#just GOD what an amazing directorial debut

[sensiblethingtodo]

WOMAN OF THE HOUR WAS SO GOOD. IM SO PROUD OF ANNA KENDRICK😭😭😭

[denimbex1986]

'Andrew Scott has shed some light on the “Tortured Man Club” group chat he shared with Joe Alwyn and Paul Mescal, which some believe inspired the title of Taylor Swift’s latest record, The Tortured Poets Department.

While in dialogue with one another during the 2022 season of Variety’s Actors on Actors series, Mescal and Alwyn revealed that they were in a group chat named “Tortured Man Club”, created by the latter’s Catherine Called Birdy co-star Scott.

Given Swift and Alwyn broke up last year, fans theorised that the album’s name took inspiration from her ex’s group chat.

Addressing the rumours with Variety in a new cover story, Scott (47) explained how the group got its name.

“Let me tell you what that is,” the Ripley star said. “So [Alwyn and Mescal] were about to play these tortured characters, and I had played a tortured character in Fleabag.”

Alwyn was about to star in the TV adaptation of Sally Rooney’s best-selling novel, Conversations with Friends, while Mescal was preparing to take on his role in Charlotte Wells’ melancholic directorial debut, Aftersun.

“It wasn’t about our own characteristics,” Scott clarified, adding that the chat is no longer active. “I think there were three texts, like, ‘Hey, guys.’ You know those groups that you set up, and they just collapse,” Scott said.

Mescal praised his compatriot, saying: “He’s a great guardian of actors, if you’re lucky enough that he admires you or has respect for you. He’s got an overseeing quality, in terms of understanding that good art and good actors are hard to come by.”...

Scott went on to praise TTPD, calling it “sensational”.

“I texted her yesterday to say how amazing it is,” he said. “I think she is just a force of nature, just an extraordinary human, and this album is really amazing.”

Scott noted that his favourite song on the album is The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived, which listeners have speculated is about The 1975’s frontman Matty Healy, whom she briefly dated after her break-up with Alwyn...

Elsewhere, in the Variety interview, Scott opened up about his late mother Nora, who died unexpectedly in March. The actor spoke of the need to keep talking about her, in order to keep her close.

“It came very suddenly to our family and it’s landed in the middle of all of this stuff. Her spirit is so alive in me in the immediate aftermath of her death,” said Scott.

“Her way of dealing with people was so kind, but she wasn’t very good at small talk. She connected with people in a very particular way. What I was taught was the idea of being authentically yourself.”

As one of the leading gay actors in the world today, Scott said he sometimes has to consider what he says about his sexuality as he doesn’t want to be defined by it. The term “openly gay”, for example, is something that he has no time for.

“It’s wonderful to be able to talk about sexuality in an open way. But I do feel sometimes, other people – and by other people, I mean straight people – don’t have to explain or talk about their sexuality every time they go to work.

“The idea that I’m being defiant by just being exactly who I am … Be open about it? Why wouldn’t you be open about it? But the word ‘openly,’ for me, just seems a little loaded.

“A lot of this stuff has really affected me in my own life growing up – God knows I didn’t have a lot of gay content. We live in an identity-politics era. We’re separating each other more than we need to. This hysteria about your sexuality and how that is something that is only understandable to people who belong to the same tribe as you – it just doesn’t seem truthful.”

The Dubliner also revealed more about the controversial incident at February’s Baftas awards ceremony where he was asked about Barry Keoghan’s genitalia. BBC reporter Colin Paterson asked Scott for his opinion on his fellow Irish actor’s naked dance at the end of Saltburn, ending with the question “How well do you know him?” before Scott smiled and walked off without answering.

“It was awkward,” said Scott. “It was a little bit weird. But I got an apology from the journalist. I think it was a series of unfortunate events. And I totally accepted his apology. I wouldn’t want him to suffer any more.”'

[beeblackburn]

For the movie asks: 3, 11, 17

Thank you, @smalltownfae!

3. A movie you think is overrated?

Oh, the words I had about Lost in Translation right after watching it? Maybe it was because I was buzzed on an edible, but I absolutely thought that felt really overrated in the watching. Not bad, Johansson and Murray give some top-shelf performances, that choice of ambiguous dialogue at the very end is a great one, and I dig the point of this being a temporal crossroads between one's beginning and one's end, and the alienation behind being alone in a foreign country... but, by god, Japan's way too caricatured in this, especially the "lip my stockings" scene and the bit with the dart guns, and you can tell Sofia Coppola's still a bit inexperienced in not trusting the audience, given the on-the-nose A Soul's Search tape.

It's probably objectively artsy and "good," but compared to Paterson, First Cow, and even The Station Agent, it doesn't do that much for me.

11. A movie you wish you could un-watch?

Before yesterday, Encanto. The songs are catchy, I love the colors and visuals of this movie, Luisa is an all-timer design alone, so that's why I'd purge it and avoid a movie that needed either 10-15 more minutes to pace out the climax better, to prune out a few family members to give more narrative breath to the remaining ones, or turned into a Disney original TV show, an episode focused on a family member.

However, Ghostbusters: Afterlife made a solid case as a movie that I was better off not watching. Maybe I was just in a very tired mood by then, but it just rung as the most cynical "loving" nostalgia-bait cash grab, and that's even before you get into the ethical ramifications of CGI Harold Ramis of it, with a self-defensiveness streak to its jokes and a tepid climax that doesn't rise above the more dynamic middle part of ghostbusting.

17. A movie you never get tired of talking about?

Pig, Pig, Pig, Pig, Pig. Holy shit, Pig is really great.

I could go a lot into Nicholas Cage's acting (just a papered-over, stoic split scar of a man), Alex Wolff's acting (he's great all across, but his last scene is perfect, beautiful and gutting), the forest visuals, the parts' food titles, the way the foodie world there pops alive, the dialogue about the persimmon tree, the palpable grief intertwined with wounded nihilism suffusing the narrative, the restaurant scene, and its entire second half, and what it says about masculinity, prestige, performance, and art. All in a tight about 90 minutes? Hard to believe it's Sarnoski's directorial debut, but easy to believe Cage saying it's his best performance, hands down. There's such lovingly subtle and trusting collection of details for the audience to cotton on, I don't think I can ever shut up about it, given so few people have watched it, compared to Everything Everywhere All at Once.

I hope more people watch it, it's so textured and tender, just an amazing movie.

[bluetomorrows]

Going Through My Movies Part 8: An Elephant Sitting Still (2018)

Heavy, heavy trigger warning here. This post will contain extensive discussions of suicide and depression.

This might be the most difficult movie I've ever watched. In a way it is a suicide note. And this is coming from someone who's been there, that's what it feels like.

The philosophy of the world of AESS is that the world is static. Things are terrible, and they will be terrible forever. You cannot change it, and you cannot run from it. It is the same all over the world. Trying to find a better life down a different path is a futile endeavor, that will just lead to disappointment and more heartbreak. The best thing you can do is not run away, just accept that your sadness cannot be escaped, and don't waste your energy trying something else.

The best thing you can be in this world, is an elephant sitting still.

Let me be clear. This is a really good movie. It is shot beautifully, it is acted well, the direction is superb, and the script is a goddamn masterclass. It is probably one of the best directorial debuts I've ever seen. I think Hu Bo could have gone down as one of the best directors of all time if he hadn't cut his potential off.

I'm surprised that the conclusion a man about to kill himself came to was that you should sit still. I half expected the elephant to die at the end.

I think that's the problem with reviewing this film. It is fucking fantastic, but I don't know if I can condone it. "Everything is terrible and nothing will change, you should just fucking kill yourself". I don't feel comfortable giving that 5 stars.

But at the same time, this is still a fucking amazing piece of cinema. It's practically all long shots. It doesn't want to cut and bring attention to the fact that it's a movie. It wants to feel as real as possible. And oh god the story here. Absolute genius. There are essentially 4 main characters, all with their own semi-related stories. And the way each story weaves through the general world and atmosphere and through the other stories is amazing. When they all come together at the end it does feel like a payoff to 3 hours of setup, but it also just feels like the totally natural direction each story would take.

Each character is so complex and you learn to care about them so much. Even characters you would expect to be one-dimensional aren't. There's a character here who is the head of a local gang. He believes in his heart that every single person on earth sucks. They're all bad. So he doesn't really care about much. He causes a suicide, he's an asshole to one of the characters because she won't have sex with him, and he hunts down another character because he accidentally hurt his brother.

AND HE'S LIKE THE COOLEST GUY.

Like you know he isn't a good person, but god you are so fucking invested in what he does next. This is partly because of the stellar performance of Yu Zhang, and also just cause he's written so well that you manage to make that character incredibly interesting and a little sympathetic.

This is a great movie. I could talk for hours about how practically every character is perfect and how it's an incredibly dense and genius piece of storytelling. But should an artistic cinematic suicide note be held up like this? As someone who has been close to death multiple times, I cannot feel right condoning the message of this movie. I don't want to believe it. It's unhealthy to believe it.

If you want to see something perfectly replicate the empty feeling of being actively suicidal, then check out An Elephant Sitting Still.

If that is something you want.

Goddamn, this thing destroyed me. Cool soundtrack though.

I made a mistake in my Jodorowsky's Dune post when I said the Blu-Ray after Jodorowsky's Dune was All Monsters Attack, it is actually FLCL: The Complete Series. I have not started this one, but I think it's only like 5 or 6 episodes so I should be fine. Hope this is a much lighter watch

[philhoffman]

This week’s Monday Philm is God’s Pocket (2014), John Slattery’s directorial debut (and Phil was one of the film’s executive producers, too).

Definitely... feels like a directorial debut. Based on Pete Dexter’s 1983 book, great cast (PSH, John Turturro, Richard Jenkins, Christina Hendricks), some good cinematography (despite much of the film looking too dark). God’s Pocket is a comedy/drama that struggled to find that balance. It was hilarious in a quirky way at times and yes the ending made me cry, but the overall tone lacked consistency. Like it couldn’t commit to both, so it committed to neither. Had me thinking back to The Savages last week — also a dramedy, but one that fits the two styles together in a more natural way.

