Gloria Oliver's Blog, page 62
June 16, 2014
Mind Sieve 6/16/14
Morning!
Sorry about no post last week. Let's see if I can get back in the groove.
Fan Fun
Home Trailer HD - Aha! I knew they showed the funny short on two different movies for a reason! Looks fun!
The Equalizer Official International Trailer - Action action and action!
Birdman Official Trailer - looks like a weird one!
The November Man Official Trailer - Oooh! Pierce Brosnan!
The Giver Trailer #2 (The black and white is one purpose!) Looks fun!
Social Media/Author PlatformFrom Kevin Knight at Pinterest - A Closer Look at Boards.
How to Succeed in the Ego-ravaged Drama Queen World of Social Media by Mark W Schaefer
Writing AdviceHow to Tell if Your Story is on Target - What is Your Book About in One Sentence by Kristen Lamb. Good post, though I totally disagree on Maleficent being awesome. :( The film had a ton of giant holes and the telling too straight - no real surprises. (Though Jolie was fantastic!)
Ack, out of time. See ya soon!
Sorry about no post last week. Let's see if I can get back in the groove.
Fan Fun
Home Trailer HD - Aha! I knew they showed the funny short on two different movies for a reason! Looks fun!
The Equalizer Official International Trailer - Action action and action!
Birdman Official Trailer - looks like a weird one!
The November Man Official Trailer - Oooh! Pierce Brosnan!
The Giver Trailer #2 (The black and white is one purpose!) Looks fun!
Social Media/Author PlatformFrom Kevin Knight at Pinterest - A Closer Look at Boards.
How to Succeed in the Ego-ravaged Drama Queen World of Social Media by Mark W Schaefer
Writing AdviceHow to Tell if Your Story is on Target - What is Your Book About in One Sentence by Kristen Lamb. Good post, though I totally disagree on Maleficent being awesome. :( The film had a ton of giant holes and the telling too straight - no real surprises. (Though Jolie was fantastic!)
Ack, out of time. See ya soon!
June 15, 2014
Virtual Tourist - Everquest Landmark 6/15/14
Morning Intrepid Readers~!
Everquest Landmark
I went touring a little on a couple of zones and found some really fun stuff out there.
Loved the lattice work over his back patio. Even had a fake pool!
This place was perfect for the dry zone I was at. Loved the fans and the nice porch!
View of the porch (with rocking chairs!) and the entrance to the interior. On the right is the main entrance. Look at the way he made the neat window and the picture you can see through it. Nice effect~!
Even has a sunken living room. And he made an actual room divider screen! I could live here. :)
Next door was a lovely church. Loved the exterior detail, You'd really think you were in Texas or Mexico. :)
This one cracked me up! Las Vegas type sign, baby. This is the back.
The front just rocked. And he had fake fountains that spewed fake water and looked fabulous! You can see a couple there at the bottom.
This guy had an awesome basement hidden inside his place. Look at the cool ladder leading to the control room for a ceiling crane. Lovely!
I'd heard of these sample walls, but this was my first time running into such a huge one. So impressive!
This is what caught my attention in the first place. His Tattoine outpost/single home look! He even has a speeder. :)
My latest inpiration - rainbow stairs. Aren't they awesome? Finding the colors in the minerals and stones was not as easy as you might think. Gold/Yellow and Orange were troublesome.
My giant pit and the first full roygbiv.
Bad news though. While I was off at A-kon, my rent dried up (you can only pay upkeep for a week - I thought it was 9 days!) and my claims collapsed. Was able to recover everything and put my claims back down, but the saved templates are very hard to deal with. Haven't had time to truly try to put it all back. Wah!
Happy Father's Day, ya'll!
Everquest Landmark
I went touring a little on a couple of zones and found some really fun stuff out there.
Loved the lattice work over his back patio. Even had a fake pool!
This place was perfect for the dry zone I was at. Loved the fans and the nice porch!
View of the porch (with rocking chairs!) and the entrance to the interior. On the right is the main entrance. Look at the way he made the neat window and the picture you can see through it. Nice effect~!
Even has a sunken living room. And he made an actual room divider screen! I could live here. :)
Next door was a lovely church. Loved the exterior detail, You'd really think you were in Texas or Mexico. :)
This one cracked me up! Las Vegas type sign, baby. This is the back.
The front just rocked. And he had fake fountains that spewed fake water and looked fabulous! You can see a couple there at the bottom.
This guy had an awesome basement hidden inside his place. Look at the cool ladder leading to the control room for a ceiling crane. Lovely!
I'd heard of these sample walls, but this was my first time running into such a huge one. So impressive!
This is what caught my attention in the first place. His Tattoine outpost/single home look! He even has a speeder. :)
My latest inpiration - rainbow stairs. Aren't they awesome? Finding the colors in the minerals and stones was not as easy as you might think. Gold/Yellow and Orange were troublesome.
