed or getting handsy with Lucifer (He wipes his hands after touching him, man really doesn't like him at all). I support all ships with Alastor but if we're looking at this at a canon perspective, Alastor interacts with Charlie the most and will continue to interact with her as the show goes on, it's more possible to happen in a sense with Alastor.

Plus with all the romantic cues the show has (Unintentionally?) given so far, with the part where both Charlie and Alastor are laying on the heart shaped pillow but Charlie falls off the bed while Alastor remains on top off it, it seems that there could be a very small possibility that there might be an unrequited crush on Alastor's part.

Yeah, it's a stretch, but hey, he didn't have to lay in that bed. He could have stayed standing, looming over Charlie to show that he might be helping her but he still sees himself as above her and in control of the situation. But! Someone still animated him on that bed! They still animated him on that heart shaped pillow right beside Charlie! They didn't have to, but they still did and my minds still reeling after that fact.

No because you’re absolutely correct here.

Out of any of the characters in the series for Alastor to end up with, if he were to have a romantic subplot of any kind, it would be Charlie. They have the most potential together as a pairing and there have been so many little hints and visual cues that I’m honestly shocked that a romance plot isn’t where their relationship is going.

I genuinely cannot see Alastor ever engaging in anything romantic or physical with Vox or Lucifer in any way. And whenever I say that people like to excuse me of hating gay ships (which I clearly don’t. I am queer, and I love seeing queer ships that actually make sense and have good chemistry, and not just because they’re gay). It’s because he canonly hates men and is much kinder towards women—except for Vaggie lol. Yes, ship Alastor with whoever you want. It’s not my place to tell you if your ship is bad or not. I honestly don’t care because it’s your opinion and as long as you’re having fun with it, that’s all that matters!

But like anon is saying here, if we’re looking at it from a canon viewpoint, let’s think about it. Again, Alastor clearly doesn’t like men and can’t even be bothered to shake Lucifer’s hand without being disgusted. There have been three women who could be potential love interests. First is Mimzy, which I can see there may have been some flirtation here and there in the past, or even an unrequited crush on her part. But with her basically using him to get her out of trouble all the time, I can’t see them going beyond their on-and-off friendship. Then there’s Rosie, who he’s obviously very comfortable around and lets her touch and grab him as she pleases—which he wouldn’t let slide with any male characters in the show. And the Radiorose ship is cute I admit, but to me they’re a pair of gossip buddies who would maybe pretend to be in a relationship if needed, but otherwise their feelings don’t go any further than platonic.

And so that leaves us with Charlie. When I first watched the pilot I absolutely assumed they were going to have some kind of slow burn, not only because the idea of the princess of Hell and this feared Radio Demon falling for each other is so intriguing, but generally just the way they acted with each other. In like a span of eight minutes they were happily dancing together, with Alastor calling her one of a kind, tossing her around and making improvements to her dream hotel.

You can imagine how surprised I was when I found out they weren’t canon and weren’t going to be in the actual show. Like, I was legit going “🤨🤨🤨” and this was before I was even in the fandom lmao

And thank you so much for mentioning that scene in her bedroom because…

What is this. What do you mean the mfs making this show drew out this scene, carefully looked at every detail for the final product, and went “yup👍” if there wasn’t supposed to be something more going on here???

Like seriously if you’ve never watched this episode and you saw these two frames, what exactly would you assume is going on here? Be honest with me

But ya know, charlastor “isn’t canon” (so they say🙄) so the animators here were def trolling us lol

[crow-artworks]

Huskerdust Analysis and Prediction's for Season 2 (Also some goofy headcanons)

Besides a few writing and pacing issue's I overall fucking loved Hazbin hotel and can't wait for season 2. One of my favorite subplots being Huskerdust now I know some people think of them and prefer more a Mentor and Mentoree type of relationship between them. That's completely valid and I can see that but I think they can still have that with Husk helping Angel overcome more of his trauma but still be a romantic item.

Analysis: We see multiple moments between them of course the main episode between them being episode four where we really explore more of Angels character and his trauma we also see Husk calling Angel out for hiding behind this fake persona to cope with that trauma. Where of course we get the freaking masterpiece Loser, Baby and see them reconcile and bond over their shared and similar pain.

In episode 5 we see a bit more of Husk's issue's with Alastor come up when he confront Alastor about Mimzi. Where of course this leads to Alastor retaliating by scaring the shit out of Husk showing the green chains representing Alastor's hold on Husk's soul and literally leaves him shaking we can really see the deeper and hidden part of their relationship literally like Master and Plaything. Then in episode six we see Angel and Valentino and their confrontation where Angel is standing up for Niffty then leads to him say fuck you to Valentino (as he should fuck you Valentino) then leads to him to smoking the chains around Angel representing Master and Plaything. We can really see their similar, yet different situations and we can see them further even more bond over it in season 2.

