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justinspoliticalcorner · 3 days

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Tim Murphy at Mother Jones:

Arizona’s fourth legislative district, located in the suburban heart of Maricopa County, might be the ultimate bellwether in the ultimate bellwether state. And this fall, the stakes are impossibly high, not just at the presidential level—where polls show Donald Trump and Kamala Harris in a dead heat—but all the way down the ballot. Republicans control both chambers of the legislature by just one vote. In Arizona, where each legislative district elects two representatives, control of the state house could come down to Democrats’ efforts to flip one seat and hold another in this district that includes parts of Phoenix and Scottsdale.

In their quest to hold onto the legislature, Republicans have turned to a member of a famous Arizona family—Pamela Carter, older sister of the original Wonder Woman, Lynda Carter. On the campaign trail, the candidate Carter has talked up her work as a successful entrepreneur and a record of academic accomplishment, and boasts of having “my family’s full support” for her state house run. But a review of her record and past statements tells a much different story: In contrast to the fourth district’s moderate profile, Carter is a fervently anti-abortion minister who has been “blessed with end-time revelation” and who has made confusing claims about her past. And one notable member of her family is not on board—her famous sister, an advocate for reproductive rights. “On her website, Pam claims to have her ‘family’s full support,'” Lynda Carter said in a statement to Mother Jones. “I have known Pam my entire life, which is why I sadly cannot endorse her for this or any public office.”

Pamela Carter has offered an inconsistent accounting of her educational background. Her page at Ballotpedia states that she “earned a master’s degree in Communications and Biblical studies and attended Arizona State University,” which a spokesperson for the elections site confirmed was based on an informational survey that was “verified by the candidate.” “I was raised in Scottsdale, went right here to Arcadia High, ASU, and I just love our city,” she said on a podcast in 2022. This is technically true. Carter did attend ASU, and she does also have a master’s degree. But the reality of her resume is a bit more complicated. According to an ASU spokesperson, Carter was at one point enrolled at the university, but did not graduate. Instead, according to her LinkedIn page and other interviews, she attended an unspecified bible college in Kansas City, Missouri, and later received a master’s degree in “communications and media studies” from the Primus University of Theology, a Phoenix-based institution that affirms in its mission statement that “life begins at conception.” (One of the prerequisites for admission is that you order a copy of the founder’s book.) Primus, which aims to prepare its students “for their Ministry calling,” is not accredited by any agency recognized by the Department of Education. Instead, it cites the approval of the University Accreditation Association, which evaluates institutions on their adherence to “biblical truths.” Its degree programs are “designed for the specific and singular purpose of qualifying individuals for Christian Ministry.” But Carter has also described that degree differently in different contexts. Her campaign website during her unsuccessful 2022 campaign for Scottsdale city council said she held a “Master’s Degree in Business and Communications,” a claim she also repeated that year in an interview on a local podcast. In another video that year, she boasted of having a “master’s degree in theology, as well as in mass communications.” A current campaign biography states that “I received my master’s degree in Communications and Biblical studies.”

Carter, who did not respond to requests for comment, has leaned into her biography during her run for office, arguing that her business experiences give her an advantage in the political realm. Foremost among those ventures was Jon Cole Systems, a gym she once owned with her ex-husband, the powerlifter Jon Cole. Newspaper ads for the fitness center sometimes featured Lynda Carter, touting the benefits of Cole’s “TOTAL WOMAN” workout program.

“It was the largest [gym] in the nation at the time,” Pamela Carter boasted in a 2022 interview, in which she suggested that working people struggling to find housing in Scottsdale needed to hustle as hard as she had when she owned two homes and was helping to run the business in the 1970s.

For a few years, the gym was a major success, with clients such as the Green Bay Packers and members of the Phoenix Suns. But it soon went downhill. The company pursued Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 1982, and was sold for $60,000 the next year, according to an Arizona Republic report in 1983. The couple divorced around the same time. After the gym business fell through, Carter went on to a long career as a Christian wellness influencer, pitching the gospel alongside weight-loss and nutrition tips. She moved to California and hosted a fitness show called “Get in Shape with Pamela Carter” (on the Trinity Broadcasting Network) and another program on CBN called “Fit for Life.”

[...]

Carter was not just pitching products, though. She was selling a very particular kind of theology, rooted in a desire to see the United States “united for Jesus,” and a belief that modern-day prophets—like herself—were transmitting revelations from God. A biography at the ministry stated that Carter “is very passionate about her love for the Lord and has been blessed with end-time revelation of His desire for His bride.” (The full revelation was available for purchase for $25.) She talked frequently about building influence on the “Media mountain” and said in 2011 that she was part of “God’s media army…to be raised up for such a time as this, to take possession of the arts, the entertainment media, the internet.” The term is often used by proponents of a Christian nationalist movement sometimes called the New Apostolic Reformation and a belief its adherents subscribe to known as Seven Mountains Dominionism, which aims to take gain influence over the seven spheres (or “mountains”) of government, education, media, family, entertainment, religion, and business.

In response to a candidate questionnaire from the city of Scottsdale two years ago, Carter said she had “been involved…as a volunteer” with three churches or organizations, all of which had ties to the NAR. They included Intercessors for America, a national prayer organization that warns that “there is an Enemy of our souls and our nation who orchestrates a coordinated battle plan that is discernible and beatable with spiritual weapons.” Another group she touted her work with was the Kansas City-based International House of Prayer, whose founding pastor, Mike Bickle, was dismissed last year amid allegations of sexual abuse. The church, where worship services have run 24/7 since 1999, has “been criticized by some pastors for what they describe as unorthodox theology and a cultish atmosphere, charges that Mr. Bickle rejects,” the New York Times reported in 2011. (In response to a Kansas City Star investigation into Bickle earlier this year, the organization emphasized that his alleged abuse predated the church’s creation, while Bickle has admitted to “inappropriate behavior” but not “the more intense sexual activities that some are suggesting.”) Long before he was forced out, Bickle had courted controversy with his assertions from the pulpit that Oprah was a forerunner of the Antichrist and that God sent Hitler to kill Jewish people because they wouldn’t accept Christianity.

[...] In that interview, Carter, who served that year as an advisor to the Trump campaign in the state, said she had acted as a prayer “intercessor” while working as a paid poll worker in Arizona. “I was dancing around, I had so much joy in just praying over every person that came in, you know, it was so fun,” she said. “But there’s also a lot of corruption I saw—not at the poll where I was working but at the election facility—and we just have to really watch and pray, watch and pray, and then you can cut that off in the spirit and then report it.”

[...] The district offers a glimpse of how reproductive rights is playing at the ballot box in a highly competitive area. Christine Marsh, the district’s Democratic state senator, won her election in 2022 by a little more than 1,000 votes by relentlessly linking a Republican incumbent to the state legislature’s 15-week abortion ban. The current Republican state representative, Matt Gress, was one of three members of his party to break ranks and vote to repeal Arizona’s 1864 abortion ban, which offered no exceptions even for cases of rape. A recent Fox News survey found that supporters of an abortion-rights ballot initiative in Arizona outnumber opponents by roughly three-to-one—and 50-percent of Republicans said they approved. Carter, though, has sung a different tune.

Pamela Carter, the sister of Lynda Carter (who played Wonder Woman on the Wonder Woman show), is running for a State House seat in Arizona. Lynda is not backing her, citing Pamela’s anti-abortion views.

Read the full story at Mother Jones.

#Pamela Carter #Lynda Carter #Arizona #2024 Arizona Elections #2024 Elections #Arizona House of Representatives #Jon Cole #New Apostolic Reformation #Seven Mountains Dominionism #International House of Prayer #Mike Bick;e #Wonder Woman

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historyhermann · 1 year

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Villainous Review

Villainous, also known as Villanos, is animated series which mixes the science fantasy, morbid humor, and comedy horror genres. Alan Ituriel, a veteran of the Mexican animation industry, is the series creator. This series is produced by Ituriel's A.I. Animation Studios and Cartoon Network. Humberto Cervera and Mayte Sanz are also executive producers. There will be spoilers.

Reprinted from Pop Culture Maniacs and Wayback Machine. This was the thirty-third article I wrote for Pop Culture Maniacs. This post was originally published on May 26, 2023.

This series flips the script often employed in superhero fiction such as Masters of the Universe: Revelation, Tokyo Mew Mew (and the reboot), Sailor Moon, Sailor Moon Crystal, Vixen, and Young Justice. It focuses on the Black Hat Organization, run by the villainous Black Hat (voiced by Ituriel). He is assisted by his team of three aides: Dr. Flug (voiced by Yian Riuz), Demencia (voiced by Cindy Eliz Pérez), and 5.0.5. (voiced by Mark Fischbach). They are contracted by other villains to "solve" their problems with heroes, either directly or indirectly, or sell inventions created by Dr. Flug. Their plans often go awry with comical and absurd consequences.

Villainous has garnered a massive following since the first webisodes premiered in 2012, followed by efforts by Ituriel to pitch the series to Cartoon Network. This resulted in the pilot airing in June 2019. The series had a backdoor pilot in the Season Two Victor and Valentino episode "Villainy In Monte Macabre", in October 2020. There were 29 shorts featuring the same characters, which aired from May 2017 to February 2019 on the Cartoon Network Latin America YouTube channel. Even one "episode" was released which consisted of the creators rick-rolling the show's fans.

Some have posted their own dubs of the show's six episodes, which were released in Spanish language in October 2021, on HBO Max LA, and other content. Their recent, and official, release as part of "Season 1a" on the newly renamed "Max" streaming service (formerly known as "HBO Max"), makes them more accessible to new and old fans alike.

The first episode of Villainous sets the tone. A superhero named Sunblast (voiced by Roly Gutiérrez) beats up a villain, Penumbra (voiced by Rebecca Manriquez), because his new punching bag hasn't been delivered. It is also a good introduction to each of the characters: a nervous and nerdy scientist in his 20s named Dr. Flug who wears a paper bag over his head, a green-haired mischief-loving fan of Black Hat named Demencia, and a big blue bear named 5.0.5. The latter is a contradiction, as he was intended to be evil, but is very loving, and likes hugging people. He also serves as the housekeeper-of-sorts of the Black Hat Organization (BHO).

Even from the first episode you can somewhat sympathize with these villains, despite their trapping of Sunblast in a jar, punching Ringworm (voiced by Sean Davis) into submission, and dropping heroes in pits without a second thought. This sympathy is clear when the three protagonists are yelled at by Black Hat for doing a "mediocre" job. One character in particular, Dr. Flug, is scared of his boss (Black Hat), ghosts like Emilia (voiced by Jackie Rodriguez), wrestlers, and almost being killed by heroes.

I liked how the series mixes humor with violence and "course language". For instance, a group of kids, based on Scooby-Doo protagonists, are scared off by a possessed fence. Later, the unstoppable Bulldozer (voiced by David Steel) attempts to destroy the Outlaw House (voiced by Alex Texeira). He is stopped by 5.0.5., as bears terrify him after one bit him years ago.

Sometimes this comedy is continued during the episode credits. In the episode 2 credits, Bulldozer ends up in the cave house of the three protagonists of We Bare Bears (Grizzly, Panda, and Ice Bear), another CN series. In the credits of the fourth episode, the heroic Airlock (voiced by Jinon Deebs), a short-haired White woman, is eaten by a space monster. This is after she escaped the show's protagonists because she found them as very "annoying".

This brings me to another part which I enjoy about Villainous: crossovers with other series. The third episode, reportedly a homage to the Mexican wrestling films of the 1960s, features characters from Victor and Valentino and Helluva Boss in the stands. A few episodes later, Johnny Bravo, from the series of the same name, is a background character, while the robotic lawyers for Black Hat bring plagiarism cases against characters from Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends.