I felt like something was missing from the narrative, too... It opens with the ending, so we know what ultimately happens (sort of), which lowered the stakes and sucked some of the tension out of the film. Several characters were poorly written — Hendricks’ Jeanie and Jenkin’s Richard Shellburn felt one-dimensional and they just... did whatever, without any vaguely realistic rhyme or reason.

But thankfully Mickey Scarpato was one of the better-written characters with a more coherent story. I’m glad his was the central focus of the film. This is really understated but full work from Phil here. Mickey’s voice is low, lower than Phil’s already-low voice normally is, beaten down, exhausted. Filmed in the summer of 2013 when Phil was going through some shit himself but he’s fully dedicated to this role — every movement of his face, the physical comedy (“I’m not mad, I’m just running!”), lifting the film beyond what the script probably deserves. Also funny/cute/nice etc. to see certain shots of Mickey where pure Phil jumps out for a second — quick expressions, turns in his voice, mannerisms that remind me of him, or his much different/earlier performances, etc. Like there he is!!! :)

I read that John Slattery said they did half a dozen takes of the bathroom scene and he was just in awe of Phil’s ability to break down again and again. Gahhh, that scene.

I’m not surprised that people don’t talk about this role more often because it’s a quieter performance in a less-than-amazing film, but he’s still demonstrating what it looks like to be at the top of your craft and worth a watch (if not for the first few minutes alone...). Really just lovely to see him acting, existing in all of these scenes that I had no idea existed until two hours ago. On an episode of P.S. I Love Hoffman I listened to recently, one of the guys described a random scene like this: “It’s simple, but it’s beautiful, because it’s one more shot I get to see of Philip Seymour Hoffman.”

That’s been a wonderful part of this journey, watching all of Philip’s screen work and approaching every moment as a discovery waiting to be made. And we’ll have them, him, forever, but there’s something special about the first time you see it. Three weeks, three films left.

[canmom]

I will grant that I'm tipping my hands here as someone whose far more narratively- than visually-focused but I'd be curious to hear your thoughts on Star Driver, since its script was written by the same screenwriter as RGU

oooo, i'll admit, this is I think the first I've heard of it! but the combo of 'written by the Utena writer' and 'animated by Bones' is unquestionably tempting. so I can't offer anything substantial right now, but I'll go looking for a nice encode and (if I'm lucky) fansub and hopefully get back to you on this one. Just skimming WP, it sounds like it's a kind of biological-mecha thing set in a school, but I'm sure that does it no justice whatsoever.

If I may go for another that I feel you may have seen and that I feel is deeply underrated, Kyosogiga!

Now this strikes me as one I really ought to have watched (I noticed while writing the RevStar post that "anime blogger with good analysis and taste" Emily Rand also cites it as one of her top ten anime of the decade)... but alas, this is one of the gaps! Let's get that on the torrent queue as well. Thanks so much for the rec :3

Still, now I'm alerted to it, let me find out - what even is this thing? Actually this seems to be a little complex to elaborate...

Kyōsōgiga (an allusion to 'scrolls of frolicking animals' which are seen as a precursor to manga) starts with a priest who creates a kind of alternate dimension using his power to make drawings that come to life, centred on the 'Mirror Capital' 鏡都 Kyōto, a hard-to-translate pun on once-capital of Japan 京都 Kyōto. There, he draws a rabbit character who comes to life and some highly Buddhist shenanigans take place:

One of his drawings, a rabbit named Koto, whom he drew as the God of the Mirror Capital, came to life upon striking a deal with a Bodhisattva. Lady Koto managed to win the love of Myōe. After finding a war orphan, Yakushimaru, and taking him under their wing as an adoptive child, the family dimension hop to Kyoto for a better life. Myōe draws two siblings for Yakushimaru. Yase, and Kurama. The five of them live happily together until Lady Koto, having fulfilled her end of the deal with the Bodhisattva, has to be taken away. With their time as a family at its end, Myōe leaves Yakushimaru the title of high priest, and his prayer beads, telling him that he will return with the beginning and the end in tow.

The anime picks up (I presume?) when a girl called Koto stumbles into this alternate world, and seeks a way to get home, while Kurama seeks to bring back the original Lady Koto - but unfortunately to reopen the connection between Kyōto and the real world is a big threat to the multiverse. Of course Koto must be connected to the original family somehow.

Emily gives a more thematic description:

Kyousougiga is many things. It’s the television directorial debut of Rie Matsumoto, who had previously worked at Toei Animation across a variety of the Precure franchise. It’s stunning, with amazing visual and audio direction as well as storyboarding and cinematography. Like many anime series and pieces of media in general, Kyousougiga is also a look at the idea of home and family.

“Home” in Kyousougiga is first established as the Mirror Capital, a drawn replica of Kyoto that High Priest Myoue created to escape the world with his family. But “home” is also the near-empty room where Koto meets her mother and sees her father’s face for the first time. It’s the hill where they watch the city and sunsets together. Or a ruined garden at the so-called end of the world, after a much-needed airing of grievances. “Home” isn’t a place but the people you love isn’t a new narrative, but Kyousougiga tells it so beautifully, with characters you want to root for, and the stunning visual setpieces that Matsumoto loves.

So that sounds like the exact combination of complicated emotional metaphor and visual creativity I love, and I have clearly been sleeping on this one. Appreciate both recs a lot :3

[anxiouslynumbme]

As I Have Always Been...

So I’m definitely time-looping 7x09. It’s perfectly normal to keep watching it over and over again, right? Yes, it is. AoS, you amaze and break me in all the best ways!

The way they took that trope and made it their own, and managed to make it unique. Amazing writing from Drew Z. Greenberg.

Elizabeth Henstridge did such a fantastic job with her directorial debut, and what an episode it was too. And her acting, my God, she's phenomenal. The scene with Jemma breaking down in tears while remembering was bone-chilling, I just wanted to cry with her. I'm not ready for whatever it is; it seemed it had really messed her up.

The sequence with the whole team and Enoch was not only hilarious, but nostalgic for some reason, especially because of Daisy and LMD/Chronicom-Coulson. 

Chloe was amazing this episode, and Daisy almost strangely felt like her old self, somehow. It was so wonderful!

I can not express enough just how much I loved every single second between Daisy and Coulson. Seeing them working together, having a heart to heart. And also being emotional, sarcastic, snarky, and funny about everything was so early seasons, and it hit me so, so hard. I needed this episode to be centered around them, I missed them so very much. The whole episode just made me so emotional, and I don't want the show to end, damn it!

Daisy and Sousa - they managed to be so soft and hot at the same time. Only AoS could introduce a ship this late and have it work so incredibly well. And while I don't want Daisy to have a last minute relationship, can people please stop acting like a kiss means that? It doesn’t mean they’re together. They kissed. They obviously like and are attracted to, each other and so far, that's it. In my opinion, they handled it perfectly, and I honestly don't think it diminished either character. Their scenes didn't feel forced and they all made sense within the story-line. I could feel the tension and the chemistry and the care between them. That, "Because you don't," from Sousa, made me feel things. He gets her. 

Enoch. This show has given us many heart-wrenching, emotional scenes over the years, and I've loved and sobbed over each one of them. But this Enoch scene just might be my favorite so far, because of his unwavering loyalty 'till the very end. Those last words. Words that are so human, coming from a Chronicom. The questions and anxieties about death, we could all relate to that, everything that was said cut me deep. We could also relate to Enoch's connection and love for the team, and the fear of being without them. The way everything was written and phrased. . .just honestly got to me. Joel Stoffer’s acting was remarkable, his eyes, his tone, his facial expressions; I genuinely felt what he was feeling. I can't stop thinking about it. 

That was easily one of the best AoS episodes ever, and personally, it made its way to my top three, or maybe five - there are just too many amazing episodes, and we still have four episodes left so. . . Anyway, 10/10. Perfect.

[tygerseye]

Halloween Countdown 2021!!

It’s countdown time! 10 days to Halloween!!!

Usually I do music videos but frankly I couldn’t come up with a list of unique videos that I wanted to feature so this year I’m going to do movies.  Keep in mind, they are in no particular order... I’m just going to list them as they come!  Also there may be SOME spoilers but I’m going to do my best to keep things vague and interesting so you’ll want to go watch the movie for yourself ;)

1. Lights Out

Lets start out with a more modern movie that easily fits into my top 5 favorite horror films of all time.  It’s rare these days for a modern movie to even get into my top 5 so that’s saying something.

Lights Out started out as a short Swedish film which was a submission for A Horror Short Challenge directed by David F. Sandberg (directorial debut).  The short is also called Lights Out and for your viewing pleasure here it is:

What I love about the short is its simplicity.  It truly proves that you don’t need a lot of bells and whistles and high-tech graphics to make an amazing movie.  this is lighting, scene edits, and makeup at its finest.  What makes this film so scary is the contrasting light to dark and the growing suspense that builds with each scene. Lights on - no one’s there... lights out - dark figure stands... lights on - no one’s there... lights out - dark figure stands......... it builds and builds till you reach the climax of the short but intense story.

The movie takes on this same exact approach. 

Starts out with little glimpses of the supernatural... and over the course of the movie it builds.  Also similarly to the short, the great majority of the movie depends on CLASSIC horror elements to achieve the tense and scary atmosphere.

Obviously, light plays a huge part in the film... that’s no spoiler, the title is Lights Out ;)  I remember thinking at the start of the movie “I swear to god, if they don’t get the lighting right then this movie won’t be good.” But by god they got the lighting perfect in this movie.

They use a wide variety of lighting throughout the movie.... white light, red light, blue light, candle light, natural sun light, mechanical light... seriously, I think every form of light that’s ever existed is somewhere in this movie. 

