Hi all!
Cripes, that last post sounds way too self-gratifying. Sorry about that, I didn't mean to be. I was just trying to make a point. Sometimes I have these moments where I get so clogged up with ideas and they just spew out of me like... I dunno, like tomato soup from the mouth of a surprised man. There's a simile I hope never to use again.
Anyway, the title today is significant for two reasons. Firstly, some of you may recognise it as being from the latest Indiana Jones movie. I'm in a particularly Indy-oriented mood at the moment, as I'm sooooo close to finishing LEGO Indiana Jones. I only have the bonus levels to go, one mysteriously named "warehouse"... Do I sense a Crystal Skull themed expansion coming on?? Yeah. The last level was brilliant and remarkably faithful to the end of the best of the series on screen. You still had to dodge the "breath of God", walk across the camouflaged bridge (no sand, though...) and even choose the true Grail! I chose wisely, of course.
Secondly, there is now less than a week left before the RUSSIA TRIP!!!! I'm getting so excited!! It's going to be loadsa fun, and I'm going to take more photos than you can shake a stick at, so prepared to be bored to death when I get back! Hopefully I shoudl get my hoodie through tomorrow, and then I can start packing! Ahem, I mean, CONTINUE packing....of course.
Anyway, not much else to report here, going to watch the F1 soon, so don't tell me what happens. Hopefully I'll be back here, same time, tomorrow!
See ya 'round!
Jack
Sunday, 29 March 2009
Saturday, 28 March 2009
La Liste
Hi all.
First off, I just want to apologise on behalf of the rest of my gender for being so rubbish. Some guys are just so...I dunno, vilainous? Something like that. Self-centred. Materialistic. Shallow. Words to that effect. I know this may echo words you may have seen my compatriots from the opposite gender write, but it's true, some guys just aren't worth two thoughts. And I know that in highlighting these men, I'm being kind of hypocritical, but seriously. Have you ever stopped, stepped back and taken a good look at yourself? I mean, it's all very well being all macho and getting drunk every weekend and making rude jokes and stuff, but what is that actually achieving? Who is that actually helping? So yeah, here I am sticking up for the 10%-ish of all guys who aren't obsessed with sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll. OK, maybe that last one doesn't count. I love rock 'n' roll.
So what has all this got to do with "La Liste"? Well, anyone who knows their French singers will know that "La Liste" is a folky-thoughtful-type song by Rose. This is French Rose, rather than Awesome Rose (Walker), but the two share a similar style. And the song goes on about "La liste des choses que je veux faire avec toi" - That is, "the list of things I want to do with you". And it's not all like, kissing and holding hands and the regular love-associated things like that. And it got me thinking - Actually, to what extent would I want my relationship to be the traditional, joined-at-the-hip stereotype? Wow, can I just add - The Pirates 3 soundtrack is brilliant. I haven't listened to it for ages. But anyway, that last on-topic sentence sounded scarily like a History question. But yeah, everyone has a Liste of some kind, and the sad thing is I'm willing to bet "having sex" is in the top 10 of most men's.
You can see where this is going, can't you? Yeah, that's right. I made my own Liste. I'm not going to read you all of it, because it's private. And also quite embarrassing. But yeah, it's stashed away in the Vault along with the Master's ring, the Best Song In The World and those weird artefact things from the end of Heroes Series 2. Honestly, what are they??? Oops, rambling again. But yeah, there's all sorts of stuff like...
* Making a podcast. I have aaaaaaaaaaalways wanted to do this. And it just wouldn't be the same on my own. I'd need someone to bounce ideas off, and it would be perfect if I could just have someone to build up a great rapport with. I mean, you listen to some of these things, and they sound so awkward and wooden, but when there's a genuine chemistry, the sort that comes either with years of experience or as part of the package that being in love brings, it just adds loads more depth, makes the characters more lovable, I guess. I dunno. I think it'd be cool.
* Going for a picnic. OK, this is a bit more romantic. But I've always wanted to do it, ever since me and a girlfriend-who-turned-out-to-just-be-a-friend sat on top of a hill and just chatted. It was brilliant, and I only wish we'd taken some food and stuff now. Three of my favourite things - Food, good views and limitless conversation. Hehehe... And I know the perfect place as well, I went there on Friday, it's not hard to get to, yet it's so out of the loop you hardly notice you're just a few miles out of town. But yeah, there's that.
* Perfectly-timed jokes and comedy moments. Bit random this one. But it's like, some people, they'll just see something and look at each other in perfect unison and the timing is just like that, just like it was rehearsed. I wish I knew how to do that. Obviously it's the whole mind-reading thing.
* Learning proper dance. Yeah, this has always appealed to me. I know my rubbish sense of balance means I'll probably be disastrous, but I've always wanted to try my hand (and foot) at some kind of ballroom dancing. Even if it's just some spontaneous thing in the middle of the kitchen when a funky song comes on. Thing is, I've never had anyone to do that with. I know, I'll stop feeling sorry for myself.
Well, there you go. A random insight into my hopes and dreams and, hopefully, enough evidence that not all blokes fit the stereotype. Before I head off, I'll quickly skim over other news - Robin Hood is back (hurrah for mangled continuity!), Clone Wars has finished (hurrah for Cad Bane!), vodka tastes like nail varnish (hurrah for the Russians!) and I have some new trousers (hurrah for TK Maxx!). Stay tuned, folks, because this week it gets REALLY exciting! French competitions, the end of Coursework and, of course THE RUSSIA TRIP, all await withing the next seven days. Until then, see ya 'round!
