#l.a pride 2022

[foxes-that-run]

Boyfriends

A self aware take on Boyfriends, including Harry and boyfriends of those he cares for. The lyric video features a lone swan, a symbol of commitment. Harry was with a swan in every image for his May 20 2019 Gucci Campaign, released the week Boyfriends was first written. Harry and Taylor were pictured with a Swan on her birthday when they went to The Lakes. Harry who has spoken about the song with pride and deference. Let's start with the gorgeous first take:

Harry said to Zane Lowe it was written at the end of Fine Line:

"There was an extra week where we wrote some stuff, wrote Adore you, TPWK and we were recording Lights Up. [...] At the end of that session everyone left and I started writing Boyfriends and it almost felt like OK there is a version where we get this ready to put on this album, and I think there was something about it where it felt like it's going to have it's time. [...] I am learning so much by saying it [...] It is both acknowledging my own behaviour, looking at behaviour I have witnessed and looking at I grew up with a sister, so it's like watching her date people and watching friends date people and you know people don't treat each other nicely sometimes. And it turned out about boyfriends because I started paying it and saying boyfriends. [...]Just say what you think of boyfriends.

Harry was in the studio from 15 May 2019, the Swan Gucci Campaign was released on he and Taylors anniversary that week. It was also 2 weeks after Me! Was released. When speaking about Boyfriends Harry constantly mentions these other songs. They have a common theme about the impact of the behaviour of others on his relationships and self, true his nature it is subtle and gentle:

Adore you's video asks fans to respect the partner(s) of his choosing, in contrast to fan reaction who he dates.

TPWK, as the title says, Harry told Rolling Stone " It made me uncomfortable at first, [...] I feel like that song opened something that’s been in my core.”

Lights Up - to Rolling Stone Harry spoke about stepping out from 1D on his own, the lyrics of "I'm not ever going back" and "All the lights couldn't put out the dark running through my heart", link the experience of the band and fandom to mental health and knowing who he is, rather than who others want him to be.

To me, coming at the end of that session adds to Harry taking ownership his role in failed relationships in that time by being unaware of the impact his 1D persona. fan treatment of his partner(s) and emotional unavailability. Taylor has also described her anxiety dating him in Slut! and Gold Rush. However, as Harry said, it is not limited to himself. On its release at Coachella, (3 years after it was written) "To Boyfriends Everywhere, F*** you". This was weeks after Taylor wrote You're Losing Me about Joe. His face to the end of this is everything:

Setlist and Tracklisting

Harry placed Boyfriends on HH between Satellite and LOML. Harry stopped playing Boyfriends after November 15 2022, when he played it live with Ben Harper at the end of the L.A. Forum residency. It was only played once in 2023, at Wembley June 16. The next night was the only time he played Sweet Creature since 2018. When it was on the setlist it proceeded LOML or Lights Up.

Ben Harper

To Variety Ben Harper said: "It was a wonderful recording session — one of the most memorable and most musical I’ve ever been a part of. [...] Harry invited me to stick around because he wanted to finish the song right then and there. To get to watch Harry in his process was eye-opening, and I learned a lot. [...] Yeah, I mean, he orchestrated the vocal harmonies like a classical composer, spot on, note for note. He just stacked them perfectly in pitch, one better than the next, and it was really eye-opening to see somebody step on the mic and have the parts orchestrated in his head. I’ve never seen anything like it actually."

Lyrics

Hoo Niaga ti ta kcab er'uoy, loof Boyfriends They think you're so easy They take you for granted They don't know they're just misunderstanding you You, you're back at it again

The opening is Backwards 'Ooh Fool, you’re back at it again'. Sunflower Vol 6 also opens with 'Sunflower' backwards. I think of this as about a backwards life, success followed by a normal life.

The first verse describes how boyfriends take their partner for granted and misunderstand.

Weakened When you get deep in He starts secretly drinking It gets hard to know what he's thinking You love a fool who knows just how to get under your skin You, you, you still open the door

The second verse describes where partner has met their guard down some boyfriends withdraw, and start drinking. Harry has sung of this before in Half the world away “I’ve started drinking”. Harry has mentioned drinking in other songs, but HTWA has a similar meaning, of drinking in secret to cope.

Harry touches on common themes in his discography:

Not communicating, similar to MMIH “we don’t talk about it”

Not getting over this person - Getting under you skin is a reference to Taylor’s The Lakes: “What should be over burrowed under my skin in heart-stopping waves of hurt�� and IWYW “You always knew how to push my buttons”

Doors - here Harry's muse is opening the door, Harry has 7 songs that refer to knocking, opening or not opening doors. Taylor also has 13 songs about Harry and doors.

You're no closer to him Now you're halfway home Only calling you when Don't wanna be alone Oh, and you go Why? You don't know

While the first 2 verses the Boyfriend was uncommunicative, emotionally unavailable and didn't consider their partner. In the third verse the boyfriend and partner are learning from failed relationships, but still no closer. Now the boyfriend is only calling when they want company, rather than to be there for their partner.

Halfway home: The X Account 'I am Halfway Home' was started to promote HH. The term could have several meanings:

a Halfway house is a place to reintegrate into society from an institution.

The song is a play on words of having no more emotional closeness despite being physically halfway home, and

Halfway home is the name of a documentary about the toll war takes on veterans and their families.

Home is an important theme to Harry's work, Home meaning being with the right person rather than a physical place. To me, this lyric is Harry is saying that despite his growth since leaving the band and break down of this relationship they are still not emotionally closer.

Boyfriends Are they just pretending? They don't tell you where it's heading And you know the game's never ending You, you lay with him as you stay in the daydream You feel a fool You're back at it again

The closing of the song is a sense that the boyfriend is being a player, not communicating.

But Harry's muse gives in, wanting to stay in a dream. Slut! has a similar idea of choosing to stay in a love haze when you know it's not going to last "Got lovestruck, went straight to my head / Got lovesick, all over my bed / Love to think you'll never forget / Handprints in wet cement". Harry also says this in Daydreaming: "Livin' in a daydream"

Harry and Taylor have both used 'fool' in reference to their relationship before (in Fools Gold, Cardigan, Illicit Affairs, Joker and the Queen and in Long Pond Taylor said it 7 times about James in Betty.)

Finally, it refers to the cyclical nature of their relationship with 'back at it again' as OOTW 'built to fall apart and back together' and Style "when we go crashing down we come back every time' and many other songs.

[asunsetgrace16]

✧ 𝗗𝗘𝗕𝗨𝗧 ⎥ 𝗢𝗭51

Pairing: Olen Zellweger x fem!actress!reader

Warnings: swearing

Summary: Y/N and Olen are attending the premier for Twisters, her latest movie and this marks the first time they have made a public appearance together.

Notes: First fic for Olen!! This boy holds a special place in my heart. And I changed the timeline for Twisters' release for maximum dramatic effect so the release happens when the hockey season is in full swing = big hockey news coverage.

Word Count: 988

masterlist

Tonight is the first night Olen is joining Y/N on the red carpet. It’s their official “hard launch” event, seeing as they have kept their relationship very quiet. She is an actress, and recently starred in Twisters. She had a supporting role and there are whispers of her being up for a Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination. 