They used the light like paint on a canvas to paint every scene.

I would expect no less.  In particular there is a short scene where the camera pans around a staircase that’s only being lit by natural sunlight that floods into the room and as the camera pans the shadows of the banister grow... it gave me chills... like the darkness was growing even with natural light trying to eradicate it.

There’s other wider elements to the lighting as well.. such as certain characters always seem to have light around them while others are in darkness... The young boy in the film seems to always have a candle near by... This is indicative of the characters themselves and how they bring wisdom to light through the course of the film... while other characters that stay in the darkness try to hide facts from everyone else.

You’ll also notice that the movie (after the opening scene) starts out very light... lots of sun and natural lighting.. then as things progress they get darker and darker till the characters are engulfed in darkness...

Ok ok I’ll stop going on about the lighting XD I just have a huge boner for classic film elements light good lighting lol.

Every other element is done exceptionally well in the movie. 

Characters are complex but believable.  Plot, although maybe not 100% unique is still interesting and keeps you on your seat... makeup and design is flawless... Really, it takes a lot for me to say this but considering what this movie set out to make, it is flawless.

On a personal note, there was something that struck me hard with this movie.

So everyone that knows me well knows I have an extreme phobia of the dark.  In particular of lights being shut off and I’m suddenly plunged into darkness.  In times when the power goes out at night, I sometimes fall to the floor in a panic and just start crying... if I KNOW the lights will be turned off then I can brace myself but even then the darkness is a terrifying place for me.

Me:

When it’s dark, that’s when I see awful things... like an old woman eating her own flesh in the corner of the room or a little child crying but his eyes are just deep dark sockets... It’s always been this way since I was a little child dealing with night terrors.

This movie PERFECTLY depicts what it’s like for me.  I can’t even describe the relief and excitement I got when I could finally show my family what I see when the lights go out... it was like FINALLY I can explain this thing that must be so confusing to others.

And I’m sure my phobia is part of the reason this movie is scary to me.. but really I felt more relief from being able to show people what I go through than I did fear and in that way this movie has helped me heal.

So I say this: Thank you to the makers of Lights Out... thank you for helping me explain my phobia to people.. thank you for making a wonderful movie that is equally frightening and fascinating. I can’t wait to see what you make next. :)

Lights Out

10/10

[nakedhiddles]

I don't know how to say this but Christopher Nolan is light years away from what whatever the fuck any awards is at right now. I just do not give a fuck if he has a bafta or an Oscar or none, this a guy committed to making movies for his audience.

I watched Dunkirk behind the scenes this afternoon, and it just blew my mind how someone can be so passionate about something, how much he cares.

that's just the main thing when you watch any of his movies: care.

this guy goes all out. if he has to turn water into wine he will go try to do it in the most practical way possible. the crew he works with him cares, they give a fuck.

these are movies done by ppl that give a fuck.

that's what I love about it. I feel it when I watch the movie, it's just there, the craftsmanship of every aspect, the care to take the audience to a superior experience.

it is obvious that is millions of dollars in budget, the logistics, the time, and all the boring details, the obvious goal that is for the movie to have a great box office like any other movie, these are for any production. the standard.

Chris goes and makes movies that pulls the audience out of the normal, and entertains you by defying you with how he tells the story in the biggest, most realistic and gripping way possible.

his first movie I saw was interstellar, on Nov 8 2014. I was 15, I entered the crowded theater and never left. Who left was someone else. I remember so vividly how I left it, my face was red and wet with so many tears, I was shaking so much as I walked out in middle of the crowd in the dark hall to the entrance, I remember the cold Ac hitting my face and it being cold bc of the tears still drying on my cheeks. It felt like that movie pulled out of me so many feelings I could only cry to react. It was just the most beautiful thing I've ever seen, so new and so good, I was completely and absolutely struck by everything I had seen and heard in those 2h45m.

and today, 7 years later, I'm 22 and I'm watching these behind the scenes and going "oh my god that's why! that's why! that's why I had this experience, that's why I felt this way, because someone is giving so much care and love and attention, this was not done randomly like it's just another movie, this is another level of passion and care"

I'm amazed at everything, 100% biased and I love it. With all its imperfections and perfection, this guy is out there thinking and planning of giving the audience the best experience. He will stand out whether you like it or not, whether he gets 5 Oscars or none, let's be honest Christopher Nolan is too far away from the standards of these awards, they don't deserve him or what he is making.

We are incredibly lucky and privileged to be alive at the same time as this guy and be able to experience these movies.

that's it, I just needed to externalize the feelings and the thoughts I've been having this past month, watching and rewatching his movies.

and honestly the entire family is really fucking talented bc not only his brother Jonathan wrote some of his movies with him, he writes, directs and produces westworld with his wife Lisa Joy, who will make her directorial debut next month, and I can't wait to see bc it has Hugh Jackmen and Thandie Newton, I'm hyped as fuck

[deesdiaries]

eryWARNING: Spoilers ahead! Do not proceed if you haven't seen Season 6, episode 6 of Vikings, "Death and the Serpent."

The Seer's prophecy was fulfilled on Wednesday night's heartbreaking episode of Vikings.

Lagertha (Katheryn Winnick) met her end -- and the gods -- at the hands of Ragnar's son, Hvitserk (Marco Ilsø), in a violent, devastating match after the wounded shield-maiden had just saved her community in a battle against the bandits.

The episode, titled "Death and the Serpent," marks the end of an era for Vikings; Winnick was the last remaining original cast member on the show. The Canadian actress thus saw her time as Lagertha coming to a close, and as Vikings creator Michael Hirst tells ET, he wanted to give her an "incredible" send-off.

"She owns that storyline," Hirst says of Lagertha's journey this season, in which she returned to her farming roots and tried to put her life of struggle behind her. "Almost for the first time, she's not involved in someone else's storyline, where she's the wife of Ragnar, or she's the mother of Bjorn. This is her storyline, and her last fight with the leader of the bandits is one of the most powerful fights I've ever seen on TV. I mean, it's incredible."

"Her death is a huge tragedy. I even cried when I was writing it, for Pete's sake. But I wanted it elevated as well," he explains. That "elevated" component came in the form of a Polish singing group he brought in to sing Lagertha goodbye.

"They came to the studio. They were singing in this ancient language no one understood and it was just the crew and the cameras and a few actors. I didn't tell them what was happening. They didn't really know what the song was about, but by the time the song was over, everybody in the building was crying. Me and the camera crew and the crew, everybody was weeping, and that's the music you'll hear when you see the death of Lagertha," Hirst continues.

"It is heartbreaking. It is astonishing, and I think it does huge justice to what Katheryn has given to this show, and I'm so pleased that it's made her a star. I mean, she deserves everything," he declares.

Winnick feels that same affection for Hirst -- and for the character she's spent so long embodying.

"I don't know if I've actually said goodbye to her," she confesses. "I'm still looking at her shield and sword right now in my living room, so she's definitely a big part of my life right now."

In an emotional conversation with ET, Winnick opens up about the years she's spent playing Lagertha, her intense last day of filming, and shares a message to the fans who have been so inspired by her work and the character.

ET: You've played Lagertha for so long -- how did you prepare for her to no longer be a part of your life?

Katheryn Winnick: It was a long time coming. I think I'm the only cast member from day one that's been there for that long, and it was nice to say goodbye to a character that's so dear to my heart and finally close that chapter. As hard as it was emotionally, it also felt the timing was right. I felt definitely fulfilled as an actor and I felt I pushed her storyline as far as I can possibly take her. She is, after all, a granny at this point. And I definitely feel I've been put under the ringer and so many circumstances throughout six seasons that it felt it was a good time to say goodbye to such an iconic character.

When did you find out when -- and how -- Lagertha was going to die? What was that conversation like?

I have a very strong and close relationship with Michael Hirst. It was always a conversation together of when we're going to let go of Lagertha, and I originally didn't think I was going to stay on for as many years as I did. I've been lucky enough and blessed enough to have such loyal fans that they didn't want to let me go or let Lagertha go, but after six seasons, I felt that it was the right time.

I told Michael Hirst, as long he'd give me a really epic death, something that people won't forget, I would be happy to be able to say goodbye to her. As hard as it was, and also it was important that we say goodbye to Lagertha in the right way and proper way, and I feel that Michael Hirst has done that with her death and her funeral and also getting a chance to get behind the camera and direct for the first time. That was my way of really saying goodbye as well.

Michael spoke a lot about bidding farewell to Lagertha with that beautiful song.

I do remember the song very well. Michael sent it to me and played it first at a dinner, and then he came on set, he was there on set on the day of my death as well, and he played it for me again. I was so overwhelmed to have a song made and named after Lagertha. It was so moving and so powerful, and to have that on set and hear it before my death, it was just -- overwhelming. And I actually remember that day really well, shooting and chronologically. Usually, we don't shoot things in order, but it happened to be my very last day shooting as well as Lagertha, it happened to be my death.

Lagertha's last scene alive is incredibly violent -- what was it like filming that day?

It was a freezing cold day. It was below zero temperatures. We had a rain machine. We were soaking wet, all on the ground crawling. It was physically extremely demanding, and to be able to try to stop your body from shaking because of the cold [is difficult] and obviously it's a very emotional scene, and very powerful. We had a medic on set too, because I remember having to go in and out of the hot box. They created a little hot box to keep us warm and go in and out of the rain. We were trying to prevent our body from going into shock, just because physically, to have your body go through such hypothermia and extreme conditions was tough.

So, I'm not sure if I really let go. I don't feel like -- at the end of it, after Lagertha got killed, I just wanted to get warm, so I left quickly. It wasn't as much of a goodbye as I would have imagined. But for me, the real goodbye was coming back after my death and seeing the funeral and coming back to really direct. That was my way of giving back to the seven years I was on the show.

You've been with Lagertha through so much, from overcoming domestic abuse to losing a child -- is there a moment in her storyline that has stuck out to you?

