#the voiceovers were SO good and the acting was perfect as always
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this has GOT to be the best way to announce a new season release date like WOW... you absolutely can get a wahoo, hillywood, because DAMN that was perfect. ingenious, even. i don't think any of us were expecting that going into it but hillywood just keeps impressing
thank you, neil, and thank you, hillywood!
also that scene with neil was SO well executed both by neil himself and hilly, absolutely my favourite part of the parody
#genius marketing by hillywood here as well ngl#you just KNOW that even those fans who weren't planning on watching the parody will be flocking to it now as well#as they should#more people should know about hillywood they are amazing#i had a huge hillywood phase a few years back and im not ashamed to say it#good omens#good omens season two#good omens season 2#the hillywood show#hillywood#i am OBSESSED with this one#the voiceovers were SO good and the acting was perfect as always
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The Arcadion raids... are amazing. Hands down the best single tier, in terms of sheer fun factor. We'll see where the story goes, but the spectacle of the fights—the visuals, the music, the VOs, and the mechanics, take the absolute cake. Nothing can hold a candle to this.
I mean, look back at how we were introduced to some of the other raid tiers. Deltascape? Alte Roite and Catastrophe are the most boring fights in the history of the world, even on Savage. Alexander had some boppin' music, but at the time the only other raid that existed was Bahamut, and that was a tough act to follow. Pandaemonium... Eric is famously easy, tanks have soloed story mode, and the music was rather... sedate. Eden was probably the most impressive on the first tier, but still, Arcadion is just on a whole nother level.
It almost makes me want to actually do Savage! :p
Spoily pictures below the cut.
I have no pictures of her fight. I was completely enthralled by the whole thing that I was miles away from even thinking about it. My album is hilarious, I snapped a ton of screenshots of her intro and defeat, so if you tab through it just looks like she transforms, gets introduced, and instantly dies.
Once we started M2, I flipped some of my shit because that's when it became clear—each fight gets its own unique music! So, some of the dungeon music, I wasn't blown away by, and the trials, especially, I wasn't impressed by. It's too bad, because usually trial music is one of my favorite parts. But, clearly Soken was cooking for the raids, because first of all, the very idea that each fight gets unique music is extremely unusual. That's something we only sometimes see in the final tier, and even then, the songs are often remixes of previous music. Alphascape might've done it, I can't remember Chaos's music, but, Midgardsormr's music is a song we've heard before, so it doesn't count. You have the single examples like A11 and P11, but A9 and A10 use the typical music from the old tiers, and P9 and P10 have the same song. So, the rules aren't set in stone—until now. If Cruiserweight comes out and two fights have the same music, that's unacceptable. We've tasted glory, now we demand perfection! And, it's only fair, as this is the content that's going to get farmed to death; having the same music for all of them, or even just two of them, can get old.
This guy's the weakest of the four fights. I mean, he's not a cute girl at all! We like cute girls, old men, and for some reason Bakool Ja Ja. But, he still gets his own music and unique mechanics. He punches the refbot, so we have to get revenge for the sake of the inanimate object. It's a good fight, objectively, but there's always going to be a "worst."
Now this is a spectacle! I didn't mention in the first one—as usual, I started out trying to be concise, but turns out, I'm still me—but I adore the first fight because of how it plays with the arena, and the voiceovers. "My riiiiiing! ......ahem. Please stand by while we repair the ring." I love that, every time. And, Eutrope breaks the arena, too, which is exciting. Also—I mean, just look at her. This is where I go "I'm not a furry, but..." She's an absolute badass with a cannon bigger than cities and it shoots both ways, because she's hardy. The color and lighting and feeling of size of the background is just magnificent. Compare this to last season, when we ended tier 1 with discount Castlevania? There's just no comparison.
This game has come so far, and it's only ever picked up speed.
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Ok my official dr who specials commentary bc no one asked and that’s why I’m doing it:
Star beast (re-watch already lol)~
They needed to compose proper theme music for this. The themes from the first era were too strong and emotive to skip over for this return - whether they kept the old ones or made new ones, there should’ve been character themes
Not a huge fan of the “whoniverse” thing just bc it gives MCU/DC universe stuff and it would’ve been cool if they did it differently
The floaty “last time on dr who” monologue - I understand why it was necessary for audiences who aren’t familiar with that era but damn they could’ve done it differently. Like tardis/London footage with a voiceover, not a monologue to the camera that felt like a trailer
LOVE the new title sequence. So colorful, beautiful, lovely.
They should’ve had a different way of the dr landing on earth. Also I hated the commercially happy music they used. Ik RTD wanted to bring in that goofiness but it came across more as cheesy bc of the pacing and music and it would’ve been better to have the scene be of tension and confusion - like why did this face come back? Why are the timelines converging? This could be a massive problem. They should’ve started the episode with 14 stepping out of the tardis in London, getting his bearings, and running into Donna [cue title sequence] and then getting into the silliness of it a la S4e1. That pacing would’ve been much punchier imo
Bro needs to commit to buttoning that vest or not ffs!! Donna was right even if she was rude abt it 💅🏽
Establishing the tension from the start also would’ve made the sudden arrival of the spaceship more fitting, less out of place - like heightening the danger rather than splatting it in (yes that’s a word bc I say so)
They should’ve made rose more bonkers given that she’s donna’s daughter… why is she so normal
AGAIN with the music. Be more interesting plz
Love the taxi ride with Shaun. Lmao Nerys mention
Seeing 14 not act just like 10 is So weird for me. Completely appropriate, obviously, but still. I’m like Why Are U Acting Like That Stop It Whats Wrong Ur Acting Weird
Donna is such a great mum.
The kitchen convo is PERFECT, no notes.
Great performance w Donna’s mum. Just the same as always, those two.
Again - it’s so weird that Rose is different from Donna. Like girl why are you not freaking out about this alien and are actively protecting it???
The meep’s dialogue in the alleyway (and later) makes much more sense given the reveal later. Like I was wondering why it was so crazy cheesycutesygoofy… it seemed a bit out of place
Ok the integration of 10’s theme - FANTASTIC. Wish they did much more of that. 👁️👁️
The dr talking to Shirley had so much exposition stuff that I personally think should’ve been at the start somehow. Or j much earlier imo. Like- they should’ve j had this bit earlier instead of the floaty monologue.
Love Shirley’s character btw.
Wish they didn’t have to cram so much stuff into this episode cuz if they were able to slow down the dialogue, it would’ve been so much more emotionally impactful. Like rose and the meep’s dialogue abt feeling alone/an other.
“What the hell” is appropriate, thank you Donna!!!
“YOU… 🤬🤬🤬” “Sylvia!!😙😙😙!” BAHAHHAHAHHA GETTIM
Very good chaos, thank you!!!!!! 😊👍🏽
Wilf!!!!!!!! He loved that man!!!!!!!! He died for that man!!!!!!!!! FUCK!!!!!!!!!! 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭❤️❤️❤️❤️
The explicit pronouns convo is so funny to me. Get fucked UK terfdom. Love u RTD, absolute icon
The “not today thanks” was so 13 lol loved it
The sonic is so beefed now it’s crazy. But I like it. I didn’t think I would but it’s sick. Love Sylvia’s reaction to it too
Love dt’s little run in place to get the meep moving
Thank you Donna for keeping everyone grounded in reality. “My house!!!!?!???!” Like YEAH HOLY SHIT!!
Sonic screwdriver explanation? Why? 14 needs to take the memory thing more seriously and stop having fun showing off (classic 10) bc it also gives the danger less weight
Shoutout captain Singh I love seeing Indian ppl in dr who nowadays. LONG awaited, much needed.
Passing by the sleeping guy is SO 11/moffat era
Seeing cheesy activities with high budget effects is so weird to me. The effects need to be less good for the whole thing to fit imo lolll
Love 14 being logically ahead of everyone and not telling anyone anything. But also they should’ve given him more “figuring out” shots in the action before the garage scene. Pacing again.
The wig was so random. King of giving no explanation whatsoever before doing things. Also shoutout lighting for making dt look like he has eyeliner on. Cunty. A little sexy for a man in a court wig tbh. I like it
The meep betrayal was THE craziest plot twist. I was NOT expecting that, esp after all the interviews talking abt how cute the meep was from the comics.
Donna is so right to be mad abt not knowing who the dr is. Bro is really edging her memory 😭😂. Wish they had more classic “10 looking sad and conflicted” shots. Would’ve added punch.
Rose is way too calm through all of this. Girl act more scared
The meep is scary fr. Why is everyone so calm - they’re being taken hostage by a rabid chihuahuasquirrelalien. Genuinely they need to look more scared, why are they just standing there looking mildly concerned
There needed to be a slight pause or change in the music to reintroduce Shirley. Reveals like that necessitate some sort of shift in the flow of the backing music. Otherwise her appearance doesn’t seem as surprising and punchy - it’s just like another leaf in the stream
Sylvia is really legging it for an older woman damn. Good for her.
Great slide dt that was sick. 10/14 stays moving so much more athletically than all the other drs fr. And honestly? I soooooo fuck with that. Stunt on em girl
More pacing (time) is again needed for the control room scene. These are phenomenal actors!! Give them time to let their words hit you!!!! Punches don’t mean anything without follow-through so give them room to follow through!!! The pauses between dialogue are clipped. There needs to be no music, just a lot of empty audio space for them to punctuate.
“No you are NOT!!!!! WHY DOES IT HAVE TO BE THIS??!!!” and then that sad sad loving look. Ugh. Dt is too good. GIVE HIM MORE TIME!!!!’nn
The winter solider programming is so unserious to me wth. I wish they’d done the physical touch thing instead but whatevs. Also how come it took Donna so long to remember all this shit when it took her like 20 secs to remember it all when the whole master thing was happening? Was it time apart? Getting used to alien stuff over the years?
Donna talking abt her money before anything else is SO funny. Real.
Using the classic 11 music for Donna popping off is like - I missed that theme but she should’ve had smth from s4
The “it’s working!!!!!!!” with the hands in the air is so 11 lmao
Ugh again with the PACING!!!!! THEIR FRIENDSHIP MEANT SO MUCH!!!!! THEY NEEDED SO MUCH MORE TIME TO BE EMOTIONAL TOGETHER!!!!!!! THAT COULDVE BEEN HER FUCKING DYING FR FR AND THEY WERE LIKE “🤷🏽… damn that’s craaaaaaaaazy”
They should’ve had the rose reveal thing running in cuts at the same time as the rest of the scene, not as a quick flashback imo. That would’ve made their explaining everything less cheesy cuz it would’ve felt more like them realizing than them explaining things to us
“Jammy”? Was that a reference I missed or smth? I don’t get why that was in there
The superhero pose at the end with the meep… 🙄 be so fr lol
The music CONTINUES to piss me off
The “male presenting time lord” is so stupid. Isn’t the whole point that gender and sex don’t dictate anything fr, especially belief? Like what if maybe the dr just didn’t get the whole thing abt letting but they did because of perspective differences, not gender differences?? He was a woman like 4 hrs ago!! And the dr, especially 10/14, is known to be a stubborn sonofabitch. It makes more sense to have it be a critique abt his character (which is a classic Donna thing to do) than some weird commentary abt womanhood. But anyway.
Also I’m sorry but rose’s character needed to be much more emotive throughout.
The dr and Donna needed MUCH more of a proper reunion hug processing type beat after she got her memories back.
“But not him” LMAO I know 10s arrogant ass took offense
Love 14 running around the tardis!! but almost wish he was in 13’s so ncuti could get his own experience
THIS is where they need a good hug - “it killed me it killed me it killed me” goddamn it Donna put that mug down and hug him!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GIVE THEM TIME TO REUNITE PROPERLY FFS!!!!!!! WHERE WAS THEIR TENROSE REUNION MOMENT????????!!!!!!?
I love how Donna is so serious abt being a mum. Like obvs she would be but I just love seeing that. She always had so much love in her heart, I’m so happy she has a kid
Ok no way a spilled coffee made all that fire be so ffr 🙄❤️
Overall: needed music and pacing adjustments but was otherwise really good!!!! RTD + team will figure it out - I have hope. So happy to see dt and ct together again - I know the next episode with just the two of them is gonna be great. Dt and RTD said it’s gonna be very different from other dr who eps so I’m nervous but also excited!!!!! Ugh so good to see them back when they’re older 🥹❤️ and so happy dr who is being so forward abt trans rep in this political climate. *Really* great storyline too - loved it. Just a shame they couldntve made the episode 1h20m instead so there’d be space for everything.
#dw#doctor who#doctor who special#star beast#the star beast#dr who#doctor who spoilers#dr who spoilers#dw spoilers
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The First Post
The first entry in a brand new journal always feels the hardest to write. It's setting the tone for the rest of the journal. I always feel the need to make it perfect, to make a good impression upon whoever it is that finds themselves flipping open its covers. But no one's ever going to read what I write, not even I reread the things that I write.
But this entry feels easy to write. Maybe it's because I've been mulling over it's contents for the better half of a year. I'm tired of having no one to express these feelings with and I'm running out of space for them to hide. So I guess this is me going on a rant as much as it is me documenting my voiceover journey.
I wasn't expecting pursuing voiceover to be easy. I always knew it was going to be hard, but I never expected things to be quite this difficult. Learning the lingo, about acting and bringing words to life, about recording equipment and software, was difficult, but nothing will ever compare to the difficulty of trying to change in an environment that refuses to let you.
Growing up in an Asian immigrant household, we adhered to many of the stereotypes including disdain for pursuit of anything that isn't doctor or dentist. I always enjoyed the performing arts and I also knew that it was something that I'd never be allowed to do. I think I did enjoy science, but at this point, I'm struggling to tell what are things I truly feel and believe and what are things I told myself I feel and believe because that is what society expects of me. Not wanting to completely give up on my likes and hopes for myself, but also not wanting to be a complete disappoint to my father, I pursued a degree in chemistry in hopes of becoming a cosmetic chemist. Sure, chemistry is no doctor or dentistry, but at least it's not humanities. And besides, it was just going to be a stepping stone for what I actually want to do. Once I finish school, get a job, and start making money, that's when I'll be able to actually pursue what I want to do.
And for a while, it really felt like it was working. I finished undergrad, completed a cosmetic science certificate course, and landed a job in cosmetics manufacturing straight out of school. Sure, I was still living at home and making next to no money, but it's something that I can work with. I started to take online voiceover classes, built up savings to upgrade my recording equipment, and attended improv class where I met some amazing friends and even started dating a guy that I met there. It felt like, for the first time in my life, things were finally starting to come together and that I was going to make this happen. That all the suffering, the lifetime of being domineered by a narcissist was finally coming to an end.
Maybe things were a little too good. As quickly as things felt like they were all falling into place, it all started falling apart. Out of the blue, I get dumped. I was reminded that changing departments doesn't change the fact that it still belongs under the same toxic umbrella. I was felt up by some guy under the pretense that he wanted to sketch me. It felt like there was simply no getting better.
I tried to stay positive. I went to my first in-person VO intensive workshop. And it was amazing. I got to meet so many talented actors, established voice actors, audio engineers, and casting/directors. I learned so much that day and felt a renewed energy in wanting to make this work. But that only lasts for so long when your stuck in an endless cycle of mental abuse, being forced to repeatedly jump between toxic environments.
I wanted to change, I knew I needed change, but nothing was allowing it. I tried moving out, and thought I had found the perfect place, but that fell through. I tried applying for new jobs, but all I got back were rejections or silence. I went on a two-week vacation to Italy with my best friend, experienced more racism there than I ever had my whole life, and came back questioning everything that I know about friendship.
I wish there could be someone to hold me and tell me that things will be alright, but the only person I have is me, and I'm not capable of giving myself that kind of assurance. I feel like I should reach out to my sister or my friends, but they're so hard to get a hold of, and I wouldn't want to burden them with my shit. And at this point, I don't know if I'm capable of that sort of vulnerability anymore. Being too vulnerable gets you hurt and pushes people away, and if I push them away, then I will have literally nobody.
Friendships and meaningful relationships aren't the only things that require vulnerability. Acting requires vulnerability. Lots of it. To be successful at acting requires you to be vulnerable, to allow yourself to feel all kinds of feelings and express and show those feelings, and allowing others to feel them with you. But how am I supposed to do that when every cell in my body, every person around me, every place that I'm in is letting me know that it's dangerous to do so, that being vulnerable and emotional quite literally puts my safety into question?
People can make drastic decisions and take actions that they never thought they would be able to until they are backed into a corner. I am backed into a corner. I either do or I die. Come February, I will be on the other side of the world on working holiday. Maybe it's too extreme of a reaction. But it's the quickest way I can think of to get myself away from this place and to give myself a fighting chance at doing something I love. And maybe, I can finally start living life for myself.
#voiceover#voiceover journey#voice actress#imcynthiali#blog#blog post#vo blog#acting#depression#voice acting blog
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AMBITION “Through the Valley of the Shadow of Death” [ 4.10 ]♮PART 1, half 1
RECAP
Over a series of shots from “Dear John,” Farkle setting fire to the imaginary museum of his relationship and watching it go up in flames:
Lucas, voiceover: Previously, on AMBITION…
That’s right, in case you missed it -- Farkle and Jordan are no more. Their final split was the result of just one of many personal reassessments that occurred last episode, as the ensemble evaluated where they are now and where they hope to go from here.
While Yindra finally met with the manager and producer Reese Dalton-King and hesitantly began her descent into the competitive world of girl groups, Maya discovered her dream duo of a producing team may not be as rosy as she thought. They have apparently diverging opinions on what path her career should take, which leaves her debating how much of her vision she’s willing to negotiate. Zay is facing similar friction, his ambition ruffling more feathers than winning him fans as he juggles what the best path forward could be -- with or without Turner Academy.
Zay: Everyone is always throwing their opinion at me. Everyone always has a damn opinion. I am working my ass off to make this thing work, and yet no one is fucking satisfied with it. Everyone keeps talking at me like I’m deflecting, or acting out of my ass, or making some big mistake. Well, I’m not. I’m doing the sensible thing.
If you say so, Zay. At the same time, Vanessa got a wake-up call of her own when she was called out by her professor for her lack of identity, which prompted a long-time-coming confrontation with her parents (particularly her father). Thankfully, she had the calm refuge of hanging out with Nigel while she helped him with an assignment -- and ended up giving him some potentially life-changing advice of his own to go for transferring out of NYU if that’s what he decides he really wants.
Vanessa: Take it from me, trying to do things the way everyone else wants you to is a recipe for disaster.
As the reigning king of that methodology, Charlie spent most of the week spending time with his mother in an effort to figure out why she’d grown cold with him since his return. As it turns out, it was more good news than bad -- he’d just done so much growing in the time he was away, Eleanor wasn’t sure where she’d fit in his life now that he’s back and so full of confidence. But they were able to meet in the middle, Charlie reaffirming their relationship and its sacred importance.
Charlie: I will always want you to be there, mom. Eleanor: My perfect boy. Charlie: Not perfect. Just… trying. Just me.
Isa didn’t have so much luck in the family department, an ongoing clash with the paparazzi bringing havoc to the MacNamara clan in a way they’d never endured before. Convinced they were doing more harm than good, Isa fled the scene -- and found shelter in the familiar embrace of old friends (or ex-friends, depending). Conveniently just in time, as Farkle dumped his soul-sucking boyfriend.
But one relationship proved itself plenty resilient against the odds. Riley and Lucas came back together after a busy week and a strong showing at opening night of Ghost: The Musical, finding home with each other as they always do… and Lucas took the time to make one affirmation abundantly, adamantly clear.
Lucas: I love you, Riley.
He may not say much, by nature, but for Riley, he’ll say it as many times as she wants.
But the lavender haze of love and comfort couldn’t last forever. There’s too much impending change, too many rising stakes, for the tide to remain low much longer. When Riley answered a call from Grace and called Lucas back into the room, their eye contact sending a message with no words necessary, that reminder was made loud and clear.
We’re cresting into the final episodes of the season, and the time for talking is growing short. Big decisions must be made, and emotional revelations demand to be felt.
And for some, the clock is ticking down on what meaningful time there is left. When it finally runs out, what’ll be left behind? What more is there to come? Are they ready for it -- can they be?
Only one way to find out. Can you hear it?
Tick… tick… tick tick… tick tick…
End of recap.
Over black, our first entry into the episode is a sound.
A heartbeat. A metronome of sorts, the most natural rhythm there is. It keeps up a faint momentum -- thump thump, thump thump -- as lights rise…
INT. IMAGINATION SPACE - AUDITORIUM - NIGHT
On a plain, dark stage. It’s a near replica of Adams Academy, only there’s no house to look out into. No audience to perform for. The edges of the wings and stage are cast in perpetual shadow, and the world in front of and behind the lit stage seems to go on forever. The set is pointedly simple -- just thirteen acting blocks arranged in windows along the rear of the stage, painted black.
The angle shifts, seemingly nothing but dust filtering through the light… then RILEY MATTHEWS steps into frame, in profile. She shines under the light.
And as the heartbeat quietly tapers out, she begins to sing.
Song Cue ♫ ♪ “God Only Knows” as performed by Mollyxo || Performed by AMBITION Ensemble
[ Lyrics specific to characters -- follow along here! ]
Riley takes the first couple of lines, the camera shifting to face her head on. We slowly start to ease out as the next vocalist picks up the slack, a light coming up to illuminate ASHER GARCIA standing on one of the acting blocks to the back and right of Riley. Then ISA DE LA CRUZ, when it's their turn, between them and adjacent to Riley.
As we continue to widen our lens, it becomes clear that almost all of the acting blocks are occupied, darkened silhouettes standing on each like Riley, Asher, and Isa. As they take their solo lines, a ray of light shines on them to allow them to join the somber picture -- ZAY BABINEAUX. FARKLE MINKUS. VANESSA JOHNSON. CHARLIE GARDNER. While each ensemble member gets their solo moment to sing, the rest support with delicate a capella harmonies, filling the otherwise vacuous soundscape.
YINDRA AMINO gets her moment, then MAYA HART. Finally, NIGEL CHEY, who brings up light not only on himself but on JADE BEAMON on the block next to him. Characteristically, she doesn’t have a solo, but she quietly sings along with the other harmonies.
All of the lights are up now, giving us the chance to assess the ensemble properly. They’re all dressed in black, semi-formal wear, just with slight variations to each look that makes it unique to the individual (in fact, there’s so much costuming detail and specificity in this episode, it got its very own appendix to supplement this chapter). There is a sense of uniformity as they harmonize together, staring straight out into the darkness.
Only two acting blocks remain empty, the one in the front and center between Farkle and Riley, and one in the back row next to Asher. However, that last one isn’t entirely empty -- a lone six-string guitar leans against the front of it, a black beanie draped over its neck.
The center empty block makes sense soon enough, once we’ve expanded our view enough to get a full picture of the stage. While all of the singers are facing the same direction, it appears they’re actually facing the back of the stage -- the apron is jutting out behind them, where a lone figure is sitting on the edge by himself. By the time Nigel finishes his solo, and they transition into repeating the closing chorus, focus flips around and allows us to see from the house perspective…
Where LUCAS JAMES FRIAR is looking out into nothing. The camera eases in towards him while the harmonies peter out, the rest of the ensemble with their backs to him. He sits still, numb. Not singing, seemingly not hearing. By the time the camera stops, close on his face, we can see the slightest traces of conflict in his expression. Flickers of anger. Confusion. Desperation. Grief.
Although we can’t see her anymore, it’s Riley’s voice who carries the final word.
God only knows what I’d be without you…
Then, the scenery around Lucas slowly starts to shift, although he remains still and grim…
INT. HOSPITAL - WAITING AREA - DAY
The darkness fades into a lighter hue, becoming the off-white wash of hospital walls. Lucas is no longer sitting on the stage, but in an uncomfortable looking chair, which we can see as the camera pans back out again. Other noises begin to populate the soundscape, as if we’re emerging from underwater -- footsteps, urgent chatter, the hum of fluorescent lighting. To his right, GRACE FRIAR sits, equally solemn.
On his other side, Riley is there, restless but quiet. She keeps one hand resting lightly on his forearm on the armrest between them, but doesn’t say anything more.
Where they are now, waiting for the inevitable, there’s not much to say.
Cue title sequence.
INT. HOSPITAL - WAITING AREA - DAY
Things pick up right where they left off, Lucas, Grace, and Riley waiting in somber silence. They straighten up when a DOCTOR emerges from the double doors and makes their way over to them. Grace and Lucas both get to their feet.
The doctor mirrors their serious expressions, though laced with a hint of professional sympathy.
Doctor: We’ve gotten him situated, hopefully made him a bit more at ease. The respirator will help with breathing, though we will try to alternate him off of it and see if there’s any improvement.
But they don’t sound optimistic. Although they’ll offer support as long as it’s feasible…
Doctor: There isn’t much more to be done. All we can do is keep him comfortable and hope for the best.
“Hope” isn’t exactly the diagnosis you want from a medical professional, but Grace and Lucas don’t comment. They don’t seem capable of it at the moment, somewhat in shock.
The good news is that for the grim circumstances, Kenneth himself seems in good spirits. That’s what the doctor claims, anyway, before inviting them back to see him and discuss next steps. Grace nods, exchanging a glance with Lucas to silently question whether or not he wants to come along. Without a word, he gives her a subtle head shake. She can take this one.
Grace does so, not objecting as she lets the doctor lead her back through the double doors. Lucas watches them go, features as difficult to read as ever, though decidedly not in good spirits himself.
INT. MACNAMARA HOME - LIVING ROOM - DAY
Back on the west coast, the MacNamaras are grappling with a different kind of family drama. ZACHARY MACNAMARA and RUBY MACNAMARA are more than stressed about Isa’s sudden disappearance, the latter pacing the carpet as they try to determine what could’ve happened. The situation was unideal, as they all know, but they didn’t ever expect they would just bounce.
Ruby: I know things were high pressure, and no one was at their best. But I thought we were handling it well enough -- I thought we were tackling it together. I don’t know what could’ve happened that made them think breaking off on their own was the best move.
From his slouched perch in the recliner, LOUIS MACNAMARA grows sheepish. But he says nothing, crossing his arms and sliding further into his seat. MILO MACNAMARA, on the other hand, can’t keep from talking. He’s very upset about Isa’s absence, confused and concerned and wondering what went wrong. What if something happens to them?
Milo: I don’t get why they would leave. Did I do something wrong?
Ruby gives him a sympathetic smile, coming to sit with him on the couch. She assures him that no, this has nothing to do with him. Any of them, likely. It’s a series of unfortunate events, that’s all. They’ll work it out.
Milo: Isa can’t stay out there all alone. They need to come home. [ worried ] What if they can’t find their way back? What if they’re lost?
Somehow, that’s not a concern Zachary has, for all his other ones. Despite the gravity of the situation, he isn’t worried about Isa being on their own.
Zachary: I have a feeling I know exactly where they’ve ended up.
INT. L.A. APARTMENT - DAY
The zipper closes on a hard-sided baby pink suitcase with a flourish, Maya getting to her feet and wiping her hands of the task. She is excited as she picks up the luggage and rolls it towards the door, declaring that she’s all set to go. Farkle eyes her assembled baggage from where he’s munching on cereal at the table, raising his eyebrows in amusement.
Farkle: Think you’ve got enough to last you there? It’s only a weekend trip, you know. Maya: Yes, I’m aware, but you never want to be caught without the right outfit for any occasion. I’m off to make music, not a fashion emergency.
As she goes on to explain the details to Farkle, we learn that she’s going on a weekend songwriting trip with Melissa and Justin. The latter has a lake house where he often hosts these kind of workshops for their clients, and some of the best hits have come out of it. Now that “Haute Stuff” is on deck and ready to go, the studio has greenlit her EP, so she’s going to need some banging new material to go on it.
Maya: Mainly, I just take it as a sign that they’re taking me seriously, which is all I want. Farkle: With two hits in a row and another on the way, they’d be insane not to. Have they given any of the demos you shared a listen yet? Maya: No, but I’m hoping this trip might offer opportunities for just that. I’m open to crafting new stuff, obviously, but if we hit a road block and need to visit something with a foundation…
Even so, she’s not holding her breath. She figures her original stuff will have to wait until the next project, once her EP has proven a success.
Before Farkle can object to that perspective, their conversation halts when Isa emerges from Farkle’s bedroom. They all glance at each other, not quite sure what to say -- it’s been a while since the three of them had to interact in such close quarters like this.
Which sounds like the perfect reason to get going. Maya claims she best be off, thanking Farkle for letting her borrow the family car to get to the studio. He nods and wishes her luck, which she accepts with a salute and air kiss. Isa doesn’t interrupt, hanging in Farkle’s doorway until Maya has made her exit.
Then, it’s just the two of them. Farkle turns in his seat and offers them a shy smile, which Isa returns. He asks if they slept okay, which breaks the ice enough to let them feel as though they can venture into the rest of the apartment.
Isa: Fine. Well, enough, given the circumstances. Sorry again for just showing up out of the blue like that. Farkle: Please, it’s fine. Like I said, our door is always open. I’m glad you felt like you could crash here when you needed to. Isa: It was definitely appreciated. Though you really didn’t need to let me take your room. I could’ve handled the couch.
Farkle waves off the concern. It’s not like he can’t stomach a night or two on the couch, and they’re the guest. Isa scoffs at that, sliding into the chair opposite him.
Isa: “Guest.” Sounds so fancy. Since when did we become old enough to be hosts and shit? Farkle: Beats me. I still perpetually feel like I’m scampering feral around Triple A and stealing people’s retainers.
Isa cracks up, earning a smile from Farkle. It is a weird time to be alive, in the collegiate years torn between youth and adulthood…
With its many varied challenges. Still smiling, Isa softens somewhat, braving the question of how Farkle is doing. With Jordan and everything…
Isa: I’m so sorry things ended like that. And that I showed up like, two seconds later. Seriously, my timing historically could not be worse. Farkle: No, it’s okay. No worries. Honestly, the distraction was welcome. Better to go into problem-solver mode to help a friend than wallow in my post-split misery and make myself feel worse. Anyway, don’t see why you’re apologizing. You were one of the ones telling me he was full of it. You should be saying I told you so. Isa: I mean, you’re not wrong. But that doesn’t mean it makes me happy to hear it. You could do better, but I don’t like that you had to get hurt first to get there.
But c’est la vie. Farkle shrugs. He shouldn’t be surprised.
Farkle: Given my track record with… just about everything, it’s only fitting. Like, of course my first relationship would be a clusterfuck with a megalomaniac that damages all my other relationships in the process. Would’ve been out of character for it to be anything but a disaster. [ running a hand through his hair ] Actually, the mere prospect of anyone wanting to get with me in the first place was joke enough. That should’ve been my first clue.