That all sets up the rest of their moments for season 1 my favorite being the finale with their small bar scene where can see them looking at each other in some could say flirtatious and entraced manner.

The amazing thing about their relationship and one thing I see that Vivienne did actually great with in he writing is that it can work good as a romance or a deep friendship which both I would be ecstatic for either way. Whether you ship them or not they are still going to mean something to each other romantically or platonically and help each other over come each other's trauma.

Predictions:

With all the signs and hints from Vivienne and within the show itself I expect them to end up in a romantic relationship with each other. Now how I expect this to play out is in two seperate ways that blend together. One way exploring the more serious sides of what they bond over of course their trauma. Seeing Husk helping Angel confront Valentino maybe and digging deeper into Husk's past with Alastor and how Husk may break from that or another way this could go is they end up both still being trapped for season 2 but starting a relationship over their shared bonds, similarities, chemistry, and over all just being good for one another.

The second less serious part of it will I think be Angel trying to ask Husk out. We can see Angel oversexualizing and objectifying himself for others as other's also oversexualize and objectify him all the time to the point he's uses it as mask but Husk as seen in episode four helps break that mask down showing he want's to know who Angel really is not who other's make him out to be and he want's him emotionally and not just sexually.

In turn Angel not being used to this but wanting Husk not just as a one night stand but an actual partner will have trouble asking Husk out. Leading to some awkward moments like with Sir Pentious and Cherry bomb where Angel attempt's to ask Husk out in certain moments but ultimately at the last second fumbling over his words and changing the subject unlike his usual flirting. In the end I think Husk will catch on to this and ask Angel out himself or take a moment to ask Angel to breathe and just to say what he want's to say. Which will either way probably leads to a very cute and romantic date hosted by Husk.

Headcanons:

This is the least serious part of this just some silly and cute things I headcanon for them.

Pet names: I feel like they would use Baby and Doll the most.

Affection: Definitely physical touch but not in a sexual way I think Husk would hold Angel's hand or things like a small kiss or wrapping his tale or wing around him. Word's of Affirmation alot of discrete I love you's and such.

Husk I think would definitely be very protective over angel with cat callers or people oversexualizing him and just in general even though Angel would probably say things like "I can handle myself." Husk wouldn't care and be an overprotective asshole and Angel would act like he hated it but secretly loves it.

They would be jealous in their own ways Husk I would be more open about it like pulling Angel close or glaring at whoever he dislikes. Angel would be more grumble and hide it type but Husk can always tell.

Angel would be a flirt with him but in a more himself way and Husk would sometimes flirt back leaving Angel super flustered

Finally when it comes to sex I feel like consent and bounderies would be immediatly placed to make Angel feel definetly more comftorable to let him know this is because they love eachother and not just to use Angel. Husk would 100% be the top. I feel like their first time would be more intimate and slow but I feel like it could also be that one meme where afterwards the one person flustered just staring at the ceiling over what just happened (Angel) and the other is just also staring at the cieling with his hand behind his head unphased (Husk). Later on I feel like they would try things like BDSM and that stuff but later on in the line.

Anyway, there's my autistic info dump on Huskerdust if you read all the way down you are either a God or neurodivergent . Here's some cookie's for making it this far:

[yuujiheart]

I didn't like how the new chapter was not dedicated entirely to sukuna and yuji and instead rushed and forced shounen trio and some random plot about Yuta being in danger (sorry I can't stand Yuta, to me Yuki IS the mc and I'm tired of Yuji being denied)

I want to think Yuji ate sukuna offscreen (remember his grandpa said to help people even if they don't say thanks), thats why the abrupt ending and not showing sukuna 100% evaporate

I hope the last chapter ends with Yuji AND sukuna. Make them reincarnate together or something. The others subplots I don't care about (unless it's yuji family)

It's alright anon don't be sorry. I think it was inevitable since gege has to wrap up things and solve important plot points before it ends. I knew this would happen when jjk ending was announced. I didn't expect the whole chap because we already saw a lot of them in 265 but i do feel a proper conclusion was missing..but only from sukuna's side.. That person is hiding too much in his heart, it was a shame we never got to see how he really felt about all these things.. I feel that was the moment where I wanted to hear what sukuna had to say. Doesn't matter what he does after that... Not reading between lines or speculations from readers..

Tbh, I have disconnected myself from it completely since I don't really have any hope and it's not because there aren't any clues, it's because of gege.. I feel like he already provided us what he really intended to. But I will still share with you what I think could have happened....since not caring anymore does not mean my brain has stopped working...