Jack
First off, I just want to apologise on behalf of the rest of my gender for being so rubbish. Some guys are just so...I dunno, vilainous? Something like that. Self-centred. Materialistic. Shallow. Words to that effect. I know this may echo words you may have seen my compatriots from the opposite gender write, but it's true, some guys just aren't worth two thoughts. And I know that in highlighting these men, I'm being kind of hypocritical, but seriously. Have you ever stopped, stepped back and taken a good look at yourself? I mean, it's all very well being all macho and getting drunk every weekend and making rude jokes and stuff, but what is that actually achieving? Who is that actually helping? So yeah, here I am sticking up for the 10%-ish of all guys who aren't obsessed with sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll. OK, maybe that last one doesn't count. I love rock 'n' roll.
So what has all this got to do with "La Liste"? Well, anyone who knows their French singers will know that "La Liste" is a folky-thoughtful-type song by Rose. This is French Rose, rather than Awesome Rose (Walker), but the two share a similar style. And the song goes on about "La liste des choses que je veux faire avec toi" - That is, "the list of things I want to do with you". And it's not all like, kissing and holding hands and the regular love-associated things like that. And it got me thinking - Actually, to what extent would I want my relationship to be the traditional, joined-at-the-hip stereotype? Wow, can I just add - The Pirates 3 soundtrack is brilliant. I haven't listened to it for ages. But anyway, that last on-topic sentence sounded scarily like a History question. But yeah, everyone has a Liste of some kind, and the sad thing is I'm willing to bet "having sex" is in the top 10 of most men's.
You can see where this is going, can't you? Yeah, that's right. I made my own Liste. I'm not going to read you all of it, because it's private. And also quite embarrassing. But yeah, it's stashed away in the Vault along with the Master's ring, the Best Song In The World and those weird artefact things from the end of Heroes Series 2. Honestly, what are they??? Oops, rambling again. But yeah, there's all sorts of stuff like...
* Making a podcast. I have aaaaaaaaaaalways wanted to do this. And it just wouldn't be the same on my own. I'd need someone to bounce ideas off, and it would be perfect if I could just have someone to build up a great rapport with. I mean, you listen to some of these things, and they sound so awkward and wooden, but when there's a genuine chemistry, the sort that comes either with years of experience or as part of the package that being in love brings, it just adds loads more depth, makes the characters more lovable, I guess. I dunno. I think it'd be cool.
* Going for a picnic. OK, this is a bit more romantic. But I've always wanted to do it, ever since me and a girlfriend-who-turned-out-to-just-be-a-friend sat on top of a hill and just chatted. It was brilliant, and I only wish we'd taken some food and stuff now. Three of my favourite things - Food, good views and limitless conversation. Hehehe... And I know the perfect place as well, I went there on Friday, it's not hard to get to, yet it's so out of the loop you hardly notice you're just a few miles out of town. But yeah, there's that.
* Perfectly-timed jokes and comedy moments. Bit random this one. But it's like, some people, they'll just see something and look at each other in perfect unison and the timing is just like that, just like it was rehearsed. I wish I knew how to do that. Obviously it's the whole mind-reading thing.
* Learning proper dance. Yeah, this has always appealed to me. I know my rubbish sense of balance means I'll probably be disastrous, but I've always wanted to try my hand (and foot) at some kind of ballroom dancing. Even if it's just some spontaneous thing in the middle of the kitchen when a funky song comes on. Thing is, I've never had anyone to do that with. I know, I'll stop feeling sorry for myself.
Well, there you go. A random insight into my hopes and dreams and, hopefully, enough evidence that not all blokes fit the stereotype. Before I head off, I'll quickly skim over other news - Robin Hood is back (hurrah for mangled continuity!), Clone Wars has finished (hurrah for Cad Bane!), vodka tastes like nail varnish (hurrah for the Russians!) and I have some new trousers (hurrah for TK Maxx!). Stay tuned, folks, because this week it gets REALLY exciting! French competitions, the end of Coursework and, of course THE RUSSIA TRIP, all await withing the next seven days. Until then, see ya 'round!
Jack
Wednesday, 25 March 2009
So get up, and get down, and get outside!
Hi folks!
Can I just say - This song by Frank Turner. "Reasons not to be an idiot". It's awesome. It's like the Days. Listen to it. And it carries a very important message - You gotta take your life in your own hands. Seize the day! Carpe diem! Go out and make your dreams come true! No-one else can do it for you - Only you know what you want. So why are you sat alone? You're not designed to be alone! You just got used to saying no. So get up and get down and get outside!
Jack
Can I just say - This song by Frank Turner. "Reasons not to be an idiot". It's awesome. It's like the Days. Listen to it. And it carries a very important message - You gotta take your life in your own hands. Seize the day! Carpe diem! Go out and make your dreams come true! No-one else can do it for you - Only you know what you want. So why are you sat alone? You're not designed to be alone! You just got used to saying no. So get up and get down and get outside!
Jack
Sunday, 22 March 2009
Sunlight In The Afternoon
Hi everyone!
It's so SUNNY today! It just makes you wnat to throw your arms up to the sky and shout "YAY!". Yeah, I know I should probably still be feeling depressed and ashamed of myself, but it's just such a lovely day! And yet, here I am stuck indoors doing English Lit essays. D'you think the teachers set us more work than usual on purpose this weekend, 'cause they knew it would be sunny? Hmmm...I wouldn't put it past some of them these days.
Anyway, mention of Dubai seems to be cropping up a lot these days - why is that?? First they film Doctor Who there, then Vanessa's cousin lives out there, although admittedly he's come back now, then they have something to do with the tennis, then I set my English lit coursework there, then one of Mum and Dad's friends has decided to go there, and now they moved the Indian cricket there. It seems to be plaguing me almost as much as 666 these days... Don't ask!
