#and are given equal showcase to shine

[daughterofgemini]

In honour of the Pepsi Center full release, here are some of my favourite moments in gif form:

And finally, the most adorable jumpscare of all time!:

[fuzzandfeathers]

So I've been re-watching Seeing Stars lately for art reference and I just wanted to ramble on something (as always). A very fun point of debate in this fandom is when Stolitz started falling for each other and, while I see it happening at multiple different points, Seeing Stars has always been my top choice for where feelings on Blitz's end started becoming more real.

Timing-wise it makes a lot of sense - Ozzie's is what prompts Stolas to rethink his and Blitz's relationship and drop a lot (but not all) of the masks he was keeping up within their arrangement and Seeing Stars is the first time since Ozzie's that they spend an extended amount of time together and creates an opportunity for Stolas to start showing that change. And content-wise there's just so much they say and do that showcases what something real between them could be and shows Blitz that's there's more to Stolas than he expects. I'm lazy so here's a (non-comprehensive) list of stuff I want to point out:

This is likely the first time Blitz has seen Stolas worried about something, legitimately frantic and scared. Moreover, the thing he's worried about is his daughter, which is like a straight shot to the vulnerable parts of Blitz's heart, a surefire way to get him to take Stolas' feelings seriously.

Blitz demonstrated an astounding lack of responsibility with regard to keeping the grimoire safe, but, while Stolas is justifiably upset, at no point does he punish Blitz or threaten their deal over it, which, given Blitz's panic about telling him, Blitz likely was very worried about.

They have to actually work together to resolve the situation, interact on roughly equal footing outside the roles they've established within their relationship. Not to mention, Stolas sincerely needs IMP's help with this. This isn't a situation he can just 'demon prince' his way through (his power is 'limited' and he has no clue how to even find Via). This may be the first time Blitz feels needed by Stolas for something other than sex. (Stolas obviously didn't really need him in Loo Loo Land and while Blitz did save his life in Harvest Moon, he clearly didn't think it was all that significant or he would've told Stolas)

With the roles he was trying to play in the Arrangement mostly dropped, Stolas' interactions with Blitz feel a lot more natural and highlight how well they work together when they aren't hiding behind their bullshit (we get real banter that gives a tantalizing taste of what these two are like as actual partners). Stolas doesn't do any of the playful condescension, naive fumbling attempts at storybook romance, or excessive over-the-top flirting that's defined their interactions up until this point and he's too distracted by finding Via to excessively fawn towards Blitz, so his personality shines through a bit more assertively and they fit a lot better than either of them is likely aware of. There's sass, but it feels lighthearted, the two of them riling each other up just because they can and they want to, and the one instance of flirting is subtle (compared to what Stolas usually does), serves as a show of support, and clearly plays to what Blitz likes.

Stolas being human probably also has an impact; even beyond obviously giving Blitz a new kink, I think seeing Stolas in a form that's much less towering, less powerful, and more expressive starts to push Blitz to pay more attention to who Stolas is (worried father, silly & smart & sassy & sexy man) rather than what he is (Goetic prince).

I wouldn't be surprised if the uniqueness of the situation and the new light he's seeing Stolas in is the reason Blitz shows how panicked he is by the thought of acting on the sitcom in front of Stolas - he probably regretted it after the fact (I've been there), but in that moment he was ok with a small show of vulnerability. Actually, now that I think about it, that moment kind of mirrors Blitz's apology to Stolas in Apology Tour and Blitz talking about Barbie in Sinsmas, where Blitz is actually opening up a bit but, for whatever reason (preoccupied by finding his daughter, drunk off his ass, having the absolute worst day of his life), Stolas just isn't quite in a place where he can properly recognize it for what it is. (another fun example of Stolas 'Look My Way' Goetia not fully looking Blitz's way yet 😂)

tldr: I think Seeing Stars led to Blitz experiencing significant progress on his feelings for Stolas because it created a situation where he realized (whether consciously or not), 'Hey I actually give a shit about this guy and can stand to be around him for more than 5 minutes without it being about sex.'

[emotionalandchill]

People need to realise that

the TLOU game and tv series are two different entities. The game is very linear where you only get to explore whatever is happening around a single character, mainly the one you are playing. But with a tv series, you get to explore so much more settings, characters and emotions all together. Many things can happen simultaneously giving us almost a visual and emotional overdrive. Which I think is a great plus in comparison with the format of a game. In line with these thoughts, it’s absolutely pointless to compare the two versions because they have varying strengths and weaknesses. They both have good and bad but they are not the same.

With TLOU I’m seeing a lot of people comparing the game with the tv show, complaining that the tv show is not staying true to the game and that they don’t agree with the way the show has been written, directed, casted so and so. But the way I see it, the show has been absolutely amazing at expanding and showcasing this complex world that was built within a game and have done an excellent job at making it a reality.

The writing has stayed respectfully close to the original story followed within the game and the directing has been masterful. And equally importantly the casting has been done superbly. At first I thought “oh none of these people look like the game characters” but then I remembered that their game characters don’t even look like the actual actors that did the voices and motion captures for these characters. What mattered was how much they can deliver and do justice to the material given to them. And I can honestly say that they did hell of a good job at it since season 1 episode 1. Pedro was the perfect Joel and Bella is the perfect Ellie. They didn’t just do justice to their own characters but they also bought that beautiful makeshift father- daughter dynamic we saw within the game. And that continued on to this day, and now we are left to follow the story with Ellie alone with Dina by her side. I didn’t doubt for a second that Bella would have any difficulty carrying on the rest of the show without Joel and I still don’t and I don’t think I ever will from what we saw in episode 3.

Bella was casted for this role not by some bystanders, but by people who have also been a part of creating the game as well. I don’t think they would do anything or make any wrong choices and jeopardise their own project. People on online platforms can be as mean as they want but they will not stop these talented people from shining and getting the true recognition they deserve.

I think these people need to first recognise and come to terms with the fact that games and tv shows are two different worlds. You shouldn’t be focusing on how people look but at what talents they can bring to the table and I think so far, the TLOU haven bought all the right cards to the table.

[snarky-art]

The Winx’s main family trees with general info about genetic traits on the planets their family hails from included!

This was done at the request of @charmixpower and I did it because I love er.

Please note that the hair colors present on the grandparents of the Winx aren’t necessarily accurate to what it would be at the age I’ve drawn them as. Many would be less saturated in color, graying, white, streaks, ya know,, older age stuff. I just did it for the sake of showcasing the phenotypes and where the parents and the Winx get some of their physical traits from.

General notes and trivia of what’s written down down here below the cut because cursive is hard to read for some people and also general ID stuff! + some additional info, relationship info for couples and the extended family I just didn’t write down on the pics and some real world cultural influence updates for certain worlds and groups in my rewrite!

Stella’s Family Tree

-Luna’s given name is Margaret, and Luna is a name taken on by whomever is chosen to be the head Priest of The Temple of The Moons. She was also known as Raza while she was apart of the group of priests working for the previous Luna, titles for other lower priests being given variations for moons and light

-The name Luna is the Solarian version of the name for the Priest whose head of The Temple of The Moons. The title to Lunarians is Delia.

-Luna actually has a lot of siblings, 14 to be exact, and they’re all girls

-Darcy’s mom is named Hestria, and her Father is named Leander

-There are two groups of Lunarians in terms of phenotypic traits: A group who’s ancestors traveled outside of the inside of the moons vast inner workings of caves and caverns later on, and those who’s ancestors stayed primarily inside, only gaining access to outside light and moonbeams through holes and entryways to the surface. These spots where moon beams shine down were highly revered in the past and still hold a cultural significance to both groups of Lunarians, but hold a stronger significance for those that stick more closely to the way of life involving staying in the cave systems within the moon more. Travel and life on the surface is very common in the modern day and the general attitude towards staying underground is more neutral now, but there are still small groups with more extreme views on it and see outside travel as something more foolish and disrespectful to The Moons, and small groups who inversely see those who hold those views as “backwards” and “stuck in the past.”

-the pupils of both Lunarians and Solarians are different, with the colors matching to the variance of shades that the magic of the respective cores of the Suns and the Moons have, showcasing their connection to this magic as apart of their own Magical Core. The same goes for the variety in colors for their pupils, the color influenced by the colors of the Moons and Suns energy in general though as opposed to their cores.

-On average, Lunarian hair color is less intense and less saturated than Solarian hair color. Stella gets her blond from her mother, but the intensity of its color is bolstered by the traits from her dad’s side.

-Lunarian cultural dress and cultural aspects in general is based primarily of of Romani people, with some general Slavic influence as well and some Greco Roman stuff intermingled with it as a result of Solarian culture

-Solarian cultural dress and cultural aspects are based predominantly on Greco Roman and Aztec elements

-Radius is a title for that which is to act as the main ruling figure of Solaria, which is a term that includes both the planet of Solaria itself as well as Lunaria, which is under its dominion to an extent still as a result of an Imperialist past. They are set more as equals in the current day with Lunaria being free to follow their own traditions and cultural practices now as they wish and set their own rules of governance, but there are still issues with the planet Solaria seeing itself as being able to overrule certain things in terms of governance if they deem it right to do so. There’s still sociocultural clashes too and more reparations needed to properly make up for the Imperialism the planet of Solaria is responsible for in its past and to an extent current day, and it’s a common point of contention talked about in political courts and meetings.

-Radius’s given name is Ciro

-Radius does have a brother named Helios, and despite Helios being older, he didn’t take his studies and duties as seriously and chose to pass off his title as next in line to inherit the title of Radius to Ciro. It is important to note that while the title for next in line isn’t inherently tied to birth order, it is the most common way it is done.

Flora’s Family Tree

-Alyssa has 4 siblings, 2 sisters, 1 brother, and 1 sibling. Them, Alyssa, Rhodos, Flora, and Mielle all live in the same large tree in their settlement, which is in a more rural area of Linphea on the outskirts of a bigger city type settlement (still very nature based in its architecture and set up, just with a lot more commerce and a big population, you know,, city stuff lol)

-Rhodos has 1 sibling, a sister who didn’t get along very well with their parents (they tried to enforce a rigid “follow in our footsteps as farmers and continue the family line the same way we did” since she was the oldest, and that was just about as far as possible from what she wanted, which was to travel and research and study. They gave Rhodos much more freedom as the younger sibling, and this really upset his sister for obvious reasons. Rhodos agreed and would listen to her vent and support her wants, but wasn't able to say much to their parents because they were so stubborn. Their parents pushed too hard, and eventually instead of pushing back anymore, she just left) and now lives on the planet furthest from the Sun the Moons of Marigold revolve around where it’s coldest. He and his sister still stay in semi regular contact and despite her relationship with their parents being rocky, they still get along very well and she visits Linphea at least once a year.