I think I will start with the finger thing.. Most obvious cope..that finger is sukuna's part of soul which means his consciousness does reside in it so yuji can actually eat it although Gumi said it wouldn't have enough pull to connect his soul but i think suku's soul link with yuji can compensate for that. Helping suku to reincarnate.

We were told many times how yuji is linked to sukuna and shoko said yuji has become like his finger so u can add that too.. So if resonance actually works because of their soul link so i would believe sukuna soul is still there since it's connected to yuji.

Since his last finger is still here, his soul is incomplete and wouldn't be able to reincarnate like a regular soul. so that means he is still in the limbo/ cursed realm (remember once uro said it's like coming back from hell) maybe pondering over what yuji said to him..just like how he was before yuji ate finger for first time

Like you said there's a good chance that yuji has eaten him since yuji really wanted him to live a normal life.. He was really sad that suku rejected his offer. so wouldn't be surprised of he did that.

The conclusion itself gives hope. Since it was abrupt. That there is more to their story... Although it didn't to me...

About other subplots, I think yuji already knows about kenny ig. That's why he referred both him and sukuna as being born with a curse. Maybe with the help of gojo considering he's telling every first year about their parents.. . I don't have any expectations left anymore . Will just accept whatever gege gives to us... I can't really care about anything atp. Like he can bring back gojo and I would be fine with it...

Although I would love that gege proves me wrong ..

[spotlightlowlife]

ep 6, heaven haz no benefits

Charlie once again proved her silliness.

No surprise there, I'll get to that..

In heaven we meet a rather sensible bunch in the angels, some approachable, some friendly, some very wary, a good mixed bag. Dude bro Adam is there but clearly able to tone himself down in more professional settings and it's clear he isn't in charge, so at this point it why not attempt to tackle the subject matter of exterminations?

We didn't meet anyone who spoke of their fear of hell overpowering heaven, nor anybody with any particular authority other than Adam. We met Sera, someone who up kept professionalism whilst being empathetic, fair and making it clear that her hands are tied.

Adam is also revealed to be the first person in heaven. Why I wonder? Will the significant biblical figure Abel be addressed at some point?

Like Lucifer in the last episode, Adam was needed to take the story to the next level, however Adam in very few words and scenes has become a character who really outshines Lucifer and his downgraded to understudy daughter. He is the true powerful innovator, a creator since he's technically the parent of sinners and now he's revealed to be the one with the most say out if this little bunch of angels, even though Lucifer had difference with his kind back when Adam was man? He even outclasses fellow 'moved up in the world' Alastor, whose plotting and mystery amongst a load of subplots doesn't stand out.

Adam is more action and get up and go.

Why is it that the across both shows the villains writers try so hard to have the audience hate with their crass attitudes and supposed counterproduction, turn out to be are the characters who are crafted the best and able to move the plot somewhere else? Intentional or ironic.

So, silly Charlie.

As expected, she sung, that's fine.

In a little scene, a whole other scene to the song, one that lasted but a few seconds, Charlie presented her case that sinners can display decency, only her case was observing Angeldust stand up to Valentino in real time on screen.

What part of this was a 'heavenly' act?

Why did Charlie think it was a good idea to encourage the sinners to enjoy themselves whilst she goes out? She essentially let the teenagers throw the house party. Why not ask them to behave themselves because she's going to heaven to fight their corner?

Still, this was the most she did to sell her pitch, springboard off another characters progressive scene for a moment. This scene could have presented a good argument of how exactly she was going to help sinners with their PRESENT situations, let alone whatever bought them to help in the first place.

What did she have to do with Angeldust bickering with Valentino? Is she going to go back and be supportive of Angel now having it spelt out to her his situation and how he feels about it?

Is Charlie going to leave heaven tougher with a leveled up perception and new approaches?

Doubtful, because yet again her time got dominated and she now has more major things to worry about, like her hotel being under attack.

Good thing Charlie and the residents have Vaggie at their side, who dispite having a little spat with an angel and getting a backstory, I actually managed to forget she accompanied Charlie to heaven.

Vaggie actually got a big reveal that was hinted at in a previous episode..

She's an angel, a fallen one, and that's that really, we aren't allowed the time to tackle this information and it's almost safe to say it certainly won't matter to Charlie.

Emily the cutesy angel who's whole personality was she agrees with Charlie was so forgettable that I near forgot her too had it not been for the rewatch? She's just as idealistic, just as youthful, vibrant and out of grown folks business as Charlie, she also has well meaning wise elders to answer to, she can't do anything without them giving a go ahead. They're so alike yet that's easy to put forward in them just mirroring eachother, only they have next to no chemistry yet still just blend into one. Considering heaven can watch the antics of hell on 'TV', even down to the goings on in Charlie's hotel, Emily could have been a fan, she could have approached Charlie with a whole host of things she observed, what she agreed with, what she would have done had it been her, they could have made friends on the spot and atleast tried to cook up a way to keep in touch, which may be an underhanded way of getting around their restrictions, but no, they were just there in the room together.