Ah, well, I'd better crack on with my work. If you're not doing anything and you're holed up inside your house - What are you waiting for???? Get out there and make the most of this brilliant weather!!
See ya 'round!
Jack
It's so SUNNY today! It just makes you wnat to throw your arms up to the sky and shout "YAY!". Yeah, I know I should probably still be feeling depressed and ashamed of myself, but it's just such a lovely day! And yet, here I am stuck indoors doing English Lit essays. D'you think the teachers set us more work than usual on purpose this weekend, 'cause they knew it would be sunny? Hmmm...I wouldn't put it past some of them these days.
Anyway, mention of Dubai seems to be cropping up a lot these days - why is that?? First they film Doctor Who there, then Vanessa's cousin lives out there, although admittedly he's come back now, then they have something to do with the tennis, then I set my English lit coursework there, then one of Mum and Dad's friends has decided to go there, and now they moved the Indian cricket there. It seems to be plaguing me almost as much as 666 these days... Don't ask!
Ah, well, I'd better crack on with my work. If you're not doing anything and you're holed up inside your house - What are you waiting for???? Get out there and make the most of this brilliant weather!!
See ya 'round!
Jack
Friday, 20 March 2009
Ooops.
Hi everyone.
It's probably a bit pointless me saying this now, but I'm sorry. I've made someone's life a misery. Whether intentional or not, I did it, and now I feel really guilty because of it. So...yeah, you know who you are. If you're reading this, I really am sorry. The last thing I ever wanted to do was upset you, and I promise if we can just make up again and put everything back to how it was before, I'll leave you be. Just friends is OK. I want you to be happy, 'cause when you're not happy, neither am I. And I mean that in a friend way, rather than a romantic way. I can't stand the silence.
I know I'm asking a lot after what I've done to you, but can you possibly forgive me? Whatever I've got to do, I want it to be like it was before. Whatever quests you have to send me on, I promise I'll do anything for us to be friends again. just friends. Is that OK? Please talk to me.
I'm sorry.
Me.
It's probably a bit pointless me saying this now, but I'm sorry. I've made someone's life a misery. Whether intentional or not, I did it, and now I feel really guilty because of it. So...yeah, you know who you are. If you're reading this, I really am sorry. The last thing I ever wanted to do was upset you, and I promise if we can just make up again and put everything back to how it was before, I'll leave you be. Just friends is OK. I want you to be happy, 'cause when you're not happy, neither am I. And I mean that in a friend way, rather than a romantic way. I can't stand the silence.
I know I'm asking a lot after what I've done to you, but can you possibly forgive me? Whatever I've got to do, I want it to be like it was before. Whatever quests you have to send me on, I promise I'll do anything for us to be friends again. just friends. Is that OK? Please talk to me.
I'm sorry.
Me.
Sunday, 15 March 2009
Heroes and Villains
Hi all!
It's a 'normal' day today, no rants or diaries or anything. So what have I been up to lately? Well, for a start, I downloaded a demo of City of Heoroes/Villains, which is basically like Everquest, you play it online etc, except you can be a superhero! Or a supervillain... Being a Heroes fan myself, it's great fun experimenting with all the powers. And flying is great fun! The trial runs out next week I think, and I'm seriously considering moving from Galaxies...I dunno, we'll see. Anyway...
I've got pretty much all me Easter and Mothers' Day shopping done, and I'm starting to consider getting a job - shock horror! Actually I've thought about it before but couldn't be bothered to get out and have a search! So yeah, I've checked in a few places so far and none of them have any vacancies, but I might pay the newsagents a visit tomorrow. Money money money!
I've also decided to commit to seeing the Days at the end of next month. It's going to be awesome! So yeah, I've booked the tickets, and I think it's a pick-up rather than through-the-post deal this time. And I've no idea what the venue'll be like, but hopefully it's adequate enough. I'll fill you in more nearer the time.
Tomorrow I'm going to be delivering a speech again! I thought I was done! Alas, it seems I've now got to prove to my History class that Robespierre was a VILLAIN! Mwahahahahahaha!! He was. But the other team have to argue that he wasn't...it'll be interesting to see what they come up with! In a similar vein, I got my test results back from January. Let's just say they weren't the best, but I've come back from this point before, so hopefully when I know where I'm going wrong I can do that again!
AAAAAAAND...Yes! It's that time already! The week has gone past sooooo quickly and tomorrow night is HEROES Night again!! To be fair, last week's ending was a bit rubbish. In my opinion they should have finished with the scene just before the one with Mr Bennet...I can't remember what it was, but I remember thinking it was the end...Maybe it was the bit where Ando gets taken away... Perhaps I'm old-fashioned or whatever, but Ando will NEVER be as cool as Hiro! We want our favourite time-traveller back! Wait...favourite time-traveller? I mean second favourite, of course. And while they're bringing Hiro's powers back, bring back Adam...and Elle, why not. She was quite funky...in a weird sort of way. And Daphne!! I can't believe she'd dead! I mean, she hasn't exactly been around that long, but I really liked her. HEY! What if Hiro's powers, rather than being completely taken, are just dormant, and can be reactivated by Ando's power (hence the misunderstood scene on the walkway in Episode 1) and once he has this power he can go back and rescue Daphne, but during the process he accidentally goes back too far again and Adam gets out of dying - How awesome would that be?! Meh, It'll never happen.
OH, It's such a surprise that Nathan's turned evil! He's been evil since series one! Anyway, Red Nose Day was on Friday, and David Tennant was brilliant as usual. Snogging Davina at the end was so random! He has a girlfriend as well! Although probably not any more...I kind of switched off after that, anything to save myself from more Catherine Tate.