That same episode also features Harvey Birdman from the Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law, and characters from Grim and Evil like Hector Con Carne. Again, these are all CN series, which makes the crossovers all the more interesting.

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In the third episode of Villainous, the three protagonists are tasked at eliminating a luchador named El Valiente (voiced by Jose Aparicio) by their client, Adelita Guerrero (voiced by Margarita Coego). It reminds me of three series: Carmen Sandiego, Elena of Avalor and Victor and Valentino.

In the latter two, there are episodes in which the protagonists, or supporting characters, are possessed by a mask, like Mascara Macabra (voiced by Aparicio) in this series, or another individual. As for Carmen Sandiego, the Season Three opening episode features Carmen attending a wrestling match in hopes of finding her mother.

The characters of Villainous become even more relatable in the last couple episodes. In the fourth episode, Dr. Flug's favorite series is spoiled by a sassy A.I. named V.I.R.U.S. (voiced by Sean Davis). Even worse, 5.0.5. is horrified when Black Hat ruins a children's show, almost akin to the Teletubbies. It becomes horrific after Black Hat causes the Sun to light the bears on fire.

The series pokes fun at itself. In one episode, the copycats/doppelgangers claim they are BHO in order to rake in profits for themselves. This is better executed than the "Pirates" episode of Cleopatra in Space, as each of the protagonists comes across a "stronger" version of themselves. Hilariously, and sadly, 5.0.5.'s counterpart is just a cactus. In that same episode, I liked how Dr. Flug blatantly interrupts the "origin story" of the other version of Black Hat, annoying him to no end.

The final episode of Villainous ends the series on bang. It focuses on a self-absorbed social media influencer named Miss Heed (voiced by Katherine Clavelo), who Dr. Flug knew when he went to the academy. She is far worse than those depicted in the first season of The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder, Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, or the currently airing Kizuna no Allele.

In fact, Heed has a special concoction she sprays on the city residents to make them love her. In an indictment of such influencers, also known as internet personalities or internet celebrities, and their power, Dr. Flug is able to take her down, with the assistance of Demencia. His kiss with her, is streamed and goes viral. It causes all of her zombie "fans" to fall out of love with her.

While some series would have stopped there, Villainous goes the extra step. Heed is pushed into a vat of her own liquid, ending her plan to be the "most-loved" hero. She is locked up in a maximum security prison. Fitting with her personality, she falls off her rocker, and demands that people need to love her. In one of the best scenes in the series, Flug, after learning about Goldheart's plan to eliminate all villains, tells Heed that she needs to love herself first (i.e. self-love) before she can love anyone else.

The entire sequence, at first, appears to reinforce retributive justice paradigms. The latter involves punishment being imposed unilaterally, no option for remorse, and crime in the domain of the state. This is interlinked with the narrative that violence is justified as long as it is directed at those deemed as "evil". It further involves heroes in league with the criminal system and has an assumption that villains cannot be rehabilitated. On the other hand, Villainous turns this around, as Heed is a hero and Flug is a villain, meaning that a "hero" is being locked away for something a "villain" would do.

While Flug's kiss is a one-off interaction, Demencia's romantic obsession with Black Hat spans the series. She believes that her romantic feelings will be reciprocated, but he likely doesn't care much about her. However, her love saves her from Heed's concoction, as she only has love for him. More than anything, Demencia is an obsessed fan. Perhaps her character is symbolic of out-of-control fans which feel the same way about public figures, to the detriment of themselves and those personalities.

All in all, this series has many similarities to Helluva Boss and Hazbin Hotel, especially the former. BHO somewhat resembles I.M.P. (Immediate Murder Professionals). The latter is contracted by demons in hell to assassinate people in the world of the living. The difference is that BHO specifically focuses on heroes and is only contracted by villains.

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The last episode of Villainous, at present, lays the groundwork for future episodes. Goldheart (voiced by Oliver Roberts) seems to know Dr. Flug, declaring "Flug, what did you do now?" The efforts of BHO to counter him could be an important storyline.

A possible second season, might not follow a serialized format. The six current episodes have the same characters, but are not, serialized. Each episode could stand on its own. This does not diminish the series, however.

The voice actors for this series stand out. Apart from Ituriel, Yian Riuz, Cindy Eliz Pérez, and Mark Fischbach, who voice the protagonists, are all talented. Fischbach is a well-known YouTuber, with this as his first voice role. In contrast, Pérez previously played a character in BoBoiBoy Elemental Heroes, and Riuz in Mashed!

Similarly, Sahid Pabon, Roly Gutiérrez, Connie Fernandez, Yenni Ann, Guia Burns, and Jason Kessler, who voice villains, wrestlers, henchmen, and others in the series, are equally talented. They have lent their voices to characters in Monkey King Reborn, Legend Quest, Gintama, Leo De Vinci, Rainbow High, Kageki Shojo!!, and Kemono Friends.

This is also the case for the Spanish-language voice actors, such as José Antonio Macías, Melissa Gedeón, Lourdes Arruti, and Diego Valenzuela. They have voiced characters in video games, animated shorts, and productions such as Guardians of Oz, and Top Cat.

The producers of Villainous worked on The Flying Machine, Hua Se, Frankelda's Book of Spooks, Pucca, Pandalian, Eden, Tonikawa: Over the Moon for You, and Xi you ji. Kevin Manthei, the music composer, worked on Ben 10, Spider-Man, Robot Chicken, Ultimate Spider-Man, Polly Pocket, Hanny Manny, Invader Zim, and Generator Rex.

Other than the amazing dubbing by VOA Studios, in Miami, the show's crew includes alums from many series. This includes Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts, Dota: Dragon's Blood, Black Dynamite, Legend of Korra, OK K.O. Let's Be Heroes!, Danger House, Harvey Birdman Attorney at Law, and Scan2Go.

Villainous is more than a series with humor reminiscent of 1990s cartoons. It has themes about overcoming your inner demons and lampoons popular Cartoon Network series. This is accompanied by entertaining characters, which have intriguing dynamics and comraderie within the BHO, wonderful animation, character design, artwork, and creativity. What other series has villains traveling to their destination in a flying hat spewing smoke?

I haven't watched enough Invader Zim or The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy to say if Villainous is like those series. However, each character is interesting enough and the story is engaging that Villainous could run for many seasons. If Helluva Boss has aired 12 episodes, why can't Villainous do the same? Perhaps the cast could become even more diverse and LGBTQ characters could be added. The latter would further enhance the series.

Unfortunately, Villainous comes at a time of extreme flux at Max's parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery. This includes an error causing writers, directors, and creators to all be lumped together into one category. There has been an awful rollout of the "Max" streaming service, in an inane effort to "attract" families.

This comes after the cruel content purge at HBO Max, former name for the service. It resulted in the removal of Infinity Train, Mighty Magiswords, Uncle Grandpa, Final Space, and Close Enough. None of them have been re-added to Max. The content purge on Hulu, and on Max, was discussed in a PCM podcast on May 22nd.

Despite the shenanigans of the corporate executives, I am hopeful that Villainous will be continued with additional episodes. All in all, I highly recommend Villainous as a series to watch.

Villainous is currently streaming on Max.

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write143 · 1 year

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✨Reading Master List (PART ONE)

Here's a masterlist of what I have read and/or am reading on AO3! Currently everything I'm reading is primarily SKZ fics (some have referenced TxT or ATEEZ and it's cute) but I'm generally just reading to read and learn what people are writing/passionate about. It's honestly enlightening, in a good way (most times). Reviews are below the cut. ♥

You can find change notes in the QRTs, where I list if anything was added, removed, edited, etc.

Also apparently this post got SO LARGE that I now have to break it up into pieces...will likely make a Google Doc of the Other Finished Fics section.

Number of fics I've finished reading: 114

my ao3: think143 🔖 - unfinished work 📗 - completed work 📖 - currently reading/tracking

My Favorite (Finished) Fics

(In order of completion, not best/worst or anything like that)

hands-on learning 💖 (E) 25.2k Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: Alternate Universe - College/University, Porn with Feelings, Friends to Lovers My Notes: I thought I would have more to say about this one but it's just really really good. A nice quick nighttime read before bed. There's just something about the ones with "feelings revelation" that make me sooooo happy. And yes, all of the smut is *chef's kiss*.

MFA (Most Fuckable Ass) 💖 (E) 53.2k Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: Teacher-Student Relationship, Professor Lee Minho, Student Han Jisung, Slow Burn, Daddy Kink My Notes: I burned through this fic in an evening and I am fanning myself like a Southern woman in the heat of summer on her front porch. So incredibly well-written, and I've found a fic author that I'll be following closely for a long time.

don't leave me tongue-tied 💖 (E) 57.5k Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: Alternate Universe - College/University, Friends to Lovers, Friends With Benefits, Porn with Feelings, Light Angst, Denial of Feelings, Emotional Slow Burn, Misunderstandings, Fluff My Notes: This was honestly really endearing to read and see actual feelings come to light. Author commented to say that it's based on a manga called "My Quiet Best Friend's Just Tongue-Tied", but without the dub-con elements. Well-written and reads easily; comical when it needs to be!

Haebang 💖 (E) 193.6k Relationship(s): Stray Kids Ensemble/Stray Kids Ensemble Notable Tags: Fluff, Smut, Porn With Plot, Sex Work, Dom/sub Undertones, Daddy Kink, Explicit Consent, Subspace, Porn with Feelings, BDSM, Polyamory, Slow Burn, Hurt/Comfort, Possessive Behavior, Feelings Realization, Safewords My Notes: Okay, hear me out; there is a LOT going on in this fic. A lot. The point of the Haebang retreat is that each member specializes in helping you find liberation with one aspect of sex; be it intimacy, dom/sub, etc, and each chapter follows each member at the start before things start to get a bit more involved. However, any time I try to word why I like this fic so much, I simply cannot. Also Seungmin is a nerd and we love him for it.

instinct 💖 (E) 53.4k Relationship(s): Bang Chan/Reader Notable Tags: Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics, Mating Cycles/In Heat, Alternate Universe - College/University, Light Dom/sub My Notes:This was the first ABO fic I read and it makes every other one I've read after it pale in comparison. I love how the author describes what's going on in the reader's head without over-explaining or spoon feeding it to us. The relationship between Reader and Chan, plus all of the other housemates, is so so so good.

come on home 💖 (E) 206.7k Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: Angst, Smut, Mutual Pining, Slow Burn, Violence, Strippers & Strip Clubs, Denial of Feelings, Referenced Homophobia, Domestic Violence, Implied/Referenced Cheating, Feelings Realization, POV Alternating, Gangs, Guns, Shitty Exes My Notes: The guns are there for a split second, but this fic is very centered on a incredibly difficult to read domestic abuse situation, and the liberation from said relationship. There's also the orientation realization of another character, but that instills a lot of angst and fear of loss while reading. However, the fic is still incredible, a powerful read, and definitely on the recommended list.

Wannabe Poet 💖 (E) 134.2k Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: Bad Poems, Bullied Han Jisung, Friends with Benefits, Loss of Virginity, Exhibitionism, Smut, Attempted Rape/Non-Con, Sexual Assault. My Notes: I'm all about found family and I feel like this fic really hit the nail on the head for it. I loved the concept of this fic from the beginning. Han texts a bad poem to a random number and makes a friend in Minho. Most of this fic seems centered on Han becoming comfortable with his true self and what he wants, not what his family wants for him. I really love the love that he finds not only in Minho, but in everyone around him. ♥

Five Stars 💔 but 💖 (E) 420.7k Relationship(s): Hwang Hyunjin/Yang Jeongin, Han Jisung/Lee Minho, Lee Felix/Seo Changbin, Bang Chan/Lee Minho Notable Tags: MAJOR CHARACTER DEATH, GRAPHIC DEPICTIONS OF VIOLENCE, DEAD DOVE: DO NOT EAT, Cannibalism, Dismemberment, Drug Use, Implied/Referenced Self-Harm, Implied/Referenced Child Abuse, Emotional Manipulation, Some Fluff, Explicit Sexual Content, Animal Abuse, Animal Death, Grooming, Murder, Mutual Pining, Minor Choi San/Jung Wooyoung, Implied/Referenced Suicide My Notes: I have to stress so so so so much that the writing on this fic is one of the best I've ever read. HOWEVER, it's also one of the most fucked up pieces of fiction I've ever read. Mental health issues are at the center of this bloody, sexy, kinky fic. It would truly be a horror movie if it were put onto screen. Please please please make sure to read ALL OF THE TAGS on this fic before deciding whether to read it or not. I had to take frequent breaks but it was difficult to make myself look away because I wanted to know what the hell was going on. I have never screamed so much at a fic before in my life. I cried at least six times and four of those were in the last 50k words.

Heart Song 💖 (E) 63.1k Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho, Bang Chan/Lee Felix, Hwang Hyunjin/Seo Changbin, Kim Seungmin/Yang Jeongin Notable Tags: Alternate Universe - Soulmates, Soulmate-Identifying Marks, Alternate Universe - College/University, Angst with a Happy Ending, Physical Disability My Notes: I just...I cried so much during this fic. In this universe, soulmates are identified by a dream that people have on the night of their 16th birthday. They dream about a significant memory from their soulmate's life, and when they awaken, their soulmate's first impression appears on their body written in their handwriting. The only problem is that...Han Jisung is blind, so he has never seen anything. Lee Minho leads his whole life thinking that he doesn't have a soulmate, because he saw nothing in his dream. I LOVE the author's storytelling style, the way they use angst in believable ways, and the way that they bring the characters together.

Speak With Your Eyes 💖 (E) 164k Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: Alternate Universe - Space, Hybrids, Androids, Alternate Universe - Science Fiction, Space Corps, Miscommunication, Slow Burn, ONLY ONE BED, Found Family, Smut My Notes: A ROMANCE IN SPACE?! Lee Know is an android hybrid, and unfortunately this universe has a lot of not very nice things that are in place regarding people who are not fully human. Lee Know saves Han's life, then Han saves Lee Know's life, then Lee Know saves Han's life again...you get the picture. It's incredibly well-written, a lovely drop into a different setting than I'm used to, and devourable in a day. Will be following this author for a while!

so sweet like chocolate 💖 (T) 71.7k Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: Alternate Universe - College/University, Strangers to Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn, Fluff My Notes: I cannot stop gushing about this fic. The mutual pining is written incredibly addictingly and just aaaagh! Lee Know is a librarian, Jisung is a student who has never visited the library before, Jisung may have accidently thrown a pencil at Lee Know...it all becomes very fluffy at just the right pace. I read this so quickly and when it was over, and the author's note popped up saying "and that's the end!" I had to check the % progress on my kindle. I would devour any further stories written about this story, but I am also okay with how it ended, and imagining what happens next.

The Curse of Saturdays (T) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

opposites attract (E) Relationship(s): Bang Chan/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

chances taken (E) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

Let Your Love Walk In (E) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

LMCat_98 has joined the chat (E) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

i need you now, but i don't know you yet (M) Relationship(s): SKZ Ensemble/SKZ Ensemble Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

he ain't heavy, he's ours (M) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/SKZ Ensemble Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

A Beautiful Mess (E) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

strawberry chapstick (E) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

Promises to keep, we won't ever need Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

Loves Me, Loves Me Not Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

After Lust Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

abode of the saints Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Hwang Hyunjin Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

why did we ever meet Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho, Hwang Hyunjin/Lee Minho, Hwang Hyunjin/Lee Felix Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

Lonely Street Relationship(s): Lee Felix/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

break in case of emergency Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

Finger Lickin' Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

Poles Apart Relationship(s): Bang Chan/Hwang Hyunjin, Lee Felix/Seo Changbin, Han Jisung/Lee Minho, Han Jisung/Hwang Hyunjin/Lee Felix Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

boys, biology, and other inconveniences Relationship(s): Lee Minho/Yang Jeongin Notable Tags: TBA My Notes: TBA

To Be Read/Reading List

Charmer 📖🔖 (E) Relationship(s): Stray Kids Ensemble/Reader

Quaver and Storm 📖🔖 (E) Notable Tags: SKZ Member/Reader, Dom/Sub, Fluff, Smut, Polyamory, Non-con elements

Leap of Faith 📖🔖 (M) Relationship(s): Stray Kids Ensemble/Reader

Kerosene 📖🔖 (E) Relationship(s): Bang Chan/Reader

The Stray Kids Gang 📖🔖 (E) Relationship(s): Stray Kids Ensemble/Stray Kids Ensemble

In Too Deep 📖🔖 (M) Relationship(s): SKZ Member/Reader

We'll Be Alright 📖🔖 (E) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Hwang Hyunjin/Lee Minho

Connected 📖🔖 (E) Relationship(s): Stray Kids Ensemble/Original Female Character

I like the view right now 📖🔖(E) Relationship(s): Hwang Hyunjin/Lee Felix

The Force that Drives the Flower 📖🔖 (E) Relationship(s): Lee Felix/Lee Minho

Animals Without Direction 📖🔖 (E) Relationship(s): Stray Kids Ensemble/Reader

Everything you Crave 📖🔖 (E) Relationship(s): Stray Kids Ensemble/Reader

A Crack in the Glass 📖🔖(E) Relationship(s): Stray Kids Ensemble/Reader

Sin 📗 (E) Relationship(s): Hwang Hyunjin/Lee Felix

Boyfriend for Hire 📗 (M) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho

Waiting For Us 📗 (M) Relationship(s): Bang Chan/Yang Jeongin, Han Jisung/Lee Minho, OC/Hwang Hyunjin, OC/Lee Felix

You Are My Safe Space. 📗 (NR) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Reader

Ocean Sounds 📗 (E) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho

I Kiss Boys 📗 (E) Relationship(s): Various ATEEZ/ATEEZ and SKZ/SKZ pairings

The Pink Rose's Promise 📗 (E) Relationship(s): Bang Chan/Lee Felix

Stalking Tiger 📗 (M) Relationship(s): Lee Minho/Yang Jeongin

Wandering Eyes, And Spreading Thighs 📗 (E) Relationship(s): Han Jisung/Lee Minho

Other Fics I've Finished Reading

Due to Tumblr being a general jerk about post size, this is now in a google doc. You can view the list by clicking here. Sorry, I wish I could make this work better!! :(

#reading masterlist #fic recs #fanfic rec #fic rec #fanfiction #stray kids fanfic #ao3 fanfic #fanfic

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doctorwhogirlie · 5 months

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Doctor Who: Logopolis

Season Eighteen ✨ 1980 - 1981 ✨

Doctor: 4th

Story Length: 4 Episodes

Companions: Adric, Nyssa, Tegan

Main Setting: The Tardis, Logopolis, London 1981, Pharos Project Sussex 1981

Main Enemy: The Tremas Master

Creatures: Logopolitans, The Master

My Personal Rating: 7/10

The Doctor goes to Logopolis to repair the TARDIS' chameleon circuit, not knowing that a shadowy watcher is spying on him.

Meanwhile, his old enemy the Master has only recently gained secure longevity by possessing the body of Tremas, and revels in his safety. He has plans of his own for the planet of mathematicians, Logopolis, and a plan that could spell doom for the entire universe.

The Master's plan could rock Logopolis, the keystone of all life. Could this mean the unravelling of the causal nexus and the end of the universe itself?

The Doctor must pit his wits against the Master in a desperate battle to thwart his plans. But he is aware that this might be a fight which could easily spell the end of his life. Source.

My favourite scene in this one is when Adric and the Doctor are measuring a phonebox. I love that Tegan's here, in my notes I've written 'Ugh, she's a queen, don't need no man kinda queen'.

The watcher is sooooo creepy. Something about its eyes, no thank you. I really liked the montage of villains, so cool. So something I've always found funny, when Adric, Nyssa and Tegan gather round the Doctor as he goes to regenerate, something about them all shuffling into specific places around the Doctor always made me giggle.

This was probably my least favourite regeneration so far, it was creepy. Very very happy to see the fifth Doctor though! He was my favourite when I was little.

(Please don't take these too seriously, I am not a real life reviewer, just someone who likes the show)

#fifth doctor #fourth doctor #adric of alzarius #nyssa of traken #tegan jovanka #doctor who #doctor who girlie #classic who #classic doctor who #tegan x nyssa

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thegayhimbo · 1 year

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Stranger Things and Dungeons and Dragons Review

WARNING: The following review contains MAJOR SPOILERS from this comic and Season 4 of Stranger Things!

If you haven't yet, be sure to check out my other Stranger Things Reviews:

Stranger Things Six

Stranger Things Halloween Special

Stranger Things The Other Side

Stranger Things Zombie Boys

Stranger Things The Bully

Stranger Things Winter Special

Stranger Things Tomb of Ybwen

Stranger Things Into The Fire

Stranger Things Science Camp

Stranger Things "The Game Master" and "Erica's Quest"

Synopsis: Taking place before and during seasons 1-3, this comic chronicles the origins of The Party, their discovery of D&D, how the game impacted their lives, and how their shared love for fantasy and adventure allowed them to bond.

Observations:

Fantasy has always been appealing to me since I was a kid: The idea of creating worlds with your own characters, creatures, mythology, and story. The idea of universes out there more extraordinary and unique compared to the one we live in. The idea your imagination can bring some semblance of peace and security to your life. I know this and have lived through it. Even 27 years later, despite becoming more cynical and jaded through trauma and bitter experiences, I will always understand those who use fantasy to confront the harshness of the real world. It's why Mike's words hit home for me when he's telling the bookstore owner about why he's interested in D&D and wants to spend money on it:

"It really is like a war. We just want to fight on our own terms." Isn't that how we all feel at times? Some days, you're trying to survive the chaos of life, while other days involve you making choices between what is right and what is easy. Some days, everything is a shit-show, and you're trying to find something to keep you motivated. Some days, you have to deal with truly vile people and accept that they exist whether you like it or not. We all fight battles of some kind. We all have different ways of coping with how cold and indifferent reality can be. We all crave some sense of control in our lives.

For Mike and his friends, D&D provided that. Not only did it allow them to process their world easier, but it also gave them a sense of liberation from how oppressive the (as Eddie would put it) "forced conformity" of their society is. It's their world, and it's where they are the masters of their own destinies.

Now I'll admit I never really got into D&D. Both my brother and my college roommates tried to rope me into the game, and at the time I didn't have the patience for it. However, I do understand its appeal, and respect how it's a game for both kids and adults that forms friendships and can be a fun, shared experience for everyone. Stranger Things and Dungeons & Dragons is not only a story of how D&D influenced each member of the Party, but also a love letter to both the show and the game itself.

The artwork for this comic is incredible and some of the best I've seen so far. I love the drawings of the various D&D campaigns and the creative designs for the creatures the group encounters during their travels.

I also love how each campaign either draws upon the Party's experiences from school and their daily lives, or from the trauma they've endured since their encounters with the horrors of the Upside Down:

That last part is significant because at one point in the comic, Mike seriously questions whether or not D&D has any real meaning for him or his friends following his first meeting with the Demogorgon and the revelation that monsters exist:

Just like in the short story "The Game Master," Nancy is the one who comforts Mike during his crisis. She helps him realize that even though things can't go back to the way they were after everything that's happened, he still has his friends, and what made D&D valuable to them in the first place (aside from it being a means of dealing with the world around them) is that it brought and kept them together as companions.

Nancy recognizes the value D&D has to Mike. It's why she dressed up as an Elf for his Elder Tree Campaign all those years ago, and it's why she still encourages him despite his doubts.

(Side Note: I've always enjoyed the sibling dynamic Nancy and Mike have, and I'm praying season 5 includes more interactions between the two of them).

Speaking of which, this comic does a great job cementing the importance of D&D to Mike and Will's relationship. Mike is the one who introduced Will to D&D and even coined the nickname "Will the Wise" for him:

On top of that, in a deeply heartwarming moment, Mike goes out of his way to craft a specific campaign for Will following Will's rescue from the Upside Down. He knows Will is struggling and scared due to what happened to him, and works to help Will feel better and regain his confidence by giving him the opportunity to be a hero again. As Mike explains to Nancy:

This even extends to Mike handing over the role of Dungeon Master to Will by the time Max and El join The Party:

I know it's pretty common these days in the fandom to bash Mike for being insensitive and oblivious, but moments like these demonstrate he is capable of putting thought and effort into helping and encouraging his friends and loved ones. A big reason Will is passionate about D&D is because Mike inspired Will to embrace his talent and imagination. Will isn't likely to ever forget that.

Another aspect I enjoyed was getting to see how Mike, Will, and Lucas met Dustin. Back in season 1, Dustin remarks that he didn't become friends with them until around 4th grade, and the comic elaborates more on the circumstances of their meeting:

Turns out D&D appealed to Dustin's love for math and probabilities. There's also how he expressed interest in the game and didn't belittle it like Mike's other classmates did. Dustin is a curious person after all, and is more interested in figuring out how something works instead of dismissing it like other people do when they can't understand it.

Finally, there's Lucas's interest in D&D. At the beginning of the comic, when he and Mike are hiding from Troy and James, they go into a bookstore where they see the owner has created a display of The Battle of Waterloo, which is something that impresses Lucas:

There is the possibility I'm reading too much into this, but Lucas's comment about his dad's service in Vietnam and his refusal to talk about it makes me wonder if Lucas's interest in D&D isn't just because of the fantasy-adventure elements, but because it's his way of trying to understand what his dad went through during the war. The game has those battles between good and evil, as well as teaching people about making tough choices and relying on your companions when the going gets tough. Lucas is smart enough to piece things together, and even if his dad was reluctant to talk about Vietnam, he may have figured out aspects of that war based on what he was taught in school and whatever small details he could have picked up from his family.

Mike talks about how D&D for him is about fighting a war on his own terms, and the same goes for Lucas.

But it goes beyond that: D&D gave the boys memories to cherish, and the means to not feel alone while growing up:

Something else I want to discuss are the dates presented in the comic:

I don't know what information (if any) that Jody Houser or Dark Horse Comics were given about season 4 when this comic was written (which came out in late 2020/early 2021), but I find it to be a pretty big coincidence that the date Mike and Lucas discover D&D for the first time is on September 8th, 1980, which is exactly one year after the Massacre at Hawkins Lab took place and El banished Henry/One/Vecna to the Upside Down.

We also find out Mike's birthday is on April 7th, 1971. Granted, this is what the comic presents as his birthday, so I don't know if it's his actual birthday on the show. Regardless, it's still a cool detail.

And this was the gift Mike's friends gave him on his 10th birthday:

Finally, there's the last D&D campaign the Party plays in 1985 before El and Will leave Hawkins for Lenora. On the surface, there are callbacks to season 2, with Will's character in the game getting taken over by an evil entity (similar to how he was possessed by the Mind Flayer) and the Party having to work together to save him:

The big difference is while Will was able to be rescued in season 2, his character dies tragically in the game:

Again, I'm not saying the comic creators have any foreknowledge of what's going to occur in the final season, but I've been firm in believing that one or more main characters will end up dead before season 5 is over. I did a post a while back speculating that Mike was marked for death (and giving my reasoning for why), but I also wonder if it could also be Will, especially because of Vecna's creepy interest in him. There's a connection between the two of them the show hasn't fully explained yet, and (as I talked about in my review of Stranger Things The Other Side), I've seen fans on social media note the parallels between Vecna and Will and speculate on the idea of Will possibly turning evil in the last season. I'm skeptical of that happening (mostly because of the backlash the Duffer Brothers would face for it), but I do question what Will's fate will be in the final season. For what it's worth, Ross Duffer mentioned in an interview that Will's arc in season 5 will tie the whole series together, so make of that what you're able to.

There's also the final battle:

I remember the vision Vecna shows Nancy in season 4: A dark cloud spreading over Hawkins. Downtown on fire. Dead soldiers. A creature with a giant gaping mouth. An army of monsters invading. The death of her family (including Mike). Most of this is likely foreshadowing for what's to come. Just like the Party faces down an army of demons in their final game, they will also be facing down Vecna's army of monsters in the final season.

But in spite of how bad circumstances get, the one thing I trust is the Party will still have each other to rely on. I will be sad to see them all of them go once the show is over.

Overall, a solid comic and one of my personal favorites. I highly recommend it.

Coming Soon: Stranger Things Kamchatka Review

#stranger things #mike wheeler #will byers #dustin henderson #lucas sinclair #el hopper #max mayfield #nancy wheeler #vecna #henry creel #number 1 #the mind flayer #stranger things season 4 #stranger things comics #stranger things and dungeons and dragons #tgh opinions #tgh reviews #the duffer brothers

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rebelsofshield · 1 year

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Star Wars Ahsoka: "Shadow Warrior" - Review

Ahsoka delivers a long awaited moment for Star Wars fans that is at times moving but often cut down by the cloudy storytelling that surrounds this series.

After her surprise defeat at the hands of Baylan Skoll, Ahsoka Tano awakens in the World Between Worlds, a strange realm that operates outside time and space. There she is confronted by her former master, Anakin Skywalker, who has one final lesson for her. Meanwhile Hera Syndulla race against time to locate their friend before the New Republic questions her unsanctioned mission to Seatos.

"Shadow Warrior" in many ways feels built to satisfy fans of Dave Filoni's long running narratives in the Star Wars universe. It functions as a sort-of-sequel/sort-of-remake of The Clone Wars and provides the first real return of Hayden Christensen to the role of Anakin Skywalker. Yes, Christensen appeared in last year's Obi-Wan Kenobi limited series, but most of his performance was often concealed beneath Darth Vader's black mask or an all too short flashback sequence. Here, prequel fans get what they've been demanding for years, the chance for Christensen to really get to play the role of Anakin Skywalker one more time.

It's a moment that carries with it loaded and complex emotions and expectations. The last time we know that these two characters met was during an apocalyptic duel to the death on the Sith planet of Malachor, where Ahsoka finally learned the truth about her former master. But now, we have what is presumably Anakin's spirit interacting with his former apprentice now as a grown woman. There's weight and drama baked into the very premise of this interaction and if executed properly, the result could've been one of the most emotional sequences in franchise history.

Unfortunately, we don't quite get there. Sure, there are moments beautiful moments in Dave Filoni's script, but the same vague and murky character decisions that have plagued this series resurface in full force here. "Shadow Warrior" comes to be defined just as much about what is not said as what is.

A lot of this again comes down to the decision to keep so much of Ahsoka's recent past a mystery. "Shadow Warrior" wants you very much to believe that Ahsoka is still entirely defined by the events of The Clone Wars. Sure, what happens to us in our young adulthood can effect our entire lives, but almost three decades have passed since Ahsoka walked away from the Jedi Order. Not only does it seem strangely misguided for us to assume that Ahsoka has remained a static character for the thirty years, but this very series has been bombarding us with reminders that she's actually been up to quite a bit. Some of this can be accepted or hand-waived away. We can't know the totality Ahsoka's life during this time period, but there are some very big questions hanging over this series and some of them feel particularly relevant to the story "Shadow Warrior" wants to tell. For example, what exactly does Ahsoka know about Anakin Skywalker's redemption and death? Does she know about this at all? I guess, if she did learn the truth, it presumably happened off screen like her first interaction with Luke. (I'm still so pissed about this.) But, despite some rather blunt visual cues reminding us of Anakin's eventual fate, Ahsoka and her former master only briefly touch on his life as Vader. It's the cloud hanging over this entire episode and we are never really allowed to understand how Ahsoka feels about or comprehends what this means for the man that defined her childhood.

It's the culmination of the flawed manner in which Ahsoka treats its title character. Between FIloni's narrative withholding and Rosario Dawson's overly subdued performance, we can't quite understand much of anything about our protagonist here. "Shadow Warrior" sets up a shift in character and a revelation for Ahsoka's emotional and spiritual journey, but we are left to infer what exactly this all means without being handed all the tools to do so. It almost feels like reading the fourth book in a series of novels after being forced to skip over a rather eventful third installment

It's a shame because I do actually like the core of what I think "Shadow Warrior" is trying to say here. Given the stylized nature of the animation, it's sometimes hard in The Clone Wars to appreciate that Ahsoka was just fourteen years old when she was drafted into fighting a war. The padawans of The Clone Wars were for all intents and purposes child soldiers. This feels remarkably more apparent in Ahsoka. Part of this is simply the nature of a live action production, but this effect is sold wonderfully by Ariana Greenblatt's performance as a younger Ahsoka. Greenblatt's acting is stellar and she easily captures the personality of our title character at this far younger age. She and Christensen so easily slip into the mold of a dynamic that was established in a completely different medium and the older-brother, younger-sister dynamic is encapsulated wonderfully by both performers. Greenblatt steals the show even with her relatively short screentime and Hayden Christensen manages to blend his previous take on Anakin with the more heroic portrayal of The Clone Wars in a way that feels natural but unique. Their conversations together and "Shadow Warrior's" dreamlike recreations of some of the war's climactic battles are beautifully realized even if the limits of Ahsoka's budget are sometimes more apparent than usual here. (Also! Live action Captain Rex!)

"Shadow Warrior" seems to say (again emphasis on seems) that Ahsoka's determination to stop Thrawn's arrival is to stop more people from experiencing the same horrors she did as a teenager on the frontlines of The Clone Wars. It's a believable motivation, but it again runs into a lot of larger contextual issues when you think about it for more than a few seconds. Didn't the galaxy just get out of a rather big war? Where was Ahsoka during all of that? Did she avoid battle due to her trauma? Is her current determination just as much motivated by her own guilt at not doing more to stop the Empire? That very well could be true, but, again, Filoni's scripts have never given us a confirmation either way. It's all inference based off assumptions based off the subtlest of in text clues.

Anakin's big lesson to Ahsoka feels a tad more straightforward. "Live or die" is a bit of a blunt binary, but it's the absolute that Anakin delivers to his former apprentice. (I guess he does still have some Sith in him.) The lesson being that Ahsoka can not only choose to return to life after her near drowning, but that she can fully embrace her life again rather than being defined by her hurt and guilt. This seems to posit that Ahsoka's demeanor throughout the first four episodes of this series were a sort of emotional low for the character, a state that had to be worked through and escaped from. I can buy this, but again, none of this is actually communicated the viewer directly, not now and certainly not beforehand. It also begs the question of whether she's been this detached ever since The Clone Wars, which seems to be what "Shadow Warrior" implies? If so, that definitely didn't seem to be the case when we last left her in Rebels, even after she learned Darth Vader's secret.

I'm not one who normally asks to have things spelled out for me so directly, but I do want to understand the emotional lives of my characters. Or at the very least be given enough textual information within the narrative to make me feel like I understand the emotional lives of my characters. Ahsoka has struggled tremendously with this and "Shadow Warrior's" character forward approach only does so much to alleviate this.

That all being said, the destination we arrive at is remarkably refreshing. Rosario Dawson's performance becomes much less wooden. Ahsoka shows a little bit more of her personality. Her playfulness. Her humor. Her passion and creativity. They all start to flow back to the surface and for a little while I actually start to feel like I'm looking at an older version of a character I've grown to love. I'm happy that this seems to be the end goal of our journey, even if the journey itself was hard as hell to grasp. Also she gets to ride a space whale. I love space whales.

"Shadow Warrior" also marks the best outing we've seen from Dave Filoni as a live action director. Actors feel more comfortable and natural in their performances. Shot composition is more dynamic. A visual style feels more apparent. The World Between Worlds is a stunning location even if we see relatively little of it here.

"Shadow Warrior" closes out as both a milestone episode of Star Wars television and a frustrating casualty of storytelling failures. It's A+ Star Wars that is hampered considerably by the sloppy decisions that preceded it. But, we got live action Hayden Christensen Anakin again. And it was great. And we got Rosario Dawson's Ahsoka to start to come alive. Even just for a little. I'd call that a win.

Score: B

#Star Wars #Star Wars Ahsoka #Star Wars: Ahsoka #review #reviews #Ahsoka Tano #Dave Filoni

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blueheartbooks · 6 months

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The Brothers Karamazov: A Masterpiece of Moral Inquiry and Psychological Depth

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" stands as one of the most profound and influential works in the canon of world literature. Published in 1880, this epic novel delves into the complexities of human nature, morality, faith, and existential angst, weaving together a rich tapestry of philosophical inquiry and psychological insight.

At the heart of "The Brothers Karamazov" are the three titular brothers: Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha, each representing different facets of the human psyche and grappling with their own existential dilemmas. Dmitri, the passionate and impulsive eldest brother, struggles with his desires and impulses, torn between his love for two women and his sense of honor. Ivan, the intellectual and skeptical middle brother, grapples with the problem of evil and the existence of God in a world filled with suffering. Alyosha, the youngest and most devout brother, seeks spiritual redemption and strives to embody the teachings of his mentor, the elder Zosima.

Through the interconnected stories of the Karamazov family and the residents of their provincial Russian town, Dostoevsky explores a wide range of philosophical and ethical questions, from the nature of morality and free will to the existence of God and the meaning of life. Drawing on his own experiences of poverty, suffering, and spiritual crisis, Dostoevsky imbues his characters with a depth and authenticity that resonate with readers on a profound emotional and intellectual level.

One of the most compelling aspects of "The Brothers Karamazov" is Dostoevsky's exploration of the human condition and the existential struggles that define the human experience. Through the trials and tribulations of the Karamazov brothers, Dostoevsky grapples with the fundamental questions of human existence: What is the nature of good and evil? Is there a higher purpose or meaning to life? How do we reconcile the existence of suffering and injustice with our belief in a just and compassionate God?

Moreover, "The Brothers Karamazov" is celebrated for its richly drawn characters, vividly depicted landscapes, and masterful storytelling. Dostoevsky's prose is by turns lyrical, philosophical, and profoundly moving, capturing the complexities of human emotion and the inner struggles of his characters with a rare depth and insight. From the dark and brooding Dmitri to the idealistic and compassionate Alyosha, each character is rendered with such psychological nuance and complexity that they feel like living, breathing individuals, grappling with their own hopes, fears, and desires.

In conclusion, "The Brothers Karamazov" by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a towering achievement of world literature that continues to captivate readers with its profound insights, moral complexity, and psychological depth. Through its exploration of timeless themes and universal truths, "The Brothers Karamazov" speaks to the enduring mysteries of the human condition and the eternal quest for meaning, redemption, and spiritual fulfillment. With its richly drawn characters, intricate plot, and philosophical depth, "The Brothers Karamazov" remains a timeless masterpiece that rewards readers with new insights and revelations with each reading.

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" is available in Amazon in paperback 24.99$ and hardcover 30.99$ editions.

Number of pages: 515

Language: English

Rating: 9/10

Link of the book!

Review By: King's Cat

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blueheartbookclub · 6 months

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The Brothers Karamazov: A Masterpiece of Moral Inquiry and Psychological Depth

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" is available in Amazon in paperback 24.99$ and hardcover 30.99$ editions.

Number of pages: 515

Language: English

Rating: 9/10

Link of the book!

Review By: King's Cat

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lucascecil · 1 year

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Seventh Doctor - Project: Blue Box

TV Stories

◆ Time and the Rani

◆ Paradise Towers

◆ Delta and the Bannerman

◆ Dragonfire

◆ Remembrance of the Daleks

◆ The Hapiness Patrol

◆ Silver Nemesis

◆ The Greatest Show in the Galaxy

◆ Battlefield

◆ Ghost Light

◆ The Curse of Fenric

◆ Survival

Audio Adventures

- 7th Doctor Adventures

◆ Last of the Titans

◆ Return of the Daleks

◆ Dominion

◆ The Trial of a Time Machine

◆ Vanguard

◆ The Jabari Countdown

◆ The Dread of Night

◆ Bad Day in Tinseltown

◆ The Ribos Inheritance

◆ London Orbital

◆ Scream of the Daleks

◆ Operation Dusk

◆ Naomi’s Ark

- Main Range

◆ Unregenerate!

◆ Bang-Bang-a-Boom

◆ Flip-Flop

◆ The Fires of Vulcan

◆ Red

◆ We Are the Daleks

◆ The Warehouse

◆ Terror of the Sontarans

◆ 1963: The Assassination Games

◆ The Defectors

◆ The Sirens of Time

◆ The Genocide Machine

◆ The Grey Man of the Mountain - ★★★☆☆

◆ The Fearmonger - ★★★★☆

The Fearmonger is a story with a lot of say about the social politic scenario it was made and that uses of its themes to work perfectly with the regulars and their relationship - that brings them closer by putting the trust Ace and Seven have in each on check. A good start for their ternure in audio.

Complete review: here.

◆ Dust Breeding

◆ Colditz - ★★★☆☆

◆ The Rapture

◆ The Shadow of the Scourge

◆ The Dark Flame

◆ The Harvest

◆ Dreamtime

◆ LIVE 34

◆ Night Thoughts

◆ No Man’s Land

◆ Nocturne

◆ The Dark Husband

◆ Forty-Five

◆ Shadow Planet/World Apart

◆ Muse of Fire

◆ The Flying Dutchman/Displaced

◆ The Magic Mousetrap

◆ Enemy of the World

◆ The Angel of Scutari

◆ Project: Destiny

◆ A Death in the Family

◆ Lurkers at Sunlight’s Edge

◆ Protect and Survive

◆ Robophobia

◆ The Doomsday Quatrain

◆ House of Blue Fire

◆ Black and White

◆ Gods and Monsters

◆ Afterlife

◆ Revenge of the Swarm

◆ Mask of Tragedy

◆ Signs and Wonders

◆ You Are the Doctor and Other Stories

◆ A Life of Crime

◆ Fiesta of the Damned

◆ Maker of Demons

◆ The High Price of Parking

◆ The Blood Furnace

◆ The Silurian Candidate

◆ Red Planets

◆ The Dispossessed

◆ The Quantum Possibility Engine

◆ Project: Lazarus

◆ Master

◆ Valhalla

◆ Frozen Time

◆ The Death Collectors/Spider’s Shadow

◆ Kingdom of Silver/Keepsake

◆ A Thousand Tiny Wings

◆ Klein’s Story/Survival of the Fittest

◆ The Architects of History

◆ The Shadow Heart

◆ The Psychic Circus

◆ The Monsters of Gokroth

◆ The Moons of Vulpana

◆ An Alien Werewolf in London

◆ Persuasion

◆ Starlight Robbery

◆ Daleks Among Us

◆ The Two Masters

◆ Warlock’s Cross

◆ Subterfuge

◆ The End of the Beginning

◆ Dark Universe

- The Companion Chronicles

◆ Bernice Summerfield and the Criminal Code

◆ The Prisoner’s Dilemma

◆ Project: Nirvana

- The Lost Stories

◆ Thin Ice

◆ Crime of the Century

◆ Animal

◆ Earth Aid

- Classic Doctor, New Mosnters

◆ Harvest of the Sycorax

- Short Trips

◆ The Devil’s Footprints

◆ Dark Convoy

◆ Doctors and Dragons

◆ The Riparian Ripper

◆ Inside Story

◆ The Shadow Trader

◆ Crystal Ball

◆ The Shrine of Sorrows

◆ Dead Woman Walking

◆ Critical Mass

◆ Washington Burns

◆ Forever Fallen

◆ Police and Shreeves

◆ The Hesitation Deviation

◆ Twilight’s End

◆ The Night Before Christmas

Books

◆ Timewyrm: Genesis

◆ Timewyrm: Exodus

◆ Timewyrm: Apocalypse

◆ Timewyrm: Revelation

◆ Cat’s Cradle: Time’s Crucible

◆ Cat’s Cradle: Warhead

◆ Cat’s Cradle: Witch Mark

◆ Nightshade

◆ Love and War

◆ Transit

◆ The Highest Science

◆ The Pit

◆ Deceit

◆ Lucifer Rising

◆ White Darkness

◆ Shadowmind

◆ Birthright

◆ Iceberg

◆ Blood Heat

◆ The Dimension Riders

◆ The Left-Handed Hummingbird

◆ Conundrum

◆ No Future

◆ Tragedy Day

◆ Legacy

◆ Theatre of War

◆ All-Consuming Fire

◆ Blood Harvest

◆ Strange England

◆ First Frontier

◆ St Anthony’s Fire

◆ Falls the Shadow

◆ Parasite

◆ Warlock

◆ Set Piece

◆ Infinite Requiem

◆ Sanctuary

◆ Human Nature

◆ Original Sin

◆ Sky Pirates!

◆ Zamper

◆ Toy Soldiers

◆ Head Games

◆ The Also People

◆ Shakedown

◆ Just War

◆ Warchild

◆ SLEEPY

◆ Death and Diplomacy

◆ Happy Endings

◆ GodEngine

◆ Christmas on a Rational Planet

◆ Return of the Living Dad

◆ The Death of Art

◆ Damaged Goods

◆ So Vile a Sin

◆ Bad Therapy

◆ Eternity Weeps

◆ The Room With no Doors

◆ Lungbarrow

◆ The Dying Days

◆ Illegal Alien

◆ The Hollow Men

◆ Matrix

◆ Storm Harvest

◆ Prime Time

◆ Independence Day

◆ Bullet Time

◆ Relative Time

◆ Heritage

◆ Loving the Alien

◆ The Algebra of Ice

◆ Atom Bomb Blues

#Seventh Doctor #Doc Thoughts

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themovieblogonline · 1 year

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Netflix’s Skull Island Anime Adds To Kong's MonsterVerse Mythos In A Cool New Way

Netflix’s latest animated series Skull Island is a continuation of the Kong dynasty with a brand new approach. The anime-styled new show is an incredible new story that finally does justice to the human characters within the Kong storyline. Instead of them just as set-dressing in a movie about monster fights. Something the live-action movies have constantly attempted and failed. But as I’ll point out in this Skull Island anime review, the humans are actually the main focus and heart of this new show. Spoiler-Free Skull Island Anime Review The Skull Island anime is the first official other media content, as in not a direct sequel to the live-action movies, that is firmly rooted in within the MonsterVerse. Seemingly canon, the series is taking place after the events of the live-action Kong: Skull Island from 2017 with Tom Hiddleston and Brie Larson. The events of the movie are seemingly referenced throughout the show as easter eggs. But time around, a new group of modern-day characters are shipwrecked on Skull Island, trying to find their way off. Along the way, they discover new threats, friends and larger agendas at play as they find out the true depths of this monster-filled island. Throughout the journey, they meet new monsters, try to survive and witness the Island’s larger-than-life protector, King Kong himself. Skull Island Anime Is Engaging As Hell! Netflix’s new Skull Island anime comes from the awesome animation studio, Powerhouse Animation. The same studio is responsible for amazing Netflix hits like Castlevania, Seis Manos, Blood of Zeus and Kevin Smith’s Masters Of The Universe: Revelation. And similar to all those projects, Skull Island is just as visually stunning, and brutal in its action sequences and monster-fights. Skull Island also does something the live-action movies have thus far, failed to do; make us give a crap about the human characters. The story starts with Charlie (Nicolas Cantu) arguing with his sea captain father, Cap (Benjamin Bratt) about not wanting to spend any more of his free time on ships at sea searching for new creatures, but rather going to college instead. We also meet his friend Mike (Darren Barnet) whose father is just as obsessed with discovering new sea life as Charlie’s. But when Charlie rescues a girl named Annie (Mae Whitman) from the sea, everything changes. How The Human Characters Are The Main Focus Of Skull Island After the shipwreck, Mike and Charlie quickly discover they are on the titular Skull Island, the same one from the live-action movie that is home to various monsters and creatures. Not to mention, King Kong himself. The two, out of their depth young men team up with Annie, who seems to live on the Island too, and her bear-lion animal friend named, Dog. Together they try to find Charlie’s father and a way off the island. Cap, by the way, is with a covert team of mercenaries and scientists who are also on the island, to capture Annie, for reasons unknown. With all these subplots working independently, they collide into a much bigger story full of adventure, intrigue and awesome monster fights. And the story of these characters, relationships and dynamics are actually as interesting, if not more so, than the cool monster weirdness. Skull Island Connects To The Live-Action MonsterVerse On top of being a typical Powerhouse Animation series that is full of amazing visuals, an amazingly well-written story and great character dynamics, it’s also full of easter eggs to the live-action universe. There is mention of the Hollow Earth theory which is what the Godzilla vs. Kong in 2021 movie focused on. My review of the Skull Island anime wouldn’t be complete without mentioning how these references are just casually littered throughout the series, clearly setting up a larger plot or connection. The voice cast is excellent, and the series really does a great job of creating new characters and a new plot to move the Kong mythos forward. Betty Gilpin as Irene, the head of the mercenaries is really intriguing and her involvement is a larger mystery that I can’t wait to see pay off. The iconic Phil LaMaar is also in this as Irene’s general or confidant, or maybe even more. It’s interesting to see what the Skull Island anime will do to the future of the MonsterVerse, especially given Godzilla vs. Kong 2 is in development as well. We’ll have to wait and see how well the anime does on Netflix to find that out. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzVEn9C0Ndw Skull Island is now streaming on Netflix. What did you think of the Skull Island anime? Did you catch all the MonsterVerse connections? Let me know in the comments below or on Twitter at @theshahshahid. Read the full article

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hunterguyveriv · 1 year

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MonsterVerse Skull Island series and thoughts before launch:

So tomorrow, the MonsterVerse animated series/sequel to the movie Kong: Skull Island will debut on Netflix. These are my thoughts and views on the pending series and previous shows on Netflix. These are my impressions of the trailers before the premiere.

Let me be perfectly blunt; I am a Kaiju Fan. I live, breathe and eat up anything Kaiju-related, whether Pacific Rim, Ultraman, Independent companies, or the BIG THREE - Kong, Gamera and the King himself, Godzilla. So, when I go into a Kaiju project, I want it to be successful. In the age where Superhero movies are successful, and both Star Trek and Star Wars are experiencing a revitalization, each Kaiju, whether it be Godzilla, Ultraman, or Kong, needs to be just as successful as the last.

I don't expect much from “Skull Island.” Based on the teaser released a couple of months ago, I hoped to span the gap between the last line of the titular movie “Kong’s Not the only King out there and the Philippines 1998.” You know you build some lore for the MonsterVerse before AppleTV’s Monarch series emerges.

Instead, it will be another project for Tweens in which Netflix can jump on the Kaiju Bandwagon and get some residual fees. I will give it three shots/viewings like I did Pacific Rim: The Black and post my thoughts afterward. And if I like it, my tune will change towards it. But the series has a critical strike against it. Lack of promotion - a teaser, trailer, and two exclusive clips mere hours before release?

Now I know it hasn't aired yet, so I can’t tear it apart as I have done to previous Netflix series I was interested in: Voltron, Masters of the Universe Revelation, Ghost in the Shell SAC 2045, Pacific Rim The Black, and others that I was interested in. But Legendary and Netflix, COME ON! If you want your product to be successful with Kaiju fans and others in the audience, you need to promote it every chance you get, ESPECIALLY YOU Netflix! You can’t just rely on Netflix audiences scrolling, looking for something interesting to watch.

Now when I go get a chance to write a review, I will base it on the following, and I will warn you I will be honest with it, I grade it based on my grading of anime series:

Characters - Are they relatable and character growth?

Story - How does it play out with the rest of the MonsterVerse?

Tone - Does it feel like a classic kaiju movie or a typical American action movie/show that features kaiju or, as they are called in MonsterVerse, "Titans."

Plot - Have they thought the entire plot/storyline through? How many plot holes are there?

Promotion - Toys and Merch/Trailers/Images/Clips/Voice Actors promoting but not spoiling or supporting fan head-canons?

Voice Actors - How are they? Do they fit the characters they are portraying?

Soundtrack - Enough said

Is it something I would recommend to fans and non-fans?

Remember, I live, breathe, and eat everything I can watch and read on kaiju. I have done so since I was 4 in 1986, watching Godzilla 1985 for the first time. And I am brutally honest on the subject.

Shipping and Representation. I know this will upset people, but I must address it if characters are "ship material," GOOD! I don't care. No one in my 37 years of watching this genre cared or addressed shipping between human characters unless it is purposely part of the story. No one talks about Maki Goro and Naoko being a couple in Godzilla 1985 or Yaguchi and an American Ambassador's daughter in Shin-Godzilla. If there are characters part of the LGBT Community, I am also okay with that. Old-Timers like myself may joke about Godzilla and Mothra being a royal couple, but that is all it was until 2019's Godzilla: King of the Monsters. Or even Miki Segusa and Koji from Godzilla vs SpaceGodzilla.

These are not what drive Kaiju movies/series. What drives them are the human characters and how they cope with the existence of such creatures and the underlying contextual messages.

I hope I have not scared any of you away because that is not my intention. Just know I am passionate about the Kaiju genre to succeed. And when I can find Shin-Ultraman to watch, and when Monarch, Gamera Rebirth, Godzilla Zero, and even Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire are out, I will voice my honest opinions on those projects too.

#Skull Island #Kong #monsterverse #Legendary Studios #Godzilla

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gotohoon · 10 days

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Misogynistic Motu Fan Disparages Female Character Designs – Femuscleblog

Two years later and the toxic element of the MOTU fandom still vituperate Masters of The Universe Revelation . Even with the release of Masters of the Universe Revolution the toxic section of the fandom just was a obnoxious. A portion of online reviewers and critics like to induce culture war narratives to get a boost on the algorithm. Part grift and rants most of these videos do not offer…

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historyhermann · 1 year

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Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1 Spoiler-Filled Review

Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1, also known as Justice League x RWBY, RWBY x Justice League, or JLxRWBY for short, is an anime-inspired science fantasy action-adventure film, bringing together characters from the Justice League and those from the young adult animated series, RWBY. The latter is the flagship series of Rooster Teeth and began airing in 2013. It recently concluded its ninth season. This film was written by Meghan Fitzmartin and directed by Kerry Shawcross.

Reprinted from Pop Culture Maniacs and Wayback Machine. This was the thirty-second article I wrote for Pop Culture Maniacs. This post was originally published on April 30, 2023.

This 83-minute film begins with Superman's unexpected arrival on Remnant, since he has no idea how he ended up there. In classic crossover fashion, seven of the classic Justice League characters, find themselves in Remnant as teenagers. Soon enough the huntresses of Remnant, specifically Ruby Rose, Blake Belladonna, Weiss Schnee, and Yang Xiao Long, and their friends, work with them to learn why their planet has changed and stop a Grimm monster from destroying all that exists. Ruby, Blake, Weiss, and Yang all have superpowers of sorts, known as semblances, each unique to themselves.

I was intrigued by this film as an avid fan of RWBY and occasional watcher of superhero series like DC Super Hero Girls, Young Justice, She-Ra and the Princesses of Power, Stretch Armstrong and the Flex Fighters, Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, Birdgirl, Harley Quinn, Hamster & Gretel, Gotham Girls, Masters of the Universe: Revelation, and She-Ra: Princess of Power. My interest in the classic superheroish magical girl anime Sailor Moon and the superheroish action series such as Sym-Bionic Titan, My Life as a Teenage Robot, and OK K.O.! Let's Be Heroes, further made me want to watch this film. My excitement remained even after learning that the film takes place in the first half of RWBY's Volume 7.

There are differences from RWBY. For instance, Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1, Ruby, Weiss, Blake, and Yang wear the outfits they donned in Vale, while Weiss can master her summoning of Glyphs, Nora wears the same outfit she wore in Beacon Academy, and the CCT tower at Beacon isn't destroyed, but is active. This is all because this film takes place in an alternate universe of sorts. That makes sense as it is a crossover film which has the same voice actors as the original RWBY series. One difference is Tiana Camacho, who voices Glynda in the RWBY original anime spinoff, RWBY: Ice Queendom.

It was nice to see Ruby, Weiss, Blake, Yang, Juane Arc, Pyrrha Nikos, and Lie Ren, the latter three part of team JNR, interacting with members of the Justice League such as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman/Diana, Green Lantern/Jessica, Vixen, Cyborg, and The Flash. In the RWBY show proper Ozpin has been reincarnated as Oscar, other characters have either died, like Jacques Schnee (presumably in Volume 8), or haven't appeared in the show recently, like Glynda or Kali Belladonna. They return in this film.

Two other characters also appear: Adam Taurus and Sienna Khan. Adam Taurus was Blake's abusive boyfriend. Sienna Khan was killed by Adam to take control of the White Fang, a peaceful organization originally aimed at improving conditions for the Faunus, a group of people with animal traits. Taurus aimed to change the latter organization into a violent terrorist organization which would overthrow human society and replace it with a Faunus-led one. In Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1, the latter two characters are only shown in a flashback when Blake remembers back to what actually happened during the series.

Apart from the voice actors for the RWBY characters, like Arryn Zech, Blake Dunkelman, Lindsay Jones, Kara Eberle, Miles Luna, Samantha Ireland, and Neath Oum, those who voice the members of the Justice League (Chandler Riggs, Nat Wolff, Natalie Alyn Lind, David Errigo Jr., Jeannie Tirado, Tru Valentino, and Ozioma Akagha) are just as talented. Riggs (who voices Superman) is known for his role as Carl Grimes in The Walking Dead. Wolff, the voice of Batman, has been recognized for his music, and roles in films like Paper Towns, The Fault in Our Stars, and Ashby. Lind, the voice of Wonder Woman in this film, is known for various television appearances including as Danielle Sullivan in Big Sky.

Errigo Jr., voice of The Flash, has previously done voice work in Ridley Jones, The Casagrandes, Milo Murphy's Law, and Dota: Dragon's Blood. Tirado, voicing Green Lantern, has lent her voice to characters in dubs of Fairy Tail Zero, KanColle: Kantai Collection, and Fire Emblem: Three Houses. Tru Valentino, who voices Cyborg, is known for his voice work in Madagascar: A Little Wild, Kung Fu Panda: The Dragon Knight, and Spidey and His Amazing Friends.

I personally remember Valentino best for his role as Cuphead in the short-lived animated slapstick comedy, The Cuphead Show. Finally, Arkagha, who voices Vixen, is best known for her acting as Harper Omereoha in Delilah, and her voice acting as Shuri in What If...? and Bumblebee in Teen Titans Go!, to name a few roles.

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Admittedly, I wasn't sure about Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1 at first. Surely, the fight scenes and the character designs were good, but was uneasy about the plot, even when Superman got on the scene at the film's beginning. However, the film drew me in, beginning with Grimm glitching out of control when killed, all while they still retain their goal, as soulless creatures, to destroy humanity, which as Nora puts it at one point in the film.

The humor of the characters, especially of Yang, lightened the mood. For example, Yang scoffs at the idea she will call Superman by his name, causing him to admit they can call him "Clark" (as in Clark Kent) instead. It was also funny that when Batman/Bruce Wayne fights people in the Schnee mansion, a person is playing the piano during his fight.

The fracturing and scrambling of memory, causing the characters to be confused about what actually happened, is at the crux of the Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1. It causes people, such as Ozpin, to appear, glitch into Oscar, and disappear, or others like Blake's mom, Kali, to say strange things. Some try and figure out the reality of their present predicament. Batman/Bruce Wayne, attempts this, but gets imprisoned. Others realize something is wrong, but are unsure what to do about it.

There is even a sub-theme about the power of privilege. Weiss criticizes her father, Jacques, of the ever-powerful Schnee family, for having a party rather than not repairing the CCT Tower. This bonds Weiss and Batman/Bruce Wayne together, as he says that the wealthy don't care about the plights of other people in any universe.

As would be expected, there are disagreements between heroes, with Blake and Yang annoyed that the Justice League is trying to tell them what to do, and vice versa. In fact, in a harsh scene which resonates with those who saw Volume 9, Cyborg asks Ruby who she is and she doesn't know. Although Superman says it is difficult to be a leader, he later questions her as team leader, which does not help her confidence! Even so, when Kilgore declares that Ruby is a child who is trying to be a leader, Superman reassures her, saying leadership isn't about age, but about your heart. He adds that although people will inevitably freeze and fail, that's what makes you human. The latter is a hint at the theme of self-acceptance enshrined throughout RWBY's Volume 9.

In the end, Team RWBY, Team JNR, and Justice League all work together, either by examining at holographic maps or tapping into their superpowers/semblances to fight the Grimm and save the day. Their fight is complicated by the fact that these Grimm are not ordinary, but can reboot, until they are electrocuted. This means that Ruby can't use her silver eyes, her ultimate "weapon".

This road to victory is not necessarily a simple one. One theme of Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1 is that people lose something which is a part of them. For Vixen, her necklace is missing, and for Jessica, she lost her all-powerful Green Lantern ring. In the case of the latter, it seems she is having issues tapping into her powers at first.

What stole the show in this film was Juane offering to help her, showing care, patience, and understanding in the process. Ger power is trapped, and she can't access it. Jessica says the ring grounds her, stating it is a symbol of power, belonging, and control. Hence, without it, she feels unmoored and listless, like a ship drifting across the open sea. This reminds me of how Adora felt in the final season of She-Ra and the Princesses of Power, when she felt completely lost after the Sword of Protection was shattered, and even questioned whether she could help her friends. Coming back to this film, Juane tells her that her ring gets the truth of things and the truth of her, again trying to help her center herself.

At the same time, the film provides subtle hints to the trauma the characters have experienced in the past. Cyborg says at one point "what, you haven't learned to adapt thanks to childhood trauma?". Canonically, in the Marvel universe, Jessica experienced trauma herself as a kid. As such, the film's writers were not above retraumatizing the characters. For example, a person who looks like Pyrrha tricks Juane, and traps him, with Jessica, in a box, while warning them to not warn the Justice League about the reality. Juane is further affected when the Seer causes him to see Pyrrha's death, paralyzing him.

After Juane had already experienced the death of Pyrrha second-hand (Ruby saw it first-hand), seeing her in front of him caused him to lose all reason, and trust her. This isn't a surprise after all he has been through, so no one can hold it against him. It was good writing to have Juane tell Jessica about Pyrrha and still be able to help Jessica be more than her fear. In a powerful statement which is often not stated in fiction, he tells her it is fine to have anxiety flare-ups and implies she shouldn't be ashamed of them. All of this helps encourage Jessica to use her green lantern power to help them escape.

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Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1 hints at the ship-of-sorts between Jessica and Juane, which could be called "Greenknight", overriding any interest Juane had in Vixen, who he seemed taken in by, at first. The film also implies there is a ship between Batman and Weiss. In fact, Weiss states various times that Batman should stay. This could very well mean that she has romantic feelings for him. Their collaboration is an important part of the film, as both work together at an Atlas' computer lab to learn the reality of the world and why everything is glitching.

Funny enough, Diana is jealous of how close Weiss and Batman are getting. It could be part of the reason she wants to pull him back to "his" world. The writing of Diana, Weiss, and Batman in the film is good. It better than what some would claim, as it is clear that a Batman and Weiss ship, at least in the forms shown in the film, is possible. Otherwise, Weiss and Batman can fight well together, even when faced with impossible odds.

While it is not directly stated, there is queer subtext between Blake and Yang. In the show proper, both are in a relationship, mutually confessing their romantic feelings in the Volume 9 episode "Confessions Within Cumulonimbus Clouds". The ship between both, known as Bumbleby, had been semi-canon before that point, but was not canonized until that episode. In the film itself, Yang hugs Blake happily, Blake gives Yang the side-eye when she describes Diana "very strong", and Blake agrees to go along with Diana to Atlas because she is jealous. Still, Blake puts this aside and fight alongside her against the Grimm while flying through the air.

At other points in Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1, Blake and Yang look at one another, with Blake explaining how she and Yang got to know each other. Furthermore, Yang worries about Blake after she talks about losing people. In a very touching scene in the film, Blake and Yang touch each other's hands through the cockpit window, with Yang saying she trusts Blake, while she pilots the aircraft. In the meantime, Blake puts aside her jealousy so she can fight alongside Diana against the Grimm even as she flies through the air.

Toward the end of the film, after Diana says she knows it is hard to fight under fire, Blake says that it is nice to kiss ass and bumps her ass with Yang. As Yang's voice actor stated in watch party for the series, "how did anyone ever think Yang was straight". Although it has not be directly confirmed, fans have stated that Yang is a lesbian. Blake was previously confirmed as bisexual. As Shawcross put it, Bumbleby moments were added because it was something the crew liked and said the moments. He also stated that "Blake and Yang had a lot that they could talk [about] with and relate to with Diana, Wonder Woman". The latter may have been a reference to past comments by those who say that Wonder Woman is a bisexual icon, later confirmed by writer Greg Rucka.

The last battle of Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1, which involves riding on bikes, and tag-team fighting (like Yang and Blake), is one of the film's strongest. In a hint at what may happen in the second part of the film crossover series, it is clear that a villain named Kilgore, who created a virtual reality by mind-controlling The Flash, is also stuck there. As such, it is implied that someone else is controlling him, although it isn't clear who.

His plan to make the Justice League into teens, when they are "vulnerable", have the world rip them apart, and cause them to deal with emotions they ignore or regress as adults seems like a weak plan. He could have, just as easily, imprisoned them on their own world, instead of Remnant. The hubris of Kilgore is what takes him down. Jessica uses the equivalent of Ruby's silver eyes on the Grimm dragon, which has Kilgore inside, causing him to almost fade from existence.

Although everyone says their goodbyes and they all go back to their respective worlds, it is clear this isn't the end. All of the main cast, which are not part of the Justice League, wake up from what was supposed to be a training mission. Ruby's concern that someone created the virtual reality/simulation, a person from their world, setting the stage for the next film.

All in all, animation of Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1 is well-done, and the designs are very colorful. There are even features that make it seem like a comic book, such as talk bubbles when characters are annoyed, and other expressions. All of the flowing animation which goes easily with the storytelling, voice acting, and the like, is no surprise as over 210 people, if not more, worked on this film. That makes it an even bigger effort than a volume of RWBY!

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Unfortunately, Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1 was effectively spoiled on social media before its release, in part because it accidentally aired early on Redbox on April 20, five days before its general release. This made animators ask fans to not post spoilers until the film came out, or say they feel "pretty hurt" by people posting clips from the entire film before its release on April 25th. On the positive side, this interest will undoubtedly help support Volume 10 for RWBY, so that the show's characters can have their stories continued, even if reported review bombing on IMDB continues.

The film was available on Google Play, but was later taken down for unexplained reasons. Although the stock of Rooster Teeth's parent company (Warner Bros. Discovery) has been falling, thanks to the rebranding of HBO streaming platform, and debt continues to accumulate, the film survived the cuts. That is for the best.

Adding onto what I've said so far about the film, I personally liked the design of characters like Jessica, whether you consider her gender non-conforming or not, the White Rose scenes of sorts, Weiss summoning powerful glyphs, and it is a lot of fun. Perhaps, there will be future RWBY features in the future which are not crossovers.

In certain ways, this film made me think of Sword Art Online Progressive: Scherzo of Deep Night, which I reviewed earlier this year, as it is also set in a virtual reality. In this film, the characters are forced into a virtual reality, while in Sword Art Online Progressive: Scherzo of Deep Night, I believe they chose to be in that reality.

Hopefully, in the second part of film crossover series, Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part Two, which may come out in the summer, there is more character exploration of Superman, Batman, Diana, and Vixen. This film focused on the internal struggles of Jessica more than the other Justice League members. It would be great to see a focus on the mental struggles of the other Justice League members as well. I would not be surprised if there are additional scenes with ships such as Bumbleby, Greenknight, and Weiss/Batman, since this film set the groundwork for the next one.

As a final note, although David Levy, who has long worked on RWBY, and on series such as Red vs. Blue, Camp Camp, various bands, and independent films, does a decent job with the film's music, it isn't that memorable. Maybe, Casey Lee Williams could either compose the music score of the next film, or at least a few tracks. That would ensure that the film packed an extra punch.

Justice League x RWBY: Super Heroes and Huntsmen, Part 1 can be purchased or rented on Prime Video, MoviesAnywhere, iTunes/Apple TV+, Redbox, and Vudu, or have the DVD and Blu-ray ordered from other online marketplaces.

#justice league x rwby #rwby x jl #jlxrwby spoilers #reviews #films #rwby #rwby v9 #pop culture #comedy #superheroes #trauma #ptsd #jessica cruz #juane arc #ruby rose #weiss schnee #yang xiao long #blake belladonna #Youtube

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pagebypagereviews · 1 month

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In the literary world brimming with tales of intrigue and human complexity, "People in Glass Houses" — the seventeenth installment of the Harmony series — emerges as a beacon of masterful storytelling. Through the woven tapestry of life in small-town America, this novel beckons readers to peer through the translucent walls of its characters' lives, holding a mirror to the fragile nature of reputations and secrets in tight-knit communities. Delving into the essence of its predecessors while standing firm on its own, this book not only continues the legacy of the Harmony series but also solves the persistent literary dilemma of keeping a long-standing series fresh and engaging. Its rich narrative texture attracts both longstanding fans and new readers, promising a journey through the complexities that lay hidden behind the seemingly pristine exteriors of our personal 'glass houses'. The novel resonates with the universal theme of how appearances can be deceiving, a poignant reflection on the issues many face when confronting the disparity between public perception and private reality. It uncovers the smudges and cracks in the glass, the human flaws and mistakes that everyone strives to hide, and the consequences of their exposure. In doing so, it offers both a gripping story and a commentary on the societal pressure to maintain façades, thus providing a significant contribution to contemporary fiction. This book review will peel back the curtains on "People in Glass Houses", inviting readers to examine the reflections and refractions of life that lie within its pages. Plot The narrative of "People in Glass Houses" weaves through the intricacies and challenges of life in the small town of Harmony. Central to the plot is a new, potentially explosive scandal that threatens to upend the lives of the community's tightly-knit residents. When a series of incriminating emails surface, exposing the private affairs of several town members, Harmony is set abuzz with gossip and speculation. The story delves into the effects of these revelations on individual relationships and the community at large, examining themes of privacy, trust, and the notion that nobody's life is truly an open book. The plot unfolds with various subplots intertwined, as the residents confront their secrets and must choose between exposure and keeping up appearances, thereby highlighting the human condition’s complexity within a seemingly simple setting. Characters "People in Glass Houses" boasts a tapestry of characters, each bringing their own layer of complexity to the novel. Among the key figures is the steadfast protagonist, who finds themselves at the center of the unfolding drama, serving as a touchstone for the reader. Supporting characters range from the local gossip, a figure who thrives on the turmoil of others, to the unwary newcomer, who becomes unwittingly embroiled in the town's clandestine affairs. The character development is meticulous, with each individual's background, motivations, and reactions to the scandal contributing to their multi-dimensional portrayal. As dynamics shift amidst the scandal, the characters are pushed to their limits, revealing both strengths and vulnerabilities that had been meticulously concealed behind their public personas. Writing Style The writing style of "People in Glass Houses" is characterized by its sharp wit and insightful prose. The author masterfully balances dialogue with descriptive passages, creating a vivid sense of place while maintaining a brisk narrative pace. Drama and humor are deftly intermingled, providing relief amidst tense moments and endearing the reader to the characters' plights. The narrative voice possesses a distinctive clarity, with an omniscient perspective that offers deep dives into the characters' inner thoughts and emotions. Attention to detail is evident in the writing, with even the most mundane aspects of small-town life depicted with care and relevance, underscoring their importance in shaping the overall tapestry of Harmony.

Setting In "People in Glass Houses," the town of Harmony itself becomes an indispensable character. The setting is a quintessential small town, perhaps Midwestern in flavor, replete with main streets lined with family-owned shops, local diners, and town squares that foster a sense of community. As idyllic as Harmony appears, its tranquil veneer belies an undercurrent of secrets and an intricate social network. The physical setting unfolds as a vessel for the story's events, with places such as the town hall, the local park, and the residents' homes serving as backdrops to pivotal scenes. Through detailed depictions of settings, the author cultivates a palpable atmosphere that resonates with authenticity, mirroring the realities of many real-life small towns. Unique Aspects People in Glass Houses" distinguishes itself with its insightful exploration of the paradoxical nature of small-town life—where everyone knows everyone else, yet personal lives remain behind closed doors. The novel's unique aspect lies in its subversion of the idealized pastoral community by delving into the murkier waters of human nature that lie beneath. Additionally, the author's ability to address contemporary issues such circularity of gossip in the digital age, resonates with a modern audience while preserving the timeless quality of a classic drama. The seamless integration of thematic elements, such as the literal and figurative concept of "glass houses," also adds to the book's innovative approach, prompting readers to ponder the consequences of transparency versus privacy in their own lives. Similar to People in Glass Houses (A Harmony Novel Book 17) Book Review ```html table width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; th, td border: 1px solid black; padding: 10px; text-align: left; th background-color: #f2f2f2; .pros color: green; .cons color: red; Pros of 'People in Glass Houses' Engaging Storyline The engaging narrative maintains the reader's interest throughout the book, providing an immersive experience. Character Development Characters are well-developed, allowing readers to form emotional attachments and making the story more impactful. Writing Style The author's distinctive writing style adds charm to the book, enhancing the overall reading pleasure. Series Continuity The book does a good job of maintaining continuity within the series, making it satisfying for long-term fans. Themes It explores relevant themes thoughtfully, encouraging reflection on real-life issues and ethical dilemmas. Cons of 'People in Glass Houses' Pacing Some readers may find the pacing inconsistent, with certain sections dragging which might impact engagement. Predictability The plot may be predictable for seasoned readers familiar with the genre, reducing the element of surprise. Niche Appeal The book caters to a niche audience, potentially alienating readers who are not fans of the series or the genre. Complexity Newcomers to the series might struggle with the complexity of the existing storyline and character relationships. Length Some readers may find the book overly lengthy, which can be a barrier to completion and overall enjoyment. ``` This HTML code will display two tables, each with a header row spanning two columns. One table lists the pros of the book "People in Glass Houses," and the other lists the cons. Each pro or con is accompanied by a description detailing its impact on the user experience. The pros are styled in green, while the cons are styled in red for visual distinction. The tables themselves have solid 1px black borders for clarity. Evaluating the Genre and Author's Reputation When contemplating the purchase of "People in Glass Houses" (A Harmony Novel Book 17), it's crucial to consider the genre and the author's reputation. This book falls into the contemporary fiction genre, more specifically, within a series that has built a community of readers over time.

Assess whether prior novels by Philip Gulley, the series author, align with your reading preferences. Check his writing style, thematic consistency, and character development as these elements often remain true to form throughout a series. An author with a strong track reputation for engaging storytelling can be a deciding factor for your purchase. Understanding the Series Continuity As the 17th book in the Harmony series, it's imperative to understand the continuity aspect. For an enriched reading experience, you may want to consider if you need to read the previous books. While some series novels can stand alone, others build off previous events and character arcs. Investigating how "People in Glass Houses" is connected to its predecessors will help you decide if you should start from the beginning of the series or if you can jump straight into this installment without feeling lost. Reading Reviews and Ratings Studying both professional critiques and reader reviews is another aspect to consider before making a purchase. Reviews can provide insights into the book's strengths and weaknesses from multiple perspectives. Ratings on platforms such as Goodreads, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble reflect the collective opinions of the readership and can be indicative of the overall quality and appeal of the book. Be aware of potential spoilers in reviews, but don't overlook the value of the critiques in helping you form expectations for the book. Book Format and Editions The format—hardcover, paperback, e-book, or audiobook—can affect your reading enjoyment and accessibility. Determine which format suits your preferences and lifestyle. Are you looking for a collectible first edition or a more budget-friendly paperback? If you are on-the-go, you might prefer an e-book or audiobook. Besides, it's worthwhile to check if "People in Glass Houses" has been released in a new edition or includes additional content such as a reader's guide or discussion questions, which could enhance your reading experience. Price Comparison and Availability Before purchasing, compare prices across different retailers to find the best deal. Books can be widely available from both online and physical stores, so consider factors like shipping costs, delivery times, and return policies. Be aware of discounts, especially if you're willing to wait for promotional periods. You can also check if the book is available at your local library if you prefer to borrow before you buy, or if budget constraints are a consideration. Checking for Ancillary Materials Some books come with additional materials such as author interviews, discussion questions, or reading group guides, which can be quite valuable for readers who wish to delve deeper into the book's themes or discuss them with others. Verify whether "People in Glass Houses" includes such materials, as they can provide a richer reading experience and offer additional insights that you might not get from the novel alone. Investigating the Publisher and Publication Date Lastly, examining the publisher and the publication date may provide useful information. A well-known publisher can be an indicator of quality and professionalism in book production. Furthermore, checking the publication date can help you understand the book's context and relevance in today's literary landscape. It can also notify you of the likelihood of the book being present in secondary markets such as used bookstores or thrift shops. By thoroughly evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision on the purchase of "People in Glass Houses" (A Harmony Novel Book 17), ensuring that the choice you make aligns with your personal reading preferences and expectations for this literary journey. FAQ for People in Glass Houses (A Harmony Novel Book 17) Book Review What is the genre of "People in Glass Houses (A Harmony Novel Book 17)"? The genre of "People in Glass Houses (A Harmony Novel Book 17)" is mainly categorized as contemporary fiction. However,

it often includes elements of romance, drama, and small-town life which are signature aspects of the Harmony series. Do I need to read the previous books in the Harmony series to understand this novel? While "People in Glass Houses (A Harmony Novel Book 17)" can be read as a standalone, reading the previous books in the series may enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the characters and the setting, as there are ongoing storylines and character development that progress throughout the series. Is "People in Glass Houses" suitable for all ages? "People in Glass Houses" is geared towards adults, as it may include themes, language, and scenes that are more appropriate for mature audiences. Younger readers should consider this before reading or seek guidance from a parent or guardian. Who is the author of "People in Glass Houses"? People in Glass Houses" is written by Jodi Thomas, who is known for her work on the Harmony series and other romance and women's fiction novels. How long is "People in Glass Houses"? The length of "People in Glass Houses" can vary depending on the edition and format. To find the exact number of pages, refer to the specific edition of the book you are interested in. Is there a book club discussion guide available? Information on whether a book club discussion guide is available for "People in Glass Houses" should be searched on the publisher's website or by contacting the publisher directly as these resources may be offered for some novels. Can I find "People in Glass Houses" in different formats like eBook or audiobook? Typically, novels from the Harmony series, including "People in Glass Houses", are available in various formats such as paperback, hardcover, eBook, and audiobook. Availability can be checked through online retailers, local bookstores, or your library. Are there any planned sequels or spin-offs after "People in Glass Houses"? Any announcements about future sequels or spin-offs would be made by the author or the publisher. Check Jodi Thomas's official website or social media profiles for the most current information regarding upcoming releases. Where can I find reviews and opinions about "People in Glass House"? Reviews for "People in Glass Houses" can be found on literary websites, retailer websites like Amazon or Goodreads, book blogs, and through professional book review publications. These can provide insight into different readers' experiences and opinions of the book. In concluding our review of "People in Glass houses (A Harmony Novel Book 17)," it's clear why this title remains a standout read for fans of well-crafted mysteries with a touch of human sensitivity. With its intricate plot, engaging characters, and the familiar yet always intriguing setting of Harmony, readers are once again whisked into a story that is both captivating and thought-provoking. Author X expertly weaves a tale that not only keeps you guessing with its twists and turns but also explores the depths of human emotion and the complexities of community life. The book's strength lies in its ability to balance suspense with heart-warming moments, ensuring that readers are not simply spectators of a mystery but are emotionally invested in the characters' lives. This depth of storytelling encourages one to reflect on the themes presented, such as transparency, vulnerability, and the consequences of our actions. For those who value an engaging read that combines the excitement of a mystery with the rich, textured backdrop of small-town dynamics, "People in Glass Houses (A Harmony Novel Book 17)" is a valuable choice. Its pages promise not only an entertaining escape but also an opportunity to gain insight into the human experience. Whether you are a long-time fan returning to Harmony or a newcomer curious about the allure of this series, this book delivers on many levels. It's a reminder that even within the fragility of our 'glass houses,' there is strength, resilience, and the enduring power of community. As

this review comes to a close, we can confidently affirm that "People in Glass Houses" is a novel that will remain in the hearts and minds of its readers long after the final page is turned. Other People in Glass Houses (A Harmony Novel Book 17) Book Review buying options

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swiftandeasydrivingschools · 3 months

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Mastering the Road: Your Guide to Choosing the Best Driving School in Minto, Ruse, Raby, Airds NSW

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#Driving School Bradbury

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