Most people don't have the opportunity even once in their lifetime to have such a role like I got with Lagertha. The priviledge to play her for almsot seven years, and that's such blessing. Most people get maybe one chance to be able to get that. I've had the opportunity to dive into such an iconic, moral character that people look up to and make tattoos from her and dress up like her on Halloween and name their cats and dogs after Lagertha. So anyway, it's just been overwhelming but amazing to see.

And I don't think -- to answer your question, I don't think it's really one particular scene. She's gone from being a farmer to shield-maiden to dealing with domestic violence. She's dealt with having to kill a few husbands or wannabe husbands. She's made her own way and really stuck to what she believes in that I feel that it's hard to sum her up in just a few moments. ... But all those moments make her who she is, really. If it's losing a baby or if it's divorcing her husband, or becoming a queen or now retiring or believing in the fates of the gods and accepting her death, there's -- she's just such a tycoon and such an iconic character. I don't know if I've actually said goodbye to her. I'm still looking at her shield and sword right now in my living room, so she's definitely a big part of my life right now.

Lagertha's death is going to be hard for those viewers you've mentioned that have grown so attached to her and were so inspired by her. Do you have a message for those fans?

Oh, now you're going to make me cry [voice cracks]. It's hard to say. I hope that Lagertha lives on for many years to come and on our TVs and people rewatch and she's an inspiration to all the young girls out there from around the world. The most gratifying thing I have as an actor is when I've had the pleasure to travel to India and the Philippines, and Spain and all around the world, and to have fans from these remote, tiny villages that watch Vikings on their iPhone, without necessarily having running water, and to hear how Lagertha has been an inspiration for them. Whether it's finding their own strength internally or leaving an abusive relationship or really getting the equality they deserve in the workforce as powerful women -- it's just been remarkable how Lagertha has touched so many people around the world, and I hope she continues to do so.

The Vikings spinoff, Vikings: Valhalla, has been picked up by Netflix -- and Michael Hirst has spoken about possibly incorporating some Vikings characters into the show in some way. Any chance fans could see you make a cameo or come back for that series in any way?

I'm a huge fan of Michael Hirst, and I always will be. I consider him family and we've been in touch since [Vikings], and of course, I would love to work with him in one form or another. It doesn't have to be as an actor, it could be as a director or just have him in my life, even as a mentor, he's family to me, and I'm excited for Valhalla to get on Netflix and to live on. It obviously won't be the same original castmembers as Vikings, but I'm glad that there's such a need for it, and there's going to be another spinoff.

Vikings airs Wednesdays at 10 p.m. ET/PT on History. Winnick will direct season 6, episode 8, "Valhalla Can Wait," airing on Jan. 22. Circle back to ETonline for more on her directorial debut.

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

I have not “let go” of Lagertha yet.  It would have been nice to see her reunited with Ragnar in Valhalla.  😭😭😭

[moviewarfare]

A Review of Bloodshot (2020)

Bloodshot is the latest attempt by a studio to potentially start another cinematic universe and in this case, the Valiant Comics cinematic universe. The film stars Vin Diesel as the titular character, Ray Garrison (didn't even remember his actual name), who is brought to life by an advanced technology that gives him the ability of superhuman strength and fast healing and with these abilities, he will go avenge his wife. However, He soon comes to learn that not everything he learns can be trusted.

One positive thing I can say about this movie is that the concept itself is really interesting. The main character's ability is cool and the premise itself is intriguing enough even though the trailer spoils it. Anyway, that is it. 

I love Vin Diesel because he sounds like an amazing person in real life but my god he sucks in this movie. His delivery for what is meant to be an emotional scene is so laughably bad. For example, his wife dies in front of him and he shows little to no emotion and its just so hilarious. Most of his scenes are either him being quiet or just yelling all the time and it is just so bad. The plot is also dumb and butchers the premise by making it become a generic sci-fi action movie. The bad guys are obvious and the good guys are also obvious right from the get-go which makes any twist feel dull. Apart from the titular character, none of the character motivation seems to make any sense. Good guys helping the main character just because they are good guys and bad guys doing bad things just because. You never really understand why any of these characters are doing things. Additionally, there are just so many scenes of endless exposition that dragged and feel like info dumps just because they want to treat us, the audience, as if they are stupid or something. The action scenes are also edited with rapid cuts that are just annoying. There is also so much CGI in all these very noticeable action scenes. To be fair the action scenes are so dumb that they are kind of fun to watch. There is an action scene where a CGI Vin diesel, yes you heard that right, is punching someone in an elevator while they are falling is kinda amazing. For David S. F. Wilson directorial debut, he did a terrible job. One nitpick of a terrible film, there was a scene in London where it was clearly not London and that baffled me so much because why did they have to call it London? There was no reason for it...

Overall, this movie is the dumbest movie I watched in ages. This is a movie that feels like it came out 20 years ago and honestly probably should have never been made. However, this movie is so bad that it is kind of entertaining. My recommendation is to watch it drunk or with friends/family just to tear into the movie because you want a bad movie. However, if you're looking for an interesting superhero movie then I can safely say this isn't it. 

[ljones41]

“EMMA” (1996) Review

"EMMA" (1996) Review

There are times when I find it hard to believe I have seen at least four adaptation of Jane Austen's 1815 novel, "Emma", in the past year-and-a-half. Four adaptations. There have been a good deal more than four . . . but I have yet to see them. The last adaptation I saw turned out to be writer/director Douglas McGrath's 1996 film, which starred Gwyneth Paltrow.

Although the actress had been working for a few years, it was her performance as Emma Woodhouse that put her on the map to stardom. In fact, I would say that "EMMA" also proved to be a professional milestone for co-stars Jeremy Northam and Toni Collette."EMMA" turned out to be the second movie that featured both Paltrow and Collette as co-stars. And the movie also proved to be the directorial debut of Douglas McGrath. Was the movie worth the importance in the careers of the four mentioned? Perhaps.

I would never claim that "EMMA" was the best adaptation of Austen's 1815 novel. There were aspects of it that I found unappealing or troubling. McGrath's use of the Jane Fairfax character struck me as rather minimal. In fact, poor Polly Walker was barely able to speak more than five or six lines during her entire appearance in the movie. I got the feeling that the director/writer was not particularly interested in the character. And his limited use of poor Jane made me wonder why Emma would harbor any jealousy toward her in the first place. The characters of Isabella and John Knightley were barely used as well. I found this disappointing, since both have proved to be very interesting in other adaptations - especially the slightly rude John Knightley. Another problem I had with "EMMA" proved to be Ewan McGregor's portrayal of Frank Churchill. I do not if the problem was the actor or McGrath's writing. But the portrayal of the character seemed . . . off. Frank seemed more busy trying to hide his feelings for Jane, instead of forming any kind of connection to Emma. In other words, this movie did not do justice to the characters of Frank Churchill, Jane Fairfax, and the John Knightleys.

But despite these flaws, I must admit that "EMMA" turned out to be a very entertaining and first-rate movie. Personally, I believe that the movie's top-notch owned a great deal to McGrath's direction. The director shot "EMMA" with a steady pace that allowed the audience to enjoy the greater details of Austen's tale. This is really a well paced movie, despite the few nips and tuck McGrath inflicted into the story. "EMMA" could never bore me with a slow pacing. Yet, at the same time, it did not race by with the speed of a comet. Another aspect that contributed greatly to "EMMA" proved to be its comic timing. I honestly have to say that the 1996 film might be the funniest adaptation of Austen's novel. This was especially apparent in two particular scenes - the Westons' Christmas party, Emma and Mr. Knightley's conversation about Harriet Smith and Robert Martin, and a specific moment during the Coles' supper party that I cannot really explain with words.

There were changes to Austen's novel that many have protested against, but did not bother me one whit. Some have pointed out that Sophie Thompson had been too young in 1995-96 to portray the middle-aged Miss Bates. She was in her early 30s at the time. Even McGrath had initially rejected her for the role when she first auditioned. But once Thompson donned a pair of glasses that made her seem several years older. And the age range for middle-age is pretty uncertain - even to this day. One range stretches from the mid-30s to the mid-60s, in which Miss Bates would fit. Besides . . . Thompson's portrayal of the chatty Miss Bates is so deliciously funny that in the end, I am glad that McGrath had cast her in the role. Other changes include both Harriet Smith andEmma being rescued from the gypsies by Frank Churchill, the location of Emma's first meeting with Frank, and the convergence of both the strawberry picking and the Box Hill picnic into one outing.

Two of the bigger changes proved to be Harriet's reaction to Emma's engagement to Mr. Knightley and the circumstances that surrounded Emma's insult to Miss Bates. I found these last two changes somewhat of an improvement to Austen's story. I have always thought that Austen had glossed over Harriet's reaction to Emma and Mr. Knightley's engagement. After allowing Harriet to develop a crush over Donwell Abbey's master, Austen went out of her way to avoid or evade how Harriet might have reacted to the news. McGrath, on the other hand, approached the matter with a little more realism by allowing Harriet to react with tears. The other change featured Emma's insult to Miss Bates on Box Hill. In the novel and other versions, Emma's insult regarding Miss Bates' intelligence had been laced with humor. Emma's insult was tinged with malice in this version, due to her anger over the Eltons' cold reaction to Frank's regard for her. And instead of Jane Fairfax refusing to see Emma during the latter's visit to the Bates' home following the picnic, it was Miss Bates who refused to see her. Now many "purists" might have a problem with these changes. I did not. As far as I am concerned, these changes did not harm the story.

I can say this about "EMMA" . . . it proved to be one of the most beautiful looking Austen adaptations I have ever seen. I am not familiar with Ian Wilson's work, other than his photography for the 1981 miniseries, "THE FLAME TREES OF THIKA". And I have not laid eyes on that particular production in many years. I only hope that it looks as beautiful and lush as Wilson's photography in "EMMA". My God, I never thought that such lush and sharp colors could look so elegant. The look and style of Wilson's photography seemed to match Ruth Meyer's costume designs. The light elegance and pastel coloring featured in Meyer's costumes almost gave them an ethereal vision - especially those costumes for the female cast. Meyer had received criticism from those who claimed that her costumes did not accurately reflect the Regency decade or English fashion. I was too busy enjoying Meyer's costume designs to really care.