Well, that's about it for today. Taylor Swift fans (Georgia! Olwen! Tom!) will be pleased to know she's winning "the Choice" by 2 votes to...well, ones and zeroes. And "zeroes" rhymes with "heroes", which brings us neatly back to the beginning! See what I did there? Hehehe...
See ya 'round!
Jack
It's a 'normal' day today, no rants or diaries or anything. So what have I been up to lately? Well, for a start, I downloaded a demo of City of Heoroes/Villains, which is basically like Everquest, you play it online etc, except you can be a superhero! Or a supervillain... Being a Heroes fan myself, it's great fun experimenting with all the powers. And flying is great fun! The trial runs out next week I think, and I'm seriously considering moving from Galaxies...I dunno, we'll see. Anyway...
I've got pretty much all me Easter and Mothers' Day shopping done, and I'm starting to consider getting a job - shock horror! Actually I've thought about it before but couldn't be bothered to get out and have a search! So yeah, I've checked in a few places so far and none of them have any vacancies, but I might pay the newsagents a visit tomorrow. Money money money!
I've also decided to commit to seeing the Days at the end of next month. It's going to be awesome! So yeah, I've booked the tickets, and I think it's a pick-up rather than through-the-post deal this time. And I've no idea what the venue'll be like, but hopefully it's adequate enough. I'll fill you in more nearer the time.
Tomorrow I'm going to be delivering a speech again! I thought I was done! Alas, it seems I've now got to prove to my History class that Robespierre was a VILLAIN! Mwahahahahahaha!! He was. But the other team have to argue that he wasn't...it'll be interesting to see what they come up with! In a similar vein, I got my test results back from January. Let's just say they weren't the best, but I've come back from this point before, so hopefully when I know where I'm going wrong I can do that again!
AAAAAAAND...Yes! It's that time already! The week has gone past sooooo quickly and tomorrow night is HEROES Night again!! To be fair, last week's ending was a bit rubbish. In my opinion they should have finished with the scene just before the one with Mr Bennet...I can't remember what it was, but I remember thinking it was the end...Maybe it was the bit where Ando gets taken away... Perhaps I'm old-fashioned or whatever, but Ando will NEVER be as cool as Hiro! We want our favourite time-traveller back! Wait...favourite time-traveller? I mean second favourite, of course. And while they're bringing Hiro's powers back, bring back Adam...and Elle, why not. She was quite funky...in a weird sort of way. And Daphne!! I can't believe she'd dead! I mean, she hasn't exactly been around that long, but I really liked her. HEY! What if Hiro's powers, rather than being completely taken, are just dormant, and can be reactivated by Ando's power (hence the misunderstood scene on the walkway in Episode 1) and once he has this power he can go back and rescue Daphne, but during the process he accidentally goes back too far again and Adam gets out of dying - How awesome would that be?! Meh, It'll never happen.
OH, It's such a surprise that Nathan's turned evil!
Well, that's about it for today. Taylor Swift fans (Georgia! Olwen! Tom!) will be pleased to know she's winning "the Choice" by 2 votes to...well, ones and zeroes. And "zeroes" rhymes with "heroes", which brings us neatly back to the beginning! See what I did there? Hehehe...
See ya 'round!
Jack
Friday, 13 March 2009
The Choice
Hi everyone!
After yesterday's depresion, I'm full of beans today! And I need your help. Basically, I've agreed with myself that to save money i would only buy a full album if there was a special occasion, and the next one looks to be the Russia trip! Now, it may be that some other good stuff comes out before that, but here is my shortlist of albums I might choose:
1) Taylor Swift - Fearless: I've listened to some samples from this album on iTunes, and from what I've heard it sounds like just the thing I've been after - essentially Avril Lavigne's first album, with some brilliant "Wow!" moments mixed in - Fantastic!
2) The Fray - The Fray: Why they self-titled this album and not their first one I guess I'll never know, but if their single You Found Me is anything to go on, this disc promises to be inspiring piano ballads from start to finish, just like their last one - only better!
3) Melody Gardot - My One And Only Thrill: I downloaded a Single of the Week by her a while ago - I loved it! It's great jazz, and would be the perfect cure for not being able to sleep on the train. As I haven't downloaded much jazz for a while, this would be a good addition to my collection, alongside the likes of Sonya Kitchell and Sara Bareilles.
4) Arctic Monkeys - Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not OR Favourite Worst Nightmare: I've been really getting into the Arctic Monkes recently, even if they have been around for ages now. I can't decide whether to get the first album, which has I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor, or the second, which has Brianstorm, which is also good.
5) Various Artists - Twilight Soundtrack: Georgia tells me this is rather good, plus it has a special Paramore song you can only get if you buy the whole album, so at least I can add to my collection, if nothing else. I feel reluctant to get it without seeing the film first, though.
6) Enrique Iglesias - Greatest Hits: Yes, I know I've practically got all his greatest hits already, but it would be nice to have them all under one album, and then there's that new one which I heard on the radio and it sounded pretty cool, so this might be worth investing in, though it is slightly more expensive than usual.
7) Herbie Hancock - River: The Joni Letters: From the little EP I donloaded of Herbie Hancock's stuff (I love EPs!) He sounds really funky, the master of modern jazz, and with the voice talents of many other renowned jazz singers, including Sonya Kitchell, this CD promises to be great fun!
Well, that's about it. Obviously, I just can't choose, so I reckon you should chose for me! Send me a comment saying which one YOU'd buy, and I'll make my decision based on that! Of course, if there's anything else you think I might like, feel free to reccomend that as well! Anyway, until then, it's time for me to go an watch the Comic Relief show. Who nose what could happen! Groan...
