#mine is the haunted mansion (2003)

[emziess]

TJ MIKELOGAN's HALLOWEEN 2024 EVENT DAY 28: Halloween nostalgia - The Haunted Mansion (2003) dir. Rob Minkoff

[mollymauksworld]

The Haunted Mansion (2003) ➡ 13/31

Evil and darkness have fallen this night. But now, to survive, you must gain new sight.

[grim-girlying-ghost]

Ok real question. How would you handle a Phantom Manor adaptation?

With Haunted Mansion having two film adaptations (plus all of the printed media of it), over the years many fans have asked for them to expand by adapting the stories of the other mansions, in this case Phantom Manor. Anyone familiar with PM and its lore is aware that it has a much more specific story whith a darker tone, in contrast to HM’s more lighthearted tone and vauge story. Its a pretty good candidate for a film adaptation, but despite its more explicit story, there are still several routes we could take for the films execution

What do you think would be the best way to go about it. Do you think the film should be just a straight up adaptation of the Manor’s established backstory. Everything from Henry showing up and founding his mining company to Melanie’s tragic story and the house becoming delapadated? Or do you think the movir should be about a living human protagonist who finds their way into the delapadated manor and having to escape the phantom and using the established lore from the ride as a backstory and setup for the plot?

Another thing to take into consideration would be wether to base the film on the ride pre or post refurb. We know if Disney made an official movie, they’d probably base it mostly on the refurb, but I know plenty of people who would rather it be based on the ride before the refurbishment. Me personally, please don’t attack me but I actually don’t mind the refurbishment for the most part. There’s elements I prefer about the refurb at the same time that there are elements I prefer about the ride before 2019. Its complicated but yeah. If it was up to me, the film adaptation would benefit from elements of the ride both pre and post 2019.

Stay with me on this one but I actually think the 2003 Haunted Mansion film has a good amount of elements that would work really well for a Phantom Manor adaptation. Like obviously I’m not including all of the unserious comedy from 2003 HM in order to commit to Phantom Manor’s dark tone, but once you remove that, HM 2003 has lots of things that work in PM’s favor. In a lot of ways, Edward and Elizabeth’s story is very similar to Melanie and Jake’s. Person A is a young wealthy person who is in one way or another the heir of their family estate falls in love with person B, a lower class commoner who works for the family. They get engaged and plan to elope but the person A’s older parental figure doesn’t approve for some reason, so they murder person B, trapping the person A in the manor and their afterlife is tainted by grief, deeming them unable to move on.

Maybe it sounds lazy since it’s already been done, but I would genuinely really like to see a film adaptation where one of the main goals is not only escaping the Phantom but also reuniting Jake and Melanie, lifting the curse from the estate and allowing them to finally move onto the afterlife, similarly to Edward and Elizabeth. It would keep the story’s dark tone, but it would also provide for a well rounded film narrative with a resolution and it would have a happy ending for Melanie and Jake, which they deserve.

What are your thoughts? How would you handle an adaptation for the phantom manor?

[mediamixs]

Top 10 video games that became horror movies

Here are ten notable horror video games that have been adapted into films, showcasing a blend of thrilling gameplay and cinematic storytelling.

1. Resident Evil (2002)

The Resident Evil franchise is perhaps the most recognized horror game series adapted into film, starting with the 2002 movie directed by Paul W.S. Anderson. The film follows Alice, played by Milla Jovovich, as she navigates a zombie-infested underground facility, mirroring the game's survival horror elements. The franchise has spawned multiple sequels, each exploring different aspects of the game's lore and characters.

2. Silent Hill (2006)

Directed by Christophe Gans, Silent Hill was released in 2006 and is based on the iconic video game series of the same name. The film captures the eerie atmosphere of the games as it follows a mother searching for her adopted daughter in the fog-shrouded town of Silent Hill, encountering terrifying creatures along the way. It successfully brings to life many elements beloved by fans of the game.

3. Doom (2005)

Doom, based on the influential first-person shooter series, was adapted into a film starring Dwayne Johnson and Karl Urban. The movie follows a group of marines sent to investigate a research facility on Mars, where they encounter monstrous creatures reminiscent of those in the game. While it received mixed reviews, it has gained a cult following for its action-packed sequences and homage to the source materia.

4. Dead Space: Downfall (2008)

This animated film serves as a prequel to the Dead Space video game series, which revolves around a mining ship infested with horrifying necromorphs. Released alongside the first game, Dead Space: Downfall explores the events leading up to the game's storyline and provides deeper insight into its terrifying universe.

5. Silent Hill: Revelation (2012)

A sequel to the original Silent Hill film, Revelation continues exploring themes from the video game series. Directed by M.J. Bassett, it follows Heather Mason as she confronts her past and battles against dark forces in Silent Hill. Though it did not achieve the same acclaim as its predecessor, it remains a notable adaptation for fans.

6. Five Nights at Freddy's (2023)

Released in late 2023, Five Nights at Freddy's is based on the popular indie horror game where players must survive against animatronic creatures in a haunted pizzeria. Despite mixed critical reception, it performed well at the box office, indicating strong fan interest and engagement with its source material.

7. Ao Oni (2014)

This Japanese adaptation of the indie horror game Ao Oni focuses on a group of students trapped in a mansion haunted by a blue demon. The film captures the game's suspenseful atmosphere and has garnered a dedicated fanbase for its faithful representation of the original story[1][4].

8. Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004)

The direct sequel to the original Resident Evil, this film expands on its predecessor's story while introducing new characters and monsters from the games, such as Nemesis. It blends action with horror elements effectively, appealing to both fans of the franchise and general audiences alike.

9. Alone in the Dark (2005)

Based loosely on the survival horror game series of the same name, Alone in the Dark features Christian Slater as an investigator uncovering dark secrets linked to supernatural forces. While critically panned for its execution, it remains notable for being part of early attempts to adapt video games into films.

10. House of the Dead (2003)

Though often regarded as one of the worst adaptations, House of the Dead is based on the light-gun arcade game series where players fight zombies on an island. Its over-the-top action and campy style have made it a cult classic among bad movie enthusiasts.

These adaptations illustrate varying degrees of success in translating interactive horror experiences into cinematic formats, with some films capturing their source material's essence while others diverge significantly from their roots.

[marvelobsessed134]

Request guidelines

In this post I will talk about everything to do with requests.

I don’t respond to vague requests meaning ones like “Nikki and a breeding kink” I need some more details especially if I’m going through writers block ykwim 😭

How to request:

Click on the button of my page that says “ask me anything 🤍” and submit an ask either publicly or anonymously. Here you will be able to write and request anything your heart desires.

