#mr rogers trailer

[alexisbetter36]

I’m INSANE about the proton stream FREEZING midair in the new trailer, the Slimer bit with Trevor, THE FROZEN PEOPLE AND THE GUYS HAND FREEZING TOUCHING THAT ORB!!! ALSO PETER’S ORANGE JACKET!! IM FROTHING AT THE MOUTH

[skygemspeaks]

I finally got to sit down and finish episode one, and i've got some thoughts!!

I think that introducing garp as a big player right from the get go is a really great idea. His presence at the execution made sense, and his dynamic with roger did well to help establish both of their characterisations

Roger's actor did a phenomenal job with the eerie laugh and his complete irreverance in the face of his own death. I love how he delivered the wealth fame power speech!

It was a bit surprising to me that they showed roger actually getting killed, but honestly i'm in total approval of this direction they're taking with the live action. I really like the more brutal approach, especially because oda's refusal to kill anyone outside of flashbacks pre-marineford is one of the biggest complaints i tend to hear from people. Seeing zoro dragging around the top half mr 7's corpse was so jarring, but it was a good choice

Ilia's perfrmance as alvida was absolutely amazing. I like that they changed her catchphrase from the most beautiful woman on the seas to the most powerful

Overall, i really like the different transitions between plot points, and how this episode set things up in future arcs. All the different things that go on in shells town feel so much more better interconnected than they did in the manga. I'll go into this more in another post, but like one example of what i'm talking about is how the reason zoro allowed himself to be tied to the post was because morgan threatened that if he didn't agree to it, he wouldn't be able to collect any more bounties from any marine bases. It also gives zoro mire of a reason to join luffy - he knows that at this point there's no eay he can continue being a bounty hunter now that morgan has it out for him. So how else is he going to meet other strong swordsmen? By joining a pirate crew of course.

The shanks flashback was awesome! His dynamic with luffy was really endearing, and again i do like that they didn't have higuma attack shanks. That's one thing that never really made sense to me in the manga - i get thst yoy don't have to solve everything with violence, but there's no reason for shanks not to have fought back against someone who was attacking him, even if he did know they couldn't possibly hurt him

Also on shanks' flashback - the scene where he found out luffy had eaten the devil fruit was AMAZING. What a fantastic idea to have little luffy framed in sunlight! And the utter heartbreak on shanks' face as he realizes that there's no way luffy will ever be able to have a normal life now...

Of course, we gotta mention the snippet of Binks' Sake we heard in the scene where shanks is stitching up luffy's cut. I recognized it instantly and it made me really emotional. Love all these little easter eggs they have for long time fans of the series. In addition to this there was alsp the cavendish, foxy, and bellamy wanted posters which we knew about from the trailer

Speaking of wanted posters - what a COOL way to introduce the other pirates!

Morgan going on his monologue about capturing kuro is SO funny know what's gonna happen on a few episodes. Oda played it a lot more subtle in the manga but i like that they came right out and said it here.

And while we're talking about foreshadowing, it was a fantastic idea to include the mr 7 fight in this season! I really hope we get a season 2, just sp we can get the payoff for this great setup.

I'm a little sad that we didn't get to see the luffy and koby hug that was shown in the behind the scenes video (i think that was the one?). I really hope that wasn't cut because i loved that little scene. Maybe it'll happen later in the season?

Buggy's introduction at the end of the episode was SO good. I loved his whole vibe, with him lounging so confidently in his chair, his creepy laugh, everything. I'm excited to see the next episode! They better not have cut chouchou out 😭

[deemee-ed]

Wow, I'm so normal about this movie! *develops a DreamWorks conspiracy theory on why Me and My Shadow got cancelled*

DreamWorks and franchises: a "conspiracy theory" on why "Me and My Shadow" got cancelled

On December 10th 2010 the project for an animated movie called "Me and My Shadow" was announced by DreamWorks. The story is about a timid and boring man called Daniel Grubb and his shadow "Shadow Dan" trying to convince him to live a more exciting life. The animation style follows an idea similar to "Who Framed Roger Rabbit", except that instead of blending 2D animation and live-action it would have worked with both 2D and 3D animation, with 2D for the shadow characters and their world and 3D for the real people. Despite being half-way done, the release date of this project kept being pushed back, first from 2013 to 2014, until it entered a state of limbo and eventually got cancelled. This decision was taken mostly due to the failure in 2014 of "Mr. Peabody and Sherman", which brought to the cancellation of other projects as well.

Personally, I have been upset about this cancellation ever since I found out about this movie, mostly because I just know that if it had come out this would have been one of my favorite movies ever. A few days ago DreamWorks released a trailer for their next movie, "Megamind 2", a very cheap-looking sequel to "Megamind" set to release on March 1st 2024 on Peacock. While I was washing the dishes (lol), I thought about this trailer for a moment and had a sudden "conspiracy theory" coming up on why "Me and My Shadow" was one of the movies got cancelled after 2014: In the same trailer of "Megamind 2" they announce a new serie which will come out based on it, meaning that this movie is basically an advertisement or a pilot for the show. This is reinforced by the cheap animation commonly used in these spin-off shows.

This serie announcement made me realize something: DreamWorks has made A LOT of shows, shorts and sequels based on their movies. In other words, this studio loves creating franchises. And even though this is a common marketing choice for many studios, I feel like DreamWorks does this VERY often. Some examples are: -"Shrek", with 3 sequels (might become 4), 8 shorts, 3 TV specials, and 2 spin-off movies and 1 serie based on Puss in Boots -"Kung Fu Panda", with 2 (soon 3) sequels, 3 series and 5 shorts -"How to train your Dragon", with 2 sequels, 3 series and 6 shorts -"Madagascar", with 3 sequels, 3 series, 3 shorts and a spin-off movie based on The Penguins of Madagascar -"Trolls", with 2 sequels, 2 series, 6 shorts and 2 TV specials -"The Croods", with 1 sequel and 2 series -"Monsters vs Aliens", with 1 serie, 2 shorts and 1 TV special -"Captain Underpants", with 1 serie and a possible spin-off movie -"Mr. Peabody and Sherman", with 1 serie As you can see, both known and less known movies ended up having at least 1 serie, turning them into franchises. It's actually rarer to find movies by DreamWorks that were not turned into franchises. So I'd say it's clear that DreamWorks has quite some interest in this marketing choice.

Even their newer movie "Orion and the Dark", released on Netflix on February 2nd 2024, can work as a DreamWorks franchise. You can understand this by the presence of a TEAM of secondary characters: they can't be fully developed in a movie, but they are an interesting team that can be developed in a show. It's the same concept as the Furious Five from "Kung Fu Panda", or as the Penguins of Madagascar and King Julien from "Madagascar": a team of secondary characters the movie can't focus on, but that you wouldn't mind seeing again. And now, with the release of a show based on "Megamind 2", a new team of villains is introduced in the sequel. Villains that are very likely going to be secondary characters that could be developed more in a show. See the pattern? I believe that DreamWorks follows this as their standard for a franchise: the movie must have a team of secondary characters.

Now, let's look back at "Me and My Shadow" and let's focus on the characters. From what we know, there were going to be 4 relevant characters: -Daniel Grubb (who some of you might also know as Stanley) -Shadow Dan (also known as Shadow Stan) -Heidi (Daniel's love interest) -The Shadow Villain (the bad guy, obviously) Every other character that was seen in small Behind-The-Scenes works doesn't seem to have much relevance. There are secondary characters, but they don't seem to be connected as a team, unlike many other secondary characters from Dreamworks.

Now, here's the "conspiracy theory": I believe one of the reasons "Me and My Shadow" was cancelled is that it could not be adapted as a DreamWorks franchise. The story would have been concluded in the movie, the characters didn't need to be developed more, and none of the secondary cast could work as a team. Could they have made some shorts based on it? Probably yes, but a short is not a serie. DreamWorks seems to have more interest in shows than shorts (remember: most franchises have at least a SHOW, not a short!).

With that being said, I'd like to end this post by doing some advertisement for this movie, even if it never got a chance to be finished. Everytime I find a new clip I am filled with pure joy. "Me and My Shadow" deserves to be made. -Shout-out to SQUIDWORD15 on YouTube for finding mANY unfinished clips. Bless this fella

[navybrat817]

CYM as significant others of Chris Evans characters.

I'm going to cheat, nonnie, and give variations of characters to people. 😂 I'm also likely missing people. Sorry, lovelies! ❤️

Ari Levinson - @flordeamatista

Mob!Ari Levinson - @stargazingfangirl18

Trailer Park!Ari Levinson - @onsunnyside

Steve Rogers - @writing-for-marvel

Nomad Steve Rogers - @labella420

Alpha!Steve Rogers - @biteofcherry

Mob!Steve Rogers - @jtargaryen18

Andy Barber - @georgiapeach30513

College!Andy Barber - @sunshinebuckybarnes

Curtis Everett - @sweater-daddiesdumbdork

Coal Miner!Curtis Everett - @ghotifishreads

Jake Jensen - @tavners

Best Friend!Jake Jensen - @drabblewithfrannybarnes

Ransom Drysdale - @boxofbonesfic

Lloyd Hansen - @darkficsyouneveraskedfor

Mr. Freezy - @the-iceni-bitch

Frank Adler - @secretswiftymarvelfan

Cole Turner - @maroonsunrise83

James Mace - @sgt-seabass

*****

I may be missing characters. Love and thanks! ❤️

[bananacorn-limeade]

1961's The WORLD of ICE and FIRE

I'm going to do it. I'm going to self-indulge!