This character served to let us know that Charlie has an ally on the other side, along with one from the other side, shame this angel had even less chemistry with Vaggie, all things considered.

Decent episode, like 5 it was definitely needed to pick this series up, no thanks to any leading character.

Again, another ep with no gifs, the wik page hasn't been updated neither. Where are these rabid fans where it actually matters?

[cassiebones]

Rewatching Agatha All Along for reasons. Gonna mainly be commenting on Vidarkness interactions

Episode 1:

Rio's immediate reaction to "eat my ass chief" is to laugh. I feel like it's a very "some things just don't change" reaction. Or it was Aubrey Plaza's genuine response to that line. Either is hilarious. I need bloopers.

"what are you doing here?"

"my job"

Me: squints suspiciously

Also:

"if you wanna be in control, you can be"

COULD YOU BE ANY HORNIER?!?!

AND ON A DISNEY SHOW?!?!

Also the double meaning of "take control and break this hex" as well as "you can be on top" is just amazing. All awards to Aubrey Plaza for the delivery.

Also, they tried so hard to make Kathryn look as frumpy and dyke-y as possible, but you can FEEL all the wlw watching just THIRSTING for her still. It's not a surprise that Rio is fiending for it. Not at all.

AGATHA UNDERSTOOD THE DOUBLE ENTENDRE. THAT MEANS IN THE TV PLOT IN HER IMPRISONED MIND SHE KNOWS THAT RIO IS HER EX LOVER I AM GOING FERAL

"is this really how you see yourself?"

As a butch detective trying to solve a crime? Yes, she has Main Character Energy. This is definitely also not the first show she's piloted in this hex and I stand by that. Also Rio has definitely been there the whole time, for alllll the shows.

Rio casually trying to coax Agatha out of the hex, bringing up magic and trying to get feelers for her. She is desperate for Agatha to wake up, you can tell. Otherwise, she would have sent the Salem Seven her way waaaayyyy earlier. Tell me I'm wrong.

Agatha getting uncomfortable and making her leave. Rio going because she knows she pushed too far.

"Te veo" means "I see you." I know there's a debate about it, but it's the literal translation. I asked my dad (Mexican, native Spanish speaker) and he said that it's not widely used, but more literal in meaning. in this case, maybe it's something that Rio used to say to Agatha, comfortingly.

I see you. I see you when others don't. I see you and I accept and love you. I see everything you are and I love it all.

Sorry, back to the show.

Why does nobody ever talk about the lock of hair in the brooch locket?!? Whose is it? Is it Nicholas's? Is it Agatha's? Is it Rio's? I need an answer

I know Agatha's neighbors are sick of her already. This has been going on 3 years? The patience.

Also the police station is 10000% the "chief"'s house. Ditto on the library.

Nicky's room 😭😭😭 I feel like she has this room for every single pilot, as part of her character's tragic backstory, but also because he is still so much a part of her. I'm heartbroken for her.

Rio trying to get that romantic subplot going with pizza. Agatha falling for it despite hating her.

That's love.

The story she tells is not funny, but Rio's laugh is genuine. She loves her frumpy cop witch so much.

I always see people commenting on Agatha's manspreading and inability to sit normally bc she's gay

But what about Rio. She's sitting so provocatively. She is trying to seduce Agatha out of the hex, I swear.

"I have a lead in the case."

"that's not why I came over"

*immediate gay thoughts and blushing*

Me too, Agnes. Also me too, Rio.

The mention of the car accident and more goading from Rio, trying to get her to snap out of it, to see how weird this is.

There's something about Rio trying to get her back on track that makes me think she knows about Teen being Billy. Or she knows that if Agatha starts to remember her real life, a new show starts immediately. Hmm

"I can't shake this feeling I'm seeing it wrong"

*looks at the camera like I'm in The Office*

"Do you remember why you hate me?"

This is something Rio definitely asks every single time, hoping for a different answer. It has to be painful never getting the one she wants.

Then "are you hiding evidence?" To see the difference in the two "no"s

That was a bad fall. If only there was somebody who had a tongue that could heal you....👉🏻👈🏻

Where are they standing if not in front of a two-way mirror?

Teen playing along is great. Not sure if Agatha is just hearing what the hex is making her hear, if Billy actually knows what she's seeing and is acting with it, or if he's just super good at improv.

Joe Locke should get an award no matter what. I like this twink.