Olen and Y/N have been together for a few years now. They first got together in 2022, when Olen was traded from Everett to Kamloops. She lived across the street from Olen’s billet family, and their families had been friends for a long time. They grew close, seeing each other frequently through mutual friends, hockey games, and family events. She was offered her first acting job at the same time Olen was assigned to the San Diego Gulls, the Anaheim Ducks’ farm team, so they moved down together and got an apartment. Now, Olen has had a roaring rookie season in the NHL, and halfway through has 28 points. 

Standing in her co-star Daisy’s house in L.A, she is pacing the guest bedroom where she and Olen stayed the night before. Olen is leaning against the wall, watching. He pushes off the wall and walks to her when she lets out an anxious breath.

“Hey, hey, baby. It’s going to be ok. You’ve done this before, you’ll be amazing.” He tells Y/N, gripping her shoulders.

She drops her forehead to his shoulder, and his arms come around her in a loose hug, “I know,” she says, “But this is the first time you are coming with me, and I’m nervous about how people will react because some people are really mean and-”

Olen cuts off her nervous rambling, “I know, I get it. But you have me, and the boys, and your friends who know we are together. We can do this.”

Y/N smiles gratefully, reaching up to kiss Olen. Glen knocks on the door, telling them that it’s time to load up and head out. Y/N grips his hand the whole ride to the premier, wiping the other one nervously on the seat beside her. His thumb strokes the back of her hand in a soothing gesture. The car slows as they line up, and before long, it is their turn. 

“Showtime.” Olen grins, kissing her head as the door opens. She can hear the cheers for Daisy and Glen and the others, momentarily pausing when Olen exits the vehicle. Y/N steps out gracefully, taking Olen’s offered hand. He tucks her arm into his and shuts the door. The cameras go wild, shutters moving at the speed of light to capture every angle of the young couple. Y/N smiles, donning the artfully crafted mask of an actress. Olen, meanwhile, is in awe. The Hollywood red carpet is a whole different animal compared to NHL games. The noise, the lights, the people. They follow the line of cast members down the carpet and in front of a small army of reporters. The photographers’ assistants give them directions, telling them where to stop and pose. There is an interview, where the lady asks, “Who is this strapping young man that you’ve brought with you tonight?”

“He’s my boyfriend,” Y/N replies with an ear-to-ear grin on her face, “He plays hockey for Anaheim.” She says more, gushing and raving about Olen’s talents.

“How wonderful, you two make a stunning couple.” 

“Thank you.”

After the interview, the stars are corralled and take what must be hundreds of photos while the dates stand off to the side. He looks at Y/N and thinks that this is where she is meant to be. She’s completely in her element, and Olen is filled with so much pride he could burst. He thinks to himself, this must be how Y/N feels when she’s watching me play. 

The movie is a smashing success, and the applause when the credits roll is deafening. Y/N dozes on the ride back to Daisy’s, slumped on Olen’s shoulder. He shakes her awake when they arrive, and she moves sleepily to bed. After a quick shower and change of clothes, they are tucked in bed and Y/N is immediately passed out on Olen’s chest. He checks his phone, deciding to go through his texts in the morning, and goes to set it on the nightstand, a news headline catches his eye. He reads through the article, and clicks on another one with a similar headline. Chuckling, he saves the articles to show Y/N in the morning. Getting comfy in bed, Olen gives Y/N a tender kiss on her forehead, before curing his body around hers.

California Romance: See Twisters Star Y/N Y/L/N Launch Relationship with Anaheim Ducks Sensation Olen Zellweger

Watch: Actress Y/N Y/L/N praises boyfriend, Anaheim Ducks Defenseman Olen Zellweger

Red Carpet Man? Olen Zellweger makes red carpet debut with girlfriend, actress Y/N Y/L/N…more on NHL.com

Here’s a new plot for you, Booktok. Pair an NHL defenseman with an up-and-coming actress, in the form of Olen Zellweger of the Anaheim Ducks and Y/N Y/L/N from Twisters.

Dyl: DUDE Dyl: HOLY SHIT HOW COULD YOU NOT TELL ME THIS Dyl: CALL MEEEE Dyl: WHY DIDN’T YOU TELL ME YOU WERE WITH THE HOTTEST PERSON IN THAT MOVIE. THAT’S UNFAIR Brandt: jaw is on the floor Brandt: Dude, seriously. how did you get her? she’s too hot for you. I need the deets Beckie: Dude the way you looked at her during the interview was sickening. its already bad enough when you bring her around here, now there’s eternal footage of you in love  Beckie: You’re whipped asf Beckie: My sister wants to meet her btw Trevor: Dude your phone must be lit the fuck up Trevor: You made Hollywood news bro, you’re gonna be famous famous

[bookandcover]

I can’t possibly do this book justice in writing about it. It’s tied (with Human Acts) for my favorite book of 2022. I know this book is stylistically an inevitable favorite: it’s my preferred genre (realistic literary fiction), and it seems deliberately written for someone who derives glee from every literary allusion and who is waiting to draw intricate plot deductions (sometimes people try to get me to stop analyzing things I read/watch because “doesn’t that take the fun out of it?” No, that’s exactly where the fun is, I respond). While these characteristics certainly describe me and what I find most rewarding in literature, I’m not, however, a gamer, and I probably missed the joy of many allusions to games and gaming. Given the book’s masterful literary self-awareness, surely gaming is treated with similar deftness. In spite of this, I gained a new appreciation for the world-building of gaming, caught up in the incredible narratives and aesthetics, the haunting liminal space of the game world, the attention-to-detail in development (of Ichigo in particular). 

From its early chapters, Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow leans on excellent prose and thorough, measured character development to succeed. The first half of the book lulls the reader into a false sense of security, sliding backward and forward in time as it develops the central characters of Sam and Sadie, as well as the figures who surround them: Anna Lee (Sam’s mom), Marx (roommate and producer), Zoe (Marx’s girlfriend), Sam’s Korean grandparents, Ant and Simon (dynamic, young techie couple), Sadie’s sister Alice, and Sadie’s Jewish grandmother Freda. These early chapters have some clever and thoughtful reveals in the plotting: we have to infer that Sam’s broken and mashed foot was the result of the car crash that killed his family, through their absence in these hospital scenes; there is the reveal of Anna and Sam’s hasty departure from New York for L.A. as another Anna Lee leaps to her death; we also confront the truth of Sadie’s depression (an abortion she had just before Sam reappeared in her life). These early chapters gather strength through realism. 

Sam and Sadie are deeply flawed, incredibly relatable characters. As a brilliant young woman at MIT, Sadie struggles through her college relationship with her professor Dov (truly the worst, and the only character with whom I never sympathized). Sam sees in his reunion with Sadie the potential for a collaboration that will revolutionize the gaming world, and pursues reconnection after having cut her from his life when they were kids. Marx installs himself as perpetual cheerleader, and self-sacrificing friend, while also being a bit of a playboy who stays friends with all his exs through sheer charm and good will. Each character is, in turns, deeply relatable and utterly exasperating. These characters are real in their contradictions: Sam’s stubbornness about his disability and his refusal to let this define him (almost to a fault, as he risks his life, and lashes back at those who have his best interests at heart), Sadie’s fearless pride in making her holocaust-focused game Solution for her MIT classmates paired with her long-term fixation with securing Dov’s good opinion, Marx’s whimsical break-ups as he grows bored with people, yet loves Sam and Sadie unconditionally. It’s the time spent on characterization upfront that earns the devastating, beautiful second half of the book. 