Notes from the picture:

*leaves and greens for ears are typically dominant over flowers/petals and other colored things

Sclera: varying shades of green from chlorophyll like blood

Iris: tend to match part of the plants on the ears, although can match colors of other plants their parents had

Pupils: similar to sclera, but darker as like our eyes, they're connected to the brain

Tecna's Family Tree

-The people of The Binary Conduit, which Zenith is apart of, are based off of a mix of different Glacial Peoples and Far North groups, including for specific influences on the designs I've chosen here belonging to the Tadar, Teleuts, Nenets, Inuit, and Yupik people specifically.

-The Binary Conduit is a place with a wide variety of cultural groups, but a very similar shared setup for how technology is integrated into their surroundings and environment, the primary goal being for it to co exist alongside the nature of the many planets.

-Somewhat similar to Linphea, there are many smaller settlements and a few big city hub areas on each of the planets. However, while on Linphea the smaller settlements and towns are stationary, there are some groups that choose to move to different spaces throughout the year for different reasons such as climate, food, resources, etc. or as a way to continue the tradition of it regardless. This is less common now than it was in the past due to newer technology, but its still considered an important tradition of the way many of them lived in generations long past, and it isn't uncommon for it to still be done by some groups as a way to honor and appreciate that.

-Tecna has no siblings, but does have many cousins, aunts, and uncles on her dad's side.

-Magnethia has a much smaller family than Electronio, with 2 sisters. Her older sister is married and has 2 children and the other, her younger sister, is happily single with no interest in ever marrying and has a child she adopted. Both of her sisters are also in the research field, Magnethia's emphasis being Cultural Anthropology, her older sister's in Geology, and her younger sister's being Art History with an emphasis in Northern Zenethian Cultures.

-As mentioned in some previous posts, Electronio is part Melodian. A key difference to note as a result of this is his metabolism. Zenethians and those of The Binary Conduit in general tend to have a slower metabolism and also consume less food. Due to the genetics from his dad, he has a faster metabolism and does consume more food, and this is something that was passed down to Tecna as well, granted it isn’t as intense as their dad’s.

Notes from the picture:

-Their magical core color shines in the catchlight of their eyes as their magic flows closer to the surface of the skin. This is to help keep the skin warmer to deal with the cold present on the planet and is a trait shared by most within The Binary Conduit

-not included in the picture, but fun fact: this means it’s not uncommon for babies or those who have lighter skin to glow in certain parts of their body or all over from the way the magic is shown flowing under the skin in vein like patterns.

-There are 2 hair color variation sets: one that is more vibrant and saturated and one that is much darker in color.

Musa’s Family Tree

-The variation in skin tones found in Melody are not uncommonly separated by different provinces and sectors of the planetary group.

-Ho-Boe’s family comes from a more southern area of Melody and his parents are both merchants who run a stand in the market area of their town with them specializing in herbs and flowers. His mom had a beautiful singing voice and could play the magical realm’s equivalent of the Erhu and his father was able to play the magical realm’s equivalent of the Guzheng, Diza, and Pipa. They would both regularly play at different restaurants, bars,and local festivals and concerts and their music was really well loved within their community. Ho-Boe grew up with music as a result, and learned to play all the instruments his parents played (minus the Diza, he had too much trouble with his breath control and didn’t like it enough to want to get better at it) and then some.

-Matlin and her parents are from a northeastern part of Melody and was born into a family of high ranking performers who all worked or would go on to work in Opera’s seen by nobility and high ranking members of their society. Matlin liked it a lot, but after seeing Ho-Boe perform after he saw HER perform and he invited her to one of his gigs (like his parents he too enjoyed performing regularly at different random events and eateries), she gained a love for the style of performance and music he partook in, a less rigid and in her eyes compared to what she grew up around and doing, rawer version of it. She was never really allowed to see this kind of performance because of the strict rules her family adhered to as a way to maintain and uphold their status, and she really fell in love with it, and eventually Ho-Boe after sneaking out and performing together and going to different shows together in secret. She always felt a little stifled by her parents and the restrictions of the life she lived, but it never bothered her enough to say or do anything about it. After learning and seeing how Ho-Boe lived, she finally understood what she really wanted, and her parents and most of her sisters didn’t accept that. Like in the show, she chose to leave it all behind and start a new like with Ho-Boe, and they eventually had Musa.

-She eventually did reconcile with her family to an extent, her father being much more supportive in the end than her mother, but they still loved her in their own way, and she accepted and loved them in her own way too, her being much closer to her dad though. She also had 2 sisters that adamantly supported her and her wants from the start, and she stayed in regular contact with them even during her time of estrangement. Her other sisters came to accept her choices with varying degrees of said acceptance, with the 3rd oldest sister never really accepting it at all and being cold to her for the rest of her life.

-Ho-Boe’s parents adored Matlin from the start and welcomed her with open arms. She was invited to every family dinner, festival, reunion, get together, etc before she and Ho-Boe even started dating, and everyone did tease Ho-Boe about her because they knew he liked her from the start (yes they teased him in front of her some too. She thought it was very funny and endearing how hard Ho-Boe would blush and how flustered he got)

Notes from the picture:

About Matlin: has many sisters, all performers.

-bonus not written down: she has 10, with her being the 6th born. She was closest with her sister born right after her, the 1st born, and the 3rd born. The 3rd born was the one who never truly forgave her for choosing to leave them and their family for Ho-Boe and his way of life and the music he performed, and this hurt her incredibly badly. She grieved the loss of their relationship the most when she left and until the day she died there was still a sting from the way she was shunned even after reconciling with her family.

Aisha’s Family Tree

-Land Androsians are in terms of appearance based mainly off of the Zulu, Ndebele, and a few other general inland areas of Africa along with some Indian influence (this is very broad I know but it just depends on the region they’re from on Andros for specifics here)

-The Sea Androsians in regards to their appearance are based off of the areas of The Middle East with an emphasis on Morocco, Iran, the Amazigh peoples, and areas of Polynesia (similar to the Land Androsians, specifics depend on what region they’re from)

-Generally, Land Androsians have darker skin and hair with less color variety for hair when compared to the Sea Androsians

-Teredor’s mother was the Ruler for The Royal House of Androsia (the name the Land and Sea Androsians use to refer to their place of inhabitance and rule which is separate from the Merpeople and their deep sea kingdom). She took on the role as The Land Androsian for the diplomatic marriage and married someone of Sea Androsian identity who acted as their representative in the rulership. As is customary, Teredor was then assigned as a Sea Androsian for the line of rulership, and married Niobe, someone who was considered a Land Androsian. This means as is customary, Aisha is formally considered a Land Androsian in regards to her role in leadership.

Notes from the picture (and general expansion on what is in the picture):

Labeled General Trivia:

-eyes of Sea Androsians commonly have an iris color that matches their fins, with a more saturated ring of this color around the pupil, and then a darker version of this color for the pupil. This is the result of different lenses that allow for better underwater sight

-this is also why the sclera isn’t white, it’s part of an effect of eye protection for underwater use

-intermingling of Land and Sea Androsian populations and genetics is what results in typically more extreme ear fin size variation and eye color, function, and lens variability. This is whye on of Teredor’s parents (the one with pink hair) has white sclera instead of a blue or green tinted one.

-sometimes iris color varies away from fin color for Sea Androsians and can take on colors of their parents eyes. It’s more common for Androsians with both Land and Sea Androsian genetics to have this happen.

-gills on neck are common for Sea Androsians and typically match the colors of the fins on their ears, but sometimes match a color or color variation of one or both of their parents. This can sometimes happen to the ear fins too.

-land Androsians don’t have them (gills) and the intermingling of genetics from those from the Land of Androsia and those of The Sea part of Androsia result in not every Sea Androsian having them, and some of those who would be classified or identify as Land Androsians do have them

-status as Land or Sea Androsians within the “common” inhabitants (ie not rich nobility or royalty) if they are born into a family that has a combination of traits and family from spaces traditionally associated with one status or the other is fairly fluid for most now with variability on what the individual identifies with, where they live, how they’re raised, etc. Some choose to identify as both, and a term of Beach Androsian is sometimes used and becoming more common in the modern day. It’s a term from the last few hundred years as intermingling has become more common and less of a “reserved for royals” status thing within the attitudes of the general public. It’s a term that was coined by those who wanted to acknowledge both parts of their heritage, but wanted a more succinct concrete term to use for themselves.

-Bonus info: The more casual breakdown of a rigid Land Androsian and Sea Androsian dichotomy is something of an area of contention for those in the higher ranking echelons of society. Teredor cares less than most nobles about it, fairly indifferent to those outside of high ranking society doing it, but a little more reserved about it all together for those who are royalty. Niobe cares more about it and has a lot of grievances and is on par with most nobles in terms of her issues with it. Part of her and Teredor’s arc with becoming more open and accepting of Aisha’s wants and needs is unlearning this concern and being more receptive to it.

[wouldntyouliketoknow16]

Liam Lawson and RedBull

It's pretty wild how quickly things can change in the world of Formula 1, and the recent decision by Red Bull to demote Liam Lawson to racing bulls after just two races has stirred up quite a bit of controversy. For someone like me, who has openly been a Liam Lawson hater, this situation is hard to ignore. Even I can see that the decision feels unfair, especially considering the circumstances surrounding his short stint in F1.

First off, let's talk about the expectations that come with being a driver for a top team like Red Bull. When you get the chance to race for such a prestigious team, there's a lot of pressure to perform right away. Lawson, despite my personal feelings about him, had the odds stacked against him. Two races are hardly enough to gauge a driver's potential, and demoting him so quickly seems hasty at best.

Now, onto Yuki Tsunoda's situation. The fact that he's moving to Red Bull is another point of contention. Yuki has shown flashes of brilliance in his time with Racing Bulls, but the transition to Red Bull could be a double-edged sword. The car is a shitbox which raises serious questions about his ability to perform at a higher level. If the car doesn't deliver, it could derail his career just as easily as it could elevate him.

It's easy to see how this could create a toxic environment for both drivers. Lawson is being pushed aside after minimal opportunity, while Yuki could find himself in a position where he’s unable to showcase his skills effectively. This is a classic case of how the politics of F1 can overshadow talent and merit. It's frustrating to witness, especially for fans who want to see the best drivers shine.