The Roger Corman ASOIAF production post is mostly just a novelty, but since I'm me, I have a lot of FEELINGS and OPINIONS about this cast. Naturally.

Anyway. Here's how well I think the actors in my post would play their roles, from worst to best.

#19, Worst: John Ashley as Robb Stark

You know how Ben Affleck has a face that knows about emails? John Ashley has a face that knows about sock hops. Woefully miscast.

#18: Tor Johnson as Gregor Clegane

God love the big guy, but I've only ever seen him make this face. Also, despite his repertoire of roles suggesting otherwise on paper, he just doesn't seem like a mean guy.

#17: John Agar as Jaime Lannister

Another terrible choice. The only reason he's not ranked as worst is because his soulless performance would make viewers interpret Jaime as an absolutely irredeemable sociopath, which at least would be... uh, interesting, I guess.

#16 Robert Reed as Renly Baratheon

Renly, but only if he was the most boring Baratheon. Go ahead, try to picture Reed eating a peach. You can't.

#15 Dawn Bender as Arya Stark

Aw, she'd try. But I feel like her attempts at Arya's fire would mostly come off as petulance.

#14 Richard Carlson as Ned Stark

Sorry, what? I fell asleep for a minute there.

#13 June Kenney as Daenerys Targaryen

Kenney would try her level best, but you know Corman would do a terrible job incorporating her storyline with the main plot, so she wouldn't have much to do except lounge around on mildly offensive orientalist sets and talk to her force-perspective dragon puppets. (Stop-motion you say? What, you think American International is made of money?)

#12 Dolores Faith as Sansa Stark

Again, no knock to Faith, but as with Daenerys, I think a 1961 production would flatten Sansa's character away to nothing. She'd get to pine and wear some nice dresses.

#11 Anthony Dexter as Petyr Baelish

This guy can play oily like nobody's business (check him out in 1962's Married Too Young), but 5D-chess-level deviousness might be beyond him.

#10 Michael Dunn as Tyrion Lannister

Full disclosure: I'm plopping him in the middle because I've never seen him in anything! The only little person I've personally seen in Corman's movies is Billy Barty (playing an actual, literal imp), and Dunn was someone I found who was said to play much meatier roles. In general, I think the depth of Tyrion's character would seriously challenge 1960s casting directors who were used to casting little people in jokey roles or as something less than human. One of many problems they'd have with the source material, no doubt.

#9 Lon Cheney Jr. as Sandor Clegane

Here's another actor who would do the best with what he was given - which would be an essentially empty role. This Sandor would be a beast used only for jump scares, with too much rubber over his face to ever show an emotion.

#8 Glen Langan as Stannis Baratheon

Langan would be serious, but dull, with lots of droning sermonizing. In other words, perfect. Still boring though.

#7 Basil Rathbone as Tywin Lannister

Who better to play a role totally owned by Charles Dance than an actor who's even Charles Dancier? The only reason I'm not ranking this legend higher is because I do think he'd kind of sleepwalk through this role, especially at this stage in his career.

#6 Raymond Burr as Robert Baratheon

The future Mr. Perry Mason was damn good at playing hard-drinking, prowly, "beastly" men. See him in this fabulous trailer for 1951's Bride of the Gorilla (spoiler: Burr is the gorilla). Of course, for this production, he'd be about 10 years on from that virile role, but that's perfectly on brand for Bobby B.

#5 Michael Landon as Jon Snow

Landon's tortured James Dean era would be a great fit for angsty goth teen Jon, though he might have trouble keeping his feelings as hidden as Jon does.

#4 Allison Hayes as Melisandre

Should she be ranked this high? Eh, maybe not, but this woman is a goddamn B-movie bombshell goddess. Her Red Woman would be a little less mysterious, sure, but her perfectly arched eyebrows and bullet bra would do R'hllor proud all the same.

#3 Marie Windsor as Catelyn Stark

They didn't call her Queen of the B's for nothing. Windsor always did great with roles that call for strength and verve. She'd be a fantastic Cat, and - dare I dream it - an even better Lady Stoneheart.

#2 Jack Nicholson as Theon Greyjoy

Now this would be fun. If baby Jack Nicholson had half the presence and charisma he would show in later movies, his Theon would be legendary.

#1 Coleen Gray as Cersei Lannister

If I can get Tumblr to understand one thing, it's how much Coleen Gray would absolutely eat in the role of Cersei. She's beautiful. She's a schemer. She's a helpless victim. She's back for revenge. I challenge anyone to watch her insane, murderous, fierce, gorgeous, duplicitous performance in 1960's otherwise pretty terrible The Leech Woman and not come to the same conclusion. I'm serious. There would be no survivors. 👑

[thepaintpirate]

IF YOU HAVEN'T WATCHED EP 1, SCROLL NOW.

Live action review -

One Piece: Romance Dawn

Episode one of the One piece live action... This is only my opinions and views, if you aren't interested in that then cool but I need somewhere to talk. This will be bullet points.

Introduction with Roger's execution and a narrator? A fantastic choice

Roger's casting is actually spot on though?? Why were people complaining he's great for the role, Roger is in his 50s here are you he's sick of course he's not gonna be a super model but he's still stoic looking and I like it

Scottish Garp I shouldn't expect anything less (if they ever get to Sabaody I hope Kidd and Killer are Scottish too lmao)

I like that you can see who's in the crowd too because for the anime/manga people it's like a lil treat (Dragon I see you stop hiding)

Iñaki is perfect. I don't think anyone else would have suited Luffy more, the more the episode continued the more convinced I became

Line delivery is... It could be improved. It's quite theatrical? Like stage place or musical type acting sometimes. Maybe it's what they were going for I don't know, I don't hate it but it made me pause for a few moments because I get really bad second hand embarrassment

Coby and Luffy moments are great, they're dynamic and it's a lovely relationship they have going and you can tell the actors work well together

Shanks and his crew? Absolutely phenomenal. Peter Gadiot is perfect but the trailer did him dirty. My only complaint is I don't think Benn's casting was the best, sorry to the actor but he just doesn't fit quite like the others.

Baby Luffy... Oh my heart is melting

Zoro's intro and choreography was great, lil hint to Baroque Works if we get a S2 hehehe

Nami slayed as per usual, trust in Emily is at it's peak. She isn't just playing Nami, she is Nami

"No, more is better. More is better". I'm sold.

Zoro lugging around the severed torso of Mr 7.

Again, great bar fight scene. I got some second hand embarrassment again from the line delivery but I recover fast and move on

Morgans is... Yh he's there.

Omg they're looking at the sky together, they're such sweeties I'm kicking my legs

Zoro and Luffy's lil talk is so on brand

Nami absolutely eating up every single one of her scenes yet again

Emily and Iñaki work so well omggg

I DIDN'T NEED TO SEE THAT MF BUTT ASS NAKED PLEASE GIVE ME A WARNING MY GOD.

The courtyard fight scene. The courtyard fight scene. Great direction, it's smooth and really well done.

If I'm repulsed when an antagonist has come onto screen then you know they've done the job right.

Coby slayed.

Jeepers creepers those snail phones make me flinch. Anyway, Garp and Bogard eeeee. I just know the Tiktok Bogard guy is happy.

BUGGY!? THE POSE!? THE BUILD UP AND SUSPENCE!? THE MUSIC!? THE SLUTTY LEGS ON THE CHAIR AND HEAD IN THE PALM!? THE VOICE!?

Honestly, 200/10 casting for him and Cabaji

In my most honest opinion, this episode was good. It wasn't the greatest, there's definitely more to come and it's a lovely scene setter and build up. The cast are great, I have a few comments about how they've been directed to deliver lines because it's honestly not the best.

The CGI even now, where there wasn't much needed, is really promising. My favourites so far? Definitely Shanks, Luffy (both mini and big) and Nami. They honestly made the first episode for me. It's got the fun feel of the show, and for a live action it's quite good. I do agree it's not to everyone's taste, my brother watched one scene and didn't like it but that's because he's a skeptic. I have high hopes, let's just hope incels and chronically online shit wipes don't ruin this for me or others... Don't listen to them, it's worth a watch.