My favorite people/characters to write for are: Bucky Barnes, Natasha Romanoff, Wanda Maximoff, Kate Bishop, Dwayne and Paul from TLB, Tommy Lee, Nikki Sixx, Vince Neil, Mick Mars, Tom Keifer, Eric Brittingham but I of course love to write for the other people listed below 🩷

Who/what I write for:

Bands/rockstars/solo artists:

Motley Crue (all members)

Tom Keifer

Eric Brittingham

Guns N Roses (all members)

Blackie Lawless

Kirk Hammett

James Hetfield

Courtney Love

Kurt Cobain

Dave Grohl

Elvis Presley

Joan Jett

Lita Ford

Bret Michaels

Jani Lane

Stephen Pearcy

Robin Crosby

Sebastian Bach

Peter Steele

Kenny Hickey

Dave Mustaine

Chelsea Wolfe

Chappell Roan

Lana Del Rey

Hozier

Victoria De Angelis

Jim Morrison

George Harrison

Paul McCartney

Celebrities:

Actors of the marvel characters I write for (so, Scarlett, Hailee, Lizzie, Sebastian, etc.)

Pamela Anderson

Cindy Crawford

Michael B Jordan

Billy Wirth

Marvel men:

Steve Rogers

Bucky Barnes

Sam Wilson

Peter Parker (Tom Holland and Andrew Garfield only)

Tony Stark

Thor Odinson

Marvel women:

Natasha Romanoff

Wanda Maximoff

Carol Danvers

Valkyrie

Kate Bishop

Yelena Belova

Kamala Kahn (Platonic only)

Jennifer Walters

Peggy Carter

Daisy Jones and The Six:

Daisy Jones

Billy Dunne

Karen Sirko

Warren Rojas/Rhodes

Stranger Things:

Steve Harrington

Billy Hargrove

Robin Buckley

Eddie Munson

The Lost Boys:

Paul

Dwayne

Star

DCEU:

Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie)

Misc characters:

Elaine Parks (The Love Witch 2016)

Elvira, Mistress Of The Dark

Nancy Downs (The Craft 1996)

Gloria (Modern Family)

Barbie (Barbie 2023)

Ken (Barbie 2023)

Count Dracula (Dracula 1931)

Edward/Master Gracey (Haunted Mansion 2003)

Jennifer Check (Jennifer’s Body 2009)

Tiffany Valentine (Bride Of Chucky 1998)

Jack Sparrow (Pirates of The Caribbean)

Topics/prompts I DON’T write about:

Dom!Reader

Age regression/play

Piss kink

Switch!reader

Suicide (whether that be self harm or the act itself)

Body image/EDs/Body insecurities

G!PReader

Angst without a happy ending

Male reader (female reader only)

OCs (I do not write for any original characters that aren’t mine or reader with a face claim)

Male on male sex. I will write MMF threesomes though

Anything like really abusive where characters get permanently/extremely harmed if you want gore this is not the place for that

Anyways, my requests are always open, so ask away! Also just because my requests are open does not mean I’m going to do your request. It is a request not a demand <3 sometimes I simply just don’t want to write a prompt cause I don’t like it or whatever

[carewyncromwell]

“The whole world just fades away -- The only thing I hear is the beating of your heart, 'Cause I can feel you breathe! It's washing over me, And suddenly, I'm melting into you... There's nothing left to prove -- Baby, all we need is just to be... Caught up in the touch -- slow and steady rush -- Baby, isn't that the way that love's supposed to be? ...I can feel you breathe...”

~“Breathe,” by Faith Hill

x~x~x~x

“Ahem…let me see if I can find my – ahh – ”

[Duncan’s] sentence came to a shaky halt.

A pair of cold, but soft and moist lips had made contact with the side of his face, right beside his jawline. The intimate, tender contact sent tremors through Duncan’s entire body. His eyes fluttered closed against his will, his hand coming up almost involuntarily, as if to wanting to hold onto Jacob’s face, the way the other man’s ghostly hand so lightly held his in place.

Jacob’s mouth was freezing cold…so why was the blood pounding through Duncan’s veins so electrifyingly hot?

~Haunted Mansion AU, Part 8: Ready to Run

x~x~x~x

Feh, this didn’t turn out exactly how I wanted, but...well, there’s this one messy sketch I did for the Haunted Mansion AU way back when, and I wanted to see if I could do it again with slightly better anatomy and cleaner lines, so here you go. The sketch is actually about two months old -- I’ve been pecking away at editing it off and on for the last few weeks, and well, even if it’s not perfect, I guess it is at least a little bit better than that original doodle from October 2021:

Other songs accompanying this doodle’s progress include Kiss from a Rose by Seal (which I’m shocked does NOT feature the lyrics “kiss from a rose on the grave,” as I’ve always heard it sung), Angel of Mine by Monica, and When You Say You Love Me by Josh Groban, all of which fit the time period this AU is set in, namely, the winter of 2003. 

Hope you all have a lovely day! Much love!! 🖤

[candles-inthewoods]

INTRO & WARNINGS

Hello there, my name is Rosemary. I use she/her pronouns. I'm over 18 (23 y/o).

This is a dark kink side-blog for curating content that reminds me of typical pulp gothic romances with historical, supernatural, psychological horror and horror elements. Although there is no explicit NSFT content, this blog will include unsettling themes and imagery, so please leave if you're sensitive for your own benefit.

This is a side-blog, so I will not be able to be mutuals or start conversations.

CW List, Tag Directory and Media Inspo after the cut.

LIST OF SENSITIVE TOPICS

abduction, blood, cannibalism (#devour), excessive/ gratuitous violence, gore, psychological torment, supernatural monsters and elements, unhealthy + toxic relationships, etc

These topics will not be tagged individually.

You are strongly advised to leave this blog if you are uncomfortable with these topics.

You are responsible for your experience on Tumblr. I cannot physically stop you from following . Your judgement for your own sake.

TAG DIRECTORY

#actual advice — The Gothic explores and highlights human flaws and points of conflict. But they say a character flaw is just a character’s strength taken too far. A trait in reverse. So, if you reverse all of these constructive, helpful observations and just see them from another angle… these keys to recovery end up as destructive tragedies. And Gothic stories are often the biggest tragedies there are.

#art — artwork that depicts the aesthetic.  

#analysis — posts that are serious insights into tropes and stories. Analyses and academic papers and such.

#board — collages, mood boards, web weaves, gif sets

#characters — characters and the interactions between them

#costume — fashion of the aesthetic

#gothic heroine shit — Active and angsty female leads, instead of dream-like feeble female leads. Byronic she-bastards. themes of self-discovery and independence

#gothic pulp — Artwork from the Women-Running-Away-From-Houses era of Gothic literature. Art style ranges from the 1940s to the 1970s.

#holy — these posts specifically include religious themes and imagery.

#ingenue things — the idea of pure innocence and naivety and kindness and sympathy. brutes who become enamoured and possessive over damsels. ideas of corruption and escapism

#mine — My own posts… both serious and silly.

#people — images of figures that would be at home in this aesthetic.

#places — images of various estates, castles, forests, churches and other similar scenes.