Isa frowns, not liking the self-deprecation. Especially not when they fundamentally, fervently could not agree less… but that’s not something they need to get into right now.
Farkle spares them the chance anyway, changing the subject to their melodrama. Now that they’re here, do they want to talk about what caused them to make a great escape and show up on their doorstep? They got the basics out of the way yesterday night, but surely there’s more to the story… but Isa brushes him off. They’d rather not talk about the family saga.
Isa: You know what? I’m finally actually here, and we’re both in the same fucking place, so let’s just enjoy that for once. Okay? I just want to focus on the fact that we can finally hang out. Forget the other bullshit.
Farkle chuckles, a bit bashful, but he’s not going to complain. Lord knows he has plenty to ignore right now too. So he’s all game for just getting to chill, like old times, though he’s not exactly sure what that entails. He doesn’t have any bright ideas. Isa scoffs.
Isa: Nothing? You don’t have any suggestions. [ off his shrug ] You’ve lived here for over six months, and you don’t have any favorite spots? Any local haunts? Do you just float from here to campus every day and let that be that? Farkle: I mean, yes, to a degree. That’s called being a student when not living two blocks from your college. Isa: Blah, blah. Farkle: But otherwise… I don’t know, I haven’t had much time to explore. Maya and I did a little, when we first got here, but then it was school. And rehearsal. [ a beat ] I did some things with Jordan, but it was mostly stuff he was into, so…
Jordan dictated so much of his free time these last few months… and now it’s all tainted anyway. By him; by them, or the death of it. So yeah, he’s got nothing.
Isa shakes their head. That just won’t do. Guess they know what they’re doing instead.
Isa: We’re gonna go out there, and we’re gonna make some new memories. Dump that old crap out and make room, because oh, we’re gonna get out there. We’re gonna explore. Farkle, amused: Yeah? Isa: Like Dora the fucking explorer, you and I. Let’s see this town the way you were supposed to. [ quirking an eyebrow ] You in, or what?
Well, when they look at him like that, playful and challenging and energized… like he could ever say no. Farkle makes a face, but then relents, nodding with a grin. Isa mirrors it.
INT. YINDRA’S APARTMENT - DAY
Yindra is also packing a bag, but not for a songwriting retreat. She’s made it through the first cuts of the girl group project, and now, they’re bringing the finalists on a weekend excursion to continue seeking the best combination for a powerhouse group. They’re being quite hush-hush about the whole thing though, for a bit of mystery and excitement, so Yindra’s intrigue is tempered with a fair amount of apprehension.
Still, she tries to keep calm. She convinces herself it’ll be okay, talking aloud as she finishes packing. Jade and DARIUS AMINO listen along, encouraging her positive outlook.
Darius: Just try to have fun. It should be a unique experience, if nothing else. Jade: And show them how fantastic you are. Don’t forget that part. Yindra: Right. You’re so right. It’ll be fine. Totally. [ a beat, then again ] No, yeah, it’ll be fine.
Jade also points out the potential in this trip beyond the girl group thing.
Jade: Maybe you’ll find some kindred spirits out of it. I mean, that’s kind of the whole thing, isn’t it? A bunch of talented, driven ladies coming together for this opportunity. Darius: That’s a good point. Sounds like potential friends in the making to me.
Or potential nightmares. But won’t know until she sees for herself. Yindra takes a deep breath and manages a smile, aiming for optimistic. They’re right. She’ll have fun. She’ll be fine.
INT. HOSPITAL - WAITING AREA - DAY
Not much optimism to spare at the hospital. Lucas is chatting quietly with Riley in their seats, exchanging soft murmurs. Their attention is drawn to the lobby doors when Asher walks through, though, with Charlie on his heels. The latter is carrying Lucas’s backpack on his shoulder, having brought stuff from the apartment he might need.
Lucas gets up immediately as they approach, shocked to see Asher. He asks what the hell he’s doing here -- shouldn’t he be in class? And hundreds of miles away?
Asher: I drove down when Riley texted. Dylan wanted to be here too, but he has like three midterms this week, so I convinced him to hang back until he finishes those. He agreed, but only if I passed this on.
Asher steps forward and gives Lucas a hug, squeezing him tight. Lucas stands frozen, not sure how to react, still unable to process the fact that he’s even here. When he steps away and lets him go, Riley rises to join their circle.
Asher: Anyway, he’ll be here as soon as his exams are done. Maybe sooner if he comes up with a compelling excuse to get his last midterm delayed -- I told him not to, but that’s never stopped him before. Lucas: Well, tell him not to again. He doesn’t need to do all that. He shouldn’t feel like he has to rush down here because of me.
In fact, Lucas doesn’t get why any of them are there. This isn’t their problem, and it’s just miserable bullshit, so they should save themselves the angst. All three of them open their mouths to argue against that -- with varying mixes of exasperation and empathy -- but they’re interrupted when a NURSE passes by their little crowd. She doubles back and informs them that they certainly can’t have this many guests back here at one time, especially if they aren’t immediate family.
Nurse: During this time frame, only one non-familial guest at a time. The rest of you can come back during regular visiting hours.
Charlie apologizes on their behalf, all of them staying quiet until the nurse walks away. Then Lucas scoffs, stuffing his hands in his pockets.
Lucas: It’s fine anyway, because like I said, I don’t need any of you to be here. Save yourselves the time and the trouble and go home.
Lucas turns and skulks off, retreating back to the other side of the waiting area. Charlie and Riley exchange an uncertain look, concerned; Asher resists rolling his eyes at the theatrics, waiting until Lucas is out of earshot to continue the conversation. His best friend getting all huffy and defensive when on the emotional knife’s edge is nothing new.
Asher: We’ll take turns. That’ll be for the best, anyway, so we can accommodate all our schedules. Charlie: [ with a nod, to Riley ] That way you won’t have to miss class or performances.
To be frank, Riley hasn’t thought about either of those things for even a second since last night. She manages a nod.
INT. CAR - MOVING - DAY
Yindra is in an Uber with REESE DALTON-KING, who is giving her some final advice before she goes off on this mini-weekend chance to impress. Be charismatic and friendly, but not fake. Be at the top of her game, and don’t get distracted. Don’t get too attached to anyone there, because there’s no guarantee any of them will come back for the final round -- including her.
Peachy keen. Yindra takes a deep breath, nodding and claiming she’s got it. It’s not her first rodeo with cutthroat competition at least. Reese offers her a smile, genuine, and assures her he has plenty of faith in her abilities. He’ll be shocked if she doesn’t make it through.
All there is left to do is find out. The car pulls to a stop and Reese gets out first, holding open the door for Yindra to climb out.
EXT. JUPITER MUSIC - DAY
A small crowd has gathered outside the headquarters for Jupiter Music, where other young women are arriving with their family, guardians, agents, etc. While some are sharing warm goodbyes with family, others are getting last-minute tips or hype from their team. No one is pretending this isn’t one of the last tests barring them from a major opportunity. Perhaps one of the only ones they’ll ever get, with the unpredictability of this industry.
As Reese walks with Yindra towards check-in, another FEMALE AGENT suddenly catches his attention. She’s standing with another young woman, a few years older than Yindra with a brassier build but undeniably as pretty. This is RONICA LEWIS (24).
Before either girl can say a word, or really size each other up, Ronica’s agent says something snarky to Reese that makes it more than evident they have beef. Is he really planning to put forth another wannabe starlet, when he should know by now that she’s just going to blow his picks out of the water?
Yindra: Um, wannabe -- Reese: It’s an open call. You should know, with tenure in this industry as long as you’ve had it, that anyone is welcome to throw their clients into the ring. Agent: Yes, well, one would hope for an outcome of actually booking one of those clients, but it’s cute to see you keep trying. [ to Yindra, full of irony ] Best of luck, babe.
It doesn’t seem at a glance like Ronica agrees with the behavior of her agent, but it’s hard to tell. Reese nudges Yindra along before either of them can retort, leaving the catty agent behind. Clearly, the stakes of having a successful entry into this group are bigger than just personal. There’s more pressure than Yindra might’ve imagined.
When she asks about that exchange, though, Reese brushes it off, going back to his professional demeanor. That agent just has a history of scooping his best opportunities -- typical industry bullshit. Yindra shouldn’t let it get to her. Just keep her head in the game, and eyes on the prize.
One of the organizers of the retreat whistles to get people’s attention, directing everyone to one of the busses parked along the curb. One bus for the ladies, another for their teams. These will take them to the secret location of where this retreat is starting, and reveal what the big treat of the event will be.
As the girls start to shuffle towards the bus, one of the taller of the pack -- ALEENA SAYYID (22), a beautiful, striking Muslim with deep brown eyes and a jaw that could cut glass -- offers a pithy remark as an aside.
Aleena: Anyone else feel like the odds of us all getting trafficked just shot up significantly? No? All right then.
Yindra can’t decide if she wants to laugh, or run full speed in the other direction. But she dutifully marches towards the bus with the rest.
INT. SHUTTLE BUS - DAY
Yindra steps up into the bus, quickly scanning and searching for a place to settle. There’s no telling how long this bus ride might be, and assessing where to sit amongst all these unfamiliar faces -- competitive faces at that -- feels like Minesweeper.
One girl who is obviously younger than Yindra, waif-like and pretty, is chatting too animatedly to be tolerable for long bouts of time. Pass. A couple rows behind her, a light-skinned girl with intense eyes and a boast-worthy afro of curls shoots Yindra an unimpressed glare. Also pass.
She doesn’t get much more time to decide, as Aleena nearly bumps into her from on her way up the steps behind her.
Aleena: Yikes. Traffic jam? Yindra: Uh, sorry. Sorry --
Yindra takes the least risky move, surging forward and plopping down into a seat next to a thin blonde with a trendy bleached pixie cut and cute, round cheeks. This is HEATHER REED (20). She appears cool enough, which Yindra knows is no guarantee of civility, but right now she’ll have to take her chances.
She raises her eyebrows at her sudden landing, slightly amused.
Heather: Hi to you too. Yindra: Yeah, hi. Sorry. Heather: No biggie. I’m Heather.
She holds out a hand. Yindra shakes it.
Yindra: Yindra. Heather: Pretty name. I like it. Memorable, too.
Before Yindra can thank her, they’re accosted by the waifish girl. She plops into the seat in front of them and leans over the back to chat. She appears to be making the rounds, introducing herself to everyone and anyone. Her friendliness is nice, but it has that practiced edge to it that reeks of young professional rather than genuine socialite.
Ladies and gentlemen, meet TABITHA FLORES (18).
Tabitha: Hi there. I’m Tabitha.
She offers a hand to both Heather and Yindra, who take turns shaking it.
Tabitha: What brings you both here? I was looped in by my management -- that seems to be the most common path so far. Though of course, I can’t forget to mention the execs who put in a good word for me. I did a couple recurring spots on a Netflix show or two. It’s NBD.
Humble brag. Neat. It does what it’s supposed to do, though, which is casually drop that this girlie is already walking in with a few industry credits under her belt.
Tabitha: Great experience, but singing is my true passion, so this feels like the right move for me. I actually was offered a leading role for a new show they’re developing on Paramount+, but it’s like, some reboot of a franchise from ten years ago that no one asked for. Ew, right? So I’m placing big bets this’ll be the much smarter trajectory.
As if she’s already a shoo-in for a place. She sure can talk enough to fill all five spots -- her momentum is only interrupted when another hopeful bumps into her from behind. This girl is a walking Fabletics ad, tan skin just slightly too sleek to be natural and clearly a master of make-up.
Madysin: Were we talking about invites? I got mine from the label itself. Not to brag or anything. Tabitha: Oh. [ tightly ] That’s nice. Heather: How did you manage to swing that? Madysin: It’s all in the numbers, babe. I’ve been building my TikTok following for exactly this reason. Once you’ve got the goods, the offers just start rolling in. Admittedly, though, this is the first one I’m excited about. You can only fake enthusiasm for a diet tea so much.
The girl with the afro rolls her eyes, scoffing and crossing her arms. Not impressed. This is SLOANE SHARPE (17). The TikTok sensation keeps chatting, fluffing her hair.
Madysin: Anyway, I’m pretty sure it was my viral dance videos that got their attention. They went like, mega viral. I’m actually pretty well-known on the platform -- Kylie Jenner and Nikki Haley have both stitched with me, so I have a pretty wide base. Name’s Madysin May, handle “at madysinmayi.” You may have heard of me. Sloane, flatly: Never.
Yindra shrugs, also unfamiliar. MADYSIN MAY (21) doesn’t seem fazed, continuing her trek towards the back of the bus. As Tabitha spins around and finds a new girl to chat up, Heather turns and gives Yindra a wide-eyed look just dripping with amused judgment.
Heather: What bus did we just board? Crazy town?
Yindra can’t help but laugh, though she keeps it quiet. At least one other person here doesn’t seem like a pre-selected industry baby or pathological headcase.
The executive boards the bus and tells all the ladies that they’ll be on their way now, so everyone get pumped! If crazy town is where they’re headed, there’s no turning back now…
INT. GLOBAL BEAT - OFFICES - DAY
JOSH MATTHEWS is at his desk in the office box, seemingly hard at work sifting through his inbox when Maya emerges from the elevators with her things. She can’t pass up the opportunity to pick on him, quietly picking up her suitcase to sneak up on him from behind. Once she’s behind him, she playfully rolls the suitcase into the back of his chair, startling him and causing him to nearly spill his coffee.
Maya: Whoops! Fender bender.
Josh whips around, on defense, but he relaxes somewhat when he sees it’s just her. He’s surprised that she’s elected to talk to him out of the blue, and that she has all this baggage with her, but he finds he’s not opposed to the surprise.
When he asks what she’s doing there rolling her things into his personal space, she excitedly explains that she’s going on the songwriting retreat. Josh nods.
Josh: So you’re the talent they’re taking this time. They usually keep it vague when I book it in their calendar. Maya: Yep. The label is very keen on “Haute Stuff,” even though it hasn’t dropped yet, so they’ve greenlit us to start work on putting together an EP. No announcements yet, so keep it hush-hush --
Josh raises a hand in surrender then puts a finger to his lips, signaling his lips are sealed.
Maya: But an EP will need songs, so that’s what we’re gonna make this weekend. Pop domination is so close, it’s like you can almost taste it.
Might be getting a bit ahead of ourselves there, but the enthusiasm is infectious. Josh can’t help but crack a smile. He crosses his arms and leans back against his desk. He figures the retreat should be easy breezy, considering she already has a handful of demos, right? If they just pull from those, they hardly will need to break their backs over the weekend.
Although he’s paying her a compliment, Maya recedes somewhat at the mention of her personal portfolio. Given the reception she got from Melissa and Justin -- which is to say, none at all -- she seems to have cooled on the demos.
Maya: I think they’ll want to craft some brand new material for this breakout. You know, be involved from the ground up. [ with a shrug ] Besides, they weren’t my best anyway. Best to leave them in the dustbin, I bet.
She plays off nonchalant about it, but there’s just the slightest of cracks in her facade that lets the disappointment shine through. Josh is confused regardless -- he’s not going to puff her up without merit, but he finds it hard to believe all of her demos were compost material. Given her instincts for mining gold with “On My Grind (O.M.G.)” and “LolliPop,” the odds that there’s nothing worth building on in a portfolio full of her work sounds off.
He doesn’t get the chance to question her, though, as JUSTIN MILLER emerges from his office and comes to join them seconds later. He greets Maya with great fanfare and throws an arm around her shoulders, hugging her to his side as he declares victory on their EP greenlight. Maya beams, happy to share in the successful move.
Josh: Congratulations. Justin: Thank you, thank you. Couldn’t have done it without ya, Josh, keeping my life organized and above board.
And producing whole songs for you. Don’t forget that. Justin pats Maya’s head affectionately.
Justin: Now we’ve just got to get this moneymaker upstate and start crafting some bangers. Pop a bottle for us while you’re here, Josh -- it’s gonna be a wild weekend!
One he’s not invited to, in case that wasn’t clear. MELISSA SUZUKI emerges from the office and locks it up, duffle slung over her shoulder. She greets Josh cheerfully as well and tosses him the keys to their offices, telling him to take good care of the place while they’re gone.
Justin: It’s up to you, young padawan. Don’t let us down. Josh: I’ll do my best. Melissa: And now we’ve got to go make some fucking good music. Justin: Hells yeah, baby! Let’s go!
Justin leads the way towards the elevators, a true pep in his step. Melissa rolls her eyes fondly and gives Maya a playful elbow nudge as she follows, letting their client bring up the rear. She follows eagerly, tossing Josh one more jazzed smile over her shoulder as she goes.
Josh manages to return it, giving her a salute to send her on her way. It feels nice to not be bitter anymore, to feel like they’ve bridged their bad start and he can be happy for her. Like he would for Riley -- like she’s another industry niece.
Just would be nice if he got to be in on the excitement too. Instead, he goes back to his work, slumping into his chair and staring at his busy inbox.
INT. CHUBBIES - DAY
Charlie has taken up residency at Chubbies for the afternoon, only a few blocks away from the hospital. He’s working on transcribing some of the journal entries he wrote while abroad into a digital form on his laptop, organizing the thoughts into something more malleable in case he ever wants to do something with it beyond just hiding the journal in his nightstand drawer with his Bible.
When Zay steps through the door and spots Charlie sitting in one of the booths, it looks like he can’t believe his good timing. He can’t hold back his smile as he saunters over to join him, lightly drumming on the table to get his attention once he’s made it in front of him.
Charlie jumps slightly, breaking his concentration to look up, but he brightens naturally when he recognizes who has paid him a visit.
Charlie: Hi. Zay: Hey. Just who I was hoping to see -- I was actually gonna send you a text, but then I just got lucky. Charlie: [ raising his eyebrows ] Color me intrigued.
He gestures to the booth opposite him. Zay happily slides in and takes a seat, leaning forward on his elbows and getting right to it.
Zay: So as you know, my Turner audition is this week. Charlie: Shoot, yeah. Are you feeling good about it? Zay: As I’ll ever be. At this point, it’s kind of a leave it all on the stage sort of thing, so I’m trying not to overthink it. [ moving on ] Anyway, we’re gonna get our official slots later this week, but they’ve given us the venue and window of time for the auditions already. And it doesn’t say anywhere in the fine print that this is a closed door affair, or anything, so… I was hoping you’d come. To see my audition.
Despite his nonchalance, there’s an earnest edge to his delivery that kind of knocks the wind out of Charlie. He’s a bit surprised he even thought to extend the invitation, when he’d expect his mind to be on anything but him right now.
Charlie: Oh. Wow. Zay: I know it’s late notice, sorry. I would’ve asked earlier, but like I said, we just got the deets today. I didn’t want to throw it out there and ask anything of you until I knew it wouldn’t be like, an instant disqualifier to have friends because God forbid we have anyone rooting for us. Charlie: No, for sure. That’s okay. I assume Vanessa’ll be there too? You’re allowed to watch each other’s stuff?
Well… good question, Charlie. Truth is, Zay has no idea whether she will, but based on his own thinking, he has his suspicions.
Zay: Uh, I don’t think so. We’re not exactly all gungho at the moment. Charlie: Oh. [ a beat ] Is everything okay? Zay: No, no, yeah. It’s chill. It’s just -- [ hastily explaining ] so obviously there’s a lot on the line, you know, with the auditions. Transferring. And we both want it, and we get a little competitive, so the impending pressure was kind of putting a strain on things. Charlie: Right. Zay: So we decided it would be best for us to take some space while this was going on, like, not get in each other’s way and let the focus be on the dance. So that way, no matter what happens, we can’t blame one another for the outcome. We’ll do our thing, lay it all out there and not interfere, then once this audition shit is done we can just snap back into place and it’ll all be back to normal. Easy peasy.
Right… although Zay speeds through that explanation like it’s obvious, Charlie has a bit of trouble keeping up. He holds it together well, but there’s more than one moment where slight shifts in his expression betray his bewilderment. Like, okay… sure… probably not how he’d want to handle something like that at this point, if he were in a relationship…
But he’s not, so he holds his tongue.
Zay breezes past the topic, coming back to what he cares about -- the audition. Namely, whether or not Charlie is willing to spare the time to be there.
Zay: It’s totally fine if not, but I figured better to ask than assume. You know I don’t believe in signs or karma or any of that mumbo-jumbo bullshit, but at the same time, I’m not gonna miss a chance to improve my odds if it’s right there in front of me. And based on my track record in the last few years, far more of my wins than my losses have occurred when you just so happened to be in attendance. Charlie, bashful: I mean, I wouldn’t say… Zay: So if it’s at all possible, it would be great to have my good luck charm present for what might be the biggest audition of my life up to this point. Not to mention my best friend who can actually appreciate good dance when he sees it. [ holding his gaze ] So?
Give him a second, Zay, he’s still tingling over the good luck charm comment. But really, what did he think he was going to say? As if he was going to be able to look at Zay, gazing at him hopefully with those brown eyes, and ever say no?
Charlie: Of course. It would be an honor.
There’s just one condition, which is that it depends on timing. Charlie makes clear that he has some important plans already scheduled that same evening, so he might have to dip out early depending on when Zay’s slot is assigned. But he’ll do his best to be there.
Just the promise of his supposed charmed presence is enough for now. Zay grins, lightly smacking the table in triumph.
INT. JOHNSON HOME - DAY
The mood isn’t so jubilant in the Johnson home, despite the same important events looming on the horizon. It appears Vanessa has entered a stalemate with her parents, none of them speaking a word when Vanessa enters the kitchen to grab her lunch before heading off to class. RAY JOHNSON doesn’t even look up from his paper.
ALEXIS JOHNSON does, though, eyeing Vanessa when she’s not looking. There’s a slight frown in her features, a motherly concern that can’t be concealed by the ice that’s spread throughout their home.
Vanessa hardly notices when she finally turns to address them. She keeps it brief, simply informing them of the same details regarding her audition. The date, where it is, that that’s where she’ll be for that stretch of time that evening. She’s not asking for permission, she’s just keeping them in the loop.
She doesn’t wait for a response -- she knows she won’t get one. Ray doesn’t even act as though he heard her, like the words just evaporated into thin air. Alexis keeps her head down as Vanessa passes and heads out the door, then glances after her with that same pensive expression.
INT. CHEY APARTMENT - NIGEL’S BEDROOM - DAY
Nigel appears quite a bit nervous himself that afternoon. He’s been compiling research and information on schools and acting programs in the UK for days now, and he’s finally gotten enough together that he feels confident enough to share with others. There’s a plan, albeit in rough sketches, for how he could make this happen. He could actually try and jump the pond.
But that doesn’t mean he has the nerve to do it. The document he’s working on is titled “Notes for Mom and Dad,” so the hurdle of telling them is clearly foremost on his mind. If he can just find the right way to go about it… if he can just find the guts to open his mouth in the first place…
Executive, pre-lap: Ladies, the best and brightest of your future potential awaits!
EXT. SANTA MONICA - DOCK - DAY
The buses have brought the hopefuls and their management to Santa Monica, where they’re deposited on a private dock. In the not-so-distant background, the famous Pier with its spectacle and ferris wheel add pops of color to the scenery.
Our focus is on this pier, though, where a large, luxurious yacht is waiting for them. Yindra walks with the other girls towards the end of the dock, staring up at the fancy boat with wide eyes. Whatever she was expecting the first year out of high school to look like, she definitely did not have Hollywood cruising on her bingo card.
Big shot executives from Jupiter await them in suits when they arrive, shiny smiles intact. All assembled, there are about fifteen young women gathered for this opportunity, all ranging between 17 - 25 in age. The CEO greets them and reminds them that this is an amazing chance for them to kickstart the rest of their careers. While he speaks, Madysin makes sure to elbow her way to the front and put on her biggest smile.
Jupiter CEO: Although not all of you will be selected to move onto the final round, nor be a part of this future girl-power-powerhouse, we hope you’ll make the most of this weekend and all it has to offer. A chance to get your name and talents in front of a slate of industry professionals, the time to mix with fellow talented women and perhaps make some brand new besties -- and last but not least, have a hell of a lot of fun!
No middle-aged man is capable of saying all that without sounding cheesy as hell, but the idea is there. Everyone applauds, Yindra doing her best to mean it and not let the nerves speak for her.
With that, it’s time to get on board -- literally! Assistants move forward to start ushering the ladies onto the gangway, the executives telling them to wave goodbye to their teams and get ready for a great time.
As Yindra obediently follows, she glances back over her shoulder towards Reese. He gives her a thumbs-up and beam, brimming with confidence. Ignore the others. Show what she’s got. She’s got this.
Can only hope his confidence isn’t misplaced. Yindra returns the smile, signaling she got the message. Then she walks the plank onto the yacht, sealing her fate for the weekend.
INT. YACHT - MAIN FLOOR - DAY
The entrance brings the girls to the main interior room of the yacht, a trendy and modern lounge. It feels somewhat like the house of a reality TV show, with comfy couches, a big TV, and a sound system. To the right, a decently sized kitchen is set-up, though it’s made clear early on they won’t feel the need to use that so often. Most of their meals will be catered for them during the retreat. Beyond the couches, glass doors lead out onto the main upper deck, letting in tons of sunshine and treating them to a gorgeous view of the water.
The rest of the spacious vessel will be unveiled in due time, but for now, they need to go through the check-in process. The organizers direct them accordingly, stating that each of them will briefly step into their privacy booth to record an introductory video. This will be used as a reference for later deliberations. It’s also noted that many of the common areas on the boat have cameras for security (sans the bathrooms and bedrooms, of course).
Staff also takes their belongings, noting that they’ll be taken to their bedrooms, which will be assigned to each girl by the end of the first evening. They’re also collecting their phones, as they want this retreat to be about staying in the moment and bonding with the fellow girls (plus, no leaks).
Yindra watches apprehensively as they take her bags and phone away. Truly no turning back now.
INT. YACHT - PRIVACY BOOTH - DAY
Privacy booth is one way to put it, but it may look more similar to what reality TV fans could call a “confessional booth.” The room is small, about walk-in closet-sized, with sound-proofed walls. At one end is a telephone, so they can still contact others if need be. Then in the center of the space is a stool, which faces opposite the camera system inset at the other end of the wall.
Yindra tries to acclimate to all of this as she takes her turn in the booth -- the first one, in fact, given her “A” surname. She awkwardly settles onto the stool and then finds the button to press that’ll start the recording. She manages a smile just in time.
Yindra: Hi there. Yindra Amino. Nineteen years old. Mezzo soprano. New York native.
With that, a brief, chipper montage ensues, jumping between each of our main players on this girls retreat. We see each girl introduced from the camera’s perspective, as if we’re watching the footage later.
Tabitha: My name is Tabitha Flores -- Sloane: Sloane Sharpe -- Heather: Heather Reed. Madysin: Madysin May. TikTok “madysinmayi.” Chances are you’ve already heard of me.
Momentum stalls a little bit when a tall redhead takes the stool. This is KIMMY PRICE (20), undeniably pretty with big blue eyes and a modelesque frame. She’s peering into the camera, clearly confused. After a long beat…
Kimmy: Um… hello? Is this -- is it on?
The door creaks open, one of the staff poking their heads in. We can’t see them, but their voice catches on the recording.
Staff: It’s on. Kimmy: Oh. Okay. Thank you. [ once the door shuts, with a peppy grin ] Hi! I’m Kimmy. Hailing from Cincinnati -- Sloane: Chicago -- Heather: Portland -- Aleena/Tabitha: [ split-screened ] Los Angeles. Madysin: Dallas, Texas, baby. You know what they say, everything’s bigger -- and everything is better, too!
The client of Reese’s rival takes the seat, more poised and professional than the younger girls thus far.
Ronica: I’m Ronica Lewis. Mezzo, though my strongest register is alto. Four years experience in the industry -- Aleena: Three long years in the industry -- Tabitha: I’m just getting my feet wet in the music industry, officially speaking, but don’t let that wig you out. I’ve got a following on my Soundcloud and Spotify for the singles I’ve released since I started writing in middle school. I’ve also got experience on the screen, through my roles in -- Sloane: … high school and community theater, which I detailed in my original paperwork before signing up. Kimmy: I have been working with a vocal coach, but I absolutely love to dance. I hope this group will get to do a lot of that. Madysin: My dance videos have gotten over five-hundred thousand views, and that’s just talking averages. So clearly I can bring that to the table. Aleena: I have light training in gymnastics, and I’ve been taking ballet, hip-hop, and jazz since I was about seven years old. Yindra: I haven’t broken out -- so to speak -- in the industry just yet, but I attended one of the top arts high schools in the country and spent four years honing my craft. I also was invited to perform at the Hollywood Haunt this past fall, an event known for highlighting the best up-and-coming unknown talent in the business.
No need to mention it’s because Maya passed her an extra ticket. Details. Although all of their stories and journeys to this moment are different, each of the fifteen girls we see concludes with a very similar sentiment.
Tabitha: I’m very excited for -- Aleena: This opportunity. I hope that -- Madysin: Throughout the week, you will get to see -- Kimmy: I will get to show you -- Yindra: Just how much I have to offer. I will -- Aleena: Give my all, as I always do -- Sloane: One-hundred percent. Then I guess -- Ronica: We’ll see what happens. But thank you for this opportunity -- Yindra: And I’m keen to see what the weekend holds.
We land back on Kimmy for the conclusion, who is still cheerfully talking.
Kimmy: I’m also very excited to get to spend the weekend with the other girls, and maybe make some new friends. Whoever ends up in this group, I just know we’re going to be the best of friends. So… yeah! I can’t wait. [ a long pause ] Okay, I’m done now. I think. Um, how do I -- ?
She grasps around the booth for the solution, until she finds the button on the wall to suspend recording -- and sends the whole thing smashing to black.
INT. HOSPITAL - HALLWAY - NIGHT
Riley has taken on shift duty for the evening, hanging out with Lucas while they wait. In theory, no news is good news, but it’s hard to even know what they’re hoping for at this point…
So instead, she’s focused on taking care of him. Although he insists he isn’t hungry, she’s convinced him to at least grab something from the vending machine. Any carbs is better than none at all.
Lucas: Don’t see how it even matters. If I pass out, or whatever, I’m already in the opportune place to be helped. [ under his breath ] Don’t think our bills could go any higher…
His deadpan delivery is less charming than usual, given the circumstances. But Riley lets it slide -- she knows his head is all over the place. She simply nudges him into picking something from the options, sliding a few quarters into the slot and waiting for him to press the buttons.
While they watch the painfully slow mechanics of the machine, Riley takes the opportunity to bring up something that’s been on her mind. Obviously, she respects that he’s not that keen on digital communication, but she thinks he might want to clue Isa into what’s going on. Even though they’re not in town, she’s certain they’d want to know what’s happening.
Lucas, on the other hand, doesn’t seem keen.