In the second half of the book, so many details from the first half (details that were seemingly trivial) return to the forefront. This seems less plot-driven and more a perspective on realism—focusing on the way we make meaning of our lives, holding onto and romanticizing particular moments and memories, imbuing objects with sentiment, relying on language to fills empty holes we cannot imagine ourselves falling into, yet do. 

The section that vaults this book into life-changing, transcendent territory is the section called NPC. In a point of view shift from the rest of the book, this section is entirely first-person POV for Marx Watanabe. The character who has played third-wheel to Sam and Sadie throughout their professional relationship (and their complex, interwoven friendship, as well as Sadie and Marx eventually falling in love) suddenly takes center stage. It’s an apt metaphor. All of Marx’s theater background comes to bear, as he gets, for once, to play the main role. Later, after his death, Sadie immortalizes him in a game she designs, where the role of Macbeth is played by a tall handsome asian man (when Marx, in real life, was relegated to the role of Banquo). As Marx’s death story unfolds, interspersed with real-time events as he lies dying in a coma and moments from his complex history with his two closest friends, we receive a full reversal of ours and Sam’s expectations for the NPC. Sam calls Marx an NPC; we, too, dismiss him in comparison to the furiously vivacious Sam and Sadie for much of the book. Yet, the supporting role he played in life, and in death, is crucial, essential, and one of real agency. It’s our loss if we overlook the NPC. 

This section beautifully and poignantly reframes and repurposes the early sections of the book: from the reappearance of Sadie’s EmilyBlaster game in the moment Marx is shot to the titular reference (I was waiting for it!) about how Marx wanted to name the gaming company (ultimately called Unfair Games) after his understanding of the promise of retries and redoes imbedded in the concept of a game. This section is an exercise in literary mastery and plotting, a shocking record of the violence humans are capable of, and a tear-jerking account of a single and unique life. Even though I knew, before reading this section, that Marx had been shot to death in an active shooter scenario at Unfair Games, I was not expecting the realism of this scene. I felt inside it. I felt the brutality of what humans are capable of, and I felt how human (instead of inhuman) we are in the face of, and in the perpetuation of, violence. I bawled my way through this section of the book and felt exhausted, wrung-out, after reading it. Every moment was charged and deliberate—the placement of the story of Sam and Marx’s early roommate-bonding over a rehearsal of the scene of Banquo’s death in Macbeth to the way the men who bring guns to Unfair are seeking Sam, striking back against the diversity he has embraced as the emblematic Mayor of Mapletown who grants gay marriages far ahead of his time. 

The final section of the book is titled Freights and Grooves and connects to the Emily Dickinson poem quoted at the beginning of the book: 

That Love is all there is,

Is all we know of Love;

It is enough, the freight should be

Proportioned to the groove.

This mysterious poem—little, monstrous—is explored at the heart of the book. What is love that it must hurt us? But it never hurts us too much—the hurt love causes, the weight of it, carves just so deeply a change in us. Love’s no more than we can handle and exactly all that we can take. Or perhaps this poem means that any love is unknowable in portion to the impossible, unnamable nature of that love? To name love, to know it, is to simplify it to a point that it no longer resembles the love itself. In this book, I loved how, at each turn, the connection between Sam and Sadie is unique love, love that transcends lovers, traumas, hurts, and losing touch. It’s love that is unknowable and all-knowing, and every time Sam tries to name it, to force it into something more familiar, are the moments that show how that romantic love would be a weak approximation of the enduring love these characters share. 

[carolinesiede]

My 2022 Roundup

Phew! What a year.

2022 started with news of some disappointing corporate shake-ups at The A.V. Club — my main freelance home for the past nine years. After leaving the site in solidarity with my wonderful departing editors, I went all-in on a full-time contract gig with FOX Digital only for that to rather unexpectedly end in mid-November. Add in the tumult that has taken over Twitter in the last third of the year, and I’m ending this year without any of the pillars of stability that have propped me up for my entire career, not to mention nearly my entire adult life.

And, yet, remarkably, I also feel more rejuvenated and excited than I have since the start of the pandemic. After a challenging 2021 took a fairly drastic toll on my mental health, 2022 was filled with adventures that pushed me out of my comfort zone and reminded me that I’m capable of more than I think I am.

I started the year covering virtual Sundance, which was my first experience with a major film festival like that. Then in March I hopped on a plane for the first time since 2015 (!!!) to attend SXSW, where I saw a Dolly Parton concert, watched Nic Cage watch Nic Cage play Nic Cage, and just generally had 10 of the most surreal, exhausting, exhilarating days of my life.

May brought my first-ever on camera interview, with Cha Cha Real Smooth writer/director/star Cooper Raiff, who was in town for the Chicago Critics Film Festival. Then June took me to L.A., where I watched a dear college friend get married and took my first-ever trip to Disneyland! (I also dealt with my first major cancelled flight snafu and managed to have only a minor emotional breakdown in LAX.)

The adventures didn’t stop there, as I took a relaxing trip home to St. Louis in August, dashed around like a madwoman covering the Chicago International Film Festival in October, and took a semi-spontaneous trip to New York City in November, where I squeezed in five Broadway shows amongst catching up with friends old and new.

The year wasn’t all easy, of course, especially when it came to the major mental adjustment of switching from a freelance lifestyle to the structure and demands of a full-time job creating a brand new section with a two-person team.

And it was incredibly bittersweet to say goodbye to some of the long-time anchors of my career: My episodic recaps of This Is Us (my favorite show I’ve ever gotten to write about in such an in-depth way) and especially my long-time A.V. Club column When Romance Met Comedy, which came to a close after 101 columns totaling 187,227 words.

I’m especially proud that my final four WRMC entries (Roman Holiday, Win A Date with Tad Hamilton!, 2005′s Pride & Prejudice, and How To Be Single) really sum up the scope of what I was trying to do with this four-year project. And though it was kind of nice to take a break from writing about rom-coms for most of 2022, I feel like the genre is calling me back again in 2023. 

Other highlights of the year included celebrating Nathan Chen’s gold medal win at the Beijing Olympics (I’ve been following his skating career since 2016!), spotting Nate from The Bachelorette at my screening of Black Adam, re-hauling my wardrobe, getting my bivalent booster (a major turning point in pandemic safety — get yours today!) and reconnecting with friends I hadn’t seen in person in years.

I also created a public Instagram account, recapped “The Slap” Oscars, delved deep into the nerd-spheres of the MCU, Stranger Things, and House of the Dragon, and kept things going strong with my podcast Role Calling, where we covered the careers of Meg Ryan, Antonio Banderas, and Zac Efron, and released a series of Lord of the Rings specials that I’m especially proud of.

Oh and I picked my 10 favorite films of 2022, even though this is the first time in years that I didn’t actually publish any official year-end coverage:

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On

Living

Cha Cha Real Smooth

Elvis

Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul.