[dupliciti]

my thoughts on sa.mpo in keeping up with st.ar ra.il - sp.arkle

i reorganized this post to have the content discussion front loaded then have the voice acting/language VO differences talk following it up

if you don't watch the keeping up with st.ar rai.l videos, sa.mpo was supposed to be the one to help introduce for bla.ck swa.n's. sp.arkle crashed it. hence the taped name card, she tore it in the last one lmao. my additional note here is that i was robbed on commentary from sa.mpo on the "beautiful lady" smh.

sa.mpo himself says that he and sparkle aren't that close !!! in my mind he's always kept her at arm's length. willing to help her or work things out in a deal but they really aren't friends

sa.mpo apparently was knocked unconscious backstage, this is in dialogue with the real ow.lbert. so this was intended perhaps so he wouldn't pull a fast one? ow.lbert works for the IPC so i have to then assume that the IPC is aware that sa.mpo is dangerous to some degree to have to do this??? sa.mpo sending ow.lbert a scam text is so funny to me

sa.mpo wanting to move on by not bringing up the past and wanting to be a good boy to then be invited to more "good" things in the future. yeah, he definitely shrinks himself, act innocent, or tries to switch to acting good to get benefit out of it. time and time again this is proven.

fucking sa.mpo calling out ow.lbert and ow.lbert being like "DoYouWantYouAppearanceFeeOrNot" LMAO. sa.mpo then playing up spa.rkle is SO KJSDHGJKSDHG. ow.lbert like okay sa.mpo you're acting TOO MUCH asjkdgh

"what are the limits of the art of acting?" sa.mpo says that he "believes that mistress sparkle represents the limit of the art of 'acting' itself!" based on how he feels about her pursuit of elation, to me he means to say that she really is a limit. it's clear that he doesn't appreciate her viewing the galaxy as a stage or worlds as stages. thinks that this pursuit of elation itself is limiting for a person since it's just acting

when spa.rkle then replaces ow.lbert she says "i believe your acting is still confined to.." she doesn't specify here, instead goes on to say "mr. sa.mpo you have too many limitations. having limitations always kills the vibe". we know that because of how spar.kle exists, to her, sa.mpo is boring because of his self-imposed limitations

i don't dislike spa.rkle but obviously i write sa.mpo so in regards to that last bit, i think his take on elation is more focused on himself. and kinda how i said before it seems that fools have a drive to embody elation, so if he's feeling joy from what he does for himself, then that's what matters to him. in most cases that means it's related to a crime lmfao. i also have other thoughts based on like 2.0 and the sparkle trailers and information but that'll be a separate post

i watched it in english initially. okay. yeah. roger has settled into sa.mpo's voice. he's actually speaking a little higher here than in 2.0 which is… confusing. but i'm pretty sure it's all good under the hood. that's all. it's not a bad thing! in his own right it's great it's fine. english for sa.mpo is just not my preferred in the slightest asjkgh

although i've also said i don't draw my voice for him from spoken/voice acted lines, the way he speaks here outside of the context of the express, aka not pretending to be from belobog.. i think it's actually neat. and by neat i'm referring to the way he draws out some words.

okay as for the other languages. this type of content is so great for comparing and analyzing his VAs oh man. my bias lies between japanese and korean.

though i think more recently japanese has been winning out with his expression. newer lines and in this video we see sa.mpo's full range of emotions and his "acting". i think it's great and what i kinda aim for when writing him. even if i'm writing in english THE WAY in which he speaks is what i hear and where my goal lies. he's not just smarmy, he's not just overdramatic. he's capable of being all over the place when attempting to win someone over, and even when he sounds more genuine you still feel like you can't trust him

however, i have also said that the active balancer in my mind his his korean vo. also has had some rather amusing moments. now isn't the time to discuss past stuff, but for this video he also does the over the top bits when talking about acting and spa.rkle. the dramatics are still fitting! between all the vas i feel like this sa.mpo perhaps sounds the "coolest" if that makes sense. when speaking normally you can kinda hear it in this video

i do adore the chinese vo for sa.mpo. i've seen people say that he isn't as expressive, which i don't entirely agree with as a reason to judge his voice acting? this is technically the closest to source material in terms of the script right. i had said before regarding the reveal scene in 2.0 i think when it's called for then he IS more expressive, this comes through in this video. his dramatics feel purposeful and thus slightly more impactful since he's just a chill playful dude otherwise

[flipside-phoebe]

I wanted to make a longer and more coherent trailer analysis/breakdown but sadly I don't think I'll have time. It's already been a while so others have beat me to it anyway. I will jot down a few thoughts though. (This is based on footage I saw from both the main trailer and the international version, and mostly on memory so sorry if anything is inaccurate):

I like the new ghost designs! The eel-anglerfish thing looks wicked and reminds me of the subway ghost in the first movie. The small potato thing is cute too. Is it based on Slimer's earlier concept art? I could've sworn I seen it before. Maybe it was a toy. Lion statues coming to life is clever too, reminds me of "Mrs. Rogers Neighborhood".

I don't mind the inclusion of old ghosts like Slimer and the library ghost! I've seen some people call it nostalgia bait, but I like these characters, darn it. I think Slimer looks great here, the perfect balance of ugly and cute just as he should be. Library ghost looks a bit kooky but I figure she looks better in other shots. I actually hope we get her true backstory this time and have someone help her cross over. Maybe after 40 years, Ray finally got the idea to try communicating with her using sign language? She hates noise, so it's worth a try.

The main villain with the horns is badass. Enough said. I'm glad the trailers don't spoil too much about them. I want to be surprised.

We don't see too much of Phoebe in these, probably because of spoilers. In the scenes we do see with her, she looks sad or concerned. I'm worried about my girl, y'all! Especially with that one scene of the chess piece moving. I don't think that's Egon. He crossed over in the last movie. More likely this is another entity taking advantage of Phoebe's emotions to manipulate her. That's what I'd do if I was an evil ghost… Which I'm not.

Hearing Lucky yell "get away from her!" While she's firing a proton stream as it's BEING FROZEN is making me insane. If Lucky gets frozen defending Phoebe I'll be heartbroken!

[xenofiction-design-project]

Interesting, this trailer for The Golden Compass contains some exclusive clips which weren't in the movie (Pan teasing a cat, Roger getting kidnapped, Asriel and Mrs. Coulter kissing). And they often use the word "alethiometer", more so than in the actual movie.

[prof-ramses]

Ranting about (and predicting) Big Boy Boxing (Warning: This will be MASSIVE)

Big Boy Boxing is a Punch Out styled indie boss rush game slated for release in mid 2024 with a cartoony style and bosses gimmicks inspired by Cuphead. It's being developed by fledgling studio, Soupmasters, and I am fucking OBSESSED with it!.

The predicting part comes from the official presskit which shows a bunch of boxers not currently sorted into tournaments.

For context, the devs are aiming for 24 unique opponents, we currently know about 6 tournaments and their champions, but given none of them have any final boss energy, I'm going to assume there will be 8 tournaments with 3 opponents each.

Just so we're all on the same page here's a link to the above mentioned presskit, here you can see images for all the mentioned characters:

Freezy's tournament: Freezy Boy is the first champ and this games Glass Joe, with the twist being he can hulk out. I think that makes it pretty clear that the fighters before him will be quite feeble. This makes me think of the Retired Joker and DJ Yamon. Neither a very tough looking and would make good introductions to a few mechanics.

Wild Dude's tournament: We already know about Mr. Adyltmen and of course, Wild Dude, given the latter's love of rats I'm betting Grizzly Rat is gonna be the third character.

Toxic Love's tournament: It turns out we know all three opponents, Coach Skank, Trigger Happy (thought she's been redesigned as a little girl with a giant mallet) and Toxic Love, herself.

Jim Chad's tournament: In addition to Titanic 5000, whose redesign has made him much less intimidating, and Jim Chad we'll see a spiky haired, currently unseen character, whose shadow can be seen with Titanic 5000's and Jim's in a cutscene snippet in the most recent trailer on the Soupmasters channel.

Bruno's tournament: The only guess I have for this one is Master Dong, his zenned out design gives him a tuned-into-nature quality, which fits Bruno's jungle theme.

Dr. Brawn's tournament: Brawn is a stereotypical supervillain, Super Roger is a stereotypical superhero, nuff said. Also there's Chef Kembo, recently reinvented on the official discord as a smaller hunchback (possible lab asisstent archetype) who drinks gasoline and goes by Chef Diesel.

Here's the discord link:

Others: D' Bulldozah and Grand Adultman are quite interesting both could be in the same tournament, but I highly doubt it. I think what's most likely is that Grand Adultman will be in the final tournament (though not the champ) and D'Bulldozah will be in the non-final, non-revealed tournament

That's all I've got for now, hope I got at least someone interested in this serious contender for 2024's GOTY.

[sassy-ahsoka-tano]

Hi! Could I request a fic where reader is an actress in a play/movie that's kinda like a star vehicle for Elvis but she's starring opposite him. I remember reading that he wanted to do serious stuff, like not just singing and dancing. And also, could reader be very innocent and nervous about doing scenes and stuff with such a famous guy like E.P.? Maybe there's a kissing or a love scene and she gets nervous to do it for real? Could be fluffy or smutty, whichever way works best! <3

Dreams

tw: none! [ fem!reader ] || word count: 1827 || rating: pg

A/N: after the absolute sin i posted last night i hope y'all enjoy this softness lolol 🥰 this is such a cute idea!!! i loved writing it 💕

─────•~❉᯽❉~•─────

“Does my hair look alright, Doris?” you ask, glancing over at your stylist with worried eyes.