Jack
After yesterday's depresion, I'm full of beans today! And I need your help. Basically, I've agreed with myself that to save money i would only buy a full album if there was a special occasion, and the next one looks to be the Russia trip! Now, it may be that some other good stuff comes out before that, but here is my shortlist of albums I might choose:
1) Taylor Swift - Fearless: I've listened to some samples from this album on iTunes, and from what I've heard it sounds like just the thing I've been after - essentially Avril Lavigne's first album, with some brilliant "Wow!" moments mixed in - Fantastic!
2) The Fray - The Fray: Why they self-titled this album and not their first one I guess I'll never know, but if their single You Found Me is anything to go on, this disc promises to be inspiring piano ballads from start to finish, just like their last one - only better!
3) Melody Gardot - My One And Only Thrill: I downloaded a Single of the Week by her a while ago - I loved it! It's great jazz, and would be the perfect cure for not being able to sleep on the train. As I haven't downloaded much jazz for a while, this would be a good addition to my collection, alongside the likes of Sonya Kitchell and Sara Bareilles.
4) Arctic Monkeys - Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not OR Favourite Worst Nightmare: I've been really getting into the Arctic Monkes recently, even if they have been around for ages now. I can't decide whether to get the first album, which has I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor, or the second, which has Brianstorm, which is also good.
5) Various Artists - Twilight Soundtrack: Georgia tells me this is rather good, plus it has a special Paramore song you can only get if you buy the whole album, so at least I can add to my collection, if nothing else. I feel reluctant to get it without seeing the film first, though.
6) Enrique Iglesias - Greatest Hits: Yes, I know I've practically got all his greatest hits already, but it would be nice to have them all under one album, and then there's that new one which I heard on the radio and it sounded pretty cool, so this might be worth investing in, though it is slightly more expensive than usual.
7) Herbie Hancock - River: The Joni Letters: From the little EP I donloaded of Herbie Hancock's stuff (I love EPs!) He sounds really funky, the master of modern jazz, and with the voice talents of many other renowned jazz singers, including Sonya Kitchell, this CD promises to be great fun!
Well, that's about it. Obviously, I just can't choose, so I reckon you should chose for me! Send me a comment saying which one YOU'd buy, and I'll make my decision based on that! Of course, if there's anything else you think I might like, feel free to reccomend that as well! Anyway, until then, it's time for me to go an watch the Comic Relief show. Who nose what could happen! Groan...
Jack
Thursday, 12 March 2009
Iron Man - The Dr Pepper of Superheroes
Hi folks!
Just to prepare you, today I'm going to take the mickey out of pretty much every superhero apart from Iron Man. And this is why: Basically, I've been thinking long and hard about this, and I've deduced that if Iron Man had been released first in the 2000s 'wave' of Superhero movies, it would undoubtedly have been considered the best.
Take Spiderman, first of all. What kind of drugs must Peter Parker have been on when he designed the Spiderman suit? I mean...what kind of hero saves the world in blue and red pyjamas? And you gotta admit - Being bitten by a 'radioactive spider' which just HAPPENS to have escaped from its cage (The old "Hey, there's one missing - Aaaaagh!" Cliche)? Honestly, any sane people would keep their spiders locked away in some top-security vault. Can you even get radioactive spiders? And the films are all so depressing - His Dad gets beaten up by a random thug (Oh, did I mention? A random thug who just HAPPENS to be on the run in the third film and just HAPPENS to get into a top secret scientific testing facility and just HAPPENS to become part of an experiment which in real life they would probably have stopped straight away if they noticed even the slightest problem, and who then just HAPPENS not to die and just HAPPENS to become Sandman and just HAPPENS to get in a fight with Spiderman!), his flat's a mess (Grrr, I just want to go in there and tidy it up for him!), his aunt has no money, his ex-girlfriend ends up going out with his best friend who also happens to be a villain who then dies, and on top of all that a giant alien-bearing meteor just HAPPENS to land in the same park he HAPPENS to be in.
I'll admit, the Goblin was cool. If it was a film about the Green Goblin it would have been good. But it wasn't. It was a film about a guy in pyjamas. And no matter how much they say they've spent on it, no matter what colour the pyjamas are, no matter which highly-unrealistic villains thye choose, it will always be to me a film about a guy in pyjamas.
Mooooving on. Batman next. OK, Batman Begins wasn't as bad as Spidey. He had some cool gadgets and a funky suit and he could fly without looking camp, and it had Liam Neeson in it, which was cool. But it was just SO DEPRESSING! Spiderman looks like a fluffy pink ball of...fluff...compared to this. Just look at the themes - Drugs, prisoners, hallucinations, and a really depressing city as well - I'm surprised anyone's actually bothered to live in Gotham by the end of the movie. And surely "you burned my house down so I'm going to burn yours" isn't exactly the best message to be sending teenagers these days. And I haven't seen the Dark Knight, I'll admit, but there's been so much hype about it I almost don't want to. Just because they spent a billion trillion squidillion pounds on it, doesn't make it good. Just because it has a guy who's dead in it, doesn't make it good. I mean, don't get me wrong, it's a sad story, and I feel sorry for his family and all that, but at the end of the day, being dead doesn't make you any better an actor. I know, I haven't seen it, he may well be brilliant, but considering we're talking primarily in 'beginning movie' terms here, Batman still isn't as good.
Tick. Right...Superman. Ten reasons why the movie world does NOT need Superman. One - The only thing worse than saving the world in your pyjamas is...You guessed it, saving the world in pyjamas with pants over the top. 'Nuff said. Two - Lex Luther can't seriously be happy with living on a massive crystal. I mean, what's the point in having your own island if there's no-one there to dominate? And what would you eat?? Three - What a rubbish ending! Villain stranded on a tiny sandbar in the middle of nowhere? That's more like something out of Looney Tunes or Tom and Jerry than a worthy Superhero movie. Four - Considering he's an alien from a dead planet, he does look surprising human, doesn't he? Five - An ordinary plane (Which it clearly is, just painted differently) could never fly that high. Believe me. Six - Did I mention the pants and pyjamas combo? Seven - NO CAPES! Haven't they seen the Incredibles?? Eight - When you can hear the thoughts of the whole world, how do you pick out one police siren? Nine - Sleeping standing up can't be that comfortable, can it? And ten - I dunno, I lost my train of thought.