The Woman King

Aftersun

Everything Everywhere All At Once

Saint Omer

Turning Red

As we head into 2023, I’ll leave you with wishes for a Happy New Year and a roundup of all the major writing and podcasts I did in 2022. If you enjoyed my work, you can support me on Kofi or PayPal. Or you can just share some of your favorite pieces with your friends! That really means a lot. 

When Romance Met Comedy

Nearly 70 years on, Roman Holiday remains one of romantic comedy’s most delectable treats

Win A Date With Tad Hamilton! now has retro charms twice over

Joe Wright made Pride & Prejudice feel fresh all over again

Can romantic comedies teach us How To Be Single?

My last A.V. Club TV recaps

This Is Us season 6

The Doctor Who 2022 New Year’s Day Special

Op-eds and Features

At the SXSW Film Festival, Nicolas Cage watches Nicolas Cage play Nicolas Cage

Revisit the lighthearted nun comedy that won Sidney Poitier the Oscar

Awards show recap: The chaos Oscars

‘Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion’ is still timeless at 25

75 years of the Roswell incident — pop culture’s favorite alien conspiracy theory

Watch rare color footage of Queen Elizabeth II’s 1947 royal wedding

Interviews

Cooper Raiff on his new Apple TV+ indie rom-com ‘Cha Cha Real Smooth’

Film Reviews

Say "maybe" to Jennifer Lopez’s Marry Me (my last A.V. Club film review!)

‘The Worst Person in the World’ might be the best movie of the year

Unfortunately, ‘Uncharted’ isn’t quite a national treasure

‘The Batman’ review: Why so serious?

'After Yang' review: Colin Farrell grapples with the loss of his android son

‘Turning Red’ is Pixar at its weird, wonderful best

‘The Lost City’ almost strikes gold at SXSW

‘Everything Everywhere All At Once' is transcendent and a bit exhausting

‘Morbius’ is a boring, bloodless bat man

In ‘Apollo 10½: A Space Age Childhood,’ nostalgia becomes rocket fuel

‘Dual’ review: Two Karen Gillans, one deadpan dark comedy

‘The Bad Guys’ review: Animated baddies make for a good time at the movies

‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’ review: Marvel makes a messy horror movie

‘Downton Abbey: A New Era’ review: Mamma Mia, here we go again

‘Top Gun: Maverick’ review: ‘Top Gun 2’ is a gloriously corny nostalgia fest

HBO’s ‘The Janes’ tells the story of radically empathetic abortion activists

‘Jurassic World Dominion’ review: Just going through the dino motions

‘Cha Cha Real Smooth’ is a stellar new riff on a classic indie dramedy formula

‘Elvis’ somehow has both the best and worst performances of the year

‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ review: A surprisingly bittersweet romp

‘Where the Crawdads Sing’ lacks grit

‘Marcel the Shell with Shoes On’ is pure magic

‘My Old School’ is a wild, weirdly charming documentary

‘DC League of Super-Pets’ has delightful Saturday morning cartoon vibes

‘Bullet Train’ review: Brad Pitt’s thrill ride just barely stays on track

‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ review: A wickedly fun Gen Z slasher from A24

‘Not Okay’ and ‘Vengeance,’ two provocative comedies about narcissism

‘13: The Musical’ review: Broadway magic gets lost in Netflix translation

John Boyega gets a dramatic showcase in ‘Breaking’

‘Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul.’ review: A megachurch mockumentary masterclass

‘The Woman King’ review: Viola Davis’ crowning achievement

‘Don’t Worry Darling’ should’ve worried more

‘Bros’ review: Billy Eichner is a glorious rom-com lead

‘Black Adam’ review: The Rock goes bad — mostly for good

‘Ticket to Paradise’ review: George Clooney and Julia Roberts grin and bear it

'Call Jane' review: An abortion drama with optimism

‘My Policeman’ and ‘Causeway’: Harry Styles and Jennifer Lawrence lead quiet new dramas

‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ review: A superhero elegy

TV Reviews/Recaps

‘Welcome to Flatch’ S1 (premiere + final recap)

‘Monarch’ S1 (premiere + final recap)

Streaming pick of the week: Hulu’s ‘Pam & Tommy’

‘The Dropout’ review: Amanda Seyfried leads TV’s latest scammer drama

Marvel’s ‘Moon Knight’ is promising but weirdly paced

‘Doctor Who’ review: A pirate-themed Easter special is a throwaway romp

Get ready to fall in love with ‘Ms. Marvel’

‘She-Hulk’ review: Marvel’s bold comedic experiment’

‘House of the Dragon’ review: ‘Game of Thrones’ is back and better than ever

‘Andor’ review: ‘Star Wars’ grows up, with a rebel yell

Explainers & Rankings

Oscars 2022: Where to watch the Best Picture nominees (and other movies like them)

Marvel second installments ranked — including ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’

‘Top Gun 2’: Film critic eats his shoe (literally) over ‘Top Gun: Maverick’

'Stranger Things' recap: Here's a refresher ahead of the season 4 premiere

‘Stranger Things’ season 4 storylines, ranked

Here's everything Marvel announced at Comic-Con

'She-Hulk': Three Marvel movies (and one TV show) to revisit before starting the series

The 11 best movies of the year so far: ‘Top Gun 2,’ ‘Turning Red’ and more

10 of the best streaming shows of the year (so far)

22 things we loved in 2022

‘House of the Dragon’ 101

‘Game of Thrones’ returns: Everything you need to know about HBO’s ‘House of the Dragon’

‘House of the Dragon’ 101: Who's who in this new game of thrones

‘House of the Dragon’ 101: What are the Stepstones and where’s Old Valyria?

‘House of the Dragon’ 101: What’s up with Targaryen incest?

‘House of the Dragon’ 101: That time jump (and those kids), explained

Festival Coverage

Sundance coverage part one, two, three, four, and five

The coolest, weirdest, best things at this year’s SXSW festival: Vol. 1

The coolest, weirdest, best things at this year’s SXSW festival: Vol. 2

The splashiest movies out of this year’s SXSW festival, Vol. 1

The splashiest movies out of this year’s SXSW festival, Vol. 2

Chicago International Film Festival preview, part one and two

Movie Previews

February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October

Role Calling Podcast

Meg Ryan: When Harry Met Sally, Joe Versus the Volcano, Sleepless In Seattle, Anastasia, You’ve Got Mail

Antonio Banderas: The Mask of Zorro, Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down!, Desperado, Evita, Pain and Glory

Zac Efron: High School Musical, Hairspray, Neighbors, The Greatest Showman, The Greatest Beer Run Ever

Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, The Return of the King

Specials: One Year Anniversary Special, Thor: Love and Thunder, Halloween Ends, The Best and Worst Films of 2022: Letterboxd Special

Other Podcast Appearances

The Filmcast: The Tragedy of Macbeth

Culturally Relevant: Breaking Down the Films of Sundance 2022 

Travolta/Cage: Old Dogs/National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets

The Filmcast: The Lost City

The Filmcast: Morbius

Happy Harvest Horror Show: Hocus Pocus 2

And here are similar year-end wrap-ups I did in 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, and 2013.