"you little dirt bag" ma'am that is your adopted son

"the respect of your peers and a fulfilling home life, but you were fresh out of both" that is Certified Maximoff Sass™️

Also, Teen deserved that

Rio, don't act like that wasn't funny to you. You've seen Agatha eat babies and love her still.

The Road mention and then the overscore.

Is it ink, Teen? Is it?

If it is, where the fuck did she get ink to fingerprint him? Is it just oil or something? Does she have an inkwell? Probably.

Still.

"Asleep. In bed. TOTAL LOOSERRRR OR TOTALLY LYING" Kathryn Hahn is so fucking funny and unhinged I need her as my wife.

The hex breaking.

Kidnapping yay

Agatha desperately clinging to this curse, where everything makes sense, trying not to lose herself 🥲

Rio showing back up at the Coroner, ready for this damn hex to end

"Yes claw your way out" girl 🥵

The SWEATPANTS

Costume department went HARD in this scene

Same thing with Effects

Rio gently guiding her back to reality. She definitely got to see the goods again, but gathered her strength and left first before her dramatic reentry into Agatha's life. Dramatic ass lesbians.

The out of focus nudity is great. DISNEY.

Agatha being rude to poor Herb. I cannot remember if that's his real name but he's sweet.

"call me nosy, I'll cut out your tongue" why do I love her more after that line?!? What is wrong with me?!?!?

Okay, so Sarah/Dottie's daughter was 10 during WandaVision. So she's 13 now and Very Excited to see naked Agatha.

Same tho

Herb is so nice, trying to cover her up. Agatha is unashamed. I love her.

Agatha trying to magic but unable to. Heartbreaking. TV's saddest moment. RIP

Immediately goes downstairs to check on shit and sees her bunny.

"I got mugged, Mister." The way she cuddles and kisses that fluffy boy. THAT FLUFFY BOY IN GENERAL. LOOK AT HIM

That bunny is a gift from Rio.

"She took every bit of power I had and left me with household appliances."

Why does this make me laugh til my ribs hurt?

That is such a good bunny. He deserves an Emmy.

Her taking Señor Scratchy with her and then placing him out of harm's way is great.

So nonchalant about the kidnapped child in your closet.

Rio be like "Surprise bitch. Bet you thought you saw the last of me."

The DRAMA of that entrance and Aubrey Plaza ate that shit up.

She went home and Dressed Up to see her ex. Like DAMN!

"I've missed you," while holding a knife to her throat is A++ flirting, Rio. Good job.

"I hate you." Liar.

This scene should have ended in sex. But Disney and Teen was there. Ugh.

Even without powers, Agatha can hold her own and that is so hot.

The slap across the face has to be real.

Teen watching while tied up, knowing that there's a tension there. His Gaydar is going Off The Charts.

Aubrey Plaza was born to play this role. If she doesn't win a fucking Emmy I swear to god

Agatha going to manipulation immediately

"Admit it: you prefer me..."

"Horizontal?"

Girl there were like 3 whole seconds in that pause. You didn't mean in a grave

Unless.....yeah, no they def fucked in a grave before.

"there are no new options?" I cackled

"I could just sit back and watch..."

Don't kid yourself, Rio. No you can't.

That look down was at her boobs and I cannot blame Rio one bit. She is so soft for her wife. Yes, they are married. Fight me.

Agatha crying and Rio wiping that tear away, automatically. Just brilliant.

Salem Seven mention. I honestly didn't expect them to play a huge role in this but damn I was wrong.

"You don't have a heart."

"Yes, I do. It's black and it beats for you."

Please just fuck already.

Okay, licking her hand is good too I guess...

"Te veo" again. Rio, my love.

Teen just there, watching this all go down, silently. I appreciate that he didn't interrupt or get hurt.

[pastelalleycat]

Like its predecessor, the Illumination movie Sing 2 features sideplots with its deurotagonists that revolve around and eventually assimilate into the central story (putting on the in-movie musical Out of This World). Now, I love Sing 2. Despite a shaky first act, it has an incredible finale that hits almost every chord right. But there's a part of the movie I haven't seen anyone complain about (besides me, in YouTube comment sections) and I really think it needs to be addressed. It hasn't left my head since the movie came out and it still really rubs me the wrong way.

...that part is Darius, okay? I hate Darius.

Please hear me out.

In Meena's sideplot she has to kiss someone on stage for her song, but not having had her first kiss yet, she feels incredibly nervous about it. Buster Moon tells her not to worry, because he thinks he's got the perfect guy to pair with her. In comes the new hire, an acclaimed Broadway-equivalent actor sure to sweep her off her feet.

Darius is a girl's stereotypical first date: charismatic, moody, a little ditzy, very romantic. He doesn't make the best impression with either Meena or Buster, but especially with Meena; he gloats about the success of his previous show, only after doing so addressing he's been told about Meena's nerves- forgetting her name in the process.