Anyway, the Hulk - Purple boxers. Need I say more? Fantastic 4 were good the first time around, I'll admit. The Incredibles were really awesome, but don't really count by way of 'serious' superheroes. Then there's Watchmen, which I haven't seen yet, but any superhero movie with a rating higher than 15 defeats what I believe is a vital criteria - the ability for the whole family to be able to view it. Who have I forgotten? Probably loads of similarly flawed movies. But not Iron Man.
Iron Man is at least as good as the first Spiderman. I maintain that, though it was quite formulaic, if it had come out first, it would undoubtedly have been a clear favourite. The suit is ten times cooler than anything else any superhero has worn; only batman comes close. I loved J.A.R.V.I.S., the computer, even if he was a bit unrealistic, no other superhero has as cool a gadget at his or her disposal. And the villain was quite believable as well - No 'radioactive spiders' or 'aliens from another planet', just clever engineering. And it's done in such a cool style as well. I mean, i know all superhero films are done in a very similar style, but it just looks so much cooler on Iron Man - There aren't any venomously bright colours, just toned-down maroon and gold. It really is a work of art.
Anyway, to explain the Dr Pepper analogy: If Dr Pepper had been released first, everyone would love it, but as it happens it was preceded by coke and lemonade, and so seems doomed to always be second best.
I hope my rambling hasn't bored you too much. Let me know what you think - I love getting your comments! Don't forget to tune in soon for The Choice. Now what could that be...?
See ya 'round!
Jack
Just to prepare you, today I'm going to take the mickey out of pretty much every superhero apart from Iron Man. And this is why: Basically, I've been thinking long and hard about this, and I've deduced that if Iron Man had been released first in the 2000s 'wave' of Superhero movies, it would undoubtedly have been considered the best.
Take Spiderman, first of all. What kind of drugs must Peter Parker have been on when he designed the Spiderman suit? I mean...what kind of hero saves the world in blue and red pyjamas? And you gotta admit - Being bitten by a 'radioactive spider' which just HAPPENS to have escaped from its cage (The old "Hey, there's one missing - Aaaaagh!" Cliche)? Honestly, any sane people would keep their spiders locked away in some top-security vault. Can you even get radioactive spiders? And the films are all so depressing - His Dad gets beaten up by a random thug (Oh, did I mention? A random thug who just HAPPENS to be on the run in the third film and just HAPPENS to get into a top secret scientific testing facility and just HAPPENS to become part of an experiment which in real life they would probably have stopped straight away if they noticed even the slightest problem, and who then just HAPPENS not to die and just HAPPENS to become Sandman and just HAPPENS to get in a fight with Spiderman!), his flat's a mess (Grrr, I just want to go in there and tidy it up for him!), his aunt has no money, his ex-girlfriend ends up going out with his best friend who also happens to be a villain who then dies, and on top of all that a giant alien-bearing meteor just HAPPENS to land in the same park he HAPPENS to be in.
I'll admit, the Goblin was cool. If it was a film about the Green Goblin it would have been good. But it wasn't. It was a film about a guy in pyjamas. And no matter how much they say they've spent on it, no matter what colour the pyjamas are, no matter which highly-unrealistic villains thye choose, it will always be to me a film about a guy in pyjamas.
Mooooving on. Batman next. OK, Batman Begins wasn't as bad as Spidey. He had some cool gadgets and a funky suit and he could fly without looking camp, and it had Liam Neeson in it, which was cool. But it was just SO DEPRESSING! Spiderman looks like a fluffy pink ball of...fluff...compared to this. Just look at the themes - Drugs, prisoners, hallucinations, and a really depressing city as well - I'm surprised anyone's actually bothered to live in Gotham by the end of the movie. And surely "you burned my house down so I'm going to burn yours" isn't exactly the best message to be sending teenagers these days. And I haven't seen the Dark Knight, I'll admit, but there's been so much hype about it I almost don't want to. Just because they spent a billion trillion squidillion pounds on it, doesn't make it good. Just because it has a guy who's dead in it, doesn't make it good. I mean, don't get me wrong, it's a sad story, and I feel sorry for his family and all that, but at the end of the day, being dead doesn't make you any better an actor. I know, I haven't seen it, he may well be brilliant, but considering we're talking primarily in 'beginning movie' terms here, Batman still isn't as good.
Tick. Right...Superman. Ten reasons why the movie world does NOT need Superman. One - The only thing worse than saving the world in your pyjamas is...You guessed it, saving the world in pyjamas with pants over the top. 'Nuff said. Two - Lex Luther can't seriously be happy with living on a massive crystal. I mean, what's the point in having your own island if there's no-one there to dominate? And what would you eat?? Three - What a rubbish ending! Villain stranded on a tiny sandbar in the middle of nowhere? That's more like something out of Looney Tunes or Tom and Jerry than a worthy Superhero movie. Four - Considering he's an alien from a dead planet, he does look surprising human, doesn't he? Five - An ordinary plane (Which it clearly is, just painted differently) could never fly that high. Believe me. Six - Did I mention the pants and pyjamas combo? Seven - NO CAPES! Haven't they seen the Incredibles?? Eight - When you can hear the thoughts of the whole world, how do you pick out one police siren? Nine - Sleeping standing up can't be that comfortable, can it? And ten - I dunno, I lost my train of thought.