You’re standing in front of the mirror in your trailer, preparing to film your very first scene on the set of a new movie. While you’re already nervous after critics have expressed a lot of excitement for the movie, some predicting it to be the best film of the year, you’re even more nervous to meet your co-star. When your agent explained to you that you’d be starring opposite Elvis Presley, the famous musician and actor, your heart had stopped.

“Yes, of course, it does, Y/N. You look wonderful,” Doris responds with a smile as she brings your coat over.

You sigh as you slide your arms back into it. You know you shouldn’t be worried or nervous. You’re clearly just as talented and capable of an actor as Elvis since you’re co-starring in the same movie. And you happen to be one of the hottest names in Hollywood in general, with hundreds of fans throwing themselves at you on the daily. Glancing at yourself in costume in the mirror, you heave a deep breath and smile at Doris through the reflection.

“Don’t worry, dear,” she says, rubbing your arm comfortingly. “You’ll be perfect. You always are.”

You lean affectionately against her arm and thank her. She opens the door for you and you make your way across the street toward the studio. The security guards open the door for you and you enter, silently repeating your lines to yourself in your head. You approach the director, Paul, and paste on your most charming smile. As you come closer, you realize that Paul is already discussing the scene with someone, although you can’t tell who since their back is turned to you.

“Y/N, darling! We’re just discussing the scene,” Paul says when his eyes lock onto you.

He gestures for you to come forward so you step up to the conversation and your breath catches in your throat when the mystery man turns around. Of course, it’s none other than Elvis standing before you. He offers you a charming smile which you return happily.

"Y/N, this is-"

"Elvis Presley," you interrupt Paul. "It's truly an honor to meet you Mr. Presley. I'm quite a fan."

"I'm a pretty big fan of yours, too, Miss Y/L/N."

He thrusts his hand forward and you take it and give it a firm shake. Paul continues talking, gesturing toward the set behind you. It's a scene halfway through the movie which takes place by a romantic Italian fountain in Milan. It also so happens to be the first kiss scene that occurs in the film. As you step up onto the set, you gulp and try not to shake as you reach up to take Elvis' outstretched hand. You feel heat creeping into your face as Elvis smiles and helps you up the steps.

"I think if we have you begin over here, Y/N, it will be more natural for you to look Roger in the eyes, yes?"

"Like this?" you ask.

You stand to follow Paul's direction toward the fountain and turn with your knees resting elegantly against the side of the marble structure. You stare off into the distance where Elvis' character, Roger, is marked to stand.

"Yes, that's delightful. And Elvis if you'd begin over here," Paul suggests and Elvis follows his direction. "Wonderful, wonderful! Let me make sure the cameras are ready to roll and we'll start filming."

Paul runs off toward the cameras as a few lingering set assistants swoop in to fix some details. You chuckle as you make eye contact with Elvis from across the set and he winks. A few moments later, Paul's voice rings out again.

"Alright kids let's begin from 'what are your dreams, Roger?' And...action!"

"What are your dreams, Roger?" you start.

Elvis recites his monologue, much longer than most of your lines in this scene. When you originally read the script, you were upset by the idea that you had so few lines, but now as you sit shuddering silently with anxiety, you're actually quite glad. You don't think you could handle more than a few lines. You watch as Elvis dances around the set, interacting with the props exactly as scripted. You find yourself genuinely impressed by his skills. He continues through the monologue until he sits next to you on the fountain. He takes your hands in his and stares into your eyes. Suddenly, your mind goes blank and you realize that you've forgotten what you're supposed to say.

"What about you, Maggie, what are your dreams?"

"I dream of a day filled with sun, sand between my toes, and...er..."

"Cut! Okay, Y/N, honey let's try it again, please. Remember the line is 'I dream of a day filled with sun, sand between my toes, and my body in your arms.' Let's go again please. Reset and...action!"

You shake yourself back to focus, repeating the line again and again in your head. Before you know it, Elvis is sitting by you on the fountain.

"What about you, Maggie, what are your dreams?"

But when it comes time again for you to recite your response, your heart begins to thud in your chest. Your brain jumps forward to the scene you know will follow in which you have to kiss Elvis Presley. Passionately. And nerves quickly take over.

"I dream of a day filled with sun, sand between my toes, and my body...in your...arms, in your arms. I'm sorry," you say, dropping your head into your hands.

Although Paul remains calm, you can tell that he's growing irritated. Elvis touches your hand gently and nods encouragingly.

"You'll get it, darlin. I know you will," he says with a wink.

Your heart beats quickly in your chest snd the frog in your throat keeps you from saying anything. So instead, you just nod. Elvis returns to the start of the scene and you take a deep breath. Paul yells action and you start the scene once more. You're doing wonderfully and you finally get down your line, but as Elvis' fingers intertwine into yours to the soundtrack of his deep southern drawl and beautiful sea blue eyes, your memory turns into mush.

"And what'll we do then, Maggie?" he asks, leaning in as his eyes flick down to your lips.

"I...we will s...we...shit," you hiss, rubbing your fingers on the bridge of your nose. "Excuse me. I'm sorry. I don't know what's wrong with me."

You can feel the heat climbing into your face and ears now. You stand up as the crew begins to reset and walk back into the corner, closing yourself off from the rest of the staff as much as possible. You scold yourself in whispers.

Since your eyes are closed, you jump at the sound of Elvis' voice beside you.

"Y/N, y'aright honey?" he asks.

You turn with your best fake smile and nod.

"Yes, I'm fine. Just...frustrated, that's all. I promise that I'm more professional than this. For some reason I just can't..."

"You'll get it. I know you will. I've seen you act on the screen and watchin you is like magic."

You lift your gaze to his as the hint of a smile tugs at the corners of your mouth.

"Thank you. But it does no good if I can't even remember my lines on day one of filming. I'm better than this, I know I am. I just need to-"

"Hey," your breath hitches in your throat as Elvis takes ahold of your fingers. His warm, calloused fingers soothingly circle over your knuckles. "You just need to relax, baby. Listen, I ain't never acted opposite someone so beautiful and talented before. I can't wait to see what you can do. Just relax and take it slow, like we're havin a real conversation. Yeah?"

You nod and smile. He gently pinches your chin between his thumb and forefinger

"Atta girl."

You close your eyes and heave a few deep breaths before returning to your mark to prepare for the scene. Paul raises his eyebrows and you nod back with a determined expression. Paul's worked with you several times before and you know that he's aware of your talent. He probably realizes that you're just having an off day. Paul yells action and Elvis begins the scene. You breathe a sigh of relief as you make it through your first line without issue.

"What about you, Maggie, what are your dreams?"

"I dream of a day filled with sun, the sand between my toes, and my body in your arms."

"And what'll we do then, Maggie?" Elvis asks.

He takes your fingers gently, giving you a reassuring squeeze. You smile at him and tilt your head. His gaze is soft and sweet, his blue eyes sparkling in the romantic light of the set. His eyes flick down to your lips and yours do the same as you prepare to say your next line.

"Well, I'm not sure. What do you have in mind, Roger?"

Elvis smiles, his hand gently cupping your face. His thumb strokes your cheek and he pulls you to him. You lean forward slowly, tilting your head. Right before your lips touch, Elvis pauses and takes you in. You bite your lip and he leans forward to press his lips onto yours. You smile into the kiss, your arms winding around his shoulders to pull his body closer. His snake around your waist and he deepens the kiss. Your fingers start to tangle into his hair and he accidentally leans forward a little too far, caught up in the passion of the moment.

You yelp as you both fall sideways into the water of the fountain. Your clothes are immediately soaked and you both burst into laughter. Paul yells cut and claps.

"That was honestly wonderful! You know, I think I like this better than what we had scripted. We wanted Roger and Maggie to be a lighthearted, fun-loving couple, and I think this demonstrates that beautifully. Let's get you both cleaned off and go for another take. Great work, everyone!"

You and Elvis are still coming down from your fits of laughter. Elvis steps out first and holds his hand out for you. You accept his help and he pulls you to standing as the last few chuckles escape from your lips. Silence settles between you and you chuckle nervously.

"Thank you," you say.

"Don't mention it, darlin," he responds, waving his hand dismissively. "Sorry for gettin ya all wet."

You chuckle and shake your head.

"Oh, I don't mind. If it means I get to kiss you again, I'm all for it."

You turn to get changed into a dry costume, glancing over your shoulder to see a surprised Elvis with deep red cheeks.

─────•~❉᯽❉~•─────

🦋 mila

[piratesandexplorers]

Well, some time last year I said I was going to watch the not-so-new-anymore Swallows and Amazons film on Netflix, but apparently it's taken a dose of Covid to lay me up in bed and actually get me to do it.