My giant pit and the first full roygbiv.
Bad news though. While I was off at A-kon, my rent dried up (you can only pay upkeep for a week - I thought it was 9 days!) and my claims collapsed. Was able to recover everything and put my claims back down, but the saved templates are very hard to deal with. Haven't had time to truly try to put it all back. Wah!
Happy Father's Day, ya'll!
June 13, 2014
Movie Review - How To Train Your Dragon 2
How To Train Your Dragon 2
Starring: Jay Baruchel, Cate Blanchett, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson, America Ferrera, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, T. J. Miller, Kristen Wiig, Djimon Hounsou, Kit Harington, Kieron Elliott, Randy Thom, and more.
Directed by: Dean DeBlois Written by: Dean DeBlois Based on the "How To Train Your Dragon" book series by: Cressida Cowell Music by: John Powell
Premise: Five years after the village of Berk embraced having dragons as friends, the village stands transformed by this new era of peace. Hiccup, however, is still trying to figure out who he is and what he wants, especially after his father approaches him about declaring to the village the fact Hiccup will become their chief in future and begin his training. But Hiccup pushes his concerns aside when he and Astrid come across a band of men trying to capture dragons for Drago, who is building a vast dragon army. They also tell Hiccup he's not the first dragon rider they've met - making him realize there are more than those of Berk out there. (Rated PG)
Review:
1) Voice Acting - Total Thumbs Up: Jay Baruchel is delightful as he reprises his role as the peace and dragon loving Hiccup. Wit and snark are served with fun aplomb by Kristen Wiig, Christophjer Mintz-Plasse, T. J. Miller, and Jonah Hill. Gerard Butler will make you cry as he tries to woo back the person he'd thought lost to him forever.
2) Artwork/Animation - Total Thumbs Up: Dreamworks continues to show their ever expanding skills in the animation field. With their efforts and the added 3D functionality, everything had texture, including human skin. The vibrant colors of the dragons were as dazzling as crystals during several scenes.
Of particular beauty and cool effect were the scenes where Hiccup encounters the masked dragon rider and when he sees the protected dragon area. On the human side, the attention to detail on the ships and other common objects was quite impressive and even helped set the mood in a couple of locations.
Great care was taken in the formation of facial expressions, as in several spots that is solely what the audience has to go on. They were all easy to read and did much to elevate the watcher's emotional involvement.
3) Plot/Story - Total Thumbs Up: I've not read the series the movie is based on, though my nieces insist much was changed. But for those only acquainted with the DreamWorks version, I think you'll be quite happy with this new installment.
Five years have passed from the time of the original film and all the kids have grown to different extents. The boys have definitely started noticing the girls and vice versa. It's background and comedic material, though in other ways it does permeate one branch of the main plot.
There are several very moving scenes, some of which will grab you unexpectedly. So, if movies make you cry, make sure to come prepared for this one.
Lots of cute or funny moments. Watching Hiccup and Toothless cavort around and play is always fun to watch. The subplot of Hiccup's Mom was nicely done. Drago though, didn't really have much depth. I would have loved to hear the tale of how exactly he got hold of his grand prize.
Conclusion: "How To Train Your Dragon 2" was a lot of fun and definitely worth watching. It will also tug at the heart strings. Beautiful animation made even more fun by the 3D.
Rating: 4.25 out of 5 (Hubby's Rating: Worth Full Price To See Again)
Starring: Jay Baruchel, Cate Blanchett, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson, America Ferrera, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, T. J. Miller, Kristen Wiig, Djimon Hounsou, Kit Harington, Kieron Elliott, Randy Thom, and more.
Directed by: Dean DeBlois Written by: Dean DeBlois Based on the "How To Train Your Dragon" book series by: Cressida Cowell Music by: John Powell
Premise: Five years after the village of Berk embraced having dragons as friends, the village stands transformed by this new era of peace. Hiccup, however, is still trying to figure out who he is and what he wants, especially after his father approaches him about declaring to the village the fact Hiccup will become their chief in future and begin his training. But Hiccup pushes his concerns aside when he and Astrid come across a band of men trying to capture dragons for Drago, who is building a vast dragon army. They also tell Hiccup he's not the first dragon rider they've met - making him realize there are more than those of Berk out there. (Rated PG)
Review:
1) Voice Acting - Total Thumbs Up: Jay Baruchel is delightful as he reprises his role as the peace and dragon loving Hiccup. Wit and snark are served with fun aplomb by Kristen Wiig, Christophjer Mintz-Plasse, T. J. Miller, and Jonah Hill. Gerard Butler will make you cry as he tries to woo back the person he'd thought lost to him forever.
2) Artwork/Animation - Total Thumbs Up: Dreamworks continues to show their ever expanding skills in the animation field. With their efforts and the added 3D functionality, everything had texture, including human skin. The vibrant colors of the dragons were as dazzling as crystals during several scenes.