Anyway, the Hulk - Purple boxers. Need I say more? Fantastic 4 were good the first time around, I'll admit. The Incredibles were really awesome, but don't really count by way of 'serious' superheroes. Then there's Watchmen, which I haven't seen yet, but any superhero movie with a rating higher than 15 defeats what I believe is a vital criteria - the ability for the whole family to be able to view it. Who have I forgotten? Probably loads of similarly flawed movies. But not Iron Man.
Iron Man is at least as good as the first Spiderman. I maintain that, though it was quite formulaic, if it had come out first, it would undoubtedly have been a clear favourite. The suit is ten times cooler than anything else any superhero has worn; only batman comes close. I loved J.A.R.V.I.S., the computer, even if he was a bit unrealistic, no other superhero has as cool a gadget at his or her disposal. And the villain was quite believable as well - No 'radioactive spiders' or 'aliens from another planet', just clever engineering. And it's done in such a cool style as well. I mean, i know all superhero films are done in a very similar style, but it just looks so much cooler on Iron Man - There aren't any venomously bright colours, just toned-down maroon and gold. It really is a work of art.
Anyway, to explain the Dr Pepper analogy: If Dr Pepper had been released first, everyone would love it, but as it happens it was preceded by coke and lemonade, and so seems doomed to always be second best.
I hope my rambling hasn't bored you too much. Let me know what you think - I love getting your comments! Don't forget to tune in soon for The Choice. Now what could that be...?
See ya 'round!
Jack
Tuesday, 10 March 2009
Brighter Day
Hi folks!
Working backwards here, so I remember stuff. But basically, tomorrow I'm planning to go off on some tangent insulting virtually every superhero invented....apart from one. So tune in for that.
Anyway, I've recently been playing a demo of MMORPG City of Heroes - It's great fun!! IT's much like playinga FPS - for a start, you can jump over things, unlike in Galaxies. I haven't played much yet, but rest assured when I've had a chance to accustomise myself, I'll fill you in. Mind you, I said that about Twilight, and what happened to that.....
The real point of today's post is to show off some lyrics I've just finished. Yes, they are semi-real-life-based, but don't take them too literally. They're just a bit of fun really. Ladies and gentlemen, for your consideration, "Brighter Day":
Waking up to a brighter day,
You check your mail and the bills you have to pay.
I wish that there was something I could say.
Walking underneath a brighter sky,
You’re zoning out, thinking of that other guy.
You’re hoping that you’ll catch his eye.
Now you’re falling down onto brighter ground,
You reach out for help, but you didn’t keep anyone around.
What happens if you’re never found?
Searching the crowd for a brighter smile,
You could make this easy, but maybe that’s not your style.
We could be here for a while.
But where do you go?
And what do you know
About me?
Now they’re waiting in the wings to take me away,
But don’t call out, ’cause there’s always a brighter day.
Smile the smile that you used to show me.
And if we’re going down I’m just glad that you know me.
The sun shines in your brighter eyes,
You feel the urge to shake off this disguise,
But then you realise
That there’ll always be a brighter love
You think it’s gone but it’ll always just be bright enough
To tell me who you’re thinking of.
But tomorrow is new,
And what will you do
Without me?
Now they’re waiting in the wings to take me away,
But don’t call out, ’cause there’s always a brighter day.
Smile the smile that you used to show me.
And if we’re going down I’m just glad that you know me.
You need someone with a brighter soul,
It’s all you can do just to stay under control,
And your eyes are dark as coal.
So trade them in for a brighter heart,
But it doesn’t beat the same and now you feel so far apart
From where you wanted to get to at the start.
Still, they’re waiting in the wings to take me away,
So don’t turn ’round ’cause you won’t see the light of day.
Throw the glare that you used to throw me,
But as long as you’re here I’m just glad that you know…
Now they’re waiting in the wings to take me away,
But don’t call out, ’cause there’s always a brighter day.
Smile the smile that you used to show me.
And if we’re going down I’m just glad that you know me.
You know me…
You know me…
Do you know me?...
Do you know me?
Do you know me now?
I'd love to get your feedback, but if you're just passing through, make sure you come back tomorrow for superheroes, anti-heroes and...Dr Pepper??
See ya 'round!
Jack
Working backwards here, so I remember stuff. But basically, tomorrow I'm planning to go off on some tangent insulting virtually every superhero invented....apart from one. So tune in for that.
Anyway, I've recently been playing a demo of MMORPG City of Heroes - It's great fun!! IT's much like playinga FPS - for a start, you can jump over things, unlike in Galaxies. I haven't played much yet, but rest assured when I've had a chance to accustomise myself, I'll fill you in. Mind you, I said that about Twilight, and what happened to that.....
The real point of today's post is to show off some lyrics I've just finished. Yes, they are semi-real-life-based, but don't take them too literally. They're just a bit of fun really. Ladies and gentlemen, for your consideration, "Brighter Day":
Waking up to a brighter day,
You check your mail and the bills you have to pay.
I wish that there was something I could say.
Walking underneath a brighter sky,
You’re zoning out, thinking of that other guy.
You’re hoping that you’ll catch his eye.
Now you’re falling down onto brighter ground,
You reach out for help, but you didn’t keep anyone around.
What happens if you’re never found?
Searching the crowd for a brighter smile,
You could make this easy, but maybe that’s not your style.
We could be here for a while.
But where do you go?
And what do you know
About me?
Now they’re waiting in the wings to take me away,
But don’t call out, ’cause there’s always a brighter day.
Smile the smile that you used to show me.
And if we’re going down I’m just glad that you know me.