Lucas: I’d rather not bother them. Riley: I really don’t think they’d see it as a bother. They’ve been following this whole thing just like we have for months. I know if I were away and something like this were happening, that it was so -- I’d want to know. I’d want to be able to help, if I could. Lucas: Yeah, well, they can’t help. They can’t do anything about it. So that’s kind of a moot point, isn’t it?
Riley maintains her patience, but she raises her eyebrows at him. Not impressed with his tone. He grows sheepish, going back to staring at the machine.
Lucas: Sorry. Riley: It’s okay. Lucas: I don’t mean to be like this. Like, take it out on you or -- [ tapping the machine glass ] Stuck.
Riley frowns, glancing towards the vending machine. He’s right -- whatever they ordered has gotten stuck right before freedom, trapped in the last second before freefall. Riley huffs in irritation and digs in her wallet for more quarters.
When she comes up short, Lucas holds up a hand to halt her complaints. He glances around them to make sure no one is looking, clenches his jaw… then he shoulder-checks the machine. It jostles it just enough to release their snack.
Guess sometimes all you need to get unstuck is a bit of a good shake… and that’s one way to get all your pent-up emotion out. Riley drops down and retrieves the item from the slot, handing it to Lucas when she’s back at full height. He thanks her, but doesn’t make any moves to eat it.
They hang by the machine for a few moments longer, cast in a subtle blue glow. Lucas clears his throat, plastic crinkling as he fidgets with the snack in his fingers.
Lucas: I get why you’re making the point about Dora. I get why you’d feel that way. But I’d really rather not say anything. Riley: … okay, but -- Lucas: Like, it’s fine that you texted Dyl and Asher, but I kind of wish you’d warned me first. I wasn’t planning on telling them either. Riley: I’m sorry. I thought you’d want them here. They want to be here for you. Lucas: I know.
But it’s complicated. Sure, it’s a comfort to have his best people around, but it’s also embarrassing. He kind of wants to crawl under a rock right now and disappear, and that doesn’t pair naturally with socializing. He understands Riley’s instincts, especially since it’s her, and he doesn’t hold it against her. He just doesn’t want to involve any more people than necessary. This is doubly true for Isa, considering…
Lucas: They’ve got their own stuff going on right now. I want them to focus on that, not get roped back into my bullshit. I’m inconveniencing enough people as it is. Riley: It’s not an inconvenience. Lucas: Just… can you do that for me? Please? Do me that one favor.
Riley still seems certain withholding the news is a bad idea… but when he looks at her like that, so gentle and tired, and asks so little of her, she doesn’t see how she could refuse. If she wants to help him, and that’s all he wants from her, how could she reasonably say no?
So she relents, keeping the ball in his court. She nods and takes his wrist, soothingly rubbing her thumb against his forearm. He offers a weak smile.
He also takes care to remind her that she has class in the morning, as well as rehearsals that afternoon, so she should not feel compelled to spend all night wasting away in here with him. He doesn’t want her to mess up her own stuff because of him. Riley confirms she knows that, and isn’t, but she also makes zero moves to go anywhere else.
If it comes down to want, there’s no place Riley would rather be than in the trenches with him.
INT. THE LAST BOOKSTORE - SECOND FLOOR - DAY
Meanwhile, Isa remains oblivious and is having a good time, having spent most of the afternoon visiting Los Angeles staples with Farkle. They’ve ended up at the famous Last Bookstore in downtown L.A., with its endless rows of shelves and cool book-themed art installations.
It’s a great vehicle for getting them back in top shape, too, because nothing fuels their banter better than arguing over narratives. They’re currently bickering about some piece of classic literature that Farkle has pulled off one of the shelves, and the back and forth snaps back into place so easily. Debate is like a heartbeat, the rhythm of their dynamic that keeps them alive.
Farkle: Okay, well, I don’t know how else to say it other than just doing it, so I’ll say it again -- you’re wrong. You literally could not be more wrong. I’m concerned about your reading comprehension at this point. Isa: You’re worried, but I’m fucking relieved. Here I was, so concerned back in New York that coming out here to L.A. would make you into some sort of savant, some culturally elite media mogul, but nope! You’re just like before -- stubborn, erroneous, and out of your damn mind.
Anyone who passed by them might think they hate each other just hearing that, but the fondness dripping off Isa’s words and the amused smirks on their faces betray the opposite. This is just how they are -- and boy, does it feel good to have it again.
They make it to one of the prime draws of the bookstore, the window in the bookshelf, a popular artsy photography spot. Isa can’t help themselves, going around to the other side and pulling out their phone to snap a picture of Farkle through the books. He offers a light smile at first, just a hint of shyness -- then he makes a cracked expression, making Isa laugh as they capture that one too.
Isa: Fitting. Perfect representation.
Farkle manages to snap a couple of his own before Isa notices, and once they do, they stick their tongue out at him. He grins, then pockets his phone. Still on opposite sides, Farkle examines them for a beat before speaking again.
Farkle: Can I be honest? Isa: Were we not before? Did you think I was joking when I said you were out of your mind?
Farkle laughs mockingly, earning a proud smirk in response. But yes, he should feel free to speak his mind. It’s just Isa, after all -- if he can’t be honest with them, who’s seen the worst of him, then who?
They continue their journey as they talk, walking through the tunnel of books.
Farkle: I just thought… I was kinda worried this would be awkward. You know, like, us. Hanging out together after so long. Isa: … yeah? Farkle: Yeah. But that’s the thing, it’s not. Like, not at all. It feels just like before -- like we’re just the same as we always are.
Isa turns to look at him, the two of them standing close together to fit in the tunnel. In their mind, it isn’t quite just like it always used to be… if the way their heart flutters looking up at him in the shadows of the literature around them is any indication.
Even so, that little detail aside… they smile.
Isa: Same. And yeah, it’s a big fucking relief.
Farkle mirrors their grin, obviously equally grateful. But all that gratitude is starting to feel a little dizzying, in such close confines, so Isa leads the way back out of the tunnel and into the light again.
Once they’re free, Isa asks how it’s possible Farkle has never come here before. Not only is it apparently a local cultural classic, but it’s like, custom built for him. Even if he didn’t feel like he could come alone -- which would be bizarre anyway -- how is it possible he didn’t at least come with Charlie?
Isa: This kind of seems like a place Charlie would be foaming at the mouth to see. Farkle: [ with a snort ] Yeah, I’m pretty sure it was one of the first places he went when he got here. He did invite me, but I couldn’t go. I had class when he wanted to go. [ with a shrug ] Otherwise, I don’t know. I thought about it, but Jordan wasn’t into it. He said it was touristy and basic and all that. I believe his exact word was “lame.” Isa: Well… [ searching for a clever retort ] he’s lame.
The diss is so half-assed and uncreative, Farkle can’t help but burst out laughing. It’s enough to catch the attention of a few other shoppers, who cast the two of them irritated glances. They quiet down and keep walking, but both of them are now working overtime to suppress their giggles.
Sorry, Los Angeles, you’ve only just begun to meet the dual menace that is Farkle Minkus and Isa De La Cruz.
INT. MALIBU LAKE HOUSE - DAY
At the same time, Justin, Melissa, and Maya are just arriving at Justin’s lake house in Malibu. It’s a spacious and rustic looking set up, with an absolutely epic view of the hills. A gorgeous open floor plan, wood finishes… it’s Hollywood glamor all right, and Maya is already loving every second of it.
Justin calls for her to make herself at home, and directs her towards the end of the hall on the first floor for her guest room. He and Melissa both have rooms on the second floor.
Already, it feels magical. Hopefully, the music will be the same.
INT. YACHT - DINING ROOM - DAY
The sun is just beginning to set on the horizon, painting the ocean golden through the windows as all the travelers settle in for a fancy dinner on the lower deck. The executives with the label are sharing this celebratory first meal with the contenders of the girl group, taking the chance to get to know them and learn more about who they might be supporting in the future.
It’s not very illuminating, though, as everyone is on their best behavior in front of the head honchos. In fact, the girls don’t speak much at all, the meal mostly being dominated by the executives loving to listen to themselves talk. They speak loftily about their high aims for the group, how this will surely be the project that reignites an enthusiasm for the art of the girl group in the public consciousness. Yindra half-listens, using more of her focus to eye the rest of the girls at the table and observe from a safe distance.
Once they’re dismissed for the evening, the head organizer informs the girls that they’ll find their room assignments posted as they head out. They didn’t think they’d all get their own rooms, did they?
INT. YACHT - YINDRA’S ROOM - NIGHT
Nope, we’re bunking in this little sailing adventure. It’s almost like sleepaway camp, two twin extra-long beds set up on opposite sides of the small wood-paneled room.
Yindra steps inside first, finding her things on the bed on the right. She starts to go through them, wondering if it’s even worth it to unpack, when her new roommate appears in the doorway a moment later.
Heather. The girl from the bus. The two of them size each other up for a beat, then break into smiles.
Heather: Okay, not to be a bitch, but I’m so damn relieved you’re my roomie.
Yindra grins, echoing the sentiment. They hit it off so well this morning, it feels like pure luck. Heather goes to her side of the bed and starts going through her things as well, commiserating about how weird that dinner felt. This whole experience is going to be odd as hell, isn’t it?
Yindra: I think that’s basically a guarantee, yeah.
Well, at least they know they’ve got an ally… or Heather hopes so. She pitches the idea to Yindra, suggesting they band together early and stick together. They already get along, and it’ll put a lot of pressure off them if they know they have a friend to socialize with from the jump. Less time stressing about cliques and small chat, more time to focus on what matters.
Yindra isn’t going to argue with that. She nods in agreement, the two of them exchanging a low-five to seal the deal.
Baby, let the games begin…
INT. HOSPITAL - WAITING AREA - DAY
Lucas is without additional company early the next morning, just him and Grace occupying the waiting area chairs. Grace is finally managing to get a wink of sleep, as light and restless as it may be, head tilted back against the wall. Lucas is doing everything he can not to disturb her, even quieter than usual and lost in his own sleepless thoughts.
His efforts are for naught, as Grace awakes with a start when the double doors open and another NURSE comes out to greet them. She offers Grace an apologetic smile, then notes that Kenneth is awake and they’ll be doing some morning diagnostics and discussions about his care if they’d like to join.
Grace nods, getting to her feet -- then the nurse turns to Lucas, specifically extending the invitation to him as well. As if he isn’t sure whether he’s allowed to come back to see his father, rather than grappling with a myriad of complicated feelings about the whole thing and can’t decide if he wants to witness it or not.
But now he’s been asked so directly, it would feel even weirder to refuse. Lucas clears his throat and gets to his feet, reluctantly following Grace and the nurse through the double doors and into the deeper bowels of the hospital.
INT. HOSPITAL - KENNETH’S ROOM - DAY
When the three of them arrive, KENNETH FRIAR is already chatting up and charming the other nurse administering his morning medications. The doctor from yesterday was right -- he seems in surprisingly good spirits, not missing a beat despite the fact that he’s definitely looked better. You might even believe he’s just in for a routine visit, if you didn’t know he was dying.
Grace dutifully comes to stand by his bedside while Lucas awkwardly hangs by the wall, mainly trying to stay out of the way. Kenneth wasn’t expecting to see him, but with his good graces today, he decides to make him feel welcome.
Kenneth: Good to see you, bud. Wasn’t sure if you were here or not.
It’s a bit of a dig, actually, but Lucas is so disarmed by the nickname it doesn’t even register. Kenneth hasn’t called him that in years, basically since he was a toddler, and it became far more infrequent the more the friction between them grew and Kenneth’s temper grew less resilient. It feels like whiplash -- like pulling the stitches out of an ancient wound.
Unfortunately, the nurses won’t be able to do anything about this one.
So Lucas says nothing, offering a pathetically strained smile in response instead. Kenneth doesn’t seem all that impressed by it, but they’re distracted anyway when the doctor returns and greets them all with as much cheer as you can muster with a dying patient.
Someone might want to give that memo to Kenneth, though. For all his charm, he actually seems optimistic about the whole thing. Yes, things are bad, but maybe a rest in the excellent care of the hospital is just what he needs to rebound. Maybe he’ll pick back up before long -- he feels good enough now that he’s gotten hydrated and has the help of these lovely nurses.
Maybe it’s not so helpless after all. Who knows?
Lucas dips his head to the floor, not sure whether the denial or possibility that could be the truth is more discomforting.
EXT. YACHT - UPPER DECK - DAY
The first morning of official retreat business, Yindra finds her way out onto the upper deck before 9AM. As promised, breakfast is being catered for them, laid out on a long table manned by staff (to keep anything from blowing away with the refreshing sea breeze). There are four round tables set up to dine at, but one is relegated solely for the organizers and executives still present for the actual events of the retreat.
All around them, the view is nothing but ocean. If there was any hope of jumping ship -- metaphorically speaking -- that option has long since sailed.
In that respect, Yindra is very grateful she already has a lifeboat in her roommate. Once she plates her food and thanks the staff, she turns to scan the tables and has that new-kid terror of not knowing where to settle. It appears some personalities are already beginning to clash -- Tabitha and Sloane have chosen seats at opposite ends of the deck, though it’s not clear who chose to make it that way -- while others are already bonding together. Aleena and Ronica are seated at one table and chatting easily, commiserating with a couple other hopefuls closer to their mid-20s than teens.
Having already clocked Ronica as a rival by inheritance, Yindra doesn’t think she could break into that circle if she wanted to. That’s why it’s a relief when Heather waves her over at the third table, where she’s saved her a seat. Yindra comes to join her without missing a beat, greeting the other girls they’ve chosen to sit with.
Heather: [ quietly, to Yindra ] Throwback, right? Feels just like high school. Yindra: Girl, you have no idea.
Heather laughs, popping some fruit into her mouth. But damn, would it be nice to have some of those high school friends around right about now…
INT. YINDRA’S APARTMENT - BEDROOM - DAY
Jade is catching up with Nigel on a video call, the two of them chatting about Yindra’s great foray into the industry unknown. Both of them are confident about her prospects, but the idea of going on a retreat with people just as eager for the opportunity as you does feel too intimidating for two introverts.
Nigel: It would be like going away on a boat, with no exit, with fifteen Mayas for a weekend. Like, what are the odds of survival? Jade: Despite the bizarre fact that I think Maya may actually be growing on me -- don’t tell Asher I said that -- yeah, I could never. Nigel: Your secret is safe with me. But if I were on that boat, I’d be jumping.
Jade laughs, settling onto her bed. We get the chance to see how she and Yindra have rearranged the space to accommodate both of them, making the most of the small space and giving cozy college roommates vibes. Nigel comments on that new arrangement, glad that Jade has found a safe and familiar place to settle but still not sure how he feels about his best friend and girlfriend shacking up.
Jade: Don’t worry, she’s not going to steal me away. Though if anyone could… Nigel: Yeah, yeah, we know. Yindra has game. No one ever kidded themselves that I was the suavest of our friend group, believe me.
Jade smiles affectionately, blowing him a kiss through the camera. While the topic is on the table, Nigel tries to take advantage of it without being too suss… speaking of their relationship, how is Jade feeling about it? Since she hopped coasts, how is she feeling about long distance?
Jade: Good. Weirdly enough, I actually don’t think it’s made that much of a difference? I mean, obviously I miss you. It takes a bit more work. And some days after too much needle work, boy do I crave one of those neck kisses you’re so good at -- Nigel: [ clearing his throat ] Well… Jade: [ with a mischievous smile ] And that too. I miss your utterly ridiculous embarrassment about anything remotely beyond PG even though it’s just the two of us talking and we’ve been dating for a year. It’s adorable. But otherwise, I’m doing okay. Think we’re handling it pretty well. [ a beat ] Why? Are you not okay? Nigel: No! No, no, I’m good. I’m also -- all of that. I echo it, one-hundred percent.
He was just… curious. That’s all. How they seemed to be faring with it all. Good news, it seems, but he just wanted to check in.
And because maybe, just perhaps, their distance might be that much longer before too long. Nigel doesn’t say that, letting the conversation move on, but it’s on his mind as he files her response away for later.
INT. YACHT - LOWER DECK - DAY
For the first true retreat activity, they’ve relocated to the lower deck. Most of the space is dedicated to a green room-esque conference space, which for this weekend they’ll be using as a multipurpose activity room. There’s a long table at the end where the label reps and organizers will sit throughout the events.
To start off, they’ll be doing a harmonizing workshop in an effort to see how different combinations of their voices sound together. There will also be opportunities for small solos throughout, but the time to show off their vocals will come later. For now, this exercise is about blend and harmony.
Simple enough. Yindra believes she can handle that. They get broken into groups of five to start, based on the voice parts they identified with in their paperwork and intro videos. Then, they’re handed some sheet music of popular music that they’re expected to quickly pick up -- a sight-singing test, in a way.
From where she’s been grouped with Kimmy and Sloane, along with two other girls, Yindra exhales a deep breath. She’s not the best at sight-singing, but she got enough practice at Adams. When they receive their sheet music, Kimmy makes a small noise of nervousness of her own.
Kimmy: Gosh, I don’t think I’ve done this since choir class in junior year.
Sloane is also squinting at the page, but she doesn’t look anxious as much as she does unimpressed.
Sloane: Top 40 I see. Suppose we won’t be breaking the mold much sound-wise with this, will we…
It’s an industry-produced girl group, babe -- you’re not doing musical rocket science. Yindra doesn’t comment, keeping her focus on her own work. They’ve got a minute to review their parts before they start doing run-throughs, so no time to waste. But no pressure…
Song Cue ♫ ♪ “No Pressure” as performed by Mahalia || Performed by Yindra Amino (feat. Girl Group Hopefuls)
Though not what they’re actually singing in the exercise, Yindra’s emotions leak through in what she sings with this groovy R&B track. It’s an apt reflection of what this process in the industry has felt like so far -- something that the other girls there can probably relate to as well. Fitting, as they harmonize on the backing vocals and take a few of the solo lines as the activity unfolds.
While the performance continues, we watch transitions between each combination of ladies in camera rotations and subtle fades. Girls are swapped in and out like dolls, just pawns in the larger game rather than individuals.
When Ronica takes Yindra’s place at one point and sings one of the solo riffs in the number, we can see the anxiety build on Yindra’s shoulders. Ronica is talented, with a great voice -- and she rests exactly in the same range as Yindra. If they weren’t technically competition before, they certainly are now, even if just strictly from a vocal perspective.
Can't go wrong with the right team, no pressure You ain't never gonna get no, get no better
This process of revolving ladies and morphing harmonies goes on until the track peters out, leaving us with the view of Yindra on the sidelines. Just benched for now, while another combination is being tested -- but dreading that it’s an early signal of what’s to come.
No better, no pressure…
INT. MALIBU LAKE HOUSE - RECORDING STUDIO - DAY
Pressure might just be the word of the weekend, as Maya is the one feeling it now. Even though she came into the songwriting retreat with high hopes, it’s off to a rocky start. She’s been in the studio room with Melissa and Justin basically all afternoon, but they’ve got nothing yet to show for it.
Basically, the creative juices are not flowing. Every seemingly bright idea seems to hit a dead-end. Justin is starting to lose interest, reclined back on the leather couch and tossing a hacky-sack absent-mindedly while Melissa and Maya continue to mine their collective brain power for any good start.
The main problem, it appears, is that for all her efforts to relinquish some control, Maya still finds herself clashing with her producing team. They all have ample enthusiasm, but their vision for what Maya should do next seems to have fundamental friction. They want more of what’s already proven to work; Maya wants to push boundaries and stretch her sound, at least once before this EP finishes. She doesn’t want to get pigeon-holed before her career even really starts.
Ultimately, a disjointed vision can only lead to uninspired collaboration. After another thought goes nowhere, Melissa’s energy starting to wane as well, Justin gets to his feet and declares he’s gonna order lunch.
Maya: Now? Shouldn’t we push through until we have… I don’t know, a starting concept? Maybe a verse? Justin: Babe, if we wait for that to happen, we’ll be skin and bone. [ heading for the door ] I’m thinking pizza. We can splurge, because it’s the company’s dime. Mel, pineapple or no? Melissa: Fuck you.
Justin laughs as he exits, claiming he’ll go pick it up along with some other goods for the weekend. Once he’s gone, Melissa releases a sigh, rubbing her temples.
Melissa: Maybe we should just outsource to the label for the rest of this EP. I’m sure they’ve got other “Haute Stuff” in their repository. If we can round out this project with solid bangers, that’ll buy us some more time to -- Maya: No!
Maya is almost too quick to reject that idea. She doesn’t mean to bulldoze -- not this early, anyway -- but she feels strongly that she needs to have as large a presence as possible in her output. She doesn’t want to be another hack, and she has the deep instinct that becoming a one-note wonder is going to be a death sentence. It might bring in the money, but it won’t lend her the credit and accolades she desires. It won’t help her ascension to true pop relevance.
Melissa raises her hands in surrender, claiming she’s with Maya on this. She wants them to craft their own hits if they can hack it.
That just means they better start getting some good ideas, and fast. Maya chews her lip, feeling the heat.
INT. YACHT - LOWER DECK - DAY
The heat persists on the open seas as the girls move into their next activity -- dance workshop. As is traditional with many girl groups, choreography will be a big part of their jobs, and proficiency in keeping the beat and selling moves will be a major must. So they’re teaching them a routine today that they’ll be tested on later, to see how they deliver it.
Theoretically, this shouldn’t be a big deal for Yindra. She went to Adams, where there was no shortage of choreography. Many of her good friends are into dance, so some of that has rubbed off on her. She knows she can hold her own and step through an intermediate routine.
But in a competition as tight as this, holding her own might not be enough. Even as they’re learning the routine and doing soft run-throughs, it’s hard not to feel like she’s falling to the back of the pack. Immediate standouts emerge -- Aleena’s movements are confident and fluid, demonstrative of her obvious dance training. Sloane is a surprisingly strong dancer, sharp and precise and not afraid to show off her flexibility. Kimmy’s stated love for dance shines through even now, full of energy and natural personality. And although she’s full of hot air and her TikTok dances are silly at best, Madysin can carry a beat.
Yindra isn’t the worst dancer there, but she’s far from the best. If she only ranks “middle of the pack” in the categories that matter, that’s only gonna put her somewhere in the top ten -- and not guaranteed as one of the final five who make the group.
She’s lost in her head about it enough to lose focus and miss a couple of steps on this run-through, causing Tabitha to run into her with her bony elbows. She shoots her a disgruntled look, which Yindra grimaces at apologetically. Her bad.
And man, how much badder is it going to get?
Choreographer: Nice, ladies. Let’s put it all together now and see how it goes. [ clapping them in ] Five, six, seven --
EXT. YACHT - UPPER DECK - DAY
On a much-needed break, Yindra escapes to the deck to get some fresh air. It’s the only place she can flee, anyway -- they’re on a boat. She leans against the railing and closes her eyes, letting the sea breeze brush her face and trying to calm her nerves.
Yindra: Zay Babineaux, give me the strength…
Dance blessings are seriously what she needs right now! She’s startled slightly when someone steps over to join her, but it’s a relief when it’s only Heather. And she comes bearing gifts -- a virgin cocktail from the kitchen. They’ve earned it after this day so far, being grilled from every angle.
Heather: Alcohol would’ve been preferred, trust me. But best I can do.
Yindra scoffs a laugh, thanking her anyway and accepting the drink. As they sip their cocktails, Heather starts to commiserate about the experience so far… and given their insecurities, it’s hard not to gossip.
Heather: I don’t know if you noticed, but that Sloane girl has a killer high-kick. Thought she was gonna knock my teeth out. Yindra: OMG, I know. I was surprised. I wouldn’t rule it out either. Heather: Total surprise. I got the impression she wasn’t into this whole thing, just based on her attitude. That showing at dance didn’t track though. Yindra: … no, for real. When we were doing the harmonies workshop, she legit said some shady stuff about the music we were rehearsing with. Like this is probably going to be par for the course of… whatever this ends up being. You know that, right? Heather: Ugh, that’s so fucked. I can’t stand that. Like, if you’re not into this whole thing, why are you here? When there’s girls like us who are dying for this opportunity?
It is a choice… although, Yindra can kind of understand it. Not just because she has experience with folks like Zay, but also because a girl group wasn’t her first choice either. It wasn’t how she envisioned her career going, but it’s a path, and in this industry it feels like you better take what you can get. She may not echo Sloane’s dismissive attitude, but she can relate to the sense of having to follow a trail you aren’t sure you want to go down.
She gets the nuances, but she doesn’t say them, because it’s way more gratifying to bitch about it with a friend and soak up the self-pity for a minute. Heather shrugs and offers a toast, tapping her glass against Yindra’s.
Heather: Made it this far, at least. Cheers, bitch. Yindra: Cheers.
And who knows what’s to come.
INT. L.A. APARTMENT - NIGHT
Having returned for the evening, Isa is slouched on the couch while waiting for Farkle to return from his room. They’re fiddling with their phone, instinctively going into their message thread with Zachary and exiting again when they think better of it. What is there to say, anyway?
They ruined everything; they left. That should be the end of that, for the best of everyone involved.
Farkle seems to read their mind when he reenters, flopping over the arm of the arm chair and reclining into it as he asks if Zachary has reached out. Isa claims no, pocketing their phone.
Isa: Don’t blame ‘em. Farkle: They probably just don’t know what to say. It’s kind of a whack situation -- I don’t know that I’d know what to do either. Isa: You, not knowing how to handle a fiasco? Shocking. Farkle: Hey, I wouldn’t be throwing stones. Your glass house is looking especially shiny right now.
Isa rolls their eyes. Anyway, they make a point of thanking Farkle again for letting them seek refuge here regardless of what happens. They know they’re intruding.
Farkle: Dude. You’re our -- my -- friend. Anyway I can help, you know you don’t even have to ask.
Even so, Isa seems uncomfortable with the intrusion. They state that if this persists too long, they’ll try to figure out alternate accommodations fast -- whether that’s a temporary dig here, or going back to New York sooner than expected. They don’t want to take advantage… and they don’t necessarily want to push things with Maya. Farkle frowns.
Farkle: I swear, she doesn’t mind. I can talk to her about -- Isa: No. No, it’s fine. Like I said, I’ll figure it out. Thanks though.
Farkle doesn’t seem convinced, but Isa changes topics. They’re starving -- what’s for dinner? There’s a lot of variety to choose from in Los Angeles, so the world is their oyster. But that doesn’t make Farkle any less indecisive.
Isa: Yeesh. Jordan really did sand you down, didn’t he? Where’s the overly opinionated, obnoxious tastemaker of Adams Academy? [ kicking his shin with their foot ] Hello, anyone in there?
Farkle’s turn to roll his eyes. He fends off Isa’s socked feet with his own and then shrugs.
Farkle: To be fair, I don’t think that mellowing started with Jordan. I would attribute that more to spending a full year stuck between you and Maya, two of the loudest -- Isa: [ ignoring that ] Don’t overthink it. I want your real, most base desires right now. I’m saying it’s dinner time -- what do you want to eat? What comes to mind? First thing. Now. NOW. Farkle: Okay, okay! Um, ahh [ blurting it out ] New York style pizza!
Isa raises their eyebrows, somewhat amused. Seriously? All the culinary world at his fingertips, and that’s what Farkle picks?
Farkle: Sorry, you put pressure on me. I panicked. And I don’t know, you said you wanted base. It can’t get much more base than that. Isa: I’m just surprised. You didn’t even like pizza that much when we were in New York. Farkle: Yes, well, the heart wants what it wants. And you don’t really know what you’ve got until it’s gone.
Anyway, it’s lame, perhaps, but Isa asked for it. That’s all he’s got. If they want to tease him and pick something better, be his guest.
But Isa isn’t going to judge him. They aren’t going to deny him a basic bitch moment -- and they aren’t snooty enough to think they could do better. Instead, they claim they’re going to find some damn New York style pizza then, reaching for his laptop and starting a Google search.
Farkle can’t help but smile, gaze lingering just a bit while Isa is distracted with their research.
INT. MALIBU LAKE HOUSE - NIGHT
Meanwhile, the night holds very different prospects for the lake house retreat. Melissa and Maya are debating what to do for dinner themselves when there’s a knock at the door, both of them exchanging an intrigued look. Justin went out to grab weed an hour or so ago, but he wouldn’t be knocking… would he?
Apparently so. When Melissa goes to open the door, it’s not just Justin on the other side. He seems to have brought along half the neighborhood with him -- a bunch of young creatives looking for a good time.
Justin: Thought we could use a little pick-me-up… and I may have just taken it to an extreme.
But what better way is there to loosen up? That’s that -- they’re hosting a rager tonight. That’ll get their energy back up, not to mention it’s a great opportunity to network. Maya and Melissa exchange smiles.
Maya: Let’s party!
Yeehaw! The crowd cheers as Justin leads them inside, just as a bass-heavy, catchy party tune briefly fills the soundscape. And no one does it better, particularly for millennials…
INT. MALIBU LAKE HOUSE - NIGHT
Song Cue ♫ ♪ “Backstabber” as performed by Kesha || Instrumental
A montage unfurls the party for us, showing the progression of the night in high energy, fun bursts. It’s about as classic Hollywood vignette as you can get, full of interesting, pretty people and plenty of interesting substances. Justin and Melissa make excellent hosts, gregarious and generous with their space, and it’s clear that they’re known entities in this part of Malibu.
Maya fits into their world near seamlessly, to her credit. Her charm is on full blast as she sips a mixed punch out of a red Solo cup, but she’s more focused on making good impressions. Given her starry personality and undeniable good looks, it’s not hard.
The only snag in her rapport comes when Justin invites her over to meet one of his female producing friends by the bar, KELSI (30s), pointing out that they were just about to take a line of cocaine -- a staple of most industry gatherings like this. Does she want to join?
Justin: Kelsi here is the master of lining ‘em up right. Kelsi: It doesn’t take a PhD, J. You just have shaky hands.
Justin fakes offense, patting his chest like he’s been wounded. Maya ignores the exchange, eyeing the powder cut into lines on the bartop apprehensively. She’s dabbled in lighter fare before -- like weed with Isa and Farkle now and then back in senior year -- but this feels like a whole other level. And that was with friends; that was in a scenario where she was sure she was safe.
But this is safe too, isn’t it? She trusts Melissa and Justin -- they wouldn’t put her in a dangerous situation. Not when they have both personal and professional interest in one another and maintaining this relationship. And what does she know about safety -- look at her and Isa and Farkle now. It’s a clusterfuck.
Even so, her instincts win out this time. She politely declines to partake, and despite Justin’s playful boo-ing in response, they take it in stride. She’s spared from having to dwell on it further when Melissa comes over and claims she has friends she wants to introduce her to, dragging her away.