#poetry — various quotes, translations and poems.

#prompt — ideas, prompts and plots that can make for interesting stories in this genre

#prose — relatively longer snippets of fiction

#recs — recommendations for any works in this genre (typically films or novels)

#writing help — how to write a better story or better characters.

#yearning — shitposts that poke fun or straight-up idealize the Gothic

FOOLERY

🌘 a pearl from the pile: a random post from this blog

🌘 what haunts your heart: asks that i've answered

🌘 the cultural touchstone of our generation: a personal list of (tv) tropes that fascinates me

🌘 how to navigate tags on desktop

MEDIA INSPO

🕯️ Candyman (1996) 🕯️ Corpse Bride 🕯️Crimson Peak 🕯️ Curse of Strahd 🕯️ Ghost (the band) 🕯️ Hannibal (2019) 🕯️ Haunted Mansion (2003) 🕯️ Phantom of the Opera 🕯️ (tbc)

If you have any recommendations, please send them in. I'm always looking for that perfect story that captures the feeling.

[scuddish]

“Hey, honey, you know—they have dead people in the backyard.” “Well, some people have swimming pools, others have private cemeteries. It can happen.”

THE HAUNTED MANSION 2003 | dir. Rob Minkoff

[geosb]

Reblog in the tags your weird comfort movie:

[plush-anon]

Halloween recs:

Monster House

Hush

John Carpenter's The Thing

The People under the Stairs

The Town that Dreaded Sundown

ParaNorman

Dracula (Hammer Horror)

13 Ghosts (1960)

Scooby Doo & the Witch's Ghost

House on Haunted Hill (1959 & 1999)

The Haunted Mansion (2003)

The Pact

The Haunting (1963)

The Frighteners

That's all I can think of off the top of my head. Have fun!

Holy Moly, that's a lotta films 😮

For sake of ease, I'll list the whole... list, and cross out those I couldn't find on streaming or on the high seas, yaaargh. Then mark a red X by the ones I'm not terribly interested at first wiki-glance:

Monster House Hush X John Carpenter's The Thing The People Under the Stairs The Town that Dreaded Sundown ParaNorman ✔ (Horror of) Dracula (Hammer, 1958) 13 Ghosts (1960) Scooby Doo & the Witch's Ghost ✔ House on Haunted Hill (1959 &1999) The Haunted Mansion (2003) X The Pact X The Haunting (1963) The Frighteners

I'll likely trim some of these suggestions down at a later date, but I'll tag you in the final decision post and the reviews themselves, so you'll know.

Now you may be wondering about the purple checkmarks - simple, really! I've already reviewed both. Paranorman wasn't on my blog, but in my movie journal, and SD & the Witch's Ghost here on tumblr.

For sake of ease though? I'll post a mini-review of both here.

Scooby Doo and the Witch's Ghost is a Scooby favorite of mine, and has been ever since it came out in 1999. While Zombie Island holds up more over time - more consistent horror, much stronger storytelling, a FANTASTIC use of its setting, and an excellent (re)invention of the Scooby gang - Witch's Ghost is so much more - Halloween then Zombie Island is, mainly due to its gorgeous autumn setting, and brilliant use of color in the backgrounds to really immerse the audience in the feel of autumn.

The voice acting is solid, and the Hex Girls had fantastic designs and fantastic music throughout. Storyboarding was strong, with a nice balance between more actiony scenes and actual detective work. And, in all honesty, the side characters were pretty well handled with a good reason as to why they did what they did. The mystery works relatively well with setting up their clues and motivations, without reducing them to cartoonishly eeeeevil people. Or, well - mostly without becoming cartoonishly evil.

While the reveal of Ben Ravencroft doesn't quite fit with the rest of the mystery, it's not out of nowhere, and there IS a good reason for it. After the success of Zombie Island, WB studio interference cut down on the freedom the Zombie Crew had; IIRC, they had to push for the supernatural element, as the OG plan was to just have it be normal people and end there. IMHO, if they'd reworked the script some, the final reveal would have been much stronger and better established, but it's likely they were pushed for time. Same with the really really... REALLY badly handled Wiccan info; there used to be a website that broke down all the ways that Wiccan practices were misused and misrepresented (to the point that having a Wiccan ancestor and being "1/16th Wiccan" meant... you could do magic so long as you had a "real" spellbook in this film, basically 🙄), and I wish I could find it again - remarkably comprehensive, that one.

On the whole, this is a fun Halloween movie that's gorgeous to look at, a delight to listen to, and a fun one to watch without thinking too deeply about 😁.

ParaNorman, on the other hand...?

ParaNorman is one of my top animated movie favorites of ALL time.

It's beautifully animated and wonderfully scored - the things they do with stop-motion clay are honest-to-gods incredible, making you really take a step back and look in wonder at the sheer dedication and work put in for animation like that. The voice acting is top tier, and the casting near perfect - the emotion and acting heightens each scene, and damn near made me cry during the final fight in the woods.

The script is very well done, and the pacing is damn near perfect, threading everything through to a marvelous finale that doesn't feel rushed or out of place. The twist at the start of the third act sent chills down my spine and just... took my breath away. Because history is absolutely twisted to suit the narrative of those in control.

The message at the center of the film - of the horrid realities within persecution, of mob mentality and abuse of power, of the cruelties (casual, indifferent, deliberate, spiteful) leveled against those who challenge the norm and the bitterness this can create, of the insistence on burying the pain and refusing to acknowledge its effects on everyone else, of the lies we tell ourselves to excuse the ugliness we enact - is powerful, and poignant, and painful, and perfect. It's not perfectly laid out, no; the writers respect the audience, and a lot of nuance is established through the environment alone (like Norman's uncle, and how he turned out when he had no support or understanding for his experiences growing up, like Norman had with his Grandmother, and later on, with a friend named Neil. It helps to establish a history to what Norman faces now, and what the results could be without support or trust - alone, perpetually medicated in response to his experiences, and somewhat bitter).

The ending where the townspeople immediately backpedal and try to cover up their reactions to something they found frightening, try to justify the damage they caused, further establishes how people react when confronted with the cruelties they can inflict. It's a lesson on what we shouldn't allow ourselves to do, but it isn't spelled out - one of many. There are times when this kind of thing is laid out for the audience, but within reason, and again, not perfectly.

The characters are enjoyable enough; another route to examine our reactions to what people look like, how they act, and why you shouldn't judge a book by its cover. It also had one of the first American kid's films to have a character openly declare he has a boyfriend (2012). Other American children's properties would imply queerness (at best) up to then, and IIRC this one was one of the first to be so straight-forward about it (I remember Coraline had Miss Spinks and Miss Forcible as "thespians", but again, it's coding and not flatly open. Not to say it's badly done - at the time, queerness was NEVER included in US kids' properties, never openly, to the point that most Japanese properties brought over to the States were HEAVILY re-edited and re-dubbed to excise any mention of queerness unless it was a joke). And considering Steven Universe didn't start until late 2013, and Legend of Korra's final episode was December 2014, well... to say this was ENORMOUS to have at the time is something of an understatement, especially when Mitch, the football jock, was NOT coded anywhere close to queer (which I believe was a deliberate decision on behalf of the filmmakers, but IDK for sure).