When Meena tries to correct Darius ("it's Meena, not Gina"), he asks her not to interrupt him in the future instead of accepting the criticism. Meena's ears are pulled close to her face, a behavior carried over from the first film that she does when feeling very shy and guarded.

Their initial rehearsal doesn't go well, with Darius initiating unwanted physical contact with Meena. The chemistry is very clearly not working, and everyone can see it, but they assume it's just a rocky start.

This is where the problems really begin.

A phrase that's frequently thrown around with Darius and Meena is "find the feeling". Miss Crawly says it (in essence, at least) over her megaphone to try to get the co-stars in line, but Darius is by far the one who uses it the most. It's not a comforting statement, it's not a "let's work this out", it's a demand- because if the chemistry isn't there when the curtains go up, Darius's reputation could be affected. (Meena's as well, but he's not concerned about that.)

Meena runs outside to get some fresh air and meets Alphonso- voiced rather impressively by Pharrell Williams, as a sidenote- and it's not only love at first sight, perhaps her first real crush even, but the antithesis of everything Darius is. Sweet, non-judgemental, genuinely appreciative.

It was at this point, watching the movie for the first time, that I guessed how Meena's story would wrap up. She'd tell Buster she was uncomfortable, Darius would get kicked to the curb, and they'd hire Alfonso to star alongside her. Happy ending. (If only Alfonso could sing, but we never get any indication he has talent or experience, just that Meena imagines so.)

Well, Meena tells Buster no less than twice through the subplot that she's uncomfortable with Darius. Instead of letting her explain and listening to her concerns, he quickly tells her she has to stay with him for the act. The anxiety and stress and Darius's smartassery just keep building until the actual performance.

Darius asks her one last time, desperately, still calling her Gina, to "find the feeling".

She imagines Alphonso.

And she does it.

And that's, apparently, the victory the story was looking for. Darius goes with the rest of the cast on the big tour, Meena gets Alphonso's number so she can FaceTime him every now and then, and everyone's okay with how the stars aligned.

But me? God, I'm not. The fact that Darius recieved zero backlash (as far as I know), that his stuck-up behavior was treated as cute and quirky by the fanbase, infuriates me. I rarely get infuriated by cartoons, but this, as an AFAB person who was groomed online, is something I absolutely can't stand. Darius is treated as a comedic figure, and yes, it's "just" a kiss, but his behavior is far from funny, and a first kiss that goes anything like this is far from inconsequential.

Meena should never have been pushed to the point of needing to imagine someone in Darius's place in order to play her role. She should never have been forced to act with, much less kiss, him at all. It reminds me, tragically, of how people in situations of continued distress will imagine themselves in a better place to help them get through it. How a young girl, if she's attracted to boys or raised to assume such, may assume she must always be willing to please her boyfriend before taking her own needs into account.

Meena deserved so much better in Sing 2. She needed Buster to listen to her, Rosita to give her candy from her purse, Johnny to give her a hug, Günter to make her laugh. She needed a community. The kids watching her did, too. And the film didn't give them that dignity.

[reelvibes91]

Batman: Caped Crusader Review

Batman has probably the deepest rogues gallery in all of comics. Oftentimes, when depicted on screen, the focus has been on a core few. With Batman: Caped Crusader, we step away from that and get some focus put on different characters. How does Caped Crusader stack up against other iterations of character?

This version of events is unique in various ways. Taking Batman back to a 40s Mafia setting was a nice touch. One that particularly helped lend to the investigative aspects of the character. It relies on good old-fashioned detective work instead of relying on modern technology.

The Batman/Bruce Wayne dynamic was handled well. Hamish Linklater has the task of living up to prior talent, and he does a great job. This is a Batman who feels more vulnerable and wants to keep in touch with his human side. It has always been his allies that ground him, and this version really allows the relationships Batman has form organically. He has to establish those links over time and knows full well these tasks can't be accomplished on his own.

There can't be a discussion about a Batman series without the villains. Here, we treated to a wide array of villains. Two standouts immediately are Firefly and Harley Quinn. The episode featuring Firefly was the most visually stunning of the entire series. By far, I stand out in that regard. Why Harley worked so well is the changes made to her origin story. This far into the characters' existence, it was a refreshing take and one that kept the fundamentals of the character in tact.

The only real issue of the series is a general lack of pacing. Some episodes hit very hard, and others were just the middle of the road. That is the hard part of trying to tell a complete story within a 25-minute episode. There really is no room for the additional subplots and working out enough growth for everyone. Catwoman and Onomatopoeia were the weakest links in terms of the villains because their presence does not matter to the overall plot development. Catwoman is all stuff we have seen before, and with the Onomatopoeia stuff, it felt completely like a filler episode.