Moreover, the inconsistency in how teams manage their drivers is baffling. In some cases, talent is nurtured and given time to develop, while in others, it feels like there's a zero-tolerance policy for anything less than perfection. This inconsistency creates an atmosphere of instability that can affect not just the drivers but the entire team dynamic.

From a fan's perspective, it’s disappointing to see a young driver like Lawson not given a fair shot to prove himself. F1 is a sport that thrives on drama and competition, yet it seems like some of the most exciting talents are being stifled before they even have a chance to show what they can do. This trend could lead to a lack of diversity in driving styles and personalities on the grid.

Additionally, the decision to demote Lawson after only two races raises questions about the team's long-term strategy. Are they truly committed to developing their drivers, or are they merely looking for quick results? This short-sighted approach could ultimately backfire, leading to a loss of potential stars in the sport.

As someone who has been critical of Lawson, I can’t help but feel that this situation is indicative of a larger problem within the sport. The focus on immediate results often overshadows the importance of building a cohesive team and allowing drivers the time they need to grow. It’s a shame that the politics of F1 can overshadow the raw talent that these young drivers bring to the table.

In conclusion, while I may not be the biggest fan of Liam Lawson, I can acknowledge that his demotion is unfair. The decision seems rushed and fails to consider the potential he has. Yuki's move to Red Bull is equally concerning, as it could hinder his career trajectory rather than help it. It’s a tough time for both drivers and the sport as a whole needs to reconsider how it nurtures and develops its talent.

[amelikos]

Some character notes and episode notes for HZ082, writing them down for future reference.

Continuing from the previous episode, Rayquaza is ready to battle Liko and co. Even though they just faced Gouging Fire, they are excited to battle Rayquaza. Using the field around them, their strategies, and all their Pokemon, they manage to corner and deal significant damage to Rayquaza. Roy eventually manages to get Rayquaza to return to his Pokeball.

After the battle, Rayquaza gives back the last of Pagogo's power and Pagogo shows a memory of Lucius, Rystal and Gibeon as they reached Rakua together. The Six Heroes all return to their Pokeballs out of their own volition, with the exception of Rayquaza who won't go back to his when Roy tries to call him back. Friede explains to Roy that Rayquaza belongs to Lucius, which means he doesn't acknowledge Roy as his trainer just yet. This makes Roy want to work hard to become Rayquaza's real partner someday.

Liko and co bid goodbye to Briar, while Sango and Onyx go back to the Explorers base to report to Gibeon. Rayquaza starts leading the RVT to Rakua. Flying alongside Rayquaza, Liko, Roy and Dot contact their respective families to tell them about the adventures they've had.

--

Very much liked the choregraphy of the battle and the way everyone got their time to shine while seamlessly leading into the climax centered on Liko and Roy. Even though Liko, Roy and Dot had just finished the battle against Gouging Fire, they were all eager to battle Rayquaza and didn't back down from the challenge.

Dot was the first one to be defeated but she was the first one to land hits on Rayquaza and her role as a strategist who keeps coming up with ideas always shines through. Her words of support to Liko and Roy were appreciated, too.

Friede acting as a decoy and trying to draw Rayquaza's attention reminded me of the time he did the same with Amethio in HZ025.. Also noting that Roy had to save Cap this time too. He already saved Cap in the battle against Gouging Fire. Friede is depicted as someone who needs to be saved by the kids a bit more these days.. Also a good way to showcase the trio's progress since the writing uses Friede as a metric to convey that. (First year of Horizons (ie chapters 1 and 2): Friede was ahead of the trio. Second year (chapters 3 and 4): the trio went to train on their own and are slowly becoming equals to Friede in terms of battles. So, I guess they should surpass their mentor going forward??)

I'm glad Roy got his time to shine given that Rayquaza is his goal. Ending the battle with Nitro Charge was a nice callback to the battle in HZ045 as well (Achigator learned Nitro Charge as Hogator in HZ045, and they used it to finish the battle this time). Friede and Roy battling side by side was also really good (and Roy had his own Flying type this time). Achigator and Lizardon's relationship paralleling Roy and Friede's dynamics is one of my favorite things about them (both duos having this brotherly feeling to it, Achigator and Roy looking up to Lizardon and Friede respectively, etc). I am also relieved that Rayquaza doesn't acknowledge Roy as a partner just yet, since it'd have definitely felt too sudden if he did. Roy feels like he made a step forward in his goal since Rayquaza went back to his Pokeball. They pointed out that Lucius is still Rayquaza's trainer, so hopefully Roy will have bonding moments outside battles to connect a bit more with Rayquaza so their relationship feels a bit more personal. They mostly met in the context of battles so far, so I think it'd be nice if they could have moments outside of that. Also curious how Lucius still being alive is going to impact Roy's goal of becoming Rayquaza's partner?

I liked Liko's moments a lot, too. She definitely felt much more into the battle and didn't think or worry too much. She had no hesitation when Pagogo wanted to battle and immediately adapted to the situation and checked Pagogo's moves. She was even the one who snapped Dot back into the moment so Dot could focus on the battle at one point. I also really liked that Liko wanted to keep battling Rayquaza. It further keeps showing how passionate she's become about battling. Something that stood out to me is when Pagogo responded to Liko's feelings when she didn't want to give up and keep battling.. Pagogo is not beating the magical girl mascot allegations (very powerful and small creature who gets stronger thanks to their friends, etc). I hope we see Pagogo battling more in the future, and I'd like to know how Pagogo's powers work (the stuff with transferring the Terastal power to Achigator was interesting). Also, the whole scene reminded me of Lucius and Rystal in HZ075. Back then, Rystal saw that Lucius wasn't giving up to stop the Rakurium, so she wanted to do her best too and Pagogo responded to her feelings. In this ep, Liko thought about Roy wasn't giving up and that she didn't want to give up either and keep battling, which made Pagogo respond to her feelings. (It's these kinds of scenes that make me pause and think that Roy&Liko is cute.. I really like how much they respect each other and motivate each other to do their best, and I think it's interesting that they have parallels to Lucius and Rystal??)

The secondary Pokemon getting their time to shine was also something I've been waiting for. Especially Tebrim, who has a battle style I particularly like (Liko using psychic powers to block Rayquaza's way with rocks, etc). Liko's sneaky style showcased through her Pokemon is really cool, and I want to see more of it. Shout out to that one moment of Welcamo covering Nakanuchan with his wing when they were both defeated too (I thought it was cute that he protected her in this way?). Pagogo climbing on Rayquaza's head at the end after so long made me emotional too..

I think this episode was the first time Onyx actually said Gibeon's name. I don't remember him saying it before. Surprised in a good way that Sango and Onyx actually stuck to their mission and did as they were told, which was observing the RVT and not interfering. They can fulfill their missions just fine. I wonder how the others will react to their report? Or if this mini arc is going to impact them somehow in the future? (Either way, I felt spoiled seeing them in every single episode in January.)

The flashback with Lucius, Rystal and Gibeon was really cute, but heartbreaking in its own way given that we know what happens after that.. They pointed out that they all looked happy together and that there was a lot of trust between them, which includes Gibeon. I am curious how Liko will react to Gibeon when she eventually meets him? The flashbacks portray him as a dear friend to both Lucius and Rystal and it's never said that he betrayed them or something along those lines. The whole thing is a tragedy for everyone involved. How will they feel about him once they meet him, knowing he is Amethio's grandfather, Lucius and Rystal's friend, and someone who is currently a threat? (Also, I wrote about it already but Gibeon saying "together" felt significant to me. And I think it's cute in general, because he wanted to be together with his friends and it was definitely something important for all of them..)

The ending with the kids sending messages to their parents felt like a nice testament to their growth too.. Bits that stood out to me were Liko saying that she will have a lot of things to tell her parents when she comes back. She is someone who had to learn to put her feelings into words and had a hard time conveying her thoughts and being understood (which the second opening emphasized too), so it's nice that she grew to the point where she looks forward to talking a lot to her parents. Dot sending a message to her mother also felt meaningful because HZ041 showed that they both had a hard time communicating with each other. Blanca's personality clashed with Dot's and she commented on how Dot never tells her anything. Dot opening up about her feelings to her mother and telling her that she has a lot of fun shows that she is making the effort to work on that connection with her mother and not keep to herself anymore.

Overall, just a very enjoyable ep. Lots of callbacks to the previous battle with Rayquaza (which was handled by the same writer as this ep), loved the use of Halo and how the episode ended on the lyrics which are the title of this episode.. The PR account and the scriptwriter for this ep (Kureha Matsuzawa) also posted about "Halo" specifically in regards to this ep. It's neat that this opening is significant in such a way for the series.

Also: this episode ending on the trio's connections to their families and lineages directly connects to the next episode being centered on Amethio and his family. Both sides of the story always connected, etc.

[albertonykus]

Doraemon Movies Ranked by Shizuka's Roles in Them

I've written before about how Shizuka seems underutilized in many of the Doraemon movies, but not all of the movies are made equal. To get a sense of which films portray her the best, I've ranked them based on her characterization and narrative role in each one.

Obligatory disclaimer that this is not derived from any type of standardized rubric or quantitative analysis, only my personal judgment and impressions of the franchise. In addition, this list is distinct from how I'd rank the movies based on my opinion of their overall quality and entertainment value. In general, increased focus on Shizuka (or any of the other main characters) is almost always a positive for me, but there are certainly Doraemon movies that I think are good yet don't feature her prominently, or ones that I don't enjoy as much even though they manage to portray her well.

Full ranking below the break. I've also linked to my reviews of each individual film to provide further context. May contain movie spoilers!

1. Nobita's Three Visionary Swordsmen (1994)

In many ways, this is Shizuka's movie. She has an active role for much of her screentime, undergoes the most personal journey, and is the one who finishes off the main villain. Furthermore, she gets moments to show that she's clever, works hard, and values kindness. Her key role is all the more remarkable considering that she doesn't "properly" join the main plot until nearly halfway through the movie.

Reinforcing her position as the central character is the fact that in the beginning of the movie, Nobita imagines himself as a hero who hides his true identity from his friends, but during the actual adventure, it's Shizuka who maintains a secret identity. It's a fun way to play with audience preconceptions.