The sun shines in your brighter eyes,
You feel the urge to shake off this disguise,
But then you realise
That there’ll always be a brighter love
You think it’s gone but it’ll always just be bright enough
To tell me who you’re thinking of.
But tomorrow is new,
And what will you do
Without me?
Now they’re waiting in the wings to take me away,
But don’t call out, ’cause there’s always a brighter day.
Smile the smile that you used to show me.
And if we’re going down I’m just glad that you know me.
You need someone with a brighter soul,
It’s all you can do just to stay under control,
And your eyes are dark as coal.
So trade them in for a brighter heart,
But it doesn’t beat the same and now you feel so far apart
From where you wanted to get to at the start.
Still, they’re waiting in the wings to take me away,
So don’t turn ’round ’cause you won’t see the light of day.
Throw the glare that you used to throw me,
But as long as you’re here I’m just glad that you know…
Now they’re waiting in the wings to take me away,
But don’t call out, ’cause there’s always a brighter day.
Smile the smile that you used to show me.
And if we’re going down I’m just glad that you know me.
You know me…
You know me…
Do you know me?...
Do you know me?
Do you know me now?
I'd love to get your feedback, but if you're just passing through, make sure you come back tomorrow for superheroes, anti-heroes and...Dr Pepper??
See ya 'round!
Jack
Tuesday, 3 March 2009
Day 6 - Homeward Bound
At 6:30am I was woken by the soft sound of pan-pipes. Confused, it took me a while to work out that what I was hearing was, in fact, the alarm on Pete's iPod. Springing into action, I dressed, brushed my teeth, packed, checked the room, double-checked, and was ready by quarter to seven. We met up with Mum and Dad, and were soon checking out and clambering into the Focus. A long and quite boring journey followed, but eventually, after filling up with diesel, we handed the car back to the hire-car company.
By the time we joined the enormous queue to check in, it was beginning to get light outside, and it was full daylight when we finally made it to Departures. No liquids in my hand luggage this time - I won't make that mistake twice! Actually, knowing me, I probably will, but hopefully not! It was getting quite cloudy outside, and I guess we'd once again picked the perfect time to leave. We grabbed a quick breakfast of a ham roll and a strange pastry stick with chocolate inside and sprinkles and icing sugar on top. As tasty as it was, it was also quite messy and, as in any case where there's the slightest chance I'll leave the tiniest amrk on my clothes, everyone seemed to be staring at me, waiting for me to spurt chocolate all over the table. Fortunately for me, if they were waiting for pastry-induced drama, they were disappointed.
I was then given what was apparently five minutes but seemed like thirty seconds to browse the music shop next door, and whilst I did see something i wanted, I didn't have time to buy anything or look at what else they had available. Never mind, I'll be back in July. Anyway, Mum and Dad hurried us on so that we could stand around in another queue to get on the plane, and we spent another quarter of an hour waiting for everyone to find their seats, but eventually we were thundering down the runway again. As we rose above the clouds, we got our last glimpses of the sea, and then it was diary time again.
Two hours, and a whole Iron Man in Pete's case, later we touched down in sunny England. and for once that wasn't sarcasm!!! It actually was quite pleasant outside! So we went through the usual routine of doing passports, getting suitcases, etc, and soon we were on the crowded bus back to the car park. Getting our trusty S-Max back was very straightforward, and soon we were cruising back home...on the left side of the road!
So there you have it. Not the best holiday I've ever had, but not the worst either. I hope you've enjoyed reading about my adventures, and if you don't follow me regularly, make sure you tune in for my Russia diary this April - It's gonna be a good'un! For all those who have the pleasure of reading these posts every day, normal service will resume, but as always, I can't promise posts willc ome daily, or at consistent lengths. But believe me, there's a lot to talk about. Heroes, for one thing! Until then, see ya 'round!
Jack
By the time we joined the enormous queue to check in, it was beginning to get light outside, and it was full daylight when we finally made it to Departures. No liquids in my hand luggage this time - I won't make that mistake twice! Actually, knowing me, I probably will, but hopefully not! It was getting quite cloudy outside, and I guess we'd once again picked the perfect time to leave. We grabbed a quick breakfast of a ham roll and a strange pastry stick with chocolate inside and sprinkles and icing sugar on top. As tasty as it was, it was also quite messy and, as in any case where there's the slightest chance I'll leave the tiniest amrk on my clothes, everyone seemed to be staring at me, waiting for me to spurt chocolate all over the table. Fortunately for me, if they were waiting for pastry-induced drama, they were disappointed.
I was then given what was apparently five minutes but seemed like thirty seconds to browse the music shop next door, and whilst I did see something i wanted, I didn't have time to buy anything or look at what else they had available. Never mind, I'll be back in July. Anyway, Mum and Dad hurried us on so that we could stand around in another queue to get on the plane, and we spent another quarter of an hour waiting for everyone to find their seats, but eventually we were thundering down the runway again. As we rose above the clouds, we got our last glimpses of the sea, and then it was diary time again.
Two hours, and a whole Iron Man in Pete's case, later we touched down in sunny England. and for once that wasn't sarcasm!!! It actually was quite pleasant outside! So we went through the usual routine of doing passports, getting suitcases, etc, and soon we were on the crowded bus back to the car park. Getting our trusty S-Max back was very straightforward, and soon we were cruising back home...on the left side of the road!
So there you have it. Not the best holiday I've ever had, but not the worst either. I hope you've enjoyed reading about my adventures, and if you don't follow me regularly, make sure you tune in for my Russia diary this April - It's gonna be a good'un! For all those who have the pleasure of reading these posts every day, normal service will resume, but as always, I can't promise posts willc ome daily, or at consistent lengths. But believe me, there's a lot to talk about. Heroes, for one thing! Until then, see ya 'round!
Jack
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)