I have lots of thoughts, as I promised I would...

(Spoilers ahead I guess, but nothing big that's not fairly obvious from trailers etc., I don't think.)

There were a lot of little nitpicky things that annoyed me, but I could probably have got past those (actually, no I couldn't, but never mind) if the whole thing had been good enough to carry me through. I'm obviously biased, and it did have its good points, probably fun enough as a kids' film, but I genuinely just think it was poor storytelling, which is extra disappointing as it was based on such a good story. Some of the bigger things that I had problems with:

The Spy Plot. I don't really have that much to say on this one because it's obvious that the second they decided to go with this idea, it stopped being Swallows and Amazons. The modern thing is to believe everything needs Super High Stakes and Lots Of Action or kids will be bored. I think they're wrong, but there we go. (Sorry, Andrew Scott, I'd watch you in anything, but you didn't belong here.) But even accepting that for what it is, I just don't think they did what they were trying to do particularly well, so on that note...

Character development and relationships. So much went wrong here, I don't know where to start. Obviously they butchered both John and Susan (presumably because they lazily read them as boring and, rather than read any deeper, just changed them entirely), as well as Mrs Walker and her relationship with the children. Genuinely, what's wrong with writing families who like and trust each other? Captain Flint was already ruined by the spy plot, but his eventual switch to being the nice fun uncle didn't work well even in the context they gave him - it felt like they just went "and actually he turned out to be nice, which you should just accept and not question because it's just a kids' story so it's not that deep". Which does such an injustice to the original writing. Then there are the Blacketts, who need a third point all to themselves:

The Blacketts. I was so disappointed with Nancy and Peggy. I feel bad criticising children, but I didn't think the actors playing them were good at all (compared to the Walkers, who could all act). But the real issue I had with them was their lack of screentime?? They barely appeared, we had no time to get to know them, to care about them, or to see any sign of genuine friendship between them and the Swallows. There was no spark to them at all, no sign of Nancy's charisma, or sense of them as the wild rule-breakers. Mrs Blackett was a non-character too, which is forgivable as she was sort of a non-character in the first book, but given that they did give her extra screentime, they could at least have given her some characterisation?

The Pacing. I feel like this point wraps the previous ones together, because the cause is the spy plot and the result (or one of them) is the bad/non-existent character-dev. There's no time for the characters to unfold, no time for them to sit and talk to each other, no time for extra scenes that show relationships, no time for fireworks on the cabin roof or parleys around the campfire or Vicky/Bridget's birthday or fishing trips or Octopus Lagoons or Nancy bullying policemen on John's behalf. Even the Black Spot gets delivered in a moment at the dining table, with no explanation of what it means. And it's mainly because most of the time is taken up by the Big Plot, but it's not only that - those small but important scenes are also replaced by things like losing the food hamper, and John shouting at Roger, and Roger falling in the lake. Things they obviously decided were more Dramatic and Exciting, but actually do nothing meaningful at all. It all just feels completely rushed, which is the opposite of Ransome's vibes. And not only that, but the piling on of difficulties, and problems, and fights, and things going wrong, just makes the whole island camping expedition seem entirely depressing, rather than a taste of joyful freedom.

The Aesthetic. Related to the last point, but I did think that the one thing we would get from this film, since they filmed on location, would be the feel of the Lakelands and the scenery and rural Northern England in the 20s. I got almost none of that. Again, probably because the only things they cared about were spies with guns and ramping up the sense of danger and difficulty at every turn.

It sounds like I hated the film, and I didn't hate it. It was fun to watch, I thought the kids playing Tatty (whose name change I do get) and Roger were particularly good, and I liked the Billies (although less so the fact that Susan and Roger didn't even meet them, and Tatty screaming the place down over the adder).

I just didn't think it was particularly good as a film, let alone an adaptation of Swallows and Amazons. Which, as a Swallows and Amazons fan, is just really sad.

What's funny to me is that the Netflix synopsis says: "When four siblings camp on an island in the middle of a lake during their vacation, they fall into a whimsical turf war with two boisterous rivals." Which is... far more of a description of the original plot than of the plot of the film.

[andydrysdalerogers]

Following Team Orders ~ Las Vegas

Pairings: Steve Rogers x OFC Olivia Williams

Summary: Olivia Williams is Formula One royalty. Her father is a racing legend and all Liv wants is to be one of only six women in the world to have raced in the most elite racing division in the world. When she finally gets the chance, she has to not only take on a male dominated sport, but her past, her teammate and a life beyond the track that she was not ready for. She just has to follow team orders but what happens when one man challenges her on and off the racing line...

Word Count: 3K

Warnings: A-N-G-S-T!!! eventual smut, slow burn, enemies to lovers, love triangle (if you squint) misogamy, fluff, racing accidents, an asshole Steve Rogers (you'll see what i mean); parental death

Dividers by @firefly-graphics

Series MasterList - Main Masterlist

Two weeks prior… Saturday 

There are two things Ransom hates: losing and Steve Rogers. The man had been a thorn in his side for the last couple of years, almost beating him for championships, almost having his girl. If he thought he could murder the bastard and get away with it, he would. He was even costing him sleep.  He had dreamt that he had Liv underneath him, moaning his name like she used to when Rogers interrupted them in her trailer.  As soon as he saw the fucker, he woke up, hard and pissed.  He decided to take a walk around the hotel.  As he went to check his phone, he heard a door open.  He moved behind a doorway and peak over.  

And fury consumed him. 

Rogers was coming out the door, hair disheveled, big smile on his face.  Small hands pull him back and turn him around. The couple kiss and Ransom sees it as an opportunity to fuck Rogers by showing it to Liv. Except when Rogers pulls away, it's Liv he sees in the room.  He took a series of photos and decided that this was the perfect opportunity.  

After Ransom gets his coffee, he sent a message to Lance, Lloyd and Suzanne. 

Have news. Meet in my room. 

As Ransom stood in the window, looking over the Mexico City skyline, he smiled to himself. A plan was forming, and he was confident it could work.  A knock brought him out of his thoughts, and he went to the door. He opened it and ushered everyone in. “What is going on Ranny?” Suzanne whined. 

“Shut the fuck up Suzy,” Ransom growled. “I have some important shit so can it.”  He picked up his phone and pulled up the photos.  “I found a way to fuck over Rogers and get rid of Olivia.”  He showed the group the pictures.  

“Holy fuck!” Lance looked up at Ransom. “Why are you smiling?” 

“Because if the FIA made Rogers sign the same contract as me, there is a non-fraternization clause. If that’s the case, then this,” picking up the phone, “is our way to getting rid of Rogers, Olivia, Barnes and the whole Red Bull team. We can pick up their sponsors, their money and really be the top team in F1. And if it doesn’t, well then it just fucks them over and I’m ok with that too.” Ransom bite into the Danish he had.  

Lloyd started to laugh. “Damm sunshine, you are going to make Mercedes unstoppable.” He looked at the photos.  “I have a contact at ESPN. Let’s do this. That little beauty insulted me, that prick almost has the championship.” Lloyd growled. “Time for this love story to end.”  

Las Vegas – Thursday before race 

Andy is sitting inside the main office for FIA at the Las Vegas track.  He was sitting, staring out to Las Vegas skyline, wondering what fresh hell he was being sent to.  The door opened but he didn’t turn. “Mr. Barber?” That’s when he turned.  

Jenny Williams stood in the doorway.  “Jenny?” 

“Hi Andy.” She looked tired but determined.  

He hugged the oldest Williams girl. “What are you doing here Jen?” 

“I’m representing Livie for the investigation.  You can only represent one of them, according to the guidelines, but we need to figure out if they violated their contracts with Red Bull or the FIA.”  

“Right.”  Andy looked down at the binders in front of him. “I’ve looked over Rogers’s contract. There is nothing in his contract that states he can’t have a consensual relationship with another driver. Steve’s reputation has been clean.”  

“Then why are the reports indicating he’s violating a morality clause?”  Jenny pulled a report from ESPN.  

“Contracts have a behavioral morality clause, like for drunken behavior, fighting, that sort of thing.” Andy stood up and started to pace. “The only one I’ve heard who had an amendment to theirs was Drysdale when Olivia joined the drivers’ league. Since they had history, the FIA added the clause, under Drysdale’s objections, of course.”  

Jenny wrote that down.  “Liv doesn’t have that clause, but this still won’t lose its teeth.  They are going to call for collusion.”  

“They are teammates.  Their main goal is to win, for the team to win.  It's bullshit Jenny.”  Andy was fuming.  

“And that’s the argument I will start with.” Jenny put her pen down. “But since they were hiding, it looks bad.” 

Andy put his hands on his hips and bowed his head.  “I know Steve.  I know how much he hated her before he gave into his feelings. And Liv, she just wouldn’t hook up with another driver. I don’t know how they can suddenly love each other.”  

Jenny could see how much Andy cared for his drivers but was blind. “You obviously didn’t see them at dad’s funeral.  Steve was her support when she couldn’t keep going. When she needed someone to take care of her when she felt all alone. I know he was there, at the hospital, after her accident.  When he came in to see her and said goodbye to her because he wanted her to succeed.” 

