#D&B Films

[flashfuckingflesh]

A Pact Plans EVIL Revenge on Crime Fighting Heroes! "Royal Warriors" reviewed! (88 Films / Blu-ray)

“Royal Warriors,” a Revenge Tale, Now on Blu-ray from 88 Films! Hong Kong police inspector boards a Hong Kong bound plane on return from her vacationing in Japan.  She meets Michael Wong, the plane’s air marshal, as well as her across the aisle seat mate, Japanese native, Yamamoto, a retired cop returning to Hong Kong to retrieve his wife and daughter and retreat back to Japan to start their new…

[hatari-translations]

A Song Called Hate - review

I was at the premiere of A Song Called Hate tonight! This is a new English-language documentary film primarily about Hatari's Eurovision journey. There's a lot of delightful new footage that you all are going to love, lots more insight into the emotional journey of the Eurovision trip, their experiences in Israel and Palestine, and the soundtrack by Margrét Rán (from Vök) was fantastic - the film built a beautiful sense of tension out of events that we all already know about. For any Hatari fan it should be a treat.

The film has no narration and relatively little new interview footage, which surprised me a bit - the focus is on showing interesting bits of what happened over the course of this experience, more than presenting a clear narrative of what happened and why. I expected the film to get into the band's motivations for participating despite the calls for a boycott, but it didn't really - in fact, just from what's shown in the film, you'd be forgiven for walking away from it thinking they just wanted to participate in Eurovision and had no particular interest in Palestine until after they won Söngvakeppnin! In reality, before Söngvakeppnin Hatari had published a long statement on why they sought to participate in a contest taking place in Israel given the state's crimes against Palestinians, arguing that since it had been decided Iceland would be participating, they believed whoever represented us should be someone who would use their influence to draw attention to the issue and highlight the absurdities involved. Similarly, the film doesn't actually (as far as I noticed) show or mention the fact RÚV had already made the decision that Iceland would be participating, and that Hatari had supported boycotting the contest prior to this. I expect various other parts might also be confusing to someone who doesn't know Hatari at all and doesn't watch Eurovision - Andrean's iconic flag waving is referenced, for instance, but no footage of it is shown, the fact there's such a thing as "getting to the final" is mentioned but the semifinal is skipped over entirely without comment, and there's no explanation of how Eurovision works at all in general. So if you show it to non-initiated friends, you may want to be handy to explain and clarify some things! Despite introducing how the band came to be at the beginning, this is very much a film made for people already familiar with the band and what happened at ESC 2019.

The most fascinating thing about the film, to me, was seeing just how up in the air everything was until the last minute. They were throwing a lot of ideas for what they might do around (Matthías said during the Q&A that there were a lot more ideas than even what we see in the film, that they were talking over four or five new ideas every day) - they've said that before, technically, but I was imagining a plan A, plan B, plan C sort of thing. In reality, it seems it was all a whole lot more human and haphazard. They knew they wanted to stage some form of protest, but had no idea what kind and were constantly discussing this back and forth with Bashar and others while they were out there, with the deadline of the final looming, while unsure how they could even go about it - they talk about how, for instance, if they didn't perform the song the way it's supposed to be, the Eurovision broadcast is on a delay and would simply switch over to prerecorded footage, with the audience none the wiser that anything had happened. (I wish the film had had time to show the discussions before the semifinal, too, when they couldn't have been sure if they would make it to the final at all - I'm sure those were fascinating, too, but there's a lot going on in the film and I understand the decision to focus on the final.) There's even a moment where they've kind of resigned themselves to maybe just not doing anything more, just performing the song. When Bashar senses their resolve wavering, he clearly feels kind of hurt and betrayed, implores them to not just talk but act - and then, in the end, probably spurred by Bashar's words, they send Iceland Music News out, in the middle of the night, to get them the Palestine banners that they would so memorably pull out in the final.

Ultimately it's a very humanizing thing, seeing how despite how long this group spent brainstorming a protest, going to Hebron, collaborating with Bashar, all with this burning intent to make a statement, they're simply people in a deeply stressful situation trying to come up with a way to use their art to do something that's in some way meaningful for this very real struggle, and in that weird, tangled situation, in a stressful moment, they might just want to think maybe this is it, maybe they're done, maybe this is enough and then they can breathe. It was an emotional punch for me seeing Bashar getting so worked up on the screen and realizing how he must have felt watching the final, genuinely not knowing what to expect, half thinking his new Icelandic friends might have just chickened out entirely. But, as Matthías says afterwards, as they're all together variously recovering from panic attacks or hugging each other or trying to recover their composure, in the end there was no other choice. They had to do something, and they did. And we're all grateful for it.

There's a moment, afterwards, of Matthías, Klemens and Einar in a dressing room, with Einar talking about how he'd kind of wished they'd be kicked out of the contest. Matthías goes God, yes, that would have been such a relief. It's such a raw thing to hear. They laughingly conclude that if they'd gotten kicked out then the Icelandic nation would have rejected them, too; they'd have pissed off everybody. As Hatari as that would have been, I think we're all ultimately glad they didn't, though.

All in all, a gripping, very human film about a group of young artists trying to do the right thing. I hope you all get a chance to see it soon!

[laura-palmer]

Game of Thrones - Season 7 Episode 3: "The Queen's Justice"

Game of Thrones – Season 7 Episode 3: “The Queen’s Justice”

Episode three of season seven of Game of Thrones! Before I get into my review, it must be noted that time is moving past at an accelerated rate in terms of the season’s pacing thus far. I can’t remember this much happening so quickly, ever. Things that would normally take chapters in the books are happening in the span of minutes in this season of the show. I don’t hate it, but there is certainly…

[flashfuckingflesh]

Yeoh, Rothrock Beat the EVIL to a Pulp! "Yes, Madam!" reviewed! (88 Films / Blu-ray)

“Yes, Madam!” on Blu-ray from 88 Films! Hong Kong’s Inspector Ng and Scotland Yard’s Inspector Carrie Morris reluctantly join forces to solve the murder of an undercover British national on the verge of exposing a fraudulent real estate contract helmed by crooked businessman Mr. Tin.  When a small piece of key case evidence, a microfilm, winds up in the bumbling hands of three low-level thieves…

[bidotorg]

Wishing actor, model, and sex toy designer Cara Delevigne a happy birthday.

Cara Jocelyn Delevingne is an English model and actress.

She started her acting career with a small role in a film adaptation of Anna Karenina (2012). She went on to play the Enchantress in the film Suicide Squad (2016) and starred in Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets (2017).

In October 2017, Delevingne made her debut as a novelist of young adult fiction with her new book Mirror, Mirror, a book that explores “sexuality, identity, friendship, and betrayal", according to Delevingne. She wanted to "tell a story that gives the reader a realistic picture of the turbulent roller-coaster teenage years", and for them to know that "It’s OK if you don’t know who you are yet. As long as you learn what it is that makes you happy, and follow your heart, everything will be OK.”

In July 2015, Delevingne talked to Vogue about her bisexuality and her difficulties understanding it as a child. Cara says she felt confused by her sexuality as a child, and the possibility of being gay frightened her. "It took me a long time to accept the idea until I first fell in love with a girl at 20 and recognized that I had to accept it. But I have erotic dreams only about men. I had one two nights ago where I went up to a guy in the back of a VW minivan, with a bunch of his friends around him, and pretty much jumped him. Women are what completely inspire me, and they have also been my downfall. I have only been hurt by women, my mother first of all."

The suggestion that her bisexuality might be a phase caused a small furor on the internet and caused Delevingne to once again confirm that she is bi. She went on to tell the New York Times,

"My sexuality is not a phase. I am who I am."

View this post on Instagram

Cara Delevigne has always been outspokenly sex-positive. Along with Lora di Carlo, she is a co-owner of the sex toy brand Lora DiCarlo. She is also participating in the upcoming BBC Three/Hulu docuseries Planet Sex.

[crazygalore]

MICHAEL CORLEONE ( THE GODFATHER TRILOGY ) NSFW ALPHABET

Disclaimer: My portrayal of Michael Corleone is almost exclusively movie-based. I have read the book and respect it for what it represents, but I have a preference for movie Michael, since I first watched the film, and only read the book years later. That being said, I will selectively borrow elements from the novel here and there, if and when I see fit.

A = Aftercare (What they’re like after sex)

After having lost all hope of ever finding love again after having suffered through countless tragedies and betrayals, it is safe to assume that Michael treats you right in all aspects of your life together. So, after sex, he will draw you a hot bath and gently help you wash up and dry off afterwards. Then, he will tenderly tuck you into bed, bring you any snacks and beverages you may be craving, and afterwards he will lay down next to you and hold you against him until you fall asleep with your head on his chest.

B = Body part (Their favourite body part of theirs and also their partner’s)

He’s survived all of these years by keeping his eyes open and his mind clear, so he is quite fond of his keen and sharp gaze. He’s a bit of a sapiosexual, so while he thinks you are the sexiest and most attractive person in this world, it was your mind and your spirit that made him fall in love with you in the beginning. So, to this very day, having a stimulating conversation with you amps up his libido like nothing else.