"EMMA" provided some first-rate performances from the cast. Well . . . let me rephrase that statement. From most of the cast. Poor Ewan McGregor was nearly defeated by McGrath's written portrayal of Frank Churchill and that damn wig he was forced to wear. The London Film Critics' Circle gave him the British Actor of the Year award. I am sorry, but I do believe he did not deserve this award. And he would be the first to agree with me, considering his past criticism of his performance. And poor Polly Walker was damn near wasted in her role as Jane Fairfax, due to McGrath's failure to give her any depth. And lines. There were times I felt that McGrath was more interested in Emma's reaction to Jane's "perfections" than in the character. But the rest of the cast fared just fine. Both Greta Scacchi and James Cosmo gave solid performances as Mrs. and Mr. Weston (Emma's former governess and Frank's father). I could say the same for Phyllida Law's silent portrayal of the defeated Mrs. Bates. Denys Hawthorne gave a charmingly humorous portrayal of Emma's father, Mr. Woodhouse. But I did not find his performance as memorable as some of the other actors who have portrayed the character. But there were performances that really knocked the wind out of me. Juliet Stevenson was hilarious as the verbose and vulgar Mrs. Augusta Elton. She was so perfect (and annoying) in the role that I found myself wishing someone would bash her over the head to stop her prattling. However, I could stand and listen to Sophie Thompson's prattling all day. I really enjoyed her portrayal as the equally verbose and pitiful verbose Miss Bates. I especially enjoyed her habit of loudly repeating a word or line in order for her silent mother to hear. Alan Cummings struck me as deliciously insidious as the fortune seeking Reverend Philip Elton. What I found amazing about his performance was his transformation from the slimy courtier to Mrs. Elton's henpecked and dominated husband.

The three performances that really caught my attention came from Gwyneth Paltrow, Jeremy Northam and Toni Collette. The latter gave one of the best comic performances I have ever seen in an Austen production. Her portrayal of the easily manipulated Harriet Smith reminded me of Debbie Bowen's portrayal in the 1972 miniseries. But I believe Collette injected more comic skill into the role. Although Jeremy Northam was slightly younger than the literary George Knightley, he easily conveyed the character's dignity and wisdom . . . and at the same time injected a great deal of wit and excellent comic timing into his performance. One of my favorite Northam moments turned out to be Knightley's silent reaction to Emma's duet with Frank Churchill at the Coles' party. Northam's Mr. Knightley looked as if he had found a worm in his salad and his expression had me shaking with laughter. Gwyneth Paltrow's portrayal of the well-meaning, yet snobbish Emma Woodhouse projected her into stardom. And I can see why. She not only gave one of the best performances in her early career, but I also believe that she proved to be the funniest Emma I have yet to see in any adaptation. Yet, at the same time, Paltrow did a great job in conveying Emma's more dramatic moments and character development.

Although I do not consider "EMMA" to be the best adaptation of Jane Austen's 1815 novel, I have to admit that Douglas McGrath both wrote and directed an excellent film. He was ably supported by Ian Wilson's beautiful photography, Ruth Meyer's gorgeous costumes and a first-rate cast led by the excellent Gwyneth Paltrow. McGrath's body of work may not have been that perfect, but I believe he can look back on his work for "EMMA" with great pride.

[dancingwithdylan21]

Hard and Fast

Summary: Dylan falls hard and fast for the reader who is auditioning for Teen Wolf.

Pairing: Dylan x Reader

Prompt: “Can you two flirt on your own time?”

~

You’re anxiously tapping your foot in a stuffy waiting room but it’s not just any waiting room. No. It’s only the gateway to the biggest fucking audition of your life. No pressure or anything.

You’re about to audition for a role on MTV’s Teen Wolf and the fact that it’s your favorite show makes this even more nerve racking. It’s a character named Kelsey who’s a new mysterious student in Beacon Hills and she will also be Stiles’ new love interest.

And this isn’t a small arc, the role is expected to last for an entire season. That kind of exposure would be insane and also a dream come true. Today is your second callback and you’ve heard that two of the leads with be present in the room with you.

Tyler is making his directorial debut and that’s when the character will make her first appearance. And Dylan will be reading with the small group of girls that made the cut so far including yourself.

“Y/N L/N!”

Shit. Here we go.

“You can do this. You can fucking do this.” You whisper confidently before walking through the heavy metal door. You enter a large, white plain looking room and you can feel your pulse instantly start to race.

Hm. There are only five people present including the two handsome actors. Dylan is standing off to the side chatting on his iPhone and Tyler is sitting in a director’s chair with his baseball cap pulled down low. And the other three are the show’s producers who all seem ready for a nap.

Good vibes. Ugh. You quickly introduce yourself and the part you’re reading for while facing the camera that’s setup in the room. You’re now standing around awkwardly as you wait for Dylan to finish his phone call.

Dylan barely glances in your direction but moves closer still with the phone to his ear. He finally pauses in front of you as he hangs up, making your heart immediately jump into your throat. The man is even better looking in person. You didn’t think that was possible.

“Hi! I’m Y/N L/N. Nice to meet you.” You thankfully snap out of your slight fangirl moment, reminding yourself to get your shit together. Although Dylan looks strangely caught off guard and barely makes a sound when he holds out his hand. Kinda weird.

“Ok, people. Let’s do this.” Tyler quickly interrupts as he leans back in his wooden chair.

Dylan gives him a quick nod before turning back towards you. He suddenly freezes with an expression you can’t read before spinning the fuck around and bolting over to his co-star.

They are now both whispering and looking over at you while you do your best to act unaffected. But it’s making you feel self conscious as fuck at the moment. You notice Tyler give Dylan a stern look and it makes him rush back over to you.

“Everything ok?” You ask wearily.

“Oh. Uh…yup.” Dylan lies unconvincingly. Awesome.

“Let’s start at the top of page two. Stiles sneaks into the school library at night to research and loudly interrupts Kesley who’s already there.” He mumbles focusing on the floor instead of you.

“Ok.” You decide to just dive right into the role and forget the weirdness that’s happening right now.

“Can I help you, dude?” You dryly inquire acting annoyed towards “Stiles”.

“Nope. I’m good.” Dylan delivers a strained smile before clearing his throat. “Sorry for the noise.”

“Yeah I came here for peace and quiet so...”

“I…uhh I…” Dylan stutters before breaking character and then he starts coughing. “I need…water.”

Dylan gives you a nervous smile before stomping towards the table where the producers are sitting. You’re officially fucking confused at this point and start to think that you’re the problem. He makes his way back to you wearing a shy smile.

“Do you want me to still read for this?“ You ask carefully. “If you’re not feeling it then I can leave.”

“No!” Dylan all but yells catching everyone’s attention. A cute shade of pink appears on his cheeks and Tyler can’t help but crack up laughing.

“Sorry, Y/N. Dyl thinks your hot. He’s not very smooth around girls he likes.” Tyler smirks as his best friend’s mouth drops open.

“Oh.” It’s all your brain can think of at the moment because you’re beyond surprised.

But you recover quickly with a chuckle, “I didn’t picture you as the type who’s scared of girls.”

“Aw, shit!” Tyler exclaims clearly entertained by this whole train wreck.

“Can we try this again before I die of embarrassment please?” Dylan groans asking the room. Everyone nods and you can’t help but giggle at Dylan when he looks at you. He instantly runs a hand through his messy hair before taking a deep breath.

“Get your act together, O’Brien.” You hear him grumble to himself.

“Yeah O’Brien…you’re a god damn professional.” You whisper making him burst out laughing.

“Can you two flirt on your own time?” Tyler huffs sounding bored. Dylan gives him the finger before turning his attention back to you.

“Hopefully third time’s the charm.” He says with a more confident smile.

Thank god this scene goes a lot better than before and it gives you hope about actually landing this role. Sadly it ends too soon and you have to say your goodbyes.

You blush when you see Dylan give you a cute wave as he watches you leave the room. The distraction almost makes you walk right into the door jam and it makes Tyler cackle behind you.

“You two are such dorks, Dyl. She’s clearly the girl for you.” He howls as you rush out the door.

Do something lame in front of an insanely attractive actor? Check. You can cross that off your fucking bucket list.

“So what do you guys think?” Tyler questions everyone after they see the last girl who auditioned. He instinctively rolls his eyes already knowing what his co-star is about to say.

“I vote for Y/N L/N.” Dylan replies with a goofy grin.

“What a shock.”

“Dude! Y/N’s amazing. She’s gorgeous, funny, sweet, bad ass and talented! I’m pretty sure she’ll be my wife someday.”

“Jesus, Dylan. You sound like a twelve year old girl.”

“Whatever, man. I can’t help it. I’ve never met a girl like her before.” Dylan admits already looking love struck.

“Actually…you and Y/N did have good chemistry. Even if you weren’t fangirling over her, I’d probably choose her for the role.”

“Yes!” Dylan excitedly jumps up from his seat. “Who’s gonna call her? Can I call her? What’s her number?”

“Don’t make me regret this, dude. You’re already acting crazy.” Tyler warns trying to hide an amused smile. His best friend is such a dope.

“Crazy or not…I like her. And I think she likes me back.”

“Totally. She didn’t make fun of you for being scared of chicks or anything.”

Dylan shoots Tyler a classic bitch face and it makes him snicker, “Whatever! As long as you two film without eye banging each other. Especially when I’m directing.”

“No promises.” Dylan smirks knowingly.

~

Masterlist 

[theevilfoodeaterconchita]

Hors D’oeuvre–Tasan Pig Liver Pâté With Assorted Vegetables; Scene 2

Evil Food Eater Conchita, page 14-17

"Which of the animal presents is the rare one?" Muzuri asked the male cattle hand who happened to be present there the moment he reached the barn.

"H-hah…That one. This is the first time I've seen that creepy pig, Master,” the man said, pointing at the pig pen.

Inside the pen they were keeping about twenty pigs of various breeds that lived in the southern regions of the Beelzenian Empire.

The Demilamb pig was the breed most commonly eaten in that area. It was generous in fatty meat but it wasn't too rich by any measure, and its sleek flesh was a characteristic trait. It also had lovely white fur.

The Shadow Moon pig was a mixed breed from a combination of a species native to Marlon and Demilamb. It had hardly any fur at all. Its greatly reddish meat wasn't particularly tasty on its own, but processed and assorted with other ingredients its delicious flavor came through.

The Tasan pig with black fur was, to speak plainly, awful and smelly. Going by all of the chefs in the empire, the scent was impossible to work with.

At the same time, its organs were fairly noteworthy. Heart, liver, intestines, stomach...No matter which one you took, they carried a unique deliciousness that you couldn't taste in the other breeds.

And as for the "rare" one that Muzuri was so interested in--the moment he saw it, he instantly knew what it was.

“Is that—It must be! That’s the ‘Baemu’ pig, isn’t it!?”

“T-the B...Baemu?”

"Good grief, you don't even know about the Baemu; first Ron, now you, none of you know anything about food."

That being said, it was actually the first time Muzuri himself had laid eyes on the Baemu.

However, it had deep red fur, almost as though it was covered in fire. And it had two deer-like horns growing from its temple…The oft-rumored "Baemu" pig had features just like that.

The other pigs in the pen were keeping their distance from the Baemu as though they were afraid, or perhaps showing reverence for him--or her.

"Do you know of this red pig, Master?"

"That…is a breed of pig known as the Baemu. It rarely shows itself before humans, and it's impossible to raise. It's such a valuable pig that among gourmands it is known as the 'legendary pig'."

"Ooh…legendary, huh...I see. I'm impressed, you're quite knowledgeable, Master." The cattle hand gazed again at the red pig, nodding several times as though in admiration. "So then, its flavor must be pretty amazing, huh?"

"I don't know."

"Huh!?"

"Neither I nor anyone I know has ever actually tasted the Baemu. But there is a tale that the emperor of that one big empire used to love it, and ate it regularly. And it's also said that as they were excessively hunted to give to him, the pig's numbers dwindled heavily."

"Who in the world…would have sent such a rare pig?"

"…That's the thing. Did the coachman who brought it over say anything on the matter?"

"Apparently he didn't know either. He said it had been riding in the carriage before he knew it. He figured that there wouldn't be anything put into the luggage compartment that wasn't being sent as presents for Lady Banica's birthday, so he just brought it over with the rest of them."

"Hmm, I see…"

It was a garbled mess of a story. Muzuri folded his arms, closed his eyes, and thought for a moment.

Then he suddenly opened his eyes and shouted to the heavens, “I’ve got it! This is surely a present from the gods!”

"W-what!?"

"If we don't know who sent it, then that must mean that a wild Baemu climbed into the luggage area when the coachman wasn't looking...It's reasonable to think so. There were other livestock in there, and there was feed set out. Perhaps it was tempted by these things and went in against its better judgment.

"…Would something so convenient simply happen?"

"It's unthinkable under normal circumstances. That's why I say it's a present from the gods! Surely, the gods are celebrating Banica's birthday--and so they granted me this Baemu as a reward for my regular good deeds. It's so obvious!"

"…I guess so."

The cattle hand gave up on refuting that. Once Muzuri had gotten like this, nothing he said would reach him. He knew that well.

"In that case, there's no need to hold back. We shall gratefully feast on this Baemu tonight!"

"Since it's such a rare opportunity, it might be best if you treated your honored guests to it during Lady Banica's debut. Once you do, your social standing will--"

"Absolutely not! I won't be letting the likes of Earl Vincent and Duke Oruhari have a taste of my long-awaited Baemu! I alone will eat it, and I'll brag to the others later!"

"Sigh, I guess so."

Like he thought, the cattle hand wouldn't be objecting. At the risk of repeating himself, when it came to all things food it was impossible to find any compromise with Muzuri. There was even a chance that if a man like the cattle hand were to give a negative opinion he'd be sacked.

"Alright! Take this Baemu to the kitchens at once!"

Without actually waiting for a reply from the cattle hand, Muzuri next ran for the kitchens, his large belly flabbily swaying along the way.

<<prev------directory------next>>

[hollenka99]

The Great War

Summary: Jackson Trinity continues to find more success, Jameson with it. However, a war rages on in Europe and it is inevitable that hearts will be broken by the end of it.

Warnings: Minor character death, World War One, references to infant/child mortality

July 29, 1914

Dear Mother,

I think I may have accidentally trained my son to call me Pops. He quite enjoys it when Siobhan and I sing 'Pop Goes The Weasel'. I think it may be his favourite tune. Siobhan will sing the song while I will pop to emphasize the last line by pulling my finger out of my mouth. He loves that. He has taken to following me around, attempting to do the same. Failing that, he tries to say the word.

So, I suppose I am 'Pops' now. I don't mind, especially with origins like these. Siobhan is still 'Momma'.

Yours, Jameson

August 5, 1914 Harvey,

I heard Great Britain declared war on Germany. I know exactly what that means for Canada. I also know what your intentions are. I disagree with them wholly. Enlisting is the wrong thing to do. You have three young daughters who rely on you, not to mention Edith. What would happen to them while you were away getting shot at?

I don't know whether you miss South Africa, the structure of the army or simply enjoy risking your safety. I cannot begin to imagine why you are so set on enlisting. I could tell you would be the type to come running at Hughes' beck and call. And to think, I counted myself lucky that the British had not yet announced their plans to get involved.

Yours, Jameson

August 21, 1914 Jameson,

For someone who is rarely verbal, you have surprising trouble knowing when to keep your mouth shut.

I am fully aware of the risks involved with warfare. Have you forgotten that I have military experience? I've already fought against those primitive Boers. The Europeans should be an actual fight worth being part of.

Furthermore, don't speak to me about leaving family behind. You make constant promises of visiting Saint John yet never deliver upon them. You are forever telling us you plan to see your nieces and nephews then never show. We wouldn't know what Anthony looks like if it were not for those meaningless photographs you send. When you stop turning your back on us so you can progress your career, perhaps then we can discuss familial commitment.

It's all glamorous for you, the beginnings of a life in the spotlight. Soon, you'll have it all. By the end of the decade, you'll be living in a large expensive home with an impressive array of influential acquaintances. One day, it will all come crashing down on you. Technology will advance further than you can cope and it will leave you irrelevant. Face it Jameson, moving pictures are going to have sound eventually. Where is that going to leave a mute such as yourself?

My daughters will grow up knowing their father served their country bravely, an ordinary hero like thousands of others. All Anthony will have to be proud of is a father who starred in the pictures before he became forgotten about.

Yours, Harvey

September 7, 1914 Harvey,

Don't try insult me.

When I inevitably have to hold our mother as she grieves, I'll remember how stubbornly arrogant you have been. You weren't there for over two years. There wasn't a day where she wouldn't worry endlessly for your safety. Then Father died. We had to watch her fall apart. He'd been ill during Christmastide and he barely saw the new year. She became a widow and all she would talk about was the goddamn telegram she swore she would receive any day. It was hell to see her like that. I may live on the other side of the continent, in whole other country, but I know where her head will go as soon as you leave Saint John. I'm not 13 any longer. I am not at home to ensure she is not fixated on very possible outcomes. The only one left in Saint John will be Mabel. God knows she pulled her weight and then some at the beginning of this century. Once again, you're tearing everything apart.

It is clear you have rendered yourself deaf to sense. So go. Go get yourself killed. Allow yourself to be shot at, far away from home and curse your family with bereavement. Make your daughters question what their absent father was like. I don't care if you find your life at the factory tedious. Your outlet should not be risking everything that matters. No brother of mine would turn his back on family.

Furthermore, I have been to Saint John with Anthony. You could have met him if you weren't celebrating Thanksgiving elsewhere. I know my career has a time limit. It is why I am so determined to succeed and give my son the best life possible. Far better than the life you could ever provide your children. I may have been happy to lend you some of my profits, if you weren't acting like an ass.

Yours, Jameson

October 19, 1914 Dear Jameson,

While I am tired of hearing about your argument with Harvey, I thought you have the right to be updated. He went to Quebec earlier this week to hear Sam Hughes' speak before being shipped across the Atlantic. The girls and I will be okay. Your mother has kindly offered to let us stay at her home should we ever need it.

I share a similar view to yours regarding all of this. I by no means wished for him to leave. He wholeheartedly believes this is what he should do. The government is bound to release propaganda to encourage enlistment eventually. I suppose, as his wife, I can't do anything but trust he will return.

All the best, Edith

November 11, 1914 Dear Mother,

Siobhan has been longing for a pet for several months now. We have made the commitment of owning a dog. It is a Dalmatian she has named Lyra. Anthony has immediately taken to her. My only concern is that he will treat her too roughly and she will defend herself aggressively. He doesn't know much better but we are trying to prevent anything from happening.

I have taken to helping train her in my spare time. It is refreshing to be obeyed by a creature of lesser intelligence. It may be too soon for results to show but it is a start. Perhaps you should get yourself a dog as well. I'm sure Harvey's girls would adore one. Mabel might be interested in introducing a pet into her family. That said, Walter (if he is indeed a boy as she insists) is going to be born any day now. Maybe she should wait until her sons are older.

Yours, Jameson

April 13, 1915 Dear Mother,

Have you seen Chaplin's latest? That Tramp character looks like he has promise. My Jolly Gentleman is selling well also. I am grateful people adore him. He is dear to me. Could you imagine a meeting between Chaplin's Tramp and my Gentleman? It would be quite the escapade.

Did Cliff tell you I've met the man? They are acquaintances from their respective times at Keystone. I met Cliff outside of the studios at the end of a day of filming. Chaplin was there too. Cliff introduced us so I did my best to strike a short conversation. He comes across as a good fellow. If I'm going to be honest, I find it difficult to imagine he and the Tramp share the same face. I doubt people have the same issue with me as my moustache is genuine.

Yours, Jameson

June 11, 1915 Dear all,

We're amazed by how successful 'Puppet Man' has become. To think, the idea came to me from a children's book. I bought a copy of Carlo Collodi's 'The Adventures of Pinocchio' last year. It is originally Italian but a woman named Mary Alice Murray translated it into English. It has illustrations and I generally thought Anthony would enjoy it. Instead, I found myself reading it.

It's about a carpenter who creates the eponymous puppet boy. Pinocchio is a compulsive lair and by the end he finds himself as real of a boy as any reading the story. The Christian message is blatant but overall, it is not a bad book. My only issue with it is the scene where bandits hang Pinocchio until they tire of waiting for him to suffocate. I am not sure whether I will include that part when reading it to Anthony.

I never plagiarized. 'Puppet Man' was merely inspired by the story. I could never use the elongating nose because that trait is unique to Pinocchio. Honestly, the only similarities between the two are that a puppet finds life by the finale.

Still, $300,000 is a lot of money. We've never made this much profit before. It's not our first feature film but this is Pearl's directorial debut. This may be the big break we've been hoping for. We have nothing to do but celebrate and plan how to proceed.

Yours, Jameson

Oliver Charles Jackson Male October 21, 1915 Los Angeles Siobhan O'Hara Jameson Jackson

October 30, 1915 Dear all,

It seems we have a jealous older brother on our hands. Yesterday, we found Anthony hiding Oliver in his toy box after he emptied it, saying it was all Oliver's fault. When he noticed we were watching, he cried. He says we stopped paying attention to him and that he's been replaced. I attempted to calmly explain to him why we don't bury baby brothers in our toys.

It may take time for him to get used to this new arrangement. Let us hope the two are on better terms eventually. As of now, it is clear he is the same Anthony he was a month ago. He later leaned over the cot and reminded 'Ollie' who was in control but was apologetic when caught. He's just attention-seeking now that his parents have to dedicate more time to the baby. I was similarly upset with Pearl, wasn't I?

Yours amusingly, Jameson

January 23, 1916 Dear Jameson,

It was delightful to see you reprising your role as best man at Cliff's wedding. Anthony made a good ring bearer, even if he was a little side-tracked by the amount of guests present. Furthermore, I loved meeting baby Oliver. Either he was on his best behaviour or Anthony is finally beginning to warm to his brother.

I was wrong about Loretta. She is a charming woman and I am glad she has now joined our family. You were right, his relationship with her is worlds away from what he had with Elizabeth. While I do wish them a happy life with children, I can't help but wonder what became of Clara and Daniel. They are still his children, even if none of us have laid eyes on them in years. Let's hope their future half-siblings will be raised with their father present.

Yours, Your mother

May 1, 1916 Dear all,

I have been following the recent rebellion in Ireland. I wasn't exactly supportive of the Unionists using violence to promote their views. Then a British soldier began using human shields and shot a child who was likely minding his own business. His superiors better take appropriate action after this. I'm not necessarily saying the man must hang but he should be punished accordingly. And no plea of insanity. If I hear he gets away with his despicable actions because he feigns insanity or the British turn a blind eye, I will be furious. I sincerely hope the Irish won't let this rebellion be forgotten. I don't endorse the fighting, especially as Europe has enough blood being shed as it is, but I do understand their struggle.

I wonder what Granny would make of all this. It's impossible to forget the passion with which she would insist it was never a famine but a starvation. She had every right to be feel strongly on the subject. I may have listened to her a little too intently as a child. Although, she was always right about the British making their way up the global hierarchy. The sun may never set on the British Empire but maybe it should, it would be easier to pretend blood didn't water the soil years ago.

I've learned two things over the past few years. I find myself somewhat impassioned when it comes to the British and pacifism. I prefer to stay slow to anger. I doubt I will ever cease reacting strongly to those subjects. I plan to stop so I do not carry on this narrow-minded attitude in my sons. Besides, Siobhan is the Irish one. She doesn't have as strong of an opinion on British rule.

I suspect the Irish will continue fighting for the Ireland they want during the remainder of this century. I can only hope the fatalities and casualties involved in this is kept to a minimum.

Yours, Jameson

June 23, 1916 Dear Mother,

The other day, Anthony must have been somewhat bored because he heaved his brother off the floor and made Ollie 'ride' Lyra. I'm not sure how she felt about the incident but she didn't react negatively. Oliver, however, wasn't too pleased to be handled in such a way. Eight months after meeting his brother, Anthony is still learning how to be gentle. I suppose there have been worse brothers. Didn't Cliff try to drag me into the sea at one point because I tripped on his blocks? I glad our relationship has matured and he isn't planning my murder anymore.

I managed to capture the moment. It is a little blurry but you can see well enough what Anthony is doing. I hope you enjoy the photograph.

Yours, Jameson

July 16, 1916 Dear Jameson,

Do you remember David Wynton? The two of you used to be such close friends. You seemed to lose touch with each other after you left for New York. I never really understood why that happened.

I am so sorry, Jameson. I ran into his mother at the market and we began to talk. She received a telegram earlier this month. I didn't know how to respond. I wish I didn't have to tell you about his death. You should at least know.

You have my sympathy, Your mother

August 1, 1916 Dear Mother,

Thank you for telling me the news. Although, I think you may be mistaken. David and I still talked to each other until last year. I'll admit it was at a decreased frequency than in our youth but we corresponded nonetheless. In fact, he was at the wedding. Do you not remember?

Anthony is excited for his fourth birthday next Monday. He is very confused as to why his Pops has suddenly decided to stop playing with him. I feel bad for subjecting him to this unexplained change in behaviour. I'm not sure whether he would even understand the concept of death. I found myself telling Oliver about David last night as I prepared him for bedtime. Nine month olds are not inclined to ask you questions throughout your story. In the end, I had to pass him to Siobhan.

Siobhan herself is very understanding. I am grateful for that, not that I ever expected her to be anything but supportive in times like these. There are boys she knew from Limerick who are never coming home too.

I wish this war would end already. In the very least, we still have Harvey. As against his decision as I am, I do miss him. If this is how affected I am by the death of a lifelong friend, I cannot bare the thought of losing a brother.

Tell his family I am thinking of them, Jameson

October 12, 1916 Dear Mother,

It was odd to be back in Saint John after the news earlier this year. Even stranger was visiting David's family for a moment to personally give my sympathies, only to discover he has a son. He'd told me he had a girlfriend but never mentioned she had been expecting when he left. Maybe he believed I'd think less of him because the boy is illegitimate. I never could judge him for that.

It is funny that his son is named Winston. David was always jokingly telling me he would have a son with that name. I would proceed to chuckle and encourage him to do so with jest. I am beginning to question whether he had been serious the whole time. I do find it humorous that there is a Winston Wynton out there in the world. That knowledge makes it easier to carry on without being able to properly bid farewell to his father.

If I were raising my sons in Saint John, I would like the three boys to be friends, preferably as close as their fathers were.

Yours, Jameson

November 27, 1916 Dear Mother,

If you hear anything about a lawsuit involving us, ignore it. It is complete nonsense. Keystone claim Cliff has performed mutiny, betrayed them, whatever drivel they are spouting this week. There is no case. There was no legal agreement that Cliff wouldn't return to Jackson Trinity during his contract with Keystone. Even so, he had little involvement with our productions during that time out of respect. His contract had been ceased for several months before any of these allegations began.

We have found ourselves a decent lawyer, simply for the security of it. It is best to prepare in case Keystone's legal team is persuasive. He agrees this is all hot air but understands why we are being cautious.

Yours, Jameson

April 6, 1917 Dear all,

Nearly three years into the war, the United States of America has declared war on Germany. I suppose the allies are glad for the extra help. God knows how long this conflict will last. I recall people insisting it would all be over by Christmas. Three years ago. There are hundreds of thousands of American men who are of the right age and fitness to enlist. With all those new recruits, perhaps this is the boost the allies need to win.

However long this war lasts, I am dreading the first glimpse of how affected the country is by the deaths of family members that will inevitably come. Let's pray it will be this Christmas that we can celebrate peacetime once more.

Yours, Jameson

July 21, 1917 Dear all,

The case has been won in our favour. The three of us are relieved. We will celebrate quietly then return to business as usual. This was simply an annoying blip.

Just thought I'd update you on our situation.

Yours, Jameson

October 14, 1917 Dear Jameson,

How are you doing? I am looking forward to seeing you again one day. It will be a good day. We can share a drink and you can live up to your name, Whiskey. With an Irish wife, I expect you to outdrink me with ease. I would kill for some alcohol now.

I wanted to apologize, Jem. We've had a tense relationship over these past few years and I've sensed the distance between us. I thought I knew full well how dangerous the battlefield can be. I know that far better than you, yet I was the one who chose to join regardless. I've since discovered France is nothing like South Africa.

You've constantly blamed me for abandoning my family. I can assure you that I love Edith and my daughters. All I wanted was for them to grow up with a favourable impression of me. Isn't that what we all wish for, our children wanting to follow in our example? You have no idea how desperately I'd love to see them right now. I want to be reunited with you all.

I want you to know I'm proud of you. While we can't exactly go to the pictures here, I have heard a fair amount of news about your success from Saint John. I know it is a team effort and the three of you are just as responsible for your rise as each other. That said, there would be no movie without a script. All the actors are doing are bringing your stories to life. You were always good with a pen. You're not bad with arithmancy but, trust me Jem, you would be wasted as an accountant.

I've also heard you've given Anthony a little brother. Make sure they don't end up like us. No one person can control the events of the world but you can raise your sons on knowledge of our mistakes. Teach them to be forgiving. Teach them time is not always their ally. Most importantly, teach them to treasure each other and never forsake the bond they were gifted. If they don't heed those words, then it all goes to waste.

I'm in the infirmary right now. Breathed in something I shouldn't have. It was unintentional but I am sitting here, resenting my foolishness. I hope you can forgive me for all our quarrels. I will be fine, don't you worry. We can shake hands the next time we meet.

Wishing you a long and happy life, Harvey

October 26, 1917 Dear Clifford, Jameson and Pearl,

I'm sure you are all hard at work. I am looking forward to watching your latest feature at the Imperial. However, I insist that you return home immediately. I received a telegram regarding Harvey. The worst has happened. We need to be together as a family.

Regrettably awaiting your arrival, Your mother

November 4, 1917 Dear Harvey,

Yes, you are a fool. But so am I. This is my fault. I've been so angry at the prospect of losing those dear to me I acted irrationally.

Dorothy, Alice and Minerva could never see you in a bad light. They only wish to have you home for good. You've missed three years of their lives but it can be rectified. I hear from Edith that next year, Dorothy and Minnie are beginning middle school and elementary school respectively. Be there for that. They are growing up faster than you'd like. I struggle to understand how Anthony and Ollie are already 5 and 2 years old.

I know you never cared for ancient texts but I am reminded of a moment during the Trojan War. There was a disagreement between Agamemnon and Achilles. After Achilles' good friend (some argued lover) dies protecting his honour, Agamemnon apologizes to Achilles. He says something along the lines of the gods stealing their common sense. I feel that applies to us.

God must have stolen both of our common sense. I am willing to let bygone be bygones so long as you

March 6, 1918 Dear Jameson,

We saw your latest film. We can't say we enjoyed the messages it conveyed.

I will warn you once and once only; do not let your works become political. This will get you nowhere and destroy the reputation you have earned. Especially when you come to your senses and remind yourself that the war in Europe is yet to reach its conclusion.

I understand Jem, I truly do. We are all doing our best to carry on without Harvey. Making a film about boys being raised to fight is not the right way to grieve. For the love of God, you used your sons! I hope you feel at least the slightest bit of shame. How Cliff or Pearl, let alone your wife, allowed you to use them is a mystery to me.

I remember the happy boy who would steal my candy when he thought I wasn't looking. I remember the brother who smiled whenever he was ill so we wouldn't fret too much. I remember the Jem who had his voice stolen as a child, his health forever compromised, but took it all in his stride.

I don't recall a man with an uncharacteristically dark mind.

You have so much to be happy about. Your third child is due in June, you have a successful career and business, your wife cares for you and you still have three other siblings who have always been there for you.

Please think things through, Mabel

Sophia Evelyn Jackson Female April 29, 1918 Los Angeles Siobhan O'Hara Jameson Jackson

May 8, 1918 Dear Mother,

Sophia arrived a week ago on the 29th. She is 5 weeks too early and I have been so consumed with anxiety that I forgot to even inform you of her birth. I apologize.

The boys haven't been able to properly meet their sister. Children are so susceptible to diseases. God forbid one of them develops a cold and interacts with Sophia. She is so unbearably fragile as of right now. All it takes is for her to be infected with a common illness, one that is relatively harmless, and she could be gone.

I fear that will be the thing to push me over the edge. Harvey's death is fresh and I can't bare to lose more of those I care for. Everything is out of my control and cruelly so. I know there were two between myself and Pearl. Siobhan had a number of older siblings she never got to meet. Was this how it was for you and her parents? I know Cliff and I had a habit of making a nuisance of ourselves. If we caused you distress while you suffered this way, I cannot begin to apologize enough.

I don't care if she is a sickly child. She can spend her whole life bedridden and I will care for her with everything I have. I will happily remain paranoid regarding her wellbeing for as long as I live. If she must be isolated for her own good, I will keep her company. So long as she is still here. There cannot be any other alternative.

Wishing I could have given you good news, Jameson

November 12, 1918 Dear all,

It's over! It's finally over. I may have shed a tear or two when I heard the news. I can't help but think of all the fortunate families who will be welcoming their fathers, husbands and brothers back home. I can't imagine how relieved they must be at the announcement. Then there are families such as ours who will find all of this bittersweet. I suppose the only comfort we can have is that no more will have to grieve like us because of the Great War.

They call it the war to end all wars and, as desperately hopeful as I am that will prove true, I know what Man is like. Give it a century or so. The survivors will pass war stories down to their sons and grandsons. One day, this war will be but a collection of stories and some fool will cause history to repeat itself.

I'll do what I can to make sure neither Anthony nor Oliver will end up that fool. I hated having to raise them during such a horrific conflict. I hope they won't remember this part of their life. Six and three years of age is too young to retain vivid memories, I think.

Thinking of you, Jameson

[kathillards]

i met so many of my fave actors and took photos with them YOU GUYS 

- catherine sutherland IMMEDIATELY MY NUMBER ONE OFC i really spent $70 to get her autograph on this fan art of kat and aisha and tanya and i told her i love kat so much and that she’s my url and me and tabby are tommykat’s only fans (sorry to the other 5 of ya) and she was sooo sweet and beautiful i love her so much

- BRANDON JAY me and tabby were like the first ppl there and we told him we love jack so much and he’s the best and was my first red and i took a photo with him and i loveeeee him

- CLAIRE BLACKWELDER omg she is so tiny and pretty and cute and she was wearing a purple ring FROM SET IT WAS KENDALLS RING and purple earrings and she said purple was her fave color and she’s soooo tiny you GUYS

- KEVIN DUHANEY AND JEFF PARAZZO oh my goddd i didn’t get to talk to jeff much cuz i got in line for kevin and we talked forever i told him dino thunder was my FAVE he said he watches emma’s show and she’s so good!! AND HE AND EMMA AND JEFF WENT FOR DINNER YESTERDAY AND HE SHOWED US A PIC OF THEMMMM ON HIS PHONE they tried to get her to come but she’s so busy AND WE ASKED ABOUT JAMES NAPIER and they said he didn’t like acting :(( and they don’t know where he is or what he’s up to but kevin was still so sweet he was totally talking up james’ directorial debut and said he was amazing and ALSO he told us jeff was in the anniversary episode and he forgot tommy existed so Mood (they do Not claim him for dino thunder lmaoo) and then i got a pic with both my boyssss

- AND WE WENT TO THE MEGAFORCE PANEL AND ANDREW DID SPLITS AND TABBY ASKED CHRISTINA A QUESTION AND WE YELLED AT THEM ABOUT MEGAFORCE FROM THE SECOND ROW AND THEY LOOKED AT US and THEN

- we went to see azim immediately afterward AND I TOLD HIM I LOVED HIM AND WE DEFEND JAKES HONOR ONLINE and that i had to support all brown people on power rangers and he was like YES FIRST MIDDLE EASTERN RANGER and i told him that i loved him and ernie being on the same season because u know brown solidarity and he loooved ernie he said the actor was actually an assistant director and then he had to run to a photo op so we said we would be back BECAUSE WE LOVE HIM

- and then we went to see DAVI WHO HAD JUST COME AND SET UP WE WERE THE FIRST ONES THERE and oh my godddddd he is so pretty you guys what the FUCK he had his glasses he was so CHARMING and pretty AND HE ASKED IF WE WANTED A PIC W HIS COAT and tabby asked if she could wear it and i also wore it and oh my goddddd he is so SWEET i would die for him

- oh i forgot because i didn’t get a pic w him but we went and saw brennan first because tabby wanted to see him and he is sooooo hot AND HIS ARMS YOU GUYS HES SO PRETTY

- WE ALSO WENT AND SAW JORGE AND ADAM because they’re tabby’s faves i didn’t buy pics w them but they are SO HANDSOME AND NICE AND SWEET jorge hugged tabby because she was Dying and i told him she was blake’s biggest fan AND ADAM AND I TALKED ABOUT HUNTER AND BEING THE OLDEST SIBLING and i said how much i loved ninja storm being so family focused AND THEN ADAM HUGGED ME HES SO TALL AND NICE ughh i love them

- AND SELWYN WARD we were the only people at his booth at first so we just talked to him and we told him we loved turbo and talked about our fave episodes and he is so handsome and nice and i loooove him

- ok anyway back to azim cuz we went back to see him after his megaforce photo op and he remembered us and was like to his handler “these girls defend jakes honor” and we were like AND ALSO MEGAFORCE and he was like yeah you guys and your friends were all up front like a cluster (at their panel because All Of Us were there) and we were like ya we are all the megaforce stan club and then we took pics AND HE ASKED ME TO TAKE A PROM STYLE PIC WITH HIM AND I DID and i was like oh i’ve never been to prom and he was like omg how old are u and i was like 22 but i hate dancing and other people BUT I WOULD GO FOR YOU AZIM I WOULD

- and then we went to christina and she is soooo tiny and cute we told her we were waiting for her the whole megaforce panel cuz she was super late she’s so adorable she apologized and we told her emma was the BEST RANGER EVER and how she had like so many awesome fights by herself and how she was the leader and she said she was upset that emma didn’t get to dress up in the halloween episode and we asked her who she would have dressed up as and she said emma would be a butterfly she’s so cuuuuuute and we have a megaforce photo op all four of us and all six of them tomorrow :’)

i think that’s everything for today anyway SUPER FUN SO SO SO FUN ME AND TABBY JUST WANDERED AROUND SCREAMING ST EVERYONE jeff came by azim’s booth while we were there and we squealed and he was like lol (he was like never at his panel dhjdjdjsj kevin had to shout him over to get him to take my pic) (also while we were waiting in line he came by us and i said JEFF really loudly and he like nodded and smirked at me god he’s so hot) (tabby screamed at adam and jorge too and then they walked past again and jorge blew her a KISS god they’re all so cute)