Now, there has been discussion on whether or not this was meant to be a joke on Mitch, the character who said this line. It's honestly up to personal interpretation - I'm inclined to say it was more of a joke on Courtney, Norman's sister who was attracted to him, since she's the one who's put in all this effort to someone who doesn't notice her, only to be told she never had a chance from the get-go (like a pratfall when someone has been working so hard to get something and loses it - ex. Tallahassee and his quest for Twinkees in Zombieland). But again, personal interpretation and response is individual, so what's incredible for some folks is degrading for others. As we do.

On the whole, I really did adore this movie - back when it first came out, and now. I remember watching it and felt seen, felt recognized for what I went through as a kid, without being chided for feeling that way. It was humorous and heartfelt, and a little terrifying at times, regardless of the reason. Just... beautifully done, all throughout.

And with that, my mini-reviews for those two are through! If there's any film in particular on the list you'd like to see me see, let me know - in the meantime, hope you liked what I wrote!

[goldenavenger02]

Susz's Halloween Recommendations Part 1: Movies, specials and TV shows.

Movies/specials

Girl Vs. Monster (2012)

Skylar, a teenage girl who discovers on Halloween she's a fifth generation monster hunter. When Skylar accidentally releases some monsters from a containment chamber she must recapture them before they wreak vengeance on her parents.

Notes: I've been watching this since it came out and it's always been a favorite of mine! Has a great message about facing your fears and not letting them control you with the backdrop of monster hunting!

Halloweentown (1998)

When a young girl living with her good-witch grandmother learns she too is a witch, she must help her grandmother save Halloweentown from evil forces.

Notes: I watched this for the first time last year, and I was pleasantly surprised even as an 18 year old!

Hocus Pocus (1993)

A curious youngster moves to Salem, where he struggles to fit in before awakening a trio of diabolical witches that were executed in the 17th century.

Notes: another movie I watched last year, and so surprisingly dark for Disney, especially in the 90s.

The Haunted Mansion (2003)

A realtor and his wife and children are summoned to a mansion, which they soon discover is haunted, and while they attempt to escape, he learns an important lesson about the family he has neglected.

Notes: Eddie Murphy trying to keep his family safe in this haunted house? It's one of my favorites!

Scooby Doo (2002)

The Mystery Inc. gang have gone their separate ways and have been apart for two years, until they each receive an invitation to Spooky Island. Not knowing that the others have also been invited, they show up and discover an amusement park that affects young visitors in very strange ways. Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy and Scooby soon realize that they cannot solve this mystery without help from each other.

Notes: this is a childhood movie of mine, and the sequel is so good as well. Definitely a good mix of spooky and fun!

Scooby Doo: The Mystery Begins (2009)

A made for TV movie about the origins of the Mystery Incorporated gang.

Notes: a high school/Disney Channel style movie with horror elements starring Robbie Ammel and Hayley Kiyoko. This one is one I've been watching since it came out and it's one of my favorites.

Coraline (2009)

An adventurous 11-year-old girl finds another world that is a strangely idealized version of her frustrating home, but it has sinister secrets.

Notes: watched this one last year and I absolutely adore it! It's so terrifying and I highly recommend.

The Boy (2016)

An American nanny is shocked that her new English family's boy is actually a life-sized doll. After she violates a list of strict rules, disturbing events make her believe that the doll is really alive.

Notes: the movie is suspenseful the whole time, and the last 15 minutes are absolutely horrifying.

Flashback (2020)

After a chance encounter with a man forgotten from his youth, Fred literally and metaphorically journeys into his past.

Notes: I watched this psychological thriller a few months ago and it has it's scary elements, but it's really interesting to see the main character descend into madness and obsession due to something in his personal life.

Edge of Winter (2016)

When two brothers are stranded by a brutal winter storm with an unpredictable father they barely know, the boys begin to suspect their supposed protector may be their biggest threat.

Notes: pretty sure this movie was filmed around the same time Captain America: Civil War, so it's very young Tom Holland, but this is a movie he is so good in. Definitely makes you wonder just how far parents are willing to go.

Hubie Halloween (2020)

Despite his devotion to his hometown of Salem (and its Halloween celebration), Hubie Dubois is a figure of mockery for kids and adults alike. But this year, something is going bump in the night, and it's up to Hubie to save Halloween.

Notes: Don't take this one seriously and you're more likely to enjoy it. Definitely more of a comedy than anything scary. Adam Sandler is very polarizing but I enjoyed this.

Hotel Transylvania (2012)

Dracula, who operates a high-end resort away from the human world, goes into overprotective mode when a boy discovers the resort and falls for the count's teenaged daughter.

Notes: a family Halloween movie that really is just a fun time.

Ninjago: Day of the Departed (2016)

On the Ninjago holiday: Day of the Departed, the ninja remeber those who have departed.

Notes: Takes place in between season 6 and 7 and really explores grief as well as the concept of being forgotten. Obviously you have to watch the seasons before to understand this, but it's really interesting to watch for sure.

My Friend Dahmer (2017)

Jeffrey Dahmer murdered 17 men and boys in the Midwest United States between 1978 and 1991 before being captured and incarcerated. He would become one of America's most infamous serial killers. This is the story before that story.

Notes: a fascinating look into an infamous serial killer, both parts fiction and non fiction and suspenseful the whole time.

TV shows

Teen Wolf (2011-2017)

Scott becomes the eponymous teenage werewolf of the series after he is bitten by an alpha werewolf the night before his second year of high school, drastically changing his once-ordinary life.

Notes: one of my absolute favorite TV shows, and perfect for the Halloween season! Especially since the movie is coming out next year!

Only Murders in the Building (2021-)

Only Murders in the Building follows three strangers, played by Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez, who share an obsession with a true crime podcast. After a murder in their building, the three neighbors decide to start their own show that covers their investigation of the murder.

Notes: Already fantastic and season 1 is still coming out on Hulu! The blend of comedy and horror is always one of my favorites!

Cruel Summer (2021-)

The series follows two teenage girls in the 1990s and the repercussions on everyone's lives after one disappears and the other seemingly takes her place.

Notes: this has huge triggers for domestic violence, grooming and sexual assault. If you're not triggered by that, I HIGHLY recommend this, and I'm so excited for season 2! It also has some great LGBT+ rep!

Nancy Drew (2019-)

Nancy Drew (Kennedy McMann) is a brilliant teenaged detective whose sense of self had come from solving mysteries in her hometown of Horseshoe Bay, Maine – until her mother’s untimely death derails Nancy’s college plans.