C = Cum (Anything to do with cum basically… I’m a disgusting person)

He’s a traditionalist at heart, so he prefers finishing deep inside of you, although he will mark you with his seed if that was something you enjoyed. You would have to ask him to do it, though.

D = Dirty Secret (Pretty self explanatory, a dirty secret of theirs)

He loves seeing you wear his clothes - especially his shirts - because he thinks of it as a reinforcement of his claim on you. Although he is not one of those overly jealous or extremely possessive partners, the sight of you enveloped in his garments always manages to reassure him that you are his and his alone, to love and cherish until the day he dies. 

E = Experience (How experienced are they? Do they know what they’re doing?)

Surprisingly, Michael has only slept with three women in the past - namely a former girlfriend and his two former wives. But although his experience is relatively limited, he’s been doing it long enough to know exactly how to drive his partner insane with desire and pleasure.

F = Favourite Position (This goes without saying. Will probably include a visual)

Usually it’s either missionary or doggy style, depending on the mood. On one hand, he likes being able to hold you in his arms and look into your eyes as he pounds into you - but on the other hand, the sight of your pretty ass and his girth disappearing inside of you drives him absolutely bonkers. Once in a while, however, when he is particularly exhausted, Michael will just sit back and relax as you ride him to completion. 

G = Goofy (Are they more serious in the moment, or are they humorous, etc)

Normally, he is very passionate and serious in bed, because making love to you is one of the few times when he can show you his more vulnerable and romantic side. That being said, realistically speaking sex is a very accident-prone activity in general, and some mishaps are funnier than others - and he is comfortable enough around you to crack an apologetic smile when that happens. 

H = Hair (How well groomed are they, does the carpet match the drapes, etc.)

With a military background and his current position as a don, Michael is a very clean and tidy person, and he keeps himself well groomed and trimmed down there. It is not his habit to shave completely, however, unless you expressed your preference for it.

I = Intimacy (How are they during the moment, romantic aspect…)

Michael is a man hardened by the lifestyle he had no choice but embrace. He has learned to guard his heart, smother his conscience and use his reason to make educated and oftentimes ruthless decisions for the sake of his family’s safety and prosperity. But you are his sanctuary, and in your arms he feels loved, chrished and nurtured - and he feels the need to reciprocate your gestures of affection and show you his vulnerable and romantic side. So sex with Michael is always an intimate, passionate and intense experience.

J = Jack Off (Masturbation headcanon)

He doesn’t do it that often - if at all. When it happens, it’s always in the shower, and he sees it as nothing more but instant gratification for his body’s biological functions - nothing more. It only ever happens if you two happen to be away from each other, for example during his solo business trips.

K = Kink (One or more of their kinks)

A food kink, because nothing gets him going quite like licking whipped cream and frosting off your gorgeous body. Light bondage and domination - but nothing too extreme, as his intention is simply to bring you pleasure and not to demean you. Edging, orgasm denial and mild spanking, but nothing more hardcore than that. As previously stated, he loves seeing you wearing his shirts, and he has fucked you countless times while you were still garbed in them. Also a mild and barely there breeding kink.

L = Location (Favourite places to do the do)

He’s a very private individual, so only in the comfort and safety of your home, usually in your bedroom or your shared bathroom. If he is 100% sure nobody will accidentally walk in on you too, he will definitely fuck you on the kitchen counter, and put that food kink of his to good use.

M = Motivation (What turns them on, gets them going)

As a sapiosexual ( a person who finds intelligence to be a sexually attractive quality in others ), having a long and stimulating debate with you is an instant turn-on. Other than that, you are gorgeous and you are all his, and your very presence fills him with desire. So, as long as the two of you are alone, without the risk of being interrupted, he’s game. But if you’re ever not feeling like it, he won’t pressure you into having sex with him, nor will he act grumpy because of it. You are his beloved, and he respect and adores you at all times.

N = NO (Something they wouldn’t do, turn offs)

He will never harm or demean you in any way. So anything too extreme and damaging is out of the question, no matter how much you might beg him to change his mind.

O = Oral (Preference in giving or receiving, skill, etc)

The sight of you, kneeling before him, with your pretty lips wrapped around his girth is heaven for Michael. There are things that you can do with your wicked tongue that drive him completely crazy with need, and he oftentimes finds himself thrusting against your talented mouth. That being said, he reciprocates the gesture every single time, and he is very skilled at it. With a flick of his tongue in the right spot, and a well placed suckle, he can bring you to completion in no time - and he usually isn’t satisfied unless he’s given you several earth-shattering orgasms using only his mouth and deft fingers.

P = Pace (Are they fats and rough? Slow and sensual? etc.)

Depending on the mood, Michael can be slow and sensual, or fast and rough - but it is always a passionate exchange fuelled by your love and perpetual desire for one another. Sex with Michael is much more than a mere carnal act, but rather a complete fusion of your bodies and souls into one.

Q = Quickie (Their opinions on quickies rather than proper sex, how often, etc.)

He’s a busy man with a tight schedule, so once in a while you two simply have to make do with a quick hard fuck.

R = Risk (Are they game to experiment, do they take risks, etc.)

He’s game for experimenting within reason. As long as none of you ends up being hurt or humiliated, he’s willing to give it a try.

S = Stamina (How many rounds can they go for, how long do they last…)

Depending on how tired or well-rested he is, it spans from quickies to extended lovemaking sessions that last all night long. He rarely cums before you do, and usually that happens if you teased him too much beforehand. Even then, he will either recover and fuck you until reach orgasm as well, or he will use his mouth and fingers on you until you are satisfied. 

T = Toy (Do they own toys? Do they use them? On a partner or themselves?)

He’s not opposed to toys, but he’s an old school kinda guy, so you would pretty much have to talk him into incorporating them into your guys’ sex life. Be warned, though, he will most probably use them to edge you until you are practically crying for release.

U = Unfair (how much they like to tease)

It depends on his mood, really. Sometimes he likes to give you exactly what you want, when you want it - and sometimes he can be a complete and utter tease, to the point he drives it drives you completely nuts.

V = Volume (How loud they are, what sounds they make)

He’s relatively quiet, with a couple of low grunts and moans sprinkled in-between laboured breaths. However, he usually cums with a long groan he usually muffles against your neck or shoulder.

W = Wild Card (Get a random headcanon for the character of your choice) X = X-Ray (Let’s see what’s going on in those pants, picture or words)

Well, you know what they say: Tiny man, huge “ego “. And Michael is the perect embodiment of this phrase. The boy is hung and he knows how to it to bring you maximum satisfaction, 100% guaranteed, no returns. 

Y = Yearning (How high is their sex drive?)

His sex drive is not actually that high, but he very rarely refuses you if you initiate it. Once you get him going, however, he is relentless.

Z = ZZZ (… how quickly they fall asleep afterwards)

Usually he stays up a little longer to admire your slumbering form, as it has a calming effect on him. He will eventually fall asleep with you in his arms, once that brilliant and busy mind of his runs out of fuel.

[sssshhhthefilmsabouttostart]

The best and worst films of 2020

Let’s be honest - 2020 was an extremely shitty year for moviegoers everywhere, as the Queen would say an annus horribilis.

Due to the Covid pandemic’s dramatic impact on nearly every facet of human life, cinemas closed, film festivals went virtual and film productions became an intricate mess of insurance and safety challenges.

Yet despite these dire challenges and an unpredictable future, cinema remained very much alive throughout the year, with a wide range of ambitious undertakings snaking their way into whatever form of release seemed viable. Blockbusters receded to the background, allowing a wide range of movies to trickle through an uncertain marketplace that would have been hostile to them even in pre-pandemic times.

So what cinematic gems and unmitigated disasters were dropped upon audiences during the year?

Ladies and gentlemen, may we please offer for your consideration...

HONOURABLE MENTIONS

THE CURRENT WAR - THE LIGHTHOUSE - IN FABRIC - BEING FRANK: THE CHRIS SIEVEY STORY (D) - BOMBSHELL - THE PEANUT BUTTER FALCON - THE SOCIAL DILEMMA (D) - LIGHT OF MY LIFE - THE ASSISTANT - THE LODGE - THE GENTLEMEN - THE WAY BACK - DARK WATERS - 1917 - THE BURNT ORANGE HERESY - THE HUNT

2020′S TOP TEN BEST FILMS

10. THE WOLF OF SNOW HOLLOW

Hot off the critical success of his debut feature ‘Thunder Road,’ writer-director Jim Cummings’ refreshing yet effective take on the werewolf genre amped up the dark comedy whilst delivering quite a few chills. Tinged with realistically flawed characters and clever scares, ‘The Wolf of Snow Hollow’ might not have been your typical werewolf flick but it successfully managed to bring that classic legend to life once again.