Justin and Kelsi go on their way, leaning over the counter to take their hits. The music builds until the bass almost feels unbearable --
INT. HOSPITAL - WAITING AREA - NIGHT
Until it cuts off abruptly, drawn in sharp contrast to the oppressive quiet of the hospital.
Asher is taking his first shift with Lucas alone, staying with him until non-familial visitors are required to leave for the night. The two of them aren’t talking much, but Lucas doesn’t seem bothered by that -- he honestly prefers it. It’s part of what made them compatible friends in the first place, being able to enjoy companionable silence. Asher sits cross-legged in his chair and idly spins a fidget spinner.
Waiting for nothing doesn’t make it easier, though. Lucas is restless, slouched in his chair and bouncing his leg compulsively. He watches the nurses and doctors that come in and out of the back hallways like a hawk, not sure whether he wants them to be coming for him or not. Not sure if he wants news, or never wants to hear another word about his father.
After another minute of this, Asher reaches out and gently touches Lucas’s knee, freezing his movement. When Lucas glances at him, he offers a nonchalant explanation.
Asher: You’re making me nauseous.
It’s his matter-of-fact delivery that somehow breaks the tension. Lucas releases a chuckle, stretching his legs out to deter further bounce.
Lucas: Sorry. [ off his unbothered shrug ] Does that actually do anything? Asher: What? Lucas: That… toy. Thing. Asher: Oh, the spinner? Weirdly, yeah. Like, I doubted it for a long time too, but bizarrely, it does help. Just like… anxious tendencies. I’ve started using it a lot more in class, if I start to feel weird during lectures. I don’t know what it is, exactly, but I feel like the mindless movement of using your hands kind of distracts the brain or something. Makes it less effective at needless panic. [ brightening ] Oh, that reminds me --
Good thing Lucas brought it up. Asher reaches into his messenger bag and retrieves something from the inner pocket. He passes it to Lucas, who accepts it with mild confusion.
A Spongebob-themed fidget spinner.
Asher: There you go, try it for yourself. Good thing you reminded me. Dylan wanted me to give that to you -- since he couldn’t be here now, he thought he could at least let you borrow that in his stead until he could be.
Of course. Lucas turns it over in his fingers, observing the faded yellow and chipped paint from many a Dylan fidget.
Lucas: Looks like it’s seen better days. Asher: It’s one of his oldest ones. Not to mention his favorite. Unsurprisingly, he was the one who convinced me to try using one for myself -- though his use stems from the ADHD.
Well, not like Lucas has any reason to object. Or anything better to do, other than sit there and let his thoughts consume him. He glances at Asher to get a feel for the motions, how he’s supposed to hold it and all that, but fidget spinners are one of the most user-friendly inventions there is. There’s not really a wrong way to go about it.
Another minute of quiet. This time, Lucas breaks it.
Lucas: It’s kind of ironic that both of my most experienced friends in this field aren’t here right now. You know… dead parents. Asher: True. Though life rarely operates in helpful methods. Lucas: Does he ever talk to you about it? [ a beat, cautious ] His mom?
Asher contemplates the question, thinking about how best to respond.
Asher: Not a lot? Sometimes. When we were earlier in our relationship, I’d prompt him to talk about it sometimes, just because I felt like he wouldn’t ever if I didn’t. You know Dylan, I mean, you kind of have to nudge him into talking about the gloomier stuff, even if it would do him good. But I don’t think he’s necessarily avoiding it either, at least not consciously. Lucas: Yeah. Asher: Honestly, I think it’s mostly just that he doesn’t really have a lot to say about it. He loved his mom, still does, but the truth is he doesn’t really remember her. Or any of what happened. He was only like, seven when she passed away. Grant was even younger. I think he likes to believe he remembers way more than he actually does, but none of it is the actual death. I guess you don’t really retain that stuff the same way, when you’re younger.
Unlike now, when Lucas is two decades into life and already blessed with trauma to last him a lifetime.
Asher: That’s not to say he wouldn’t be helpful if he were here. That’s kind of Dylan’s charm, you know, that he’s useful in any situation. Just how he is. But I don’t think his experience could really be called expertise. Because of his age, and because… you know, it just… isn’t the same. Kenneth is… Lucas: Different.
Yeah… can’t say much more than that. And Lucas doesn’t seem keen to either, his conversational burst ebbing away as swiftly as it appeared. Asher doesn’t push him, giving him an empathetic glance before letting his attention drift back to his spinner.
Lucas keeps his blank gaze towards the hospital doors, waiting for nothing, fingers absentmindedly turning the fidget spinner.
INT. YACHT - MAIN FLOOR - NIGHT
That evening, the girls are gathered in the cozy main floor. The organizers claim they’re giving them the “night off,” which is instead being spent on some girl bonding time. They’ll be watching movies, true slumber party style! The pressure is off for the evening, so just vibe! Have fun! Get to know each other!
That’s a cute idea, albeit totally forced. And it’s not like the pressure is totally off, as the organizers and some industry reps are still present, hanging on the couches in the back of the room but still observing everything. Despite the cutesy presentation, it’s hard to shake the sense that this whole thing is just another test of some sort.
They get to choose the movie, out of a selection on a table, and some girls do not hesitate to jump in and try to dictate what they watch. Tabitha immediately goes for Bring It On, declaring it the winner.
Kimmy: I was going to say Clueless. I love that movie. Sloane: Lots of chick flicks here… it’s almost as if we’re a boat full of women. What ingenious thinking… Tabitha: Whatever, I called first. Heather: Um, who died and made you queen, friend? Madysin: Yeah, I vote with Kimmy. Clueless supremacy. Tabitha: This isn’t a democracy, girls. It’s a cheerocracy. And I declare you all overruled.
Fierce debate continues, pulling more girls into the discussion. It’s all playful, mostly, though there is a subtle edge to it all just under the surface. Sloane loses interest quickly and slouches onto a couch in the far corner.
Yindra stays out of it, for better or worse, keeping to her perch on one of the other couches. Aleena is seated a spot or two away, and can’t help but make commentary.
Aleena: Letting a bunch of competitive women fight over what movie to watch, but dressing it up as an adorable slumber party vibe -- yeah. That’ll bond us in no time. That’s how the female brain works, after all.
She said it mostly to herself, but Yindra can’t help but snort. She casts a glance in Aleena’s direction, the two making eye contact… then after a moment they exchange smiles.
It doesn’t last long, as Ronica returns from the kitchen to bring drinks over for her and Aleena. Once she settles back down between them, Yindra feels like she has to turn away. Which feels equally stupid -- they’ve all known each other for twenty-four hours. Why does she have this feeling that dynamics are set in stone, that she has to have these rivalries with people she doesn’t even know?
Guess the industry has a way of bringing it out in you -- with basically no effort.
Ronica: Are they done picking yet? Aleena: Mm, no, the fun is just getting started. Ronica: Typical. Glad I didn’t wait for drinks.
Indeed. And the drama is heating up a bit -- Tabitha and Madysin have gotten into a heated argument with two of the other younger girls, enough of a spat that the organizer feels the need to step in and ask them to simmer down. Kimmy politely raises her hand.
Kimmy: Could we maybe do a vote instead? That way it’s fair for everyone. Organizer: That sounds like a great idea, thank you, Kimmy.
So democracy wins after all! Kimmy smiles. Tabitha rolls her eyes, crossing her arms.
All that over a pick for a stilted movie night… well, two more days to go. Yindra clasps her hands together and takes a deep breath, settling in for a long evening.
EXT. L.A. APARTMENT - ROOFTOP - NIGHT
As promised, Isa and Farkle have obtained a New York style pizza. They’ve decided to eat it up on the rooftop for the ambience, each peeling off their first large slice and trying not to make a mess as they eat over the box. Isa folds their slice in half and offers it in a toast towards Farkle, who smiles and knocks their crust together.
Once they start to dig in, Isa questions why Farkle didn’t bother to cave to his base impulses sooner than this. Like, one night of less-than-couture cuisine surely won’t ding his trendy new Los Angeles reputation. Farkle snorts, dismissing that sentiment, but it doesn’t take long to identify the source of the reluctance. Once he’s done chewing, he confides it.
Farkle: Jordan was a picky eater. Not so much in taste, but like… in taste. He wanted to be doing the new thing, the fresh thing, always one step ahead. And in some ways that was cool, like I really liked getting to be in on the trends and kind of have this insight into it all. You know, as someone who is perpetually and effortlessly uncool. So I appreciated that about him -- Isa: [ with their mouth full ] Mm-mm. No. We’re not complimenting him. Save the sugarcoating and down-playing for someone who cares. Farkle: [ out of habit ] He seriously wasn’t that --
Isa shakes their head and interrupts his weak defenses, reaching over the pizza box to press a sauce-slicked finger against his lips. No Jordan defenses. Farkle wrinkles his nose and starts to shove their hand away, but then thinks better of it and licks the sauce on their finger instead.
Isa pulls their hand away and scrunches their face, pretending to gag, but they can’t ignore the tiny, odd thrill that rises in their stomach at the same time. They choose to ignore it.
Farkle: Anyway, I guess part of it was that. Because at first, when I got here, I just wanted to… like, fit in, and do this right, and not ostracize myself from the jump since I’m so good at doing that. So I second-guessed myself because of that. Then, when Jordan came into the picture, it was that only tripled, because I wanted to impress him and not do anything that might lessen his perception of me. Including being inclined to enjoy knock-off New York pizza when I’m surrounded by the culinary treasures of Los Angeles.
Isa frowns slightly. They can’t help but wonder when Farkle picked up those insecurities -- when he suddenly decided it was worth caring what everyone else thinks.
Isa: For the record, I think anything you like is inherently and fundamentally leagues better than whatever Jordan Nelson thinks is top-tier. Just saying. Farkle: Uh-huh, sure. You’re not biased or anything. Isa: Not at all. Farkle: In any case, doesn’t matter now. Since, that’s… you know. Over. [ with a laugh ] You know, it’s kind of funny, but considering how everyone was jumping down my throat about him -- rightfully so -- I expected the news of his departure to be way more celebratory. Like, when I told Maya, I’m surprised she didn’t throw a damn party. Or at least say I told you so. If anyone would have been happy, I would’ve assumed her.
Isa shrugs, taking a bite of their pizza.
Isa: I don’t think it’s weird at all. Farkle: Seriously? You, the runner-up royalty of loving to be right, don’t think it’s strange that Maya, the queen of loving to be right, wasn’t thrilled that I finally dumped her least favorite person on planet Earth? Isa: Hey, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. That role is reserved for Asher and Asher alone in Maya’s heart. [ off his eye roll ] But no, it’s not surprising to me. Farkle: Why not? Isa: Maya is your best friend. She loves you more than anyone else. Like, she’d defend any of her friends -- albeit with occasional bragging, if applicable -- but you’re a different league. You’re special to her. She would go to hell and back for you, and even if she were right, she would never rub it in your face if you got hurt. It’s different with you.
A feeling Isa knows all too well… while Farkle processes that perspective, they can’t help but vocalize it.
Isa: You’re special, Farkle. I always figured you knew that, given… your whole being, but if you don’t I’m saying it now to make it abundantly clear. You are one of a kind, and I hope it’s more than obvious now that Jordan is a pretentious shit who never deserved you. You deserve someone who gets you, where you don’t have to feel like you have to second-guess everything you do. [ a beat ] You need someone who knows how special you are.
Pretty specific criteria… and something Isa seems pretty confident speaking about. But once they’ve said so, it’s like it’s glued them in place. Farkle just looks at them, taking in their words, and Isa can’t seem to look away; to disrupt the static or break their gaze.
In fact, it kind of feels like gravity holding them in place. Pulling them closer… Isa might even be stupid enough to lean in…
But no. That’s insane. Farkle just broke up with Jordan, and he’s vulnerable right now. He’s looking for comfort; he’s looking for a friend. That’s all this moment is -- that’s all they are.
So Isa redirects before they can do anything unwise, glancing down at the pizza box between them.
Isa: Not gonna lie, though, this pizza is kinda ass.
Farkle bursts into laughter, before admitting he has to agree. Though what were they expecting, trying to find authentic New York style pizza in L.A.? It’s a travesty, really. They banter back and forth a bit about what to do with it -- Farkle supposes they’ll have to torture themselves with finishing it, since they did put the time and effort into obtaining it, but Isa brushes that off. Life’s too short for bad pizza! Carpe diem!
Farkle: Well, what are we supposed to do with it, exactly?
Isa shrugs coyly, grabbing the pizza box and getting to their feet. They rattle off some nonsense about fate and happenstance and oh, what if the wind just happened to snatch their happiness and carry their pizza away… before “accidentally” stumbling and tossing the pizza box off the side of the roof.
Farkle gasps, cursing and getting to his feet.
Farkle: Holy shit -- Isa: Whoops!
Whoops indeed -- especially for the poor residents of Larchmont unfamiliar with the unique chaos of Farkle Minkus and Isa De La Cruz. Because seconds later, they hear a loud cuss from down below.
Unfortunate Passerby: What in the everloving fuck?!
WHOOPS! Suppose better a falling pizza than say, a piano or an anvil. Nevertheless, Isa and Farkle are beside themselves. Isa breaks into cackles as they fumble back towards Farkle and duck down into a crouch, as if the victim of their pizza prank will float up and come looking for them. Farkle kneels down next to them, equally punchy, easily won over by the unapologetic disaster that is Isa.
At this rate, with all their laughter, someone might assume they were drunk up there causing all this havoc. But in fact, that’s just the effects of being with each other.
INT. MALIBU LAKE HOUSE - NIGHT
The party is still rolling at the lake house, but Maya is starting to lose her spark. She’s feeling a bit fish out of water, younger than most of the folks present and still the new kid in the mix. She’s still only nursing a mild intoxication from alcohol, while most of the other partiers are well into a high of a mix of substances.
It’s a vulnerable position to be in, standing alone on the sidelines while her hosts are busy hosting others. Justin and Melissa seem so effortlessly cool, chatting up their friends and right in their element in this industry scene. A scene Maya knows she’ll need to master, if she wants her career to go the way she wants.
She’s not used to this feeling, this sensation of feeling two steps behind.
But perhaps it shouldn’t be so unfamiliar. When she thinks about it, it’s been remarkably easy for her to be left behind in other ways. Her phone buzzing in her pocket almost serves as a cosmic reminder of that, gifting her a text from Farkle.
“Hey, hope the retreat is going well! Bet you’re writing some epic stuff. Just wanted to give you the heads up -- I don’t know what’s going to happen with Isa’s housing situation right now, but if they can’t manage to fix it, I feel like we should really consider letting them stay with us. I know things aren’t totally chill with you guys, and I wanna respect that, but I still think we should do it. I can find a way to keep the peace and make it work. We’ll talk more when you’re back, but wanted to just float it now”
For some reason, this hits Maya harder than she expects. Maybe it’s the Malibu vodka talking. Maybe it’s the sense that she just got Farkle back, just freed him from the clutches of a soul-sucking monster, only for him to turn around and jump off another cliff without waiting for her to catch up. She moved out here to be with him, to tackle this insane industry together, but it seems there’s always something -- or someone -- more important. He’s always got bigger things to focus on.
And theoretically, so does she. She has a new social scene right here, opening its arms to her. Justin and Melissa are giving her plenty of attention, lots of opportunities. They don’t see her as old news, but the next best thing. They believe in her.
She can’t afford to fall behind. Not now. Not when everyone else has already left her in the dust.
So she steels her resolve, ignoring Farkle’s text and pushing down whatever mixed feelings it tugged out of her gut. She weaves through the crowd until she finds Justin and Melissa again, just about to start a new line of coke.
Perfect timing. Maya grins and claims she hopes Justin cut it good this time -- she wants to give it a try.
This is met with excited cheers and a clap on the shoulders from Justin. Exactly the electric reception Maya had been hoping for.
She lets Melissa guide her towards the counter and faces the lines, just waiting for her to take the nose dive. With classic Maya determination, she gathers her blonde hair behind her and takes a deep breath. Before she leans down --
INT. HOSPITAL - WAITING AREA - NIGHT
The clock on the wall ticks on, reading just a few minutes after two in the morning. It’s just Grace and Lucas again in the seats, only this time Grace is the one still awake. Lucas has grown exhausted enough to doze off without realizing it, somehow contorting his body to curl up and huddle in on himself while his head is tilted against the wall. Suppose after a few years, you get used to making do and fitting into small corners of reprieve.
Much like him this morning, Grace isn’t making any effort to disturb his rest. She stays quiet as a mouse, only glancing up at him occasionally to ensure he’s still resting.
The peace doesn’t last much longer.
In the distance, beyond the double doors, a relentless high-pitched beeping picks up. The intercom above them suddenly crackles to life, a voice calmly stating code blue. It repeats it a couple of times, with eerie efficiency, loud enough to startle Lucas awake. He’s delirious for a second, totally forgetting where they are or why they’re there.
That blissful ignorance is also fleeting. Footsteps are heavy on the other side of doors, movement of people on a mission -- and then moments later, nurses and doctors push a gurney through the doors, headed fast for the ICU.
A gurney carrying Kenneth.
Lucas is damn well awake now. Both he and Grace leap to their feet, the latter stumbling slightly. Lucas reaches out to hold her steady, and she is brave enough to ask a nurse what is happening. When no one responds, Lucas picks up the slack, using some of his inherited presence from his ailing father. He has a way about him, it has to be said, that can demand attention.
Lucas: Hey!
A couple of nurses jump, whipping around. The rest carry on without them, pushing Kenneth through another set of doors. Now that they’ve got some attention, Lucas’s temporary confidence evaporates. So Grace takes over, again urgently asking what the hell is going on. Where are they taking Kenneth, and what’s code blue?
Nurse: Your husband suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at approximately 2:07AM -- Lucas: Cardiac arrest? Grace: Is he okay? Nurse: That’s what we’re hoping for. Luckily, he’s in just about the best place possible to suffer heart failure. Lucas: But is he going to be okay?
Well… they can’t answer that. They won’t know until they know. The nurses excuse themselves and chase after the group from earlier, leaving Grace and Lucas to absorb that shock alone. The reality that that could be it, that it could happen just like that -- that it really could happen at any moment, and they just have to accept that. As much as their logical minds may have known this, the rest of them can’t seem to catch up.
But no way are they getting any more sleep tonight. As the hypnotic bass line floats in…
INT. MALIBU LAKE HOUSE - NIGHT
Song Cue ♫ ♪ “Pretty Little Birds” as performed by SZA || Instrumental
The transition away from the hospital almost feels like it’s happening in a dream, hazy and psychedelic. That’s the vibe Maya is immersed in right now, thoroughly enjoying the loose feeling and free mind of her first cocaine trip. The music is somewhat echo-y, and occasionally glitchy, like it’s skipping on a record player. She’s full of energy and confidence again, but it’s also numbed a bit by the earlier alcohol, so all in all it’s disorienting to see it from our angle.
The whole experience is artistically obscured, Maya enthusiastically grooving to herself in the shadows and slashes of light. It’s hard to tell if the party is even still going on, or where exactly she is -- because she’s mentally somewhere else entirely. Occasionally, she’ll pause in a beam of light and reach out to catch wisps of fog passing around her… ones that appear to be iridescent lines of music or lyrics, shimmering in her grasp for half a second until it floats away again.
Another night and day contrast between coasts, no matter how synthetic and fabricated it might be. For now, it’s freedom, and Maya will take it. She tilts her head back and launches into a spin, breaking into laughter as light begins to drown out the screen.
Once we’re swallowed by burning white --
INT. MALIBU LAKE HOUSE - MAYA’S ROOM - DAY
Sunshine is gleaming through the windows, indicating it’s well into the morning when Maya finally stirs back in reality. She’s still in her clothes from the night before, seemingly just having crashed on her bed after the wild night. She manages to sit up and runs a hand through her messy hair, having trouble shaking off the daze.
The strange part is, she honestly can’t remember much of it. She remembers she had fun, and that it was an interesting and energizing experience. But otherwise, it’s all a blur, a blank slate of nothing. It unsettles her a bit, actually. If that’s the trade-off, a bit of a bump to heighten the spirits doesn’t seem worth it.
That is, until she leans back and hears something crinkle loudly underneath her. She sits up and rolls onto her knees, discovering a bunch of papers ripped from her journals scattered on the bed. She must’ve fallen asleep with them last night. Confused, she picks them up and starts to flip through them.
It’s song ideas. New song ideas, and evidently not bad ones based on the way her expression lights up. So much for writer’s block -- she has a whole treasure trove here, that she must’ve apparently dashed out during her creatively buzzed cocaine high.
INT. MALIBU LAKE HOUSE - DAY
Melissa and Justin are both already up, chatting idly in the kitchen while they have coffee. They’re seasoned regulars to the L.A. coke scene, so they don’t have nearly as much of a hangover.
They greet Maya happily when she finally emerges from her room, remarking on how she hasn’t changed yet. Did she really just crash like that? They pick on her with fond amusement -- baby’s first coke dip!
Maya can humor the teasing, as she doesn’t have time to be indignant. She’s way too excited about the gold she discovered this morning, handing out the papers to both of them and claiming the blockade has ended. Whatever that party did last night, it worked. They’re back in business!
Based on their reactions, her excitement isn’t unfounded. This is definitely more than they had yesterday, so they’ll fucking take it! Melissa exchanges a high-five with Maya, while Justin comes around the counter and picks her up from behind to spin her around.
Justin: Fucking magic, this one. What am I always fucking saying? Melissa: A little partying always does the trick, that’s what.
Justin barks a laugh. True enough! Maya grins when her feet touch the floor again, buzzing with the praise. It feels good to be fawned over, supported, treated like she’s the next best thing.
It feels good to be heard.
[ 410 Hub ] [ Next (Part 1, half 2) → ]
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I can't believe I'm just getting to this now! 😭 I'm so sorry! I really wanted to wait until I didn't have a headache to enjoy it fully! That day seems far off, so I decided to read it anyway. I can't wait any longer. I love these three and any adventures they have were sure to be a great time.
You did not disappoint at all. I am so so in love with this. I love how you took Lily's drabble and extended it into this hilarious story! I just love the these three/six!!!!!
“Jesus! No wonder Tobias didn’t want to let you go. If that’s your reaction to a frozen margarita... in public... I can only imagine when you’re reacting to... other things... privately.”
lolol oh, Casey! I love her so so much! But Merida not being afraid to call her out for it haha
okay, but also... THIS WHOLE SECTION!!!! 🤣 🤣 🤣 🤣
Remaining in her reclined state of ecstasy, a grin crossed Casey’s lips. “Now you understand why it was so difficult for him to part with me.” She reached for her drink and took another long sip with an equally salacious reaction. As Merida laughed, a blushing Olivia gazed around to ensure no one else was watching. “It’s good to know that you have a future in adult film voiceovers if medicine doesn’t work out for you, MacTavish,” Merida grinned. “Wait!” Olivia exclaimed, placing her drink on the table by her side. “That’s a thing?” Casey tilted her head in her friend’s direction, laying a hand on her thigh. “Dear, sweet, Olivia... sometimes I almost feel guilty for how much we’re corrupting you.” “Yeah, I don’t,” Merida snorted.
Casey is amazing. I wish I had 1 ounce of confidence as her. She is everything!
Oh, poor sweet, Olivia! These ladies are a terrible influence! (but in the best way possible!)
“We need to come up with a porn name for you,” Merida insisted after emptying her own drink. “Not that I don’t expect your medical career to work out... just for fun.”
... but now I want to see that conversation play out lol What is Casey's porn name lol
“Oh, go easy on him, Mer... you can’t blame him for being a little insecure. He knows damn well if I met you before meeting him or before you met Ethan, he would have some serious competition on his hands.” “Competition?” Merida barked. “As if. I would have wiped the floor with that cocky bastard.”
Gahh could you imagine!!! Merida and Tobias fighting over Casey. The real winner is definitely Casey
“Yeah... I’m just wondering... would Bryce have had competition, too?” “Of course!” Casey insisted. “Liv, you’re stunning! I would have fought the man off with a stick!”
Awww Liv is so cuteeee! She would 100% say/think that.
I am 1000% sure that meant the absolute world to Olivia, she probably felt so so good to hear that and will never forget it.
“Meh,” Casey waved dismissively. “I think everyone is a little bit bi. They just haven’t all admitted it yet.”
.... Olivia is a little tiny bit bi.... I always headcanoned her as bi-curious. She had thoughts about other girls/women, but never acted on them, mostly because she was just shy and unsure. I never ever posted that HC because this fandom already jumps on characters for not being bi enough, so Olivia being bi-curious... I just felt it wasn't worth the hate. But since I doubt anyone is reading my comments here beside you, I'm happy to share it with you! 💛
(I kinda liked the idea of Bi-Bryce being super supportive of Olivia and encouraging her to at least kiss a girl once, just to see for herself. Even if she decides she didn't like it, he'd never want to stand in the way of anyone's journey of self-identity)
anywayyyy back to YOUR story
oooo the guys talking about the girls. Okay they're so sad but precious. I love how much they love their ladies and how much they respect and admire them. They know they're lucky (as they should) and they don't want to lose what they have.
Their friendship is wonderful too. The way you write Tobias and Ethan is amazing!! Their banter and dynmaic is perfection.
“Yeah,” Bryce laughed nervously, “But they love us. Besides, Olivia is the shy one... she wouldn’t be flirting or anything like that.” His friends' heads spun his way with incredulous grins on their faces. “Maybe once,” Tobias chuckled. “But she’s friends with our girls now.” “Yep,” Ethan agreed. “She’s learning at the feet of the masters.”
heheh I love that! They are definitely a (good) bad influence on her. And she's better for it.
“Right, right,” Bryce chuckled as images of his sweet Olivia filled his mind... his sweet Olivia, who had become so much more outgoing since... “But they’re not there to party or anything. Right? By now, they’re probably back in the room, watching a movie or having tea.”
Tea? Really, Bryce? lol Oh, poor, sweet, Bryce! hehe
Merida picked up the phone instead. “Hey, T. She’s fine. Maybe one Mai Tai too many, but she’s fine. I’m supervising.” “Oh, Jesus Christ,” Ethan groaned. “Now I feel better.” “Is that my grump? Let me see him.”
Grumpy Ethan is my favorite and Merida teasing him is the best
“Olivia?” Mer laughed, turning the phone toward Olivia. Downing the large mug of beer in her hand, Olivia was eating up the attention of her adoring crowd, yelling, “CHUG CHUG CHUG CHUG!” She dropped her empty mug to the table, jumped on her chair, and yelled, “Woooooo!”. Bryce’s eyes went wide. “Olivia?” “You’re right,” Ethan replied without emotion. “She’s the demure one of the group.”
LOLOL Liv is having an amazing time, but now poor Bryce!!
“I know,” Bryce fretted, “but... what have your girls done to Olivia?” “I don’t know, buddy,” Tobias sneered. “But if Casey teaches her any other tricks while they’re gone... I assure you... you’ll be a very happy man when they return.”
She's still your Olivia, she's just enjoying letting loose for a night. I'm sure the hangover tomorrow will be more than enough to want to spend the rest of the day snuggled in your arms... maybe with that tea you were thinking about lol
But also, Casey and Merida teaching her some other tricks 😏😏😏
Okay, but this, this little gem here was my favorite, I spent FAR too long laughing at this!!!
“You know what... bring him a Blue Hawaiian,” he said, throwing his arm over Bryce’s shoulder.
Like it should be as funny as I read it, but seriously laughing hysterically. My puppy is like WTF is wrong with you.
Oh poor Bryce, don't worry, you're girl will be back sooner than you know. Her heart belongs to you! and in the meantime, your wonderful friends are there to get you back on track for your own fun night.
Thank you so so much for writing this and always including my lovely girl with yours! I seriously adore the way you write them all. They always make me smile and laugh (and cry... but in a good way).
You are the very very best! Thank you for your friendship and for this lovely story! I adore you so much!!!
Contrast
Happy Fandom Love Day @lilyoffandoms! This picks up where your little kidnapping of my girl took off earlier this week! lol I hope you enjoy it. Thanks for being you, Lily! 💜
Book: Open Heart Pairings: Ethan x Merida, Bryce x Olivia, Tobias x Casey Rating: Teen Words: 1,600 Summary: It took a lot to get Casey away from Tobias for a Girl's Weekend Away, but Merida and Olivia had it all under control. Now, let's see what they got into while they were gone and how the guys coped back in Boston. A/N: Merida and Ethan belong to @lilyoffandoms and Bryce and Olivia belong to @storyofmychoices.
Eyes hidden behind dark sunglasses, Casey raised the frosty beverage to her lips and let the sweet liquor coat her tongue. She let out a wickedly slow, delightful groan as the cool drink washed over her, directly contrasting with the hot sun pulsating off her skin. She had surrendered. Falling back into her lounge chair with a sigh of satisfaction, everything felt right with the world. Perhaps that’s because she was unaware of two sets of eyes fixed on her from either side as this spectacle unfolded.
Olivia fought back a giggle as her eyes met Merida’s over their satiated friend. Olivia might be willing to let this slide, but that wasn’t Merida’s style.
“Jesus! No wonder Tobias didn’t want to let you go. If that’s your reaction to a frozen margarita... in public... I can only imagine when you’re reacting to... other things... privately.”
Remaining in her reclined state of ecstasy, a grin crossed Casey’s lips. “Now you understand why it was so difficult for him to part with me.”
She reached for her drink and took another long sip with an equally salacious reaction. As Merida laughed, a blushing Olivia gazed around to ensure no one else was watching.
“It’s good to know that you have a future in adult film voiceovers if medicine doesn’t work out for you, MacTavish,” Merida grinned.
“Wait!” Olivia exclaimed, placing her drink on the table by her side. “That’s a thing?”
Casey tilted her head in her friend’s direction, laying a hand on her thigh.
“Dear, sweet, Olivia... sometimes I almost feel guilty for how much we’re corrupting you.”
“Yeah, I don’t,” Merida snorted.
“It’s not a thing,” Casey smiled. “So if medicine doesn’t work out for me... I guess I’ll have to go all the way.”
“We need to come up with a porn name for you,” Merida insisted after emptying her own drink. “Not that I don’t expect your medical career to work out... just for fun.”
“This is fun,” Casey agreed, flagging down the poolside waiter for another round.
Merida flashed a snide glance Casey’s way. “And to think, we nearly had to kidnap you to get you out of Boston,” she teased. “Tobias can be quite greedy and selfish.”
“Oh, go easy on him, Mer... you can’t blame him for being a little insecure. He knows damn well if I met you before meeting him or before you met Ethan, he would have some serious competition on his hands.”
“Competition?” Merida barked. “As if. I would have wiped the floor with that cocky bastard.”
As Casey and Merida happily downed their fresh drinks, they noticed Olivia was a s little more reserved.
“Liv, everything OK?” Merida asked.
“Yeah... I’m just wondering... would Bryce have had competition, too?”
“Of course!” Casey insisted. “Liv, you’re stunning! I would have fought the man off with a stick!”
“Mmm,” Merida nodded. “Of course, you’re our token straight friend, which may have given him a bit of an advantage.”
“Meh,” Casey waved dismissively. “I think everyone is a little bit bi. They just haven’t all admitted it yet.”
“It’s OK,” Merida assured. “Oliva, you would have been invited to the party even if you didn’t want to attend.”
The three women fell into a fit of giggles that only worsened as the afternoon progressed and the drinks kept coming. When evening approached, the tipsy trio made their way to their hotel room. Casey dove face-first into her bed, while Olivia collapsed into a chair beside the balcony. Marida poured glasses of water for herself and her friends.
“What do you think the guys are doing right now?” Olivia asked.
“Downing their sorrows,” Casey mumbled with closed eyes. “They can’t stand being away from us.”
“She’s probably right,” Merida smiled. “They’re probably as inebriated as we are... but not having as much fun doing it.”
~~~~~
Back in Boston.
A forlorn Tobias sat hunched over the bar at Donahues, his usual chipper bravado missing in action. Ethan sat at his side looking... well... the same way he always looks. Nodding toward Reggie, he summoned two more drinks.
“What do you think they’re doing now?” Tobias asked.
“I can’t speak for everyone. But I’m sure Casey’s being approached by a ridiculously tan and toned specimen. They’re bright, attractive, personable, and she’s finally coming to her senses and realizing she could do so much better than you.”
“You know, you’re an asshole,” Tobias smirked before sipping his Scotch. “I wouldn’t be so confident if I were you, buddy. Everyone knows Mer is so far out of your league. Maybe this is where she has her wake-up call, too.”
Ethan raised his glass with a shrug. “Here’s to our women,” he began. “May they never realize how pathetic we are.”
“Hear, hear,” Tobias laughed as their glasses clinked and they downed their drinks, quickly summonsing Reggie for refills.
Sometime later, Bryce got off shift and headed directly to meet the guys. He was still in his scrubs, but with his bright smile and not a single hair out of place, he looked like he stepped off the cover of a magazine.
“Hey, Guys!” He said enthusiastically as he slipped onto a stool. “Looks like you’re a little ahead of me.”
“Yep! You have to keep up, young man,” Tobias grinned. “What’s your poison?”
“I need a minute to decide. Have either of you heard from the girls? I hope they’re having a good time.”
“We have not,” Ethan deadpanned. “And I hope they’re having an... adequate... time.”
“Adequate?” Bryce questioned. “Why?”
Tobias wobbly turned toward his friend, placing a hand on his shoulder. “Bryce, just hope they don’t realize they could do much better than us.”
“What? Don’t be ridiculous,” Bryce laughed. “You’re not really worried, are you?”
Ethan and Tobias exchanged a devious look. “I don’t know,” Ethan sighed. “Our ladies are pretty damn special.”
“Sure as hell are,” Tobias agreed. “Brilliant, beautiful, kindhearted...”
“Witty!” Ethan interjected. “They can strike up a conversation with anyone and leave them spellbound. Merida did it to me.”
“Absolutely!” Tobias nodded. “And their flirtation game... damn, it rivals mine.”
Ethan turned to him with disgust. “Are you kidding me? Theirs is so much better than yours.”
“Yeah,” Bryce laughed nervously, “But they love us. Besides, Olivia is the shy one... she wouldn’t be flirting or anything like that.”
His friends' heads spun his way with incredulous grins on their faces. “Maybe once,” Tobias chuckled. “But she’s friends with our girls now.”
“Yep,” Ethan agreed. “She’s learning at the feet of the masters.”
“Right, right,” Bryce chuckled as images of his sweet Olivia filled his mind... his sweet Olivia, who had become so much more outgoing since... “But they’re not there to party or anything. Right? By now, they’re probably back in the room, watching a movie or having tea.”
“Tea?” Tobias spat as his phone rang. “Oh, shit, it’s them now. Case is facetiming.” He quickly hit accept, and his face lit up as she appeared. “Hey, baby! Having fun?”
“Hey, T! Sure am, we’re at the pool party... I feel like I’m back in college again!”
“Oh really,” he joked. “Just remember, you’re an old married lady now.”
“What?” Casey giggled, “I don’t see a ring on this finger, bub!” Her giggles broke into full-blown laughter, and her head tilted forward. Unable to control giggling, Tobias unsuccessfully attempted to get her attention.
“Babe... Babe... Casey... you there, hon?”
Merida picked up the phone instead. “Hey, T. She’s fine. Maybe one Mai Tai too many, but she’s fine. I’m supervising.”
“Oh, Jesus Christ,” Ethan groaned. “Now I feel better.”
“Is that my grump? Let me see him.”
Ethan took the phone from Tobias’s hands. “You know I’m teasing, darling. Don’t you?”
“Of course I do. But I am cutting these girls off for the rest of the night.”
“Girls?” Bryce asked. “Where is Olivia?”
“Olivia?” Mer laughed, turning the phone toward Olivia. Downing the large mug of beer in her hand, Olivia was eating up the attention of her adoring crowd, yelling, “CHUG CHUG CHUG CHUG!” She dropped her empty mug to the table, jumped on her chair, and yelled, “Woooooo!”.
Bryce’s eyes went wide. “Olivia?”
“You’re right,” Ethan replied without emotion. “She’s the demure one of the group.”
“Yeah, I better go,” Merida sighed. “I’ve got my hands full here. Remember, guys, we love you.”
Bryce grabbed the phone from Ethan’s hands.
“Merida, can I talk to....” but it went dead.
Ethan and Tobias fought back smirks as Tobias consoled their friend. “Hey, you OK there, pal?”
“Yeah... I’m,” he faltered. “You’re not really worried .... are you?”
“No!” Tobias chuckled. “We’re just busting balls. I mean, look at the three of us. We’re freaking amazing!” When he turned to Ethan, he backtracked. “Well, two of us are amazing. If I were Ramsey, I would be worried.”
Ignoring him, Ethan turned to Bryce. “It’s fine, they’re just having fun.”
“I know,” Bryce fretted, “but... what have your girls done to Olivia?”
“I don’t know, buddy,” Tobias sneered. “But if Casey teaches her any other tricks while they’re gone... I assure you... you’ll be a very happy man when they return.”
“Hey,” Reggie grinned as he approached the men. “Looks like Lahela has joined the party. What can I get you, man?”
Lost in thought, he didn’t reply.
“Bryce?” Reggie asked as Tobias jumped in.
“You know what... bring him a Blue Hawaiian,” he said, throwing his arm over Bryce’s shoulder.
“Well, that’s fitting,” Ethan laughed.
“Just for the next ten minutes or so,” Tobias grinned. “We’ll get him back on track.”
@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics
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𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙧𝙤𝙡𝙚𝙨 // 𝙟.𝙨𝙪𝙝 . 𝙋𝙏 𝙊𝙉𝙀- 𝙃𝙤𝙩 𝙊𝙣𝙚𝙨
-> 𝗂𝗇 𝗐𝗁𝗂𝖼𝗁 𝗉𝗋𝗈𝗆𝗈𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗒𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝗆𝗈𝗏𝗂𝖾 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗃𝗈𝗁𝗇𝗇𝗒 (𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽: 𝗒𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝖻𝖾𝗌𝗍 𝖿𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗇𝖽 𝗐𝗁𝗈 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗆𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗍 𝗃𝗎𝗌𝗍 𝖻𝖾 𝗂𝗇 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁) 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝗍𝗈 𝖻𝖾 𝖾𝖺𝗌𝗂𝖾𝗋 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗇 𝖺𝖼𝗍𝗎𝖺𝗅𝗅𝗒 𝖿𝗂𝗅𝗆𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗂𝗍... 𝗋𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗍?
-> 𝗃𝗈𝗁𝗇𝗇𝗒 𝗌𝗎𝗁 𝗑 𝖿𝖾𝗆𝖺𝗅𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋 , 𝖺𝖼𝗍𝗈𝗋!𝖺𝗎 , 𝗐𝗈𝗋𝖽 𝖼𝗈𝗎𝗇𝗍: 𝟨.𝟤𝗄
-> 𝖺/𝗇: 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗌 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝖻𝖾 𝗂𝗇 𝖺𝗇 𝗂𝗇��𝖾𝗋𝗏𝗂𝖾𝗐 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗆𝖺𝗍, 𝖻𝖺𝗌𝖾𝖽 𝗈𝖿𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝗋𝖾𝖾 𝗉𝗈𝗉𝗎𝗅𝖺𝗋 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗋𝗏𝗂𝖾𝗐 𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗌, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗂𝗇𝖼𝗅𝗎𝖽𝖾 𝗰𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝘀𝗲𝘅𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗼𝘀, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝗲𝘅, 𝖺𝗌 𝗐𝖾𝗅𝗅 𝖺𝗌 𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝗌 𝗈𝖿 𝗱𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗼𝗰𝗱, 𝘁𝗼𝘅𝗶𝗰 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗐𝗁𝖾𝗇 𝗃𝗈𝗁𝗇𝗇𝗒 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗒/𝗇 𝖺𝗋𝖾 𝗍𝖺𝗅𝗄𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖺𝖻𝗈𝗎𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗂𝗋 𝖺𝖼𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗋𝗈𝗅𝖾𝗌.
-> 𝖺 𝖧𝖴𝖦𝖤 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗇𝗄 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗍𝗈 𝗆𝗒 𝖻𝗎𝖻 𝗇𝗂𝗄𝗄𝗂 ( @sehunniepot ) 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗁𝖾𝗅𝗉𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗆𝖾 𝖾𝖽𝗂𝗍, 𝖾𝗇𝖼𝗈𝗎𝗋𝖺𝗀𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗆𝖾, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋𝖺𝗅𝗅 𝗃𝗎𝗌𝗍 𝖻𝖾𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖻𝖾𝗌𝗍. 𝗌𝗁𝖾 𝖺𝗅𝗌𝗈 𝗇𝖺𝗆𝖾𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗌 𝖻𝖾𝖼𝖺𝗎𝗌𝖾 𝗌𝗁𝖾 𝗂𝗌 𝖺𝗇 𝖺𝗇𝗀𝖾𝗅 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖻𝖾𝗌𝗍 𝗂𝖽𝖾𝖺𝗌 𝗈𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗉𝗅𝖺𝗇𝖾𝗍 ❥
-> 𝖳𝖠𝖦𝖫𝖨𝖲𝖳 (𝗁𝗆𝗎 𝗍𝗈 𝗃𝗈𝗂𝗇!) : @sehunniepot @pimpnameyannie
Johnny Suh Teases Y/N L/N While Eating Spicy Wings
SEAN: Hey, what’s going on everybody? For ‘First We Feast’, I’m Sean Evans, and you’re watching Hot Ones!
the camera angles shifts from sean to a shot of the table. he is sitting across johnny and y/n, who are smiling at each other while sean introduces the video. they quickly break their gaze and look at sean.
SEAN: It’s the show with hot questions, and even hotter wings.
the camera pans directly to johnny and y/n.
Y/N: *whispering, excited* He said the thing, oh my gosh.
SEAN: Today we are joined by Johnny Suh and Y/N L/N!
the video cuts to photos of johnny.
SEAN, VOICEOVER: He rose to fame through his YouTube channel and his acting career took off through a number of indie films. Since then, he has been the face of several Hollywood blockbusters.
the video cuts to photos of y/n.
SEAN, VOICEOVER: She’s an Emmy award winning actress well-known for a number of TV roles—most notably for her starring role in the HBO series, ‘Obsession.’
the video cuts to photos of them both.
SEAN, VOICEOVER: Their latest work is the critically acclaimed film, ‘Day Dream,’ currently in theatres.
the video cuts to the camera pointed at johnny and y/n.
SEAN: Y/N L/N, Johnny Suh, welcome to the show.
Y/N: Thank you for having us.
JOHNNY: Thank you, we’re happy to be here!
the camera shifts to a shot of the table. johnny sits on the outside, but y/n’s chair is pulled very close to his. their arms are practically overlapped.
SEAN: I’m excited, viewers are excited—we’ve had so many requests to have you two on the show.
y/n beams, excitedly gesturing between herself and the table with her hands. johnny stares at her, smiling.
Y/N: It’s literally a dream come true—I love this show, I’ve seen all the episodes—I feel like this is the true mark of success.
JOHNNY: She’s been talking about this nonstop since we found out we’d be on.
y/n swats his arm.
SEAN: It’s okay—we’re all stoked to have you here! But the question is: can you two handle the spice?
JOHNNY: I’m pretty confident about it.
Y/N: That isn’t saying much, you’re confident about everything…
JOHNNY: She actually really loves spicy food. She can handle it.
Y/N: I do love it…but I’m not trying to fuck it up by saying I’m good at managing it, though.
SEAN: Well, I have a feeling you two will do great.
it cuts to the intro—shots of the hot sauce bottles, as well as the logo for the show.
the camera is back on y/n and johnny.
JOHNNY: Ready?
Y/N: Always.
the two tap their wings together, as if clinking glasses, and take bites.
the hot sauce and its spice level is shown.
JOHNNY: Shit, these are really good. Nice flavor.
Y/N: Can I eat the whole thing? I’m hungry.
SEAN: Yeah, of course.
johnny laughs at y/n proceeding to dig into the wing.
SEAN: So, you two are very successful at a young age. Johnny, you’ve been vlogging for years, and Y/N, you got your start with small roles in TV shows, and now have an Emmy. Are you surprised about how quickly you achieved so much in the span of a few years?
johnny nods at y/n, letting her go first, smiling fondly at her and watching. the camera pans to y/n.
Y/N: Y’know… yeah. *laughs* I’d be lying if I said that it wasn’t absolutely insane and overwhelming. I went from a few lines in shows to starting an HBO series? With a fucking Emmy? I never expected to get that role or any of this and I’m still confused about it. Acting… all this, it’s my life. It’s what I’ve wanted since I was a kid, and I’m so, so grateful for how far I’ve come. *laughs* I don’t know how anyone let me get here, though.
JOHNNY: *exasperated* Oh, c’mon, Y/N. You’re a star.
SEAN: It’s definitely well deserved. Johnny?
the camera settles on johnny, who pulls his gaze away from y/n to look at sean. y/n keeps her eyes on johnny, a soft expression on her face.
JOHNNY: I started out just as a kid with a camera. I grew up wanting to act, wanting to sing, and being very into photography and visuals. My channel started out as me just talking or doing stuff with my friends and it grew bigger than I could’ve imagined. I’m beyond lucky for how far I’ve come—and to get to direct and produce a lot of my projects is great.
SEAN: Speaking of, my next question for you is actually about your experience in the production of films. How does directing and producing have an affect on you now as an actor? Even for projects like ‘Day Dream,’ where you aren’t taking a role in production.
johnny runs a hand through his hair, nodding.
JOHNNY: *pauses then laughs* Shit, did I get sauce in my hair? I hope I didn’t.
y/n leans closer to him, and he lowers his head to her level. she runs his fingers through his hair, and shakes her head.
Y/N: Nah, you’re good.
SEAN: Just be careful around the eyes!
Y/N: *fangirling* AH, I knew you were going to say that—fuck, sorry… big fan.
SEAN: *laughing* You’ve seen a bit, then?
Y/N: Totally. Oh, sorry Johnny—interrupted.
JOHNNY: Don’t you always?
johnny laughs, and y/n pouts in response.
JOHNNY: Just messing around, don’t worry. But, yeah, I actually like this question a lot. Honestly, it gives a whole other dimension to the experience. I think that we—as actors—always invest love and care into our work because we want it to be the best it can be. We all come in wanting to do well for not only ourselves but for production. Like, we already know how big of a job it is for them, how hard it is but when you’ve been there, it’s different. You start to look at things you wouldn’t notice before and it’s almost like you’re hyper-aware of many more facets of shooting than you normally would think about—and I don’t think that’s a bad thing.
Y/N: *musing* No, it’s not.
JOHNNY: It gives you more drive.
SEAN: Totally. And I’ve seen your work— you’ve pulled off so many different roles, but I think how you executed the filmmaking was even more impressive.
JOHNNY: *grinning* Thanks, man. That means a lot.
the next sauce is shown, as well as it’s scoville level.
the camera cuts back to them, biting into the wings.
Y/N: I don’t taste much of a difference in the sauce…is my palate broken?
JOHNNY: Wouldn’t be surprised… weirdo.
Y/N: Oh, fuck off.
SEAN: It creeps up on you, but then it piles on all at once.
Y/N: Are you even fazed by it anymore, Sean?
SEAN: You’d think I’m more used to the hotter ones, but it still gets me sometimes.
Y/N: It doesn’t show.
johnny looks over at y/n’s wing and scoffs, jokingly.
JOHNNY: Damn, Y/N, at least clean the bone better.
Y/N: *frowning* I don’t wanna mess up my makeup.
SEAN: So, Y/N, this is your first movie. How does the filming differ from TV—is it any harder or easier? Do you have a preference and how have you felt through the process?
Y/N: It’s not that different—for me, anyway, I don’t know what others might say. I was so stoked to get this, especially because the concept for the film is pretty different to most of the romcoms I’ve seen in the past. Not as cheesy—it feels like a real romance. In fact, it felt—well, not easier, because, like, with ‘Obsession’ I’m so comfortable with my role and my cast but it was kind of the same here. Being with Johnny was great because I’ve known him for so long and it felt natural to be working with him.
johnny is, yet again, staring and smiling at her. you can almost see the hearts in his eyes.
SEAN: Johnny, did you feel similarly?
JOHNNY: *snapping out of it to look at sean* Of course. Y/N’s been in my life for what seems like forever and I was even more excited about taking the role when I found out she’d be doing it with me. She said it best—it was natural.
the next sauce is shown.
they all bite into the wings.
SEAN: How we feelin’?
Y/N: This one’s got a ‘lil kick to it, but it’s still pretty mild. I love this flavor.
JOHNNY: Yeah, this one’s my favorite so far, flavor-wise.
SEAN: We have some for you guys to take home, don’t worry.
Y/N: Oh, you’re the best.
SEAN: Kind of going off where we were, the internet is raving about your chemistry.
the two laugh, y/n looking slightly shy.
SEAN: You mentioned it was easy to star together, given your friendship. Was there anything, though, that was particularly hard?
unseen on the camera, johnny rests his hand on y/n’s thigh under the table, in a casual manner. she stiffens slightly, then relaxes as he speaks.
JOHNNY: For this project, I mean, Y/N was perfect. She executed the role of Audrey beautifully and when you have someone who just knows exactly how to play their part, it makes shooting feel more immersive and intimate. She’s just perfect.
Y/N: *beaming* I feel the same about you—you played Chris flawlessly.
johnny thanks her, and rubs circles onto her thigh with his thumb.
Y/N: For my first film, I’m beyond happy I got to do it with him. He’s been in my life for years, like, we met when we were twenty, and I just felt… everything was, like, comfortable, and easy, and safe. Gotta be real, though, the sex scenes were weird.
SEAN: *laughing* Oh?
JOHNNY: *bewildered* Are we going there?
Y/N: *shrugs* I mean… is that okay? Can I not say that?
SEAN: No, you can. We don’t bleep cussing on here, so I think it’s fine.
Y/N: I won’t share all the gory details.
JOHNNY: I don’t mind.
johnny is smirking, and looking intently at y/n. she tries not to falter under his gaze.
Y/N: *laughs* It was just kind of bizarre to see him like that? I mean, it’s my job, it wasn’t a big deal, I kept my professionalism, but was it strange? Absolutely.
y/n laughs nervously.
JOHNNY: I didn’t think it was that weird.
Y/N: *sarcastic* Yeah, okay. For real, though, it was my first sex scene, I was nervous, and he made me feel protected and comfortable… *quietly, cutely* Thank you for that.
JOHNNY: *fondly* You’re welcome. Yeah, I’m messing around, it was a little odd…but my goal was to make her comfortable. Our crew is great, of course, but it’s notoriously harder for women in the industry than it is for men. I care about her, I just want her to be okay.
SEAN: It really is. I’m glad you two were comfortable during all that.
y/n is looking down, biting her lip as she smiles.
the next sauce shows up on screen.
the camera shows the table as they all take a bite.
Y/N: Ooh.
johnny and sean laugh.
SEAN: Is this one harder?
JOHNNY: It’s a bit hotter.
Y/N: Nothing unmanageable, though. It’s kind of… fruity?
SEAN: It has mango in it.
JOHNNY: I think it really adds to it, it’s nice.
SEAN: So, something I wanna ask you two is about music. Johnny, I know you’re a great singer, and have been interested in music for a long time, being in musicals. And Y/N, you’ve contributed songs to the ‘Obsession’ soundtrack— you’re very musically talented as well. Tell me—do either of you have any musical plans for the future? And who has inspired you, musically?
JOHNNY: *laughing* Thanks, man, I appreciate that. Uh, honestly, I grew up listening to such a wide range of music. I definitely have plans to create my own music down the line… but I can’t really say when. I’m focused on acting right now, y’know? But it’ll be sooner than you think. As far as musical influences… God, it’s all over the place.
Y/N: You love Coldplay.
JOHNNY: Yeah, they’re my favorite artist. I like so many genres… *absentminded* Y/N showed me a lot of stuff, too.
y/n grins, patting johnny’s hand.
Y/N: Yeah! We would just share airpods between takes and listen to music… It was nice.
SEAN: I heard you two also fell asleep a lot on set.
they both laugh hard.
Y/N: We did—it was like a running joke. Jaehyun and Yerim—they were also in the film—always took pictures and teased us.
johnny laughs again.
Y/N: Oh! Yeah, to answer your question… to be honest, I was surprised that they asked me to do a song. I knew Kyungsoo would be—I mean, everyone’s heard his voice. He’s a god, he’s good at fuckin’ everything. But I think he, Jongin and Sehun tattled on me to the execs, because they heard me singing in my trailer. I work with such assholes. *laughs* I’m joking… but, yeah! It was pretty cool… I didn’t even know I was capable of sounding that good. I don’t wanna sound like I’m bragging—I was just surprised when I heard the track. And people liked it! I would definitely consider—
johnny is staring intently at y/n, who has sauce on the corner of her mouth. while she’s speaking, he reaches out to grab her chin with one hand and uses the thumb on his other hand to wipe the sauce. sean feels as if he’s interrupting a private moment, and y/n falters, cutting off.
Y/N: *speaking to johnny as if the two are in their own little word* -did I have sauce?
johnny licks the thumb with the sauce on it, casually, nodding.
JOHNNY: Yeah, just a little.
SEAN: *laughing* Do you like this one that much?
JOHNNY: *smiling, speaking lowly* Yeah it has… a nice flavor. *his demeanor changes quickly, smoothly, his tone becoming light-hearted* It’ll probably get worse from here though, right?
y/n is internally malfunctioning, but masks it. it worsens when he places his hand back secretly on her thigh. her heart is hammering in her chest and she resists the urge to aggressively bounce her leg. she’s SO into him, and he’s fueling the flame. unbeknownst to her, he is definitely flirting.
SEAN: Most definitely.
the fifth sauce pops up, as well as the scoville level.
they all take bites, and y/n smiles.
Y/N: Yeahhh, y’know, this one is… hot.
SEAN: Are you doing okay?
Y/N: Oh, hell yeah. It’s good. All of these have such great flavors—I’m excited to take the sauces home.
JOHNNY: I know she’s gonna cook something with it as soon as she gets home.
SEAN: You’ll have to send me what you do. You like to cook?
JOHNNY: *quickly, beating y/n to answering* Dude, she’s an amazing cook.
Y/N: *embarassed* I’m okay… I really love to cook though. *laughing* Wife me up.
johnny smiles slightly at that.
Y/N: One of our friends, he’s a rapper, Mark Lee?
SEAN: Yeah! He’s great, I’ve met him.
JOHNNY: I love that kid.
Y/N: Yeah, I’m pissed at him. He was noticed by Gordon Ramsey.
johnny is cracking up, and sean smiles.
SEAN: I think I heard about that.
Y/N: Yeah, a fan tweeted a picture of Mark’s shitty scrambled eggs at him, saying it was her boyfriend. And he fucking told her to break up with him. *laughing hard* I mean, I’m just jealous, because I love Gordon Ramsey and would love to be noticed by him.
SEAN: Gordon, if you’re watching this, Y/N is dying to meet you.
y/n shakes her head, shy.
JOHNNY: She’s too much of a shy little wimp for that.
Y/N: Is today shit on Y/N day? Goddamn…
SEAN: So, we have a segment on the show we like to call ‘Explain That Gram’. Basically, we just take pictures from your Instagram that need more context.
Y/N: I love this.
a staff member brings a laptop to sean.
SEAN: We’ll start with Johnny?
JOHNNY: Bring it.
the screen shows a photo from johnny’s instagram. y/n and johnny can be heard laughing their asses off at the picture shown.
SEAN, VOICEOVER: So, this is you and Ten Lee, the dancer and model, who you’re close friends with. Can you explain *laughs* what’s going on here?
the screen goes back to the camera pointed at johnny. he’s laughing with his head in his hands and y/n is suppressing her laughter.
JOHNNY: *clearing his throat and composing himself* Yeah, so that’s Ten. *he laughs more*
Y/N: God, I love Ten. I miss him.
JOHNNY: Yeah, he’s great. One of my very best friends. So basically, I was visiting him at his home in Thailand. He was supposed to come to Chicago, actually, but his schedule got packed at the last moment. But I had an idea to take photos in front of a greenscreen, wear ‘I Love Chicago’ shirts, and put images of city landmarks behind us.
Y/N: That doesn’t look like Chicago, John.
JOHNNY: Well, that one’s a wave. That one was just funny.
a photo of from y/n’s instagram is shown on screen. once again, they all burst out laughing.
SEAN, VOICEOVER: Here you are, wearing a dinosaur head. Could you give the context?
the camera is on y/n.
Y/N: *smiling* God, my face hurts… fuck, you know how to pick them, huh?
SEAN: That’s the game!
Y/N: Uh, well, Johnny actually took this photo.
JOHNNY: *grinning* Yup.
Y/N: You see, what happened was… we were in Walmart with our friend Seulgi, and I found a dinosaur head. And because I’m a literal child, I thought it would be hilarious to pretend to be a dinosaur and chase them around. It was an action shot.
another photo pops up on screen, again from y/n’s instagram.
SEAN, VOICEOVER: Here you two are getting on a plane. Can I ask what you’re doing here, Johnny?
the camera pans to johnny, who is grinning.
JOHNNY: We were actually boarding the plane to go visit my parents in Chicago. It was a few days after we wrapped up filming—
Y/N: —I have to interject before he lies about what was really happening. Here is concrete proof that Johnny bullies me. Little shit.
JOHNNY: *staring into the camera* I was not bullying her. She was already making us late, and I was trying to board the plane, not pose for selfies.
Y/N: … Honestly, all I heard was you saying you were bullying me.
SEAN: *laughing* You were running late, Y/N?
JOHNNY: She’s always running late.
Y/N: Well— *hesitates* unfortunately, I can’t dispute that.
both johnny and sean laugh, as does the crew behind the cameras.
JOHNNY: That’s why she has me. I keep her on time.
Y/N: I don’t know why I keep you—pain in my ass. *she smiles, despite herself*
JOHNNY: We keep getting sidetracked. *laughs* But, yeah, we were going to stay with my parents for a week in Chicago. It was really great.
SEAN: You’re from Chicago, originally, right?
JOHNNY: Yup! Born and raised. I spent some summers in Korea, and I’ve always had a connection there—it’s where my parents grew up, it’s where they met, where my family is—but Chicago is always gonna be my true home.
Y/N: Honestly, it’s great there. I always have the time of my life when I visit—especially because Mr. and Mrs. Suh are amazing. I love them to death, and I’m always so grateful for how welcoming and loving they are.
they move on to the sixth sauce.
Y/N: So, this one is making my lips tingle. Not bad, though.
JOHNNY: Ooh, yeah, that’s a little bit hotter. ‘S good.
SEAN: So, let’s talk about ‘Day Dream’. The film, as well as your characters, Audrey and Chris, and their journey through love, mental illness, and success has been captivating audiences worldwide. What drew you two to the film? Did you feel connected to your characters, and were there any parts of the film that were particularly hard to film?
Y/N: You first.
JOHNNY: As soon as my manager explained the premise and Chris’ character, I was hooked. Of course, I didn’t understand the complexity and intensity of our characters yet—but something was instantly so interesting and captivating. *he pauses* Chris was challenging for me—in a good way, of course. We have this guy who has so much going for him—but so much more holding him back. He’s really… going through it. He’s got serious, intense OCD, as well as depression. I didn’t want to fuck up my portrayal of him, or OCD, so I did a lot of research, and I reached out to people with OCD. I learned a lot. Honestly, though, he’s suffering. He’s struggling, and he wants someone to hold him together. He makes finding love his priority, he tries to make it the answer, to make Audrey the answer. He invests everything in her. I just wanted to make his mindset, his genuine and pure love for her… I wanted it to feel as real and human as it is, and for people to understand why he does what he does, why he says what he says. I’m being a little vague— *laughs* I just don’t want to spoil it. But, yeah, Chris is very important to me. I was absolutely honored to play him.
SEAN: It was very, very evident that you put thought and love into him, and to the film. I think you pulled it off seamlessly, Johnny.
JOHNNY: Thank you, man.
Y/N: *nudging him, reminding* Were there any parts harder to film than others?
JOHNNY: Oh, right! Sorry… ugh, I don’t want to spoil anything.
SEAN: You don’t have to answer it if you’re concerned about spoiling.
JOHNNY: Okay. Well, if you’ve seen the film, or even if you haven’t… there’s a scene near the end, where Chris is alone… you’ll know what I’m talking about. It was difficult.
SEAN: Y/N?
Y/N: Okay. *she exhales* Hopefully I can articulate this well. I was attracted to the film for the same reasons as Johnny. But… what really did it for me was reading the monologue I was given for my audition. I don’t wanna say what it is, since I guess we are a spoiler-free zone, but it was so raw and real. I just fell in love with Audrey, I really did. She’s an aspiring novelist, and she truly loves writing, and words, and feeling. Maybe it’s also one of her biggest flaws… but she can’t bring herself to write a feeling she doesn’t understand. That’s, like, her thing. Every emotion—every smile, every tear, she has to have felt it for it to mean something. That’s what broke my heart. Life has just beat her to death, and on top of everything she’s been through, after how numb she has been for most of her life, it’s like she craves that sort of pain, the heartbreak. She falls in love easily, and she wants the impending heartbreak as much as she fears it. She wants her muse. She wants someone to give her the pain she wants to write about. It’s really fucked up. But she meets Chris, and she invests her mind, her body, her soul into him—and she doesn’t know what she wants anymore. She’s as real to me as anyone else. She’s fucked up, she’s brilliant, she’s lovable, she’s mean, she’s extremely flawed—and I just love her for that. I didn’t want to just play her… I wanted to be her, to immerse myself in who she is. I want people to watch the film and forget they’re watching a film. I want them to live it, and for them to know and love Chris and Audrey the way we do.
JOHNNY: You made my response sound bad.
Y/N: Oh, shut up.
SEAN: You’re obviously very passionate about them—and it shows on screen, as well. I don’t imagine it’s easy to portray those situations, for either of you, but I can’t tell you enough how amazing you two did.
Y/N: Thank you so much. Awwh—I’m really touched by that.
JOHNNY: It means so much. We put our heart and souls into this.
SEAN: You’re welcome! It’s honestly Oscar worthy, in my eyes.
Y/N: Oh my God—I can’t even think about that… never in a million years would I think about getting an Oscar. John, though, I can see.
JOHNNY: *scoffs* You’re insane. You deserve one—Miss Emmy award.
she sticks her tongue out at him, and he smiles adoringly at her.
SEAN: Ready for the next sauce?
they move on to the next sauce.
Y/N: *biting into the wing, mouth full* Oh, fuck.
SEAN: Bad?
Y/N: *shaking head* No, just a… strange flavor? Not bad, but different.
SEAN: You two are really good with this stuff—usually people are sweating a bit by now.
JOHNNY: I grew up with spice. Korean food is hot.
SEAN: So, Y/N, I wanted to talk a little more about ‘Obsession’.
Y/N: Go for it.
SEAN: Rumor has it that filming for season three is coming up… can you confirm that?
Y/N: I don’t know if I can confirm it, but I will. *laughs* We’re supposed to do a read-through in a few weeks and I am scared shitless.
SEAN: Why is that?
JOHNNY: Can I just say—she regularly spoils the show for me. I’m scared shitless, as well, because I don’t want her to drop any bombs on me.
Y/N: *pouting, whiny* But Johnny, my mom gets mad if I spoil it.... and you’re my best friend.
johnny rolls his eyes and shakes his head.
SEAN: You’re notorious for spoiling—I’m surprised you haven’t spoiled the movie in this.
JOHNNY: I made her promise not to.
Y/N: Yeah. But, uh, I’m nervous about what the fuck is going to happen this season. I stay in close contact with production, and… I’ve heard it’s going to be insane. I love playing Mina, I love her to death… so I’m, like, fearing for her life and well-being. We all know Jongin’s character, Kai, is fucking stalking her, and she’s just… oblivious. It’s scary. And last season we started to find out about Kyungsoo’s character, D.O., and the skeletons in his closet…
SEAN: The show definitely doesn’t shy away from the disturbing.
Y/N: Right! It’s part of why I love it… even though it can get insane and terrifying, it’s addicting. And, God, it’s so crazy how well Kyungsoo and Jongin play their parts. It’s almost weird how Jongin is so good at what he does—especially since he doesn’t have a background in acting. It’s a challenging role.
SEAN: I agree—it’s very chilling at times. As for Mina, she seems very different from you.
Y/N: Oh, one hundred percent. She’s vulnerable in a way that I’m not familiar with, in a way that very few people are. Sometimes I wish I could shake her by the shoulders, because she’s an idiot, she’s purposely continuing to fuck up her life, and I want her to realize her worth… and to stop wasting her time with Kai. D.O. is better, even though he’s also batshit—and I can’t rave enough about Kyungsoo, my God. He’s a dream. He’s helped me adjust to the success, and helps me with my performance… We all know how perfect he is.
johnny had been listening intently the entire time, but frowned slightly when y/n raved about kyungsoo. his jealousy is shown on camera, albeit subtly.
SEAN: You know, we’ve had so many requests for you two on the show, as well. Jongin and Sehun as well.
Y/N: I never want to do an interview with Sehun—he’s a little shit and I refuse to compliment him. He bullies me more than Johnny does.
JOHNNY: *grinning* She’s lying, she loves him.
y/n shakes her head at the camera.
the next sauce is shown.
Y/N: Oh, this one is your sauce!
SEAN: Yeah, it’s one we made for this season. Ready?
they all bite into the wings.
JOHNNY: Oh, God… *he grabs his water and takes a sip*
y/n is coughing and has her nose scrunched.
SEAN: You guys okay?
Y/N: This hurts.
JOHNNY: Yeah, uh, this one is a bit of a leap.
y/n goes to scratch beside her eye, but johnny notices and quickly grabs her hand.
SEAN: Your eyes!
Y/N: *eyes wide* Oh, God, thank you… that would have been bad.
JOHNNY: Dummy.
SEAN: Johnny, you’re one of the most followed Instagram users in the world. On top of Youtube, Instagram, and Twitter, fans have been requesting you join TikTok.
y/n is giggling.
JOHNNY: God, they really have.
SEAN: Any plans for that? Or is YouTube enough for you right now?
JOHNNY: Honestly, I’m not that big of a fan of TikTok. Y/N sends me a lot of them, but that’s really it. I don’t have an account. So, honestly, probably not.
Y/N: You don’t watch all of the ones I send you…
JOHNNY: You send me about twenty a day.
Y/N: And?
SEAN: *laughs* Well, you’re obviously popular on the other platforms.
JOHNNY: The Instagram thing blows my mind.
Y/N: Oh, please… you always stop for pictures. You’re all about your daily fits.
JOHNNY: Because I’m fashionable.
SEAN: Yeah, I was going to ask about that. You’ve done a few fashion shows, and you’re an ambassador for Saint Laurent. You’ve expressed interest in creating your own clothing line, as well. Were you serious about that?
JOHNNY: Oh, yeah. I would love to be able to have my own line… fashion has always been something I’ve been interested in, and I enjoy styling my outfits, as well as my friends’.
Y/N: He helps me. I have a horrible sense of fashion.
JOHNNY: You’re not that bad.
Y/N: Eh.
SEAN: You’ve made headlines just because of your street style.
JOHNNY: *laughs* Yeah, that’s… something. Honestly, though, maybe in a few years… I’d love to have my own line. I’m also honored to be a Saint Laurent ambassador—they’ve been one of my favorite brands for years.
SEAN: You’re really a jack of all trades—Youtuber, influencer, actor, singer, and model. Is there anything you can’t do?
Y/N: I can answer that—no. He’s infuriatingly perfect.
JOHNNY: *teasing* Awwh, babe, you’re so sweet.
he caresses her cheek, and y/n is screaming on the inside.
Y/N: I take it back.
the ninth sauce is introduced.
Y/N: Fucking hell.
she begins to cough, and fan her face. the sauce is nearly unbearable. johnny breaths out, eyes wide and staring at the table. he also coughs a bit.
SEAN: You okay?
JOHNNY: Yeah, this sucks. This is hot as fuck, holy shit.
y/n is still silent, and begins to chug her entire glass of water.
SEAN: Y/N?
Y/N: I’m good. I’m fine. I got it.
JOHNNY: *concerned* You sure, love?
once again, y/n is flustered. this time, she’s bad at hiding it. she blames it on the spice.
Y/N: U-uh, yeah… *gets a grip on herself, waves him off* Yeah. Don’t worry ‘bout it.
she is clearly still affected, whereas johnny has already tackled the intensity of the spice.
SEAN: I’m curious—are there any genres of film that you two want to try? And do you two want to work on another project together?
johnny looks over at y/n, a slight crease in his brow. worried.
Y/N: Um, my mouth hurts. You go first, mm?
johnny squeezes her thigh under the table and pushes his water towards her.
JOHNNY: Of course I’d want to work with her again. That’s my Y/N—I feel like we bring the best out of each other, and, again, I love working with her. As for things I’d want to try… *he trails off, his mind definitely on things he wants to try… but not in relation to the question. he pushes his hair back with his wrist* I think It’d be fun to do a crime movie. I’m obviously fond of doing dramas and musicals, as well as coming-of-age movies, but playing a criminal would be fun.
SEAN: I didn’t expect that! I can see it, though.
JOHNNY: Yeah, I’d like to do something like Robert Pattinson in ‘Good Time’.
SEAN: I think you could pull that off. Y/N, you doing okay?
Y/N: *smiles* Yeah, sorry! Just had to get used to it. Uh… yeah, me too—working with Johnny again, I mean. Of course—he’s my guy. Working with him is the best. And… ooh, honestly, I want to be in a horror movie, or a thriller! I like psychological thrillers, and I love scary movies… very open to that. *laughs* John, we should do a movie like Zac Efron and Lily Collins… what was it? The Bundy movie.
SEAN: That’d be interesting.
JOHNNY: Hell yeah.
the final sauce is displayed.
y/n has her head in her hands, stressed, and johnny has moved his hand from her thigh to her back.
JOHNNY: C’mon, it’ll be okay.
SEAN: We’re almost done! You’ve done really great so far.
Y/N: *sighs* Shit’s hot, dude… fuck it, let’s get it over wwith.
the guys laugh as y/n hurriedly bites into the wing. they follow. johnny has a funny expression on as he swallows.
JOHNNY: Goddamn… this hurts. *he coughs*
SEAN: Yeah, this one is pretty bad.
y/n has her head completely down on the table, but with one elbow propped up, sauce still on her fingers. you can hear her moaning in pain.
JOHNNY: Here, drink some water.
he grabs her and sits her up, gently, but laughs at her pained expression.
Y/N: I hate this. Do we have milk?
SEAN: Yeah, we’ll get you some.
she coughs, johnny rubbing her back, and reaches for the glass of milk. he still seems collected.
SEAN: You got it, Y/N.
y/n is chugging the milk and giving a thumbs up. johnny smiles at her.
SEAN: So, we got deep with some of these questions.
JOHNNY: You’re a hell of an interviewer.
Y/N: *still pained, but smiling* I don’t know what you lace things wings with to get us this deep. We talked a lot.
SEAN: All good answers though! So, for this last one, it’s not really a question—anything you guys want to say to each other or to the cameras? Anything, the floor is yours.
the two look at each other, silently asking a question. johnny smiles, but it quickly turns to an intense stare. y/n’s eyes widen, confused. he can’t look at her like that.
Y/N: *nervous* What?
JOHNNY: *puts a hand on y/n’s cheek and leans in, almost smiling at her flustered expression* Y/N…
y/n bursts out laughing, but is equally terrified. her heart is beating out of her chest. sean internally feels like he is interrupting something again.
JOHNNY: I just wanted to tell you… it’s something I’ve wanted to say for years. Something that—fuck, this’ll probably change everything. I just need to tell you, get this off my chest.
y/n is panicking and fails at masking it. she looks over at the cameras, genuinely baffled. they’re doing an interview, what was he doing?
Y/N: Johnny, what-?
JOHNNY: When we were at that hotel with Jaehyun and Sooyoung—a few years back, remember? You lost your room key and got locked out, and I told you I didn’t have it, but I was lying. I took it on purpose to fuck with you.
y/n is gaping, completely at a loss. sean laughs, also shocked. johnny is laughing his ass off.
Y/N: I… you fucking bitch.
SEAN: You really had me going there.
Y/N: Edit this out. I have nothing to say to this asshole.
JOHNNY: *innocently* What did I do?
Y/N: *ignoring him, turning to the camera, smiling* Anyway, thank you for watching us! ‘Day Dream’ is out in theatres, and we really hope you’ll go see it. We put our all into it, as did the other cast members and the crew, and I know you all will enjoy it!
JOHNNY: Yeah, please go see it, you won’t be disappointed.
johnny smiles at the camera, and then y/n who rolls her eyes and shoves him, though she is unable to suppress her smile.
the logo appears on screen and the video ends.
#𝘮𝘺 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘴;;#𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘳𝘰𝘭𝘦𝘴;;#johnny seo#johnny fic#johnny angst#johnny scenarios#johnny fluff#johnny oneshot#johnny au#johnny suh#nct#nct 127#nct fic#nct scenarios#nct oneshot#nct au#nct 127 fic#nct smut
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hands-on learner| (m)
Word: 3.5k
Pairing: hentai voice actor!Seokjin x hentai voice actor!Reader
Genre: mature, smut, fluff
Summary: seokjin teaches you in unethical way on how to give your best hentai voice.
Warnings: hentai, public sex, DEGRADING, humiliation, dirty talk, rough sex, slut is used multiple times, fingering, overstimulation, choking, spitting, unprotected sex, ass & pussy slapping
a/n: just a quick one-shot for my babes. hope you enjoy this fic :) remember that your comments and support are what motivates me to write!
When you were little you always wanted to help people. The teacher would ask you what you want to be when you grow up, and you would reply to a doctor or a nurse somewhere in the lines of helping people. But when you came to the age of realizing that you live in a world where being the person you want to be came with a price such as starving yourself in order to pay for college classes you changed what you wanted to be.
You are still helping people but not in a way that people would give a noble peace award for. As in right now you are reading a lewd script and fake orgasming. “ Y/N, reshoot. The words are off,” the director tells you. You look at the screen and watch as the hentai girl is getting pumped by an overload of semen, and you do a voiceover of a few high pitch moans and cries. “ Okay! Good,” the director gives you a thumbs up.
You smile and gulp the water soothing your throat, you get out of the sound booth immediately bumping into Seokjin's chest. “ Watch and learn how a real pro does his work,” he tells you in a cocky tone. Seokjin is just wearing a hoodie and jeans yet he looks like a high class model, his light brown hair is pushed back and he looks hot but too bad he is an asshole.
Rolling your eyes you push his chest away, “ No thanks. All you have is a couple of weird cringey dialogue and a few grunts,” you hear him laugh as he enters the vocal booth. You sit down next to Yoongi who is part of the sound engineer making sure everything goes well. “ I hate him. He thinks he is all that, look at him,” you scoff.
“ Yeah, it also looks like you want to fuck him,” Yoongi lets out a chuckle. Okay, he is not wrong. You want to fuck Seokjin at least once to get all the sexual tension out of the way but somewhere in the back of the mind you think Seokjin likes to fuck in front of mirrors so he can watch himself the whole time.
The director taps you on your shoulder and brings you outside in the hallway, “ The team and I were going through the comments from the previous work we have done…” Mr. Kim pulls out his ipad. Your eyes zoom in at some of the comments that make you see red.
@lolligirls- She sounds so fake
↳ @Y/N’sbitch- dumbass all of this is fake. no one is actually having sex in these hentai videos
@hentitties- Clearly this voice actor never had sex...lol
@hrny4animethighs- I couldn’t get past the five minutes, I had to go to a different video
@hentaiaddict- Seokjin is such a good voice actor, I nearly creamed my pants from him just saying hello
“ Thank you Y/N’sbitch, clearly this person knows how things work,” you roll your eyes. You give the ipad back not wanting to see it anymore, what do these people know about voice acting, you're the one getting paid and making them ejaculate in tissue in their gamer room.
Mr. Kim clears his throat before speaking, “ There are more praises and positive comments for Seokjin’s voice so I asked him to give you some pointers. You guys will have to send me a voice memo of the script I’m going to send you tonight,” you make a sound a protest but he gives you a look, “ Or else you will just have a supporting role in the newest project.” He walks off to the other direction. The minute he’s out of earshot you kick the trash can which makes the trash fall out causing you to get more frustrated. You pick up the trash and toss it in the bin, muttering curse words to yourself. Now you have to see Seokjin’s cocky face all night giving you stupid tips that you don’t even need.
You walk back inside the studio, Seokjin is out of the vocal booth and flirting with a woman, while Yoongi is going over the vocal track. “ I heard what happened, in all honesty you are my second favorite voice actor,” Yoongi tells you as you sit next to him.
You sigh, “ Who’s your first?” The chair makes a squeak as you adjust the seat height. Glancing over at Seokjin, he makes eye contact while giving you a smug smile then turning back to his conversation with the lady. Scoffing, you turn your attention to Yoongi as he fiddles with track volume.
Yoongi looks at you, his eyebags are dark “ Jimin,” he nonchalantly says. You aren’t even surprise, since they are fucking around. They are somewhere in the lines of friends to lovers but they are both too stubborn to admit they have deep feelings for eachother.
“ I would have never guessed...at least you are going to be here tonight,” you take a sip of the water down the ice coffee you bought earlier this morning. If Yoongi is here, you have nothing to worry about.
“ Actually it’s just going to be you and Seokjin. Told Mr. Kim I have an important date,” Yoongi’s ears turn red. At least someone is getting dick you think to yourself. “ Try not to kill each other,” he tells you.
****
Everyone has left the studio and it’s just you and Seokjin. You are going through your lines, a corny script of a girl spending the night with her boyfriend’s best friend and they end up fucking, nothing out of the ordinary. “ Okay, I’m ready. I don’t want to be here all night,” you look at him casually scrolling on his phone.
“ Aww, don’t be so mean. I know you are dying to be here with me,” Seokjin puts his phone away, coming closer to you after he presses the start button. He tosses his arm over your shoulder, “ Okay let’s get the show on the road princess,” Seokjin guides you to the vocal booth. Immediately you groan, pushing his arm away but your ears turn red at the pet name.
The script is placed right in front of you and you start to read it, going through the introduction of the characters.
Seokjin looks at you more carefully when it gets to the saucy part, his finger on his chin as if he is really inspecting you. “ Mmm, it feels really good,” you whine at the end, making sure you sound as lewd as possible.
Seokjin makes a sharp clap, making you halt from any other sound. “ It doesn’t sound like it feels good. You need to make it sound more real.” Seokjin shakes his head, there’s a small smirk. Your eye twitches wondering if he just wants to purposely get you irritated. “ Do it again, but this time make it sound like someone is actually fucking you,” he nods his head for you to continue.
The last time you got fuck was a year ago, and it was a bad experience. You didn’t even orgasm and the guy came in less than five minutes. This time you repeat the line but with a whiny and sultry tone. Seokjin sighs, shaking his head in disappointment and you get frustrated. “ Well okay then teach me, because I think I sound fucking great,” you pull at the strand of your hair.
“ No need to get mad, I can help you,” Seokjin laughs at your frustration. He comes closer to you and you can smell his faint masculine cologne, his body is close to you. “ I want you to imagine it as if I was fucking you,” he whispers darkly.
You bite your cheek from cursing him off, but you should at least try it out. So you envision him fucking you from behind. The image of his manly hand wrapped around your head while the other is around your neck. He’s probably the type to fuck you like you don’t matter and you can’t help it that actually turns you on. “ Mmm, it feels really good,” you moan as if he is actually ramming his cock into you. You look at his approval and he nods, a small sense of victory comes over you. Until you feel his hand pushing your hair to the other side you leaving one side of your neck bare. He is closer to you, right behind you, his chest barely touching your body.
“ Is this okay?” He whispers into your ear. You whisper a yes and his plump lips kiss your neck leaving a trail of wet kisses that leaves your skin tingling. “ I’m barely touching you and you are so reactive,” he takes notice of your heavy breathing. He licks a small part of your neck, then blows on it watching you squirm at the sudden coldness.
“ Someone can walk in,” you look at the door. You don’t remember locking it, and what if the janitor comes in. Maybe that makes it more tempting for you, being caught in Seokjin’s lust. “ Seokjin,” you whine as he bites on your earlobe.
“ You would like that...to have someone see you getting fucked hard by me. Drooling because of my cock is hitting you in just the right spot,” his hand goes under your shirt just resting on bare waist. Then his fingers tracing up and down your stomach meeting the underside of your bra but then going back down.
“ I-no,” you shake your head in defiance. He laughs and grabs your jaw forcing your neck to twist and look at him. His eyes are darker, and he gives you a pointed look making you change your answer. “ Yes, I’d like that,” you whimper, as his rough hand pats your cheek heavily as a reward.
“ See silly girl, lying won’t get you anywhere,” he taunts you. His body then pushes you forward so you now against the glass window, you place your hands on the cold glass. Seokjin takes his time taking off your clothes. You are the only one naked on the and the cold air from the ac makes your nipples hard and from the lustful stare Seokjin has. “ I should just leave you like this and call everyone here to look at you,” Seokjin has a sinister smile when you shake your head in fear. “ Why? You look like a perfect slut. I bet you are already wet from just me kissing your neck,” he pushes your chest so your back is now against the cold window.
The degrading names are something new to you, and your thighs squeezed together try to relieve some pain. “ Then leave me here. I bet someone else can fuck me better than you,” you shrug your shoulders, hoping he’ll get mad.
His jaw clenches, “ Spread your legs,” he forcefully helps you by slapping the inside of your thighs. “ Look at you so fucking wet,” he comments looking down at your drolling lips. His hand then comes to slap your cunt, you flinch but then feel the pain subside to pleasure. Your body coming forward falling into his chest but his hand pushes you back to the glass, “ Take it like a good slut,” he tsk at you shaking his head. The slaps come in intervals as he chuckles at your betweens of moaning and whimpering. A few slaps hitting your clit and you cry out his name to slap you more. By the time he is done your cunt feels numb and your legs shake, your hands fisting at his shirt. “ We just started and you are already giving up on me,” he massages your cunt soothingly, spreading your arousal and barely entering the tip of his finger in your entrance.
Shaking your head, you look up at him, “ Seokjin, please fuck me. I want to be your good slut,” you deliriously say in ecstasy. His lips lift up and his two fingers thrust quickly into you, with no warning. Your head falls forward onto his hard chest staring at his fingers thrusting deep and hard, the juices becoming more apparent on his hand. You have never been this wet in your whole life, is this what you have been missing?
One of his hands pulls your hair back to you looking at him, “ Open wide,” you do as you are told and he spits in your mouth. The spit slides easy as you swallow it, opening your mouth for more as if it was fiji water. He spits again and purposely misses your mouth landing on your cheek, “ Oops,” he smirks then wiping his spit across your whole cheek. And you don’t care, just consumed in the pleasure of his fingers still fucking you open. Your eyes roll back when his fingers curl, your stomach feeling warm. “ Come on my fingers you dirty slut, make them smell like you,” he watches you unravel.
One last thrust and you come all over his fingers, thighs shaking when he continues to thrust at fast pace not stopping when you try to pull away. He pushes you even more to the glass so you have no escape but to come again on his fingers, your body is confused to having back to back orgasms. Screaming his name in ecstasy, your cunt pulsates at the euphoric sensation. Body releasing everything you got, your chest is heavy and you finally feel him pull his fingers out, his fingers then shoving in your mouth. “ My fingers are dirty because of you,” he chastises you. Your eyes widen at the sudden intrusion of you tasting your own come for the first time, his intense gaze watches you suck the juices off his fingers. Moaning around his finger just like it was your favorite flavor lollipop. Sucking one last time, your lips smack as he pulls them out, “ Fuck me like you hate me,” your hand travel to his hard bulge lightly squeezing it.
You close your eyes and pucker your lips when he leans down, only for him to whisper into your ear, “ I don’t wanna see your face if I fuck you,” he twist your body so your breast are flat against the window, side of your face pressed down on it too. You take a deep breath partially because you're nervous yet excited about what is about to come. The sound of his buckle is being undone and his pants, there’s no preparation as he thrust his cock into. Yelping at the sudden force, one of his hands holds against your throat and the other tight on your waist. His thrust are fast and rough, fucking you to his own pleasure and you don’t mind. “ I’m surprise you're tight,” he thrust harder and you cry out in pleasure, “you’re not fucking anyone, right?” Your mind is blank, only focusing on the thickness of his cock stretching you out painfully good. His hand occasionally squeezes your throat, letting your life be at his hands. He slaps your ass hard, you cry at the stinging sensation. “ Answer me slut,” he spanks your ass again harder.
Shaking your head the best you could you answer. “ No. There’s nobody,” your body jolts at his thrusts. You try your best staying still, your hands holding against the window, not providing much stability. “ Fuck Seokjin, it’s too much,�� you whine. Not sure what is too much. The feeling is overwhelming, you think. Never had been fucked this good.
His hand leaving your throat slides down to your clit, “ Shut up, you can handle it,” he chuckles, slapping your clit, shooting more sparking sensation in your core. “ I can’t stand your fucking mouth. Always talking shit about me, stupid slut. I can hear what you say about me to Yoongi. The voice booth is two way,” he pinches your clit.
Your eyes widen and you mentally want to slap yourself, but who cares the amazing sex is the consequent of your big mouth. Seokjin jackhammers into you, constantly hitting the spot that makes your eyes go cross eyed. The stars are evident when he rubs your clit hard, clawing at the window trying to grab onto anything you moan his name so lewdly as you orgasm harder than the previous two, it sounds like it came for a high-budget porno.
Your thighs tremble at the aftermath of your orgasm yet you want him to use you more. “ Are you gonna take my come like a good slut?” Seokjin asks. His hand moving from your clit to the back of your hair pulling your head back.
“ Mmm, yes I want you to fill me up,” you moan at the thought of his come covering your walls. Three more hard thrust he unravels, grunting your name and coming deep into you, holding your body tight to his.
There’s the feeling of his shirt sticking to your sweaty back but you ignore the uncomfortable feeling. Your body falling limply into his arms as he carries your weight. Breathing is loud from both parties, he kisses your head and rubs your arms in a soothing manner. “ I’m going to get tissues real quick, okay?” You nod, your throat feeling sore from all the screaming. He presses a quick kiss to your cheek before running outside the vocal booth to get a tissue and water. You slide your body on the floor muscles strained from the rough sex, he comes back with a concerned look.
He sits down beside you, but then puts you on his lap laying the back of your head against his chest. He gently spreads your legs, and wets the tissue then uses it to clean the mess he made. Your eyes close, not used to feeling this kind of emotion, like you want to be comforted and swaddled. “ Open your mouth for me, baby,” Seokjin presses the water lightly on your lips. Parting your lips the nice cold liquid travels down your throat, relieving a small part of pain. “ Good girl,” he whispers, one hand caressing your cheek. “ My beautiful baby did a good job today,” he kisses the side of your forehead. You hum in delight at the compliment loving the feeling. He continues praising you, hands caressing every inch of skin and kissing your cheeks.
When you finally have the energy to get dressed, the room is silent because for once you guys aren’t bantering. You look at him and he is scrolling on his phone like he didn’t just fuck you to oblivion. And it kind of hurts that he’s not looking at you despite him giving all that aftercare. Maybe it’s your after sex hormones making you emotional. “ Imma just go,” your voice is hoarse. He looks up quickly showing you his sparkly eyes, “ I can’t really work like this,” you point to your throat, there’s a slight burn as you speak.
“ Wait, I ordered us food,” Seokjin stands up showing you the receipt order of kimchi jjigae on his phone. “ But if you want to leave, that's fine,” he rubs his neck. “ Let me at least order you a taxi,” he goes on his phone.
“ No!” You embarrassingly say loudly. His eyes widened at the sudden outburst. You blush like an idiot, “ I mean, no I would like to stay and eat kimchi jjigae with you.” Seokjin smiles and you smile back.
You and Seokjin waste no time eating the food, taking less than fifteen minutes to finish the food. “ I’m too tired to do the voice memo. I’ll just take the supporting role,” you lay your head back in defeat.
Seokjin is cleaning the mess and he shakes his head, “ I’ll tell him that you did a good job and that we forgot to record it,” he throws the food cartons in the trash can.
“ Yeah but those stupid comments,” you groan loudly. “ What if I do suck?” You ask yourself, thinking about @hrny4animethighs’ comment.
“ Impossible. You are a talented voice actress, those comments are just trolls.” Seokjin sits down next to you.
You face him, smiling at his nice comment. “ Really?” You get fuck by Seokjin once and now your head over heels for him.
“ Yes.” Seokjin cutely rubs your head. “ But if you need any help, just imagine me fucking you,” he laughs as you groan pushing his hand away. “ You want to know I’m so good at hentai voice acting?” You nod at his question. “ Because I imagine you,” he likes the way your cheeks flush.
He stares at your lips, “ Are you finally going to kiss me?” He doesn’t answer but kissing you softly something that you didn’t expect after the filthy sex you guys had earlier. His lips feel like soft pillows and you could feel yourself getting lost, your hands finally get to feel what his hair feels like. Soft and silky.
“ Go out with me,” he pulls a centimeter away. His breath hitting your lips.
The Kim Seokjin wants to go out with you? “ It’s only fair because you gave me some pointers,” you shrug. Seokjin chuckles and attacks you with kisses, wondering how he is falling quickly for you.
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Do not repost, translate, or alternate my work in any way, onto any platform. I do not take plagiarism lightly.
#bts#bts fanfction#seokjin#bts smut#btssmut#bts one shot#seokjin smut#seokjin fanfic#bts scenarios#bts fic#bts fluff#seokjin imagine#bts fanfic#bts seokjin#seokjin oneshot#seokjin x reader#seokjin x y/n#seokjin x oc#BTS jin#jin#jin x y/n#jin smut#bts x you#bts x y/n
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//Though his look and presence are much more powerful than Chris will ever have.// - well this is definitely just your opinion and very subjective (it’s your blog you can say whatever you want but stating opinions as facts is always a bit off putting). I don’t see that personally. Jensen’s “presence” changes all the time.. off screen at least... on screen.. I personally don’t see the range but again, that’s my opinion (I honestly don’t know if you were talking about acting performances or him as a person). His acting is scene stealing but doesn’t lend itself as well to long term leading man. Which Chris does have. He can lead a show or movie and can hold up through the whole thing. I think he even recently said he PREFERS the supporting role vs leading man but he can definitely do both. I personally have a hard time watching Jensen as a lead for a long period (season 10… ) and find him so much more enjoyable when he’s supporting vs leading. And his look? He is very attractive and looks great for his age but there are a bunch of other guys out there who look like him.. plus looks fade… he can’t rely on them forever (it seems like he’s relied on his looks pretty heavily throughout his career) and he needs to work on his actual skill set because one of those other guys who looks just like him is probably younger and hungrier and more willing to do the work. Chris puts in the work and is confident in his abilities (at least that’s how it comes across). He’s also consistent with who he portrays himself to be as a person. We know his brand, he is a clearly defined persona. Jensen? He doesn’t even seem to know who he is and he changes with the wind depending on who he’s hanging out with. To me none of this says “powerful presence” it says guy who doesn’t know who he is or what he’s doing.
I don't think I can write every phrase with an instruction manual and origin story to why I made the choice of words so I am deeply sorry if anything offended you but please know I meant what I said and stand by it. I'll try to explain below so hopefully you'll get where I was coming from. 😳 Jensen has a more powerful look, I am speaking from the point of view of cinema, of course. He has the ideal look for the superhero genre and if it wasn't for his poor training, he would have been a top choice, I am certain. I am aware of how casting works, I never state something without doing my research. Jensen's voice is also ideal for that type of storytelling, there's a reason he is now the world's most favorite Batman voice, especially within the Voiceover community. Jensen's presence, like him or not, is also extremely powerful on camera. Though his acting may cancel him out at times. You don't need to have a formed eye to see how captivating Jensen is on camera, you don't even have to like him. Some people have this special quality of being extremely photogenic and magnetic on camera, Jensen is one of those people. Chris is wonderful but he lacks a certain 'je ne sais quois' that makes other leads more powerful and charismatic in presence than him. Don't get me wrong, he was the Perfect choice for Captain America, precisely due to that energy. He was perfect for the role but not every role has the same essence as Steve's. So while Chris is good looking and well trained, I humbly consider that there's an element of dynamic performance as well as energy missing. That doesn't mean I don't appreciate him but I cannot list him among the most powerful leading men because, in my opinion, he's completely right in feeling more comfortable as a supportive character because he is more ideal for those types of roles. I could go on but it would really turn into an unrequested workshop about the leading man type and what it implies. I get that hellers and AA are always making up false praise, false ships and so on but I fail to see what that has to do with my blog. Everything I've written anyone with a little good sense can research and verify very easily. So I am going to keep posting my opinions confidently, that doesn't mean they are the law. On the contrary, they are just my unique perspective on things filtered through experience, beliefs and, of course, preference. So, as always, please take what resonates and ignore the rest. By the way, Chris is an amazing performer in his own right and I love his uniqueness, he's built a beautiful career, I just don't see him in certain roles just like most Casting Directors don't see Danneel, for example, ever playing a good character due to her energy. Fully agree with your observation on Jensen, he needs to develop his brand. Now that I have ruffled your feathers, what are your favorite Chris movies? I don't think I've seen all of his movies yet so if you have a recommendation, I'll watch. Sending you lots of love.
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House of Anubis Pilot Re-write
Why? because why not!
This is just like the opening secment but what do we think??
Should i keep going?!
ACT ONE
Ext. Various locations around London - Morning
City waking up. Street’s full of car’s. Bustling pavements.
int. King’s Cross - St Pancras tube station - day
Dank. Cramped. LOUD. A tube train pulls into a station.
Carriage doors open.
A sea of black polished Shoes swarm out. Within a bright yellow pair of high top Converse, followed by a large suitcase with a squeaky wheel.
The odd duo follow the current to the escalator’s - though we do not see the face that belongs with them yet.
Int. King’s Cross station - morning
Station full of commuters bustling about their business.
Yellow Converse go through barrier’s, and finally we see; NINA MARTIN (15) - cute typical American girl-next-door. Naive and a little shy but with an inner strength and endlessly curious.
Nina looks around the station in awe.
Nina’s eyes fall on the display board.
It reads; “Merseyside - 10.00am - Platform 7”
Nina’s eyes widen. She glances to her watch; 09.45.
Nina rushes off, weaving her way through the crowed in a clumsy hurry. Apologising to any passersby’s she bumps into.
Ext. Amun Academy - main school - Day
Large estate of land.
Around it a scattering of ‘house’s’; For the select senior school student’s to live in.
At its center foreboding grand building; The main school hub - where younger student’s dorm as well as classes are held.
Laughter and chatter of students fill the air. Students lounge in the lavish grounds or walk in and out of the building.
A group of boys in football uniform run past the entrance. Following an older student and a PE teacher who are leading the run.
Patricia (VoiceOver) Joy! For godssake slow the hell down.
int. Amun Academy - west wing corridor - Day
Patricia (voiceover) Joy! Honestly!
TWO girls are seen rushing through a blazer clad field of students.
Leading the chase - JOY MERCER (15) - Pretty and fun- loving girl who is far too smart, even if she doesn’t use her brain’s for academic means.
Knowing smile on her face, as she clutches a LARGE LEATHER BOUND BOOK to her - expertly weaving around student’s.
Following her - PATRICIA WILLIAMSON (15) - headstrong, sharp-tongued and devastatingly good at put-downs. She is great fun to be around if she likes you, not so much fun if she doesn’t.
Joy Fabian hasn’t seen it yet!
Patricia’s eyes roll at her friend’s call - Barreling through the students unapologetically.
Patricia He could always see the bloody thing after school!
Joy’s black Mary-Jane’s race through a heavy wooden door.
int. train compartment - day
Yellow converse walk through a sliding door.
Nina glances around at the full compartment, clutching a brown bag to her. A phone at her ear.
Nina (on phone) Hi gran, just me checking in… again.
Nina slid into a seat.
Nina (on Phone) So you’ll be glad to know you were right, like always. There was a place I could by lunch on the train. Though… I think I’m too nervous to eat.
Nina glanced into the bag and pulls a face.
Nina (on Phone) I can already tell hear you laughing at me for that, you know. This is my big adventure, after all. I’ll phone you later tonight.
Nina lets out a sigh before hanging up the phone.
Nina put her head against the window. Eye’s fluttering shut.
Darkness engulfs’s her as the train enters a tunnel.
int. amun acadmey - west wing staircase - day
A compact mirror is opened, revealing - AMBER MILLINGTON (16) - Ditsy, likable and funny without meaning to be. Amber is the queen bee of the school.
She is a bit of a drama queen and is prone to over-exaggeration. Currently the girl is checking over her perfect makeup.
A ball of paper flies past her face. The Compact is slammed shut.
Amber looks around for who threw the paper.
On the stone staircase students from all year groups are watching an animated male on a landing between floors.
This is - ALFIE LEWIS (15) - a comic relief, Jerome’s sidekick. He’s a bit immature and has a personal obsession with UFOs/all things alien. He laughs hard but scares easily and is a bit hesitant about taking risks.
Alfie’s eyes are wide as he meet’s Amber’s gaze.
Alfie I’m so sorry Amber!
Amber gives the boy a withering look, before turning back to her mirror.
Alfie turns back to the crowd with a wide smile.
Alfie And for my next trick; Apology flowers… for almost hitting Miss Millington.
The students turned to glance at Amber. Small ‘Aww’s’ from a few younger girls.
Amber looks back at Alfie over her compact. Curious, despite herself.
Alfie gives the girl a besotted smile.
Door Creaks open
Alfies eyes then flicker up, to the small landing at top of the stairs.
A girl moves into view, casually leaning her arms over the banister. Playing with a STRAW BOATER HAT, a battered RUCKSACK over a shoulder.
This is - CAMILLA-ANNE RUTTER (15) - a wealthy, upper crust Brit and loathes everything about it. She is too smart for her own good, and has bad habit of speaking before she thinks. Camilla is a wild card, she has sharp eyes. Seeing everything.
Alfie’s eyes widen in worry. His head moving to the side of the stairs leading up to the landing.
Camilla follows the boy’s gaze. A smirk flickering onto her face - Alfie is playing distraction.
Stood away from the crowd, an older boy has a Pen drive dangling from a key chain, a waiting hand held out to a younger boy.
The older boy is - JEROME CLARKE (15) - calculating young man. He’s very guarded in his manner and style, you never quite know what he’s thinking except for the fact that he’s always up to something. He loves a shortcut to everything and always feels drawn to a scam or prank.
Alfie starts to mutter random nonsense waving his arms about, before pulling a bunch of fake flowers from inside his blazer sleeve.
-All ive got for now but thoughts?!
#house of anubis#houseofanubis#Anubisbackwardspod#Fabian Rutter#fabianrutter#amber millington#ambermillington#nina martin#NinaMartin#patriciawilliamson#joy mercer#sibuna
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✖️✖️✖️✖️✖️ Fight the Future
I mean, it’s the MOVIE - but, the one where... Mulder and Scully’s kiss is interrupted by a bee and Mulder goes all the way to Antarctica to rescue Scully.
Best: I can’t even describe how much I love this movie. It came out when I was 13 and had just discovered The X-Files. That hallway scene is... open up my heart and you will find Mulder and Scully in that hallway. The banter, the action, the empty road at dusk vibes, the Scuuullllaaaaayy in the corn field, the melodramatic romanticism of two repressed idiots finally telling and showing each other how they feel after 5 years only to be interrupted by a BEE, the grand gesture of all grand gestures of an Antarctic rescue, the huge epic movie-sized scale of it all.
Worst: Just ignore all the plot holes and this movie is perfect. It’s perfect ok?!
✔️ Flashlights
❌ Woods
❌ Slideshow
✔️ Autopsy
✔️ Evidence Disappears
❌ Scully Misses It
❌ Mulder Ditch
✔️ Sunflower Seeds
❌ Voiceover
✔️ Catch Phrase (TNO - Well-Manicured Man)
✔️ Scully is a (Medical) Doctor
✔️ Mulder is Spooky
✔️ Scuuullllaaaaayy! Muullllderrrr! (We’ve reached the pinnacle: the cornfield 🙌)
❌ Fox/Dana
✔️ Inappropriate Touching (that I am here for)
❌ Casual Scully
✔️ Casual Mulder
❌ Trench Coats
❌ Bad Tie Watch
❌ Glasses Watch
✔️ Taking! It! Personally!: Scully & Mulder
50 States: Texas x3, Maryland x11, DC x50 & Antarctica (35/50)
Investigate: Together & Apart
Solve Rate: 58%
❌ Bechdel Test: There 57 cast listed on imdb and THREE are women. Scully and Blythe Danner’s FBI agent do speak at the hearing but she’s only named in the credits.
MSR: 🐝🐝🐝🐝🐝
Goriness: 👽👽👽
Creepiness: 👽👽
Humor: 👽👽
Rewatch Thoughts:
Opening (Mulder and Scully) scene: brilliant character introduction, gets you up to speed so quickly - she’s the rule-follower/he’s the maverick, the X-Files are closed blah blah blah - combined with cute, flirty banter. The panic face joke is amazing because we’ve seen that panic face and it’s such a good dig at DD’s deadpan acting. Also: they both look amazing in their FBI jackets.
I know I said I wasn’t going plot-pick but... was that bomb just intended to blow up with everyone inside? The chances of Mulder finding it were so slim... In which case why call in a bomb threat for the building across the street at all? I feel like there were much simpler ways of covering up the deaths of the boy and firefighters!
Scully: Don’t think! Just pick up that phone and make it happen! Yaas queen!
Mulder: This is not about you, Scully. They’re doing this to me. Fuck you Mulder! They’re doing this to both of you! She’s the one getting reassigned! Honestly if I was Scully this would be the last straw.
I always forget that she told him she’s quitting after that first hearing. And that’s why he’s moping in a bar - something I don’t think we’ve ever seen him do before. And why Scully is not surprised to find him showing up drunk in the middle of the night. Although she probably wasn’t expecting him to tell her to get dressed and break into a morgue. (Love that subtle little shake of the head GA does as Scully berates herself for the hope that he’s there to persuade her to stay.)
Mulder first tells the cab to go to Arlington. What’s in Arlington?! Mulder lives in Alexandria... Was this just a fuck up? Or who was he going to see in Arlington, late at night, drunk? Best case scenario: the Lone Gunmen (do we ever find out where their headquarters is located?) Worst case scenario: do we know where Diana Fowley lives? (Credit to the X-Files Diaries podcast for bringing this very important issue to my attention.)
There are certain lines in this movie that should not be memorable but (maybe because I have watched this movie SO many times) the cadence and rhythm of them are iconic to me. Examples include: Firefighter at the beginning: What about my men?! What about my men?! Kid on a bike: Cuz ya’ll look like door to door salesmen. Also: Going that way. Duh duh duh duh. Iconic.
Why is Mulder suddenly back on the extraterrestrial train? I don’t think they set that up well enough at the end of season 5 after a whole season of disillusionment. I certainly understand his renewed belief after Antarctica, but why is he so quick to jump on the extraterrestrial virus idea based on Kurtzweil? Or is a virus an easier gateway back to believing?
The imagery and vibes of the whole bee dome scene is impeccable. And the chase through the corn fields? Mulder screaming for Scully over and over as they run though a corn field chased by helicopters is one of my favorite things ever captured on film. Hilarious and magnificent.
Perfect Mulder and Scully hair in this movie. Mulder’s is at just the right floppy, tousled length. Scully has her classic bob. Not too short like they both get in season 6 and 7. In fact their whole look in that hallway scene - Scully’s pantsuit tied at the waist, with the white collar; Mulder’s dark grey tshirt - is my mental ideal image of them.
Mulder: But you saved me! As difficult and as frustrating as it’s been sometimes, your goddammed strict rationalism and science have saved me a thousand times over! You’ve kept me honest... you’ve made me a whole person. I owe you everything... Scully, and you owe me nothing. There’s essays worth of material to unpack in this scene, and in this speech. So I will just say that it’s significant to me that he says you’ve made me a whole person. Not make but made - by knowing her, working with her, loving her, he has been transformed. As romantic as it to think of a couple as two halves of a whole, incomplete without the other, it’s also incredibly codependent and fucked up. I prefer to think of how they have been changed by each other, become more truly themselves, more complete people because of each other.
Scully’s face journey in this entire scene is... Hats off GA. Especially that moment when she realizes Mulder is going to kiss her.
It’s always bothered me that Mulder thinks that Scully leaving the FBI means she’s leaving him, when she’s quitting because they’re splitting them up and sending her to Utah. But on this rewatch I think she does mean she’s quitting the Quest too. Ok, headcanon time. If that bee hadn’t hitched a ride in Scully’s collar then cue the outtakes (thank you forever DD and GA!) They would have fucked immediately because they’re no longer partners and once they kissed 5 years of sexual tension would need immediate resolution. Scully would still have quit the FBI, but not the Quest. She would have gotten work as a doctor or scientist and they would have continued their work off the books. They would have saved the world. Mulder would still have dragged her cryptid hunting on the weekends.
But unfortunately in this timeline the bee did chose that moment (damn you CC for my very complicated bee feelings!) and in my favorite - and as far as I can tell unscripted - small moment Mulder says I’m sorry when she flinches away from the kiss. He apologizes for trying to kiss her! Something about that just gives me the tenderest feelings for Mulder. And when he realizes she was stung the intimacy with which he sticks his hand under her collar at the back of her neck and caresses the back of her head...
Medical Doctor Scully clinically describing her symptoms as she collapses. Amazing.
Perfect Lone Gunmen cameo.
Mulder in the parka with the stubble is just incredibly hot to me.
Snow White imagery with the glass coffin - Scully in suspended animation until Mulder awakens her. Not with a kiss unfortunately, but with a vaccine. Although he does then give her mouth to mouth. (Seems incredibly obvious to me but apparently it’s a point of discussion: she did not fake unconsciousness/needing cpr - she was just inappropriately quippy upon being revived)
Scully pulling Mulder into her lap and hugging him on that vast sea of ice. Love the imagery they’re able to get with the movie scale and budget.
I was snacking on sunflower seeds the whole movie and now my mouth hurts from all the salt 😆
Movie-Related Fanfic Recs:
I’m surprised I don’t have more FTF fics bookmarked. Let me know if you have any favorites!
The Parting Glass by @aloysiavirgata - this is a perfect ‘what if the bee didn’t choose that moment’ fic.
Consequences by Suzanne Schramm - post-movie Mulder brings up the almost kiss.
Heuvelmann’s On Track by @mashnotesofthemythopoeic - post-movie Scully is forced into becoming a Syndicate doctor. I’ve been saving this one up for after my rewatch and it’s a multi-chapter fic so I haven’t finished it yet. But based on the glowing reviews from x-philes I trust and the memorable images I’ve read so far - I’m never going to get Mulder vomiting up that alien fetus out of my head - I highly recommend.
#xf rewatch#xf fanart#the x files#thexfiles#the xfiles#xf#txf#xf mytharc#i want to believe#truth is out there#xf review#msr#fight the future#ftf
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Roundup: August 2021
This month: Jane Eyre, Wide Sargasso Sea, Don’t Call it a Cult, The Secret Garden, Showbiz Kids, Masters of the Universe: Revelation, Lucifer.
Reading Jane Eyre (Charlotte Bronte) - I’ve been meaning to read the Wide Sargasso Sea for a long, long time, but first I thought I’d revisit the source material. I find my opinion hasn’t much changed - I still love the prose, still love Jane as a character, and still find Rochester extremely unappealing. The section with Jane at school is the most engaging for me, and her early time as a governess at Thornfield, but as soon as Rochester shows up I just find him so irritating I have no idea why Jane loves him so much (other than he was the first man to ever show her a scrap of attention). I mean, I know to an extent - I've read the Takes, and part of fiction is accepting what you want for the character as a reader and what they want for themselves can be two different things, and that's not the fault of the text. I can be satisfied by the ending because Jane gets what she wants, I just can’t help but wonder about a Jane who was found by John Eyre before she went to Thornfield, or who took her inheritance and made her own way after Moor House. Byronic heroes just aren't my thing I guess ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Wide Sargasso Sea (Jean Rhys) - The first Mrs Rochester of Jane Eyre strikes an uneasy tone to a modern reader; she does not utter a word in the novel, is depicted as animalistic and almost demonic, her story only told in a self-serving manner by Rochester, and conveniently disposed of so Jane can return to claim him. Rhys reimagines Bertha as Antoinette, a “white Creole” of Jamaica in a postcolonial take on the racial/social prejudices and hierarchy only hinted at in Eyre, where Bertha being Creole primarily an aspect of her Otherness, and in which Rochester describes himself as being desired as a husband because he was "of good race" . In Sea, although Antoinette is white (passing, perhaps), he sees her "not English or European either" and this contributes to his rejection of her (and perhaps his willingness to believe she is mad). The novel is surprisingly short - it skips over the meeting and courtship of Antoinette and Rochester (tellingly unnamed in the novel) entirely, jumping directly from her childhood/coming of age to the couple already married, and over much of Bertha's (renamed by Rochester) sad life in the attic. Still, there's a density to the writing, much is implied beyond the sparse use of words and recurring imagery - subjugation, reflection, and of course, fire - when freed slaves (Rhys changes the timeframe to after the passing of the Emancipation Act of 1833) set fire to Antoinette's family plantation, a pet parrot whose wings have been clipped by her English step-father Mason, cannot flee and falls to a fiery doom, in a grim omen of Bertha's fate. It did, however, leave me wanting more - I understand Rhys' stylistic choices and restraint, but in her effort to give voice to the voiceless, Antoinette/Bertha remains somewhat an enigma. Don’t Call it a Cult: Keith Raniere and the women of NXIVM (Sarah Berman) - I continue to be disturbed but intrigued by the NXIVM case, not only because of my abhorrence of MLMs/pyramid schemes, but my bafflement as to how this thoroughly unremarkable man was able to hold sway over so many women. My mild criticism of the two documentaries on this subject was that they tended to jump around in time so you never really got a good idea of what happened when. This book provides a well researched, detailed summary of events and linear chronology of Raniere’s perverse pathology reaching all the way back to childhood, and so is both an excellent supplement to the already informed, and broad overview to those new to the case. Berman is a Vancouver-based journalist who was present at Raniere’s trial and gives insight into witness testimony, supported by her own interviews and extensive research. There's less of a focus on the sensationalised celebrity members, with greater emphasis on the lesser known victims - including the three Mexican sisters who were all abused by Raniere, one of whom was kept confined to a room for years. It's difficult reading, consolation being the
knowledge that Raniere is rotting in prison and that his crimes finally caught up with him. Watching The Secret Garden (dir. Marc Munden) - Spoilers, if one needs a spoiler warning for a 110 year old novel. One of those stories that is adapted every generation, and generally I have no problem with this, since new adaptations can often bring something new or be a different take on old material (see Little Women 2019). But a part of me can’t help feel why bother with this when the perfect 1993 version exists. There is an Attempt at something new with this film, moving the setting forward to 1947 (Mary’s parents having died during the Partition), and turning the garden from a small walled secret to a mystical, huge wonderland full of ferns and flowers and endless sun. But in doing so, the central metaphor is lost - rather than Mary discovering something abandoned and run wild, gently bringing it back to life with love and care, she merely discovers a magical place that requires no effort on her part. There’s also less of a character arc for Mary, remaining unpleasant far into the proceedings, forcing Colin to visit the garden instead of it being his true wish, and generally succeeding by imposing her will on everyone else. In many ways she’s more like Burnett's other child heroine Sarah Crewe - the film opens I’m with her telling stories to her doll including Ramayana, which is eerily reminiscent of Alfonso Cuaron's (also perfect) 1995 adaptation of A Little Princess. But I suppose a sliver of credit where it's due - Julie Walters' Mrs Medlock is less of an antagonist, with Colin Firth's Lord Craven being Mary's primary obstacle. There's also a subplot with Mary's mother's depression following the death of her sister being the reason for her neglect (and Merlin alum Rupert Young shows up briefly as Mary's father) but like shifting the time period, there just doesn't seem to be a point to it. The climax of the film involves the Manor burning down (writer Jack Thorne stealing from Rebecca too, lol), with Mary and Craven have a very calm conversation as fire and smoke surrounds them. It’s all very bizarre, but also…rather dull? Don't bother with this, just watch the 1993 film again. Showbiz Kids (dir. Alex Winter) - a really interesting documentary on the titular subject - Winter was himself a child actor on Broadway before his film career kicked off in The Lost Boys and Bill and Ted, and has been able to assemble a broad range of interview subjects - Mara Wilson, Evan Rachel Wood, Wil Wheaton, Jada Pinkett Smith among others - former child actors, those still in the business, and some up and comers like Disney star Cameron Boyce (who I was sad to see in the coda has passed away). We also follow two young hopefuls - Marc, attending acting classes and auditioning in pilot season, yet to book a job but his parents are invested in "his" dream, and Demi, already established on Broadway but having to start to make choices between a career and a childhood. There's no voiceover, no expert opinions in this, letting the actors speak for themselves, but there is a telling juxtaposition of Marc returning home, jobless but having fun in the pool with his friends, while Demi has to cancel the summer camp she had been so looking forward to because she has booked a new role. The film is fairly even handed, but ultimately I took away that there just seems to be more harm than not in this industry, and abuses of many kinds. It does make you wonder about the ethics of child acting, at least in the current system where the cautionary tales are plentiful. Masters of the Universe: Revelation (episodes 1-5) - Mild spoilers I guess? I was never really into He-Man as a kid, other than the Secret of the Sword movie, so most of the in jokes and references in this went over my head. I have to admit, it was actually seeing all the outrage that made me want to check this out and see what all the complaining was about. I actually…really enjoyed it?!? I’m sympathetic to the complaints of a bait and switch (creators really need to learn to say
“just wait and see”), but other than that in my view the rest seemed completely unfounded. Adam/He-Man being killed in the first episode and the impact that has on Eternia and those left behind is actually a really interesting premise. This isn’t a TLJ situation; in contrast everyone (except Evil-Lyn) is always going on about how much they miss Adam, and the whole point of the first arc is him coming back. There’s also a nice little detail of Adam in Preternia (heroes heaven) choosing to remain as he is rather than as He-Man where all his predecessors have chosen their “ultimate” forms. I love him and his Magical Girl transformation. As for Teela - female characters can’t win, it seems. If they are perfect, they’re Mary Sues, if they have flaws, they’re unlikeable. Teela is Going Through things and is on a journey, but I often feel (and it seems the case here) that people confuse a character arc with author intent. No! Just because a character says/does something it doesn't mean you're supposed to agree with them! Some of Teela's actions may be petty and her demeanor less than sweet, but people make bad choices as a response to grief, and I actually thought her anger over Adam never telling her his secret and how that manifested was a pretty interesting take. I'll be interested to see the next half of the season, and ignore the ragebait youtube commentary. One more thing - Evil-Lyn (perfectly voiced by Lena Headey) was an absolute delight. Lucifer (season 5 part 2): They’ve basically given up on the procedural side of things by now and are leaning heavily into the mythology, which works for me since the case of the week is always the least interesting part of any show. It also struck me this season that there’s gender parity in the main cast (Lucifer, Amenadiel, Dan and then Chloe, Maze, Ella, Linda) - and actually, that’s more women than men. How often does that happen?!? I can’t say I’m particularly engaged with the Lucifer/Chloe pairing, but am happy to go along with it since that’s where the whole plot revolves. The best scenes for me this season were with God’s Dysfunctional Family, even if the lead up to the finale felt rushed (I understand the need to wrap things up in case of cancellation but still). I would have liked to see more of the sibling dynamics between the angels and less romantic drama, but hey. The character death got me, as well. I didn't see it coming and I didn't realise how much I had enjoyed that character until they were gone and well...it got me. I see the last season is coming soon, I'm not exactly sure where they can go from here, but looking forward to it nonetheless. Writing I was actually quite sick this month with a throat infection, so wasn't in the best frame of mind to get anything finished like I had planned to. I'm going to hold off posting the word count this month and roll it over to September when hopefully I've actually posted things.
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My Best Friend’s Story (2020) Final Review
I’ve written two first impressions of this drama here (first episode impression) and here (episodes 1-7 impression). Beyond the first 7 episodes, I continued to enjoy the drama until episode 24 or so. But when Jiang Nansun returned from Italy, that’s when the drama started to go downhill for me. One good thing that I appreciated in this drama is that the personalities of the characters stayed relatively consistent, which is an accomplishment for cdramas. However, my gripe was with how the ambitions of the characters changed. Even though the plot was quite simplistic in the first half of the drama, it felt like Nansun and Suosuo were actively moving the plot forward. They had agency over their own growth. But in the second half, they were striving for things they didn’t want. Rather, they were coping with life stressors and making compromises. It might sound like a realistic depiction of the unpredictability of life struggles, but what was frustrating about the plot progression was that both Nansun and Suosuo made things harder than they had to be.
Jiang Nansun
I actually really liked Nansun’s character development. She didn’t just grow for the sake of growing, but we see her potential of becoming someone competent and independent early on. This means that sooner or later, she would become a mature woman over time, but her father’s suicide triggered this growth sooner than expected.
Despite having an opposite upbringing from Suosuo, Nansun and Suosuo are actually quite similar in terms of their outlook on life and their judgments of people. That’s why they’ve managed to stay best friends for so many years. What’s different between them is that Suosuo has had to stand up and protect herself more often. This means that she’s used to being confrontation.
Nansun is a bit more reserved. She does things more underhandedly. She’s more of a schemer. When you see how she handled things with Yuan Yuan, we see how she’s not above lying and bribery to safekeep her sense of security. Even Suosuo was shocked about how cleverly and calmly Nansun was able to figure out the truth of her boyfriend’s past with Yuan Yuan.
But, we also see that Nansun is also capable of being just as spoken as Suosuo. She openly bickers with Wang Yongzeng. She never hesitates to stand up to her dad. When you look at the women in Nansun’s life, you can see where she gets her gumption from. Her aunt is a level-headed, well-traveled business woman. Her mom is a self-aware but oppressed housewife. Her grandmother is an overbearing traditionalist. All three women are resilient, if flawed. Nansun may have had a privileged upbringing, but she’s capable of facing adversity and adapting to changing circumstances. It’s also because of these three women that forced Nansun to have to think for herself.
I think what a lot of people had issue with is how Nansun handled her father’s outstanding debts. She kept it a secret, refusing to tell anyone about it because she was afraid of burdening them. So, she took it all on herself. As a result, her aunt and her boyfriend misunderstood her and was disappointed that she would choose earning fast money over pursuing her passion. I’m still trying to figure out whether this decision makes sense for her character. Nansun justifies the decision by saying that she doesn’t want to worry and burden her loved ones like her father did. Nansun also said that telling Wang Yongzeng about her problems would just ruin his current passionate and carefree approach to life.
But one of the reasons why she broke up with Zhang Anren was because he refused to help her in her time of need because he didn’t want to be associated with her dad’s gambling habits. You would think that after having such as a selfish and unreliable boyfriend, she would expect her next boyfriend to be more supportive and compassionate. They writers even set up WYZ to be more compassionate. When he heard the news that Nansun’s dad came to the university to ask Zhang Anren for money, he called all the way from Italy to ask if he could help. So I thought that WYZ would be more involved when Nansun encounters another problem. But no. Instead, Nansun doesn’t even give him a chance to help her because she wanted to protect him from her reality and her struggles.
We then see a third love interest appear: Li yifan. He’s like a more genuine version of Zhang Anren. He plans everything to the T. He has a clear plan for the future. He’s reliable, dependable, and will guarantee a sense of security. He sees marriage as a contractual partnership, and romantic gestures are superficial. They’re just fantasies that you dreams about when you’re young, but they’re hollow and unsustainable. You know that if you marry him, you won’t have to worry about him being unfaithful and that you’ll always be provided for. He’s direct, transparent, to-the-point, and no nonsense. His ex-wife tells Nansun it’s important to find a man who’s is emotional calm and stable. He seems like a perfect marriage partner. I’ve seen lot of comments saying that he’s better suited for Nansun than WYZ is.
The thing is, while you can’t go wrong if you chose Li yifan, he doesn’t offer anything that Nansun can’t provide for herself. Back in grad school, Nansun liked Zhang Anren because he pampered her, and love and attention was something that she lacked from her family at home. But now, Nansun has learned to love herself and provide for herself. She’s able to give herself a sense of security, and she no longer needs a man to provide it for her. Instead, she wants a partner who is able to emotionally and intellectually stimulate her, and WYZ can provide this. He’s able to show her a different side of life. She’s able to have fun with him. He helps her grow and draws her out of her comfort zone.
Nansun likes WYZ not because of what he can give her, but because of who he is. That’s why even though he doesn’t help her overcome her obstacles (because she didn’t let him), she still loves him. She likes his personality, his values, his free spirit, his humour. She’s able to provide her own noodles, but he offers the spice.
The conversation that Nansun has with her aunt also becomes important. Her aunt says that marriage is just a confirmational contract, but it’s not the foundation of a relationship. That’s why her aunt doesn’t feel a need to remarry and is perfectly happy with just dating.
So in the voiceover during the final scene, Nansun says that she and Susuo continued to live together for the next 5-6 years, implying that she and WYZ didn’t get married. WYZ also mentioned a few episodes ago that marriage and starting a family wasn’t on his agenda. So we as the audience are left to assume that Nansun is following in her aunt’s footsteps and isn’t in a rush to get married or start a family. Just as long as she’s happy spending time with the one she loves, that’s all that matters. She’s finally broken out of her family’s traditionalist values after all and is career-driven.
Another note is that the library scene during Nansun and WYZ’s reconciliation in the finale was pretty romantic. In fact, I thought their whole relationship arc was cute and really enjoyed seeing it unfold. The chemistry just wasn’t quite there, but most couples in this drama lacked chemistry.
Zhu Suosuo
Suosuo had an anticlimactic character arc, but she was a pitiful character and arguably the emotional core of the drama.
She starts off ambitious, headstrong, but naive. She’s the Cinderella character: she’s stuck in her uncle’s judgmental home, dreaming of one day moving out and having her own family and being independent and successful. She’s tricked by a man, but it’s a blessing in disguise because it also puts her on the path of entering the Jinyan company. She finds quick (but shortlived) success as a real estate agent, and gains a reputation at the company. We see her gain momentum as she climbs up the ladder, getting closer to realizing her dream. But it all stagnates when she’s re-assigned to be Jinyan’s assistant.