Notes: I've been watching this since it came out and season 3 is about to start airing! The first season is so wonderful and full of twists and turns (season 2 isn't as good, but it's the CW) and I highly recommend!

Ninjago Season 5, Possession (2015)

The spirit of the evil Morro is released from the cursed realm and the Ninjas have to unite in the battle against an evil foe.

Notes: one of my favorite seasons of the show, and definitely one of the darkest ones! Deals with grief, depression and high expectations and it's so good!

Scooby Doo: Mystery Incorporated (2010-2013)

Scooby-Doo and the gang attempt to solve creepy mysteries in the town of Crystal Cove, a place with a history of eerie supernatural events.

Notes: this starts off similar to the original Scooby Doo show from the early 70's, but as the overarching plot gets deeper and deeper, you really spend your time just wondering "what the heck is going on".

I'm not going to put specific episodes of TV shows on here, because that'll get daunting, but part 2 is books and fics!

[televinita]

Books Read In 2020: The Why

In a tradition I accidentally started for myself in 2016 and now quite enjoy, at the end of the year I look back at my reading list and answer the question, why did you read this particular book?

Below, my 100 reads of 2020 are split into groups by target readership age, plus nonfiction at the end, now with a bonus note about how I heard of it. Which I probably won’t continue to do next year, but it was fun to try.

ADULT FICTION

I read each of these books because...

A Glitter of Gold - Liz Johnson. 2019. It had me at "her pirate tour business," but between the shipwreck & the museum-director love interest it was like BLOOD & TREASURE ROMANCE AU LET'S GOOO.

How I heard of it: a book blog

The Last Woman in the Forest - Diane Les Becquets. 2019.   Recommended by a dog lover; I'm down for a thriller about a woman who has a dream dog-inclusive job like this.

How I heard of it: a book blog

Good Omens - Terry Pratchett & Neil Gaiman. 1990. I really enjoyed the miniseries and wanted to see if the book everyone loved so much was as good (for the record: it was not. at least not if you’ve seen the miniseries first; otherwise they are probably equal).

This Is Home - Lisa Duffy. 2019. Attractive cover + I flipped it open to a random page and just liked the writing style.

How I heard of it: library

Dear Mr. Knightley - Katherine Reay. 2013. I'd had this on the back burner for a while because the MC sounded like me, and one day I got sick of not being able to find any fluffy contemporary romances with beta male heroes and decided Matthew Gray Gubler was gonna star in this one. (spoiler alert: it is a good book but that did not work)

How I heard of it: a book blog

Rubbernecker - Belinda Bauer. 2013. Criminal Minds sent me into a tailspin so I went hunting for books to cast Spencer Reid in again; the Asperger's/case-solving/difficult relationship with mother combo sounded promising. (spoiler alert: the med-student element + his social cluelessness proved too strong and I was only able to picture the kid from The Good Doctor)

How I heard of it: Googling keywords

The Swiss Affair - Emylia Hall. 2013. I got a random hankering for a student/teacher novel, and after scrutinizing the library catalog this was the only one that fit my parameters for gender, lack of adultery, and focus on romance over sex.

How I heard of it: library

Love At First Bark - Debbie Burns. 2019. I was trying to cast Wes/Jules [Dollface] in a romance novel, so I browsed through a Goodreads friend's "dog-romance" shelf and accidentally landed in a Jeid AU [Criminal Minds]. Which may or may not have been a large part of what turned me into a Jeid shipper (outside canon only).

The Mermaids Singing - Val McDermid. 1995. One final attempt to cast Reid in a novel -- a user in a Reddit post asking for this very thing suggested this, and "profiler with idiosyncracies" certainly fit.

The Wire in the Blood [and 9 subsequent novels] - Val McDermid, spanning 1997-2019. Turns out aside from being British, Reid paints onto Tony Hill EXCEPTIONALLY well, and I accidentally found myself with a little Jeid AU in the process, so obviously I read the entire series. Good crime-solving fun and all that.

Horse - Talley English. 2018. Random library pull because I connected with the writing style and it appeared to actually focus on horses.

How I heard of it: library

A Sparkle of Silver - Liz Johnson. 2018. I liked the author's other book and this was pretty much a remix of the same story, but now with a cool mansion/estate setting.

How I heard of it: looking up other books by this author

Everyone Is Beautiful - Katherine Center. 2009. Went looking for stories about strong marriages, found this on a Goodreads list of "second chance marriage" books, tripped into something like a season 9 Jim/Pam scenario. How I heard of it: Googling keywords

The Lost Husband - Katherine Center. 2013. Loved the previous book of hers I read, and the "starting life over on a goat farm" angle sounded like an ideal life to try on.

How I heard of it: looking up more from this author

The Shadow Year - Hannah Richell. 2013. Fixing up an old house?? I am THERE. Doing this in two timelines, one of which involves off-the-grid homesteading, is even better.

How I heard of it: used book sale

Mandrake Root - Janet Diebold. 1946. I needed a non-library book to bring on vacation, and after spinning in circles over what I thought would appeal to my mood in that setting, my brain randomly said "reread this one."

How I heard of it: estate sale

Path of the Jaguar - Vickie Britton & Loretta Jackson. 1989. Bought cheap for cheap thrills: a Yucatan adventure/mystery. Read now so I could get rid of it. How I heard of it: library sale

Burying Water - K.A. Tucker. 2014. The library didn't have The Simple Wild, but they DID have a book w/ an equally pretty cover that talked about a badly beaten young amnesiac (!) recovering on a horse farm (!!). What is: my top romance trope (hurt/comfort, bonus points for animals and rural setting).

How I heard of it: library

Happiness for Beginners - Katherine Center. Established quality author + summertime hiking inspiration.

How I heard of it: looking up more from this author

The Visitors - Simon Sylvester. Cool cover + setting, and a teenage protagonist usually makes adult fiction more accessible. How I heard of it: Goodreads

Becoming Rain - K.A. Tucker. 2014. I was in this companion novel solely for mentions of Alex and any people by the last name of Wells, but figured I might as well read all of it to ensure I didn't miss any. How I heard of it: looking up more from this author

The Guest List - Lucy Foley. 2020. Honestly, it just sounded like a cool thriller (and cool setting). How I heard of it: a book blog

You Deserve Nothing - Alexander Maksik. 2011. Fell down a Will/Rachel [Glee] rabbit hole and ravaged the student/teacher keyword in my library catalog again to scratch the itch.

The Haunting of Hill House - Shirley Jackson. 1959. Mom's been trying to get me to read this for years, and this time when it came up in conversation it was the right time of year, so I randomly decided to give it a shot. How I heard of it: Mom

The Walker in Shadows - Barbara Michaels. 1979. Gothic ghost story + beautiful architectural details in a historic house = yeah!

How I heard of it: Goodwill

YOUNG ADULT

People Like Us - Dane Mele. 2018. Needed an audiobook; a girls' boarding school murder mystery seemed most likely to hold my attention of the limited options. How I heard of it: Library

The Possibility of Now - Kim Culbertson. 2016. I will read anything by this author, and girl having a meltdown over a test = me. How I heard of it: looking up other books by this author

Rob&Sara.com - P.J. Petersen & Ivy Ruckman. 2004. Mostly I wanted to go back to my high school days and enjoy the format of a novel written in emails, but also, I like Ruckman. How I heard of it: used book sale

For Real - Alison Cherry. 2014. Fictional Amazing Race!! + awesome summery cover + sisters How I heard of it: library sale

The Summer After You + Me - Jennifer Salvato Doktorski. 2015. The awesome summery cover, mostly. How I heard of it: a book blog

You'd Be Mine - Erin Hahn. 2019. Gorgeous cover + the chance to vicariously follow a budding young country music star on tour for the summer.

How I heard of it: a book blog

Juniors - Kaui Hart Hemmings. 2015. The neat setting(s): a live-in guest on a wealthy estate in Hawaii. How I heard of it: Dollar store

Lion Boy's White Brother - Alden G. Stevens. 1951. Bought cheap because vintage juvenile book in a unique setting. Read now to see if I could get rid of it (NOPE).

How I heard of it: used bookstore

The O.C.: Spring Break - Aury Wallington. 2005. I keep meaning to finish this short series, and it was an easy title to count for my Mount TBR challenge.

How I heard of it: used book sale

Echo Island - Edward Karlow. 2017. Bought cheap because of the beautiful summery cover; easy read for Mount TBR so I could get rid of it. How I heard of it: library sale

Confessions of a High School Disaster - Emma Chastain. 2017. Read because of THE SUPER CUTE SUMMERY COVER (and diary format).

How I heard of it: Dollar store

Kentucky Daughter - Carol J. Scott. 1985. Working my way down the “Inappropriate Student/Teacher Relationships in YA" list because I'm in that kind of mood this year; chose this because 80s books tend to deliver the subject best*, the character reminded me of the girl in Send No Blessings, and Open Library had it. *this one was just blatant sexual harassment, though, and belonged very literally on that list

How I heard of it: Goodreads

What They Always Tell Us - Martin Wilson. 2008. I sorted the library catalog to see the oldest contemporary YA novels they still have before they get weeded, and "loner being taken under the wing of his older brother's (male) friend and falling in love with him" hit a couple of good tropes. How I heard of it: library

Bobby's Watching - Ted Pickford. 1993. Browsing around on OpenLibrary and saw they FINALLY had a copy of this book that scared me too much to finish as a kid, and which I've wanted to revisit ever since I remembered what it's called (Interlibrary Loan doesn't have it and it's Not Cheap to buy).

How I heard of it: library

Powwow Summer - Nahanni Shingoose. 2019. Always interested in modern-day Indigenous girls connecting w/ their heritage, especially if they're from my home state's tribe.

How I heard of it: a book blog

The Princesses of Iowa - M. Molly Backes. 2012. Appealing cover + heft suggesting a solid Midwestern contemporary, plus I liked the student teacher element (without a slash this time, as in "college student who is almost a teacher")

How I heard of it: library

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants - Ann Brashares. 2001. The Second Summer of the Sisterhood - Ann Brashares. 2003.

Long-intended reread of a college fave because I wanted see Mike Vogel in the movie, and it was summer so the stars aligned. Continued because the first book was as good as I remembered. (I would have kept going but Life distracted me for a bit and by the time I was back on track, it was no longer summer) How I heard of it: I...can't remember. Am the worst!

The Distance From Me To You - Marina Gessner a.k.a. Nina de Gramont. 2015. Hiking inspiration + an appealing-sounding romance. How I heard of it: Goodreads

Where Have All the Tigers Gone? - Lynn Hall. 1989. Will read any of her books, but specifically read this one because it seemed fairly autobiographical, and I read it NOW because it seemed durable enough to take on vacation. How I heard of it: looking up books by this author

And Both Were Young - Madeline L'Engle. 1949 (text of 1983 edition w/ material from original manuscript added back). Something reminded me of its existence and I requested it because it was the only non-animal-focused vintage teen novel I could physically get my hands on before Interlibrary Loan opened back up, and I had a craving for just that.

How I heard of it: library

The Other Side of Lost - Jessi Kirby. 2018. Established quality author + throw me ALL the thru-hike novels!

How I heard of it: Goodreads

The Vow - Jessica Martinez. 2013. Perfect scenario to run an Abed/Annie [Community] AU!

How I heard of it: I want to say...an article on a book website (not personal blog this time) back in 2013.

Moon and Me - Hadley Irwin. 1981. Was just in the mood to read an 80s teen novel and this one helped me knock off a title for the Mount TBR challenge. From an author I like, w/ bonus horse content.

How I heard of it: used book sale.

Suicide Notes From Beautiful Girls - Lynn Weingarten. 2015. I bought a blind bag at the library sale and this was one of the only contemporary YA novels in it; figured I might as well read it since I'd liked a previous book of hers.

How I heard of it: Library

History Is All You Left Me - Adam Silvera. 2016.

With the Glee rabbit hole came a Klaine spiral; this was my season 4 Tragic AU dream for them and I've been saving it for a Klainey day ever since it was published. (No I am not sorry for that horrid pun.)

How I heard of it: googling keywords

The Museum of Heartbreak - Meg Leder. 2016. The cool cover/concept of a "museum" of items reeled me in; I bought a copy a while ago 'cause the library didn't have it. Read now to see if I could get rid of it (NOPE).

How I heard of it: Goodreads

Me & Mr. J - Rachel McIntyre. 2015. Student/teacher novel that looked especially appealingly tame so I'd been saving it, but then Open Library notified me it was now only available in 1-hour increments, and I got paranoid it would disappear altogether (it's not cheap to buy or available via ILL), so I wanted it in my brain.

How I heard of it: Goodreads

Dear Evan Hansen - Val Emmich w/ Steven Levenson, Benj Pasek & Justin Paul. 2018. Fell in love with the DEH soundtrack. Play's summary sounded good -- getting to experience it in YA novel form?? Amazing.

How I heard of it: Wikipedia

Saddle a Thunderbolt - Jo Sykes. 1967

Bought a while ago because vintage horse story. Read now specifically to alleviate my pre-homesickness about moving by imagining living in an even more beautiful place than home.

How I heard of it: either a used book sale or a used bookstore...

Learning to Breathe - Janice Lynn Mather. 2018. This was mentioned on a lost-book forum and "girl with unplanned pregnancy supports herself by getting a job cleaning" piqued my interest; the setting (Bahamas) and cover made it better.

How I heard of it: Reddit

Everglades Adventure - James Ralph Johnson. 1970. Standard vintage boys' adventure-in-nature story; I like those.

How I heard of it: Goodwill

CHILDREN’S/MIDDLE GRADE

Little Women - Louisa May Alcott. 1868. Seeing the new movie and falling head over heels was what it took to FINALLY convince me to reread this childhood fave.

How I heard of it: can't remember; I was a kid

A Little Princess - Frances Hodgson Burnett. 1905. I was perusing a lot of books about classic children's books and it started to bug me that I had skipped this appealing-sounding one as a kid.

How I heard of it: can't remember; I was a kid

Little Men - Louisa May Alcott. 1871. LW sparked a fandom revival and I wanted more detail about the Marches' adult lives (esp. Jo & Bhaer), even on the fringes.

How I heard of it: library

Lady and the Tramp - Ward Greene. I saw a quote from the new movie under a gifset on Tumblr that sounded like it came from a book, and upon Googling out that one existed, I obviously could not allow the book version of a beloved childhood animal-movie fave to go unread. Especially after finding out it was super rare so reading it would be a privilege.

The Secret Garden - Frances Hodgson Burnett. 1910. Read for the same reason as A Little Princess. Can’t have one without the other, you know.

How I heard of it: was a kid; can't remember

The Mother-Daughter Book Club - Heather Vogel Fredericks. 2007. Much Ado About Anne - Heather Vogel Fredericks. 2008.

Always thought the series looked cute/reminded me of The Teashop Girls, but the fact that the first book they read is Little Women gave me the impetus to finally read this one. First book was darling so I continued to the next (but failed to continue beyond because COVID shut the library down until I was out of the mood).

How I heard of it: library

Nature Girl - Jane Kelley. 2010. I wanted walking inspiration.

How I heard of it: Goodreads

From You to Me - K.A. Holt. 2018. Mistook it for a similar-looking book I'd seen at the same time (See You On A Starry Night), but figured I'd give the 8th grade bucket list idea a shot once I had it. How I heard of it: Goodreads

Semiprecious - D. Anne Love. 2006. Cute cover + I'm starting to be a big fan of what I call "contemporary historical," for stories set mid-20th century.

How I heard of it: library

Dandy's Mountain - Thomas Fall. 1967. Vintage horse-inclusive children's book in a rural setting, I'm sold. Not to mention, love reading a summer setting in summer.

How I heard of it: used book sale

Littler Women: A Modern Retelling - Laura Schaefer. 2017. The only way to make the Little Women MORE magical is to make them younger, modern, and written by a proven quality author.

How I heard of it: a book blog

Behind The Attic Wall - Sylvia Cassedy. 315 pg/1983.

A Goodreads friend strongly recommended it as similar to but better than Mandy, and reading about it in 100 Best Books For Children sealed the deal. Read now for the Mount TBR challenge.

How I heard of it: Goodreads

The Jigsaw Jungle - Kristin Levine. 2018. I am a COMPLETE sucker for books told in non-traditional/scrapbook-esque format.

How I heard of it: Goodreads

Runt - Marion Dane Bauer. 2002. Wolf story by a quality author. Read now after owning it for a decade to see if I could get rid of it.

How I heard of it: used book sale

The King of the Cats - Rene Guillot. 1959. Bought cheap for a quick read because vintage animal story. Read now so I could get rid of it.

How I heard of it: used book sale

Just The Beginning - Betty Miles. 1976. Found cheap; always down to read a vintage book about an average girl (and I wanted to know how she'd cope with her mom being "a cleaning lady in a town full of classmates who HAVE cleaning ladies").

How I heard of it: used book sale

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone - J.K. Rowling. 1997. Been meaning to reread the series for a while now; finally got motivation to check out the illustrated edition 'cause Christmastime.

How I heard of it: originally Mom; a book blog for this edition

Echo Mountain - Lauren Wolk. 2020. Almost entirely because of the incredible clipart cover, promising me nature and a dog (and because I could get it as an e-audiobook from the library).

How I heard of it: a book blog

Knock Three Times - Cressida Cowell. 2019. I needed another audiobook for bedtime/walks and I know that David Tennant will provide.

How I heard of it: more by this author (more accurately, narrator)

NONFICTION

The Red Leather Diary: Reclaiming A Life Through The Pages Of A Lost Journal - Lily Koppel. 2008. I'm kind of obsessed with the concept of historical 5-year diaries -- and finding one like this is The Dream.

How I heard of it: Goodreads

I'd Rather Be Reading: The Delights and Dilemmas of the Reading Life - Anne Bogel. 2018. Attractive and compact book about the pleasures of being a reader? A headspace I want to be in.

How I heard of it: library

100 Best Books for Children - Anita Silvey. 2004. I'm big on looking at lists of books for children this year. These are the kind of books I know, love, and want to hear people talk about, now that I know books about these books exist.

How I heard of it: library

The Coming of Saska - Doreen Tovey Originally bought because it was cheap and featured animals, I needed a non-library book to bring on vacation, and this one is a durable ex-library copy in plastic wrap that featured a similar setting to where I was going, so: thematic.

Cats in the Belfry - Doreen Tovey. 1957. Wanted more of her books, and lo and behold the library had the first one.

How I heard of it: more by this author

Sorry Not Sorry - Naya Rivera. 2016. I'll read anything the Glee kids write, and this doubled as an easy number for the Mount TBR challenge.

How I heard of it: entertainment news websites

Living Large in Our Little House - Kerri Fivecoat-Campbell. 2016. I love tiny houses. And this one specifically mentioned living with dogs. And had color photographs.

How I heard of it: used bookstore

I'm Your Biggest Fan: Awkward Encounters and Assorted Misadventures in Celebrity Journalism. - Kate Coyne. 2016. Found cheap at a library sale -- loved the chapter headings and the fact that they were all about celebrities I knew.

Adrift - Tami Oldham Ashcraft w/ Suesea McGearheart. 1998/2018 edition. The movie was so awesome that I couldn't wait for more details about the real story in her own words.

I'll Be Gone In The Dark [NF] - Michelle McNamara. 2018. Been reading a lot of true crime write-ups on Reddit lately; decided it was time to pick up this well-received one.

How I heard of it: Goodreads

Dear Evan Hansen: Waving Through A Window - Steven Levenson. 2017. Much like The Grimmerie for Wicked, once I fell in love with the DEH soundtrack and looked up the plot summary, I wanted to read the musical's detailed background/behind the scenes story + libretto before I watched it.

How I heard of it: Wikipedia

Empty Mansions: The Mysterious Life of Huguette Clark and the Spending of a Great American Fortune - Bill Dedman & Paul Clark Newell. 2013. Love me a story about a mansion (or three). Or the reclusive and insanely wealth heiress who owns them, that works too.

How I heard of it: Goodreads

JUVENILE NONFICTION Mascots: Military Mascots from Ancient Egypt to Modern Korea - Fairfax Downey. 1954. Animal book from an author I like; read now to see if I could get rid of it (yes).

How I heard of it: secondhand bookstore

Come on, Seabiscuit - Ralph Moody. 1963. Bought because vintage kids' horse book; read now to see if I could get rid of it (and to count it towards my Mount TBR challenge 'cause it was short).

How I heard of it: secondhand bookstore

[groovy-stud-in-charge]

[wonderfulworldsofdisneycast]

Disney Movie Re-Watch Schedule

I’m so excited for my trip and to prepare I’m going to be watching/rewatching some of the Disney films that make an appearance in the parks! Below is my planned viewing schedule for Fri-Sun, and I would love for you guys to join me over the next few months of Disney movies :D

16 March — Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

17 March — Pinocchio (1940)

18 March — Fantasia (1940)

23 March — Dumbo (1941)

24 March — Bambi (1942)

25 March — Saludos Amigos (1943)

30 March — The Three Caballeros (1945)

31 March — Make Mine Music (1946)

1 April — Song of the South (1946)

6 April — Fun and Fancy Free (1947)

7 April — Melody Time (1948)

8 April — The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1949)

13 April — Cinderella (1950)

14 April — Alice in Wonderland (1951)

15 April — Peter Pan (1953)

20 April — 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954)

21 April — Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier (1955)

22 April — Lady and the Tramp (1955)

27 April — Davy Crockett and the River Pirates (1956)

28 April — Sleeping Beauty (1959)

29 April — Swiss Family Robinson (1960)

4 May — One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961)

5 May — The Sword in the Stone (1963)

6 May — Mary Poppins (1964)

11 May — The Jungle Book (1967)

12 May — The Aristocats (1970)

13 May — The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977)

18 May — Tron (1982)

19 May — Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)

20 May — Honey I Shrunk the Kids (1989)

25 May — The Little Mermaid (1989)

26 May — Beauty and the Beast (1991)

27 May — Aladdin (1992)

1 June — The Adventure of Huck Finn (1993)

2 June — The Lion King (1994)

3 June — Pocahontas (1995)

8 June — Toy Story (1995)

9 June — Tom and Huck (1995)

10 June — Mulan (1998)

15 June — A Bug’s Life (1998)

16 June — Tarzan (1999

17 June — Toy Story 2 (1999)

22 June — Fantasia 2000 (1999)

23 June — Dinosaur (2000)

24 June — Monsters, Inc. (2001)

29 June — Lilo & Stitch (2002)

30 June — Finding Nemo (2003)

1 July — Pirates of the Caribbean (2003)

6 July — The Haunted Mansion (2003)

7 July — The Incredibles (2004)

8 July — Cars (2006)

13 July — Ratatouille (2007)

14 July — WALL-E (2008)

15 July — Up (2009)

20 July — The Princess and the Frog (2009)

21 July — Toy Story 3 (2010)

22 July — Tangled (2010)

27 July — Winnie the Pooh (2011)

28 July — Brave (2012)

29 July — Frozen (2013)

3 August — Big Hero 6 (2014)

4 August — Inside Out (2015)

5 August — Moana (2016)

10 August — Coco (2017)

Feel free to suggest any films I might have missed, I have a few weeks free int he schedule before my flight to Florida on Sept 4th!

[villanoustarot]

The Horrible G-Word (No, it´s not “Ghost”) (Pt. 3)

I think it is also interesting to analyze this random topic of mine from the perspective of a Disney that played upon stereotypes (up to a point). It is remarkable that the Haunted Mansion as a ride is a unique experience that is beloved by millions of people around the country and beyond, BUT, the house does have dark corners and I am not talking about the literal ones (though there are many of them). 

The thing I am refering to is the G-Word, the slur for the Romani people: Gypsy. And this is indeed horrible because the Romani people have faced countless atrocities and many injusticies, even to this day. The Romani people did not invented crystal gazing, tarot, nor palm reading. I have found some instances where some people claim that the Romani did used those divination tools, but what is for certain is that they found themselves persecuted by the church for heresy as a ploy to treat them even worse. Now, they might have used them, but that is not the point I am making, the Romani people as others are free to practice their beliefs and arts as they so see fit. The horrible part (and what I am getting at) is when people outside the Romani people view them as con artists, perpetuate damaging clichés about them and their practices and appropiate some elements of their culture only to strip them from anything good and sensationalize them for financial gain, like they do with so called g-cartomancy decks, services, palmistry and readings.

Not cool.

Regarding Madame Leota, there has always been a silent given that Madame Leota is a g-slur since the day the Haunted Mansion opened to the public. But back in 2003, when the people in charge of the Haunted Mansion film starring Eddy Murphy where promoting the film, they revealed their imagined backstory for the Haunted Mansion through an online text (which you can still view at doombuggies.com). You might remember Master Edward Gracey (played by Nathaniel Parker), the owner of Gracey Manor.

Well, in the backstory created for this film, Edward Gracey had two older brothers that died of illness, leaving their mother devasted. You can check part of this story in the pic below, where Madame Leota gets a mention:

It reads: 

“One particular hot summer, Abigail took the children to visit her relatives on Georgia. In part, this was to avoid the yellow fever that frequently struck the region around their home in the summer. While in Georgia, the children came down with scarlet fever. The two eldest childred died, leaving Edward the sole survivor.

Abigail returned home, inconsolable, barely speaking or eating. She cancelled all social visits and sat in dark rooms. She became obsessed with the occult and converted her upstairs sitting room into a séance room and brought in a gypsy medium, Madame Leota, who used a crystal ball to contact the dead. 

Aged beyond her years and her spirit broken, Abigail Gracey died. Following the funeral, George (Edward´s father) sealed off the séance room and resumed his work”.

This did indeed colored the way Madame Leota was portrayed in the 2003 film, as the defacto fortune-teller inside her stereotypical g-slur fortune-teller tent (inside a Mansion!). Let´s take a look at her tent, which is nothing like the room inside the ride:

Also worth mentioning is SLG´s Haunted Mansion comics. In their imagined story, Madame Leota is, again, a wandering gypsy that Master Gracey brings to the Manor to ask for help ridding the place from some ghosts. In this story, Madame Leota falls in love with Gracey but he is in love with another woman. Spitefully, Madame Leota begins contacting and bringing in more ghosts, and one of those murders Gracey´s bride. In revenge, Gracey kills Leota while she was in a trance resulting in her head being trapped inside the crystal ball. Madame Leota has not realized she is dead, she believes herself to still be in a deep trance. 

My takeaway here is that Disney should come thorugh for the Romani people and dispel the notion that Madame Leota is a g-slur, because this is more harmful than good. One way to do so is to replace her deck and expand her backstory to avoid those stereotypes. Next post I will dive into some more Madame Leota´s scant backstory and some decks of cards that Disney has sold already.

[scuddish]

JENNIFER TILLY as MADAME LEOTA THE HAUNTED MANSION 2003 | dir. Rob Minkoff