9. LET HIM GO

Previously last seen together as Clark Kent’s adoptive parents in ‘Man of Steel,’ Diane Lane and Kevin Costner were reunited onscreen as husband and wife again in writer-director Thomas Bezucha’s neo-Western drama ‘Let Him Go.’ Adapted from author Larry Watson’s 2013 novel, the film featured stunning landscapes, full-blooded moments of sudden violence and compelling performances from Diane Lane, Kevin Costner and, most memorably, Lesley Manville’s turn as a gritty and cunning matriarch.

8. COLOUR OUT OF SPACE

Based on the classic short story by HP Lovecraft and featuring another scene-stealing performance from Nicolas Cage, this clever adaptation was an effective horror film with an unrelentingly grim sci-fi bent. In addition to the truly disturbing and inspired images of queasy body horror, ‘Colour Out of Space’ also marked the eagerly-anticipated re-emergence of filmmaker Richard Stanley (his first time back in the director’s chair since being fired from his 1996 remake ‘The Island of Dr Moreau’).

7. THE INVISIBLE MAN

Who knew a remake could be so refreshing? With this updated take on the H.G. Wells tale, writer-director Leigh Whannell did just about everything right, delivering a tense, clever thriller with touches of both horror and sci-fi. As the fascinatingly flawed yet appealing tough protagonist, Elisabeth Moss gave a captivating performance in a film that was chilling in all the right ways, packed with plenty of twists and a deliciously nasty resolution.

6. THE TRIAL OF THE CHICAGO 7 (NETFLIX)

Whilst the subject matter of ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7′ shared an uncanny relevance to today’s politically charged times, as a gripping courtroom drama with a stellar cast, the film ticked all the boxes. ‘West Wing’ creator Aaron Sorkin put his trademark traits - razor-sharp wit, rhetorical flair and political insight - to very good use in this masterful retelling of the trial following the 1968 anti-war protests outside the Democratic National Convention.

5. HEARTS AND BONES

In his debut feature film, Australian director Ben Lawrence created a spiritually rich and immersive drama about the relationship between a grizzled, broken war photographer and a Sudanese refugee. Whilst Hugo Weaving was note-perfect in his portrayal as a crumbling man wrestling with his past, equally impressive was first time actor Andrew Luri who delivered a quiet yet memorable performance in what was an affecting piece of cinema.

4. TOTALLY UNDER CONTROL (DOCUMENTARY)

Watching a documentary about the COVID-19 crisis in the middle of a global pandemic might not sound appealing but prolific filmmaker Alex Gibney’s latest work was easily the most essential non-fiction film of 2020. Shot safely in secret for five months, ‘Totally Under Control’ played out like a tightly-wound thriller as it placed the Trump Administration’s inept response to the coronavirus pandemic under the microscope.

3. BAD EDUCATION (HBO)

As far as crime stories go, embezzlement isn’t always the most thrilling subject. However, ‘Bad Education’ turned a relatively simple white collar crime story about a New Jersey school administrator caught stealing money into a compelling drama, thanks to an incisive and nimble script and spot on performances from Allison Janney, Geraldine Viswanathan, Ray Romano and especially Hugh Jackman.

2. MANK (NETFLIX)

Director David Finch’s dazzling portrait of Herman J. ‘Mank’ Mankiewicz, the screenwriter who collaborated with wunderkind filmmaker Orson Welles to write the first draft of ‘Citizen Kane,’ was a cinematic jewel from start to finish. Similar to last year’s ‘Once Upon A Time in...Hollywood,’ ‘Mank’ delivered a layered depiction of the filmmaking process, whilst Gary Oldman continued to excel at immersing himself in playing real-life characters, this time as the hard-drinking, intellectual screenwriter.

1. NOMADLAND

Writer-director Chloe Zhao’s intimate drama about an unemployed widow living as a van-dwelling modern-day nomad was a thoughtful, contemplative and reflective piece of storytelling. It may have touched upon mature themes about loneliness, financial instability and restlessness, but ‘Nomadland’ remained an uplifting and hopeful piece of cinema that captured the various bittersweet reasons people choose to live a life on the road.

With an outstanding performance from Frances McDormand, brought to life through the charm of the ‘real life’ supporting cast, great direction and Joshua James Richard’s mesmerising cinematography, ‘Nomadland’ was the perfect film for 2020.

...AND NOW THE WORST!

DISHONOURABLE MENTIONS

VAMPIRES VS THE BRONX - BAD BOYS FOR LIFE - THE OLD GUARD - PROJECT POWER - ISN’T IT ROMANTIC - THE RHYTHM SECTION - WHERE’D YOU GO, BERNADETTE - I’M THINKING OF ENDING THINGS - MIDWAY - YOU SHOULD HAVE LEFT - BABY DONE - FORCE OF NATURE - CAPONE - THE NEW MUTANTS - DOOLITTLE

10. WONDER WOMAN 1984

To quote Red Letter Media’s resident film critic Mike Stoklasa, “this movie was the cinematic equivalent of the Bluesmobile.” Directed by Patty Jenkins, this 80′s-set sequel to the 2017 DC superhero hit was lethargically paced and featured a completely bonkers narrative that made absolutely no sense. Horribly scripted, disjointed and overstuffed (a runtime of 2.5 hours), ‘Wonder Woman 1984′ sadly jettisoned everything that made Jenkins’ original film so compelling. The result? An appalling misfire.

9. THE GRUDGE

A curiously talented and interesting cast were somehow lured into - and subsequently wasted in - this pointless, tired, reboot/revival of the long-running ‘Ju-On’ Japanese-based horror series. Despite director NIcholas Pesce’s attempt to disguise the rudimentary nature of the plot via back-and-forth timeline jumping, ‘The Grudge’ was just a formulaic paint-by-the-numbers meander through a poorly developed story that existed only to prop up a bunch of uninspired jump scares.

8. BIRDS OF PREY (AND THE FANTABULOUS EMANCIPATION OF ONE HARLEY QUINN)

There are many movies that have no reason to exist - and this latest misfire from DC Comics was one of them. Directed by Cathy Yan, ‘Birds of Prey’ was a mire of uninspired ideas and recycled genre conventions that got old real quick. Penned by Christina Hodson (’Bumblebee’ being the ‘highlight’ on her resume), the script was as simplistic as it was thin, with needless subplots merely introduced to inflate the film to a decent running time. Even Margot Robbie’s manic performance as the ‘Mistress of Mayhem’ couldn’t save this mess.

7. JAY AND SILENT BOB REBOOT

What could’ve been a dream film for fans of these two classic stoner characters instead was nothing but a string of cameos and callbacks in a plot-less bore. Director Kevin Smith sucked all the life and fun out of this watered-down story, that suffered from a constant series of awkward and forced jokes that were painfully unfunny. An unfortunate stinker.

6. AVA

This latest foray into the ‘female assassin for hire’ genre was about as cliched as you could get. An emotionally troubled female killer whose male mentor assumes the role of the surrogate father? Check. Pounding dance music score? Check. Obligatory nightclub fight sequence? Check. Confused love interest? You betcha! Humourless, dry and uninspired, ‘Ava’ played out like a poor man’s ‘La Femme Nikita.’

5. FANTASY ISLAND

Hollywood’s obsession with repackaging Gen-X childhoods continued with this absurd attempt to reboot the classic 1970′s TV series as a low-budget horror joint under the Blumhouse label. At a dangerously close two hour runtime, there was simply nothing interesting about the film’s characters or its inane plot about a mystical island that grants wishes (a’la ‘The Monkey’s Paw’). Our advice? Turn ‘de plane’ around if you ever plan to visit this ‘Fantasy Island.’

4. ARTEMIS FOWL

For every ‘Harry Potter’ that explodes into the public consciousness, there always seems to be a dozen or more failed franchises. Sadly, Disney’s ‘Artemis Fowl’ found itself in the latter category. Director Kenneth Branagh’s dull and superficial attempt to transfer this popular children’s book series from page to screen suffered from a lack of character development, an over-reliance in CG effects and featured a lifeless performance from newcomer Ferdia Shaw as the titular character. 

3. HUBIE HALLOWEEN (NETFLIX)

A month before last year’s Oscar nominations were released, Adam Sandler joked on ‘The Howard Stern Show’ that if the Academy snubbed him for his role in the film ‘Uncut Gems,’ he would make a movie “that [was] so bad on purpose.” And that’s exactly what happened. Supposedly a comedy, ‘Hubie Halloween’ was unfunny, disposable and completely devoid of any originality. Sadly for audiences, Sandler signed a four-movie deal with Netflix last year, worth up to $275 million - so we can expect to see more of this shit soon!

2. ALIEN ADDICTION

Aliens visit New Zealand and get high smoking human faeces? Someone should have advised Kiwi director Shae Sterling that audiences have moved on from such puerile comedies as this abomination. Suffice to say, if anybody ever admitted to finding this film remotely funny, they’d probably be outcast from society. An embarrassment to all those involved. 

1. THE BEACH BUM

Director Harmony Korine’s generic stoner comedy about a prolific poet who drifts through life in a drug-induced haze had all the natural high of an unfiltered, soggy joint and was easily, hands down, 2020′s worst film.