Of particular beauty and cool effect were the scenes where Hiccup encounters the masked dragon rider and when he sees the protected dragon area. On the human side, the attention to detail on the ships and other common objects was quite impressive and even helped set the mood in a couple of locations.
Great care was taken in the formation of facial expressions, as in several spots that is solely what the audience has to go on. They were all easy to read and did much to elevate the watcher's emotional involvement.
3) Plot/Story - Total Thumbs Up: I've not read the series the movie is based on, though my nieces insist much was changed. But for those only acquainted with the DreamWorks version, I think you'll be quite happy with this new installment.
Five years have passed from the time of the original film and all the kids have grown to different extents. The boys have definitely started noticing the girls and vice versa. It's background and comedic material, though in other ways it does permeate one branch of the main plot.
There are several very moving scenes, some of which will grab you unexpectedly. So, if movies make you cry, make sure to come prepared for this one.
Lots of cute or funny moments. Watching Hiccup and Toothless cavort around and play is always fun to watch. The subplot of Hiccup's Mom was nicely done. Drago though, didn't really have much depth. I would have loved to hear the tale of how exactly he got hold of his grand prize.
Conclusion: "How To Train Your Dragon 2" was a lot of fun and definitely worth watching. It will also tug at the heart strings. Beautiful animation made even more fun by the 3D.
Rating: 4.25 out of 5 (Hubby's Rating: Worth Full Price To See Again)
June 11, 2014
Picture Kaleidoscope - A-kon 25 Edition
A-kon 25 was this past weekend!
Packed as usual, with a ton of costumes everywhere. This is but a taste of what could be found there.
Chibi Chains and I tried a different setup this time around. Trying to look as professional as possible. :P
Everything is awesome!
Oh yeah, a Harley with attitude. :)
Don't recognize this one, but the costume was cool!
Will Graham's representation of Hannibal Lector. Woot!
That's some hair!
Cat's Meow!
Catbug if I recall.
Son in law knew all about it. I had no clue. But it was so cute!
Hasn't had his caffeine yet?
Sebastian - always ready to serve. Heh heh
They looked so dapper!
Chocolate covered bananas with spears - run for it!
Attack on Titan was a major presence all weekend.
Cast of Frozen. So cute.
Gandalf the Grey.
The latest offering from Chibi Chains - flowers and butterflies on a stick! (Heh heh) Hair Sticks that is. They are totally adorable!
Hm, from a game perhaps?
Wish I'd gotten a better angle on him. He even had a jewel on the middle of his forehead.
From the Legend of Korra. (And rotate photo fail)
Hah! Gruncle Stan from Gravity Falls! Sweet!
See, Attack on Titan was EVERYWHERE!
Don't get too close!
Guardians of the Galaxy! (So unhappy at my phone! Because they looked super awesome!) (My own fault. Too lazy to bring the real camera. Wah!)
Freezah is in the house!
And speaking of Freezer...Artist Alley was an ice box, which was really weird. The kid was an ice cube even with a blanket plus. Did find her a coat. Cutest back bustle on it. (Ended up later getting me one too. If I'm cold, you know it's bad! lol)
Rainbow furrys?
Her dress was gorgeous!
Abby from NCIS. Nice!
My friend got her own comic! Sebastian and the Beast. Published by Radio Comixs. A twist to the beloved Beauty and the Beast tale. This is issue 1 of 3.
Dragonball Z! Booyah! Love that she did a pose. Toriyama and his bizarre poses are too awesome. Heh heh.
Totally behind on all things, but what else is new!
Hope the rest of your week is fabulous!
Packed as usual, with a ton of costumes everywhere. This is but a taste of what could be found there.
Chibi Chains and I tried a different setup this time around. Trying to look as professional as possible. :P
Everything is awesome!
Oh yeah, a Harley with attitude. :)
Don't recognize this one, but the costume was cool!
Will Graham's representation of Hannibal Lector. Woot!
That's some hair!
Cat's Meow!
Catbug if I recall.
Son in law knew all about it. I had no clue. But it was so cute!
Hasn't had his caffeine yet?
Sebastian - always ready to serve. Heh heh
They looked so dapper!
Chocolate covered bananas with spears - run for it!
Attack on Titan was a major presence all weekend.
Cast of Frozen. So cute.
Gandalf the Grey.
The latest offering from Chibi Chains - flowers and butterflies on a stick! (Heh heh) Hair Sticks that is. They are totally adorable!
Hm, from a game perhaps?
Wish I'd gotten a better angle on him. He even had a jewel on the middle of his forehead.
From the Legend of Korra. (And rotate photo fail)
Hah! Gruncle Stan from Gravity Falls! Sweet!
See, Attack on Titan was EVERYWHERE!
Don't get too close!
Guardians of the Galaxy! (So unhappy at my phone! Because they looked super awesome!) (My own fault. Too lazy to bring the real camera. Wah!)
Freezah is in the house!
And speaking of Freezer...Artist Alley was an ice box, which was really weird. The kid was an ice cube even with a blanket plus. Did find her a coat. Cutest back bustle on it. (Ended up later getting me one too. If I'm cold, you know it's bad! lol)
Rainbow furrys?
Her dress was gorgeous!
Abby from NCIS. Nice!
My friend got her own comic! Sebastian and the Beast. Published by Radio Comixs. A twist to the beloved Beauty and the Beast tale. This is issue 1 of 3.
Dragonball Z! Booyah! Love that she did a pose. Toriyama and his bizarre poses are too awesome. Heh heh.
Totally behind on all things, but what else is new!
Hope the rest of your week is fabulous!
June 6, 2014
Movie Review - A Million Ways To Die In The West
A Million Ways To Die In The West
Starring: Seth McFarlane, Charlize Theron, Amanda Seyfried, Liam Neeson, Giovanni Ribisi, Neil Patrick Harris, Sarah Silverman, Christopher Hagen, Wes Studi, Matt Clark, Evan Jones, and more.
Directed by: Seth McFarlane Written by: Seth McFarlane, Alec Sulkin, and Wellesley Wild Cinematography by: Michael Barrett Music by: Joel McNeely
Premise: Detesting violence, Albert is spurned by his sweetheart when he shows up for a midday showdown but instead of shooting and most likely dying, he talks the other guy into letting him pay for the damage caused by his sheep. Spiraling into depression now that he's lost the one bit of light in an otherwise sad existence, Albert thinks about leaving Old Stump for San Francisco until he saves a new lady in town. In exchange, Anna offers to help him win his sweetheart back. But as the two find each other more than they expected, there are secrets Anna is holding that could cost Albert his life. (Rated R)
Review:
1) Acting - Total Thumbs Up: Seth McFarlane makes a very convincing spirit trodden man. Charlize Theron was fun as Anna, saucy yet innocent in her own way. Liam Neeson was a wonderful villain as the cheating gunslinger Clinch. Neal Patrick Harris also made for a fun villian, the mustache giving him the look of the old black and white silent western villains.
2) Special Effects - Total Thumbs Up: You'd think a western comedy wouldn't have a lot of special effects, but in this case you'd be wrong. The bar fight alone had a ton of special effect 'gags' - breaking bones, cut and pumping jugulars, yanked off limbs. It definitely wasn't your typical western bar fight. And when you add in a bunch of the other ways there are to die in the west, the special effects people were kept quite busy.
There's also a rather amazing drug trip. Some definite artistry went into that particular segment. (And probably a ton of in-jokes as well.)
3) Plot/Story - Thumbs Up: While the film is full of sex, ethnic, and body jokes, there are also a lot of brainier jokes. Western life is often romanticized in film and books but this movie took it upon itself to dispel many of those illusions with humor veiled doses of the harsh reality. And some of them are quite funny.
The film is 116 minutes long, which is unusual for a comedy, but the extra time gave them space to do more, like add Anna's secondary story line, so a good choice on their part. The F-bombs though, not such a good choice. There were definitely a lot more present than necessary and after while dragged the film down a little.
Most of the usual western movie tropes are used (music, font styles, and more), and they are used well. A few even get turned sideways, giving the audience a few surprises. You'll also never think of mustaches quite in the same way again. (Or Daisies. Even sheep. You'll see.)
4) Stunts - Total Thumbs Up: A western without stunts wouldn't be a western. And since this one tries to show us a millions ways death can happen, there are definitely stunts involved. They're a lot of fun, too.
5) Locations/Cinematography - Total Thumbs Up: Nothing brings to mind the old westerns like seeing a shot of Monument Valley. Cinematographer Michael Barrett totally took this to heart and took total advantage of it. These are some of the most fantastic views of the valley I have ever seen. The movie is worth it just for the gorgeous scenery alone.
6) Music - Total Thumbs Up: Joel McNeely's score helped sell the western feel almost as much as the shots of Monument Valley. Themes and styles from all the big western scores were present. There's a wink for Silvestry in an in-joke scene, and during the big chase scene we get a nice dose of John Williams like score as well. Nicely done!
Conclusion: If you find more than just body jokes funny, and you've seen a lot of westerns, or know anything about the period, there's definitely enough in this film for you to like. The vistas and music alone are totally worth it. Definite adult humor, so not for younger viewers. And there are two small extra bits in the credits.
Rating: 3.75 out of 5 (Hubby's Rating: Worth Full Price of Admission)
Starring: Seth McFarlane, Charlize Theron, Amanda Seyfried, Liam Neeson, Giovanni Ribisi, Neil Patrick Harris, Sarah Silverman, Christopher Hagen, Wes Studi, Matt Clark, Evan Jones, and more.
Directed by: Seth McFarlane Written by: Seth McFarlane, Alec Sulkin, and Wellesley Wild Cinematography by: Michael Barrett Music by: Joel McNeely
Premise: Detesting violence, Albert is spurned by his sweetheart when he shows up for a midday showdown but instead of shooting and most likely dying, he talks the other guy into letting him pay for the damage caused by his sheep. Spiraling into depression now that he's lost the one bit of light in an otherwise sad existence, Albert thinks about leaving Old Stump for San Francisco until he saves a new lady in town. In exchange, Anna offers to help him win his sweetheart back. But as the two find each other more than they expected, there are secrets Anna is holding that could cost Albert his life. (Rated R)
Review:
1) Acting - Total Thumbs Up: Seth McFarlane makes a very convincing spirit trodden man. Charlize Theron was fun as Anna, saucy yet innocent in her own way. Liam Neeson was a wonderful villain as the cheating gunslinger Clinch. Neal Patrick Harris also made for a fun villian, the mustache giving him the look of the old black and white silent western villains.
2) Special Effects - Total Thumbs Up: You'd think a western comedy wouldn't have a lot of special effects, but in this case you'd be wrong. The bar fight alone had a ton of special effect 'gags' - breaking bones, cut and pumping jugulars, yanked off limbs. It definitely wasn't your typical western bar fight. And when you add in a bunch of the other ways there are to die in the west, the special effects people were kept quite busy.
There's also a rather amazing drug trip. Some definite artistry went into that particular segment. (And probably a ton of in-jokes as well.)
3) Plot/Story - Thumbs Up: While the film is full of sex, ethnic, and body jokes, there are also a lot of brainier jokes. Western life is often romanticized in film and books but this movie took it upon itself to dispel many of those illusions with humor veiled doses of the harsh reality. And some of them are quite funny.
The film is 116 minutes long, which is unusual for a comedy, but the extra time gave them space to do more, like add Anna's secondary story line, so a good choice on their part. The F-bombs though, not such a good choice. There were definitely a lot more present than necessary and after while dragged the film down a little.
Most of the usual western movie tropes are used (music, font styles, and more), and they are used well. A few even get turned sideways, giving the audience a few surprises. You'll also never think of mustaches quite in the same way again. (Or Daisies. Even sheep. You'll see.)
4) Stunts - Total Thumbs Up: A western without stunts wouldn't be a western. And since this one tries to show us a millions ways death can happen, there are definitely stunts involved. They're a lot of fun, too.
5) Locations/Cinematography - Total Thumbs Up: Nothing brings to mind the old westerns like seeing a shot of Monument Valley. Cinematographer Michael Barrett totally took this to heart and took total advantage of it. These are some of the most fantastic views of the valley I have ever seen. The movie is worth it just for the gorgeous scenery alone.
6) Music - Total Thumbs Up: Joel McNeely's score helped sell the western feel almost as much as the shots of Monument Valley. Themes and styles from all the big western scores were present. There's a wink for Silvestry in an in-joke scene, and during the big chase scene we get a nice dose of John Williams like score as well. Nicely done!
Conclusion: If you find more than just body jokes funny, and you've seen a lot of westerns, or know anything about the period, there's definitely enough in this film for you to like. The vistas and music alone are totally worth it. Definite adult humor, so not for younger viewers. And there are two small extra bits in the credits.
Rating: 3.75 out of 5 (Hubby's Rating: Worth Full Price of Admission)
June 4, 2014
Picture Kaleidoscope 6/4/14
Morning!
No time to breathe this week so this will be quick!
Awesome Dr Who sticker I saw on a car this past weekend. Isn't it grand?
Did some drive by sunset pic taking. :)
And that's all folks! I'll be so happy when overtime goes down!
Have a great Wednesday!
And if you're going to A-kon this weekend, see you there!
No time to breathe this week so this will be quick!
Awesome Dr Who sticker I saw on a car this past weekend. Isn't it grand?
Did some drive by sunset pic taking. :)
And that's all folks! I'll be so happy when overtime goes down!
Have a great Wednesday!
And if you're going to A-kon this weekend, see you there!
June 2, 2014
Mind Sieve 6/2/14
A new week! New challenges! More stuff to do! Woot!
Fan Fun
The Strain Trailer for FX - finally! A trailer for this series with some substance. lol. Should be a fun one.
Big Hero 6 UK Trailer - this looks so CUTE!
Magic in the Moonlight - looks totally cute.
Lucy Official International Trailer #1 - oh yeah!
The Book of Life Official Trailer - more cuteness!!!!!
Social Media/Author PlatformThe Disease of Self-Importance - Can We Find a Cure? by Kristen Lamb. Not what you think it is about, but actually quite important all the same.
Mobile Social Media Marketing from the Social Media Examiner - article by Debbie Hemley. Ack, more stuff to worry about~!
Writing AdviceFrom Chuck (NSFW) Wendig - Writer's Block Might Be: - Great post about the invisible killers. Nice~!
The Value of "Crap" Jobs by Jami Gold. Great advice on attitude and that no job, no matter how crappy, is entirely wasted. Woot!
May your week be calm and fruitful! Till next time. :)
Fan Fun
The Strain Trailer for FX - finally! A trailer for this series with some substance. lol. Should be a fun one.
Big Hero 6 UK Trailer - this looks so CUTE!
Magic in the Moonlight - looks totally cute.
Lucy Official International Trailer #1 - oh yeah!
The Book of Life Official Trailer - more cuteness!!!!!
Social Media/Author PlatformThe Disease of Self-Importance - Can We Find a Cure? by Kristen Lamb. Not what you think it is about, but actually quite important all the same.
Mobile Social Media Marketing from the Social Media Examiner - article by Debbie Hemley. Ack, more stuff to worry about~!
Writing AdviceFrom Chuck (NSFW) Wendig - Writer's Block Might Be: - Great post about the invisible killers. Nice~!
The Value of "Crap" Jobs by Jami Gold. Great advice on attitude and that no job, no matter how crappy, is entirely wasted. Woot!
May your week be calm and fruitful! Till next time. :)
June 1, 2014
Virtual Tourist - Thief 6/1/14
Morning!
Life continues to be a giant ball of AGGGHHHHH, but I did sneak in a little game time this week.
Thief
Mission 3
Still in the dark and dreary old library zone.
This gave me fits. Three ropes to climb up with and none of them would let me. Took forever to find the right angle spot that finally let me grab it. Should have been super EASY! Something definitely not right with the mapping here.
One good thing about it though, got me to go down another corridor and discover a collectible! Figurine of a monk.
My shadow! Hah!
Nice shot of Garrett shuffling on the beams
Ah and even better one. You have to move up to the next set quick as this one will break. So mean!
Poor schmuck.
Getting the book out of the library has now caused other things to occur. Mainly the kidnapping of my fence. Nooo!
Have a great Sunday!
Life continues to be a giant ball of AGGGHHHHH, but I did sneak in a little game time this week.
Thief
Mission 3
Still in the dark and dreary old library zone.
This gave me fits. Three ropes to climb up with and none of them would let me. Took forever to find the right angle spot that finally let me grab it. Should have been super EASY! Something definitely not right with the mapping here.
One good thing about it though, got me to go down another corridor and discover a collectible! Figurine of a monk.
My shadow! Hah!
Nice shot of Garrett shuffling on the beams
Ah and even better one. You have to move up to the next set quick as this one will break. So mean!
Poor schmuck.
Getting the book out of the library has now caused other things to occur. Mainly the kidnapping of my fence. Nooo!
Have a great Sunday!
May 31, 2014
ArmadilloCon Schedule 7/25-7/27/14
ArmadilloCon has it going on!
They've already finalized their panel schedule.
Here's my list of panels
Tree Creatures
Fri 4:00 PM-5:00 PM Room E
Wells*, Clarke, Oliver, Stanley
Ents, nymphs dryads and more. Discussion regarding the various kinds of tree creatures from myth and legend.
Do Werewolves Dream of Bloody Sheep
Fri 10:00 PM-11:00 PM Room F
de Orive*, Kimbriel, Oliver, Roberts, S. White
What are the beginnings of werewolves in fiction? How have they changed over the years?
Reading
Sat 10:00 AM-11:00 AM Southpark B
Oliver
Quetzaxuahuitzalochtlicueotl
Sat 1:00 PM-2:00 PM Room E
Richerson*, Brown, Maresca, Oliver,
Discussion of Aztec mythology and why it isn't used in more genre stories.
The Denisovans and Homo floresiensis
Sun 10:00 AM-11:00 AM Conference Center
Antell*, Mahoney, McKay, Oliver
New discoveries in DNA research. What are they and how many more are out there?
See you there!
They've already finalized their panel schedule.
Here's my list of panels
Tree Creatures
Fri 4:00 PM-5:00 PM Room E
Wells*, Clarke, Oliver, Stanley
Ents, nymphs dryads and more. Discussion regarding the various kinds of tree creatures from myth and legend.
Do Werewolves Dream of Bloody Sheep
Fri 10:00 PM-11:00 PM Room F
de Orive*, Kimbriel, Oliver, Roberts, S. White
What are the beginnings of werewolves in fiction? How have they changed over the years?
Reading
Sat 10:00 AM-11:00 AM Southpark B
Oliver
Quetzaxuahuitzalochtlicueotl
Sat 1:00 PM-2:00 PM Room E
Richerson*, Brown, Maresca, Oliver,
Discussion of Aztec mythology and why it isn't used in more genre stories.
The Denisovans and Homo floresiensis
Sun 10:00 AM-11:00 AM Conference Center
Antell*, Mahoney, McKay, Oliver
New discoveries in DNA research. What are they and how many more are out there?
See you there!
May 30, 2014
Movie Review - X-Men: Days of Future Past
X-Men: Days of Future Past
Starring: Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Peter Dinklage, Nicolas Hoult, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Ellen Page, Shawn Ashmore, Evan Peters, Omar Sy, Booboo Stewart, Daniel Cudmore, Halle Berry, and more.
Directed by: Bryan Singer Screenplay by: Simon Kinberg Story by: Jane Goldman, Simon Kinberg, and Matthew Vaughn Based on: The "X-Men" Series from Marvel Comics Cinematography by: Newton Thomas Sigel Music by: John Ottman
Premise: In a dark future for both mutants and humans, Professor X and the rest of the X-Men decide to gamble their lives on a slim chance to change everything - they will send Logan's consciousness back into a younger version of himself. Once there, he's to try and stop Mystique from the revenge motivated action which gave birth to the Sentinels. First, however, he'll have to get a young Xavier and Magneto to reconcile and work together again or the future is doomed. (Rated PG-13)
Review:
1) Acting - Total Thumbs Up: There are a lot of cast members in this film, several playing younger/older versions of each other. Everyone does a great job. Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, and Michael Fassbender and their characters' totally different dynamics were a ton of fun to watch. Peter Dinklage's portrayal of Trask and his fervor in achieving his ends without the boundaries of rules, country, or even emotion was scarier than any mutant.
2) Special Effects - Total Thumbs Up: The special effects for the film were 'top-notch'. Future Sentinels were downright scary as they adapted, absorbed, and replicated mutant attacks. All of Mystique's change sequences were flawless. I very much enjoyed the implied flipping of scales or mirrors whenever she changed. Blink's portals and the interaction of the fighters using them seemed like moving art.
All the Magneto scenes were he used his power just got more and more amazing, proving once more why he's such a force to be reckoned with. But his son (in the comics, not the films) Quicksilver 'stole the show' early in the film when we see things from his perspective as he uses his power. The addition of the song "Time in a Bottle" to that particular section made the whole sequence priceless.
3) Plot/Story - Thumbs Up: The "X-men" comics debuted back in the 60's, so it seemed apt that the film took us almost that far back for this pseudo time travel adventure. For us older viewers, it was a nostalgia filled trip. For us older "X-Men" comic book fans, it was doubly so, as bits and pieces of the plot reflected back to story lines from the comics themselves.
My biggest beef with the "X-Men" movie franchise has always been the willy-nilly way in which they assign characters multiple powers or change them. The victim this time around was Kitty Pride. She can now seemingly send a person's consciousness back in time. Normally restricted to a few days (and something it seems Xavier didn't even know she could do) this is the main point on which the whole movie hinges. So they get some definite minus points for that piece of contrivance. It would have been easier to believe if they'd just added a new, young mutant with this power rather than mutate Shadowcat. But, it is what it is. Thankfully, this issue is also easily ignored, and won't mar the enjoyment of the rest of the film.
Because, aside from that one bit, the story was a lot of fun. Seeing an older Logan meeting Xavier, Eric, and Hank, knowing the things he knows about them was a blast. Also, seeing the characters being true to their youthful, idealistic, stubborn selves (especially Magneto) despite what Logan has told them, made for great plot complications and tied nicely back to the personal issues held by these same people for years.
The logic as outlined for the mental time travel seems to hit a wall at the end, but it doesn't. The film people just make the assumption the audience will be able to piece it together. I'm not sure everyone will. It has to do with what we're shown at one point, which is not the actual truth because of his power, but this is not realized till later. (You'll know what I am talking about when you get there.)
Lots of fun moments are interspersed throughout the film, both visually and through dialogue.
4) Stunts - Total Thumbs Up: If mutants, giant Sentinels, and the military are involved, of course there will be stunts. And the stunts for this film do not disappoint, whether they were done through CGI, live action, or a combination of the two. Quicksilver's awesome scene is my reigning favorite.
5) Locations/Cinematography - Total Thumbs Up: The future the film begins with is very dark and with some quick sweeping camera shots the audience understands the stakes very quickly. But where the locations and cinematography truly make an impact is when we're sent back to the early 70's. We truly feel like we've traveled back in time.
6) Costuming/Makeup - Total Thumbs Up: From Mystique's body makeup, to the time accurate 1970's clothes and styles, the costuming and makeup departments did a phenomenal job making it that much easier for the audience to believe.
Conclusion: "X-Men: Days of Future Past" is a fun, action filled film. Fans of the movies will be very pleased with the ton of cameos towards the end. Fans of the comics will be even more pleased at the old story line elements - making the film a double nostalgic experience.
Rating: 4.25 out of 5 (Hubby's Rating: Worth Paying Full Price To See Again)
Starring: Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Peter Dinklage, Nicolas Hoult, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Ellen Page, Shawn Ashmore, Evan Peters, Omar Sy, Booboo Stewart, Daniel Cudmore, Halle Berry, and more.
Directed by: Bryan Singer Screenplay by: Simon Kinberg Story by: Jane Goldman, Simon Kinberg, and Matthew Vaughn Based on: The "X-Men" Series from Marvel Comics Cinematography by: Newton Thomas Sigel Music by: John Ottman
Premise: In a dark future for both mutants and humans, Professor X and the rest of the X-Men decide to gamble their lives on a slim chance to change everything - they will send Logan's consciousness back into a younger version of himself. Once there, he's to try and stop Mystique from the revenge motivated action which gave birth to the Sentinels. First, however, he'll have to get a young Xavier and Magneto to reconcile and work together again or the future is doomed. (Rated PG-13)
Review:
1) Acting - Total Thumbs Up: There are a lot of cast members in this film, several playing younger/older versions of each other. Everyone does a great job. Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, and Michael Fassbender and their characters' totally different dynamics were a ton of fun to watch. Peter Dinklage's portrayal of Trask and his fervor in achieving his ends without the boundaries of rules, country, or even emotion was scarier than any mutant.
2) Special Effects - Total Thumbs Up: The special effects for the film were 'top-notch'. Future Sentinels were downright scary as they adapted, absorbed, and replicated mutant attacks. All of Mystique's change sequences were flawless. I very much enjoyed the implied flipping of scales or mirrors whenever she changed. Blink's portals and the interaction of the fighters using them seemed like moving art.
All the Magneto scenes were he used his power just got more and more amazing, proving once more why he's such a force to be reckoned with. But his son (in the comics, not the films) Quicksilver 'stole the show' early in the film when we see things from his perspective as he uses his power. The addition of the song "Time in a Bottle" to that particular section made the whole sequence priceless.
3) Plot/Story - Thumbs Up: The "X-men" comics debuted back in the 60's, so it seemed apt that the film took us almost that far back for this pseudo time travel adventure. For us older viewers, it was a nostalgia filled trip. For us older "X-Men" comic book fans, it was doubly so, as bits and pieces of the plot reflected back to story lines from the comics themselves.
My biggest beef with the "X-Men" movie franchise has always been the willy-nilly way in which they assign characters multiple powers or change them. The victim this time around was Kitty Pride. She can now seemingly send a person's consciousness back in time. Normally restricted to a few days (and something it seems Xavier didn't even know she could do) this is the main point on which the whole movie hinges. So they get some definite minus points for that piece of contrivance. It would have been easier to believe if they'd just added a new, young mutant with this power rather than mutate Shadowcat. But, it is what it is. Thankfully, this issue is also easily ignored, and won't mar the enjoyment of the rest of the film.
Because, aside from that one bit, the story was a lot of fun. Seeing an older Logan meeting Xavier, Eric, and Hank, knowing the things he knows about them was a blast. Also, seeing the characters being true to their youthful, idealistic, stubborn selves (especially Magneto) despite what Logan has told them, made for great plot complications and tied nicely back to the personal issues held by these same people for years.
The logic as outlined for the mental time travel seems to hit a wall at the end, but it doesn't. The film people just make the assumption the audience will be able to piece it together. I'm not sure everyone will. It has to do with what we're shown at one point, which is not the actual truth because of his power, but this is not realized till later. (You'll know what I am talking about when you get there.)
Lots of fun moments are interspersed throughout the film, both visually and through dialogue.
4) Stunts - Total Thumbs Up: If mutants, giant Sentinels, and the military are involved, of course there will be stunts. And the stunts for this film do not disappoint, whether they were done through CGI, live action, or a combination of the two. Quicksilver's awesome scene is my reigning favorite.
5) Locations/Cinematography - Total Thumbs Up: The future the film begins with is very dark and with some quick sweeping camera shots the audience understands the stakes very quickly. But where the locations and cinematography truly make an impact is when we're sent back to the early 70's. We truly feel like we've traveled back in time.
6) Costuming/Makeup - Total Thumbs Up: From Mystique's body makeup, to the time accurate 1970's clothes and styles, the costuming and makeup departments did a phenomenal job making it that much easier for the audience to believe.
Conclusion: "X-Men: Days of Future Past" is a fun, action filled film. Fans of the movies will be very pleased with the ton of cameos towards the end. Fans of the comics will be even more pleased at the old story line elements - making the film a double nostalgic experience.
Rating: 4.25 out of 5 (Hubby's Rating: Worth Paying Full Price To See Again)