“He did?” 

“Of course, he did.  Andy, they have been going in circles because of misunderstandings and assumptions.  They fought their way to this point.” Jenny massaged her temples.  “Red Bull records all of the team's radio transmissions, right?” 

“Yes,” Andy said slowly.  

“Perfect.  And can Steve and Liv communicate to each other?” 

“No, they can only hear if we open a channel to them both, but that rarely happens.”  

“What about in Austin?” 

Andy riffled through some papers.  “Here, the transcript of the race.  Liv and Steve never talked.  The only time they were even close to each other in the race was when Liv passed him after he spun.  He asked if he could catch her.”  

“Then this is proof that they didn’t conspire.”  Jenny closed her notebook.  “Dad would have wanted them to win.  Not just the race or the championship.  But in love too.”  

As Jenny and Andy were meeting, Liv, Steve, Nat, Bucky, Sam, Frank and Tony were all in Liv’s suite, discussing the inquiry.  

“It’s not fair,” Liv said as she paced the length of the room.  Everyone else was sitting, watching her go back and forth.  “They are doing this because I’m a woman.”  

“Baby, if that were true, you could sue the pants off the organization,” Steve replied in an attempt to calm her.  

“Bug, come on, sit,” Frank said, patting the seat between himself and Steve.  

“I can’t.”  Olivia was pacing to keep other emotions from emerging. “What if they say my points are invalid.  What if they say Steve’s are?  That would mean he would lose the championship and then we would lose the team one.  I would be a pariah and I’ll never get to race again.” 

Nat sighed.  “Liv, none of that is going to happen. Jenny is here to help with that, and you know she’ll put that big lawyer brain into full gear.  Andy is going to make sure nothing happens.  You just have to stay calm.”  

“Maybe I should quit.” Olivia’s words stunned the room.  “Maybe if I wasn’t here anymore, they will stop the inquiry and let Steve keep his points and then…” she swallowed... “then he could finish the season and win.”  She finally stopped pacing when she reached the window and looked at the city below.  

“Could you guys give us the room, please?”  Steve’s voice was stern, and no one questioned the request.  Only Bucky stopped to squeeze Steve’s shoulder before leaving the room.  “Olivia, come sit with me.”  She refused to acknowledge him.  “Olivia, right now.”  She looked up and he could see for the first time that there were tears in her eyes.  “Oh baby,” his tone softens.  He could see how much this was tearing her up inside.  He went to her and wrapped his arms around her as she finally cried.  

“Stevie, I didn’t mean… this all my…” he cut her off.  

“Sweetheart, this is not your fault. We didn’t do anything wrong. The press is blowing this up because of who we are.” He kissed her forehead. “Baby, look at me.”  Her pink-ringed eyes looked up at him. “Our life, this relationship goes beyond the track.  I would do anything for you. I would walk away right now just to see you smile.  The championship doesn’t mean anything if you are not right there with me. I love you so much that it hurts to be away from you.  So don’t quit, don’t leave. I’ll follow you anywhere.”  

“Really?” 

“Livie, you are my endgame.”   

“I am?” Her voice cracked.  

“You are baby.  I knew that from our first kiss.” 

Liv smiled.  “I knew from that moment too.”  

Steve kissed her softly, making sure to be gentle, to let her feel all the love he had for her.  This girl who came in like a breath of fresh air.  He could lie all he wanted but their first kiss wasn’t when he fell in love with her.  It was the first day they really met.  Her eyes blazed at him, showing the spark of fierceness, the way she didn’t back down, because she knew her worth.  She put him under her spell right then.  No matter how much he fought it, he has been in love with Olivia Williams for far longer than anyone knew.  She was his home.  He would gladly give up racing to be with her and help her achieve every goal.   

They stayed in that night. They ordered room service and kept to themselves, needing those final moments of peace before the flurry of press and fans descended upon them.  

Steve took his time, taking her apart, piece by piece, as he made love to his girl. It was soft, it was sweet, it was everything they needed that night.  As she slept, a sheet covering her torso, Steve looked out to the Vegas night sky. The flashing lights of the strip combined with the muted sounds provided the perfect lullaby that lulled Liv to sleep but kept Steve awake.  He wanted nothing more than to wake up from this nightmare.  He wanted Liv and himself to just race like before and finish on top, just like he planned.  He had no idea what was instore for them on the track.  He just hoped that they still had each other at the end of it.  

Andy started Sunday with a team meeting.  “I know this weekend has been rough on everyone.” He saw the crestfallen face of Liv and Steve, who sat in the back, holding hands. “Especially our drivers.  I have spoken to the Bartons, and they are standing behind Steve and Olivia. Our contracts don’t specifically state that they couldn’t have a relationship and we are standing behind that.”  

He cleared his throat as some of the crew began to speak.  “Just a sec. With that said, this doesn’t mean the FIA won’t be investigating.  They have informed us that they will start after today’s race.  What they find and what punishments will be endured are unknown, but I know this, we will appeal against any negative decisions made towards the drivers and the team.  We are one family here and we will continue that way.  Drivers, let’s get you warmed up. Crew chiefs, a word.  Everyone else, please do your final checks before the race starts.”  

Liv heads back into her garage and climbs up to her secret loft area.  She pulls out her phone and scrolls through all of the headlines.  

F1 PRINCESS IN RELATIONSHIP WITH RED BULL STAR 

IS ROGERS USING WILLIAMS HEIRESS TO STAY ON TOP? 

OLIVIA WILLIAMS: IS SHE BOUNCING FROM DRIVER TO DRIVER? SOURCES SAY SHE IS USING ROGERS TO GET TO DRYSDALE 

ARE THE NEW EAR FEMAL DRIVERS DISTRACTING TO THE SPORT OF F1 

OLIVIA AND STEVE: RACING’S NEW ROYAL COUPLE UNDER INVESTIGATION 

WILL THEY LAST? LIV WILLIAMS AND STEVE ROGERS IN TROUBLE ALREADY, CLAIMS SOURCE 

Liv could feel the tears threatening to fall.  One article accused her of using her father’s name while another claimed that she was using Steve to take his spot.  Another said she was doing it to get back at Ransom and how heartbroken he is. Others say she was paying off officials for her win.  

“You know,” her head whipped around to see her favorite ocean blue eyes staring at her, “if you let them get into your head, you are just going to prove them right.”  Steve crawled as best he could to laid down beside her.  

“Steve, they are saying I didn’t win on my own.  That Andy paid people off so I could win.  How could they say that?  Why would they tell these lies?” 

“I don’t know, love.”  He tucked her hair behind her ear.  “But you have to ignore it. You need to put your game face on and show them how wrong they are.”  

“Promise me.  Promise me that you won’t leave me when they tear me down.”  

“Never.” He kissed her. “C’mon, let’s kick this field’s ass and show them we are an unstoppable force.”  

The race went well for Red Bull with Steve and Liv finishing one-three with Charles in the middle.  The win was somber, with Liv just going through the motions.  As the drivers sat down in the press room, the tension became palpable.  The standard F1 reporters asked the first questions, like how the race was, was the track good, stuff like that.  It wasn’t until the floor was opened to the other reporters that Steve figured out what was wrong.  

The first reporter stood, “Adam Schefter, ESPN.  Congratulations Steve on the win.”  

“Thanks.”  

“Was it team orders that kept you in the lead?” 

“No, no orders were given.” Steve clenched his jaw.  Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Liv visibly tense.  

“Williams had the chance to pass a couple of times.  Was she told to stand down?” 

Steve wasn’t sure what to say before Liv spoke up. “I wasn’t told to do anything.  Rogers is an excellent driver, and I couldn’t get around him.”  

The next reporter, Maria Smith from AP Sports moved on to Charles.  Liv zoned out of the question until she heard. “Is it true that you had a previous relationship with Miss Williams?” Her heart stopped.  

Charles took a sip of water to calm himself before answering.  “I don’t know what that question has to do with the race.”  He cocked an eyebrow at the woman, who blushed and sat.  

“I would like that answer,” a man from NBC Sports stood up. “Did you have a relationship with Miss Williams that could affect whether she allowed you to score more points?” 

Liv bit her lip to stop from screaming at the man and keep the tears at bay. Charles looked at Liv to see her broken expression and grew angry.  “Olivia and I are friends, just like most of the drivers here are. She wouldn't give us an edge if she can help it.  She is here to race and to win, that’s it.  This line of questions is inappropriate.”  

“So, you are saying that there is not a relationship between you and her, but you are ok that a relationship formed between her and Rogers?”  The reporter was egging them on, and Steve knew it.  

He stood up, palms down on the desk in front of him.  “Our relationship is none of your business.  Olivia and I...” he stopped to look at her and she watched him with heartbroken eyes. “Olivia and I are in a committed relationship.  I love this woman, and I will not sit here and allow you to try and take her apart. She is a fantastic racer, a history maker, a trailblazer.  She has done it all while men like you tried to keep her down.  Fuck, even I tried to keep her down, but she fought back for everything she has earned.  She is respected among her colleagues, and she has done her job. These interviews are over.”   

He stepped back, went to Olivia and took her hand and walked her out of the press room, while questions were flung at them.  Charles followed and Olivia buried her head in Steve’s chest.  “I am so sorry Livie,” Charles said.  

“Thank you for standing up for her,” Steve said, when he could feel the sobs coming from her.  

“We’ll all stand up for her, punk.”  Steve looked up to see Bucky with the other drivers.  They all patted Liv’s back as they marched into the press room.  Steve heard Bucky as he declared with the other drivers that they would no longer be interviewing them bar official statements for their treatment of Olivia. Conspicuously absent are the Mercedes drivers.  

As the group walked away, Andy and Jenny came up to the couple.  “Great race, guys but I have some news.” Andy swallowed.  “The FIA has decided to open an official investigation. They have a complaint and, well, with the pictures, they had no other choice. I’m sorry Liv but you are suspended pending the conclusion of the investigation.”  

“But there are only two races left,” Steve complained.  

“I understand but...” Liv silenced him with her hand.  

“It’s ok Andy.  Did we ask for expedition?” Jenny answered with a nod. “Well, then I will head home to California.  Doesn’t look like any reason to travel to Brazil at this point.”  Steve gripped her hand and walked with her.  

“I won’t leave your side Love Bug.”  

“But the championship...” 

“There is nothing bigger than us right now.”  

Taglist

@patzammit @jennmurawski13-writes @texmexdarling @slutforchrisjamalevans @firephotogrl74. @tinkerbelle67

[lonelyasawhisper]

Interview with Kaz Utsunomiya (2018)

Scans by 亚基拉鱼, translated by 走路帶風的Mia to Chinese and then by me to English.

Kaz Utsunomiya has the closest relationship with Queen in Japan. Having gotten acquainted with the band when he was the London correspondent of Music Life (ML) magazine, he subsequently became close friends with the band and has since maintained contact both publicly and privately. It is his old friend, DJ/music critic Imaizumi "Snoopy" Keihimeko, who is exploring these secrets of Utsunomiya. She dedicated her youth to Queen, and it’s because of this band that she pursued her current career, making her a representative of Queen fans.

Interview and writing: Imaizumi Keihimeko

In 1986, I went to London's Wembley Stadium to watch Queen's final tour - The Magic Tour, after which Mr. Kaz Utsunomiya took me to their private party. The adrenaline from the concert alone made me so excited that I couldn't sleep. As for the party, I couldn't believe that I was going to the unimaginably extravagant world of Queen. Richard Branson's restaurant at Kensington Roof Gardens was reserved for the party, and a slew of well-dressed celebs were already there. I remember the band members coming in late. Next to Freddie was Elton John, who soon began to play the piano, and members of Duran Duran were present as well. Everyone was chatting to each other, but I was staring at Freddie. I was so terrified to be near him. Being a silent wall was the better option.

And Mr. Kaz was still the usual Mr. Kaz, he is able to chat with ease. This state he’s in won’t ever change, no matter if he is drinking at a party, drinking at home, or at an interview. He hasn't changed a bit since the first time I saw him in 1979. This is the secret of his foothold in the overseas music industry, it is a kind of charisma. I hope to become the female version of Kaz one day. I am conducting this interview with my gratitude to my elder Kaz Utsunomiya over the years and the unchanging spirit of a fangirl.

As the man who has the closest ties to Queen in Japan, what does Mr. Kaz think of the movie "Bohemian Rhapsody"?

Kaz: No expectations at all at first. It is Dexter Fletcher, whom I already know, who started the project. But there was a falling out due to a quarrel, and another director was found. But in the end, Dexter went back. His wife is a Lithuanian actress, who is also renowned for making folk costumes. When I went to Lithuania, I happened to meet Dexter and he said: "I wanted to do it, but our opinions clashed, so I was fired. The band is very serious about the project. Everyone is also very cooperative. We could have made something good. It’s a pity." He is a very good director, and I also feel that it’s a pity. Dexter still went back in the end. Elton John's "Rocketman" was just in its preparation period. After filming, he went back and finished it. Although it was only a trailer, it was quite a surprise.

Why did Dexter quit his job?

Kaz: It's not that he’s at odds with the band. This movie is mainly about the band's story, but also about Freddie and to portray the character of Freddie. The members of Queen must know their own people. In Dexter’s view of Freddie as an outsider, his goal was to respect history and aim for accuracy, but the band did not want to make a documentary, and this probably caused a disagreement.

I’m once again going to ask, how did Mr. Kaz and Queen meet?

Kaz: We were not friends at first. I only learned later that we went to the same university. We first met at ML interviews. They were very kind to me at the time, and Roger and I would meet frequently after that.

What was your impression of their debut?

Kaz: Although I generally believe that Queen is a band championed by Japanese fans, in fact, they had already gained considerable attention before coming to Japan, and also had hits. At that time, their US tour with Mott The Hoople as their opening act was canceled due to Brian's illness, creating a bad first impression. NME and Melody Maker criticized them as outdated glam rock, unlike Deep Purple. Subsequently, as soon as they went to Japan, many fans greeted them at Haneda Airport. They received a warm welcome from everyone and fell in love with Japan, which became their home from home.

They must have been upset by the negative reviews in the UK. I imagine coming to Japan was great progress for them.

Kaz: I think all four people in this band have an excellent sense of balance. All four of them can write songs, and each member’s songwriting corresponds to respective popular trends. All members can sing and write. Everyone has hits. They are very democratic.

Any anecdotes when you accompanied them on their Japanese tour?

Kaz: I first came to Japan as a staff member of Watanabe Music Publishing House, and then took them on on the advice of Jim Beach (manager). For a while, they always went to LEXINGTON QUEEN (a famous disco) in Roppongi, where the band was surrounded by all kinds of artists, and it didn't feel like they were in Japan at all. Gary Numan has a pilot's license, and if Queen is in Japan, he would fly over by himself for a week. JAPAN also came to Japan at the same time, and consequently, LEXINGTON was very lively.

Have the four of them ever had any heated arguments?

Kaz: None on tour. Often in the studio. I forgot which album it was. I went to Ridge Farm’s recording studio. As soon as I entered the restaurant, I heard them arguing loudly. Of course it was about the music. The discussion was sparked by their desire to make good music.

According to Rami (Malek) who played Freddie in the movie, Brian said that Freddie is the mediator in the band. Mr. Kaz, do you agree?

Kaz: Snoopy, you should know. You also interviewed Freddie.

He was shy, and although he was the lead singer, he cared deeply about others. Whenever he came to Japan, he always bought gifts to express his gratitude to people who took care of him, like Mr. Itami (bodyguard). Just as Charlie Watts united the Rolling Stones on principle, so did Freddie. Before the show, the four of them would always gather round in Freddie's suite before setting off. Although he doesn't care to manage trivial and logistical things, he pays attention to things related to spirits and morale.

Has Mr. Kaz ever seen John after his retirement?

Kaz: About twice. When Michael Jackson died, John suddenly messaged me on Facebook: "Are you Kaz?" At first he was very cautious, and said that “if you are the Kaz I know, then you should know my address and phone number” (laughs). When he was sure it was me, he sent me a photo of Michael and Freddie. It was taken during Queen's US tour, when everyone went to the house where Michael lived with his father in Encino. Freddie was in contact with Michael at that time. They showed him "Another One Bites The Dust" and Michael predicted that it would be a hit if it was released. I guess they originally wanted Michael to sing it.

Is John not ever coming back to the music business?

Kaz: It seems that there is no desire to stay on his part anymore. It doesn't mean that he does not have any yearning for or nostalgic attachment to Queen. I think after Freddie passed away, he just decided not to perform anymore. He still lives in his old home, and on Sundays he still seems to go to the nearby news stand to buy The Sunday Times (laughs). He now has less hair and gained a little more weight, but still very healthy. The doctor who delivered my son is also his doctor, and every now and then, I would hear from the doctor that John made some visits.

Is it true that Roger chose the English name for Mr. Kaz's son, Yusei-kun?

Kaz: Yes, it's Rufus. Roger's second son is also called Rufus. It seems to be named after the black musician he likes. The first king of Wales was also called Rufus.

It’s only because of you that I met the band!

Kaz: You've also met Roger's eldest son, Felix. I took him to Radio Nippon just to see the Snoopy show. But I rarely go to the radio station’s broadcast studio.

I appreciate it!

Kaz: The manager also made Snoopy cry, I forgot why. But I think you were nervous. (I remember it clearly! I was careful about the next question.)

Tell me about Freddie, how was Mr. Kaz when Freddie died?

Kaz: I happened to see Jim Beach at the famous MATSUHISA restaurant in Los Angeles at the time, and he told me "Freddie’s going to announce that he has AIDS tomorrow". I thought that was the case. I said that we would meet again very soon. But when I got home, I received a message from Snoopy on the answering machine: "Freddie has passed away". I rushed to call Jim, he was speechless......

I received the news of Montserrat Cabelle’s death today.

Kaz: Really? Today’s a special day. I have a good relationship with Roger and John. We often went out for drinks, but I have never been with Freddie. He said that I'm such a gentle person that he shouldn't take me to Shinjuku II Street or places like that, but he still took me there occasionally. He was such a caring person. When did this happen? It should be the tour after Live Aid. In Munich, he called me to his room. He said: "Kaz, you have a good relationship with Roger and John, so I’m not going to worry about it anymore". From then on, he would call me for a drink at his place every now and then.

What did you all drink? (The fangirl asks)

Kaz: Champagne! Minako Honda also came to the show in Frankfurt, because Brian is her producer. This is Brian's job. Later, when recording in London, Freddie suddenly showed up and came to see the live show, because it was Brian's production. It’s a courtesy visit, he was polite and courteous like that.

Mr. Kaz helped write the lyrics in La Japonaise from the album with Montserrat, right?

Kaz: When he was writing the lyrics, he asked me whether I could go to the studio to come up with some ideas for the Japanese lyrics. I was working at Virgin (Records) at the time, and they soon started working at the SARM studio in Notting Hill next door. In retrospect, Freddie's face had already started to show jaundice. Prior to this, Freddie had just bought a new home in Earl's Court. He wanted to build a Japanese style garden and asked me to help. I quickly called several Japanese restaurants and finally got in touch with a landscaper in Manchester. Freddie wanted to build a carp pond and a gazebo, demolish the walls and bought some stones. The horticulturalist didn't know Freddie at all. Seems like he lived under a rock, but that's good in a way.

Mr. Kaz, what kind of person do you think Brian is?

Kaz: He is a scholarly person, very meticulous. Since the formation of Queen, maybe since he had the sense to, he probably has already started a diary. What did he do on this day in over 20 years ago? One can look for all of it in his diary. Moving into the digital age, he might even have made an electronic version. I think his diary is very good. Brian and Jeff Beck are both perfectionists who hate cutting corners, recklessness and skimping soundchecks. But both of them do things slowly and are too cautious, and it takes them twice as long to just get out of the hotel room.

After Freddie's death, Queen's songs have been covered by all kinds of singers. Which musician do you think performed best, Mr. Kaz?

Kaz: Definitely Adam Lambert. Maybe if Freddie had known Adam, he would like and approve of him very much. Adam also respects Freddie very much when he performs. For example, in certain parts of the performance which simply cannot be without Freddie, recordings of Freddie will be played as a tribute to pay respect. I think Adam is doing the best job.

What do Brian and Roger think. Do they think Queen is still active?

Kaz: At the very least in the form of Queen+, yes. They feel that Queen is to be treated with heart and sincerity in the name of Queen. With so many iconic hits and the ever-selling greatest albums, Bohemian Rhapsody is the most memorable song in the hearts of Brits. From this perspective, it is great to have a suitable lead singer to carry on the legacy of good music. Adam is very impressive, and Queen's two members also respect him very much.

Mr. Kaz, what does Queen mean to you?

Kaz: Without Queen and Clash, I wouldn't be who I am today. To be able to work in the British and American music industry for such a long time, I am extremely grateful to them.

Thank you very much.

Please do not hesitate to correct my translation if you see any discrepancy between this and the original Japanese transcript!

[mk-wizard]

Top 10 Spinoffs that really need to happen

Hi, friends. I may not be a fan of cheap sequels or prequels we don't want, I do think spinoffs are underrated especially if they focus on characters that are beloved and have interesting stories to tell. I mean, look at the success of Star Wars' many series especially its two diamonds being Clone Wars and Andor. I was inspired to make this list after seeing the trailer of Daryl Dixon.

In this list, I will my top ten medias that could it even bigger if they make these specific spinoffs.

Marvel's War Machine (Film/TV Series) - Nevermind Riri. Let's focus on this guy who was not only around long before her, but since the beginning. In time where we want more black representation than ever, I think War Machine is should be the next big thing. War Machine aka James Ruper "Rhodey" Rhodes is a decorated soldier to begin and Iron Man's right hand man. Despite the similar gimmick, his personality is much more serious, professional and mannerly. He can hold out on his own and he is a hero anyone of any type can look up to.

2. Marvel's Mary Jane Watson (Mini Series) - While she started off as Gwen Stacey's replacement and would alter become Peter Parker's main woman, she has now come quite into her own. She has even gone on adventures of her own, has become more capable and even became an ally in action for Spider-Man. While the comics have gone sour, maybe TV can bring us back MJ and Spidey as not only a couple, but as equals who both have exciting stories to tell.

3. Marvel's (REAL) Spider-Girl (TV Series/Film) - Speaking of TV redeeming MJ and Spidey as soul mates, last I remember, at one point, they were not only happily married, they had a daughter Mayday Parker who had the mantle passed down to her long before Miles Morales, the other Gwen Stacey (Spider-Woman) and all these other modern incarnations. She is a very underrated heroine who fell into obscurity no thanks to how Marvel broke up one of its most iconic couples. She needs to make a comeback because she is the true Spider-Girl in every way possible,

4. Disney's Goofy kid's show (TV Series) - For a while, the Disney gang made a big comeback since Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and almost everyone got their own spinoff or reboot. Everyone, but Goofy which I find is a waste because unlike all the others with the exception of Pete, he actually is a father. So far, the only independent works Goofy has gotten are Goof Troop, the two Goofy Movies and two animated shorts in some holidays specials. I think Goofy can make for a great host in a kid's show because despite his goofiness, he is a very capable and in fact, wise father. He would be a lot like Mr. Rogers or Mr. Dress Up where instead just playing with kids, he's actually teaching them and even comforting them the way a father does.

5. Resident Evil's Billy Coen (Video Game) - I don't think there's an RE fan out there who hasn't wished to see what became of this beloved one off character. Between you and me, I think he's still alive and kicking zombie, and I would love see what became of him after RE0. He not only came from one of the few prequel media out there that was great, but he is a total badass with a compelling backstory. We even got to see what happened to Sherry Birkin later one. I think Billy is more than worth a chance in the spotlight.

6. Silent Hill's Heather Mason (Video Game) - I know what you're thinking, but hear me out. While she got her own game (technically, two if you count the first ever SH game), I don't believe her story should have ended with SH3. The Mason family is the closest thing to a true SH main protagonist as there is I would love to her a now adult Heather Mason still fighting the Order as it is still out there wreaking havoc. She was a great heroine and an underrated video game character in general.

7. Jurassic Park for grown ups (TV Series) - It's had a few spinoffs so far and the only that is a big hit is Camp Cretaceous. I think another one should be made and this time, it should be aimed for adults. In the beginning, JP showed a lot of promise when it came to making adult oriented spinoffs with the comics and the sequel The Lost World, but after that, it became more and more about the action and less about the horror factor and dinosaurs. Even the revival trilogy of Jurassic World lacked that horror element that adults appreciated in the first two movies and most importantly, the book. We need to make a spinoff that is aimed for grown ups without it feeling like it wants to be Indiana Jones.

8. DC's Batgirl (TV Series) - Nevermind Batwoman, Batgirl was around first AND she was solo before joining the bat family officially. I mean, even her father Jim Gordon got his own spinoff series before she did and she's actually a super. And apparently, her film never saw the light of day because it was not up to standard. I say, we make a TV series that does live up to standard AND we make it animated like we did Harley Quinn. Barbara Gordon set the standard for a lot lady supers came after her and she iconic. EVERYONE knows who Batgirl is. Even people who don't read comics know who Batgirl is. What I don't know is why she hasn't starred in her own solo media yet beyond comics.

9. DC's Catwoman (Film/TV Series) - Speaking of iconic DC heroines, it is funny how one of its most iconic anti-heroines, love interest's to Batman and just recently, bisexual supers still hasn't gotten any independent media beyond her comics. If there's one woman who doesn't need no Batman (let alone man in general) to stand on her own two feet and have a compelling story to tell, it's her. The only thing we have gotten are two films. One which is imposter media starring Halle Berry and another no one knows about. Seline Kyle deserves so much more than that. I say she gets her own proper show or at the very least, a proper film. She's worth it.

10. Capcom's Dino Crisis (Video Game) - I think this franchise only got one spinoff (two if you count the third instalment that went off the rails), and it wasn't a hit. Dino Crisis was clearly inspired by the original Jurassic Park especially when it came to horror and the feeling of being genuinely threatened by the dinosaurs. This game felt like the long lost twin sister of RE. With that said, it should get a spinoff because it's worth a last hurrah and who knows? It mind revive this lost gem of a series. I say we go for it and put our best foot forward doing it. Let it be true to the lore, the setting and theme. None of the dinos in space silliness.

Anyway, that is my list. What is your opinion on it? Would you like to see these spinoffs or can you suggest another? Let me know.

Thanks for reading and as always, stay safe.

[macabremomo]

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