She’s no longer running from client to client to try to recruit sales. Instead, she’s now stuck at the office, slowly falling in love with her boss who’s old enough to be her father. She doesn’t really do anything anymore but swoon over Ye Jinyan. And it gets cringey because she begins to assume that he likes her back and begins to act out of line, like questioning his decisions for the company and for his employees. When he scolds her for thinking too highly of herself and her influence in the company when she’s nothing more than just an assistant, she quits.
This points to a larger problem of the drama. What kind of lesson is the drama peddling? So far, for both Nansun and Suosuo’s storylines, it seems as though the drama is saying that as long as you’re young, pretty, and have rich connections, you’ll be fine. Most of Nansun and Suosuo’s problems have been solved by someone rich (usually Ye Jinyan). It’s unrealistic how fortunate and privileged they are. They knows so many influential people who are ready and eager to help them.
Another problem is how the drama villainizes people from the country and depicts people from the city as being morally superior. The prime example is Yuan Yuan. She’s portrayed as the greedy, scheming, love rival who wants to get in the way of all of Nansun’s relationships. At first, I was annoyed at how lazy it was to bring her back to try to steal WYZ. But on second thought, it was interesting to see how differently Nansun reacts to Yuan Yuan compared to a year ago, and how uninterested WYZ is in her compared to Zhang Anren. It shows that Nansun has matured. She’s no longer jealous of Yuan Yuan because she’s confident and secure in her relationship with WYZ, and she trusts him in a way that she couldn’t trust Zhang Anren. And that’s because WYZ’s behaviour makes him worthy of being trusted.
Yuan Yuan’s appearance also gives Suosuo a chance to show her rage and protective side. It was really satisfying seeing Suosuo call out Yuan Yuan’s intentions.
I lost interest in watching Suosuo’s relationship with Jinyan. By that point in the drama, Suosuo seemed to have lost her drive to further her career. So while she’s still as headstrong, outspoken, and flirty as ever, her ambitions have changed. I’m also trying to understand why Suosuo fell for Jinyan. Is it the idea of being liked by the most powerful man in the company? Is it because he’s aloof hard to get? She wants a home and family, things that he is unlikely to give. And yet, she’s drawn to him. Not Yang Ke who’s smart and not Xie hong zu who worships her.
What’s more curious is Jinyan’s side of the relationship. At first it’s ambiguous. He cares for her, but doesn’t show it outright. You then learn that it’s because Suosuo has the exact same birthday as his daughter who committed suicide, and he still blames himself for being an absent father. So he’s trying to repent by doing his best to protect and love Suosuo, whom he treats as a stand-on for his deceased daughter. But then there are moments that make you question that line of reasoning. He reminisces the time he spends with Suosuo. He accidentally calls his secretary by her name. He drinks to try to numb the pain of her absence. He’s enraged when she quits. He cries when gets she married (and it’s not the kind of happy crying that a parent would have, but it looks like a kind of regretful crying where he turns his back to the camera, takes off his sunglasses, and blinks the tears away). Or maybe it is a kind of worried parental crying because he knows that she won’t have a happy marriage with Xie hong zhu. It’s all very hard to tell. Does he love her platonically is romantically? Maybe a bit of both. He’s probably unsure himself.
Suosuo seemed to jump into marriage with Xie hong zhu too quickly. She admits that it’s partly out of spite from being rejected by Jinyan, but it’s also because she realizes that Xie hong zhu is probably her best choice now. Suosuo and Nansun’s lives seemed to have switched: at the beginning of the drama, Nansun was the one who dreamed of romance and marriage, while Suosuo dreamed of freedom of success. Now, Suosuo is the one who’s eager to find a romantic partner, while Nansun is trying to find a foothold in her profession. But when you think about it, that’s who’ve they been all along. Even though Suosuo said that romance is a lie and an unreliable fantasy, a part of her still hopes to find happiness with someone who truly loves her. Nansun starts off having a seemingly devoted boyfriend, so romance was never something she thought she lacked, which was why in the end, she was able to figure out what she really wanted out of her love live. My mom always tells me to find someone who loves me more than I love them. Suosuo seemed to have taken this route. I think that you should love someone because of who they are, even if they might not love you back. Nansun was lucky to have found someone she loves who loves her back. Suosuo wasn’t as lucky.
After a long and bumpy road, Suosuo finally returned to basics and is working in sales again. But I was just disappointed at how they stunted her career growth just as she was rising.
Nansun and Suosuo’s relationship
My initial criticism was that they weren’t really involved in each other’s lives. But that changed when Suosuo leaves her uncle’s place and is taken in by Nansun’s family. And then Nansun’s family falls into financial ruin and Suosuo takes them in her new place. And then Nansun’s father dies and her mother leaves, leaving only Nansun and her grandmother, whom Suosuo treats as her own grandmother. And they get even closer when Suosuo has a baby. So we see how they get closer and closer through all the problems they face together. But it’s obvious and predictable how devoted they are to each other. So whenever one makes a sacrifice for the other, it’s never a surprise. It’s very sweet and comforting to watch though, and the drama is worth watching for their friendship dynamic alone.
A lot of people criticize Liu Shishi’s acting, and while I also don’t find her to be a strong actor, I think she has good chemistry with Ni Ni. They balance each other out. They both have so much grace and composure. I also really like how evenly split their storylines were. Soulmate and Last Romance seemed to be biased towards the bubbly character more (i.e., Zhou dongyu and Cherrie Chung respectively), but in this drama, no lead had more screen time or priority than the other.
The male leads
Nothing needs to be said about Chen Dao Ming. He’s untouchable. I’m not even qualified to talk about him. Dong Zi Yan did the best with the script he was given. He was childish, immature, lovesick, hurt, conflicted, remorseful. You felt sorry for him even though he was an unlikable character. Tony Yang had a flat character, so he wasn’t given much to work with, but his Taiwanese accent was distracting, and I’m not even a fluent mandarin speaker, I’m cantonese. So it must have been more annoying for native speaker. A lot of people complained about him, but I think he looks good in modern day clothes, and he fits the role of a casual, laid back, handsome architect well. He looked terrible and sleazy in The Rebel Princess though.
Supporting characters
Fan Jin Gang, Yang ke, and Xia Qian (the aunt) are definitely people you want to have in your life. They are infinitely wise and compassionate, but very blunt. Yuan Quan definitely embodies the worldly aunt stereotype. You wish you could be her when you grow up.
Overall, I would say that this is a good drama. Probably a 7.5/10. It’s really slow, but I didn’t skip any scenes. I started watching it for Liu Shishi and Ni Ni, and then I watched it for the relationships, and then I watched it for the conversations that the characters had. There are a lot of good life advice in this drama, and it makes you reflect on your own relationships with friends and family. It’s a thoughtful story.
The OST was great, the cinematography tried too hard to be nostalgic, and the outfits were fashionable. When they went to “Italy” you could tell that they just chose a European-style neighbourhood in China and then put in clips from Europe. The drama used the long, overhead drone shot that slowly pans out in the last scene of the finale. It’s such an overused shot. Off the top of my head, I remember that Lost Romance does this, and so does Ashes of Love, The Rebel Princess, and My Girlfriend is an Alien. While cheesy, I do find these drone shots pretty impressive, especially when you wonder where the rest of the crew is hiding. But I feel like this drama would have been better off ending with a montage of their lives 5 years later. After all, this is a drama about personal growth and the passage of time, so it only makes sense to see how much has changed in 5 years instead of being told in a voiceover. I know they wanted the last shot to be of Nansun and Suosuo standing together, but I think it might be more impactful to see them separated, but still staying strong despite the distance.
I could probably go on and an about this drama. You could go into a deep dive analysis about every character.
Ni Ni outfit appreciation:
Here are the brands of some of the outfits.
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wardrobe department?
A tale of dissecting the chronology of a trailer (in which chronology is made up and the voiceover definitely matters—but doesn’t always align).
LUCIFER SEASON 5 TRAILER SPOILERS AHOY.
Me: I avoid spoilers!! Don’t spoil me!!
Also Me: Hark! Is that a trailer I see before me?? Better analyze it frame by frame!
So, the truth is, I don’t know most of the other BTS stuff and I really don’t want to. I haven't seen the episode titles. I do know Neil Gaiman’s not ... reprising his role. I’m going on ONLY what’s in the trailer, so some of this speculation may already be wrong.
First: a moment of AWWWWWWW YEAAAAAHHHHH because I’ve wanted Twin!Michael for years.
Okay. Moving on.
Trailers are not chronological. They are magic tricks, designed to manipulate their audience.
Now, chronologically, the crime scene with Ella is at (or very near) the beginning because I’m preeetty sure the victim is Mr. Said Out Bitch (RIP; obviously they did not think they were getting a S6!). It’s hard to make out exactly what Chloe is wearing. Dark jacket, dark shirt with a t-shirt-like collar.
Okay, we know this is Lucifer; we know this is what he was wearing when he went to Hell. Very, very, glowing in the black light white shirt. This could be at the beginning? We assume it is because of how it’s placed right after the goodbye from s4, anyway.
Look how haggard he looks. Like, Lucifer. You need some sleep, buddy. Those dark circles have dark circles. My heart hurts.
Okay wtf, my heart hurts here, too. We assume that Chloe’s pajama(?) stakeout and drinking/dancing and her looking up (and looking super sad on what I think is Lucifer’s balcony) are part of the “since you’ve been gone (everything sucks)” montage.
I will say it’s very possible that “shots at the bar” happens after “crime scene with Ella.” Chloe’s wearing a black jacket and Maze’s arm is bare. Perhaps this night of drowning sorrows (again) is what leads to the conversation (the next day, I think) between Chloe and Maze (“We don’t need him”). In that scene with Maze, Chloe’s wearing a pinstripe blazer and grey t-shirt. Which is important, because that’s the outfit she’s wearing here (in what I would guess is Mr. Said Out Bitch’s home):
I know the assumption is that this is Michael. Although, I wonder how Michael knows the crime-solving Devil song, and the mannerisms (tugging on the sleeves, “Hello, bad guys” as he strolls in) are definitely Lucifer’s. As is the outfit, which is a perfect mirror of the one Lucifer wears in Hell: black suit, white shirt with texture, red pocket square. (Also, no evidence of Michael’s injury.)
Other questions: If he’s so good at playing Lucifer here, why isn’t anyone taken in by him when the grey sateen shirt (hold that thought) appears? Where has Michael been? Why is he here now?
So, I think it’s the combination of his non(?)-reaction to Chloe kissing him and the expression on his face that Michael this up, right? That it’s shown while Michael is voiceover monologuing is also an indicator (but could just as easily be a misdirect because Michael’s not speaking in the image in front of us, and it’s not like we’ve never seen Lucifer make this kind of face before).
(Incidentally, the non-reaction to the kiss could also be seen as in-character for Lucifer; he can’t be sure of his reception, which also plays well with his hello-bad-guys/cocky-to-cover-insecure entrance.)
If it is Michael in the shooting/hug scene, he may START by playing Lucifer perfectly, but that degenerates.
We know this is Michael. There’s some evidence of Michael’s injury in the unevenness of the shoulders. It is NOT a white shirt. It is a grey shirt with a bit of shine; sateen, if you will. We’re going to see a lot of this shirt.
Michael: grey sateen shirt. Also, Chloe’s wearing the white and black striped (VERY FUNNY, COSTUMING DEPT.) shirt she’s wearing when she tells Linda that Lucifer is acting different—so we assume this is the day(?) after Michael shows up. (There’s also a slight possibility that his Lucifer 2.0 bit is his introduction.)
Michael. Black wings. TINY STRIP OF GREY SHIRT at the wrist. So, we assume this happens right after the previous Chloe-with-Gun moment. Michael might want to mess with his brother, but he doesn’t want Chloe to die—there’s even some protective head cradling. So. There’s that.
Michael. Lux. Still the grey sateen shirt. Important: Amenadiel is wearing a shirt and tie.
In the bit where he’s (presumably) talking to Lucifer in Hell (“He’s stronger than you think.”), he’s wearing the same Lux-grey-sateen-shirt-Michael suit and tie. I’m guessing Amenadiel was like “Do not pass Go, do not collect $200″ and pops down to Hell ASAP.
The “He is stronger than you think” line also makes me wonder if Lucifer hasn’t worried—or even thought—about Michael because he believed his twin was broken beyond the possibility of being a threat (presumably by Lucifer; I think there’s a Rebellion-related, bad-blood, mutually-assured-destruction story behind Michael’s injuries). That hubris/pride is pretty much what gets Lucifer into 925% of his problems, after all, so it would be in character.
Oh, Luci. Why do you assume you’re the smartest in the room? Soon that attitude may be your doom.
Michael is ALSO wearing the grey sateen shirt when Maze shows up and he admits he’s not Lucifer. A lot happens on the day of the grey sateen shirt. To me, this means everyone’s onto him right from the beginning. Also, it means the trailer is pulling pretty heavily from just this one out of the eight episodes. The first episode, unless I miss my guess.
Now, going by wardrobe, we enter a very jumbled section. We’ll call this the Dark Days of the Turtleneck.
During the Dark Days of the Turtleneck, we see Michael fight with Amenadiel in the time-stopped precinct. One assumes Michael’s not even pretending to be Lucifer anymore because ... turtleneck? Bloody hell, might as well be board shorts and Crocs. Note: Michael is NOT wearing (Lucifer’s) ring, here.
Again, the voiceover is misleading because suit-and-tie Amenadiel in Lux and Hell wouldn’t have had a chance to fight (wearing a red jacket) with Turtleneck Michael yet.
At yet another point, we see grey-knit Amenadiel fight with zip-up-halter Maze. Whatever’s going on, Amenadiel is getting around (on different days). And apparently everyone is mad at him.
Okay, so this happens after Michael’s had time to “make a mess.” Of what sort, though? I mean, the penthouse looks fine, so ... what haven’t we seen? What has happened between grey sateen shirt Michael and brown blazer turtleneck Michael? Note: Michael’s also not wearing (Lucifer’s) ring, here. I think Michael’s true lack of fashion sense is turtlenecks and roomy blazers. Yikes.
Well, we assume it’s a mess of Lucifer’s life on earth ... but is that possible? All the evidence points to pretty much everyone knowing sateen-shirt Michael isn’t Lucifer right away, so how could he have had the time or the leverage to make a mess that involves them?
And if Michael doesn’t mean he made a mess of Lucifer’s life on earth, does he mean a more far-reaching mess? A much older mess? Something celestial? Something involving Hell? Something involving the Rebellion (have they seen each other since?)? Something involving God? Something involving whatever or whoever the REAL Big Bad of the season is (because I really doubt it’s Michael)?
How long has Michael been ... watching? stalking? Lucifer? Has he been involved in any of the other stuff that’s happened over the years? Was he the one who let Mum out of her cell?
But MOST IMPORTANT: How does he know the crime-fighting-devil song????
Well, whatever that mess is, Lucifer’s pretty pissed off about it.
White shirt, white wings is Lucifer (he was also wearing his black jacket, but not a red pocket square. Note: he has had time to remove his jacket and put his wings away before throwing a punch!). TRAGIC turtleneck under a blazer (with different-colored trousers) and the obvious injury is Michael. But it’s not grey-turtleneck Michael—more than one turtleneck, how dare—so we’re at a different time, chronologically speaking. Could be before Michael’s precinct-fight with Amenadiel, even; we don’t know the chronology of those turtlenecks. We just know Michael, for some unknown reason, chooses them.
Later:
Okay, I think these two scenes happen in the same episode; Chloe’s outfit is the same. And I think that episode happens a bit later in the chronology. Why?
‘Cause Chloe doesn’t have bangs, yo. And anyone who’s tried to grow out bangs can tell you IT DOESN’T HAPPEN OVERNIGHT.
Head-scratching brown suit aside, that’s Lucifer and not Michael. Because this has to be after Michael has shown his true turtleneck colors. Lucifer also seems to have trimmed down his post-hell angst-beard.
Chloe’s hand-injury is probably from that explosion. Her heart-wrenching anguish, though? I don’t know what caused it, but my hurt/comfort-loving little heart wants it now.
We have no idea what Michael’s doing at this point: we don’t see Michael with no-bangs Chloe.
Which leaves the scenes that have had Twitter freaking out for most of the day:
This might be after black-shirt-Chloe-anguish-explosion. I know it looks like bangs, but I think it could also be hair-pushed-behind ears; in the shot where you see her standing in front of the elevator, her “bangs” look long enough to be tamed into a no-bang ponytail. But then ... no hand injury.
It could also be a dream (looking at you “Love Handles”) or a Hell-torment.
In any case, it is 1000% Lucifer and not Michael. Every single moment of every single micro-expression is entirely That Look Lucifer Only Gives To Chloe Decker (I wrote a thread about this on Twitter today), and Michael is just NOT that good an actor.
I actually find this shot more baffling. It’s Lucifer’s shirt; it has men’s-shirt buttons. Is it a morning after? (But not the morning after the wall scene, because Lucifer was wearing a black shirt there.)
Is this a dream?? A HELL TORMENT?? Look, I just do not trust anything that looks like something the fans have wanted so badly. We were all there for elevator dream sex and Lucifer wing dream reveal. We know how these people work!
(Granted, they also sometimes give us axe scenes and beach kisses, but...)
I have about 32634 things to say about LIGHT AND DARK TWIN BROTHERS IS EVERYTHING and also FURTHER EVIDENCE OF QUESTIONABLE CREATION/PARENTING, but I’ve already been working on this for hours, and that screaming is, I think, best reserved for another post.
In conclusion, ahh the sweet, sweet song of hyperfixation. I missed you, buddy. You and your neurotransmitters. Welcome back.
For now, I’m just gonna tricycle off to hell in anticipation of August 21st.
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.
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Guys, seriously, how the hell does Michael know the crime-solving-devil song???????
#lucifer on netflix#lucifer morningstar#chloe decker#deckerstar#lucifer s5#lucifer s5 spoilers#lucifer spoilers#lucifer speculation#lucifer meta#lucifer thoughts#lucifer s5 trailer#long post#lotsa text#LOTSA PICS
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So you ever try to wrap your brain around Yachiru being Kenpachi's zanpakutō? It seems to violate all known (manga-canon) mechanics.
So, to be honest, that particular plot twist hit the note in my head that says “Yes, this is pleasing and not entirely unexpected to me!” I think it’s the fact that the idea of his zanpakutou being embodied this whole time made more sense than ::gestures vaguely at all of Yachiru:: this.
I don’t exactly remember, but I think I may have been spoiled on this one--I got spoiled on a lot of the Bleach endgame, and that always affects the way a plot twist lands, so please take my opinion with that grain of salt.
I think there were a lot of hints along the way-- that although Yachiru is very, very strong and somewhat bloodthirsty herself, she always seems more interested in seeing Zaraki gets the fights that he wants, and watching them raptly, deeply invested in his happiness. She doesn’t actually act like a child, she acts like someone would expect a child to act-- mischievous and silly, but she does not grow and explore or, most importantly, assert her personhood, the way a real person does. She never seeks to grow stronger, or to fight for herself. She wears the lieutenant’s badge and goes to the meetings, which she neither complains about, nor takes any interest in. A real child would either not put up with this shit, or seek to be taken seriously in this role (try to imagine young Byakuya, for example, being named a lieutenant). Most importantly: She is constantly trying to give him directions and they end up lost every time. We thought it was a running gag, but it was a metaphor.
It also seems to me that the other child characters in Bleach grow and age at times when their powers are developing. We see Rukia, Renji, Gin, Rangiku, and Shuuhei as powerless children, and then they age to teens when their powers develop. Toshirou is definitely seen as a smaller child in his Rukongai flashbacks, and it’s implied that he is currently at in impasse with his powers, having difficulty with the upper levels of his bankai. Even so, though his body is stuck in an adolescent state, he has the faculties and personality of an adult. Yachiru, if I am figuring things correctly, is older than Rukia and Renji. It seems like she must be an enormous outlier in the Bleach universe, and it’s frankly weird that, say, Yamamoto wouldn’t take a greater interest in her (unless he knows exactly what she is, and I suspect that both he and Unohana both do).
Unless I’ve missed something, we hardly know anything about zanpakutou-spirit dynamics within the Bleach manga canon. As far as I know, we only ever see two-- Zangetsu and Zabimaru. I think it’s safe to say that Zangetsu already violates all known normal mechanics. I also want to point out that I was a lot more pissed when Zangetsu turned out to be Yhwach (or whatever that was, please no one explain it to me I don’t want to think about it). It was telescoped well enough, but it poisoned a character who had always been there for Ichigo as a mentor and source of strength and it gave me the same yucky feeling as when they killed off Han Solo-- I do not like this. This does not feel right or enhance the story.
We don’t get a whole lot of Zabimaru either-- they can manifest on their own, and do so in order to bother Renji. They seem to be a fairly simplistic being-- they want to fight and be strong and are impatient with Renji’s (very reasonable) desire to take a minute to think things out.
Nobody asked, but I feel like it might be helpful if I unleashed my personal headcanon on Where Zanpakutou Come From. In the Zanpakutou Spirits Arc, the episodes are prefaced with a voiceover that says that zanpakutou are born and die with their shinigami, and I am sorry, anime filler arc, I reject this. One of my favorite Bleach phrases, which seems like it should it could have come from some angsty hurt-comfort fanfic, is “There are no ghosts in Soul Society.” (it actually came from a filler arc episode where Ikkaku, Nanao and Hanatarou get lost in the sewer). But I think there are! When shinigami are killed and reborn in the Living World, presumably, it is as a normal human with no powers. I like to think that some essence of their power and their zanpakutou are left behind, free-floating, nameless, formless, but with some distillation of the principles that guided their shinigami’s life. This ur-zanpakutou attaches itself to a young, spiritually strong person, and becomes intertwined with their soul. They develop a form based on the thoughts and memories and hopes and fears of their shinigami, and their names and specific powers are born of the union of zanpakutou and shinigami. Noble souls often get zanpakutou passed down from previous generations, who take the form of a grandparent, or form that their grandparents zanpakutou had. For kids from the Rukon, I think that most zanpakutou spirits takes the form of a barely remembered mother from the Living World, or a particularly frightening woodcut from a favorite storybook. As an aside, this theory also explains why almost every Rukongonian shinigami we see died as a child-- it’s easier for a free floating zanpakutou spirit to bond with a child’s developing psyche. It’s also a reminder of one more way that Zaraki himself is an outlier.
Zaraki is a really messed-up guy, I think we’re all on the same page there. Like, he just really needs a shit-ton of therapy, I can’t even start. He was a feral murder-child, and I think he saw Unohana as a mother-figure who rejected him. Unlike Ichigo, who needs a wise, experienced mentor to guide him through his warrior journey, Zaraki needs validation that he is a Normal Guy with Normal Murder Thoughts and Feelings, so his subconscious shapes his zanpakutou into another feral murder-child to love him and be his family. Zaraki doesn’t know how little girls act-- pink hair seems good? Stuffy people hate kids, right? It makes perfect sense that Yachiru would go fuck around with Byakuya. Zaraki finds all of Yachiru’s antics hilarious-- the names she makes up for people, the way she climbs all over Ichigo, her general proclivity for going ham. Zaraki is an incredibly simplistic person. My favorite Zaraki parts of Bleach are where you think he is about to get real deep and have some sort of insight, and it turns out to be “I’m gonna stab you, but I’m gonna use both hands” or this entire problem-solving process I’ve pasted in below, which ends in him finding Tousen by letting Tousen stab him. He’s just stupid, bless his heart, and having a murder gremlin for a guiding light just... tracks?
The weirdest thing about Yachiru is that she has her own zanpakutou. I spent about 10 minutes thinking about it, though, and decided that she’s just a recursion, and that the weird feeling I get thinking about her is exactly the way I feel about writing a function that calls itself, and I find that little paradoxical frisson to be kinda cool, actually. The second weirdest thing about Yachiru is that there does not seem to be any connection, thematically, between Yachiru and Nozarashi. After he finally learns his sword’s name, I would have liked to see Zaraki have a trip to his inner world (like Ichigo does, in the midst of battle) where he meets an adult spirit who has qualities of both Yachirus (which he absolutely does not recognize) and that there is some interesting explanation of Nozarashi’s special abilities. To be honest, I couldn’t even remember what they were. Kenpachi has always been one of the strongest Bleach characters and so much about him is just iconic, and then his bankai was just completely bland and unmemorable, with no symbolism whatsoever. Lame.
#kenpachi zaraki#yachiru kusajishi#yachiru unohana#zanpakutou spirits#bleach headcanons#feel free to reblog with your point-by-point complaints about where yachiru violates canon tho#they are probably better thought out than this answer#which is basically just 'i vibed with it'
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We rewatched The Addams Family (2019) last night. I do not like this movie, and I’m gonna tell you why: This movie absolutely destroyed everything that made them function like The Addams Family.
The 1960s show, for example, was LITERALLY ABOUT them seeing new people and accepting them for what they are. That doesn’t just go for the characters outside of the family; it goes for the ones in it, too. In the unicorn hair clip scene in 2019, Morticia’s reaction was absolutely awful. Her being backhanded about something Wednesday showed interest in was so unbelievably out of character, I don’t even know where to begin. Any other version of Morticia would probably have told Wednesday that the unicorn was very grim, that the clip was horrendous and that she looked lovely.
When Wednesday came home in Parker’s clothes, Morticia literally PULLED HER OUT OF SCHOOL and PUNISHED her for trying something new. That’s so un-Addams-y. Wednesday was so upset by her mother’s reaction that she literally RAN AWAY. What happened to all the beautiful communication from the other adaptations? In Addams Family Values, when Morticia and Gomez were under the impression that Wednesday and Pugsley wanted to go to summer camp, they were more disappointed that the kids were supposedly afraid to tell them rather than that they wanted to go at all. Clearly that implies that these kids DO talk to their parents, and their parents have created a comfortable environment for that to happen. In the 1960s sitcom, there was an episode in season 1 where Pugsley was showing interest in the Boy Scouts. Morticia and Gomez were a little off-put by this, but they didn’t shame him for it. When they went to a psychologist for advice, they were told to indulge in Pugsley’s interest, and DID. We know the writers paid attention to previous adaptations, because little things like the clipped roses, Lurch’s “youuuuu raaaaang?” the gong bell, and even Kitty Cat were present. They got little atmospheric details, but they missed the mark of what made them function the way they do.
I don’t actually take much issue with the Saber Mazurka plot. Though bland, Gomez admitted his mistake, learned from it, and let Pugsley show off his Mazurka his way. I take a much bigger issue with Wednesday and Morticia’s plot; both were out of character. Wednesday would not have gone for cutesy pink things. In past adaptations, she was shown to be quite the opposite and really turned off of them. Though I’m glad Wednesday tried new things, I’m disappointed they brought her out of character to do it.
Morticia was suffocating Wednesday. In the end, when Wednesday came back, Morticia didn’t apologize, admit to her mistakes, or try to make things right. She simply told Wednesday she was glad she was home. That isn’t an apology, nor did it demonstrate any growth. She was only pleased when Wednesday’s friend went goth and began to fit her idea of “acceptable,” thus showing that Morticia truly did not develop at all throughout this movie. Parker molding to Morticia’s views is what damaged Morticia’s development so much. Parker was harmful to the plot in that way.
This movie was cast for name recognition, not talent. Though I can applaud Snoop Dog in his role as Cousin Itt, he’s the only one I have anything positive to say about. Finn Wolfhard, as much as I love him and his work, should not have been cast in this movie. He sounded too old to voice such a young character, so when Pugsley spoke, he sounded more like Finn Wolfhard doing a voiceover than Pugsley Addams, if that makes sense. It made it hard to immerse myself in Pugsley’s character, which disappointed me. Finn Wolfhard does have some voice acting talent, like in his role as Player in Carmen Sandiego, but that does not make him the right choice for Pugsley Addams, either. Though Nick Kroll had a goofy voice, something about it didn’t feel quite.... “Fester-y.” I’ve liked his voice work in the past, but in my opinion, he wasn’t who I would have picked. All the other characters voices were.... plain. None of them particularly stuck out to me other than Snoop Dog.
The art style is horrendous. Especially for the people of Assimilation, they look particularly disproportionate, like how Parker’s eyes are set so low on her face. Parker is the ugliest character in this movie. Gomez was unappealing, and though it mirrored the comic style well, it wasn’t something I enjoyed watching, which is disappointing, since Gomez has always been portrayed as an attractive man. They tried to replicate things like his 1960s smirk, but couldn’t pull it off because of the facial proportions. The only characters the style was somewhat acceptable on in CGI was Wednesday and Morticia. Not a fan of the style.
They effectively dehumanized the Addams’s by portraying them more as monsters, like when Morticia made a bridge out of bugs, or were ran out of town with torches. It felt very Hotel Transylvania-ish, and I wasn’t a fan, because the Addams’s have never been any sort of monsters. They’ve always just been normal people with an abnormal lifestyle and habits. They want to be treated as people, and weren’t. They were meant to be a parody of “the perfect family,” in previous adaptations, so dehumanizing them like this distances them from the “perfect family,” trope. If this movie had been about the Munsters, I wouldn’t have nearly the issues I do with it, because then it would make sense that they’d be treated like monsters. This movie was not suited for The Addams Family.
Margaux getting together with Fester was not redemption, it was lazy. You can’t attach a villain to a hero and expect us to change our minds on them. Margaux SHOULD have gone around and uninstalled the cameras and actually APOLOGIZED for her wrongdoings. Romance is not redemption. These writers clearly didn’t understand that, though.
The movie was very “how do you do, fellow kids.” It was things like Parker having a borderline PANIC ATTACK because she “hadn’t posted a picture of her lunch in almost three days,” the townspeople chasing the Addams’s with torches ON THEIR PHONE SCREENS, and the LAZY resolution of Parker live-streaming Margaux’s plans to three million people (what kind of follower count does this girl have??). A lot of the jokes came down to “haha technology bad,” and it fell flat every time. Parker was supposed to be the average teenager. Clearly this movie was written by boomers.
Though the movie was a semi-entertaining watch, I didn’t find it enjoyable since they effectively erased what made the Addams Family..... the Addams Family. I like little details, like Wednesday’s noose braids, or Lurch spraying dust around the house, because they added things atmospherically and aesthetically, but a powerful aesthetic does not equal a good plot. These characters have existed for nearly a century. They had so much to work with, but the plot came out lackluster and underwhelming. All I can do is hope they do better next time.
#the addams family#the Addams family 2019#movie critique#this is the worst movie i have seen in a long time#animation#movies#cartoons#2019
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