2. Nobita and the Steel Troops (1986) 3. Nobita and the New Steel Troops (2011)

Shizuka is a major player in this story as well. Here, her foremost traits on display are her compassion and willingness to forgive, but that's not all. It's her knowledge of Doraemon's gadgets that provides a solution to the main conflict, and as I've previously written, it's also one of the few times that her kind nature is actually tested. Her precocious declaration that "Doing things that don't always make sense is being human" may be one of her best-known lines in the franchise, and for good reason.

None of the Doraemon movie remakes change Shizuka's roles enough to be given vastly different rankings from their original counterparts in my opinion, but if I were to compare the two different versions of Steel Troops, Shizuka's goodwill arguably shines even more in the original, considering that she was still determined to save Riruru after the robot made an attempt on her life (a scene cut from the remake)!

4. Nobita's Little Star Wars 2021 (2022) 5. Nobita's Little Star Wars (1985)

This story has one of the few "Shizuka gets kidnapped" subplots that I can actually tolerate, and a major reason why is that she is very actively involved with the rest of the narrative. From the moment that she's drawn into the main conflict, she does everything she can to help, despite admitting to having doubts and fears of her own. Her determination even ends up inspiring Suneo's own acts of bravery, and speaking of which, this is among the few Doraemon stories to showcase the dynamic between the two of them.

Comparing the remake and the original in this case is difficult, because beyond the scenes that they share, the two versions highlight different aspects of Shizuka's character. The remake heightens her positive qualities even more (the addition of her forcibly stopping Papi from turning himself in to the antagonists feels very in-character), but seeing her being a little self-centered during the movie-making subplot at the beginning of the original is kind of fun, too.

6. Nobita and the Castle of the Undersea Devil (1983)

Once again, Shizuka's kindness towards another character becomes an overarching subplot that is critical to saving the day. Furthermore, though this was the first Doraemon movie to use the "Shizuka gets kidnapped" plot point, it's an interesting version of it in that she volunteers to be captured as part of her plan to locate the main villain's hideout.

And what's her reaction to an unreasoning AI threatening to rain nuclear destruction on the world?

(Using a panel from the manga here because available English fansubs don't translate this line properly. It is in the movie though!)

7. New Nobita's Great Demon (2014) 8. Nobita and the Haunts of Evil (1982)

Although this story doesn't focus on Shizuka as much as the last few, she has a very important part in it, given that her realization about how the prophecy of the dog kingdom can be fulfilled is the key to the heroes' victory. Also, she beats up a gorilla and has fun doing it.

Her role is essentially unchanged across both versions of the movie, but I'm ranking the remake higher just for being a better-made film overall. In addition, she is careful to avoid actually hurting the gorilla in the remake, which seems like something she would do.

9. Nobita's Chronicle of the Moon Exploration (2019)

This is another movie in which Shizuka is not the focal character, but really comes in clutch at the end when the others need her. In general, giving her free rein to Doraemon's gadgets (as also occurs during key moments in Three Visionary Swordsmen and Steel Troops) is a good way to ensure that the day gets saved.

10. Nobita's Dorabian Nights (1991)

I give this movie a lot of flack for how nonsensical its story is and how excessively cruel it is to Shizuka. (Being trafficked as a slave due to her friends' thoughtless actions? What the hell?!) However, I have to admit that Shizuka herself is written quite well. She stays remarkably composed and sticks to her principles in the face of calamity, even when her prospects of rescue seem vanishingly remote. She is also resourceful enough to come up with a fairly credible escape plan, though it doesn't work out. She gets out of a hostage situation on her own during the climax, so that's something.

At the same time, she avoids coming across as unrealistically perfect, because the movie also gives her a few moments to be flawed: she can be short-tempered (snapping at Nobita for inviting her over for "kids' stuff"), and even a bit careless sometimes (remembering the wrong date for her camping trip)!

11. Nobita's Sky Utopia (2023)

Speaking of flaws, this next entry is one of the few movies to highlight Shizuka's. Here, it zeroes in on the fact that she can be stubborn, which many viewers might not have picked up on, but is very much a consistent part of her character. (Just consider how she insists on taking daily baths, no matter where she is and how inconvenient it might be.) As mentioned in my review, the film doesn't do as much with Shizuka's stubbornness as I would have liked it to, but the fact that it was put in the spotlight at all is still noteworthy. Not to mention, the scene where Shizuka, Gian, and Suneo own up to their flaws is one of the best in the movie.

That being said, the fact that this is enough to nearly qualify in the top 10 film depictions of the third most important character in a franchise with over 40 movies... is a little sad, isn't it?

12. Nobita and the Kingdom of Clouds (1992)

Although it doesn't achieve much, Shizuka does get a good character moment here when she's the only one of her friends to come up with a cogent, calmly stated argument (with minimal preparation, no less) in attempt to persuade the sky people not to follow through with their plan to flood the Earth.

She is also shown to be a good artist—check out her freehand design of this castle.

13. Nobita's Diary on the Creation of the World (1995)

Due to time constraints, a substantial portion of Shizuka's activities in this one happens offscreen, but what little we get to see shows that she apparently accomplished a lot! On top of that, she formulates a plan that helps Doraemon and Nobita subdue a giant centipede, and her artistic and note-taking skills come in handy for putting together their school report.

14. Nobita and the Birth of Japan (2016) 15. Nobita and the Birth of Japan (1989)

The opening act of this story is interesting for the insight it provides into each of the main characters. It probably isn't much of a surprise to see Nobita or Gian wanting to run from home, but why might a rule-abiding, responsible kid like Shizuka consider doing so? Well, like many other children who get branded as "well-behaved", it turns out she feels a fair bit of pressure from parental expectations.

She doesn't have much to do in the story after that, but to be fair, no one really does in the original movie. Everyone gets to contribute more in the remake, giving it a higher ranking by default, though Shizuka arguably still lacks a real standout moment to shine.

16. Nobita's New Dinosaur (2020)

Shizuka's most prominent moment in this one is probably the scene where she gives a motivational speech to Nobita. It's not much, but it's pretty sweet, actually. Otherwise, she does enough to maintain an active presence even when the spotlight isn't on her.

17. Nobita's Secret Gadget Museum (2013)

Another entry in which Shizuka doesn't get a whole lot of focus, but is involved enough to feel present. She defeats a petrifying Gorgon Head statue and locates a secret passageway. Also, seeing her get to laugh along with her friends is cute.

18. Nobita's Space Heroes (2015)

This is a hard movie to rank, because Shizuka contributes quite a lot during the action sequences and even takes down one of the major villains by herself. However... this is offset by how much the film seems to water down her characterization. Like I mentioned in my review, it's odd and inconsistent with her previous depictions that she would feel embarrassed about using her gadget-augmented strength. And at one point, she out of everyone in the group even admits to having forgotten about Nobita (who had last been seen in a life-threatening situation)!

As @filmfactors discussed in their own musings on Shizuka's characterization, there's also something lackluster about the fact that she's given water powers simply because she likes bathing (to the point where she's given a line to lampshade this). It's not so much that hydrokinesis doesn't work for Shizuka as a superpower—I actually think it'd be very appropriate for her to receive a power that would seem to require substantial mental and technical skill to use, and at the same time has immense destructive potential if not properly controlled. (Even though I know very little about X-Men, this is also why @cosmicmaskman's casting of Shizuka as Jean Grey feels very fitting to me.) I just would have preferred if it had been connected more to her actual skills and personality.

19. The Records of Nobita, Spaceblazer (1981) 20. The New Record of Nobita's Spaceblazer (2009)

This is an unusual story in that Shizuka isn't in much of it (and neither are Gian and Suneo, for that matter), which prevents me from ranking it higher. She does at least have a moderately prominent role during the screentime she has, acting as a mediator among her friends and convincing Gian and Suneo to help out during a crucial moment.

I place the original movie higher than the remake because I think it's generally better executed, but Shizuka's role is pretty much the same in both. As a bonus, the original includes one of the few times that she is shown playing baseball with the others.

21. Nobita's Earth Symphony (2024)

As said in my review, for a story about music, this movie met my bare minimum expectations for Shizuka's level of participation. She actively contributes throughout the narrative and her established experience with musical instruments is acknowledged. Even so, more could have been done with her. A gag where she volunteered to play the violin only to be stopped by the rest of the group would have been so easy!

22. Nobita and the Animal Planet (1990)

Although not much attention is drawn to her, Shizuka has a decent presence in this one. She's shown to be supportive of Nobita when Gian and Suneo make fun of him (but isn't above teasing him a little herself), figures out the explanation behind the animals' creation myth, and gets to help out in small ways here and there (at least as much as Gian and Suneo do).

23. Nobita and the Legend of the Sun King (2000)

Shizuka doesn't do very much here, but she contributes at least one thing of narrative importance. Her getting angry at Prince Tio is one of the main events that leads him to rethink his behavior and inspires his character development. She also pieces together what the villain's plan is (earning her a compliment from the villain), and seeing her play the prince in Snow White is a fun moment if nothing else.

24. Stand by Me Doraemon 2 (2020)

Given that this movie is about Shizuka and Nobita's wedding, she naturally has a major role in it. Yet half the time she feels more like a prop for Nobita's character development. Doing nothing but wait for a whole year after he mysteriously disappears from their wedding ceremony? Standing around while her friends desperately fight some older bullies, instead of trying to get help?

She does get a few moments to be an actual character though: she stands up to the aforementioned bullies (though understandably can't do much about them), and she proves to be perceptive, as at the end of the movie she figures out based on very few context clues that adult Nobita had gotten help from Doraemon.

25. Nobita and the Spiral City (1997)

Being kind pays off once more for Shizuka, as it leads a secondary antagonist to act in her (and her friends') favor at a critical juncture. Although important, neither this concept nor Shizuka herself are given nearly as much time or focus as they were in previous stories that used similar plot points, such as Castle of the Undersea Devil or Steel Troops.

26. Nobita and the Galaxy Super-express (1996)

Here, Shizuka makes the valuable discovery that the alien antagonists are vulnerable to soap solution. Like I commented in my review, this mainly seems like a contrived way to justify showing her in a bath scene though, so... ugh.

27. Nobita's Dinosaur (2006) 28. Nobita's Dinosaur (1980)

There isn't much in the way of practical contributions from Shizuka (nor from Gian and Suneo) in this earliest of the Doraemon long stories. Still, she has enough screentime to establish her general personality. She's nicer to Nobita than Gian and Suneo are, but at the same time doesn't always have much faith in him either. She worries about not being able to finish her homework when Doraemon suggests turning their journey to the Cretaceous into a camping trip, and she puts herself at risk to try and save a baby sauropod from a Tyrannosaurus rex.