[infiniteglitterfall]

Bud Light, the biggest boycott target last year for its brief marketing partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney, has not mentioned Pride Month on social media and has instead promoted its partnership with the Ultimate Fighting Championship and MMA fighter Dustin Poirier.

Nike, also targeted last year for advertisements in which Mulvaney modeled a sports bra and leggings, has not made a Pride post on Instagram yet, despite posting an advertisement for its annual “Be True” Pride merchandise on June 1 last year (Nike’s “Be True” website still only references its 2023 collection, and there is only one “Be True” shirt available for purchase on its online store).

Target scaled back its Pride collection, has not posted for Pride on its Facebook, X or Instagram accounts.

The North Face previously garnered pushback for its “Summer of Pride” event series in 2022 and 2023 in partnership with drag queen Pattiegonia, but it made no announcement of the event this year and it does not appear to have released a Pride collection online as in previous years (though it did make a celebratory Pride post on Instagram).

The U.S. Navy, which sparked controversy last year for updating its Facebook profile picture and cover photo to rainbow colors for Pride Month, did not do so this year—despite changing its photo for other heritage months like Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May and Women’s History Month in March. But it did make a post for Pride.

Those are its bullet points at the top. The article also mentions:

Last year's drama: The U.S. Navy uploaded a Pride-themed Facebook cover photo and rainbow profile pic on June 1, and replaced them less than 12 hours later. It reportedly deleted posts for Pride Month from its Twitter and Instagram accounts. This year, it posted nothing at all.

Kohl’s came under fire [in 2023] for their Pride merchandise line, with conservatives accusing the stores of sexualizing children.

Various sports teams, as well as Major League Baseball and NASCAR, angered some fans last year by making posts in support of Pride Month.

The L.A. Dodgers invited the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to Pride Night. Then uninvited them after conservative Catholic group and Florida senator freaked out. Then reinvited them, and apologized, after L.A. Pride and the ACLU pulled out and the L.A. LGBT Center demanded the event be canceled.

Years-old advertising campaigns also faced renewed outrage last year, including a Jack Daniel’s ad featuring performers from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and a promotional push from Ford featuring a rainbow-colored truck.

Some companies still changed their social media icons to Pride-themed logos this year, including HP, Cisco, Pfizer, Citi and Bank of America.

When companies started deleting their Pride posts last year, congressional representative and conservative demon Lauren Boebert tweeted, “They’ve seen the power of conservative boycotts, and they are running scared. . . We are so back!”

Conservative pundit Mark Levin tweeted

THIS IS WHY RAINBOW CAPITALISM MATTERS.

Forbes says:

Target's sales for May-July 2023 were 5.4% lower than in 2022. The number of purchases AND the amount spent declined during that quarter. Online sales fell way more: 10.5 percent. So this year, they only put Pride stuff in half their stores.

The New Republic pointed out:

These are not just instances of people saying, “Oh, I don’t like the politics of this company. I’m not gonna buy their stuff.” These are campaigns of harassment. They’re extremely confrontational and heated. It’s not just saying, let’s use our purchasing power to put pressure on companies that we don’t like.

...A lot of this is about making sure that products are really touted as manly. Manly and patriotic and freedom loving.

It all started with DeSantis's "Don't Say Gay" bill.

So much of this fucking shit avalanche started with his "Don't Say Gay" bill.

Disney publicly opposed it, because its employees did, and because it figured the general public did too. DeSantis went, "How DARE--" and got this Christopher Rufo dude to mastermind his attack.

Chris Rufo, of course, was the kind of architect of the anti–critical race theory moral panic.

But he also laid out this strategy that the first step in fighting back against this, is you have to get the average, conservative citizen pissed off about things that they probably weren’t pissed off about before. Concepts like diversity, you have to convince them that this is leftist code.

And then you have to get them whipped up enough that they are going to demand change, including demanding some government action against big business, which is really interesting because, again, this is the Republican  Party, which has been the ultimate defenders of the rights of big business to do whatever they want.

....I think a lot of it is about the idea that “you are a cultural institution that should be affirming and endorsing and supporting, through your actions, our right-wing values. And if you don’t, we are going to punish you.”

The corporate bottom line seems to be that even though Florida is losing tourist and conference bookings; Disney's reputation increased 10 points last year; Anheuser-Busch's and Kohl's stock recovered; and so did Target's market cap....

They're all scared to show support for us again.

They got a taste of how conservatives treat us.

It's sad at the end of May seeing people reblog the "here it comes!" Pride logos post. You didn't notice that brands have decided it is no longer safe to openly support LGBT rights. The past 2 years have shown a dramatic decline in corporate sponsorship of Pride. And no, we don't care about the corporations, but you should care that they think the general public will oppose their support of LGBT rights. Anyway pay attention. The logos didn't change for Pride. It's bad.

[practicalrecords]

Gather for the last installment of our summer concert series with an ecstatic evening of queer musical performance celebrating the release of “Stories” on Practical Records.

Pride Month Barbie The Bedroom Witch Roxanne Starnik

Presented by Pehrspace

2220 Arts + Archives 2220 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90057

Doors 8pm Concert 8:30pm

$15 / $10 community tickets via DM

Pride Month Barbie is an L.A. synth-pop duo formed in 2022 by solo artists Tyler Holmes and Josephine Shetty (aka Kohinoorgasm). As Libras, sluts, drama queens, and judgmental bitches, PMB brings a sound and performance that will leave you feeling insecure, horny, and annoyed. Photo Credit: Andrea Granera

Cast as the misunderstood maker of the veil, The Bedroom Witch is the solo project and moniker for visual, recording, and performance artist, Sepehr Mashiahof. She uses music, video, and performance to chronicle movement across various imagined realms that begin in “Exile” and end in a return to “Nowhere.”  Photo Credit: Bailey Kobelin

Cleveland native Roxanne Starnik writes, produces and records pop music from the cozy confines of her Los Angeles bedroom. Earworm melodies and danceable programmed beats support forthright words that reflect on intimacy in all its forms.  She uses this play between pop beats and rather relatable sentiments to engage with the crowd, empowering them to move with her and sometimes a crew of dancers that join her expression. Photo Credit: Roques S. Gonzalez

[whatsonmedia]