The writing on this show was very well thought and executed with the mafia and overall look and feel. There is so much potential for future seasons of this show to capitalize on villains who need redemption. The potential and ceiling for this series are limitless because we know they are willing to make changes to classic villains. This show did in a way that elevates the character and does not take away why we love them. That is the key to enhancing any long-standing character. Make them your own and find a way to set yourself apart from other versions.

One last thing is that this show really proved why animation is much easier than live action. Live action takes on creating certain aspects of characters, which have translated to some ridiculous looks. Here, they were able to finesse together some new looks and new styles and blend them all together. Some of these scenes and new looks likely would not have created the same atmosphere in live action. That's not to say stop doing live action but more to say use animation to do things that are harder to create in live action. It was stunning to see some of this come to life the way it did. It feels the same way across all animation that has excelled at telling rich and deep stories.

[aliennazero]

hi, your yoshiden posts are making me go insane at midnight. thank you so much for the good food! i was wondering if you have any personal thoughts on the reason(s) why yoshida would be romantically interested in denji? (or have the potential to be?) and if you think there's anything in the manga so far that does/could point to that?

Thank you for your question, yoshyoshy! Sorry for my late responses.

About why Yoshida would be romantically interested in Denji... honestly I have no basis for that, it just from VIBES and my feelings alone like- In my eyes, they have this weird gay tension that's only shounen mc and his *completely opposite designed* "rival" could have.

HOWEVER when we talk about CSM style of foreshadowing, I think yes, their relationship progression is already hinted since chapter 103 and 104. We, as the readers, just don't know exactly how it will ends up to be. We have the puzzle pieces, but not knowing the bigger picture. It could be platonic, it could be romantic (either one sided or not).

CHAPTER 103 SYMBOLISM

In chapter 103, there's so many details set up for both of them that I will show one by one. May be a reach, but knowing Fujimoto, we can't really predict or ignore anything tbh.

When the crowd cheered for Chainsaw Man, Yoshida saw and interested in Denji only.

Yoshida seems to be more relaxed (leaning in) and comfortable sitting with Denji than Fami (in chapter 122).

There are metaphor using their drinks to showcase their personality. Yoshida is iced coffee: bitter, dark, tired, and more mature-like. Meanwhile Denji is orange juice: sweet, sour, and more childish-like. Both standing next to each other (with height differences too). Which is very cute in my opinion.

Lastly, the famous background scene full of paintings with each different objects and symbols. Which I might try to debunk later on, but it's for another post.

CHAPTER 104 REVISITED

Now we go to the next "foreshadow" chapter, which is my personal favourite because we get teased by the probability of new trio. But we will focus on yoshiden this time.

"I'll stop you by force if I have to." Yeah, he already did. But what interesting about that is, he never *actually* try to hurt Denji. He always try to minimize the impact of his force method and tries to make Denji understand (the problem is, Yoshida is really just that BAD at giving reasonings and excuses).

Yoshida's memory is hinted to be weirdly strong. He remembers so many details even from small talks months ago, talking about Denji and "10.000¥ is 10.000¥"

"If there's anything I can do, I want you to come to me" has the same energy with "It's save through cloth, right?". It's not just a random empty words. It must be relevance in the future, right? RIGHT???

IN MY CONCLUSION

I think that's it. If you think there's more evidence to foreshadow their relationship, feel free to discuss about it! For me personally, their dynamics is very interesting and it would take much more effort to develop them into nothing than something.

I am VERY positive that their relationship would go deeper beyond what we have now. Honestly let's be real, it would be more interesting if their relationship develops romantically. Not only it would break shounen rules, but it also will be a major character development for both Yoshida and Denji. And apparently it suit the subplot we had right now, conforming your real identity. However I don't hate the idea of them being platonically too.

Also their dynamics goes from "haha funny comedic duo with gay jokes sprinkles" to "I could see you for who *you* are, but our traumas and our limited social abilities has shaped us to threaten each other, we understood everything yet we understand nothing (also let's blame the government)" in exactly 30 chapters after their first meeting in part 2, crazy.

[moreespressoformydepresso]

knock knock ⭐ losing battle plssss

(future me adding this later because I want people to see this without reading this whole mess: In The Losing Battle, Lamina loves Treech while Tanner loves the idea of Treech. Explanation is at the end of the post below)

Omg okay there is so much I could and want to talk about but I'd be writing several essays so I'll try to keep this contained to one thing. If anyone else is interested I'll ramble about the other stuff because there is so much that I haven't put into text yet or have kept vague/implied so far (IE what exactly happened between Treech and Vipsania during the interviews and dynamics between characters that are neither Treech nor Lamina). A lot of it is due to perspective restraints, because I love me an unreliable narrator to the point where I've never written anything that didn't contain it to some degree but it does make it difficult to fully get across what the character thinks vs what's actually happening around them. There's a lot of smaller inaccuracies in their perception of reality that I don't see anyone mentioning (though to be fair not many people talk to me about the fic) so I don't know if anyone caught them or not. A shame, really, because I've put a stupid amount of thought into them.

Also, there's just so much to say about all my fics but especially this one! I could talk about all the different motivations of characters who aren't very present or the tensions building in the background or the deep explanations of why characters do what they do that TreeMina isn't self-aware or present enough for to realize or I could talk about how this whole fic's basic premise is the soul-crushing reality that major, world-shattering changes on a personal level barely have any impact on the bigger picture until decades in the future but I'll pick just one. Oohh this is gonna be difficult I just really want to type whatever comes to mind but I can't. But! That's enough useless introductory words. Onto the unhinged ramblings of a mad entity!

The mini LumberHouse subplot! Otherwise known as why Tanner really doesn't like Lamina in this fic, even if it isn't that apparent due to how small his role is in the story.

I'm choosing Tanner because I have a lot to say about him, but unlike the main duo or Vipsania and Pup, Tanner isn't gonna get a big spotlight chapter as it stands right now. Maybe as a mini spin off one-shot but I'm not planning on it. Vip and Pup will get more focus later, especially once Treech and Lamina are out of the arena, but Tanner just doesn't have enough impact on the story to get that. Which is the intention here.

My basic idea for Tanner is that he's someone who very clearly has his own life and complicated emotions during the games, with pain and drama and the whole shebang, but it all happens in the background. You can get a good idea of his struggles if you pay attention but it's just as easy to read past and not even notice, because he's not a main character. He's my representation for the way all these kids had their own stories that could just have easily been the one you were reading, but you aren't. So you only get glimpses whenever one of the actual main characters is close enough to take note. Most of his story is implied, with enough room for other people to have different interpretations than what I intended. The timeline in my head for the Tanner/Treech arc of Tanner's life is as follows:

Tanner didn't even really notice Treech before the arena bombing. Sure, he enjoyed the singing and he knew his name, but at most he really noticed him due to his proximity to Lamina, who Tanner tended to pay attention to due to her crying. Then Treech had the balls to turn Coral's offer down during the bombing. and Tanner really started to see Treech. The way he shared all of his food, the small ways in which he showed kindness, the way his face lit up so prettily when he smiled. Tanner became intrigued, but only ever from a distance. With dawning horror he realizes he's developed a crush on a boy he'll be forced to kill in a matter of days, and he can't even go and talk to him. When they meet up in the arena, it's no accident. Tanner deliberately snuck away from Coral and Mizzen to see if he could catch a glimpse of Treech and possibly even talk to him, if only to give himself some closure. When he finds Treech with Dill, his feelings deepen, but when he hears Lamina calling for him... When he sees the way those two interact, he knows he's lost. He lost before he even began.

See, Tanner dislikes Lamina, but it's not for anything she's done. It's because she has what he wants to have: A connection with Treech. She's had years to get to know him and spend time with him, and Tanner didn't even get an hour. Now, he's not stupid, Tanner knows that he and Treech were never gonna be a thing because no shit, one of them is gonna have to die here, but it doesn't lessen the jealousy. It doesn't erase the what-ifs and the might-have-beens. And unlike Lamina, Tanner doesn't get to spend his last few days with someone he cares about. Brandy's gone and Treech is at the top of his alliance's blacklist. Whether he lives or dies, he'll have spent these days as good as alone.

The biggest difference between Tanner and Lamina that made TreeMina endgame instead of LumberHouse is that Tanner has a crush where Lamina is in love. One of the most painful things for Tanner is that he knows he could've loved Treech if he'd had the time, and maybe it could have been mutual, but they don't. Lamina did have that time, and over the years she and Treech fell in love far past a simple crush. Basically, Lamina is scared of losing what she has where Tanner laments what might have been if things were just a little different. Tanner doesn't actually know Treech, they've barely spoken to each other, and while he has a good grasp of who Treech is due to what he's seen so far, he's only seen bits and pieces of his person. Therefore, he can't really love Treech. He has a crush on him, and he loves the idea of Treech he has in his head based on what he's observed. How accurate that image of him is, is a whole different question. Lamina, meanwhile, has had years to get to know him. She and Treech have shared many vulnerable, personal moments together and their bond has grown incredibly strong over the years. Not even betrayal could fully break it. Lamina truly loves Treech, because she knows him better than anyone else. From his strengths to his biggest flaws, she's seen them all and she loves him for it.

Lamina gets to stay with Treech because she knows him in ways Tanner will never get the chance to, and he hates her for it.