The remake gives pretty much everyone a characterization boost, so it gets a higher ranking than the original from me. Perhaps the most noteworthy addition for Shizuka is her argument with Suneo over whether they should hand Piisuke over to the dinosaur poachers.

29. Nobita and the Tin Labyrinth (1993)

There's very little for Shizuka to do in this one, but seeing her being a bit competitive and accepting a bet from Gian and Suneo is at least an interesting character moment. (The manga did it better though.)

30. Nobita's Treasure Island (2018)

I already spent too many words dissecting Shizuka's subplot in my review of this movie, but to summarize: for the amount of screentime she gets, it really doesn't do her many favors. She barely contributes to resolving the main conflict in any meaningful way, nor is there much insight into her character that you normally wouldn't get. The friendship she strikes up with Sarah is cute, I suppose. If only it mattered more to the story.

31. The Record of Nobita's Parallel Visit to the West (1988)

The main thing Shizuka does in this movie is play the part of Tang Sanzang. Unfortunately, playing the part of Tang Sanzang also means not doing very much other than getting captured by monsters.

32. Nobita and the Knights on Dinosaurs (1987)

We're running out of notable movie roles for Shizuka at this point in the list, but there are a few character moments here at least. She plays her violin for the first time in a Doraemon movie, gets praised by Gian for being smart, and spots the approaching bolide that will cause the end-Cretaceous mass extinction (though no one listens to her). There's an odd scene that implies she is jealous when Nobita crushes on Roo the dinosauroid girl.

33. Nobita and the Winged Braves (2001)

This would have been the perfect story for the filmmakers to remember that Shizuka has a pet bird, which they do. Her pet even ends up in the bird dimension alongside the main characters. The movie then proceeds to do... absolutely nothing interesting with this concept. Considering that the relationship between humans and birds is a major theme here, it would have been a great opportunity to use Shizuka and her canary to make some form of commentary on this topic, but no.

To add insult to injury, Shizuka doesn't participate in the big race that occurs halfway through the movie, and gets sidelined during the climax.

34. Nobita in the Wan-Nyan Spacetime Odyssey (2004)

Shizuka, uh... drives a truck in this one. I guess that's something.

35. Nobita's Great Adventure in the South Seas (1998)

She helps fight the villain's bioengineered monsters during the climax, but that's about it.

36. Nobita Drifts in the Universe (1999)

Along with Gian and Suneo, she helps hold off enemy forces during the climax, but this occurs almost entirely offscreen. She also gets some surface-level bonding with Freya the alien fairy so the latter can feel guilty about betraying the heroes later.

37. Nobita and the Windmasters (2003)

This movie does many things very well, but giving Shizuka meaningful focus is not one of them. She gets a couple of cute scenes here and there, and helps rescue Fuuko, which amounts to nothing because Fuuko gets recaptured almost immediately afterward.

38. Nobita's Great Adventure in the Antarctic Kachi Kochi (2017)

Outside of some general participation in group scenes, Shizuka is nearly a background character here.

39. Nobita in the Robot Kingdom (2002)

Another one in which Shizuka is largely relegated to the background. What's sad is that if the film had followed the manga's version of events (as discussed in my review), it almost certainly would have placed in the top 10 of this ranking.

40. Nobita and the Island of Miracles (2012)

Could the filmmakers really think of nothing else for Shizuka to do during the climax other than using the ethically dubious Cheerleader Gloves?

They did try to give her a good moment in this movie by having her sharply rebuke Nobita for panicking over not having access to Nobita's gadgets. I guess it's meant to show her staying resolute and level-headed during a crisis, but as I commented in my review, this didn't really work for me as it feels very uncalled for in the context of the story.

41. Nobita and the Green Giant Legend (2008)

I can barely remember anything Shizuka did in this movie. In fairness, that's also true for everyone else besides Nobita.

42. Nobita's Great Battle of the Mermaid King (2010)

The most focus that Shizuka gets here is another excessively cruel subplot about her getting kidnapped and held hostage, which doesn't even do much for the narrative besides extend the runtime of the movie. The brief moment in which she body-slams one of the villain's minions during the final battle doesn't quite make up for it.

43. Nobita's Great Adventure into the Underworld (1984) 44. Nobita's New Great Adventure into the Underworld (2007)

Shizuka's role in this story is mostly limited to being on the wrong end of a running "joke" about her underwear being repeatedly exposed. Any minor contributions that she does get to make could have been given to other characters or written out with little impact on the overall story.

Astoundingly, the remake manages to make the panty shot "jokes" even worse.

45. Stand by Me Doraemon (2014)

A movie about Shizuka being gaslit, emotionally manipulated, and treated as a trophy. No, thank you.

[kpopsongrecs]

Comfort Songs from Female Artists:

Heart - Taeyeon Heart is a phenomenal ballad from Taeyeon. The heartbeat-like guitar pulse is a very clever touch, and immerses you into an emotional state of mind immediately. The lovely but simple arrangement allows for Taeyeon’s signature piercing vocals to absolutely soar. The Korean title “품" means hug/embrace, a very apt title for a song that truly feels like a comforting hug. The lyrics are full of warmth and meaning. Especially the lines “You recognize the scar that I wanted to hide the most, give a kiss on it, gently pacify it and make it heal", highlighting the powerful message that the ultimate act of love is recognizing someone's vulnerability and treating it with tenderness.

LMM - Hwasa LMM might have more recognition now, since Hwasa performed it at this year's Blue Dragon Awards to pay respect to the passing of actor Lee Sung Kyun. A very touching song, it made for a very touching tribute (so thoughtfully swapped into the performance lineup by Hwasa herself). Her rich and raspy voice is perfectly soft and haunting in the verses, yet emotional and filled with power in the chorus. Hwasa's signature to her solo work is the deep and contemplative nature of her lyrics. LMM (standing for "Lost My Mind") is a perfect example of this. “Flowers bloom even in the falling rain” is a very poignant way of expressing the message of keeping resilience and strength in the face of dark times.

Breathe - Lee Hi Being one of Jonghyun’s most famous songs that he wrote, Breathe has a certain lingering perception to it. But just as Jonghyun deserves to be fully celebrated for his remarkable artistry, this song deserves full appreciation as the balm of comfort and healing it was written to be. Ultimately, Breathe tells everyone going through burdensome times that you are worthy and have permission to breathe through it all. Lee Hi is the perfect artist to deliver this, as there is a rawness and realness to her vocals, making the impact of this emotional ballad hit that much harder. 정말 수고했어요.

As Time Goes By - Yoon Mirae Yoon Mirae is a music icon in S. Korea, but very regrettably does not earn much widespread recognition for her contributions to the k-music scene from international fans. (A travesty!) Though she's most celebrated for her rapping, there is a reason why her singing voice remains in high demand for Korean OSTs. There is a rare present quality to her voice that makes you feel that she's in the same room as you, and singing to you directly. This album and track was released all the way back in 2001 so it's a rare chance that newer fans are familiar with it, but it's such a wonderful classic R&B number that instantly soothes the soul.

It Hurts (아파) (Slow) - 2NE1 An R&B-flavored ballad delivered by one of the most iconic Kpop girl groups of all time - It Hurts highlights the advantages of ballads sung by groups vs. solo artists, as every member's unique vocal color shines in the trade-off of lines, perfectly demonstrated by 2NE1 (a group so ahead of their time). It Hurts is possibly one of 2NE1’s most underrated B-side tracks and one of the numbers that best showcases their powerful and beautiful vocals (given their otherwise dance music heavy discography).

Star - Jessi Star is less of a crooning ballad and more of a mix of ballad singing with the charismatic rap we associate with Jessi. The absolute vulnerability she portrays in the vocals of this song can take you aback, given Jessi's usual outspoken and boisterous image. Yet she showcases her sensitivity so openly through her singing, which is undeniably beautiful and (no pun intended) the star of the song. The powerful rapping and lyrics in true Jessi fashion, holds nothing back while expressing the challenges of her career and life. The mix comes together in a truly underrated track from her that is equal parts strong and touching, and maybe one of her best.

[a-bucket-full-of-feels]

Thoughts after watching BanG Dream! It's MyGO!!!!! as a former Bandori fan

I used to be a rather active Bandori fan back in the day, actively playing Girls' Band Party (Garupa), listening to their original music and covers, and I even watched all 3 seasons of the anime. However, I eventually stopped playing the game, because I no longer felt compelled to keep up with the events, and following that I eventually lost interest in the music they've put out, both old and new. That was shortly after Morfonica was added to the game, so when MyGO!!!! was announced, I was already quite far removed from the fandom, though I did see promotional materials and briefly thought it was an interesting band concept at first. The reason I decided to give the MyGO anime a shot was because I had seen discussions mostly on Reddit on how good the anime was, and also how MyGO interestingly became extremely popular in China, which is fascinating because usually newer bands or members would never reach the same level of popularity as the OGs (take the Love Live franchise and AKB group for example). And after watching the anime, I could totally understand why it's so highly raved about.

Having read several band and event stories in Garupa (I played on the JP server so the only way to understand the stories was to rely on dedicated fan translations), I have seen how the Bandori writing team is able to craft great character development arcs and drama through the in-game stories, and these band and event stories are integral parts to each character's development, since a 13-episode anime can't possibly do justice to their massive cast. In contrast, the anime plots I have always found to be mediocre at best, mostly focusing on light drama and finding ways to showcase performances (though I remember the season with RAS as one of the main bands did flesh out the drama in RAS' backstory pretty well). In a sense, the anime was more of a companion piece to the game stories. So when I watched the MyGO anime, I was surprised at how well written the anime was, sufficient to be a standalone piece, and how gritty and realistic the drama was.

The first 2 episodes kind of started off slow at first, setting up the premise for the formation of the band - the breakup of a previous band which wasn't a completely original idea, given that Saaya also had a similar backstory in the Popipa anime. But what made this plot point shine in MyGO is how tangible it made the trauma of CRYCHIC's breakup feel through the lens of different characters. Episode 3 was an excellent demonstration of this storytelling through the lens of Tomori, from how she used to be an awkward kid who was detached from her emotions, till Sakiko brought the band together which gave her something to love, and then abruptly taking it away from her by disbanding CRYCHIC. Likewise, we're given equal opportunities to step into the emotional turmoil of the different characters, like how Taki struggles with her inferiority complex when she faces the task of composing music for the band (which Sakiko used to handle); or how Anon struggles with running away from challenges that are too daunting for her; or how Raana has been drifting around, unable to find a band or place she wants to stay put in; and then there's Soyo.