6 Unmissable Events This Week!

Experience the best of this week with six unmissable events! From captivating performances to thought-provoking exhibitions, these moments are sure to leave you inspired. Don't miss out on an incredible week of unforgettable experiences. Download Festival, Donington Park, England When: 8th to 12th June 2023 Rock your world at the legendary Download Festival, Donington Park, England from June 8th to 12th, 2023. Four days of mind-blowing rock and metal acts, camping, food stalls, vendors, and more. Get ready for an electrifying weekend of music and entertainment. Don't miss out! Parklife, Manchester When: 10th & 11th June 2023 Get ready for the ultimate music experience as Parklife Festival returns for its ninth year in Manchester. This two-day extravaganza promises to be better than ever, bringing you the hottest artists from around the world. With an incredible lineup featuring The Streets, Robyn, Skepta, Stormzy, and more, prepare for unforgettable musical moments. But it doesn't stop there – enjoy art installations, yoga classes, markets, and delicious food stalls throughout the day. Don't miss out on this incredible June festival. Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable weekend! LA Pride When: 11th June 2023 L.A. Pride, one of the country's biggest pride events, is a must-attend celebration in West Hollywood. While the location has shifted slightly to the east, with the parade in Hollywood and the music fest in Chinatown's L.A. Pride in the Park, the energy remains vibrant. Join thousands of attendees for a raucous and good-natured atmosphere, complete with divas, drag queens, DJs, and a celebration of local color. Janet Jackson When: 10th June 2023 While it is unfortunate that for a whole generation, Janet Jackson is often remembered for a controversial moment rather than her numerous hits from the late '80s, her upcoming tour aims to showcase her incredible talent. Joining her on the road is Ludacris, adding an exciting element to the performances. The tour kicks off with a memorable evening at the iconic Hollywood Bowl, promising an unforgettable start to the season. National Best Friend Day When: 8th June 2023 Celebrate National Best Friend Day on June 8, 2022, as a special reminder to cherish and appreciate our supportive besties. Take this opportunity to express how much you value their presence and companionship in your life. Share some heartwarming quotes, wishes, messages, and greetings to make this day even more meaningful for your friends. Let them know how grateful you are to have them by your side. 6th National Earth and Space Summit When: June 08-10, 2023 Get ready for an extraordinary event as the "6th National Earth and Space Summit" brings together the brilliant minds of Bangladesh. Just as NASA plans to return to the moon, our mission is even greater. In June, history will repeat itself at Notre Dame College, where talented individuals will showcase their astronomical and ecological expertise. Join us for this three-day journey to unleash your talents and explore the origins, evolution, and future of our world at a high school level. Don't miss out—welcome aboard this remarkable experience! Read the full article

[odinsson2021]

Here's the Playlist of my Tonight's Show!

I hope you liked it!

Stormwitch-Rondo ala Turca-Eye of the Storm-1989-(Hot Blood Records)

Slash’s Snakepit-Beggars&Hangers on-It's Five O’Clock Somewhere-1995-(Geffen Records)

Slaughter-Reach for the Sky-The Wild Life-1992-(Chrysalis Records)

Pink Cream 69-Lost in Illusions-Sonic Dynamite-2000-(Massacre Records)

Bad Sister-Bad Attitude-Out of this Business(Re-Issue)-19.05.2023-(Pride&Joy Music)

Vixen-Edge of a Broken Heart-Vixen-1988-(EMI Records)

Warrant-Down Boys-Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich-1988-(CBS Records)

Hit the Ground Runnin’-Dirty Girl-Control yourself(Re-Issue)-19.05.2023-(Pride&Joy Music)

L.A. Guns-Over the Edge-Hollywood Vampires-1991-(PolyGram Records)

Mötley Crüe-Too Young to fall in Love-Shout at the Devil-1983-(Elektra Records)

Imperium-The One-Never Surrender-19.05.2023-(Pride&Joy Music)

Alice Cooper-Bed of Nails-Trash-1989-(Epic Records)

D.A.D.-I won’t cut my Hair-Riskin' it all-1991-(WEA Records)

Winterstorm-Future Times-Everfrost-14.06.2023-(AFM Records)

Helloween-Future World-Keeper of the Seven Keys Pt. 1-1987-(Noise Records)

Malice-Hell Rider-New Breed of Godz-2012-(Steamhammer Records)

Wasteland Clan-Dark Matter-The End of Time-21.04.2023-(Massacre Records)

Mercyful Fate-Angel of Light-Time-1994-(Metal Blade Records)

Metal Church-Ton of Bricks-The Dark-1986-(Elektra Records)

Burning Witches-Unleash the Beast-The Dark Tower-05.05.2023-(Napalm Records)

Serious Black-Fallen Hero-Vengeance is mine-2022-(AFM Records)

Weapon-Drumbeats of War-New Clear Power-19.05.2023-(Pride&Joy Music)

Ad Infinitum-Eternal Rains-Chapter III/Downfall-31.03.2023-(Napalm Records)

Bloodbound-1066-Tales from the North-07.07.2023-(AFM Records)

Majesty-The last Reward-Generation Steel-2015-(NoiseArt Records)

Lords of Black-Prayers turned to Whispers-Alchemy of Souls Pt. 2-2021-(Frontiers Records)

Blind Guardian-Mr. Sandman (Single)-1996-(Virgin Records)

[popentertainmentconcertreviews]

Randy Edelman – City Winery – New York, NY – August 28, 2022

Composer/Singer/Songwriter Randy Edelman Performed Heartfelt Compositions at City Winery Offering a Preview of His Shows to Come in December Along with Randy Newman, Paul Williams and Van Dyke Parks, among others, pop singer/songwriter Randy Edelman has established himself as a member of the snarky, eccentric songster sub-genre. The 75-year-old tells tales of failed love, unresolved relationships and unfulfilled dreams. Yet through it all, he sings of hope for the future.  Edelman recently scored the upcoming film Skelly with Brian Cox (Succession) and the demonic thriller The Beast Inside. For the first time, Sony Classical has issued Pink Slime vinyl, digi- and CD versions of his classic score to Ghostbusters II. New Edelman songs for the musical Shortcut are now available. And Post-covid, the single "Comin' Out The Other Side" is out on Tribeca Records.   Along the way, Edelman has made visits to this town, gracing audiences with his uniquely crafted song stylizations and performances. Thanks to a surprise invite last August, I experienced his most recent NYC excursion. Gigging at the relaunched City Winery, relocated at Pier 57 on the city’s far westside, this fabulous space provided the ideal environment for getting close and personal to such a musical talent. I had seen him before and every time I did, his performance just deepened the experience. Thankfully, there won’t be such a gap between Edelman's last session and his next shows here. They’ve been booked in December, right before Christmas, at two other fine venues – Don’t Tell Mama (10 pm, Dec. 22) and Chelsea Table + Stage (9 pm, Dec. 23) where I had first seen him maybe a year ago. Tickling the keys throughout the Pier 57 show, Edelman displayed a low-keyed pride in his achievements while rattling off historic details. The Teaneck, New Jersey native is a fine-honed songwriter/vocalist whose quirky tunes have a commercial tinge while being fatalistically romantic.   As a young boy, Edelman transcribed sounds into piano pieces. As he aged into college, he turned from pre-med to studying piano and composition at the Cincinnati Music Conservatory. He then jump-started his career with an arranging assignment at James Brown’s Cincinnati-based King Records. By 1970, Edelman had relocated to NYC becoming a CBS Records staff writer while playing piano in Broadway orchestras. Randy also began writing and recording his own LPs granting him an audience and a spot on “Top of the Pops.”  Then a move to L.A. led him to make several albums. A myriad of artists started covering his originals. Examples: “Weekend in New England” (Barry Manilow), “I Can't Make Music” (The Carpenters), and “My Place” (Nelly) which reached Number 1 on the Billboard Hip Hop charts.    Other tracks that have been covered include “Down in the Everglades” (Willie Nelson), “Isn’t it a Shame” (Patti LaBelle), “If Love is Real” (Olivia Newton-John), “Blue Street” (Blood, Sweat & Tears) and Royal Philharmonic’s “Grey.” Additionally, Edelman has opened live in huge arenas for such icons as Frank Zappa and The Carpenters. 