‘The Beach Bum’ was a pretentious and uninteresting movie whose lead character, considered to be an ‘artistic genius,’ was nothing more than a relentless shithead to everyone around him. As Moondog, the semi-naked, bongo-playing, pot-fuelled beat poet, Matthew McConaughey was insufferable and grating in his portrayal of a character you would quite easily want to punch in the face - repeatedly. Blazed and confused, ‘The Beach Bum’ had no plot, no class and no entertainment value whatsoever. 

MOVIE POSTERS

From the classic to the abstract, here is just a sample of some of the best poster designs from a highly unusual year of movies.

...AND FINALLY, WHEN WHEN IT COMES TO DIRE-LOG, THEY SAID WHAT!?

“I've never wanted anything more. But he's gone, and that's the truth. And everything has a price. One I'm not willing to pay. Not any more. This world was a beautiful place, just as it was, and you cannot have it all. You can only have the truth. And the truth is enough. The truth is beautiful” (’Wonder Woman 1984′).

And who could forget this little chestnut of advice...

“That is the only truth and truth is all there is. You cannot be the winner because you are not ready to win. And there is no shame in that. Only in knowing the truth in your heart and not accepting it. No true hero is born from lies” (’Wonder Woman 1984′).

[zumpietoo]

Opting for a pandemic-proof fall lineup of mostly scripted acquisitions and alternative fare, the CW will launch its 2020-21 season starting next week. That makes for a compact regular season, a late spring “midseason”, a summer featuring a record number of scripted originals and a likely stable 2021-22 schedule with virtually all established CW series returning, led by hits like The Flash and Riverdale, joined by 3-4 new series. “Right now, we’re probably going to stay the status quo down the line with everything we have because a) they’re working and b) I’d rather have a known quantity on the air than an unknown quantity,” the CW Chairman and CEO Mark Pedowitz said about the network’s current plans for next season in a fluid situation because of the pandemic. The CW announced last fall that Supergirl and Black Lightning will end this season. That may be it for series departures, with the rest of the network’s current shows eying a renewal. Ten scripted series — eight returning and two new ones — will premiere over the next six weeks, including Batwoman, All American, Nancy Drew, Walker, Legacies, Riverdale, The Flash, Black Lightning, Charmed and Superman & Lois. Shows such as Roswell, New Mexico, In The Dark, Supergirl, Stargirl, Dynasty and Legends of Tomorrow will launch ‘midseason’ along with new titles Kung Fu and Republic of Sarah. Despite industrywide Covid-related production shutdowns and skyrocketing costs of filming during a pandemic, the CW series are on track to deliver their full orders, Pedowitz said, adding quickly “that could change tomorrow” due to the pandemic. Additionally, Pedowitz admitted that he may need to “start making hard decisions” depending on the Covid situation over the next few months in order to get back to some sense of normalcy next season with a regular fall lineup. “Do you cut the orders of some of the shows this season so that they have time to ramp up for next season?,” he said. “If it’s an issue, we’ll know by March. You have to end production on whatever you’re doing now in time to turn it around to have a fall.” To help speed up returning series’ turnaround and get the shows back into production sooner, the network is considering commissioning writers to start earlier and produce scripts for next season before they have been formally greenlit. Looking back at this past fall, Pedowitz said he was happy about the decision to go with acquisitions and shows in the can (plus the final Supernatural episodes) despite modest linear ratings, touting “digital growth in a difficult time” and calling stacking on the network’s digital platforms “a godsend.” He listed Nancy Drew as a very strong binge viewing performer. “Digitally-wise it was a huge success, linear-wise, we did what we were supposed to do which is we kept the lights on, providing fresh programming to the affiliates and advertisers,” he said. As for the upcoming up season, “Now the question is, starting next week, can we get (viewers) back given all the stuff that we are dealing in the country? I don’t know, I’m hopeful,” Pedowitz said. The network brass again are setting “our linear expect at one level, our digital expectations at another because the launch is staggered over production issues.” From the Arrow-verse to the Archie-verse, Pedowitz also admitted that he has spoken to Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa about another Riverdale spin-off. He said that he hasn’t seen a script yet but that Aguirre-Sacasa, who is also chief creative officer of Archie Comics, is thinking about the future of characters such as Archie Andrews, Betty Cooper, Veronica Lodge and Jughead Jones as they prepare to graduate, with a seven-year jump set for this season. “I do know that he’s thinking long term on how to continue the Riverdale situation,” Pedowitz said.

https://deadline.com/2021/01/the-cw-mark-pedowitz-on-2021-new-season-launch-summer-fall-2021-plans-renewals-cancelations-the-flash-riverdale-swamp-thing-1234673373/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

I present Tap Dancing Mark Pedowitz to you, my friends!!!

A) Love how he literally contradicts himself and reverses course in the middle of this

B) Thinly veiled “everything is performing like shit for the most part and we have no $$$$$” (currently the only new hit is Stargirl and while they’re pretending Plaiderdale performs well it didn’t, and doesn’t)

C) Love him admitting he’ll be either cancelling/or ending lots moar going forward....after saying he wouldn’t

D) REALLY doubt Walker performs all that well....thinking middling for Lois/Clark thing (and haaaaattteee Tyler)....plus no Netflix $$$ for any of these shows

E) Most importantly: Love how you signed a sucker deal with RAS and now it’s biting your ass sooooooo haaaarrrddd.....Plaiderdale spinoff? Ummmm.....Kitty Litter Swell flopped hhaaarrrddd....and RAS’s shows (excepting CAoS) are fairly $$$ to produce.

And you literally told us the time jump isn’t working already and you’re thus eying cancellation and an “adult” spinoff in the future.

Which, unless it’s Juggy Loves Betty, won’t get you viewers, either....and Cole won’t be signing onto that....EVER

[papermoonloveslucy]

SPEECH FOR CIVIC ORGANIZATION

February 4, 1949

“Speech for Civic Organization” (aka “Liz Debates Alaska in Town Forum”) is episode #29 of the radio series MY FAVORITE HUSBAND broadcast on February 4, 1949 on the CBS radio network.

Synopsis ~ Liz, anxious to win the approval of an important dinner guest, simply agrees with everything he says. The guest is so impressed with her intelligence that he invites her to be a speaker at his next civic forum.

“My Favorite Husband” was based on the novels Mr. and Mrs. Cugat, the Record of a Happy Marriage (1940) and Outside Eden (1945) by Isabel Scott Rorick, which had previously been adapted into the film Are Husbands Necessary? (1942). “My Favorite Husband” was first broadcast as a one-time special on July 5, 1948. Lucille Ball and Lee Bowman played the characters of Liz and George Cugat, and a positive response to this broadcast convinced CBS to launch “My Favorite Husband” as a series. Bowman was not available Richard Denning was cast as George. On January 7, 1949, confusion with bandleader Xavier Cugat prompted a name change to Cooper. On this same episode Jell-O became its sponsor. A total of 124 episodes of the program aired from July 23, 1948 through March 31, 1951. After about ten episodes had been written, writers Fox and Davenport departed and three new writers took over – Bob Carroll, Jr., Madelyn Pugh, and head writer/producer Jess Oppenheimer. In March 1949 Gale Gordon took over the existing role of George’s boss, Rudolph Atterbury, and Bea Benadaret was added as his wife, Iris. CBS brought “My Favorite Husband” to television in 1953, starring Joan Caulfield and Barry Nelson as Liz and George Cooper. The television version ran two-and-a-half seasons, from September 1953 through December 1955, running concurrently with “I Love Lucy.” It was produced live at CBS Television City for most of its run, until switching to film for a truncated third season filmed (ironically) at Desilu and recasting Liz Cooper with Vanessa Brown.

REGULAR CAST

Lucille Ball (Liz Cooper) was born on August 6, 1911 in Jamestown, New York. She began her screen career in 1933 and was known in Hollywood as ‘Queen of the B’s’ due to her many appearances in ‘B’ movies. With Richard Denning, she starred in a radio program titled “My Favorite Husband” which eventually led to the creation of “I Love Lucy,” a television situation comedy in which she co-starred with her real-life husband, Latin bandleader Desi Arnaz. The program was phenomenally successful, allowing the couple to purchase what was once RKO Studios, re-naming it Desilu. When the show ended in 1960 (in an hour-long format known as “The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour”) so did Lucy and Desi’s marriage. In 1962, hoping to keep Desilu financially solvent, Lucy returned to the sitcom format with “The Lucy Show,” which lasted six seasons. She followed that with a similar sitcom “Here’s Lucy” co-starring with her real-life children, Lucie and Desi Jr., as well as Gale Gordon, who had joined the cast of “The Lucy Show” during season two. Before her death in 1989, Lucy made one more attempt at a sitcom with “Life With Lucy,” also with Gordon.

Richard Denning (George Cooper) was born as Louis Albert Heindrich Denninger Jr., in Poughkeepsie, New York. When he was 18 months old, his family moved to Los Angeles. Plans called for him to take over his father’s garment manufacturing business, but he developed an interest in acting. Denning enlisted in the US Navy during World War II. He is best known for his  roles in various science fiction and horror films of the 1950s. Although he teamed with Lucille Ball on radio in “My Favorite Husband,” the two never acted together on screen. While “I Love Lucy” was on the air, he was seen on another CBS TV series, “Mr. & Mrs. North.”  From 1968 to 1980 he played the Governor on “Hawaii 5-0″, his final role. He died in 1998 at age 84.