Holy shit, I know I'm not the first person to recognise it but Soyo's arc really was something else and I really loved how they executed it. She seemed to be a nice, friendly girl at first (as compared to Taki's brash attitude to the "outsider" Anon, owing to her over-protectiveness towards Tomori), but here and there little hints are dropped, like how she repeatedly approaches Mutsumi about joining the new band and contacting Sakiko, to the scenes where she constantly looks at her old CRYCHIC photos. And then she snaps at the end of episode 7 and we find out her true intentions - she wants to re-form CRYCHIC all over again and is willing to abandon the "new" members Anon and Raana so that the original members will be together again. Beneath that well-mannered mask of hers is a possessive, manipulative girl, and also a desperate and lonely girl who cannot let go of her memories of CRYCHIC - that scene when she literally goes onto her knees to beg Sakiko felt so raw, I was impressed that Bandori was willing to write such a morally complex character for their series, I literally thought she was just the rich girl version of Imai Lisa at first. And what's interesting is at the end, Soyo doesn't completely "get over" this - she still holds on to the trauma and memories from CRYCHIC'S breakup, but still moves on with her activities in MyGO.

And speaking of morally questionable girls, I also want to talk about arguably the antagonist of the series, the one who caused all the trauma, Sakiko. In the final episode, we're given a plausible explanation to why Sakiko abruptly quit the band and joined Haneoka High instead of staying in rich girl's Tsukinomori - due to her family's sudden financial downturn and her father turning to alocholism to cope (that would explain the latter, but it may not be the only reason for the former). And similar to Soyo's arc, there were also little hints dropped like how in the present day she is always seen outside her former home rather than indoors, and how she only plays Haneoka's music room piano instead of her own, and Nyamu's comment about coming to an expensive place which could be beyond her budget. Though, it seems like the full development of Sakiko's story would occur in the Ave Mujica anime, but nonetheless, I really appreciated this touch of realism in Sakiko's character - because in "idol" series and Bandori included, most of the time the character drama is developed around less heavy topics, like maybe their lack of confidence or failing at something once and not wanting to try it again for fear of failure. It seems like the Ave Mujica anime will be even grittier so I'm quite interested in how it will play out.

In terms of things I think could have been improved, definitely one thing is that they could have developed Raana's story a bit more. Given that she's the granddaughter of the old lady who ran SPACE in S1 before it closed, it would've been interesting to learn about her relationship with her grandmother and why she clings on so dearly to her old guitar, and why she spent all this time wandering around by herself without forming a band despite her technical prowess. Though she does serve her purpose to lighten the mood in an otherwise heavy show, so perhaps her character will shine more in the Garupa stories.

Overall, I really enjoyed It's MyGO!!!! and can see why it fared excellently as a standalone anime, while also working as a piece part of the larger Bandori universe (especially with all the cameos and references). Will I play Garupa again just for them? No, it's too much time commitment to restart Garupa at this point. But will I listen to their music? Hell yeah I will - I really like their style of music, which to me is reminiscent of artists/bands like Atarayo and Minami, so I'll definitely follow the music they release. (IMO, they're the aesthetic I was hoping Afterglow was supposed to have but somehow I never really got into their original songs that much...)

[selenhere]

Heyy y'all.

so I finally finished Step by Step yesterday. I have to say that the last two episodes felt a bit rushed. Like for a minute they were finally together and then suddenly came the troubles and issues with the project and the company. I felt that it would have been better if we had a few more episodes. Then the show would have been perfect. So moving on

Plot : The series did a good job in showcasing the development of feelings between the leads. One thing that I really liked a lot was how they didn't sugarcoat a single situation in the series.

(Spoiler alert - Like when the relationship between the leads became a hot topic in the office and how the series showed the cruel part of coming out such as Pat getting weird looks and criticism for wooing his senior in work. Even though he got the Fjord deal due to his capability, he was still blamed for making his way up by seducing his boss. This right here is the reality. People don't always support your office romance. Most of the time, it is plain criticism.)

Characters : I personally was slightly irritated by Pat's character. He was kind of immature which irritated me further. As for Jeng, he really needs to trust Pat with his responsibility. Supervising each and every responsibility given to Pat was kind of disrespect to Pat.

I also loved how each and every character was allowed to shine and were given enough screentime to get their stories known to us viewers. Normally, the side characters don't really get enough screentime and somehow their storyline also fades away during the series. But this was not the case for Step By Step. I loved the way they showed Put trying to rectify his mistakes but realising it's too late for that. I totally loved the ChotKrit storyline. Bruce did such an amazing job. Honestly I could not believe that he was the same villain era Bruce from Lovely Writer.

JaabJen storyline was slightly confusing and also it did not have any ending. So it was kind of a waste. Lets hope that they create a special episode for these two.

Apart from these, all the romantic scenes were too good. The subtle tension and hunger for each other were expressed in an excellent manner. All (ep 10, 12) kisses were done very nicely. Both the characters were equally eager for each other. Not the typical stuff where one lays like a statue while the other awkwardly touches the lips.

So overall, I would give Step by Step 8.5/10.

[odmpublicschool]

CBSE 10th and 12th Board Result 2025 Declared: State Topper Emerges from ODM Public School

The CBSE 10th and 12th Board Result 2025 has been officially declared, and once again, ODM Public School has etched its name in Odisha’s academic history. Upholding a legacy of educational brilliance and unwavering commitment to student success, the school has recorded exceptional board results and proudly celebrates the emergence of the Odisha State Topper in the CBSE 12th result, 2025. This milestone is a reflection of hard work, dedication, and the academic ethos fostered at ODM.

Triumph and Talent: Odisha State Topper in CBSE 12th Board, 2025

Among the thousands of students who appeared for the CBSE 12th board exam, one name stood out–Sandeep Sahoo. Our talented ODMian Sandeep brought immense pride to the state and our school by becoming the Odisha State Topper in the CBSE 12th (Science) Board Exams with a phenomenal 99%. 

In the Commerce stream, another beacon of excellence shines radiantly. ODMian Sidharth Mahapatra, ODM Educational Group’s topper for the CBSE 12th Boards, has set the bar sky-high with an astounding 99.4%. These stellar CBSE 12th results of our students reflect how ODM’s holistic academic approach prepares students for the challenges of competitive environments and future careers.

Overall Class 12th Performance Highlights:

59 students scored above 95%

220 students scored above 90%

The school average for Class 12 stands at an impressive 81.30%

These numbers showcase more than academic scores, they reflect our commitment to personalised attention, conceptual clarity, and balanced academic rigour that ODM passionately delivers every single day.

CBSE 10th Board Result 2025: Where Consistency Meets Brilliance

The CBSE results 2025 for the 10th Board also brought pride in abundance for our school, as three students jointly secured the highest score within the group—Dayasankara Sahoo, Aryam Kumar Hota, and Biswajeet Nayak, each with a remarkable 99.2%.

This feat mirrors our school’s commitment to foundational learning, exam preparedness, and emotional support systems that empower young learners to perform consistently under pressure.

Overall Class 10th Performance Highlights:

73 students scored above 95%

167 students scored above 90%

The school average for Class 10 reached an impressive 85.50%

With these scores, ODM Public School not only leads in Odisha but also stands as one of the top-performing CBSE schools nationally.

Why ODM Continues to Excel: The Secret Behind the Success

At the heart of this extraordinary performance lies a dynamic and future-forward learning ecosystem curated by the ODM Educational Group. The school’s strategy combines academic rigour with 21st-century learning techniques and holistic student support.

Key Differentiators Include:

Experienced Educators: Teachers at ODM are not just subject matter experts but also mentors who foster curiosity, clarity, and confidence.

Individual Attention: Regular feedback, academic counselling, and customised support ensure that every student gets the help they need.

Modern Learning Tools: Smart classrooms, regular mock tests, and tech-enabled assessments prepare students for real-time challenges.

Value-Based Education: Equal emphasis is given to moral education, mental well-being, and co-curricular excellence.

A Culture of Academic Excellence Across the ODM Educational Group

The CBSE Result 2025 has been a moment of collective pride for ODM Educational Group, as students across all the campuses performed spectacularly. The consistency in high-performance outcomes underlines the effectiveness of ODM’s pedagogical model, built on the pillars of experiential learning, personal mentorship, and a values-based educational framework. From early foundation years to senior secondary boards, ODMians are trained to aim high—not just in terms of grades but also in developing confidence, resilience, and a love for learning.

Conclusion

As the CBSE Class 10 and 12 results roll in, ODM Public School stands tall, resonating with pride, progress, and purpose. These results aren’t just achievements; they are promises fulfilled and futures ignited. As the school continues to set new records, one thing is clear—ODM Public School isn’t just preparing students to pass exams. It is shaping leaders of tomorrow who are academically accomplished, emotionally intelligent, and socially conscious.

Blog Resource: https://www.odmps.org/blog/cbse-class-10-and-12-results/

[globosoft123]

Exploring the Best Restaurants in Kochi: A Culinary Journey Through Flavor and Elegance

Kochi, the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and culinary artistry. From its centuries-old spice trade legacy to modern-day gastronomic innovation, the city has something for every kind of food lover. Whether you are a local resident or a curious traveler, navigating through the best restaurants in Kochi is a delicious adventure worth savoring. Amidst this vibrant culinary landscape, Tribute Royale stands out as a beacon of refined dining and impeccable service, offering a memorable experience that goes beyond the plate.

The food scene in Kochi blends local flavors with global influences. Seafood dominates many menus, given the city's coastal location, but international cuisine—from Italian to Asian fusion—is equally popular. There are eateries tucked away in colonial buildings in Fort Kochi, chic rooftop bistros overlooking the backwaters, and opulent hotel restaurants that bring fine dining to another level. Each establishment tells a story, not only through its menu but also through its ambiance and hospitality.

One of the most acclaimed destinations among the best restaurants in Kochi is Tribute Royale. Located strategically in the heart of the city, Tribute Royale is more than just a restaurant—it’s a luxury experience that caters to discerning palates. The restaurant’s interiors exude elegance, blending contemporary design with subtle nods to Kerala’s cultural heritage. From the moment you walk in, you are greeted with warm hospitality and a menu that reflects thoughtful craftsmanship.