Which brings us back to that recent performance. Alternating his patter between self-effacing humor and snarkiness, Edelman sat at the piano as if there were no other place he’d rather be. He opened the show with his forceful yet plaintive tune, “Don’t Forsake Me Now” which tells a story of travel and time. Nice descriptions driven by the pulse of the piano and capturing grit in just a phrase.   Next, Edelman followed that one with “The Farmer,” the opening cut from his first album of 50 years ago. A fine composition which encapsulates a feeling of loss, its rich cascade of piano chords drives his point home.   Edelman then related a story about two kids who heard his album and took him on tour. That brother/sister duo, The Carpenters, loved a song of his, “You,” so much that they recorded it, becoming a hit for them. Edelman’s version is singularly touching, thanks to his emotive piano playing.    After beginning with songs that convey such an air of innocence, his next tune more cynically tells of a downtown guy who finds his uptown woman. It turns into a story of a doomed relationship, flawed but hard to let go of. As Randy sings, he leaves his “Uptown, up-tempo woman” because he’s just a “Downtown, downbeat guy.”   Then Edelman told of going back in the day to the offices of song publishers on West 56th Street. While schlepping his songs around, he met a guy who had worked with Joan Rivers and had a close relationship with Clive Davis. As Edelman noted, although the song was in 3/4 waltz time (which no one seemed to think would work), it got sent over to that guy, Barry Manilow, and was perfect for him. His hit, “Weekend in New England,” was a tune of yearning, about the pain of love and the need that goes along with it.   Surprisingly, Edelman next performed a cover — Unit 4+2’s 1965 hit, “Concrete and Clay.” A classic ‘60s pop tune not often heard, it’s likely been an influence on Edelman’s composing style. With a sweet-as-roses feeling, it’s romantic and tender but with an edge.   From this set of tunes Edelman turned to performing, strictly on piano, his comedy movie medley which demonstrated another striking element of his career. Besides song-smithing, he’s a remarkably successful composer of symphonic soundtracks and other cinematic compositions. Edelman has been creating many of the world’s best known soundtracks such as Ghostbusters II, 27 Dresses, While You Were Sleeping, The Last of the Mohicans, Kindergarten Cop, XXX, Twins, My Cousin Vinny, The Mask, Beethoven, Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story, Anaconda, Mummy 3, Billy Madison, Leap Year, EdTV and an array of others.    In addition, he’s scored numerous TV shows and series including MacGyver, Mr. Sunshine, Netflix’s Backdraft 2 and HBO’s Citizen X. He’s also written music for HBO’s NASA’s final shuttle launch Dare Mighty Things, ESPN’s Wimbledon, Grand Slam Tennis Series, ESPN Sports Century and even NBC’s on-air Olympic theme.    After a few more songs, the busy-haired pianist performed another instrumental medley – this time, of his adventure films scores. Again, they demonstrated his composing power. Tight and driven by a broad melodic range, he illustrated why he’s been so successful at getting on-going scores.    Aside from Edelman’s skill at crafting and orchestrating cinematic compositions, his song set demonstrated a sweep that displays a cinematic narrative. As he wound down his show with a few other tunes, he did another cover – of the classic “Mack The Knife” – that further illustrated his unique flair. Despite having presented a show loaded with a range of moods and styles, the entire playlist fell under the distinct banner of “An Evening with Randy Edelman.”  For a discography and other details, check out: randyedelman.com For details on his up-coming shows go to: www.donttellmamanyc.com www.chelseatableandstage.com

Brad Balfour

Copyright ©2022 PopEntertainment.com. All rights reserved. Posted: August 30, 2022.

[mariasabanahabanabana]

Our first time - Chapter 2

A/N: Ok, before I start, I would like to say that this and the other fics in progress, were written before everything that happened at the last Academy Awards, so they don't reflect, defend or take any side in what happened at the last Oscars.

Even when this fic is a bit personal, so much so that it could be considered a letter to destiny and to a certain way a manifestation, I don't stand for the ideals, norms, conducts of the Academy. (of which I am knowledgeable)

So, all that said, let's get started…. That's right, continuing. Yeah, it's been almost a month or two, but, but, but, but, still with this in mind, I wanted to post it and not leave it half done, besides, I told you, I told you Razita, "this is going to be a saga/series of fics/one shot/shots". Said and done, here is the second part.

PS: There will be certain references to "In the heights". It doesn't matter, but, but, in case you can see any similarities, know why.

I really hope you enjoy it as much as I did writing it and well, without having anything else to say, here is the continuation

Pairing: Simu Liu x Cuba/mexican!reader

Summary: It's your first time...

At the Oscars/Oscar's (reblog/like/share if you thought I was talking about something else)

Warnings: It may not be as long as the last and with possible spelling errors due to the rush and hours I am writing/editing this, so if I have missed something, let me know in the comments

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ONE MONTH LATER

March 8, 2022

Time: 07:30 am

Location: L.A California

Pronto llegará

el dia de mi suerte

sé que antes de mi muerte

Seguro que mi suerte cambiará

Without knowing how or when, you began to hum that verse that you had repeated over and over again and made sure you believed it and now, with the passing of the years, it took on greater weight.

Who would have thought that time and life itself together could take so many unexpected turns and not only with the aim of bringing destruction, sadness, despair, and pain to your existence, who would have thought?

The gap between past and present/future was so appreciable, you could swear that the (T/N) of a few years ago after was a complete stranger to you, you just didn't recognize her. And no, not because you didn't want to, on the contrary, what you were at the time is the basis of what you had become today, but you really weren't the same.

Even accepting, reflecting, embracing, and letting go of what did and did not serve you, it was undeniable that you still had moments of revelation, moments where you realized your present, moments in which the surprise of the rapid passing of time was the same that you experienced every Christmas Eve before the arrival of “Santa Claus”.

Your life had changed so much, to the point that if your adult version, the one of today, the one who is living at the moment, in the here and now, in the present, had the opportunity to travel to the past and tell a younger version of you what life would bring, it is very certain that that little person would suffer an attack of euphoria for so much information and emotion to digest, especially if he/she found out that you were a month away from having received the best news of your life and having the experience you had dreamed of on more than one occasion.

Even though you had overly ambitious goals and objectives, you constantly reminded yourself of the many possibilities you could end up with, so finding yourself where you're today was not entirely in your plans.

For the same reason, the feeling of pride that you had been living with since that day had not left you at any moment.

And no, your feeling wasn't only for what you were finally achieving, I mean, of course, because this was your biggest dream, the love of your life, but also had a lot to do with being nominated, because even if you didn't admit it out loud, been nominated for or win an Oscar it was always one of your many dreams to fulfill, and you were finally close to making it come true.

No matter if you won or not, the fact of being nominated was already a dream come true.

And it looks like you weren't the only one that life was giving the best face, since after taping for almost 5 hours continuously, they gave you a break, so using your free time you checked your mobile, you found out that your beau will be a host. You called him as soon as possible, without waiting for a second or thinking twice about it.

One ring

Two rings

three rings

After three rings, you realized that probably, perhaps, calling him in the middle of shooting time hadn't been your smartest idea.

Just feeling like a complete idiot for the impulsive reaction, you mentally debated whether you should hang up or wait until the voicemail rang, when suddenly

"Gorgeous..." You spoke first.

Jeez, it was amazing how despite the days, weeks, months, years, hardships, time zone differences, stress, and other inconveniences you two still managed to keep the spark between the two you. A perfect example, of this one, is the typical gag you used to give each other every time you talked on the phone.

"Linda..." He continued.

"What happened Babe?"

"Did you hear about it...?

"Yeah, they just called me, actually I was planning to call you, but you apparently beat me to it."

"Cariño, how sorry I'm. But you know what, if you want I can hang up, pretend I didn't I hear anything, so then you can call me, and we can have this conversation again, with the difference of you telling me " Sweetheart, guess what....".

If there was something incredible between the two of you and the love you overflowed, it was that despite being so far away from each other, both of you were, or in this case, you were, capable of picture and visually imagining every detail of his face as he denied himself funny about the situation.

"Really?" He asked, unable to believe that you would actually do this.

"Claro."

"Alright, I'd love that."

"Okay, I'll hang up on you."

And just as you proposed, Simu calls you back.

"Gorgeous." And there they went again.

"Lindo."

When you proposed, you both could be a couple of lovelorn goofballs.

“Tell me something i dont know" You tell

" Hon, can't you believe what's happened?

Oh boy, here it comes

"Let's see... tell me something I don't know."

"I gotta be a presenter at the Oscars."

"No me diga..." You take a second before continuing with your felicitations.

"Mi Vida I don't know what to tell you, cause I think I have already told you before, however, I would never get tired and will never get tired of telling you how proud and happy I feel for you. Congratulations for this great news, truly, muchas felicidades, I feel so proud and happy for you..."

"Awws, my life, stop it... I will cry, and I don't think the make-up team likes to start from zero."

And between laughs, honeyed nicknames, and after a while, which felt like just seconds, you both had to say goodbye, but not before, once again felicitating him for his great achievement.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Glossary

Pronto llegará - It will arrive soon

El día de mi suerte - My lucky day

Sé que antes de mi muerte - I know that before my death

Seguro que mi suerte cambiará - I'm sure my luck will change

Cariño - Honey

Claro - off course

Lindo /linda -pretty or gorgeous

Mi vida - my life

No me diga - don't tell me

Felicidades - congratulations

[empures---a]

alright    since    its    taken    me    some    time    to    do    up    a    google    doc    here    is    some    random    info    on    dahlia,    hopefully    this    will    help    with    plotting    and    interacting.   

Dahlia    is    a    nephilim

She    is    the    only    one    left    of    her    kind,    since    they    were    killed    to    extinction    500    hundred    years    before    her    birth    

Her    father    is    a    fallen    angel    also    the    sin    pride

Her    mother    was    killed    /    taken    when    she    was    —

Dahlia    joined    the    circus    of    terror    when    she    was    just    sixteen,    she    handled    merch    and    ticket    sales,    before    moving    on    to    being    an    assistant,    until    finally    she    discovered    her    love    for    aerial    and    dedicated    her    time    to    master    it.    

Her    fame    didn’t    come    from    her    music,    it    actually    came    from    her    performance    with    the    circus,    she    posted    videos    on    instagram    and    got    a    large    following    from    that    alone,    it    helped    that    she    was    very    interactive    with    her    audience.    

It    was    a    bad    trip    that    led    to    her    getting    a    record    deal,    she    posted    a    video    of    her    singing    while    high    af    on    the    anniversary    of    her    mothers    death.    

She    didn’t    leave    the    circus    for    another    year,    until    she    had    to    go    on    tour    and    it    just    wasn’t    possible    for    her    to    do    both.    

She    reconnected    with    her    dad    and    moved    to    L.A    with    him

She    doesn’t    do    the    whole    satanic    thing    with    her    music,    in    fact    she    rarely    has    religious    undertones    in    it….    This    is    due    to    the    fact    that    lucifer    is    her    uncle    and    it’s    awkward    as    fuck.        

She’s    bisexual    but    i    think    more    female    leaning.    

She    can    draw    and    has    tattooed    a    few    of    her    friends,        most    her    tattoos    are    her    own    design

She    goes    back    to    the    circus    if    they    are    in    town    or    near    for    a    one    night    performance    

Almost    destroys    L.A    in    2022    when    her    father    is    killed.    

Killed    a    record    producer    who    tried    it    on    her,    only    to    bring    him    back    as    a    ghoul.        It’s    never    explicitly    said    but    implied    that    he    is    missing    certain    parts.            

Morally    gray,    she    is    not    human    and    while    she    can    care    for    them    –    she    also    doesn’t    ??   

[bighermie]

Share Link

Christina Aguilera Dons Bejeweled Phallus, Mimes Masturbation at All-Ages L.A. Pride Performance https://www.breitbart.com/entertainment/2022/06/13/christina-aguilera-dons-bejeweled-phallus-mimes-masturbation-at-all-ages-l-a-pride-performance/

[ohiomailboxvirtual]

Nevada Mailbox: How the Dodgers’ mariachis have become a very L.A. tradition

Nevada Mailbox: How the Dodgers’ mariachis have become a very L.A. tradition Nevada Mailbox How the Dodgers’ mariachis have become a very L.A. tradition by Nevada Mailbox on Tuesday 11 October 2022 06:54 AM UTC-05 | Tags: #nevadamailbox nevada-mailbox Mariachis have become a tradition at Dodger Stadium, with performances during games. The team’s effort to connect with Latino fans has sparked pride. Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York City NY New York New York NY North Carolina North Dakota Wisconsin Katie Oklahoma Goodfield Illinois October 11, 2022 at 06:00AM Tags: #nevadamailbox nevada-mailbox You received this email because you set up a subscription at Feedrabbit. This email was sent to you at mpcmvnj2@jenniferhenao.anonaddy.com. Unsubscribe or change your subscription. Columbus Illinois Gorham Maine De Borgia Montana Crossville Alabama Wilmer Alabama https://unitedstatesvirtualmail.blogspot.com/2022/10/nevada-mailbox-how-dodgers-mariachis.html October 11, 2022 at 08:38AM https://lasvegasnevadamailbox.tumblr.com/post/697828783319859200

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Nevada Mailbox: How the Dodgers' mariachis have become a very L.A. tradition

Nevada Mailbox: How the Dodgers' mariachis have become a very L.A. tradition Nevada Mailbox How the Dodgers' mariachis have become a very L.A. tradition by Nevada Mailbox on Tuesday 11 October 2022 06:54 AM UTC-05 | Tags: #nevadamailbox nevada-mailbox Mariachis have become a tradition at Dodger Stadium, with performances during games. The team's effort to connect with Latino fans has sparked pride. Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York City NY New York New York NY North Carolina North Dakota Wisconsin Katie Oklahoma Goodfield Illinois October 11, 2022 at 06:00AM Tags: #nevadamailbox nevada-mailbox You received this email because you set up a subscription at Feedrabbit. This email was sent to you at mpcmvnj2@jenniferhenao.anonaddy.com. Unsubscribe or change your subscription. Dousman Wisconsin Castroville Texas Katie Oklahoma Goodfield Illinois Virtual Mailbox October 11, 2022 at 08:38AM