Ruth Perrott (Katie, the Maid) was also later seen on “I Love Lucy.” She first played Mrs. Pomerantz (above right), a member of the surprise investigating committee for the Society Matrons League in “Pioneer Women” (ILL S1;E25), as one of the member of the Wednesday Afternoon Fine Arts League in “Lucy and Ethel Buy the Same Dress” (ILL S3;E3), and also played a nurse when “Lucy Goes to the Hospital” (ILL S2;E16). She died in 1996 at the age of 96.

Bob LeMond (Announcer) also served as the announcer for the pilot episode of “I Love Lucy”. When the long-lost pilot was finally discovered in 1990, a few moments of the opening narration were damaged and lost, so LeMond – fifty years later – recreated the narration for the CBS special and subsequent DVD release.

Gale Gordon (Rudolph Atterbury) and Bea Benadaret (Iris Atterbury) had not yet joined the cast as regular characters.  

GUEST CAST

Frank Nelson (Mr. Barton) was born on May 6, 1911 (three months before Lucille Ball) in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He started working as a radio announcer at the age of 15. He later appeared on such popular radio shows as “The Great Gildersleeve,” “Burns and Allen,” and “Fibber McGee & Molly”. This is one of his 11 performances on “My Favorite Husband.”  On “I Love Lucy” he holds the distinction of being the only actor to play two recurring roles: Freddie Fillmore and Ralph Ramsey, as well as six one-off characters, including the frazzled train conductor in “The Great Train Robbery” (ILL S5;E5), a character he repeated on “The Lucy Show.”  Aside from Lucille Ball, Nelson is perhaps most associated with Jack Benny and was a fifteen-year regular on his radio and television programs.

Steve Allen (Scott Campbell, Expert on Alaska) was a talk show and variety host as well as a published composer. Although he was seen with Lucille Ball on awards and quiz shows, their first time acting together on screen didn’t come until 1978′s “Lucy Calls The President”.  In 1980, Ball appeared on the premiere of “The Steve Allen Comedy Hour”. He died in 2000 at age 78. 

TRIVIA: Madelyn Pugh and Bob Carroll Jr. were writers for the Steve Allen radio show and left that job to write for “My Favorite Husband.”  They paid Allen to write his own show one week so they could focus on creating a script submission for “My Favorite Husband.”

EPISODE

ANNOUNCER: “As we look in on the Coopers tonight, they’ve settled down for a quiet evening at home. Liz has discovered an intelligence quiz in a magazine, but she’s having George’s attention, because he is lost in a gripping, blood-curdling murder mystery.” 

George is reading “The Mummy’s Tummy” but Liz spoils the ending to get his attention. George can’t seem to answer any of the IQ questions correctly. 

Q: “What is the name for the chemical formula H2S04?”  

A: Sulfuric Acid

Q: “What does it say on the lid of a United States mailbox?” 

A: Pull Down

Q: “For what was Ma Ferguson noted?” 

A: The first woman Governor of Texas

George decides to quiz Liz, asking her a few questions. 

Q: “What is the poop deck of the ship?” 

Liz’s Answer: “The deck where the sailor’s rest when they’re pooped.”

Real Answer: “A raised portion of the rear deck.” 

Q: “Does sound travel faster or slower in water than it does in air?” 

Liz’s Answer: “Next question.”

Q: “Chicle is the main ingredient in chewing gum. Where is the largest deposit found?”

Liz’s Answer: “Under theatre seats.”

Liz realizes that they aren’t very smart and should probably do something about it. Dr. Guilfoyle, author of the quiz, suggests that a score under 50 needs to be addressed.  

Liz is going to send for his book “How To Improve Yourself.” 

LIZ: “Look at the people who recommend this book: Truman and Goldwyn.” GEORGE: “Harry Truman and Sam Goldwyn?” LIZ: “No, Sam Truman and Harry Goldwyn!” 

Harry Truman (1884-1972) was the 33rd president of the United States from 1945 to 1953, succeeding Franklin D. Roosevelt after his death. He implemented the Marshall Plan to rebuild the economy of Western Europe, and established the Truman Doctrine and NATO. Sam Goldwyn (1879 -1974) was a film producer best known as the founder of several motion picture studios in Hollywood. 

A few days later, the book has arrived and Katie the Maid notices Liz is engrossed in it. Liz states that the Doctor has three rules to impress people: 

Learn Ten New Words a Day

Be a Good Listener

Have One Subject Down Cold So You Can Steer The Conversation Around To It

Liz’s has already got her ten new words and has put them in a sentence.

LIZ: “By assiduous application, I have promulgated a plethora of altruistic ubiquity and lugubrious perspicacity.”

The telephone rings, it is George telling Liz he is bringing home an important person named Mr. Barton, to dinner.  

LIZ: “How important is he, George? Sirloin, T-bone, meatloaf, or hash?” GEORGE: “Strictly sirloin.” 

George explains that Mr. Barton is the one who picks the speakers for the open forums in town. George wants to get picked to be one of the first speakers so he can impress his boss, Mr. Atterbury, and possibly land a raise. George warns Liz to be herself and not try to impress him. 

Liz decides to enact rule #3 and cracks open an encyclopedia to pick the subject.  Much to her surprise, the subject she randomly picks is bees!   Walking up to the house that evening, Mr. Barton (Frank Nelson) confides in George that he is looking forward to meeting a simple housewife, since in his line of work the women are always trying too hard to impress him with their intellect.   George introduces Liz to Mr. Barton, who immediately notices that her vocabulary is amped up. Unfortunately, Liz is using the wrong words most of the time, saying ‘plethora’ for ‘pleasure’ and ‘diversify yourself’ for ‘divert yourself.’

George assures a nervous Mr. Barton that Liz is ‘just an old fashioned girl’.

MR. BARTON: “Sounds like she’s had too many Old- Fashioneds!” 

An Old Fashioned is a cocktail made by mixing sugar with bitters and water, adding whiskey or brandy, and garnishing with orange zest and a cocktail cherry. It is traditionally served in a special glass called an Old Fashioned glass.  A variation on this wordplay was used on “I Love Lucy” in “Million Dollar Idea” (ILL S3;E13) in 1954 when Lucy (disguised as an average housewife selected at random) describes the taste of Aunt Martha’s Old Fashioned Salad Dressing to deliberately encourage buyers to cancel. 

LUCY: “Looks like Aunt Martha had too many Old-Fashioneds!” 

In the kitchen, George tells Liz to stop using fancy words, so Liz moves on to rule #3 - her special subject: bees!  She no sooner starts buzzing about bees when she is chided by George. 

GEORGE (sternly aside): “Liz! Haven’t you forgotten? Mr. Barton’s forum!” LIZ: “Well, I’m for ‘em, too!”

Coincidentally, Lucille Ball was one of several actors known as ‘Queen of the ‘B’s’ - which referred to ‘B’ pictures - films that were done quickly, on a budget, with lesser-known actors. In 1963′s “Lucy’s Barbershop Quartet” (TLS S1;E19) Lucy suggests they sing about bees! 

Mr. Barton tells George he is going to sponsor a Shakespearean Company, if they can convince the City Council to fund them. 

LIZ: “To bee or not to bee!” 

"To be, or not to be" is the opening of a soliloquy by Prince Hamlet in William Shakespeare's play Hamlet, Act 3, Scene 1. In the speech, Hamlet contemplates death and suicide. It is one of the most quoted phrases in all of literature. To Be or Not to Be is a also the title of a 1942 film starring Lucille Ball’s good friend Carole Lombard and Jack Benny, who later became her next door neighbor. The plot concerns a troupe of actors in Nazi-occupied Poland. The film was released one month after Lombard was killed in an airplane crash.

George drags Liz into the hall again, warning her to stop talking about bees! After telling him to “mind his own beeswax”, Liz reluctantly agrees just to listen attentively and agree with everything Mr. Barton says. This works so well, that Mr. Barton barely acknowledges George, but only talks to Liz!  He is so impressed by Liz, he offers to have her on the panel of their very first forum on Saturday night!  She instantly agrees!

Two days later she learns that the forum’s topic is “the effect of jet propulsion and supersonic flight on the future of aviation.” But Liz is un-phased. She has been preparing by buying a new dress, which she tells George has ‘a dive bomb neckline.’  

George and Liz role play to prepare for the forum. Against George’s advice, Liz intends to talk about the Wright Brothers!  

Orville and Wilbur Wright were inventors and pioneers of aviation. In 1903 the Wright brothers achieved the first powered, sustained and controlled airplane flight; they surpassed their own milestone two years later when they built and flew the first fully practical airplane.

At the meeting that night, Mr. Barton announces to the assembled crowd that their aviation expert, Colonel Davis, could not make it. 

MR. BARTON: “He started her from Los Angeles, but he got slightly mixed up in a snowstorm and has just cabled us from Bombay, India.”

Bombay, India is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra. It was formerly renamed Mumbai in 1995 to better reflect the city’s roots and cut ties with its British origins. Coincidentally, a few months after this broadcast, the 1942 film Bombay Clipper was re-released. Although the Lucy gang never traveled to Bombay, it was mentioned in 1955′s “The Hedda Hopper Story” (ILL S4;E21) when everyone was looking for Mrs. McGillicuddy. 

RICKY (Into phone): “Do you have any flights numbered 930? You do? Where's it coming in from? Bombay?” LUCY: “Bombay?” RICKY: “Well knowing your mother... No, even she wouldn't fly from New York to Los Angeles by way of India.”

Instead, Mr. Barton announces that the guest speaker is a famous authority on Alaska, Mr. Scott Campbell (Steve Allen). Unfortunately, Liz knows nothing about Alaska - so she starts to talk about the Wright Brothers instead!

In 1949 Alaska was not yet one of the United States, but was a US territory. The statehood movement gained its first real momentum in 1946 and Alaska was officially proclaimed a state on January 3, 1959. To mark this event, Desilu created a special episode of “The Westinghouse Desilu Playhouse” in which the Ricardos and Mertzes travel to Nome to cash in on a land deal, although no actual filming was done in the 49th state. 

In 1952’s “Lucy Gets Ricky on the Radio” (ILL S1;E32) Lucy presciently (but incorrectly) answers the question “What was the last state to be admitted to the union?” by saying Alaska. At the time, the correct answer to the question was Arizona, admitted on Valentine’s Day 1912.

MR. BARTON: “No!  When are you going to get to Alaska?”  LIZ: “Let me get the plane invented and I’ll fly up there!” 

With nothing else to talk about, Liz starts to talk about bees, but Mr. Barton quickly cuts her off and turns the podium over to Mr. Campbell, who launches into a serious speech about the welfare of the children of Alaska. He suddenly turns to Liz and asks “Who is responsible for these children, Mrs. Cooper?” 

LIZ: “You really want me to answer that?  Wilbur and Orville Wright!” 

In the bedtime tag, it is 4 o’clock in the morning and Liz is eating crackers in bed. Wrestling them away from her, George gets cracker crumbs all over the bed. A few seconds later, Liz is eating an apple!  George takes it from her. He hears her eating a third time and goes to grab whatever it is away from her.  

GEORGE: “Whoah!  What was that!” LIZ: “A glass of cold milk. Goodnight, George.”

End of Episode

Bob LeMond reminds listeners that Lucille Ball will soon be seen in the Paramount Picture Sorrowful Jones. 

[charliejrogers]

Onward (Or, Disney’s Dungeons & Dragons)

Few things should be more exciting to filmgoers everywhere than the prospect of a new IP from powerhouse animation studio Pixar. Even when they don’t reach the highs of Toy Story, Finding Nemo, Monsters Inc., Inside Out, or Coco, they still produce near-classics like the money-printing, merchandise-monster Cars or the oft-overlooked, quiet, and visually stunning buddy-road-trip/adventure masterpiece The Good Dinosaur. Which is why it was so weird when Pixar released Onward earlier this year to little-to-no fanfare. For sure the coronavirus played a significant role in this as few audiences had the chance to see this in theaters, and then it was relegated solely to Disney+. But even still, the marketing didn’t do much for me – or seemingly others. I expected the same B-tier Pixar I got with recent outings like Finding Dory and Toy Story 4. (To be clear, even B-tier Pixar movies are very good). I went into this thinking it would be some so-so brothers-adventure with some magical element, with characters voiced by Chris Pratt and Tom Holland. Maybe I hesitated because I feared that Chris Pratt would simply be playing yet another iteration of his made-to-be-memed and sorta-now-grating loveable yet clueless bro that he perfected on Parks & Recreation and made even more macho and bro-y as part of the Guardians of the Galaxy films. I was right on both counts: Pratt plays the same character as he always does, and it is a movie about brothers and magic. But I was wrong in one regard: this movie is awesome.

Onward is set in the town of New Mushroomton, a city that looks like it could be Anytown, USA with a public high school, highways, and suburban housing developments. The difference is that New Mushroomton is populated by magical creatures (elves, centaurs, satyrs, trolls, etc.) instead of humans. However, the film’s prologue tells us that all the world’s magic has long been forgotten. Just as science and modern medicine have lessened the need and reliance on religion and faith for many in our society today, so too did the invention of the lightbulb in Onward eliminate the need for wizards to cast spells to cast out darkness. So now the centaurs drive cars instead frolic the fields, monsters have sold out and allowed their once-scary visages to sold on T-shirts and serve as mascots for restaurants, and once-sacred and magical fountains are being demolished to make way for new building developments. It’s not the most imaginative of Pixar settings, but it does effectively get across one of the film’s theme: not that we as Americans need to go back and embrace religion and faith, but that we should have a greater appreciation for sacred traditions of the past and recognize that newer is not always better. And, perhaps predictably, the world and the film it inhabits teach that the “magic” of life can never really be lost. It’s a message that is luckily never stressed too heavily and which forms a beautiful backdrop to the film’s main plot.

The plot, as mentioned, focuses on two elven brothers, and their single mother (their father died of an illness long, long ago – because this is a Disney movie and no one can be a hero without dead or missing parents!). The younger of the two, Ian (voiced by the MCU’s boyish Spider-Man, Tom Holland), has just turned sixteen and is as insecure, without confidence, and paralyzed by fear as any teenage boy who isn’t among the cool kids. The film’s so-so exposition portion largely focuses on showing us just how pathetic Ian is: in order to invite classmates to his house for a birthday, he has to write out talking points on his hands (predictably his hands become a bit sweaty). He more than anything wants to become the bold, confident man he hears his father once was, down to the point that he wears his father’s old sweatshirts and has a tear-jerking conversation with an old recording of his father’s voice.

On the other end of the spectrum is Ian’s older brother, Barley (Chris Pratt), who kinda looks like Chris Farley if Chris Farley played D&D in high school. Barley’s also a social outcast and do-nothing who his Mom describes on being on “the longest gap year” between high school and college. But embraces his lonerism and is proud of who he is – much to the embarrassment of his brother. He’s in love with his world’s magical past, devoting his life to the film’s version of Dungeons & Dragons card game, which is based on “actual history,” i.e. the spells from his game are the same spells that wizards used to use. The two brothers are not so much at odds at the film’s start, but they aren’t particularly close.

What brings them together, and what propels the film from its sleepy start, is a present for Ian from his long-dead father: a magic wand and a spell that will allow Ian and Barley to see their father again. There are a few caveats, however. Firstly, they will have to go on a quest to find some MacGuffin to complete the spell. Secondly, they will only have 24 hours to complete the task or else lose the opportunity for ever. Thirdly, only Ian the Non-Confident and the Magic-Naïve, is able to work the wand. With these ground rules laid out, the movie proper begins, and it is a wonderful and expertly crafted tale.

The film’s story progression takes as much of a cue from recent RPG-video games (to which, of course D&D is the ultimate precursor) as from the classic mold of the “Hero’s Journey” that adventure tales from Lord of the Rings to Star Wars have followed. Using Barley's knowledge of his D&D-like card game (like that episode of Spongebob where Mr. Krabs uses a board game’s map to find actual buried treasure), Ian and Barley will come up against a number of different of challenges on their journey, but can overcome them as Barley teaches Ian how to “unlock" more and more magical abilities. By the film’s end he is a full-blown wizard single-handedly fighting off a dragon. It’s a satisfying plot structure, with each visually impressive and exciting challenge not only strengthening Ian’s confidence, but also his relationship with his brother. In the classic buddy-road-trip film, there are as many challenges that will bring them together as threaten to tear them apart.

The beauty of this film is its ability to be three things at once: 1) a fantastical adventure to save their father 2) a buddy-comedy for the two brothers and 3) a coming of age tale for Ian. All three share the limelight equally and no part (after the exposition) drags a bit. By far its strongest element, though, is its exploration of brotherhood/fatherhood. Ian and Barley are a joy to watch work together on screen, and their love for one another is clear and palpable. Even Pratt’s typical obnoxiousness is appropriately scaled down and made entirely loveable. There was never a moment where I wasn’t rooting for the two. By the end, I would have been perfectly happy to provide the two with the predictably happy ending the movie seemingly sets itself up for (and which a film from a lesser studio would have provided). But instead Pixar completely subverted my expectations in a beautiful way, giving me the ending I didn’t know I wanted. It's an ending which in the long run is the best for its characters and their development.

In sum, I was quite pleasantly surprised by Onward. The movie knows exactly what it wants to be, and it does so effectively. It teaches that fathers, especially the best fathers, don’t have to be the men who begot us. As I said, it’s not the most creative or inventive outing from Pixar and it’s just below the A-tier Pixar classics, but it really is too much to expect a masterpiece every single time. That being said, I would be surprised if there’s a better or more emotionally affecting animated movie to come out this year.

***/ (Three and a half stars out of four)

[flashfuckingflesh]

Michelle Yeoh Versus the EVIL Japanese Imperial Army! "Magnificent Warriors" reviewed! (88 Films / Blu-ray)

“Magnificent Warriors” Now on an Amazing Blu-ray from 88 Films!   Click The Poster to Purchase! Ming-Ming is an adventurous, mercenary pilot unafraid to herself mixed up in the worst of trouble and against the tremendous odds.  When her patriotic grandfather and military uncle present Ming-Ming a mission of resistance against the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II, the odds, again, will…

[lower80percent-blog]

How to Choose a Fiber Optic Tool Kit

Fiber optic tool kit is a very big category including tools for finishing a variety of jobs in fiber optic industry. So before looking further, please ask yourself: what do I want to do using this tool kit?

There are kits available for traditional epoxy and polishing connector termination, quick connector termination, fusion splicing, mechanical splicing, optic cleaning, fiber optic testing, and many more.

So let's take a quick look at each type and their functions.

1) Traditional Epoxy and Polish Connector Termination Tool Kit

This type of kit sometimes is also called universal connectorization epoxy tool kit. They include all the tools necessary for hand-polishing termination of epoxy optic connectors such as FC, SC, ST, LC, etc. The following list shows all essentials items that should be included. his explanation 80% lowers

a) Fiber cable jacket stripper to remove outer jacket from optical cables b) Fiber stripper to remove fiber coatings (900um tight buffer or 250um UV coating layer) to expose the bare fiber cladding c) Kevlar scissors to cut the yellow strength member inside fiber jacket d) Fiber connector crimp tool for FC, SC, ST, LC e) Fiber scribe tool to scribe the bare fiber f) Epoxy for fixing the fiber inside the connector, empty syringes for epoxy dispensing into the connector g) Glass polish plate so you can place rubber polish pad on top of it h) Rubber polish pad so you can place the lapping films on top of it i) Lapping films (several grits included, typically 12um, 3um, 1um and 0.5um) j) Connector hand polish pucks for FC, SC, ST, LC k) Inspection microscope so you can inspect the quality of your work l) Heat cure oven to cure the epoxy (either 220V or 110V) m) Other misc. items for cleaning such as Kimwipes, Isopropyl alcohol, etc.

2) Quick Termination Connector Tool Kit

90% of quick termination connectors don't require polishing. They have a factory pre-polished fiber stub inside the connector body, all you need to do is strip your fiber, clean, cleave the fiber and then insert the cleaved fiber into the connector body, with or without assembly tool assistance, then finally crimp the connector with specialized tool.

There is no universal quick termination connector tool kit, since each connector is designed differently by their manufacturers and requires proprietary assembly tool. The major brands in the market include:

a) 3M Hot Melt connectors

Although 3M Hot Melt connectors are categorized as quick termination, they actually require polishing. The connectors have hot melt epoxy pre-injected in the body, you just heat the connector, insert your fiber, scribe it, let it cool down, and then polish the connector. The process is very similar to traditional epoxy polish connectors, but the epoxy mixing and dispensing steps are removed which reduces termination time to less than 2 minutes. 3M Hot Melt connectors are a popular choice among installers.

b) Corning Unicam Connectors

Corning Unicam connectors are typical pre-polish and mechanical splice on connectors. They have a pre-polished fiber stub inside connector body, with index matching gel inside too. You just strip, clean and cleave your fiber, and then insert the cleaved fiber into the connector body, finally crimp it on with Unicam assembly tool.

They are also very popular among fiber optic installers and contractors.

c) Tyco/AMP LightCrimp Plus connectors

AMP LightCrimp Plus connectors are similar to Corning Unicam. They also pre-polished and mechanical splice on, although designed differently and needs corresponding LightCrimp plus assembly tool. They are less popular than Unicam connectors.

d) There are also many new types of quick termination connectors from AFL, Leviton, Fitel and other manufacturers. So it is worth keeping a close eye on this technology.

[adposto1]

Gulberg Green Farmhouse Design

Gulberg Green Farmhouse Design 7 kanal farmhouse design, 6 kanal farmhouse design, 5 kanal farmhouse design, 4 kanal farmhouse design, gulberg green Islamabad House plan and 3D elevation house elevation House drawings We are providing house planing, House drawing, House elevation, 3D house elevation, Architectural drawings, Structural drawings , Plumbing drawings, Electrical drawings, Approval of drawings, And complete supervision of your project Thanks of you. Regard m.usman ,gloryz.architectural For further information pleas contect with us feel free contect vaia (whatsapp,IMO, 0.0.9.2.3.3.1.4.0.4.8.4.6.1 /0.0.9.2.3.4.8.8.4.3.2.9.6.0)

Gulberg Islamabad: Gulberg Greens & Residencia by IBECHS

Gulberg Islamabad Housing Scheme Islamabad, also known as IBECHS Phase 3, is a housing scheme by Intelligence Bureau Cooperative Housing Scheme (IBECHS). Located at the prime location of main Islamabad Expressway near Airport Chowk, it is potentially the kind of investment you have been looking for. This project is currently under development while some blocks are now fully developed and ready for possession. The project was launched in 2005 and in 2009 its NOC from CDA was approved with Ref# “CDA/PLW-HS(127)/2009/257”. The MOU with IESCO and SNGPL were also duly signed.  Development work on the project started in 2009. Almost development work has been completed Possession of some blocks handover to the Allotees . If you happen to visit Gulberg, you will be appreciate the pace and quality of development work in progress whether in Greens or  Gulberg Residencia.

It has a history of housing development by the name of IBECHS Phase 1 & later IBECHS Phase 2 which is also known as Pakistan Town located near PWD. After the successful completion of earlier Phases, IBECHS launched its mega project by the name of Gulberg Islamabad in 2005, which is spread over thousands of Kanals of lush greenery of Islamabad.

Gulberg Greens in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 10th Aug, 2020 ) :Islamabad Koral Police have arrested 15 land grabbers during its operation against those involved in attempt to occupy land in `Gulberg Green' and recovered weapons and ammunition from them. According to police spokesperson, SP (Rural) Farooq Amjad Battar constituted a police team under the supervision of DSP Qasim Naizi including SHO Koral Inspector Asjad Mehmood along with others for action against those bidding to occupy land in `Gulberg Green'. This team succeeded to arrest 15 land grabbers during its operation against those involved in attempt to occupy lands and recovered weapons and ammunition from them. Meanwhile, the IGP Muhammad Aamir Zulfiqar khan said that land grabbing activities would not be tolerated and indiscriminate action would remain continue against those illegally occupying land of others. He asked DIG (Operations) to monitor himself all policing action against land grabbers and ensure that no group make any new effort to disturb the people and harass them. He directed to take prompt action on complaints of citizens and provide relief to them. Islamabad police chief said that effective action should be ensured to protect lives and property of the citizens. He said that no sluggish attitude would be tolerated in this regard. He also warned strict action against policemen if found involved with land grabbers or any complaint received against him.

If you are finding house plot and apartment in islamabad Click now.

Plot for sale in awt housing society:

Armed force Welfare Trust, or putting it basically as AWT, is a business part of Pakistan Army which comprises of for the most part resigned armed force officers. It is engaged with the different business portfolio which incorporates Financial Sector, Agriculture Sector, Real Estate and some more. It has been running effective housing schemes in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. The association has its head office in the AWT Plaza on The Mall Road, Rawalpindi. Our theme spins around AWT Housing Scheme in Sector D-18 Islamabad close Sangjani.

AWT D-18 Islamabad propelled around 20 years prior with the idea of giving a cheap home to armed force authorities and different representatives of AWT in Islamabad. The housing scheme comprises of blocks A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H; all blocks are completely created and prepared for development. There are only a couple of houses built in the general public yet more development is normal after the Sangjani AWT Islamabad lies at around 15 KM from fundamental Islamabad City. It lies on the M-1 motorway. Property costs in AWT are neither low nor high. Costs are simply sensible thinking about the area, development status, background, advancements in the area and future potential. The Society has 10 marlas, 1 Kanal, 2 Kanal private plots for sale in AWT and 2.5 marlas, 4 marlas, 8 marla house for sale in AWT. A business plot for sale in AWT costs of 2.5 marlas could shift according to blocks however the average cost is around 20 to 25 lac, 4 marlas normal cost is around 50 lac and 8 marlas normal cost is around 1 crore. House for rent in AWT is also available at good prices.

If you are finding house plot and apartment in islamabad Click now.

Plot for sale in awt

AWT Islamabad is a completely created housing plan. It has all utilities and offices accessible which incorporates streets, avenues, road lights, sewerage, water, power, and gas. A solid limit divider encompasses the general public which is an extra element of AWT. It has arranged parks, mosques, business zones, schools, healing facilities, films and so on in the plan which will be accessible for the inhabitants of AWT when the general public is possessed. It is relied upon to be completely populated in the following 4 to 5 years because of the expanding venture slant in the general public.

Lush Green Gulberg

The Islamabad brings us extremely lovely contemplation. From this name, the psyche instantly thinks about that delightful arranging the arranging and the excellence of various spaces in the city. This as well as the capital of a nation is free from such a large number of different issues too because of the immense arranging of the city there is no water or waste issue and on a similar side the fear based oppression rate there is additionally at any rate level. These things make Islamabad an extremely appealing spot. It is safe to say that you are currently supposing to move Islamabad? Would you like to appreciate each one of those favorable circumstances there? Is it true that you are amped up for every one of these musings? Yet, would you say you are presently considering regions to settle? It is safe to say that you are hunting down the best place? Here is an absolute best answer for every one of your issues 12 km from Islamabad club, 3 km from Benazir Bhutto global airplane terminal on the crossing point of zone IV and zone v Islamabad roadway an excellent undertaking if sitting tight for you. The arrangement comprises of two unique tasks Gulberg green and Gulberg Residencia plot for sale in gulberg is running all investor invest money in gulberg.  Every one of the farmhouses are in the green zone and private plots are in Residencia. The task has 16,000 kanals of land with 10000 private plots available to be purchased in Gulberg, situated at Dhoke Awan Zone-V. The undertaking is additionally separated into 21 obstructs from A to V barring U. the plot is accessible in various sizes running from 200 sq yards to 1200 sq yards.

If you are finding house plot and apartment in islamabad Click now.

Summarize factors

The costs are the fascination of Gulberg Islamabad on the off chance that you analyze the advanced way of life and town guidelines of town arranging with the astounding security given by IBECHS Gulberg emerges it is the correct decision for each purchaser. There are distinctive ventures of a plot available to be purchased in Gulberg in various squares and the cost for these plots relies on the aggregate territory and in addition the area. The most noteworthy cost for a plot available to be purchased in Gulberg is a two Kanal plot in square A with a cost of 14,000,000Rs till August. The most minimal value plot available to be purchased in Gulberg Residencia is a 7 Marla plot in square P with a cost of 2600000 RS. These are the costs of August 2018. There are four squares which nearly have been given ownership. These squares are Square E F G and Square J. The inland and abroad financial specialists are pulled in by the advertising strategies of star promoting which is an essential showcasing advisor of Gulberg Islamabad. There are distinctive scopes of a house available to be purchased in Gulberg , very fast investment on house for sale in gulberg too and there is an immense interest for those houses due to the arranging and precise arranging of the lovely houses are pulling in the financial specialists. The general population incline toward lofts available to be purchased in Gulberg as a result of the area as well as on account of the foundations and reasonable costs. The requests of flats available to be purchased in Gulberg are expanding a direct result of expanding populace and the inclination of individuals for owning a property in a venture like Gulberg. Distinctive kinds of loft available to be purchased in Gulberg are expanding and individuals appear to be anxious to purchase and put resources into the delightful piece of a city. As the tasks are in various areas that is the reason the costs are likewise simply extraordinary the venture offers an alternate scope of 2 room loft available to be purchased in gulberg and 3 rooms condos. Karakoram greens offer cost 27,500,000 for 2,400 sq. ft for 2 room condo while 3,400 sq. ft lofts are of 35,000,000. Then again, Gulberg field offers 1,426 sq. ft 2 room lofts for 15,000,000 and 3 room flats of 1,850 sq. ft and cost 10,500,000. Have Huge mosques and a lot of room has been accommodated the outside finishing making it all the more inviting and satisfying for the purchasers and furthermore in light of the fact that the city is prestigious for its greenery. Since the capital is now considered as number one for its way of life, the Gulberg venture is overhauling the way of life by expanding the offices, for instance, the road lights are never again kept running by power as they have introduced the sun oriented vitality board which runs the road light the generator gives every minute of every day power and the water issue is additionally not there. Moreover, the sewerage line additionally works so precisely.

If you are finding house plot and apartment in islamabad Click now.

These minor contemplations refresh way of life as well as increment the estimation of that task. Move of those offices the plot costs are not as higher as high it could be a direct result of the way that the zone is as yet not completely created. That is the reason that the costs for a house for lease in gulberg additionally not as high as other huge tasks, on the off chance that you think about a condo available to be purchased in Gulberg you will think that its substantially less expensive and all is on account of the venture is still being developed process. There are diverse tasks of houses for lease in Gulberg and in addition a loft for lease in Gulberg as a venture additionally considers the need of updating the way of life of individuals who can’t bear the cost of minimal cost of a house. Since the task is in the improvement procedure the scopes of a shop for lease in gulberg are not charging as high as different zones but rather are likewise not beneath the line on account of the expanding society. Since there are distinctive zones i.e. Gulberg Residencia and Gulberg green so there are diverse activities of various detail for lease and have distinctive rents in view of the area and the offices gave. Gulberg is a revolution in Islamabad.If you are finding house plot and apartment in islamabad Click now.

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Emulate and create Film types Task 2

35mm Kodak T-Max P3200 B&W Professional Film

This Film was first produced by Kodak in 1986. It is a multi speed film designed to be push processed to EI 3200 but the normal speed would be 800 ISO. So it’s ideal for portraits as it will have some grain but not too much.

Images taken using this film

https://petapixel.com/2018/03/28/first-photos-shot-on-kodaks-rebooted-tmax-p3200-film/

https://emulsive.org/articles/5-frames/5-frames-with-kodak-t-max-p3200-ei-3200-35mm-canon-eos-1v-by-raymond-van-mil

Film Characteristics

ISO setting 800

Negative film

Fine grain

35 mm format

36 exposures

Kodak professional developer D-76 process

How to recreate this film as an effect in Photoshop

Set up B&W adjustment layer

Increase grain slightly

Under expose possibly

Sources

https://www.google.co.uk/amp/s/www.thephoblographer.com/2018/08/20/film-emulsion-review-kodak-tmax-p3200-35mm-new-version/amp/

https://imaging.kodakalaris.com/sites/prod/files/files/products/P3200_FAQs.pdf

https://youtu.be/08G5W8OwyyQ

[chenchiehwei]

暗房 | Darkroom – Kodak Tri-X 400 in D-76(stock) | Part XIV

暗房 | Darkroom – Kodak Tri-X 400 in D-76(stock) | Part XIV

Tri-X 400 35mm, ISO400

D-76 (stock) 1000ml

06:45 min at 20℃

顯影液 / Development: D-76(stock) 1000ml 6′45″

急制液 / Stop Batht: Kodak Stop Bath (1+63) 16ml Stop+984ml water 1′

定影液 / Fixing: Kodak Rapid Fixer (1+4) 5′

海波液 / Hypo Clear: Kodak Hypo (1+1) 2′

水洗 / Final Wash: 10′30″

底片掃描 / T-X970

[loveluckylost]

Ooh I feel like doing this! Thanks @novantinuum for the tag :)

Nickname: B.

Height: 5′7??

Age: rapidly approaching mid thirties death

Last thing I searched for: I think I was looking for a good raven reference.

Favorite musician: uh, I’ve been really feeling Incubus lately.

The song stuck in my head: Drift Away from the SU Movie ;___;

If I had a time machine would I go back or visit the future: Probably the past, to kick my own ass! Which would negate the reason for going into the past in the first place, resulting in a paradox.

Do I get asks: I’ve only had one ever but I felt truly blessed that day :)

How many blogs I follow: Like 55 last time I looked.

Would I rather be rich or famous: Def rich. Screw fame. 

How much sleep do I get: Never the right amount.

What’s my favorite food: Lamb kebab holy shit, I could eat that every day (and I do because my work is right next door to a kebab shop! :D)

Favorite books/films/shows/games: Books: Birthright: Book of Man; Necronomicon (this HP Lovecraft anthology I have); the whole His Dark Materials trilogy but esp The Northern Lights; and Wheel of Time was up there for like the first five books. Oh and Mariel of Redwall when I was a kid. Films: Oversaturation of the media makes this a very hard question for me to answer right now. Shows: BTVS, Steven Universe, Final Space, Futurama, Walking Dead (s1), Firefly, Lost (s1), and goddamn am I waiting for Disenchantment to return pretty hard. 9 more days!! Games: Guild Wars, Rimworld, the whole Civ franchise.

Lucky number: 2

Instruments I can play: I’ve given a great many a chance - guitar, clarinet, drums, piano - but nothing stuck which sucks because between fiance and I we have so many guitars, a drumkit, like so many amps, and even a piano in our living room that never gets used. Most recent was this cute purple ukulele - also now gathering dust.

What am I wearing: Jeans, tee, buttondown, waterproof, new runners I’m desperately trying to break in, scarf - I’m cold. ._.

Dream job: ?? I’m currently doing my favorite job ever, but it can still be ass sometimes. I guess I would like to hands-off own a bar or something but not in this climate.

If I were an animal what would I be: A cat. They seem like they have shiz figured out.

Favourite season: Summer. Eeeeee I am sick of being cold!

Zodiac sign: Capricorn

Tagging (to do if you want): Only like three people will read this, so consider yourselves tagged if you want :B