Tribute Royale’s culinary offerings range from traditional Kerala dishes to gourmet international cuisine. The chefs here are true artists, passionate about creating dishes that are both flavorful and visually stunning. For those craving an authentic local experience, their Meen Pollichathu (fish wrapped in banana leaf), Malabar prawns curry, and appam are must-tries. For more global fare, dishes like grilled lamb chops with rosemary jus or Thai green curry with jasmine rice showcase the kitchen's versatility.

What sets Tribute Royale apart is its attention to detail—not just in food, but in the overall dining experience. The service is impeccable, with a well-trained staff that understands the fine balance between attentiveness and discretion. The ambiance is serene, perfect for everything from business lunches to romantic dinners. The wine list is curated with precision, and their in-house mixologist crafts signature cocktails that are as inventive as they are refreshing.

While Tribute Royale shines as a centerpiece, Kochi is home to a multitude of other culinary gems. For a fusion of art and food, the Drawing Room Café in Fort Kochi offers artisanal dishes in a gallery-like setting. If you're in the mood for coastal fare in a rustic setting, head over to Dhe Puttu, where traditional Kerala recipes meet playful presentation. For vegetarian delights, Brindhavan Vegetarian Restaurant and Sree Krishna Inn are trusted favorites, serving up consistent quality with authentic South Indian flavors.

Meanwhile, rooftop lounges like SkyGrill at Crowne Plaza and The Rice Boat at Taj Malabar offer breathtaking views paired with sumptuous meals, ideal for those looking to dine with a view. Street food lovers can explore the bustling streets of Broadway and Marine Drive, where local stalls serve up spicy chaats, fried snacks, and sweet treats that have been loved for generations.

However, if you’re seeking a dining experience that perfectly combines sophistication, culinary excellence, and cultural depth, Tribute Royale stands unmatched. It encapsulates everything that makes dining in Kochi extraordinary: the richness of tradition, the innovation of modern gastronomy, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

In conclusion, the best restaurants in Kochi offer more than just meals—they deliver experiences that linger in memory long after the last bite. From quaint cafés to five-star extravaganzas like Tribute Royale, Kochi’s food scene is a testament to the city’s evolving yet deeply rooted love for good food. So the next time you’re in Kochi, let your taste buds lead the way—you’re bound to find delight at every corner.

[talentscraft]

Very mindful, very demure—are you sure?

How to excel at the job interview with the recruiter and the hiring manager

The recruitment process is often seen as a one-way evaluation, with the company assessing whether you're the right fit for the role. But what many candidates forget is that it's also your opportunity to assess the company. It’s not just about you selling your skills and experience; it’s about ensuring that this company is the right place for you.

Here’s the truth: It’s not as terrifying as it seems. Interviews aren’t “evil”; they’re just an opportunity for both sides to get to know each other better. The goal is to connect, understand, and decide if there’s mutual fit. So, how can you prepare to truly excel during this crucial conversation?

Do your homework: research the company

It all starts with preparation. Before stepping into the interview room (or hopping on that virtual call), do some research about the company. Take a deep dive into their website, LinkedIn profile, and third-party reviews. Read up on their mission, values, and recent developments.

The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to decide if this is a place you want to work. And, it’ll give you the confidence to ask insightful questions about the company culture, their goals, and how the role fits into the bigger picture.

Prepare your elevator pitch

It’s inevitable—at some point, the recruiter will ask you to "tell me about yourself" or to "summarize your experience." This is your chance to shine! Your resume has already given them the basic facts, but the interview is your moment to tell your story and show how you can add value.

Craft a concise, engaging elevator pitch that highlights your skills, experience, and why you're excited about this role. But don’t just list your achievements. Think about how your journey and experiences have shaped you into the perfect fit for this job.

Showcase your achievements: don’t be shy

While it’s important to be humble, don’t hold back when it comes to sharing your accomplishments. You’ve worked hard to get where you are, and this is the time to demonstrate how you’ve used your skills to succeed in previous roles. Focus on real examples that showcase your contributions and the impact you've made.

This isn’t the time for self-doubt. Own your achievements and be proud of the experience you've gained. Confidence is key—let them know what you bring to the table.

Set boundaries with kindness

Remember, interviews are a two-way street. While you’re trying to present yourself, it’s equally important to set boundaries when necessary. Recruiters cannot ask questions that go beyond the scope of your experience or the job itself—this includes personal questions about your family, private life, or health conditions. If such questions come up, you have every right to politely steer the conversation back to the role at hand.

Ask for accommodations if needed

If you need any specific accommodations—such as live captions or extra time during tasks—don’t hesitate to ask. It’s completely fine to request adjustments that will help you perform at your best. A good employer will appreciate that you're communicating your needs upfront.

Ask about the company culture

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the company and its work culture. After all, this is your future workplace we’re talking about. You want to be sure that the company aligns with your values, work style, and goals. Ask about team dynamics, growth opportunities, and how they support employees in their development.

Follow up with gratitude

Once the interview is over, always follow up with a thank-you email. It’s not just polite—it shows professionalism and gratitude for the opportunity. Let them know you’re available for any further questions and that you’re looking forward to hearing back from them.

Final thoughts

A successful interview is about more than just answering questions—it’s about connecting, asking the right questions, and showing both your competence and curiosity. So, go into your next interview with confidence, do your research, and remember: It’s a mutual decision-making process. You’re not just being evaluated; you’re evaluating them, too.

Wishing you all the best in landing your dream job! ✨

[outplaysports]

MMA Training Coaching in Mumbai | Outplay Sports

Outplay Sports Talent Hunt Initiative: Discovering and Nurturing the Stars of Tomorrow

An Initiative by Outplay Sports Foundation

Overview

The Outplay Sports Talent Hunt Initiative is a nationwide effort to identify, support, and nurture young athletes with exceptional potential. At Outplay Sports Foundation, we believe that talent exists everywhere, but access to opportunities and resources can be limited, especially in underserved areas. Through our Talent Hunt, we aim to bridge this gap by reaching out to communities across the country, assessing young athletes’ skills, and providing the resources and training needed to transform raw talent into remarkable skill.

This initiative is designed to bring sports to the grassroots level, discovering hidden gems who might not otherwise have the opportunity to shine. By creating a platform for young athletes to showcase their abilities, we are not only fostering individual growth but also working towards building a stronger sporting culture in the nation. Our vision is to create an accessible, inclusive pathway for future champions, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.

Our Mission

Our mission with the Outplay Sports Talent Hunt Initiative is to empower young athletes by providing them with the tools, resources, and support necessary to succeed in competitive sports. We are committed to creating equal opportunities for all, fostering talent at the grassroots level, and contributing to a healthier, more active society. We believe that with the right guidance and support, these athletes can achieve excellence, inspire others, and potentially represent the nation on global platforms.

How the Talent Hunt Works

The Outplay Sports Talent Hunt is a systematic, multi-stage process designed to identify and support promising athletes. Here’s how it works:

Talent Identification Camps

Our talent identification camps are held in cities and towns across the country, especially focusing on underserved and remote areas. Young athletes, from schools and communities, participate in a series of physical tests and skill assessments tailored to their specific sports of interest. These camps are designed to be inclusive, welcoming individuals of all abilities who are eager to showcase their talent and passion for sports.

Skill Assessment and Selection

During each camp, athletes undergo a series of skill tests conducted by our team of professional coaches and sports scientists. These assessments measure athletic capabilities such as speed, strength, agility, and sport-specific skills. Athletes are then selected based on their performance, potential, and overall attitude, ensuring that we identify individuals with the raw talent and dedication needed for competitive success.

Scholarships and Sponsorship Opportunities

Selected athletes receive scholarships that cover essential training costs, equipment, travel expenses, and other related needs. We also connect them with sponsors and partners who are passionate about supporting sports development in the country. This financial assistance allows young athletes to focus on their training and development without the burden of financial constraints.

Access to World-Class Training

Athletes who are selected through the Talent Hunt gain access to our advanced facilities at the Outplay Sports Training Centre, where they receive world-class coaching and mentorship. With a personalized training plan developed by our experts, these young athletes are given the opportunity to reach their full potential and prepare for regional, national, and international competitions.

Mentorship and Personal Development

Our Talent Hunt Initiative goes beyond physical training by providing mentorship and personal development programs. Each athlete is paired with a mentor who supports them through the challenges of competitive sports and offers guidance on goal-setting, discipline, and resilience. Our program emphasizes character building, teaching athletes the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, and leadership.

Ongoing Support and Monitoring

Once identified, our commitment to athletes doesn’t end. We offer continuous monitoring, support, and assessment to ensure that they are progressing and addressing any challenges that may arise. We also provide medical, nutritional, and psychological support to keep them physically and mentally ready for competition.

Targeted Sports

Our Talent Hunt Initiative focuses on a diverse range of sports, recognizing that different regions and communities have unique strengths and interests. We currently identify talent in:

Track and Field

Football (Soccer)

Basketball

Cricket

Wrestling

Boxing

Martial Arts

Badminton

Table Tennis

Gymnastics

We are continually expanding our scope to include additional sports that hold significance within local communities. This approach allows us to engage athletes across various disciplines and create opportunities for them to shine in their sport of choice.

Why Outplay Sports Talent Hunt?

Inclusive and Accessible

We aim to reach every corner of the country, making sports training accessible to those who may not otherwise have the means to pursue it. By holding talent camps in underserved areas, we ensure that all young athletes, regardless of location or background, have a chance to participate.

Creating Pathways for National Representation

Our Talent Hunt Initiative is structured to not only support athletes locally but to prepare them for national and international competitions. We aim to identify athletes who can represent the country in sports and bring pride to their communities and the nation.

Holistic Development Approach

Outplay Sports Foundation believes that athletic success is built on more than just physical talent. Our programs focus on the holistic development of athletes, including mental conditioning, nutrition, and personal growth, which enables them to handle the pressures of competitive sports.

Building a Sports Culture in the Community

Our Talent Hunt goes beyond just the athletes; it engages local communities and promotes a culture of sports and fitness. By holding camps, tournaments, and events, we hope to inspire future generations to value physical activity and teamwork as part of a balanced and healthy life.

Impact of the Talent Hunt Initiative

Since launching the Talent Hunt Initiative, Outplay Sports Foundation has identified and supported hundreds of young athletes from various parts of the country. Many of these athletes have gone on to compete in national and international competitions, achieving remarkable success and making their communities proud.

The impact of our initiative is evident not only in the accomplishments of these athletes but also in the inspiration they bring to their communities. By showcasing their success, we encourage more young people to participate in sports and highlight the importance of perseverance, discipline, and hard work.

Join Us on the Journey

Outplay Sports Talent Hunt Initiative is more than a search for talent – it’s a mission to bring sports closer to communities, identify hidden potential, and provide pathways for young athletes to dream big. We invite everyone – parents, schools, sports organizations, sponsors, and community leaders – to support this initiative and be part of something truly transformative. Together, we can help more young talents rise, excel, and inspire.

How You Can Support the Talent Hunt Initiative

There are many ways to support and be a part of the Outplay Sports Talent Hunt Initiative:

Spread the Word: Help us reach more communities by sharing information about the Talent Hunt camps and events.

Volunteer: Join us as a volunteer to assist in camps, events, or as a mentor for young athletes.

Sponsor an Athlete: Provide financial support to an aspiring athlete, covering their training, equipment, and travel expenses.

Partner with Us: If you represent a school, sports club, or organization, partner with us to expand the Talent Hunt Initiative and reach even more young athletes.

Outplay Sports Talent Hunt: Where Passion Meets Opportunity

The Outplay Sports Talent Hunt Initiative is a stepping stone for young athletes with big dreams. We are dedicated to transforming potential into excellence and giving every aspiring athlete the chance to succeed, regardless of their background. Join us in building the future of sports and discovering the champions of tomorrow.

MMA Training Coaching in Mumbai

[presidencyschooldehradun]

6 Ways Co-Ed Schools Promote Gender Equality

Education is one of the most powerful tools to create a fair and inclusive society. At The Presidency International School, we take pride in being a top coed ICSE school in Dehradun that actively promotes gender equality. By fostering an environment where boys and girls learn, play, and grow together, co-ed schools build mutual respect and understanding from a young age. Let’s explore six ways co-ed schools contribute to gender equality.

1. Encouraging Equal Opportunities

In co-ed schools, both boys and girls are given equal opportunities to participate in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities. This helps students understand that talent and hard work are not tied to gender. At The Presidency International School, we create an environment where every student is encouraged to shine, breaking stereotypes about what boys or girls "should" excel in.

2. Breaking Gender Stereotypes

Co-ed schools help challenge traditional gender roles. For example, boys can explore creative fields like dance or art, and girls can pursue sports or science without being judged. At our coed ICSE school in Bhaniyawala, Dehradun, students learn that interests and abilities are not limited by gender. This early exposure encourages them to think beyond societal norms.

3. Fostering Mutual Respect

When boys and girls study together, they learn to respect each other’s opinions and abilities. Group projects, classroom discussions, and shared responsibilities allow them to understand different perspectives. At The Presidency International School, a coed ICSE school in Dehradun, students are taught to value everyone’s contributions, building a culture of mutual respect and cooperation.

4. Preparing for Real-World Challenges

The real world is co-ed, with men and women working side by side in every field. Co-ed schools prepare students for this reality by teaching them how to collaborate effectively with people of all genders. This helps them become confident and respectful individuals who can thrive in diverse environments. As a top coed ICSE school in Dehradun, we ensure that students are ready for both academic and life challenges.

5. Building Confidence in Both Genders

In a co-ed environment, both boys and girls are given a platform to voice their thoughts and showcase their skills. This boosts their confidence and helps them overcome any insecurities related to their gender. At The Presidency International School, we encourage open communication and teamwork, so all students feel valued and empowered.

6. Promoting Healthy Friendships

Co-ed schools give students the opportunity to form friendships with peers of the opposite gender. These bonds help break down barriers and reduce biases, creating a more inclusive society. At our coed ICSE school in bhaniyawala dehradun, we focus on building a supportive community where students can learn and grow together.

Why Choose The Presidency International School?

As a top coed ICSE school in Dehradun, The Presidency International School goes beyond academics to promote important values like gender equality. With a balanced approach to education and a nurturing environment, we help students grow into compassionate and capable individuals. Our coed ICSE school in Bhaniyawala, Dehradun, is dedicated to shaping young minds and preparing them for a future where equality matters.

Conclusion

Co-ed schools play a crucial role in promoting gender equality by encouraging equal opportunities, breaking stereotypes, and building mutual respect. At The Presidency International School, we are committed to creating a space where boys and girls learn together, grow together, and respect one another.

Join us at the top coed ICSE school in Dehradun and give your child the opportunity to thrive in an environment that values equality and inclusivity. Together, let’s build a brighter and more equal future!

[musicindustry123]

Does Age Define Talent? A Deep Dive into Music Industry Perceptions

In an industry where image and perception are often as important as sound, does age matter in the music industry? The question arises frequently as young, fresh faces rise quickly in the charts, while experienced musicians with years of dedication find their own loyal followings. There’s a longstanding belief that youth is synonymous with marketability and innovation, but many legendary musicians have proven otherwise, showing that talent knows no age limits. This article delves into how talent transcends age in the music industry, exploring stories of artists who have found success at different stages of life, the evolving perceptions of audiences and executives, and the role of technology in allowing talent to shine regardless of age.

Debunking the Myth: Age-Bound Talent in Music

For years, a common myth has existed in the music industry that true talent is often discovered only in the early stages of life. This belief has been reinforced by the rise of pop icons and teen idols who reach stardom at a young age, such as Britney Spears, Justin Bieber, and Billie Eilish. Young artists are typically seen as trendsetters who understand the current cultural climate and can relate directly to younger fans. Many record labels and executives capitalize on this assumption, investing heavily in young performers with the belief that youth equals novelty, relevance, and popularity.

However, this myth has often been challenged by artists who have gained recognition later in life, proving that age does not determine musical potential or talent. Artists like Leonard Cohen, who released his first album in his 30s, and Susan Boyle, who shot to fame in her late 40s, are examples of individuals who reached widespread recognition after defying the age stereotype. These stories remind us that musical talent is not inherently tied to youth but rather to passion, dedication, and creativity.

The Role of Social Media in Defining Talent Across Ages

One of the most significant changes in the music industry over the past decade has been the rise of social media, which has made it easier for artists of all ages to showcase their talent without needing traditional industry backing. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok allow artists to build their followings and connect with fans directly. This democratization of exposure has empowered talented individuals of all ages to share their work, engage with audiences, and build loyal fanbases.

TikTok, for instance, has given young musicians the opportunity to go viral and has also opened the door for older musicians and late bloomers to connect with audiences they might not have been able to reach otherwise. By eliminating age-related barriers and focusing on talent and creativity, social media platforms enable artists to succeed based on skill rather than appearance or age. Fans on these platforms care about authenticity, relatability, and originality—qualities that can shine through at any age.

Legendary Musicians Who Defied Age-Based Stereotypes

Some of the music industry’s most beloved legends have defied stereotypes about age, achieving some of their greatest successes well into their careers. Artists like David Bowie, Aretha Franklin, and Tina Turner were able to continually reinvent themselves over decades, proving that age did not hinder their creativity or ability to connect with fans. Bowie, for example, produced influential work at every stage of his career, from his early days as Ziggy Stardust to his final album, Blackstar, which was released just days before his passing. His career demonstrated that reinvention, exploration, and innovation are not age-dependent.

Similarly, blues and jazz greats like B.B. King and Ella Fitzgerald continued to draw audiences and gain new fans, their music resonating with listeners across generations. Artists like them prove that talent grows, changes, and matures over time. Their work illustrates the idea that with experience comes depth, and with age comes a unique artistic voice that resonates powerfully with fans of all ages. The success of these artists sends a strong message: talent is timeless and can continue to inspire regardless of age.

How Generational Fans Respond to Age and Talent

Audience perception of age has a significant impact on an artist’s success. Traditionally, younger fans are drawn to artists closer to their own age, finding relatable themes and experiences. However, older fans tend to be more appreciative of mature artists who bring depth, authenticity, and a lifetime of experience to their music. These generational preferences mean that both young and older musicians have substantial opportunities to find their own niche and connect with fans who value their unique voices.

Recently, we’ve seen a shift in these dynamics as fans become more open-minded and willing to support artists of all ages. Younger fans now appreciate the depth that older musicians bring, and older audiences have started embracing the fresh perspectives of younger talents. This cross-generational support has allowed for a greater range of artists to thrive, from young newcomers to seasoned performers. The music industry benefits from this diversity, as fans are exposed to a broader array of voices and experiences, enhancing their appreciation for music as a universal art form.

How the Music Industry is Adapting to Changing Perceptions of Age

With the increase in age diversity among successful artists, the music industry itself is slowly adapting to shifting perceptions of age. Many record labels and streaming platforms are investing in talents across age groups, moving away from age-restrictive marketing strategies and embracing a more inclusive approach. Platforms like Spotify and Apple Music highlight artists across genres and ages, letting audiences discover music based on their interests rather than an artist’s age.

Additionally, the rise of independent music production has played a major role in supporting artists of all ages. Artists can now self-produce, distribute, and market their music without traditional industry support, allowing them to shape their careers at any age. The success of independent artists of all ages has encouraged industry leaders to reconsider traditional marketing approaches, focusing more on an artist’s unique talent and connection with audiences rather than their age.

Talent, Authenticity, and Audience Connection: Age is Just a Number

At the core of every successful music career is the ability to connect with an audience, and age rarely impacts this ability. Fans resonate with authenticity, passion, and originality, qualities that transcend age. Music icons like Fleetwood Mac, Paul McCartney, and Joni Mitchell continue to captivate fans not because of their youth but because of the honesty and artistry that define their work. Conversely, younger artists like Lorde and Billie Eilish have found success by conveying a vulnerability and relatability that audiences of all ages appreciate.

This balance between youth and maturity ultimately enriches the music industry. Young and older artists alike contribute unique perspectives, each bringing their own voice, experiences, and insights to their music. By embracing artists of all ages, the music industry benefits from a richer diversity of voices, leading to a broader and more inclusive music culture.

Conclusion

So, does age matter in the music industry? The answer depends on perspective, but as the industry evolves, it’s clear that age should no longer be a primary measure of talent or success. From young pop icons to seasoned jazz legends, artists of all ages bring valuable contributions to music, proving that talent and creativity are ageless. With the rise of social media, independent music production, and evolving audience perspectives, artists today are proving that age is just a number when it comes to passion and connection.

In the end, the magic of music lies in its ability to resonate with people, regardless of the performer’s age. Age should not limit anyone from pursuing a career in music or exploring their potential. What do you think? Does age truly define talent in the music industry, or is it simply one of many factors? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation!